I’ve been playing Korfball for over two years now and I’ve explained the rules of the game to family, friends, lecturers, and strangers alike. No matter how theatrical or grounded my demonstration is, I’m met with the same choir of dumbfounded expressions, confused murmurs, and puzzled head scratches. I’m not sure how well this will go down but at least I keep trying. For the fifty ‘leventh time, I’ll be explaining Korfball.
Good Luck Charlie.
The Basics
It is a sport of Dutch origin, which can explain why it’s so niche in the UK.
Each team is comprised of 4 female and 4 male players and players must shoot a ball into a 3.5m korf (basket). Played mostly indoors, it can also be adapted to grass and sand on courts a bit larger than the typical basketball or netball ones.
The korf is set in from the end of the playing area, which enables shots from 360 degrees.
The players of each team are split into two zones: Attack and Defence.
Each zone will consist of two female players and two male players.
How does the ‘Mixed’ aspect of Korfball work?
Players are only allowed to directly oppose members of their own sex. This is meant to ensure no player is unfairly advantaged or disadvantaged based on height, strength, and speed. As one of the few mixed team sports, korfball creates a unique social environment.
Positions
At the beginning of the game, players assume either attack or defence roles. After every two goals, defenders and attackers switch. Each player should be able to defend, attack, shoot and support their teammates (such as acting as the ‘feed’ or ‘rebound’). A player ‘defended’ by a personal opponent is not permitted to shoot. This means that quick yet thoughtful (and tactical) shots are essential in any given korfball match.
Core Rules
Korfball is based on co-operation between players. Dribbling and running with the ball are classed as ‘solo play’ and are outlawed.
Although contact between players does occur during games, the contact needs to remain controlled. Players will not gain an advantage by contacting their opponents.
My Experience
As aforementioned, I’ve been playing Korfball at Lancaster University for over two years. I’ve found it to be an accepting and inclusive environment filled with vibrant people from all walks of life. It’s taken me to games in Manchester, Scotland and even the Netherlands, becoming one of the extracurriculars that has defined my University experience. Even though the training times take getting used to-7ams in December are not for the faint of heart- it has given me a lot of structure and has had an undeniably positive impact on my physical and mental health. Plus, I make the playlists. If you’ve seen my Spotify Wrapped, you know my taste is elite.
Thank you for the joy, Korfers!
For more Korfball information, follow the Instagram: @lancsunikorfball
