SANYA, April 27 (Xinhua) — How different is water polo when it moves from a swimming pool to the sea?
At the ongoing 6th Asian Beach Games in Sanya, athletes are finding out the answer firsthand, as competitions take place in coastal waters, which brings both challenges and entertainment.
“Some of our players had never even seen the sea before,” said China men’s team coach Guo Junliang.
Unlike traditional water polo, which is played in indoor pools, the sea introduces a range of unpredictable elements.
The most obvious difference is the water itself.
Instead of still water, players must deal with waves and currents. Even the goal can shift with the motion of the sea.
“The waves make the goal move up and down, and there’s more resistance when swimming,” said China’s He Xingmeng.
Chan Pak Yin of Hong Kong, China said, “When a big wave comes, you don’t know where the ball will drift. Sometimes you can’t even see your teammates.”
Seawater also brings troubles. Many players said the high salinity makes it uncomfortable to open their eyes, while swallowing water can be unpleasant.
“The seawater is bitter and salty. It’s very uncomfortable when it gets into your mouth and nose. The sunlight makes it hard to see clearly,” said China captain Xie Linshan. “When the wind and waves pick up, we need to adjust our rhythm and stay patient.”
The format of beach water polo is also different. Teams consist of four players instead of seven, each quarter lasts five minutes instead of eight, and matches are decided by winning three quarters rather than total goals. The changes make the game faster and more intense, which requires quick tactical adjustments.
Despite the difficulties, the sea also adds a unique charm.
“Sometimes the current can help you swim faster,” Chan said with a laugh. “I can even spot fish jumping nearby during matches. It’s a big surprise for me.”
“It feels a bit like being on vacation,” said Fung Kong Ching of Hong Kong, China. “You can enjoy the seascape while playing.”
As the competition continues, athletes are gradually getting used to the new environment.
“As athletes, we have to adapt to any conditions,” said Ho Cheuk Kiu of Hong Kong, China. “Wind, waves or rain, they are all part of the game.” ■
