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Throwball
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Throwball
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Throwball is a non-contact ball sport played across a net between two teams of seven players on a rectangular court.

Key Information

Throwball is popular in Asia, especially on the Indian subcontinent, and was first played in India as a women's sport in Chennai during the 1940s. Like volleyball, the game's roots are linked with the YMCA. Both volleyball and Newcomb ball, while older games, share many similarities with throwball. Throwball rules were first drafted in 1955 and India's first national level championship was played in 1980.

The International Throwball Federation is the highest governing body for the sport.[1]

International Throwball Federation (ITF)

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Asian Throwball Federation (ATF) was established in 1996 with 9 nations. ITF was established in August 2002 in India.[2]

Events 1992 in Asia and 2000 in World. International Throwball Federation registered since 2008 in SportAccord.[3][4][5]

International Throwball Federation is registered since 2008 with 50+ countries.

45 Members in March 2025:[6]

  1. Asia (23): IND,SRI,BAN,THA,MAS,NEP,SIN,INA,TPE,PHI,PAK,UAE,

BHU,CHN,AFG,MAC,IRI,JOR,OMA,MGL,KSA,IRQ,CAM

  1. Oceania (2): AUS,NZL
  2. Africa (9): SLE,CIV,ZIM,UGA,TUN,CMR,NGR,EGY,SEN
  3. Americas (4): ARG,BRA,CAN,USA
  4. Europe (7): ITA,FRA,ESP,SUI,MLT,POR,GRE

ATF have 20 member in 2025.[7]

Events

[edit]
  1. Asian Throw Ball Championship (Men,Women,Senior,Junior)
  2. Throwball World Cup

https://www.asianthrowball.com/tournaments-01.html

https://asianthrowball.com/

Other Events: [8]

  1. South Asian Championship
  2. IND-SRI Championship
  3. IND-THA Championship

Asian Throwball Championship

[edit]

ATF was re-established by T.Ramanna in 1995.[9]

  1. 1st 1992 Kolkata
  2. 2nd
  3. 3rd
  4. 4th
  5. 5th 2014 Kuala Lumpur
  6. 7th
  7. 8th

History

[edit]

According to the Throwball Federation of India (TFI), throwball is thought to derive from a recreational sport popular among women in England and Australia during the 1930s.[10] The YMCA brought the game to Chennai, where it was played as a women's sport in the 1940s.[citation needed]

Harry Crowe Buck, who founded the YMCA lCollege of Physical Education in Chennai, drafted guidelines for throwball rules and regulations in 1955. The game reached Bangalore in the 1950s.[11]

The Throwball Federation of India (TFI) was formed in 1985 after the Indian National Throwball Championship in 1980. By 1990, Throwball in India developed separate competitions for both men and women.

Throwball is played in gym class, colleges, and clubs throughout Asia, and it has been slowly gaining popularity in other countries.

In 1985 the Throw ball Federation of India (TFI) was formed.[12]

  1. 1989 : First Indian National Championship
  2. 1984: TFI was formed
  3. 1995 : Asian Throwball Federation (ATF) was established
  4. 2003 : International Throwball Federation (ITF) was established

Indian Championship

[edit]

Throwball Federation of India (TFI) - 44th Senior National Throwball Championship At Ara (Bihar) - 14th to 16th March 2024.[13][14]

Rules and play

[edit]
Dimensions of a junior or senior throwball court [15]

Court

[edit]

The playing court is somewhat larger than a volleyball court at 16.20 by 18.30 metres (53.15 ft × 60.04 ft) with a neutral box 2 metres (6 ft 6.74 in) on either side of the center. The height of the net is 2.1 metres (6.89 ft) or 3.3 metres (10.83 ft).[16][17]

Ball

[edit]

The ball is similar to a volleyball, but may be slightly larger and heavier. While in volleyball the ball gets hit or volleyed throughout play, in throwball the ball is thrown over the net, where a member of the other team tries to catch the ball and quickly throw it back across the net. Here a person can hold ball for 3 second and have throw to opponent.

Game Play

[edit]

Teams

[edit]
Throwball game

An official game is played between two teams of nine or seven players. A minimum of three or five substitute players are allowed for each team, which can make a maximum of three substitutions during a set. A team can take two time-outs of 30 seconds each during a set. The first team to score 25 points wins a set. A match is three sets.

Service

[edit]

Service is within five seconds after the referee whistles and is done from the service zone, without crossing the end line. A player can jump while serving the ball. The service ball must not touch the net. Double touch is not allowed for receiving the service ball and players stay in 2-3-2 position during the serve. A person can jump but while serving he cannot go beyond the line while jumping and serving and while serving if it touches the end line of opponent then it is a foul.

Rally

[edit]

During a rally, the ball must be caught at once with both hands, without any movement of the ball within the hands (dubs) and the ball should not have contact with the ground. The ball is thrown within three seconds after being caught, only from above the shoulder line and only with one hand. A player can jump when throwing the ball, which can touch the net (but not the antenna). The player should have contact with the ground when catching the ball. However, the ball is not touched by any part of the body other than the palm when catching or throwing (body touch). The ball can neither be shifted (passed) to the left or right nor deliberately pushed. Two players are not allowed to catch the ball simultaneously. whiling passing the ball if it touches the net and rebound it can be caught by the team and thrown again but should not touch the ground. But while serving it cannot be done.

Uniforms

[edit]

In official play, teams wear shorts and jersey uniform with numbers only in the range of 1–12 printed front and back. The number can be of any digit but there should be 9 main players and 3 extra players.[18]

Major competitions

[edit]

In India, the National Throwball Championship is organized by the Throwball Federation of India.[19] A Junior International Throwball Match was conducted in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in December 2015; eight countries participated.

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Throwball

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Throwball is a non-contact indoor similar to , in which two teams of seven players each compete on a rectangular court divided by a net, catching a thrown by the opponents and immediately returning it by without allowing it to bounce or using any volleying motion. Originating in in the 1920s as a low-exertion game for older participants, throwball was introduced by Mrs. Marie Buck, wife of YMCA physical education pioneer Dr. Harry Crowe Buck, in Madras (now ), and gained popularity in and during the 1930s before spreading back to through the in the 1940s. Dr. Buck formalized the sport's rules in 1955 at the YMCA College of Physical Education in , establishing it as a structured game emphasizing and catching skills. The Throwball Federation of India (TFI), founded in 1978, became the national governing body and organized the first that year, leading to recognition by the Indian Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in 1989 and affiliation with the in 2001. Internationally, throwball expanded in during the late , with the first held in 1992 in , , and the International Throwball Federation (ITF) established in 2000 to oversee global development, now affiliating around 50 countries including , , , and emerging members in and the (as of 2025). Note that while core rules are standardized internationally (e.g., seven players per team on court, sets to 25 points), some national variations exist, such as in . Throwball promotes , hand-eye coordination, and teamwork, and remains particularly popular in , with regular national and international championships fostering its growth among men, women, and youth.

Overview

Description and Objectives

Throwball is a non-contact indoor played between two teams across a net on a rectangular , using a thrown that players catch and return without allowing it to bounce. The game combines elements of in its net-based play, in its throwing mechanics, and in its emphasis on precise passing and positioning. It is designed to be accessible and non-injurious, suitable for players of all ages, genders, and abilities, including those who are specially-abled. Rules may vary slightly between national (TFI) and international (ITF) governing bodies. The primary objective of throwball is for a to score points by throwing the over the net into the opponent's in a way that prevents a legal return, thereby grounding it or forcing a fault. Matches are structured as the best of three sets, with each set won by the first to reach 15 points via rally scoring, where points are awarded for any opponent error such as failing to catch cleanly, throwing , or exceeding the three-second hold limit; a two-point margin is required if the score ties at 15. Each fields nine players on the , with a maximum of five substitutions allowed per set to maintain energy and strategy. A key distinction from lies in the handling of the ball: players must catch it cleanly with both hands before throwing it back over the net using one hand in a single, continuous motion above shoulder level, without any hitting, bouncing, or multiple touches by the same player. This rule enforces strict timing, with the throw required within three seconds of the catch to keep the rally flowing. No blocking or spiking is permitted, and physical contact between players is prohibited, promoting a focus on skill over power. Throwball matches are fast-paced, with sets typically lasting 20-30 minutes due to the rapid exchanges and quick decision-making required, highlighting the importance of accuracy, quick reflexes, and team coordination. The continuous nature of the play, without prolonged setups, creates an energetic rhythm that demands constant alertness from all participants.

Popularity and Variations

Throwball enjoys significant popularity in , where it originated as a women's recreational activity and has grown into a widely participated across genders and age groups. The Throwball Federation of India (TFI) organizes national championships that attract teams from over 20 states, fostering widespread engagement in schools, colleges, and communities. In , the sport has gained traction through regional events, such as the Indo-Thailand Throwball Championship, with active participation in countries like and . Outside Asia, throwball is emerging in the United States, , and , driven by diaspora communities and dedicated federations. For instance, the USA Throwball Association hosts regular tournaments in cities like and Charlotte, while community events such as the GAMA Women's Throwball Tournament in , in November 2025, highlight its growing appeal among expatriate groups. In , the International Throwball Federation (ITF) has affiliations in countries including and the , where inaugural events were held in 2024. The sport's inclusivity extends to diverse participant demographics, making it accessible to all ages and genders, though it remains particularly prominent among , where it was initially popularized in the . National and international competitions often feature separate categories for men and women, with a net height of 2.2 meters. and programs emphasize shorter match durations or sets to suit younger players, promoting participation without overwhelming intensity. Variations of throwball include recreational play, which emphasizes fun and casual participation in settings, and competitive formats governed by ITF rules for structured tournaments. Adaptations for youth often involve reduced court sizes, such as 15.3 meters by 9.2 meters for sub-juniors, and abbreviated sets to build skills progressively. Experimental versions, like beach throwball, are being explored in coastal regions to adapt the to outdoor environments, though they remain informal. Additionally, disability-inclusive adaptations have led to the formation of the World Para Throwball Federation, enabling players with disabilities to participate using modified rules and minimal equipment. Throwball offers numerous physical and social benefits, including enhanced hand-eye coordination from precise catching and throwing, improved and reflexes through quick movements, and strengthened via coordinated plays. Its non-contact nature results in a low risk, making it suitable for beginners and long-term participation across fitness levels.

History

Origins in India

Throwball originated in in the 1920s in Madras (now ) by Mrs. Marie Buck as a low-exertion game for older participants, and was introduced to the YMCA College of in the 1940s, where it emerged as a simplified variant of designed for easier accessibility without requiring extensive training or athletic prowess. The game, developed in , gained popularity as a women's sport in and during the 1930s before spreading back to through the , but adapted to local contexts to promote with minimal physical demands. In the 1950s, throwball gained early traction in schools and programs across , with informal matches beginning to take place as educators recognized its value in fostering teamwork and fitness among participants who might find volleyball's complexities intimidating. By the , the sport had spread to other Indian states, marking a period of organic growth driven by community and educational initiatives rather than formal competitions. Developed in the post-independence era, throwball served as an inclusive alternative to , particularly appealing to women and youth due to its non-contact nature, which aligned with cultural preferences for safer, less physically confrontational activities in a newly sovereign focused on through accessible recreation. This emphasis on simplicity and safety helped establish it as a tool for promoting gender-inclusive amid the country's evolving social landscape. The initial ruleset, formalized in 1955 by Harry Crowe Buck—a founder of the College—a basic framework featuring teams of 9 players and sets played to 15 points, providing a straightforward structure that encouraged widespread participation without the need for specialized skills. These guidelines laid the groundwork for throwball's distinct identity, prioritizing continuous play and strategic throwing over jumping or spiking.

International Development and Milestones

Throwball's expansion beyond gained momentum in the late , primarily through Indian expatriates and educational institutions like the , leading to its adoption in several countries by the 1970s and 1980s. In , the sport received early international exposure when the Indian junior throwball visited in 1982, fostering initial cross-border competitions and training exchanges. By 2000, throwball had spread widely across , becoming a popular activity in schools and colleges in nations including , , , , , , , and . The formation of the International Throwball Federation (ITF) in 2000 marked a pivotal organizational milestone, evolving from the Asian Throwball Federation (ATF) established in 1996 to standardize rules and promote the sport globally under the leadership of T. Ramanna. Headquartered in Bangalore with a regional office in , the ITF focused on unifying regulations, with key updates to the rules and equipment occurring in 2000 by Dr. A. Dayanand and further modifications in 2005 by the Throwball Federation of India (TFI). Membership expanded rapidly in the 2000s, incorporating around a dozen countries initially, including non-Asian nations such as , , , , , , , UAE, and , laying the foundation for worldwide participation. The first Asian Throwball Championship in 1992, held in and organized by T. Ramanna, provided early international exposure, while the inaugural World Throwball Championship took place in and Dubai (UAE), solidifying the sport's global framework. Subsequent milestones highlighted throwball's rising profile, including its inclusion in multi-sport events and the establishment of regular international tournaments. Although lacking full Olympic recognition—despite the Throwball Federation of India receiving approval from the in 2001—the sport has grown through grassroots initiatives, particularly school and youth programs that emphasize accessibility and non-contact play. The disrupted global events in 2020-2021, postponing championships and training, but recovery was swift with resumed competitions by 2022. Recent developments underscore Western adoption, exemplified by the organization of multiple throwball tournaments in 2025, such as the USA Throwball Association's Winter Classic and the North America Throwball Federation's National Women's Tournament, signaling broader international momentum.

Governing Bodies

International Throwball Federation (ITF)

The International Throwball Federation (ITF) was established in 2000 in to serve as the global governing body for throwball, building on earlier developments such as the formation of the Throwball Federation of India in 1978. Its headquarters are located in Bangalore, with a regional office in . As of 2025, the ITF comprises 18 member countries, including , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , the , and . The ITF is governed by an executive board led by President Dr. T. Ramanna, with Secretary for the Asian Regional Office Dr. Lee Jong Yong. Key contributors include Abdul Halim Bin Khader from , T. Mohan from , Ms. June Parera from , and K. Berg from supporting development efforts. While specific committees are not publicly detailed, the organization handles responsibilities for rule standardization, event coordination, and grassroots initiatives through its leadership. Key roles of the ITF include standardizing international throwball rules, with the first official rules published in 2000 by Dr. A. Dayanand, followed by a second edition and ball modifications in 2005. It organizes major events such as the World Throwball Championships, the inaugural edition of which was hosted in and . The federation also focuses on youth development by conducting championships and training programs aimed at introducing throwball at school levels worldwide. The ITF contributes to the sport's growth by funding and supporting youth programs, particularly in , and advocating for its recognition in larger platforms. It has actively pushed for inclusion in multi-sport events, including discussions on Olympic membership and introducing throwball to the Olympics 2026.

National Federations

National federations play a crucial role in promoting throwball at the domestic level, organizing local competitions, developing talent, and ensuring compliance with international standards set by the International Throwball Federation (ITF). These bodies adapt the sport to cultural and regional contexts while fostering grassroots participation. The Throwball Federation of India (TFI), established on , 1978, and formally registered under the Societies Registration Act in 1982, serves as the primary governing body for throwball in . It oversees 22 affiliated state and territorial units, facilitating widespread participation across the country. TFI organizes annual national championships, including the Senior National Throwball Championship, with the 44th edition held in Ara, , in March 2024. In the , the Throwball Federation of the Philippines, active since the , emphasizes youth and school-based programs, including mini-Olympic events to build and skills among students. The federation has hosted women's mini-Olympic throwball events, contributing to the sport's growth in educational settings. The Throwball Federation promotes throwball with a strong focus on women's teams, supporting national squads that have achieved success, such as clinching the women's title at the Asian Throwball Championship in 2025. This emphasis has helped elevate women's participation and competitive performance in the region. In emerging markets like the , groups such as the USA Throwball Association and local organizers behind events like the 2025 GAMA Women's Throwball Tournament in , are building infrastructure for the sport. Held on November 1, 2025, the GAMA tournament highlighted growing interest among diaspora communities and showcased competitive play among teams like the Austin Challengers. National federations typically conduct domestic leagues, handle player certification and registration, and scout talent for international representation. They also adapt rules for local needs, such as implementing shorter match durations in youth programs to suit developmental stages. Oversight by the ITF ensures alignment with global standards for eligibility and competition. Challenges for these federations include securing consistent funding, particularly in smaller nations where resources are limited, leading to reliance on sponsorships and support. Coordination with the ITF for international eligibility and development programs remains essential.

Rules and Equipment

Court Dimensions

The standard throwball court is a rectangular playing area measuring 12.20 meters in width by 18.30 meters in length for senior and junior competitions, providing ample space for the throwing and catching mechanics of the game. This layout ensures balanced play across the , with the longer running from baseline to baseline and the shorter spanning side to side. For sub-junior and categories, the court dimensions are scaled to 9.20 meters in width by 15.30 meters in length, adapting the space to younger players' physical capabilities while maintaining proportional zones. The features precise markings with lines 5 wide, which are included as part of the playing surface. A line runs parallel to the net, dividing the court into two equal halves of 9.15 meters each. Straddling this line is a neutral zone 1.5 meters wide (0.75 meters on each side), prohibiting foot contact during play except for the serving team in designated areas. Each half-court is further subdivided into three parallel zones—the front zone (adjacent to the neutral zone), center zone, and back zone—each measuring 2.55 meters in depth for seniors, facilitating strategic positioning for attacks and defenses. Service areas are outlined in the back zones using dotted lines set 30 from the end lines, spanning half the court's width. Beyond the court's boundaries, a free zone extends at least 3 meters around the sidelines and end lines, expanding to 5 meters for international events to allow safe movement for officials and substitutes. The net is positioned vertically over the center line, with a height of 2.30 meters at the sidelines for senior men and women, ensuring equitable challenge in overhand throws; junior categories use 2.20 meters, while sub-juniors employ 2.00 meters. The playing surface must be flat, hard, and non-injurious, typically consisting of , synthetic, or similar materials for indoor venues to provide consistent bounce and traction. Outdoor courts may use hard , natural grass, or synthetic turf, provided the surface is non-slippery and free of hazards. Venues require overhead lighting of 1000-1500 , uniformly distributed from the sides at least 6 meters above the floor, to minimize shadows and support clear visibility during rallies.

Ball Specifications

The throwball is spherical in shape, constructed from , and features a lemon color with dark stripes for enhanced visibility during play. It measures 70 cm in circumference when inflated and weighs 450 grams ±10 grams, making it slightly larger and heavier than a standard to suit the sport's throwing mechanics. The ball must be inflated to a pressure of 0.6–1.1 atmospheres (equivalent to –1,100 g/cm²) at to ensure consistent bounce and handling. Only balls recognized and marked by the International Throwball Federation (ITF) are permitted in official matches, guaranteeing adherence to quality standards set by the ITF Technical Committee. Durability is ensured through ITF certification of materials, allowing the ball to withstand repeated catches and throws without deformation during rallies. Specifications remain uniform across categories, including sub-juniors and mini divisions, with no variations in size or weight unless amended by the ITF.

Uniforms and Player Attire

In official Throwball competitions governed by the International Throwball Federation (ITF), players are required to wear a consisting of a solitary-colored or paired with to ensure uniformity and safety. The must be designed such that its arm-sleeves do not contact the during play, and must not extend below the . This attire applies uniformly to both men and women, as well as boys and girls, with no gender-specific variations such as skirts or tracksuits permitted in competitive settings. All players must wear suitable sports shoes to provide adequate traction and prevent slipping on the surface. and shorts are to be in the 's designated color, promoting identification while adhering to a single hue per uniform set. Numbers ranging from 01 to 99 must be printed on the front (5 cm x 10 cm) and back (10 cm x 20 cm) of each for player identification, with no duplicates within a and no use of zero alone, double zeros, or letters; in practice, numbers are typically limited to 1-14 to align with rosters of up to 14 players (7 on and 7 reserves). The captain is distinguished by a colored or band on the of their , which must remain consistent throughout the . Accessories are strictly regulated to prioritize player safety: no plastic or metallic items, including jewelry, watches, or any objects that could cause injury to oneself or opponents, are allowed. While not explicitly mandated, practical items like hair ties for securing long are implicitly necessary to avoid interference, but knee pads or other protective gear remain optional and are not required by rule. The Throwball Federation of India (TFI) reinforces these standards in national play, emphasizing shorts and jerseys with numbers 1-14 for clear identification. Regulations under ITF rules focus on functional attire without specifying fabrics like or non-slipperiness, though the emphasis on sports shoes implies materials suitable for indoor play. Non-compliance with standards, such as improper numbering, prohibited accessories, or unsuitable , results in a foul called by the , potentially awarding a point to the opposing team or loss of service, with initial warnings issued for minor infractions before escalating penalties. These measures ensure fair play and minimize injury risks in matches.

Gameplay

Team Composition and Positions

Throwball is played by two teams, each consisting of up to 12 players, with 7 active on the at any time and 5 substitutes available. Rules may vary slightly between international (ITF) and national (e.g., TFI) federations, with ITF using 7 players and TFI using 9 players. A match cannot commence if either team has fewer than 7 players, ensuring full team participation from the start of each set. Unlike volleyball, throwball does not assign fixed specialized roles to individual players; instead, positions are numbered 1 through 7 and organized in a general 2-3-2 formation at service, with the front-row players (positions 4, 5, 6) typically handling attacks and blocks, while the back-row players (positions 1, 2, 7) focus on defense, reception, and serving. After a team wins a rally and gains the serve, players rotate clockwise in a Z-pattern, starting from position 1 on the right back, to maintain positional balance and prevent any player from serving consecutively without rotation. Players must wear uniforms with numbers 1-12 for clear identification during rotations and substitutions. Substitutions are limited to 5 per set and conducted on a one-for-one basis only during dead balls, such as time-outs or between rallies, allowing teams to adjust for fatigue or strategy without disrupting play. Substituted players cannot re-enter the set once replaced, promoting strategic decision-making in team management. Mixed-gender teams are permitted in recreational and informal settings to encourage broad participation, though international competitions under the International Throwball Federation primarily feature separate men's and women's events, with women's divisions dominating due to the sport's strong popularity among female athletes in regions like .

Serving Procedure

The serving procedure in Throwball initiates each rally and is governed by strict rules to ensure fair play. The designated server, positioned in the rear right corner (position 7 in the standard Z-rotation formation), must throw the ball from behind the end line in the service zone without crossing it. The ball is released and thrown using the open palm of one hand from above height in a single continuous action, ensuring it clears the and lands within the opponent's boundaries. This serve must occur within 5 seconds of the referee's signaling readiness. Rotation of the server follows a Z-pattern after each point won by the serving team, with the previous server moving to the front left position and all players shifting accordingly to maintain the 2-3-2 formation across the . Only the player in the correct rotational position may serve; any deviation results in a fault. Serves can be executed as overhand or underhand throws, provided they adhere to the above-shoulder release rule, but jump serves are prohibited to emphasize the non-contact, throwing nature of the sport. The ball must not touch the net or antennae during the serve. Common faults during serving include foot faults (crossing the end line before release), net touches, serving below shoulder height, or delaying beyond the 5-second limit. Double faults, such as two consecutive service errors by the same player, are uncommon but treated as separate violations. Each fault awards a point to the opposing team and transfers the serve to them, without allowing a second attempt. These penalties maintain the game's fast pace and prevent prolonged service delays.

Rally Mechanics and Scoring

In Throwball, a rally begins immediately following the serve, with the receiving catching the using both hands and returning it across the net within three seconds using a one-handed throw from above shoulder level. Each is permitted a maximum of three consecutive touches during the rally, meaning the can be handled by up to three different players before being thrown back, but no player may touch the twice in succession except on the first reception of the serve. Players must remain grounded when catching the , with no more than one step allowed after reception, and jumping is permitted only for throwing. Blocking is prohibited, as players may not interfere with the crossing the net plane, and any contact with the net or antennae by a player or the during play results in a fault. Scoring employs a rally point system, where every rally concludes with a point awarded to one team, regardless of which team is serving. A point is scored by the opposing team upon any fault, such as the ball landing , failing to catch the ball cleanly (e.g., double-touch or ), holding the ball longer than three seconds, or improper throwing technique like using two hands or releasing below shoulder level. If the ball touches the ground on the opponent's court or they commit a violation, the serving team retains the serve and scores the point; otherwise, the serve changes hands along with the point. Matches are structured as the best of three or five sets under ITF rules, with the winner being the first team to secure two or three sets respectively. Internationally under ITF, each set is played to 25 points requiring a two-point margin for victory (e.g., 26–24), while under TFI in , sets are to 15 points (e.g., 16–14); domestic competitions may use 15 or 25 points; in case of a tie at the target score minus one (24–24 or 14–14), play continues until a two-point lead is achieved, capped at 27–25 or 17–15 respectively. A tiebreaker set, if needed, follows the shorter format. Each team is allotted two 30-second time-outs per set, which may be called only when the ball is dead, to allow for strategic adjustments without halting play otherwise. In final matches tied after the maximum sets, no overtime is played; instead, a sudden-death format may be used, where the next point scored decides the winner.

Competitions

Major International Events

The World Throwball Championship serves as the flagship global competition for the sport, organized biennially by the International Throwball Federation (ITF) since its inception in 2000. This event brings together national teams from over 10 countries, typically structured with round-robin pool play to determine seeding for subsequent knockout rounds, culminating in finals for men's and women's divisions. has established dominance in the . The Asian Throwball Championship, governed by the Asian Throwball Federation (ATF), stands as the leading continental event. The inaugural edition was held in 1992 in , , with subsequent tournaments conducted periodically. The 2025 edition, hosted in , featured participating nations including , , , and , competing in a pool-to-knockout format, with claiming both men's and women's titles. These championships contribute significantly to regional rankings and player exposure. Additional key international events include the World Youth Throwball Championship, an under-19 tournament organized biennially by the ITF since 2010 to nurture emerging talent. Qualification for these major events occurs through national federations affiliated with the ITF or ATF, with selections based on domestic performances and trials. Participation influences global rankings, attracts modest prize money—often in the range of several thousand dollars for top finishers—and bolsters advocacy efforts for throwball's recognition in multi-sport events like the Olympics.

Regional and National Championships

In India, the Throwball Federation of India (TFI) has organized national championships annually since the first edition in 1978, held in Jind, Haryana, under the initiative of Shashi Prabha. These competitions draw participants from state associations across four zones—North, South, East, and West—with qualifiers advancing to the nationals, and include distinct categories for senior men and women, juniors, and sub-juniors to nurture talent at various levels. The events promote widespread participation, functioning as vital pipelines for selecting players to represent India in continental competitions. The 44th Senior National Throwball Championship in 2024, hosted in Ara, Bihar, was won by Karnataka in both men's and women's divisions, with Tamil Nadu as runners-up. For 2025, the 35th Junior National was held December 5–7 in Badlapur, Maharashtra, organized by the Throwball Association of Maharashtra under TFI auspices, while the 48th Senior National took place August 16–18 in Ranchi, Jharkhand, with Arunachal Pradesh winning both men's and women's divisions. The South Asian Throwball Championship, a biennial regional involving six nations—, , , , , and —focuses on fostering subcontinental competition since its inception in the late . The 2019 edition, held at Gopalan International School in Bangalore, , from March 28–30, culminated in Indian victories for both men's and women's teams, defeating in the finals with sets like 25–8 in the women's match. These championships underscore South Asia's role in talent development, with consistently leveraging them to build squads for broader Asian events. The events typically follow a format of best-of-three sets to 15 points, emphasizing rapid rallies and strategic serving. In the , the Philippine Throwball Federation coordinates domestic competitions, including women's Mini Olympic Throwball events, which integrate throwball into national sports frameworks and school programs across , particularly emphasizing youth participation in regional leagues. This structure has positioned the as a perennial powerhouse in Asian championships, contributing to the sport's community impact through grassroots engagement and international qualifiers.

References

  1. https://internationalthrowballfederation.com/content/about-us
  2. http://www.tamilnaduthrowball.com/ktgadmin/media/image/rules/200827100831_ITF_Thrbl_Rules_book-compressed.pdf
  3. https://www.throwballfederationofindia.in/about_us.htm
  4. https://worldthrowball.com/
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  11. https://sportsmatik.com/know-how/get-governing-bodies-details/throwball-federation-of-india
  12. https://throwball.in/
  13. https://www.usathrowball.com/
  14. https://gama.ngo/product/gama-womens-throwball-registration-2025/
  15. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cW8Rrne0F4U
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  19. http://throwballfederationofindia.blogspot.com/2013/09/origin-of-throwball-game.html
  20. https://www.rajasthanthrowball.weebly.com/about.html
  21. https://internationalthrowballfederation.com/home_routing/Commitee
  22. https://www.throwballfederationofindia.in/states.htm
  23. https://www.facebook.com/asianthrowballfed/posts/httpsmfacebookcomstoryphpstory_fbid1634701159978743id100003166231699/2098547523714638/
  24. https://www.thepapare.com/sri-lankan-mens-and-womens-throwball-outfits-clinched-asian-championships/
  25. https://sportsmatik.com/sports-know-how/throwball/rules
  26. https://media.hometeamsonline.com/photos/htosports/ISMAILITHROWBALL/Throwball_Rules_12262018.pdf
  27. https://content-files.the.ismaili/files/usig_sports_rules_-_international_throwball.pdf
  28. https://www.asianthrowball.com/
  29. https://www.facebook.com/sahs.edu/posts/mark-your-calendars-5th-december-2025-is-almost-here-the-35th-junior-national-th/1274928444651853/
  30. https://www.facebook.com/NefaLive2020/posts/the-48th-senior-national-throwball-championship-2025-at-ranchi-jharkhand-conclud/1187248303419421/
  31. https://x.com/Throwball_India
  32. https://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/six-teams-to-feature-at-south-asian-throwball-championship-119022400481_1.html
  33. https://throwball.in/public/multi-edit/achievements
  34. https://www.mykhel.com/more-sports/india-defeat-bangladesh-in-south-asian-throwball-championship-2019-113925.html
  35. https://www.facebook.com/asianthrowballfed/?locale=sr_RS
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