If asked to describe their opinion of the sport water polo, many ISU students would have a look of bewilderment on their face. After much deep thought, the best answer they could probably conceive is that it is something played in the water.

A select group of students are different from the rest, however – they are members of the Iowa State Water Polo Club.

The most logical description of water polo is soccer played in a swimming pool, since the objective of both sports is to score as many goals as possible. Instead of using feet to pass and score, players are allowed to use one hand to touch the ball with the exception of the goalie. The only true position in water polo is the goalie, while the other six players are known as field players.

Water polo also involves aspects of basketball in that players set picks for one another and players may substitute in whenever the ball goes outside the field of play. In this case, however, the ball looks nothing like a basketball, but instead resembles a volleyball.

“Understanding how and when to move the ball, along with being able to see where everyone is at in the water,” said Rachel Goldsmith, senior in civil engineering and president of the women’s team, when asked to describe the most important facets of the game.

Over the years, the sport has been growing in popularity on campus.

Prior to this year, only one co-ed team existed. As more women went out for the sport, however, they have been able to form their own team.

“The men’s game is much more competitive and is a faster game speed,” said Sara Fort, senior in psychology. “However, the women’s game is still a challenge and is very fun.”

According to club members, some of the benefits of playing water polo include: great exercise, participating in a very competitive sport, experiencing great camaraderie with the other players and the ability to travel to different campuses while gaining a break from school throughout the year.

One important person to the Iowa State Water Polo Club is Mick Barry, a member of the Des Moines Water Polo Club. Formerly a swimmer at Iowa State, Barry volunteers his time to help with the team and teach students how to play the game.

“[Barry] is a great influence on our program, gives us great advice and we have been lucky to have him with us,” said Duane Sorenson, ISU swimming coach and adviser to the water polo clubs.

For students considering joining, it is important to note that the majority of current players had never played the sport before joining the club.

“It is important that players know how to tread water but as for the water polo skills, we will teach them that,” Goldsmith said.