Kicking Competition in Underwater Hockey – Rules, Techniques & Tips

If you’ve ever watched an underwater hockey match, you know the game isn’t just about holding the puck with a short stick. The kicking competition is a core part of the sport that can change the outcome of a match in seconds. In this guide we’ll break down what the kicking competition actually is, how it’s scored, and simple ways you can improve your own kick.

What Is a Kicking Competition?

A kicking competition is a short, high‑intensity showdown that happens after a foul, a goal, or when the referee stops play for a rule violation. Two players – one from each side – line up at opposite ends of the neutral zone and try to score by flicking the puck with their stick while staying underwater. The first player to hit the puck into the opponent’s net wins the round and earns a point for their team.

The rules are straightforward: you have a five‑second window to make the move, you must stay below the surface, and you can’t use your hands. If you miss or the puck stays in the neutral zone, the round is a draw and the game resumes as normal.

Key Techniques to Master the Kick

1. Short, Sharp Strokes – Because you only have a few seconds, long, sweeping motions waste energy. Focus on quick, compact strokes that generate power right at the puck.

2. Body Position – Keep your hips low and your head in line with the puck. A low profile reduces drag and lets you move faster in the water.

3. Stick Angling – Tilt the stick so the blade meets the puck at a shallow angle. This gives the puck a smoother trajectory toward the net.

4. Breath Control – A solid breath hold is essential. Practice holding your breath for at least 10‑12 seconds while performing a few strokes; this mirrors the real competition timing.

5. Visual Cue – Spot the opponent’s stick as soon as the whistle blows. Anticipating their move lets you position yourself for a quick shot.

Training Drills You Can Do Anywhere

Want to get better without stepping onto a pool? Try these drills in a swimming pool or even a deep bathtub.

Rapid‑Fire Flicks: Set a timer for 30 seconds, place the puck at the center, and practice shooting it into a small target. Count how many successful shots you land.

Breath‑Hold Sprints: Swim a short distance, hold your breath, then do a series of three quick stick strokes. Rest, repeat. This builds the lung capacity you need for a real competition.

Mirror Practice: Pair up with a teammate and face each other. One player starts a flick, the other mirrors it instantly. The goal is to match the timing perfectly.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Many players waste time by over‑reaching with their arms, which slows them down. Keep your elbows close to your body and use a snapping motion from the wrist. Another frequent error is forgetting to stay fully submerged; surfacing even briefly ends the round. Practice staying underwater until you hear the whistle, then snap into action.

Lastly, some players ignore the importance of the “reset” after a miss. Use that moment to quickly return to a ready stance, so you’re prepared for the next round.

Why the Kicking Competition Matters

Every point earned in a kicking competition can swing the momentum of a match. Teams that excel here often dominate the scoreboard, especially in close games where a single point makes the difference. For coaches, focusing on kicking drills can be a low‑cost way to boost overall performance.

So, whether you’re a rookie looking to earn your first point or a seasoned player aiming to shave seconds off your reaction time, mastering the kicking competition is a smart move. Keep practicing the short strokes, work on your breath hold, and stay low in the water – and you’ll see the results on the scoreboard.