A: First of all, you need to learn to paddle the kayak! That isn't as easy as it looks. But it is a lot of fun, and the skills
are transferable to many other types of kayaking, including whitewater. We do require that anyone who plays know how to swim. You will learn how to get out
of the kayak if you flip over.
Then
you need to learn ball skills, especially throwing and catching from
different angles. Since you are sitting down in the kayak, you can't
always turn and face the throw or catch like in other sports. It takes
practice to learn what works best in different situations.
Then there's paddle blocking and ball handling with the paddle.
Then there's team strategy and plays. Basically there is a lot to learn to play well.
A:
We don't have to pay for our venue (town lake) and we have no dues. We
can loan you equipment to start out. Players are happy to give you free informal instruction before and during games. Basically the costs begin when you
want to buy your own equipment. We do accept donations since the equipment does wear out.
A:
When you choose to get your own, a new boat is about $750 in plastic,
or $1500 in carbon fiber. Used boats are available for less from time
to time. A good paddle is $250. A helmet with face mast about $70. A
numbered life vest is $80. A spray skirt $100. Most of this gear is
easy to resell if you decide you don't want it any more.
A:
Compared to a sport like mountain biking, kayak polo is very safe. There are occasional routine sports
injuries, strains and bruises.
We do play within 200 yards of an EMS facility, if anything bad ever happens.
A: For one thing, it is cool in the summer. You can play hard and not die of heat exhaustion.
There's something magical about being on the water, you have to try it to understand.
There are lots of skills to learn, so you won't be bored. You can have fun no matter
what your level is.
We play in a beautiful place, looking out on the west end of town lake. The sunsets on Wednesday nights can be awesome.
