Why is silence required during play in Goalball?

Silence during play in Goalball is essential because it allows players, who are visually impaired, to rely on their auditory senses to detect the ball's movements. The game is designed such that the ball contains bells within it, and players must listen carefully to the sound of the ball rolling or bouncing in order to react and intercept it. Any noise from spectators or the environment could distract players and impair their ability to hear the ball, which is crucial for their performance. Thus, maintaining silence ensures that players can fully engage with their auditory cues and enhances the fairness and integrity of the competition.