Goalball for all: Exciting new taster sessions across the UK!
Goalball UK has announced thirteen new goalball taster sessions. The sessions are scheduled to take place in locations around the country to ensure the lasting impact of the IBSA World Games.
The extra sessions will be delivered from September by new and existing goalball clubs to encourage people of all ages to try goalball. No experience is needed!
The sessions are open to all abilities, with many clubs opening their doors to players from eight-years-old upwards.
Whilst goalball is a sport designed for blind and partially sighted players, sighted friends and family can join in too. In fact, we encourage it. Many young players enjoy having a sibling or friend with them for their first session.
Alex Bunney, Participation Lead at Goalball UK, said:
“The open sessions offer a chance for many more people across the UK to try goalball. We’re hoping the IBSA World Games in Coventry will inspire people to have a go themselves!
“Even if you don’t fancy playing goalball, there are so many opportunities to be part of this fun sport. From volunteering and supporting to assisting players there are many ways to get involved.”
Find your nearest open session
If there is no goalball club in your area and you would like to set one up, we can help. The Goalball UK website has all the information to get going and we are on hand to support you every step of the way:
Funding for the extra sessions was made available through the Goalball UK ‘IBSA World Games Open Sessions’ grant, made possible through our funded partnership with Sport England. Clubs and groups who would like their sessions promoted are still welcome to get in touch.
About the IBSA World Games
The 2023 International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA) World Games is the largest high-level international event for athletes with visual impairment. More than 1250 competitors from 70 nations will compete at the games.
The games will be held across Birmingham and other regional venues between August 18-27.
West Midlands Sight Loss Councils and Thomas Pocklington Trust are supporting the development of this event. This includes through vision awareness sessions for staff, sharing our expertise on the legacy and volunteering committees, and supporting the development of wayfinding solutions in some of the world games venues. This builds on our experience of supporting the development of the 2022 Commonwealth Games and other sporting events last year.
Publication date: 22 August 2023