Home » Sports » Throwball: Rules, Skills, Court Measurement, How to play (2025)

Throwball: Rules, Skills, Court Measurement, How to play (2025)

A group of people playing Throwball.
Throwball game: A Sport That Promotes Teamwork and Cooperation (Credit: Instagram)

Have you heard of Throwball? This dynamic team sport is like a high-energy fusion of your favorites! Imagine volleyball’s bumping and setting, with a dash of dodgeball‘s throws and agility.

This non-contact ball sport throws a thrilling twist into the mix, demanding quick throws and strategic teamwork to dominate the court.

Throwball shows the similarity of the game with the name. But it’s not similar to a volleyball. If you think that this is just a matter of throwing the ball, then you are wrong.

Generally, contact ball sports are played outdoors, like American football, cricketfootball, or tennis, and throwball is not as popular as them. However, these sports have a unique appeal among the youth and offer a distinct perspective. It is not so easy. Often, throwball and volleyball are confused.

But throw ball games are unique. Several of the sports that are popular and practiced around the globe originated in India.

Throwball is one of them. People first thought of throwball as a sport only for women. Throwball is an official game recognized by the International Throwball Federation (ITF).

Later, the game is played by men and women all over the world. It also plays indoors and outdoors. The Throwball Federation of India (TFI) is the governing body of Throwball.

Do you want to know how do you play throwball?

How to gather throwball skills?

What is the throwball equipment?

How many members are in a throwball team?

What is the diagram of a throwball court measurement?

How many players are in throwball?

Is throwball similar to Volleyball?

What are fouls in throwball?

What is the difference between handball and throwball?

Then you must read the full article.

People playing throwball game.
Image Credit: Throwball Federation Of India

History of Throw Ball

Let’s explore the fascinating history of Throwball. In the 1930s, this sport was a popular pastime for women in England and Australia. It was a fun, enjoyable activity.

Then, Throwball made its way to India. The Throwball Federation of India suggests it arrived around 1940, likely through the YMCA.

Also, while played globally, Throwball found its greatest popularity in India. A key figure in this story is Harry Crowe Buck. He founded the YMCA College of Physical Education in Chennai. This institution played a pivotal role in the sport’s spread.

Furthermore, in the 1950s, Throwball reached Bangalore. A local sports enthusiast, Ramana, became a driving force. Notably, in 1980, Ramana organized a national Throwball competition. This event significantly boosted the sport’s profile.

The Throwball Federation of India (TFI) officially started in 1985. In 1990, the federation reached a significant milestone. Throwball became a sport for both men and women in India. This broadened its appeal and solidified its place in Indian sports culture.

Purpose of Throwball

To win, the players must defeat the opposing team. During a Throwball game, there are three sets. The team that can score 15 points first wins the set.

The winning team is the first to win two sets. Throwball is a fast-paced sport. Thus, teams must possess a high level of teamwork and fitness to win.

  1. Place a ball on the ground.
  2. After a ball has bounced, use your forehand to hit it.
  3. Volley a ball in the air with your forehand.
  4. To begin a rally, serve a ball.
  5. Stand up straight, with the ball in your throwing hand and your face to the target.
  6. Turn 90 degrees to the right if you’re throwing with your right hand.
  7. Turn 90 degrees to the left if you’re throwing with your left hand.
  8. Check that your feet are shoulder-width apart.
  9. To make a good throw, start by leaning your body weight onto your front foot. At the same time, put your pointing arm down and start to turn your body.
  10. As you turn, bring your throwing arm up and back over your shoulder. Then, in one smooth motion, throw the ball forward toward your target.

Throw ball Skills

Throwball skills explain in short.

Understanding the Fundamentals:

Learn the fundamental rules and regulations of throw ball. Understand the court’s size, the net’s height, and the scoring system.

The match was played between two teams, each consisting of seven to nine players. There are attackers and defenders on each squad.

To begin the rally, a player from one team serves the service ball over the net to the other team. The player serving the ball must stand behind the back line to start the game.

Learn various serving styles like the overhand, underhand, and leap serve. In professional throwball, the player who serves the ball must keep both feet on the ground.

The rule says that while serving, the player must keep at least one foot on the ground at all times.

To build up an attack, you must pass the ball properly when the opposition team serves it to your team.

To receive the service ball, concentrate on your hand location and use your forearms.

The attacking team’s goal is to put the ball over the net in such a way that the defensive team cannot return it.

Practice your spiking and hitting. Experiment with various spikes such as the power spike, roll spike, and off-speed spike.

When the other team spikes the ball over the net, defenders should try to block it. To blocking to divert the ball back towards the attacking side of the court, timing is key.

For both attacking and defending, good footwork is vital.

Learn how to move rapidly, change directions, and keep your balance while playing throwball.

Throwball success depends on effective communication among team members. To coordinate movements and plans throughout the game, use hand gestures or verbal instructions.

Develop a feeling of trust and teamwork among your teammates. Understand the strengths and limitations of each player and adjust your plans accordingly.

Discover offensive and defensive methods such as the rotation system, rotating positions, and establishing a powerful defense.

Improve your physical fitness by working on your strength, endurance, and agility. Regular conditioning and practice will help you enhance your overall performance.

Practice serving under pressure, defending against varied assaults, and performing coordinated attacks in a variety of game circumstances.

Be familiar with throw ball rules and referee signals to prevent fouls and penalties.

Take part in scrimmages and friendly matches to build experience and confidence. Enter local and regional throwball events to put your talents to the test in a competitive atmosphere.

Never stop learning and developing your talents. Watch professional throwball matches and learn from expert players.

It’s important to remember that perfecting your throwball talents requires time and constant practice. Maintain your focus, collaborate with your teammates, and continue to hone your throwball skills.

Are Handball and Throwball the same?

1. In Handball, the teams consist of 7 players: a goalkeeper and six outfielders. In Throwball, A team must have seven or nine players and three or five substitutes.
2. The player can pass, hold, or shoot after receiving possession of the Handball. In Throwball, throwing, returning, and receiving the ball should never touch the body.
3. There are three sets in a Throwball match. In a Handball match, each period lasts 30 minutes.

Throwball Court Measurement Specifications

A throwball court must be the correct size to make the game fair for both teams. The court is a large rectangle. A high net stretches across the middle, dividing it into two equal sides.

Each side has important lines marked on the floor, including the boundary lines and the service area. Using the official court size ensures all players can play their best under the same rules.

  • Width: The width of the throwball court shall be 12.20 meters.
  • Length: The length of the court shall be 18.30 meters.
  • Half-Court Measurement: This is set at 8.15 meters, marking the center of the court.
  • Service Zone: The service area is on the right side of the court. The dotted lines mark this area that is 6.10 meters long.
  • Court-Free Area: The area surrounding the court should extend to 12.20 meters, providing ample space for players.
  • On a throwball court, the neutral zone is a special area in the middle. A line sits 1.5 meters away from the center line on each side of the court. This makes the whole neutral zone 3 meters long.
  • The front zone area, which is also part of the neutral zone, measures 2.55 meters from the box
Throwball court measurements with details.
  • Each zone within the neutral area is designated as follows:
  • Front Zone2.55 meters
  • Center Zone2.55 meters
  • Back Zone2.55 meters
  • The height of the net should be between 2.20 meters and 2.30 meters, ensuring it meets competitive standards.
  • The net stretches 12.50 meters long to match the 12.20-meter court.
  • The net for a throwball court is one meter wide.
  • The antenna is a pole attached to the net. It must be 1.80 meters long. One meter of it is on the net itself. The other 80 centimeters sticks up above the top of the net.
  • People often paint it with bright, alternating colors like red and white so players can see it easily.
  • The poles that hold up the net must be 2.30 meters tall.

By following these detailed specifications, you can create a compliant throwball court that meets all necessary standards for play. These precise measurements are crucial for maintaining fairness in competition and enhancing player experience on the court.

What are the differences between throwball and volleyball?

1.Seven active players play Throwball. Six players play volleyball.
2.A cotton or nylon net must measure 12.2 meters in length and 1 meter in width. Men’s volleyball nets are 2.43 meters tall.
3. While women’s volleyball nets are 2.24 meters tall. Height varies according to age and ability level.
4. When throwing, returning, or receiving the ball, the ball should never touch any body part. In volleyball, players usually hit the ball quickly with their hands or arms. However, the rules allow them to use any part of their body to touch the ball.
5. The playing court measures 12.20 by 18.30 meters (40.03 ft. x 60.04 ft.) with a neutral box of one meter (3 feet 3.37 inches) on either side of the center. A one-meter-wide net divides the 9 m by 18 m (29.5 ft. by 59.1 ft.) volleyball court into equal square halves (39.4 in).

Throwball Equipment

  1. It must measure the height of the poles from the playing surface and must be between 8 and 10 cm. We need white paint and metal poles. 
  2. In the middle of the court, there are 0.50-meter-long poles. Both with their sides away from the court.
  3. The net attaches to the pole using a metal pulley.
  1. Throwball nets must be composed of cotton or nylon and have a length of 12.2 meters and a width of one meter.
  2. The mesh (Square) should be 10 cm x 10 cm in size.
  3. The ribbon should be 5 cm thick at the top and bottom of the net in full-length size, and a string should run through it to support the net.
Throwball kit of players.
Throwball Equipment (Credit: Throwball Federation Of India)
  1. The throw ball diagram must be spherical, with a leather or rubber exterior.
  2. An official throwball must have a specific size. To check this, you fully inflate the ball. Then, you measure all the way around it. This measurement, called the circumference, must be between 70 and 72 centimeters.
  3. Its weight should be between 400 and 450 grams. It is not heavier than soccer balls but slightly larger than volleyball balls. 
  4. The TFI will allow only balls with the official emblem in competitions. The teams must use the official TFI balls for the game. If these balls are not available, the technical committee must approve a different ball.
  5. For everyone’s safety, the referee replaces any ball that is flat or lost.
  1. Antennas must be put on both sides of the net, precisely on the sidelines.
  2. Fasten two 5 cm wide tapes on either side of the net. The antenna’s length must be 1.80 m. Long, 10 mm in diameter, and constructed of cane or fiber.
  3. It should be 80cm above the net.
  1. A throwball jersey is the shirt worn by players during a game. It is an important part of the team’s uniform. Companies use lightweight and breathable materials to make the jersey. This helps keep players cool and comfortable while they run and jump.
  2. Each jersey displays the throwball player’s number clearly on the back. This number helps the referees, officials, and spectators identify each player on the court. Teams often have jerseys in their specific colors and designs.
  • Proper shoes are very important for safety and performance. Throwball shoes have special soles that grip the court floor. This prevents players from slipping when they move quickly to catch the ball.
  • The shoes also provide good cushioning to support the feet and ankles during play. Wearing the right shoes helps players perform their best and avoid injuries.

PLAYERS

  1. A team must have seven or nine players and three or five substitute players.
  2. Each additional player’s box is invalid if it contains fewer than seven players.
  3. Any 12 players can make a substitution at any moment throughout the game.
  4. The rules allow each side a maximum of five substitutions for each set.
  5. It should make score sheet entries before the match begins. Players who intend to play or substitute must fill score sheets out.
  6. The player must wear a suitable uniform with a chest number ranging from 1 to 12 and a size of 20 cm x 10 cm on the back and 5 cm x 2.5 cm on the front.
  7. Players must abide by the rules and restrictions as outlined.
What are the kits of the Throwball players?

The players must wear a jersey, half pants or skirt, and sports shoes (no heels) made of rubber or leather. 
Players must not wear anything on their heads. This includes rings, necklaces, earrings, pins, or any metal object. 

Rules of Throwball

Throwball rules & regulations
Throwball Rules (Credit: Getty Images)
What are the Throwball fouls Rules?

When receiving the ball, the ball slips from the hands.
2. If a player touches the ball twice, it is considered a foul.
3. Any ball that touches the ground in the free zone box is called a dead ball. As a result, the opposing team scores a point.
4. You must not touch any body part while throwing, returning, or receiving.
5. A player may not have the ball in their hands for more than three seconds at a time while the game is in progress.
6. Another player can receive a ball that rebounds or bounces off the net. However, deliberately sending the ball to the net is a foul.
7. Having the service ball touch the net and antenna should result in a side-out.
8. It is a foul if the ball is in play and crosses the box line.
9. A player who catches the ball simultaneously while taking one step forward or backward makes a superior play. Taking more than one step, however, is a foul.
10. Don’t jump to catch the ball, but the player can jump to throw it when it’s thrown.

A Throwball match is played on a rectangular court, with dimensions varying by age category:

  • Sub-Junior: 15.30 meters by 9.20 meters.
  • Junior and Senior: 18.30 meters by 12.20 meters.
  • The rules require a net height of 2.2 meters. The ball used is similar in size to a volleyball, or slightly larger.

An official match is contested between two teams, each consisting of nine starting players. Teams can use up to five substitute players. They can make five substitutions in each set.

Each team may request two time-outs, each lasting 30 seconds, during a single set. Teams play a match using a best-of-three sets format. The first team to score 15 points wins a set.

Following the referee’s whistle, the serving team has five seconds to execute the service. The server must release the ball from behind the end line, within the service zone, without stepping over the line. 

Players cannot jump during the service action. The served ball must pass over the net without touching it.

When receiving a service, players must avoid a double touch (catching the ball uncleanly with a rebound or movement). The receiving team forms a 3-3-3 pattern across the court during the serve.

The fundamental principle of Throwball is that the ball must be caught and then thrown, rather than volleyed. The following rules govern rally play:

  • Catching: To catch the ball correctly, a player must use both hands at the same time. The catch must be clean and quiet. If the ball makes a slapping sound or moves around in the player’s hands, it is a fault.

The player must have contact with the ground when making the catch.

  • Throwing: After catching, the player has three seconds to return the ball over the net. Players must throw with one hand. They must throw from above the shoulder or level with the shoulder. Players can jump while they throw the ball.
  • Simultaneous Catch: The rules do not allow two players from the same team to catch the ball at the same time.
  • Ball Movement: A player catches the ball. The player cannot pass it to a teammate on purpose. The player cannot shift it to another teammate either.

A point is awarded to the opposing team if any of the following violations occur:

  • The ball contacts the ground.
  • A player touches the net with any part of the body.
  • The player throws the ball under the shoulder line.
  • The player throws the ball with two hands.
  • The ball touches any part of the body other than the hands during a catch or throw.
  • Players must throw any ball within three seconds after catching it during a rally.
  • Players must throw the ball from above their waist only. One-handed throws are mandatory.
  • The served ball touches the net.
  • A player jumps while serving.
What are the Throwball substitutions rules?

1. Referees use substitutions to allow a player to leave the court while another player fills the same position.
2. The referee and umpire must approve substitutions made from the specified substitution area.
3. The maximum number of substitutions per team per set is five.
4. The referee will allow substitutions during dead-ball situations.
5. A player can re-enter the game within the same round.
6. There was no substitution at the 9th position (service position).
7. When a team uses all five replacements, an injured player forces the team to continue playing.

How do You play Throw ball? 

The side that wins the toss gets to choose between court and service. As per the throwball rules, seven players on each side must line up in the correct order.

One team must reach 25 points to win a set. Each team can make up to 5 substitutions in a set. A team can substitute no more than 5 players at any time.

Each side in a set may call a time-out at any moment for rest and talk. Every time-out will be 30 seconds long.

To catch the ball, use both hands. Hold the ball firmly. Swing it back in an arc towards your right shoulder, above your head.

Then, throw the ball forward with your arm. Make sure you throw it accurately to your target.

Throwball Playing style
How to Play Throwball (Credit: Throwball Federation Of India)

Well, my notion for covering long distances, which I used to recommend to you. Similar to catching the ball simultaneously, run near the net before throwing it a significant distance.

If you are very practiced, you can try another way. Throw the ball at a 45-degree angle, like a javelin thrower does. This angle can help the ball travel a longer distance.

Servers deliver their services behind the backline to any region on the other side. The serving team can only score one point when the opposing team makes a mistake.

Even service follows specific guidelines, such as following the whistle of the referee at the start of the game.

What is Para Throwball?

Para throwball is an adapted version of the sport throwball, designed specifically for athletes with physical disabilities. Players play the game on a court with a net. Two teams stand on opposite sides.

The main action involves throwing and catching. Players must catch the ball with their hands when it comes from the other team. Then, they quickly throw it back over the net to the opposing side.

The game requires strong hand-eye coordination and teamwork. It is a non-contact sport, meaning players do not physically interfere with each other.

The focus is on skillful throws, strategic placement, and working together to win the point. This adaptation makes the exciting game of throwball accessible and fair for all participants.

Throwball vs Para throwball?

  • Throwball: Played by able-bodied athletes.
  • Para Throwball: Adapted specifically for athletes with various physical disabilities.
  • Throwball: Follows a standard set of rules for all participants.
  • Para Throwball: Officials modify rules to ensure fair competition. Adaptations can include:
  1. Allowing players to use wheelchairs.
  2. Adjusting the size of the court.
  3. Modifying rules for catching and throwing the ball.
Throwball vs Para throwball.
  • Throwball: Designed for players with typical physical abilities.
  • Para Throwball: Created to provide an inclusive athletic environment, ensuring individuals with disabilities can participate.
  • Throwball: Governed by organizations like the Throwball Federation of India.
  • Para Throwball: The World Para Throwball Federation runs the sport. Organizations created it to support and set up games for athletes with disabilities.
  • Throwball: Popular in the Indian subcontinent and regions with Indian communities.
  • Para Throwball: A growing global sport, with international representation on its governing council.
Easy way to describe How to Play Throwball

Throwball International

In the late 90s, Throwball gained more popularity among men and women.

The contribution of T. Ramanna lifted Throwball to the International level. He converted TFI to ATF. Kolkata hosted the first Asian Throwball Championship in 2002 to promote the sport internationally.

T Ramanna’s efforts resulted in the creation of the International Throwball Federation in 2002. The ITF’s headquarters are in Bangalore, while the regional office is in South Korea.

Throwball Tournaments

Throwball’s rise is a global phenomenon. Throwball commands a massive following in the Indian subcontinent, and the sport now explodes in popularity worldwide. From schoolyards to national championships, India showcases Throwball at every level, with tournaments for all ages and genders. You can even follow the action on the Throwball Federation’s calendar.

But the excitement doesn’t stop there. International competitions are now a regular occurrence, uniting players from different clubs and continents.

More and more people around the world are playing Throwball. This shows that the sport is becoming more popular. It also shows that its players are very dedicated. Throwball is clearly a sport that is growing quickly.

Indian National Throwball Championship

The National Throwball Championship is a highlight of India’s sporting calendar. It’s a national showcase of throwball talent, with teams from across the country vying for the championship title. The Throwball Federation of India (TFI) organizes this prestigious event, typically held during the summer months.

The TFI ensures teams have ample preparation time by announcing dates and venues in advance. Cricket and football are the most popular sports in India. However, many people also enjoy playing throwball. It is especially popular in the states of Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Karnataka.

This championship is very important. It helps the sport grow. It gives players a big stage to show their best skills.

Scouts watch the games to find new talent. They pick players for national and international teams.

It truly embodies the passion and spirit of Indian sports.

Indian national throwball championship touurnament.
The Exciting team Kerala in National Throwball Championship. (Credit: Facebook)

Throwball players

We are more excited about sports stars like football, Cricket, Tennis, Basketball, etc. But we should know that the stars of sports like Throwball, Carrom, Handball, and Badminton are also amazing enough. 

Some of the throw ball players include Sabiya S, Carmel, Poornima, Aquib Mohamad, and Jagat Singh Chauhan, who is remarkable.

Mental Conditioning for Throwball Players

Throwball competition requires mental toughness. It distinguishes excellent players from mediocre ones. Here are some tips for developing a winning mindset:

  • Handling Pressure: High-stakes contests can be nerve-racking. Mental toughness allows players to remain cool and succeed under duress.
  • Maintaining Focus: Distractions are prevalent. A strong mind helps players stay focused on the game.
  • Coming Back: Mistakes happen. Mental resilience enables athletes to recover quickly and avoid letting errors impair their performance.
  • Boosting Confidence: Believing in one’s talents is essential. Mental training increases self-assurance.
  • Visualization: Mentally practice effective plays. This increases confidence and enhances execution.
  • Deep Breathing: Deep breathing can help reduce tensions before and during matches.
  • Positive Self-Talk: Positive self-talk is replacing negative ideas with positive affirmations.
  • Mindfulness: Practice being in the present moment. This lowers anxiety and increases concentration.
  • Pre-Game rituals: Develop regular rituals to boost confidence and lessen nerves before the game.

Last Words

Here is your more than 10 lines about throw ball. Throwball is a dynamic team sport that emphasizes skill, strategy, and teamwork. To play throwball well, players need to learn key skills.

The most important skills are catching the ball, serving the ball, and throwing the ball. All players must also follow the rules of the game. This makes sure everyone plays fairly and safely.

Teams play the game in sets and score points by winning rallies. Just like in the game of darts, throwball requires great accuracy. Players must have perfect timing. This makes the sport exciting for everyone to play and watch.

To be good at this game, you need a smart formation. This is like finding underrated cricketers for your team. A good plan helps you win. Thank you for reading the article so far.

We have tried to give you the easiest way to play the Throwball game and overall knowledge in this article. 

In the future, I will try to discuss this in more detail and bring something new to you. If you like the article, subscribe to Sports Dribble and its FacebookInstagram, and Twitter accounts.


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