What leagues or competition does American Water Polo sponsor?
AWP offers two types of national events: the National State Challenge and the Family Festival. Information about these events can be found in the Schedules section of the website under the National Region.
What is a Family Festival?
American Water Polo believes there are enough stresses on the family today and sports should not make matters worse. Therefore, we developed an event that was geared towards the needs of families. The Festivals are always held at a resort or tourist destination to enable families to make a vacation out of the experience. To ensure every Festival has something to offer each family member, the event incorporates three elements: recreation, education, and competition. While the competition is offered in several age groups and genders, the recreation and education components are open to the entire family. Every Family Festival has recreational swimming available to all family members throughout the competition. In addition, educational seminars offer a wide variety of topics of interest for kids, parents, coaches, and athletes alike. Lastly, an organized recreational activity is always planned for one of the evenings during the tournament.
Can I play in American Water Polo events as long as I am a USA Water Polo member?
While American Water Polo insurance coverage follows its athletes, regardless of the event, USA Water Polo states their insurance coverage will not extend to events outside of USA Water Polo sanctioned activities. In an effort to afford USA Water Polo members the opportunity to compete in American Water Polo events, we offer a Limited Membership for $25.
Can I host my own tournament or league as an American Water Polo member?
Yes. In fact, American Water Polo encourages you to host games at your facility and we will provide a number of benefits to your club when you do. Contact the office to determine what support we can provide.
What educational programs are available?
American Water Polo will be introducing an educational program that will offer opportunities for coaches, and athletes that will be handled through weekend seminars and online education. Referee training is available through the Collegiate Water Polo Association. For information about this program, click here. American Water Polo will publish a list of seminars as they become available.
Who is permitted to attend an AWP educational program?
Anyone may attend an educational program, although AWP members will receive a discount.
How can I join American Water Polo?
Joining American Water Polo is simple. Click on Membership Information for more details. In addition to rewards, athletes, coaches, and officials also receive insurance coverage and the opportunity to be involved in AWP sponsored leagues, championships, and educational programs.
Is there a membership discount for families?
Yes. AWP believes strongly that families should not be penalized if they choose to enjoy the sport as a group. Families pay a flat fee, regardless of the number of members in the immediate family.
How does American Water Polo relate to United States Water Polo?
American Water Polo is a separate organization that focuses all of its efforts and programming towards its membership. United States Water Polo is the National Governing Body recognized by the United States Olympic Committee for the sport of water polo and as such is responsible for the development and training of an Olympic program. The primary function of American Water Polo is to provide services and competitive opportunities for its membership.
Can I be a member of both United States Water Polo and American Water Polo?
Yes
American Water Polo gives a coach a free membership. Why?
We believe coaches are the key to helping our organization grow and we want to do everything we can to encourage their participation. Coaches that have AWP athletes in their club will receive a free shirt.