Goalball

What does this sport involve?

Separate events for men and women. Each team has 6 players but only 3 team members can be on the court, which is 18m x 9m with a goal at each end, at any one time. The object of the game is to score goals by rolling the ball into the opposing team’s net whilst defending your own goal. The ball has a bell so that players are able to track it and has to skim across the surface of the court, not be thrown in the air.

Each match lasts 20 minutes. Matches are played in absolute silence so that players can track the ball. A common defensive tactic is for players to stretch full length on the court to block the ball. Players wear black out goggles to ensure equality in the competition. Team with the most goals wins

Who can compete?

Open to: Men and Women with visual impairment

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

The organisation responsible for this sport is:

British Blind Sport, 4 – 6 Victoria Terrace, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire CV31 3AB

www.britishblindsport.org.uk –  disabled sport - Goalball

Tel: 01487 843344  email ryan@britishblindsport.org.uk or 01525 860805  email gillian@britishblindsport.org.uk

Other contacts:

or   www.goalball.co.uk

contact the Development Officer James Risdon. email jamesrisdon@goalball.co.uk

Currently there is not a team in every area but if you are interested in this sport use the contacts listed above. If enough people express an interest more teams can be established

Did you know?

Goalball made its first appearance in the Paralympic Games in 1976 for Men and 1984 for Women. The sport was originally developed in 1946 by Hans Lorenzen and Sapp Reindle to assist in rehabilitation of blinded war veterans. The first World Championship was held in Austria in 1978

Would I like this sport and what are the benefits?

This sport may be the sport for you if you have good auditory skill, concentration, focus and agility or want to develop these skills and want to compete as part of a team. Whatever the degree of your visual impairment, competitive equality is ensured by use of the blackout goggles.

 

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