University Recreation Offers Goalball, Similar to Dodgeball for Visually Impaired

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University Recreation’s accessible recreation program is hosting its second annual “Goalball Game” on Monday, Nov. 13, from 6-8 p.m. in Gym 1 of the Health, Physical Education and Recreation Building.

Goalball is a highly competitive sport that was originally designed for blind athletes. Participants compete in teams of three, indoors on the gym floor. The objective is to roll a three-pound Goalball past the opposing team without them stopping the ball. If all three players on the opposing team miss the ball and it goes past them, it is considered a goal. The team with the most goals at the end of two 10-minute halves wins the game.

For those who are not visually impaired, “there’s a catch to the game, you must stop the ball while you are blindfolded,” said Jessica Graham, graduate assistant for University Recreation’s Fitness/Wellness program.

The University Recreation staff decided to program Goalball into its special events after Amnol Bhatia, a visually impaired graduate student, pitched the idea to Graham. Bhatia originally wanted UREC to host the game for him and his friends, but decided to make it a larger event and open it up to everyone.

“I want to show how fun, challenging and competitive this game is because I don’t think many people know much about the game,” said Bhatia.

Participation is free and open to the public, and all equipment will be provided. Food and drinks will be provided to participants and spectators.

“We wanted to put on an event that would be not only fun, but accessible to everyone, regardless of fitness level,” said Graham.