Water Polo

2004-05

Rules

2004-05 NCAA WATER POLO RULES

NATIONAL COLLEGIATE ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION

[ISSN 0736-5144]

THE NATIONAL COL LEGIATE ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION

P.O. Box 6222 Indianapolis, Indiana 46206-6222 317/917-6222 www.ncaa.org
July 2004 Manuscript Prepared By: Barbara Kalbus, Secretary-Rules Editor. Edited By: Heather Perry, Playing Rules Administration. NCAA, NCAA logo and National Collegiate Athletic Association are registered marks of the A s s ociation and use in any manner is prohibited unless prior approval is obtained from the Associ a t i o n . COPYRIGHT, 1974, BY THE NATIONAL COLLEGIATE ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION REPPRINTED: 1975, 1976, 19 77 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, , 19 87 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, , 2002, 2003, 2004 PRINTED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Contents
page NCAA Water Polo Rules Committee............................................................. 4 Major Rules Changes for 2004- 5................................................................... 6 0. Points of Emphasis............................................................................................. 8 Official NCAA Water Polo Rules Rule 1Field of Play and Equipment ................................................... 12 Rule 2Goals ............................................................................................. 15 Rule 3The Ball......................................................................................... 16 Rule 4Caps............................................................................................... 17 Rule 5Teams and Substitutes............................................................... 19 Rule 6Officials......................................................................................... 23 Rule 7Referees......................................................................................... 25 Rule 8Goal Judges.................................................................................. 29 Rule 9Timekeepers................................................................................. 30 Rule 10Secretaries..................................................................................... 32 Rule 11Duration of the Game ................................................................ 34 Rule 12Timeouts....................................................................................... 36 Rule 13The Start of Play.......................................................................... 40 Rule 14Method of Scoring ...................................................................... 41 Rule 15Restarting After a Goal.............................................................. 44 Rule 16Goal Throws ................................................................................ 45 Rule 17Corner Throws............................................................................ 47 Rule 18Neutral Throws........................................................................... 48 Rule 19Free Throws................................................................................. 50 Rule 20Ordinary Fouls ............................................................................ 51 Rule 21Exclusion Fouls ........................................................................... 57 Rule 22Penalty Fouls ............................................................................... 70 Rule 23Penalty Throws ........................................................................... 74 Rule 24Personal Fouls ............................................................................. 76 Rule 25Accident, Injury and Illness...................................................... 77 Appendix AInstructions for the Use of Two Referees ..................... 79 Appendix BSignals to Be Used by Officials........................................ 82 Appendix CTournament Advancement.............................................. 87 Index to Rules ..................................................................................................... 90

Water Polo Rules Committee

Jamey Wright

Barbara Kalbus

Carin Crawford

Leslie Evans
Div.

Carl Quigley

Ken Weiner

James Yeamans

Term Expires Chair: Jamey Wright........................................................................................................ 9-1-05* University of California, Davis, California 95616 I Secretary-Rules Editor: Barbara Kalbus ..................................................................... 9-1-07 Newport Beach, California 92663 I Carin Crawford................................................................................................................ . 9-1-07* San Diego State University, San Diego, California 92182 I Leslie Evans ....................................................................................................................... 9-1-05* University of Redlands, Redlands, California 92373 I Carl Quigley ...................................................................................................................... 9-1-07* St. Francis College (New York), Brooklyn, New York 11201 I Ken Weiner........................................................................................................................ 9-1-06* University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90024 II James Yeamans ................................................................................................................. 9-1-06* Slippery Rock University, Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania 16057 *Not eligible for reappointment Attended 2004 annual meeting before completing term on committee: Al Beaird, Mountain Pacific Sports Federation; Barry King, Indiana University, Bloomington

Major Rules Changes for 2004-05

The major changed NCAA rules for 2004-05 are identified in the rules by a screened background. To assist referees and coaches, NCAA differences from FINA/USWP rules are indicated in bold. Rule, section 4-2 4-3 4-4 4-4 5-2 page(s) Color of goalkeeper earguards (as compared with cap numbers) described . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 7 Requirement effective for 2004-05 that all goalkeeper caps must be quartered . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 7 Numbers on caps must be at least 8 cm in height . . . .1 7 Numbers on dark goalkeeper caps must be white; numbers on white goalkeeper caps must be dark . . . .1 8 Team benches and reentry areas are located on same side as scoring table if permanent structural facility restrictions prevent location on side opposite scoring table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 0 Players may not be substituted during temporary stoppages of play . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 2 Rule clarified that players, coaches, or team officials who receive a red card in a previous game may sit in the spectator stands during the game at which the suspension is being served. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27, 64 Definition added of competent authority for reporting abandonment of game . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 8 Location described to where referee must throw ball if team calling timeout does not come out from the timeout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 7 Procedure to be followed if referee blows whistle for a timeout when neither team has possession of the ball added . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 8 Position of coach during 20-second timeout expanded . .38 Length of television timeout increased and times when this timeout may be called changed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 8
5

5-6 7-4, 21-11

7-6 12-3 12-5 12-7 12-8

MAJOR RULES CHANGES 2004-05

13-1 14-3

Referee performs coin toss before game . . . . . . . . . . . .40 Procedure for taking immediate shot at goal changed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42 18-2 Procedure for neutral throw described . . . . . . . . . . . . .48 20-18 Wasting time shall be called consistently throughout game . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56 21-2 Punishment described for excluded player who climbs from the side of the pool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57 21-9 Description of misconduct expanded . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62 21-12 Signal and reporting requirements added for minor act of disrespect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65 21-12 Description of the start after a minor act of disrespect clarified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65 22-10 Location of players described during a penalty shot called for deliberate act causing award of penalty shot in last minute . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73 Appendix B New signal added for minor act of disrespect -Fig. Y . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86 Appendix C-3 Procedure clarified for determining tournament advancement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87

Points Of Emphasis
The following points shall be emphasized in the rules. The points on this list are situations about which the NCAA Mens and Womens Water Polo Committees are concerned. 1. It is important that referees call the NCAA water polo rules as written and as interpreted in this rules book. Coaches may not comment on calls or address the referees during the game. However, the head coach may address the referee at the interval between periods, during timeouts or with permission of the referee in addition to the captain or when filing a protest. The rule relating to who may address the referee (Rule 7-4) and at what times shall be enforced consistently and according to the rules. The referees must apply the rules equally and fairly, regardless of gender, experience, responsibilities or intonation of voice. 2. The rule concerning the goalkeeper caps is in effect for this year (Rule 4-3). Goalkeeper caps must be quartered, red and white with white ear guards and a dark number for the visiting goalkeeper and red and dark with dark ear guards and a white number for the home goalkeeper. The size of the cap numbers shall be at least 8 centimeters in height on all caps (Rule 4-4). 3. Officials should accurately time timeouts and period breaks, using a watch. The warning whistles should also be given at the proper time. After a timeout, play shall be restarted by the team putting the ball in play at or behind the half-distance line. If the team calling the timeout does not come out from the timeout after the referee blows the whistle, the referee shall throw the ball to the offensive player closest to and behind the half-distance line (Rule 12-3). 4. Officials should make sure that both coaches and the secretary are notified when a 20-second timeout has been called in contrast to a regular timeout as the teams do not move to their halves of the pool during the 20-second timeout (Rule 12-7). The coach calling the 20-second timeout may move along the sideline to the half-distance line during this timeout in order to talk to the players. The official or scoring table shall also accurately time the 20-second timeout and give the warning
7

POINTS OF EMPHASIS

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

whistle at the proper time. The use of a 20-second timeout shall be recorded on the score sheet. The team benches must be located on the side opposite the official table, unless permanent structural facility restrictions prevent such a location. In that case, the team benches and reentry area will be located on the same side as the scoring (Rule 5-2). Players may not be substituted either from the reentry area or from the side of the pool during a temporary stoppage of play, such as while a player is retrieving a cap, while a referee is checking on an injury or while the referee is resetting a clock (Rule 5-6). The rule has been clarified concerning where a player, coach, or team official who has received a red card in one game may sit in the next game at which the suspension is being served. The individual may sit in the spectator stands but may not communicate with the team by any method (Rule 7-4). If at the award of a foul outside 7 meters, the ball is inside 7 meters or closer to the defending teams goal, a goal may be scored if the ball is returned without delay to either the place where the foul was committed, to any place on the same line as the foul or to any place behind the line of the foul provided the shot is then immediately made from that position (Rule 14-3). The definition of immediate has been clarified to permit the player taking the shot to look in the general direction of the goal and then take an immediate shot at the goal. It should be emphasized to the referees to call wasting time consistently throughout the game, not just in the last minute of the game (Rule 20-18). The intention of the committee is that the game be played for the entire 28 minutes. In order to make it clear to the players, coaches, and secretary when the referee calls a minor act of disrespect, a new signal has been developed. The referee signals this foul by the use of half rolling motion with one arm. This foul must be identified as such on the score sheet. New interpretations have been developed to clarify when the teams start even up after this foul is called (Rule 21-12). A deliberate act causing the award of a penalty foul in violation of Rule 22-4 to Rule 22-9 during the last minute of the game or during the last minute of the second overtime period in order to give the team with the lead a penalty shot will result in the team shooting the penal-

POINTS OF EMPHASIS

12.

13.

14. 15.

ty shot getting the ball back at the half-distance line whether the penalty shot is made or missed (Rule 22-10). The location of the players on the team taking the penalty shot and of the players on the defensive team have been defined. Playing (conduct) rules (Rules 5, 11-25) may not be altered except for experimental purposes approved by the NCAA Mens Water Polo Committee. The administrative rules (Rules 1-4, 6-10) cannot be altered except as indicated in the rules. For example, the length of quarters, time between quarters, type of overtime played or the number of timeouts may not be altered during any NCAA water polo contest (tournament or regular season). Referees should also call fouls consistently throughout the entire period of possession. Referees should not refrain from calling an exclusion or ordinary foul if only a few seconds remain in the period of possession. Perimeter fouls (ordinary and exclusion) must be called consistently throughout the game, including the last minute when the team with the lead has the ball. The host institution must ensure that the desk is staffed adequately, with experienced personnel. Among the most important aspects of the game for referees to consider and to call consistently is the 2-meter play. Referees should consider the negative consequences of blowing a quick whistle at 2 meters. a. Referees need to be patient when the ball comes into the 2-meter player. Providing the 2-meter player (set player, center forward) with the opportunity to play the ball is consistent with the spirit and the substance of the rules. b. The quick whistle neutralizes, if not undermines, the intent of the elimination of the three-foul rule at 2 meters. Even though quickly blowing the whistle at 2 meters is a safe call, neither the offense nor the defense gains a clear advantage when the referee quickly blows the whistle at 2 meters. The major effect is to eliminate, however unintentionally, the scoring threat of the 2-meter player. Implicit in these two statements are the three key factors for referees to consider when determining whether or not a quick whistle, or any whistle, is appropriate: 1. What is the position of the defender? If the 2-meter player is establishing a scoring advantage by virtue of the set defenders position, then a foul should not be called.

10

POINTS OF EMPHASIS

2. What is the technique of the 2-meter player? Is the 2-meter player demonstrating the kind of ball control and positioning skills that would warrant the referees not calling a quick whistle? 3. How well is the slough executed? And, just as important, is the slough (the defensive player that applies the double-team pressure) arriving at the 2-meter player on time? Just as it is important for referees to recognize these factors, coaches need to recognize the psychology of calling such fouls. Every referee should be concerned about demonstrating to the players, coaches and spectators that he or she recognizes what is happening at 2 meters, especially if the situation warrants the referee not blowing a quick whistle. An appropriate gesture, such as shifting position slightly so as to signal the intensity with which the referee is examining the situation, might well demonstrate that the referee understands precisely what is happening as the play is developing. 16. Exclusion and Four-Meter Calls: The following guidelines should make it easier for referees to call the appropriate foul when the ball comes in to the 2-meter player: a. If the 2-meter guard has established a position behind the 2-meter player and the foul is not overly aggressive, then an ordinary foul should be called. b. If the 2-meter guard prevents the 2-meter player from moving out in any direction to play the ball, then an exclusion is the appropriate call. c. If the 2-meter guard is behind the 2-meter player, but commits an overly aggressive foul, then an exclusion is the appropriate call. It is assumed that the referee will continue to apply the hold, sink or pull back rule. d. If the 2-meter player works to establish a side-position advantage on the 2-meter guard, the referee must demonstrate enough confidence in himself or herself, as well as the 2-meter player, by allowing the 2-meter player to continue working for a shot or for a 4meter penalty. e. In determining whether there should be an exclusion or a 4-meter penalty called, the referee must concentrate on determining the defenders position in relation to the 2-meter player.

POINTS OF EMPHASIS

11

1. If the 2-meter guards head is behind the 2-meter player, then a 4-meter penalty must be called. 2. If the 2-meter guards head is in front of or parallel with the 2meter players head, then no call is appropriate. By not blowing the whistle, the referee allows the 2-meter player to continue working for either a shot on goal or a 4-meter penalty. The most common error for referees to make in this situation is to follow the ball. Instead of following the movement of the ball, the referee should concentrate on the 2-meter defenders position in relation to the 2-meter player. Position is the crucial factor in determining whether a 4-meter penalty is the appropriate call.

RULE 1 Field of Play and Equipment

Position of Clocks SECTION 1. The host institution and/or agency shall be responsible for the correct measurements and markings of the field of play and shall provide all stipulated fixtures and equipment. Any visible clock shall display the time in descending manner (that is, display the time remaining in a period or period of possession). The game clock and the 35-second clocks must be equally visible to both teams. There shall be a minimum of two 35-second clocks used in each game. It is recommended that there be four 35-second clocks, one located at each corner of the pool. If there are only two 35-second clocks, it is recommended that each be located opposite a front court referee. If this is not possible, the two clocks shall be located on the same side of the pool as the scoring table. Field of Play SECTION 2. The layout and markings of the field of play for a game officiated by two referees shall be in accordance with the diagram on the next page. Location of Officials With One Referee SECTION 3. In a game officiated by one referee, the referee shall officiate on the same side as the official table, and the goal judges shall be situated on the opposite side. Pool Dimensions SECTION 4. For games played by men, the uniform distance between the goal lines must not exceed 100 feet [30m] nor be less than 75 feet [22.9m]. For games played by women, the uniform distance between the goal lines must not exceed 82 feet [25m] nor be less than 75 feet [22.9m]. For games played by men and women, the uniform width must not exceed 66 feet [20m] nor be less than 45 feet [13m]. The minimum depth of the water shall be 6.5 feet [2m] (7 feet [2.13m] in facili12

RULE 1-4/FIELD OF PLAY AND EQUIPMENT

13

BOUNDARY of FIELD OF PLAY GOAL JUDGE 35-SECOND CLOCK 2-METER LINE (RED) 4-METER LINE (YELLOW)

10 FT. [3m] GOAL

2-METER REENTRY AREA (RED) TEAM AREA GOAL LINE (WHITE) 35-SECOND CLOCK

7-METER LINE (GREEN)

Scoring Table

MINIMUM DEPTH OF WATER 6.5 FT. [2m]

7-METER LINE (GREEN)

4-METER LINE (YELLOW) 2-METER LINE (RED) 35-SECOND CLOCK GOAL JUDGE **BOUNDARY of FIELD OF PLAY

35-SECOND CLOCK GOAL LINE (WHITE) GOAL 10 FT. [3m] TEAM AREA 2-METER REENTRY AREA (RED)

Field of Play.

*The figures enclosed in brackets are metric dimensions. All future pools built for water polo should conform to metric dimensions. **Distance between goal line and boundary of field of play is 0.3 meters.

Women: MAXIMUM LENGTH 82 FT. [25m] MINIMUM LENGTH 75 FT. [22.9m]

Men: MAXIMUM LENGTH 100 FT. [30m] MINIMUM LENGTH 75 FT. [22.9m]

HALF-DISTANCE LINE (WHITE)

MAXIMUM WIDTH 66 FT. [20m]* MINIMUM WIDTH 45 FT. [13m]

14

RULE 1-4/FIELD OF PLAY AND EQUIPMENT

ties built after January 1, 1990). The boundary of the field of play at each end is 0.30 meters behind the goal line. It is recommended that, for new facilities, the minimum distance from the goal line to the pool wall shall be 1.66 meters. Pools built before 1976 are exceptions to the foregoing standards. It is the responsibility of the host institution to provide a field of play that meets as closely as possible the maximum measurements for length and width and equals or exceeds the minimum depth given in the above standards. Note: Whenever the ball passes completely behind the goal line (face of the goal) or completely over the side line, the ball is out of bounds. Water Temperature SECTION 5. It is recommended that the water temperature be maintained between 78 and 81 degrees Fahrenheit (25.6 and 27.2 degrees Celsius). Markers SECTION 6. Distinctive marks shall be provided on both sides of the field of play to denote the following: white marks - goal line and half-distance line red marks - 2 meters from goal lines yellow marks - 4 meters from goal lines green marks - 7 meters from goal lines Note: Measurements for the markers shall be taken from the front edge of the goal line, including the marker. It is recommended all markers be flush with the edge of the pool. Reentry Area SECTION 7. A red mark shall be placed at each end of the field of play, 2 meters from the corner of the field of play on the side opposite to the official table, to denote the reentry area. Space for Referees and Goal Judges SECTION 8. Sufficient space shall be provided to enable the referees to have free movement from end to end of the field of play. Space shall also be provided at the goal lines for the goal judges. Flags SECTION 9. The secretary shall be provided with separate red, white and blue flags, each measuring 0.35 meters by 0.20 meters.

RULE 2 Goals
Dimensions SECTION 1. Two goal posts and a crossbar, rigidly constructed, rectangular with a dimension of 3 inches [.075m] facing the field of play and painted white shall be located on the goal lines at each end, equal distances from the sides and, for floating goals, not less than 0.30 meters in front of the ends of the field of play. Position SECTION 2. The inner sides of the goal posts shall be 10 feet [3m] apart. When the water is 5 feet [1.50m] or more in depth, the underside of the crossbar shall be 3 feet [0.90m] from the water surface. When the water is less than 5 feet [1.50m] in depth, the underside of the crossbar shall be 8 feet [2.40m] from the floor of the pool. Goal Backing and Goal Space SECTION 3. For floating goals, limp nets or canvas shall be securely fastened to the goal posts and crossbar to enclose the entire goal area, and shall be attached to the goal fixtures in such a manner as to allow not less than 0.30 meters clear space behind the goal line everywhere within the goal area. It is recommended that floating goals have a net backing attached. As of July 1, 2006, all floating goals must have a net backing attached. The end lines shall be attached one ball width from the front edge of the goal. For wall goals, the goal space shall be a minimum of 18 inches [45.72cm] deep without obstruction. Goals must have a backing that is loosely attached to the goal fittings to enclose the goal space in front of all supports.

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RULE 3 The Ball

Description SECTION 1. The ball shall be round, yellow or gold in color, and shall have an air chamber with a self closing valve. It shall be waterproof, without external strappings or any covering of grease or similar substance. Weight SECTION 2. The weight of the ball shall be not less than 400 grams and not more than 450 grams. SizeMens SECTION 3. For games played by men, the circumference of the ball shall be not less than 0.68 meters and not more than 0.71 meters, and its pressure shall be 90-97 kilo Pascals (13-14 pounds per square inch atmospheric). SizeWomens SECTION 4. For games played by women, the circumference of the ball shall be not less than 0.65 meters and not more than 0.67 meters, and its pressure shall be 83-90 kilo Pascals (12-13 pounds per square inch atmospheric). Number of SECTION 5. It is recommended five balls be available for all games.

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RULE 4 Caps
Colors SECTION 1. Each team must have two sets of caps, one white and the other a contrasting color. The visiting team shall wear white caps. Home-team caps may be any dark color that contrasts with the color of the ball (caps may not be yellow or gold). Dark caps may not be powder blue, light gray, pale green or similar light colors. Caps for the field players and the goalkeeper may have piping of any color not to exceed a width of 38 inch (1cm) around the cap (the cap strings or strap may be the same color as the piping or may match the cap color). Caps may have stripes other than yellow/orange in color; stripes must run from front to back. Caps shall be fastened under the chin. If a player loses the cap during play, the player shall replace it at the next appropriate stoppage of the game when the players team is in possession of the ball. Caps shall be worn throughout the entire game. Ear Guards SECTION 2. Each player (in the water or on the bench) must wear a cap with protective ear guards at all times. The color of the ear guards on the field players caps must match the color of the caps as closely as possible: dark on dark caps, white on white caps. The color of the ear guards of the goalkeeper must be the same as those on the caps of that teams field players: dark for the home goalkeeper, white for the visiting goalkeeper. Goalkeeper Caps SECTION 3. The caps of the goalkeepers must be quartered (red and white with white ear guards for the visiting goalkeeper and red and dark with dark ear guards for the home goalkeeper). Numbers SECTION 4. Plainly visible numbers, at least 8 centimeters in height, shall be placed on both sides of the caps. The numbers on the dark caps must be white or yellow. The numbers on the white caps must be a con17

18

RULE 4-4/CAPS

trasting dark color. The numbers on the white caps may not be powder blue, light gray, pale green or similar light colors. Field players caps are numbered beginning with No. 2. Caps of the same color must have different numbers. No. 1 is reserved for the goalkeeper. Additional goalkeepers shall have caps numbered 1A, 1B, etc. The numbers on the cap of the home goalkeeper (the team with the dark caps) shall be white; the numbers on the cap of the visiting goalkeeper (team with white caps) shall be dark. The numbers on both dark and white caps must be a single solid color with no border in block number format. A player shall not be allowed to change cap number during the game except with the permission of a referee and with notification to the secretary. Bathing Cap SECTION 5. If a player wears a bathing cap under the water polo cap, the color of the bathing cap shall closely match the color of the water polo cap (white with white caps, navy with navy caps, and red with goalkeeper caps). Lack of Adherence SECTION 6. If a teams caps do not meet specifications, the team will be required to change caps or the game may be declared a forfeit.

RULE 5 Teams and Substitutes

Number of Players, Illegal Player SECTION 1. At the beginning of a game, each team shall consist of seven players, one of whom shall be the goalkeeper and who shall wear the goalkeepers cap, and reserves who may be used as substitutes. After the start, a team may have less than 7 players. A team playing with less than 7 players shall not be required to have a goalkeeper. Notes: An illegal player is defined as an extra player or a player who has received a third personal foul or has been excluded for the remainder of the game. If a referee starts a period, after a timeout or after a goal with an extra player in the water, the referee shall stop play, remove the extra player, reset both clocks and restart play in the usual manner. A personal foul shall not be charged to that player. If the referee starts a period or after a timeout with an excluded player in the water, the referee shall stop play, remove the excluded player, reset both clocks and restart play in the usual manner. An additional personal foul shall not be charged to that player. If a player has three personal fouls but was not visibly red-flagged by the desk, the player shall be removed from the water as soon as the error is discovered, the game clock shall be reset to the time of the third personal foul, the 35-second clock reset, any goals scored and fouls assessed during this time period shall not count, and the illegal player is removed from the game except that the following cards and fouls shall remain as issued: a. Any issuance of a yellow card (Rule 7-4) b. Any issuance of a red card (Rule 7-4) c. Any instance of misconduct (Rule 21-9) d. Any instance of brutality (Rule 21-10) e. Any instance of fighting (Rule 21-11) f. Any instance of disrespect (including minor acts of disrespect) (Rule 21-12). Goals scored as a result of these fouls, such as an awarded penalty
19

20

RULE 5-1/TEAMS AND SUBSTITUTES

shot, shall not be counted with the exception that an extraman goal scored before the player with the three personal fouls or that players substitute enters the pool shall be counted. In that case, the clock shall not be reset.
Interpretation: A player receives a third personal foul. The desk fails to visibly red flag the player. The player is substituted for during the exclusion period and does not return to the game until much later in the game. The referee knows the time of return precisely (for example, the player entered directly after a goal was scored, after a timeout or at the beginning of a period). In this instance the referee must stop the game, remove the player (without a penalty shot), reset the clock to the time of the goal or timeout or beginning of the period and resume the game.

In all other cases if a desk error is not involved and a player who is not entitled under the rules to participate enters the field of play, a penalty foul is awarded and the clocks are not reset. Team Bench, Change of Ends SECTION 2. All players not in the game at the time, together with the coaches and officials with the exception of the head coach, shall sit on the team bench and shall not move away from the bench from the commencement of play, except during the intervals between periods, when called on to substitute and during a timeout.
Interpretation: The head coach shall be allowed to sit or stand behind the goal line in the team area when the team is on defense. When the team is on attack, the head coach may advance to the teams 4-meter mark; when the coachs team is on defense the coach must return to the bench area. If the head coach receives a warning or a yellow card, the coach is still permitted to progress to the 4-meter line when the coachs team is on attack, shout instructions, and stand. The assistant coach must remain seated on the bench at all times. The referee may issue a warning, followed by a yellow card, and a red card for violation of this rule by the assistant coach.

Teams shall only change ends and benches at half time and at the end of the first period of overtime. See Rule 11-3 for change of ends in suddendeath overtime. If requested by one coach, the teams must change ends and benches after each quarter (and overtime period). In that instance, the referees do not change sides during the game. The team benches shall both be situated on the side opposite to the official table, unless permanent structural facility restrictions prevent such location.The team bench shall be located at the corner behind the goal line. The team area may extend no farther along the goal line than the mark for the reentry area 2 meters from the corner of the field of play. The team area may only be expanded at the corner of the pool behind the goal line. See the pool diagram in Rule 1.

RULE 5-2/TEAMS AND SUBSTITUTES

Interpretation: If, for permanent structural reasons, the team benches can not be located on the side opposite to the scoring table, the team benches and reentry area will be located on the same side as the scoring table.

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Captains SECTION 3. The captains shall be playing members of their respective teams and each shall be responsible for the good conduct of the team. The captain may be any player listed on the team roster and must be designated before the pregame meeting. Apparel SECTION 4. Players shall wear non-transparent costumes and before taking part in a game shall remove any articles likely to cause injury. Substances on Body SECTION 5. Players shall not have grease, oil or any similar substance on the body. If a referee ascertains before the start of play that such a substance has been used, the referee shall order it to be removed immediately. The start of play shall not be delayed for the substance to be removed. If the offense is detected after the play has started, the player must remove the foreign substance or trim the nails before the player can reenter the pool. Note: A pregame meeting of captains, head coaches and referees shall be held before the game to discuss the ground rules, the fingernails rule (the referee shall ask each coach if the players are in conformance with the rule concerning fingernails, toenails, jewelry and foreign substances on their body) and to answer any questions. The referees shall inspect all players for articles likely to cause injury; toenails and fingernails that are sharp/dangerous; or oil, grease or similar substances on the body and order an offending player to correct the violation immediately. Should an offense be detected after the game has started, the referee must order the player to cut the nails or remove the offending substance immediately and then resumes the game. If a referee instructs a player to trim the nails or remove a foreign substance, the referee must check the player before that player may enter or reenter the game. The game shall not be delayed for this to occur. Method of Substitution SECTION 6. At any time in the game, a player may be substituted by leaving the field of play at the reentry area nearest to that players own goal line. The substitute may enter the field of play from the reentry area as soon as the player has visibly risen to the surface of the water within the reentry area. If a goalkeeper is substituted under this rule, the substitute shall be required to wear a goalkeepers cap. No substitution shall be made under this rule between the time a referee awards a penalty throw and the taking

22

RULE 5-6/TEAMS AND SUBSTITUTES

of the throw, except at a timeout. Notes: If an excluded player is being substituted for, the excluded player does not have to remain in the reentry area and may leave the pool immediately after entering the reentry area. Players may not be substituted, either from the reentry area or from the side of the pool, during a temporary stoppage of play, such as while a player is retrieving a cap, while a referee is checking on an injury or while the referee is resetting a clock. Entry of Substitute SECTION 7. A substitute may enter the field of play from any place: a. During the interval between periods of play, including any periods of extra time; b. After a goal has been scored; c. During a timeout; and d. To replace a player who is bleeding or injured. Note: During a timeout, an excluded player is not required to go to the reentry area before leaving the pool to meet with the team. If a substitution is being made for the excluded player during the timeout, the excluded player does not have to go to the reentry area before the substitute may enter from the reentry area. Entry of Substitute Without Delay SECTION 8. A substitute shall be ready to replace a player without delay. If the player is not ready, the game shall continue without the substitute and, at any time, that player may then enter the field of play from the reentry area nearest to that players own goal line. Substitution of Goalkeeper SECTION 9. A goalkeeper who has been replaced by a substitute may, if reentering the game, play in any position. Injury to Goalkeeper SECTION 10. Should a goalkeeper retire from the game through any medical reason, the referees shall allow an immediate substitution, subject to one of the players taking the goalkeepers cap.

RULE 6 Officials
Number SECTION 1. It is recommended that, for NCAA championship and conference tournaments, the officials shall consist of two referees, two goal judges, two timekeepers and two secretaries, each with the following powers and duties. Such officials shall also be provided wherever possible for other events, except that in a game refereed by two referees and no goal judges, the referees shall assume the powers and duties (but without making the specified signals) allocated to the goal judges in Rule 8-2. The visiting team may have three observers at the desk. Notes: Depending on the degree of importance, games can be controlled by teams of four to eight officials, as follows: a. Referees and goal judges: Two referees and two goal judges; or two referees and no goal judges; or one referee and two goal judges. b. Timekeepers and secretaries: With one timekeeper and one secretary: The timekeeper shall record the periods of continuous possession of the ball by each team, in accordance with Rule 9-1-b and Rule 20-17. The secretary shall record the exact periods of actual play, timeouts if personnel and equipment are available at the desk to do so and the intervals between periods, maintain the record of the game as set out in Rule 10, and shall also record the respective periods of exclusion of players ordered from the water in accordance with the rules. With two timekeepers and one secretary: Timekeeper No. 1 shall record the exact periods of actual play, timeouts if personnel and equipment are available at the desk to do so and the intervals between periods. Timekeeper No. 2 shall record the periods of continuous possession of the ball by each team, in accordance with Rule 9-1-b and Rule 20-17. The secretary shall maintain the record of the game and perform all other duties as set out in Rule 10. With two timekeepers and two secretaries: Timekeeper No. 1 shall record the
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24

RULE 6-1/OFFICIALS

exact periods of actual play, timeouts if personnel and equipment are available at the desk to do so and the intervals between periods. Timekeeper No. 2 shall record the periods of continuous possession of the ball by each team, in accordance with Rule 9-1-b and Rule 20-17. Secretary No. 1 shall maintain the record of the game as set out in Rule 10-a. Secretary No. 2 shall carry out the duties set out in Rules 10-b, c and d relating to the improper reentry of excluded players, improper entry of substitutes, exclusion of players and the third personal foul. Protests SECTION 2. Protests are handled by the tournament games committee. In the absence of the tournament games committee, protests may be handled by the referees or by the sponsoring conference or agency. Protests may be lodged only for misapplication of rules or errors in recording information. The coach must inform the referee within five minutes after the conclusion of the game that the coach is filing a protest and the protest procedure must be completed within 15 minutes after the completion of the game. Protests must be lodged at the site, recorded in the official scorebook and signed by the referees. When filing a protest, the coach may address the referee. Protests must be ruled on immediately if there is a tournament games committee. If there is not a tournament games committee, the decision being protested, if not handled by the referees, shall be referred to the sponsoring conference or agency, if any. The sponsoring conference is the conference to which both schools in a dual meet or all the schools in a tournament belong.

RULE 7 Referees
Authority, Uniform SECTION 1. 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 precincts of the pool. All decisions of the referees on questions of fact shall be final and their interpretation of the rules shall be obeyed throughout the game. 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. Notes: Uniform and equipment for referees consist of a whistle used to start and stop play, white shirt or jacket, white trousers, white footwear or uniform supplied by or authorized by a tournament or conference. If an alternate uniform is provided for a tournament, the referees should wear the tournament uniform only if the tournament provides enough uniforms so that all referees can be dressed in this alternate uniform. Both referees for a game must be dressed in the alternate uniform or both must wear the white uniform. The jurisdiction of the referees begins 30 minutes before the game and ends five minutes after the conclusion of the game or when any protest procedure has been completed (see Rule 6-2 for duration of protest). There shall be no interaction between officials and coaches before or after a game or a tournament game other than pregame instructions. Altering Decision SECTION 2. The referees shall whistle to start and restart the game and to declare goals, goal throws, corner throws (whether signaled by the goal judge or not), neutral throws and infringements of the rules. A referee may alter a decision provided it is done before the ball is put back into play. If the referee indicates the award of a free throw by pointing in the wrong direction, the referee shall stop play and call the ball out of the water; play is resumed when neither team has an advantage. If the hand signals of the two referees differ, the ball is called out of the water; play is resumed when neither team has an advantage.
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26

RULE 7-3/REFEREES

Advantage Rule SECTION 3. The referees shall refrain from declaring a foul if, in their opinion, such declaration would be an advantage to the offending players team. The referees shall not declare an ordinary foul when there is still a possibility to play the ball. Note: The referees shall apply this principle to the fullest extent. They should not, for example, declare an ordinary foul in favor of a player who is in possession of the ball and making progress towards the opponents goal, because this is considered to give an advantage to the offenders team. Control Over Conduct SECTION 4. After the pregame meeting, the head coach and captain are the only individuals authorized to address the referees. The head coach and captain may address the referees at intervals between periods and during timeouts or with the permission of the referee or, in the case of the head coach, when filing a protest. The head coach and captain may discuss rule clarifications and misapplications of rules with the officials at these times but may not comment to or address the referee during the actual play of the game. Judgment calls are not an appropriate topic of discussion at any time. The referees shall have the power to order any player from the water in accordance with the appropriate rule and to abandon the game should a player refuse to leave the water when so ordered. The referees may issue warnings, yellow cards or red cards, according to the rules. Warning: If a coach or team official is disruptive or if the assistant coach or other team official stands, that person may be issued a verbal warning by the referee. Warnings are not recorded in the scorebook. Yellow card: A yellow card may be issued to the head coach, to the assistant coach, to other team officials on the bench, or it may be issued to the bench (the players collectively on the bench). A yellow card is a visible warning to the bench for behavior such as interfering with the duties of the officials or progress of the game, to the head coach for going beyond the area designed for the head coach or to other coaches or team officials for standing during the game. A yellow card may be issued if there is an additional disruption after a warning or it may be issued immediately without the previous issuance of a warning, depending upon the severity of the infraction, and is valid for that game only. If the coach is issued a yellow card, the coach is still permitted to progress to the 4-meter line when that

RULE 7-4/REFEREES

27

coachs team is on attack, shout instructions and stand. The time and to whom the yellow card is issued are recorded on the scoresheet. Red card: A red card may be issued to the head coach, assistant coaches, other team officials on the bench and to individual players on the bench. If a coach or team official is disruptive after receiving a yellow card, a red card is issued. If, in the judgment of the referee, the infraction is severe, a red card may be issued immediately to a coach or team official without issuing a warning or a yellow card, depending upon the severity of the infraction. A red card may also be issued directly to a player on the bench who is disruptive (no warning or yellow card is issued to an individual athlete). The time and to whom the red card is issued are recorded on the scoresheet. The referees shall have the power to order any player from the water in accordance with the appropriate rule and to issue a red card should a player refuse to leave the water when so ordered (see Rule 2112). The referee has the ability to abandon the game if a player continues to refuse to leave the water when so ordered. A coach or other team official receiving a red card must leave the pool facility and have no visual or electronic contact with the team. The assistant coach assumes the rights and privileges of the head coach when the head coach receives a red card during a game. A player receiving a red card may sit in the spectator stands during the remainder of that game but may not communicate with the team by any means. Further misconduct by an excluded player, coach or other team official could result in a forfeit. The person receiving a red card is automatically suspended from the next traditional season game. The suspension shall be served immediately upon the resolution of the matter by the conference or other appropriate governing authority, including the NCAA Championship Committee, and may be served only against teams of four-year institutions recognized as NCAA or NAIA members and the game must have been on the teams schedule prior to the game where the red card was issued. Games scheduled subsequent to any sanctionable act will not be recognized for the purpose of serving suspensions. If the game was the last game of the traditional season, the person is suspended from the first game of the postseason championship or the first game (as defined previously) of the next traditional season, as appropriate. It is the responsibility of the institution to make certain that the suspension is served in accordance with the rules.

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RULE 7-4/REFEREES
Interpretation: An individual (player, coach or team official) who has received a red card in the previous game may sit in the spectator stands during the game at which the suspension is being served but may not communicate with the team by any method.

When the referee issues a yellow or red card, the referee shall whistle to stop play without taking the advantage away from the nonoffending team, call the ball out of the pool, and show the appropriate card. When a yellow or red card is issued, the referee must notify the table as to whom the card was issued or, in the case of a yellow card, if it was issued to the bench. The time and person (or bench) to whom the card was issued shall be indicated in the Progress of the Game portion of the scoresheet. The referee shall then put the ball back into play. A goal may not be scored by a direct shot on goal in this instance. Removal From Pool SECTION 5. The referees shall have the power to order the removal from the precincts of the pool any player, substitute, spectator or official whose behavior prevents the referees from carrying out their duties in a proper and impartial manner. Abandonment of Game SECTION 6. The referees shall have the power to abandon the game at any time if, in their opinion, the behavior of the players or spectators, 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 competent authority, such as the league or conference commissioner or to the institutions athletic directors.

RULE 8 Goal Judges

Location SECTION 1. The goal judges shall be situated on the same side as the official table, each on the goal line at the end of the field of play. Duties SECTION 2. The duties of the goal judges shall be: a. To signal by raising one arm vertically when the players are correctly positioned on their respective goal lines at the start of a period; b. To signal by raising both arms vertically for an improper start or restart; c. To signal by pointing with the arm in the direction of the attack for a goal throw; d. To signal by pointing with the arm in the direction of the attack for a corner throw; and e. To signal by raising and crossing both arms for a goal. Balls SECTION 3. Each goal judge shall be provided with a supply of balls and when the original ball has gone outside the field of play, the goal judge shall immediately throw a new ball to the goalkeeper (for a goal throw), to the nearest player of the attacking team (for a corner throw), or as otherwise directed by the referee.
Interpretation: Whenever the ball leaves the field of play (i.e., thrown or deflected), the goal judge must immediately on signal from the referee throw the ball to the nearest player of the team that will now have possession, that player usually being the goalkeeper. Players should not leave the field of play to retrieve a ball. The player should retrieve it only if it is immediately outside the field of play (next to a lane line) when the player does not need to leave the field of play.

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RULE 9 Timekeepers
Duties SECTION 1. The duties of the timekeepers shall be: a. To record the exact periods of actual play, timeouts if personnel and equipment are available at the desk to do so and the intervals between the periods; The timekeeper shall: 1. Start the game clock at the beginning of each period when a player touches the ball and stop the clock each time the whistle blows. Start the clock again when the ball is put into play. Play is resumed when the ball leaves the hand of the player taking a free throw, goal throw or corner throw; 2. Start the clock on a penalty throw when the ball leaves the hand of the player taking the penalty throw and stop on the whistle, or if the shot is missed, continue running the clock; and 3. Start the clock on a neutral throw when one of the players touches the ball. b. To record the periods of continuous possession of the ball by each team; The timekeeper shall start the 35-second clock at the beginning of the period when the first player gains possession of the ball (the player need not actually touch the ball) and shall stop the clock each time the whistle blows. Play is resumed when the ball leaves the hand of the player taking a free throw, goal throw or corner throw. The timekeeper shall reset the 35second clock: 1. After a goal or an attempt at a goal (reset the 35-second clock when the ball leaves the hand of the shooter; if the ball rebounds into the field of play after an attempt, reset the clock again and start the clock when either team gains possession of the ball); 2. After an exclusion or offensive turnover when the ball is put into play; 3. When the opposing team gains possession of the ball (possession shall not include the ball merely being touched in flight by an opposing player);
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RULE 9-1/TIMEKEEPERS

31

4. When a neutral throw is awarded (start the clock when one player gains possession of the ball); 5. When a penalty throw is awarded (if the shot is missed and the ball rebounds, start the clock when a player gains possession of the ball); 6. On a goal throw or corner throw (start the clock when the team puts the ball into play). The clock is not reset when the ball goes out-ofbounds on the sides of the pool last touched by a defensive player unless a shot was taken; and 7. On a ball-under call if there is a clear change of possession, not a momentary touching of the ball. The player has to be in control of the ball. If a player throws the ball into a vacant corner before the expiration of 35 seconds, the referee shall blow the whistle to stop both clocks and signal a free throw at that site. The 35-second clock shall be reset, and both the game clock and the 35-second clock are started when the ball is put into play at the site of the free throw. The timekeeper shall turn off the 35-second clock when less than 35 seconds remain in a period and a new 35-second period of possession is awarded. c. To record the exclusion times of players ordered from the water in accordance with the rules, together with the reentry times of such players or their substitutes; d. To audibly announce the start of the last minute of the game and of the last minute of the second period of any extra time and of any subsequent sudden-death overtime periods; and e. To signal by whistle after 1:45 and at the end of each timeout if personnel and equipment are available at the desk to do so. End of Period SECTION 2. A timekeeper shall signal by whistle (or by any other means provided it is distinctive, acoustically efficient and readily understood), the end of each period independently of the referees and the signal shall take immediate effect except: a. In the case of the simultaneous award by a referee of a penalty throw, in which event the penalty throw shall be taken in accordance with the rules; and b. If the ball is in flight and crosses the goal line, in which event any resultant goal shall be allowed.

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RULE

RULE 10 Secretaries
Duties The duties of the secretaries shall be: a. To maintain the record of the game, including the players, the score, timeouts, exclusion fouls, penalty fouls, and personal fouls awarded against each player; The scorer shall: 1. Record the names and corresponding cap numbers in numerical order for all players. The team roster for each team, with numbers designated, must be in the secretarys hands before the start of the game; 2. Record players goals (time and cap number); 3. Record personal fouls (time and cap number) and, when a player is assessed a third personal foul that is an exclusion foul, inform the referee, as soon as possible after the substitution, that the player has three personal fouls (to ensure that the referee is aware that the player would be an illegal player if the player reenters the pool later in the game); 4. Note on the scoresheet if a player is removed for the remainder of the game for fighting or brutality; 5. Record official timeouts, the time and period each occurs, keep a record visible to the teams of the timeouts remaining, and notify the coach and referees when a team has used its allotted timeouts; 6. Record the 20-second timeout for each team, the time and period that it occurs; 7. Record the date and place of games, names of referees, and protests, if any. b. To control the periods of exclusion of players and to signal the expiration of the period of exclusion by raising the appropriate flag; except that a referee shall signal the reentry of an excluded player or a substitute when that players team has retaken possession of the ball;
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RULE 10/SECRETARIES

33

The exclusion secretary shall: 1. Record the cap number of the excluded players, the time of exclusion and the time of reentry; and 2. Raise the white or blue flag when the excluded player may reenter the game at the conclusion of the 20-second exclusion period, provided that the excluded player has reached the reentry area. The exclusion secretary shall keep the flag raised for several seconds after the excluded player reenters the pool to ensure that the referee is aware that the reentry was permitted by the exclusion secretary. The exclusion secretary shall not raise the flag for reentry at the expiration of the 20-second exclusion period of a substitute player if the excluded player (for whom the substitute is going to reenter) has not gone to the reentry area. See exception in Rule 12-3-b for substitution for an excluded player during a timeout. c. To signal with the red flag and by whistle for any improper reentry of an excluded player or improper entry of a substitute, which signal shall stop play immediately; and d. To signal, without delay, the award of a third personal foul against any player as follows: 1. With the red flag if the third personal foul is an exclusion foul; 2. With the red flag and a whistle if the third personal foul is a penalty foul. If two players are excluded, one from each team, and the foul is the third foul for one of the players, the secretary shall raise (in one hand) the red flag and the flag corresponding to the cap color of the player with three personal fouls. In the case of a third foul which is a penalty foul, the entry of the substitute is immediate (before the penalty throw is taken). In the case of a third foul which is an exclusion foul, the secretary shall blow the whistle if the player reenters the field of play, even if the referee signals a change in possession. If the game is in progress when the player reenters the field of play, the player must be removed immediately, with immediate substitution, and a penalty throw awarded. No additional personal foul is charged. If a player with three personal fouls enters immediately after a goal has been scored, the referee will remove the player and allow a substitute to enter immediately. No additional personal foul or penalty throw is awarded in this instance.

RULE 11 Duration of the Game

Length of Game SECTION 1. The duration of the game shall be four periods each of seven minutes actual play. Time shall commence at the start of each period when a player touches the ball. At all signals for stoppages, the recording watch shall be stopped until the ball is put back into play by the ball leaving the hand of the player taking the appropriate throw or when the ball is touched by a player following a neutral throw. Interval Between Periods, Change of Ends SECTION 2. There shall be a two-minute interval between quarters and a five-minute interval at half time, unless dictated by television or promotional considerations with mutual agreement of both teams. The teams, including the players, coaches and officials, shall change ends before starting the third period and the second period of any overtime. Note: For exception to the rule for change of ends, see Rule 5-2. Overtime SECTION 3. Should the score be tied at full time in any game, continuation into overtime shall be after an interval of five minutes. There shall then be played two periods each of three minutes actual play with an interval of two minutes for the teams to change ends. If at the end of the first two periods of extra time the score is tied, there shall be an interval of two minutes. There shall be a coin toss to determine ends for the first sudden death three-minute period. Additional threeminute periods will be played until a goal is scored, at which time the game shall end (sudden death). After each sudden death three-minute period, a two-minute interval shall be allowed for change of ends. Note: A game shall not remain a tie. Descending Time SECTION 4. Any visible clock shall show the time in a descending manner (that is, to show the time remaining in a period).
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RULE 11-5/DURATION OF THE GAME

35

No Contest SECTION 5. If either team is not ready to start within one-half hour after the announced starting time, the game shall be considered as no contest unless there is mutual consent between coaches to wait an additional period of time. A game that is not started shall not count toward either teams won-lost record. A team that is involved in a goal-difference situation that has incurred a no contest cannot advance by means of the no contest. Forfeit SECTION 6. When a team fails to comply with the rules after the pregame meeting or decides for any reason not to complete the game, the game may become subject to forfeiture. A game that is forfeited shall be counted in a teams won-lost record. If the referee declares the game a forfeit, the score is recorded 5-0. The goals are not credited to any player. Any team involved in a goal-difference situation that forfeits a game cannot advance by means of a forfeit. In the case of either a no contest or a forfeited game, the referees are paid a full fee.

RULE 12 Timeouts
Number of Regular Timeouts, How Called SECTION 1. Each team shall be entitled to three regular timeouts during the first four periods; in overtime, each team shall be entitled to only one regular timeout regardless of the number of timeouts called during regulation time. The duration of the timeout shall be no longer than two minutes. A timeout may be requested at any time by the coach or by any player in the water of the team in possession of the ball calling timeout and signaling to the referee with the hands forming a T-shape or the coach may signal with an air horn if both coaches agree to their use. The air horns are to be provided by the home team. If a timeout is requested, the referee shall immediately stop the game by whistle. A timeout also may be called by any defensive player or coach of the defensive team after the offensive team has called a timeout and before the ball has been put into play after the timeout. After a goal is scored or before a penalty throw, either team may call a timeout before the referee puts the ball into play. The number of timeouts remaining for each team shall be visible to the teams and maintained by the secretary. Position of Players During Regular Timeout SECTION 2. During a regular timeout both teams must stay in their respective halves of the pool. Teams may only take up their position to restart on signal from the referee with 15 seconds remaining in the timeout. The coach or captain of the team that called the timeout may inform the referee at any time before 1:45 minutes have elapsed of the timeout that the team is ready to resume play. The referee shall blow a whistle when so informed as a signal to both teams that play will start in 15 seconds and shall also verbally inform the other team at the same time that play will start in 15 seconds. Note: If a timeout is called, the players shall return immediately to their respective halves of the field of play.
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RULE 12-3/TIMEOUTS

37

Starting After Regular Timeout SECTION 3. Play shall be restarted on the whistle of the referee at the conclusion of the timeout period by the team in possession of the ball putting the ball into play at or behind the half-distance line, except that: a. If the timeout is requested before the taking of a penalty throw or corner throw, that throw shall be maintained; b. If the timeout is requested after a goal has been scored, the referees shall stop the play for the requested timeout. If the timeout was called by either team immediately after a goal is scored, the team just scored upon shall put the ball in play after the timeout at or behind the half-distance line on the whistle of the referee. Players may take any position in the field of play. If, before the ball has been put into play after the timeout, the other team calls a timeout, the team just scored upon or the team on offense shall put the ball in play after that timeout at or behind the half-distance line and players may take any position in the field of play. At the conclusion of the timeout period (15 seconds after the warning whistle given by the timekeeper or referee), the defensive referee shall signal by whistle for the ball to be put into play. The player must put the ball in play without undue delay after the referee has whistled the ball in play or lose it to the opposing teams nearest player.
Interpretation: If the team calling the timeout does not come out from the timeout after the referee blows the whistle, the referee shall throw the ball to the offensive player closest to and behind the half-distance line.

The excluded player may leave the pool during a timeout to meet with the team. A player may be substituted for an excluded player during a timeout. The excluded player in this instance does not have to go to the reentry area before the substitute may enter from the reentry area. Note: The possession clock continues from the recommencement of the play after the timeout. Offensive Team-Additional Timeout SECTION 4. If the coach of the team in possession of the ball requests a timeout to which the team is not entitled, the game shall be stopped and play shall then be restarted by a player of the opposing team putting the ball into play on the half-distance line.

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RULE 12-5/TIMEOUTS

Defensive Team-Additional Timeout SECTION 5. The referee shall not award a timeout to the team not in possession of the ball above the number permitted nor at times not permitted.
Interpretation: The referee blows the whistle for a timeout called by the team with blue caps when neither team has possession of the ball. Although the referee should have ignored the whistle and allowed play to continue, since the referee did blow the whistle, the referee must award the ball to the team that did not call the timeout, the team with white caps in this example.

Position of Players After Timeout SECTION 6. At the restart following a timeout, players may take any position in the field of play, subject to the rules relating to the taking of penalty throws and corner throws. 20-Second Timeout SECTION 7. One 20-second timeout may be called by each team during the game. The single 20-second timeout may be called either once during regular time or once in overtime. Only the team on offense or the team that will be on offense (after a goal was scored by the other team) may call a 20-second timeout. To signal a 20-second timeout, the coach calls timeout and touches both shoulders. The referee will immediately note the time, will begin to time the timeout and will notify the desk and the other team immediately that this is a 20-second timeout. The referee will blow a whistle after 10 seconds and a second whistle after 20 seconds and throw the ball to an offensive player at or behind the center of the pool who shall then immediately put the ball into play or lose it to the opposing teams nearest player, or, if the timeout was requested before the taking of a penalty throw or corner throw, that throw shall be maintained. All substitutions must be completed by the second whistle. Note: The secretary must record the 20-second timeout on the scoresheet.
Interpretation: The 20-second timeout is to be used strategically for substitutions and/or to improve the location of a team in the pool and not for a huddle at the side of the pool. The teams do not move to their half of the pool for this timeout. The coach calling the 20-second timeout may move along the sideline to the half-distance line during a 20-second timeout.

Television Timeout SECTION 8. A television timeout of no more than two minutes may be called once each quarter after the 04:00 minute mark by the referee after notification by the television production crew. This television timeout may be called after a goal, before a neutral throw or before a

RULE 12-8/TIMEOUTS

39

corner throw. Players may be substituted during this timeout. The referee shall signal a television timeout by blowing the whistle and extending each arm straight out to the side. It is recommended that a third official serve as a television liaison (red cap) to indicate when television timeouts should be called. The official shall hang a towel from the scoring table to indicate that a television timeout shall be called at the next opportunity within the rules.

RULE 13 The Start of Play

Coin Toss SECTION 1. Before the start of the game and in the presence of the captains, the referee shall toss a coin, the winner will have the choice of ends. Positions SECTION 2. At the start of each period, the players shall take positions on their respective goal lines, about 1 meter apart and at least 1 meter from the goal posts. Not more than two players shall be allowed between the goal posts. No part of a players body shall be beyond the goal line at water level. If it is possible for the teams to shove off from both ends of the pool, the players may grasp the ends of the pool no higher than the water level at the start of each period; if it is not possible for both teams to grasp the ends of the pool, the players of both teams shall take positions with their heads on the goal lines or the 2-meter line. Start SECTION 3. When the referees are satisfied that the teams are ready, a referee shall blow the whistle to start and then release or throw the ball into play on the half-distance line. Note: If there are not competent goal judges, the two referees shall take up a position opposite one another on the half-distance line. The starting referee shall wait with one arm raised in a vertical position for the signal from the second referee that both teams are correctly positioned on the goal line. This signal shall be made by the second referee raising both arms above the head when both teams are positioned correctly. The starting referee shall then signal immediately for the start by blowing the whistle and lowering the arm to a horizontal position. Ball Thrown to Advantage of Team SECTION 4. If the ball is released or thrown giving one team a definite advantage, the referee shall call for the ball and award a neutral throw on the half-distance line.
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RULE

RULE 14 Method of Scoring

Goal SECTION 1. A goal shall be scored when the entire ball has passed fully over the goal line, between the goal posts and underneath the crossbar. Goalkeeper Restriction SECTION 2. A goal may be scored from anywhere within the field of play; except that the goalkeeper shall not be permitted to go or touch the ball beyond the half-distance line. How Scored SECTION 3. A goal may be scored by any part of the body except the clenched fist. A goal may be scored by dribbling the ball into the goal. At the start or any restart of the game, at least two players (of either team but excluding the defending goalkeeper) must intentionally play or touch the ball except at the taking of: a. A penalty throw; b. A free throw thrown by a player into that players own goal; c. An immediate shot from a goal throw; or d. An immediate shot from a free throw awarded outside 7 meters. Notes: A goal may be scored by a player immediately shooting from outside 7 meters after that players team has been awarded a free throw for a foul committed outside 7 meters. The criteria to determine whether a direct shot is immediate are the same as those to determine whether a penalty throw was taken immediately (see Rule 23-4). If the player puts the ball into play, a goal can then only be scored if the ball has been intentionally touched by another player, other than the defending goalkeeper. If at the award of a foul outside 7 meters, the ball is inside 7 meters or closer to the defending teams goal, a goal may be scored under this rule if the ball is returned without delay to either the place where the foul was committed, to any place on the same line as the foul or to any place behind the line of the foul provided the shot is then immediately made from that position.
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RULE 14-3/METHOD OF SCORING

Interpretation: A player in the above situations who is either fouled outside 7 meters and has the ball outside 7 meters or is fouled outside 7 meters but the ball is inside 7 meters and returned without delay as described above, may look in the general direction of the goal and then take an immediate shot at the goal.

A goal may not be scored under this rule direct from the restart following: A timeout; A goal; An injury, including bleeding; The replacement of a cap; The referee calling for the ball; The ball leaving the side of the field of play; or Any other delay. All goal throws may be shot at the opposing goal regardless of whether the ball was within the field of play or came from outside the field of play. All balls that go out-of-bounds over the goal line that are awarded to the goalkeeper may be shot. However, if the ball goes out-of-bounds over the side line, it may not be shot. Goal at Expiration of Time SECTION 4. A goal shall be scored if, at the expiration of 35 seconds possession or at the end of a period, the ball is in flight and enters the goal. Notes: In the circumstances of this rule, if the ball enters the goal after hitting the goal post, crossbar, goalkeeper or other defending player, and/or bouncing off the water, a goal shall be allowed. If the end of the period has been signaled and the ball is then played or touched intentionally by another attacking player on its way into the goal, the goal shall not be allowed. If the ball is in flight toward the goal in the circumstances of this rule and the goalkeeper or another defending player pulls down the goal, or within the 4-meter area a defending player other than the goalkeeper stops the ball with two hands or arms or punches the ball to prevent a goal being scored, the referee shall award a penalty throw if, in the referees opinion, the ball would have reached the goal line if the offense had not occurred. If the ball which is in flight toward the goal in the circumstances of this rule lands on the water and then floats completely over the goal line, the referee shall award a goal only if the ball floats over the goal line immediately due to the momentum of the shot. a. b. c. d. e. f. g.

RULE 14-5/METHOD OF SCORING

43

When Counted SECTION 5. A goal counts in the following situations and is awarded to the player on the opposing team closest to the goal: a. If a player awarded a free throw passes the ball to that teams goalkeeper, who without having touched it (and without any other player having touched it) allows the ball to go through that teams goal; b. If the ball is thrown by a player into that players goal; c. If the defense puts the ball into its own goal. When Not Counted SECTION 6. A goal does not count: a. If the ball is in flight on its way to the goal when the referee blows the whistle for a foul; b. If there is a player in the pool with three personal fouls who was not visibly red-flagged by the desk; c. If the ball thrown by a player toward the goal hits an overhead obstruction and then goes into the goal space; d. If the defending goalkeeper drops the ball when taking a goal throw or free throw and allows the ball to enter the goal (the goalkeeper is to take the throw again); or e. If the ball is shot illegally (for example, shot on a free throw for a foul inside the 7-meter line, shot on a free throw after a timeout, shot on a free throw at the restart after a goal, etc., regardless of whether the goalkeeper or another defending player tips the ball into the goal). A goal in this circumstance is counted only if the ball is played (controlled) by a player of either team after the free throw and then goes into the goal.

RULE 15 Restarting After a Goal

Method of Restart After a goal has been scored, the players shall take up positions anywhere within their respective halves of the field of play. No part of a players body shall be beyond the half-distance line at water level. A referee shall restart the game by blowing the whistle. At the time of the restart, actual play shall resume when the ball leaves the hand of a player of the team not having scored the goal. A restart not taken in accordance with this rule shall be retaken.

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RULE 16 Goal Throws

When Awarded SECTION 1. A goal throw shall be awarded: a. When the entire ball has passed fully over the goal line excluding between the goal posts and underneath the crossbar, having last been played or touched by a player of the attacking team or b. When the entire ball has passed fully over the goal line between the goal posts and underneath the crossbar, or strikes the goal posts, crossbar or the defending goalkeeper direct from: 1. A free throw awarded inside 7 meters; 2. A free throw awarded outside 7 meters not taken immediately; 3. A goal throw not taken immediately; or 4. A corner throw. How Taken SECTION 2. The goal throw shall be taken by the defending goalkeeper from anywhere within the 2-meter area. If the goalkeeper is out of the water, the goal throw shall be taken by another defending player. (The defending player replacing the goalkeeper does not have the privileges or limitations of a goalkeeper.) A goal throw not taken in accordance with this rule shall be retaken. Note: There should be no undue delay in taking a free throw, goal throw or corner throw, which must be taken in such a manner so as to enable the other players to observe the ball leaving the throwers hand. Players often make the mistake of delaying the throw because they overlook the provisions of Rule 19-4, which permit the thrower to dribble the ball before passing to another player. The throw can thus be taken immediately, even though the thrower cannot at that moment find a player to whom to pass the ball. On such an occasion, the player is allowed to take the throw either by dropping it from a raised hand on to the surface of the water (Fig. 1) or by throwing it in the air (Fig. 2) and then swim with or dribble the ball. In either case, the throw must be taken so that the other players are able to observe it.
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RULE 16-2/GOAL THROWS

RULE 17 C o rner Throws

When Taken SECTION 1. A corner throw shall be awarded when the entire ball has passed fully over the goal line excluding between the goal posts and underneath the crossbar, having last been played or touched by a player of the defending team. How Taken SECTION 2. The corner throw shall be taken by a player of the attacking team from the 2-meter mark on the side nearest to which the ball crossed the goal line. The throw need not be taken by the nearest player but shall be taken without undue delay. Note: For method of taking throw, see note to Rule 16-2. Position of Players SECTION 3. At the taking of a corner throw no players of the attacking team shall be within the 2-meter area. Retaking Corner Throw SECTION 4. A corner throw taken from the wrong position or before the players of the attacking team have left the 2-meter area shall be retaken.

47

RULE 18 Neutral Throws

When Awarded SECTION 1. A neutral throw shall be awarded: a. When, at the start of a period, a referee is of the opinion that the ball has fallen in a position to the definite advantage of one team; b. When one or more players of each team commit a foul at the same moment which makes it impossible for the referees to distinguish which player offended first; c. When both referees blow their whistles at the same moment to award ordinary fouls to the opposing teams; d. When a player of each team commits an exclusion foul simultaneously whether during actual play or in dead time. The neutral throw is to be taken after the exclusion of the offending players; or e. When the ball strikes or lodges in an overhead obstruction. How Taken SECTION 2. At a neutral throw, a referee shall throw the ball into the field of play at approximately the same lateral position as the event occurred in such a manner as to allow the players of both teams to have equal opportunity to reach the ball. A neutral throw awarded within the 2-meter area shall be taken on the 2-meter line. One player from each team closest to the point where the foul and/or stoppage occurred shall be selected by the referee to engage in the neutral throw. All other players are not allowed within 2 meters of the two players involved in a neutral throw. If a goalkeeper is involved in action requiring a neutral throw, the nearest team member shall replace the goalkeeper in the neutral throw. Note: At least one of the two players selected for the neutral throw must touch the ball before any other player may touch the ball. The ball may be played before it touches the water.

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RULE 18-3/NEUTRAL THROWS

49

When Retaken SECTION 3. If at a neutral throw the referee is of the opinion that the ball has fallen in a position to the definite advantage of one team, the referee shall call for the ball and retake the throw.

RULE 19 Free Throws

Where Taken SECTION 1. A free throw shall be taken at the place where the foul occurred, except: a. If the ball is further from the defending teams goal, the free throw shall be taken from the location of the ball; b. If the foul is committed by a defending player within the defenders 2meter area, the free throw shall be taken on the 2-meter line opposite to where the foul was committed or, if the ball is outside the 2-meter area, from the location of the ball; or c. Where otherwise provided for in the rules. A free throw taken from the wrong position shall be retaken. Time Allowed SECTION 2. The time allowed for a player to take a free throw shall be at the discretion of the referees; it shall be reasonable and without undue delay but does not have to be immediate. It shall be an offense if a player who is clearly in a position most readily to take a free throw does not do so. Responsibility for Return of Ball SECTION 3. The responsibility for returning the ball to the player who is to take the free throw shall be that of the team to which the free throw is awarded. How Taken SECTION 4. The free throw shall be taken in a manner to enable the players to observe the ball leaving the hand of the player taking the throw, who shall also then be permitted to carry or dribble the ball before passing to another player. The ball shall be in play immediately when it leaves the hand of the player taking the free throw. Note: For method of taking throw, see note to Rule 16-2.
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RULE 20 Ord i n a ry Fouls

Definition SECTION 1. It shall be an ordinary foul to commit any of the following offenses (Rule 20-2 to Rule 20-19), which shall be punished by the award of a free throw to the opposing team. Note: The referees must award ordinary fouls in accordance with the rules to enable the attacking team to develop an advantage situation. However, the referees must have regard to the special circumstance of Rule 7-3 (Advantage). Starting Early SECTION 2. To advance beyond the goal line at the start of a period, before the referee has given the signal to start. The free throw shall be taken from the location of the ball or, if the ball has not been released into the field of play, from the half-distance line; Assisting a Player SECTION 3. To assist a player at the start of a period or at any other time during the game; Holding or Pushing Off From Pool SECTION 4. To hold on to or push off from the goal posts or their fixtures, to hold on to or push off from the sides or ends of the pool during actual play or to hold on to the rails except at the start of a period; Using the Bottom SECTION 5. To take any active part in the game when standing on the floor of the pool, to walk when play is in progress or to jump from the floor of the pool to play the ball or tackle an opponent. This rule shall not apply to the goalkeeper while within the goalkeepers 4-meter area; Taking the Ball Under SECTION 6. To take or hold the entire ball under the water when tackled; Note: It is an ordinary foul to take or hold the ball under the water when tackled, even if the player holding the ball has the ball forced under the water as a result of the opponents challenge (Fig. 3). It makes no difference that the ball goes under the
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RULE 20-6/ORDINARY FOULS

water against that players will. What is important is that the foul is awarded against the player who was in contact with the ball at the moment it was taken under the water. It is important to remember that the offense can only occur when a player takes the ball under when tackled. Thus, if the goalkeeper emerges high out of the water to save a shot and then while falling back takes the ball under the water, the goalkeeper has committed no offense; but if the goalkeeper then holds the ball under the water when challenged by an opponent, the goalkeeper will have committed an infringement of this rule and if the goalkeepers actions prevented a probable goal, a penalty throw must be awarded under Rule 22-2.

Using Clenched Fist SECTION 7. To strike at the ball with a clenched fist. This rule shall not apply to the goalkeeper while within the goalkeepers 4-meter area; Using Two Hands SECTION 8. To play or touch the ball with two hands at the same time. This rule shall not apply to the goalkeeper while within the goalkeepers 4-meter area;
Interpretation: A field player violates the 2-hands rule if contact with the ball is made simultaneously with both wrists, or with one hand and the wrist of the other limb. It is not a violation to move the ball quickly from one hand to the other. It is not a violation to block a ball with both forearms simultaneously.

Impeding SECTION 9. To impede or otherwise prevent the free movement of an opponent who is not holding the ball, including swimming on the opponents shoulders, back or legs. Holding is lifting, carrying or touching the ball but does not include dribbling the ball. Notes: The first thing for the referee to consider is whether the opponent is holding the ball, because if the opponent is doing so, the player making the challenge cannot be penalized for impeding. It is clear that a player is holding the ball if it is

RULE 20-9/ORDINARY FOULS

53

held raised above the water (Fig. 4). The player is also holding the ball if the player swims with it held in the hand or makes contact with the ball while it is lying on the surface of the water (Fig. 5). Swimming with the ball (dribbling), as shown in Fig. 6, is not considered to be holding.

Fig. 4

Fig. 5

Fig. 6

A common form of impeding is where the player swims across an opponents legs (Fig. 7), thus reducing the pace at which the opponent can move and interfering with normal leg action. Another form is swimming on the opponents shoulders. It must also be remembered that the foul of impeding can be committed by the player who is in possession of the ball. For example, Fig. 8 shows a player keeping one hand on the ball and trying to force the opponent away to gain more space. Fig. 9 shows a player in possession of the ball impeding an opponent by pushing the opponent back with the head. Care must be taken with Fig. 8 and Fig. 9, because any violent movement by the player in possession of the ball might constitute striking or even brutality; the figures are intended to illustrate impeding without any violent movement. A player may also commit the offense of impeding even if the player is not holding or touching the ball. Fig. 10 shows a player intentionally blocking an opponent with the players body and with the arms flung open, thus making access to the ball impossible. This offense is most often committed near the boundaries of the field of play.

Fig. 7

Fig. 8

Fig. 9

Fig. 10

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RULE 20-10/ORDINARY FOULS

Pushing or Pushing Off SECTION 10. To push or push off from an opponent who is not holding the ball; Note: Pushing can take place in various forms, including with the hand (Fig. 11) or with the foot (Fig. 12). In the cases illustrated, the punishment is a free throw for an ordinary foul. However, referees must take care to differentiate between pushing with the foot and kicking - which then becomes an exclusion foul or even brutality. If the foot is already in contact with the opponent when the movement begins, this will usually be pushing, but if the movement begins before such contact with the opponent is made, then this should generally be regarded as kicking.

Fig. 11

Fig. 12

Offensive Dead-Time Foul SECTION 11. For a player of the team in possession of the ball to commit an offense under Rule 20-9 (to impede an opponent) or Rule 20-10 (to push or push off from an opponent) before a free throw, goal throw or corner throw is taken; Inside 2-Meter Area SECTION 12. To be within 2 meters of the opponents goal except when behind the line of the ball. It shall not be an offense if a player takes the ball into the 2-meter area and passes it to another player who is behind the line of the ball and who shoots at goal immediately, before the first player has been able to leave the 2-meter area; Note: If the player receiving the pass does not shoot at goal, the player who passed the ball must immediately leave the 2-meter area to avoid being penalized under this rule. Failing to Take Penalty Throw Correctly SECTION 13. To take a penalty throw other than in the prescribed manner; Note: See Rule 23-4 for method of taking a penalty throw.

RULE 20-14/ORDINARY FOULS

55

Delay in Taking a Throw SECTION 14. To delay unduly when taking a free throw, goal throw or corner throw; Note: See note to Rule 16-2. Goalkeeper Beyond Half-Distance Line SECTION 15. For a goalkeeper to go or touch the ball beyond the halfdistance line; Sending Ball Out of Bounds SECTION 16. To send the ball out of the side of the field of play, including the ball rebounding from the side of the field of play above water level; Keeping Ball More Than 35 Seconds Without Shooting SECTION 17. For a team to retain possession of the ball for more than 35 seconds of actual play without shooting at its opponents goal; The timekeeper recording the possession time shall reset the clock: a. When the ball has left the hand of the player shooting at goal. If the ball rebounds into play from the goal post, crossbar or the goalkeeper, the possession time shall not recommence until the ball comes into the possession of one of the teams; b. When the ball comes into the possession of the opposing team. Possession shall not include the ball merely being touched in flight by an opposing player; and
Interpretation: The 35-second clock is reset for a ball-under call if there is a clear change of possession, not a momentary touching of the ball. The player has to be in control of the ball.

c. When the ball is put into play following the award of an exclusion foul, penalty foul, goal throw, corner throw or neutral throw. Visible clocks shall show the time in a descending manner (that is, to show the possession time remaining); Note: The timekeeper and referees must decide whether there was a shot on goal or not, but the referees have the final decision. Wasting Time SECTION 18. To waste time; or Notes: It is always permissible for a referee to award an ordinary foul under this rule before the 35 seconds possession period has elapsed.

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RULE 20-18/ORDINARY FOULS

If the goalkeeper is the only player of that team in the goalkeepers half of the field of play, it shall be deemed wasting time for the goalkeeper to receive the ball from another member of the goalkeepers team who is in the other half of the field of play. It is the responsibility of the team on offense to advance the ball towards the offensive end; it is not necessary for the team to shoot the ball. Wasting time shall be called consistently throughout the game. Perimeter fouls (ordinary and exclusion) must be called consistently throughout the game. Team Not Ready to Start SECTION 19. To fail to be ready to start at the beginning of the period. The ball will be awarded to the opposing team at the half-distance line.

RULE 21 Exclusion Fouls

Enforcement SECTION 1. It shall be an exclusion foul to commit any of the following offenses (Rule 21-4 to Rule 21-18), which shall be punished (except as otherwise provided by the rules) by the award of a free throw to the opposing team and the exclusion of the player who committed the foul. Method of Leaving Field of Play SECTION 2. The excluded player shall move to the reentry area nearest to the players own goal line without leaving the water. An excluded player who leaves the water (field of play), other than following the entry of a substitute, shall be deemed guilty of an offense under Rule 2112 (Disrespect). Notes: An excluded player (including any player excluded under the rules for the remainder of the game) shall remain in the water and move (which may include swimming underwater) to the reentry position nearest to the players own goal line without interfering with the play. The player may swim from the field of play at any point on the goal line and may swim behind the goal to reach the reentry area provided the player does not interfere with the alignment of the goal. On reaching the reentry area, the excluded player shall be required to visibly rise to the surface of the water before the player (or a substitute) shall be permitted to reenter in accordance with the rules. However, it shall not be necessary for the excluded player to then remain in the reentry area to await the arrival of an intended substitute. If no player or an incorrect player(s) leaves the field of play, the referee immediately should correct the situation if a goal has not been scored. The referee should stop play quickly, allow the incorrect player(s) to reenter, exclude the correct player(s), instruct both timers to reset both clocks and commence play. In this case, the incorrect player does not have to swim to the reentry area before reentering the field of play. If it is not possible to reset the game clock, the referee should instruct the game timer to start the clock when the correct number of seconds has elapsed on the 35-second clock.
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RULE 21-2/EXCLUSION FOULS

Interpretation: If an excluded player climbs from the side of the pool instead of swimming to the reentry area, that player is excluded for the remainder of the game with substitution after the earliest occurrence referred to in Rule 21-3. If the excluded player does not go to the reentry area, however, the substitute may not reenter until after a timeout, a goal or at the start of the next period. Interpretation: If a player who has received a third personal foul or a game exclusion leaves the water to go to the reentry area, no additional penalty is assessed and the substitute will be allowed to reenter at the appropriate time. If the excluded player does not go into the reentry area, however, the substitute may not reenter until after a timeout, a goal or at the start of the next period.

Reentry SECTION 3. The excluded player or a substitute shall be permitted to reenter the field of play after the earliest occurrence of one of the following: a. When 20 seconds of actual play have elapsed, at which time the secretary shall raise the appropriate flag provided that the excluded player has reached the reentry area in accordance with the rules; b. When a goal has been scored; c. When the excluded players team has retaken possession of the ball (which means receiving control of the ball) during actual play, at which time the defensive referee shall signal reentry by a hand signal; d. When the excluded players team is awarded a free throw or goal throw. The referees signal to award the throw qualifies as the reentry signal, provided that the excluded player has reached the reentry area in accordance with the rules. Note: If a player has not yet reached the reentry area when the referee signals a change in possession, the player must still exit the pool into the reentry area before coming back in and participating in the play. The excluded player or a substitute shall be permitted to reenter the field of play from the reentry area nearest to that players own goal line, provided that: a. The player has received a signal from the secretary or a referee; b. The player shall not jump or push off from the side or wall of the pool or field of play; c. The player shall not affect the alignment of the goal; and d. A substitute shall not be permitted to enter in the place of an excluded player until that player has reached the reentry area nearest to the players own goal line.

RULE 21-3/EXCLUSION FOULS

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After a goal has been scored an excluded player or a substitute may reenter the field of play from any place. These provisions shall also apply to the entry of a substitute when the excluded player has received three personal fouls or has otherwise been excluded from the remainder of the game in accordance with the rules. Notes: A substitute shall not be signaled in by a referee and nor shall the secretary signal the expiration of 20 seconds exclusion period until the excluded player has reached the reentry area nearest to the players own goal line. This shall also apply to the reentry of a substitute who is to replace a player excluded from the remainder of the game. In the event of an excluded player failing to return to the reentry area, a substitute shall not be permitted to enter until a goal has been scored or at the end of a period. The primary responsibility for giving the signal for the reentry of an excluded player or a substitute is with the defensive referee. However, the attack referee may also assist in this regard and the signal of either referee shall be valid. If a referee suspects an improper reentry, then the referee should first be satisfied that the other referee or secretary had not signaled the reentry. Before giving the signal for the reentry of an excluded player or a substitute, the defensive referee should wait momentarily in case the attack referee whistles to restore possession to the opponents team. A change of possession does not occur merely because of the end of a period, but an excluded player or substitute shall be eligible to reenter if the team wins the ball at the swim up at the start of the next period. If a player is excluded when the end of a period is signaled, the referees and the secretary shall ensure that the teams have the correct number of players before signaling for the restart.
Interpretation: The reentry flag shall not be raised unless the player is eligible to reenter the pool. For example, the flag is not to be raised until the excluded player is in the reentry area or if the player in the reentry area is not eligibleto play (e.g., if the excluded player has three personal fouls). Interpretation: In order to determine when an excluded player is allowed to start the next period: if a shot is taken at the end of the period and the ball goes out of bounds, not touched by a defensive player, the teams start even up at the beginning of the next period. In all other cases, the excluded player or substitute must remain in the reentry area at the start of the next period. In principle, if the ball would have been awarded to the defending team if there were time remaining on the clock, then the teams start even. If the ball would not necessarily have been awarded to the defending team, then the team with the excluded player starts with a player in the reentry area. For example, if a ball is tipped out of bounds by the defending team, that team starts the sprint with a player in the reentry area. If the goalkeeper catches the ball on a shot (or rebound from a shot) immediately after the signal for the end of the period, then the teams start even. Interpretation: A personal foul is charged to a player, not a position. If a goalkeeper is excluded for 20 seconds, a substitute wearing a goalkeepers cap may be substituted for

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RULE 21-3/EXCLUSION FOULS

an exiting field player during that exclusion period during a timeout or between periods or by means of a live-time substitution from the reentry area. This substitute goalkeeper will have all the goalkeepers privileges.

Leaving Water SECTION 4. For a player to leave the water or sit or stand on the steps or side of the pool during play, except in the case of accident, injury, illness or with the permission of a referee. Interfering With Throws SECTION 5. To interfere with the taking of a free throw, goal throw or corner throw, including: a. Intentionally to throw away or fail to release the ball to prevent the normal progress of the game or b. Any attempt to play the ball before it has left the hand of the thrower. Notes: A player is not to be penalized under this rule if the player does not hear the whistle as a result of being under the water. The referees must determine if the actions of the player are intentional. Interference with a throw may take place indirectly when the ball is hampered, delayed or prevented from reaching the player who is to take the throw, or it may occur when the execution of the throw is interfered with by an opponent blocking the direction of the throw (Fig. 13) or by disturbing the actual movement of the thrower (Fig. 14). For interference with a penalty throw, see also Rule 21-17.
Interpretation: If the defensive player puts a hand up that is away from the thrower (this hand must be behind the defensive players head), it is not considered to be blocking the direction of the throw.

Splashing Intentionally SECTION 6. To splash in the face of an opponent intentionally. Notes: Splashing is frequently used as an unfair tactic but is often only penalized in the obvious situation when players are facing one another (see Fig. 15). However,

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61

it can also occur less obviously when a player produces a curtain of water with an arm, seemingly without deliberate intent, in an attempt to block the view of the opponent who is about to shoot at goal or to make a pass.

Fig. 15
The punishment for intentionally splashing an opponent is exclusion under Rule 21-6 or a penalty throw under Rule 22-2 if the opponent is inside the 4-meter area and is attempting to shoot at goal. Whether to award a penalty throw or an exclusion is decided solely by the positioning and actions of the attacking player; whether the offending player is inside the 4-meter area or outside is not a decisive factor. Holding, Sinking, Pulling Back SECTION 7. To hold, sink or pull back an opponent who is not holding the ball. Holding is lifting, carrying or touching the ball, but does not include dribbling the ball. Note: The correct application of this rule is very important both as to the presentation of the game and in arriving at a proper and fair result. The wording of the rule is clear and explicit and can only be interpreted in one way: to hold (Fig. 16), sink (Fig. 17) or pull back (Fig. 18) an opponent who is not holding the ball is an exclusion foul. It is essential that referees apply this rule correctly, without personal arbi-

Fig. 16

Fig. 18

Fig. 17

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RULE 21-7/EXCLUSION FOULS

trary interpretation, to ensure that the proper limits to rough play are not exceeded. In addition, referees must note that an infringement of Rule 21-7 within the 4meter area which prevents a probable goal must be punished by the award of a penalty throw. Kicking or Striking SECTION 8. To kick or strike an opponent intentionally or make disproportionate movements with that intent. Notes: The offense of kicking or striking can take a number of different forms, including being committed by a player in possession of the ball or by an opposing player; possession of the ball is not a decisive factor. What is important is the action of the offending player, including if the player makes disproportionate movements in an attempt to kick or strike, even if the player fails to make contact. One of the most serious acts of striking is elbowing backwards (Fig. 19), which can result in serious injury to the opponent. Similarly, serious injury can occur when a player intentionally heads back into the face of an opponent who is marking the player closely. In these circumstances, the referee would also be justified in punishing the offense under Rule 21-10 (Brutality) rather than under Rule 21-8.

Fig. 19
Misconduct SECTION 9. To have committed misconduct, including the use of obscene, abusive, threatening language or gestures directed at any individual, excluding the referees or game officials, violent or persistent foul play, etc. Taunting, baiting or ridiculing an opponent are examples of misconduct. The offending player shall be excluded from the remainder of the game, with substitution after the earliest occurrence referred to in Rule 21-3. See 21-12 for disrespect directed at referees or game officials and the penalty for misconduct and disrespect. Note: Persistent foul play refers to play which is unacceptable within the spirit of the rules and which is likely to bring the game into disrepute. Persistent foul play is entirely different and unrelated to persisting in an ordinary foul.

RULE 21-10/EXCLUSION FOULS

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Brutality SECTION 10. To commit an act of brutality (including kicking or striking or attempting to kick or strike with malicious intent) against an opponent or official, whether during play (including any stoppages or timeouts) or the intervals between periods of play. The offending player shall be excluded from the remainder of the game and a penalty throw awarded with substitution after the earliest occurrence referred to in Rule 21-3. The player committing the act of brutality will also be suspended for the next traditional season game, including tournament competition or postseason championship competition. If the act of brutality was committed during the final game of the traditional season, the suspension will be carried over to the next traditional season game. Note: In the last minute of the game, the referees may delay declaring a brutality offense until the next change of possession. This rule shall also apply if an act of brutality occurs during the intervals between periods. The offending player shall be excluded from the remainder of the game and a penalty throw awarded, with substitution after the earliest occurrence referred to in Rule 21-3. These provisions shall not apply, however, before the game has actually commenced. In the case of brutality at any time by a substitute who is not in the water during the play, the offending player shall be excluded from the remainder of the game. The captain of the team shall be ordered to remove from the water a player of the captains choice and a penalty throw awarded, with substitution after the earliest occurrence referred to in Rule 21-3. The player who has been removed can subsequently be used during the remainder of the game as one of that teams remaining players in the water and no personal foul shall be awarded in relation to that players removal from the water. If the act of brutality occurs during a tournament, the tournament committee may assess an additional penalty, such as suspension from more than one game in the tournament. See Rule 7-4 for definition of type of game in which a suspension for brutality must be served. Fighting SECTION 11. To engage in fighting. If, in the opinion of the referee, any brutality foul is deemed to be a fight, the fighting penalty shall be invoked in addition to the brutality penalty. Fighting could include, but not be limited to, an attempt to strike an opponent with the arms, hands, legs or feet, or a combative action by one or more players, a

64

RULE 21-11/EXCLUSION FOULS

coach or team personnel. Combative action includes but is not limited to: (1) a player, coach or other team personnel attempting to punch or kick an opponent, whether or not there is contact with an opponent; (2) a player, coach or other team personnel who, in the opinion of the referee, instigates a fight by perpetrating an unsporting act towards an opponent that causes the opponent to retaliate by fighting. Any squad member, coach or other team personnel who participates in a fight during the season (including exhibition games) or leaves the bench area during a fight shall be assessed a brutality foul and the fighting penalty. The individual shall be suspended from participating in the teams next game, including tournament competition (see Rule 7-4 for the location where the offending parties must sit during the remainder of that game, and the definition of type of game in which a suspension must be served). If an individual participates in a fight during the teams final game of the season, that individual shall be suspended from participating in the teams next regular-season game for which that player or coach, or other team personnel, would be eligible. Any player, coach or other team personnel under suspension for fighting may not sit on the team bench during either the remainder of that game or while serving the suspension. An individual (player, coach or team official) suspended for fighting may sit in the spectator stands during the game at which the suspension is being served but may not communicate with the team by any method. It is the responsibility of the institutions and their respective conference offices to ensure that the carryover penalties (i.e., suspension) for fighting and brutality are invoked. Disrespect SECTION 12. To refuse obedience to or show disrespect for a referee or official. The offending player shall be excluded from the remainder of the game, with substitution after the earliest occurrence referred to in Rule 21-3. A referee shall have the power to order any player from the water for disrespect and misconduct and to issue a red card should a player refuse to leave the water when so ordered. The referee has the ability to abandon the game if a player continues to refuse to leave the water when so ordered. Notes: The penalty for disrespect, no matter when committed, and the penalty for misconduct are the same. a. If a player on a team in possession of the ball (or soon to have possession of the ball as that team has just been scored upon) commits a foul of disrespect or mis-

RULE 21-12/EXCLUSION FOULS

65

conduct during a timeout or after a goal has been scored, the player is excluded for the remainder of the game with immediate substitution.
Interpretation: Under normal circumstances the attacking team always has 7 players.

b. If a player on a team not in possession of the ball commits a foul of disrespect or misconduct during a timeout or after a goal has been scored, the player is excluded for the remainder of the game and play is restarted with a substitute in the reentry area. c. If a player commits a foul of disrespect or misconduct during the time between periods, the player is excluded for the remainder of the game and the sprint is taken with the teams at full strength. d. If a player of either team commits a foul of disrespect or misconduct during play or the time between the calling of a foul and the taking of a free throw, the player is excluded for the remainder of the game, the ball is awarded to the offended team, and play is restarted with a substitute in the reentry area. A 20-second period of exclusion will be awarded for minor acts of disrespect that are not sufficient to warrant exclusion for the remainder of the game. Examples of this type of foul include a player directing minor comments to a referee such as, Call the foul, or Where is the pushoff? or Hes inside the two, or making minor gestures to the referee. The referee must notify the secretary and coaches when a player commits a minor act of disrespect and this foul must be identified as such on the score sheet. The referee will signal this foul (see Fig. Y) by the use of a half rolling motion with one arm, as opposed to the use of two arms for an exclusion foul where the player is excluded for the remainder of the game with immediate substitution. The player will be removed for the remainder of the game if that player commits a second minor act of disrespect during the game. Notes a-d above also applicable to minor acts of disrespect as follows: a. If a player on a team in possession of the ball (or soon to have possession of the ball as that team has just been scored upon) commits a minor act of disrespect during a timeout or after a goal has been scored, the player is excluded for 20 seconds, charged with a personal foul, with immediate substitution and the teams start even up. That player can return later to the game.
Interpretation: Under normal circumstances the attacking team always has 7 players.

b. If a player on a team not in possession of the ball commits a minor act of disrespect during a timeout or after a goal has been scored, the player is excluded for 20 seconds, charged with a personal foul, and the

66

RULE 21-12/EXCLUSION FOULS

team starts play a man down with that player or a substitute in the reentry area until the earliest occurrence referred to in Rule 21-3. c. If a player commits a minor act of disrespect during the time between periods, the player committing the minor act of disrespect is charged with a personal foul, must be removed for 20 seconds and replaced by a substitute. That player can return later to the game. The sprint is taken with the teams at full strength. d. If a player of either team commits a minor act of disrespect during play or the time between the calling of a foul and the taking of a free throw, the player is excluded for 20 seconds, charged with a personal foul, the team starts play a man down with that player or a substitute in the reentry area until the earliest occurrence referred to in Rule 21-3. Dead-Time Foul SECTION 13. For a player of the team not in possession of the ball to commit any of the following offenses before a free throw, goal throw, corner throw or penalty throw is taken or for a player of either team to commit any of the following offenses before a neutral throw is taken: Rule 20-9 - To impede an opponent Rule 20-10 - To push or push of from an opponent Rule 21-4 to Rule 21-12 - To commit an exclusion foul The original throw (including any neutral throw) shall be maintained. The player shall be excluded from the remainder of the game where the rules so provide. Double Dead-Time Foul SECTION 14. For a player of each team to commit any of the following offenses simultaneously before a free throw, goal throw, corner throw, penalty throw or neutral throw is taken: Rule 20-9 - To impede an opponent Rule 20-10 - To push or push of from an opponent Rule 21-4 to Rule 21-12 - To commit an exclusion foul Both players shall be excluded and a neutral throw awarded except that if the offenses are committed simultaneously at the taking of a penalty throw, the penalty throw shall be maintained. Players shall be excluded from the remainder of the game where the rules so provide. Notes: In the circumstances of this rule, a change of possession is deemed not to have occurred merely because one team gains possession of the ball from the neutral throw. The players excluded under this rule shall not be permitted to reenter

RULE 21-14/EXCLUSION FOULS

67

until the next earliest occurrence referred to in Rule 21-3 following the neutral throw. However, this only applies to the two players who were excluded simultaneously and any other players who were already excluded shall be permitted to reenter if the neutral throw results in a change of possession. If the two players who have been excluded under this rule are eligible to reenter before they have reached their respective reentry areas, the defensive referee or secretary, as appropriate, may wave in each player as soon as that player is ready to reenter. The referee or secretary does not have to wait until both players are ready to reenter. Offensive Exclusion Fouls Section 15. For a player of the team in possession to commit an offense under Rule 21-4 to Rule 21-12 (exclusion fouls) before a free throw, goal throw, corner throw or penalty throw is taken, except that: a. The player shall be excluded from the remainder of the game where the rules so provide; b. If the offense is committed at the taking of a penalty throw, the penalty throw shall be maintained. Entering Field of Play Improperly SECTION 16. For an excluded player to reenter or a substitute to enter the field of play improperly, including: a. Without having received a signal from the secretary or referee; b. From any place other than that players own reentry area, except where the rules provide for immediate substitution; c. By jumping or pushing off from the side or wall of the pool or field of play; or d. By affecting the alignment of the goal. If this offense occurs in the last minute of the game, the last minute of the second period of extra time or at any time during any sudden-death overtime period, the offending player shall be excluded from the remainder of the game, with substitution after the earliest occurrence referred to in Rule 21-3, and a penalty throw awarded to the opposing team. Note: It shall be an improper reentry if an excluded player reenters or a substitute enters without having received the referees signal, even if the referee should have given the signal earlier.

68

RULE 21-17/EXCLUSION FOULS

Interference With Penalty Throw SECTION 17. To interfere with the taking of a penalty throw. The offending player shall be excluded from the remainder of the game with substitution after the earliest occurrence referred to in Rule 21-3 and the penalty throw shall be maintained or re-taken as appropriate. Note: The most common form of interference with a penalty throw is when an opponent aims a kick at the player taking the throw, just as the throw is about to be taken. It is essential for the referees to ensure that all players are at least 2 meters from the thrower, to prevent such interference taking place. The referee should also allow the defending team the first right to take position. Failure to Take Position on Goal Line SECTION 18. For the defending goalkeeper to fail to take up the correct position on the goal line at the taking of a penalty throw having been ordered once to do so by the referee. Another defending player may take the position of the goalkeeper but without the goalkeepers privileges or limitations. Simultaneous Personal Fouls SECTION 19. When a player of each team commits an exclusion foul or a penalty foul simultaneously during actual play, both players shall be excluded and a neutral throw awarded. Note: See also notes to Rule 21-14. Commencement of Exclusion Period SECTION 20. When a player is excluded, the exclusion period shall commence immediately when the ball has left the hand of the player taking the free throw or when the ball has been touched following a neutral throw. Interfering with Play SECTION 21. If an excluded player intentionally interferes with play, including affecting the alignment of the goal, a penalty throw shall be awarded to the opposing team and a further personal foul awarded against the excluded player. If the excluded player does not commence leaving the field of play almost immediately, the referee may deem this to be intentional interference under this rule. Continuation of Exclusion Into Overtime SECTION 22. In the event of the game continuing into extra time, the exclusion period of any excluded player shall also continue into the extra time. Personal fouls awarded during the periods of normal time shall

RULE 21-22/EXCLUSION FOULS

69

also carry forward into extra time and any player excluded under the rules from the remainder of the game shall not be permitted to take part in any periods of extra time.

RULE 22 Penalty Fouls

When Awarded SECTION 1. It shall be a penalty foul to commit any of the following offenses (Rule 22-2 to Rule 22-9), which shall be punished by the award of a penalty throw to the opposing team. Within 4-Meter Area to Prevent Goal SECTION 2. For a defending player to commit any foul within the 4meter area but for which a goal would probably have resulted. Notes: In addition to other offenses preventing a probable goal, it is an offense within the meaning of this rule: a. For a goalkeeper or other defending player to pull down or otherwise displace the goal (Fig. 20); b. For a defending player to play the ball with two hands (Fig. 21); c. For a defending player to play the ball with a clenched fist (Fig. 22); d. For a goalkeeper or other defending player to take the ball under the water when tackled; or

Fig. 20

Fig. 21

Fig. 22
70

RULE 22-2/PENALTY FOULS

71

e. For the goalkeeper to push off the wall in an attempt to block a shot (if the ball goes into the goal, the goal is scored. If the shot is blocked, a penalty throw shall be awarded). It is important to note that while the fouls described above, and other fouls such as holding, pulling back, impeding, etc., would normally be punished by a free throw (and exclusion if appropriate), they become penalty fouls if committed within the 4-meter area by a defending player if a probable goal would otherwise have been scored. Kicking or Striking Within 4-Meter Area, Brutality or Fighting SECTION 3. For a defending player within the 4-meter area to kick or strike an opponent, to commit an act of brutality or to engage in a fight. Notes: If a player commits an act of brutality either inside or outside the 4-meter area, a penalty throw is awarded and the player excluded for the remainder of the game. See Rule 21-10 for additional penalties. In the case of a double-brutality foul committed during live time or dead time, both players are excluded for the remainder of the game (with substitution) and a penalty throw awarded each team. The first penalty shot shall be taken by the team in possession of the ball at the time of stoppage. If either penalty shot is scored, the substitutes may enter at the conclusion of the second penalty shot. Otherwise, the substitutes are out until the earliest occurrence of one of the events described in Rule 21-3. A neutral throw at the half-distance line shall be held after the second penalty throw. If a player engages in a fight, either inside or outside the 4-meter area, penalty throw(s) are awarded. See Rule 21-11 for additional penalties. If Team A has the ball and four players from Team A and six players from Team B leave the bench to enter the pool to engage in a fight while the game is in progress, each player engaging in a fight is charged with the fighting penalty. Each of the 10 players shall be excluded for the remainder of the game with substitution, and from the next game. Team A shall be awarded six penalty throws; Team B four penalty throws. The teams shoot penalty shots in alternate succession at their opponents goal, beginning with Team A, the team in possession of the ball at the time of the stoppage, and concluding with the team awarded the greater number of penalty shots. Any member(s) of a team, with the exception of the fight participants, may take the penalty shots in any sequence. If at least one of the penalty shots is scored, the substitutes for the players in the water who were removed for the game may then enter before play resumes. If a penalty shot is not scored, the players shall be excluded until the earliest occurrence of one of the events described in Rule 21-3 and a neutral throw held at the half-dis-

72

RULE 22-3/PENALTY FOULS

tance line after the last penalty throw. If a fight occurs immediately after the conclusion of a game, each player involved in the fight shall be suspended from the next game. Penalty shots shall not be awarded in this situation. If a fight occurs immediately after the conclusion of regulation play, the game ending in a tie, penalty shots are awarded according to the rule after the conclusion of the fourth period. The first overtime period starts with a sprint. If a penalty shot is not scored, the substitute players shall be excluded until the earliest occurrence of one of the events described in Rule 21-3. Excluded Player Interfering With Play SECTION 4. For an excluded player intentionally to interfere with play, including affecting the alignment of the goal. Pulling Over Goal SECTION 5. For a goalkeeper or any other defending player to pull over the goal completely with the object of preventing a probable goal. The offending player shall also be excluded from the remainder of the game, with substitution after the earliest occurrence referred to in Rule 21-3. Reentering Improperly to Prevent Goal SECTION 6. For an excluded player to reenter or a substitute to enter the field of play improperly prior to or at the expiration of an exclusion period with the object of preventing a goal. The offending player shall also leave the field of play to complete any of the original exclusion period remaining, if appropriate. Note: In the circumstances of this rule, if the attacking team is in a position to shoot at goal, the referee shall wait to see if a goal is scored before stopping the play. If a goal is scored, the penalty throw is not awarded, but a personal foul is recorded against the offending player. If a goal is not scored, the referee shall then immediately award a penalty throw in accordance with this rule. Reentering Improperly During Last Minute SECTION 7. For an excluded player to reenter or a substitute to enter the field of play improperly during the last minute of the game, the last minute of the second period of any extra time or at any time during any sudden-death overtime period. The offending player shall also be excluded from the remainder of the game, with substitution after the earliest occurrence referred to in Rule 21-3. Player Not Entitled to Participate Entering Field of Play SECTION 8. For a player or substitute who is not entitled under the rules to participate in the play at that time to enter the field of play. The

RULE 22-8/PENALTY FOULS

73

offending player shall also be excluded from the remainder of the game with substitution, where appropriate, after the earliest occurrence referred to in Rule 21-3. This rule shall not apply to an excluded player who reenters or a substitute who enters the field of play before the earliest occurrence referred to in Rule 21-3. Notes: A penalty throw is awarded if a player with three personal fouls reenters the water illegally while the ball is in play (see exception in Rule 5-1). If an excluded player and a substitute both enter after the earliest occurrence referred to in Rule 21-3, whichever player entered last shall be the player to be penalized under this rule. If both players enter simultaneously, it shall be the substitute who is to be penalized. Team Official Preventing Goal SECTION 9. For a team official to take any action to prevent a probable goal, except that no personal foul shall be recorded for this offense. Deliberate Act Causing the Award of a Penalty Foul SECTION 10. Any intentional act in violation of Rule 22-4 to Rule 22-9 committed during the last minute of the game or during the last minute of the second overtime period in order to give the team with the lead a penalty shot (such as an excluded player intentionally interfering with play, a goalkeeper or other defending player pulling over the goal, an excluded player deliberately reentering improperly during the last minute, a player not entitled to participate deliberately entering the field of play by jumping into the water, for example, from the bench area during play, or a team official deliberately attempting to prevent a goal) will result in the team shooting the penalty shot getting the ball back at the half-distance line whether the penalty shot is made or missed.
Interpretation: During the penalty shot attempt, the players on the team taking the penalty shot (except the player taking the penalty shot) shall line up in their half of the field of play, as is done after a goal. The players on the defensive team shall be outside the seven-meter line during the penalty shot attempt.

RULE 23 Penalty Throws

Players Eligible to Take Throw SECTION 1. A penalty throw shall be taken by any player of the team to which it is awarded, except the goalkeeper, from any point on the opponents 4-meter line. Position of Other Players and Goalkeeper SECTION 2. All players shall leave the 4-meter area and shall be at least 2 meters from the player taking the throw. On each side of the player taking the throw, one player of the defending team shall have the first right to take position. With floating goals, the defending goalkeeper shall be positioned between the goal posts with no part of the goalkeepers body beyond the goal line at water level. With wall goals, the defending goalkeeper must assume a position with hips on the goal line. Should the goalkeeper be out of the water, another player may take the position of the goalkeeper but without the goalkeepers privileges and limitations. Referee Signal SECTION 3. When the referee controlling the taking of the throw is satisfied that the players are in their correct positions the referee shall signal for the throw to be taken, by whistle and by simultaneously lowering the arm from a vertical to a horizontal position. Note: The lowering of the arm at the same time as the signal by whistle makes it possible under any conditions, even amidst noise by spectators, to execute the throw in accordance with the rules. As the arm is lifted, the player taking the throw will concentrate, for the player knows that the signal will follow immediately. How Taken SECTION 4. The player taking the penalty throw shall have possession of the ball and shall immediately throw it with an uninterrupted movement directly at the goal. The player may take the throw by lifting the ball from the water (Fig. 23) or with the ball held in the raised hand (Fig. 24) and the ball may be taken backwards from the direction of the goal in preparation for the forward throw, provided that the continuity of the
74

RULE 23-4/PENALTY THROWS

75

Fig. 23

Fig. 24

movement shall not be interrupted before the ball leaves the throwers hand. Note: There is nothing in the rules to prevent a player taking the throw with the players back to the goal while the player adopts a half screw or full screw action. Rebounding Ball SECTION 5. If the ball rebounds from the goal post, crossbar or goalkeeper it remains in play and it shall not be necessary for another player to play or touch the ball before a goal can be scored. Extension of Time SECTION 6. If at precisely the same time as the referee awards a penalty throw the timekeeper whistles for the end of a period, all players except the player taking the throw and the defending goalkeeper shall leave the water before the penalty throw is taken. In this situation, the ball shall immediately be dead should it rebound into play from the goal post, crossbar or the goalkeeper.

RULE 24 Personal Fouls

When Awarded SECTION 1. A personal foul shall be recorded against any player who commits an exclusion foul or penalty foul. The referee shall indicate the offending players cap number to the secretary. Exclusion After Three Personal Fouls SECTION 2. Upon receiving a third personal foul, a player shall be excluded from the remainder of the game with substitution after the earliest occurrence referred to in Rule 21-3. If the third personal foul is a penalty foul, the entry of the substitute shall be immediate.

76

RULE 25 Accident, Injury and Illness

Player Leaving Water SECTION 1. A player shall only be allowed to leave the water, or sit or stand on the steps or side of the pool during play in the case of accident, injury, illness or with the permission of a referee. A player who has left the water legitimately may reenter from the reentry area nearest the players own goal line at an appropriate stoppage, with the permission of a referee. Bleeding SECTION 2. If a player is bleeding, the referee shall immediately order the player out of the water with the immediate entry of a substitute and the game shall continue without interruption. After the bleeding has stopped, the player is permitted to be a substitute in the ordinary course of the game. Note: Aggressive treatment of open wounds or skin lesions should be followed. Whenever a player suffers a laceration or wound where oozing or bleeding occurs, the practice or game should be stopped at the earliest possible time, and the player should leave the field of play and be given appropriate medical treatment. No timeout is charged and the player may return to the game after the bleeding has stopped. Accident, Injury, Extenuating Circumstances SECTION 3. If case of accident, injury or extenuating circumstances, at the discretion of the referee, the game may be stopped and the injured player replaced immediately or the incident addressed. No timeout is charged and the injured player may return to the game at a later time. Should a goalkeeper retire from the game for any medical reason, the referees shall allow an immediate substitution, subject to one of the players taking the goalkeepers cap.

77

78

RULE 25-4/ACCIDENT, INJURY AND ILLNESS

Return of Ball Into Play SECTION 4. Should the game be stopped through accident, illness, bleeding or other unforeseen reason, the team in possession of the ball at the time of the stoppage shall put the ball into play at the place of stoppage when the play is resumed.

Appendix A Instructions for the Use of Two Referees

1. The referees are in absolute control of the game and shall have equal powers to declare fouls and penalties. Differences of opinion of the referees shall not serve as a basis for protest or appeal. 2. The committee or organization appointing the referees shall have power to designate the side of the pool from which each referee shall officiate. Referees shall change sides of the pool before the start of any period when the teams do not change ends. Referees do not change sides during the game if one coach has requested that the teams change ends and benches each period. Note: Whenever possible, the referees shall position themselves on opposite sides of the playing field. If the two sides of the pool are parallel and do not have significant obstructions, each referee shall referee to the right. If this is not possible, due to obstruction(s) on the side(s) of the pool, each referee shall referee to the left. If the pool configuration is such that both referees must be on the same side of the pool, the referee to the right of the scoring table shall referee to the right; the referee to the left of the scoring table shall referee to the left. If the pool is L-shaped, the referees shall be on opposite sides of the playing area. Each referee shall referee to the right (or left, depending on the pool configuration). 3. At the start of the game and of each period, the starting signal shall be given by the referee on the same side as the official table. 4. After a goal, the signal to restart shall be given by the referee who was controlling the attacking situation when the goal was scored. Before restarting, the referees shall ensure that any substitutions have been completed. Note: Both referees have the responsibility to determine if the coaches wish to substitute after a goal, although the primary responsibility is that of the referee on the side of the pool opposite the scoring table.
79

80

APPENDIX A

5. Each referee shall have the power to declare fouls in any part of the field of play but each referee shall give primary attention to the offensive situation attacking the goal to the referees right. The referee not controlling the attacking situation (the defensive referee) shall maintain a position no closer to the goal being attacked than that player of the attacking team furthest back from the goal. Note: If the attack referee is within the 4-meter line, the defensive referee must move down the pool to the 7-meter line in order to determine if a player is eligible to shoot a free throw. In this instance, the defensive referee must also watch the players remaining behind in the defensive referees area. 6. When awarding a free throw, goal throw or corner throw, the referee making the decision shall blow the whistle and both referees shall indicate the direction of the attack, to enable players in different parts of the pool to see quickly which team has been awarded the throw. The referee making the decision shall point to where the throw is to be taken if the ball is not at that position. Referees shall use the signals set out in Appendix B to indicate the nature of the fouls which they are penalizing. 7. The signal for a penalty throw to be taken shall be made by the attack referee, except that a player who wishes to take the throw with the left hand may request the defensive referee to make the signal. 8. When simultaneous free throws are awarded by both referees to the same team, the award shall go to the player awarded the throw by the attack referee. 9. When simultaneous awards are made for ordinary fouls but for opposing teams, the award shall be a neutral throw, to be taken by the attack referee. 10. When one referee awards an exclusion foul and at the same moment the other referee awards a penalty foul but for opposing teams, both the offending players shall be excluded and a neutral throw awarded. 11. When simultaneous awards are made by both referees and one is for an ordinary foul and the other is for an exclusion foul or penalty foul, the exclusion foul or penalty foul award shall be applied. 12. When players of both teams commit an exclusion foul simultaneously, whether during actual play or dead time, the offending players shall be excluded and a neutral throw awarded.

APPENDIX A

81

13. In the event of simultaneous awards of penalty throws to both teams, the first throw shall be taken by the team last in possession of the ball. After the second penalty throw has been taken, the game shall be restarted with a neutral throw on the half-distance line. 14. When simultaneous calls are made by both referees for personal fouls on the same team, both players shall receive a personal foul; also, the proper penalty shall be assessed to each. 15. Both referees have the responsibility to observe that the game clock and the 35-second clock are being properly administered, although the primary responsibility is that of the defensive referee. If a visible mistake is made on the game clock/35-second clock, the defensive referee shall correct the mistake immediately. 16. Both referees have the responsibility to signal a change in direction of attack during an exclusion and are encouraged to wave in the excluded player with the other hand, although the primary responsibility is that of the defensive referee. 17. Both referees have the responsibility to determine if the substitution from the reentry area of one player for another player occurs correctly while play is in progress, although the primary responsibility is that of the defensive referee. 18. Both referees have the responsibility to determine if a player is eligible to shoot a free throw outside the 7-meter line, although the primary responsibility is that of the defensive referee; however, if the line of attack has not progressed past the 7-meter line, the attack referee has this responsibility.

Appendix B Signals To Be Used By Officials

Fig. A. The referee lowers the arm from a vertical position to signal (i) the start of the period, (ii) the restart after a goal and (iii) the taking of a penalty throw. Fig. B. To point with one arm in the direction of the attack and to use the other arm to indicate the place where the ball is to be put into play at a free throw, goal throw or corner throw. Fig. C. To signal a neutral throw. The referee points to the place where the neutral throw has been awarded, points both thumbs up and calls for the ball. Fig. D. To signal the exclusion of a player. The referee points to the player and then moves the arm quickly towards the boundary of the field of play. The referee then signals the excluded players cap number so that it is visible to the field of play and the table. After the ball is put into play, the referee shall call out the cap color and number of the offending player to the scoring table.
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APPENDIX B

83

Fig. E. To signal the simultaneous exclusion of two players. The referee points with both hands to the two players, signals their exclusion in accordance with Fig. D, and then immediately signals the players cap numbers. After the ball is put into play, the referee shall call out the cap colors and numbers of the offending players to the scoring table. Fig. F. To signal the exclusion of a player with substitution. The referee signals exclusion in accordance with Fig. D (or Fig. E if appropriate) and then rotates both hands round one another in such a way that is visible to both the field of play and the table. The referee then signals the excluded players cap number to the table. The referee also must notify the scorer of this ruling. Fig. G. To signal the award of a penalty throw. The referee raises one arm with four fingers in the air. The referee then signals the offending players cap number to the table. The referee shall also call out the cap color and number of the offending player to the scoring table. Fig. H. To signal that a goal has been scored. The referee signals by whistle and by immediately pointing to the center of the field of play. The referee shall call out the cap color and number of the player scoring the goal to the scoring table. Fig. I. To indicate the exclusion foul of holding an opponent. The referee makes a motion holding the wrist of one hand with the other hand.

84

APPENDIX B

Fig. J. To indicate the exclusion foul of sinking an opponent. The referee makes a downward motion with both hands starting from a horizontal position. Fig. K. To indicate the exclusion foul of pulling back an opponent. The referee makes a pulling motion with both hands vertically extended and pulling towards the referees body. Fig. L. To indicate the exclusion foul of kicking an opponent. The referee makes a kicking movement. Fig. M. To indicate the exclusion foul of striking an opponent. The referee makes a striking motion with a closed fist starting from a horizontal position.

Fig. N. To indicate the ordinary foul of pushing or pushing off from an opponent. The referee makes a pushing motion away from the referees body starting from a horizontal position.

APPENDIX B

85

Fig. O. To indicate the ordinary foul of impeding an opponent. The referee makes a crossing motion with one hand horizontally crossing the other. Fig. P. To indicate the ordinary foul of taking the ball under the water. The referee makes a downward motion with the hand starting from a horizontal position. Fig. Q. To indicate the ordinary foul of standing on the bottom of the pool. The referee raises and lowers one foot.

Fig. R. To indicate the ordinary foul of undue delay in the taking of a free throw, goal throw or corner throw. The referee raises one hand once or twice with the palm turned upwards. Fig. S. To indicate a violation of the 2-meter rule. The referee indicates the number 2 by raising the fore and middle fingers in the air with the arm vertically extended. Fig. T. To indicate the ordinary fouls of wasting time and expiration of 35 seconds possession. The referee moves the hand in a circular motion two or three times. Fig. U. By a goal judge to signal for the start of a period by raising one arm vertically.

86

APPENDIX B

Fig. V. By a goal judge to signal an improper start by raising both arms vertically. Fig. W. To indicate a players cap number. To enable the referee to communicate better with the players and the secretary, signals are made using both hands if appropriate where the number exceeds five. One hand shows five fingers with the other hand showing additional fingers to make up the sum of the players number. For the number 10, a clenched fist is shown. If the number exceeds 10, one hand is shown as a clenched fist with the other hand showing additional fingers to make up the sum of the players number. Fig. X. To indicate a television timeout. The referee shall blow the whistle and extend each arm straight out to the side. Fig. Y. To signal a minor act of disrespect by using a half rolling motion with one arm so that it is visible to the other players, coaches and scoring table. The referee must signal the offending players cap number to the players in the water and to the table. After the ball is put in play, the referee must also notify the secretary and coaches verbally of the cap numbers and of this ruling of a minor act of disrespect.

Fig. Y

Appendix C Tournament Advancement

1. Tournament Game Length: Each tournament game must be played according to the time factors described in Rules 11-1, 11-2, 11-3 and 121. Special modification of the play of the game in a tournament shall not be permitted. 2. Tournament Rest Period: Unless there is a prior agreement, a team involved in a tournament shall have a rest period of at least two hours between the completion of one game and start of the next game. 3. Tournament Play: The following system may be used when group round-robin is played to determine advancement of teams and the tournament champion. a. Two points shall be awarded for a win and zero points for a loss. A game shall not end in a tie. Games played in the first and second rounds shall not be repeated; the scores and the points from the previous game between two advancing teams shall be used in the next round. b. If two teams have equal points, advancement and/or the winner of the tournament shall be determined in the following manner: Precedence shall be given to the team winning the game played against the other. c. The following procedures are to be followed if more than two teams are tied in points. In a three-team bracket, if three teams are tied in points, advancement and/or the winner of the tournament shall be determined in the following manner: (1) Precedence shall be given to the team with the largest goal difference, i.e., the team with the largest difference between goals scored for and against shall be given precedence. For example, if the goal difference between three teams tied in points is +4, 0, and -2, that is the order of finish of the three teams.
87

88

APPENDIX C

Note: A team involved in a goal-difference situation that forfeits a game or has incurred a no contest, cannot advance by means of the forfeit or no contest. If when this rule is applied, a three-way tie is broken but two teams remain tied in goal differences, then precedence shall be given to the team winning the game they have played against one another. (2) In the event of goal difference being equal for all three teams, the team having scored the highest number of goals shall be given precedence. For example, if the number of goals scored by the three teams tied in goal difference is 14, 10, and 8 goals, respectively, that is the order of finish of the three teams. If when the rule is applied, a three-way tie is broken but two teams remain tied in the total goals scored, then precedence shall be given to the team winning the game they have played against one another. (3) In the event of further equality among all three teams, the tie shall be resolved by each team shooting six penalty shots at the opponents team, in alternate succession, three against each team. (Team A shoots a penalty shot followed by Teams B and C.) The teams shall draw lots to determine the order of the penalty shots.) If a tie still exists, additional sets of six penalty shots shall be awarded in the same manner until the tie is broken. Any member(s) of a team may shoot penalty shots in any sequence. The penalty shot procedure shall commence one-half hour after the completion of the final game in the affected round. d. In a bracket containing four or more teams, if more than two teams are tied in points, advancement and/or the winner of the tournament shall be determined in the following manner: (1) Precedence shall be given to the team with the largest goal difference, i.e., the team with the largest difference between goals scored for and against in games involving only those teams tied in points shall be given precedence. For example, if the goal difference between three teams tied in points is +4, 0, and -2, that is the order of finish of the three teams.

APPENDIX C

89

Note: A team involved in a goal-difference situation that forfeits a game or has incurred a no contest, cannot advance by means of the forfeit or no contest. If when this rule is applied, a three-way tie is broken but two teams remain tied in goal differences, then precedence shall be given to the team winning the game they have played against one another. (2) In the event of goal difference being equal for all teams tied in points, the team having scored the highest number of goals in games involving only those teams tied in points shall be given precedence. For example, if the number of goals scored by the three teams tied in goal difference is 14, 10, and 8 goals, respectively, that is the order of finish of the three teams. If when this rule is applied, a tie is broken but two teams remain tied in total goals scored, then precedence shall be given to the team winning the game they have played against one another. (3) In the event of further equality, the tie shall be resolved as in 3-c-(3). 4. Tournament Option: Tournament directors may select the following option for determining the advancement of teams and the winner of the tournament in group round-robin tournaments, if teams have equal points. a. If two teams have equal points, precedence shall be given to the team winning the game played against the other. b. If more than two teams are tied in points, the tie shall be resolved as in 3-c-(3).

Index to Rules
Abandonment of game ................... Accident substitution................................... return of ball into play.................. Advancement of teams ................... Advantage rule ................................ Apparel ............................................ Assistant coach position ........................................ powers if head coach removed .. Assisting teammat ......................... e Ball described ..................................... hitting with clenched fist .............. in play .......................................... ................................................. leaving field of pla...................... y number......................................... out of bounds.............................. . s i z e ens................................. m s i z e omens............................ w thrown in corner .......................... thrown to advantage one team... under............................................ under signal................................. weight .......................................... Bleeding........................................... Brutality by a reser e ................................ v. definition ...................................... delayed call.................................. double .......................................... during a tournament.................... punishment .................................. within four-meter area ................. Caps bathing ......................................... colors ........................................... coming off .................................... ear guards ................................... goalkeeper................................... lack of adherence to rule ........... s numbers....................................... piping ........................................... quartering..................................... stripes .......................................... Captains designation .................................. discussions with referee............. . Cardsred and yellow ................... Clocks descending time .......................... resetting game clock ................... Rule Sec. Page 7 6 27 25 25 7 5 5 7 20 3 20 9 16 8 3 20 3 3 9 13 20 3 25 21 21 21 22 21 21 22 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 5 5 7 11 5 3 4 3 4 2 4 3 1 7 1 2 3 5 16 3 4 1 4 6 2 2 10 10 10 3 10 10 3 5 1 1 2 3 6 4 1 3 1 3 5 4 4 1 77 78 87 26 21 20 26 51 16 52 30 45 29 16 55 16 16 30 40 51 84 16 77 63 63 63 71 63 63 71 18 17 17 17 17 18 18 17 17 17 21 21 26 34 19 Rule Sec. Page resetting 35-second clock ........... 5 1 19 ................................................. 9 1 30 20 17 55 starting, stopping......................... 9 1 30 35-second location ...................... 1 1 12 Coach .............................................. position ........................................ 5 2 20 coach-referee discussions .......... 5 5 21 Coin toss at start of game ........................... 13 1 40 before sudden-death overtime. . . . 11 3 34 Corner throw how taken .................................... 17 2 47 position of players ....................... 17 3 47 reset 35-second clock ................. 9 1 30 ................................................. 20 17 55 retaking........................................ 17 4 47 signal for ...................................... 8 2 29 82 when taken .................................. 17 1 47 Dead-time foul defensive ..................................... 21 13 66 offensive ...................................... 20 11 54 Desk err r ....................................... 5 o. 1 19 Disrespect after goal...................................... 21 12 64 by player on team with the ball... 21 12 64 by player on team without the ball ..................................... 21 12 64 definition ...................................... 21 12 64 during interval.............................. 21 12 64 minor act of disrespect................ 21 12 64 red card for refusal to leave water ........................................ 21 12 64 Double foul brutality ........................................ 22 3 71 during dead time ......................... 21 14 66 during live time ............................ 21 19 68 before neutral throw .................... 21 14 66 before penalty throw ................... 21 14 66 Ear guards color ............................................. requirement ................................. Elbowing backward......................... Ends change of..................................... ................................................. coin toss ...................................... 4 4 21 2 2 8 2 2 3 1 2 3 20 17 17 62 20 34 34 40 20 34 68

5 11 11 13 overtime....................................... 5 ................................................. 11 Exclusion commencement of time for ......... 21

90

INDEX TO RULES
Rule Sec. Page 21 22 68 21 2 57 21 16 67 21 2 57 21 2 57 21 3 58 21 3 58 21 15 67 21 4 60 21 2 57 1 7 14 21 10 21 18 1 1 8 21 21 22 20 1 11 21 5 20 20 22 24 21 5 10 1 16 20 19 21 19 14 19 19 7 11 11 2 2 2 3 3 1 2 2 3 11 11 3 7 9 6 1 1 11 1 1 1 19 1 6 2 14 4 5 3 3 2 1 6 1 3 3 1 2 58 32 82 58 48 12 13 29 63 63 71 52 14 35 57 19 54 51 70 76 68 19 32 14 45 55 50 60 51 81 42 50 50 27 34 34 15 15 15

91
Rule Sec. Page 22 5 72 2 3 15 2 3 15 2 3 15 8 8 8 8 8 1 1 1 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 5 14 2 16 8 16 20 4 21 18 20 20 20 3 2 2 1 2 29 29 29 29 29 85,86 8 14 6 4 4 5 3 1 3 3 3 5 1 6 3 2 2 1 15 3 18 2 5 7 8 3 2 15 3 6 2 7 9 7 9 14 12 42 43 41 41 41 41 41 82 43 19 43 15 45 29 81 45 55 17 68 48 51 52 52 58 41 55 58 14 34 61 82 52 61 52

continuation into overtime........... excluded player leaving water .... improper reentry.......................... incorrect player............................ method of leaving wate.............. r method of reentry........................ of goalkeeper--substitution.......... of offensive player ....................... of player leaving water ................ penalty for leaving water ............. reentry area ................................. reentry--when allowed at end of period ....................................... secretary duties ........................... signal for ...................................... time .............................................. Face-off (neutral throw) .................. Field of Play .................................... diagram........................................ leaving ......................................... Fighting definition ...................................... penalty ......................................... ................................................. Fistclenched ................................ F l a gs secretary ...................................... Forfeited game ................................ Fouls exclusion...................................... not counted.................................. offensive dead-time foul.............. ordinary........................................ penalty ......................................... personal....................................... simultaneous personal fouls ....... third foul not signaled.................. third-foul signal ............................ Four-meter line................................ Free throw delay ............................................ how taken .................................... interference with .......................... responsibility for return of ball..... signal ........................................... shot on free throw ....................... time allowed ................................ where taken................................. G a me abandonment .............................. length of....................................... tie ................................................. G o al backing ........................................ dimensions of .............................. position ........................................

pulling over goal .......................... requirement for net...................... space ........................................... wall goals..................................... Goal judge balls.............................................. duties ........................................... line up teams............................... location ........................................ signals.......................................... space for Goal line marking ........................................ minimum distance to wall............ Goal scored at expiration of time..................... ball in own goal ........................... by goalkeeper.............................. definition ...................................... direct shot .................................... how scored .................................. scored on free throw ................... signal for ...................................... when counted.............................. when not counted........................ ................................................. Goal space ...................................... Goal throw how taken .................................... signal for ...................................... when awarded............................. Goalkeeper beyond half-distance line ............ caps ............................................. failure to take position in penalty throw ........................................ neutral throw exclusion ............... privileges...................................... ................................................. ................................................. privileges of substitute goalkeeper restrictions ...................................

21 14 20 substitution when excluded ........ 21 . 11 21 20 21

Half-distance line............................ 1 . Halftime ........................................... Holding hold, sink, pull back..................... signal ........................................... the ball ......................................... .................................................

Impede definition ...................................... 20

92
Rule Sec. Page 84 25 3 77 25 4 78 21 22 21 11 5 21 4 5 2 5 8 3 3 12 9 5 5 4 14 2 2 1 3 5 1 11 1 1 2 3 1 8 8 1 1 4 3 16 3 6 3 10 8 21 4 3 2 3 68 72 60 34 22 62 84 71 29 65 86 62 21 21 40 66 48 48 82 48 49 35 23 54 23 23 12 12 23 14 38 51 51 12 29 55 34 72 71 73 72 68 72 71 70 71

INDEX TO RULES
Rule Sec. Page for improper reentry in last minute ...................................... ................................................. for player not entitled to participate to enter................... for pulling over goal..................... for reentering to prevent goal ..... for team official to prevent goal .. when awarded............................. Penalty throw deliberate act in last minute ........ double dead-time foul before...... eligibility to take throw ................. extension of time for.................... failure to take correctly................ goalkeeper fails to take position . how taken .................................... interference with .......................... position of goalkeeper................. position of other players.............. ................................................. rebounding ball............................ signal ........................................... ................................................. timeout before ............................. Personal foul simultaneous ............................... third .............................................. when awarded............................. Player excluded not leaving water ......... excluded player refusing to leave water .............................. excluded player interfering with play................................... extra............................................. illegal............................................ less than seven ........................... leaving by mistae ...................... k. leaving water without permission ............................... leaving water with permission. . . . . not visibly red-flagged ................. number of .................................... positions at start .......................... substances on ............................. uniform......................................... Pool diagram........................................ dimensions .................................. markers........................................ off the bottom .............................. pushing off from .......................... removal from ............................... temperature ................................. Possession of ball ........................................... ................................................. signal for change of possession . time .............................................. Pregame meeting........................... . 21 22 22 22 22 22 22 22 21 23 23 20 21 23 21 23 22 23 23 23 12 21 24 24 21 7 21 5 5 5 21 21 25 5 5 13 5 5 1 1 20 20 7 1 9 20 21 9 5 16 7 8 5 6 9 1 10 14 1 6 13 18 4 17 2 10 2 5 3 1 19 2 1 2 4 21 1 1 1 2 4 1 1 1 2 5 4 4 6 5 4 5 5 1 17 3 1 5 67 72 72 72 72 73 70 73 66 74 75 54 68 74 68 74 73 74 75 74 83 36 68 76 76 57 26 68 19 19 19 57 60 77 19 19 40 21 21 13 12 14 51 51 27 14 30 55 58 30 21

signal ........................................... Injury................................................ return of ball into play.................. Interference by excluded player ...................... ................................................. with free throw............................. Interval between period .................. Jewelry ............................................

Kicking or striking............................ 21 signals.......................................... within 4-meter area ..................... 22 Leaving the field of play.................. 8 Minor act of disrespect.................... 21 signal ........................................... Misconduct ...................................... 21 Nails inspection..................................... penalty ......................................... Neutral throw at start.......................................... change of possession fr m . . . . . . . . o . goalkeeper excluded................... how taken .................................... signal for ...................................... when awarded............................. when retaken............................... No contest ....................................... Observers........................................ Offensive dead-time foul................. Officials duties ........................................... listed............................................. location with two referees ........... location with one referee............. number......................................... space for...................................... television liaison .......................... Ordinary foul definition ...................................... enforcement................................. Out of bounds definition ...................................... retrieving ball ............................... sending ball ................................. Overtime .......................................... Penalty foul delayed ........................................ for brutality................................... for deliberate act in last minute. . . for entry of player with three personal fouls .......................... for excluded player interfering with play................................... ................................................. for fighting.................................... for foul within four-meter area. . . . . for kicking or striking within four-meter area........................ 5 5 13 21 18 18 18 18 11 6 20 6 6 1 1 6 1 12 20 20 1 8 20 11 22 22 22 22 21 22 22 22 22

INDEX TO RULES
Rule Sec. Page Protests ........................................... 6 2 24 Pulling back signal .......................... 84 Pushing or pushing off from opponent ............................. 20 10 54 from pool...................................... 20 4 51 signal ........................................... 84 Red card.......................................... if player refused to leave water .. red card not removed if reset clocks ....................................... when issued ................................ location where coach with red card sits ................................... location where player with red card sits ................................... Red flag player not visibly red-flagged ...... when used ................................... Reentry after leaving with permission ...... area.............................................. excluded player after goal........... excluded player at end of period improper....................................... improper in last minute................ 7 5 7 7 7 5 10 4 1 4 4 4 1 26 19 26 26 26 19 32 77 14 58 58 67 67 72 72 58 27 26 25 79 25 26 25 26 26 23 21 79 25 25 79 79 32 27 82 14 25 34 32 23 32 23 32 14

93
Rule Sec. Page Goal judge ................................... 8 2 29 Sinking signal .................................. 84 Splashing intentional .................................... 21 6 60 penalty for inside 4-meter area... 21 6 60 Stalling defined ......................................... 20 18 55 Standing on bottom......................... 20 5 51 Starting after goal...................................... 15 44 after timeout................................. 12 3 37 early ............................................. 20 2 51 game............................................ 13 2-3 40 not ready to start ......................... 20 19 56 signal ........................................... 82 Starting timelate for..................... 11 5 35 Substances on body ....................... 5 5 21 Substitution during temporary stopage of play 5 6 22 during timeou.............................. 5 t 7 22 of goalkeepe............................... 5 r 9 22 ................................................. 21 3 58 for excluded player...................... 5 6 21 for injured goalkeeper ................. 5 10 22 method of..................................... 5 6-7 21 responsibility for .......................... 81 when allowed.............................. 5 . 6-7 21 while play is in progress.............. 5 6 21 without delay ............................... 5 8 22 Suspension for fighting.................................... 21 11 64 for red card .................................. 7 4 26 when served ................................ 7 4 26 where served............................... 7 4 27 Taunting exclusion foul............................... 21 9 62 Team area....................................... 5 2 20 Team bench .................................... 5 2 20 Television timeout ........................... 12 8 38 signal for ...................................... 86 Time must shoot................................... 20 17 55 wasting......................................... 20 18 55 wasting--signal............................. 85 Timekeepers game............................................ 9 1 30 35-second clock .............................. 9 1 30 signal end of period..................... 9 2 31 Timeouts additional by defensive team ...... 12 5 38 additional by offensive team ....... 12 4 37 after goal...................................... 12 1 36 before penalty throw ................... 12 1 36 defensive team............................ 12 1 36 duration........................................ 12 1 36 excluded player ........................... 12 3 37 failure to restart promptly ............ 12 3 37 how calle.................................... 12 d 1 36 number allowed........................... 12 1 36 position of players during timeout ..................................... 12 2 36

25 1 21 21 21 21 22 improper to prevent goal............. 22 method......................................... 21 Referee abandonment of game................ 7 advantage rule............................. 7 authority ....................................... 7 change of sides ........................... changing decision ....................... 7 control over conduct.................... 7 disagreement............................... 7 discussions with captain ............. 7 discussions with coach ............... 7 duties without goal judges .......... 6 inspection of players ................... 5 instructions................................... interaction .................................... 7 jurisdiction.................................... 7 major responsibility area ............. position during game................... reentry excluded player............... 10 removal from pool ....................... 7 signals.......................................... space ........................................... 1 uniform......................................... 7 Running-time games....................... 11 Scorerduties ................................ 10 Secretary No. 1 ............................... 6 10 Secretary No. 2 (exclusion) ............ 6 10 Seven-meter line............................. 1 Signals

1 7 3 3 16 16 7 6 3 6 3 1 2 4 2 4 4 1 5 1 1

5 8 1 1 1 1 6

94
Rule Sec. Page position of coach during 20-second timeout ....... position of players after timeout. . shortening.................................... signal ........................................... starting afte................................. r television...................................... television--signal.......................... timed by ....................................... ................................................. 20-second timeou....................... t use of air horn ............................. visible display .............................. when called ................................. when neither team has possession ....................... 12 12 12 12 12 12 6 9 12 12 12 12 12 7 6 2 1 3 8 1 1 7 1 1 1 5 38 38 36 36 37 38 86 23 30 38 36 36 36 38

INDEX TO RULES
Rule Sec. Page Tournaments advancement............................... game lengt ................................. h rest period.................................... option ........................................... Two hands ....................................... Two-meter lin................................. e inside ........................................... Warning ........................................... Wasting time ................................... Won-lost record forfeited game ............................. no contest .................................... Wounds treatment of ................................. Yellow card...................................... 87 87 87 87 52 14 54 26 55 35 35 77 26

20 1 20 7 20 11 11 25 7

8 6 12 4 18 6 5 2 4

NCAA 286-8/04

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