Continuous 2v1 Mini Team Handball

A two-attackers-versus-one-defender drill game that flows nonstop from one goal to the other: whoever shoots stays on as the defender and play continues the other way. Students practice choosing between passing and driving, plus quick transitions from offense to defense.

How to play

1. Set up two 65 x 40 ft courts with a small goal and a 13-ft goal area at each end; split the students on each court into two lines, one beside each goal, with a goalie in each goal (3 min).
2. Start with one defender at center; the first two players in line A attack goal B and must shoot within 10 seconds.
3. After the shot, the shooter stays on as the defender; the previous defender and the first player in line B attack goal A.
4. The attacker who didn't shoot goes to the back of line B, so play never stops and everyone alternates offense and defense.
5. Each goal scores a point for that line; switch goalies every 4 minutes (14 min).
6. Wrap up with 3 minutes of discussion: when was it better to pass, and when to shoot yourself?

Rules

• Three steps and one continuous dribble max.
• The defender may only intercept or steal off the dribble, no grabbing.
• Nobody enters the goal area except the goalie.
• Safety: give nervous goalies a soft ball, and never shoot at the head.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: be the starting passer for every attack from the sideline.
• Hearing impairment: signal goalie changes with a raised hand.
• Fitness level: add a third line so students get a bit more rest between turns.

Learning goals

• Decide whether to pass or shoot against a defender.
• Switch quickly from attacker to defender.
• Shoot on the run after a catch.

Equipment for a class of 25

• team handball: 4
• small goals: 4
• cones: 20

Teacher tip

Walk through it the first time, because the rotation takes a moment to click. If lines get long, open a third court.

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