Canoe Polo Zone - UK Canoe Polo Rules

British Canoeing Canoe Polo Rules

You can download the full BCU Canoe Polo Yearbook here

What follows is the essential rules of play without all the extra stuff you can find in the yearbook.

These rules are intended to be identical to the 2013 ICF Canoe Polo Competition rules except where specifically indicated UK: UK Only Text

Note that the ICF introduced a number of new rules in January 2015. These have not been reproduced yet by the British Canoeing Polo Committee in full. Some tules have been implemented in Division One only

You will also see references to referee Signal_# Hover over them to get the signal.

In the event of any discrepancy the rule written here will apply unless specific clarification to the contrary is published by the Chief Referee. The Polo Committee will host an annual referees day, usually in September, to which all referees and players are invited to hear the correct interpretations of the rules as written and ensure that we are consistent across our sport at all levels and locations.

Useful abbreviations / definitions :-
BCU - British Canoe Union
CPC - Canoe Polo Committee
DOP - Direction of Play
GPS - Goal Penalty Shot
ICF - International Canoe Federation
L&T - Leading & Trailing
Balls Out of Play Side Line, Goal Line & Corners
Free Throw The ball has to be passed before a direct shot at goal can be taken.
Free Shot The player taking the throw may shoot directly at goal if they wish.
Leading Ref. Referee in front of the main action of the game.
Trailing Ref. Referee following behind the main action of the game.

Definitions - The following definitions are to be used when determining the severity of a foul and to assist in the severity of the sanction given.

Deliberate Foul - A foul where no effort was made to avoid the illegal play. Any deliberate foul should receive a minimum of a green card, either immediately or at the next break in play if playing advantage. Also see note regarding green and yellow cards.

Dangerous Foul - Is significant contact with the opponent’s arm, head or body that may result in personal injury and is illegal. Also see note regarding green and yellow cards. Any dangerous foul should receive a minimum of a green card- either immediately or at the next break in play if playing advantage.

Significant contact - Any high impact or continuous contact, that may result in equipment damage or personal injury. This definition should be used when deciding the severity of illegal kayak tackles, illegal hand tackles, or illegal use of paddle or illegal holding, and whether or not a green, yellow or red card should be awarded.
The act of passing or shooting - Begins when a player has the ball in their hand, or balancing on their paddle, and is clearly attempting to pass the ball to a team mate, or shoot at goal.

A Near Certain Goal - The referee must be certain that a goal was the most likely end result if play had continued.

Defending player - Any member of the team that does not have possession of the ball.

Attacking player - Any member of the team that currently does have possession of the ball

Team Possession - A team is considered to have team possession and therefore be the attacking team if any member of that team has possession or control of the ball.

Control of the ball - A player is considered to have control of the ball if that player is in possession of the ball, or is the nearest player to the ball and is within 3 metres of the ball on the water.

The following sections are numbered using the relevant section numbers from the

ICF Rules January 2011 CHAPTER 3 - GAME REGULATIONS

35. PLAYING AREA

The playing area shall be rectangular, and have a length of 35 metres and a width of 23 metres. The Immediate-Surround of the playing area shall be an unobstructed area of water, with where possible a minimum width of 1 metre outside all boundaries. The water throughout the playing area must be still water at least 90 cms deep. There must be a clear height of at least 3 metres without obstacles, and a minimum ceiling height of 5 metres, above the playing area. There shall be a walkway on each side of the playing area kept clear for the referees.

36. PLAYING AREA BOUNDARIES AND MARKERS

The longer boundaries are to be referred to as the sidelines, the shorter boundaries as the goal lines. The sidelines and goal lines are to be indicated by a floating lane rope. UK: The Pool Side may be used for the sideline if required.

The section of the goal line 4 metres either side of the centre of the goal frame should be free from floats so as not to interfere with the positioning of the goalkeeper. Markers indicating the goal lines, half way line and points 6 metres from each goal line are to be placed along the sidelines, and be clearly visible to both referees and players. Markers indicating the substitute-areas are to be placed on the goal lines four metres either side of the centre of the goal frame, and be clearly visible to both referees and players.

37. GOALS

Each goal will be located over the centre of each goal line with their lower inside edge 2 metres above the surface of the water. Each goal is to be held in such a way that it is prevented from swinging or moving. The goal supports should not interfere with any player defending or manoeuvring around the goal area, or with the flight of the ball in the area of play.

Each goal will consist of an open frame 1 metre high by 1.5 metres wide (measured internally) hung vertically. The maximum width of a material used to construct the goal frame will be 5 centimetres. The goal frames should not have any vertical or horizontal bars parallel to the main goal frame which may cause the ball to rebound out of the goal frame. The front face of the frame must be free from any loose netting, net fastenings or sharp edges which may impede the flight of the ball or damage the ball or players equipment. The front face of the frame must be red and white striped- each stripe being of 20 cms length. For venues involving multiple fields all goals must be identical.

Each goal is to have a net made from a strong shock absorbing material, which allows the ball to pass freely through the goal frame but indicate clearly that a goal has been scored. The net shall be a minimum of fifty (50) centimetres deep and have no loose or hanging ends which may interfere with players or their equipment or blow in the wind or that may impede the ball entering the goal.

38. THE BALL

Size 5 will be used for Open. Size 4 will be used for Ladies and Youth.

The ball shall be round and shall have an air chamber with a self-closing valve. It shall be waterproof, without external strapping or any covering of grease or similar substance.

The weight of the ball shall be not less than 400 grams and not more than 450 grams.

For games played by Men, Under-21 Men and Master Men, the circumference of the ball shall not be less than 68 cms and not more than 71 cms, and its pressure shall be 90-97 kPa (kilo pascals).

For games played by Women, Under-21 Women and Master Women, the circumference of the ball shall not be less than 65 cms and not more than 67 cms, and its pressure shall be 83-90 kPa (kilo pascals).

39. GAME OFFICIALS

The game officials shall consist of two 2 referees, 2 goal line judges, 1 scrutineer, 2 timekeepers and 1 scorekeeper.

Depending on the degree of importance games can be controlled by teams of between 3 and 8 officials. Where there are only 3 game officials, 2 shall be the referees who shall take on the additional duties of the goal line judges and the scrutineer and one timekeeper taking over the duties of the timekeepers and scorekeeper.

40. REFEREES

The referees shall be in absolute control of the game. Their authority over the players shall be effective during the whole time that they and the players are within the competition area.

All decisions of the referees on questions of fact shall be final and their interpretation of the rules shall be obeyed throughout the game. No protest or appeal can be made in relation to an interpretive decision of a referee. The referees shall not make any presumption as to the facts of any situation during the game but shall interpret what they observe to the best of their ability.

The referees shall whistle to start and restart the game and to declare goals, goal line throws, corner throws, infringements of the rules and time-outs. A referee may alter their decision provided they do so before the ball is put back into play. The referee must ensure that before the game is restarted that in their sole discretion neither team is disadvantaged.

The referees shall have the power to order the removal from the competition area any person whose behaviour prevents the referees from carrying out their duties in a proper and impartial manner.

The referees shall have the power to abandon the game at any time if, in their opinion, the behaviour of the players, team-officials or other circumstances prevent it from being brought to a proper conclusion. If the game has to be abandoned the referees shall report their actions to the Chief Official.

Where the referees can't agree on a decision the first named referee will take the final decision. UK: The tournament or league organiser will take on this responsibility if the chief referee is not present.

If either referee is unable to continue to referee a game due to injury, illness or other reason, the Chief Referee will replace that referee with a suitably qualified replacement. UK: This short section is added for more completeness from ICF Chapter 2 Rule 30:Some of the points mentioned are as follows:

The referees shall:
Provide their own equipment; the dress of referees is an appropriate black shirt and shorts or trousers. Referees should also wear sports shoes or appropriate alternatives.
Provide written reports (one from each Referee) to the Chief Referee of all incidents resulting in a player being sent off, immediately upon completion of the game in which the incident occurred. Such report should include any request for further disciplinary action;
Referees, whilst acting in any capacity with their team, loose their Referee status. They should respect without question all decisions given by the Referees controlling the game. They should set an example of good sports behaviour for other players to follow.

41. GOAL LINE JUDGES

The goal line judges shall be situated diagonally opposite each other on the left-hand side of each referee.

The duties of the goal line judges shall be to signal until acknowledged by the referee by:

41.1.1. Raising a green flag (UK: or hand) when the players are correctly positioned on their respective goal lines at the start of a period;

41.1.2. Raising a red flag (UK: or hand) to indicate the ball is out of play by crossing the goal line. (Goal line-throw, corner-throw, goal);

41.1.3. Waving a red flag (UK: or hand) for an improper start or restart;

41.1.4. Waving a red flag (UK: or hand) for an improper re-entry of an excluded player or improper entry of a substitute.

41.1.5. Pointing both the red and green flag (UK: or hand) at the goal when the ball enters the goal frame. Each goal line judge shall be provided by the organising committee with a supply of balls of the correct size. When the original ball has gone outside the field of play, they shall throw a new ball, when directed by the referee, to the goalkeeper (for a goal throw) or to the nearest player of the attacking team (for a corner throw).

42. SCRUTINEER

The scrutineer will be responsible for checking the equipment of all players before and during their game. They may also check equipment at any other time during a competition. UK: The BCU Canoe Polo Committee, National Leagues organiser, National Leagues Secretaries or relevant Competition Organising Committee may appoint a Scrutineer for any applicable event.

43. TIMEKEEPERS

The timekeepers shall be situated at the official’s table. The duties of the timekeepers shall be to:

43.1.1. Record the exact periods of playing time, timeouts and the intervals between the periods;

43.1.2. Control the periods of time-outs and to signal the period by raising a red flag, except that a referee shall signal the end of a time-out;

43.1.3. Record the send-off times of players ordered from the playing area in accordance with the rules, together with the re-entry times of such players or their substitutes;

43.1.4. Control the periods of exclusion of players and to signal the end of the period of exclusion by a visual electronic device or by raising and waving a green flag; A timekeeper shall signal by any means provided it is distinctive, acoustically efficient and readily understood, the end of each period independently of the referees and their signal shall take immediate effect except in the case of the simultaneous award by a referee of a goal penalty shot, in which event the goal penalty shot shall be taken in accordance with the rules;

43.1.5. The first timekeepers shall perform the duties stated in 43.1.1 and 43.1.2 and the second timekeeper shall perform 43.1.3 and 43.1.4.

44. SCOREKEEPER

The scorekeeper shall be situated at the official table. The duties of the scorekeeper shall be to:

44.1.1. Record the awarded goals and maintain the scoreboard during the game;

44.1.2. Maintain the record of the game, including the players, the score, time-outs, green, yellow and red cards awarded against each player. UK: The scorekeeper should draw attention to the referee by suitable means (such as waving their hand) to indicate a player has accumulated either 3 Green Cards (=Yellow Card) or 2 Yellow Cards (=Red Card) indicating the one currently being issued as applicable.

45. NUMBER OF PLAYERS

Each team may consist of a maximum of 8 players for any one game. No more than 5 players are permitted on the playing area at any one time. Any other players at that moment are to be considered as substitutes. A team must begin each game with 5 players, ready to start on their own goal line. If a team is reduced to 2 players at any time the referee shall end the game and refer the matter to the competition committee who shall decide the appropriate action to be taken.

The list of players names and numbers for a game must be handed to the appropriate official before the time indicated by the Competition Committee.

UK: From ICF Chapter 2 article 21.1.3 – Up to 10 players may be used for each team as a squad (throughout a competition or league season), but a maximum of 8 players may be used for any game with a maximum of 5 on the playing area at any one time. The National Leagues Organiser may allow teams to use more than 10 players in a season in exceptional circumstances.

46. CHOICE OF END

The first named team on the game sheet will start on the goal line at the left-hand side of the official table unless one of the captains or the Chief Official request a toss of a coin to determine the choice of ends.

47. IDENTIFICATION

All players of the same team must have kayaks with decks of the same colour, spray decks of the same colour, outmost body covering of the same colour, helmets of the same colour and shirts of the same colour. UK: Spray decks should be the same colour for the top division in each class. Only the sleeve (or notably visible) areas of shirts should be the same colour. Short and long Sleeves may be mixed throughout the same team.

If the referee or scrutineer determines there is inadequate distinction between the teams, the first named team on the game sheet will be required to change their body identification colours.

The players of a team shall each be numbered from 1 to 99. This number shall be displayed on the body covering and on the helmet.

The numbers will be clearly legible to the referees from anywhere on the field and must clearly individually identify each player in a team. A number at least 20 cm high must be on the back of the body. A number at least 10 cm height must be on the front of the body. Numbers at least 7.5 cm high must be on each side of the helmet. The captain of each team shall be distinguished from the rest of the team by an armband.

The players of a team shall each be numbered from 1 to 99. This number shall be displayed on the body covering and on the helmet.

48. KAYAKS

Kayaks approved by the scrutineer may be used. For full specifications on kayaks and padding - see appendix Scrutineering.

49. PADDLES

Double-bladed paddles approved by the scrutineer may be used. For full specifications on paddles - see appendix Scrutineering.

50. PERSONAL EQUIPMENT

Each player must wear one CE APPROVED helmet with facemask, approved by the scrutineer. For full specifications on helmet and facemasks - see appendix Scrutineering. Body protection, approved by the scrutineer, must be worn. For full specifications on body protection - see appendix Scrutineering. A shirt with sleeves, which at least covers the mid upper arm, must be worn. The players shall not have grease, oil or any similar substance on their arms and neck. Beside the equipment and clothing listed above, personal clothing and effects, and a spray deck for the player is permitted. Extra protective equipment on the hands, forearm and elbows is permitted provided it is firm fitting, securely attached and with no sharp edges such that they do not endanger any other player. No other equipment is permitted. A player must not wear any items (such as jewellery) that can endanger either the wearer or any other player. UK: Jewellery includes items such as rings, bracelets (including friendship/ charity bands), necklaces and earrings. Non removable rings with no protruding gems may be taped up.

Players may not apply any greasy substances to their equipment.

51. TRADE-MARKS AND ADVERTISING SYMBOLS

Kayaks, accessories and sportswear may carry trademarks, advertising symbols, and words. Any trademarks, advertising symbols and words should be placed in such a way that it does not interfere with competitors identification and does not affect the outcome of the race or game. The advertising of tobacco smoking and strong spirit drinks will not be accepted.

52. EXCHANGING EQUIPMENT

Each player is permitted to leave the playing area and exchange any piece of equipment, at any time during the game, provided the equipment has been approved by the scrutineer. The player concerned must collect equipment being exchanged from their substitutes area.

53. SCRUTINEERING

Players’ equipment is subject to scrutineering before, during or after a game. A referee must dismiss from the playing area, once aware of the infringement, any player whose equipment is in breach of the rules, either at the first break in play or direct if the equipment has become dangerous for the players.

54. PLAYING TIME

Playing time shall normally be 2 periods each of 10 minutes duration, unless overtime is needed to decide the result. The minimum playing time will be two periods of 7 minutes. UK: The minimum playing time will be two periods of 5 minutes. The half time interval shall normally be 3 minutes. The minimum half time interval will be 1 minute.

The teams shall change ends after each period of play. The referee may call time-out during the playing time. The timekeeper will stop the clock when the referee signals for time-out and restart the clock when the referee restarts the game with a whistle.

55. TIME-OUT

The referee shall use a triple whistle to stop the game for time-out, except when a goal is scored in which case a long whistle blast will be used.

Time-out must be given if a capsized player or their equipment is interfering with play. Time-out should be used immediately when game regulations are dangerously breached or if field equipment needs correction or adjustment (for example: endangering another player due to a broken paddle).

Time-out should be used if any injury has occurred, or a player is illegally on the field, provided this does not disadvantage the other team.

Time-out must be used after a goal is scored, or a goal-penalty-shot is awarded or for any other incidences at the discretion of the referee.

If the referee has stopped the game, not during a break in play and where neither team was at fault (e.g. referee error, faulty goals, injury) the play will be restarted with a free throw to the team that last had possession. Where time-out was given for a capsized player the opposition is given a free throw to restart. UK: Due to restrictions on water time normally there will not be a Time-out following a goal being scored.

If the referee cannot determine who had possession at the time of the whistle, the referee will restart the game with a referee’s ball. Signal 8 applies.

56. COMMENCEMENT OF PLAY

At the beginning of each period of play, 5 players from each team line up ready to start, stationary and with some part of their kayaks on their own goal line. If the team deliberately causes an unnecessary delay a start infringement will be called. Signal_1, Signal_15 and Signal_17 (team warning) apply. UK: In a smaller than regulation sized pitch such as a swimming pool, then the players can line up with their kayaks touching the back wall rather than the goal line. In normal play, the boundary will be played to the face of the goal.

If a team has insufficient players to start the game 5 minutes after the programmed start time the game will be declared a forfeit and referred to the competition committee. Signal_2 applies.

The referee blows the whistle to start play and then releases or throws the ball into the centre of the playing area.

If the ball is released or thrown giving one team definite advantage, the referee calls for the ball and restarts the period of play.

Physical assistance from other players is not allowed on the player attempting for the ball. Infringement incurs a free throw. Signal_1 and Signal_14 apply.

Only one player from each team may make an attempt to gain possession of the ball. Any other player that accompanies the player attempting for the ball must not be within a radius of 3 metres from the body of the player attempting for the ball. Infringement incurs a free throw. Signal_1 and Signal_14 apply.

57. BALL OUT OF PLAY

Sideline and overhead obstacle: When any part of the ball touches the physical sideline or the vertical plane of the physical sideline, or touches any overhead obstacle, the team that was not the last to touch it with their paddle, kayak or person is awarded a sideline-throw. UK: In the situation of a low overhead obstacle (beyond the competition organisers control), which can risk interfering with the normal flight of the ball, a sideline throw will be taken by the team who was in the process of passing/shooting at the time the ball directly hit the obstruction if it changes the flight of the ball.

57.1.1. If the physical sideline is moved out of position as a consequence of normal play, the boundary including the vertical plane above moves with it. Signal_5 and Signal_14 apply.

57.1.2. Sideline throw: The player taking the throw must position their kayak at the point of exit of the ball, or the point on the sideline nearest to the point of contact with an overhead obstacle.

Goal line throw: Either a goal line or corner throw will be awarded when any part of the ball touches the vertical plane of the front of the goal frame between the corner markers, except where a ball rebounds off the goal frame (not the goal supports) into the playing area, or where the ball is prevented from completely entering the goal by a defenders paddle and rebounds back into the field of play, or where a goal is scored.

57.1.3. Goal line throw: When the ball goes out over the teams own goal line and has been last touched by the other team then a goal line throw will be awarded. Signal_6 and Signal_14 apply. The player taking the throw must be positioned with their kayak on the goal line.

Corner-throw: When the ball goes out over the teams own goal line and was last touched by their own team then a corner throw will be awarded. Signal_5 and Signal_14 apply. The player taking the throw must be positioned with their kayak in the corner of the playing area. UK: If the side of the pool is being used as the sideline, then player taking the Corner Throw must position their kayak parallel to the side of the pool.

58. SCORING A GOAL

A team scores a goal when the whole of the ball passes through the plane of the front of the goal frame of their opponent’s goal. If a goal is not rigidly fixed, and moves the ball must go through the goal frame. The referee will indicate the number of the player scoring the goal to the scorekeeper. Signal_3 applies and one long whistle blast by the referee. Time-out must be used after a goal is scored.

If the ball is prevented from entering a goal by either a defender’s or substitutes paddle that enters the goal from behind, then a goal is awarded.

59. RESTART AFTER GOAL

After a goal is scored, the team that conceded the goal takes the restart throw. The player taking the throw must position part of their kayak in the centre of the playing area. The referee blows the whistle to restart play. The player is not required to hold the ball above their head.

All other players must be positioned with their bodies in the other half of the playing area until play restarts.

60. CAPSIZED PLAYER

If a player capsizes and leaves their kayak, the player may not take any further part in the play and must leave the playing area immediately, with all of their equipment. If a player who has capsized wishes to rejoin the game the player must do so according to the rules of entry to the field of play. No person may enter the playing area to assist a player with their equipment, and no-one may obstruct the referee while assisting a player. A team may be penalised during a game for any illegal outside assistance, or for any interference with the opposition that constitutes outside assistance. The referee to determine the severity of the sanction.

61. ENTRY TO THE PLAYING AREA, RE-ENTRY, SUBSTITUTION AND EXCHANGING EQUIPMENT

No more than the legally allowed number of players from a team may be on the playing area at any one time.

Substitutes must wait in their own substitute’s area. Substitution is allowed at any time including during time outs. Exit and entry of players for substitution may be anywhere along the teams own goal line provided all of the player’s kayak and equipment has left the playing area before the substitute may enter the playing area. A player leaving the playing area solely as part of the action of the game is not subject to the conditions for re-entry.

A capsized player who has not left the playing area at their goal line may be substituted not earlier than the next break in play. All of the capsized players equipment (for example kayak and paddle) must be removed from the playing area before a substitution is allowed.

Each player is permitted to leave the playing area and exchange any piece of equipment, at any time during the game, provided the equipment has been approved by the Scrutineer. The player concerned must collect equipment being exchanged from their substitute’s area.

62. ILLEGAL SUBSTITUTION AND ENTRY TO THE PLAYING AREA

Where more than the legally allowed number of players from a team are in the playing area at any one time the player(s) coming illegally into the playing area should be given a yellow card(s). If it is not clear which player(s) should exit the playing area then the team’s captain must nominate a player(s). Infringement incurs a sanction. Signal_7 and Signal_14 apply.

When a substitute places their paddle in the playing area to prevent a goal from being scored, a goal penalty shot is awarded. The offending player is penalised with a red card. Infringement incurs a sanction. Signal_16 and Signal_7 apply

63. ILLEGAL USE OF THE PADDLE

Signal_12 and Signal_15 apply. The following are defined as illegal use of the paddle. Contacting an opponent’s person. Playing, or attempting to play, the ball with a paddle when the ball is within arms reach of an opponent, and that opponent is attempting to play the ball with their hand. Playing or attempting to play the ball with a paddle across the bow of an opponent’s kayak, within arms reach of the opponent in a normal paddling position. UK: In this instance a foul is committed even if the opponent is not attempting to play the ball at the time.

Placing a paddle within arms reach of an opponent who has the ball in their hand. A goalkeeper is excluded from this rule and is allowed to directly defend against a shot at goal as long as the paddle is not moved towards the opponent at the time of the shot and it does not result in significant contact with the opponent.

When a player, with their paddle, attempts to restrict an opponent using their paddle. Playing an opponents paddle instead of the ball. Throwing a paddle. Any other use of a paddle that endangers a player.

64. ILLEGAL POSSESION

Signal_11 and Signal_15 apply. A player is in possession of the ball when they have the ball in their hand or are in a position to reach the ball with their hand, the ball being on the water and not in the air. A player balancing the ball on their paddle will also be considered to be in possession.

A player must dispose of the ball within 5 seconds of gaining possession, either by passing it to another player or by performing one throw causing the ball to travel by at least one metre measured horizontally from the point of release.

If a player shares possession with another player or the ball moves out of arms reach whilst being tackled, the 5 seconds shall begin again once a player has regained possession.

A player who capsizes to the point of the whole of their body and head going under water is considered to have lost possession if they do not have the ball in their hand(s).

A player may not manoeuvre their kayak with their hands or paddle while the ball is resting on their spray deck.

65. ILLEGAL HAND TACKLE

Signal_10 and Signal_15 apply. A Hand-Tackle is a player pushing an opponent with one hand. The following hand-tackles are illegal:

Any hand-tackle where the tackled player does not have possession of the ball or is sharing possession of the ball with another player.

Any body contact other than one open hand to the opponent’s back, upper arm or side. Any hand-tackle, which endangers the tackled player.

66. ILLEGAL KAYAK TACKLE

Signal_10 and Signal_15 apply. A kayak-tackle is a player manoeuvring their kayak against an opponent’s kayak in an attempt to gain possession of the ball. The following kayak-tackles are illegal.

Any kayak-tackle that results in significant contact between the tackler’s kayak and the head or body of an opposing player, or endangering a player. The player’s arm shall not be considered to be part of the body when any part of it is elevated away from the body.

Any kayak-tackle that results in significant contact with the opponent’s spray deck or where the tackler continues to tackle into or over the spray deck. After a kayak tackle, when the ball is no longer in possession of either player, they may move off each others kayaks by using their hands in a controlled action.

A player in possession of the ball who fails to avoid significant contact between the bow of his kayak and the head or body of the opponent.

Any hard tackle, that results in significant contact to the side of the kayak, at an angle between 80 and 100 degrees.

Tackling an opponent who is not within 3 metres of the ball. Tackling an opponent when the tackler is not competing for the ball.

67. ILLEGAL JOSTLE

Signal_10 and Signal_15 apply. A jostle is a player manoeuvring their kayak against an opponent’s kayak between the 6 metre line and the goal line, at the attacking end of the field, to gain a position. The following jostling is illegal.

When a player is stationary or attempting to maintain a position and their body is moved by more than half a metre by sustained contact from an opponent’s kayak.
When the contact to the opponent’s kayak would be defined as an illegal kayak tackle under any section of rule 66.

When the body of the jostled player is behind the goal line.

68. ILLEGAL OBSTRUCTION

Signal_9 and Signal_15 apply. The following obstruction is illegal:

A player actively or deliberately impeding the progress of an opponent when neither player is within 3 metres of the ball except where the players are jostling for position at the attacking end of the field as covered in rule 67. Note: A player is considered to be actively impeding the progress of an opponent when their kayak is moving or they are attempting active paddle strokes.

A player who is not competing for the ball who actively impedes the progress of an opponent who is competing for the ball on the water and not in the air.

69. ILLEGAL HOLDING

Signal_9 and Signal_15 apply. The following holding is illegal: A player gaining support or propulsion by placing their hand, arm, body or paddle on an opponent’s kayak, or holding the opposing player or their equipment. A player using for propulsion or support, or moving out of place, any playing area equipment e.g. boundary markers, goal supports, or any surrounding object. A player using their paddle to lift, pull or hold an opponents kayak while jostling for position in the six metre area, or attempting a kayak or hand tackle. A player fending off an opponents attempted hand or kayak tackle with their hand or forearm, or with the movement of the elbow towards their opponent. A player using a forceful action with one or both hands that results in significant contact with the opponent’s arm, or with the ball that is still in contact with the opponent’s hand.

70. UNSPORTING BEHAVIOUR

Signal_17 with a green card applies. The following is defined as unsporting behaviour:

Any infringement committed by a player during a break in play.

Hindering another player’s attempt at righting themselves after capsizing. A player who is upside down must be allowed to get their head and both shoulders above the water before an opponent is allowed to attempt another tackle.

Interference with the equipment of an opponent. Such as holding or moving another player’s paddle out of their reach, or deliberately preventing the player from regaining possession of the paddle.

Use of deliberate delaying tactics. Such as throwing the ball away, or deliberately obstructing the opposition, to delay a quick restart after an infringement. When a team is penalised, any player on that team who has possession of the ball must immediately place the ball on the water and not impede or delay the opposition in any way from taking a quick restart.

Players showing dissent. Retaliation. Foul or abusive language. Other unsporting behaviour to a player, referee or other official or behaviour considered detrimental to the game, at the discretion of the referee. Bouncing the ball out of play off an opponent’s kayak to gain advantage.

71. DEFENCE OF GOAL

The one defending player most directly under the goal, in order to defend the goal with the paddle is considered to be the goalkeeper at that time. The goalkeeper’s body must be facing into the playing area and attempting to maintain a position within one metre of the centre of the goal line. If two or more players are directly under the goal, the player most directly under the goal is considered the goalkeeper at that time.

If the goalkeeper is not in possession of the ball and is moved or unbalanced by contact from an opposing player, then that player has committed an illegal tackle. Infringement incurs a sanction. Signal_10 and Signal_15 apply.

If an attacker moves the goalkeeper by pushing a defender into the goalkeeper, where none of the defenders have possession of the ball, the attacker shall be penalised. If the defender has an opportunity to avoid contact with the goalkeeper after being pushed, but does not, the attacker will not be penalised.

If a defender pushes the attacker onto the goalkeeper, then the attacker should not be penalised. If the attacker has an opportunity to avoid contact with the goalkeeper after being pushed, but does not, the attacker will be penalised.

If an attacker, in possession of the ball, whose original direction or speed would not have led to contact with the goalkeeper is pushed onto the goalkeeper by a defender, the attacker will not be penalised.

A goalkeeper who is not in possession of the ball, but is attempting for the ball on the water, can be tackled like any other player. If the goalkeeper does not gain possession they will not regain goalkeeper status until the attacker has shot or passed the ball. After the attacker loses possession of the ball, the attacker must not actively impede the goalkeeper’s attempt to regain or maintain their position.

Within the 6 metre area, an attacker must not actively prevent a defender from taking the position as goalkeeper. A defender will be allowed to push an attacker with the kayak, in order to take the position of goalkeeper without penalty, unless dangerous play is used.

As soon as a team has control of the ball they can no longer be considered to be defending and thus cannot have a player defined as a goalkeeper.

72. REFEREE’S BALL

A referee’s ball will be declared when two or more players of opposing teams have one or more hands firmly on the ball, so that the players share possession of the ball for 5 seconds. If initial contact is made directly with the ball illegal holding will only apply if either player uses the opposition for support.

If the referee needs to stop the game, not during a break in play and where neither team is at fault (e.g. referee error, faulty goals, injury) and the referee cannot determine who had possession at the time of the whistle, the referee will restart the game with a referee’ s ball.

A referees ball will be taken at the nearest point on the sideline to the incident. Where a referee’s ball is awarded for an incident that occurs between the 6 metre line and the goal line, the referee’s ball will be held at the 6 metre line. Signal_8 and Timeout applies.

Two opposing players will line up at right angles to the sideline, on the side nearest their own goal line, near to the sideline where the situation occurred, one metre apart facing the referee. They will place their paddles on the water, but not between their kayaks and their hands on the deck of the kayak or on their paddle.

All other players must be at least 3 metres away from the point between the two players participating in the referees ball.

The referee will throw the ball on the water between the players and blow the whistle to restart play. Both players must make an attempt for the ball with their hands as soon as it touches the water. The players must not play the ball before it hits the water. Infringement incurs a sanction. Signal_11 and Signal_15 apply.

73. ADVANTAGE

The referees can play advantage when an infringement occurs as long as neither has blown their whistle. The referees should play advantage if the team that was infringed upon is more benefited by play continuing. When playing advantage, the referees should recognise the illegal play by signalling and calling ‘play on’. Signal_13 and Signal_14 apply.

The referee can penalise any player who causes an infringement for which advantage is played at the next break in play with a green, yellow or red card.

When playing advantage, the next pass or shot should be completed and if there is no clear advantage, the original infringement should be called and appropriate sanction(s) and signals given. The referee is to indicate where the sanction should be taken.

74. SANCTIONS

The referee can impose any combination of the following sanctions for illegal-play depending on the severity and/or frequency of offences being penalised. The sanctions available to the referees are Free Throws, Free Shots, Goal Penalty Shots, Warnings, Yellow Card Send Off and Red Card Send Off. The following definitions should be used when determining which sanction to impose:

a) Deliberate Foul: a foul where no effort was made to avoid the illegal play.

b) Dangerous Foul: is significant contact with the opponent’s arm, head or body that may result in personal injury and is illegal.

c) Significant contact: any hard contact that may result in equipment damage or personal injury.

d) The act of passing or shooting: begins when a player has the ball in their hand, or balancing on their paddle, and is clearly attempting to pass the ball to a team mate, or shoot at goal.
e) A Near Certain Goal: The referee must be certain that a goal was the most likely end result if play had continued.
f) Control of the ball: A player is considered to have control of the ball if that player is in possession of the ball, or is the nearest player to the ball and is within 3 metres of the ball on the water.
g) Team Possession: a team is considered to have team possession and therefore be the attacking team if any member of that team has possession or control of the ball.

Goal-penalty-shot. Signal_16 and time out applies.

74.1.1. Inside the 6 metre area, a goal-penalty-shot will be awarded for any deliberate or dangerous foul on a player in the act of shooting.

74.1.2. Inside the 6 metre area, a goal-penalty-shot will be awarded for any deliberate or dangerous foul on a player in the act of passing or positioning for a near-certain goal.

74.1.3. Inside the 6 metre area, a goal penalty shot will be awarded for a deliberate or dangerous foul on a player who is attempting to take a free shot.

74.1.4. Outside the 6 metre area, a goal-penalty-shot will be awarded for any deliberate or dangerous foul on a player in the act of shooting for a near-certain goal while the goal is not defended.

74.1.5. Outside the 6 metre area, a goal-penalty-shot will be awarded for any deliberate or dangerous foul on a player in the act of passing or positioning for a near-certain goal while the goal is not defended.

Free shot. Signal_15 applies. A Free Shot may be a direct shot at goal.

74.1.6. A free shot will be awarded for any foul on a player unless a goal penalty shot is awarded. Free throw. Signal_14 applies. A Free Throw may not be a direct shot at goal.

74.1.7. A free throw will be awarded for any ball out of play, or when a goal penalty shot or free shot has not been awarded.

74.1.8. A free throw must not be a direct shot at goal. Infringement incurs a sanction and the opposition is awarded a free throw. Signal_17 and Signal_14 apply. Side line throws, goal line throws, corner throws and centre restarts are considered to be free throws and may not be direct at goal.

Red Card: A player, team coach or team official is sent off for the rest of the game and may not be replaced. Signal_17 with Red card applies.

74.1.9. A red card will be awarded to a player receiving a second yellow card for any reason or where a yellow card is disputed.

74.1.10. A red card should be awarded to a team coach or team official when a green card is disputed or has not had the desired effect of causing the person to control their play or attitude.

74.1.11. A red card should be awarded if a personal attack on a player occurs.

74.1.12. A red card should be awarded for a deliberate or dangerous foul, that in the referee’s opinion is of major influence to the game, irrespective of any other sanction awarded.

74.1.13. A player, team coach or team official receiving a red card during a competition will automatically receive a one game suspension, and be unable to take part in the next game in that competition.

74.1.14. A player, team coach or team official receiving a red card during a competition may be referred to the competition committee for further disciplinary action by either referee if they feel further action or sanctions are necessary.
UK: Referees should bring the Red card to the attention of the tournament organiser who will enforce the rule at all UK competitions (National League, Regional and Summer C class “Internationals”). For the avoidance of doubt this penalty will not cross between competitions or seasons of play (but will cross between separate days / evening of the same season’s series). The suspension affects the player and not the team. Hence the team may have 5 players on the pitch for the next game if they have sufficient substitutes available. A team will not be penalised for playing with less than 5 players if it is directly as a result of this rule.

Yellow Card: A player is sent off for 2 minutes and must not be replaced. Timing of the send off is suspended for periods of time out or between periods of play. Signal_17 with Yellow card applies.

74.1.15. A yellow card will be awarded to a player receiving an individual green card for any reason which results in that player having a total of 3 green card including team warnings. UK: Clarification - When a player is given an individual green card, then if they already have two green cards for whatever reason (including team warnings) they will be awarded a yellow card. If a team green is awarded, then players who might already have 2 green cards will not be issued with a yellow unless they personally committed a foul leading to the team green.

74.1.16. A yellow card will be awarded for a deliberate or dangerous foul on a player that prevents the scoring of a near certain goal, except where the referee feels that the awarding of a goal penalty shot is sufficient sanction.

74.1.17. A yellow card will be awarded for a foul that the referee considers both deliberate and dangerous unless a red card is awarded.

74.1.18. A yellow card will be awarded for a deliberate or dangerous foul that is repeated, or after a green card or team warning has already been awarded to that player or their team for the same offence.

74.1.19. A yellow card will be awarded for repeated and continuous disputing of referee’s decisions.

74.1.20. A yellow card will be awarded for foul or abusive language directed at an opponent or official.

74.1.21. Players sent off must obey the rules of entry to the playing area for re-entry at the completion of the send-off period.

Green Card Warning: designed to warn a player, team coach or team official to control their play or behaviour or risk a yellow card, or red card send off if the infringement(s) continue. Signal_17 with green card applies.

74.1.22. A green card warning will be awarded for any deliberate or dangerous foul except where a yellow or red card is awarded.

74.1.23. A green card will be awarded to a player, team coach or team official for unnecessary verbal communication directed at a referee, official or opponent, or any other unsporting behaviour except where a yellow or red card is awarded.

74.1.24. A green card will be awarded to a team coach or team official if they leave the coaches area during play.

Team Warning.

Signal_17 with a green card applies. A team warning occurs when a referee awards a green card to all players on a team.

74.1.25. A team warning will be awarded to a team by either referee if more than 1 player on the same team are guilty of the same deliberate or dangerous foul.

74.1.26. A team warning will be awarded to a team by either referee if more than 1 player on the same team are guilty of unnecessary verbal communication directed at a referee, official or opponent, or any other unsporting behaviour that is repeated by more than 1 player of the same team.

74.1.27. After a team warning has been given for a particular infringement, a yellow card will be awarded to any player of that team for any subsequent deliberate or dangerous infringement for the same offence.

75. TAKING THROWS

The player taking any goal line throw, corner throw, sideline throw, free throw or free shot must be in the correct position and stationary before taking the throw. The player must clearly hold the ball stationary for a moment above shoulder level to indicate they are taking the throw. The players initial throw must travel one metre measured horizontally from point of release or change possession to another player of the same team. Infringement incurs a sanction with the opposing team being awarded possession of the ball. Signal_11 and Signal_14 apply.

When taking any free throw, or free shot, the player taking the free throw or free shot must be allowed to take up their position to take the throw. No opponent may prevent the player taking up their position or contact the player or their equipment, or deliberately prevent or restrict the movement of the player taking the throw until the ball is back in play. Infringement occurs a sanction Signal_11 and Signal_15 or Signal_16 apply.

The ball is not in play until it has travelled one (1) metre measured horizontally from point of release or changed possession to another player of the same team. The opposition must not attempt to prevent the ball from travelling one metre measured horizontally or changing possession. Infringement incurs a sanction. Signal_11 and Signal_15 or Signal_16 apply. The only exception will be for Free Shots awarded within 2 metres of the goal: Defenders (including the goal keeper) will be allowed to block the free shot after release, but before it has travelled 1 metre from the point of release, with a stationary paddle or stationary hand(s). All defender’s paddles and hands must be kept out of arms reach and any movement towards the player taking the free shot by either a paddle or hand(s), or blocking the ball before it has been released will be deemed a deliberate action and result in a goal penalty shot being awarded.

The player must throw the ball within 5 seconds of being in possession and in a position to take the throw. The five seconds for the restart applies from when any member of the team is in a position to pick up the ball and take the throw. Any dropping or fumbling of the ball will not be considered, provided the initial throw is taken within the five seconds. Infringement incurs a sanction with the opposing team awarded possession of the ball. Signal_11 and Signal_14 applies.

Following an infringement that led to the awarding of a free shot or free throw, the referee will indicate where the free shot or free throw will be taken. The free shot or free throw will be taken: either where the infringement occurred, or where the ball was at the time of the infringement, or where the ball landed if it was in flight at the time of the infringement, whichever most advantages the team receiving the sanction.

76. TAKING A GOAL PENALTY-SHOT

The player taking the goal penalty-shot will be stationary with their body on the 6 metre line.

All other players must be positioned with their bodies in the other half of the playing area until play restarts.

The shot will be taken when referee blows the whistle. The 5 second rule applies. Play will restart on the whistle. No presentation of the ball is required. The player taking the shot may not play the ball again until it has touched another player
or another player’s equipment or the goal frame.

77. COMPLETION OF PLAY

The timekeeper will indicate the end of the period of playing time by the use of a loud signal. The ball is dead at the start of the signal. The referee shall use signal 2 to confirm the timekeeper’s signal.

If a goal penalty-shot has been awarded prior to the signal for completion of play, the goal penalty-shot must be taken before play is to be considered completed. In this situation, the ball shall after it has been thrown immediately be dead if it hits the water or the goal frame and comes back into the playing area.

78. OVERTIME

Overtime shall consist of consecutive periods of 5 minutes each; with the team scoring the first goal deemed the winner. There shall be a 3 minute break before overtime commences and a 1 minute break between periods, with a change of ends.
UK: It is recognised that for organisational reasons that at some tournaments where games require a result, the Tournament Organiser may have to adapt some Overtime Rules to ensure the smooth running of the event.

ICF APPENDIX V: SHOT CLOCK

At World Championships and some other major ICF competitions a "shot clock" is used. This requires teams to attempt a shot at goal within 60 seconds.

At the time of writing (April 2013) there is an intention to introduce the shot clock at some National events, but cost and technology are proving prohibitive. Teams would also be required to operate the system and they will have to show and take a greater responsibility than is currently usual, for the administration of individual games. There is a requirement for additional equipment and officials. For any team or individual who would like a copy of the full ICF rules (including the shot clock appendix), a print friendly version as a PDF will be available for download from the canoepolo.org.uk website. In the mean time anyone who would like more information about the appendix or the ICF rules can contact::
chief-referee@canoepolo.org.uk

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