Ball: yellow with grip pattern; men's circumference 68-71 cm / weight 400-450 g; women's circumference 65-67 cm / weight 400-450 g (NCAA spec); Caps: numbered, white for one team / dark for the other; goalkeepers wear red caps with the same number; Cap ear protectors required (NCAA mandate)
Why people argue about this
People often assume that mouthguards are only for protection against teeth damage in water polo, but they're also recommended by NCAA rules as a way to prevent concussions and other oral injuries sustained from collisions with teammates or opponents. The rule's emphasis on "recommended" can lead to misunderstandings about its necessity and importance among players.
