If you’ve ever watched horseball, you’ll know it’s fast, loud and slightly chaotic.
After trying it for the first time at Lancing Equestrian, I can confirm it’s all of those things - and seriously addictive.
This guide covers what horseball actually is, how to get started in the UK, what your first session looks like, and what you need to play.
What is Horseball?
Horseball started in France in the 1970s and is now played internationally under FEI rules.
Two teams of four ride at a canter, passing a ball between them and scoring into a raised hoop. You need speed, balance, and awareness - but most of all, teamwork.
One of the key skills is the pick-up: leaning down to collect the ball from the ground without leaving the saddle. It looks tricky and it is at first but then it clicks.
What You Actually Need
You don’t need specialist kit to try it for the first time. Most beginners use normal riding kit:
- Helmet - any approved riding helmet works.
- Boots - short boots or long boots with a secure heel.
- Gloves - optional, but good for grip.
- Pick-up strap - the only sport-specific piece.
The pick-up strap connects both stirrups under the horse’s belly. It threads through a small loop or martingale ring, so it can’t slip too far back. This strap lets you lean down safely to pick up the ball without losing your seat - something you’ll rely on in every game.
A solid, adjustable strap costs around £20 - £30 (see examples at horseballshop.com), and most clubs will lend you one for your first session.
If you’re getting your own setup sorted, you can browse available tack and riding kit here.
Your First Session
A first horseball session doesn’t feel like a typical lesson. There’s more going on, and you’re thinking about more than just your position.
You’ll usually start with a short warm-up, then move into:
- Stretching in the saddle to loosen your hips and shoulders.
- Riding with knotted reins, using leg and body cues instead of constant hand contact.
- Walk-and-trot passing drills, aiming at your teammate’s torso to keep the horses calm.
- Learning pick-ups - reaching for the ball on the move.
- A short line-out, where two lines of riders face each other and the ball is thrown in.
The goal is a raised hoop about 3.5 metres high for senior and under-16 play; younger riders use a lower one.
It feels busy at first, but it’s broken down step by step. You’re not expected to just get on and play a full game.
Watch our video to see how that first pick-up actually feels.
Rules You'll Notice Straight Away
You’ll pick up the basics quickly:
- Each team has four players, plus two substitutes (6 in total).
- You must make three passes between three riders before you can shoot.
- 10 seconds maximum holding the ball.
- Defending happens side-on (around 90 degrees) to avoid collisions.
- If the ball drops, it must be picked up in the direction of play.
Those small safety details keep the game quick but fair. You can read the full international rulebook at fihb.net.
Where to Try Horseball in the UK
- Lancing Equestrian (West Sussex) - the only full horseball training centre in this region, with regular taster sessions and training.
- British Horseball Club Finder - the BHA website lists clubs by region, from Scotland to the South West.
- University Horseball - many uni riding clubs field horseball teams, open to both students and alumni.
- Have-a-go days - look out for local “Intro to Horseball” events on the British Horseball Association page.
If you don’t have your own horse, don’t worry - several centres, including Lancing, provide suitable ponies for lessons.
If you’re thinking about getting a horse for something like this or general riding club use, you can browse horses for sale here.
Costs and Access
Getting started is fairly straightforward:
- Taster sessions: £40–£60.
- Club or centre membership: often included for beginners, but can vary.
- Player membership (if you compete): from around £10.
Horses are usually matched to riders for safety and confidence, so you’re not out of your depth in early sessions.
You can find local sessions and sign up through the British Horseball Association club finder or by contacting centres running taster days.
Safety and Welfare
Horseball in the UK is governed by the British Horseball Association and follows FEI-aligned welfare standards.
Horses are trained gradually to get used to the sound and movement of the ball, similar to polo ponies learning the mallet. Blinkers are sometimes fitted to help sensitive horses focus during play. Accurate, calm passing keeps the session safe and enjoyable for both horse and rider.
Read more on welfare policies at britishhorseball.co.uk/welfare.
Why People Love It
It’s not just the pace. You ride one-handed, rely on other riders, and make quick decisions. It sharpens your riding without feeling repetitive.
You don’t need an expensive horse to take part, and there’s a clear route from beginner sessions through to national level if you want it.
Our Day at The Sussex Cup
We went to The Sussex Cup at Hickstead with Lancing Equestrian and saw that progression in action.
From under-16 teams through to experienced riders, the pace stayed high throughout.
Riders like William Johnson competing on an ex-racehorse, younger teams coming through, and organisers supporting grassroots riders showed how accessible the sport is becoming in the UK.
Trying it ourselves gave the best insight. The pick-up is the part everyone watches - and the part that takes the most getting used to.
Watch our full Sussex Cup video on YouTube to see the pace of the game, how the teams play, and what it actually feels like to try it for the first time.
FAQs
How high is the goal in horseball?
Around 3.5 metres for adults and under-16s, lower for juniors.
Can juniors start in horseball?
Yes. Riders as young as eight can join starter sessions or under-12 teams.
Do I need my own horse in horseball?
No. Many clubs provide horses for beginners.
Is a special saddle needed in horseball?
No. There’s no rule on saddle type - most riders use a comfortable English GP or jumping saddle with a secure fit.
Watch It in Action
See exactly what a first horseball session looks like, from warm-up to scoring the final goal, in our full video.
You can also see more about the Sussex Cup and what a competition day looks like.
Thinking of Buying or Selling?
If this has you thinking about your next horse, it’s worth seeing what’s currently available.
Browse horses for sale or place an advert on Horsemart to reach active buyers across the UK.
