Ok, so what are the actual rules?
Team and Players
Each team has 8 players—four guys, four gals, and the best part? No one dominates! The game is all about balanced play between the genders. During the game, the girls mark the girls, and the boys mark the boys. This ensures everyone gets a fair shot at contributing and makes for a dynamic and inclusive experience!
Shooting in the Korf (Basket)
The goal is to score by throwing the ball through a circular basket (the “Korf”) mounted on a 3.5-meter-high post. Sounds easy? Well, not so fast! With the Korf perched high up, you’ll need to master the art of shooting with precision and elevation. It’s not just about aiming—it’s about getting that perfect arc to ensure your shot clears the defenders and lands right in the basket!
Zones, Korf Location, and Switching Roles
Players attack and defend in designated zones on the court. The pitch is divided into two halves, each with its Korf (basket) mounted on a 3.5-meter-high post in the centre of the half, allowing play around the post. You’ll have two primary roles in the games: attacking and defending. In one zone, you’ll be a defender, aiming to prevent shots and regain possession of the ball; in the other zone, you’ll be an attacker, striving to score and evade your defender. After every two goals scored, teams switch between these roles by changing halves, ensuring everyone experiences both ends of the court. This keeps the game dynamic and balanced, offering fresh perspectives and new challenges for both teams!
What Is Defending and How Do You Do It?
Defending in korfball involves staying close to your player with your arm up to block shots and intercept passes. To do this effectively, maintain proximity to the attacker, keeping your arm extended to create a barrier against potential shots. Position yourself strategically between the attacker and the Korf, anticipate their movements, and communicate with your teammates to cover gaps and coordinate defensive efforts. If a player takes a shot while closely defended, the shot does not count as a goal, and the ball is turned over to the defending team. Mastering these techniques effectively prevents the opposing team from scoring and helps your team regain possession of the ball.
Why No Running with the Ball Makes Korfball Exciting
In korfball, one fundamental rule is that players cannot run while holding the ball. This might sound tricky, but it makes the game fast-paced and thrilling! Once you catch the ball, you need to pass it quickly to your teammates to keep the play moving. This rule ensures no ball-hogging and encourages swift, strategic passing and movement. It also means that when you don’t have the ball, you must work hard to create space and get open for a pass. To do this effectively, you must outmanoeuvre your defender and find gaps in their coverage. The result? It is a dynamic game where every move counts, and teamwork is crucial for success!
Restarts, Free Passes, and Penalties
Restarts:
When a minor foul occurs, such as a player knocking the ball out of an opponent’s hands, the game restarts with the opposing team gaining possession from the spot of the foul. This allows the game to continue smoothly without significant disruption.
Free Passes:
A free pass is awarded for more significant fouls, like unfairly blocking a pass (not a shot) or committing other major infractions. The opposing team takes the free pass from the location of the foul, providing them with an opportunity to advance play while the fouled team is given a chance to reset.
Penalties:
If a player denies a clear scoring chance unfairly, a penalty is awarded. This rule is a powerful deterrent, as it grants the opposing team a direct shot at the Korf from a set position, offering a prime opportunity to score. More importantly, it penalizes the defender’s misconduct, ensuring fair play and an exciting game.
These rules help maintain fairness and the flow of the game, ensuring that minor and major fouls are appropriately addressed and that teams have a fair chance to compete.