Korfball Glossary
New to korfball? Use this glossary to understand key terms and concepts used in the sport. Whether you're learning the basics or deepening your knowledge, these definitions will help you master korfball terminology.
Core Korfball Concepts
Korfball
A fast-paced, mixed-gender team sport with similarities to netball and basketball. Teams have 8 players on court: 4 male and 4 female, each defending their own gender. No dribbling is allowed.
See also: Mixed-Gender Sport, No Dribbling Rule, Comparison to netball and basketball
Mixed-Gender Sport
A sport where teams must include equal numbers of male and female players, ensuring both genders play simultaneously and with equal importance to the team.
Unique to korfball: True gender equality in competitive sports
Korf
The basket or hoop used in korfball, positioned 3.5 meters (11 feet 6 inches) high. Teams have a korf at each end of the court.
Height: 3.5 meters (11'6") - same for all players
Rules & Gameplay
No Dribbling Rule
In korfball, players cannot bounce the ball while moving. Once you receive the ball, you must pass it or shoot; you cannot move while holding it.
Impact: Emphasizes teamwork and accurate passing
Gender-Specific Defending
A korfball rule where male players can only defend other male players, and female players can only defend female players. This ensures equal competition between genders.
Result: Every player has equal defensive responsibility
Basket
The goal in korfball. Throwing the ball through the korf (basket) at either end of the court. Each basket scores 1 point.
Scoring: 1 point per basket regardless of distance
Free Pass
An uncontested pass awarded after a rule violation or stoppage in play, allowing a team to resume play safely.
Used for: Restarting play fairly
Court & Positions
Court
The rectangular playing area in korfball, approximately 40 meters long and 20 meters wide, divided into two halves with a korf at each end.
Dimensions: 40m × 20m (standard)
Attacking Zone
The half of the court where a team is trying to score. In korfball, teams switch ends halfway through each half to ensure fairness.
Fair play: Teams take turns on both ends
Defending Zone
The half of the court a team is defending. Players try to prevent the opposing team from scoring baskets at their end.
Connected to: Gender-Specific Defending
Club & Competitive Terms
Welsh League
The primary competitive korfball league in Wales, organized by the Welsh Korfball Association. Newport Centurions are Welsh League Champions.
Newport record: Champions 2022/2023 & 2025
Teamwork
The core principle of korfball. With no dribbling allowed, successful play depends entirely on accurate passing and coordinated team movement.
What it means: No single player can dominate; everyone contributes
Coaching
Professional guidance provided by experienced korfball coaches. Newport Centurions coaches help players of all levels improve their skills and understanding of the game.
Available to: All training levels from beginner to advanced
Training Session
A scheduled time for team members to practice korfball skills, improve fitness, and work on team tactics. Newport Centurions holds training on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Newport times: Tuesdays 6-8 PM, Thursdays 8-9 PM
Beginner-Friendly
A sport or program designed to welcome people with no prior experience. Korfball is beginner-friendly because the rules are straightforward and teams develop players through practice.
Substitution
Replacing one player with another during a korfball match. Teams can make substitutions to manage player fatigue or adjust tactics.
Use in matches: All teams use subs to stay fresh
Ready to Play?
Now that you understand korfball terminology, why not join Newport Centurions and experience this amazing mixed-gender sport?
Join Our Training Sessions