Intro to Power Soccer

Power soccer, also known as powerchair football, is an exciting and inclusive sport specifically designed for individuals who use power wheelchairs. Combining the strategy and energy of traditional soccer with accessibility, power soccer provides a unique and competitive environment for players with physical disabilities.

How is power wheelchair soccer played?

Power soccer is a team sport played on a regulation-sized basketball court. Players maneuver their power wheelchairs equipped with specialized footguards to pass, dribble, and shoot an oversized soccer ball. The objective is to score more goals than the opposing team within the two twenty minute halves, making it a dynamic game for both participants and spectators.

The laws of power soccer

The laws of power soccer are based on the 18 laws of the game, as laid out by FIFA, with some key adaptations:

Court Dimensions

The game is played indoors on a court measuring 30 meters by 18 meters.

Goalpost Setup

Goalposts are represented by two upright markers (cones or pylons) placed 6 meters apart; there is no crossbar.

Ball Size

A larger ball, approximately 13 inches in diameter, is used to keep the ball on the ground.

Team and Game Format

Matches are played 4 vs. 4, with squads of up to 8 players for substitutions. Games consist of two 20-minute halves.

Two-on-One Rule

The "two-on-one" rule replaces offside. If two teammates and an opponent are within 3 meters of the ball, an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposition. Goalkeepers are exempt from this rule.

Goal Box Rules

Only two defenders are allowed in the goal box at a time, while attackers have no such restrictions.

Kick-Ins

A kick-in replaces traditional throw-ins for restarting play.

Contact Rules

Some contact is allowed but must involve contact between guards. Ramming or using other parts of the wheelchair is prohibited.

Who can play?

Power soccer is a co-ed sport for people of all ages with physical disabilities. Common conditions among players include:

  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Spinal Muscular Atrophy
  • Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
  • Spinal Cord Injury
  • Arthrogryposis
  • Other Muscular Dystrophy
  • Limb Difference
  • Spina Bifida
  • And Many Others

Power soccer around the world

Power soccer is a global sport, with players and teams participating from over 30 countries. The sport's international appeal has led to competitive leagues and tournaments on nearly every continent. Key participating nations include:

  • Argentina
  • Australia
  • Austria
  • Belgium
  • Brazil
  • Canada
  • Denmark
  • England
  • Finland
  • France
  • Germany
  • Ireland
  • Italy
  • Japan
  • Korea
  • Mexico
  • New Zealand
  • Northern Ireland
  • Scotland
  • Spain
  • Switzerland
  • Turkey
  • Uruguay