Water polo is one of the best workouts around, burning a mind-boggling 600 calories per hour!

Water polo balls were once made of leather, which consequently would fill with water and weigh as much as 20 pounds! Image blocking one of those as a goalie.

Water Polo was originally considered too rough for women and they didn't start playing until the 50's.

In early water polo there was no difference between an ordinary foul and an ejection. So if you fouled a player you fouled him good.

In early water polo games it was common for players to get knocked out or hurt from physical play. Players would also pass out form being held underwater too long, and many players go sick from the poor conditions of the water.