FAQ – San Francisco | Tsunami Water Polo

If you still have questions, contact us!

info@tsunamipolo.org

Do I need to be a good swimmer to play water polo?

No, but it helps! We have swimmers of all levels on the team. Swimming ability and being in swimming shape definitely makes learning the game a lot easier. The team can help you train, increase your endurance, and improve your stroke. Our Thursday practice is an ideal venue for individuals who want to improve their skill level. Swimming at your gym or with the Tsunami Swim Team are also great ways to get in swimming shape.

I’m interested in attending a practice. Can I just show up?

We currently have a waitlist to join which you can add yourself to by filling out the new player interest form. We are excited to have you join us, but we have limited capacity at practices, so please don’t show up unannounced. As soon as we can, we will intake a new group of players, so hang tight!

I am a member of an IGLA affiliated team and would like to drop in for a practice. Can I?

Yes! If you play for an IGLA affiliated team and are visiting the city, we invite you to drop into our practices. Please email the board first though with what team you play for and to make sure we have enough space for you and that we know you are coming!

What should I bring to practice?

Goggles and a towel

Swim cap (if you’d like to tame/protect your long locks in the water)

A suit that you feel comfortable swimming and playing in

A good attitude

Do you have to be experienced to play with SF Tsunami Water Polo?

We welcome players of all levels. You can be a total newbie or be an ex-Olympic star. As long as you have a strong desire to learn and contribute a positive, enthusiastic attitude, hop on board!

Water Polo is an intense sport, and it’s sometimes overwhelming to begin. We do ask that completely new players first attend Thursday practice prior to joining our Tuesday night practice. Please check our Calendar page for information on the next Thursday practice.

Is the SF Tsunami Water Polo team all gay?

The team is primarily LGBTQ+, but we do have lots of straight players as well. We don’t care how you identify as long as you’re ready to play and have fun!

How much are team dues?

Team dues are $10 per practice to drop in or $45 monthly. Annual dues of $460, or quarterly dues of $125 can be paid as well. In addition to paying your team dues and for liability reasons, all team members must also be registered with USA Water Polo. Currently an annual Silver membership with USA Water Polo costs $70.

What are the benefits of being an SF Tsunami Water Polo team member?

In addition to regular exposure to a group of exceptional people and athletes and getting into great shape, team members have the opportunity to play and scrimmage against local teams on a regular basis and compete in national and international tournaments such as the Gay Games and International Gay and Lesbian Aquatics (IGLA) tournaments.

Are there any women on the team?

We have many women on the team! We also field women’s teams at tournaments whenever possible. Again, we are open to EVERYONE! We are one big Narwhal family!

How do I find out more about what is going on with the team?

Join the SF Tsunami Water Polo Google group to receive the latest information about practices, events, and general information about the team.

Who can I contact if I have other questions?

If you want more information about the team, please email us at: info@tsunamipolo.org

LINKS

Aquatics

International Gay and Lesbian Aquatics (IGLA)

Federation Internationale de Natation (FINA)

Water Polo

USA Water Polo

Link to trial USAWP membership form

Swimming