2026
AUSTRALIAN UNDERWATER HOCKEY
NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS
We are excited to be hosting this national event in January 2026 at the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre.
Countdown to Nationals
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Event Dates & Schedule
Key Dates
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Jan 11th, 2026Setup, Training, Gear Check, Opening Ceremony
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Jan 12th-14th, 2026Junior Round Robins and Semis
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Jan 15th, 2026Junior Finals, AUS U19s Selections, Closing Ceremony (Juniors), Opening Ceremony (Seniors), Sundowner TBC, Junior Function
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Jan 16th-18th, 2026Senior Round Robins
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Jan 19th, 2026Senior Finals, AUS 24s Selections TBC, Closing Ceremony, Senior Function
Venue Information
Gold Coast Aquatic Centre
We are excited to be hosting this national event in January 2026 at the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre. While it was our hope to hold the championships in NSW, the lack of a suitable venue meant we had to look further afield. We’re confident the Gold Coast will provide an excellent location for a high-quality, enjoyable tournament for players, officials, and supporters alike.
- 50m competition pool with 2 courts and training in between
- Dropoff area and $21 a day parking
- Spectator seating for 1,000+ people
- Full changing and shower facilities
- On-site medical support and cafe
Pool Layout & Specifications
Competition Pool
- Dimensions: 25m x 15m playing area
- Depth: 2.0m
- Pucks: The competition puck will be the Simms Puck. Please bring your own warm-up pucks
- Playing Area: Clearly marked with weighted lines
- Subbing: Tables underwater for subs to stand
Competition Format & Divisions
Competition Format
The 2026 National Championships will follow the latest CMAS rules with modifications as approved by the Australian Underwater Hockey Federation (AUF).
Round Robin Stage
- Teams divided into pools based on previous rankings
- Each team plays all other teams in their pool
- Matches consist of 2 x 10-minute halves
Finals Stage
- Top teams from each pool advance to knockout rounds
- Quarterfinals, semifinals, and finals format
- Finals consist of 2 x 12-minute halves
Competition Divisions
| Division | Age Range | Gender | Year Requirements Min-Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 15 Open | 11-14 | Mixed | 2014-2011 |
| Under 19 Open | 14-18 | Mixed | 2011-2007 |
| Under 19 Womens | 14-18 | Women | 2011-2007 |
| Elite Womens | 16+ | Women | 2009-N/A |
| Elite Open | 16+ | Mixed | 2009-N/A |
| Masters | 35+ | Mixed | 1990 |
Age & Medal Eligibility
Age Eligibility
Age is determined as of December 31, 2026 for all divisions.
All Divisions
Players can enter multiple grades if eligible for more than one.
All Players
Players must turn minimum age by the start of the competition.
Proof of Age
There are no longer any age exemptions for nationals, in line with the new UHA Age Determination Policy
Medal Eligibility
State Teams must meet the following criteria:
- Can have up to 2 non-resident players and be eligible for medals
- Follow all uniform and equipment regulations
Non-State Teams (Barbarians/Amazons) must meet the following criteria:
- Aussie players must have gone through State Team trials and not been selected
- No forming teams of players who skipped the process
- Must wear designated uniforms (no random colours/designs)
- Not eligible for medals, but may play finals if division teams agree
Special Cases
Players with exceptional circumstances may apply for an exemption at least 30 days prior via written request to the tournament director. The 2026 exemption form will be released in the Final Info Pack (early Sept).
Fees & Payments
Financial Assistance
Individual Player fee amounts will be confirmed in the final info pack (early Sept).
Key Dates
| Date | Payment/Action Required |
|---|---|
| Sep 1, 2025 | EOI for teams + Manager Registration Form |
| Oct 12, 2025 | $500 Team Deposit due Bather and cap design due |
| Nov 16, 2025 | Individual player fees & final team lists due |
| Dec 21, 2025 (TBC) | Function payments and numbers due |
States should aim for no more than 2 manager contacts (1 junior, 1 senior) unless entering 6+ teams.
Sponsors
