A lot of your time as a water polo player will include treading water while waiting for the ball. The ideal position involves keeping your shoulders and head straight and above the water's surface. The best way to stay upright and ready is to keep your legs moving alternately backward and forward in a so-called "egg-beater" motion, according to Tracie Egan, author of "Water Polo: Rules, Tips, Strategy, and Safety." Use your arms to stay steady, but always be ready to thrust them upward to catch a ball or power them forward to swim into another space.
Dry and wet passing
Water polo passing comes in two main types: dry and wet. A dry pass involves throwing the ball straight to a teammate's hand without it touching the water. Aim a few inches higher than your teammate's head and on the side of her strongest arm, according to training tips from the Hutt water polo team. With a wet pass, aim the ball a few feet ahead of a swimming teammate so that she can power onto the ball and escape her opponent.
Swimming with the Ball
When swimming with the ball in water polo, you need to stay aware of your opponents' and teammates' positions. That means that classic swimming strokes where your head dips underwater generally don't work. Instead, keep your head out of the water, and push the ball forward with your shoulders. Cup your fingers to help force your body through the water.
