The game has been played at International level competition since its introduction at the Paralympics in 1976 and is also included in the World Championships for the Blind. Goalball is a unique team sport for the vision impaired, played by two teams of three players. Goalball can be played on any flat surface measuring 18m x 9m, but is best played on a polished wooden floor. The court is divided into two halves.
Goals extend the full width of the court behind each team area.
The course markings including players position markings are visibly marked with 5cm width tape. String is laid under the tape to enable easier player orientation. The game is played with a ball weighing 1.250kg with noise bells inside. The object is to throw the ball over the opponent's goal line using a bowling action.