HYDROGRIP WATER POLO BALLS

Every Winter Olympics, curling becomes an easy target in American culture. Often labeled the weirdest or dumbest Olympic sport, it’s mocked in headlines, search results, and pop culture alike. To many viewers, watching athletes slide heavy stones across ice while teammates sweep furiously seems more strange than serious.

But before we dismiss curling as silly, it’s worth asking what our own most celebrated sports might look like through an outsider’s eyes. Read Jack Bowen's take

Size 6? Yes, you read that right. Trainers in sports like basketball and tennis have learned that using a slightly larger ball helps improve grip strength, hand positioning, and overall control. Our size 6 ball is designed for warm up passing and shooting drills, and when players switch back to the official size, they often report that the ball feels easier to handle.

The NCAA is pleased to announce the extension of its relationship with KAP7 International Inc. as its official water polo ball supplier through the 2028 season. This renewal ensures that NCAA water polo student-athletes will continue to compete in championships with the highest-quality game balls, reinforcing the NCAA's commitment to excellence in collegiate athletics.