Canoe polo on Baldeneysee

Canoe polo is undoubtedly one of the most agile and challenging water sports. It combines elements of kayaking, canoe sprinting and ball sports. The sport combines speed, agility and strategic thinking to create a fascinating spectacle that captivates both players and spectators alike. Although this sport is comparatively small, canoe polo is becoming increasingly popular worldwide - not least because of the intense competitions and high sporting standards. There are two canoe polo clubs in Essen, the Kanu-Sportverein Rothe Mühle e.V. and the Kanu-Gesellschaft Wanderfalke e.V. On the Baldeneysee canoe polo tournaments are held regularly.

The origins of canoe polo date back to the early 20th century. As early as the 1920s, water sports enthusiasts are said to have experimented with various forms of the game using kayaks or canoes as a means of transportation. The first official canoe polo rules from 1966 originate from the British Canoe Union. Since then, the sport has continued to develop and was officially recognized by the International Canoe Federation (ICF) in 1990.

There are now numerous national and international competitions around the world, including the Canoe Polo World Championships, which are held every two years, and the International Germany Cup, which takes place annually on Baldeneysee . The German Canoe Polo League is also a regular guest on Baldeneysee . The sport is particularly well represented in Europe with major leagues in Germany, France and Great Britain.

Canoe polo is played on a rectangular playing field measuring 35 x 25 meters. The pitch is located on a lake such as Baldeneysee, a river such as the Ruhr or a pool such as the Grugabad. Two teams, each with five players and a maximum of three substitutes, compete against each other. The aim of the game is to get the ball into the opposing team's goal - similar to water polo, but with canoes and paddles as the means of transportation.

Each player sits in a special polo boat that is shorter and more maneuverable than conventional kayaks. Using a double paddle, you move across the pitch while trying to control the ball and lead your team to a goal with targeted passes. The game is characterized by fast "starts", sudden changes of direction, clever manoeuvres and physical duels. The goals are set two meters above the surface of the water. Landing a goal so high above the surface of the water requires precise shots and skillful jump shots. A game lasts two periods of ten minutes. Half-time in canoe polo is a short break.

The players wear protective vests and helmets with mesh visors to protect themselves from injury. The boats are particularly important: they are stable enough to withstand contact with other players, but at the same time light enough to ensure high maneuverability. A central technique in canoe polo is rolling - a technique that enables players to right themselves after capsizing with the paddle or by moving their body and get their upper body out of the water again. This skill is essential, as collisions and overturning of the boat often occur in the heat of battle.

Canoe polo is not only a sport for experienced canoeists, but also an exciting challenge for beginners. This sport requires skill, speed and a high degree of teamwork. Anyone who has ever seen a game will immediately recognize the high intensity and dynamics that make this sport so unique. Beginners can approach it slowly. First of all, of course, it is important to master the equipment and be able to do the Kenter roll or Greenland roll (formerly known as the Eskimo roll). Whether children, young people or adults - newcomers should contact the Kanu-Polo-Verband e.V. or the local clubs. But canoe polo is also an exciting sport for passive athletes.

Whether at national or international level - canoe polo provides thrilling moments on the water and on the shore. This athletic sport proves that kayaks are not only suitable for long tours, but also for fast-paced and ambitious competitions. If you want to get a taste of the sport or are looking for a team sport on the water, you've come to the right place.