Intro to Korfball
A coed team game where players score in a high basket without a backboard, with no dribbling and each player guarding someone of the same gender. Shooting is not allowed when closely guarded, so it rewards passing, movement and teamwork.
How to play
- Set up two courts, each with two raised hoops, and form four mixed teams of 6 (3 girls and 3 boys if possible) (2 min).
- Explain the rules: no dribbling or running with the ball, no contact, no shooting when a defender is within arm's length with a raised arm, and guard someone of the same gender (2 min).
- Practice in groups: passing on the move and shooting at the basket from different spots (4 min).
- Each court is split into two zones; each team has 3 players in attack and 3 in defense, mixed (1 min).
- Play 6-vs-6: after every two goals, players switch zones so attackers become defenders (10 min).
- One student keeps score for each court and the class closes with a quick review (1 min).
Rules
- No dribbling or running with the ball; pivot on one foot.
- No contact, no grabbing the ball from someone's hands.
- No shooting when a defender is close with a raised arm.
- Players stay in their zone until the switch.
Variations
Easier
Lower the baskets and play without the guarding or zone rules.
Standard
Twenty minutes with the basic rules and zone switches every two goals.
Harder
Use full rules: shots only after at least three passes and zone switches every goal.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: provide a lower basket and a shooting spot where defenders can't guard closely.
- Shy students: give them a defined role, such as the first passer after a rebound.
- Coordination or skill level: use a softer, lighter ball and allow shots from closer.
Learning goals
- Play a coed team sport based on equality and cooperation.
- Develop passing, positioning and shooting skills.
- Respect rules that protect fair play.
Equipment for a class of 25
- ball: 2
- raised hoops: 4
Teacher tip
If you can't balance genders, adapt the guarding rule to guarding a similar-level player. Check that the raised hoops are stable and anchored before play.
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