Team Handball Steps To Success

Preface i
TEAM
HANDBALL
Steps to Success
Reita E. Clanton
Assistant Womens 1996 Olympic Team Handball Coach
Head Coach, Team 2000 Womens Team Handball
United States Team Handball Federation
Atlanta, GA
Mary Phyl Dwight
Womens Development Coach
Atlanta, GA
Human Kinetics
ii Team Handball: Steps to Success

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data
Clanton, Reita E., 1952 Team handball : steps to success / Reita E. Clanton, Mary Phyl Dwight.
p. cm. -- (Steps to success activity series)
Includes bibliographical references.
ISBN 0-87322-411-6
1.Team handball. I.Dwight, Mary Phyl, 1951-. II.Title. III.Series.
GV1017.T4C531997
796.312--dc20
96-15149

CIP
ISBN-10: 0-87322-411-6
ISBN-13: 978-0-87322-411-6
Copyright 1997 by Human Kinetics, Inc.
All rights reserved. Except for use in a review, the reproduction or utilization of this work in any form or by any
electronic, mechanical, or other means, now known or hereafter invented, including xerography, photocopying, and
recording, and in any information storage and retrieval system, is forbidden without the written permission of the
publisher.
Notice: Permission to reproduce the following material is granted to instructors and organizations who have purchased Team Handball: Steps to Success: Appendix A on pp. 150-153. The reproduction of other parts of this book is
expressly forbidden by the above copyright notice. Persons or agencies who have not purchased Team Handball: Steps
to Success may not reproduce any material.
Developmental Editor: Judy Patterson Wright, PhD; Assistant Editors: John Wentworth and Andrew Smith; Editorial Assistants: Jennifer Hemphill and Alecia Mapes Walk; Copyeditor: Denelle Eknes; Proofreader: Sue Fetters;
Graphic Designer: Keith Blomberg; Graphic Artists: Robert Reuther and Denise Lowry; Cover Designer: Jack Davis;
Photographer (cover): Will Zehr; Illustrators: Keith Blomberg and Jennifer Delmotte; Printer: Versa Press
Instructional Designer for the Steps to Success Activity Series: Joan N. Vickers, EdD, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Human Kinetics books are available at special discounts for bulk purchase. Special editions or book excerpts can also
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Preface iii
C ontents
Preface
iv
The Steps to Success Staircase
vi
The Game of Team Handball: Its Not Off the Wall!
The Playing Court and Equipment
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Step 4
Step 5
Step 6
Step 7
Step 8
Step 9
Step 10
Step 11
Step 12
Passing and Catching: The Essence of the Game

Piston Movement and Side Stepping: Individual Attack Moves
Dribbling: When and When Not to Dribble
Shooting: Finishing the Attack
Individual Defensive Skills: Going One-on-One
Goalkeeping: The Competitive Edge
Individual Tactics: Attack and Defend
Offensive Combinations: Supporting Your Teammates
Defensive Combinations: Help and Communication
Transitions: Fast-Break and Quick Retreat
Team Attack: Support Points
Team Defense: The 6-0 Zone
9
23
34
42
61
75
91
104
115
125
136
142
Rating Your Progress
148
Appendix A: Team Handball Simplified Rules
150
Appendix B: Marking a Team Handball Court
154
Glossary 156
Suggested Readings
157
About the Authors
159
iii
iv Team Handball: Steps to Success
P reface
W
elcome to the exciting Olympic sport of team handball. Even though millions of
people enjoy the sport throughout the world, team handball is an underdeveloped sport
in the United States. Team Handball: Steps to Success has been written to give you, as a
beginning player, the chance to put your enthusiasm for this new sport into action. You
start by learning the basic rules and gaining an understanding of the physical requirements
in the sport. You need not have a specific body type to be successful in team handball,
but excellent all-around physical conditioning and an aggressive competitive desire are
necessary. This contact sport blends strength, speed, agility, and endurance in a physically challenging way.
Next, you participate in a progressive program of individual and team skill development.
Once you acquire the skills, you practice them in gamelike situations to help learn proper
execution under pressure and how to make good decisions. Factors that create gamelike
conditions include adding defense, restricting space, limiting time, and inducing physical fatigue. Practice under these conditions helps you develop the intangible qualities of
determination and confidence that any good player must possess.
Determining what individual and team skills were essential to expose you to was the
hardest part of writing this book. There are many skills we were not able to cover. As a beginning player, covering everything would be overwhelming for you. Unlike Europeans who
have played since they were young children, you are likely to be learning team handball for
the first time as an older player, as we did. This book is unique from other team handball
publications because we remember what it was like to be an experienced athlete in another
sport, yet learning team handball for the first time in our twenties. Regardless of your age,
this book will provide you with what you need to enjoy the game. Twenty years of playing,
coaching, and teaching team handball have taught us what is important for the beginning
player. We have taught the game to teachers, coaches, and varsity collegiate athletes and
have coached all skill levels of Special Olympics athletes. We included those basic skills,
tactics, and strategies that would allow you to play the game quickly and provide the foundation for your development as a player. The basic skills you need to play team handball
are the same skills you use for other sports, primarily basketball and baseball or softball,
which are probably familiar to you. You will combine your natural athletic skills of running,
jumping, throwing, and catching as you develop as a team handball player.
Understanding game tactics and strategies is also important. You will test your decisionmaking abilities as you experience the rapidly changing action of the game. You will learn
how your individual development contributes to the team as a whole. Six court players
and a goalie work together, with each player having individual responsibilities that will
contribute to the teams success.
iv
Preface v
Whether you participate for fun and fitness or seriously compete with the dream of someday making an Olympic team, your love for team handball will grow as you experience the
game and improve your performance. Use this book to progress through the steps to success at your own pace. Organize a team handball club or league in your area through your
school or Park and Recreation Department. Pass on your enthusiasm for team handball
by displaying your new skills in games and tournaments. We think you will find that once
you start playing the game regularly you will create an individual style of play and develop
more advanced techniques.
We believe this project will represent an important point for team handball development
in the United States. The 1996 Olympics in Atlanta will create excitement about the sport
of team handball. The marketplace needs a quality team handball book for the beginning
player, written in English by American teachers and Olympic athletes. Team Handball:
Steps to Success provides a book that players, teachers, students, and spectators excited
about team handball will be able to pick up in a local bookstore or check out of the library.
There are several people we want to thank who have influenced the development and
completion of this book. Peter Buehning, former president of the United States Team Handball Federation (USTHF), gave us the opportunity to get involved in this great sport. We were
selected to the first USTHF Womens National Team in 1974 and traveled throughout the
world competing in the sport. The USTHF also chose us as members of the first Womens
U.S. Olympic Team for the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles. Our sincere appreciation goes
to three U.S. National Team coaches who greatly influenced our understanding of the
sport and development as players and coaches, Stan Mandroski, Javier Garcia Cuesta,
and Claes Hellgren.
Several friends contributed support to this project in a variety of ways. Thanks to Susan
Todaro, Sandra Leigh, and Jona Braden for editing and critiquing along the way. Joe Thomas
and Mary Carter provided photography for the illustrator of the book. Our thanks go to our
families for their encouragement and support of this project, especially our parents Jack
and Rudene Clanton and Nelson and Bessie Dwight.
We would like to thank Human Kinetics for taking an interest in team handball and publishing this book. A special thanks to Judy Patterson Wright for all her help and patience
while completing the project. It was a lot harder than we had imagined.
vi The Steps to Success Staircase
T HE STEPS TO SUCCESS STAIRCASE

G
et ready to climb a staircaseone that will lead you to become an accomplished team
handball player. You cannot leap to the topyou get there by climbing one step at a time.
Each of the 12 steps you take is an easy transition from the one before. The first few steps
of the staircase provide a solid foundation of basic skills and concepts. As you progress
further, you will learn how to combine those seemingly isolated skills. You will learn how to
attack the goal, how to decide when to pass and when to shoot, and how you can support
your teammates when attacking and defending. As you near the top of the staircase, youll
learn how seven players with individual responsibilities organize as one unit in attack and
on defense and how communication contributes to the effectiveness of the team.
Familiarize yourself with this section as well as with The Game of Team Handball, The
Playing Court and Equipment, and Appendix A: Simplified Rules. These sections give you
a game overview, the physical requirements, the playing area requirements, the size and
type of team handballs, and an explanation of the basic rules. The knowledge you gain will
help you understand how to set up your practice sessions around the steps. Appendix B
provides suggestions for modifying your floor space to create a team handball court.
Follow the same sequence each step (chapter) of the way:
1. Read the explanations of what is covered in the step, why the step is important, and
how to execute or perform the steps focus, which may be on basic skills, concepts,
tactics, or a combination of the three.
2. Follow the numbered illustrations showing exactly how to position your body to execute
each basic skill successfully. There are three general parts to each skill: preparation
(getting into a starting position), execution (performing the skill that is the focus of
the step), and recovery (reaching a finish position or following through to starting
position). These are your keys to success.
3. Look over the common errors that may occur and the recommendations for how to
correct them.
4. Practice the drills to help you improve your skills through repetition. Read the directions and the Success Goal for each drill. Then review the Success Checks and practice
accordingly. Record your score and compare your performance with the Success Goal
for the drill. Because the drills are arranged in an easy-to-difficult progression, you
need to meet the Success Goal of each drill before moving on to practice the next one.
This sequence is designed specifically to help you achieve continual success. Pace
yourself by adjusting the drills to either increase or decrease difficulty, depending on
where you are. See the symbol key to the diagrams at the end of this section.
5. As soon as you can reach all the Success Goals for one step, you are ready for a
qualified observersuch as your coach or trained partnerto evaluate your basic
vi
The Steps to Success Staircase vii
skill technique against the steps keys to success. This is a qualitative or subjective
evaluation of your basic technique or form, because using correct form can enhance
your performance.
6. Repeat these procedures for each of the 12 steps to success. Then rate yourself according to the directions in the Rating Your Total Progress section at the end of the
book.
Good luck on your step-by-step journey to developing your team handball skills, building
confidence, experiencing success, and having fun!
Key to Diagrams
Attacker
Path of the ball
Defender
Starting position of a moving player
Goalie
Dribbling player
Player with the ball
Player advancing the ball with three steps
Relative body positions

(players face to face)
Shooting
Moving player with different timing
(crossing players)
Coach or training partner

Path of player
Screen/pick
Fake without the ball
Cone or chair
Fake with the ball
Note: The right and left side of the court is determined by facing the goal.
BC
BC = Any backcourt
LB
LB = Left backcourt
CB
CB = Center backcourt
RB
RB = Right backcourt
CR
CR = Circle runner
LW
LW = Left wing
RW
RW = Right wing
This page intentionally left blank.
T HE game of team handball: its

not off the wall!
A
lthough popular throughout much of the world, team handball is just emerging in the
United States and often suffers from an identity crisis. Most of the world calls the game
handball, but in the United States there is already another sport with that name. Most
Americans who hear of team handball envision participants on something like a racquetball
court smacking a little black ball with their hands. This vision is not accuratewithout a
doubt, team handball is not off the wall!
Team handball is a dynamic sport that is fun to play and exciting to watch. The sport
uses natural athletic skills such as running, jumping, throwing, and catching to provide
the action for the game. Players and spectators alike enjoy the fast, continuous play, the
body contact, and the goalie action. First-time spectators describe team handball as soccer with your hands, but they also notice elements that remind them of basketball, water
polo, and ice hockey.
Playing the Game

Team handball is played between two teams, each with six court players and a goalie, on a
court larger than a basketball court. The object of the game is to throw a cantaloupe-sized
ball into your opponents 2-meter by 3-meter goal while defending your goal from attack
(see Figure 1). A regulation game is played in 30-minute halves with one 60-second team
time-out per half. A coin toss determines which team starts the game with a throw-off.
From that point, the action is continuous. The clock stops only for injury, team time-outs,
and at the referees discretion. A successful scoring attempt results in the award of 1 point.
Goals scored per game typically range from the upper teens to mid-twenties.
Basic defense protects the goal area by placing all six players around it, forming a wall. A
semicircular line 6 meters from the goal marks the goal area. Only the goalie occupies this
area, and attackers and defenders must remain outside. Defense technique is similar to
basketball with the exception that it allows more contact. Rules permit body contact with
the torso, but players may not push, hold, or endanger an opponent in any way. Excessive
roughness results in a warning or a 2-minute suspension.
When in attack, players are called backcourts, wings, and circle runners. Passing is the
primary way to move the ball in attack. A player may take three steps with the ball before
and after dribbling, but while stationary may hold the ball only 3 seconds. The attacking
players task is to find a way over, around, or through the defensive wall. Players do this
using strategies similar to basketball, incorporating the concepts of the screen, pick and roll,
2 Team Handball: Steps to Success
ter
e
0m
am
Te
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ou
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all
sk
Ba
rt
ou
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a
db
28
15
me
ters
20 m
er
et
Basketball
(30 to 31 inches in
circumference)
Handball
(22-23 inches in
circumference)
eter
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Figure 1 Dimensions in team handball compared to those in basketball. As you see, the
Clanton
team handball court is significantly bigger
while
Job#
376 the ball is significantly smaller.
Fig.# 1crt.
Artist: Jennifer D.
and the overload. The offense may run set plays but a freelance style usually dominates.
Figure 2 shows a team ready to attack versus the defensive wall.
The International Handball Federation (IHF), the international governing body of team
handball, has established the official rules of the game. Appendix A provides simplified rules
in a handout format. You can purchase the current official IHF Rules of the Game from the
United States Team Handball Federation, One Olympic Plaza, Colorado Springs, CO 80909.
Preparing Your Body for Success

Physical fitness alone cannot make you a great team handball player, but without it you
cannot achieve your potential. Being physically fit for team handball includes endurance
(aerobic and anaerobic), strength, flexibility, and the related skill factors of agility, balance,
and coordination. Team handball is a 60-minute game of fast, continuous action. Your
commitment to being physically fit improves your capacity to practice at a level closer to
gamelike conditions. Although you may run more than 3 miles during a game, short bursts
of exertion challenge your anaerobic endurance. Training your aerobic capacity through
long-distance running prepares you for the short-distance speed work that will improve your
anaerobic endurance for practices and games. Whenever possible, include team handball
in your physical conditioning exercises. Combining skill training and fitness training in a
single exercise maximizes the use of your practice time.
Every practice and game should include a 10- to 15-minute warm-up period to elevate
your heart rate and increase your flexibility. The benefit of flexibility exercises increases
when preceded by exercises that allow you to break a sweat. Remember to use a static
stretch by assuming the stretch position, holding that position, then relaxing. Warming up
decreases the chance of sustaining muscle and joint injuries.
The Game of Team Handball 3
Right
wing
Left
wing
Circle
runner
Right backcourt
Left backcourt
Center backcourt
Figure 2 Offense preparing to attack a defensive wall.
When you finish your workout, cool down by spending three to five minutes slowly jogging
or walking to let your heart rate recover to its normal resting state. After walking, select
a flexibility exercise for each major muscle group that you used in the training session.
Include the hamstrings, quadriceps, calves, groin, shoulders, and back. Because the body
is warm after training, stretching is much easier and helps prevent next-day soreness.
Team Handball Today

The International Handball Federation (IHF) recognizes the United States Team Handball
Federation (USTHF) as the national governing body in the United States. The USTHF conducts national and international programs. The national teams frequently travel throughout
the world for international competition including the World Championships, Pan American
Games, and the Olympics. Schools are including this Olympic sport in their curriculum.
Some high schools and middle schools have organized team handball intramurals and club
teams who compete in Junior Olympics or state games tournaments. The Boys and Girls
Clubs of America host the Junior Olympic Team Handball Nationals each May in Atlanta,
Georgia.
On the college level, team handball is not yet offered as a championship sport. West Point
and the Air Force Academy include team handball as a part of their varsity sport program
and host tournaments. As part of a recent NCAA gender equity report, team handball was
included as one of the eight suggested emerging womens sports. Team handball intramural
competitions and sport clubs exist at many colleges.
New York, New Jersey, California, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Georgia, and Colorado have
active USTHF state associations. Two other USTHF members, the Native American Sports
Council and the U.S. Armed Forces Sports Council, are also prominent promoters of team
handball. Organizations such as these, as well as individual clubs, host local tournaments
and travel to compete in regional competitions. All USTHF teams are eligible to compete in
the annual National Championships in April.
Several sports organizations have developed team handball for the disabled. Special
Olympics International, a sports organization created for people with mental retardation,
conducts team handball training schools for coaches and offers training and competition
for athletes. Fourteen team handball teams competed in the 1995 Special Olympics World
Games in New Haven, CT. The American Athletic Association for the Deaf sponsors a team
for the World Deaf Games. The United States Cerebral Palsy Athletic Association hosts a
yearly national tournament in Wheelchair Team Handball.
Team handball continues to grow throughout the world. The IHF comprises 136 member
nations and 16 membership candidates. Approximately 12 million players compete in the
sport on four continents. Although European and Asian countries still lead in team handball
participation, African and Pan American countries are emerging in the sport. The future of
team handball in the United States is promising. The interest created by the 1996 Olympic
Games in Atlanta will be a catalyst for the further development of the sport.
For more information regarding specific team handball programs, call or write:
One Olympic Plaza
Colorado Springs, CO 80909
719-578-4582
Special Olympics International
Team Handball Director
1325 G. St. NW
Suite 500
Washington, DC 20005-4709
202-628-3630
Boys and Girls Clubs of America
1230 West Peachtree St., NW
Atlanta, GA 30309
404-815-5700
American Athletic Association of the Deaf
3607 Washington Blvd.
Suite 4
Ogden, UT 84403-1737
801-393-7916 (TTY)
801-393-8710 (Voice)
International Handball Federation

P.O. Box 312
Ch-4020
Basel, Switzerland
41-61-331-50-15
U.S. Cerebral Palsy Athletic Association
Wheelchair Team Handball
200 Harrison Avenue
Newport, RI 02840
401-848-2460
Native American Sports Council
1765 South 8th St.
Suite T6
Colorado Springs, CO 80906
719-632-3188
U.S. Armed Forces Sports
Hoffman Building #1
Rm. 1456
2461 Eisenhower Ave.
Alexandria, VA 22331-0522
703-325-1843

T HE playing court and equipment

B
efore you get into the Steps to Success to develop your team handball skills, you need
to learn a little bit about the playing court, equipment, and attire. In the United States, it
is unlikely you will have access to an established team handball court, so you may need to
learn how to modify your facility and the equipment immediately available to you.
The Playing Court

A regulation team handball court measures 20 meters by 40 meters. The rules require an
additional safety zone outside the court lines of at least 1 meter on the sides and 2 meters
on the ends. A large safety net is also advisable behind each goal. The most significant
part of the playing court is the goal area, formed by the 6-meter line and nicknamed the
circle. Only the goalie is allowed to stand inside this area. Neither attacking players nor
defending players may enter the goal area or step on the 6-meter goal-area line. However,
the rules allow court players air rights over the circle. A player may jump from outside
the goal area, hang in the air over the goal area, and shoot the ball before contacting the
floor. Players cannot interfere with game action in any way after landing in the circle and
must exit in the shortest route possible.
Figure 3 shows the playing court. Table 1 lists the specific rules that apply to the main
court lines.
Team bench
Score table
Team bench
Substitution area
20 meters
Goalkeeper line
Goal-area line
7-meter line
Centerline
9-meter line
7-meter line
6-meter line
4-meter line
Goal
Free-throw line
Substitution line
Substitution line
Endline
Endline
Sideline
40 meters
Figure 3 The team handball court.
Clanton
job# 376
Fig # 3
Artist: Jennifer D.
Table 1 Main Court Lines and Restrictions

4-meter lineGoalie cannot go beyond this point on a 7-meter throw.
6-meter lineThe goal-area line encloses the goal area or circle.
7-meter line7-meter throws are taken from this line (a penalty shot one-on-one with the
goalie).
9-meter lineFree-throw line, used to put ball back into play after minor foul.
Substitution lineMarks the substitution area, a 15-centimeter line both on and off the
court that designates where players enter and leave the court.
CenterlineAttacking team starts the game here and restarts play after each goal.
You may play the game indoors in the gym, outdoors on the grass, on the beach, or on
any level rectangular paved area. Most high school gyms are built around a basketball
court (15 meters by 28 meters) but you can easily adapt the team handball court to a
smaller space. As the playing area is reduced, you may reduce the number of players, the
goal-area line, and the free-throw line accordingly. Reducing the goal area when adults are
playing is not recommended because it leads to an added danger for the goalie. The width
of the court is more important than the length when modifying a team handball court. If
putting tape on the floor is a problem, you could use the 3-point line in basketball for the
goal area, but measuring the area correctly is preferable. See Appendix B for directions for
marking the playing court.
The Ball
The ball consists of a rubber bladder and a white leather 32-panel cover sometimes decorated with a black symmetrical design. Considering hand size and individual strength, the
ball varies in size and weight depending on the group participating (see Figure 4). To get
the most out of practices, have a ball for every two players. The rules do not indicate the
inflation pressure for a team handball. A simple standard is that the ball should have a
good bounce when dropped from waist high, but it should not be so hard that it doesnt
give a little when pressed with a thumb. Table 2 provides ball size and weight guidelines.
58-60 cm
54-56 cm
a. Mens leather (size 3)
b. Womens leather (size 2)
Figure 4 The team handball varies in size and weight depending on the players.
The Playing Court and Equipment 7
Table 2 Team Handballs: Size and Weight

Mens leather (size 3)
Circumference
Weight
Metric
U.S. equivalent
58-60 centimeters............................. 23-24 inches
425-475 grams.................................. 15-17 ounces
Womens leather (size 2)

Circumference
Weight

325-400 grams.................................. 12-14 ounces
*SuperSafe Elite (made by Sportime 1-800-283-5700)

(air-filled, foam ball for safer youth and coed training)
6-3/4 inch handball (age 14 and older)
Circumference
Weight
350 grams......................................... 12.3 ounces
6-1/4 inch junior handball (age 13 and younger)
Circumference
Weight
320 grams......................................... 11.3 ounces
* Recommended for coed physical education classes and youth programs.
For beginners, physical education classes, and youth programs, the U.S. Team Handball
Federation recommends the SuperSafe Elite handball by Sportime (1-800-283-5700). The
air-filled, foam ball has the weight of an official womens ball (350 grams) and provides
realistic play in a safe atmosphere. You can also use lighter, dense foam balls for elementary children.
The Goals
The goal has an opening of 2 meters by 3 meters with posts that are eight centimeters wide
painted in a black and white checkerboard pattern (see Figure 5). The back of the goalpost
is placed on the outer edge of the goal line. The net, which prevents rebounds, is 1.5 meters
deep at the base of the goal. If storage might be a problem, it is important when purchasing goals to note whether you can take them apart or fold them up with ease. Fold-A-Goal
(213-734-2507) sells nets and a three-piece, steel practice goal that comes apart easily, yet
is durable. Field hockey or indoor soccer goals may be suitable substitutes in some situations. You can make acceptable goals of official dimensions of wood, pvc pipe, or square
steel tubing. Secure them to the ground when possible. If goals are not available, tape the
goal opening on a wall or make a goal with portable standards and rope. You can make net
substitutes from fish netting or other sports netting and attach them with Velcro straps.
Attire
The required attire for court players is a jersey or shirt, shorts, socks, and court shoes.
Many players also wear knee pads or elbow pads. Players uniforms are numbered 1 to 20.
Goalkeepers wear brightly colored long-sleeved shirts and sweat pants that distinguish
them from the court players of both teams. The goalie may become a court player at any
Goal front-view
28 cm
100 cm
8 cm
8 cm
300 cm
316 cm
8 cm
9 x 20 cm
208 cm
28 cm
13 x 20 cm
9 x 20 cm
200 cm
208 cm
28 cm
Goal side-view
150 cm
Clanton
Figure 5 Dimensions of the team handball Job#

goal.376
Fig# 5/goal
Artist: Jennifer D.
time following a change of uniform, and vice versa with court players. Referees prohibit
players from wearing anything that might cause injury to another player (i.e., watch, jewelry, face mask).
Other Equipment
There are a number of other items you may want to have on hand. Heres a short list:

First-aid kit and emergency contact numbers

Ice and plastic bags, or a chemical cold pack
4-inch wide elastic wrap for compression or to hold ice pack in place
Water
Cones
Mats to land on to cushion fall when learning shooting techniques
Scrimmage vests
Ball pump and extra needles
Tape measure (50 meters)
Four rolls of gymnasium floor tape (2-inch by 60-yard roll)
Passing and Catching: The Essence of the Game 9
Step
1
passing and catching: the essence

of the game
at Head Summitt, head basketball coach at the

University of Tennessee, stresses to her basketball
players the value of mastering the fundamental skills.
The fundamental starting point for team handball is
passing and catching. These skills always occur in
combination because another player should catch
and control each passed ball. As a rule, you pass
with one hand so you are always a scoring threat,
and you catch the ball with two hands for greater
ball control. As the name team handball implies,
using your hands to pass and catch the ball is the
essence of the game.
Like basketball, there are a number of team handball passes: jump pass, bounce pass, push pass,
behind the back, behind the shoulder pass, and
so forth. In Step 1 you will learn two of the most
frequently used passes, the overhand pass and the
wrist pass. The overhand pass, which is similar to
throwing a baseball, is the most fundamental passing technique. The wrist pass requires a completely
different throwing action. It allows you to a make a
quick lateral pass to a teammate without having to
turn your body to face the receiver. You will also learn
the proper techniques for catching balls above your
waist, below your waist, and while you are running.
Why Are Passing

and Catching Important?
Passing and catching are the most important components of ball control. Inability to control the ball
results in loss of possession and increased scoring opportunities for your opponent. Offensive success revolves around a teams ability to move the ball quickly
and accurately from one player to another. When in
possession of the ball your individual responsibility

is to attack the goal with the intent to score. If the
scoring opportunity is not clear, you must keep the
rhythm of the attack going by passing the ball to a
teammate. Consistent, accurate passing ensures the
pace and continuity of team play and keeps pressure
on the defense by allowing each attacker the opportunity to be a scoring threat.
The Overhand Pass

For two reasons, you will spend most of your practice
time perfecting the overhand pass. First, because it
allows you more accuracy and control, you will use
the overhand pass in a game more often than any
other pass. Second, if you want to be a good shooter,
perfecting the overhand pass has specific importance
because it lays the foundation for learning all shooting techniques.
How to Execute
the Overhand Pass
The preparation phase for the overhand pass is the
shooting position, which puts you in a strong posture
to shoot or pass depending on the defensive situation. As you receive the pass, spread the fingers of
your throwing hand comfortably across the ball and
securely grip it with your fingertips. Gripping the ball
properly is important for control. In preparation to
pass, lift the ball up and back with your elbow flexed
at about 90 degrees. Your weight should be on your
back foot (same as throwing arm) and your shoulders
perpendicular to the target. To make the pass, step
9
toward your target with the foot of your nonthrowing

arm. At the same time, transfer your weight from the
rear to front foot, then rotate your upper body so
your shoulders are square to the target. Next, lead
with your elbow, whip your forearm, and finally, snap
FIGURE
your wrist and release the ball. A backspin on the

ball while it travels through the air indicates a correct release. To follow through, let your weight rest
on your front foot as your throwing arm continues
in a downward, relaxed motion (see Figures 1.1a-c).
keys to success
1.1
overhand pass
7
6
9
Preparation
1. Use fingertip grip ____

2. Flex elbow 90 degrees ____
3. Put weight on back foot ____
4. Hold shoulders perpendicular to target ____
Execution
5. Step toward target ____

6. Rotate and square shoulders
to target ____
7. Lead with elbow ____
Follow-Through
8. Bring weight forward ____

9. Throwing arm continues in
a downward relaxed motion
____
The Wrist Pass

When organizing your attack in front of the defense,
the wrist pass allows you to make quick passes without having to turn your upper torso in the direction
of the pass. You can use your peripheral vision to see
your target and follow the ball. Although the quickness of the wrist pass is an advantage, the technique
limits its effective distance. You cant shoot with the
ball held in this position or make a long pass with
any force.
How to Execute the Wrist Pass
ing the ball securely with both hands at waist level. To

make the pass, step laterally toward the target, raise
the elbow of your passing arm away from your body,
and point it toward the target. At this point, your
passing hand should be gripping the ball securely on
top, while the other hand is supporting underneath.
Now, transfer your weight toward the target, and
quickly extend your elbow and forearm in the same
direction. When you extend your forearm, flip your
wrist in an upward motion and give the ball a final
push with your thumb. Follow through naturally
with your arm extended and relaxed, knee bent, and
weight on your passing side foot (see Figures 1.2a-c).
Face your defender with your feet shoulder-width

apart, knees slightly bent, weight balanced, and hold-
FIGURE
1.2
keys to success
wrist pass
10
4
11
2
a
12
3
b
Preparation
1. Grip ball with two hands at

waist ____
2. Place feet shoulder-width
apart ____
Execution
3. Step laterally toward target ____

4. Raise and point elbow toward
target ____
5. Grip ball in passing hand ____
6. Transfer weight toward target
____
7. Extend elbow ____
8. Flip wrist ____
9. Push ball with thumb ____
Follow-Through
10. Extend and relax passing

arm ____
11. Bend knee ____
12. Put weight on passing-side
foot ____
Catching the Ball
How to Catch Above the Waist
There are four principles that apply to catching, regardless of which technique you use. First, present a
two-handed target for your teammate. Second, watch
the ball. Third, extend your arms to meet the ball,
and cushion its momentum by flexing your elbows as
you receive it. Fourth, after catching the ball quickly
prepare to shoot, fake, pass, or dribble.
FIGURE
1.3
When preparing to catch, align your body with the

ball. Extend your arms toward the ball with elbows
slightly flexed. With your fingers up and comfortably
spread, form a triangle with your thumbs and forefingers, making a basket to receive the ball. As the
ball arrives, flex your elbows, bringing your hands
toward your chest. Grip the ball with one hand and
bring it above your shoulder in preparation to shoot
or pass (see Figures 1.3a-c).
keys to success
catching above the waist
3
7
Preparation
1. Watch the ball ____

2. Align body with the ball ____
3. Extend arms ____
4. Hold fingers up ____
5. Keep ends of thumbs almost
together ____
Execution
6. Receive the ball ____

7. Flex elbows, give with the
ball ____
Follow-Through
8. Bring hands to chest ____
How to Catch Below the Waist
Of course, this is not the ideal location to receive a

pass, and certainly not a place where you would give a
target. But, sometimes the ball travels in unexpected
ways. The best way to catch a ball below your waist
is to face your palms forward and point your fingers
FIGURE
1.4
toward the floor. Your little fingers should be almost

touching so your hand position looks like a shovel.
As you receive the ball, flex your elbows and bring
your hands to your chest. Grip the ball with one hand
and bring it above your shoulder in preparation to
shoot or pass (see Figures 1.4a-c).
keys to success
catching below the waist
5
7
9
3
4
Preparation

2. Align body with ball ____
3. Face palms forward ____
4. Point fingers toward floor
____
5. Hold little fingers almost
together ____
6. Bend knees ____
7. Extend arms ____
Execution
8. Receive the ball ____

9. Flex elbows, give with the
ball ____
Follow-Through
10. Bring hands and ball to

chest ____
How to Catch While Running
When running, its important to catch the ball without

breaking the rhythm of your movement. Push off from
one leg and extend both arms toward the ball. Catch
FIGURE
1.5
the ball and, while the other foot lands, bring the ball
close to the body (see Figures 1.5a-c). When the ball
comes from the side, alter this motion slightly as you
turn your body sideways to catch.
keys to success
catching while running
2
5
a
Preparation
1. Maintain running rhythm ____

2. Push off one leg ____
3. Extend arms toward ball ____
Execution
4. Catch the ball ____
Follow-Through
5. Land on other foot ____

6. Bring ball to body ____
passing and catching success stoppers

Most errors in passing and catching are due to incorrect technique or misjudging speed. When passing
you may misjudge the speed of a moving player, or
when catching you may misjudge the speed and di-
ERROR

Overhand
Pass
1. Your pass lacks sufficient velocity or

pace.
2. Your pass lacks accuracy.

3. Your pass goes behind a moving receiver.
rection of the ball. The most common errors players

make when passing and catching are listed below
along with suggested methods to correct them.
CORRECTION
1. The pass should be direct, snappy, and
easy to catchnot too hard, not too soft, and
not too slow. Pass the ball with backspin by
snapping your wrist.
2. Concentrate on the target. Before releasing
the ball, make sure you flex your elbow about
90 degrees. Emphasize the snapping of your
wrist and the follow-through.
3. Consider the receivers direction and
speed, and pass the ball out in front of this
area. Giving a lead pass allows your teammate
to be moving forward for an attack on the goal.
Wrist Pass
1. The ball falls out of your hand as you
pass.
1. Work on your grip strength and the flexibility between your fingers for increased reach
(see Drills 1 and 2).
2. Your pass floats toward the receiver.
2. Step and transfer your weight toward the

target. Make your elbow and wrist action quick
and snappy.
3. You are facing the receiver when the pass

is made.
3. Face forward, usually facing the goal and

your defender, and pass the ball laterally to
your teammate.
Catching
1. The ball goes through your hands.
1. Give the passer a two-handed target and

watch the ball. Form a basket to receive the
ball by making a triangle with your thumbs
and forefingers.
2. The ball rebounds off your hands.
2. Give with the ball as you catch it. Flex

your elbows and gently squeeze the ball with
your fingertips.
passing and catching
Drills
Gripping the ball securely is essential to maintaining

control of the ball when passing and catching. Do the
first two drills daily to increase your grip strength.
1. Ball Drop
Place one hand on top of ball, spread your fingers apart, and grip the ball with your fingertips.
Drop the ball and try to catch it with one hand using only your fingertips before the ball hits the
floor. Do the drill with your right and your left hand.
Success Goal = 20 of 25 balls caught

before they hit the floor for each hand ____
To Increase Difficulty
Increase the repetitions by increments of five.
To Decrease Difficulty
Success Check
Dont drop the ball but grip it with maximum

strength for 5 seconds, alternating hands.
Fingertip grip ____

Fingers spread ____
2. Hand Tug of War
The ball is like the rope in a tug of war contest. Face your partner, and with the ball in the
middle, each of you grasps the ball with the fingertips of one hand. When both of you are satisfied
with your grip, one of you signals go. The winner is the person who pulls the ball away from
the other without losing their grip on the ball. Play 10 times on each hand.
Success Goal = 6 of 10 wins for each

hand ____
Success Check
Firm grip on ball ____
Increase the number of times you play to 15 with

each hand.
Decrease the number of times you play to 5 with

each hand.
3. Ball Handling and Catching Drills
Catching is naturally practiced with passing. The following drills will help you practice your
ball handling skills, check for the correct hand position when catching above and below the
waist, and catch the ball on the move.
a. Move the ball around your head, shoulders, waist, and knees in one direction, then reverse
direction.
b. Move the ball around your legs in a figure 8 pattern.
c.Holding the ball with two hands at waist level, throw the ball against the floor just hard
enough for it to bounce back into both hands. To check for correct hand position, hold the ball
the way you caught it and check to see if your thumbs and forefingers form a triangle on top of
the ball. This hand position is correct for catching balls thrown above the waist.
d. From a standing position, toss the ball with two hands above your head. As the ball falls
below your shoulders, catch it with two hands. To check for correct hand position, hold the ball
the way you caught it and check to see if your little fingers are almost touching and your thumbs
are up. This hand position is correct for catching balls thrown below the waist.
e.Stand about 2-3 meters from a wall. Throw the ball hard against the wall and catch the
rebound in the air. Varying the placement of the throw against the wall will force you to practice
different hand positioning while catching the ball.
f. The purpose of this drill is to practice catching balls thrown above and below the waist. Face
your partner 3 meters apart. Have your partner toss the ball randomly above and below your
waist. Choose the correct hand position for catching each tossed ball.
Success Goal =
a. move ball 10 times in each direction ____

b . move ball 10 times in a figure 8 pattern ____
c . 10 catches with correct form ____
d . 10 catches with correct form ____
e . catch 10 balls off the wall ____
f . 20 catches with correct form ____
Success Check
Catching Above the Waist:

Thumbs and forefingers form a triangle ____
Catching Below the Waist:
Little fingers almost touching ____
Thumbs up ____
Catching Above or Below the Waist:
Give a two-hand target, ready to react ____
Partner makes tosses catchable ____
Face your partner and continuously pass and

catch the ball while slowly running forward
and backward between the sideline, always
maintaining a distance of 4-5 meters between
you. Your partner moves backward and rolls the
ball on the ground to you while you are moving
forward. Catch the ball, return it to your partner
with an overhand pass, and continue toward the
sideline. Switch roles and return to the opposite
sideline.
Facing your partner, continuously pass the ball
with straight, lobbed, and bounced overhand
passes while gradually moving apart from a distance of 4-5 meters to a distance of 15-20 meters
and then approaching each other again.
Partner throws 10 passes in a row above the

waist, then 10 below the waist.
4. Wall Passing
a. Practice the overhand pass technique by taping a target 1-meter square at approximately
shoulder height on the wall. Position yourself 4 to 6 meters from the wall; face the wall as if facing a teammate and pass to the target. Allow the rebound to bounce, catch it with both hands,
assume the ready position for the overhand pass, and pass to the target again.
b. Stand 3 or 4 meters from the wall in the ready position for the wrist pass. Your shoulders
should be perpendicular to the wall. Make a wrist pass straight to the target, as if passing the
ball laterally to a teammate. Allow the rebound to bounce, catch it with both hands, and assume
the wrist pass ready position to pass again.
Success Goal =
a. 25 wrist passes using correct form as shown in

Figure 1.1 on page 10___
20 of 25 passes hit the target___
b. 25 overhand passes with correct form as shown
in Figure 1.1___
20 of 25 passes hit the target___
Increase the passing distance.

Reduce the target size to 1/2-meter.
Stand closer to the wall and dont let ball bounce.
Eliminate the wall target.
Success Check
Wrist Pass:
Stand perpendicular to the wall ___
Push with your thumb ____
Overhand Pass:
Concentrate on correct passing form ___
Keep eye on target ____
5. Partner Passing
To practice the combined skills of overhand passing and catching, stand 4 meters from your
partner. Form a two-handed target in front of your throwing hand shoulder. Pass to each other
using the overhand pass. Your partner should not have to move hands from the shoulder area
to catch the ball.
Success Goal = 20 of 25 overhand passes

hit your partners target ____
Success Check
Hands form a target ____

Correct overhand pass technique ____
Facing your partner, stand 4-5 meters from

another pair of partners. Each pair has a ball.
Your partner passes you the ball while you and
a member of the other pair move around each
other in a figure 8 path.
6. Circle Drill
This drill gives you the opportunity to practice the overhand pass and wrist pass in a controlled
space. You can practice all directions of passes in the circle formation. Form a group of five, and
position yourselves evenly around a circle 10 meters in diameter. Pass the ball in any direction,
across the circle or to the player standing next to you. Keep your feet moving when not in possession of the ball. Be ready to receive a pass by always showing a two-hand target to the passer.
Execute correct footwork and upper body position when performing either pass. Give wrist passes
to the players next to you and overhand passes to the players across from you (see Figure a).
A
a. Overhand Clanton
pass and wrist pass in any
Job# 376
direction
Fig# S1D6a
Artist: Jennifer D.
Success Goal = 45 of 50 balls accurately

passed and received by the group ____
Success Check
Be ready for the next pass ____

Wrist pass = face forward, pass laterally ____
Overhand pass = pass across circle ____
b. To Increase difficulty:
Passing in a hexagon
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# S1D6b
Artist: Jennifer D.
After you pass the ball, follow your pass and run
to take the place of the player that received your
pass. The receiver passes to another person and
runs after the pass to the new receivers position,
and so on.
Add a player and another ball and form a hexagon. Player A passes to player B, then player A
runs to position D. At the same time player D
passes to player E and runs to position A. Player
B passes to player C and runs to position E, and
so on (see Figure b).
7. Running Partner Passing
This drill will help improve your passing and catching skills while moving down the court. Start
with your partner on the goal line about 5 meters apart. Pass overhand to each other while running
down the court. When you receive the ball, take three steps and pass back to your partner. Show
two hands (as a target) to your partner and bring the ball to the overhand pass position quickly.
The footprints shown in the figure signify taking three steps before passing back to your partner.
Be sure to make a lead pass to compensate for your partners speed and forward movement.
Full court
partner passing
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# S1D7
Artist: Jennifer D.
Success Goal = 10 of 12 overhand passes

completed while running down the court ____
Success Check
Use a leading overhand pass ____

Keep running same speed down the court ____
ONLY three steps when running with the
ball ____
Increase the distance between you and your

partner.
Start the drill by walking down the court with

your partner. Progress by increasing your speed
to jogging and then running.
8. 4-Corner Drill
The purpose of this drill is to practice the overhand pass diagonally while you and your teammates are running. Position yourself and eight teammates equally in the corners of a 15-meter
square. You, player A, start the drill in counterclockwise direction by making a lead pass to player
B, who is running to the next corner. After passing to player B, run to the end of the line in front
of you. After receiving the pass, player B takes three steps and makes a lead pass to player C,
who is running to the next corner. Player C should wait until player B has caught the ball before
starting to run. After passing, player B runs to the end of the line in front of him or her. Player
C catches the ball, takes three steps, and passes to Player D, and so on. For maximum control
of your passing, its important to take your three steps properly and to step toward the target
with your nonthrowing-hand foot. Continue the drill for 3 minutes or when you complete 10
consecutive passes, whichever comes first.
A
B
1
4
3
D
Clanton
Job# 376
Success Goal = 10 consecutive completed
Fig# S1D8
Artist: Jennifer
D.
Incrementally
increase the size of the square up
passes running counterclockwise ____, clockwise
____
Success Check
Use lead passes to moving players ____

Catch ball running forward ____
to 20 meters.
Add a second ball, starting it at the opposite
corner of the square.
Make your square smaller.
9. Endline Handball
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# S1D9
Artist: Jennifer D.
This game is similar to keep-away and will help you practice passing and catching in a gamelike situation. Choose two teams of equal number. Pick a playing area with a line at each end; it
does not have to be a regulation court. The size of the area will vary depending on the number
of players. Flip a coin to determine which team will have the ball first. After taking a throw-off
at center court, the attackers attempt to move up the floor by passing ahead to an open teammate. Attackers are allowed three steps with the ball. Dribbling is not permitted. The defensive
team matches up player to player and attempts to intercept the ball or cause a turnover. If the
defense recovers the ball in such a manner, play immediately resumes in the opposite direction.
Also, if the attacking team fumbles the ball and it contacts the ground, it is turned over to the
defensive team and play continues from that spot. Individual defense should be played with no
contact, such as in basketball. Crossing the designated line at the end of the playing area with
the ball in hand scores 1 pointthis includes passing to a teammate who is across the endline.
Restart play after every score with a throw-off. Remember, it is a turnover if you stand and hold
the ball for more than 3 seconds (see Appendix A for a review of team handball rules).
Success Goal = Your team scores a minimum of 5 points in a 5-minute game ____
Success Check
No dribbling allowed ____

Use short, quick passes versus long passes ____
Use lead passes to moving players ____
passing and catching success summary

Someone observing your passing and catching skills should focus on the specific aspects of
your performance, as well as your overall movements. Passing and catching are the essence of the
game. To move to more advanced individual skills and be successful in executing tactics, passing and catching must become second nature to you. You should look comfortable and relaxed
as you perform the skills, not stiff or robot-like. Ask your coach or a trained partner to observe
your overhand pass, wrist pass, and catching techniques. The observer can use the checklists
in Figures 1.1 through 1.5 to evaluate your performance and provide corrective feedback.
Piston Movement and Side Stepping: Individual Attack Moves 23
Step
2
piston movement
and side stepping: individual
attack moves
Why Are Piston Movement

and Side Stepping Important?
You must master the piston movement to be an effective backcourt or wing player. The piston movement
permits you to make full use of your positions depth
and keep constant pressure on the defense. The
wings use of the piston movement is limited to 1 to 3
meters due to their position near the sideline. This is
quite restrictive when compared to the spacious area
available to the backcourts (see Figure 2.1).
Side stepping allows you to use your positions
width when playing circle runner or wing. As a circle
runner, you play at the 6-meter line with your back
to the goal, so there is no space or tactical reason to
use the piston movement (see Figure 2.1). You primarily move sideways along the 6-meter line looking for
openings to receive a pass and shoot or opportunities
to set picks for the backcourts. When playing wing,
you should constantly adjust your position up and

down the sideline. This action helps support the
backcourt in two ways: (1) moves the wing defender,
creating more space for the backcourt to attack, and
(2) creates open passing lanes.
LW
tagnation spells trouble for team handball

attack. Just as a car will sputter and drag when all
cylinders are not firing, so will your team if all six
players are not moving and firing in sync. Attackers
should always be in motion, making every effort to
be a scoring threat and support teammates. Step
2 addresses individual movement in attack, which
depends largely on the position you play. The fundamental movement of backcourt players is the piston
movement, and the fundamental movement of circle
runners is side stepping. Wings, depending on the
situation, use both movements.
RW
CR
LB
CB
RB
Wing attack area

Backcourt attack area
Circle runner attack area
Clanton
Figure 2.1 Attack
areas by position.
Job# 376
Fig.# 2.1
Artist: Jennifer D.
The Three Actions of

the Piston Movement
Similar to the rapid up and down movement of a

piston in a cylinder, the piston movement is the sum
of three actions: (1) run to receive, being in motion
23
before catching the ball, (2) use three steps, effective

movement after you catch the ball, and (3) back up
quickly, prepare to attack again.
Run to Receive
Being in motion before receiving the ball enhances

your ability to attack in three ways:
1. It puts you in a position to support a teammate
by creating a passing lane for that player to
get you the ball. It also gives your teammate
an indication of the direction you want to go;
this will allow your teammate to give you a lead
pass so you can carry out your attack without
hesitation.
2. It puts you in a position to be a scoring threat.
Always direct your movement toward the goal
before receiving the ball. If you move toward
the goal you are a potential threat to score,
which keeps constant pressure on the defense.
Running laterally to the goal is nonproductive
movement because you are not a scoring threat
and the defense will not have to respond. Being
a threat to score also enhances the effectiveness
of team attack. If you are occupying the attention of one or more defenders, you will disrupt
the defense and your teammates will have more
space to maneuver and get open for a shot.
3. It gives you an advantage as a shooter over your
defender. Being in motion allows you to release
the ball more quickly, which puts pressure on
your defender to react. Also, the momentum
created by your movement will help increase
the power in your shot.
Three Steps
Team handball rules allow you to take a maximum

of three steps with the ball. Failure to effectively use
three steps stifles your individual creativity and disrupts the flow of the game. Taking more than three
steps, or traveling, is a turnover and a free-throw for
the opponent.
While executing three steps, moving the ball into
the shooting position is important. This shows that
you are a serious scoring threat and draws the attention of defenders and the goalie. If no shot is available,
you are in an excellent position to pass to a teammate
so your teams attack can continue.
Back Up, Prepare to Attack Again
If a shot is not possible after attacking and you pass

the ball, its important that you back up quickly in
preparation to attack again. This action creates space
between you and the defense, allowing you more freedom of movement. Remember, the ball moves quickly
and your teammates rely on your support. The faster
you can back up and get yourself in a position to
attack, the better you can support your teammates
and continue to be a threat to score.
How to Execute the Piston

Movement
Effective individual movement begins with a good
starting position. Place your feet shoulder-width
apart with your nonthrowing-arm foot slightly out in
front. Distribute your weight evenly and bend your
knees comfortably. Bend your arms loosely next to
your torso and keep your hands open and ready to
catch the ball. Hold your head high, always keeping
visual contact with your opponents, your teammates,
and the ball.
As you run to receive, show a target at shoulder
level that will allow you to move the ball into shooting
position quickly. After catching the ball your footwork
is important. If you are right handed, your three steps
will be leftrightleft. Step forward on your left foot,
then on the second step to your right foot. Begin
turning your shoulders perpendicular to the goal and
bring the ball up and back. All your weight is now
on your right foot, ready to transfer forward on the
third step to your left foot. This stance puts you in a
position to shoot or pass as you transfer your weight
forward on the third step. If no shot is possible, pass
the ball and back up to prepare to attack again (see
Figures 2.2a-c). If you are left handed, the footwork
is step right, step left, step right.
FIGURE
2.2
keys to success
the piston movement

9
10
a
Preparation

apart ____
2. Bend knees comfortably ____
3. Run to receive ____
4. Hands open, ready to catch ____
5. Catch ball ____
Execution
6. Step forward on your nonthrowing-hand foot (first

step) ____
7. Step with throwing-hand foot
(second step) ____
8. Begin turning shoulders perpendicular to goal ____
9. Raise ball up and back
(shooting position) ____
10. Step forward on nonthrowinghand foot (third step) ____
Follow-Through
11. Pass ball ____

12. Back up quickly ____
How to Execute Side Stepping

Starting from the same position as the piston movement, step sideways with the leg on the same side as
the direction you want to move. Push off a little with
your other leg. As you step keep your foot close to the
floor, executing a quick, flat jump sideways without
FIGURE
2.3
keys to success
crossing your feet. As you contact the floor, bring

your push-off leg into balanced position. Always be
ready to catch the ball. When playing circle runner,
you deal with a lot of body contact that disrupts the
smooth flow of your movement. To maintain a balanced position while side stepping, bend your knees
to lower your center of gravity (see Figures 2.3a-c).
side stepping
1
a
4
b
Preparation

apart ____
2. Hold hands open, ready to
catch ____
3. Bend knees ____
6
c
Execution
4. Step sideways ____

5. Push with opposite leg ____
Follow-Through
6. Maintain a balanced position ____

7. Catch the ball ____
piston movement and side-stepping success stoppers

The most common errors of individual movement
in attack are listed here, along with suggestions to
correct them.
ERROR

Piston
Movement
1. You stand in one spot to receive a

pass.
2. You forget to back up after you attack.

CORRECTION
1. Teammates throw lead passes. You must
be running to receive the pass.
2. You must back up quickly to prepare to
attack again. Backing up also puts you in a
position to receive an open pass from your
teammate.
3. You catch and pass the ball while you are

backing up.
3. Catch the ball moving forward. Pass to

your teammate after you take your third forward step with the ball.
4. As you pass, you step forward with your

throwing-arm foot.
4. Like any other throwing sport, as you

throw the ball you will make a counterbalancing action by stepping with the foot opposite
your throwing arm. You will also transfer
weight from back foot to front foot.
Side Stepping
1. You keep your hands down at your sides.
1. Keep your hands open and ready to catch

the ball.
2. You stand up too straight.
2. Distribute your weight evenly and bend

your knees comfortably.
3. Moving sideways, you cross your feet.
3. Maintain a balanced position.
piston movement and side stepping
Drills
1. Partners Pass and Back Up
The purpose of this drill is to help you learn the sequence of the piston movement in a controlled environment.
Position yourself with a partner 5 meters from two other teammates. You (A) begin the drill by
running three steps and pass overhand to teammate (C), who is directly across from you and
running to receive your pass. Immediately after passing, sprint backward behind your partner (B)
(see Figure a). B runs to receive the next pass from C, passes to D, then backs up quickly behind
you. C and D are also alternating and performing in the same manner (see Figure b). Concentrate on backing up quickly, changing direction, and sprinting forward to receive the next pass.
a
C
A
Clanton
Job# 376
Success Goal = 30 seconds using the pisTo Increase Difficulty
Fig# S2D1a&b
D.
Increase
drill time to 1 minute.
ton movement and passing and catching without Artist: Jennifer
an error ____
Success Check
Run to receive ____
Three-step attack ____
Back up quickly ____
Alternate passing right handed and left handed.
Use a jogging pace and go 20 seconds.
2. Triangle Drill
The purpose of this drill is to help you practice the timing of the piston movement in relation
to your teammates actions. It simulates your position in the backcourt and helps you learn to
pass diagonally while moving forward. It is also a great drill to improve your ball-handling skills.
Select two teammates to participate in this drill with you. Form a triangle with three cones
about 5 meters apart. Each player stands in front of a cone. Face the center of the triangle and
imagine a goalie directly in front of you. You (A) start with the ball, self toss, run to receive, and
attack toward the center of the triangle using three steps. Do not attack directly toward your
teammate. Pass to teammate (B) on your right using the overhand pass, and back up quickly to
your cone. B runs to receive your pass, attacks toward the center of the triangle, passes to C,
backs up to the cone, and so on (see Figure a). Make sure to keep your feet moving even when
you do not have the ball. Move your feet and the ball as quickly as possible for 30 seconds, go
slowly for 30 seconds, then return to maximum speed for another 30 seconds.
C
2
2
1
A
Clanton
a. Piston movement
in triangle formation
Job# 376
Fig# S2D2
Artist: Jennifer D.
Success Goal = 30 seconds clockwise,
rest, 30 seconds counterclockwise without dropping a pass ____
Success Check
Hands ready ____
Back up to cone ____
Keep feet moving ____
b. To Increase difficulty:
Move forward inClanton
a semicircle
Job# 376
Fig.# S2D2
Artist: Jennifer D.
Increase by 10-second increments up to 60 seconds.

Repeat the drill using your opposite hand (nondominant).
Move forward in a semicircle around the cone
(see Figure b).
Use a slower pace for 20 seconds.
3. Backcourt Piston Movement
This drill simulates the gamelike movements of the three backcourt players. You will develop
the piston movement in combination with performing the overhand pass in a lateral direction.
Work with six players in this drill. From two groups of three, form two horizontal lines about
6 meters apart and 3 meters between each player in the line. You will be directly across from
another player. Start the ball on one end. Imagine that you are a backcourt attacking the goal
then passing laterally to your teammate, and imagine that the player across from you is the
goalie. Attack toward that player, then make a lead pass to the player next to you, and back up
to your starting position. Always keep your feet moving, running in place, to prepare for your
next attack when the ball returns to you. Move the ball in both directions.
Success Goal = 45 seconds using the
ton movement without dropping a pass ____
Success Check
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig# S2D3
Artist: Jennifer D.
pis-
Run to receive in good timing with passer ____

Accurate lead passes ____
Keep your feet moving ____
Use two balls. Start each ball at opposing ends

of each line.
Continue two-ball drill for 30 seconds without
error. Increase up to 60 seconds.
Add up to six players and four balls.
If you have a problem with lateral passing, start

with the same drill formation but kneel on one
knee with your nonthrowing-hand foot facing
forward. Use overhand passing in the same pattern.
As you prepare to pass the ball rotate your upper
body so that your shoulders are perpendicular
to the player across from you.
4. Circle Runner Side-Stepping Drill
The purpose of this drill is to practice the circle runner side-stepping technique while passing
and catching the ball. Place four cones 7 meters from the goal about 1 meter apart. Starting
next to a cone, continuously move in both directions using side-stepping steps around the cones
while passing and catching a ball from a partner standing about 10 meters from the goal. Use a
quick basketball chest pass to return the ball to your partner.
Success Goal = Player with the most

passes in 30 seconds wins ____
Success Check
Dont cross your feet ____

Hands open and ready to catch ____
Catch and pass quickly ____
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# S2D4
Artist: Jennifer D.
Replace cones with three semiactive defensive

players. Place three players in the backcourt
positions who continuously pass the ball in the
piston movement against the three defenders. As
a circle runner, use side steps to follow the path
of the ball, move among the defenders, and position yourself to catch a pass from the backcourt
players.
Dont use the cones. Use side-stepping steps in

both directions in front of the 6-meter line.
5. Backcourt Movement Versus Defense
This drill simulates the gamelike movements of the backcourt players against semiactive defenders. You practice the piston movement with the added complication of defenders. Work with
nine players in this drill. Form three rows of players in the backcourt positions that face three
semiactive defenders standing in front of the 6-meter line. Start the ball on one end. Defenders
step out toward the attackers as they catch the ball. Attack to either side of the defensive player.
Make a lead pass to the player moving forward next to you, then back up to the end of your line.
Move the ball in both directions.
Success Goal = 60 seconds using the

ton movement without dropping a pass ____
Success Check
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# S2D5
Artist: Jennifer D.
pis-
Run to receive in good timing with passer ____

Attack to either side of defender ____
Avoid contact with defender ____
Increase the tempo of the piston movement.
Replace defenders with cones.
piston movement and side-stepping success summary

The piston movement and side stepping are fundamental to your individual movement in attack. Your effectiveness as an attacker depends to a great extent on how well you move with and
without the ball. Remember, the piston movement is the sum of three basic actions: (1) run to
receive, being in motion before catching the ball, (2) use three steps, effective movement after you
have caught the ball, and (3) back up, prepare to attack again. As a backcourt and wing, standing
in one position to receive the ball hinders your individual attack and stifles team attack. Proper
use of the piston movement makes you a serious scoring threat, allows you to support your
teammates attacks, and helps you create space for you to attack again. As a circle runner, good
side-stepping technique allows you to make use of the width of the court creating problems for
the defense. As a wing, side stepping promotes effective play in your restricted space and allows
you to support your backcourt. Ask your coach or trained partner to observe you practicing the
piston movement and side stepping. The observer can use the checklists in Figures 2.2 and 2.3
to evaluate your performance and provide corrective feedback.
Step
3
Dribbling: When and
when not to dribble
ecause of Americans strong background in

basketball, beginners tend to dribble too much when
learning team handball. Consequently, they dont
experience the dynamics of this fast-paced passing
game. Dribbling should be among the skills of team
handball players, emphasizing its appropriate use.
Step 3 will cover dribble technique and when to use
the dribble: fast-break, one-on-one, and avoiding a
3-second violation.
Why Is Dribbling Important?

Dribbling can be an asset if you use it to create scoring opportunities for yourself or teammates. Excessive dribbling serves no useful purpose. Inappropriate
dribbling will destroy the games fast tempo and the
vital teamwork necessary for successful attack. Using the combination of three steps and passing is the
most effective way to generate offense. However, there
are three situations in which choosing to dribble will
enhance your mobility and effectiveness:
1. When you have possession of the ball on a
fast-break with no teammate to pass to and no
defender between you and the goal, dribble to
continue for a shot on goal.
2. If you have used your three steps in a one-on-one
situation to successfully fake a defender, then
see an open space to the goal, one dribble will
permit you an additional three steps to continue
to the goal for a shot.
3. When you are unable to pass to a teammate,
dribbling will allow you to avoid a 3-second violation resulting in a free-throw for the opponent.
34
Team handball and basketball dribbling rules are

the same except for two areas. First, in team handball
you can take three steps or 3 seconds before and
after dribbling (i.e., the steps cycle, see Figure 3.1).
The maximum movement allowed with the ball:

Pass
3 steps
or
3 seconds
Dribble
(unrestricted
number
of times)
3 steps
or
3 seconds
Shoot
Figure 3.1 The steps cycle.

Clanton
job# 376
# 3.1
Second, your Fig
hand
must be open and on top of the
Artist: Jennifer D.
ball when making contact. Palming the ball to direct

it to either side, as well as double dribble, are violations resulting in free-throws. If you are a basketball
player and accustomed to a larger ball, the second
requirement may cause you some frustration when
you attempt to dribble behind your back or try a
crossover dribble.
How to Execute the Dribble

Control the ball with one open hand on top of the ball
and extend your elbow to push the ball to the floor.
When you extend your elbow, slightly snap your wrist
Dribbling: When and When Not to Dribble 35
and let your fingertips direct the ball in front of you.

Receive the rebound with one open hand. For control, absorb the ball as it rises by flexing your elbow
and hyperextending your wrist. Push the ball back
to the floor by extending your elbow and snapping
your wrist. Repeat these actions as many times as
FIGURE
3.2
keys to success
you need to dribble. Keep your head up so you can

see the position of the goalie and the defense. This
will allow you to take advantage of any opportunity
to shoot or pass to an open teammate (see Figures
3.2a-c).
dribbling
7
2
3
8
9
5
6
Preparation
1. Make the decision to use the

dribble ____
2. Use open hand on top of the
ball ____
3. Flex elbow at approximately
90 degrees ____
Execution
4. Extend elbow ____

5. Slightly snap the wrist ____
6. Fingertips direct the ball to
the floor ____
7. Keep head up ____
Follow-Through
8. Flex elbow and hyperextend

wrist as the ball rises ____
9. Use open hand on top of the
ball ____
10. Extend elbow for another
dribble ____
dribbling success stoppers

As a carryover from basketball, you may naturally
dribble too much. Remember, the ball moves faster by
passing to a teammate. Know when to use the dribble
ERROR
effectively. Also, keep your hand on top of the ball. If

you use all your basketball dribbling skills, you will
illegally palm the ball.
CORRECTION

1. You dribble when passing would be more
1. Dribble when you are alone on a fast-
effective.
break, in a one-on-one situation, and when

you are unable to pass to a teammate. Keep
your head up so you can see an open teammate.
2. You are called for palming the ball.
2. Keep your hand on top of ball.
3. You are called for double dribble.
3. Remember, three steps, dribble, three

steps, then pass or shoot. The double dribble
violation is the same as in basketball.
4. You lose control of ball.
4. Keep dribble at waist level and push ball

out in front.
Dribbling
Drills
You will usually learn and practice dribbling in

conjunction with work on other skills such as passing
and catching, faking, and shooting. Dribbling should
not be overemphasized in the learning process, because it may lead to overuse in the game.
1. Half-Court Dribble
Can you list the three situations when using the dribble is advantageous?
1.
2.
3.
This drill will help you develop the ability to dribble full speed when all alone on a fast-break.
When you are running down court in possession of the ball with no teammate to pass to and no
defender between you and the goal, dribbling will allow you to continue for a shot on goal. Start
on the endline and dribble full speed to center court (20 meters). Rest 20 seconds and return
to endline. Work on controlling the ball by keeping it waist high and pushing it in front of you.
Success Goal = 5 full-speed trips halfcourt ____
Success Check
Hold hand on top of ball ____

Push ball in front ____
Control ball waist high ____
Use both your right hand and left hand.

Increase the dribbling distance to the free-throw
line (9 meters) on the other end and have teammates join you in the drill. You and two teammates stand in single file on one endline, and
three other teammates stand opposite you on
the other endline. Do the drill like a relay. You
begin by dribbling down the court; when you
reach the 9-meter line, pick up the ball, use three
steps, and pass to a teammate who takes off in
the other direction. Continue the drill until all
players complete five turns with the ball.
Walk or jog and dribble half-court. This could be

part of a warm-up.
Increase rest period between your full-speed
half-court trips.
2. Dribble Freeze Tag
This drill emphasizes dribble control and space awareness. The practice of continuous dribbling will help you avoid a three-second violation if you cant find an open teammate. Play this
game with five teammates dribbling their own balls. Use the goal area as the playing area. You
start as the chaser and try to tag your teammates while keeping control of your dribble. Any
player you tag must freeze and continue to dribble in place. Players who go out of the goal area
are automatically tagged and must freeze in place. Continue until every player is tagged or for
60 seconds, whichever comes first. Choose another player to be it and continue the game until
all players have been the chaser.
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# S3D2
Artist: Jennifer D.
Success Goal = 5 players tagged in 60

seconds ____
Success Check
Hold hand on top of ball ____

Keep ball below waist ____
Be aware of boundaries ____
All players take a ball and run around dribbling

within the goal area. While you are moving you
must keep control of your own ball and at the
same time try to knock other players balls out
of control. If you lose the ball, get it back quickly
and continue to play. Work on using your body
to protect the ball. Do the drill for 60 seconds.
Do not have a chaser. Players dribble and move

slowly in the goal area for 30 seconds, then
30 seconds as fast as they can under control.
Repeat.
3. Steps Cycle Drill
This drill teaches you how to gain an additional three steps to continue your attack. Learning
this skill will increase your options to beat your opponent when in a one-on-one situation. Select
five teammates to perform this drill with you. Form two equal lines 15 meters apart and facing
each other. Start with a forward self toss, run to receive, take three steps, dribble once, run three
more steps, and pass to the player across from you who is running to receive your pass. Follow
your pass and sprint to the end of the opposite line. The player that received your pass repeats
the steps cycle skill, passes, and sprints to the end of the opposite line. You may need to experiment to determine the correct footwork for each trial. Take your second set of three steps so that
you throw off the correct foot (nonthrowing-hand foot forward). Continue the shuttle until each
player has done the skill 10 times.
Take 3 steps, dribble, 3 steps, then pass
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig# S3D3
Artist: Jennifer D.
Success Goal = 8 out of 10 steps cycles

performed correctly followed by an accurate
pass ____
Success Check
Three steps, one dribble, three steps ____

Last step on foot opposite throwing hand ____
Use a faking motion with your first three steps.

Use a faking motion with your first three steps
and fake a jump shot. Push the ball to the floor
while still in the air, pick up the dribble as you
come down, continue for three steps, then pass
to your teammate.
Start from a stationary position and do the drill

walking or jogging.
4. Dribble Relay
This drill combines the skills of passing, catching, and dribbling under the pressure of time.
Work with two teams of three players each in this drill. Measuring from the wall, mark a line or
place cones to represent the 6-meter line. Tape a 1-meter square target on the wall in front of
each line. Each team forms a line 15 to 20 meters from the wall. The first player on each team
dribbles to the 6-meter line, shoots at the wall target, retrieves the rebound of the shot, and
dribbles back to the next player in line. The first team to have each player hit the target three
times wins the relay. Remember to pass and shoot with your feet in a counterbalanced position.
If you are right handed your left foot will be forward, and if you are left handed your right foot
will be forward.
1 meter
1 meter
1 meter
0
5-2
1 meter
rs
ete
rs
ete
6-m
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig# S3D4
Artist: Jennifer D.
6-meter line
Success Goal = 2 out of 3 relays

won ____
Success Check
Control the dribble ____

Use three steps before passing ____
Start 20 meters from the wall and shoot from 9

meters away from the wall (free-throw line).
Decrease the target size on the wall.
Do not use a target on the wall. Each player

completes three turns.
5. Full Court: 3 vs. 3
This drill will help you learn how to make good decisions regarding when to dribble, pass, or
use the steps cycle.
You and two teammates form a team and play team handball on the full court against three
other teammates. Start with your team in attack and place yourselves along the 6-meter line.
The other team must be outside the 9-meter line and ready to defend. Place one teammate in
each goal area to be passers (goalie). After catching a short pass from your goalie, your team
tries to beat the defenders down the court for a shot attempt from the 6-meter line. Play make
it take it for 10 minutes and have your coach referee. The team with the most goals at the end
of the playing period is the winner.
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# S3D5
Artist: Jennifer D.
Success Goal = Team with most goals

wins
Your teams score ____
Opponents score ____
Success Check
Avoid double dribble ____

Use steps cycle effectively ____
Place a ball by one of the goalposts of both goals.

After attempting to block a shot on goal, the
goalie ignores the ball that was shot and immediately picks up the ball next to the goalpost
and passes to a player on his or her team. Each
player should move down court as quickly as
possible. All team members must be across halfcourt for a shot on goal to count. Continue this
drill nonstop for 2-3 minutes then switch teams.
Eliminate one defender and play 3 vs. 2.
dribbling success summary

Because of the freedom of the three-step rule, you dont need to dribble to advance with the
ball. Even though dribbling will allow you unlimited advancement with the ball, its inappropriate
use slows down and interrupts team play. The combined use of three steps and passing is the
most effective way to move the ball in attack. Dribbling should be among your skills as a team
handball player, but you should learn its appropriate uses. Choosing to dribble will enhance
your mobility and effectiveness in three situations:
1. When all alone on a fast-break
2. In a one-on-one situation after you have used three steps
3. To avoid a three-second violation when you cannot find an open teammate
Ask your coach or trained partner to rate your dribbling technique by using the checklist items
in Keys to Success Figure 3.2. In scrimmage situations, ask your observer to evaluate your dribbling decision to see if your choices match any of three situations listed.
Step
4
shooting: finishing the attack
hat do John Elway, Wayne Gretzky, and

Michael Jordan bring to mind? Scoring. These are
athletes who are always a threat to score. The objective of offense, in any game, is to score. You can have
the most well-tuned offensive system and look pretty
doing it, but it is of no value if you cant finish with
a touchdown, or goal, or basket. In team handball,
shooting is the final action in an attackthe payoff
punch. There are four basic handball shots, each with
its own technique, advantages, and uses. The set
shot is the most natural of all shooting actions and
is simply the overhand pass thrown hard. The jump
shot is the most used shot in handball. Developing
the ability to jump and shoot over the defense, as
well as jumping inside the goal area, will make you
a more effective scoring threat. The wing shot is the
jump shot performed at a difficult shooting angle.
Finally, the fall shot is the basic technique of the
circle runner. It allows you to receive the ball on the
6-meter line and shoot without using three steps.
deliver the shot more quickly and powerfully.

Keep in mind that running into a defender who
has established proper position is the same as
charging in basketball and is a foul resulting
in a free-throw.
2. Watch the goalie and shoot at an area of the
goal that the goalie is not covering. Remember,
not only must you beat your defender but the
goalie also.
3. Shooting the ball hard is not enough to beat a good
goalie; accuracy is essential. Shoot for the corners.
The high corner cobwebs are under the crossbar
and inside the goalpost. The low cobwebs are
where the goalposts meet the floor, above where
the goalies foot can extend and below where the
goalies hand can reach (see Figure 4.1). When
Why Is Shooting Important?

The fast pace of team handball provides many scoring opportunities. You must be able to choose and
execute the appropriate shot as the opportunities present themselves. No matter what position you play,
there are a few universal rules that apply to shooting. Your efficiency and effectiveness as a shooter
depends on your knowledge and understanding of
the following principles.
Principles of Shooting
1. Shoot on the move. This is one example of why
the piston movement is so important. Shooting
on the move creates momentum that gives you
an advantage over the defense, allowing you to
42
High corners
cobweb
Low corners
cobweb
Figure 4.1 Shoot

for the cobwebs.
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig# 4.1
Artist: Jennifer D.
Shooting: Finishing the Attack 43
Figure 4.2 Bounce shot under the goalie.
shooting low, you may choose to shoot a bounce

shot. Even though a direct shot is quicker and
more accurate, the bounce shot changes the speed
and direction of the ball, making it more difficult
for the goalie to stop (see Figure 4.2).
4. Consider your distance and angle to the goal.
When learning to play there is a natural tendency to shoot from anywhere at every opportunity. Although it is important for a shooter to
possess an aggressive mentality, you have to be
smart about some things (see Figure 4.3).
You should know your limitations as a shooter,
particularly when it comes to deciding how far
out you should take a shot. You may be accurate, but if you cant get enough velocity on the
ball the goalie will have more time to react and
block your shot. Most shots are taken in the
area between the 6-meter and 9-meter lines.
Be aware that even though you may be close to
the goal, shooting from an extreme angle makes
the goalies job easier and your job harder. The
more severe the shooting angle, the less open
goal space there is for you to shoot at, reducing
the space the goalie has to cover (see Figure 4.4).
High percentage
shooting area
Clanton
Job# 376
Figure 4.3 Highest
shooting area
Fig.#percentage
4.3
based on distance and
angle
to goal.
Artist:
Jennifer
D.
remember is do not force your shot. Attempting

to shoot when there is no opening stifles the attack and constitutes dangerous play. According
to the rules, an offensive player cannot carelessly shoot a ball that hits a stationary defender or
even fake a threatening throw to an opponents
face. Endangering your opponent in such ways
will likely result in a 2-minute suspension.
Severe
angle
How to Execute the Set Shot
Clanton
Job# 376
Figure 4.4 Sharp-angle
shots are usually not sucFig.# 4.4
cessful.
Artist: Jennifer D.
5. Shoot when there is an opening, over defenders,

around defenders, or between defenders. If there
is a clear path, you can run between defenders
and jump into the goal area to shoot (see Figure
4.5). To be an effective shooter a key phrase to
Figure 4.5 Running between defenders and jumping into the goal area to shoot.
The mechanics of the set shot are the same as the

overhand pass, only the player throws the ball hard
with the intent to score. It is the overhand pass in
exaggerated form, like a center fielder trying to throw
someone out at the plate.
For the set shot to be effective you must perform it
quickly. This requires a minimum time from catching
the ball to shooting it. Preparation is the key. Run to
receive to get into shooting position. The momentum
created from being in motion will increase the power
of your shot. Upon receiving the pass, use the three
steps and on the second step quickly bring the ball
up to head height or higher. Extend your arm back
comfortably and flex your elbow to 90 degrees or
greater. At this point, all of your weight is on your
back foot. Keep your upper body upright, your shoulders perpendicular to the goal, and your head up with
the goal and goalkeeper in your field of vision. This
position will help you protect the ball from the defense
and allow you to shoot at any moment. To shoot, step
forward and transfer your weight from your rear to
your front foot. Rotate and open your shoulders so
they are parallel to the goal. Begin moving your arm
forward by leading with your elbow, then whip your
forearm and snap your wrist. To follow through, allow the momentum of your body to continue forward
and the motion of your throwing arm to continue
across your body (see Figures 4.6a-c).
FIGURE
keys to success
4.6
the set shot

9
13
Preparation

2. Attack using three steps ____
3. Flex elbow to 90 degrees ____
4. Put weight on back foot
(same as throwing arm) ____
5. Hold shoulders perpendicular to goal ____
6. Keep head up and eyes on
goalie ____
Execution
7. Step forwardtransfer
weight from rear foot to front
foot ____
8. Rotate and square shoulders
to the goal ____
9. Lead with elbow ____
10. Whip forearm ____
11. Snap wrist ____
How to Execute the Jump Shot

Use the jump shot to shoot over the defense and to
penetrate the goal area. The throwing action of the
jump shot is basically the same as the set shot, only
you perform it while jumping.
First, run to receive, then use three steps to gain
momentum for your jump. Take a long diagonal third
step, planting your foot and flexing your knee to help
you change some forward momentum into vertical.
Follow-Through
12. Momentum is going forward

____
13. Throwing arm motion continues across body ____
This last step is important because it provides the upward force for maximum height in your jump. Assist
your jump by driving up the knee of your nonjumping
leg. As you explode off the floor, lift your opposite arm
slightly in front of your body for balance and rotate
your shoulders perpendicular to the goal. Stretch
your shooting arm back as far as is comfortable, and
hold the ball above your head. Keep your head up
and eyes focused on the goal and the goalie. Now you
are ready to deliver the shot quickly and forcefully at
the top of your jump. Swing your nonthrowing arm

toward the rear and rotate your shoulders to face the
goal. Move your throwing arm forward by leading with
your elbow, whipping your forearm, and snapping
your wrist. As you are throwing, pike slightly at your
FIGURE
4.7
keys to success
waist to help generate maximum power. Completely

follow through by allowing your bodys momentum to
continue forward, the motion of your throwing arm
to continue across your body, and by landing on your
jumping leg (see Figures 4.7a-c).
the jump shot

9
8
4
12
13
c
Preparation

2. Use three steps ____
3. To jump, plant foot in the
last step (opposite foot of the
throwing arm) and drive other
knee up ____
4. Bring shooting arm up and
back ____
5. Bring nonshooting arm slightly
in front of your body ____
6. Hold shoulders perpendicular
to the goal with head up ____
Execution
7. Swing nonshooting arm toward rear ____

8. Rotate shoulders ____
9. Whip throwing arm forward
(elbow, shoulder, forearm,
wrist) ____
10. Pike slightly at your waist ____
Follow-Through
11. Momentum forward ____

12. Throwing arm continues
across the body ____
13. Land on take-off foot ____
The Wing Shot

Good wing players increase the effectiveness of a
teams offense and scoring potential by making the
full width of the court useful. Learning the wing shot
technique will allow you to turn what would be a lowpercentage scoring opportunity into an excellent one.
There is one cardinal rule that you must adhere to
when playing the wing: NEVER SHOOT A SET SHOT.
To have a chance at scoring, you must jump inside
the goal area to increase your shooting angle. So,
the wing shot is much like the jump shot with a few
modifications in technique (see Figure 4.8).
How to Execute the Wing Shot

You should learn technique for the wing shot in the
following progression: (1) the approach, (2) the plant,
(3) the jump, and (4) the shot.
1. The approachBe in motion to receive the ball.
Your space is limited in the wing, so you probably wont be able to run forward to receive a
pass. Just make sure you are in motion, feet
moving in place, and ready to move forward
when you get the ball. After receiving the pass,
use your three steps to accelerate toward the
6-meter line. The greater your acceleration, the
more horizontal distance you can cover when

jumping into the goal area. The farther you
jump, the better shooting angle you can create.
2. The plantLook for the 6-meter line to avoid
stepping on it. On your third step, plant the foot
opposite your shooting arm and point it roughly
in the direction of the 7-meter line. At this point
flex the knee of your jumping leg.
3. The jumpHold the ball in both hands to protect it, and swing it inside the goal area. Now
jump off your planted foot and drive your opposite leg forcefully forward and up. To improve
your chance of scoring, you must increase your
shooting angle, so all body movement should
be toward the 7-meter line. At this point, your
shoulders are perpendicular to the goal (see
Figure 4.9a).
4. The shotWhen you are in the air above the goal
area, release your support hand and lift the ball
up to throwing position. Focus on the goal and
hold this position until you are ready to shoot.
Then rotate your shoulders to face the goal, lead
with your elbow, whip your forearm, and snap
your wrist (see Figure 4.9b). Follow through by
allowing the momentum of your body to continue
forward and the motion of your throwing arm to
go across your body. Land on your jumping leg
(see Figure 4.9c).
Figure 4.8 Jumping inside the goal area to increase your shooting angle from the wing.
FIGURE
keys to success
4.9
wing shot
Preparation
6
7
3
a
1. Be in motion to receive ____

2. Use three steps (accelerate toward 6-meter line) ____
3. Plant foot opposite shooting arm ____
4. Drive shooting-arm leg forward and up ____
5. Jump toward the 7-meter line ____
6. Bring ball up into shooting position ____
7. Hold shoulders perpendicular to the goal ____
8. Head up, watch goalie ____
Execution
10
9. Rotate shoulders to face goal ____

10. Lead with and extend your elbow ____
11. Whip arm around ____
12. Snap wrist ____
Follow-Through
15
13
13. Continue to rotate shoulders ____

14. Momentum going forward ____
15. Throwing arm continues across the body ____
16. Land on take-off foot ____
Because of its unnatural components, your first
wing shots may be wild and, consequently, dangerous
for the goalie. So, its a good idea to begin practicing
wing shots without a goalkeeper. This will not only
save the goalie undue stress but also give you a
chance to develop accuracy without the added pressure of beating a goalie. Concentrate on learning to
shoot to the long high corner and the long low corner
of the goal. The bounce shot is effective to the long
low corner (see Figure 4.10).
Setting the goal at a 45-degree angle will simulate

the presence of a goalie and force you to shoot to the
long corners (see Figure 4.11).
45
Jum
Endline
ot
o
Sh
7-meter line
Figure 4.10 The long high corner and the long low
corner of the goal from the left wing position.
Clanton
Figure 4.11 Job#
Goal 376
at 45-degree anglejumping
toward the 7-meter
line.4.11
Fig.#
Artist: Jennifer D.
When your accuracy and technique have improved,

put the goal back on the goal line and add a goalie.
The wing shot is difficult to learn and perfect, so use
the progression and be patient with yourself.
The Fall Shot

The fall shot is primarily used by the circle runner,
who normally receives the ball near the 6-meter line
with his or her back to the goal. This position dictates
that you must turn and fall into the goal area to
deliver an effective shot. If you are afraid to fall you
cannot master this shot. Put in extra time practicing
the technique for cushioning your fall until you feel
comfortable and confident.
How to Execute the Fall Shot
slightly forward, and your hands are chest high to

receive a pass. After receiving the ball you must
execute the shot quickly and decisively, because the
defense is so concentrated on the 6-meter line. Keep
both hands on the ball to protect it from the defense,
pivot, swing the ball inside the circle, and lean directly
toward the goal. Fall toward the goal by pushing forward with one or both legs. Keep your head up with
your eyes on the goalkeeper. Release your support
hand from the ball and bring your shooting arm up
and back. Shoot quickly and explosively by whipping
your arm forward and snapping your wrist. In the
follow-through you must prepare for floor contact.
Cushion your fall by extending your arms to the floor
with your elbows slightly flexed, and catch yourself
with your hands to absorb the shock (see Figures
4.12a-c).
In the circle runner ready position, your feet are

shoulder-width apart, knees flexed, upper body
FIGURE
4.12
keys to success
the fall shot

5
10
9
Preparation
1. Have back to goal ____

2. Flex knees, hold hands chest
high ____
3. Pivot, swing ball inside the
area ____
Execution

4. Push toward
goal ____
5. Lift shooting arm up and
back ____
6. Keep head up, eyes on goalie
____
7. Whip throwing arm forward ____
8. Snap wrist ____
Follow-Through
9. Extend nonthrowing arm to

the floor ____
10. Extend shooting arm to the
floor ____
11. Flex elbows ____
12. Catch yourself with hands ____
The 7-meter Throw

The referee awards a 7-meter throw when a foul
obstructs a clear scoring opportunity. In most instances, a clear chance to score means you have gone
around the defender and are shooting near the circle.
There is no 7-meter shot awarded if you maintain full
ball and body control when being fouled. The referee
will allow you to continue for the score.
Your coach may choose any player to take the 7-meter throw. To execute the throw, you must keep one
Figure 4.13 The 7-meter throw.
foot in contact with the floor and you cannot touch

the 7-meter line. Therefore, the set shot and the fall
shot are used (see Figure 4.13). Other players must
be behind the 9-meter line and at least 3 meters from
the ball until the shooter releases the ball. Similar to
executing a free-throw in basketball, offensive players
are allowed to rebound a blocked 7-meter shot and
shoot at the goalie again from the 6-meter line. Play
also continues if a defensive player rebounds the ball.
The 7-meter throw is an important part of the game
so you should practice it at every training session.
shooting success stoppers

Remember the principles of shooting for every shot
you take: (1) shoot on the move, (2) watch the goalie,
(3) shoot for the corners, (4) consider distance and
angle of the shot, and (5) shoot when there is an
ERROR

Set Shot
1. You are standing still when you take a

shot.
opening. The most common errors for the set shot,

jump shot, wing shot, and fall shot are listed here
with suggestions for correcting them.
CORRECTION
1. Always run to receive, use your three
steps, then shoot.
2. As you take a shot, the foot on the same

side as your throwing arm is your last step.
2. If you are right handed, step left, right, left

(left handers step right, left, right). Make good
use of your allowed three steps.
3. You shoot in the middle of the goal and hit

the goalie.
3. Look at the goalie and shoot to the open

corner.
4. Goalie catches your shot taken from 12

meters.
4. To take advantage of your power and accuracy, take most set shots from 9 meters to
10 meters. Do not shoot too far away.
5. You are fouled before you can release a

shot.
5. Dont get too close to your defender. Try to

avoid free-throws. Even though a minor foul
results in a free-throw for your team, it interrupts the flow of attack and allows the defense
to rest.
Fall Shot
1. You step on the line as you pivot to shoot.
1. If you start next to the line, do not take a

step with your pivot foot. Catch the ball, pivot
to face the goal, fall, and shoot.
2. You release your shot standing up, then

fall in the area.
2. Say to yourself, Pivot, fall, shoot. You fall

forward first and shoot on the way down.
Wing Shot
1. You shoot a set shot from the wing and hit
the goalie.
1. Jump inside the area to increase your

shooting angle. Look for the long corner.
2. You receive the ball standing still.
2. Show some forward motion before receiving the ball. Your teammate will be giving you
a lead pass. Space is limited in the wing so you
dont have as much space to run to receive as
you do in the backcourt.
3. You step on the line when shooting.
3. Look at the 6-meter line as you take off.

To help condition yourself while you practice,
have a teammate yell line if you step inside
the area on your shot.
ERROR
Shot
Jump
1. You are called for a charging foul when
attempting to shoot a jump shot over a defender.
CORRECTION
1. Dont take off too close to your defender.
Remember you must transform your forward
momentum into vertical height when shooting
over defenders.
2. Your jump shot lacks velocity.
2. Concentrate on your shoulder rotation.

Shoulders are perpendicular to the goal before
the shot. As you shoot, the shoulder rotation
adds power to your shot.
3. You feel awkward on take-off before the

jump shot.
3. Run to receive and use your three steps.

Your take-off leg is opposite your throwing
arm. Remember, step left, right, left for right
handers, and step right, left, right for left
handers.
shooting
Drills
1. Set Shot Target Practice
The purpose of this drill is to help you practice set shot technique, shooting on the move, and
shooting accuracy. Use gym floor tape (five centimeters wide) to make a goal 2 meters by 3 meters
on the wall. Tape targets in each corner 1 meter by 1 meter and mark a line 9 meters from the
wall. Start about 12 meters from the wall and toss the ball out in front of you. This gentle toss
is important because it gets you in motion to catch the ball, like run to receive. Use three steps
to get into shooting position. Shoot on the move aiming for a corner.
2 meters
3 meters
.5 meter
.5 meter
9 meters
12 meters
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig# S4D1
Artist: Jennifer D.
Success Goal = 6 out of 10 shots in a

corner target ____
Success Check
Toss and run to receive ____

Three steps to shooting position ____
Aim for a corner ____
Shoot from 10 meters.

Shoot three in a row to a corner target before
moving to the next corner.
Make the corner targets bigger.

Shoot from the 7-meter line.
2. Jump Shot Footwork
This drill is a progression designed to help you master the jump shot footwork.
Examples are for a right-handed player.
a. Start about 5 meters from your partner. Stand on your right foot and throw to your partner.
b. Stand one step from a line on the floor opposite your partner, who is 6 meters from the line.
Take one step on your left leg, jump over the line, and throw to your partner before landing.
You step left, then jump and throw.
c. Stand three steps away from 6-meter line. Take three steps, jump over 6-meter line into
goal area, hang in the air, and shoot at the goal. You step left, right, left, jump, and shoot.
d. Start about 12 meters from the goal. Toss ball slightly in front of you and run to catch it.
Take three steps, jump for maximum height, hang, and shoot at the corners of the goal.
e. Stand parallel to your partner about 12 meters from the goal. Run to receive a pass from
your partner at the 9-meter line: (a) catch the ball, (b) take three steps, (c) jump over the
6-meter line into the goal area, (d) hang in the air and look at the goalie, and (e) shoot the
ball and score! Take turns passing and shooting with your partner. Put towel targets in the
high corners and cones in the low corners of the goal if you do not have a goalie.
Success Goal = 5 to10 times for each

step of the progression ____
Success Check
Jump off your nonthrowing-hand foot ____

Jump for maximum height____
Hang in air, then shoot ____
3. Attack, Pass, and Shoot
This drill allows you to practice backcourt shooting in a more gamelike manner. It will help
you develop the proper timing you need to play cohesively with a backcourt teammate. You will
work on making a lateral lead pass to an attacking teammate and receiving a lateral lead pass
in preparation to deliver a set shot or jump shot. Place targets in corners of the goal (i.e., towels,
small hula hoops, hang a sheet to cover up middle of goal, cones in lower corners). With teammates, form one line in the left backcourt position and one line in the right backcourt position
about 12 meters from the goal. Your coach or teammate stands in the center backcourt position
as a stationary passer. Positioned in the right backcourt, you run to receive a pass from your
coach, attack the goal using three steps, then pass laterally to the left backcourt. The left backcourt will be running to receive so you must give a lead pass. When the left backcourt receives
the pass, the player attacks using three steps and shoots a set shot from the 9-meter line. The
left backcourt and right backcourt switch lines after the shot. When everyone has shot, repeat
the drill and shoot from the right backcourt. Shooters, remember to look at the goalie.
2
LB
Success Goal = 6 out of 10 set shots

from:
Left backcourt hitting target ___
Right backcourt hitting target ___
Success Check
Run to receive, attack, and pass or shoot ____

Timing: receive ball at 11 or 12 meters ____
Shoot from the 9-meter line ____
1
RB
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# S4D3
Artist: Jennifer D.
Add a goalie and defender at 8 meters.

Do a fake, followed by a jump shot over a defender
at 8 meters.
Use no targets.
4. Jump Shot With Screen
This drill will help you learn to control your forward momentum when jump shooting over the
defense. It will also help you improve your timing when working in combination with a teammate.
Set up targets in the goal (see Drill 1). Position yourself in the left backcourt about 12 to 14
meters from the goal. Have your partner do the same in the right backcourt. The drill starts with
the right backcourt running toward the 7-meter line and you passing the ball to this teammate
at about 9 meters (see Figure a). After your partner catches the ball, you run toward the center
of the court and receive a return pass. Use three steps to accelerate, plant, and shoot a jump
shot over your partner, who is positioned at about 8 meters to serve as a screen (see Figure b).
RB
1
LB
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# S4D4a
Artist: Jennifer D.
Success Goal = 6 out of 10 jump shots

hit a target ____
LB
RB
Success Check
Step left, right, left (right hander) ____

Step right, left, right (left hander) ____
Not too close to the screen and defense to avoid
charging foul ____
Shoot at maximum height of your jump,
hang ____
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# S4D4b
Artist: Jennifer D.
Add a goalie.
Add defense with hands up to set screen on and
to shoot over.
Start with ball, self toss, take three steps, and

shoot a jump shot.
5. Wing Shot
The purpose of this drill is to help you get familiar with the floor space you have to work with
in the wing. It also allows you to practice technique without the pressure of a goalie. Position
the goal away from the goal line at a 45-degree angle. Start in the left wing position (or the right
wing if you are left handed) where the 9-meter line meets the sideline. Self toss the ball slightly
ahead so you will be running forward when you catch the ball. Use three steps, jump toward the
7-meter line, and shoot for the long corners.
45
Jum
Endline
oo
Sh
7-meter line
Success Goal = 6 out of 10 wing

a long corner ____
Success Check
Watch the line ____

Jump toward the 7-meter line ____
Hang and shoot for a long corner ____
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# 4.11
Artist:inJennifer D.
shots
Place the goal in proper position and add a goalie.

Add a goalie and a pass from a backcourt player.
Add a goalie, a pass from a backcourt player, and
a cone on the 6-meter line that represents your
defensive player. From the left wing, attack to
the left of the cone and jump into the goal area
toward the 7-meter line. From the right wing,
attack to the right of the cone.
Use no goalie and leave the goal on the goal line.
6. Fall Shot Learning Progression
As a beginning circle runner, the fear of falling may inhibit you from learning the fall shot
and eventually the more advanced dive shot. Use appropriate mat cushioning and take gradual
steps in the development of this shot. Tumbling skills like the forward, backward, and shoulder
rolls as well as push-ups can be used as warm ups for fall shot practice. This drill will help you
safely learn the fall shot technique.
On a padded carpet or tumbling mat, position yourself across from your partner. Start about
3 meters apart and use the following progression. Do not advance to the next progression until
you have successfully completed the previous one.
a. In a push-up position, bend your arms to push your body up off the ground. Then land on
your arms again, cushioning the force of the fall by bending your elbows.
b. Kneel on both knees (you may want to use knee pads). Bring the ball up to shooting position. As you fall forward, pass the ball to your partner. Cushion your fall with both hands
like a push-up position.
c. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart. Bend knees and bring ball to shooting position. Fall
forward and pass to your partner. Cushion your fall as in a.
d. Start with your back to your partner. Pivot, fall forward, and pass the ball to your partner.
Cushion your fall as in a.
e. Repeat the same progressions on the 6-meter line in front of the goal. Start with a tumbling
mat inside the goal area, then repeat without a mat. Shoot at the goal rather than passing to
a partner. Remember, you cant contact the floor inside the goal area until after you release
the ball.
MAT
CR
BC
To increase difficulty:
Backcourt pass to circle runner
Success Goal = 10 repetitions of
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# S4D6
eachArtist: Jennifer D.
progression using the correct technique ____
Success Check
Fall forward ____

Look at partner or goal and shoot ____
Cushion fall ____
On progression e, add a goalie and a pass from

the backcourt (see Figure).
When you have successfully completed e, add a
passive defender on the circle.
7. Half-Court: 3 vs. 2
The purpose of this drill is to focus on attacking and shooting with emphasis on shot selection.
This situational play helps you learn to choose the best shot for a given situation. Select four
teammates and a goalie to participate with you in this drill. Start a goalie in the goal and two
defensive players on the 6-meter line. If you do not have a goalie, put targets in the corners of
the goal. The offense begins with a circle runner, left backcourt, and center backcourt. These are
your starting positions, but you may move around anywhere within the boundaries of the designated playing area. The boundaries are the boundary line shown in the figure below extending
left to the sideline, forward to the endline, and back to the centerline. Now you are set to play a
minigame using all the rules of team handball. The only exceptions are that the defensive players
must play basketball-style defense (no contact), and your team must make at least three passes
before taking a shot. Keep in mind that you are playing 3 vs. 2, so find the open player. The
defense receives 2 points for any unsuccessful shot by the offenseblocked shot, goalie save, or
missed shot. The offense receives 1 point for every made shot. The game ends after the fifth shot
on goal, so keep score accurately. At the end of each game rotate positions clockwise. This will
give each player a chance to play with different combinations of people and different positions.
CR
Cone
CB
Boundary line
LB
Cone
Success Goal = Your team scores

points than your opponent:
Your points ____
Opponents points ____
Success Check
Attack the goal; be a threat to shoot ____

Pass to open player ____
Use the piston movement ____
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# S4D7
more
Artist: Jennifer D.
Decrease the width of the playing area.

Play 3 vs. 3make it take it; first team to 10
goals wins.
shooting success summary

Shooting is the final action in attack, the decisive moment, the payoff punch. Learning to master the four basic shots, to select them appropriately and execute them flawlessly, might make
you the Michael Jordan of team handball. You can become a player that is a threat to score at
any time, under any circumstance. All it takes is a little hard work and dedication. Start slowly
when learning new shooting skills. If you have not been throwing regularly, too much shooting
practice will make your arm sore. It is all right to learn a skill at half speed; then, as your skill
increases, increase your pace and intensity. Practicing shooting against a defender makes your
performance more gamelike. Ask your coach or a trained partner to rate your technique according to the checklist items with the Keys to Success for the set shot, jump shot, wing shot, and
fall shot (see Figures 4.6, 4.7, 4.9, and 4.12).
Individual Defensive Skills: Going One-on-One 61
Step
5
individual defensive skills:

going one-on-one
uring the 1994 NBA Championships Hakeem

Olajuwon said that he played team handball when
growing up in his native Nigeria. When you watch him
play big man defense, you can get a little glimpse
of it coming through. The skills Olajuwon displays
when he gets strong position on an opposing center,
moves well to prevent him from penetrating to the
basket, then blocks his shot are the same skills required to become a solid team handball defender. In
this game, the attacker is always the initiator, and
it is the defenders role to neutralize the attackers
actions. Step 5 will teach you the correct elements of
individual defense to help you accomplish that task:
(1) basic stance, (2) checking your opponent, and (3)
shot blocking.
Why Are Individual Defensive

Skills Important?
Youve heard it said that a chain is only as strong as
its weakest link. This holds true in team handball
also, particularly as it applies to defense. To have a
strong defensive team, the chain, takes fundamentally sound defenders, the links. Mastery of individual
defensive skills will ensure your ability to neutralize
your opponents attack and to contribute your part
to the teams defensive effort.
Basic Stance
Effective checking and shot blocking begin from the
basic stance. In the basic defensive stance your feet
should be shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent,

and weight on the balls of your feet. Keep your upper
body upright with a slight lean forward at the hips.
Keep your head up and use your peripheral vision
to keep track of both the ball movement and your
opponents location at all times. Hold your hands
up about shoulder height and slightly wider than
shoulder-width apart (see Figure 5.1a). You may
have to experiment a little to find a comfortable and
functional stance that permits balance and mobility.
CheckingMaking Contact
With Your Opponent
Checking can be from a little touch to continuous
body contact. The rules allow you to use your upper body to obstruct an opponent with or without
the ball. To check your opponent, step forward on
your leg that is on the same side as your opponents
shooting arm, and extend your hand on that side
to make contact with the ball or shoulder. This will
inhibit the players ability to shoot or pass effectively.
At the same time, your other hand should contact
your opponents hip (see Figure 5.1b). Applying this
resistance will deter the players forward momentum
and help you feel which direction the player wants
to move. Using the open hands within the confines
of the upper body is a necessary defensive technique
to stop your opponent. Get close enough to look like
two people in a slow dance position.
Once you have established contact, continue
checking with the idea of mutual resistance. This
means not overpowering your opponent, but applying force equal to your opponents attack. Move your
feet to stay between your opponent and the goal,
61
and use your leg strength to resist your opponents

forward momentum (see Figure 5.1c). Dont push
your opponent out of the play. Just try to resist to
FIGURE
5.1
keys to success
the point of changing the players forward movement

to lateral movement. The key phrase to remember is
play defense with your feet.
checking
10
11
9
4
PreparationBasic
Stance
1. Feet shoulder width ____

2. Knees bent ____
3. Weight on balls of feet ____
4. Upper body upright, slightly
forward ____
5. Eyes on opponent ____
6. Hands up ____
7. Step out to meet attacker ____
Execution
8. Your leg forward on shootingarm side ____

9. One hand on hip ____
10. One hand on shoulder or
ball ____
Follow-Through
11. Slow dance position ____

12. Maintain contact and move
your feet ____
Aggressive body-to-body checking that prevents

your opponent from continuing the attack is called
a tie-up and results in a free-throw. This is most
likely to occur when an attacker is attempting to
drive to the 6-meter line. In such a case tying up is
a good action, even though a foul is called, because
it interrupts the flow of the attack and prevents a
potential scoring chance (see Figure 5.2).
Figure 5.3 The punishment ladder.
How to Block Shots
Figure 5.2 Tying up.
When checking an opponent, however, if you direct

your actions exclusively at the opponent and not the
ball you will be punished progressively: warning,
2-minute suspension, disqualification (see Figure
5.3). Basically these actions include reaching around,
holding, pushing, tripping, or hitting the opponent. If
these actions destroy an opponents clear chance to
score, a 7-meter throw will also be awarded.
Blocking is the last opportunity to prevent a shot on

goal by putting your hands in the path of the ball. In
a game, you will see players blocking both individually and collectively in the air and on the ground.
Individual blocking is used when you are in a oneon-one situation and you have to stop your attacker
by relying only on your own skills. Anytime you are
unable to check the attacker you should take on a
goalies mentality, have your hands up, and make
every effort to block the shot. Even if you dont block
the ball, the blocking action serves as an obstruction
by interfering with the shooters vision. Blocking also
takes away a portion of the goal as a shooting option,
giving the goalie a better idea of where the attacker
has an opening to shoot.
As the ball leaves the shooters hand, watch the
ball and extend your arms fully into its path. Keep
your hands open and fingers slightly spread with
your thumbs almost touching. Attack the ball aggressively. Move your arms forward against the force of
the shot and block with both hands. This not only
helps you stay aggressive but also helps prevent
elbow hyperextension.
FIGURE
5.4
Set Shot Block

To block a set shot keep your feet in contact with
floor while you bend and reach to adjust your arm
position to the path of the ball (see Figures 5.4a-c).
keys to success
set shot block
PreparationBasic Stance

2. Knees bent____
4. Upper body upright, slightly forward ____
6. Hands up ____
Execution

8. Extend arms fully ____
9. Hands open, thumbs almost touching ____
10
10. Attack the ball ____
Jump Shot Block
Blocking jump shots is similar to volleyball blocking

in that you must jump, reach, and attack the ball
while in the air. Time your take-off so you jump just
after the shooter jumps (see Figures 5.5a-c). Otherwise, you will be coming down when the ball is shot
and have no chance to block it. Depending on the
distance between you and the shooter, blocking can
be done from the basic position or with a step forward.

In both cases, you prepare to jump by bending your
knees then pushing off forcefully with both legs. The
arms should be fully extended into the path of the
ball. Keep your hands close together with your palms
open. If the shooter changes his or her throwing position while in mid-air, try to adapt to the change by
leaning in that direction.
FIGURE
5.5
keys to success
jump shot block
1
a
Preparation

2. Knees bent ____
4. Upper body upright, slightly
forward ____
6. Hands up ____
Execution
7. Watch ball and shooter ____
8. Bend knees, prepare to
jump ____
9. Jump after shooter

jumps ____
10. Keep hands open ____
individual defensive skills success stoppers

Team handball is a contact sport that requires aggressive individual defense. If you play much noncontact basketball, you may have trouble adjusting
to checking your opponent. Remember to step out to
meet your opponent, making contact with the hip and
shooting shoulder. When blocking a shot, extend your
ERROR
Stance
Basic
1. Similar to the basketball basic defensive
stance, you bend forward at the hips with your

hands out in front, palms up.
arms into the shots path and attack the ball. Keep
in mind that blocking the jump shot requires a little
timing delay compared to the attackers jump. The
most common errors in individual defense are listed
here with suggestions for correcting them.
CORRECTION
1. The team handball basic defensive stance
requires your upper body to be upright with
your hands up and shoulder-width apart.
Shot Blocking
1. The ball goes through your hands as you
block it.
1. Extend your arms with your hands open,

fingers spread. Your thumbs are almost touching so the ball has no space to go through.
2. The shot touches your hands but the force

knocks your arms back and the ball continues
on its path to the goal.
2. Be aggressive and move your arms forward

against the force of the shot. Attack the ball!
3. You attempt to block a jump shot but fail

because you are coming down as the shooter
releases the shot.
3. Time your take-off so you jump just after

the shooter jumps. This is similar to blocking
in volleyball.
Checking
1. You step out but avoid contact with your
opponent.
1. Effective checking requires making body

contact with your opponent, like two people in
a slow dance position.
2. Grabbing or pushing your opponent results in a 2-minute suspension.
2. Keep your hands open and move your feet

after making contact. To avoid pushing, keep
arms flexed.
individual defense
Drills
1. Defensive Footwork
This drill will give you practice moving and changing direction in your defensive stance, helping to improve your balance and body control.
Stand about 6 meters from your partner, facing each other. Your partner holds a ball with two
hands at waist level. When your partner slaps the ball with one hand, you immediately get to
basic stance and begin moving your feet quickly in place. From there your partner will indicate
your movement by moving the ball to different positions.

A. If your partner extends the ball in one hand to either side, shuffle to that side.
B. If your partner puts the ball in shooting position, run forward.
C. If your partner extends the ball toward you, run backward.
D. You can also do this drill with your entire team, having your coach direct.
A
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig# S5D1
Artist: Jennifer D.
Success Goal = 20 seconds continuous

movement ____
Success Check
Basic stance ____

Shuffle, keep feet moving ____
Step out, back up ____
Change directions faster.

Increase time by 5-second increments.
Reduce time to 10 seconds.
2. Making Contact
These drills will help you learn to maintain contact with a moving offensive player and give
you good practice for defensive footwork.
a. Breaking out of the circle: Six defending players stand in a circle 2-3 meters apart with you
in the middle of the circle as an attacker. Your objective is to break out of the circle while the
defenders try to obstruct you by checking you, using only the torso.
b.Partner shuffle: Partners face each other standing in the basic position with knees bent.
Put your hands up slightly in front of your shoulders. Place your hands flat against your partners hands. Without losing contact, shuffle sideways the width of the court, and return to your
starting point.
c. Checking in pairs: Your partner imitates a set shot as you take one step out from the basic
position and make contact at the hip and shooting shoulder. Repeat this drill 15 times, then
switch roles.
d. Three passes and check: You and a teammate face each other 4-5 meters apart while continuously side-stepping between the sidelines. You start with the ball and make three passes
between each other. On the third pass your teammate attacks while you try to obstruct your
partner by checking him or her. Make sure you make contact correctly.
Success Goal = 5 round trips without

losing contact ____
Success Check
Maintain contact ____
Keep feet moving ____
Partner shuffle: Partners take turns being the

leader. For 1 minute the leader changes the pace
and direction of the movement, and the follower
has to react and keep up. Rest 1 minute and
change leaders. If contact is broken before the
1-minute limit, note the time and change leaders.
The player with the most time keeping contact
wins. Play the best of five.
Slow down the pace.
3. Step Out and Check Drill
The purpose of this drill is to practice the movement of stepping out and making proper contact
with an attacker. You will need two teammates to help you in this drill. Your teammates position themselves on the 9-meter line facing the goal about 2 meters apart, with one ball. Position
yourself on defense at the 6-meter line between the two of them. When your teammate slaps the
ball, slide along the 6-meter line until you are directly in front of your teammate. When your
teammate raises the ball to shooting position, step out and check, making contact with the hip
and shoulder (see Figure a). When you make contact, your teammate passes over to the other,
you recover diagonally to the 6-meter line, then slide directly in front of the ball. When the ball
is raised to shooting position, step out, check, and recover when the ball is passed (see Figure
b). Continue the drill for 30 seconds, then rotate clockwise until everyone has been on defense.
Clanton
a. Step out and make
contact
Job# 376
Fig.# S5D3a
Artist: Jennifer D.
Success Goal = 30 seconds using proper

technique ____
Success Check
Step out aggressively ____

Contact shooters hip and shoulder ____
Recover diagonally to 6-meter line ____
b. Recover to 6-meter
line
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# S5D3b
Artist: Jennifer D.
Increase by 10 second increments up to 60 seconds.
Add a second defender and decrease time to 20

seconds.
4. Partner Blocking
This drill allows you to practice blocking technique and gradually conquer any fear you might
have of the ball hitting you.
Face your partner about 2 meters apart. Your partner is the shooter with a ball (if you have
several balls place them on the floor beside your partner so the balls can be thrown consecutively). You are the defender. The shooter throws 10 balls, at about 50 percent speed, past you
but within your reach, and you try to block the balls. The shooter tries to shoot all around you,
over your head and to either side. It would be convenient to have a barrier about 6 meters behind
you so you dont have to chase the balls very far.
(Wall)
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# S5D4
Artist: Jennifer D.
Success Goal = 8 of 10 balls blocked ____
Success Check
Watch the ball ____
Extend arms ____
Attack the ball ____
Increase the velocity of the shot.

Shoot jump shots.
Players move closer together, about one-half to 1

meter apart. The shooter fakes a shot and keeps
control of the ball as the blocker extends to touch
the ball with two hands.
5. Shot Blocking
The purpose of this drill is to improve your reaction time and aggressiveness in shot blocking.
One defender stands at 7 or 8 meters in front of the goal. Five shooters line up in single file at
12 meters, each with a ball. In rapid succession, the shooters approach the defender and shoot
from the 9-meter line. The defender gets 1 point for touching the ball and 2 points for a block;
the defender loses 2 points for each goal allowed. Change the defender when every shooter has
shot. Continue this rotation until everyone has been the defender.
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# S5D5
Artist: Jennifer D.
Success Goal = The winner is the player

with the most points at the end of the drill ____
Success Check
React to the shooters attack ____

Be aggressive ____
The defender sits on the floor and, as the shooter

attacks, gets up to block each shot.
The defender retreats to the 6-meter line after
each shot, then steps out to block the next.
Shoot at 50 percent velocity.
6. One-on-One
This drill allows you to practice all your individual defensive skills under gamelike conditions.
Place two cones or other markers on the 6-meter line about 1 meter outside each goalpost. One
defender stands on the 6-meter line directly in front of the goal. Five attackers, each with a ball,
line up single file at about 12 meters. A passer, preferably a coach, stands to either side of the
attackers at about 10 meters. The attacker passes to the coach and runs to receive a return
pass. The defender steps out to meet the attack at the 9-meter line. All action must take place
within the boundaries. The attackers can either attempt to shoot or fake and drive to the 6-meter
line. The defender tries to prevent either option by checking and trying to tie up the player for a
free-throw, or blocking the shot. The coach serves as referee and blows the whistle to stop play
on a free-throw or out of bounds. Switch defenders every five attacks until everyone has been
on defense.
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# S5D6
Artist: Jennifer D.
Success Goal = 3 of 5 tie-ups (freethrows) or blocked shots ____
Success Check
Step out in good timing ____

Maintain contact, keep feet moving ____
Increase the number of attacks to 10 per defender.
Decrease the size of the boundaries.

Designate fakes and drives only or BC shots only.
individual defensive skills success summary

Dont be a weak link; take pride in your individual defense. Like Hakeem Olajuwon, you can
make an invaluable contribution to your team. Be alert, aggressive, and visually aware of all
activity around you. Play defense with your feet, be in perpetual motion. Move with short,
quick shuffle steps, prepared to check an attacker or block an attackers shot. Ask your coach or
trained partner to rate your technique according to the checklist items with the Keys to Success
for basic stance, checking, and shot blocking (see Figures 5.1, 5.4, and 5.5).
Goalkeeping: The Competitive Edge 75
Step
6
goalkeeping: the competitive edge
oalkeepers in team handball have to cope

with shots coming at them at speeds of up to and
over 80 mph. It requires all their courage, skill, and
exceptional reflexes to face these bullet-like throws
and stop the ball from entering the net. The goalies
are always at a disadvantage, but the best of them
can point to a save rate of more than 40 percent. It
often verges on magic when they succeed in the last
moment in stopping the ball from crossing the goal
line. Get ready to experience firsthand what it is like
to be in the goal. First, learn what rules apply only
to you and how to protect yourself in the goal. Next,
find out how to position yourself in the goal, then

block high, low, medium, and wing shots. Last, learn
to quickly recover the shots you block, then initiate
the fast-break. Good luck!
Why Is Goalkeeping
Important?
A poor goalie can make a good team mediocre, and a
good goalie can make a mediocre team competitive.
Not only are you the last line of defense but also the
Specific Rules That Apply to Goalies

Specific rules that govern the goalkeeper:
The goalie is permitted to do the following:
Block the ball with any part of the body while inside the goal area.
Move around with the ball inside the goal area with no restrictions except against intentionally delaying
the game.
Leave the goal area at any time subject to the rules applied to court players.
The goalie is not permitted to do the following:
Leave the goal area while in possession of the ball (free-throw).
Touch the ball while it is stationary or rolling on the ground outside the goal area while standing in the
goal area (free-throw).
Re-enter the goal area from the playing area while still in possession of the ball (7-meter throw).
Receive a pass from a court player while inside the goal area (7-meter throw).
Goal-throw is awarded for the following:
The goalie blocks the ball and recovers it in the goal area.
The ball goes over the endline after the goalkeeper blocks it.
The attacking team throws the ball over the endline.
To execute the goal-throw, stand inside the goal area and throw the ball to a teammate.
If the goalie blocks a shot and the deflected ball goes out of bounds on the sideline, the attacking team
keeps the ball, putting it back into play with a throw-in.
75
first attacker in offense because of the responsibility

of beginning the fast-break. Your effectiveness greatly
affects the psychological state of your teammates, and
your overall performance is of considerable influence
to team success. Regardless of your success or failure, you must be a leader and display the intangible
qualities of confidence, composure, and courage.
How to Protect Yourself in the

Goal
In team handball, the shooter intends to score a goal,
not to hit the goalie. As you begin to train keep in
mind, however, that most Americans are accustomed
to throwing a ball directly to someone (i.e., baseball,
basketball, football). This carryover from other sports
and being unaccustomed to the size of a handball
causes beginning shooters to be inaccurate. Consequently, many of your teammates will unintentionally
shoot the ball at the goalie instead of shooting to the
open corners of the goal. Ultimately, good technique
will be your best protection. Until youve learned
basic goalie technique and your teammates have
mastered shooting the ball with reasonable accuracy,
use targets in the corners of the goal for game-like
drills and scrimmages.
Here are some ideas to protect your body while
practicing goalie technique: To soften the ball impact,
have a partner throw at you from 3 to 6 meters at a
moderate to slow speed. You can use dense foam balls
and partially deflated volleyballs for your beginning
goalie training. Old tennis balls thrown consecutively
at a moderate speed from about 4 meters will help you
work on your reaction time. Protect yourself from the
sting of blocking by wearing a long-sleeved shirt and
long pants. Males should wear a protective cup, and
many goalies also wear knee and shin pads.
How to Position Yourself in the

Goal
Assume the basic stance whenever an opponent has
possession of the ball within shooting distance of the
goal. The stance is similar to a court players defensive
basic stance. Stand tall with your feet shoulder-width
apart and knees flexed. Your weight should be slightly
forward on the balls of your feet and evenly distributed. Keep your arms up and elbows bent with your
hands either shoulder or waist high. You will adjust
your hand position according to the type of shot and
your personal preference (see Figure 6.1a).
Your movement should provide maximum protection of the goal at all times. Pay particular attention
to guarding the short corners of the goal. These are
the top and bottom corners closest to the attacker
with the ball. Because the attacker is closer to them,
the short corners are often easier targets to shoot
at than other parts of the goal. For this reason it
is important to stay between the attacker with the
ball and the short corners. This will force him or her
to take a more difficult shot, which decreases the
chance of scoring.
Be aware of the entire offensive situation, but
keep your eyes on the attacking player and the ball.
Move laterally along an imaginary arc between the
two goalposts (see Figure 6.1b). Do not move directly
along the goal line. A good rule of thumb is to start
in the center of the goal, one step out from the goal
line. From this position, however, there is no way you
can see the goalposts. You must learn to sense where
you are in relation to the goal opening. Having your
hands up between your shoulders and waist will help
you locate the goalposts and determine your position. As the ball is passed from player to player, use
short, quick shuffle steps to mirror the movement of
the ball. Be ready to change direction at any time.
Keep a position on the imaginary line that bisects the
angle between the ball and the goalposts (see Figure
6.1c). Paying attention to the defense, the developing
offensive situation, and the ball helps you anticipate
when and where a shot will be taken.
FIGURE
6.1
keys to success
positioning yourself in the goal
PreparationBasic
Stance
1. Eyes on ball ____

2. Stand tall ____
3. Flex knees ____
4. Put weight on balls of feet ____
5. Hold hands up at shoulder
height ____
Execution
6. Step out one step from the goal line ____

7. Quick, shuffle steps in an arc ____
c
8
8. Bisect the shooting angle ____

9. Stop moving just before shot ____
Blocking Shots
Positioning yourself in the goal (review Figure 6.1a)
is the preparation phase for all the shots the goalie
will block. When a player is ready to deliver a shot,
stop moving and get stable in the basic position. Dont
begin the blocking action until the ball is released.
Moving prematurely will only assist the shooter because the shooter will shoot away from the direction
in which youve moved. This timing is important and
requires absolute concentration. When the shooter
has committed, act quickly and decisively. As you
move toward the ball, point your ball-side foot toward
the sideline, trying to put as much of your body as
possible in the line of the shot. Whether you block
the ball with one or two hands will depend on how
much time you have to react to the shot. Dont make
the mistake of trying to catch the ball. Concentrate on

making the block, then trying to gain control of the
ball as quickly as possible. Avoid diving for the ball
because it takes too much time to regain your footing.
This extra time will put your team at a disadvantage
in transition because you will not be able to recover
the ball quickly. Being on the floor will also put you
at a disadvantage if the opposition fields the rebound
for another shot.
How to Block High Shots
To block high shots, stand tall, keeping your center

of gravity as high as possible, and take a small step
in the direction of the shot (see Figure 6.2a). Push off
the leg farther from the ball and leap in the direction
of the shot, simultaneously extending your arm(s)
into the path of the ball (see Figures 6.2b and c).
FIGURE
keys to success
6.2
blocking high shots

Preparation
1. Stand tall ____

2. Take step in balls direction ____
Execution
3
b. One-handed block
3. Push off and leap toward shot ____

4. Extend arm(s) in path of ball ____
c. Two-handed block
How to Block Low Shots

To block low shots, keep your center of gravity low
and take a small step in the direction of the shot.
Push off the leg farther from the ball in the direction
of the shot (see Figure 6.3a). Attempt to block the
FIGURE
6.3
shot by extending both your leg and arm into the

path of the ball. Lift and shoot your leg out into the
path of the ball. Then cover the space above your leg
with your arm moving in a downward arcing motion.
Remember this key phrase: Shoot and cover (see
Figure 6.3b).
keys to success
blocking low shots

Preparation
1. Take a small step in direction of

the ball ____
2. Push off leg farther from ball ____
2
Execution
3. Lift knee ____

4. Shoot leg ____
5. Extend arm and cover with
hand ____
How to Block Medium High Shots
To block medium high shots means to block balls

coming between the shoulder and knee level. These
shots cause some difficulty because they are in the
in-between area of blocking with your arm and leg.
Generally, block medium high shots by using your
hand and leg. Starting from the basic position, take
a small step in the direction of the ball, raise your
knee, and lower the hand closest to the shot. The leg
FIGURE
6.4
farther from the ball pushes the body in the direction

of the shot, then with a little hop, helps to maintain
body balance on one foot. Attempt to cover as much
area as possible when moving your leg and hand
into the path of the ball. When attempting the block,
the distance of the shot from the body determines
the degree of bend in the arm and leg. The opposite
hand moves upward to help maintain your balance
(see Figure 6.4).
keys to success
blocking medium high shots
3, 4
1. Take a small step in direction of the ball ____

2. Lift knee and lower hand into path of the ball ____
3. Push off in direction of the ball ____
4. Maintain body balance on one foot ____
5. Extend leg and hand into the balls path ____
How to Block Wing Shots
On shots from the wings, it is important to protect

the short corners of the goal and force the shooter to
shoot for the more difficult long corners. Stay close
to the goalpost, with your arm on the goalpost side
held up with the forearm protecting your face. Your
other hand is placed out to the side bent at about
90 degrees. Most of your weight should be on your
FIGURE
goalpost-side foot (see Figure 6.5a). When the shooter

jumps into the area, take one step out from the goalpost and move with short steps to cover the shooters
angle. As the shot is taken, stop moving and focus
on the ball (see Figure 6.5b). Attempt to block low,
medium, and high shots using the proper technique
(review Figures 6.2, 6.3, and 6.4; see Figure 6.5c).
keys to success
6.5
blocking wing shots
4
b
Preparation
1. Stand tall close to the goalpost ____

2. Goalpost-side arm up, forearm protecting
face ____
3. Keep free hand out to side, bent about 90
degrees ____
4. Put weight on goalpost-side leg ____
Execution
5. Take one step out as shooter jumps ____

6. Take short steps to cover shooters angle ____
7. Stop moving, eyes on ball ____
8
c
8. Push off goalpost leg toward path of ball ____

9. Block the shot ____
Recovering the Ball and

Initiating the Fast-Break
The actions of recovering the ball and initiating the
fast-break follow every ball you block. Your effectiveness as a goalkeeper is not only judged by your ability
to block shots but by how quickly you can recover the
ball and put it back in play. The speed, precision, and

judgment with which you perform this skill set the
pace for the entire attack. To initiate the fast-break,
you must be equally skilled in the short outlet pass
and the long touchdown pass to a breaking player
down the court. To improve your passing skills, practice the court player passing drills and those drills
specifically designed for goalies.
goalkeeping success stoppers

The most common technical errors you will make as
a beginning goalie are listed here along with suggestions for correcting them. However, remember that
ERROR

Positioning
in the Goal
1. You bend at the waist, similar to a basketball defensive stance, with your hands low.
2. You stand in the center of the goal line and

do not move.
the position equally demands the intangible qualities

of confidence, composure, leadership, and courage.
CORRECTION
1. Stand tall with weight on the balls of your
feet and shoulder-width apart. Hands are between shoulder and waist level.
2. Follow the ball and move with quick
shuffle steps in an arc between the goalposts.
Blocking High, Low, and Medium

High Shots
1. You feel off balance as the shot is taken.
1. When a player is ready to deliver the shot,

stop moving and get in basic stance.
2. When attempting to catch a shot, it goes

through your hands into the goal.
2. Stand in the basic goalie stance. Concentrate on making the block, not catching, then
gain control of the ball quickly.
3. You lean, then reach rather than moving

your body toward the ball.
3. Push off the leg farther from the ball.
4. You repeatedly contact the ball with your

arm but it rebounds into the goal.
4. Stand one step from the goal line in

basic position. As you move your arm(s) into
the path of the ball, remember to go forward
against the shot. Think, Attack the ball.
5. You fail to use both your arm and leg to

cover low shots.
5. Remember to shoot your leg in the path of

the ball and cover with your arm and hand.
Blocking Wing Shots

1. The ball goes between you and the goalpost.
1. From the wing the short corner is the easiest place to score. To prevent this easy goal,
stand next to the goalpost, a balls width away.
2. You dont use both your arm and leg to

cover low shots.
2. Shoot your leg in the path of the ball and

cover with your arm and hand.
goalkeeping
Drills
1. Partner Soccer
This drill works on turning your foot out to stop low shots. Face a partner 3 meters apart. Pass
the ball back and forth with your feet, as a soccer player would pass a soccer ball. Concentrate
on controlling the ball using the inside of your foot.
Success Goal = 30 seconds in control of

ball ____
Success Check
Move to the ball ____

Contact ball with inside of your foot ____
Increase the time for control by increments of 10

seconds.
To increase the pace, decrease distance between
partners.
Play soccer tennis. Place a bench between you
and your teammate and determine boundaries.
Keep score as you do in tennis.
To slow the pace, increase the distance between

partners.
2. Goalie Beginning Training Progression
This progression lets you concentrate on learning beginning goalie technique without the
worry of being injured by a hard thrown shot. To keep the drill safe and to help you develop
your confidence, ask your partner to control the speed and direction of the ball. Start by having
your partner throw the ball gently, then gradually increase the speed as your confidence and
technique improve. Have your partner wait for you to return to the basic goalie position before
throwing the next ball. Stand about 3 meters apart.
a. Partner throws a ball at half speed at your face. Block the ball with both hands. Do not
catch the ball.
b. Partner throws five balls to your high right and five to your high left. Block ball with both
hands.
c. Partner rolls five balls to your right, then five to your left. Block the ball by turning your
foot out and covering with your hand.
d. Partner rolls ball between your legs. Stand upright, block ball by jumping slightly forward
and at the same time, bringing your feet together. Ball is blocked by hitting the front of your
ankles.
e. Partner throws a low bouncing shot to the right and to the left. Block the ball by using the
shoot and cover technique.
f. Partner throws the ball anywhere in the goal. Choose the correct technique to block the
ball.
Success Goal = 10 balls blocked for each

progression ____
Success Check
Stand tall ____

Return to basic position after each attempt ____
Have your partner start with 10 balls. Increase

the speed of the shots and decrease the time
between shots.
Alternate throwing to the right and the left and
high and low.
To increase safety and gradually build confidence, start by using a foam ball.
3. Line Shooting
This drill gives you repetitive practice at blocking high and low shots. By moving from one side
to the other, this drill also helps you develop a feel for the size of the goal opening. Six shooters stand in one line in front of the goal. Each player has a ball and shoots one after the other,
alternating shots right high and left high. The next time through, shoot right low and left low.
Let the goalie recover to basic stance before shooting the next shot.
Success Goal = 4 out of 6 shots

blocked ____
Success Check
Push off opposite leg ____

Shoot and cover on low shots ____
Recover quickly to basic position ____
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# S6D3
Artist: Jennifer D.
Players
alternate right high, left low, then left

high, right low.
Similar to a fast-break, players dribble in and
shoot a jump shot from the 6-meter line. Players
should decrease the force of the shot by 50 percent and concentrate on placement in the goal.
Players decrease the speed of their shots.
4. 9-meter Set Shot Drill
This drill helps you work on positioning in the goal. It provides many consecutive repetitions
for you to react to the ball and determine the proper technique to use. Six players, each with a
ball, stand along the 9-meter line. Players shoot set shots in succession from left wing to right
wing. Wait until the goalie recovers to basic stance before attempting the next shot. Move with
quick shuffle steps from shooter to shooter and attempt to block each shot. Your movement
should be in an arc from goalpost to goalpost as the ball moves from wing to wing. Repeat the
drill starting from opposite side.
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# S6D4
Artist: Jennifer D.
Success Goal = 8 out of 12 shots

blocked ____
Success Check
Short quick shuffle steps ____

Move in an arc between goalposts ____
Recover to basic stance after each shot ____
Add a defender in front of each shooter at the

6-meter line.
Shooters move in and shoot from the 6-meter
line.
Shooters decrease the speed and pace of their

shots.
5. Wing Shooting
This drill works on positioning in the goal, especially in relation to the goalposts, and goalie
technique for wing shots. Because of the limited angle and close proximity of the shooter, beginning wing shooters often lack accuracy, thus increasing the potential for injury to the goalie.
Limit this drill to players who have developed their wing shooting accuracy with prior shooting
practice without a goalie (see page 57). Two players with a ball stand in each wing, starting where
the sideline meets the 9-meter line. The players shoot alternately from the right and left wing,
forcing you to move quickly from one goalpost to the other. Shooters should wait for you to be in
position before they shoot. Remember that its important to protect the short corners and force
the shooter to shoot for the more difficult long corners.
Clanton
Blocking shots
from the left and right wings
Job# 376
Fig.# S6D5
Artist: Jennifer D.
Success Goal = 6 out of 10 blocked

shots ____
Success Check
Move quickly, find goalpost ____

Use forearm to protect your face ____
Put weight on foot next to goalpost ____
Add a wing defender against the shooters.

Add a circle runner to shoot from the 6-meter
line.
Shoot from only one side at a time.

Shoot only bounce shots.
Before each shot, designate the corner of the goal
at which the wing will shoot.
6. Block, Pass, Defend Drill
This drill allows the goalie to work on initiating the fast-break after attempting to block a shot.
Court players work on receiving a pass on the run with a defender close by and finishing the
attack with a goal at the other end of the court. Three players stand without a ball in one wing,
the other three stand in a row facing the goal in the CB position. The coach has some balls and
stands to the side of the shooters. The first shooter attacks the goal and shoots from the 9-meter
line. The goalie tries to block it. At the same moment the shot is taken, the first player in the
wing starts running down the court. The goalie must forget about the ball that has just been
shot, receive a new ball from the coach, and pass it out to the running player. The shooter must
turn and run after the wing in an attempt to defend him or her. The two players return on the
outside of the court and go to the opposite line (wing to shooter, shooter to wing). If a second
goalie is available, end the drill with a shot on goal at the other end of the court.
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# S6D6
Artist: Jennifer D.
Success Goal =
5 out of 10 blocked shots ____

8 out of 10 passes thrown with accuracy ____
Success Check
Concentrate on blocking the ball first ____

Lead pass to the running player ____
Players shoot at half speed.
goalkeeping success summary

Your play as the goalie greatly affects the psychological state of your teammates, and your
overall performance considerably impacts your teams success. As your teams last line of defense, you must be able to block high, low, and medium high shots from all shooting positions
and initiate the fast-break. Regardless of your success or failure, you must be a leader and display the intangible qualities of confidence, composure, and courage. Ask your coach or trained
partner to rate your goalie technique according to the checklist items with the Keys to Success
Figures 6.1 through 6.5.
Individual Tactics: Attack and Defend 91
Step
7
individual tactics: attack and

defend
ne time down the floor, his defender sags and

Magic pulls up to hit a 3-pointer. The next time, he
penetrates the defense and dishes to Jabbar for a
dunk. Another time, he makes a steal, leads the fastbreak, and makes a beautiful behind the back pass
to Byron Scott for a layup. Magic Johnson had great
individual skills, but what set him apart, and helped
make the Lakers great, was his ability to make good
decisions about the execution of his skills. Choosing the proper skill and course of action to use at a
given time and for a given situation is called tactics.
Step 7 will help you develop a good understanding of basic individual attack and defense tactics.
The primary individual attack tactic is attacking the
gap. You will learn how to anticipate and read the
defense, maintain ball possession, and fake to help
you attack the gap. Individual defense tactics relate
to controlling your defensive space, which includes
seeing ball and opponent, stepping out to meet the
attacker, recovering to the 6-meter line, and moving
in relation to the ball.
Individual Attack Tactics

Attacking the Gap
As an attacking player your primary objective is to
score goals and assist your teammates in scoring
goals. The essential individual tactic toward achieving
this is attacking the gap. A gap is a space between
two defenders (see Figure 7.1).
Attacking the gap
Why Are Individual Tactics

Important?
During a game you will be confronted with many
options on both ends of the court. Your ability to
make good decisions concerning these options is
just as important as proper execution of skills. If you
are unable to make good decisions about when and
where to perform your individual skills, you probably
will not be successful, and your team will suffer the
consequences.
Clanton
Job# the
376gap.
Figure 7.1 Attacking
Fig.# 7.1
Artist: Jennifer D.
Direct your actions at a gap for two reasons:

1. To try to break through the defense for a shot
from the 6-meter line (see Figure 7.2).
91
Use the following guidelines to assist you in recognizing and attacking the gap.
Anticipate
The best attack information is always gathered from

the defense. Study the defense before receiving the
ball so you can make quick decisions about the
situation and take advantage of it. Anticipate so you
can adjust your position according to the location
and reaction of your defender and the location of the
gap. As you receive the ball, you should know what
course of action you want to take.
Maintain Ball Possession
Figure 7.2 Breaking between two defenders for a

shot from the 6-meter line.
2. To draw the attention of two defenders, which

creates a defensive imbalance and a numerical
advantage for the offense. This means that if
you are occupying the attention of two defenders, then one of your teammates must be unguarded for a scoring opportunity (see Figures
7.3a and b).
Figure 7.3a Occupying two defenders.
Once in possession of the ball, maintaining a strong

attacking position is vital. The most important
consideration is that you be in a position that will
protect the ball and enable you to make your next
move as quickly and efficiently as possible. First rule
is dont get too close to the defense and get tied up.
The resulting free-throw disrupts the flow of your
teams attack. Creating a workable space between
you and your defender will help you protect the ball
and give you time to make good decisions about your
defenders actions. The shooting position naturally
protects the ball because your body is between your
defender and the ball (see Figure 7.4)
Figure 7.3b
open teammate.
Clanton
Draw
two defenders and pass to
Job# 376
Fig.# 7.3
Artist: Jennifer D.
Figure 7.4 Maintaining possession.
Fake
Sometimes, because of the good actions of your teammates, there is a big gap in front of you and all you
have to do is receive a pass and go through. Other
times you have to create your own gap. Faking is the
chief means of getting your defender out of position
to create more space in a gap. You can do this by
changing the direction and pace of your movements.
How to Execute a Fake
Run to receive, catch the ball in midair, and land

with both feet parallel to your shoulders for balance.
When you land simultaneously on both feet after the
catch, no steps are counted. This balanced position
will allow you to change directions easily in an at-
tempt to fake your defender. Lets say you want to

fake your defender to the left and pass on the right.
The footwork involved is important. Keep the ball in
both hands at about waist level; step left transferring all your weight to your left foot and moving your
shoulders and head in that direction also. As soon
as your defender shifts in that direction, change directions quickly by pushing off your left foot to the
right, and step past your defender with your right
foot. Once past your defender, your third step will
be toward the goal on your left foot, turning your
shoulders perpendicular to the goal and raising the
ball to shooting position. Once your defender is out
of position you have to decide what to do next (see
Figures 7.5a-e).
FIGURE
keys to success
7.5
Preparation
faking
Execution

2. Give teammate a target ____
5
a
3. Catch ball in midair ____

4. Land on both feet simultaneously ____
5. Step laterally on nonthrowing-hand foot ____
6
c
6. Step back in opposite direction past defender ____
7. Step toward goal on nonthrowing-hand foot ____
Follow-Through
9
8
8. Turn shoulders perpendicular to goal ____

9. Raise ball up and back ____
10. Decide to shoot or pass ____
Read the Defense
Once youve used a fake to get your defender out

of position and you recognize the gap, you need to
act quickly and decisively. The faster you can read
the situation and act, the more likely you are to
gain an advantage for yourself or a teammate. You
must aggressively attack the gap with the intent to
score. Being aggressive will allow you to either drive
and shoot at the 6-meter line or draw the attention
of the next defender, permitting a pass to an open
teammate. Your mentality must be to shoot first,
pass second. Your decision to shoot, drive through
the gap to the 6-meter line, or pass will depend on
your court position relative to your defender and
your teammates.
Attacking the GapSummary
Anticipate
1. Look at the location of the defenders.
2. Adjust your position.
Maintain Ball Possession
3. Create workable spacenot too close.
4. Protect the ball.
5. Be a threat.
Fake
6. Change direction and pace.
7. Step past the defender toward goal.
8. Decide to pass or shoot.
Read the Defense
9. Move forward through the gap.
10. Think shoot first.
11. Pass if you draw two defenders.
Individual Defensive Tactics

Controlling Your Defensive
Space
Generally, team handball defensive players shift as
a unit as the strength of the attacking team moves.
Its a zone defense, but within the zone each player
has individual responsibility of controlling a certain
space. Whenever an attacker comes into your defensive space, that player then becomes your responsibility. Your defensive space reaches in all directions
from your basic position, extending forward from the
6-meter line to the 9-meter line, and laterally to the
defenders on either side of you (see Figure 7.6). Inability to control your defensive space will result in a
breakdown of the entire defensive structure.
Clanton defensive space.

Figure 7.6 Individual
Job# 376
Fig.# 7.6
Artist: Jennifer D.
Key tactical principles for controlling your defensive

space are the following:
See ball and opponent. Use your peripheral vision to be aware, at all times, of ball location and
the opponent in your defensive space. Having
this awareness will help you anticipate your
opponents actions, enabling you to defend in

good position and timing.
Step out to meet an attacker with the ball. As
an attacker with the ball enters your space, aggressively step out to meet the attack. Quickly
closing the space between you and your opponent gives less time for the attacker to make
decisions and play the ball. Ideally, you should
meet the attacker in the front of your space at
the 9-meter line.
Stay between opponent and the goal. To be an
effective one-on-one defender, you must prevent
your opponent from shooting or penetrating to
the 6-meter line. You accomplish this by maintaining strong position between your opponent
and the goal. The keys are proper checking and
moving your feet.
Recover to 6-meter line. When your opponent
passes the ball to a teammate, you should then
recover to the 6-meter line by shifting diagonally
back in the direction of the pass. If you dont
recover to the 6-meter line you leave a big open
space close to the goal. Be aware of maintaining
a good defensive stance throughout the movement.
Move in relation to the ball. When your opponent
doesnt have the ball, your basic defensive position is at the back of your defensive space along
the 6-meter line. As the ball moves away from
your defensive space, you will shift along the
6-meter line by shuffling in the direction the ball
is moving. Move with short, quick shuffle steps,
never crossing your feet and keeping them in
contact with the floor.
Following is a summary of the key tactical principles for controlling your defensive space:
When Opponent Is Without the Ball
1. Shift along 6-meter line in direction of ball.
2. See the ball and your opponent.
3. Maintain good defensive stance.
When Opponent Has the Ball
1. Step out to meet the attacker near 9-meter line.
2. Recover diagonally to 6-meter line.
individual tactics success stoppers

The main focus of individual tactics is on decision
making. Common errors that occur with individual
ERROR

Individual
Attack Tactics
1. You attack the player directly in front of

you.
2. You frequently interrupt the team attack
by being fouled, which results in a free-throw

call.
3. You take more than three steps when using a fake.
4. You attack toward the gap but fail to look

at the goalie.
attack and defense tactics are listed here along with

suggestions for correction.
CORRECTION
1. Attack the gap. Go through to score or
draw two defenders and pass.
2. Dont get too close to the defense. Create a
workable space. Protect the ball.
3. Run to receive, catch the ball in midair,
and land simultaneously on both feet. No steps
are counted when your feet hit the floor and
you catch the ball in midair. You will have
three steps to fake and attack.
4. You must attack with the intent to score.
Keep the goalie in your vision and think shooting first. Move forward toward the gap, read
the defense, then make a decision quickly to
shoot, drive through, or pass.
Individual Defense Tactics

1. You fail to step out to meet attacker with
the ball at 9 meters.
1. Anticipate when your opponent will enter

your defensive space. Aggressively step out to
check an opponent with the ball.
2. You step out to 9 meters but fail to recover

to the 6-meter line after the ball is passed.
2. After your opponent passes the ball, recover diagonally in the direction of the pass.
This action supports the defender next to you
and protects against shots from the 6-meter
line.
3. A large space occurs between you and the

teammate next to you on the 6-meter line.
3. Shift along the 6-meter line in the direction of the ball. Move with short, quick shuffle
steps.
individual tactics
Drills
1. Ten Passes Game
The purpose of this drill is to help you get comfortable with faking so it becomes second nature
to you. The attackers use fakes without the ball to free themselves to receive a pass and fakes
with the ball to free themselves to pass to a teammate. Play on the half-court using the 6-meter
line as one boundary. If you are not on a court, mark a playing area 15 meters by 20 meters.
Select two equal teams and match up player to player. Have your coach serve as referee and flip
a coin to determine the first ball possession. The attacking team tries to complete 10 consecutive passes against the defense. If the ball is dropped, thrown out of bounds, or intercepted the
other team takes possession. Turnovers also result from a 3-second rule violation and on the
third free-throw due to defensive tie-ups. If the attacking team completes 10 passes it is awarded
1 point and keeps possession.
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# S7D1
Artist: Jennifer D.
Success Goal = First team to 5 points

wins ____
Success Check
Be quick and deceptive ____

Use shoulders, head, and feet to fake ____
First team to 10 points wins.
Decrease the number of players on each team.
2. Fake and Drive
This drill will give you practice in creating workable space and in quickly changing your lateral
faking movement into forward movement. The purpose is to help you be able to penetrate the gap
and drive to the 6-meter line. Select a partner to participate with you in this drill. You stand in the
center backcourt at about 12 meters with a ball and your partner on defense at about 6 meters.
Place a cone about 2 meters on both sides of your partner to indicate the next defender and to
show the gap. Pass the ball to your partner and, when your partner receives it, run to receive a
return pass (see Figure a). After passing, your partner steps out to about 8 meters to meet your
attack. From that point the defender should only react to the fake and allow you to step by on
the drive. This is done to help you get a clear idea of when to change movement from the lateral
fake to forward drive. When youre preparing to receive the return pass, think of creating a workable spacenot too close or too far away from your defender. Time your attack so you receive
the ball around 9 meters, then fake, drive to the 6-meter line, jump into the area, and shoot
(see Figure b). At some point, you may need to dribble to gain three more steps to continue your
drive. If your movement carries you directly to or outside the cone, it is an unsuccessful attempt.
a. Receive the ball at the 9-meter line

Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# S7D2
Artist: Jennifer D.
Success Goal =
5 attempts to fake left, drive right ____

5 attempts to fake right, drive left ____
Success Check
Timing ____
Create workable space ____
Quick change lateral to forward movement ____
b.Fake, drive, andClanton

shoot
Job# 376
Fig.# S7D2b
Artist: Jennifer D.
Move the cones in 1 meter to narrow the gap.

Play one-on-one, defense 100 percent. The player
with the most successful fake and drives out of
10 is the winner.
Perform the drill at half speed.
3. Attack the GapPass or Shoot
The purpose of this drill is to help you learn to read the defense and make good decisions
accordingly. You and two teammates form an attacking team. Position one teammate in the left
backcourt, one in the right backcourt, and you start in the center backcourt with a ball. Place
three defenders on the 6-meter line, one defending each backcourt position. Place a cone 1 meter
to the outside of the left backcourt and right backcourt defenders to indicate the next defenders.
To begin, pass the ball to your defender, run to receive a return pass, fake right or left, and try
to drive through the gap. For the purpose of the drill, the center backcourt defender should go
with the fake and allow you into the gap. Now you must key on the next defender. If the defender
does not move to close the gap, continue to drive to the 6-meter line and shoot (see Figure a). If
the defender moves to close the gap, quickly pass to the attacking backcourt player who drives
through the gap created by the displaced defender and shoots from the 6-meter line (see Figure
b). Movement should not go past the cone. The backcourts switch positions after eight attacks,
rotating from left to right. The defenders should do likewise. When all attackers have been in the
center backcourt, switch offense and defense.
a. Center backcourt fakes and attacks the gap

Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# S7D3a
Artist: Jennifer D.
Success Goal = 6 of 8 correct

decisions ____
Success Check
Key on the next defender ____

Decide quickly ____
Clanton who shoots from the 6-meter

b. Pass to right backcourt
Job# 376
line
Fig.# S7D3b
Artist: Jennifer D.
Center backcourt defender plays 100 percent

defense.
Play a 3 vs. 3 scrimmage with no shooting from
the backcourt. Direct all action toward penetrating a gap and driving to the goal area for a shot.
Each team takes five possessions. Count 1 point
per goal. The team with the most points wins.
4. Defense 6 meters-9 meters
This drill will help you get the feel for stepping out to check a shooter, as well as for the space
between the 6-meter and 9-meter lines. If you are on a handball court, use the 6-meter and
9-meter lines. Otherwise, mark two lines 3 meters apart and 10 meters long. Shooters, up to
six, stand along the 9-meter line, each with a ball. The first defender stands at the 6-meter line
directly across from the first shooter. All other defenders line up behind the first. When shooter
1 raises the ball to shooting position, defender 1 steps out and checks the shooter. After making
proper contact, retreat diagonally to the 6-meter line in front of shooter 2. Shooter 2 raises the
ball to shooting position and defender 1 steps out, checks, retreats. Continue in this manner
through the last shooter. As defender 1 gets in front of shooter 2, defender 2 steps out to shooter
1 and continues through the last shooter. When all defenders have gone through from left to
right, defender 1 begins the next cycle from right to left. When you have completed five cycles,
switch shooters and defenders.
6
4
3
2
1
6
2
Clanton
Step out
to check a shooter
Job# 376
Fig.# S7D4
Artist: Jennifer D.
Success Goal = 5 continuous cycles ____
Success Check
Step out, make contact at 9-meter line ____

Recover diagonally back to 6-meter line ____
Increase the number of cycles.

Shooter tries to fake and drive to the goal after
defender makes contact.
Decrease the number of cycles.

Do the drill with a partner. Step out, check your
partner, and retreat directly to the 6-meter line.
Do five times and switch shooter and defender.
5. Stepping Out and Recovering Basic Position
The purpose of this drill is to help you become familiar with the parameters of your defensive
space and to work on the timing of stepping out to meet the attack as the ball arrives. You and
a partner position yourselves in middle defense on the 6-meter line about 2 meters apart. Two
other teammates stand directly in front of the two of you on the 9-meter line as passers (A and
B). Two more passers (C and D) stand 2 meters to either side of them. Place a marker directly in
front of the outside passers to indicate their defenders. When passer A slaps the ball and gets
in shooting position, Defender #1 steps out to check. After the check, A passes to C or B, and
Defender #1 recovers to the 6-meter line (see Figure a). If A passes to B, then Defender #2 steps
out to check. B then passes to D or A, and Defender #1 and Defender #2 respond accordingly (see
Figure b). When C has the ball, then Defender #2 should slide a little in that direction along the
6-meter line to close the gap. When D has the ball Defender #1 should do the same. All passers
get in shooting position when in possession of the ball. Defender #1 and Defender #2 attempt to
cover their defensive space as the passers continuously move the ball.
2
D
1
A
Clanton
a. Defender #1 steps
out and recovers to 6-meter line
Job# 376
Fig.# S7D5a
Artist: Jennifer D.
Success Goal = 30 seconds correctly

covering defensive space ____
Success Check
Timing: meet the attacker as the ball arrives ____

Recover diagonally to the 6-meter line ____
Clanton
b. Defender #2 steps
out, Defender #1 recovers to
Job# 376
6-meter line
Fig.# S7D5b
Artist: Jennifer D.
C and D have the liberty to drive to the inside of

their defense markers. D1 and D2 must step up
to stop the drive.
A and B have the liberty to shoot a set shot if
their defender is late in stepping out.
Do both of the above.
individual tactics success summary

Team handball is a game in which the success of the whole is highly dependent on how well
each part works. Learning to use your individual skills in a tactical way is critical to team success. In attack this means not only creating scoring opportunities for yourself, but also assisting
your teammates in scoring goals. Attack the gap aggressively and make good decisions regarding
your options. Defensively, your primary concern is controlling your defensive space. Always be
aware of the location of the ball and your opponent. Step out to meet the attacker with the ball,
and recover in the direction of the ball to basic position to protect the 6-meter line. Ask your
coach or trained partner to rate your technique according to the checklist items with the Keys
to Success (see Figure 7.5). Also, ask your coach to evaluate your decision making in choosing
correct skills and courses of action.
Step
8
Offensive combinations:
supporting your teammates
p to this point, all the skills and tactics youve

learned have been designed to develop your individual
play. Individual skills and tactics are important, but
rarely isolated. As the name implies, team handball is
ultimately a team game requiring teamwork. To help
your team score consistently, you must learn to use
your individual attack skills and tactics in support
of and in combination with your teammates.
Creating an overload is the principle that should
guide all attack actions. Overload means that your
team works to create a situation where attackers
outnumber defenders in a given space. Ideally, this
involves a player with the ball and a player in support
against one defender. When an overload is created,
everyone involved should move quickly and intelligently to exploit the situation. You can achieve an
overload by executing three combinations: (1) supporting the player attacking the gap, (2) crossing,
and (3) pick and roll.
Why Are Offensive

Combinations Important?
Even though team handball is played 6 vs. 6, scoring
opportunities usually involve small groups creating
an overload situation. If played correctly, this numerical advantage should leave one player unguarded
for an open shot. Practicing combinations in 4 vs. 3
and 3 vs. 2 situations will enhance your awareness
of numerical advantages and your decision-making
abilities about them. You will learn to recognize when
you are open to shoot and when you should pass the
ball to a teammate who is in a better position to score.
Working in these small group situations will also help
104
you learn how to move without the ball to get into

better positions to attack and provide support for an
attacking teammate. Coordinated actions with your
teammates, coupled with good decision making, lay
the groundwork for successful team attack.
How to Support the Player

Attacking the Gap
Attacking the gap is an essential individual attack
tactic. Equally important is your ability to support a
teammate who is attacking a gap. When a teammate
next to you attacks a gap and draws your defender,
a 2 vs. 1 situation is created. Your awareness of
the developing situation and anticipation of your
defenders actions will help you take advantage of
the overload.
As you see your defender move to close the gap,
quickly run to receive a pass and attack the defensive
space vacated by your defender. Timing in this action
is important for two reasons: (1) to create an open
passing lane for your teammate, and (2) to get into
the vacated space before your defender can recover.
Moving too early will put you too far in front of your
teammate, allowing the defense to obstruct the passing lane. Moving too late will allow your defender to
recover to his or her defensive space and even the
numbers back to one-on-one.
If you receive the ball in proper timing to attack
the vacated space and the next defender does not
cover, you will have a clear path to penetrate the gap
and shoot (see Figure 8.1a). If the next defender does
cover, continue the overload by passing to the next
teammate supporting your attack (see Figure 8.1b).
Offensive Combinations: Supporting Your Teammates 105
FIGURE
8.1
keys to success
support the player attacking the gap

Execution
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# 8.1a
Artist: Jennifer
D. ____
1. Anticipate your defenders
actions
a

3. Next defender doesnt coverpenetrate and
shoot ____
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# 8.1b
D. to the next
4. Next defenderArtist:
does Jennifer
coverpass
b
supporting teammate ____
How to Execute Crossing
pression of continuing the attack, then runs to cross

behind the center backcourt (see Figure 8.2). If the left
backcourt shows this intention too early the defenders will recognize the situation and communicate the
switch. The center backcourt waits until their paths
intersect, then passes quickly to the left backcourt,
who continues into the center backcourts position
looking to shoot. The confusion comes between the
center backcourts and left backcourts defenders. If
they dont communicate and switch responsibilities
quickly enough, the left backcourt will be temporarily unguarded to shoot. The effectiveness of crossing
depends on good timing and how well the two attackers read each others actions.
This strategy involves the crossing of two players, one

over the path of the other, in an effort to confuse or
slow down their defenders actions. Generally, crossing takes place between two backcourt players, or a
backcourt and a wing.
Lets say the center backcourt wants to cross with
the left backcourt. With the ball, the center backcourt
attacks toward the left backcourts defender. The
center backcourt must be a serious threat to score
to hold his or her defenders attention and attract
the left backcourt defenders attention as well. The
left backcourt waits momentarily for the situation
to develop, fakes toward the left wing to give the im-
FIGURE
8.2
keys to success
crossing
Execution
open
space
LB
CB
Clanton
Job# 376
8.2
____Fig.#
Artist: Jennifer D.
1. Attack toward left backcourts defender

2. Left backcourt fakes toward left wing ____
3. Left backcourt runs behind center backcourt ____
4. Center backcourt passes to left backcourt as paths cross ____
5. Left backcourt looks for open shot ____
The Pick
tion you are facing the action so you can follow the
ball and keep your hands free to be a receiver. The
key to setting a good pick is stability. Position your
feet shoulder-width apart with your knees slightly
bent to lower your center of gravity. This position will
provide a stable base and help cushion your contact
with the defender. Keep your hands up at chest level
ready to receive a pass and slightly in front of your
body for balance. Keep your torso upright with your
head up and eyes on the ball (see Figure 8.3). You
must be stationary when setting a pick. You may not
use your hands, arms, legs, or hips to hold or push
the defender.
Intelligent play of the circle runner is vital for any

offense to be successful. The circle runner should
constantly be looking to coordinate efforts with a
backcourt player to free the backcourt for a scoring
opportunity. The most effective technique for achieving this is the pick. Using this tactic, the circle
runner obstructs a backcourt defenders movement
creating an opening for the backcourt to shoot.
How to Execute the Pick

In handball, set picks with your back to the defender
so you can remain an offensive threat. In this posi-
FIGURE
8.3
keys to success
the pick
Execution
4
1
1. Place your back to defender ____

2. Place feet shoulder width ____
3. Bend knees slightly, keep torso upright ____
4. Keep hands open at chest level ____
5. Head up, eyes on the ball ____
How to Execute the Pick and

Roll
An important strategy involving the circle runner pick
and the attack of a backcourt is the pick and roll.
When a defensive player steps out from the 6-meter
line to check a backcourt, the circle runner pops
out to set a pick on either side of the defender. It is
important for the backcourt to set up the defender for
the pick. As the backcourt attacks, fake the defender
to the opposite side of where the pick will be set. This
will momentarily move the defender away and give the
FIGURE
8.4
circle runner more room to position. The backcourt

then attacks back past the circle runner, thus moving the defender into the circle runners pick. At this
point the backcourts defender is cut out of the action,
leaving a 2 vs. 1 situation with the backcourt and
circle runner against the next defender. If the next
defender does not step out to meet the backcourts
attack, then the backcourt has a clear shot on goal
(see Figure 8.4a). If the next defender does step out,
the circle runner rolls into the open space created
behind the two defenders who are out and receives a
pass from the backcourt for a shot from the 6-meter
line (see Figure 8.4b).
keys to success
the pick and roll

Execution
1. Backcourt fakes defender ____

2. Circle runner pops out to pick ____
3. Backcourt attacks past the pick ____
open
space
open space
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# 8.4a
4. Next defender does
notJennifer
step outbackcourt
Artist:
D.
a
shoots ____
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.#step
8.4boutcircle runner rolls
5. Next defender does
Artist: Jennifer D.
for pass and shot ____
offensive combinations success stoppers

The most common errors in supporting the player attacking the gap, crossing, and doing pick and roll are
ERROR

Supporting the Player Attacking
the Gap
1. You start running to receive too early or

you do not move at all.
listed here along with suggestions for correcting them.
CORRECTION
1. Run to receive when your defender moves
to close the gap on your attacking teammate.
Moving early puts you too far in front of your
teammate, allowing the defense to obstruct the
passing lane. Not moving at all allows defense
to easily recover and stop the attack.
Crossing
1. As the crossing left backcourt, you fail to
set up your defender by faking before crossing
with the center backcourt.
1. Wait momentarily for the center backcourt to draw attention of your defender. Fake
toward the left wing, then cross behind the
center backcourt.
2. As the center backcourt, you pass too

early to the left backcourt.
2. Wait until your path intersects with the left

backcourt to pass the ball. Passing too early
allows the defense to adjust to the crossing action.
Pick and Roll

1. You set the pick facing the defender.
1. Set the pick with your back to the defender

so you are facing the action and your hands
are free to catch a pass.
2. As the backcourt, you fail to set up your

defender with a fake.
2. Before the pick by the circle runner, fake

your defender in the opposite direction to give
the circle runner more room to position the pick.
3. As the circle runner, you are late getting

out to set the pick.
3. As the defender steps out, you move out to

set the pick.
offensive combinations
Drills
1. Overload Support: 4 vs. 3
The purpose of this drill is to practice attacking the gap and the timing of supporting teammates
attacking the gap. Place two cones on the court as shown in the diagram to designate the playing area. You and three other players form an offensive team consisting of a left wing and three
backcourt players. Three other players and a goalie form a team and play defense. Play 4 vs. 3
with regular handball rules. The one restriction is that the offense can only play by attacking the
gap and supporting each other. No one can shoot from the backcourt. All scores must come by
driving through a gap and shooting from the 6-meter line. Each shot attempt, defensive tie-up, or
other turnover counts as one possession. Play five possessions then switch offense and defense.
The wing and goalie should not switch but play offense and defense for both teams respectively.
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# S8D1
Artist: Jennifer D.
Success Goal = Score more points than

the opposition ____
Success Check
Attack the gaps ____

Support your teammates ____
Add a defender and play 4 vs. 4.
2. Crossing: 2 vs. 1
The purpose of this drill is to help you practice the timing and ball handling involved in crossing
with a teammate. Place two cones on the court as shown in the diagram to designate the playing
area. Select two teammates and a goalie to play with you. One teammate begins play on defense
and the other plays center backcourt with you playing in the left backcourt. You start with the
ball in the left backcourt and pass to the center backcourt, who attacks to the left. The defender
steps out to meet the center backcourts attack. In good timing with the center backcourts attack, you cross behind, receive a pass, and shoot a set shot or jump shot through the opening.
Perform the drill seven times, then rotate positions clockwise until each player has played all
positions. The goalie remains in the goal through all rotations. You receive 1 point each time
you and your teammate perform the skill flawlessly and an extra point for scoring a goal, with
14 points possible.
Clanton
Job# 376
Success Goal = 10 of 14 possible points
Fig.# S8D2
scored ____
Success Check
Artist: Jennifer
D. 2 vs. 1. The attackers must begin with cross Play
Timingcross when the defender steps out to meet

your teammates attack ____
ing, but the defender may play the situation as

she wishes. The attackers must decide who has
the best scoring opportunity. For instance, if the
defender doesnt step out, the center backcourt
will be unguarded, so he or she should decide
to keep the ball and continue attacking instead
of passing. Attackers receive 1 point for a score,
and the defender receives 2 points for stopping
the attack. A missed shot has no point value
but is counted as a possession. Play five possessions and rotate the same as in the original
drill. Each player keeps track of all of his or her
points throughout the rotation. The player with
the most cumulative points is the winner.
Play without defense.
3. Attack the Gap and Crossing: 4 vs. 3
The purpose of this drill is to practice the combination of crossing in a gamelike situation. Place
two cones on the court as shown in the diagram to designate the playing area. To begin, you
and three other players form an attacking team consisting of a right wing and three backcourt
players. Three other players and a goalie form a team and play defense. Play 4 vs. 3 with regular
handball rules. The offense can only play by attacking the gap and supporting or executing crossing. The center backcourt may cross with either backcourt. A goal scored by crossing equals 2
points. A goal scored by driving through a gap equals 1 point. Play five possessions, then switch
offense and defense. The wing and the goalie should not switch but play offense and defense for
both teams, respectively.
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# S8D3
Artist: Jennifer D.

the opposition ____
Success Check
Execute crossing ____

Make good decisions ____
Add a defender and play 4 vs. 4.
4. Circle Runner Pick Drill
The purpose of this drill is for the circle runner to practice the technique for setting a pick and
for the backcourt and circle backcourt to practice the timing of the circle runner pick. You will
need three teammates to participate with you in this drill. Place a passer in the center backcourt
with a good supply of balls, a shooter in the left backcourt, and a circle runner in the middle on
the 6-meter line. The other player is the defender and should be on the 6-meter line directly in
front of the left backcourt. Place a cone on the 6-meter line left of the circle runner to designate
the next defender. The left backcourt runs to receive a pass from the center backcourt, and the
defender steps out to meet the attack. While the defender is moving out, the circle runner pops
out to establish a position to set the pick. The left backcourt fakes left to draw the defender away
from the circle runner, then steps right to run the defender into the pick. With the defender out
of the action, the left backcourt shoots a jump shot. Repeat the drill seven times, then rotate
clockwise, moving center backcourt to left backcourt, left backcourt to defender, defender to
circle runner, and circle runner to center backcourt.
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# S8D4
Artist: Jennifer D.
Success Goal = 5 out of 7 properly executed picks ____
Success Check
Circle runner coordinates timing with backcourt

attack ____
Set pick with your back ____
Hold hands chest high ____
Place feet shoulder-width apart, bend knees ____
Execute the pick and roll. When the left backcourt steps past the pick, the circle runner rolls
toward the 6-meter line, receives a pass from the
left backcourt, and shoots a fall shot from the
6-meter line.
Play 3 vs. 2 working the pick and roll.
Put a cone at the 9-meter line to replace the

defender.
5. All Combinations: 4 vs. 3
The purpose of this drill is to practice the execution of all combinations in a gamelike situation. Use the same set-up, rules, and scoring as in Drill 1. The offense tries to score using all
combinations.
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# S8D1
Artist: Jennifer D.

the opposition ____
Success Check
Replace the cone in the wing with a defender and

play 4 vs. 4. Now the wings will play offense and
defense for their respective teams.
Create overload through the execution of attack

the gap and support, crossing, and pick and
roll ____
Timing: support your teammates ____
offensive combinations success summary

Creating an overload, working for a situation in which attackers outnumber defenders, is the
principle that should guide all offensive actions. Players achieve this by using their individual
skills and tactics in support of and in combination with each other. The small group combinations of pick and roll and crossing are two tactics you can employ to create an overload. If they
are executed correctly, a 2 vs. 1 situation develops, freeing you or a teammate for a shot. Intelligently coordinated actions with your teammates lay the groundwork for successful team attack.
Ask your coach or trained partner to rate your technique according to the checklist items with
the Keys to Success (see Figures 8.1 through 8.4).
Defensive Combinations: Help and Communication 115
Step
9
defensive combinations:
help and communication
hether playing in attack or defense the focal

point is always the ball, because only the ball can
score. In attack this involves a small group of players working together to score goals and on defense
a small group working to prevent goals. Effective
defense requires the successful execution of three
small group tactics: the defensive help triangle, taking
overpassing on procedure, and switching.
Why Are Defensive

Combinations Important?
When you step out and check the attacker in your
defensive space, you create a hole behind you in
the defensive structurea vulnerable spot that the
attackers could easily exploit. The defensive help
triangle provides maximum defensive coverage at the
point of the attack. The objective is to put pressure
on the ball and fill any hole in the defense before an
attacker can take advantage of it.
Just the presence of the circle runner is enough
to disrupt defensive unity, but it is the circle runners movement in attack that presents the toughest
problems for defenders. Never leave the circle runner
unguarded. The circle runner will move in and out
of many defensive spaces trying to create openings
in the defense structure.
To avoid confusion and to make sure one player
is always responsible for the circle runner, all players must have command of the take overpass on
procedure.
Switching is the act of changing the opponent
guarded. Anytime one attacker is moving into your
defensive space and one is moving out simultaneously, or when two attackers are moving in the same
space at the same time, the defenders responsible
must switch opponents to avoid an overload.
How to Execute the Defensive

Help Triangle
The help triangle is formed by one defender positioned
on the ball at the point of the triangle and two defenders positioned behind that defender providing help on
either side (see Figure 9.1). When a defender steps
out, it is the responsibility of the teammates on either
side to squeeze in slightly to fill the hole created on
the 6-meter line. The help defenders serve as the
point defenders safety valves. If the point defender
is beaten, the help defenders are in position to step
out and prevent a shot or a penetration to the goal
area. Covering the hole also helps prevent other attackers from moving into the open space for a direct
pass and high-percentage shot from the 6-meter line.
Clanton
Figure 9.1 The
defensive help triangle.
Job# 376
Fig.# 9.1
Artist: Jennifer D.
115
Communication in the Triangle
Communication is a key element in effectively

exe-cuting the defensive help triangle. Communication is a two-way street. All three defenders should
constantly talk to one another. Talking ensures that
each knows who is stepping out and who is staying
back to defend the 6-meter line. Executing the help
triangle can be confusing at times, particularly when
there are a circle runner and an attacking backcourt
playing in the same defensive space. Figure 9.2a
illustrates this situation.
3
3
Clanton
Figure 9.2b Executing
the help triangle.
Job# 376
Fig.# 9.2b
Artist: Jennifer D.
How to Execute the Take

OverPass On Procedure
Clanton
Figure 9.2a Circle
Job#runner
376 and backcourt in same
Fig.# 9.2
defensive space.
Artist: Jennifer D.
The circle runner is between the number 3 defenders, and the center backcourt has the ball. The
location of the circle runner and center backcourt
presents a dilemma about coverage for the number 3
defenders. In this situation, two things have to happen to prevent a scoring opportunity: (1) you must
put pressure on the ballhandler, and (2) you must
control the circle runner. Anticipation and early communication are the keys. The number 3 defenders
must decide who will step out to check the center
backcourt and who will defend the circle runner. If
you neglect either attacker he or she will have a clear
scoring opportunity. To complete the help triangle,
the number 2 defender on the side of the number 3
defender who stepped out should squeeze in to fill the
hole on the 6-meter line (see Figure 9.2b).
When the circle runner moves into your defensive

space, you must take over the physical control of this
player from your teammate. Slide a little toward your
teammate to receive the circle runner. There will be
a brief moment when both you and your teammate
guard the circle runner (see Figure 9.3a). To defend
the circle runner, position your body between him or
her and the goal. Use your torso and open hands to
maintain contact, and always be ready to deflect a
pass. This position is similar to playing post defense
in basketball (see Figure 9.3b). Even though there
is a lot of body-to-body contact, remember that you
play good defense with your feet. Keep your feet moving to maintain position between the circle runner
and the goal.
As the circle runner moves out of your space, verbally communicate the circle runners movements to
the next defender. Maintain physical contact until you
can pass on the physical control of the circle runner
to your teammate (see Figure 9.3c). If you execute this
procedure effectively, you will maintain visual and
physical contact with the circle runner at all times,
creating fewer problems for the defense as a whole.
FIGURE
9.3
keys to success
take overpass on procedure

Take Over
Clanton
1. Communicate ____Job# 376
Fig.# 9.4a
2. Slide toward your Artist:
teammate
____
Jennifer
D.

3. Take over physical control ____
Guard
Pass On
8. Communicate movement ____

9. Maintain contact ____
10. Pass on ____
Clanton
Job# circle
376 runner and goal ____
4. Position body between
Fig.# 9.4b
5. Body-to-body contact
____
Artist:
Jennifer D.
6. Keep ball-side hand in the passing lane ____
7. Move your feet ____
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# 9.4c
Artist: Jennifer D.
If the circle runner receives a pass, your objective

is to stop the threat of a shot. In this situation, you
will need to immediately tie up the circle runner even
though the result will be a free-throw. To prevent
the circle runner from turning to shoot, maintain
body-to-body contact with your torso, and try to get
your hands on the ball (see Figure 9.4). This is a time
when a slight infringement of the rules is better than
giving up a shot from the 6-meter line.
assuming the responsibility of another player, you

must stay with the player youre guarding until you
are absolutely sure that the switch will be made.
Clanton
Figure 9.5 Defenders
switching on a crossing acJob# 376
tion by the attackers. Fig.# 9.5
Artist: Jennifer D.
Figure 9.4 Tying up the circle runner.
How to Execute Switching

Common examples of situations that require switching are crossing and pick and roll (see Figures 9.5 and
9.6). Switching is not always easy, especially when
attackers are moving quickly and executing flawlessly. There will be a moment during the switch when
the attackers will be unguarded. It is important that
this be as short a time as possible. To help with this,
there are two points to remember when performing
a switch. First, communicate to your teammate that
you are going to switch. Verbally acknowledge all
communication so each defender is certain of each
others attention to the situation. Secondly, before
Clanton
Figure 9.6 Defenders
switching on a pick and roll.
Job# 376
Fig.# 9.6
Artist: Jennifer D.
offensive combinations success stoppers
ERROR

Defensive
Help Triangle
1. You leave the circle runner or backcourt

unguarded in your defensive space.
2. The point defender is beaten one-on-one

and BC scores from the 6-meter line.
CORRECTION
1. You and your teammates must communicate your intended actions to cover attackers
in your space.
2. Squeeze in behind the point defender to
provide help.
Take Over and Pass On

1. Circle runner is open on the 6-meter line
for a pass and shot.
1. Communicate the circle runners movements to teammates and maintain contact

with the circle runner at all times.
Switching
1. You fail to switch, resulting in an attacker
being open to shoot.
defensive combinations
1. Communicate the switch with your teammate and stay with your player until you are
absolutely sure the switch will be made.
Drills
1. Circle Runner Coverage: 3 vs. 2
The purpose of this drill is to practice coordinating efforts with a teammate to ensure coverage
of the ballhandler and circle runner at all times. You and a partner form a team and position
yourselves on defense at the 6-meter line. Position a circle runner in between the two of you.
Two other teammates complete the attacking team by positioning themselves across from the
defenders at the 9-meter line. The attackers continuously pass the ball between themselves
while the defenders step out and recover so the ballhandler and circle runner are covered at
all times. The passer should raise the ball to shooting position and allow the defender to check
before passing. The goal for the defenders is to prevent a completed pass to the circle runner in
a 30-second period. If this is achieved the defenders receive 1 point, and the teams switch roles
for another 30-second period. If a pass is completed the drill immediately stops, the attacking
team receives 1 point, and the teams switch roles. The circle runner does not switch and plays
offense for both teams. Continue the drill until one team earns 5 points.
Step Clanton
out, check backcourt,
376 circle runner
recoverJob#
to defend
Fig.# S9D1
Artist: Jennifer D.
Success Goal = The first team to earn 5

points wins ____
Success Check
Communicate ____
Step out and recover ____
Keep contact with circle runner ____
Extend drill time to 45 seconds.
2. Take Over and Pass On Drill
The purpose of this drill is to learn to take over control of the circle runner from a teammate,
defend the circle runner through your defensive space, and pass on control of the circle runner
to the next defender. You will need two teammates to play with you on defense. Designate each
players defensive space by placing four markers 3 meters apart just behind the 6-meter line. You
begin in defensive space B on the 6-meter line, with your teammates filling the spaces on either
side. A group of five attackers (circle runners) stands outside space A. Your coach stands with a
ball at 10 meters to pass. The first circle runner steps into space A with his or her back to the
goal and hands up ready to catch. Defender A stands between the attacker and the goal in good
circle runner defense position. The circle runner slides to the right, and defender A moves with
the circle runner through his or her space. As the circle runner approaches your space, slide
over to take over the circle runner from defender A. Remember to communicate with each other.
Defender A passes on the circle runner as you take over physical control by establishing circle
runner defense position. The circle runner will be looking to receive a pass while moving through
your defensive space. Your job is to maintain good position and prevent the circle runner from
receiving a pass. If the circle runner receives a pass, immediately execute a tie-up, preventing a
turn for a shot or a pass back out. Play should stop on a tie-up. Return the ball to the passer,
and continue the game with the next circle runner. As the circle runner approaches space C,
communicate with your teammate as he or she slides toward you to take over the circle runner.
Continue in this manner until all five circle runners have gone through; then repeat, starting
from the opposite side to complete the cycle. You are playing against the five circle runners collectively. You receive 1 point for a successful take overpass on without a completed pass and
1 point for a successful tie-up if the circle runner receives a pass. The circle runners receive 2
points for a completed pass.
Success Goal = Most points wins:

Your points ____
Circle runner points ____
Success Check
Maintain body-to-body contact ____

Keep good position, move your feet ____
Communicate ____
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# S9D2 Play
Artist: Jennifer D.
without a passer.
3. Switching Drill
In this drill you learn how to execute a defensive switch with a teammate. You and a teammate
position yourselves in the middle on defense at the 6-meter line. A group of attackers line up
in each wing. One wing starts dribbling around the goal area between the 6-meter and 9-meter
lines. The opposite wing begins running around the goal area at the same time. The dribbler
passes to the other wing as their paths approach each other in the middle of the court. Take
responsibility of the attacker in your defensive space, and switch when necessary. Communicate
the switch to your teammate.
Clanton
Making the moment
during the switch when the atJob# 376 as short as possible
tackers are unguarded
Fig.# S9D3
Artist: Jennifer D.
Success Goal = 10 correctly executed

switches ____
Success Check
Defend attacker in your space ____

Communicate ____
Switch responsibility of attackers ____
Perform switch against pick and roll.

Perform switch against backcourt crossing.
4. Defensive Triangle Drill: 4 vs. 5
This drill will help you learn to execute the help triangle. Place a marker, as shown in the figure, to designate the playing area. Position a circle runner on the 6-meter line to play offense for
both teams. Three of your teammates form an attacking team and position themselves in the left
wing, left backcourt, center backcourt, and right backcourt positions. You and three teammates
form another team and position yourselves on defense at the 6-meter line. Get a goalie to tend
goal for both teams. The attackers move the ball using the piston movement looking to shoot, or
pass the ball to the circle runner. The defenders execute the help triangle each time the ball is
passed. The objective for the defense is to prevent any shots from the backcourt and prevent any
completed passes to the circle runner in a 30-second period. If they achieve this, they receive 1
point and the teams switch roles. If the attackers score a goal from the backcourt or complete a
pass to the circle runner they receive 1 point and the teams switch roles.
Players shiftClanton
to form defensive triangle
Job# 376
Fig.# S9D4
Artist: Jennifer D.

wins ____
Success Check
Communicate all actions ____

Help the defenders squeeze in ____
Cover the circle runner ____
Increase drill time to 45 seconds.
Remove the circle runner and play 4 vs. 4.
defensive combinations success summary

The purpose of defense is to prevent goals, so the focus of your teams efforts must be the ball
and all the potential scorers in the immediate vicinity. Small group defense tactics are designed
to ensure that this coverage occurs. Properly executing the defensive help triangle (see Figure
9.1), take over and pass on procedure (see keys to success items in Figure 9.3), and switching
(see Figures 9.5 and 9.6) allows you to aggressively defend a ballhandler in your defensive space
with the peace of mind of knowing youve got help. Communication is the key to ensuring that
all activity is covered. Verbally let your teammates know if you are stepping out, switching, or
taking over and passing on and expect the same from them. Remember that communication is
a two-way street, so its equally important that all communication be verbally acknowledged.
Letting your teammates know that you hear them and understand their intentions allows them
to confidently carry out their actions.
Transitions: Fast-Break and Quick Retreat 125
Step
10 Transitions: Fast-break and
quick retreat
ransition is the period of moving from one

activity or place to another.
Team handball is a fast-paced game, so there are
numerous transitions that occur during the course of
a contest. The fast-break is a transition from defense
to attack, and the quick retreat is a transition from
attack to defense. Anatoli Yevtushenko, coach of the
1988 Soviet Union Olympic champions and longestserving team handball coach in the world, says, Our
aim is to score as many goals as possible in fast-break
so that we dont have to play against an active, aggressive, organized defense. This statement strongly
emphasizes that your teams ability to make quick
and intelligent transitions to attack and defense can
mean the difference between winning and losing. Step
10 addresses the primary and secondary fast-breaks
and the three stages of quick retreat.
Why Are Transitions

Important?
The successful completion of a fast-break means
more than just quickly upping the score. A defensive
team suddenly becoming a successful attacking team
has definite psychological consequences. Scoring on
the fast-break stimulates and motivates your team,
while the opposition becomes demoralized and discouraged. Constant fast-breaking forces the opposition to adjust its attack strategy, perhaps becoming
more cautious. Also, constantly defending against the
fast-break can physically wear a team down. Mastering the primary and secondary fast-break will add a
dynamic dimension to your attack.
The cumulative effect of your teams inability to
master quick retreat and consistently stop the fast-
break can be discouraging. The negative psychological consequences can be potentially damaging
to team performance on both ends of the court. For
any team, transition to defense is a vulnerable time.
When your team loses ball possession, you know the
opposition is going to try to fast-break. If your team
doesnt react immediately and intelligently to this
pressure, the opposition will be able to pick up some
easy goals. Any team will give up a fast-break goal
from time to time, but working hard on quick retreat
will prevent easy scores from a fast-break.
The Fast-Break
When the defense gains possession of the ball
because of a blocked shot, interception, or rule
violation, the team is at that moment in a position
to begin a fast-break. The team handball fast-break
involves the same characteristics as those in basketball, using speed and as few passes as possible to
outmaneuver the defense down the court for a quick
score. This can be accomplished by executing either
the primary or secondary fast-break. The primary
fast-break is achieved when one player breaking away
from the defense receives a pass from the goalie or
other teammate and attacks the goal alone. The secondary fast-break is more of a team effortall players
move up the court quickly in an effort to obtain an
easy scoring opportunity against the retreating defense. To be an effective fast-breaking team requires
superb physical conditioning, mental discipline, and
much practice. If your team is committed to making
the fast-break a consistent part of your game, the
payoff will be well worth the effort.
125
How to Execute the

Secondary Fast-Break
The goalie plays a major role in transition from

defense to attack, because most fast-break opportunities occur after a goalie save. A good fast-break
depends on the goalies ability to quickly recover a
blocked shot, make the choice of a receiver, and accurately pass the ball to a breaking player. The wings
are usually the faster players and take the lead on
the fast-break. As soon as the shot is taken, unless
either is directly involved in defending the shooter,
the wings quickly break from their positions and
sprint directly down the court. The wings should not
break their paths toward the middle of the court until
they reach the midcourt area. Maintaining this width
makes the defenders jobs more difficult. The goalies
first look should be to a wing, but only make the pass
if the player is wide open. Upon receiving the pass,
the wing should accelerate, by the most direct route
available, toward the center of the goal. Because the
wing is often alone in this situation, advancing the
ball may require dribbling. To finish the fast-break,
jump into the goal area and score (see Figure 10.1)
If the goalie is unable to make a direct pass to a breaking wing, he or she should throw an outlet pass to
one of the remaining players. These remaining four
players constitute the secondary break. When the
ball is shot, the backcourts and circle runner should
hesitate and maintain their defensive positions to
protect against rebounds. When possession of the
ball is secured, they break down court as a second
wave. When the goalie completes the outlet pass,
the second wave should pass the ball quickly up the
court in an attempt to score before the opposition can
fully recover and organize their half-court defense.
Spacing and depth are two important components
involved in successfully executing the secondary
fast-break. Players should space themselves so there
is enough distance between two teammates to prevent one defender from easily defending both. When
moving the ball up the court, the fastest way is in a
straight line, and you should take that route if possible (see Figure 10.2).
outle
t pas
How to Execute the Primary

Fast-Break
Clanton
Figure 10.1 The
primary fast-break.
Job# 376
Fig.# 10.1
Artist: Jennifer D.
Clanton
Figure 10.2 The
secondary fast-break.
Job# 376
Fig.# 10.2
Artist: Jennifer D.
outle
t pa
ss
Oftentimes, however, in the secondary break you

have to face retreating defenders along the way,
who you must avoid if the break is to continue. This
requires use of a more tactical approach to confuse
defenders and slow them down. A way to accomplish
this is by well-coordinated changes of position with
your teammates (see Figure 10.3).
Clanton
Figure 10.3 A Job#
tactical
solution for avoiding a de376
Fig.# 10.3fast-break.
fender during the secondary
Artist: Jennifer D.
react quickly. Three stages characterize making the

quick retreat and defending the fast-break.
First, pressure the player with the ball. This will
temporarily disrupt the fast-break, giving all other
defenders a chance to establish good defensive positions. Only the player closest to the ballhandler
should attempt this defensive pressure. Often the
ballhandler will be the goalie who is inside the goal
area. In this case, designate a player to mirror the
goalies movements, attempting to obstruct his or
her vision. When the ballhandler passes the ball,
the player applying pressure retreats quickly to the
defensive end of the floor.
In the second stage of the transition, while initiation
of the fast-break is being delayed, all other players
should hustle back to the defensive end of the court.
During this retreat, pay attention to defending the
most immediate danger, so guarding an opponent
along the way may be necessary. All players should
keep an eye on the ball at all times and communicate
with each other. Always make sure that the player
with the ball is guarded, as well as other players in
potentially dangerous positions. In the early stages
of retreat, player-to-player defense is most practical.
This is especially true in covering the breaking wings
and preventing them from receiving a direct pass from
the goalie (see Figure 10.4).
To provide depth, players should stagger themselves as they move up the court. Depth is important
for two reasons: (1) if the lead players attack is being
stifled, the trailing players can analyze the situation
and adjust without slowing down, keeping pressure
on the unorganized defense, and (2) to ensure that
there will be at least one player back to defend in
case a turnover occurs. If the primary and secondary
fast-breaks do not create a clear scoring opportunity,
players should assume their positions and organize
the attack.
How to Execute Quick Retreat

When your team loses possession of the ball, the mentality must immediately shift to defense. No sulking
about a missed shot or turnover; every player must
Clanton
Figure 10.4 Quick
Job#retreat.
376
Fig.# 10.4
Artist: Jennifer D.
If an outlet pass is completed and the fast-break

is in progress, the first players back must guard the
leaders of the break and try to slow down the attack
until teammates can recover and help. These players may be momentarily charged with defending the
entire goal area, but pay particular attention to the
most vulnerable area directly in front of the goal. They
should try to force the ball toward the wing areas so
the goalie will have a better chance for a save (see
Figure 10.5).
The third phase involves organizing the zone. During quick retreat, especially if defending against a
fast-break, players often find themselves out of their
regular defensive positions. During this short time
of disorganization, everyone must work together to
provide normal defensive coverage. The first players
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Figure 10.5 Concentrate
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Fig.# 10.5
Artist: Jennifer D.
back take positions along the 6-meter line establishing a wall in front of the goal, and from there do their
best to keep pressure on the ball and protect danger
zones until all teammates can get back. When all
players are back to the 6-meter line, organization of
the zone begins with each player shifting to his or her
regular defensive position. Do the organizing quickly,
but without jeopardizing defensive strength. Shifting
occurs one position at a time by players who are not
directly involved in defending the ball. Communication is vital. This re-organization can be overseen by
the goalie who, by virtue of his or her position, can
survey the situation and give instructions to teammates. If a lull in the attack occurs quickly, such
as a free-throw, then all players should scramble to
their normal defensive positions (see Figure 10.6).
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Figure 10.6 Players
switch positions safely (ball
10.6
on opposite side ofFig.#
court).
Artist: Jennifer D.
Transition Drills
Drills
1. Over the Shoulder Pass and Catch
The purpose of this drill is to help you learn to catch the ball over your shoulder while running straight ahead, and to help you learn to pass the ball over a teammates shoulder who is
running in front of you.
Get two teammates to position themselves on each sideline, 3 to 5 meters from the centerline, diagonally facing each other with one ball. Position yourself on the same sideline as your
teammate with the ball. Begin at the centerline and run straight along the line, looking back to
receive a pass from your teammate. When you receive the ball, immediately pass it to your other
teammate. Continue running to the opposite sideline, change directions, and receive another
pass. Continue the drill in this manner for 30-second intervals, changing receivers at the end
of each period.
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Fig.# S10D1
Artist: Jennifer D.
Success Goal = 10 complete passes in 30

seconds ____
Success Check
Look back over your shoulder ___

Catch the ball in stride___
To make the angle more difficult for the receiver,

move the passers closer to the centerline.
2. Primary Fast-Break Drill
The purpose of this drill is to practice running the floor properly and handling the long outlet
pass. It also gives the goalie practice in throwing the long outlet pass to the wings and blocking the jump shot from the 6-meter line. Place a goalie in each goal. All players begin on one
end, evenly distributed in the left and right wings, and each with a ball. Alternately, pass to
the goalie and sprint straight to the centerline, receive a pass from the goalie and break toward
the center of the goal. Dribble to the 6-meter line, jump into the area, and shoot (see Figure a).
After shooting, remain behind the goal area. When all players have finished, form your lines in
the wing positions and repeat the drill for six cycles. Receive 1 point for a completed pass and
1 point for a goal. Goalies compete against each other, receiving 1 point for a completed pass
and 1 point for a blocked shot. Always run the same side of the court so you receive from the
left and right wing positions.
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a. Long
outlet pass directly
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to wing
Fig.# S10D2a
Artist: Jennifer D.
Success Goal =
a. Court Player:
6 completed outlet passes ____
6 goals scored ____
b. Goalie:
Completed outlet passes ____
Blocked shots ____
Success Check
Quick startsprint ____

Break to the middle near the centerline ____
Goalie pass over the inside shoulder ____
b. To increase difficulty:
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Long outlet
pass and passing
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between
wings
Fig.#
S10D2b
Artist: Jennifer D.
Coach stands at the 9-meter line and throws the

ball to the goalie. Both the left and right wings
sprint as soon as the ball leaves the coachs hand.
Goalie throws the long outlet pass, players break
toward the middle of the goal, passing the ball
between themselves until one can approach the
6-meter line for a shot. No dribbling (see Figure b).
Add a defender.
3. Secondary Fast-Break Drill: 3 vs. 2
The purpose of this drill is to practice the secondary break, moving the ball up the floor quickly
and coordinating your movement tactically to beat defenders along the way. You and two teammates start on the 6-meter line as shown in the diagram. Two other teammates position themselves in front of the centerline to play defense. The defenders should only try to disrupt play
around the centerline area and play only half speed. Place two markers on the centerline about
8 meters from each sideline. All action must stay between the sideline and the marker. Place a
goalie in each goal with a supply of balls inside the goal. When the goalie says go, break from
the 6-meter line, look for a short outlet pass from the goalie, and begin moving the ball quickly
up the court. After beating the defenders at the centerline, finish the break by jumping into the
goal area and shooting. Then move to the opposite side of the court and turn back toward the
other goal. This time receive the outlet pass from the goalie and attempt to beat the defenders
who have moved directly across the court behind the centerline. No dribbling is allowed. Make
four consecutive trips down the floor. Earn 1 point for each time you beat the defense and dont
drop the ball, and 1 point for scoring a goal. You can earn a total of 8 points.
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Fig.# S10D3
Artist: Jennifer D.
Success Goal = 8 points earned ____
Success Check
Short, quick passes ____

Coordinate movements tactically ____
Defense plays 100 percent.
4. Fast-Break: 6 vs. 6
The purpose of this drill is to practice the fast-break under gamelike circumstances. Designate
two teams complete with goalkeepers. Your team begins on defense, setting up along the 6-meter
line. The opposing team sets up an attack with three backcourts, two wings, and a circle runner.
The attackers continuously attack and pass the ball around the defense from wing to wing. The
defenders step out and shift as the ball is moved. When the coach blows the whistle, the attacker
with the ball throws it hard to the goalie and everyone goes into transition. The goalie should
knock the ball down, recover it, and look to initiate the fast-break. The fast-break team scores 1
point for a successful primary or secondary break. They keep possession until they miss a shot
or a turnover or free-throw disrupts the break. If the defense successfully stops the fast-break,
either by forcing a turnover, free-throw, or a missed or blocked shot, they receive 1 point and
the teams switch roles. The game continues until either team scores 10 points.
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Fig.# S10D4
Artist: Jennifer D.

wins ____
Success Check
Wings break quickly ____

Goalie decides quickly on long or short outlet ____
Keep pressure on defendersbe tactical ____
Play 5 vs. 5 without a circle runner
5. Quick Retreat Drill: 2 vs. 2
The purpose of this drill is to practice player-to-player coverage in an effort to disrupt the momentum of the fast-break, which will allow teammates to get back and establish position. Get a
partner to be your teammate and two other teammates to form another team. Place a goalie in
the goal. The opposing players will be the attackers in the secondary break and position themselves along the 6-meter line with their backs to the goal. You and your partner will defend the
break and stand opposite and facing them on the 9-meter line. When the goalie says go, the
attackers break out for a short outlet pass and try to move the ball quickly up the court against
your team. Your job is to try to delay their attack between the 9-meter line and the centerline.
Have your coach or teammate keep time with a stopwatch. Start the clock when the outlet pass
is received. The attackers have 5 seconds to move the ball across the centerline. The defenders
receive 1 point if they prevent the attackers from crossing within the time limit or disrupt the
attack by forcing a turnover or free-throw. The attackers receive 1 point if they move the ball
across the centerline within the time limit. Teams switch attack and defense after each point.
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Fig.# S10D5
Artist: Jennifer D.

wins ____
Success Check
Pressure player-to-player defense ____
6. Half-Court Pick-Up Drill: 4 vs. 4
The purpose of this quick retreat drill is to practice organizing a temporary barrier in front of
the goal and trying to prevent high-percentage shots. Form two teams of four court players and
a goalie. You and your teammates set up on defense around the centerline. The other team sets
up between the 9-meter and 6-meter lines ready to fast-break. Their goalie in the goal area with
a ball is ready to make an outlet pass. The goalie makes a short outlet pass to an attacker and
they attempt to complete a fast-break. Your teams job on defense is to quickly force them into
an error, or retreat quickly to set up your barrier in front of the goal and attempt to keep them
from scoring. The attackers receive 1 point for a goal, and the defenders receive 1 point if they
stop them, including a missed shot or goalie save.
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Fig.# S10D6
Artist: Jennifer D.

wins ____
Success Check
Try to force a quick error ____

Protect high-percentage shot areasforce action
to the wings ____
Play five attackers against four defenders.
Transitions Success Summary

Your teams ability to swiftly move from defense to attack and quickly retreat from attack to
defense plays a big role in how you compete over the course of a contest. Because of the fast
pace of team handball, transitions are numerous and consequently an important part of the
game. Consistent, effective use of the primary and secondary fast-breaks provides quick scoring
and wears down the opposition both physically and psychologically. Immediate reaction to the
loss of ball possession by a quick retreat to defense prevents these results from happening to
your team. Spending time practicing transitions will help build confidence on defense and add
a dynamic dimension to your teams attack.
Step
11 Team attack: support points
LW
he legendary football coach Knute Rockne

said, The secret of winning football games is working more as a team, less as individuals. The same
secret applies to creating a successful attack in team
handball.
Fundamental team handball attack organizes all
six court players in an attack system called support
points. Support points consists of moving the ball
quickly and accurately from one player to the next,
providing the continuity and security necessary to
carry out group tactics spontaneously. Get your team
together to practice the essential elements of support
points: positioning, passing, and patience. Your team
will also learn how to attack in special situations.
RW
CR
LB
RB
CB
Why Is Team Attack Important?
RW
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Figure 11.1a The
3-3 formation.
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Fig.# 11.1a
Artist: Jennifer D.
LW
If the fast-break doesnt result in a score, you and

your teammates must settle into an organized attack.
From this point you must collectively focus your efforts against the set defense to score. This is not to
say that one-on-one efforts are discouraged. Certainly
you should pursue such actions at the proper times
and circumstances. But over the course of a game,
an organized team attack is more effective simply
because it increases the number of scoring options.
CR
CR
Positioning in Support Points

Team attack begins from a basic formation, which
is simply the starting positions players take based
on their skills and abilities. The formation provides
organization and balance but doesnt prohibit players creativity or freedom of movement. Figures 11.1a
and b show two basic attack formations, the 3-3 and
the 2-4. The 3-3 formation is ideal for support points
because the equal spacing of players across the backcourt allows shorter passes and better ball control.
136
LB
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Figure 11.1b The
2-4 formation.
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Fig.# 11.1b
Artist: Jennifer D.
RB
Team Attack: Support Points 137
Backcourts
Because of the limited playing area and difficult

shooting angle, the wing position is highly specialized. You need to be quick and an accomplished faker,
able to play one-on-one. Speed and the ability to pass
and catch on the run are important because you lead
the fast-break. Agility and good jumping ability are
essential for you to create a good shooting position
from a difficult angle (see Figure 11.3).
LW
The backcourt players initiate most attack combinations, so your play significantly influences how well
the team performs. You must be a good playmaker
and ballhandler, able to coordinate with the actions
of teammates and make good decisions quickly. You
must be a strong, accurate set shooter and jump
shooter. It is obvious that the ability to score from
long range (9 to 11 meters) directly contributes to
the attack, but it contributes indirectly also. Quality backcourt shooting forces defenders to step out
farther, which extends the depth of the defense and
creates more open space for the wings and circle
runner. Height can be an advantage in the backcourt
to help you see and shoot over the defense. It is
advantageous if you play on the opposite side of the
court of your throwing arm, so your power is toward
the middle of the court. If you are right handed you
should play in the left backcourt, and if left handed
in the right backcourt, so that your power is toward
the middle of the court (see Figure 11.2).
Wings
RW
Each position in the attack formation has specific

physical, technical, and psychological requirements.
Following are characteristics that you should possess
to play each position.
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Figure 11.3 Wing
area.
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376
Fig.# 11.3
Artist: Jennifer D.
Circle Runner
LB
CB
RB
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Figure 11.2 Backcourt
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Fig.# 11.2
Artist: Jennifer D.
Youve heard the phrase playing in the trenches

referring to football linemen. Thats how it is playing
circle runner; you work in the thick of the defense to
create opportunities for the big scorers. As a circle
runner, more than any attacker, you need to understand that contact is part of the game. A cool head
and tactical discipline will help you stay focused and
undisturbed by the unceasing physical encounters
with defenders. Strength and a good sense of balance
are important for withstanding the physical demands
of playing circle runner. You need to possess excellent
catching skill and be able to handle the ball in traffic
along the 6-meter line (see Figure 11.4).
LB
Figure 11.4 Circle runner movement area.
6
3
CR
CB
RW
LW
RB
Figure 11.5 Support points.
Passing in Support Points
Patience in Support Points
Moving the ball from wing to wing with quick, accurate passes is the second key to support points. Execution of the piston movement is very important. For
support points to be effective, each player must be
a threat to the defense. When you receive the ball,
attack the gap aggressively. If the gap closes, pass
quickly to the next attacker who has moved into
position to support you. This attacker continues
attacking in the same manner, until there is a clear
scoring opportunity. As the ball is passed around the
defense wall several times, the attackers develop a
rhythmic movement that looks like a piston moving
forward and backward. This is how support points
provides continuity to the attack. Quick passing
and aggressive attacking force defenders to step out,
help, recover, and eventually become out of position
creating an overload.
While moving the ball in support points, you may
use any of the offensive combinations. The backcourts may use crossing at any time. The circle runner constantly looks to help by setting picks for the
backcourts and by moving along the 6-meter line
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into openings behind
the defense. The wings must
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play patiently to effectively
Fig.# 11.4 contribute to the attack.
Artist:
D. to initiate supThey coordinate with
theJennifer
backcourts
port points by attacking the gap, and if the overload
presents itself, finish support points with a strong
shot (see Figure 11.5).
Wait for a good scoring opportunity. If support points

is accompanied by patience the defense will eventually make mistakes, allowing openings in the defense
for drives to the 6-meter line and open shots. Dont
rush to complete the attack. Keep in mind that when
your team has the ball your opponents cannot score,
so work patiently for a high-percentage shot. Taking
a poor-percentage shot, which the goalie or defenders can easily block, denies your team a potential
goal and turns the ball over to your opponents for
a chance to score. When there is a good scoring opportunity, be quick, decisive, and determined to put
the ball in the goal. The bottom line is that the best
possible positioning, the most precise passing, and
the most enduring patience are of little value if there
is not a great desire to finish the attack when the
opportunity arises.
Points to Remember in Support Points:
Move the ball with short, quick passes.
Run to receive and play in good timing with teammates.
Attack the gap. Clanton
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Be a threat. Fig.# 11.5
Artist:tie
Jennifer
Dont let the defense
you upD.(avoid free-throws).
Be alert and support teammates when playing
without the ball.
Be patient.
Special Situations
Most of the game is played in numerical equality, and
you should focus most of your tactical preparation on
this. However, during a 2-minute suspension you will
attack with a numerical advantage or disadvantage,
and these periods can be turning points of the game.
Following are some tactical suggestions for playing
in these situations.
Attacking 6 vs. 5:
Dont rush the attack. The objective is to score one
goal during the two minutes of the suspension.
Work patiently for a high-percentage shot.
Use support points to take advantage of the natural
overload of 6 vs. 5.
Play with two circle runners (2-4 formation) to
create more openings on the 6-meter line (see
Figure 11.6).
Figure 11.6 Attacking 6 vs. 52-4 formation.
Attacking 5 vs. 6:
Play with discipline and caution. The objective is
to protect the ball and keep possession until the
suspended player returns. However, running time
off the clock without attempting to score is called
passive play or stalling. The passive play call is
based entirely on the judgment of the referee and
results in a free-throw.
To keep pressure on the defense, continually attack the gaps trying to break through to the 6-meter line. This action will also help your team draw
more free-throws, which eat time off the 2-minute
suspension and prevent a passive play call. Shoot
only if there is a clear opportunity to score.
To increase ball control, play with three backcourts, two wings, and no circle runner (see Figure
11.7).
Always be in a position to support a teammate
with the ball.
Figure 11.7 Attacking 5 vs. 6no circle runner.
Team Attack
Drills
1. The Shell Drill: 3-3 Formation
The purpose of this drill is to develop your teams competence and confidence in support points.
It will also help you develop the ability to incorporate all tactics while moving the ball in support
points. Set up in the 3-3 formation without a circle runner, just three backcourts and two wings.
(1) Start support points in the left wing, move the ball around to the right wing and back to the
left wing, who finishes support points with a wing shot. Alternate starting and finishing in each
wing. Perform three shots from each wing (see Figure a). (2) Start support points in the left wing,
move the ball around to the right wing and back to the center backcourt, who crosses with the
left backcourt for a jump shot. To alternate crossing with each backcourt, alternate starting in
each wing. Perform three crosses in each backcourt (see Figure b). (3) Now add the circle runner. Start support points in the left wing, move the ball around to the right wing, and as the
ball comes back across, the circle runner plays pick and roll with the left backcourt. Alternate
starting in each wing so the circle runner can alternate pick and roll with the left backcourt and
right backcourt. Perform three pick and rolls with each BC (see Figure c). Your goal is to handle
the ball without error and finish each tactic with a score.
LB
CB
Support points shooting from the wing

Support points shooting from the wing
Support points with backcourts crossing

Support points with backcourts crossing
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Fig.# S11D1a
Artist: Jennifer D.
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Fig.# S11D1b
Artist: Jennifer D.
7
2
6
3
Success Goal = 6 successful support
pointsscore from the wing ____

6 successful support pointsscore from crossing ____
6 successful support pointsscore from pick and
roll ____
Success Check
Support points with pick and roll
c
Support points with pick and roll

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Fig.# S11D1c
Artist: Jennifer D.
Ball control ____

Timely execution ____
Finish the attack ____
2. Half-Court Scrimmage: 6 vs. 6
The purpose of this drill is to practice team attack in a gamelike situation. You and five teammates form a team and organize your attack in the 3-3 formation. Six other teammates form a
defensive wall along the 6-meter line. Scrimmage for 10 minutes with your coach as referee and
scorekeeper. The defense scores 1 point each time they win possession of the ball and 2 points
for scoring on a fast-break. Your attacking team scores 1 point for each of the following:
(a) successful execution of overload in support pointsscore an additional point for a goal,
(b) successful execution of crossingscore an additional point for a goal, (c) successful execution
of pick and rollscore an additional point for a goal.
Playing 6 vs. 6
Success Goal = Team that scores the

most points wins
Attacking teams score ____
Defensive teams score ____
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Fig.# S11D2
Success
Artist: Jennifer
D.
Check
Read the defense ____

Finish the attack ____
Team Attack Success Summary

Good team attack involves all six players combining their efforts to score goals. Support points
is the most important procedure in team attack because it provides your team the continuity
and security necessary to execute your tactics consistently. The 3-3 formation, consisting of
three backcourts, two wings, and a circle runner, is ideal for support points. The equal spacing
of players gives balance to the attack and allows for shorter passes and better control. The key
to support points is passing the ball quickly from wing to wing, using the piston movement and
attacking the gap aggressively. Incorporate small group tactics as the rhythm of support points
builds. Dont rush to complete the attack. Work patiently for a high-percentage shot. If support
points is accompanied by a lot of patience, the defense will eventually make mistakes and a good
scoring opportunity will present itself.
Step
12 Team Defense: The 6-0 Zone
T
he main menu on a computer is your gateway

to many other options. The 6-0 zone defense in team
handball is your teams starting point and the gateway to other more advanced defensive formations.
When practicing the 6-0 zone defense, you and your
teammates will learn to count, to understand the
defensive concepts of width, depth, and density along
with player positioning and overall coverage. You will
also explore some special defensive situations.
positions relative to the 6-meter line determine the

classification of zone defense. The 6-0 zone has six
players on the 6-meter line and zero players out
front. Examples of other defenses are the 5-1, 4-2,
and 3-2-1. All zone defenses are named by counting
the number of players from the 6-meter line out (see
Figures 12.1a-d).
Why Is Team Defense Important?

Even though defense is less spectacular than offense,
it is no less vital to your team achieving good results.
In fact, team success is highly dependent on the
ability to prevent goals. Scoring goals is important,
but if you give up a goal for every one you score you
gain nothing. Any team is going to have occasional
off games in attack, but this should never happen
on the defensive end of the floor. Strong defense is
the one aspect of play that you should be able to
count on every game because, more than anything
else, it requires effort and attitude. There is no doubt
that effective defense relies on each player mastering individual skills and tactics, but the key is how
well they can weave these into a cohesive unit with
a strong personality of its own. Each player develops
this through a desire to excel and a sense of responsibility to the team. Playing defense is hard work
and provides little immediate gratification like that
of scoring a goal. In the long run, however, the boost
in confidence and morale that strong, consistent
defensive play gives your team is invaluable.
6-0 defense
a
6-0 defense
The 6-0 Zone Defense

In handball, zone defenses are most effective against
an organized set attack. The zone is established in
front of and close to the goal area. The defenders
142
5-1 defense
b
5-1 defense
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Fig.# 12.1b
Artist: Jennifer D.
Team Defense: The 6-0 Zone 143
4-2 defense
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Fig.# 12.1c
Artist: Jennifer D.
LW
LB
CR
CB
RW
4-2 defense
c
numbering and counting system is used. The basic

position for all defenders in the 6-0 zone is along the
6-meter line. The defenders are numbered from the
sideline to the middle of the court. The defenders
next to the sideline, usually the wings, are numbered
1 and are responsible for the players on the outside
of the attack. The players next to the number 1 defenders are numbered 2 and are responsible for the
second players in attack, usually a backcourt or a
circle runner. The middle defenders are numbered 3
and are responsible for the third players in from the
outside of the attack, usually the center backcourt
or a circle runner. Each defender takes responsibility for one player at a time. Even when the offense
is not so neatly organized, you can still determine
assignments by counting from the wings on both
sides (see Figure 12.2).
RB
3-2-1 defense
3-2-1 defense
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Figure 12.1a-dFour
zone defenses.
Fig.# 12.1d
Artist: Jennifer D.
The 6-0 zone involves all six defenders moving as a

unit, forming a movable wall that maintains its greatest strength between the ball and the goal. The zones
effectiveness relies heavily on how well defenders
control their defensive space and assist each other by
executing the help triangle. A sound understanding of
the 6-0 defense provides the foundation to use more
complex defensive systems. Adhering to the following
guidelines will help you learn and properly execute
the 6-0 defense.
Counting
To help define each defenders defensive space

and individual responsibilities within the zone, a
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Figure 12.2Counting.
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Fig.# 12.2
Artist: Jennifer D.
Achieving Width, Depth, and Density

in the 6-0 Defense
Zone defenses consist of three elements: width is

the area covered along the 6-meter line providing
protection of the goal area; depth is the area covered out from the 6-meter line providing defense of
backcourt shots; and density is the close proximity
of defenders minimizing the chance for attackers
to drive to the 6-meter line. No one zone meets all
these requirements automatically. The 6-0 zone has
natural width and density, but not depth. Depth is

achieved by playing aggressively and stepping out to
meet attacks from the backcourt at the 9-meter line
(see Figure 12.3). After the attacker passes the ball
to a teammate, you should break contact and recover
to the 6-meter line to maintain density, as the next
defender steps out to meet the continuing attack, and
so on. Remember that you must form a help triangle
every time a defender steps out (see Step 9).

Coverage
The zone is constantly adjusting to the position of

both the ball and the attackers. As the defense shifts,
each defender should keep in his or her field of vision
the ball and the player in his or her defensive space.
As the ball moves farther away from your space, you
can give more distance between yourself and your
opponent. Doing this helps keep the density of the
zone and prevents gaps. How much distance is safe?
You should be able to close the distance before your
opponent can receive a direct pass from a teammate
(see Figure 12.4).
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Figure 12.3 Creating
depth by stepping out.
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Fig.# 12.3
Artist: Jennifer D.
Player Positioning
The positioning of individual players in the zone is

important in helping fulfill the width, depth, and density of the defense. Here are some guidelines to follow
when selecting players for each defensive position.
Most teams direct their attack actions toward the
high-percentage scoring area in the middle of the
court. Tall and strong number 3 defenders provide
excellent shot blocking and defense. This will provide
excellent shot blocking and circle runner defense.
Players occupying the number 2 positions must be
strong enough to defend a circle runner, but quick
and agile enough to defend a faking and driving backcourt player. Height and strength are not determining
factors for playing the number 1 defensive positions.
Quickness and lateral mobility are necessary to defend the one-on-one moves of the wings.
Figure 12.4 Clanton

Shifting to keep the density of the
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defense in the area
of the
Fig.#
12.4ball.
Artist: Jennifer D.
The defense must be careful not to overshift with

the ball and leave any attackers unaccounted for.
Its important to count and make sure there is one
defender matched to one attacker at all times. If a
defender notices that there is no attacker in his or her
defensive space, then an overload has been created
and a teammate is covering two attackers. The key
to avoiding this is counting and communicating so
the defense can continually adjust to proper coverage
(see Figures 12.5a and b).
Right wing leaves area to create an overload

Right wing leaves area to create an overload
No wing
attacker
Defense shifts to cover all attackers

Defense shifts to cover all attackers
Figure 12.5a-b Adjusting defensive coverage for

an overload situation.
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Situations
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Fig.#
12.5a situations that may occur
There are some
defensive
Artist: Jennifer D.
in a game that warrant special consideration because
they either pose a period of vulnerability or provide
a time for extra opportunity. These situations occur
because either team has been issued a 2-minute
suspension. Following are two such situations and
tactical suggestions for dealing with them.
Defending with numerical advantage: six defenders versus five attackers

Play more aggressively, try to force mistakes.
Defend player to player against the best shooter
while the rest of the team stays in 5-0 zone.
Defending with numerical disadvantage: five defenders versus six attackers
Requires increased individual and collective effort.
Play a 5-0 zone, and do not step out; make an
extra effort to block backcourt shots. Keep the
zone dense, with special attention to protecting the
high-percentage shooting area in front of the goal.
Force the action of the attackers to the lowerpercentage shooting area in the wing.
Player-to-Player Defense
You may be wondering why player-to-player defense
has not been mentioned. First of all, player-to-player
defense must be flawlessly executed to present a
big problem for a fast and varied attack. This requires that each defender has not only a high level
of technical and tactical ability but also a high level
of physical conditioning because of the large playing
court. Player-to-player defense is risky and puts great
demand on players over the course of a game, which
could ultimately affect other areas of performance. Although difficult to employ as a primary defense, there
are certain situations when it would be appropriate:
1. To apply pressure when your team is 6 vs. 5
during a 2-minute suspension.
2. When you are playing a team that is poorly
conditioned and has weak skills.
3. To try to force the action and get quick possession of the ball when you are behind late in the
game.
Team Defense
Drills
1. 6-0 Shell Drill
The purpose of this drill is to practice shifting and coordinating movements in the 6-0 zone.
You and five teammates position yourselves in the 6-0 defense. Position six teammates in the
3-3 attack formation, with the circle runner playing stationary between the number 3 defenders.
As the attackers pass the ball in support points, the defenders shift with the ball, executing the
help triangle and covering the circle runner at all times.
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig.# S12D1
Artist: Jennifer D.
Success Goal = 30 seconds of proper

positioning in the 6-0 zone ____
Success Check
Shift with the ball ____

Form help triangle on the ball ____
Cover the circle runner at all times ____
Play with seven attackers and position a circle

runner between the number 2 and number 3
defenders on each side.
Increase drill by 10-second increments up to 60
seconds.
Eliminate the circle runner.
2. Half-Court Scrimmage: 6 vs. 6
The purpose of this drill is to practice the 6-0 zone, incorporating all defensive tactics, in a
game-like situation. You and five teammates form a team and set up on defense in the 6-0 zone.
Six other teammates form an attacking team and set up in the 3-3 formation. Position a goalie
in the goal. Scrimmage for 10 minutes with your coach as referee and scorekeeper. The attackers score 2 points for scoring a goal or 1 point for getting off a shot that is blocked by the goalie.
Your defending team scores 1 point for each of the following: (a) successfully defending a crossing, (b) successfully defending a pick and roll, (c) intercepting a pass, (d) scoring on a fast-break
after a goalie save, and (e) keeping the attackers from getting off a shot on goal in 45 seconds.
Success Goal = Team that scores the

most points wins
Defensive teams score ____
Attacking teams score ____
Success Check
Shift as a unitbe like a movable wall ____

Communicate with teammates ____
Count to cover overload situations ____
Create depth by stepping out ____
Team Defense Success Summary

When you begin working on a computer you start your explorations from the main menu. The
6-0 zone defense is recommended for beginning teams because it is the main menu of all the
defensive principles. All zone defenses consist of three elements: width, depth, and density, but no
one defense meets all these elements automatically. The 6-0 zone positions players in the zone to
take advantage of individual strengths and to allow the best incorporation of small group tactics.
The 6-0 zone defense is the most effective against an organized set attack. Your team establishes
the 6-0 zone in front of the goal area and simulates a moveable human wall that maintains its
greatest strength between the ball and the goal. Team success is highly dependent on strong
defense. Your teams ability to consistently prevent good scoring opportunities for the opposition
builds confidence and morale, and these intangibles positively affect all aspects of performance.
R ATING YOUR PROGRESS

A
t this point you have been exposed to individual fundamental skills used in game play
as well as tactics and strategies used by a small group or the entire team. The following
rating chart allows you to rate your overall progress. Rate your success in team handball
by writing a number in the space to the right of each skill listed. Read each item carefully
and respond objectively. Then, review your strengths and weaknesses, and set new goals.
Share your knowledge and expertise with other players willing and eager to learn.
Rating Points
5 = Outstanding
4 = Very good
3 = Fair
2 = Needs extra work
1 = Weakness
Individual Fundamental Skills

Passing and catching:

Overhand pass___

Wrist pass___

Catching the ball___

Catching above the waist___

Catching below the waist___

Catching while running___
Attacking:
Three actions of the piston movement:

1. Run to receive___

2. Use three steps___

3. Back up quickly___
Side-stepping___
Dribbling:

Alone on fast-break___
One-on-one___

Avoid 3-second violation___
Shooting:

Set shot___

Jump shot___

Wing shot___

Fall shot___

7-meter throw___
148
Individual defensive skills:

Basic defensive stance___
Checkingmaking contact___
Blocking shots___

Set shot___

Jump shot___
Goalkeeping:
Knowledge___

Special rules___
Mental game:
Confidence___
Courage___
Composure___
Leadership___
Blocking shots:

Blocking high shots___

Blocking low shots___

Blocking medium shots___

Blocking wing shots___

Recovering the ball___

Initiating the fast-break___
Rating Your Progress 149
Game Concept Skills

Individual attack tactics:
Anticipation___

Maintain ball possession___

Use fakes___

Read the defense___
Individual defense tactics:

Defensive space___

Stepping out___

Recovering to basic position___
Overload principle:

Support attacking teammate___
Crossing___
Pick___

Pick and roll___
Defense triangle:

Stepping out on point___

Squeezing in___
Communication___
Take overpass on___
Guarding the circle runner___
Switching___
Team Play
Transitionsoffense:

1. Primary fast-break___
Goalie pass___
Wing breaking___

2. Secondary fast-break___
Spacing___
Depth___
Transitionsdefense:

Quick retreat___

Pressure the ball___

Hustle back___

Organize the zone___
Communication___
Team attack:

Support points___
Positioning___
Passing___
Patience___
Attacking 6 vs. 5___

Attacking 5 vs. 6___
Team defense:

Zone defense___

Player-to-player defense___

6-0 defense___
Counting___

Width, depth, density___

Player positions___
Coverage___
Defending 6 vs. 5___
Defending 5 vs. 6___

A ppendix A: Team Handball simplified Rules

T
his is a simplified rules handout. If you have any questions about specific rules,
please refer to the International Handball Federation official rule book. Rule books can be
purchased from the U.S. Team Handball Federation, One Olympic Plaza, Colorado Springs,
CO 80909, phone number 719-578-4582.
150
Endline
6 meters
7 meters
Centerline
20 meters
(65 ft 7 in.)
40 meters (131 ft 3 in.)
9 meters
Sideline
1. The Playing Court. 20 meters (65 7) by 40 meters

(131 3). The goal area line, or 6-meter line (19 8),
is probably the most important line. No one except
the goalie is allowed to stand in the goal area. The
goal opening is 2 meters by 3 meters. Players may
jump into the area if the ball is released before landing in the area. The court is larger than a basketball
court, but the length may be shortened when space
is limited (see Figure A1).
2. The Ball.
32-Panel Leather Ball:
Womens = 54 to 56 centimeters, 325 to 400 grams
Mens = 58 to 60 centimeters, 425 to 475 grams
Airfilled Foam BallSuperSafe elite by Sportime
(1-800-283-5700). Handball (350g), Junior Handball (320g), Mini-Handball (270g)
3. Number of Players. Seven players on each team = six
court players + one goalie (see Figure A2). Maximum
of twelve players may dress and participate in a game
for each team. Substitutes may enter game at anytime
through own substitution area as long as the player
they are replacing has left the court.
4. Uniform of the Players. Players numbers = 1 to
20; shirts and shorts are the same color. Goalkeeper
must wear different color shirt from teammates and
opponents. No jewelry.
5. Referees. Two: court referee and goal line referee;
referees have complete authoritydecisions are final.
the referees are assisted by a timer and scorer.
6. Duration of the Game. For 18 years and over: 2 x
30 minutes10-minute halftime. Tournaments and
youth: 2 x 15 minutes or 2 x 20 minutes. Running
time except for injury and one team time-out per
Free-throw line
7-meter line
Goal-area line
Goal area
Figure A1 The playing court.
Clanton
Job# 376
offense A1
/
defense
Fig.#
Artist: Jennifer D.
Figure A2
Clanton Offense vs. defense.
Job# 376
Fig.# A2
Artist: Jennifer D.
Team Handball Simplified Rules 151
half. Change benches at halftime. game ends in a tie unless game demands a winner.
(Overtime: 2 x 5 minutes.)
Passive play: It is illegal to keep the ball in a teams possession without making a recognizable attempt to attack and try to score. In other words, a team cannot stall (free-throw
awarded for opponents).
7. Throw-off. Taken by the team that wins the coin toss and
chooses to start the game with the ball. Each team must
be in its own half of court with the defense 3 meters away
from the ball. Following a whistle, the ball is passed from
center court to a teammate and play begins. Throw-off is
repeated after every goal scored and after half-time (see
Figure A3).
8. Scoring. Goal is scored when entire ball crosses goal line
inside the goal. Goal may be scored from any throw (i.e.,
free-throw, throw-in, throw-off, goal-throw).
9. Playing the Ball.
Player is allowed to:
Run with the ball 3 steps (violation is a free-throw)
Hold the ball 3 seconds (violation is a free-throw)
Unlimited dribble with 3 steps allowed before and after
dribbling (no double dribble)
Player is not allowed to:
Endanger an opponent with the ball
Clanton
Pull, hit, or punch the ball out of the hands of an opFigure
A3 Throw-off.
Job# 376
ponent
Fig.# A3
Contact the ball below the knee
Artist: Jennifer D.
Dive on the floor for a rolling or
stationary ball
RW
LW
10. Defending the Opponent. A player

s
ur
is allowed to use the torso of the
cc
o
ul
body to obstruct an opponent with or
Fo ere
X h
without the ball. However, using the
n
tio
CR X
outstretched arms or legs to obstruct,
cu
e
rs
Ex ot
ete
push, hold, trip, or hit is not allowed.
sp re
3m
he
LB
The attacking player is not allowed to
RB
CB
charge into a defensive player (freethrow awarded).
11. Throw-in. Awarded when ball goes
Free-throw execution:
Defense must be 3-meter radius
out of bounds on the sideline or when
away from ball
the ball is last touched by a defensive
Offense outside 9-meter line
player (excluding the goalie) and goes
out of bounds over the endline. The
Figure A4 Free-throw execution.
throw-in is taken from the spot where
the ball crossed the sideline, or if it
crossed the endline, from the nearest
corner. The thrower must place one foot on the sideline to execute the throw. All opposing players must stay 3 meters away from the ball.
12. Referee Throw.

Awarded when:
The ball touches anything above the court
Simultaneous infringement of the rules
Simultaneous possession
Referee throws the ball vertically between two opposing players. Players jumping may
grab the ball or tap it to a teammate. All other players must be 3 meters away from the
throw. Time-out is called and the referee throw is always taken at center court.
13. Free-Throw. For a minor foul or violation, a free-throw is awarded to the opponents at
the exact spot it took place. If the foul or violation occurs between the goal area line and
the 9-meter line, the throw is taken from the nearest point outside the 9-meter line. All
players on the team taking the free-throw must be outside the 9-meter line. Opponents
must be 3 meters away from the ball when the throw is taken. The thrower must keep
one foot in contact with the floor, then pass or shoot (see Figure A4).
14. 7-Meter Throw.
Awarded when:
A foul destroys a clear chance to
score a goal
The goalie carries the ball back into
his or her own goal area
A court player intentionally plays
the ball to his or her own goalie in
the goal area and the goalie touches
the ball
A defensive player enters his or her
goal area to gain advantage over an
attacking player in possession of the
ball
All players must be outside the free-throw
line when the throw is taken. Player
taking throw has 3 seconds to shoot
after referee whistles. Any player may
Figure A5 The 7-meter throw execution.
take the 7-meter throw (see Figure A5).
15. Goal-Throw.
Awarded when:
The ball rebounds off the goalkeeper over the endline
The ball is thrown over the endline by the attacking team
Goalie takes the throw inside the goal area and is not restricted by the 3-step/3-second rule.

16. Progressive Punishments. Fouls that require more punishment than just a free-throw.
Actions directed mainly at the opponent and not the ball are to be punished progressively
(e.g., reaching around, holding, pushing, hitting, tripping, or jumping into opponent).
See the referee signals in Figure A6.

Warnings (yellow card)
Referee gives only one warning to a player for rule violations and a total of three to a
team. Exceeding these limits results in 2-minute suspensions thereafter. Warnings are
not required prior to giving a 2-minute suspension.
Clanton
Job# 376
Team Handball Simplified Rules 153

2-minute suspension
Awarded for:
serious or repeated rule violations
unsportsmanlike conduct
illegal substitution
The suspended players team plays short for 2 minutes.

Disqualification and Exclusion (red card)

Disqualification = three 2-minute suspensions; disqualified player must leave court and
bench but team may replace the player after the 2-minute suspension expires.

Exclusion = given for assault; excluded players team continues short one player for rest
of the game.
RefeRee signals
The referee does not handle the ball on any foul or violation. The player retrieves the ball and
puts it into play as quickly as possible. The referee uses hand signals to explain calls and to
indicate the direction the ball will be moving when put in play.
Entering
the
Goal area
attacker fault
running into,
jumping into
throw-in
time wasting
goal
Suspension
(2-minutes)
Figure A6
illegal catching,
bouncing, or
fumbling
Exclusion
too many steps

or holding the
ball too long
goal-throw
Referee-throw
time-out
holding
and
pushing
striking
on the
arm
free-throw
(direction)
keep the
distance of
3 meters
Refereethrow
execution
warning
(yellow)
Disqualification
(red)
permission to
enter the court
permission for
substitute goalkeeper to enter
the court after
time-out
A ppendix B: Marking a Team Handball Court

M
any gyms are not big enough to accommodate a regulation team handball court. If
this is the case in your facility, here are some guidelines for converting your floor space
and a key for converting meters to feet.
1. Determine the maximum length and width of the court that you can set up. Remember to include a 1-meter safety zone along both sidelines and a 2-meter safety zone on
both ends.
2. Put down two parallel sidelines to the allowable length, not to exceed 40 meters.
3. Measure and mark the center point of both sidelines. Put down the centerline by connecting these two center points.
4. Put down two parallel endlines to the allowable width, not to exceed 20 meters. Make
sure the outer goal lines (endlines) are perpendicular to the sidelines.
5. Measure and mark the center point of both outer goal lines (endlines).
6. Measure and place a mark one and one-half meters from the center of goal line in both
directions. These marks are the focal points for preparing the goal-area (6-meter) line
and the free-throw (9-meter) line and are the location of the goalposts. (See Figure B1a.)
7.Measure and mark a quarter-circle arc from each focal point for the goal-area and
free-throw lines (see Figure B1b). Starting at one focal point (where one goalpost will
be), tape the end of a measuring tape or 6-meter string to the floor. Extend the string
straight out in front of the focal point (90-degree angle to the goal line).
8. Hold a piece of chalk at the 6-meter mark and make a quarter-circle arc to the outer
goal line keeping the string tight. Repeat this at the other focal point (where the other
goalpost will be).
9. Join the two quarter circles with a 3-meter straight line directly in front of the goal.
10. Go over the chalk marking with 5-centimeter-wide gym floor tape following along the
curve and trying to avoid wrinkles.
11.Repeat the process for the 9-meter line but use pieces of tape 15 centimeters long
instead of continuous tape.
12. Returning to the goal line center point, measure and mark directly in front of the goal
the 4-meter goalkeepers restraining line and the 7-meter line. The goalies line is 15
centimeters long and the 7-meter line 1 meter long.
13. Measure and mark the substitution area lines on the sideline where the team benches
and officials table are located. The substitution lines are 4.45 meters from the center
line and are 30 centimeters long. Fifteen centimeters extends into the court and 15
centimeters extends off the court.
14.Move the goals into place on the goal line. The inside back corner of the goalpost is
placed on the previously marked focal points. Increase the width of the actual goal line
to the width of the goalposts. This line will extend 3 centimeters into the goal area.
154
Marking a Team Handball Court 155
Straight line
3 meters
Straight
line connects 9 meters
quarter
circles
Quarter
circle
Quarter
circle
3 meters
a
Goal opening
Goal opening toward

playing court
300 centimeters
Goalpost
8 centimeters
(5 centimeters) Outer goal line
Goal line
Center of
quarter circle
Figure B1a-b Marking the court.
Goalpost
Outer goal line
Center of
quarter circle
Clanton
Job# 376
Fig# B1a&b
Artist: Jennifer D.
Team Handball Markings

Width of court lines:
Width of goalpost/goal line:
Length of free-throw dashes:
Length of black/white goal face spaces:
Black upper corners of goal face:
Length of penalty line:
Height of goal opening:
Width of goal opening:
Goalie restriction line:
Each substitution area:
Goal-area line:
Penalty line:
Free-throw line:
Width of court:
Length of court:
Metric
U.S. Equivalent
5 centimeter (cm)
8 cm
15 cm
20 cm
28 cm
1 meter (m)
2 m
3 m
4 m
4.45 m
6 m
7 m
9 m
20 m
40 m
2 inches (in.)
3-1/8 in.
6 in.
8 in.
11-1/8 in.
3 feet (ft) 3-3/8 in.
6 ft 6-3/4 in.
9 ft 10-1/8 in.
13 ft 1-1/2 in.
14 ft 7-3/4 in.
19 ft 8-1/4 in.
22 ft 11-5/8 in.
29 ft 6-3/8 in.
65 ft 7-3/8 in.
131 ft 2-3/4 in.
G LOSSARY
attackA team or individual tries to score when they are in possession of the ball.
centerlineThe line divides the court in the center, and the game begins at the centerline.
chargingAn offensive player runs into or over a stationary defensive player who is in
proper position.
checkingBody contact between attacker and defender with the torso and limbs as permitted by the rules.
circleThe nickname for the goal-area line or 6-meter line.
depth of courtThe longitudinal scope of the court from endline to endline.
endlineThis is another term for the outer goal line.
free-throwThis term describes how the ball is put back into play after a minor rule violation. The opponents maintain 3 meters from the player taking the free-throw.
free-throw lineThe dashed line at 9 meters used for taking free-throws following minor
fouls that occur between the 6- and 9-meter lines opposite from the point of the foul. The
defense must be 3 meters from the ball.
goal-area lineThe 6-meter line or the circle.
goal-throwThe throw taken by the goalie from inside the goal area after the goalie deflects the ball over the goal or endline or after an attacker throws the ball over the endline.
goalkeeper restraining lineThis line is 4 meters away from the rear edge of the goal line.
The goalie must stand behind this line on a 7-meter throw.
long cornerThe top and bottom corners of the goalpost farthest from the ball.
referee-throwWhen players from both teams infringe the rules at the same time or gain
simultaneous possession of a loose ball, the referee will throw the ball up between two
players at center court (like a jump ball in basketball).
7-meter throwA penalty throw awarded for serious fouls or other violations of the rules
that destroy a clear scoring opportunity. 7-meter throws are taken from the 7-meter line.
short cornerThe top and bottom corners of the goalpost closest to the ball.
substitution areaSubstitutes must enter and leave the game from an area 4.45 meters
on either side of the centerline. This designated area is located in front of the scoring table
and the team benches.
throw-inWhen a ball goes out of bounds across the sideline, it is put back into play from
the spot where it went out of bounds. The player throwing the ball must have one foot on
the sideline when taking the throw.
throw-in from the cornerA throw-in is taken from the corner of the court when a defensive player (excluding the goalie) is the last to touch the ball as it goes out of bounds
over the goal line (endline).
throw-offThe throw-off is taken after the referees whistle and is a pass to a teammate
at the centerline to start the game and after each goal scored.
zone defenseA ball-orientated system in which every defender is responsible for a specific area.
156
Suggested Readings 157
S uggested readings
Aagaar, P., and E. Skovsgaard. 1979. Minihandball. Roskilde, Denmark: Roas.
Atlanta Committee for the Olympic Games. 1994. Olympic day in the schools: Sports training
manualTeam handball. Atlanta: Atlanta Committee for the Olympic Games.
Blazic, B., Z. Soric, and J. Belford, eds. 1972. Team handballAn exciting physical fitness
game for all. Winnipeg, Manitoba: Manitoba Team Handball Federation.
British Handball Association. Teaching team handballCoaching manual I. Milton Keynes,
England: British Handball Association.
Canadian Team Handball Federation. 1986. Canadian Team Handball Federation coaching
manual level I. Vanier, Ontario: Canadian Team Handball Federation.
Dwight, M.P., and K. McRae. 1980. This is team handball. Colorado Springs: U.S. Team
Handball Federation.
Dwight, M.P., ed. 1991. Team handball Special Olympics volunteer coach training school
manual. Washington, DC: Special Olympics International.
Garcia Cuesta, J. 1980. Team handball techniqueCoaching & methods committee. Colorado
Springs: U.S. Team Handball Federation.
Hamil, B.M., and J.D. LaPoint. 1994. Team handball: Skills, strategies and training.
Dubuque, IA: Eddie Bowers.
Hattig, F., and P. Hattig. 1979. Handball. Germany: International Handball Federation
and Falken Verlag.
International Handball Federation. 1983. Handball: Sport for all. Basel, Switzerland: International Handball Federation.
International Handball Federation. 1987. Handball: Sport for alltechnique and method.
Basel, Switzerland: International Handball Federation.
International Handball Federation. August 1, 1993. International Handball Federation rules
of the game. Basel, Switzerland: Beckmann Druck.
Johnson, C., and G. Macdonald. 1990. Team handball: An instructional package for coaches,
teachers and recreation leaders. New Westminster, British Columbia: Douglas College.
Marczinka, Z. 1993. Playing handball: A comprehensive study of the game. Budapest,
Hungary: Trio Budapest.
Muhlethaler, U., and P. Raez, eds. 1977. Handball-A.B.C. Basel, Switzerland: International
Handball Federation.
Neil, G.I. 1976. Modern team handballBeginner to expert. Montreal, Quebec: McGill University.
U.S. Team Handball Federation. 1981. Mini-manual for referees. Short Hills, New Jersey:
U.S. Team Handball Federation.
157
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Suggested Readings 159
A bout the authors

Reita Clanton and Mary Phyl Dwight began playing team
handball more than 20 years ago. From 1974 to 1984
they were members of the U.S. Womens National Team.
During that time they played in over 100 international
games, two world championships, and five U.S. Olympic
Festivals. They reached the pinnacle of their playing
FPO
careers in 1984 as members of the womens Olympic
101.5%
12p6 x 13p1
team, which finished in fourth place.
Clanton has coached four U.S. Olympic Festival
teams, three of them gold medal teams. Since 1987
she has been the team handball codirector, as well as a
clinician and coach, for Special Olympics International.
She is the assistant coach for womens team handball
in the 1996 Olympics and head coach of the womens
Reita Clanton
Team 2000. She also conducts team handball clinics
throughout the United States.
Clantons playing and coaching experience goes beyond team handball, though. She has
coached winning basketball programs at the high school, junior college, and university level,
and she played on the varsity basketball and volleyball teams at Auburn University. Her basketball uniform number was later retired.
Clanton earned her bachelors degree in health and human performance from Auburn University. A resident of Decatur, Georgia, she enjoys singing, playing guitar, reading, and staying
physically fit.
Dwight is the womens development coach for the U.S. Team Handball Federation. In 1995
she was the team leader for the USA Womens Pan-American Games Team, which won a gold
medal. She has also coached two U.S. Olympic Festival teams and has been the team handball
director for Special Olympics International since 1987.
Like Clanton, she conducts clinics for players of all ages.
Among Dwights other sporting experiences are stints
as head volleyball and softball coach at the university
level. As a varsity athlete at Southwest Missouri State
University (SMSU), she was captain of her basketball,
volleyball, and track teams and competed in softball and
FPO
cross-country as well. She was elected to the schools
100%
Athletic Hall of Fame in 1981.
12p7 x 13p
Majoring in physical education, Dwight earned her
bachelors degree from SMSU and her masters degree
from Kansas State University. She has taught physical education at the high school and college level. Her
hobbies include cross-training, boating, and camping.
She lives in Raytown, Missouri.
Mary Phyl Dwight
159
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Preface i

ii Team Handball: Steps to Success

The Steps to Success Staircase

The Game of Team Handball: Its Not Off the Wall!

The Playing Court and Equipment

Passing and Catching: The Essence of the Game

Rating Your Progress

Appendix A: Team Handball Simplified Rules

Appendix B: Marking a Team Handball Court

About the Authors

iv Team Handball: Steps to Success

vi The Steps to Success Staircase

T HE STEPS TO SUCCESS STAIRCASE

The Steps to Success Staircase vii

Path of the ball

Starting position of a moving player

Player with the ball

Player advancing the ball with three steps

Relative body positions

Coach or training partner

Fake without the ball

Fake with the ball

This page intentionally left blank.

T HE game of team handball: its

Playing the Game

2 Team Handball: Steps to Success

Preparing Your Body for Success

The Game of Team Handball 3

Figure 2 Offense preparing to attack a defensive wall.

Team Handball Today

4 Team Handball: Steps to Success

International Handball Federation

T HE playing court and equipment

The Playing Court

Figure 3 The team handball court.

6 Team Handball: Steps to Success

Table 1 Main Court Lines and Restrictions

a. Mens leather (size 3)

b. Womens leather (size 2)

The Playing Court and Equipment 7

Table 2 Team Handballs: Size and Weight

Womens leather (size 2)

54-56 centimeters............................. 21-22 inches

*SuperSafe Elite (made by Sportime 1-800-283-5700)

8 Team Handball: Steps to Success

Figure 5 Dimensions of the team handball Job#

First-aid kit and emergency contact numbers

Passing and Catching: The Essence of the Game 9

passing and catching: the essence

at Head Summitt, head basketball coach at the

Why Are Passing

possession of the ball your individual responsibility

The Overhand Pass

10 Team Handball: Steps to Success

toward your target with the foot of your nonthrowing

your wrist and release the ball. A backspin on the

1. Use fingertip grip ____

5. Step toward target ____

8. Bring weight forward ____