18th November is World Underwater Hockey Day. On the 70th anniversary of the sport's origins, we celebrate where it all began.
It began with a newly-formed diving club, 60 new members and a need to keep the club members fit over the winter. Alan Blake drafted the rules of Octopush.
In this short film by Patricio Riganti, he shares the full story.
The premiere of the film took place at Southsea Sub-Aqua Club last week.
Underwater Hockey has developed and spread around the world since its humble beginnings, but it felt right to bring back the story of the sport's origin back to the club where it all began.
Patricio Riganti, the film-maker and member of Tritones Underwater Hockey Club, Buenos Aires, said:
It has been an honour to share a seemingly dormant history. Through this film the true story of Octopush comes to light for posterity and we can give visibility to Alan Blake's message. Congratulations BSAC branch #9 for such an invention and for having been the cradle of such important personalities for diving and Underwater Hockey.
Left to right: Doug Carter, Jane Maddocks, David Bailey (Chair of Southsea Octopush Club), Alison Mayor, Martin Davies.
It has been an absolute pleasure to collaborate with Patricio on his film The Evolution of Octopush. It is remarkable to think that this international sport began 70 years ago as a fun way of keeping our members fit during winter. We wish Patricio and all Octopush/Underwater Hockey players a happy World Underwater Hockey Day.
- Alison Mayor, Southsea Sub-Aqua Club
Happy 70th anniversary to Southsea Sub-Aqua club!
How do I find scuba diving near me?
Use the BSAC website to find a dive club near you. For more information on playing Octopush or setting up your own team, visit the British Octopush Association.
