What is the ten second rule in goalball?
I · Intermediate · Penalties · 3 of 6A team penalty is given if a team does not get the ball past the centre line within 10 seconds of first touching it. Delaying the game, too many time-outs or leaving the bench area are team delays. Coaching after quiet please is illegal coaching, and noise by teammates during a throw is a team penalty too. The opponents pick who defends.
How it works
- Ten seconds: from first defensive contact.
- Clock: pauses for time-outs, resets after goals.
- Team delay: lateness, too many requests.
- Bench area: must stay inside.
- Illegal coaching: after quiet please.
- Second coaching offence: ejection.
- Team noise: by teammates during a throw.
- Defender: chosen by the throwing team.
The glossary has the ten seconds, the team delay of game, the team unsporting conduct, the illegal coaching, the noise (goalball) and the quiet please.
Tricky cases
Does the ten seconds stop for a time-out?
It pauses, then continues.
Can spectators send electronic coaching?
Yes, if it makes no disturbing noise.
Who defends a team penalty throw?
A player chosen by the throwing team.
A coach is caught twice in one game?
Ejected.
Why the rule exists
Ten seconds keeps the game fast. Coaching limits keep players deciding for themselves during play.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Ten seconds | Team | 31 |
| Coaching | Team, then ejection | 34 |
| Noise | Team | 35 |
From the rule book
IBSA, Goalball Rules and Regulations 2025 (effective 1 January 2025), rules 31 to 35. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: IBSA Goalball Rules and Regulations 2025.