Horseball

What is horseball

Horseball is a team equestrian sport in which riders on horses:

pick up a ball from the ground

pass it to each other

try to score a goal into an elevated basket

The ball has leather handles that allow it to be lifted from the ground without dismounting from the horse.

History of horseball

It originated in France in the 1970s

Inspired by ancient equestrian games

It quickly spread throughout Europe

Today it has an international federation (FIHB)

Basic principles of horseball

Teamwork

Fluidity of the game

Safety of horses and riders

Precise control of the horse

Quick decision-making

A team consists of 4 players on the field + substitutes.

How horseball is used (course of play)

The match is divided into 2 halves

Each team must make at least 3 passes when attacking

The game is played at a high pace

Contact between horses is allowed, but regulated

Types of horseball

1. Indoor horseball

Played indoors.

Advantages:

Stable conditions

Smaller field

Suitable for beginners

Disadvantages:

Less space

Harder surface

2. Outdoor horseball

Played on an outdoor field.

Advantages:

More space

Faster game speed

Disadvantages:

Weather dependent

3. Club and recreational horseball

For hobby riders.

Pros:

Affordable

Fun

Less challenging

Cons:

Lower technical level

4. Professional/Competitive Horseball

Highest level.

Advantages:

Dynamic and attractive

International competitions

Disadvantages:

High training demands

Higher risk of injuries

Horses for horseball
Ideal characteristics

quick reaction

agility

good balance

calm head

willingness to work in a group

Most common:

thoroughbred crosses

smaller warmbloods6

Iberian horses

Horseball equipment
Horse equipment

special horseball saddle

protective bandages and bells

martingale

simple bridle

Rider equipment

protective helmet

knee and shin guards

gloves

riding shoes with heels

Benefits of horseball

Improves the condition of both rider and horse

Develops coordination and reflexes

Promotes teamwork

Fun and dynamic discipline

Attractive to spectators

Disadvantages and risks

Higher risk of injuries

Difficult to train

Requires an experienced horse

Less widespread than other disciplines

Choose horseball?

Consider:

level of riding skills

physical fitness

club availability

horse temperament

Horseball is suitable for riders who:

✔ have a confident seat

can handle speed

like team sports

look for dynamics

Most common beginner mistakes

Poor horse control

Incorrect ball collection

Insufficient protective equipment

Ignoring safety rules

Horseball is a modern, fast and fun equestrian sport that offers adrenaline, team spirit and a strong relationship between rider and horse. With proper training, equipment, and respect for horses, horseball is safe, developing, and extremely attractive.