Salibandy

Salibandy, internationally known as floorball, is an indoor team sport played with lightweight sticks and a small perforated ball on a smooth gym floor. Two teams of five field players and a goalkeeper compete to score by getting the ball into the opponent's net. The sport is especially popular in the Nordic countries.

Games are divided into periods, typically three of 20 minutes each, with substitutions on the fly. Players pass, dribble, and shoot using their sticks; play emphasizes speed, ball control, and teamwork. The ball is designed to be easily playable on indoor surfaces, and protective equipment is worn by goalkeepers and, in some leagues, other players.

Equipment includes lightweight sticks made of wood or composite materials, a perforated plastic ball, goals, and protective padding for goalkeepers. The playing area is a rectangular indoor court with boards around the perimeter and a center line to separate teams.

Salibandy originated in Sweden in the 1960s and spread to Finland and other European countries. The International Floorball Federation (IFF) governs international competition, including the World Floorball Championships held for men and women. National leagues and clubs operate in many countries, contributing to a growing global footprint.