What is Bossaball?
Bossaball is a team sport that combines volleyball, football (soccer), gymnastics, and music on an inflatable court with trampolines.
Created in Spain in 2004 by Filip Eyckmans, the game allows players to use their hands, feet, head, chest, and other body parts to keep the ball in play while performing spectacular aerial moves. The objective is to score points by grounding the ball on the opponent’s side of the court.
Unlike traditional volleyball, Bossaball is played on an inflatable court with a trampoline on each side of the net, giving players extra height for powerful spikes and acrobatic attacks.
The sport is known for its fast-paced rallies, creative gameplay, live music, and emphasis on teamwork, making it one of the most entertaining modern sports.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything about Bossaball, including its rules, court size, scoring system, equipment, history, player positions, and how to play like a beginner.
Bossaball In Short
| Feature | Official Answer |
|---|---|
| Invented | 2004 |
| Founder | Filip Eyckmans |
| Teams | 4 players each |
| Max touches | 5 per team |
| Set target | 25 points, win by 2 |
| Court | Inflatable with trampolines |
| Body parts allowed | Hands, feet, head, chest, etc. |
| Olympic status | Not an Olympic sport |
History of Bossaball
In 2005, Filip Eyckmans of Belgium invented a sports concept for Bossaball originating in Spain. Young Eyckmans was a tennis player for the Belgian national team.
Capoeira, a Brazilian martial technique that blends dance, acrobatics, and music, was an inspiration for Eyckmans. He intended to build a sport that would be fun to watch and play for a wide spectrum of individuals.
He spends his free time attending live soccer matches and DJing at private parties. An idea that Eyckmans executed came from music with volleyball and soccer.
Within days of the discovery of Bossaball, it spread throughout Latin America and Europe. Gradually, it also increased among the countries in Asia.
Initially, the game was conceived as a fusion of numerous sports, with the goal of creating an inclusive and exciting pastime for individuals of all ages and ability levels.
Objective of Bossaball
- To hit the 25 points as soon as possible.
- Out of three sets to win, the two sets win. Out of five sets, you must win three sets.
- The ball you hit must cross the net.
- You can hit the ball on the opposite side with your hands, head, chest, and feet.
- The point you receive results from your opponent missing the ball and vice versa.
Pieces of equipments
The Bossaball equipment list is brief. The regulations of Bossaball made it clear, so all credit goes to them.
- A trampoline court, an enormous inflatable scoring area, and a ball are all you need. It needs two trampolines.
- Bossaball uses a similar ball to volleyball or any airtight ball. It is sufficient for the game.
- It is not clear what the size of a Bossaball court is, but they are usually about 50 yards long and 30 yards wide.
- A net is approximately 3 meters high and runs through the middle of the court. The height can be adjustable for the different tournaments.
- The color of the outfit should be different in color for both teams.
- There is no need to wear shoes or anything else.
Governing body
Only a few countries have national Bossaball teams. It did not yet recognize the game internationally.
The reason is that it does not have a separate governing body. In their respective countries, national volleyball federations work alongside Bossaball teams.
The FIVB invited several groups, including Bossaball International, to participate in its #VolleyballYourWay initiative at the 2016 CopaCourts during the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.
Rules of Bossaball
Every sport has its own rules. In the same way, Bossaball has its rules. Bossaball rules discuss the following order.
Dimension of Bossaball Court Rules
- The rule of Bossaball court size may differ due to the level of competition.
- The ideal rule of court size is 150 feet long and 90 feet wide.
- The area other than this inflated court is out of bounds, so players must stay inside the court boundary to avoid fouls.
- The court is inflatable, with two pre-attached trampolines. One on each side of the court is positioned close to the other in the center and cut by the net.
- In the center of the court, there is a hanging net. This net stands 3 meters tall.
- Only two players from the same team use these trampolines simultaneously, each on the opposite trampoline.
- The new player takes over his trampoline after his team scores a point.
Position of the Players’ Rules
- At all times, one player from each team must be on the trampoline.
- In the remaining players, he assists his teammate (who is inside the trampoline) by redirecting an awkward ball to him using his hands, feet, head, or chest. The outside players provide support.
- Having the inner player hit the ball towards the court of the opponent. While jumping acrobatically in a continuous motion inside the trampoline, the inside player acts as the scorer.
- A player with the trampoline is only responsible for scoring points for his team, as he is supported by a trampoline to make high jumps and hit the ball powerfully.
- Each player on the team must enter the trampoline alternately.
- The teammate standing inside the trampoline leaves his place when his team scores a point as per rules.
Scoring Rules of Bossaball
You only score a point if your opponent makes a mistake. As per rules, you only gain a point if the ball makes contact with the ground under the trampoline and within the court’s perimeter.
If the ball remains in the bossawall, the opponent scores a point. Safety borders around trampolines are free zones. The ball would roll or bounce off of this bossawall.
If the ball is still on the bossawall, the point goes to the opposition team.
Using the volley touch to score:
- An opponent gets 1 point when the ball hits their playing area.
- It must play the ball directly on the opponent’s trampoline area to earn 3 points.
Using the soccer touch to score:
- The opponent gets three points if the ball hits their playing area.
- Taking the ball directly to the trampoline area of the opponent scores 5 points.
Penalty and Fouls Rules
Every sport has its own rules as well, Bossaball has its own. Fouls and penalties are very important to keep violence away from any sport.
Find out what we need to stay away from when playing it to avoid fouls and consequent penalties.
- Players cannot touch the net with their body parts during the game. Any contact causes a foul.
- Players can use their hands only once. Double contact causes a foul.
- When the ball is in their possession, each player may touch it five times.
- Once they have touched the ball five times, they must immediately send it to the other side. Otherwise, it is claimed that the entire team committed the foul.
- The ball is a foul whenever it falls inside the same side from where it struck the net.
Bossaball Referee
Bossaball referees play a very similar role to volleyball referees. There are three referees for competition games, one main referee and two assistants.
Officially referred to as Samba, the main referee is positioned close to the net in the playing area. He is to make the ultimate choices and pay close attention to the net.
At the opposing corners of the court are the two assistant referees. You must determine the number of touches, if the soccer ball is in or out of bounds, and if the ball is within a certain distance.
How do you play Bossaball?
Now speak about how to play the game using Bossaball rules. Two teams consisting of four or five players play the game.
It begins with serving, where the sole objective is to impress the audience with a creative approach to serving. You can return the ball after eight touches.
Players may do double touches with any part of their bodies except their hands.
Three points are given to the team if the ball lands within the trampoline section of the court. The team gets one point if it lands somewhere else.
The game continues if the ball touches bossa. Teams rotate clockwise after each point so that a different person is on each trampoline section every time.
Bossaball vs Volleyball
| Bossaball | Volleyball |
|---|---|
| Inflatable court | Hard court |
| Trampolines | No trampolines |
| Hands and feet allowed | Mainly hands |
| 5 touches per team | 3 touches per team |
| Music and samba referee | Traditional referee |
| Acrobatic aerial attacks | Limited aerial play |
Olympic game
Players can showcase their high-flying volleyball skills in Bossaball. Samba bands provide a fun atmosphere at the same time in Bossaball. Bossaball came into the Rio Olympics 2016 with the help of FIVB.
Bossaball had grown in popularity with the help of FIVB. The Bossaball Exhibition Cup took place in Rio during August 10-14, 2016.
Copacabana Beach was the location for the matches. Columbia, Argentina, Brazil, Belgium, and the Netherlands competed in it. In the end, the Netherlands won the Gold medal.
Argentina won the silver, and the rest of the team won the bronze medal.
Why Is Bossaball So Difficult?
Bossaball is easy to understand but surprisingly difficult to master. Unlike traditional volleyball, the game is played on an inflatable court with trampolines, which means every movement depends on balance, timing, and teamwork. Players must judge the ball’s flight, coordinate with teammates, and perform controlled jumps, all within a few seconds.
One of the biggest challenges is trampoline timing. Jump too early and you’ll start falling before the ball arrives. Jump too late and you’ll lose the height needed for an effective spike. Experienced Bossaball players learn to match their bounce with the setter’s pass, allowing them to attack at the highest point of their jump.
Another challenge is aerial control. While in the air, players often need to rotate their body, adjust their position, and choose whether to use a volleyball touch or a football touch. Strong balance and core stability help players stay in control and land safely after every attack.
The five-touch rule also makes Bossaball more tactical than it first appears. Instead of rushing the ball over the net, successful teams use the extra touches to build an attack and create the perfect opportunity for their trampoline player. Good communication is just as important as athletic ability.
That combination of timing, body control, and teamwork is what makes Bossaball one of the most exciting and technically demanding modern sports.
World Cup
After being introduced in 2005, Bossaball made a solid knock in 2009 with the World Cup in Turkey. World Cup collaborated with WOW Hotels, a Turkish hotel chain with resorts across Turkey.
WOW, ran advertising campaigns for a chance to win trips to the World Cup in Turkey in collaboration with the travel company of Thomas Cook.
The first Bossaball world cup lasted for seven days. Brazil won the first Bossaball world cup in 2009.
Van der Valk Plaza Beach Resort hosted the second world championship in 2013 on the Caribbean island of Bonaire.
Van der Valk Plaza Beach Resort is collaborating with ARKE TUI to offer fans Bossaball trips and special deals. Belgium, Brazil, Argentina, Netherlands, and Germany competed in the 2013 Bossaball world cup.
The Netherlands beat Belgium in the final and won the second Bossaball world cup championship in 2013.
Common Beginner Mistakes in Bossaball
Learning Bossaball takes time, and most beginners make the same mistakes during their first few games. Recognizing these errors early can help you improve faster and enjoy the sport more.
Jumping too early is the most common mistake. Many players focus on jumping as high as possible instead of waiting for the perfect pass. Good timing always produces a better attack than simply jumping higher.
Another common problem is landing with stiff legs. A controlled landing with slightly bent knees helps maintain balance and prepares you for the next rally. It also reduces unnecessary strain on your joints.
Players with a volleyball background often depend too much on hand touches. Bossaball allows football-style touches using the feet, chest, shoulders, or head. Mixing these techniques makes attacks less predictable and follows the official style of play.
Many beginners also rush their attacks instead of using the five available touches. The best teams stay patient, move the ball accurately, and create space before sending their trampoline attacker into the air.
Finally, poor communication can quickly break down a rally. Calling for the ball and letting teammates know your next move keeps everyone organized and reduces unforced errors. Like any team sport, clear communication is often the difference between winning and losing.
Music
A big part of a Bossaball show is the music. In a festive atmosphere where dance and sports are intertwined, bodies move in rhythm with the music.
The Bossaball matches are magnificent and enjoyable for both the players and the spectators. The music makes the game much more entertaining.
One of the most distinguishing characteristics of Bossaball is its intimate relationship with music.
A DJ stationed near the court plays a varied mix of music, which adds a frenetic beat to the sport. The motions of the participants sync with the rhythm, providing a visually compelling display for both players and spectators.
Events
In collaboration with exclusive partners, Bossaball Sports S. L (Spain) is the international headquarters for Bossaball.
Bossaball Sports S.L (Spain) organizes events globally, such as international championships, travel shows, training camps, and more.
Puma and Adidas
The most popular sports footwear companies, Puma and Adidas, were part of Bossaball events in 2017 in Germany.
In the annual summer event, Puma with Adidas invited thousands of employees to the headquarters and organized a Bossaball match.
The event had six teams registered. Following an introduction to Bossaball for newcomers, the PUMA teams began their competition.
The team PUMAlicious won the championship thanks to their expert understanding of the Bossaball rules and scoring opportunities.
UNODC
In a juvenile detention facility in Manizales, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime in Colombia (UNODC) uses the game Bossaball.
The Line-Up, Live Up program, promoted as an aspect of a peace-building program in two socially troubled neighborhoods of Bogota, aims to prevent crime in youth.
A new component to this methodology is the introduction of life skills as part of the Line-Up, Live Up project with UNODC.
According to UNODC, the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is built around the development and engagement of young people.
Redbull
Red Bull has frequently traveled with Bossaball events and through media coverage. In a Bossaball event, Redbull made the highest sales in a year.
This Red Bull TV documentary celebrates the tenth anniversary of Bossaball. Through event activities in Tunisia, Turkey, Austria, Slovenia, Kuwait, Spain, and the United Arab Emirates, Redbull supported events and activations globally.
Bossaball Safety Checklist
Although Bossaball is played on a padded inflatable court, players should still follow basic safety practices. Good technique not only reduces the risk of injury but also improves confidence and performance.
Before every match, spend 10 to 15 minutes warming up with light jogging and dynamic stretches. This prepares your muscles and joints for repeated jumping and landing.
Focus on controlled landings rather than maximum jump height. Land with slightly bent knees, keep your balance centred, and avoid twisting your body after striking the ball.
Always stay aware of the net, trampoline, and nearby players. Looking only at the ball can lead to unnecessary collisions or net faults during fast rallies.
Communication is another important part of safe play. Calling for the ball helps teammates avoid collisions and allows everyone to react more quickly during long rallies.
Beginners should master the basic Bossaball skills, including serving, passing, positioning, and landing, before attempting advanced aerial kicks or acrobatic attacks. Learning under experienced coaches or event organizers also helps players develop proper technique from the start.
Quick Safety Tips
- Warm up before every game.
- Practice soft, controlled landings.
- Stay aware of the net and other players.
- Communicate during every rally.
- Learn the basics before trying advanced tricks.
- Check that the court and trampolines are properly set up before play.
Following these simple habits makes Bossaball safer, more enjoyable, and helps players build the skills needed to perform confidently on the court.
Popularity
Bossaball is popular in Brazil, Germany, the Netherlands, Portugal, Singapore, Ecuador, and Saudi Arabia. As well as Europe, Bossaball plays in many countries, like France, Germany, Switzerland, and many more.
In Asia, such as Qatar, Egypt, Israel, etc. The most famous club teams are the Selection of Spain and Brazil. They travel the world to promote the game through Bossaball exhibitions.
Bossaball Health Benefits
Aside from its apparent appeal as a fun game, bossaball has a number of health advantages that make it an appealing option for fitness aficionados. Now, we will look at the several health benefits of partaking in this exciting and novel activity.
Enhanced Cardiovascular Fitness:
It requires continual movement, sprinting, jumping, and diving, all of which dramatically raise the heart rate and enhance cardiovascular endurance. Participating in this activity on a regular basis can improve overall cardiovascular health, resulting in a stronger heart, enhanced stamina, and improved circulation.
Increased Flexibility and Agility:
The dynamic and acrobatic character of bossaball necessitates a high level of flexibility and agility. Players are continuously expected to stretch, twist, and contort their bodies in numerous ways in order to properly execute movements and attacks. This increases flexibility, agility, and balance over time.
Muscle and Core Strengthening:
It activates many muscle groups at the same time, boosting muscular growth and strength development. Jumping, diving, and spiking constantly engages the legs, core, arms, and shoulders, resulting in general physical toning and improved muscle mass.
Weight Control and Fat Loss:
Bossaball’s intensive physical activity aids in the burning of calories and the reduction of extra fat, making it an ideal sport for weight control and fat loss. Regular physical activity, combined with a well-balanced diet, can help you achieve and maintain a healthy body weight.
Stress Reduction and Mental Well-Being:
Playing bossaball gives an outlet for participants to focus their energy into the game and experience the thrill of competition. The social part of the game develops camaraderie while also improving mental well-being and lowering stress levels.
Improved hand-eye coordination:
Bossaball involves exact timing and synchronization between hand and eye movements since players must strike the ball with precision and accuracy. Regular play may improve hand-eye coordination, which is useful not just in sports but also in everyday tasks for your health and wellness.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Bossaball is not part of the Olympic Games. It has held international competitions and World Cups but has not been accepted as an Olympic sport.
Official matches are played with four players per team. One player usually operates from the trampoline while three support from the inflatable court.
A team may use up to five touches before returning the ball, and at least one football-style touch must be used during the rally.
Yes. Players can use feet, head, chest, and most body parts, which is the main difference between Bossaball and traditional volleyball.
Last Words
Bossaball is a fascinating sport that is gradually gaining worldwide traction. It’s a unique blend of volleyball, football, and gymnastics that’s sure to get your heart racing. But not like throwball.
It is also an excellent method to workout while having fun with friends and family. If you’re searching for a new and interesting sport to try, Bossaball is a great option.
Bossaball is a spectacular gymnastics and entertainment sport. Are You still missing out on Bossaball facts?
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Krishanu Das is the founder and lead writer of Sports Dribble. With more than five years of experience in sports writing, he specializes in creating well-researched guides, sports rules, player rankings, tournament explainers, and match analysis across cricket, football, basketball, tennis, volleyball, and many other sports.
Although he works as an accountant by profession, sports have always been his lifelong interest. That passion inspired him to build Sports Dribble, where he focuses on publishing accurate, easy-to-understand, and regularly updated content for sports fans around the world.
Before every article is published, Krishanu researches official rulebooks, governing bodies, tournament regulations, trusted statistics, and reliable sources to ensure readers receive factual and up-to-date information. His goal is simple: help every reader understand the game with clear explanations, practical insights, and information they can trust.