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One sport which is most likely not to have been heard of by anyone is Octopush. This is a 'fancy' word for under-water hockey. Having only played for one glorious summer in July 2006 whilst i was in Orkney, i can gladly say that it is one of the most exciting and fast-paced sports i have ever come across. However, the game isn't quite as the name suggests. Yes, it is under-water, but it isn't really too similar to hockey. Each player has their own goggles/mask and snorkel, right/left handed rubber glove, and the 'hockey-stick' - which is about eight inches in length and one inch wide. it is shaped rather similar to a scythe but is in no way as sharp or dangerous.

To me, when i was playing in Orkney, because it is a small sport, almost the entire Great Britain Team trains in Orkney, so in effect, i was playing this 'new-found' sport with an international team; how ecstatic i felt about this. My view of the game is that it is a cross between hockey and football because the goals are weighted to the floor of the swimming pool, and the situation is almost like a game of football - but with water. Of course, the idea is to score as many goals against the other team as you can by using complex skills, strategies and tactics.
My experience of the game itself certainly left me feeling good about my physical fitness. I would encourage anyone reading to research the sport and find somewhere to play it.

Learn more about this author, Scott Whitnall.
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