Welcome to the newest attraction at the Albany Community Pool: the human hamster ball.

Friday's "Teen Night" marked the debut of the two 6-foot, inflatable toys, big enough to hold a person as long as he or she weighs less than 160 pounds.

Aquatics Director Rob Romancier saw a picture of the balls in a magazine and decided they would be a fun addition to the pool's attractions.

"We're just trying to find some things that are different, to bring some more people to the pool," he said.

Swimmers who want to play in the balls must first have them towed to the side of the pool, then dive or crawl through one of their two circular openings. As long as the swimmers stay in the designated area, they're then free to roll, splash and bump the other hamster ball as much as they like.

Handles inside the spheres make it easier to do flips and rolls, riders said. The 4-inch inflated walls cushion any bounces.

Rebecca Quinn, 14, said she was excited to try the new toys.

"They're really cool," she said, adding that they aren't as hot and stuffy inside as they might appear. "Every time you go down on one of the openings, the water will come in and splash you."

About 41 teens took part in Friday's Teen Night, which includes pizza, soda and giveaways for a $5 entrance fee. The next teen nights are set for July 18 and Aug. 15.

The hamster balls will be available during recreation swim times throughout the summer, Romancier said.