WHAT IS SMOLBALL®?

Smolball® is a new, dynamic and very interesting team play created in Zurich by a physical education teacher at a vocational school. The game is played with special rackets and a soft ball that is shot to goals. The game equipment is designed in such a way that the game does not require any protective equipment. Smolball® is easy to learn thanks to the simple set of rules so it becomes fascinating very fast, even for beginners. As physical strength does not play any decisive role in Smolball®, the play is intended for players of all ages. The game rules are formulated in such a way that weaker players have to be included in the game so Smolball® is a very motivating discipline.

Smolball® may be played in different variants:

- INDOOR SMOLBALL®

- ICE SMOLBALL®

- BEACH SMOLBALL®

- INLINE SMOLBALL®

- ROLLER SMOLBALL®

- WATER SMOLBALL®

- WHEELCHAIR SMOLBALL®

- OUTDOOR SMOLBALL®

All variants of Smolball® may also be played in mixed teams.

At the gymnasium there are no end lines and it is allowed to play against the walls. However, it is forbidden to play against the ceiling. If the ball touches the ceiling, a free throw is awarded. If the game is played on the grass, the playing field is limited by end lines (school variant) or bounds (league variant). If the ball gets out of the playing field, a free throw is awarded.

Playing Smolball® does not require any major skills. One can learn the necessary basics very fast at a lesson or a training. Only one lesson is enough to try one's hand at Smolball® and count on an exciting experience and first successes. The attractiveness of the game stems from the simple concept and the rules of the game. Particularly interesting is the double role of the goalkeeper, who on the one hand defends the goal but after leaving the goal area may launch counter-attack with other players in the field. The game does not require any tactical skills and for this reason it is possible for Smolball® players to achieve first successes fast.

From physiological point of view Smolball® is a game which greatly improves the physical condition at a PE lesson or a training, especially aerobic endurance. Smolball® is good first and foremost as a play complementary to other disciplines, such as football, ice hockey, ski jumping, athletics, etc.

Smolball® helps to develop the following skills and techniques:

- overall coordination

- overall motricity: starting, stopping, turning, slow running

- passing and taking the ball (points in a game)

- fast reaction

- fast decision making

- specific skills useful when playing Smolball®

The main feature of all Smolball® variants is playing with a ball and rackets. The equipment is easy to use as the rackets are quite short and the balls are soft.

The hitting technique is similar to the one used in badminton or squash. This means that a player uses first of all forearms and wrists.

It is most difficult to take the ball over and balance it when standing or running. Mastering the skills in forehand and backhand makes it easier to play.

It is also extremely important to be able to roll the ball on the ground and then raise it fast with the racket.

Due to enormous dynamics of Smolball® and its rules of a team sport is it a very interesting discipline which attracts many followers everywhere.