What are the signals for throws and common fouls?
Rule- South Africa
- Swimming South Africa
- Water polo
- World Aquatics rules
- All ages
- 2025/26
- Referees
From World Aquatics rules, Part Six, Appendix 2:
Restarts
| Decision | Signal |
|---|---|
| Start of a period, restart after a goal, taking a penalty throw | Lower the arm from vertical |
| Free throw, goal throw, corner throw | Point one arm in the direction of attack; if needed, use the other arm to show where the ball is to be put into play |
| Neutral throw | Point to the spot, show both thumbs up and call for the ball |
| Change of possession | Extend one arm horizontally |
Fouls
| Foul | Signal |
|---|---|
| Holding (exclusion) | Hold one wrist with the other hand |
| Sinking (exclusion) | Both hands move downward from horizontal |
| Pulling back (exclusion) | Both hands extended, pulling towards the body |
| Kicking (exclusion) | A kicking movement |
| Striking (exclusion) | Striking motion with a closed fist from horizontal |
Updated 22 Oct 2026