A goal without a sound
Share
While many sports can be adapted to fit the needs of disabled people, when it comes to the blind playing football you may wonder how people can even kick the ball when they can't see their feet.
Imagine running in the dark while avoiding other players and looking for a tinkling ball before kicking it into an invisible goal. It doesn't sound easy, but blind football isn't as impossible as it seems.
With slightly adapted conditions, blind footballers can play their favourite game even at a professional level. Teams consist of five players, including the goal keeper, who play on a smaller field, often indoors. Most importantly, the ball contains small metal pouches, so-called bearings, enabling players to hear where it is, obliging supporters to be quiet.
Keen hearing, processing information quickly and being able to visualise the game in their heads are all essential for blind football players, as well as teamwork and communication, says David Clarke, a 39 year old player.
"You're also talking about players who have the most remarkable spatial awareness, which means that they can sprint forwards, backwards, sideways and consistently be aware where they are on the pitch," he says.
The players will perform their tricks, tackles and tactics at the World Blind Football Championship taking place from 14 until 22 August in Hereford, UK.
