How do you carry the ball in wheelchair rugby?
I · Intermediate · Violations · 2 of 4The ball may be passed, batted, bounced or carried on the lap, with three quarters visible, but never kicked. A player has possession when holding or securing it on the lap. Pushes between dribbles are unlimited, but the carrier must bounce or pass every 8 seconds. Every violation hands the ball to the other team.
How it works
- Ways to move it: pass, roll, bat, bounce, carry.
- Kicking: not allowed.
- On the lap: 75% visible.
- Possession: in hands or secured on the lap.
- Pushes: unlimited.
- Dribble: every 8 seconds.
- Dribble: a positive bounce or drop.
- Violation: loss of possession.
The glossary has the ball (wheelchair rugby), the possession and dribbling (wheelchair rugby), the eight second dribble violation, the violation sanction, the ball holder and the held ball (wheelchair rugby).
Tricky cases
A player holds the ball for 9 seconds without bouncing. Result?
A violation.
Can the ball be carried between the knees?
It must be on the lap with 75% visible.
The ball hits a foot below the knee. Kick?
Yes, if struck with the leg.
What does every violation cost?
Possession.
Why the rule exists
Unlimited pushes suit players with limited hand function. The 8-second bounce keeps the ball moving.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Carrying | Lap allowed | 14, 66 |
| Pushes | Unlimited | 67 |
| Dribble | Every 8 seconds | 79 |
From the rule book
World Wheelchair Rugby, International Wheelchair Rugby Rules (1 April 2026), rules 14, 65 to 67, 72 and 79. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: World Wheelchair Rugby International Rules, April 2026.