Football

What does the sport involve?

FIVE A SIDE FOOTBALL

The pitch is slightly smaller than the standard 5 a side game. As in the standard 5 a side game there are rebound boards. Matches are played outdoors with 25 minutes each half and a 10 minute break at half time. Teams are allowed to make up to 5 substitutions

All players wear blackout masks to ensure competitive fairness, the goalie is sighted. The ball makes a noise as it moves and the goalkeeper is allowed to shout directions. There is also a sighted guide behind each guide to direct their team’s players when they shoot at goal. No offside rule. Other rules are generally the same as for the standard game

Who can compete?

Open to : Men only. Players with visual impairment. Three classifications B1 for players considered to be blind and B2 and B3 for visually impaired and partially sighted

SEVEN A SIDE FOOTBALL

The pitch is smaller than in the standard game. There is no offside rule and throw ins can be taken using one hand. Matches are slightly shorter than the standard 7 a side game.  Games are  30 minutes each half with a break of 15 minutes at half time.

Players are classified according to their functional ability and each team has to field players from all classifications according to a set ratio.

Who can compete?

Open to: Currently Men only. Players with functional ability affected by cerebral palsy. Players are placed in classes 5 – 8 with 5 being the most affected and 8 being minimally affected. Teams must field at least one player from 5 or 6.

Where do I start if I want to try this sport?

The national body responsible for organisation of this sport is:

The Football Association, 25 Soho Square, London W1D 4FA

www.thefa.com

also

www.thefa.com/GrassrootsNew/  - which has information on disability football and the ‘Ability Counts’ initiative – Ability Counts Clubs and Centres of Excellence

Did you know?

GB is sending a team to Beijing Paralympic Games 2008. The last time we were represented was Atlanta 1992

Would I like this sport and what are the benefits?

Football is a good sport for those looking for a team game requiring skill, stamina and fitness and a sport with a strong tactical element. The Five a Side game is even faster moving than the standard Five a Side game because of the smaller pitch size.

 

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