The puck slides, like on ice, but the air is far above. Welcome to underwater hockey , the fast-moving sport played on swimming pool bottoms across the United States.

Two teams of six face off under 6 to 8 feet of water, swimming, diving, and most importantly holding their breath, while they try to shoot a heavy lead puck into the goal.

Players wear fins, for speed, as well as masks, snorkels, and protective gloves and headgear. The sticks are short -- about one foot long -- so players can move them quickly through the water. Sticks flick and flash as players maneuver the puck on the bottom, shoot the puck past (or over) defenders, and bat down high shots.

Underwater hockey play and strategy is similar to soccer or ice hockey, except that the air is so far away from the playing surface. Success -- putting the puck in the goal trough at the bottom of each end wall -- this ultimately depends on teamwork, since no one can hold their breath forever.