Korfball 2-on-2 Defended-Shot Duels
Korfball 2-on-2 duels at the post where players may only shoot when open, because the defended shot is not allowed. Students work on getting open, no-contact defense, and reading when a shot is legal.
How to play
- Groups of 6 at each post: two attackers, two defenders in pinnies, and two observers who also pass from outside a 6 m circle (2 min).
- Demonstrate the defended shot with two students (2 min): no shooting if the defender is within arm's length, facing the shooter, closer to the post, and has a hand up to block.
- Play 2-on-2 in 3-minute rounds (12 min): attackers pass, including to the observers, looking for an open shot; each basket is one point.
- If someone shoots while defended, the observers raise a hand, the basket doesn't count, and the defense gets the ball. After each round, offense moves to defense, defense to observing, and observers to offense.
- Wrap-up (4 min): each group explains which move got them the most open shots: cutting to the post, stepping back, or a teammate's screen.
Rules
- No defended shots: if the defender meets all four conditions, don't shoot.
- No dribbling or running with the ball; in class, pass within four seconds.
- No grabbing the ball out of hands and no pushing.
- Safety: no hanging on the post, and rebounds are played without leaning on opponents.
Variations
Easier
1-on-1 with a fixed passer, and a shot is defended only if the defender's hand is up.
Standard
2-on-2 with two observers and all four conditions.
Harder
2-on-2 with no outside passers and 20 seconds to shoot.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: fixed passer, with a bonus point when the pass leads to an open shot.
- Autism: observes first and decides with a partner whether shots were legal before playing.
- Lower fitness: 2-minute rounds and a 4 m circle.
Learning goals
- Get open to earn legal shots.
- Defend without contact between the attacker and the post.
- Apply and officiate the defended-shot rule.
Equipment for a class of 25
- korfball posts: 4
- balls: 4
- pinnies: 8
Teacher tip
At first it's hard to tell when a shot is defended: pause briefly and have the observers explain their call. Stress that good defense is positioning, not grabbing.
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