Posted by Steve Herbert on February 16, 2001 at 22:18:16:
If you are in San Diego this weekend and have a little time, San Diego is hosting an Underwater Hockey tournament this weekend at Bud Kern's Pool in Balboa Park. There are 7 teams participating in what should be a fast paced, intense series of games.
Basically, the game is hockey, played on the bottom of the pool with fins, mask and snorkle of teams with 6 players in the water per side. Each player has a hand held stick approximately 1 foot long, protective ear guards and glove, and work in unison to move a 3-1/2 lb, plastic coated puck across the pool to score on the opposing side's goal. There are in-water substitutions and two 10 minute halfs per match. The teams sticks and head gear are either white or black (blue) which is how each team identifies each other and the game is strictly breath holding.
The pool is tile bottom and play will take place in 8-9' depth. If you are in the area, it's worth stopping by to witness first hand. I was going to play but had to back out today due to a cold. (Gotta clear the ears you know!)
The pool is in Balboa Park where Texas Street dead ends. Easiest access is to take I-8 (between 5 & 805) and exit at Texas, and head south to the park. There will be underwater video beaming the action to deck side monitors, but for the best view, bring your suit, mask and snorkle. Play begins at 9:30 am both Saturday and Sunday and should continue until 7 pm Saturday and about 4 pm Sunday. (approximately 5 games per team, per day!)
It's definitely something to experience!!!
-=>Steve<=-