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How has the popularity of underwater hockey grown over time? Is it becoming more mainstream?

Saniyah Sollam

Underwater hockey, or Octopush as some call it, is one of the coolest sports out there. For those who are unfamiliar, underwater hockey is played by two teams of six players each, equipped with diving gear and short sticks, and they try to push a puck across the pool floor and into the opposing team's goal.

Now, when it comes to the popularity of this sport, it's safe to say that it has grown significantly over time. Back in the 1950s, a group of British divers were looking for a way to keep fit during the winter months when the water was too cold for traditional diving. Hence, they came up with the idea of playing a game at the bottom of the pool. Little did they know that they were laying the foundation for a sport that would take the world by storm.

Since then, underwater hockey has spread to all corners of the world, with teams in more than 50 countries. In fact, the sport has even made it to the World Games, which is an international multi-sport event featuring athletes from non-Olympic sports.

But the question remains, is it becoming more mainstream? The answer is a resounding yes! In recent years, there has been a surge of interest in underwater hockey, and it's not just limited to diving clubs and enthusiasts. Major news outlets have been covering the sport, and even Hollywood has taken notice. In the 2018 movie, "Aquaman," the titular hero is seen playing underwater hockey with his Atlantean brethren.

Moreover, the sport's governing body, the Confédération Mondiale des Activités Subaquatiques (CMAS), has been working tirelessly to elevate the profile of underwater hockey. They have been organizing more events, creating instructional videos, and even launched an app to help players and fans stay connected.

In conclusion, the popularity of underwater hockey has grown immensely over time, and it's only going to get bigger. It's an exciting and athletic sport that deserves our attention and support. So, if you haven't tried it yet, grab a snorkel and some flippers, and give it a go. Who knows, you might just become the next underwater hockey superstar!