We have a small group of polo players at Forth Canoe Club. We've competed in the Scottish Polo League in Division 3 for the last 2 seasons (in autumn + winter), climbing from being complete beginners to first place. We think we may be able to play in Division 2 next season – and we're now discussing how to make sure that we manage both this and keeping things friendly enough for new players.

Would you like to join in?

Canoe polo involves two teams of 5 in kayaks trying to get a ball into the opposition goal by throwing it. We use helmets and face guards to protect against accidental face/head contact with hard things like a paddle or boat.

We practice (currently - March 2012) on most Wednesday nights at 7.30pm.

During practice we are almost always happy to involve new people although please note that we'd prefer it if you can commit to attending several sessions in a row so our efforts in involving you add up over time. We're beginning to wonder if there are enough players to allow us to have both an A and B team for some events – so it's a good time to get involved.

To find out more just ask. Many of us, and particularly Robert and Jonathan, are regulars both at practice evenings and also on Thursday night club evenings (if you don't know us just ask around). Meriel is the official club contact: diggy120 [at] hotmail.com

Beginner kayakers are welcome so long as you are definitely at least at the point where you are competent to rescue yourself if capsized while using a spray-deck. Capsizes are quite likely, and almost certain in real games. An ability to roll is an advantage - but some of the regulars can't do this yet.

Rules: If you'd like to know more about the game Warwick University's team have published some nicely simplified rules on their website. See here:

Rules simple introduction

Rules abridged

Or find the full rules at:www.canoepolo.org.uk

team notes on writeboard