FAQ

Why should I play water polo?

Water Polo is arguably the most exciting, challenging and demanding of all team sports. It combines a swimmer’s endurance with a wrestler’s strength while incorporating elements of soccer, football, basketball and baseball. However, unlike soccer, there’s no downtime (everyone plays offense and defense); unlike football, size isn’t the most important factor; unlike basketball, height isn’t the most important factor; unlike baseball, everyone touches the ball. If you like to swim, enjoy constant action, and love team sports, water polo is the perfect sport for you.

Why should I play for Rain City Water Polo?

You should choose our program because of our experienced, knowledgeable and supportive coaching staff. We believe that their passion for teaching, coaching and mentoring young athletes will result in a lifelong love for the sport.

What basic skills do you need to join a Rain City practice?

Expected ability is wildly different for the different age groups. Splashball kids are not expected to be able to play in the deep end but some ability to do crawl stroke is a big advantage. Youth players must be safe in the water and be at least somewhat proficient at freestyle and backstroke. High school players are expected to be reasonably proficient at freestyle, backstroke and breaststroke.

How do I register?

To register for the current session, please click here.

Do you offer a drop-in option?

No. At this time we do not offer a drop-in option. However, we offer a free one week trial to any new athlete that is interested in trying out the sport.

Can I try it out before I commit?

Yes! We offer one free trial practice to prospective new athletes.

What equipment should I bring to my first practice?

All you need is a swimsuit and a towel!

What is USA Water Polo? Why do I need to join?

USA Water Polo (USAWP) is the national governing body for the sport of water polo. All athletes must register with USAWP prior to joining Rain City Water Polo because USAWP provides important insurance coverage for our club and athletes. Click here to go to USA Water Polo’s membership form.

Which USA Water Polo membership is right for me?

USAWP offers three levels of membership: Bronze, Silver and Gold. Bronze is for athletes just planning to practice and play local games. Silver is for those athletes expecting to play in tournaments. Gold is needed only by those players planning to compete at Junior Olympics and/or with the Olympic Development Program.

Who will Rain City Water Polo play?

Teams will compete in at least one tournament per session. Most tournaments will require travel. However, tournaments are optional — athletes are not required to attend. We will also attempt to schedule scrimmages with other water polo clubs in the Pacific Northwest. Most practices include intra-squad scrimmages.

What tournaments will Rain City Water Polo attend?

Rain City Water Polo will attempt to attend at least one tournament per session. Athletes are not required to attend tournaments but are strongly encouraged to do so. Tournaments are always the most fun part of each session! For more information about tournaments, click here.

What is Splashball?

Splashball is a USA Water Polo-designed program to introduce the sport of water polo to children 5-9 years old. The intent is to provide basic skills and understanding of the sport in a fun, easy-to-learn recreational format.

I still have questions. Who should I contact?

Contact Jeni at secretary@raincitypolo.com