Coed Colpbol: Basic Rules and a 7v7 Game
An introduction to colpbol, an invasion game created in the Valencia region of Spain with a coeducational aim, in which the ball is struck and never held. Since no one can keep the ball, the game forces quick passing and gets the whole team involved.
How to play
- Court explanation: strike with hands or arms, no holding, no one strikes twice in a row, and goals are scored on a handball goal from outside the area (4 min).
- 3 vs 2 to goal on both halves, with a goalkeeper (6 min).
- Game 1, coed teams of six plus a goalie; two students referee and call double touches (10 min).
- Tactical timeout: each team spots the player who has touched the ball least and plans how to get it to them more (3 min).
- Game 2 with the same teams and different referees (10 min).
- Quick review: did the share of touches change after the timeout? (2 min).
Rules
- No catching, holding or throwing: only strikes with hands or arms.
- No player strikes the ball twice in a row.
- No contact: don't push or hit an opponent's arm when contesting the ball.
- Teams on the court are always coed.
Variations
Easier
One bounce allowed before striking, and the ball may go back to the goalie as often as needed.
Standard
Game with the basic rules and two student referees.
Harder
A goal counts double if every court player on the team touched the ball first.
Adaptations
- Wheelchair users play on court with a larger ball, and opponents stay one meter away when they strike.
- Hand injury: strikes only with the forearm or plays goalie, who can block with the body.
- Students with little team-sport experience referee game 1 and join game 2 with a teammate as a buddy.
Learning goals
- Learn and apply colpbol's basic rules.
- Keep the ball moving without holding it.
- Appreciate a sport designed for coed play.
Equipment for a class of 25
- soft balls: 4
- handball goals: 2
- pinnies: 15
- whistles: 2
- stopwatch: 1
Teacher tip
The official ball is soft and light; if you don't have one, use a handball-size coated foam ball. Typical mistake: carrying the ball in the hand; referees should call it from the start.
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