ds
line up on being given a free trial. The four-foot line also marks the
goal section, a space 4 x 8 feet, in which indiscriminate tackling is
allowed when the ball is within.

Each team of six is divided into a forward line (center, right forward
and left forward) whose duty it is to attack the opponent's goal; and a
backfield of three (half-back, right goal-tender and left goal-tender),
upon whom devolves the defense of the home goal.

At the start of play the two teams line up their respective ends, the
referee places the ball in the middle of the playing area and then blows
a whistle. At this signal the twelve players dive in, the forwards to
make a dash for the ball, the backs to take up their positions. The
forward who first reaches the ball tosses it back to the defense men,
who hold it until the line of attack is formed and then pass it back.
Immediately a fierce scrimmage takes place and either a score is made or
the ball changes side and a scrimmage occurs at the other end. After the
score the teams line up as at start of play.

[Illustration: Courtesy of "Spaulding's Athletic Library." WATER POLO]

Time of play is sixteen minutes, actual, divided into two halves of
eight minutes each, with an intermission of five minutes between halves.
Only two substitutes are allowed, and they can only be used to replace
an injured or exhausted player.

PREPARATORY WORK

No man should attempt to play water polo who is not in the best possible
physical condition. Before joining the squad, every candidate, be he a
novice coming to learn the game, or a veteran resuming training, should
prepare himself for the hard work in sight. I don't mean that he should
be down to edge, but in good ruddy health. As a matter of fact, a man is
far better off if he can start the season with eight or ten pounds of
extra avoirdupois; and four or five pounds above "pink of condition" may
be carried throughout the season with good results. They will prevent
one's getting cold while in the water and keep one from going stale, a
very easy matter in water polo.

Preliminary exercise should be taken daily for a week or two in
anticipation of starting practise. Long swims are advisable at this
early date, but should be abandoned while preparing for a contest, as
one sprints only in a game.

The best system to follow is a very simple one.

A few minutes in the steam-room (not more than five) or some
calisthenics to warm up the blood, then