Speedball Study Guide
The objective of the game is to score 1-3 points by the offensive team. One point is scored by kicking the ball into the goal; two points are scored by throwing the ball into the end zone for a touchdown; three points are scored for a drop kick above the goal.
Play begins with both teams lined up across their backfield and the kickoff team kicks to the receiving team. A goal cannot be scored by the team kicking off UNLESS the receiving team touches the ball first. After a score, the team scored on receives the kick off.
When the ball is in play, it is referred to as an aerial or fly ball or a ground ball.
An aerial ball must be played off a direct kick (foot). It can be converted from a ground ball by a teammate, an opponent, or yourself.
Once the ball hits the floor, the wall, or any part of the body other than the foot, it MUST be played as a ground ball until it is converted again.
Ground balls may be played soccer-style; they may be kicked, headed, or played with any part of the body other than the arms or hands.
Dribbling soccer-style is allowed. Running with an aerial ball is NOT allowed. However, a player may use one overhead dribble per possession. Once an overhead dribble is used, it must be passed to another player. A touchdown cannot be scored using an overhead dribble.
Goalies do NOT have special privileges; their job is to keep the ball from going through the goal.
When a violation occurs (handball, illegal aerial ball, etc) the opposing team is awarded a free lift. One member of the team must ‘lift’ the ball to another using their foot, while facing AWAY from their goal. The ball may be caught as an aerial ball off a lift or it may be deliberately dropped and played soccer –style. The defending team cannot interfere with the free lift. Once the ball has been touched, any player may then play it.
Players must substitute at the halfway mark of the game. ALL team members must take a turn substituting.
The ball must be played safely; no high or dangerous kicks allowed. No slide tackles or tripping permitted.
Good sportsmanship is expected and required. Teams will be disqualified for unsportsmanlike conduct!