Korfball

Korfball is a ball sport, with similarities to netball and basketball, played by two teams of eight players with four males and four females in each team. The objective is to score by throwing a ball through a bottomless basket that is mounted on a pole. It is a mixed-gender team sport designed to promote cooperation between both genders.

Gameplay:

The game is played on a rectangular court divided into two halves called "attacking zone" and "defending zone". After two goals, teams switch zones, so both attacking and defending occur in both halves. Players cannot dribble the ball, run with the ball, or punch the ball. Physical contact is limited, and players are not allowed to guard or block opponents of the opposite gender, a rule intended to prevent men from dominating the female players. A shot can only be taken when the player is not being defended. A 'defended' player is one who is being actively guarded by an opponent of the same gender, who is closer than arm's length, and attempting to block the shot.

History:

Korfball was conceived in 1902 by Dutch school teacher Nico Broekman, who wanted to create a mixed-gender sport that children could play. He drew inspiration from a Swedish game called "Ringboll" he had observed. The first Korfball association was founded in the Netherlands in 1903.

International Popularity:

Korfball is played in over 70 countries worldwide. While most popular in the Netherlands and Belgium, it is also played in other parts of Europe, Australia, and parts of Asia and Africa. The International Korfball Federation (IKF) governs the sport globally and organizes the Korfball World Championships every four years. Korfball has been featured in the World Games and was a demonstration sport at the 1920 and 1928 Summer Olympics.

Key Features:

• Mixed-Gender Teams: A core principle of the sport.
• No Dribbling or Running with the Ball: Emphasizes passing and teamwork.
• Limited Physical Contact: Promotes skill and strategy over physicality.
• Zone Division: Influences strategic positioning and movement.
• "Defended" Rule: Ensures equal opportunity for all players to shoot.