Discover, Learn, and Support Local Floorball
The fastest game most of Richmond has never played
What is Floorball?
We like to think of floorball as the perfect mix of hockey, basketball, soccer, and lacrosse—without the expensive gear or barriers to entry. It’s a fast-paced, skill-driven indoor sport played with a lightweight plastic stick and a ball designed for speed and precision. And because checking isn’t allowed, sticks are light weight, and excessive contact is called tight, all genders and age groups often play together without compromising competition or pace of play.
In Richmond, we feel floorball takes the best parts of—hockey’s stickhandling, soccer’s player positioning and counter-attack strategies, and lacrosse’s quick transitions, ball possession and line changes. It’s surprisingly easy to pick up, whether you’ve played other sports before or you’re starting fresh. It’s as welcoming to beginners as it is rewarding for skilled players looking to compete.
How to Play Floorball
The Equipment
The Stick: Made of lightweight plastic with a curved blade for control and precision.
The Ball: A perforated, hollow plastic ball designed for speed and accuracy.
The Court: Played on a gym floor or indoor surface, typically enclosed by low boards that keep the game flowing.
Basic Rules
5-on-5 with a goalie (or smaller teams for pickup games or tournaments).
No high sticking, no hitting, no checking. The game is built for speed and skill, although light contact is permissible.
Quick play, continuous movement, high energy. Possession changes quickly, making teamwork and positioning essential.
USA Floorball & The Global Game
Floorball's journey to the United States began in the early 1990s, primarily through enthusiasts from Sweden and Finland who brought the sport with them.
Recognizing the need for a unified governing body, the United States Floorball Association (USFbA) was established in 2001. In the same year, the USFbA became a member of the International Floorball Federation (IFF), aligning the U.S. with global standards and fostering international collaboration. This also permitted the US to participate in international competitions.
In 2020, the North American Floorball League (NAFL) was founded as the first elite-level floorball league in North America. The NAFL aims to showcase the sport to new audiences and develop the game in new markets. The league operates under IFF rules, with games consisting of three 20-minute periods.
Today, Richmond is supported by USA Floorball and has representation on their volunteer staff as Directors of the Atlantic Region. Floorball is experiencing significant growth across the United States. The USFbA continues to support this expansion by organizing leagues, tournaments, and national teams that compete on the world stage. The establishment of the NAFL has further elevated the sport's profile, providing a platform for elite competition and increased visibility. As floorball gains momentum, communities nationwide are embracing the sport, contributing to its dynamic and promising future in the U.S.