Introduction

• When text is UNDERLINED it will be an ICF rule which is relaxed for domestic BCU competition.
• When text is BOLD & ITALICS it will be a BCU addition to the ICF rules, or an interpretation for clarity of a particular rule, to be applied in all events organised by the BCU Canoe Polo Committee.
• When text is HIGHLIGHTED it indicates a new or revised rule.

Players and Referees should be aware that all the rules (not including Bold & Italics) contained here can be enforced in International events, particularly those that are sanctioned as ICF Tournaments. Players should understand there may be zero tolerance on things like playing equipment and team identification.

Useful abbreviations / definitions

Playing Area

1 - PLAYING AREA

1.1. The playing area shall be rectangular, and have a length of thirty-five (35) meters and a width of twenty three (23) meters. The Immediate-Surround of the playing area shall be an unobstructed area of water, with where possible a minimum width of one metre outside all boundaries.

1.2. The water throughout the playing area must be still water at least ninety (90) centimeters deep.

1.3. There must be a clear height of at least three (3) meters without obstacles, and a minimum ceiling height of five (5) meters, above the playing area.

1.4. There shall be a walkway on each side of the playing area kept clear for the referees.

Playing Area Boundaries and Markers

2 - PLAYING AREA BOUNDARIES AND MARKERS

2.1. The longer boundaries are to be referred to as the sidelines, the shorter boundaries as the goal lines.

2.2. The sidelines and goal lines are to be indicated by a floating lane rope. The Pool Side may be used for the sideline if required. The section of the goal line four (4) meters either side of the centre of the goal frame should be free from floats so as not to interfere with the positioning of the goalkeeper.

2.3. Markers indicating the goal lines, half way line and points six (6) meters and four-and-half (4,5) meters from each goal line are to be placed along the sidelines, and be clearly visible to both referees and players. The 4.5m markers are for Tie Breaker Shootout. (See Diagram L&T 3b)

2.4. Markers indicating the substitute-areas are to be placed on the goal lines four meters either side of the centre of the goal frame, and be clearly visible to both referees and players. (See Diagram L&T 3b)

Goals

3 - GOALS

3.1. Goals will be located over the centre of each goal line with their lower inside edge two (2) meters above the surface of the water.The goals are to be held in such a way that they are prevented from swinging.The goal supports and nets should not interfere with any player defending or manoeuvring around the goal area, or with the flight of the ball in the area of play.

3.2. The goals will consist of open frames one (1) metre high by one and a half (1.5) meters wide (measured internally) hung vertically.The maximum width of a material used to construct the goal frame will be five (5) centimeters.The goals are to have nets, which allow the ball to pass freely through the goal frame but indicate clearly that a goal has been scored and should not have back bars. The frame must be red and white striped each stripe being of 20 centimeters length. Goals should be constructed to have a minimum depth of 30cm.

The Ball

4 - THE BALL

Size 5 will be used for Open. Size 4 will be used for Ladies and Youth.

4.1. The ball shall be round and shall have an air chamber with a self-closing valve. It shall be waterproof, without external strapping or any covering of grease or similar substance.

4.2. The weight of the ball shall be not less than four hundred (400) grams and not more than four hundred and fifty (450) grams.

4.3. For games played by men, under-21 men and master men, the circumference of the ball shall not be less than sixty-eight (68) centimeters and not more than seventy-one (71) centimeters, and its pressure shall be 50 kPa (kilo Pascals) (13-14 pounds per square inch atmospheric).

4.4. For games played by women, under-21 women and master women, the circumference of the ball shall not be less than sixty-five (65) centimeters and not more than sixty-seven (67) centimeters, and its pressure shall be 50 kPa (kilo Pascals) (12-13 pounds per square inch atmospheric).

Game Officials

5 - GAME OFFICIALS

5.1. The game officials shall consist of two (2) referees, two (2) goal line judges, one (1) scrutineer, two (2) timekeepers and one (1) scorekeeper.

5.1.1. Depending on the degree of importance games can be controlled by teams of between three (3) and eight (8) officials. Where there are only three (3) game officials, two (2) shall be the referees who shall take on the additional duties of the goal line judges and the scrutineer and one timekeeper taking over the duties of the timekeepers and scorekeeper.

Referees

6 - REFEREES

The 1st Referee should be positioned on the same side of the playing area as the table-officials.

40.1. The referees shall be in absolute control of the game.Their authority over the players shall be effective during the whole time that they and the players are within the competition area.

40.2. All decisions of the referees on questions of fact shall be final and their interpretation of the rules shall be obeyed throughout the game. No protest or appeal can be made in relation to an interpretive decision of a referee. The referees shall not make any presumption as to the facts of any situation during the game but shall interpret what they observe to the best of their ability.

40.3. The referees shall whistle to start and restart the game and to declare goals, goal line throws and sideline throws, corner throws, infringements of the rules and timeouts. A referee may alter their decision provided they do so before the ball is put back into play.The referee must ensure that before the game is restarted that in their sole discretion neither team is disadvantaged. If players have responded to the initial (changed) call, then the referee should call Time-Out to allow the players to correct their positioning.

40.4. The referees shall have the power to order the removal from the competition area any person whose behavior prevents the referees from carrying out their duties in a proper and impartial manner.

40.5. The referees shall have the power to abandon the game at any time if, in their opinion, the behavior of the players, team-officials or other circumstances prevent it from being brought to a proper conclusion. If the game has to be abandoned the referees shall report their actions to the Chief Official.

40.6. Where the referees cannot agree on a decision the first named referee will take the final decision.

This short section is added for more completeness from ICF Chapter 2 Rule 30:

Some of the points mentioned are as follows:-

The referees shall:

• Provide their own equipment; the dress of referees is an appropriate black shirt and shorts or trousers. Referees should also wear sports shoes or appropriate alternatives.
• Provide written reports (one from each Referee) to the Chief Referee of all incidents resulting in a player being sent off, immediately upon completion of the game in which the incident occurred. Such report should include any request for further disciplinary action;
• Referees, whilst acting in any capacity with their team, loose their Referee status.They should respect without question all decisions given by the Referees controlling the game.They should set an example of good sports behaviour for other players to follow.

Goal Line Judges

7 - GOAL LINE JUDGES

41.1. The goal line judges shall be situated diagonally opposite each other on the left-hand side of each referee.

41.2. The duties of the goal line judges shall be to signal until acknowledged by the referee by:

41.2.1. Raising a green flag or hand when the players are correctly positioned on their respective goal lines at the start of a period;

41.2.2. Raising a red flag or hand to indicate the ball is out of play by crossing the goal line. (Goal line-throw, corner-throw, goal);

41.2.3. Waving a red flag or hand for an improper start or restart;

41.2.4. Waving a red flag or hand for an improper re-entry of an excluded player or improper entry of a substitute.

For a Sent-Off player, the Time Keeper informs the Goal Line judge of the end of exclusion and then the Goal Line Judge informs the player they may re-enter the playing area subject to the conditions for Entry to the playing area and Re-Entry and Substitution.

41.2.5. Pointing both the red and green flag or hand at the goal when the ball enters the goal frame.

41.3. Each goal line judge shall be provided by the Organising Committee with a supply of balls and when the original ball has gone outside the field of play, they shall immediately throw a new ball to the goalkeeper (for a goal throw), to the nearest player of the attacking team (for a corner throw), or as otherwise directed by the referee.

The Goal Line Judge must ensure that substitutes do not interfere with play. If in their opinion a substitute does interfere, or remains in the Subs No Waiting Area (see Diagram L&T 1) directly behind the goal, then they should draw this to the attention of the referee who will then deal with the matter with at least a Green Card.

The Goal Line Judge must ensure a player being substituted has entirely left the playing area with the whole of their kayak before the substituting player starts to enter the playing area.

Scrutineer

8 - SCRUTINEER

42.1. The scrutineer will be responsible for checking the equipment of all players before and during their game.They may also check equipment at any other time during a competition.

The BCU Canoe Polo Committee, National Leagues organiser, National Leagues Secretaries or relevant Competition Organising Committee may appoint a Scrutineer for any applicable event.

Timekeepers

9 - TIMEKEEPERS

43.1. The timekeepers shall be situated at the official's table.

43.2. The duties of the timekeepers shall be to:

43.2.1. Record the exact periods of playing time, timeouts and the intervals between the periods;

43.2.2. Control the periods of time-outs and to signal the period by raising a red flag, except that a referee shall signal the end of a time-out;

43.2.3. Record the send-off times of players ordered from the playing area in accordance with the rules, together with the re-entry times of such players or their substitutes;

If a Time-Out is called, or an interval (half time or extra playing period) occurs, while a player is serving a send-off period, then the send-off period will also be stopped for the duration of the Time-Out or interval. The send-off period will continue when the play is restarted. This means a sent-off player will serve the full period in playing time.

43.2.4. Control the periods of exclusion of players and to signal the end of the period of exclusion by a visual electronic device or by raising and waving a green flag or hand;

The Timekeeper adjudicates the length of the send-off, and signals to the Goal Line Judge when the send-off period has expired.

43.3. A timekeeper shall signal by any means provided it is distinctive, acoustically efficient and readily understood, the end of each period independently of the referees and their signal shall take immediate effect except in the case of the simultaneous award by a referee of a goal penalty shot, in which event the goal penalty shot shall be taken in accordance with the rules;

43.3.1. The first timekeepers shall perform the duties stated in 43.2.1 and 43.2.2 and the second timekeeper shall perform 43.2.3 and 43.2.4.

Scorekeeper

10 - SCOREKEEPER

10.1. The scorekeeper shall be situated at the official table.

10.2. The duties of the scorekeeper shall be to:

10.2.1. Record the awarded goals and maintain the scoreboard during the game;

10.2.2. Maintain the record of the game, including the players, the score, time-outs, green, yellow and red cards awarded against each player.

The scorekeeper should draw attention to the referee by suitable means (such as waving their hand) to indicate a player has accumulated either three (3) Green Cards (=Yellow Card) or two (2) Yellow Cards (=Red Card) indicating the one currently being issued as applicable.

Number of Players

11 - NUMBER OF PLAYERS

11.1. Each team may consist of a maximum of eight (8) players for any one game. No more than five (5) players are permitted on the playing area at any one time. Any other players at that moment are to be considered as substitutes. A team must begin each game with five (5) players, ready to start on their own goal line. If a team is reduced to two (2) players at any time the referee shall end the game and refer the matter to the competition committee who shall decide the appropriate action to be taken.

11.2. The list of players names and numbers for a game must be handed to the appropriate official before the time indicated by the Competition Committee.

From ICF Chapter 2 article 21.1.3 - Up to ten (10) players may be used for each team as a squad (throughout a competition or league season), but a maximum of 8 players may be used for any game with a maximum of 5 on the playing area at any one time. The National Leagues Organiser may allow teams to use more than 10 players in a season in exceptional circumstances.

Choice of End

12 - CHOICE OF END

12.1. The first named team on the game sheet will start on the goal line at the left-hand side of the official table unless one of the captains or the Chief Official request a toss of a coin to determine the choice of ends.

Identification

13 - IDENTIFICATION

13.1. All players must have kayaks with the decks of the same color, spray decks of the same color, outmost body covering of the same color, helmets of the same color and shirts of the same color.

Spray decks should be the same colour for the top division in each class. Only the sleeve (or notably visible) areas of shirts should be the same colour. Short and long Sleeves may be mixed throughout the same team.

13.2. Where a solid color(s) is used for the hull of the kayak, the kayaks of all players of the team must match this. In the case of clear hull kayaks the presence of carbon fiber or other integral materials within the construction will not be deemed as effecting the overall color of the hull.

13.3. If the referee or scrutineer determines there is inadequate distinction between the teams, the first named team on the game sheet will be required to change their body identification colors.

13.4. The players of a team shall each be numbered from 1 to 99.This number shall be displayed on the body covering and on the helmet.

Only numbers from one (1) to fifteen (15) are permitted. This is due to the over complexity of signing goal scorers with numbers above fifteen (15).

13.5. The numbers will be clearly legible to the referees from anywhere on the field and must clearly individually identify each player in a team. A number at least 20 cm high must be on the back of the body. A number at least 10 cm height must be on the front of the body. Numbers at least 7.5 cm high must be on each side of the helmet.The captain of each team shall be distinguished from the rest of the team by an armband.

The colour of the numbers should be the same throughout the team, however the helmet and Body Protection numbers maybe different colours.

Kayaks

14 - KAYAK

14.1. Kayaks approved by the scrutineer may be used.

For full specifications on kayaks and padding - see Kit Specifications.

Full up to date kayak specifications of Polo Kayaks are available on request from the Polo Committee or from the Boat Checking section

Paddles

15 - PADDLES

15.1. Double-bladed paddles approved by the scrutineer may be used.

For full specifications on kayaks and padding - see Kit Specifications.

Personal Equipment

16 - PERSONAL EQUIPMENT

16.1. Each player must wear one CE APPROVED helmet with facemask, approved by the scrutineer.

For full specifications on helmet and facemasks - see Kit Specifications.

16.2. Body protection, approved by the scrutineer, must be worn.

For full specifications on body protection - see Kit Specifications.

16.3. A shirt with sleeves, which at least covers the mid upper arm, must be worn.The players shall not have grease, oil or any similar substance on their arms and neck.

16.4. Beside the equipment and clothing listed above, personal clothing and effects, and a spray deck for the player is permitted. Extra protective equipment on the hands, forearm and elbows is permitted provided it is firm fitting, securely attached and with no sharp edges such that they do not endanger any other player. No other equipment is permitted. A player must not wear any items (such as jewellery) that can endanger either the wearer or any other player.

Jewellery includes items such as rings, bracelets (including friendship/charity bands), necklaces and earrings. Non removable rings with no protruding gems may be taped up.

16.5. Players may not apply any greasy substances to their equipment.

Trades-Marks and Advertising Sysbols

17 - TRADE-MARKS AND ADVERTISING SYMBOLS

17.1. Kayaks, accessories and sportswear may carry trademarks, advertising symbols, and words.

17.2 Any trademarks, advertising symbols and words should be placed in such a way that it does not interfere with competitors identification and does not affect the outcome of the race or game.

17.3. The advertising of tobacco smoking and strong spirit drinks will not be accepted.

Exchanging Equipment

18 - EXCHANGING EQUIPMENT

18.1. Each player is permitted to leave the playing area and exchange any piece of equipment, at any time during the game, provided the equipment has been approved by the scrutineer.The player concerned must collect equipment being exchanged from their substitutes area.

Scutineering

19 - SCRUTINEERING

19.1. Players' equipment is subject to scrutineering before, during or after a game. A referee must dismiss from the playing area, once aware of the infringement, any player whose equipment is in breach of the rules, either at the first break in play or direct if the equipment has become dangerous for the players.

Playing Time

20 - PLAYING TIME

20.1. Playing time shall be two (2) periods each of ten (10) minutes, unless extra periods need to be played or a tiebreaker shoot-out has to take place. The minimum playing time will be two times of seven (7) minutes. The minimum playing time will be 5 minutes each way.

20.2. The half time interval shall normally be three (3) minutes.The minimum half time interval will be one (1) minute.

20.3. The teams shall change ends after each period of play.

20.4. The referee may call time-out during the playing time. The timekeeper will stop the clock when the referee signals for time-out and restart the clock when the referee restarts the game with a whistle.

Time-Out

21 - TIME-OUT

21.1. The referee shall use a triple whistle to stop the game for time-out, except when a goal is scored in which case a long whistle blast will be used. Signal 7 applies - Time Out

21.2. Time-out must be given if a capsized player or their equipment is interfering with play.

21.3. Time-out should be used immediately when game regulations are dangerously breached or if field equipment needs correction or adjustment. (for example: endangering another player due to a broken paddle).

21.4. Time-out should be used if any injury has occurred, or a player is illegally on the field, provided this does not disadvantage the other team.

21.5. Time-out must be used after a goal is scored, or a goal-penalty-shot or a Referee's Ball is awarded or for any other incidences at the discretion of the referee. Normally there will not be a Time-out following a goal being scored.

21.6. If the referee has stopped the game, not during a break in play and where neither team was at fault (e.g. referee error, faulty goals, injury) the play will be restarted with a free throw to the team that last had possession. Where time-out was given for a capsized player the opposition is given a free throw to restart. If the referee cannot determine who had possession at the time of the whistle, the referee will restart the game with a referee's ball. Signal 8 applies.

Commencement of Play

22 - COMMENCEMENT OF PLAY

The First Referee should check that the other Referee, Timekeeper, Scorekeeper and Goal-Line Controllers are in position and ready to start, and have a suitable ball.

56.1.

22.1. At the beginning of each game, five (5) players will line up ready to start, stationary and with some part of their kayaks on their own goal line.

In a smaller than regulation sized pitch such as a swimming pool, then the players can line up with their kayaks touching the back wall rather than the goal line. In normal play, the boundary will be played to the face of the goal.

22.2. The referee will blow the whistle to start play and then release or throw the ball into the centre of the playing area.

Once both the Goal-Line Controllers are indicating the teams are ready to start, the 1st Referee then blows their whistle to start play. In Preparing to blow the whistle the referee should avoid indicating to the players that the whistle is about to be blown.

22.3. If the ball is released or thrown giving one team definite advantage, the referee shall call for the ball and shall restart the period of play.

56.4. Physical assistance from other players is not allowed on the player attempting for the ball. Infringement incurs a free throw. Signals 1 and 14 apply. Start Infringement (Free Throw).

22.5. Only one player from each team may make an attempt to gain possession of the ball. Any other player that accompanies the player attempting for the ball must not be within a radius of three (3) meters from the body of the player attempting for the ball. Infringement incurs a free throw. Signals 1 and 14 apply. Start Infringement (Free Throw).

Commencement of Play

23 - COMMENCEMENT OF PLAY

The First Referee should check that the other Referee, Timekeeper, Scorekeeper and Goal-Line Controllers are in position and ready to start, and have a suitable ball.

23.1 At the beginning of each game, five (5) players will line up ready to start, stationary and with some part of their kayaks on their own goal line.

In a smaller than regulation sized pitch such as a swimming pool, then the players can line up with their kayaks touching the back wall rather than the goal line. In normal play, the boundary will be played to the face of the goal.

23.2 The referee will blow the whistle to start play and then release or throw the ball into the centre of the playing area.

Once both the Goal-Line Controllers are indicating the teams are ready to start, the 1st Referee then blows their whistle to start play. In Preparing to blow the whistle the referee should avoid indicating to the players that the whistle is about to be blown.

23.3 If the ball is released or thrown giving one team definite advantage, the referee shall call for the ball and shall restart the period of play.

23.4 Physical assistance from other players is not allowed on the player attempting for the ball. Infringement incurs a free throw. Signals 1 and 14 apply. Start Infringement (Free Throw).

23.5 Only one player from each team may make an attempt to gain possession of the ball. Any other player that accompanies the player attempting for the ball must not be within a radius of three (3) metres from the body of the player attempting for the ball. Infringement incurs a free throw. Signals 1 and 14 apply. Start Infringement (Free Throw).

Ball Out of Play

24 - BALL OUT OF PLAY

The Referee is able to penalise a player who deliberately bounces the ball on an opponents boat to gain a boundary throw. This action is considered dangerous and unsporting and will be penalised with a Green Card Signals 7 and 17 apply.

24.1. Sideline and overhead obstacle:When any part of the ball touches the physical sideline or the vertical plane of the physical sideline, or touches any overhead obstacle, the team that was not the last to touch it with their paddle, kayak or person is awarded a sideline-throw. Sideline (Free Throw).

In the situation of a low overhead obstacle (beyond the competition organisers control), which can risk interfering with the normal flight of the ball, a sideline throw will be taken by the team who was in the process of passing/shooting at the time the ball directly hit the obstruction if it changes the flight of the ball.

24.1.1. If the physical sideline is moved out of position as a consequence of normal play, the boundary including the vertical plane above moves with it. Signals 5 and 14 apply.

24.1.2. Sideline-throw.The player taking the throw must position their kayak at the point of exit of the ball or the point on the sideline nearest to the point of contact of an overhead-obstacle.

24.2. Goal-line: Either a goal-line or corner throw will be awarded when any part of the ball touches the vertical plane of the front of the goal frame between the corner markers, except where a ball rebounds off the goal frame (not the goal supports) into the playing area or where a goal is scored.

For venues where it is not physically possible to ensure a floating goal-line rope is directly beneath the front face of the goal, then the ball will be considered out of bounds when any part of it crosses the front vertical plane of the face of the goal.

A Floating `goal-line rope' in this case will simply be used as an indicator for the purposes of substitution.

24.2.1. Goal line throw:When the ball goes out over the teams own goal line and has been last touched by the other team then a goal line throw will be awarded. Signals 6 and 14 apply. Goal Line Throw (Free Throw). The player taking the throw must be positioned with their kayak on the goal line.

24.3. Corner-throw:When the ball goes out over the teams own goal line and was last touched by their own team then a corner throw will be awarded. Signals 5 and 14 apply. Corner Throw (Free Throw). The player taking the throw must be positioned with their kayak in the corner of the playing area.

If the side of the pool is being used as the sideline, then player taking the Corner Throw must position their kayak parallel to the side of the pool.

L&T=> The referee not controlling the corner thrower should be looking for illegal tackles and illegal screens under the goal or out in the general area of player at that time.

Scoring a Goal

25 - SCORING A GOAL

25.1. A team scores a goal when the whole of the ball passes through the plane of the front of the goal frame of their opponent's goal. If a goal is not rigidly fixed, and moves the ball must go through the goal frame. The referee will indicate the number of the player scoring the goal to the scorekeeper. Signal 3 applies and one long whistle blast by the referee. Time-out must be used after a goal is scored. Signal Goal.

25.2. If the ball is prevented from entering a goal by either a defender's or substitutes paddle that enters the goal from behind, then a goal is awarded. (See 29.2 below)

Restart after a Goal

26 - RESTART AFTER GOAL

L&T=> Both Referees Stand at the Centre

Any player with their body not in the correct position will be asked to move.

If a player moves into the wrong position before the whistle is blown then a Start Infringement will be awarded against that team. (even the team who had the ball). Any further false starts can be penalised with a Green Card.

26.1. After a goal has been scored the team who have conceded the goal will take the restart throw.The player taking the throw must be positioned with their kayak in the centre of the playing area.The referee will blow the whistle to restart play.There is no requirement for the player to hold the ball above their head.

26.2. All players of both teams must start with their bodies in their own half.

Capsized Player

27 - CAPSIZED PLAYER

27.1. If a player capsizes and leaves their kayak, the player may not take any further part in the play and must leave the playing area immediately, with all of their equipment. If a player who has capsized wishes to rejoin the game the player must do so according to the rules of entry to the field of play. No person may enter the playing area to assist a player with their equipment, and no-one may obstruct the referee while assisting a player. A team may be penalised during a game for any illegal outside assistance, or for any interference with the opposition that constitutes outside assistance.The referee to determine the severity of the sanction.

The calling of a Time-Out should only be carried out when a capsized player is in danger or they are interfering with play. See rule 55.6.

Entry into the Playing Area, Re-entry and Substitution

28 - ENTRY TO THE PLAYING AREA, RE-ENTRY AND SUBSTITUTION

28.1. No more than the legally allowed number of players from a team may be on the playing area at any one time.

28.2. Substitutes must wait in their own substitutes area.

In general, substitutes are expected to sit in the side areas of the substitution area. Substitutes should consider the area within four meters either side of the centre of the goal frame as a `No Waiting Area' (see Diagram L&T 1) to avoid any possibility of interfering with players who wish to pass around the back of the goal as a normal part of the action of the game. Substitutes who persist in remaining in this area will be issued with a Green Card. Signal 7 and 17 apply.

28.3. Exit and entry of players for substitution may be anywhere along the teams own goal line.The whole of the player's kayak must leave the playing area before the substitute may enter the playing area. Substitution is not allowed if any equipment for example a paddle or helmet remains on the playing area. Substitution is allowed at any time.

28.4. A player leaving the playing area solely as part of the action of the game is not subject to the conditions for re-entry.

28.5. A capsized player who has not left the playing area at their goal line may be substituted not earlier than the next break in play. All of the capsized players equipment (for example kayak and paddle) must be removed from the playing area before a substitution is allowed.

28.6. Each player is permitted to leave the playing area and exchange any piece of equipment, at any time during the game, provided the equipment has been approved by the Scrutineer.The player concerned must collect equipment being exchanged from their substitutes area.

Illegal Substitution and Entry to the Playing Area

29 - ILLEGAL SUBSTITUTION AND ENTRY TO THE PLAYING AREA

29.1. Where more than the legally allowed number of players from a team are in the playing area at any one time the player(s) coming illegally into the playing area should be given a yellow card(s), and the team is required to play with one player less than they had before the player(s) came illegally into the playing area for the duration of the yellow card. If it is not clear which player(s) should exit the playing area then the teams captain must nominate a player(s). Infringement incurs a sanction. Signal 7 and 14 apply. Time-Out, Free Shot & Yellow Card.

29.2. In the event of a substitute placing their paddle in the playing area to prevent a goal from being scored, a goal penalty shot shall be awarded.The offending player should be penalised with a red card and the team must play with one less player on the playing area then they had prior to the offence occurring for the remaining time of the game. Infringement incurs a sanction. Signals 15, 16 and 7 apply. Time-Out, Goal Penalty Shot & Red Card.

Illegal use of the Paddle

30 - ILLEGAL USE OF THE PADDLE

Signals 12 and 15 apply. Paddle Foul & Free Shot. The following are defined as illegal use of the paddle.

30.1. Contacting an opponent's person.

30.2. Playing, or attempting to play, the ball with a paddle when the ball is within arms reach of an opponent, and that opponent is attempting to play the ball with their hand.

30.3. Playing or attempting to play the ball with a paddle across the bow of an opponent's kayak, within arms reach of the opponent in a normal paddling position.

In this instance a foul is committed even if the opponent is not attempting to play the ball at the time.

30.4. Placing a paddle within arms reach of an opponent who has the ball in their hand. A goalkeeper is excluded from this rule and is allowed to directly defend against a shot at goal as long as the paddle is not moved towards the opponent at the time of the shot and is not used in a deliberately dangerous manner.

30.5. When a player, with their paddle, attempts to restrict an opponent using their paddle.

30.6. Playing an opponents paddle instead of the ball.

30.7. Throwing a paddle.

30.8. Any other use of a paddle that endangers a player.

A player may not fend off any hand tackle using their paddle.

Illegal Possession

31 - ILLEGAL POSSESION

31.1. Signals 11 and 15 apply. Illegal Possession & Free Shot. A player is in possession of the ball when they have the ball in their hand or are in a position to reach the ball with their hand, the ball being on the water and not in the air. A player balancing the ball on their paddle will also be considered to be in possession.

31.2. A player must dispose of the ball within five (5) seconds of gaining possession, either by passing it to another player or by performing one throw causing the ball to travel by at least one metre measured horizontally from the point of release.

64.3. If a player shares possession with another player or the ball moves out of arms reach whilst being tackled, the five (5) seconds shall begin again once a player has regained possession.

31.4. A player who capsizes to the point of the whole of their body and head going under water is considered to have lost possession if they do not have the ball in their hand(s).

64.5. A player may not manoeuvre their kayak with their hands or paddle whilst the ball is resting on their spray deck.

Illegal Hand Tackle

32 - ILLEGAL HAND TACKLE

32.1. Signals 11 and 15 apply. Illegal Possession & Free Shot. A player is in possession of the ball when they have the ball in their hand or are in a position to reach the ball with their hand, the ball being on the water and not in the air. A player balancing the ball on their paddle will also be considered to be in possession.

32.2. A player must dispose of the ball within five (5) seconds of gaining possession, either by passing it to another player or by performing one throw causing the ball to travel by at least one metre measured horizontally from the point of release.

32.3. If a player shares possession with another player or the ball moves out of arms reach whilst being tackled, the five (5) seconds shall begin again once a player has regained possession.

32.4. A player who capsizes to the point of the whole of their body and head going under water is considered to have lost possession if they do not have the ball in their hand(s).

32.5. A player may not manoeuvre their kayak with their hands or paddle whilst the ball is resting on their spray deck.

Illegal Kayak Tackle

33 - ILLEGAL KAYAK TACKLE

Signals 10 and 15 apply. Illegal Tackle & Free Shot. A kayak-tackle is a player manoeuvring their kayak against an opponent's kayak in an attempt to gain possession of the ball. The following kayak-tackles are illegal.

33.1. Any kayak-tackle that results in the tacklers kayak contacting the body of a player and/or endangering a player. The player's arm shall not be considered to be part of the body when any part of it is elevated away from the body.

33.2. Any kayak-tackle where the kayak comes in contact with the opponent's spray deck following a legal tackle will not be penalised unless the player continues to tackle into the spray deck.

33.3. When the ball is no longer in control of either player, they may move off each others kayak by using their hands to perform a controlled action on the opponents kayak.

For guidance; the ball should be over 3m away before the players separate in this way.

33.4. A player in possession of the ball who fails to control the bow of their kayak and also fails to avoid contact with the body of an opponent.

33.5. Any hard tackle to the side of the kayak if it is at angles between eighty (80) and hundred (100) degrees and by momentary contact. 66.7. Tackling an opponent when the tackler is not competing for the ball.

33.6. Tackling an opponent who is not within three (3) meters of the ball.

Illegal Jostle

34 - ILLEGAL JOSTLE

Signals 10 and 15 apply. Illegal Tackle & Free Shot. A jostle is a player manoeuvring their kayak against an opponent's kayak between the six (6)-metre lines and the goal line, to gain a position where neither player is attempting for the ball.The following jostling is illegal.

34.1. When a player is stationary or attempting to maintain a position and their body is moved by more than half a metre by sustained contact from an opponent's kayak.

34.2. When the contact to the opponent's kayak would be defined as a kayak-tackle.

34.3. A player with the whole kayak behind the goal line may not be jostled, as they are not in the six (6)metre area.

Illegal Screen

35 - ILLEGAL SCREEN

Signals 9 and 15 apply. Illegal Obstruction/Holding & Free Shot. An illegal screen is when a player actively impedes the progress of an opposing player, except where:

35.1. Both players are competing for the ball; or

35.2. The opposing player is in possession of the ball; or

35.3. The opposing player is within three (3) meters of the ball and is the nearest player to the ball, where the ball is on the water and not in the air (also classed as being in Control); or

35.4. Both players are jostling within the six (6) metre area.

35.5. A player is considered to be actively impeding the progress of an opponent when their kayak is moving and/or they are attempting active paddle strokes.

Illegal Holding

36 - ILLEGAL HOLDING

Signals 9 and 15 apply. Illegal Obstruction/Holding & Free Shot.

36.1. A player restricting the movement of an opposing player or gaining support or propulsion by placing their hand, arm, body or paddle on the kayak, or holding the opposing player or equipment.

36.2. A player using for propulsion or support, or moving out of place, any playing area equipment e.g. boundary markers, goal supports, or any surrounding object.

Unsporting Behaviour

37 - UNSPORTING BEHAVIOUR

Signal 17 with a green card applies.The following is defined as unsporting behaviour:

37.1. Any infringement committed by a player during a break in play.

37.2. Hindering another player's attempt at righting themselves after capsizing. A player who is upside down must be allowed to get their head and both shoulders above the water before an opponent is allowed to attempt another tackle.

37.3. Interference with the equipment of an opponent. Such as holding or moving another player's paddle out of their reach, or deliberately preventing the player from regaining possession of the paddle.

37.4. Use of deliberate delaying tactics. Such as throwing the ball away, or deliberately obstructing the opposition, to delay a quick restart after an infringement.

Passive Obstruction of the Ball will not be tolerated. Either the player must move out of the way for the opponent to reach the ball or pass the ball directly to the opponent.

37.5. Players showing dissent.

37.6. Retaliation.

37.7. Foul or abusive language.

37.8. Other unsporting behavior to a player, referee or other official or behavior considered detrimental to the game, at the discretion of the referee.

Defence of Goal

39 - DEFENCE OF GOAL

39.1. The one defending player most directly under the goal, in order to defend the goal with the paddle is considered to be the goalkeeper at that time.The goalkeeper's body must be facing into the playing area and attempting to maintain a position within one metre of the centre of the goal line. If two or more players are directly under the goal, the player most directly under the goal is considered the goalkeeper at that time.

39.2. If the goalkeeper is not in possession of the ball and is moved or unbalanced by contact from an opposing player, then that player has committed an illegal tackle. Infringement incurs a sanction. Signals 10 and 15 apply. Illegal Tackle & Free Shot.

39.3. If an attacker moves the goalkeeper by pushing a defender into the goalkeeper, where none of the defenders have possession of the ball, the attacker shall be penalised. If the defender has an opportunity to avoid contact with the goalkeeper after being pushed, but does not, the attacker will not be penalised.

39.4. If a defender pushes the attacker onto the goalkeeper, then the attacker should not be penalised. If the attacker has an opportunity to avoid contact with the goalkeeper after being pushed, but does not, the attacker will be penalised.

39.5. If an attacker, in possession of the ball, whose original direction or speed would not have led to contact with the goalkeeper is pushed onto the goalkeeper by a defender, the attacker will not be penalised.

39.6. A goalkeeper who is not in possession of the ball, but is attempting for the ball on the water, can be tackled like any other player. If the goalkeeper does not gain possession they will not regain goalkeeper status until the attacker has shot or passed the ball. After the attacker loses possession of the ball, the attacker must not actively impede the goalkeeper's attempt to regain or maintain their position.

39.7. Within the six (6) metre area, an attacker must not actively prevent a defender from taking the position as goalkeeper. A defender will be allowed to push an attacker with the kayak, in order to take the position of goalkeeper without penalty, unless dangerous play is used.

This does not allow the goalkeeper to make an illegal Kayak Tackle on an opponent who is stationary after the goal keper has taken up position.

39.8. As soon as a team has control of the ball they can no longer be considered to be defending and thus cannot have a player defined as a goalkeeper.

Referee's Ball

39 - REFEREE'S BALL

39.1. A referee's ball will be declared when two or more players of opposing teams have one or more hands firmly on the ball, so that the players share possession of the ball for five (5) seconds. If initial contact is made directly with the ball illegal holding will only apply if either player uses the opposition for support.

39.2. If the referee needs to stop the game, not during a break in play and where neither team is at fault (e.g. referee error, faulty goals, injury) and the referee cannot determine who had possession at the time of the whistle, the referee will restart the game with a referee' s ball.

39.3. A referees ball will be taken at the nearest point on the sideline to the incident.Where a referee's ball is awarded for an incident that occurs between the six (6) metre line and the goal line, the referee's ball will be held at the nearest six (6) metre line. Signal 8 and Time-out applies. Time-out applies Referees Ball & Time-Out.

L&T=> The Trailing Referee will directly administer the Referee's Ball whenever this is near a 6m area.

39.4. Two opposing players will line up at right angles to the sideline, on the side nearest their own goal line, near to the sideline where the situation occurred, one metre apart facing the referee.They will place their paddles on the water, but not between their kayaks and their hands on the deck of the kayak or on their paddle.

39.5. All other players must be at least three (3) meters away from the point between the two players participating in the referees ball. Other players who tackle opponents into the three (3) metre area can be penalised with an illegal Kayak Tackle, or any player freely paddling into the 3m area can be penalised with an illegal Start Infringement and thus avoid the need to continue with the Referee's Ball.

39.6. The referee will throw the ball on the water between the players and blow the whistle to restart play. Both players must make an attempt for the ball with their hands as soon as it touches the water.The players must not play the ball before it hits the water. Infringement incurs a sanction. Signals 11 and 15 apply. Illegal Possession & Free Shot.

Open play resumes on the whistle which is blown at the time of throwing the ball in, so a direct shot at goal is permitted.

Advantage

40 - ADVANTAGE

40.1. The referees can allow play to continue when the team in possession is benefited by play continuing as a result of an infringement by an opponent, if neither referee has blown the whistle.The referee should recognise the illegal-play by signaling play-on. Signals 13 and 14 apply. Play on/Advantage and Free Throw.

Advantage should be a positive decision to help a team being fouled, not an excuse to a avoid making a decision to call a foul.
A direct shot at goal is still permitted as no foul has been called. Referees must not play/signal advantage if a whistle has been blow for that same foul. Wherever possible, call "Play-On" to the players so they do not need to stop and look around.

40.2. The referee can penalise any player who causes an infringement for which advantage is played at the next break in play with a green, yellow or red card.

Sanctions

41 - SANCTIONS

The referee can impose any combination of the following sanctions for illegal-play depending on the severity and/or frequency of offences being penalised.The referee may send a player off the playing area for varying periods depending on the severity and/or frequency of offence being penalised.Timing of send-offs is suspended for periods of time out or intervals of play.

41.1. Goal-penalty-shot. Signal 16 and time out applies.

41.1.1. A goal-penalty-shot will be awarded for any deliberate and/or dangerous offence in the six (6) metre area where a player is fouled in the act of shooting, or passing or positioning for a near certain goal.The act of shooting begins when a player has contact with the ball, with their hand or paddle, and is clearly attempting or preparing for a shot.

41.1.2. A goal-penalty-shot can be awarded for an offence where a player, outside the 6 metre area, is fouled in the act of shooting or passing or positioning for a near certain goal, whilst the goal is not otherwise defended if no attempt is made to avoid illegal play (deliberate) and/or an offence where paddle contact with the ball in the opponents hand or any illegal play that endangers the opposition occurs (dangerous).

41.1.3. A Goal Penalty Shot will be awarded for a deliberate and/or dangerous infringement on a player within the six (6) metre area who is attempting to take a free-shot.

Note. This can take place in the first incidence.

41.2. Free shot. Signal 15 applies.

41.2.1. A Free shot may be a direct shot at goal. General play resumes when the ball has traveled one metre horizontally or changed possession to another player of the team. A free shot will be awarded for offences where a goal-penalty-shot, free throw, corner throw, goal-line throw, side line throw or a centre re-start has not been awarded.

41.3. Free throw. Signal 14 applies.

41.3.1. A Free throw may not be direct at goal. General play resumes when the ball has traveled one metre horizontally or changed possession to another player of the team. A free throw will be awarded when a goal-penalty-shot or free shot has not been awarded.

41.4. Player sent off for the rest of the game. Signal 17 with a red card and Time-Out applies.

41.4.1. A red card must be awarded to a player receiving a second yellow card for any reason. (see section 44 Scorekeeper above)

41.4.2. A red card should be awarded when a yellow card is disputed or has not had the desired effect of causing the player to control their play or attitude.

41.4.3. A red card should be awarded if a personal attack on a player occurs.

41.4.4. A red card should be awarded for repeated and continuous foul or abusive language.

41.4.5. If a player is sent off for the rest of the game, the player cannot be replaced by a substitute.

41.5. Player sent off for two (2) minutes. Signal 17 with a yellow card applies.

41.5.1. A yellow card must be awarded to a player receiving a third green card for any reason.

41.5.2. A yellow card should be awarded for a deliberate and/or dangerous foul that prevents the scoring of a near certain goal where the referee feels that the awarding of only a free shot will not have the desired effect.

41.5.3. A yellow card should be awarded for dangerous illegal play, that is deliberate, repeated, or where no attempt is made to avoid dangerous play.

41.5.4. A yellow card should be awarded for repeated and continuous disputing of referee's decisions.

41.5.5. A yellow card should be awarded for foul or abusive language.

41.5.6. Players sent off must obey the rules of entry to the playing area for re-entry at the completion of the send-off period.

41.6. Warning. Signal 17 with a green card applies. and Time-Out applies (see section 40 above).

41.6.1. A green card should be awarded for deliberate unsporting behavior of major influence to the state of the game.

41.6.2. A green card should be awarded for unnecessary verbal communication to the referee, dangerous play and/or unsporting behaviour.

Since Green Cards are counted as a means of recording a pattern of bad behaviour of a player, Referees should ensure they are used in the same way as a Yellow and Red Card in terms of calling a Time-Out and then clearly indicating the details to the scorekeeper including player number.

Process for Sending a Player Off with a Yellow or Red Card:

1. Use a triple whistle to attract attention and Indicate a Time-Out, Signal 7 applies.
2. The Timekeeper should acknowledge they have seen the Time-Out signal by raising their Red flag or arm.
3. Show the card and player number (use a clenched fist to indicate 10 if required), to the Timekeeper and Scorekeeper, and wait for acknowledgement.
4. The Scorekeeper should record the player's team and number and the duration of the send-off.
5. Make sure the player leaves the Playing Area. Issue the Appropriate Yellow or Red Send-Off Card.
6. The Referee uses the whistle to restart play with Signal 17. The Timekeeper should restart the clock at that time.
7. At the end of the game the Referee (who carried out the sending off) must record the details of the send-off on the game sheet, and ensure the other Referee signs the sheet. This sheet must then be given to the Chief Referee. Normally the Tournament Organiser sends this on.

If a sent-off player does re-enter the field without being signalled to do so by the Goal Linesmen, then as soon as the Referee is aware of it they shall stop the game, Send-Off the player for the rest of the game (using a Red Card) and award a Free-Throw to the opposition. If the sent-off player's team has scored any goals while the player has wrongly been on the Playing Area, those goals will be disallowed.

Players sent off with a red card, may not take part in a Tiebreaker Shoot-Out, and their team will lose that shot, and it will be treated as a miss.

41.7. Team Warning. Signal 17 with a green card and Time-Out applies. A team warning occurs when a referee awards a green card to all players on a team.

74.7.1. A team warning will be awarded for repeated infringements of a particular offence by more than one player of the same team.

41.7.2. After a team warning has been given, a yellow card will be awarded to any player of that team for any subsequent infringement for the same offence.

Taking Throws

42 - TAKING THROWS

For a Free Throw, Free Shot, Side Line, Goal Line or Corner Throw only, the ball may cross over the boundary lines as part of the action of throwing the ball.

42.1. The player taking any goal line-throw, cornerthrow, sideline-throw, free-throw or free-shot must hold the ball above their head, at arms length with their kayak stationary, before taking the throw.The player's initial throw must travel one metre measured horizontally from the point of release or changed possession to another player of the same team. Infringement incurs a sanction with the opposing team being awarded possession of the ball. Signal 11 and 14 applies. Illegal Possession & Free Throw.

42.2. Free-throws, goal line-throws, corner-throws, restart throws and sideline-throws may not be direct at goal.

If a player taking a Free Throw (not a Free-Shot) attempts a direct shot at goal and the ball enters the goal mouth, either directly or having deflected off an opponents equipment, then a disallowed goal is signalled and a Goal-Line -Throw is to be awarded. The attempt itself at the goal from a Free Throw is not to be penalised.

42.3. The ball is not in play until the initial throw has travelled at least one metre measured horizontally from the point of release or changed possession to another player of the same team. A player must be allowed to take up their position to take the throw. No opponent may contact the player or their equipment until the throw is taken.The opposition must not attempt to prevent the ball from travelling one metre measured horizontally.
Infringement incurs a sanction. Signals 11 and 14 or signals 11 and 15 apply. A free throw will be retaken as a free throw, and a free shot will be retaken as a free shot.

42.4. The player must throw the ball within five seconds of being in possession and in a position to take the throw.The five seconds for the restart applies from when any member of the team is in a position to pick up the ball and take the throw. Any dropping or fumbling of the ball will not be considered, provided the initial throw is taken within the five seconds. Infringement incurs a sanction with the opposing team awarded possession of the ball. Signals 11 and 14 or signals 11 and 15 apply. A free throw will be retaken as a free throw, and a free shot will be retaken as a free shot.

Interfering with a Boundary Throw, Free Shot or Free Throw will be penalised with an illegal Possession foul. The Free Shot/Throw will be the same as the initial foul being taken.

42.5. Where an infringement occurs that requires the awarding of a free-shot or free-throw.The shot or throw should be taken at a point that, in the referees sole discretion, best advantages the team.The referee will indicate that the shot or throw be taken either where the infringement occurred or, where the ball was at the time of the infringement, or where the ball landed if it was in flight at the time of the infringement. However, a defence of goal infringement must be taken where the infringement occurred.

The Free-Throw can be taken anywhere further back from the place where the throw should be taken, or even a little in front of the place, provided no significant advantage is gained.
If the Referee does not agree with where the throw was taken from, play should be stopped with a triple blow of the whistle and the new position should be indicated for the throw to be taken again.

42.6. Where a free-shot is awarded within one (1) metre of the goal the free shot will be taken at the nearest point one (1) metre from the goal line.

Taking a Goal Penalty-Shot

43 - TAKING A GOAL PENALTY-SHOT

43.1. The player taking the goal penalty-shot will be stationary with their body on the six (6) metre line.

43.2. All other players must be in the other half of the playing area until play restarts.

Substitutes are not permitted to remain directly behind the goal (which is a no waiting area - see Diagram L&T).

43.3. The shot will be taken when referee blows the whistle.The five (5) second rule applies.

43.4. Play will restart on the whistle. No presentation of the ball is required.

43.5. The player taking the shot may not play the ball again until it has touched another player or another player's equipment or the goal frame.

Completion of Play

44 - COMPLETION OF PLAY

44.1. The timekeeper will indicate the end of the period of playing time by the use of a loud signal.The ball is dead at the start of the signal.The referee shall use signal 2 to confirm the timekeeper's signal.

44.2. If a goal penalty-shot has been awarded prior to the signal for completion of play, the goal penaltyshot must be taken before play is to be considered completed. In this situation, the ball shall after it has been thrown immediately be dead if it hits the water or the goal frame and comes back into the playing area.

Golden Goal Extra Time

45 - GOLDEN GOAL EXTRA TIME

45.1. Golden-goal extra-time shall, with the exclusion of Grand-finals, consist of up to two periods of three (3) minutes each; with the team scoring the first goal deemed the winner.There shall be a three (3) minute break before the golden-goal extra-time commences and a one (1) minute break between periods, with a change of ends.

45.2. Golden-goal extra-time for Grand-Finals shall consist of up to two periods of ten (10) minutes each; with the team scoring the first goal deemed the winner.There shall be a three (3) minute break before the golden-goal extra-time commences and a one (1) minute break between periods, with a change of ends.

Golden-goal extra-time can also be played with one period of unlimited playing time to the first goal, at the discretion of the competition organisers.

Tiebreaker Shoot-Out

46 - TIEBREAKER SHOOT-OUT

46.1. The captain of the team can choose which players, and their order, will participate in the tiebreaker shoot-out. Normally five (5) players will be chosen, (which may or may not include the goalkeeper) however, at the end of playing time, any player(s) who are not part of the game because of a red card send-off, will not take part in the tiebreaker shoot-out and their team will forfeit those shot(s). At the end of playing time, any player(s) who are not part of the game because of a yellow card send-off, will not take part in the tiebreaker shoot-out but their team will not forfeit those shot(s).

46.2. The participating players from each team will take tiebreaker shots alternating between teams after each shot.The referee will toss a coin and offer the choice of which team is to shoot first to the team captain that wins the toss. Both teams shoot at the same goal. Unless the Competition Committee has decided which goal should be used, the referee will decide which goal is to be used.

46.3. The goalkeeper not involved in defending the goal will position themselves beside the side line nearest the second referee in between shots unless they are taking a shot personally.

46.4. If, after each team has had five (5) tiebreaker shots, one team has scored a greater number of goals, then that team will be the winning team.

46.5. If, after each team has had five (5) tiebreaker shots, the score is still equal then the teams will take alternate tiebreaker shots, in the same order as the previous round, until, with an equal number of tiebreaker shots, one team has scored more goals.

Taking a Tiebreaker Shot

47 - TAKING A TIEBREAKER SHOT

47.1. The player taking the tiebreaker shot will be stationary with their body four meters and fifty centimetres from the goal line.

47.2. One player from the defending team may position themselves, in order to defend the goal with the paddle ("the Goalkeeper").The goalkeeper's body must be facing into the playing area and attempting to maintain a position within one metre of the centre of the goal line (along the goal line).The goalkeeper must not leave this position during the period of the tiebreaker shot.

There will be 1 to 1.5m between the front of the Goalkeeper's and Shooter's boats.

47.3. All other players and their equipment must wait be in the other half of the playing area until the completion of the tiebreaker shot.

47.4. The shot will be taken when the Leading referee blows the whistle.The five (5) second rule applies.

47.5. The player must take a direct shot at goal. Only one shot is possible.

Referee Hand Signals

	START / INFRINGEMENT Arm forward and bent upwards with palm open and facing sideways head level.
	COMPLETION OF HALF / FULL TIME Arms crossed in front of chest. Palms out.
	GOAL Arms extended, palms together. Point to centre of field.
	DISALLOWED GOAL Repeated crossing of arms at thigh level. Palms open.
	SIDELINE THROW / CORNER Point at sideline. Other arm showing direction of play.
	GOAL LINE THROW Point open hand, arm extended along goal line. Other arm showing direction of play.
	TIME OUT Form "T" with hands above head.
	REFEREE'S BALL Arms extended forward at shoulder level, fists clenched, thumbs up.
	OBSTRUCTION / HOLDING Hold one arm up in the air fist clenched for the period of 2 seconds, and then point at the position where the free shot has to be taken. Other arm showing direction of play.
	ILLEGAL TACKLE Hold clenched fist against hip for the period of 2 seconds, and then point at the position where the free shot has to be taken. Other arm showing direction of play.
	SECONDS / POSSESSION Hold hand up at side at head level, palm forward. Spread all fingers for the period of 2 seconds, and then point at the position where the free shot has to be taken. Other arm showing direction of play.
	ILLEGAL USE OF PADDLE The side of the other hand repeatedly chops the upper arm showing direction of play for the period of 2 seconds, and then point at the position where the free shot has to be taken.
	PLAY ON / ADVANTAGE One arm elbow bent, hand pushing back and forth across the body at hip level at least three (3) times. Other arm showing direction of play.
	FREE THROW Arm extended, palm open, pointing in direction of play parallel to side of field. Other arm showing offence signal (1, 5, 6, 11 or 13).
	FREE SHOT Arm extended, index finger pointing at goal in direction of attack. Other arm showing offence signal (9, 10, 11 or 12).
	GOAL PENALTY SHOT Both arms extended, index fingers together and pointing at goal.
	SHOWING CARDS Green card - warning Yellow card - 2 minutes send off Red card - send off for the rest of game Hold card above head. Other arm pointing to player. If necessary, indicate number of player with fingers. Use clenched fist to indicate ten where a number 10 or larger is required.

Referee Guidelines

GENERAL

1. Referees should officiate games in an unbiased and impartial manner.
2. Referees should respect without question all decisions given by the Referees controlling the game. They should set an example of good sportsmanship for other players to follow.
3. Referees should not publicly criticise the performance and decisions of a Referee officiating a game.

REFEREE RESTRAINT

1. Keep any verbal instructions to a minimum. If a player requests an explanation of a foul, simply maintain the signal. Do not allow yourself to enter arguments with players, either during or after the game.
2. If players dispute a decision, in general stick with the decision unless the opposite Referee also disagrees. (See section on Send-Off's in reference to continuous/repeated disputation of decisions).
3. If a goal or goal-penalty decision is in doubt the Referees should consult. When consulting in a doubtful situation they should be cautious about being influenced by players reactions as these may be feigns to sway the Referees.

DUTIES OF REFEREES

1. During the game the Referee shall have full control of the game, from the entry of teams onto the Playing Area until they leave the Playing Area after completion of the game. In this regard, they shall enforce the Game Regulations, and ensure the Competition and Players Personal Equipment are maintained during the game, and shall ensure the competition rules are upheld as they apply to the game.
2. The Referees controlling a game are empowered to order spectators, coaches and other persons not actually playing in the game to leave the competition area.
3. The Referees controlling a game are empowered to bring charges before the BCU Canoe Polo Committee or other appropriate competition committee against persons not actually playing in the game.
4. The First Referee for a game shall ensure the game report sheet is correctly completed including any Send Off Forms.

REFEREE CO-ORDINATION

1. The Referee calling an infringement should blow the whistle loudly and immediately the infringement occurs (after deciding whether to play advantage or not - see below). The hand signal should be indicated quickly and clearly after the whistle. The signal must be clear and held until play has restarted.
2. Both Referees should check that the other Referee agrees with their decision. If the two Referees give different decisions each should be prepared to change their call if they are not totally certain of the call. Defer to the other Referee if they are indicating a more serious offence.
3. If one Referee has called an infringement that has not been seen by the other, then the other should indicate the same signal.
4. Where either Referee changes the direction of their signals after giving a positive signal to which the players have responded, a triple blast on the whistle should be used to gain every bodies attention (including the Time Keeper's), indicating a Time-Out, Signal 7 and the new Signal. Both Referees must ensure the teams have time to correct their consequent positioning before the restart occurs. The whistle is then blown to restart the game again.
5. If at any time the two Referees continue to disagree they shall stop the game to consult and if still in disagreement, the First Referee shall make the necessary decision.
6. The Referees should, at the completion of the game, discuss any disputed or contentious decisions.

CONTROLLING THE FIELD OF PLAY USING THE LEADING & TRAILING METHOD

see Diagram L&T 1

• The First Referee shall take that side of the Playing area from which they can ensure the score is correctly recorded. The will usually be the same side as the Time/Score Keepers Table.
• Each Referee is normally mainly responsible for that half of the field to their right (when facing the centre) and should move along the side of the field so as to be able to closely observe play in that area.
• In general, the Referee should move no further to his/her left than 2/3rds of the way from their right hand end line. The aim should be to achieve a "leading" and "trailing" system of controlling the game. The "Leading" Referee should keep up with the play and closely watch the main action in front of the goal. The "Trailing" Referee should be able to view all players on the Playing Area.
• Either Referee may call an infringement anywhere on the field, but in most situations should defer to the nearer Referee unless an obvious infringement has not been pulled-up.
• Each Referee shall make decisions relating to the side-line nearest to them.
• The Referee should quickly move directly to the goal-line on their right, when play is in that vicinity, to be in a position to give decisions on corners and goal-line throws at that end.
• The Referees shall normally control the corner and side-line restarts on their side of the Playing Area, and goal-line restarts to their right.
• The Referee controlling that side-line should have control over the 1 metre restart condition.
• "T" shaped pools (see Diagram L&T 2). In some pools it is necessary to have three referees, where there is a diving pit or similar. In this instance the first referee should take the long side line, that runs the length of the playing area. The two second referees take the short sides, each covering the appropriate goal line. This means that the first referee switches from being the leading to trailing referee in the middle area of the pitch. Each referee should be prepared to call fouls at any point on the playing area.

Controlling Goal Penalty Shots or a Tie-Breaker Shot (see Diagram L&T 3a/b)

• The Leading Referee should move to the 6 metre (for Goal Penalty Shot) or 4.5 metre (for Tiebreaker
  Shot) mark and be responsible for controlling the taking of the shot.
• The Trailing Referee should take up a position to control the other players.
• When all the other players are correctly positioned, the Trailing Referee will raise their Hand.
• If the Leading Referee has the ball, it should be thrown to the shooter when all the other players are in the correct position as directed by the Trailing Referee.
• Leading Referee can then blow the whistle (so long as the shooter is correctly positioned) for the shot to be taken.
• In the case of a Tiebreaker Shoot-Out, the Leading Referee also controls the position of the goal keeper and signals the result of the shot. Signals 3 or 4 apply.

Diagram 1 - Nornal Leading & Trailing

Diagram 2 - "T" Shaped Pool Leading & Trailing

Diagram 3a - Leading & Trailing for a Goal Penalty Shot

Diagram 3a - Leading & Trailing for a Tiebreaker Shootout

Legend for Diagrams

• L Ref -­ Leading RefereeT
• Ref -­ Trailing Referee
• T&S - Timekeeper & Scorekeeper
• LJ -­ Line Judge

Kit Specifications

It is the players responcibility to ensur that his or her equipemnt is safe and complies with the rules.