Blind Soccer Program

Blind soccer is an adaptation of soccer for athletes who are blind or low vision. Blind soccer is played in 60 countries and has become the fastest-growing Paralympic sport in the world. 

Blind soccer teams are made up of four outfield players and one goalkeeper.  Outfield players are visually impaired which means they are completely blind, have very low visual acuity, and/or no light perception, whilst the goalkeeper must be sighted or partially sighted.

To ensure fair competition, all outfield players must wear eyeshades. Teams can also have off-field guides to assist them. The ball makes a noise due to a sound system located inside that helps players orient themselves. Before attempting to tackle, players must shout the word ‘voy’ so that the person they are attempting to tackle is aware. This is designed to prevent injuries wherever possible. Players committing five fouls during one game are disqualified from the game. Spectators must remain silent while watching the game until a goal is scored.