Opening Up a New World of Sports: Korfball, a Game of Equality and Teamwork
By Napathorn Chansawang, photos by Kanakorn chukraithai
Monday, January 20, 2025
Korfball, a sport that blends the dynamics of basketball with a unique emphasis on gender equality, is making waves at the 50th University Sports of Thailand, also known as the Thammasat Games. This innovative sport is not just about competition; it’s a festivity of diversity, teamwork, and equal chance.
What is Korfball?
Imagine a game that resembles basketball but with a twist. Korfball is a mixed-gender team sport where each team consists of four male and four female athletes. Players must work together on the same field, relying on skill, strategy, and collaboration to score goals. Unlike customary sports, Korfball ensures that every player, irrespective of gender, plays a pivotal role in the team’s success.
“Korfball is a sport that challenges everyone’s abilities, whether male or female.Everyone is an critically important cog in leading the team to victory,” says mr.Thanat Wangjeen, a former national Korfball player from Srinakharinwirot University.
A Sport for All
One of the standout features of Korfball is its inclusivity. Unlike basketball, where height can be a significant advantage, Korfball levels the playing field.As Mr. Wangjeen explains,“Even if you’re 2 meters tall,you can’t score a goal if a defender is within arm’s reach. It’s all about skill,technique,and wit.”
This unique rule ensures that the game is accessible to everyone, making it a perfect fit for promoting fairness and equal participation.
Korfball at the Thammasat Games
The inclusion of korfball in the Thammasat Games highlights its growing importance in promoting justice and equal opportunities. Thammasat University, competing for the first time, has already made a significant impact, reaching the final eight in both 4-person and 8-person categories.
Dr. Warathaya Warothai, Chief Manager of the Korfball Sports Team at thammasat University, shares her pride in the team’s performance: “Even though the preparation time may not be much, Thammasat has made it to the final 8 teams, which is considered vrey satisfactory.”
Building a Bright Future for Korfball
thammasat University is committed to fostering the growth of Korfball. Dr. Warothai reveals plans to establish a Korfball gathering to support and develop athletes continuously. “We think that in the future,ther will be a Korfball gathering established to provide support and continuously develop athletes,” she says.
Additionally, the university aims to expand recruitment and collaborate with other institutions to elevate Korfball’s popularity at the national level.
Key Highlights of Korfball
| Feature | Description |
|—————————|———————————————————————————|
| Team Composition | 4 male and 4 female athletes per team |
| Gameplay | Mixed-gender collaboration on the same field |
| Unique Rule | Defenders can block shots within arm’s reach, emphasizing skill over height |
| Inclusivity | Promotes gender equality and equal participation |
| Future Plans | Establishment of korfball gatherings and national collaborations |
A Sport That unites
Korfball is more than just a game; it’s a movement that embodies the concept of Unity of Diversity, Victory for All. By breaking down barriers and fostering teamwork, it offers a fresh perspective on sports and society.
As Thammasat University continues to champion this sport, the future of Korfball looks brighter than ever.Whether you’re an athlete or a spectator, Korfball invites everyone to be part of a game where equality and teamwork reign supreme.
Photos courtesy of kanakorn Chukraithai.
