Goalball 3v3 with Tactile Lines
A modified 3-on-3 goalball game on a court with tactile lines made of tape over a strip of rope, where each player holds a fixed position (center and two wings). It builds orientation by touch, coordinated line defense, and respect for the silence rules.
How to play
- Set up 2 courts of 12 x 9 yards with tape over a length of rope so the lines can be felt; the 9-yard end line is the goal, with cones at each end.
- Form 8 teams of 3 (the extra student is a permanent referee); two teams play on each court, while the other four teams referee, keep time, and watch safety from the sideline.
- Review positions (2 min): the center defends up front in the middle and the wings cover the sides; each player orients by touching the markings in their area.
- The attacking team has 10 seconds to roll the ball; it must touch the floor before the center line. It's a goal if it crosses the opponent's end line.
- After each throw, the defending team controls the ball and goes on offense; the referee calls "Play!" to restart and "Stop!" to pause.
- Play games of two 4-minute halves and rotate so the refereeing teams play next; complete two rounds (about 20 min).
Rules
- All players on court wear blindfolds, whatever their vision.
- The audience stays completely silent while the ball is in play.
- Touching your blindfold without the referee's permission is a penalty.
- Safety: no one leaves their court, and the referee stops play if a ball heads into another court.
Variations
Easier
Shrink the court to 9 x 6 yards and allow 15 seconds to attack.
Standard
3 on 3, 12 x 9-yard court, and 10 seconds to throw.
Harder
Add a rule that the same player can't throw three times in a row.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the student defends as a seated center and their team's goal is narrowed to 6 yards.
- Students with a real visual impairment: they play under the same rules and can coach the team on orientation.
- Shy students: start as referee, which gives a clear, visible role without game pressure.
Learning goals
- Orient on the court using tactile lines and sound.
- Coordinate line defense with teammates.
- Play a Paralympic sport while following its rules.
Equipment for a class of 25
- goalball: 2
- blindfolds: 12
- tape (rolls): 4
- cones: 8
- mats: 4
Teacher tip
Set up the lines before class; it takes the most time. Students who referee should enforce silence, which keeps them engaged and teaches the rules.
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