Pass and Overtake Rule Game
A small-sided team handball game with one key rule: after a forward pass, the passer must run until they are ahead of the receiver. Students practice moving the ball upfield with constant support ahead of the ball and cutting forward right after passing.
How to play
- Set up two 90 x 50 ft cross-court fields with small goals, no goalies, and a 13 ft semicircle. Make 4 teams of 6 or 7; play 5 on 5 with subs (3 min).
- Play with no dribbling and 3 steps. After a forward pass, the passer runs until they are ahead of the receiver; if not, the ball goes to the other team.
- One sideline teammate per team watches the rule and raises an arm when someone hangs back.
- A goal after a give-and-go, with the ball returned to the passer who cut ahead, is worth 2 points; other goals are worth 1. Play 2 halves of 6 minutes (12 min).
- Wrap-up for 3 minutes: where was it easier to cut ahead, inside or outside the receiver?
Rules
- No contact: defend from 3 ft away and steal only on passes.
- Nobody enters the 13 ft semicircle.
- Safety: when cutting ahead, watch the ball and never cut in front of a running opponent.
Variations
Easier
The rule only applies in the opponent's half, and one dribble is allowed.
Standard
Five on five with the overtake rule after every forward pass.
Harder
The passer must also get past the deepest defender.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the student is exempt from the rule and plays as a fixed support player with a 6 ft bubble.
- Autism: practice the rule twice with a partner and no defense before the game.
- Fitness level: sub every 3 minutes and allow cutting ahead at a fast walk.
Learning goals
- Advance the ball with support players ahead of it.
- Cut forward into space right after passing.
- Use a give-and-go to beat a defender.
Equipment for a class of 25
- team handballs: 2
- small goals: 4
- pinnies: 13
- cones: 16
Teacher tip
Many students pass and stand watching; the rule fixes that, but stress that the cut goes into open space, not toward the ball. Praise good give-and-go plays out loud.
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