BASIC SKILLS IN HANDBALL

Handball is a team sport in which two teams of seven players each pass a ball using their hands
with the aim of throwing it into the goal of the other team. The object of handball is to score
more points than your opponent. Handball is commonly played indoors but there are other
variations such as field handball and beach handball that are played outdoors. Handball is played
by both men and women.

It is very similar to Football or Soccer, where the ball is passed with the foot. In handball, the
players use only their hands, and to touch the ball with the foot is illegal. The game is contested
between two teams fielding 7 players each. They try to score goals and the team with the
maximum goals after 60 minutes, wins.

It is a very attractive and demanding sport. It is especially popular in Europe and is slowly
expanding its footprint around the world as Brazil was the first country outside Europe to be
crowned the World Champions in 2013.

Brief history

The origins of handball can be traced back to medieval times but it was in 1906 that the rules of
modern handball were first created in Denmark. The game is hugely popular in Northern and
Eastern Europe but is played around the world.

The governing body of the game is the International Handball Federation, who also organise the
World Championships. It is believed that there are around 19 million handball players in the
world today.

Handball is traditionally played indoors but there have been variations such as field handball and
beach handball (sometimes referred to as sandball) that have been played outdoors.

HANDBALL IN UGANDA

Handball was introduced in Uganda by a police officer in the names of Nicholas Onegi P‟minga
in 1972 after his training in Germany. Nicholas had gone to West Germany in 1971 for a
swimming course but the activities which were included in the programmes were handball. He
picked a lot of interest in the game and on returning to Uganda, he introduced the game of
handball in the country. Police handball club was the first club to be formed, then prisons and
then Wanainchi handball club near the police post of Kamwokya. The game spread to other
institutions leading to the formation of more clubs.

Later in 1975, handball was introduced to NTC Kyambogo now Kyambogo University by late
Ambrose Bolla after he had watched it being played at Lugogo. The game spread to schools

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around Kampala and Old Kampala was the first secondary school to play handball while Mbuya
army primary school was the first primary school to take up the game.

In the 1990‟s was the pick of handball in Uganda. Many institutions formed clubs around that
time. It was also around that time that the country won most of the titles when the Railway ladies
handball club was at its pick in performance. However, the most memorable achievement in
handball in Uganda was in 1995 when Railway ladies handball team won the common wealth
championship held in India.

However, the economic reforms the swept the country in 1990s dealt a serious blow to the game
of handball. As a result of liberalization drive, most of the parastatals were privatized with the
new management which had less or no interest in supporting sports in those institutions. This led
to the phasing out of many handball clubs including the regional powers, Railway handball club.

Today the game is run by the Uganda amateur handball federation (UAHF) which is affiliated to
the east and central amateur handball association (E&CAHF), UOC AND IHF.

Presently there are a number of men‟s and women‟s handball teams playing in the national
league. There are also organized competitions for primary and secondary schools as well as
universities. UAHF has also embarked on popularizing the game in many different parts of the
country.

PLAYERS, FACILITY AND EQUIPMENT USED IN HANDBALL

1. Players

The standard handball games features 7 players on each side, 6 outfield players and one
goalkeeper. A team will also have 7 substitutes, which can be used on a rolling basis and with no
need to notify the referee.

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Player position Role
The Goal keeper Defends the goal. The only player allowed to touch the ball with the
feet.
The Circle runner (CR) The innovative force that disrupts rivals while defending. This is
quick and works to maximize scoring chances for the teammates.
The Center Back (CB) A creative player that directs play. Also called play maker, he or
she sets up the targets during attack and defence.
The Left winger (LW) Fast players that guard the sides of the court. They shoot from more
and Right winger (RW) tough angles and create openings for the teammates to attack.
The Left back (LB) and These block shots. They also make long-range shots in the game.
Right back (RB)

2. Equipment

These include the ball, goal post and other personnel items like sports-wear, whistle and other
protective gear.

(i) The ball

The ball must be made from leather or synthetic material. The Handball H3 is the ball used in
men‟s handball, used by men over 16 years. The circumference of H3 ball is 58 to 60 centimeters
and the weight is 425 to 475 grams. For women of over 14 years, handball H2 or size 2 is used
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which is 54 to 56 centimeters in circumference and 325 to 400 grams in weight. And for children
(girls of 8-14 years and boys 8-12 years), handball H1 is used which is 50 to 52 centimeters in
circumference and 290 to 330 grams.

N.B: H2 can also be used by boys between 12 and 16 years of age.

(ii) The goal post

This is located at the center of the goal line or end line and its 3m wide and 2m high. The metal
thickness is 8cm which makes the total height (2.08m) and total width (3.16m) ass shown below;

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3. The court

Handball is played on a court 40 by 20 meters (131 ft 2.80 in × 65 ft 7.40 in), with a goal in the
center of each end-line.

Detailed Measurements and Dimensions of a Handball Court

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The Playing Field: The playing field measures 40 meters by 20 meters.

Half Line: A half line (denoted as „center line‟ in the court diagram) divides the court into two
equal halves.

Free Throw Line: A free throw line is marked in a near-semicircular manner. It is 9 meters
away from the goal. If a foul is committed outside the goal area line, the offensive team gets a
free throw. The free throw is supposed to be taken anywhere beyond this line. It is differentiated
from the goal area line by dotting it; that is, it is not marked by a continuous line.

Goal Area Line: This is a line inside the free throw line. It is 6 meters away from the goal. The
defensive goalkeeper is free to move anywhere inside the area limited by this line. However, he
cannot move beyond the goalkeeper‟s line. The defensive goalkeeper is allowed to touch the ball
with his feet and any part of the body when he is in this area. He can behave like any outfield
player in this area. No outfield player is allowed inside this area.

Penalty Line: This line is 7 meters away from the center of the goal. If the defensive team
commits a foul inside the goal area, the offensive team gets a penalty. The penalty is similar to
the penalty in football. However, as the players are not allowed to step inside the goal area, they
jump into the air, nearer to the goal and then throw while in midair. No other player is allowed to
intervene while the penalty is in progress.

Goalkeeper’s Line: This line is only for the defensive goalkeeper, and he is not allowed to
venture beyond this point with the ball in his possession.

Substitution Area: The substitution area is where the substitutes and the team coach sit when
the match is in progress. The area is defined by two markings 4.5 meters away from the center
line. This means that the substitution area is 9 meters long. There are 2 substitution benches on
each side of the court. They are supposed to be 7 meters away from each other. No coach, team
official, or substitute is allowed to leave the substitution area while the game is in play

Goals: The goal‟s opening measures 3 meters by 2 meters. The thickness of the posts should be 8
centimeters. A post should be colored in two alternating colors so that it is visible by the outfield
players clearly. A net should always be tethered to the posts.

Duration:
A handball game lasts for a duration of 60 minutes, split into two periods of 30 minutes each
with a 15 minutes interval

Scoring

A goal is scored in handball when the ball is thrown into the opponent‟s goal.

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Winning the Game

To win in handball you must score more than your opponent. If the handball game is drawn then
there must be a winner; then periods of overtime with a maximum of 25 minute periods are
played. If the scores are still level, a shoot-out is used to determine the result of the game.

HANDBALL SKILLS

1. CATCHING

It can be defined as a skill of receiving a handball in to your hands

The two types of catching in Handball

 Two handed catching which refers to the receiving a handball with two hands
 One handed catching which refers to the receiving of a handball with one hand.

The progressions for two handed catching in handball

i. ii. iii. iv.

Stand shoulder
width apart, on the Extend the arms Bring it towards the
balls of your feet, and move Spread the fingers and keep the chest for
facing the direction towards the ball. thumbs close together to form a cushioning.
of the ball. Keep “W”-shape. On impact close the
eyes on the ball. fingers around the ball.

Common mistakes handball players make as they learn catching

 Players keep their eyes off the ball

 Week grip of the ball
 Standing in the basic position as a hand baller
 Stiff hands while catching

Practical drills handball coaches may use while teaching the skill of catching.

Using a wall, in a circle, in a file, in lines, in pairs

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Catching techniques

1. High catching technique

High catching of the ball is an essential technical element in handball. Accurate catching is very
important and ensures a fast, smooth and skillful game.

The progressions

This takes the same progressions as the above two-handed throw.

2. Low catching

This is an essential technical element in handball. Accurate catching is very important and
ensures a fast, smooth and skillful game.

The progressions

i) ii) iii)

Assume a well-balanced Catch the ball and bring it

Spread your fingers, and move
position. Keep your eyes on towards the chest for
towards the ball. cushioning.
the incoming ball.

2. THROWING AND PASSING

After a player catches the ball, it is more likely that he or she will release it and this is by
throwing. As he or she throws, he or she may be giving the ball to the teammate in which case,
it becomes passing or he or she may try to shoot.

It is important to understand the ready position in preparation for defense and attack. In this
ready position, one can swiftly move to catch, pass or even shoot and still remain well-balanced.

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Progressions for the ready position

- Feet parallel to each other

- Legs spread slightly apart
- Legs bent at knees
- Upper body tilted forward
- Arms flexed at elbows
- Body weight on to the forefoot

Different Passes in Handball

1. Over Arm Pass/ Straight Shoulder Pass/ upper pass

The upper pass is one of the basic technical elements of handball. This type of pass must be
accurate, fast and tactically competent.

The progressions for over arm passing technique

(i) (ii) (iii)

Stand well-balanced with the Shift the body weight to your Release the ball just above the
throwing arm held high and front foot. Throwing arm is head and follow through with
taken behind the head at 90° pulled toward the target. your throwing arm.
angle. The left shoulder faces
the direction of throw.

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 2. Chest Pass

(i) (ii)

Stand shoulder width apart Quickly release the ball with The arm is extended as the
while your weak leg slightly quick wrist action so that the fingers and hand follow
ahead of the other. Hold the fingers face in the direction of through in the direction of the
ball with both hands close to the throw. throw and shifting the
the chest; elbows flexed and bodyweight on to the front leg.
fingers spread well behind the
ball
3. Bounce Pass

The progressions for the bounce pass

Assume a well-balanced stance with one leg in front of the

other. The throwing hand is opposite the front leg and the
body weight is on the hind leg. Hold the ball at shoulder
level and keep your eyes on the direction of the ball.

Shift the body weight to your front foot as you release the
ball from your hand towards the target. The throwing arm is
pulled toward the target and the arm straightens at the
elbow. The ball should be targeted to the ¾ distance away
from the thrower.

Follow through with your throwing arm pointing toward the

target.

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 4. The Under Arm Pass
This is extremely a simple and natural passing technique which can be used even if when
the opponent has the closed the gap or when he is close. The under arm pass is always used
to avoid high ball interception and can be used during shooting.
The progressions for under arm technique
(i) (ii) (iii) (iv)

Stand with one foot Keep the weight to the Quickly release the The arm is extended
slightly in front of the hind foot, and eyes on ball slightly under the as the fingers and
other. Hold the ball in the target. shoulder with quick hand follow; and body
one hand at the wrist action. weight shifts from the
shoulder/waist level behind leg to the front
behind the body. leg.

Other types of passes

5. Back Hand Pass

(i) (ii) (iii) (iv)

With the position of Follow through with

Stand well-balanced
your teammate the throwing hand N.B: this is a
with the ball in the
predetermined, turn heading in the deceptive pass aimed
throwing hand. The
the throwing hand so direction of throw and at preventing
fingers should be
that the palm faces body leaning forward interceptions from the
wrapped around the
backwards. Release for stability. opponents.
ball securely.
the ball by swinging
the throwing hand
backwards besides the
hip.

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6. Jump Pass
The progressions

 Point the non-throwing arm at the target.

 Pull the throwing arm through toward the target leading with your elbow and your
forearm and wrist following last and fast.
 Release the ball at the highest point of jump and just in front of your head.
 Release the ball sharply downwards at the required target
7. Lower Pass

While passing, the ball is kept low to the ground. Can be done using an underarm passing
technique.

8. Handover Pass
9. Rolling Pass
10. Hitting Pass

DRIBBLING

Dribbling refers to the method of advancing up the court when the player is not closely guarded

It can also be defined as the skill of bouncing a ball several times without passing the ball using
one hand

Good dribbling skills enable a player to keep control of the ball, travel past a defender or to
simply move the team forward up the court.

The following are the types of dribbling

11. High dribbling: This refers to the form of dribbling which is used when a dribbler is at a
higher speed and the ball bounces almost over the waist level of the dribbler
12. Low dribbling: This refers to the form of dribbling which is used when the opponent is
closely guarding you and in most cases the ball does not bounce beyond the thigh

Circumstances under which a handball player may be tempted to dribble

 When there is no one to pass to

 When the teammate is closely marked/ guarded

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  When the player wants to draw the opponent players towards him so as to create space
for the teammates to pass too.
 To create a good and strong jump short
 Some do it as a technique to waste some time

The progressions to describe the skill of dribbling in handball

 Stand on the balls of your feet with feet shoulder width apart in ready position.
 Keep the knees slightly flexed and the back extended and the eyes looking straight
forward.

 By extending the shoulder and elbow, push the ball downwards using fingertips allowin
the flexion at the wrist.
 Keep the head up and the ball slightly out in front (max 1 m).
 Keep the ball at waist level with your hand on top of the ball. Lower your position when
close to the opponent so as to protect it.

Common errors handball players make while learning on how to dribble

 Dribble with a stiff wrist.

 The players look at the ball all the time.
 The players dribble in front of the body.
 Vertical dribbling , when the ball moves straight up
 The player simply slap the ball
 Players do not keep the rhythm of the dribble

Dribbling practice drills or levels you would take through beginners

 Dribbling while sitting down

 Dribbling while kneeling
 Dribbling while squatting
 Dribbling while lowering the body
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  Dribbling while alternating hands in a standing position
 Dribbling while moving a round
 Dribbling through obstacles

SHOOTING

Techniques of shooting in handball

1. Jump shooting technique

The vertical jump shot is thrown with power and speed downward into the opponent's goal.
The angle and the steepness of the ball's trajectory make it hard for the opponent or
goalkeeper to stop.

The progressions for the jump shooting technique

1. If you are right handed, make your first step with the left foot; and then make a long
diagonal step forward with right leg while lowering your center of gravity
2. Plant the heel of the jumping leg into the ground to stop the body moving forward and
roll on the sole of your foot as you jump up. The toes leave the ground last.
3. Prepare the ball into the throwing position by swinging it behind the body while you are
in the air. This is achieved by leaning the upper body backwards.
4. With the left arm pointing to the direction of throw, pull your throwing arm together with
the upper body to the target to release the ball.
5. Follow through as you land, to maintain balance.

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2. The dive shooting technique

The progressions for dive technique

i. The ball is held with the bent arm.

ii. From a running position the body leans completely towards the goal.
iii. With the powerful push off against the ground, dive as you release the ball using a
shoulder throw.
iv. Follow through with a quick wrist shape.
v. Use hand to break the body‟s forward momentum and fall.
3. The three step shot

i. Stand well-balanced behind the 9m-line. Hold the ball securely.

ii. Take three steps starting with the arm opposite the throwing arm.
iii. Throw the ball as hard and as fast as possible after the third step without jumping.
iv. Follow through in the direction of throw, gaining stability with the right foot, as so
on.

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4. The reverse shooting/ circle shooting technique

i. The players face opposite direction from

the goalmouth, takes body to strong
shooting side.
ii. Turning and quickly pivoting to the
opposite (weak) side bending the knees
and releasing the ball in the sidearm
action.
iii. Bends the knee and release the ball in a
sidearm action.
iv. The body weight and momentum is
directed towards the goal.

5. Under arm shooting technique

- Stand well-balanced with the ball in the throwing hand, facing in the direction of throw.
- Take one step forward, maintaining the body weight on the back leg; and withdraw the
throwing hand backwards. The non-throwing hand faces forward in the direction of throw.
- Swing the throwing hand through the waist, forward to release the ball to the target with the
flicking of the wrist.
- Follow through by transferring the body weight to the front leg.

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6. Over arm shooting technique

- Stand well-balanced with the ball in the

throwing hand, facing in the direction of
throw.
- Take one step forward, maintaining the
body weight on the back leg; and
withdraw the throwing hand backwards.
The non-throwing hand faces forward in
the direction of throw.
- Pull your throwing arm together with the
upper body to the target to release the
ball.
- Follow through as you land, to maintain
balance.

Basic principles before shooting in handball

1. A definite ball throwing direction should be clear and established before the ball release
2. The player must make forward movement
3. Deception and faking should be done before the ball is released
4. The ball is generally held behind the head with bent arm so as to generate more power.
5. The non-shooting arm should be kept forward to prevent opponents from faking the ball
6. Wrist movement should be made.
7. Speed, force and agility are important.
8. Accuracy and follow through are also important.

GOAL KEEPING

This is one of the important skills that prevent the other team from scoring a goal. All efforts are
done to prevent the ball from passing fully across the goal-line. This role is largely played by the
goal-keeper and involves many skills like; catching, blocking, deflecting the ball; etc… the
technique used depends on the height and speed of the ball.

The basic position

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The teaching points to describe the basic position of the goalkeeper

1. Stand on the balls of your feet which are shoulder width apart with the knees slightly
flexed.
2. The arms should be spread and bent around the elbow at 90 degrees
3. Keep moving according to the position of the ball
4. Keep the head up and eyes following the movement of the ball or opponent with the ball.
5. The upper body is straight and leaned forward a little.
6. Stand in the center with both arms spread for balls coming directly from the front of the
goal.

Punching the ball to prevent it from entering the goal. Used when
it is difficult to catch the ball.

Deflecting the ball with the leg. This is used when it is hard to
reach the ball with the hands.

Catching a low ball. Hold the ball securely within your hands.

Blocking a shot

Single blocking.

Catching a high ball

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Common errors goal keepers make during a game situation in handball

 Failure to assume the basic position

 Failure to move according to the movement of the attackers
 Standing along the goal line all the time

Handball Goal keepers are not allowed do the following:

1. The goal keeper is not allowed to touch the ball when it is stationary or rolling outside the
goal area
2. He is not allowed to take the ball into the goal area when it is stationary/ rolling outside
the goal area.
3. Is not allowed to leave the goal area with the ball under his control
4. The goal keeper is not allowed to touch the ball with the foot or leg below the knee when
it is stationary in the goal area
5. He is not allowed to cross the goal keeper‟s restraining line before the ball has left the
hand of the penalty taker.
6. Is not allowed to re-enter the goal area from the playing area with the ball.

However, handball goal keepers are allowed to do the following;

1. Leave the goal area with the ball and play it again in the playing area if he has not
managed to control it.
2. Play the ball with any part of his body while in act of defense inside the goal area.
3. Move around with the ball inside the goal area without any restriction but within 3
seconds of gaining possession of the ball
4. Leave with the goal without the ball and participate in the game in the playing area.

How to ensure safety of your goalkeeper before a match starts

 Use of knee caps

 Use of good canvas shoes
 Use of smooth and even court
 Ensure has his finger nails are short
 The goal should be made of materials which are not dangerous

ATTACKING AND DEFENSIVE SKILLS IN HANDBALL

All the skills used to gain possession of the ball are defensive skills. All those used to keep
possession are attacking skills. There are many movements used during play to outwit the
opponents and these largely involve body feints using the trunk and legs. Some are executed with
the ball while others without. Player movements are necessary to;

 Free oneself from an opponent

 To gain space
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  Create an opportunity for a teammate to make an offensive action
 To gain a better position for performing and offensive action.

Attacking skills

(i) Jumps (ii) Running (iii) Changing (iv) Reducing

direction speed

(v) Pivoting in place (vi) Being free to (vii) Stopping and feinting to fool the
while running receive passes opponent.

Defensive skills

(i) Screening an opponent (ii) Blocking a pass or shot (iii) Screening an opponent
with a ball without a ball

(iv) Body posture (v) Intercepting a pass (vi) Stealing the ball

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(vii) Marking an opponent

THE BASIC HANDBALL RULES

The 6m line - No handball player (other than the goalkeeper) is allowed in the goal area (inside
the 6m line). Exceptions are after a shot on goal, when the player jumps into the area and shoots
the ball before landing in the goal area.

‘Walking’ - If a handball player takes more than three steps without dribbling (bouncing the
ball) or holds the ball for more than 3 seconds without bouncing it, shooting or passing, then that
is deemed „walking' and possession is lost.

'Double dribble’ - Handball players cannot receive the ball and bounce it, then hold the ball, and
bounce it again. This is termed „double dribble‟ and is against the rules.

‘Kicking’ - Handball players (other than the goalkeeper) must not kick the ball. If the ball
touches the foot, then possession is awarded to the opposition.

Handball fouls - No tripping, pushing, hitting, clinching, charging or holding is allowed in

handball.

Free-throws in handball - These are awarded for slight infringements of the rules. All
defenders are required to stay 3m (9.84ft) away from the person taking the free-throw. For a
minor foul or violation, a free-throw is awarded to the opponent 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 post outside the 9-meter line. The thrower must keep one foot in contact with
the floor, then pass or shoot.

Penalty-throws in handball - These are awarded when denying a clear scoring opportunity with
an infringement.

Handball sanctions - Depending on the seriousness of the offenses, the referee can award
players with either a yellow card (warning), suspension (2 minutes sitting out), or a red card
(dismissal).
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Throw-ins - These are awarded after the ball has crossed a side line when the ball is last touched
by a defensive player (excluding the goalie) and goes out of bounds. It is taken by the side which
did not touch it last, with the player putting one foot on the line where ball went out and passing
it back into the court. All opposing players must stay 3 meters away from the ball.

Corners - A corner is taken by the attacking side when a defender has knocked the ball over the
goal line (other than the goalie). The player puts one foot on the corner of the side line and the
goal line and passes the ball in.

The Playing Court: The court measures 20 meters (65' 7") by 40 meters (131' 3"). The court is
larger than a basketball court, but the length may be shortened when space is limited. The goal
area line, or 6-meter line (19' 8"), is 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 Ball: Team handball is played with a 32-panel leather ball. For women, the ball is 54 to 56
centimeters and 325 to 400 grams. For men, it is 58 to 60 centimeters and 425 to 475 grams.

Number of Players: There are seven players on each team (six court players and one goalie). A
maximum of 12 players may dress and participate in a game for each team. Substitutes may enter
the game at any time through own substitution area as long as the player they are replacing has
left the court.

Uniform of the Players: Player numbers are 1 to 20. Uniform shirts and shorts are the same
color. The goalkeeper must wear a different color shirt from teammates and opponents. No
jewelry is allowed.

Referees: There are two referees, a court referee and a goal line referee. Referees have complete
authority: Their decisions are final. The referees are assisted by a timer and a scorer.

Duration of the Game: For players 18 years and over, the game consists of 2, 30-minute halves
with 10-minute half-time. For tournament and youth games 2, 15-minute or 2, 20- minute halves.
This is running time except for injury or one team time-out per half. The teams change benches
at half-time. The game ends in a tie unless the game demands a winner. (Tournament rules
dictate that a winner must be determined.) Overtime consists of 2, 5-minute periods).

Passive Play: It is illegal to keep the ball in a team's possession without making a recognizable
attempt to attack and to try to score. In other words, a team cannot stall (free-throw awarded to
the other team).

Throw-Off: A throw-off is 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 the court with the defense 3 meters

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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.

Throw-on: a throw used to restart the game after scoring. It is taken from the center of the court.

Scoring: A goal is scored when the entire ball crosses the goal line inside the goal. A goal may
be scored from any throw (free-throw, throw-in, throw-off, Goal-throw).

Playing The Ball: a player is allowed; (i) to run with the ball for 3 steps; (ii) to hold the ball for
3 seconds; (iii) an unlimited dribble with 3 steps allowed before and after dribbling (no double-
dribble).

Defending the Opponent: A player is allowed to use the torso of the body to obstruct an
opponent with or without the ball. However, using the outstretched arms or legs to obstruct,
push, hold, trip or hit is NOT allowed. The attacking player is not allowed to charge into a
defensive player.

7-Meter Throw/penalty throw: The 7-meter throw is awarded when. A foul destroys a clear
chance to score; 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 an advantage over an attacking player
in possession of the ball. All players must be outside the free-throw line when the throw is taken.
The player taking the throw has 3 seconds to shoot after referee's whistle. Any player may take
the 7-meter throw.

Goal-Throw: A goal-throw is awarded when; (i) the ball re-bounds off the goalkeeper over the
end-line; (ii) the ball is thrown over the end-line by the attacking team. The goalie takes the ball
to throw from inside the goal area and is not restricted by the 3-step/3-second rule.

Referee Throw: A referee throw is awarded when the ball touches anything above the court
after a simultaneous infringement of the rules or after simultaneous possession of the ball. The
Referee throws the ball vertically between two opposing players. The jumping players may grab
the ball or tap it to a teammate. All other players must be 3 meters away from the throw. The
referee throw is always taken at center court.

Other rules of Handball

 A match consists of two periods of 30 minutes each.

 Each team consists of 7 players; a goalkeeper and 6 outfield players.

 Outfield players (court players) can touch the ball with any part of their body that is above
the knee. Note that a court player is any other player on court other than the goal keeper.

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 Once a player receives possession, they can pass, hold possession or shoot.
 If a player holds possession, they can dribble or take three steps for up to three seconds
without dribbling.
 Only the goalkeeper is allowed to come into contact with the floor of the goal area.
 Goalkeepers are allowed out of the goal area but must not retain possession if they are
outside the goal area.
 Match officiation is done by four officials; timekeeper, scorekeeper plus two referees.
 Substitution can be done anytime without any limits. The substitutes are 7 in number on
each side, but cannot play until a specified player is out of the court.

Ways in which a handball player may be punished during the game

1. Progressive Punishments: Pertain to fouls that require more punishment than just a free-
throw. "Actions" directed mainly at the opponent and not the ball (such as reaching around,
holding, pushing, hitting, tripping and jumping into an opponent) are to be punished
progressively.
2. Warnings (yellow card): The referee gives only one warning to a player for rule violations
and a total of three to a team.
3. Two minutes out: This occurs when a team exceeds 3 warnings and, this results into 2-
minute suspensions thereafter. Warnings are not required prior to giving out a 2-minute
suspension. 2-minute suspensions awarded for; (i) Serious or repeated rules violations; (ii)
Unsportsmanlike conduct; (iii) Illegal substitution; The suspended player's team plays short
for 2 minutes.
4. Disqualification (red card): A disqualification is the equivalent of three, 2-minute
suspensions. A disqualified player must leave court and bench, but the team can replace
player after the 2-minute suspension expires.

5. Exclusion: An-exclusion is given for assault. The excluded player's team continues short of
one player for the rest of the game.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS WHILE PLAYING HANDBALL

- Do adequate body preparation.

- Put on appropriate sports wear

- Observe instructions and follow rules

- Refer injuries to qualified medical personnel

- Use appropriate equipment and have a court clear of obstacles.

- No body adornments like jewelry.

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Methods/forms in which handball competitions could be played

 Through a league
 Through a round robin
 Through a single elimination
 Through double elimination
 Through triple elimination

Duties of officiating officials during handball competitions

1. The referees
 They ensure that the game is played in accordance with the rules and penalize any
infringements/ violation of the rules.
 Inspects the playing court, the goals and the balls before the game starts.
 They decide which balls to be used in the game.
 Awards a coin toss before the game starts.
 Controls the playing time.
 Takes notes about warnings, suspension, disqualification and exclusion.
 They are responsible for keeping the scores.
 They monitor the conduct of the players and team officials from the moment they enter
the court premises until they leave.
 They ensure that after the game, the score sheet is completed correctly.

 The referees also establish the presence of both teams in proper uniforms. They check the
score sheet and the equipment of the players.
 The referees have the right to suspend a game temporarily or permanently.
 The referees have the right to suspend a game temporarily or permanently.
 Disqualifications of the type indicated in Rules 8:6 and 8:10 must be explained in the
match report.

2. The time keepers

 They keep and record the time for suspended players.
 They are responsible for the keeping of the time.
 They look after time and note the time when a player may enter the court after suspension
or disqualification.
3. The score keepers
 They are responsible for the team roasters.
 They are responsible for the score sheets.
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  They are responsible for the entering of players who arrive after the game has started.
 They are responsible for the entering of players who are entitled to participates.

Factors hindering handball development in developing countries

 The physical nature of the game scare new players

 Handball injuries mostly take long to recover
 Shortage of handball facilities
 Shortage and scarcity of handball gears
 Limited number of coaches
 Limited number of officiating officials
 The sport is based only in towns
 The sport is almost not at grass root levels
 The major league has got few clubs
 No academies
 Limited revenue generated by teams/clubs
 Limited support from the government

Factors considered while organizing handball events

1) The number of teams likely to participate

2) The venue
3) The source of funding
4) The officiating officials
5) The awards
6) Advertisements
7) The time available
8) The guest of honor
9) The security
10) Source of equipment (balls, uniforms, whistles etc)
11) Medical service and first aid
12) Service providers

Factors considerations while selecting a handball team

 The skills of the team players

 The physical abilities of team players
 The mental abilities of team players
 The coach‟s philosophy
 The tradition of the team
 The environment
 The fitness of the team players
 The injuries among the team players
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PLAYING STRATEGIES IN HANDBALL

1. Offensive Strategies:

 Quick, accurate passes are your friend. Try not to lob the ball or make long passes as it
gives the opposing team a chance to take possession.
 Try constantly cutting towards the goal with or without the ball; this forces the defense to
continuously adjust and opens up more scoring opportunities for your team.
 Move the ball quickly and keep the dribbling to a minimum. Scoring opportunities
develop when sharp, quick passes are made and the defense does not have time to adjust
to what you‟re doing.
 Don‟t force a shot! If you drive for a shot and are blocked by defense, pass to a teammate
instead.
 Use „feint‟ movements; fake out the defense. Pretend to shoot but pass instead, pretend to
move left but go right, etc.

 Good Ball Handling is a very important key in team handball. This is mainly talking
about pass movement.
 Proper Court Spacing is a good key to keep each player as an offensive threat.
 Players should avoid Too Much Dribbling. As said earlier, ball handling is very
important. The best scoring opportunities develop from sharp, quick movement. 1

2. Defensive Strategies:

 Be ready to switch from offense to defense FAST. If there‟s a turnover, your whole team
needs to be ready to switch to defense otherwise you leave yourself open to a lot of
scoring opportunities. Handball is a fast-paced game and these turnovers happen quickly.
 Decide as a team if you will defend man-to-man or zone.
o Man-to-man means each member on your team picks a player on the other team and
covers them directly. When done right, it can work really well, however, it is physically
tiring and if one person doesn‟t cover their mark properly, it can leave them open to
score.
o Zone defense is where all of your team members defend the entire zone. The most
effective way to do this is to line up on your crease to limit the offense‟s scoring
opportunities; this directly protects the goal area.
 Whether you‟re defending man-to-man or zone, always position yourself between your
opponent and the goal; don‟t fall behind your opponent.

Offensive Formations

 Left and Right Wingman - These players excel at ball control and wide jumps from
outside the goal perimeter for better angles at the goal.

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  Left and Right Backcourt - Goal attempts by these players are usually made by jumping
and shooting over defenders. So, it helps if these players are tall.
 Center Backcourt - Like a basketball point-guard. Usually experienced and acts as a
playmaker.
 Pivot - This player tries to cause a disturbance in the defense, setting picks and trying to
disrupt their formation.

Offensive attacks are distinguished between as waves.

 First wave - First wave attacks are successful with the absence of defenders around the
perimeter. This is a fast-break, usually after an interception or a steal.
 Second wave - If first wave attack is not successful, then second wave comes into play.
As more defenders get back into position, offense initiates quick passes to outnumber the
local defenders and score.
 Third wave - In the third wave, attackers use patterns involving crossing and passing
between backcourt players, getting the ball to their pivot, taking a jump shot, or luring the
defense away from a wingman.

HANDBALL THROWS

These include;

- The 7m-throw - Throw-on

- The free throw - Referee‟s throw
- Goal throw - Throw-off
- Throw-in
REFEREES’ HAND SIGNALS

(i) (ii) (iii)

Entering the goal

area Illegal dribble Too many steps or holding the ball
for more than 3 seconds

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(iv) (v) (vi)

Restraining, holding
Hitting Offensive foul
or pushing
(vii) (viii) (ix)

Throw-in – direction Goalkeeper throw Free throw – direction

(x) (xi) (xii)

Keep the distance of

3 meters Passive play Goal

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(xiii) (xiv) (xv)

Warning (yellow), Suspension (2 minutes) Time-out

Disqualification
(red), Information
written report (blue)

(xvi) (xvii)

Forewarning signal for passive

Permission for two persons to enter the court during
play
time-out

INDIVIDUAL ACTIVITY
With the help of internet, carry out research and find out the various types of tournaments or
leagues through which handball competitions can be played.

COMPILED BY MR. AISU EMMANUEL

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