Free Throw.—A free throw is granted to a forward upon a foul made by opposite side. The free throw is taken from the fifteen-foot mark by one of the forwards, who is unguarded at time of throw. If the goal is not made, the ball is in play. If goal is made, play begins according to start.
Fouls.—The penalty for a foul is a free throw for opposing side. There are rough fouls such as kicking, striking, tackling, holding, deliberate splashings.
When an opponent has the ball she may be tackled and “ducked” under the water by one of the opposing players.
A player may not be held under water after she has let go of ball. A player may not tackle by or hold to opponent’s clothing, although blocking is allowed. There should be no holding with hands or legs. A player may not hang on to sides when she has the ball. The ball may not intentionally be held under water.
Tie.—A tie may be played off in another three-minute period. If game ends after foul is made, the free throw is taken. No goal is counted after whistle has blown.
In both water basket ball and water polo the swimmer should use the easiest and least tiring stroke. Whenever there is an opportunity, a rest either by hanging on to sides or treading water (see Swimming) ought to be taken. Both games afford opportunity for team work in passing and dribbling. In dribbling, the ball is kept in front of body within easy reach for a good pass if the dribbler is attacked.
Water Polo
The main factor in water polo is learning how to handle the ball. The hand should be placed under the ball, then the ball is lifted in the air and thrown with all the strength of the shoulder and arm. It is ineffectual to try to grab the ball or push it. It must be picked up.
The ball is tossed to the middle of the pool, then the forwards swim up as fast as they can to get the ball. The forwards are chosen for their speed and endurance. Every forward should learn to shoot hard and accurately. The center forward is usually the fastest girl on the team. The center forward who gets the ball in the swim-up usually tosses it back to her center-half or to one of the side forwards. The forwards try to advance the ball, so that a good shot for their opponents’ goal may be obtained. If the field is clear the forward may dribble the ball, i. e., keep the ball moving close in front of her. Usually, however, it is better to advance the ball by passes. One forward at least should stay close to the goal, ready to send in any short shots.
The center half guards the opposing forward and feeds the ball to her forwards. There is a guard for each of the side forwards. It is the best policy for the guards to stay between the forwards and the goal. Stick to your opponent; never let her get a free shot.