Illinois
School for the Visually Impaired
658 East State Street • Jacksonville, Illinois
62650-2130
Toll Free: 800-919-5617 • Voice: 217-479-4400 • TTY: 217-479-4415 • Fax:
217-479-4479
www.isvi.net • E-mail:
ISVI
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On Line With ISVI By Reggie Clinton - Superintendent ISVI November 18, 2008 A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to join several of my colleagues here at ISVI in a students vs. staff game of goalball. This was simply a friendly match and an opportunity for us on staff to better understand the game and our students. First, let me tell you that having never played this game it was something that gave me a better appreciation for it and those who play it. Many years ago as a student I participated in several sports at my high school. I thought "how hard can this be since all you are doing is rolling a ball at your opponents goal?" Let me tell you that it may look simple to those of us who watch the game, but being an active participant is a whole new world! The ball is much harder than it looks and the speed and accuracy that some of the students can throw it is truly amazing! It is also amazing to me how hard a gym floor is when you are on your hands, knees, side and stomach defending your goal! I can honestly say that I am impressed with our students’ ability to maneuver their bodies to block the shots while at the same time protecting themselves as they absorb the hit of the ball. I don’t say this simply because I was sore for over a week after playing, but because it really takes a special talent to play this game well. Second, I was able to experience how you must rely on your other senses to play this game. For me it was a special experience to put on the goggles to block out all vision and to participate in the game. As you hear the ball coming at you your mind starts racing as you think where it might be going, what you need to do and then spring into action. I mentioned earlier that the ball is not as soft as you might think. Actually I would describe it as an under inflated basketball with a bell in it. A well-thrown ball can cause a person to grimace as you absorb the shot in your stomach. Not knowing for sure where the ball is going to hit you causes some anxiety as you hear the ball approaching. I also experienced first hand how I had to rely on my hearing to keep up with the other players. There is no doubt that players of this game have to work hard at developing their skills in order to synchronize their defense and be top notch participants. This match was fun for all of us. Or maybe I should say it was fun for us once we knew we survived it! The students enjoyed it and the fact that they won. It was a wonderful opportunity for staff to better understand our students and for students to better understand staff. For ISVI staff and students to come together in a fun activity like this, as a participant or observer, was a great way to get to know each other better. If you have never been to a goalball match I would encourage you to do so. Keep in mind that the hardest part as an observer is remaining silent while the action is going on. You get your chance to cheer on your favorite team but you have to wait until there is a break in the action. I guarantee you that once you have been to a goalball game you will better appreciate the skill it takes to play. If you really want to appreciate it better, be a player in a match if the opportunity ever arises for you! I also want to say thank you to Coaches Raabe and Chambers for organizing this event! |
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