Notes for O & M Instructors

Whether born with a sight impairment, or losing sight later in life, orientation and mobility is a significant challenge. Goalball was invented specifically to aid in the rehabilitation process. In the 1940’s many men returned from war blinded and Goalball was used to aid in their rehabilitation. The very roots of the game and the techniques used in playing the game help in improving confidence in moving around a semi open space. The markings, goals and players all help in improving general orientation skills. Finally hand-ear coordination is something that is very important to the blind and Goalball is the perfect environment in order to improve this. It is hard to believe but top players of the game are able to throw a ball 20 metres and hit a target 30cm wide 90% of the time.