[Paddlewise] Foot Pump through hull

I'm trying to install a foot pump in a VCP Pintail.  There is little  room 
between the footrail and the deck seam (hull to deck) to install the  through 
hull fitting, where the water will be expelled from the boat.
 
Is there a reason people don't install the through hull fitting on the  deck? 
 I'm thinking of placing it as close to the edge as I can and avoid  the 
seam, so water will shoot away from my boat to the side.
 
The other option is to try to reduce the size of the tubing and through  hull 
fitting so it takes less room.  I assume it will take more pressure to  push 
water through the reducer, but since the path is short (but curved like an  S) 
it shouldn't be too hard.  Would that be a problem?
 
How have others solved this dilemma?  I don't want to move the  footrail.
 
Another question if I may:  Why not pick the water up from directly  below 
the foot pump?  I know the seat is the low point, but we are talking  less than 
an inch of drop and I can use a sponge for that.  I see the foot  pump as 
being for mass amounts of water.  Will I be sorry if I do  this?
 
Any help would be appreciated.
 
Brian Blankinship