Water Polo: Things to Consider Before Signing Up
- Water polo: think of it as a mix between soccer and basketball in the water. It is a full contact sport.
- Schedules depend on available pool time, so practices can be later in the evening during the school year, or early in the morning during summer.
- For younger players, start with basic how-to programs and youth sessions to get the basics. Splashball is available for ages 5 – 11 to teach basic skills and game play.
- Males usually wear swimming briefs (think Speedo), but they can also wear longer, tight trunks. Females wear a one-piece suit. The key is for the suit to be tight-fitting so there isn’t material for a competitor to grab. Talk with the coach of the program you choose before purchasing a swimsuit.
St. Louis Lions
- All-female team, ages 10+
- Most practices are at Kirkwood High School: 801 W. Essex Avenue, Kirkwood, MO 63122
St. Louis Area Polo (SLAP)
- Co-ed developmental club
- All ages and skill levels
- Has a Splashball developmental program for beginners ages 5 – 11
- Practices at various pools: MICDS, Ladue High School, and Pattonville High School as well as Shaw Park during the summer
Jungle Cats Water Polo
- Ages: 6th grade and up
- Practices at Parkway West High School: 14653 Clayton Road, Ballwin, MO 63011
Daisy Water Polo
- Ages: 6th grade and up
- Practices at MICDS: 101 N. Warson Road, St. Louis, MO 63124
Gateway Water Polo
- Ages: 14U, 16U, 18U
- Practices at Lindbergh High School: 5000 Lindbergh Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63126