From the first blow of the referee’s whistle the two teams fight over possession of the ball, no player being allowed to keep it for more than five seconds before passing it to a teammate with hands or paddles, ... or before scoring a goal. Tackling a ball-holding player including boat is permitted! The hard-hitting action justifies every piece of protective gear worn by the players. Canoe polo puts in its second appearance in The World Games during 2009 Kaohsiung.

The thrills and spills of the fast-paced ball game convinces everyone taking in the action. The sleek kayak hulls will clash relentlessly at the Lotus Lake venue. And the spectators will agree: canoe polo is not a sport for wusses or athletes squeamish about getting their hair wet. There are good reasons for the players to wear helmets with a facemask and a body protection.

 Canoe polo at The World Games 2005