Becoming a Goalball Paralympian is a distinction very few athletes can claim. Becoming a Paralympian in any sport requires commitment and perseverance but the ultimate reward is certainly worth the effort involved. Do you have what it takes to become a Goalball Paralympian? Here’s what you’ll need to do to work towards your goal of competing in a Paralympic Games.
Learn about goalball and what it takes to be good.
If Goalball is new to you, learn about the game and know it inside and out. Check out our Goalball page to learn about players, court setup, rules, etc. Next, study the standards and selection procedures established for each major international competition so you know the qualification criteria. Additionally, the internet contains video footage of actual Goalball games that will help you better understand the sport and experience the excitement of the Paralympic Games. Check out these videos from the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games: USA Men v. LIT at Rio 2016 Paralympic Games, USA Women v. Japan at Rio 2016 Paralympic Games.
General training that will help increase your overall strength and endurance.
Sport-specific individual training like throwing form and accuracy, and defensive form that is focused on refining your individual skills on the goalball court.
Team training that will help integrate your individual skills as part of a goalball team.
Find and join a team in your area.
There are teams located across the United States for all ages and abilities and new teams are starting all the time. If you need help finding a team, email USABA Membership Manager, Kevin Brousard, at kbrousard@usaba.org. To confirm you meet the vision requirements to play goalball at national and international levels, you will want to be classified. Classification certifies your level of visual impairment for play in national and international tournaments. Vision requirements and application procedures can be found here.
Compete on the goalball court as often as you’re able. USABA hosts several major tournaments a season and there are also a number of smaller tournaments held across the United States throughout the year. Check out the goalball calendar on our website to find the next tournament happening nearest you. Our coaches routinely attend these tournaments to observe athlete performance and to provide feedback to athletes regarding their performances. Submit a proof of performance form for each competition.
Eligibility will be outlined in the Selection Procedures for each qualification event. Top athletes who participate in these events are prime candidates for Paralympic Goalball teams. You can find selection procedures for upcoming events here.