So...What is Goalball?
As its name suggests, goalball is a ball game: it is also a team game but it has three characteristics that distinguish it from all other team ball games played by sighted people.
Firstly….it is played with a ball containing bells so when it is in motion its position can be determined by listening.
Secondly….it is played on a court with tactile markings that enable the players to determine their position by touch.
Thirdly….all the players wear eyeshades which completely block out any residual vision that they may have so all have equal sight advantage – none!
Playing the Game
There are three players on court for each of the two teams. Each team occupies one end of the court defending their goal. The object of the game is to throw, or rather, bowl the ball into the opponent’s goal.
Starting Play
Play starts with the centre player of one team having the ball. This player can either pass the ball to one of their team-mates or have a shot at the opponent’s goal themselves.
What happens next?
Unless an infringement is called, there are four possible outcomes:
1. The ball passes over the opponent’s goal line – GOAL!
2. The ball passes out of court to one side or the other – OUT is called and the ball given to the defending team.
3. The ball is deflected out of court by a defender – BLOCKED OUT is called and the ball given to the defending team.
4. The ball is caught by a defender who then becomes the attacker.
How long does a game last?
IBSA rules dictate that in international events the time limit is 10 minutes each way. In other events this may be reduced to 4 or 5 minutes. This may not sound very long but the clock runs only whilst the ball is actually in play.
How do you win?
By scoring more goals than your opponents in the time allowed. Drawn games are rare but should they happen and a result is required (as in a knock-out competition) then there is either a penalty shoot-out or a ‘golden goal’ is played.