Poull Ball was created in 2009 by François Poull in Belgium and has since been integrated into physical education programs in France, Canada, and several other countries. It is played on a rectangular court with two neutral targets, with teams of five players each aiming to knock down these targets using a large ball. The sport emphasizes cooperation and inclusive play rather than strict defense or team-specific territories.
The game can be adapted for participants with disabilities through modifications to equipment, environment, and rules:
Adaptive Equipment: Balls of varying sizes, weights, or textures, auditory balls for visually impaired players, and targets that are lighter, sound-emitting, or visually high-contrast. Mallets or pushers can assist players who cannot throw or kick.
Environment Adaptations: Smooth, level, accessible playing surfaces, reduced court dimensions, clearly marked boundaries, and adjustable target distances.
Gameplay Adaptations: Players can propel the ball by any safe method (throwing, rolling, pushing, using assistive devices). Rules regarding mobility or number of touches can be relaxed. Teams can be balanced for ability levels, and scoring can be simplified with 1 point per target knocked down, using rounds or timed sessions to ensure inclusive participation.
Poull Ball encourages collaboration, strategic thinking, and social inclusion, making it suitable for able-bodied and disabled players alike.