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About Goalball
Goalball is a team sport specifically designed for athletes with visual impairments, but it is open to players with various disabilities. In this game, two teams of three players each compete to score by getting the ball into the opposing team's net. The ball used in goalball contains bells, which make a sound when the ball moves across the court.
Players wear blindfolds to ensure a level playing field for all participants. They need to rely on their other senses, especially hearing, to track the movement of the ball.
Criteria for Participation
Disability Status: We welcome all individuals with disabilities, with a particular focus on those with visual impairments. However, due to the nature of goalball, which relies heavily on auditory cues, we regret that individuals with hearing impairments may find it difficult to participate. Additionally, for wheelchair users, the game requires players to sit on the floor and move their bodies to block and throw the ball, which may not be suitable for everyone. Therefore, wheelchair users will be considered for participation on a case-by-case basis,
depending on the individual’s abilities and comfort with the required movements.
Age Requirements: 18 – 45 years.
Physical Fitness: No prior experience of goalball is required at all, but participants should
have a reasonable level of physical fitness to safely participate and enjoy the sport.
Commitment to Team Play: Goalball is a team-based sport. Participants must be willing to
work cooperatively, communicate effectively, and support their teammates.
Commitment to attend training matches: Participants must commit to attending matches
and training sessions, which are 4 times, starting in mid-September.
What is Pan Disability?
Pan disability football, or all-abilities football, is a form of the sport that is designed to be inclusive and accessible for people with a wide range of disabilities. The key idea is to create opportunities for individuals with different physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental health-related disabilities to participate in and enjoy the game of football (or soccer, as it's known in some parts of the world). In pan disability football, the rules and gameplay are adapted to accommodate the diverse needs and abilities of the players.
Participation Criteria
Disability Status: We welcome all individuals with disabilities. However, due to the game's nature, which involves movement on the field, it may be difficult for individuals with visual impairments or heavily dependent on a wheelchair to participate.
Age Requirements: 18 – 45 years.
Physical Fitness: No prior experience of goalball is required at all, but participants should have a reasonable level of physical fitness to safely participate and enjoy the sport.
Commitment to Team Play: Goalball is a team-based sport. Participants must be willing to work cooperatively, communicate effectively, and support their teammates.
Commitment to attend training matches: Participants must commit to attending four matches and training sessions total over the course of the program, which begins in mid-September.
Disclaimer
Helm will review applications and assign participants to teams in the appropriate way.