Beach Handball Shootout: The Goalie Throws, You Run

A tiebreaker inspired by the beach handball shootout: the attacker starts at their own goal line, takes a running pass from their own goalie and faces the opposing goalie. It trains catching on the run and quick 1v1 decisions against the goalie.

How to play

1. Explain the shootout: the attacker starts at their goal line and gets a pass from their own goalie before shooting (3 min).
2. Practice with no opposing goalie: break, catch the long pass and take a set shot (4 min).
3. With an opposing goalie who may leave the area to cut the pass or close the angle (6 min).
4. Team competition in teams of 7: five shots per team, alternating (5 min).
5. Debrief: which choice worked better, shooting early or getting closer? (2 min).

Rules

• The opposing goalie may not collide with the attacker; if they come out, they play the ball.
• Go on the teacher's signal.
• Soft balls if the goalie is inexperienced.
• Everyone shoots and everyone plays goalie at least once.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: starts from the 9 m line and gets a short pass.
• Visually impaired students: set shot at an empty goal with sound guidance.
• Students afraid of playing goalie: use a foam ball.

Learning goals

• Catch a long pass on the run.
• Decide quickly against the goalie.
• Learn a beach handball rule.

Equipment for a class of 25

• handballs: 6
• goals: 2
• cones: 8
• pinnies: 14

Teacher tip

Having a teammate make the pass instead of the teacher makes it far more engaging. Run two courts side by side for more reps.

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