Score and Step Out: Shifting Power Play
A small-sided team handball game where whoever scores steps out to the sideline for a moment, so the team that is winning plays short-handed. Students practice using a numbers advantage, defending one player down, and handling emotions about the score.
How to play
- Make 4 teams of 6 (one of 7) and set up 2 fields of 25 x 15 m with a small goal at each end and a 3 m crease marked with cones that nobody may enter.
- Play with no goalie, hand passes, up to 3 steps, and 3 seconds with the ball. Players may dribble once before passing or shooting.
- When a player scores, they go to their team's sideline zone and do 10 dribbles in a row with a spare ball before they can return.
- They come back only when their team gives up a goal or after 60 seconds. A team may have no more than 2 players out at once.
- The team with more players should attack quickly to use its advantage; the team with fewer players packs in front of its crease.
- Play 2 halves of 8 minutes and switch opponents. At the end, each team discusses what it did differently when it was short-handed.
Rules
- Nobody enters the 3 m crease, on offense or defense.
- No contact: defend with arms up from one arm's length away.
- Shoot below waist height to avoid hitting anyone.
- Players coming back from the sideline must re-enter at the midline.
Variations
Easier
Scorers step out for only 30 seconds and skip the dribbling task.
Standard
Scorers step out until their team gives up a goal or 60 seconds pass.
Harder
Both the scorer and the player who made the assist step out, with up to 3 players out.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the student plays as a fixed passer near the opposing crease and never has to step out after scoring.
- Hearing impairment: use a colored card to show who has to step out or come back in.
- Fitness level: students who tire may stay on the sideline up to 90 seconds; skilled players shoot only with their non-dominant hand.
Learning goals
- Use a numbers advantage by attacking quickly.
- Defend short-handed by closing the space near the goal.
- Handle the emotions of winning or losing on the scoreboard.
Equipment for a class of 25
- small goals: 4
- soft balls: 6
- pinnies: 13
- cones: 16
Teacher tip
The game balances itself, so there is no need to reshuffle teams. Keep the sideline zone clearly separated from the field so the dribbling does not interfere with play.
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