Goalball players at the 2020 Summer Paralympics

Sun, 03 May 2026 11:34:47 +0000

Goalball at the 2020 Summer Paralympics: Athletes, Skills, and the Power of Inclusive Sport The 2020 Summer Paralympics, held in Tokyo from August 24 to September 5, showcased extraordinary talent, resilience, and determination — none more compelling than the goalball teams competing on the global stage. Goalball, a dynamic team sport designed for athletes with visual impairments, takes center center stage during the Paralympics, captivating audiences with its unique blend of strategy, speed, and solidarity. ### What Is Goalball? Goalball is a tactical, fast-paced team sport played in a darkened arena by athletes who are blind or visually impaired. Played by two teams of three players each, the objective is simple: roll or throw a weighted ball toward the opponent’s goal while defending your own. Only the sound of the rolling ball and player movement communicates the action — sight is not required, only skill, positioning, and teamwork. The sport emphasizes auditory awareness, precise communication, and quick reflexes, making it a powerful symbol of inclusion and accessibility in adaptive sports.