Korfball Rules: How To Play Korfball

Korfball is a team sport that started in the Netherlands in 1902. It mixes basketball and netball, needing teamwork, communication, and fitness. The goal is to throw the ball into a raised basket, called a "korf"¹.

Each team has eight players, with four women and four men¹. The game is played on a court, indoors or outdoors, with different sizes². The ball must be round, size 5, and approved by the International Korfball Federation (IKF). It should weigh between 445g and 475g and have a circumference of 68cm to 70.5cm².

A match is split into two halves, each lasting 25 minutes. There's a one-minute break in the middle of each half¹. If it's a tie, a 10-minute golden goal period is played to find the winner¹. Teams can make up to eight substitutions¹.

Korfball is a team sport that originated in the Netherlands in 1902.
Each team consists of four men and four women, with two of each gender in each zone.
The objective is to score more goals than the opposing team by throwing the ball through a raised basket, known as a "korf".
Matches are played in two halves of 25 minutes each, with a one-minute technical time-out in the middle of each half.
Substitutions are allowed at any time, with a maximum of eight substitutions per team.

Introduction to Korfball

Korfball is a team sport that combines elements of netball and basketball. It was created in 1902 by Dutch teacher Nico Broekhuysen. He was inspired by a Swedish game and made his own version³. At first, it was controversial because of its mixed-gender teams. But, it has become more popular and was even shown at the 1920 and 1928 Olympic Games³.

Korfball focuses on strategy, teamwork, and skill. Each team has eight players, with four females and four males or all females. The goal is to throw the ball through the opposing team's "korf" to score³. It has its own rules that make it different from other sports³.

Korfball's history goes back to the early 1900s. Its growth has been influenced by coaching theories and the International Korfball Federation (IKF)³. Today, it's played globally, attracting fans who love its teamwork and inclusive nature³.

If you're interested in Korfball, this introduction is a great start. It covers its history and the basics that make it a fun and unique game⁴³⁵.

The Objective of Korfball

The main goal in korfball is to score more goals than the other team to win⁶. Points are scored by throwing the ball through the opponent's "korf". A goal is counted when the ball goes through the korf from above⁶. The team with the most goals at the end of the game wins⁶.

If the score is tied, a "golden goal" period or penalty shootout can decide the winner⁶.

Scoring Goals

Scoring in korfball happens by throwing the ball through the opponent's korf⁶. But, a goal is only valid if the ball is within reach of players when the game ends⁶. Breaking the rules can lead to a re-start, free pass, or penalty for the other team⁶.

Winning the Game

The team with the most goals at the end of the game wins⁶. In professional games, there's a 25-second limit in the attack zone without touching the korf or scoring⁶. Penalties are taken from 2.5 meters in front of the post, with rules on player positioning⁶.

A free pass is taken from the penalty spot, with rules on player movement after the whistle⁶.

The game stops when the ball touches a boundary line, the ground outside, a person, or an object outside the field⁶. Each team has four female and four male players, divided into attack and defense zones⁶. The field is 40 meters x 20 meters, with each zone being 20 meters x 20 meters⁶.

The post is 6.67 meters from the outline, with a penalty spot 2.5 meters in front of it⁶. Players can't touch the ball with their legs or feet below the knee⁶.

"Korfball is a team sport that combines elements of basketball, netball, and handball. The objective is to score more goals than the opposing team by throwing the ball through the raised basket or 'korf'."

Korfball aims to score more goals than the opponent to win. The game has specific rules for scoring, player movements, and penalties to ensure fairness and fun⁶.

Korfball Scoring and Winning Conditions
- Scoring is achieved by throwing the ball through the opposing team's raised basket or "korf"
- A goal is only valid if the ball completely passes through the korf from above
- The team that scores the most goals by the end of the match is declared the winner
- In case of a tie, a "golden goal" period or penalty shootout may be used to determine the winner
- Violations of the rules can lead to a re-start, free pass, or penalty being awarded to the opposing team

Korfball has a rich history and is played in over 70 countries worldwide⁷. The International Korfball Federation (IKF) governs the sport, organizing major competitions and promoting its growth globally⁷.

Korfball Court and Equipment

Korfball is played on a rectangular court. Indoor courts are 20 meters by 40 meters, while outdoor courts are 30 meters by 60 meters⁸. Each end has a korf (basket) on a 3.5-meter pole. The court's total area is 924 square meters, needing 11,550 tiles⁸.

The edges are 40 centimeters by 6.2 centimeters, with 160 pairs. The corners are 6.2 centimeters by 6.2 centimeters, with 6 corners total⁸.

Court Dimensions

The tiles for a korfball court are 40 centimeters by 40 centimeters by 1.58 centimeters⁸. Installing a regulation court costs between £28,687.00 and £32,989.00⁸. These courts have a 6-year warranty and meet ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 standards⁸.

The lead time for marking and delivery is 6 weeks. The courts also have antibacterial properties⁸.

Ball Specifications

The korfball ball is a round, IKF-approved number 5 ball. It weighs between 445 and 475 grams and has a circumference of 68 to 70.5 centimeters⁸. It's made of high-performance polypropylene copolymer material and is qualified by FIBA⁸.

Players don't need extra equipment, just their team's uniform and suitable shoes⁸.

"Korfball is like a mix between basketball and lacrosse where players pass the ball with their hands, can't dribble, and score points by tossing the ball into an 11.5-foot goal post that lacks a backboard."⁹

Korfball was created in 1901 by a Dutch school teacher in Amsterdam⁹. It's designed for both men and women to play together. Teams have four men and four women working together to score⁹.

To qualify for the World Games, a team must be Top 8 in the world⁹.

The United States Korfball Federation (USKF) has been promoting the sport. They donated 10 korfball goals and ball sets to Birmingham City Schools⁹. The introduction of korfball in Birmingham City Schools was a hit with the students⁹.

The U.S. won a bronze medal in korfball at the 1985 World Games in London. One of its players, Chris Frederick, was chosen for the All-World All-Star Team in 1987⁹. Birmingham City Schools plan to continue teaching korfball⁹.

Korfball is mainly played in the Netherlands and is also popular in Belgium and Taiwan¹⁰. The International Korfball Federation (IKF) organizes world championships¹⁰. Korfball was a demonstration sport at the Olympics in 1920 and 1928¹⁰. The team with the higher number of points at the end of the game wins¹⁰.

Korfball Court Specifications	Dimensions
Indoor Court Size	20 meters x 40 meters
Outdoor Court Size	30 meters x 60 meters
Installed Area	924 square meters (11,550 tiles)
Edge Dimensions	40 cm x 6.2 cm (160 pairs)
Corner Dimensions	6.2 cm x 6.2 cm (6 corners)
Tile Dimensions	40 cm x 40 cm x 1.58 cm
Cost Range	£28,687.00 - £32,989.00
Warranty	6 Years
Conformity	ISO 9001/ISO 14001
Lead Time	6 Weeks
Features	Antibacterial
Material	High Performance Polypropylene Copolymer
Ball Certification	Qualified and tested by FIBA

Korfball Players and Teams

Korfball is a team sport that values gender balance and equal play. A team has eight players, with four women and four men¹¹¹²¹³. The game is divided into two zones, each with two women and two men. Players can only defend players of the same gender and stay in their zone.

Even with missing players, the game can start or continue. Each zone must have at least three players, with one of each gender¹¹. This rule adds a strategic layer, as teams must adjust their play based on who's available.

Korfball offers many ways to play and strategize. Teams can use different formations like 4:0, 3:1, and 2:2, each with its own strengths¹¹. Players also use various shooting techniques, showing the sport's skill and adaptability.

Defensively, players must keep the ball close to the attacker, highlighting the game's defensive aspect¹¹. This approach ensures a safe and respectful game for everyone¹².

Korfball teams can also play beach korfball, with two men and two women per team¹². This shows the sport's flexibility and appeal to different settings and preferences.

Korfball stands out for its gender balance, diverse team structures, and focus on safety and respect¹¹¹²¹³.

Basic Rules of Korfball

Korfball is a team sport that mixes basketball and netball. It has basic rules for gameplay. These rules cover player movements, ball handling, fouls, and violations. Knowing these rules helps players and fans enjoy the game more.

Player Movements

In korfball, players can't dribble, run, or walk with the ball. They can only pivot on one foot while holding it¹⁴. Players also can't touch the ball with their leg or foot, hit it with their fist, or catch it while not standing¹⁴.

Handling the Ball

Korfball has strict rules for handling the ball. Players can only take two steps while catching it, allowing for a running-in shot¹⁴. They must pass the ball to a teammate within 3 seconds¹⁵.

Fouls and Violations

Actions like pushing, holding, or hindering an opponent are fouls. They can lead to a restart, free pass, or penalty for the opposing team¹⁴. Violations like carrying the ball, double dribbling, or stepping out of bounds can also cause a turnover or change of possession¹⁴.

By following these rules, korfball players can play a fair and dynamic game. They show their skills and teamwork while keeping sportsmanship in mind¹⁵.

Rule	Description
Player Movements	Players cannot dribble, run, or walk with the ball Players can only pivot on one foot while holding the ball Players cannot touch the ball with their leg, foot, or hit it with their fist Players cannot catch the ball while any part of their body, other than their feet, is in contact with the ground
Ball Handling	Players can take a maximum of two steps while catching the ball Players can only hold the ball for up to 3 seconds before passing it to a teammate
Fouls and Violations	Pushing, holding, or hindering an opponent is considered a foul Violations such as carrying the ball, double dribbling, or stepping out of bounds can lead to a turnover or a change of possession

By following these basic rules, korfball players can engage in a dynamic and fair game. They showcase their skills and teamwork while keeping sportsmanship in mind¹⁵.

Starting the Game

Korfball matches start with a throw-off. An attacker from the home team throws the ball from their zone, no more than 2 meters from the center¹⁶. This rule also applies when the game restarts after a goal, with the team that conceded the goal throwing first¹⁶.

The korfball game start is key to setting the game's pace. Players must line up right, and the throw-off must follow the korfball throw off rules for a fair start¹⁷. Each team has eight players, with equal numbers of men and women, promoting gender equality¹⁷.

Games can start or continue with fewer players, as long as there are at least three from each gender¹⁸. This rule keeps the game inclusive and balanced, giving all players a chance to help their team¹⁷.

As the game goes on, the korfball throw off rules stay the same. This ensures a smooth game flow and a fair start after each goal¹⁶. The focus on starting procedures shows the sport's values of sportsmanship, equality, and strategy¹⁷.

Korfball Scoring and Zone Changes

Korfball is a fast-paced sport where scoring is key. A goal is scored when the attacking team throws the ball through the opposing team's korf (basket) from above¹⁸. Each goal is worth one point, and the team with the most points wins the game.

The korfball scoring system is unique. It features a zone change after every two goals¹⁸. This means the teams switch roles, with the attackers becoming defenders and vice versa. They also swap ends at halftime¹⁹. But, the player positions and roles stay the same, keeping the game balanced.

Scoring Rules	Zone Changes
One point per goal Team with most points wins	Zones switch after every 2 goals Attackers become defenders, and vice versa Teams swap ends at halftime

This system makes korfball more strategic and adaptable¹⁸¹⁹. Players must always adjust their tactics to outsmart their opponents.

"The korfball scoring system with its zone changes keeps the game fast-paced and unpredictable, requiring players to constantly adapt their strategies and skills."

Throw Off and Restarts

Korfball games start with a throw-off. An attacker from the home team throws the ball from their zone, no more than 2 meters from the field's center²⁰. The same way, the game restarts after each goal, with the team that lost the goal getting the ball²⁰.

Throw Off Rules

The attacking player has 4 seconds to pass the ball at least 2.5 meters. This rule ensures a fair start and prevents quick possession changes²⁰.

Restart Procedures

Restarts happen after stoppages like the ball going out of bounds or a foul²⁰. The game starts again from where the foul happened. The player has 4 seconds to pass the ball at least 2.5 meters before others can touch it²⁰.

The referee uses signals to show what's happening next. They raise their hands to signal a substitution²¹. They make a 'T-signal' for a timeout²¹. And they point to the penalty spot for a direct penalty²¹.

These signals help everyone know what's happening and what to do next²⁰. Following the throw-off and restart rules is key to a fair and smooth Korfball game²⁰.

Penalties and Free Passes

Korfball is a unique team sport with rules for penalties and free passes. These rules help keep the game fair and in order²².

A penalty shot is taken from 2.5 meters in front of the korf (basket). All other players must stay at least 2.5 meters away. This rule makes sure the shot is clear and free²².

A free pass is taken from the penalty spot. But, players must be 2.5 meters away, and attackers can't be closer than 2.5 meters to each other. The player has 4 seconds to pass the ball at least 2.5 meters before others can touch it²².

Infringements during a free pass can lead to penalties. These can be re-starts or new free passes, based on the team that made the mistake²². If the defending team makes a mistake twice, the attacking team gets a penalty²².

The Korfbal League competition (2009 - 2010) saw 744 penalties given. This led to 673 goals, with a penalty success rate of 90.4%²³. Roxanne Detering from Koog Zaandijk scored 44 goals out of 65 free passes, achieving a success rate of 67.69%²³.

Team	Free Pass Success Rate
Blauw Wit	34.57%
Dalto	35.8%
Deetos	40.2%
Dos	40%
Fortuna	33%
KZaandijk	58.6%
Nic	43.14%
PKC	52.2%
TOP	34.5%

These stats show how crucial it is to know and follow the korfball penalty rules, korfball free pass rules, and korfball foul penalties. This ensures fair and competitive play²³.

Substitutions and Time-Outs

Korfball, like many sports, has rules for substitutions and time-outs. Each team can make up to 8 substitutions per game²⁴. These changes can only happen when play stops, keeping the game moving²⁵.

Time-outs are a special part of korfball. Teams can ask for two one-minute breaks per game²⁴. During these breaks, coaches and players must stay near their benches to plan and recharge²⁵.

The rules for substitutions and time-outs can change. The Competition Regulations (CR) might adjust how many substitutes are allowed²⁴. They also decide if coaches can use communication gear during the game²⁴. These rules affect a team's strategy and how they work together, making them key to the game.

The korfball rules for substitutions and time-outs aim for a balance. They let teams make changes while keeping the game's flow²⁵. Knowing these rules is vital for players and fans to fully enjoy the game.

Tie-Breaking and Golden Goal

In korfball, the goal is to throw the ball through a hoop. When a match is tied, special rules kick in. These rules help end the game, making it exciting for everyone watching²⁶.

When a korfball game is tied after regular time, a golden goal period starts. This 10-minute overtime lets the team with the ball at the end of regular time start. They aim to score first, winning the game²⁶.

If no team scores in overtime, a penalty shootout decides the winner. Teams take turns shooting at the korf. The team with the most successful shots wins²⁶.

The golden goal rule was introduced in 1993 for sports like football and hockey. It ensures a clear winner in tied games²⁶. In korfball, it keeps the game exciting and fair²⁶.

These rules make korfball thrilling and unpredictable. They add drama to the game, exciting both players and fans.

Korfball History and Origins

The story of korfball starts in 1902 when Dutch teacher Nico Broekhuysen created it²⁷. He was inspired by a Swedish game and made it a sport for mixed teams²⁷. This idea was new and faced some opposition, but korfball grew in popularity²⁷.

It was even featured as a demonstration sport in the 1920 and 1928 Olympic Games²⁸. Though it didn't become a regular Olympic sport, its popularity continued to rise²⁸.

Invention of Korfball

Nico Broekhuysen, a Dutch physical education teacher, invented korfball in 1902²⁷. He was inspired by a Swedish game and made it a sport for mixed teams²⁷. This was a new idea at the time and faced some controversy²⁷.

But, as time went on, korfball started to gain more fans and grow in popularity²⁷.

Korfball's Growth

Korfball grew and became organized in different places²⁸. In 1975, the Kent Korfball Association was set up, showing the sport's growth in Kent²⁸. In 1990, the British Student Korfball Association was created, focusing on university players²⁸.

In 1994, the British Korfball Association started a National League with teams from London, Kent, and Surrey²⁸. This showed a structured league system in England²⁸. By 2006, England, Scotland, and Wales had their own national organizations, showing a move towards local governing bodies²⁸.

Korfball has also done well internationally²⁸. England has won third place in the World Championships in 1987 and 1999²⁸. They also got fourth place in 1978 and 1984, showing their success in the sport²⁸.

The England Korfball League was created to improve playing standards and include more players²⁸. The Strategic Plan for 2012-2016 aimed to grow korfball sustainably and build on past successes²⁸.

Today, korfball is played in over 66 countries²⁹. The Netherlands and Belgium are the top countries in the sport²⁹. The International Korfball Federation, started in 1933 in Belgium²⁹, helps the sport grow and develop worldwide²⁹.

Korfball Strategies and Techniques

Korfball is a team sport that needs coordination, communication, and fitness. Teams use korfball strategies and gameplay techniques to win³⁰. They focus on passing, defense, and shooting.

To do well in korfball, players need to master many skills³⁰. This includes handling the ball, pivoting, and shooting accurately³⁰. Teams also need to support each other and make smart decisions to succeed.

Teams that stay fit do better in games³⁰. Fitness helps with skills, efficiency, and staying healthy³⁰. Being fit is key, especially at first, but mental toughness is also important.

Korfball players must learn skills like³⁰ dodging, feinting, and moving. They also need to throw, catch, and shoot well.
Players should work on³⁰ motivation, self-image, and problem-solving. These skills help in korfball and life.
Setting goals and understanding others are important³⁰. These skills help players grow.
Teamwork is key, with skills like³⁰ problem-solving and supporting teammates. These help the team succeed.

Korfball Australia has reward schemes for players³⁰. These schemes recognize skills and teamwork. They help players improve and feel valued.

For kids, game modifications make korfball fun and safe³⁰. These changes include smaller courts and easier rules. They help kids learn and enjoy the game.

Coaches and referees are crucial³⁰. They adjust rules and coaching for each player's level. This helps everyone learn and grow.

The "The Art of Korfball Coaching" book is from 2021³¹. It shows the value of working together in korfball³¹. It helps coaches improve and share knowledge.

"The Korfball Coaching Theory is oriented towards practical translation of scientific disciplines knowledge."

³¹

Korfball Governing Bodies

The International Korfball Federation (IKF) oversees korfball worldwide³². It was founded in 1933 and has grown the sport since the late 1970s⁷. With about 50 member countries, the IKF sets the official rules and promotes korfball globally³².

Korfball teams have an equal number of male and female players, promoting gender equality³². A game involves eight players: four of each gender, ensuring equal participation³². The sport's growth matches changing social attitudes, showing its progressive nature³².

Aside from the IKF, countries and regions have their own korfball associations. These groups work with the IKF to follow the sport's rules and promote it locally.

Key Korfball Governing Body Figures	Role
Sam Wells	Former England international player and manager, overseeing the organization's finances.
Ralph Appleby	Joined the Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme in June 2018 and became the National Lead for Practitioner Development in September 2022.
Cathy Hughes	Spent 15 years at Sport England and was Head of Equality & Diversity.
Philip Morton	Has a professional background in construction and chairs the EKI National Panel.
Stella Hegarty	Has over 35 years of experience in business and is the Chair of Trojans KC.

Korfball was recognized by the International Olympic Committee in 1993³². It has been played at the World Games since 1985, showing its international growth³². The first Korfball World Championships were in 1978, held every four years since 1987³².

Korfball is played on various surfaces, including hard court, artificial grass, beach, and water³². Most elite-level matches are played indoors³².

Conclusion

Korfball is a unique and dynamic team sport that blends basketball and netball styles. It features mixed-gender teams and strict rules on movement and ball handling. This sport focuses on teamwork and communication, making it special for players and fans³³.

Knowing the basic rules, gameplay, and strategies of korfball enhances its appeal. It shows the sport's rich history, global popularity, and growth potential³³. Understanding korfball can help spread its awareness and grow it in the U.S. and worldwide³⁴.

Despite challenges like gender disparity in roles like coaches and referees, progress is being made. Efforts are underway to encourage female involvement in all aspects of the sport³⁴. The Korfball Global Survey 2016 showed positive changes in gender relationships among players. This suggests a move towards more equality and inclusion in korfball³⁴.

FAQ

What is the history of korfball?

Korfball was created in 1902 by Nico Broekhuysen, a Dutch teacher. He was inspired by a Swedish game and made his own version. At first, people were unsure about the mixed-gender teams. But, it became more popular over time.

Korfball was even shown at the 1920 and 1928 Olympic Games. Though it was not a regular Olympic sport.

How do you play korfball?

Korfball is played with eight players on each team. There are four women and four men on each team. The goal is to throw the ball through a raised basket, called a "korf".

Players can't dribble, walk, or run with the ball. They can only defend players of the same gender.

What are the basic rules of korfball?

Korfball has rules about how players can move and handle the ball. Players can't dribble, walk, or run with the ball. They can only pivot on one foot while holding it.

It's also not allowed to touch the ball with the leg or foot. Or hit it with the fist. Catching the ball while not standing on both feet is also not allowed.

Actions like pushing, holding, or hindering an opponent are considered fouls. These can lead to a restart, free pass, or penalty for the opposing team.

What is the korfball court like?

Korfball is played on a rectangular court. Indoor courts are 20 meters by 40 meters. Outdoor courts are 30 meters by 60 meters.

The court has a korf (basket) at each end. The ball used is a round, IKF-approved number 5 ball. It weighs between 445 and 475 grams and is 68 to 70.5 centimeters in circumference.

How are korfball teams structured?

A korfball team has eight players, with four women and four men or eight women. The players are divided into two zones, with two men and two women in each zone.

Players can't switch zones during the game. They can only defend players of the same gender. If a team is missing players, the game can still start or continue as long as each zone has at least three players, with one player of each gender.

How do you score points in korfball?

A goal is scored when the ball goes through the opposing team's korf (basket) from above. Each goal is worth one point. The team with the most points at the end of the game wins.

After every two goals, the teams switch zones. The attackers become defenders and vice versa.

How long does a korfball game last?

A korfball game usually lasts 40 minutes, divided into two halves of 20 minutes each. If the game is tied, a "golden goal" period of 10 minutes is played to determine the winner.

If no team scores during the golden goal period, a penalty shootout is used to break the tie.

What are the penalties and free passes in korfball?

Korfball has penalties and free passes for rule violations. A penalty shot is taken from 2.5 meters in front of the korf. All other players must be at least 2.5 meters away from the shot.

A free pass is taken from the penalty spot. But in this case, all players except the taker must be 2.5 meters away. The attacking players must also be 2.5 meters from each other.

How do substitutions and time-outs work in korfball?

Korfball allows for limited substitutions and time-outs. Each team can make a maximum of 8 substitutions per match. Substitutions can only be made during a stoppage in play.

Time-outs are one-minute breaks in the game. A team's coach can request two time-outs per match.

Where is korfball most popular?

Korfball is played in over 66 countries worldwide. The Netherlands and Belgium are the most successful nations in the sport. Its popularity has grown over time, though it has never become a regular Olympic event.

References

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Korfball
https://korfball.sport/playing-rules/
http://www.croydonkorfball.com/rules.pdf
https://medium.com/@jimography/introduction-to-korfball-c22a0d53225
https://korfball.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/IntrotoKorfballforTeachers14-2.pdf
https://korfball.sport/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/The-basic-rules-of-korfball-IKF.pdf
https://sportsmatik.com/sports/korfball
https://www.usakorfball.org/about-us/
https://www.sportandrecreation.org.uk/news/industry/a-beginners-guide-to-korfball-the-mixed-gende
https://korfball.sport/playing-rules/7-4/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Substitution_(sport)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golden_goal
https://korfball.org.au/improving-gender-relations-through-sport-the-international-korfball-experience
https://korfball.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/KORFBALL-YOUTH-DEVELOPMENT3RDedition.pdf