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BAC WATER POLO - FAQ’S

Who is eligible to play water polo for BAC?

Almost anyone is eligible to play water polo for BAC. The club offers age group water polo for boys and girls as young as 10 years old and as old as 18. BAC also runs a year-round masters program that has an age range of around 30 years and that is open to anyone over 18.

What if I’ve never played water polo before?

It’s always a good time to start playing water polo! BAC has an excellent coaching staff that has competed at all levels of play and that understands the progression of how water polo is learned and understood. The coaches are experienced at conditioning and educating new players about the game and are always looking to introduce more people to this great sport.

Do I have to play in my own age group?

Most participants will find that their age group is the best fit for their skill and experience level. There are, however, always exceptions. For those athletes who feel as if they would be better challenged by playing up a group, it is important to discuss that possibility with the coaching staff. If the coaches feel it is the right decision, an athlete may be permitted to practice and/or compete with a higher age group.

Why do I need to be a member of USA Water Polo?

USA Water Polo insures all practices, leagues, and tournaments that the club participates in, both statewide and nationally. The club is registered with USWP, as are all BAC water polo coaches. For a participating athlete to be covered during play and to be eligible for competitions, he or she must be a current USWP member. A USWP membership also keeps you updated on all the recent water polo news around the globe.

How do I sign up for USA Water Polo?

Signing up for USA Water Polo takes about five minutes. Go to www.usawaterpolo.com and click on “Join USA Water Polo”. Follow the steps from there. Once you have signed up, print a copy of your confirmation so that you have your USA Water Polo number.

What kind of equipment do I need?

The bare minimum necessary for all water polo players to participate is a suit and goggles. BAC provides balls and water polo caps for all practices and games. It is recommended that all suits be ordered from the club “Team Gear” page on this site, which will provide you with the suit styles and cuts best suited for water polo. Most regular swim suits will not hold up as long as a suit specifically designed for water polo. Additionally, the club recommends purchasing a club parka for cold mornings and rainy day workouts.

What do my program dues pay for?

Program dues are calculated to cover tournament fees, payment for referees, coaches’ salaries, pool rental, and equipment expenses. They fluctuate from quarter to quarter based on the number of practices and the number of tournaments/games.

What happens if I miss a practice?

As with any sport, the more practices you attend, the more likely you are to improve. Thus, if you miss a practice you may be missing out on a key concept or experience. That said, BAC understands that most athletes are involved in a number of activities and will occasionally need to miss practice for another activity or family event. If an athlete is repeatedly absent, he or she may receive diminished playing time in games since priority is given to those members who have shown the greatest dedication. For further detail please see the BAC Water Polo Attendance Policy.

Do we practice in the rain?

Since water polo is played in the pool, rain does not affect our ability to hold practices. Practices will only be cancelled for weather reasons in the event of thunder and lightning. Rain or shine we’ll be out on deck ready to train!

For further questions, please contact Head Water Polo Coach Amy Gardner @ amy@burlingameaquatics.com.