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The game of soccer continues to be a favourite pastime of all Africans. This is not in any way different for visually impaired or blind sportsmen or women. Be it as observers, players or coach’s soccer is entrenched in the hearts and minds of many blind and visually impaired persons.
The original version of the game was played in schools and the phenomenon has grown to draw the masses to participation all around the world. Due to the simple nature of the game and not requiring much space the evolution continues. Soccer in any fashion generates emotions; pride and passion, which will see it, live on through the ages.
This same emotions, pride and passion can be found in those blind and visually impaired players who have gravitated towards the sport. Futsal for the blind originally developed as an indoors sport as the space and adaptations required allowed the game to flow more easily. With the side boards and the different dimensions less interruptions in the game were evident and the improved element of orientation (along side boards) and with a sighted goalkeeper and the assistance of a guide behind the opponent’s goals this allowed for a greater enjoyment by the players.
As with most sport for the blind the game requires players to be categorised according to their eye classification. All matches are played between two teams. For the totally blind (B1) each team may not consist of more than five players, four of whom shall be completely blind (B1) and a goalkeeper who may be fully sighted or partially sighted (B2 or B3 category). The goalkeeper will also assume the role of a guide.
Substitutions are permitted and are the number of substitutions is unlimited in the game. A maximum of four outfield players and one goalkeeper may be substituted. Any player who has been replaced may return at a later stage to the game as a substitute for another player.
The basic compulsory equipment of a player is a jersey, shorts, socks, shin guards and footwear - canvas or soft-leather training or gymnastic shoes with soles of rubber or a similar material. Footwear must be worn.
B1 players together with the above mentioned equipment would make use of eye patches in both eyes (optional if you have prosthetic eyes) and blindfolds that are made of absorbent materials. Players also have the option of wearing a protective headband
Matches are divided into two 25 minute halves. Each team is allowed a 1-minute time-out in each half.
Some interesting fouls that can be committed include
Any player who commits five personal fouls during a match must leave the field of play. He may be substituted immediately by another player but is not permitted to return to the field of play during that match.
fails to say clearly and audibly the word “voy” or “go”, or any other similar word, when seeking the ball, tackling or searching for the ball; plays the ball, tackles or seeks the ball with his head down.
PENALTY KICK
A penalty kick is awarded against a team that commits any of the above mentioned offences inside its own penalty area and while the ball is in play, regardless of the position of the ball.
A penalty kick is also awarded if the goalkeeper plays or interferes with play outside the goalkeepers’ area.
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