Everyone Touches Handball: Goals Count Only After All Pass

A modified 5v5 game where a goal only counts if every field player on the team has touched the ball in that possession. It promotes participation by everyone, team play and coed handball.

How to play

1. Two crosswise courts, coed teams of 5 plus a goalie; explain the rule (3 min).
2. Play with the everyone-touches rule; players raise a hand once they've touched it (7 min).
3. Time-out: each team plans how to get the ball to everyone (2 min).
4. Second half: a goal counts double if the final pass comes from the person who has shot least (8 min).
5. Switch opponents and play a short game with normal rules to compare (5 min).

Rules

• If the ball drops, the possession count continues.
• No-contact defense: interceptions only.
• No ripping the ball out of hands.
• The goalie may count as a pass if the team decides so.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: has a 2 m protected zone where nobody may guard them.
• Visually impaired students: ball with a bell and teammates call their name when passing.
• Less confident students: can ask for the ball with an agreed signal and nobody pressures them.

Learning goals

• Get the whole team involved.
• Organize team play.
• Value each teammate's contribution.

Equipment for a class of 25

• handballs: 2
• goals: 2
• pinnies: 14
• cones: 12

Teacher tip

Raising a hand after touching makes counting much easier. Pick mixed, balanced teams yourself rather than letting students choose.

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