Lozovina, M., et al.: Proposal for changing the rules of Sport Science 12 (2019) Suppl 1: 14-26

PROPOSAL FOR CHANGING THE RULES OF WATER POLO

Mislav Lozovina and Vinko Lozovina

University of Split, Split, Croatia Original scientific paper

Abstract Based on the comprehensive scientific analysis of water polo game, after the Extraordinary Congress of International Water Sports Organization (FINA) in Hangzhou, China, in 2018, accepted some of the proposed changes to the rules of water polo game, skeptical for these changes, considering them as a insufficient "cosmetic contribution" which will not contribute to the attractiveness of this game, we are free to suggest, with arguments, changes of the rules of a water polo game convinced that the changes which are suggested are only and the right way to improve water polo game, to become truly attractive to the audience, ceases to be a rough play full of physical contacts in which the raw power is in absolute advantage over the idea and intelligent tactical behavior of the player and what today's water polo is. The proposed changes, if accepted, will substantially change the work of the coaches as well as the very appearance of the game. The players will be brought to the stand by their conceptuality, intelligent technical-tactical solutions and behavior. The proposed changes to the Rules of the game are, with previous arguable explanations, articulated with changes in FINA Water Polo Rules 2019 - 2021 Amendments, Additions, Interpretations and Explanations Valid as of February, 2019.

Key words: water polo rules, changes, amendments, interpretations.

Introduction

At the end of April 2018, a large FINA conference Within 6 meters of the goal, any offense from the was held in Budapest, where more than 200 back on the attacker who has a ball and moves delegates from 107 countries discussed the future towards the opposing goal, and tries to shoot, shall of water polo. For the new rules in the proposal, a be punished by a penalty throw. A free throw shall working group was created. Out of 19 proposals for be taken at the location of the ball unless the change of rules, 15 of them came from the offense is made within 2 meters of the goal. It is Coaching Association, which tells the interest and possible to score the goal with a direct free throw strength of this association. It was planned that the shot beyond 6 meters. A player who performs a rules of the Technical Water Polo Committee would corner throw can score with direct shot or by be tested in October, and that in November, at the swimming from corner and shoot, and before he FINA Congress, it would be decided to adopt the had to perform one pass to score. so-called "flying changes in the rules. substitutions“ of players to the middle of the pool are possible now, and so far it was only possible In the Chinese city of Hangzhou An Extraordinary from exclusion re-entry area on goal line. Each Congress of the International Water Sports team has the right to use 2 time-outs during the Organization (FINA) was held, whereby the changes match, and the team or bench will be equipped to the rules of the water polo were accepted. The with a button indicating device to indicate wish for proposed changes to the rules of the water polo time-out. The can go to the attack or game were almost unanimously supported after the may swim in the other part of the pool. The break 161 votes cast, 6 against and 2 abstained. Changes between the 2nd and 3rd quarter is shortened from in the rules of the water polo were done for at least 5 minutes to 3 minutes. The referees will be a year, a series of conferences and seminars equipped with audio technology (headphones and around the world took place, and some games and microphone) for mutual ease of communication. tournaments were played with the proposed and The VMS (Video Monitoring System) system is now adopted rules (.Donev, Y. & Aleksandrović, M. introduced to determine whether the ball has (2008)., FINA Water Polo Rules 2018 – 2020 crossed the goal line and whether a gross offense Amendments, Additions, Interpretations and has been committed which is sanctioned by Explanations Effective, Hraste M., Bebić M., Rudić exclusion. All of these have resulted in R.(2013), Lozovina M. and Lozovina V. (2009), amendments and additions to the official Water Pavičić L., Lozovina M., Lozovina V. (2014). Polo Rules which we quote:

Here's what new rules change in a water polo From 5th to 7th April 2019, the second edition of game: the Europa Cup in the water polo was played in Zagreb, where Hungary, Croatia, Italy, Spain, After the corner and exclusion of the defending Montenegro, Greece, Serbia and Russia teams team, the time of the new attack (the so-called participated. In this tournament, for the first time second attack) is reduced to 20 seconds rather in official international matches, new rules of the than as far as 30 seconds. game were applied, obviously in the game of the

14 Lozovina, M., et al.: Proposal for changing the rules of water polo Sport Science 12 (2019) Suppl 1: 14-26 best water polo teams in the world. This The width of this area must be between 0.5m – tournament gave us an opportunity to inspect the 1m. The designated area for flying substitutions for effectiveness of the changes introduced in the rules each team will be between the goal line in front of as well as the reflection of the same on the game the team bench and the center of the field of play. itself. Respecting the good intention of changing the Rules of Water Polo as a game to improve, WP 4.3.1 For Olympic Games only: Caps shall be adding to its attractiveness, after watching and numbered on both sides with numbers 0.10 meters analyzing all the games, we think that the changes in height. The goalkeeper shall wear cap no. 1 and mentioned are in essence only a "cosmetic action" the other caps shall be numbered 2 to 11. A player that essentially does not change or improve the shall not be allowed to change cap number during game, and that was the intent of changing the the game except with the permission of a referee Rules of the Game. and with notification to the secretary.

Today's water polo is a tough game full of physical WP 5.1.1 For Olympic Games only: Each team shall contacts where crude power is in absolute consist of a maximum of eleven players: ten field advantage over the idea and intelligent tactical players and one goalkeeper. A team shall start the behavior of players. Water polo is a game game with not more than seven players, one of dominated by an energy component, and the whom shall be the goalkeeper and who shall wear information component (techniques, tactics and the goalkeeper’s cap. Four reserves may be used as strategies) is reduced to the maximum and substitutes. One of the reserves may also be used becomes lost and disappears. Game rules, on the as a substitute goalkeeper but must wear a red one hand, and their application by referees, on the cap. A team playing with less than seven players other hand, completely destroyed the horizontal shall not be required to have a goalkeeper. component of the game(all swimming in water polo) and the techniques were reduced to about 30 WP 5.6 At any time in the game, a player may be using elementary techniques, consequently substituted by leaving the field of play at the impoverished tactics and ultimately absence of team’s designated substitution areas. The either what kind of attractiveness resulted in the substitute may enter the field of play from the lack of audience at the matches. exclusion re-entry area as soon as the player has visibly risen to the surface of the water within the After years of continuous monitoring of this sport re-entry area. Substitution from the designated game, we decided to analyze the effects of lateral substitution area is allowed when both changing the Rules of Water Polo Game, and we players, the exiting player and the substitute, are in are free to propose certain additional changes that the water, outside of the field of play and touch we consider to be essential to influence, enhance hands above the water. If a goalkeeper is and make it more beautiful and more interesting to substituted under this Rule, it must only be by the the public. Our criticisms and comments on the substitute goalkeeper. If the team has less than existing changes as well as the new proposals for seven players, the team shall not be required to change are going to limit the referees in their have a goalkeeper. No substitution shall be made assessments and interpretation of the rules, under this Rule between the time a referee awards uniform them and even in the judging. a penalty throw and the taking of the throw.

On the other hand, the changes we propose will NOTE: In the event that the goalkeeper and certainly, if accepted, change the work of trainers substitute goalkeeper are not entitled or able to in training, change the look of the game and bring participate, a team playing with seven players shall the players to the point of emphasizing their be required to play with an alternative goalkeeper conceptuality, intelligent technical-tactical behavior, who shall wear the goalkeeper’s cap. During a not the raw strength and ugliness they have which game should a team have no more substitutes today's water polo defines and make them good apart from the substitute goalkeeper either the players (Hraste, M. (2010), Lozovina M. and goalkeeper or substitute goalkeeper may play as a Lozovina V. (2009), Pavičić L., Lozovina M., field player. Lozovina V. (2014), Pavičić, L., Lozovina, V., Šimenc, Z. (1987). WP 6 OFFICIALS c) Video assistant referee: shall assist the two Changes made in Rules of Croatian Water polo referees in doubtful “goal/no goal” situations. federation WP 1.6 Distinctive marks shall be provided on both WP 10. SECRETARIES sides of the field of play to denote the following: WP 10.1 The duties of the secretaries shall be: d) a red marker shall be placed 5 meters from goal b) to control the periods of exclusion of players and lines to indicate the point from which a penalty shot to signal the expiration of the period of exclusion by must be taken. raising the appropriate flag or by another approved method of signaling; except that a referee shall WP 1.8An area for flying substitutions must be signal the re-entry of an excluded player or a available on the lateral outer side of the field of substitute when that player’s team has retaken play, on the side where the team benches are possession of the ball. After 4 minutes, the situated. secretary should signal the re-entry of a substitute

15 Lozovina, M., et al.: Proposal for changing the rules of water polo Sport Science 12 (2019) Suppl 1: 14-26 for a player who has committed brutality by raising WP 13.4 If the coach of the team not in possession the yellow flag along with the appropriate coloured of the ball requests a timeout, the game shall be flag or by another approved method of signaling; stopped and a penalty throw awarded to the opposing team. c) to signal with the red flag and by whistle, or by another approved method of signaling, for any NOTE: improper re-entry of an excluded player or After such an illegal call to a time out, the team improper entry of a substitute (including after a lose the right to a regular time out(if there was one signal by a goal judge to indicate an improper re- more left). entry or entry), which signal shall stop play WP 13.5 At the restart following a timeout, players immediately. may take any position in the field of play, subject to the Rules relating to the taking of corner throws. WP 11 VIDEO ASSISTANT REFEREE WP 15 METHOD OF SCORING WP 11.1 The duties of the Video Assistant referee WP 15.2 A goal may be scored from anywhere shall be: within the field of play. (a) to alert the match referee(s) in doubtful “goal / WP 15.3 A goal may be scored by any part of the no goal” situations body except the clenched fist. A goal may be (b) to show the match referee(s) a re-play of the scored by the ball into the goal. At the doubtful “goal / no goal” situation start or any restart of the game, at least two players (of either team but excluding the defending WP 12 DURATION OF THE GAME goalkeeper) must intentionally play or touch the WP 12.2 There shall be a two-minute interval ball except at the taking of: between the first and second periods and between the third and fourth periods and a three-minute a) a penalty throw; interval between the second and third periods. The b) a free throw thrown by a player into the player’s teams, including the players, coaches and officials, own goal; shall change ends before starting the third period. c) an immediate shot from a goal throw; d) an immediate shot from a free throw awarded NOTE: outside 6 meters; If a penalty shootout is necessary, the following e) a free throw taken and awarded outside 6 procedure shall be followed: meters when the player has visibly put the ball into c) if two teams are involved the respective coaches play; of the teams will be requested to nominate five f) an immediate shot from a corner throw. players and goalkeeper who will participate in the penalty shootout, the goal keeper may be one of NOTE: the shooters; the goalkeeper may be changed at A goal may be scored by a player immediately any time provided the substitute was listed shooting from outside 6 meters after the player’s amongst the team list in that game, however he team has been awarded a free throw for a foul cannot be substituted as one of the shooters; committed outside 6 meters. If the player puts the h) the team to shoot first will be determined by ball into play, a goal can be scored after faking toss of a coin. (simulating a shot) or swimming with the ball. After a corner throw is awarded and the player puts the WP 13. TIME OUT ball into play, a goal can be scored after faking WP 13.1. Each team may request two timeouts per (simulating a shot) or swimming with the ball. game. The duration of the timeout shall be one A goal may not be scored under this Rule direct minute. A timeout may be requested at any time, from the restart following: including after a goal, by the coach of the team in a) a swim up or the commencement of a period; possession of the ball calling “timeout” and b)a timeout; signaling to the secretary or referee with the hands c)a goal; forming a T-shape. If a timeout is requested, the d) an injury, including bleeding; secretary or referee shall immediately stop the e) the replacement of a cap; game by whistle and the players shall immediately f) the referee calling for the ball or calling for a return to their respective halves of the field of play. neutral throw; The timeout request can also be made by any g) the ball leaving the side of the field of play; device authorized for use in the game. h) any other delay.

NOTE : NOTE: Time out can not be requested after taking a After placing the ball in the game, after one of the penalty throw. above (a-h) situations, the player can score even WP 13.2 Play shall be restarted on the whistle of after faking (simulating a shot) or swimming with the referee by the team in possession of the ball the ball. putting the ball into play on or behind the half WP 15.4 A goal shall be scored if, at the expiration distance line, except that if the timeout is of 20 or 30 seconds possession, as applicable, or at requested before the taking of a corner throw. That the end of a period, the ball is in flight and enters throw shall be maintained. the goal.

16 Lozovina, M., et al.: Proposal for changing the rules of water polo Sport Science 12 (2019) Suppl 1: 14-26

WP 17 GOAL THROWS “Possession” shall not include the ball merely being WP 17.1 A goal throw shall be awarded: touched in flight by an opposing player; a) when the entire ball has passed fully over the c) when the ball is put into play following the award goal line excluding between the goal posts and of an exclusion foul to the defending player, the underneath the crossbar, having last been touched clock shall be reset to 20 seconds unless there are by any player other than the goalkeeper of the more than 20 seconds of possession time defending team; remaining, in which case the time shall continue b) when the entire ball has passed fully over the and not be reset; goal line between the goal posts and underneath d) when the ball is put into play following the the crossbar, or strikes the goal posts, crossbar or taking of a penalty throw without a change of the defending goalkeeper direct from: possession or, corner throw, the clock shall be reset to 20 seconds; I. a free throw awarded inside 6 meters; e) when the ball is put into play following the award II. a free throw awarded outside 6 meters not of a penalty throw with a change of possession, a taken in accordance with the Rules; goal throw or neutral throw, the clock shall be reset III. a goal throw not taken immediately. to 30 seconds. Visible clocks shall show the time in a descending manner (that is, showing the WP 17.2 The goal throw shall be taken by any possession time remaining). player of the team from anywhere within the 2 meter area. A goal throw not taken in accordance NOTE: with this Rule shall be retaken. The timekeeper and referees must decide whether there was a shot on goal or not but the referees NOTE: have the final decision. The goal throw shall be taken by the player nearest to the ball. There should be no undue delay in WP 21.15(16) To waste time taking a free throw, goal throw or corner throw, which must be taken in such a manner so as to NOTE: enable the other players to observe the ball leaving It is always permissible for a referee to award an the thrower’s hand. Players often make the mistake ordinary foul under this Rule before the applicable of delaying the throw because they overlook the possession period has elapsed. If the goalkeeper is provisions of WP 20.4, which permit the thrower to the only player of the team in that team’s half of dribble the ball before passing to another player. the field of play, it shall be deemed wasting time The throw can thus be taken immediately, even for the goalkeeper to receive the ball from another though the thrower cannot at that moment find a member of that team who is in the other half of the player to whom to pass the ball. On such an field of play. In the last minute of the game, the occasion, the player is allowed to take the throw referees must be certain that there is intentional either by dropping it from a raised hand on to the wasting time before applying this Rule. surface of the water (figure 1) or by throwing it in the air (figure 2) and then swim with or dribble the WP 22 EXCLUSION FOULS ball. In either case, the throw must be taken so WP 22.8 To impede or otherwise prevent the free that the other players are able to observe it. movement of an opponent who is not holding the ball, including swimming on the opponent’s WP 21 ORDINARY FOULS shoulders, back or legs. “Holding” is lifting, carrying WP 21.14For a team to retain possession of the ball or touching the ball but does not include dribbling for more than: the ball. (I.) 30 seconds of actual play, or (II.) 20 seconds in the case of exclusion, corner NOTE: throw or rebound to the attacking team after a This Rule can also be applied to advantage the shot, including after a penalty shot, without attacking team. If a counter attack is in progress shooting at the opponent’s goal. and a foul is committed which limits the attack, the offending player shall be excluded. The first thing The timekeeper recording the possession time shall for the referee to consider is whether the opponent reset the clock: is holding the ball, because if the player is doing so, a) when the ball has left the hand of the player the player making the challenge cannot be shooting at goal. If the ball rebounds into play from penalized for “impeding”. It is clear that a player is the goal post, crossbar or the goalkeeper, the holding the ball if it is held raised above the possession time shall not recommence until the ball water(figure 9). The player is also holding the ball if comes into the possession of one of the teams. The the player swims with it held in the hand or makes clock shall be reset to 20 seconds if the ball comes contact with the ball while it is lying on the surface into possession of the attacking team. It shall be of the water(figure 10). Swimming with the reset to 30 seconds if it comes into possession of ball(dribbling), as shown in figure 11, is not the defending team; considered to be holding. A common form of b) when the ball comes into the possession of the impeding is where the player swims across the defending team, the clock shall be reset to 30 opponent’s legs(figure 12), thus reducing the pace seconds. at which the opponent can move and interfering with the normal leg action.

17 Lozovina, M., et al.: Proposal for changing the rules of water polo Sport Science 12 (2019) Suppl 1: 14-26

Another form is swimming on the opponent’s grounds. Tactically unjustified fouls are usually shoulders. It must also be remembered that the those that happen for example on a wing player in foul of impeding can be committed by the player attack, and they are often and what they do? They who is in possession of the ball. For example, figure give the attacker (wing) to rest while put a ball in a 13 shows a player keeping one hand on the ball game, but also to all other players, extending the and trying to force the opponent away to gain more gross time of the attack. The wing position of space. Figure 14 shows a player in possession of player with the ball is most often harmless and the ball impeding the opponent by pushing the does not present a direct threat in the sense of a opponent back with the head. Care must be taken shot at goal. However, in cases when a wing player with figures 13 & 14, because any violent is in the position of a passer (a ball transmitter) to movement by the player in possession of the ball a player at a goal chance then the wing is might constitute striking or even brutality; the potentially dangerous by an opponent's goal, but figures are intended to illustrate impeding without such cases in today's water polo are rare. It is to any violent movement. A player may also commit conclude that an ordinary foul on a wing player is the offence of impeding even if the player is not completely needless and tactically unjustified in holding or touching the ball. Figure 15 shows a most cases but defensive players, in today's water player intentionally blocking the opponent with the polo, make them very often. When we asked the player’s body and with the arms flung open, thus defensive players why they did these fouls at all, making access to the ball impossible. This offence we did not get any response because they were is most often committed near the boundaries of the surprised with this kind of question. We have field of play. concluded that these ordinary fouls are made inertial without tactical thinking, because ordinary WP 22.16 For an excluded player to re-enter or a foul is an integral part of the game without any substitute to enter the field of play improperly, sanction (Hraste M., Bebić M., Rudić R.(2013), including: Lozovina M., Pavičić L., Lozovina V. (2007), e) for a flying substitute to enter the field of play Lozovina M., Pavičić L., Lozovina V. (2011), not following the correct flying substitution Lozovina,V, Lozovina, M. (2012), Lozovina M., , procedure as mentioned in WP 5.6 and WP 5.6.1 Pavičić L., Lozovina V.(2012).

WP 23 PENALTY FOULS In position attack a foul is followed after each pass. WP 23.9 For a defending player to impede an These fouls are made at the center but also on attacking player from behind within the 6 meter players who are nine meters away from the goal. It area when the attacking player is facing the goal is unlikely that these players endanger goal nine and making a shooting action, unless the defending meters far off the goal but these unnecessary fouls player makes contact only with the ball. If the are made constantly, out of habit because the defending player’s actions prevent the attacking ordinary foul is not penalized. Less than 1/3 of the player from shooting, a penalty must also be called. total ordinary fouls are useful to the team that makes them. We are the one of the few sports in NOTE: which an ordinary foul, apart from the stoppage of The referees must award a penalty unless the the effective time of playing until the ball is put in a attacking player scores game, does not carry a sanction for the offender or WP 24 PENALTY THROWS his team. We propose that 7 ordinary fouls per WP 24.1 A penalty throw shall be taken by any quarter, excluding exclusions and penalty throws, player of the team to which it is awarded from any represent a "bonus". In a water polo, an ordinary point on the opponents’ 5 meter line. foul is part of a running game. An ordinary foul is made, the effective time of the game is interrupted New suggestions for changes to the Water Polo until a putting a ball in a game, after which the Rules and comments on already adopted game proceeds further. So, the ordinary fouls slow down the game, make it static and therefore BONUS IN QUARTER unattractive to viewers that became rarity on Number of ordinary fouls in a water polo match matches. We think it is necessary to introduce a ranges from 47 to 137, that is 19.7 for ordinary "bonus" in the water polo. fouls per quarter. An ordinary foul for the offender does not carry any sanction. However, it interrupts In this sense, every ordinary foul would be the game and at the moment it is called it stops the registered. Our suggestion is that after used bonus time of pure play until the ball is put in a game. By (seventh made ordinary foul per team in every analyzing the ordinary fouls made during the game quarter) each subsequent ordinary foul is we found that ½ of them is unnecessary, and from sanctioned by a free kick at 6 meters. For ordinary this half even 1/2 of them gives the opponent an fouls made after the bonus expiration, a personal advantage. Why? The opponent is resting until the mistake would not be register to the offenders putting the ball in a game (a few seconds) and because we consider that a sufficient penalty is a extends the time it takes to hold the ball in the free kick with 6m. During performing a free throw, gross amount because the time runs until free the performer, after the whistle of the referee and throw is taken. Only one-third of the fouls are the simultaneous lowering of the raised hand, has 5 actually useful and we can call them tactical fouls seconds to hit the goal as well as the right to two that are made tactically correct and on reasonable fakings (simulating a shot) after which he has to

18 Lozovina, M., et al.: Proposal for changing the rules of water polo Sport Science 12 (2019) Suppl 1: 14-26 direct shoot at goal. The goalkeeper, after the would force the players in defense to defend whistle of the referee and the simultaneous themselves on correct and with rules permissible lowering of the raised hand, has the right to move way and completely eliminate the dangerous game from the goal line where he had to stay before the and brutality. whistle of referee. If a ordinary foul, before the expiration of a bonus, is made in a space of 6m The above-mentioned proposed changes of Rules from the goal it must be put in a play by the player require changes to markings on the sides of the on who the ordinary foul is made from the place field of play. So we propose that the penalty throw where it was made. This rule does not apply to the line from 5m returns to 4m(4 meter throw instead rest of the field where the free throw may be of today's 5 meter throw, whereby the water polo is performed by another nearest player of the known since it was played). A four meter penalty offending team. By a newly adopted rule, the would be executed under the existing rules. offender can properly put the ball in a game and continue to move to the opponent's goal and to When performing a free shot, the players of both score without the ball passing the other palm. We teams must be behind the 6m line, at least 2m accept this change in the Rules completely. away from the free thrower. To move (enter 6m from the goal) players of both teams can only after Our suggestion is that every contact of a player the ball has left the hand of the performer. Any with two hands in defense at the same time on any unauthorized movement of a player who is out of part of the field is penalized as exclusion foul. Each the ball possession will be awarded as a new contact of the defensive player made from the ordinary foul (new free throw). If a forbidden action back, on the attacker who is in the position of the is made by the player in the possession of the ball, center and possesses the ball but is not in contact he / she will be awarded an ordinary foul with the ball in our opinion should be penalized as (cumulative). exclusion foul. This is how the original rule of exclusion fouls regulates the game. However, If such ordinary foul is made after the bonus is contrary to this rule in the game of the center and used, a free shot shall be awarded immediately its defending player in the battle for the position, a after performed free shot whether it was a miss or contact game is allowed (usually full of roughness) scored goal. In this case, the time of pure play is and at the moment when the ball is sent to standing. attacker, the referees on the base of "good or bad pass", judge offense to attacker or defensive Any ordinary foul within six meters, other than the player. Suggested changes would change the game one made after the expiration of the bonus(eighth of defensive players in the field and especially in and further on quarter), from the place where it is the game against the centers (.Lozovina M. and made must be taken by the player on who the foul Lozovina V. (2009). was made.

To this rule should be also added to the rule of Suggested changes of Rules of the game will make advantage with the delay of calling a foul. A player it more fluid, will enrich it on a tactical plan, will who has made an advantage and created a activate all attacking players so that the attack probable chance should be allowed to end the would not only become a static game with the action with a shot at the goal. In the case that a center. defensive player has improperly attacked an opponent in an attack, but the attacker's action to PLAYER MORE/LESS which he has been allowed to score has failed to In today's water polo at the time when team wins score, the referee shall, with delay, judge exclusion possession of the ball, the attack begins with try to foul and thereby restore the possession of the counter attack. Counter attack may be of different player's ball to the player who was under foul at complexity (from 1: 0 to 6: 5 with handicap). The that moment. This particularly refers on the play of transition from the defense phase to the attack defence player and center in attack but also to the phase lasts 13.7 seconds on average. If the goalkeeper who can be the offender in such attempted counter attack does not result with a situations. shot at goal, it is followed by a position attack until the end of time of ball possession. Practically, to In the case of a completely uncontrolled game of the team in possession of the ball and the position defence player (uncontrolled dangerous game or attack remains 16.3 seconds to create a chance or brutality) and the allowed advantage of the a try to shoot on a goal. For this time up to three attacker, in the case of scoring from this privileged balls are directed to the center. advantage, we suggest that, except scored goal, the referee judges also penalty throw for the team When an attacking team is unable to do so, it on whose player the foul was made. usually follows a forced shot with some of the outside positions just before the time of the ball Two possible goals from one action(a goal from a possession reaches the end. Particularly, we will play and a chance or a goal from penalty throw) emphasize play of the center and the defender who may seem strange in a water polo, but is this not holds it. Today's way of judging, which is, strictly the case in basketball(personal foul with three looking, opposed to the rule of exclusion foul, throws and technical at the same time). This rule allows a rough contact play of the center and its

19 Lozovina, M., et al.: Proposal for changing the rules of water polo Sport Science 12 (2019) Suppl 1: 14-26 defender to fight and win position at 2m. Then, require any additional effort in determining and when the ball is sent to the center, the referee, measuring the extra time and time of the player's based on personal assessment, judges the "good or exclusion. The team who has been awarded with bad pass", sanctions or defender or center. Such a player more can use that advantage only during way of interpreting rules and judging should be possession of the ball of 35 seconds whenever the abolished, strictly applying the existing rule of exclusion was awarded at that time. A player who exclusion foul, which will virtually eliminate the has made exclusion foul is excluded for 35 seconds contact play of the center and defense player and does not enter the game before the expiration without the ball, and the same rule should be of this penalty. Therefore, even in the case of a strictly applied to the whole field of play and to all scored goal by an opponent and even in the case players. This is the only way to bring the beauty of when excluded player's team gets possession of the the game back to this sport and the audience to be ball. This approach opens up the possibility of filled. This introduction was made for another forced shot of team with the player more if the change in the rules of the game we also propose. possession of the ball is at the end and forced Because of the serious offense committed, the mistake, which certainly enriches the tactics of the penalty for the offender is to exclude the player for game. On the other hand, the punishment by 20 seconds or to reach a goal if this occurs before excluding player becomes effective and after the expiration of 20 seconds. How it looks in reaching the goal because it still lasts 35 seconds today's practice? The most frequent exclusion fouls from the moment the player was penalized. It occur in the last seconds of time which limits the forces the team even after getting a goal, to play possession of the ball. And what to say? The team some time with the player less. This fact further in possession of the ball did not gain the advantage justifies two new rules: the ability of a goalkeeper of the handicap in the attempted counter attack to cross the center line and play in the field from which it could safely score. The position attack according to rules that apply to players. Then a rule followed, whereby playing statically with the center of 20 seconds for which time the team that has in the last few seconds team earned exclusion. possession of the ball must move the ball to the They got play with player more and twenty more center line of the court and the rule of passive play seconds to turn that advantage into a goal. The and ball retention. All of these points out new total possession of the ball and the time of the tactical elements, improves the game and makes it attack continued for about 45 seconds, though the more attractive and interesting to the audience time of possession in today's valid rules is limited (Pavičić, L., Lozovina, V., Šimenc, Z. (1987), to 30 seconds. The described event is usually the Lozovina M., Lozovina V., Pavičić L. (2012), Pavičić most common in each game, and the realization of L., Lozovina M., Lozovina V. (2014). the player "more/less" is the "key" that determines the winner of the match. Flying substitution The handball, basketball and ice hockey experience Our suggestion is that a team that has got a play tells us that "flying substitution" is welcomed at with player more, based on exclusion foul, can use water polo, especially because the water polo plays that play only until the expiration of 35 seconds of in extremely slow media. "Flying substitution" takes possession. The ball possession time is suggested place on the lateral side of the field of play, on the to extend from 30 to 35 seconds. This means that if side of bench for reserve players."Flying the team in possession of the ball and with the substitution" should be made from the goal line to gained advantage of the player more, by the end of the half field mark, so that at the time of the the 35 seconds has 5 seconds left. Then at that change both players should be out of the playing time and until the end of time of the possession of field in the lateral area (both heads over the water the ball has to shoot at the goal. This will bring line), achieving physical contact by touching the them into the situation to shoot from half-chances hands(palm) and then the substitute player enters and find tactical solutions to such situations. the playground. Flying substitution can be made at Accordingly, as the attackers will be brought into any time while the game runs from the player the situation now to make "forced mistakes" and whose team is in possession of the ball and those they just bring wealth to the variety of situations who defend at that time. This certainly contributes and solutions, consequently to the beauty of the to the formation and use of different tactics and game. Likewise, this rule would force players to be tactical variants and thus improves the water polo. more active in the game because the earlier they "earn" the play with player more will have more There is no theoretical chance that a flying time for their realization. This is especially refers on substitution would give the team a direct activating the second-line attackers in a position advantage, whether in attack or defense, but well attack that would actively with swim ins, blocks and thought-out and made substitutions can directly in different ways, rather than passive static play, affect certain tactical solutions and thus directly create a goal shot chances and potential exclusion enrich the game. A sanction for a flying substitution fouls of opponents in defensive tasks. that has not been made according to the rules for the player in possession of the ball is an ordinary Proposed and adopted changes of Rules, on our foul and the loss of possession of the ball. A opinion, are not an ideal solution and can be better sanction for an improperly executed flying and improved. We therefore propose an alternative substitution of a player who is not in possession of solution that seems to us better and does not the ball is an exclusion foul and personal mistake

20 Lozovina, M., et al.: Proposal for changing the rules of water polo Sport Science 12 (2019) Suppl 1: 14-26 for the player entering the game. A different Two – hand block sanction for the same foul sternly penalizes team According to today's Rules of the game, the player players in the defensive task(a team that does not in the defense phase is forbidden to lift both hands have the ball) so they do not obstruct the attacker's in the block. Failure to comply with this rule is game purposely (.FINA Water Polo Rules 2018 – treated as a serious foul. We are of the opinion that 2020 Amendments, Additions, Interpretations and defense players should be allowed to perform a Explanations, Hraste M., Bebić M., Rudić R.(2013), two-hand block. However, each touch of the ball at Lozovina M. and Lozovina V. (2009). Example: A 1: the same time with both hands should be judged as 0 counter attack takes place with a few feet ahead. a serious foul. Within six meters from the goal as a In pure chances, the defending team makes penalty throw (4 meter mark) and out of six meters improper flying substitution. In such a case of as exclusion foul. This rule would enrich defense deliberately obstruct the game, the referee will tactics and equally force the attackers to design allow the attacker's advantage, which can result tactical solutions to come in a chance for shot and with the goal but also with goalkeeper's defense. In score. the case of scoring, the referee will adjudge a goal and a player who has made an improper flying 20 SECONDS RULE substitution will be penalized by exclusion. In the From the moment a team came in possession of case that a goal has not scored, the referee will the ball, has to pass the center of the field, with the stop the game and punish with exclusion the player ball, in 20 seconds. Otherwise, it loses the who has made the flying substitution in an possession of the ball and the team that enters in improper manner. For the team that failed to finish the ball possession begins the play from anywhere attack successfully the penalty throw will be in the center line. awarded. To waste time Corner – out It is not common but a case has been seen in It is not logical but the rules are defined so that a matches where the outcome of the match was ball that is rejected from the defensive player's essential to the teams. The team which has hand and ends behind a goal line is not a corner, possession of the ball by holding the ball wears but the corner is only in the case when the precious time playing halfway back and not trying goalkeeper rejects the ball off the goal line. The to start the attack. In doing so, and under the hand of the defender, from which ball was rejected, pressure of the opponent, the players are playing was in the game, no matter in which second of passes even with a goalkeeper. Substantially attacker's ball possession. In any case the ball was "pressing" as a drastic form of "man-to-man" play flying to a goal. Why, because of an efficient block on the whole field cannot be performed in this case of defense, punish the attacking team by taking because there is an uncovered "more" player in the them the ball and there is still time until the end of game and that is a goalkeeper. the ball possession. This is most commonly occurring when trying to score in counter attack. In this case, the goalkeeper de facto represents the However, even if the shot that was blocked by a player more for the team in possession of the ball. defensive player, ended up behind the goal line, in In order to avoid such situations, we propose a rule the last five seconds to determine the possession of that no player in the possession of a ball may pass the ball, the corner is a corner and should be the ball to the goalkeeper during the entire game. awarded for the attacking team, but not give them a new attack time because they didn't earn it with The offender of this rule is awarded a heavy their play. Corner throw is performed from 2m line foul(exclusion), and if the foul occurred within 4m and player who performs it, can directly shoot the from the goal, a penalty throw. This rule does not goal and score without a ball touches the second apply when the team is in possession of ball and palm. plays with the excluded player because the goalkeeper is then treated as the sixth player in the Therefore, it is not necessary for the ball to pass field. In this case, referees must watch the rule for two hands to be in the game, because scoring goal 20 seconds and all backwards passes must be will be allowed directly from the corner throw. Even treated as game retention(FINA Watser Polo Rules more so if performer of corner throw swims at the 2019 – 2021).. goal, shorten the distance and scores from direct shot, the score will be admitted. The time, and thus PERFORMING FREE SHOT AFTER „BONUS“ the continuation of the ball possession, begins to be During the duration of the bonus (up to the seventh measured from the moment when the referee ordinary foul in the quarter), the player in whom whistles to make the corner throw. This new the foul is committed may shoot directly if the foul established and still valid game rule came very is made at a distance of more than 6m from the good in the water polo. Following the above, we goal. In this case, a defensive player may raise a suggest that the out and the corner throw are hand or two in an attempt to block a shot should be judged against the player or team whose player at least 1m away from the player who performs the last had contact with the ball before it crossed the throw. In the case that a defensive player breaks out or the goal line (.Donev, Y. & Aleksandrović, M. this rule will be sanctioned by exclusion (distance (2008), Pavičić, L., Lozovina, V., Šimenc, Z. less than 1m or simultaneous blocking with both (1987). hands).

21 Lozovina, M., et al.: Proposal for changing the rules of water polo Sport Science 12 (2019) Suppl 1: 14-26

Text of proposed rules submitted with current existing fina water polo rules WP 1. FIELD OF PLAY & EQUIPMENT

Image 1. Field of play

We propose a change in WP 1.6 paragraph d) which A sanction for an improperly executed flying is changed and reads: substitution of a player who is not in possession of the ball is an exclusion foul and personal mistake WP 1.6 for the player entering the game. d) a red marker shall be placed 4 meters from goal lines to indicate the point from which a penalty shot WP 6. OFFICIALS must be taken. In NOTE to WP 6.1 which defines two timekeepers WP 2. GOALS and two secretaries in chapter b) Secretary No. 2, It remains as defined in the new Rules and does behind the last part of the text "player exclusion not change. and third personal mistake" is added: and every ordinary foul judged to all teams. WP 3. THE BALL It remains as defined in the new Rules and does We are pleased to accept paragraph c) in NOTE for not change. WP 6.1 added to the new Rules, but we think that the formulation of this WAR role is very limited and WP 4. CAPS will not have a significant impact on the regularity We suggest a change in WP 4.3 which changes and of the judging and ultimately on the results. The reads: video assistant referee should have a much more significant role than was assigned to him. WP 4.3 Caps shall be numbered on both sides with numbers 0.10 meters in height. The goalkeeper WP 7. REFEREES shall wear cap no. 1 and the other caps shall be We suggest changing the text of WP 7.3 and thus numbered 2 to 99. The same player must always the essence of this article that should be read: wear the same number of caps under which he is WP 7.3 Judges have the discretion to not judge any registered for that season (calendar year). A ordinary foul, exclusion or penalty foul if such a substitute goalkeeper shall wear a red cap decision gives advantage to the defending team. numbered 13. A player shall not be allowed to change cap number during the game except with If the allowed advantage of the attacker's action is the permission of a referee and with notification to not completed by a goal, the referee will postpone the secretary. In accordance with the new proposed judge exclusion or penalty throw for the attacking team. WP 4.3 it is necessary to redefine WP 4.3.1. NOTE: Judges must apply this principle consistently WP 5. TEAMS AND SUBSTITUTES and in full. In WP 5. we accept all changes made. We add a paragraph to WP 5.6 which reads: WP 8. GOAL JUDGES It remains as defined in the new Rules and does A sanction for a flying substitution that has not not change. been made according to the rules for the player in possession of the ball is an ordinary foul and the WP 9. TIMEKEEPERS loss of possession of the ball. In Rule WP 9.1 paragraph (f) is added which reads:

22 Lozovina, M., et al.: Proposal for changing the rules of water polo Sport Science 12 (2019) Suppl 1: 14-26 f) to measure the time for the team that came in underneath the crossbar, having last been touched possession of the ball, the ball must cross the by any player of the attacking team. center (20 seconds) In Rule WP 9.2 in the first sentence after the word NOTE : We think that when the last contact with of each period should be added: the overrun of the ball had a defense player, and the ball ended time for which the team who came in possession of just behind the goal that it was a corner and there the ball must pass the center, independently of the was no valid reason to actually take possession of referees. the team that had been in the attack so far. This rule does not exist in any other sport game. WP 10. SECRETARIES In WP 10.1 The duties of the Secretaries paragraph WP 18. CORNER THROWS a) will be changed, which reads: We propose an amendment to WP 18.1. which a) to maintain the record of the game, including the reads: A corner throw shall be awarded when the players, the score, timeouts, ordinary fouls,getting entire ball has passed fully over the goal line out of bonus, free shot, exclusion fouls, penalty excluding between the goal posts and underneath fouls, and personal fouls awarded against each the crossbar, having last been touched by the player. goalkeeper or any player of the defending team or if defending player deliberately sends the ball over Additionally, paragraph e) is added which reads: the goal line. e) giving a sign of elapsing a time of 20 seconds for which time the team that came in possession of the NOTE to WP 18.2 : The performer can direct shoot ball did not cross the center line with the ball. at goal. If the ball crosses the imagined goal line, even though no "second palm with intention" has NOTE: The secretary, with a vertical line in record been played, it will be considered that the ball was of game, records any ordinary foul made by any in the game, and the goal shall be scored. The player of both teams. After the seventh ordinary performer can put the ball in a game by himself, foul and the "bonus" expiration each subsequent swim in with the ball towards the goal, and shoot to ordinary foul will be awarded as a free shot with 6m the goal. If the ball passes over the imagined goal and the secretary will announce it with a whistle line, the goal shall be scored. and register with a dot. WP 19. NEUTRAL THROWS WP 11. VIDEO ASSISTANT REFEREE It remains as defined in the new Rules and does It remains as defined in the new Rules and does not change. not change. WP 20. FREE THROWS WP 12. DURATION OF THE GAME We propose an amendment to WP 20.2. In this It remains as defined in the new Rules and does article, behind the second sentence, it is necessary not change. to add: If an ordinary foul before the expiration of a bonus is made in a 6m area from the goal free WP 13. TIMEOUTS throw must be made by the player on whom the It remains as defined in the new Rules and does ordinary foul is committed and from the place not change. where it was made. This rule does not apply to the rest of the field where the free throw may be WP 14. THE START OF PLAY executed by another nearest player of the team It remains as defined in the new Rules and does who has been awarded the foul. not change. In WP 20. it is necessary to add WP 20.5 which WP 15. METHOD OF SCORING regulates the "free shot" that is executed after WP 15 according to the new Rules is regulated by every ordinary foul after the quarterly bonus WP 15.1, WP 15.2, WP15.3, WP 15.4 and NOTES. expires (eighth and further fouls). In WP 15, we propose an amendment to WP 15.4 Article WP 20.5 reads: After the team has used a where the text reads: bonus in the quarter (7 ordinary fouls), each of the following ordinary fouls will be punished by a free A goal shall be scored if, at the expiration 35 shot from the 6m line. seconds possession, as applicable, or at the end of a period, the ball is in flight and enters the goal. NOTE: The detailed description of the free shot is defined in the articles of WP 21. Rule. WP 16. RESTARTING AFTER A GOAL It remains as defined in the new Rules and does WP 21. ORDINARY FOULS not change. WP 21.13 is changed and reads: To last touch the ball that goes out of the side of WP 17. GOAL THROWS the field of play (including the ball rebounding from We propose an amendment to WP 17.1 paragraph the side of the field of play) a free throw is awarded a) which reads: against the team whose last player touched the ball a) when the entire ball has passed fully over the and the ball shall be put in a game from the point goal line excluding between the goal posts and where the ball ended in the out.

23 Lozovina, M., et al.: Proposal for changing the rules of water polo Sport Science 12 (2019) Suppl 1: 14-26

WP 21.14 is changed and reads: A team which performed whether it resulted with goal or miss. In retains possession of the ball for more than 35 this case, the time of pure play stands. seconds of actual play without shooting at the opponent’s goal loses possession. The timekeeper WP 22. EXCLUSION FOULS shall restart the time. WP 22.6 is changed and reads: A block with two hands is allowed on the whole field if the defending After "the timekeeper recording..." in paragraphs player is at least 1m away from the player who a), b), d) and e) the time is changed from 30 to 35 puts the ball in a game. seconds. An opponent's foul will only be judged if the player WP 21.16 To waste time. in the defense touches the ball with both hands We propose adding a new rule to WP 21. 15. "20 simultaneously anywhere in the field. Outside 6 seconds Rule", which reads: From the time a team meter area as an exclusion foul, and within 6 meter entered possession of the ball, at 20 seconds time area as a penalty throw. must pass the center of the field of the play. Otherwise, it loses possession of the ball, and the WP 22.8 is changed and reads: To impede or team entering the ball possession begins play from otherwise prevent the free movement of an anywhere in the center line. No player in the opponent who is not holding the ball, each touch possession of a ball shall, during the entire game, with one or two hands with the intention of return the ball to the goalkeeper. The offender of preventing swimming progression including this rule is punished by exclusion foul and if the swimming on the opponent’s shoulders, back or foul occurred within 6m of a goal with a penalty legs. “Holding” is lifting, carrying or touching the throw. ball but does not include dribbling the ball.

New Rules WP 21.17 and WP 21.18 NOTE: This Rule should be applied strictly WP 21.17 Seven ordinary fouls in one quarter throughout the game on the whole field, but not represent "bonus" for the team that made them. only during the attempted counterattack but also in Each subsequent ordinary foul is sanctioned by a the position attack. This particularly applies to free shot from 6 meters. For ordinary fouls made players of the second line of attack that are mobile after the bonus expiration, no personal foul is in a position attack. registered to the offender. WP 22.9 in our opinion, the most important rule of When performing a free shot, the performer, after the game. For this rule we suggest an amendment the whistle of the referee and the simultaneous that defines it most precisely. lowering of his raised arm, is entitled to two simulated shots after which he has to take a direct WP 22.9 reads: To hold, sink or pull back an shot at goal. The goalkeeper, after the whistle of a opponent who is not holding the ball. “Holding” is referee, has the right to move from the goal line on lifting, carrying or touching the ball, but does not which he must be until the referee whistles and include dribbling the ball. lowers his hand to mark the start of a free shot. a) The game of the center and the guard does not WP 21.18 If an ordinary foul, before the expiration permit a contact game to select the position at 2m. of a bonus, is made in a 6m area from the goal it b) All guard and center contacts will be judged must be taken by the player in whom the ordinary strictly according to the rules of the game. foul is committed and from the place where it was c) Each contact with both hands on a center that is made. not in contact with the ball is a foul for a penalty throw. This rule does not apply to the rest of the field d) Each one-handed contact with the center at where a free throw may be performed by another which the ball is sent, and the center is not in nearest player of the attacking team. When contact with the ball is a exclusion foul. performing a free shot, the players of both teams e) The start on the ball passed to the center with must be behind the free shot line of 6m, at least one hand to attempt to clear the ball or an 2m away from the player who performs it. unsuccessful attempt to sink the ball in the center's hand is not a hard foul, is awarded as a ordinary To move (enter the zone 6m from the goal) players foul that is put in a game by center from place of both teams can only after the ball has left the where the foul was made. performer's hand. Any unauthorized movement of a player without the ball possession will be awarded WP 22.15 is changed and reads: In the case of as a new ordinary foul (new free shot). If an simultaneous exclusion of players of opposing unallowable action is made by the player in the teams during play, both players are excluded for 35 possession of the ball, he will be awarded a seconds. The possession clock is not reset. Play is ordinary foul (cumulative). restarted with a free throw to the team which had possession of the ball. If neither team had If such an ordinary foul is made after the bonus is possession when the simultaneous exclusions were used, a free shot is awarded immediately after called, the possession clock is reset to 35 seconds previously free shot for his team has been and play shall be restarted with a neutral throw.

24 Lozovina, M., et al.: Proposal for changing the rules of water polo Sport Science 12 (2019) Suppl 1: 14-26

WP 23. PENALTY FOULS Conclusion

In WP 23.2 chapter b) is replaced by the following: Based on detailed expert-scientific analysis of If a defensive player attempts to block a shot and today's Water Polo, provoked by accepted changes in that attempt touches the ball with two hands at in Rules of Water Polo game, and skeptical towards the same time. mentioned, considering them insufficient „cosmetic contribution“, we are free to suggest changes that NOTE: Just lifting both hands in a block is not a foul will surely improve Water Polo game and make it by this rule. more attractive. With suggested changes there would be some changes on markings in field of WP 24. PENALTY THROWS play. Penalty throw would be taken from 4m line WP 24.1 is changed and reads: A penalty throw which implicate moving penalty throw mark from shall be taken by any player of the team, except 5m to 4m. Freeshot would be taken from 6m line. goalkeeper, to which it is awarded from any point „Bonus“ in quarter would be introduced and free on the opponents’ 4 meter line. shot after used bonus. „Flying substitutions“ on lateral side in field of play are accepted in version WP 24.2 is changed and reads: All players shall of new Rules 2019-2021. The changes in the reach leave the 4 meter area and shall be at least two of corner throw an out were suggested, and the meters from the player taking the throw. On each way of executing corner throw is accepted as in side of the player taking the throw, one player of version of new Rules. The possibility of two handed the defending team shall have the first right to take block in defense phase of play is suggested. We position. fully agree with the rule of 20 sec for which the team in possession of the ball must cross the The defending goalkeeper shall be positioned center of the field of play. A penalty for returning a between the goal posts with no part of his body ball to a goalkeeper is also suggested, as beyond the goal line at water level. Should the performance of ordinary foul that is regulated until goalkeeper be out of the water, another player may the bonus last. An article under chapter Ordinary take the position of the goalkeeper but without the fouls is added which regulates prevention of free goalkeeper’s privileges and limitations. advancing in swimming that we consider to be extremely important. The change of duration of ball WP 25. PERSONAL FOULS possession is proposed an also duration of time of It remains as defined in the new Rules and does excluded player. The review of the referees and the not change. way of judging in today's Water Polo is also given. We consider that they have to judge strictly by the WP 26. ACCIDENT, INJURY AND ILLNESS rules with as few opportunities and rights as It remains as defined in the new Rules and does possible for free estimates. Suggested changes in not change. Rules of game are articulated, with the previously argued explanations, in articles FINA Water Polo In the entire Rule text it is necessary to replace the Rules 2019 – 2021 Amendments, Additions, term five meter throw (penalty throw) (5m) by the Interpretations and Explanations Effective as of 10 word four meter throw(penalty throw) (4m). February, 2019. We are of the opinion that the period of one year from the moment when the In the text of Rules new terms are introduced: Free proposed changes are officially accepted is shot, Bonus, flying substitution, 20 seconds Rule, sufficient for adaptation, and then for the official two-hand block. The original new Water Polo Rules application of the rules at all official competitions in can be downloaded from the official FINA website. water polo.

References

Donev, Y. & Aleksandrović, M. (2008). History of rule changes in water polo. Sport Science, 1(2), 16-22. FINA Water Polo Rules 2019 – 2021., Amendments, Additions, Interpretations and Explanations, Effective as of 10 February, 2019. Hraste, M. (2010). Konstrukcija i evaluacija ekspertnog sustava za procjenu stvarne kvalitete vaterpoliste. [Construction and evaluation of an expert system for assessing actual quality of water polo players. In Croatian.]. (Unpublished doctoral dissertation, University of Split). Split: Faculty of Kinesiology. Hraste, M., Bebić, M., & Rudić R. (2013). Where is today’s Water Polo Heading? An Analysis of the Stages of Development of the Game of Water Polo. Naše more, 60(S1-2), 17-22. Lozovina, V., Pavičić, L., & Lozovina, M. (2004). Analysis of Indicators of Load During the Game in the Activity of the Center in Water Polo. Naše more, 51(3-4), 135-141. Lozovina, M., Pavičić, L., & Lozovina, V. (2007). Aaliza razlika između igračkih pozicija u vaterpolu s obzirom na vrstu i intenzitet opterećenja na natjecanju. Naše more, 54(3-4), 137-149. Lozovina, M., & Lozovina, V. (2009). Attractiveness Lost in the Water Polo Rules. Sport Science, 2(2), 82-88. Lozovina M., Pavičić L., & Lozovina V. (2011). Differential Analysis of the Center Forward Role in the Team Tactics in Watre Polo (Male), Acta Kinesiologica, 52, 82-88.

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Lozovina, V., & Lozovina, M. (2012). Theory And Mathematical Modulation Of Sports Training (Paradigm Of Methodological Theory And Mathematical Modulation Of Sports Training), Scientific edition. Sarbrucken: LAP LAMBERT Academic Publishing,. Lozovina, M., Lozovina, V., & Pavičić, L. (2012). Morphological Changes in Elite Male Water Polo Players Survey in 1980 and 2008., Acta Kinesiologica, 6(2), 85 90. Lozovina, V., & Pavičić, L. (2004). Antropometric Changes in Elite Male Water Polo Players: Survey in 1980 and 1995. CMJ, 45(2), 202-205. ‐ Lozovina M., Pavičić L., & Lozovina V. (2012). Differential Analysis of the Guard role in the Team Tactics in Water Polo, Naše More, 59(1-2). Pavičić, L., Lozovina, M., & Lozovina, V. (2014). Model of Collective Sports Games, Acta Kinesiologica, 8(1), 38-51. Pavičić, L., Lozovina, M., & Lozovina, V. (2014). New Concepts and Aproaches to the Study of Collective Sports Games, Acta Kinesiologica, 8(S1), 7 22. Pavičić, L., Lozovina, M., & Lozovina, V. (2014). Reasearch of Collective Sport Games in the Field of Kinesiology and Sport Science in the World and‐ in Croatia, Acta Kinesiologica, 8(s1), 23 37. Pavičić, L., Lozovina, V., & Šimenc, Z. (1987). Kineziološka analiza vaterpola i tehnologija kompjutorske snimke utakmice. [Kinesiological analysis of water polo and computer video game‐ technology. In Croatian.]. Zagreb: Faculty of Physical Education.

PRIJEDLOG ZA MIJENJANJE PRAVILA VATERPOLA

Sažetak Temeljem sveobuhvatne znanstvene analize vaterpolo igre, a nakon što je Izvanredni kongres Međunarodne organizacije vodenih sportova (FINA) u kineskom gradu Hangzhou koncem 2018 godine usvojio neke od predloženih izmjena u Pravilima vaterpolske igre, skeptični prema navedenim promjenama, smatrajući ih nedostatnim „kozmetičkim zahvatom“ koji neće bitno pridonijeti atraktivnosti ove igre, slobodni smo argumentirano izići s našim prijedlogom za dodatne izmjene pravila vaterpolo igre, uvjereni da je to što je predloženo jedini i pravi put da se vaterpolo unaprijedi, postane zaista atraktivan gledateljstvu, prestane biti gruba igra puna fizičkih kontakata u kojima je sirova snaga u apsolutnoj prednosti nad idejom i inteligentnim taktičkim ponašanjem igrača, a što jest današnji vaterpolo. Predložene promjene, ukoliko se prihvate, bitno će promijeniti rad trenera, kao i sam izgled igre. Igrače će dovesti u situaciju da se istaknu svojim idejnošću, inteligentnim tehničko-taktičkim rješenjima i ponašanjem. Predložene promjene u pravilima igre artikulirane su, uz prethodna argumentirana objašnjenja, promjenama u člancima FINA Vaterpolo Pravila 2019 – 2021, Izmjene i dopune, Dodaci, Tumačenja i Obješnjenja, koje su na snazi od 10 Veljače, 2019.

Ključne riječi: varerpolo pravila, promjene, izmjene i dopune, tumačenja.

Received: May 29, 2019 Accepted: June 10, 2019 Correspondence to: Vinko Lozovina University of Split, Split, Croatia E-mail: [email protected]

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