Leeds Freedivers Underwater Hockey Club – The home of the Leeds Freedivers Underwater Hockey Club, based at John Charles Centre for Sport's Aquatic Centre

Welcome!

Leeds Underwater Hockey Club is a friendly, inclusive community for anyone who loves a challenge and wants to try a truly unique sport. We train, play, and compete beneath the surface of the pool, combining fitness, teamwork and fun in a fast-paced underwater game. Whether you’re completely new to the sport or a seasoned player looking to get back in the water, we’ve got a place for you. Come along, meet our team, and discover why underwater hockey is one of the most exciting sports you’ve never tried!

What is underwater hockey?

Also known as Octopush, it is a fast-paced, exciting sport played at the bottom of a swimming pool. Two teams compete to push a weighted puck into the opposing goal using small sticks, about the size of a wooden spoon, all while holding their breath!

Players wear fins, masks, and snorkels, gliding through the water in a thrilling mix of skill, teamwork, and strategy. It’s a unique, non-contact sport that offers a fantastic full-body workout and an amazing sense of community—suitable for all ages and abilities.

We’re a mixed ability group of all ages and sizes, playing friendly games each week.

Where and When?

Join us on a Monday evening from 20:30 – 21:30 at the John Charles Centre for Sport’s Aquatic Centre, Middleton Grove, Belle Isle, Leeds LS11 5DJ.

We meet by the pool just as you come out of the changing rooms. A typical session consists of 15 – 20 minutes of practice (where you’ll be shown the ropes if you’re new to it) and up to 45 minutes for a friendly game.

FAQ’s

What do I need to bring?

We’ve plenty of spare kit that you can borrow to get started. You just need to bring your swimwear and a towel.

If you do have a snorkel/mask/fins, feel free to bring these. But we do have spares!

What does a player wear?

Swimwear,
- For women a one-piece swimsuit is recommended (like those used for lane swimming or water polo), Some players prefer a rash vest over the top for warmth or protection.
- For men, tight-fitting swim shorts, jammers, or briefs — not board shorts.
- No loose clothing — baggy suits or bikinis create drag underwater and could get snagged on fins/sticks.
A water polo hat is worn to protect your ears during the game.
A snorkel
A mask so you can see
A protective glove is worn on your playing hand to protect from accidental knocks during a game.
In this hand you’ll hold a stick (pusher) which is about 25cm in length.
Finally, a you wear fins on your feet to help power you along in the water.

Who can play?

If you’re aged 13 or over, you’re welcome to dive in and give it a go. You don’t need to be an expert swimmer or super fit. Any athletic ability can get involved, and we’ll help you learn everything you need to know.

Our club includes players from 13 to 65 years old, from total beginners to seasoned competitors. Whether you’re looking for a new challenge, a fun way to stay active, or just something a bit different, you’ll find a warm welcome at Leeds Underwater Hockey Club. All you need is enthusiasm and a willingness to get wet!

How much does it cost?

To get you started we offer your first two sessions for free. Once you’ve tried it and want to keep going, we ask for £22 per month to be paid by a standing order.

For juniors, students and retired members it is £18 a month.

This covers your entry to the pool and each training session.

After you start playing, you will also need to purchase a British Octopush Association membership which covers your insurance which is currently £30 a year. https://www.gbuwh.co.uk/page/membership

Do I need to be able to hold my breath?

No! It help, but most players only stay underwater for a few seconds at a time before coming up for air. Being in the right place at the right time is more important than holding your breath, you don’t need to stay down for a long time to have a big impact on the game.

Are teams mixed?

Yes our teams are mixed, we welcome all genders to play together!

Do you complete in games?

We do! We aim to compete at the National tournament “Nautilus” every year. https://www.gbuwh.co.uk/page/nautilus

We also play against other clubs in friendly games across the Yorkshire region.

Most clubs are open to players from other areas and teams joining their training sessions too. We’re had players join us and other teams when away with work, on holiday or just visiting nearby too.

If I want to buy any kit, where should I look?

The BOA (British Octopush Association) has it’s own shop where you can buy all the kit you need when you’re ready to https://shop.gbuwh.co.uk/shop/

What are the rules of play?

Simply, the aim is to work as a team to score a goal. But the full rules of play can be found on the BOA website. Rules Of Play.

Get in touch with us

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We’ll be updating our social pages with information on our weekly sessions and upcoming events