What is Floorball? A Complete Guide to British Columbia’s Fastest-Growing Indoor Sport
Floorball is taking British Columbia by storm, and with the establishment of the Jr. Canucks Floorhockey program, the sport has never been more accessible to players across our province. Whether you’re a hockey enthusiast looking for a year-round alternative or a newcomer seeking an exciting team sport, floorball offers fast-paced action that’s easy to learn and incredibly fun to play.
The Basics: What Exactly is Floorball?
Floorball is an indoor team sport played with five field players and a goalkeeper on each team. Think of it as a fusion of hockey, basketball, and soccer—played on a gymnasium floor with lightweight sticks and a plastic ball with holes. The game combines the strategic passing of hockey with the continuous movement of basketball, all while being remarkably safe and accessible to players of all ages.
The sport originated in Sweden in the late 1960s, where it quickly became a staple in schools and community centres. Today, floorball has grown into a global phenomenon with over 377,000 registered players worldwide and official recognition from the International Olympic Committee.
How the Game Works
A standard floorball match consists of three 20-minute periods, with teams of six players (including the goalkeeper) competing on a rink measuring 40 metres by 20 metres, surrounded by low boards. The objective is simple: use your stick to shoot the lightweight, perforated ball into the opposing team’s goal.
What makes floorball unique is its emphasis on skill over physical contact. While controlled shoulder-to-shoulder contact is permitted, the aggressive checking found in ice hockey is prohibited. This makes the sport incredibly inclusive—players of different sizes, ages, and skill levels can compete together safely.
Equipment That Won’t Break the Bank
One of floorball’s greatest appeals is its affordability. Players need minimal equipment:
- A floorball stick (shorter and lighter than hockey sticks, with a maximum length of 114 cm)
- Indoor court shoes
- Athletic clothing
- Optional: protective eyewear
Goalkeepers wear padded pants, chest protectors, knee pads, and a helmet—but notably, they play without a stick, using their hands and body to make saves.
Why Floorball is Perfect for British Columbia
Floorball addresses many of the barriers that prevent people from participating in traditional hockey. There’s no expensive ice time to book, no heavy equipment to purchase, and no skating skills required. The sport can be played in any gymnasium, making it accessible to schools, community centres, and recreation facilities throughout BC.
The International Floorball Federation now boasts 80 member nations, and floorball has been a featured sport at the World Games since 2017. Sweden’s national teams have dominated international competition, but the sport is rapidly growing in North America, with Canada fielding competitive teams at world championships.
BC Floorball: Leading the Way in Our Province
In 2023, BC Floorball Association was established to serve as the home of floorball in British Columbia. Our organization is dedicated to growing the sport across the province, from introducing floorball in schools to developing competitive leagues for players of all levels.
Whether you’re in Vancouver, Victoria, Kelowna, or anywhere else in BC, there’s a place for you in our floorball community. We offer:
- Introductory programs for schools and youth groups
- Recreational leagues for beginners
- Competitive opportunities for experienced players
- Coaching and referee certification
- Equipment resources and support
Get Started Today
Ready to give floorball a try? The barrier to entry couldn’t be lower. Many of our introductory sessions provide all the equipment you need—just show up in athletic wear and running shoes.
Floorball is more than just a sport; it’s a community. It’s where hockey players stay sharp in the off-season, where families find an activity they can enjoy together, and where newcomers discover the thrill of team sports in a welcoming environment.
Join the movement. Join BC Floorball.
BC Floorball is the provincial governing body for floorball in British Columbia, established in 2024. For more information about programs, leagues, and how to get involved, visit bcfloorball.org.