FAQ

What sessions are available and how long are they?

Club cycle starts in the fall and there are 4 sessions a year.  Sessions are approximately 10 to 12 weeks. The typical sessions are as follows:

• Fall: September to November (youth and high school girls only)

• Winter: November to February (youth and high school boys only)

• Spring: February to May

• Summer: May to July

Do we have to play every session?

Playing every session is not a requirement to be part of the club and ECA is happy to accommodate multi-sport athletes. However, it is encouraged that athletes that want to be part of the competitive teams participate year-round.

Can we try it for free before signing up?

ECA regularly offers free clinics for beginners interested in trying water polo. ECA also allows new members to try practices for free for 2 weeks. USA Water Polo free trial membership is required to get in the pool (see question below).

What age group is my athlete?

Athletes' age group is determined by their age on Aug 1 at the end of the cycle. For example, age group for fall 2022 is dependent on age as of Aug 1, 2023. 

How do I register with USA Water Polo?

All ECA club members must register with USA Water Polo. Trial 2-week registration is available for new athletes trying out the sport. Go to www.usawaterpolo.com and follow the online registration instructions. Use club #15690 and sign up as a bronze member at a minimum. Athletes attending Junior Olympics need gold level membership. Memberships are valid January-December and must be renewed annually.

How do I order ECA gear?

The store is open at the start of each session. ECA will notify each family and put a link on our website.

Are there any discounts available?

ECA offers a sibling discount, as well as scholarships for families in need. Please contact us for more information. ECA requires the previous year's tax return to validate a scholarship request. 

Who can join?

Athletes ages 6-18 are welcome to join, no prior water polo experience is necessary. However, there are minimum swimming requirements for each age group.

Do you teach kids to swim?

Due to limited pool availability ECA is unable to provide swim instruction at this point. Coaches encourage athletes to join local swim teams to improve their swimming abilities.

What equipment is necessary?

Swimsuit and towel are enough to get started. The club has all necessary equipment to run practices, but many of our members bring their own water polo ball to practices. Having your own ball allows athletes to practice ball handling drills on their own time. Members of our travelling competitive teams are asked to purchase a club suit and t-shirt. Jammers and board shorts are not allowed at certain tournaments. 

Does ECA care what high school an athlete attends?

No. ECA is focused on athlete development regardless of school affiliation.

It's raining. Is there practice?

Yes, teams practice in the rain. Practices will only be cancelled due to weather when there is lightning.