Learn more about our sport!

What is Goalball?

Goalball is a sport exclusive to athletes with visual impairments and is perhaps one of the more popular blind sports.  As with most blind sports, Goalball is played with a ball with noise bells and on a gym court. The objective is to roll the ball into the opponent’s net while the opposing players use their bodies to block the ball. If the opposing team successfully blocks the attack and takes control of the ball, they try to do the same.

Each game is 24 minutes divided into two 12-minute halves with a three-minute halftime. Goalball teams have three players (one center and two wingers) allowed on the court at any time but typically have about six players total. Each team’s net spans the width of the court at each end. Players can orient themselves on the court by using tactile markings. Silence during playtime is critical to allow the players to listen, concentrate, and react.

Important equipment includes goalballs which have noise bells inside, eyeshades, and eyepatches which help keep all visual impairments on an equal field, and two goals which will go at each end of the court. Other equipment includes knee, elbow, and hip padding to help prevent injuries.

For more information about the sport, feel free to check out the U.S. Association of Blind Athletes.