Splashball is a fun way for children ages 5-9 to try water polo in a fun, safe and recreational environment. Players will learn basic skills including “eggbeater” kick, dribbling, passing, catching, shooting, and a fun version of water polo, we call “ultimate water polo” in a shallow pool. We break up the athletes into groups according to age and how comfortable they are in the water.
Our Splashball program prepares athletes for our 10U program. Our coaches will help athletes transition to our 10U teams when the athletes are ready. If you have an 8-9 yr old who is already a strong swimmer, they might be more interested in our 10U program. Email daviswaterpoloclub1977@gmail.com if you want to discuss the best place to start.
We recommend participants:
- Be 5-9 years old
- Can swim 2-3 yards of freestyle
- Be able to cooperate with coach direction and group instruction
Davis Water Polo Club offers three 8U/Splashball sessions per year. Practices are typically either Monday or Wednesday evenings @ Community Pool from 6 - 7pm.
Fall session (6 weeks): September - October, 1 practice per week
Spring session (6 weeks): April - May, 1 practice per week
Summer session(4-5 weeks): June - July, 2 practices per week
Registration Steps
Step One: Register with USA Water Polo
Go to USA Water Polo, select "Join Now" and create an account. Select "Splashball Pass Holder" and for "Club Affiliation" select "Davis Water Polo Club (CA-79)". The Splashball membership is $25 and mandatory for insurance. It is good for 1 year. Your USA Water Polo member number is required for registration in Step #2.
Step Two: Register on the Davis Water Polo Club website. Registration typically opens 1-2 weeks before the session starts
- Register for 8U/Splashball. The registration link will redirect you to Team Snap where you will create an account and complete registration. Please enter your USA Water Polo Membership Number when registering
- DWPC does allow a free trial practice with a USA Water Polo membership. If you are unsure your child will like water polo, USA Water Polo offers a free 2 week trial membership. All athletes must be insured with USA Water Polo before they can get in the pool. We also encourage you to bring your athlete to watch a practice.
- To sign up for USA Water Polo's free trial membership, follow the registration steps above and select "Trial Athlete"
Step Three: Download the free TeamSnap app
DWPC uses Team Snap for club communications. It can be accessed via cell or laptop and will alert you when you’ve been added to the roster. Please make sure "notices" are turned "on" to receive Coach messages and schedule updates on time. Team Snap is the only source for updated schedule information and team chat messages.
Step Four: Come to practice and have fun
Wear a swimsuit that stays in place. Bring a towel and goggles. Goggles can be used during swimming warmups but must be removed when balls come out for safety purposes. Swim caps are optional but recommended for kids with long hair. Long hair must be tied back.
Please note: In the case of pool closure or other cancellation, we will do our best to reschedule, but it is not guaranteed. DWPC does not prorate fees for missed practices.
