Horse Ball

Josie practicing her reach to get the ball off the ground

Now Recruiting Riders for the Most Fun & Exciting New Horse Game of 2012

The Horse Ball Davis League

Horse Ball is a fun, recreational game that is similar to both basketball and rugby on horseback. It is an internationally recognized sport that is very popular in France, Spain and England. There is currently only one team in Davis that practices weekly at Pine Trails Ranch on County Road 31 in Davis, but Coach John Malbos is currently looking for other teams in the area to start a league.

The Rules of the Game:

• The game is comprised of two, 10-minute periods that are separated by a 3-minute half-time period. At the start of each game, the referee throws a jump ball to start the game.
• The team with the ball in their possession must pass the ball between their players at least three consecutive times, before attempting to score a basket.
• The team that scores the most baskets by the end of round two wins.

If you are interested in playing, starting a team, or having a horse ball clinic at your barn, please contact:

 John S. Malbos
Coach & Trainer
 (415) 613-8064

If you are interested in Horse Ball at Pine Trails Ranch, please contact:

 Charlotte Orr
 Horse Ball Team Coordinator, Pine Trails Ranch
 [email protected]
 (408) 512-7300

or

Michelle Haseltine
Owner & Head Trainer, Pine Trails Ranch
(530)756-2042

Charlotte's Tips For Getting Your Horse Ball Team Started: 1. Find four or more confident riders who are interested in playing (all horses and riders should be comfortable riding at the walk, trot and canter) 2. Get your horses accustomed to the ball using positive reinforcement on the ground, then under saddle. Horses should feel comfortable walking, trotting and cantering shoulder to shoulder with other horses while the ball is being passed. 3. Call Coach John S. Malbos and join the league

Although Horse Ball Davis is a recreational riding league, the international federation of horseball (FIHB) establishes and edits rules for international competition, which are followed by all national organizations. You will always find the last up-to-date version at http://www.fihb-horseball.org

See also Horse Polo Club