Our sessions are organized through Meetup. Please sign up for the session you’d like to attend so we know you’re coming — and follow our Meetup group for the latest schedule and session details.
See upcoming sessions on MeetupNote: The sessions described below are typical during our winter season in the pool. Things are a bit less structured in the summer at our Hudson River location. Follow our Meetup events for the latest schedule.
Which session is right for me?
Our schedule typically includes two sessions per week. They have different objectives and are aimed at different levels of skill and experience.
Saturday — Social / Entry
Our entry-level and social session, targeted at individuals who want a more relaxed and fun set of games. It is also for kayakers who are new to kayak polo. It involves some basic drills on paddling, throwing, and shooting, and allows time to practice personal skills, rescues, and rolls. You should be:
- Comfortable doing a wet exit and requiring minimal assistance to re-enter your boat
- Comfortable (or working toward being comfortable) upside-down waiting for an assisted rescue
- Working on your basic paddling skills and strokes
- Curious about kayak polo skills, strategies, and rules
- Willing to take instruction and learn
Wednesday — Intermediate / Advanced
Our session for more experienced players, targeted at individuals who have fundamental kayak polo skills and are training toward more competitive play. The games are faster-paced and led by our more seasoned players. These sessions can accommodate newer players, but there will not be time for much introduction or assistance with basic skills. We generally start with drills to develop skills. You should be:
- Comfortable upside-down waiting for an assisted rescue
- Actively working toward a roll, or self-reliant with your wet exit and re-entry
- Actively developing paddling skills and strokes
- Willing to take advice about kayak polo skills, strategies, and rules
I’ve never kayaked before — which session should I join?
Due to the steep learning curve in this sport, many of our sessions are intended for paddlers with intermediate to advanced kayaking skills, especially using a decked boat, and are not recommended for those new to kayaking. Please contact the session host(s) through Meetup if you have any questions regarding which sessions will be most suitable for you.
We also highly recommend the KCCNY pool sessions to learn to roll your kayak and practice other advanced kayaking skills.
What do I need to bring?
We supply boats, paddles, spraydecks, life jackets (PFDs), and helmets. Please bring water shorts, a rash guard or synthetic exercise shirt, water shoes, a water bottle, and a towel / shower supplies.
Can I just turn up at the pool?
No — please sign up for the Meetup event so we know you are coming. Without a minimum of 6 people signed up 48 hours in advance, pool sessions will be cancelled. Also, the pool door may be locked, so we will look out for you if we know you are coming. We don’t want wasted journeys!