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New to water polo?
No prior water polo experience is required. Our programs support beginners through to advanced athletes in a structured, inclusive training environment.
Before the first practice
What to bring
| Goggles | Clear vision with a secure, comfortable fit. |
|---|---|
| Towel | Soft, absorbent towel ideal for training and competition use. |
| Sunscreen | High-protection sunscreen for long hours of outdoor training. |
| Swimsuit | Game suits can be purchased online or from your coach on deck. |
| Hydration | Water, Gatorade or a non-carbonated sports drink. |
How it starts
Meet your coach at a regular practice
Athletes are introduced to their coach at a scheduled practice and guided through the program structure and what is expected of them.
Water polo runs at NE Pool, 1100 NE 14th Street, with drylands training at Gate 18 of the UF football stadium. Find the right group by age on the teams page — adults train with Masters.
Common questions
Starting water polo, answered
- Do you need to know how to swim to play water polo?
- Yes — swimming comes first. No water polo experience is needed at all, but an athlete must be comfortable swimming in deep water. If that is not there yet, swim lessons are the place to start.
- What do I bring to a first water polo practice?
- Goggles, a towel, sunscreen, a swimsuit and something to drink — water, Gatorade or a non-carbonated sports drink. Game suits can be bought online or from your coach on deck.
- Is the first practice really free?
- Yes. Come to a scheduled practice, meet the coach, and try it before paying anything.
- How old does my child need to be?
- Most children start around seven or eight, on the 10U Orange team — 10U means ten and under, not a minimum of ten. Athletes are placed by age and ability, and the teams page lists every group.
- Where does the club train?
- Water polo runs at NE Pool, 1100 NE 14th Street, Gainesville, with drylands at Gate 18 of the University of Florida football stadium. Swim lessons are at a different facility on NW 23rd Way.