Handball: 6-0 Defense, Shifting and Stepping Out

Six defenders lined up on the 6 m line learn to shift toward the ball, step out to the shooter and return to the line, and to close the gap with the neighboring teammate. First against ball movement without shots, then against a live attack.

How to play

1. Line up six defenders on the 6 m line and explain the positions: outside, back-court and center defenders (4 min).
2. Six attackers pass the ball without shooting; the defense shifts and steps out one stride to the ball carrier without losing the line (6 min).
3. The ball carrier may now fake a shot: the defender steps out with arms up and the neighbors close inward (6 min).
4. Live 6v6 for 45 seconds per possession; the defense earns a point for every ball won or shot forced from beyond 9 m (10 min).
5. Defenders explain where gaps appeared and agree on one cue for the next game (4 min).

Rules

• Defenders step out with arms up and without holding the shooter.
• No defender enters the 6 m goal area.
• If two defenders go to the same attacker, stop and fix the help.
• Students not on court mark the gaps on a whiteboard or sheet.

Variations

Adaptations

• Wheelchair user: plays a center spot moving sideways and steps out to cut passing lanes with the arms.
• Hearing impairment: the defensive captain uses visual signals to call the shift.
• Low fitness level: alternates one turn on court with one as gap observer.

Learning goals

• Coordinate the shifting of a flat defense according to the ball position.
• Step out to the shooter and return to the line without leaving gaps.
• Communicate with and help the neighboring defender.

Equipment for a class of 25

• handballs: 4
• pinnies: 14
• cones: 10

Teacher tip

With more than twelve students on court, set up two courts or rotate trios from the bench. A good indicator is that the space between defenders never exceeds an outstretched arm.

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