Steal the Bacon Team Handball
A team handball version of Steal the Bacon: when their number is called, two players sprint to the middle, whoever grabs the ball attacks and the other defends until there is a shot. It works on reaction time, one-on-one play and deciding whether to shoot or pass.
How to play
- Set up two 20 x 12 m courts with a small goal at each end and a 4 m cone area. Make 4 teams of 6 numbered 1 to 6, two teams per court, each on a sideline. The teacher calls on one court and a student on the other (2 min).
- Place a ball in the center. Each team attacks the goal on its right, and there are no goalies: nobody steps in the area.
- When a number is called, both players with that number run for the ball. Whoever gets it attacks using the three-step and dribble rules; the other defends without contact. The play ends with a shot, a steal or after 10 seconds.
- Goal: 2 points; steal and fast-break goal: 1 point. Everyone returns to their spot and the ball goes back to the center.
- Five-minute blocks: first one number, then two (2-on-2) and finally three (3-on-3), with at least one pass before a shot. Switch opponents at the end.
Rules
- Nobody leaves the sideline until their number is called.
- No grabbing, pushing or diving for the ball; if two players grab it at once, restart.
- Shoot from outside the area and never toward waiting players, who sit 2 m back from the lines.
Variations
Easier
The player who misses the ball counts to three before defending, and the goal is wider.
Standard
One, two or three numbers at once, no-contact defense and shots from outside the area.
Harder
Add a goalie for each team, and call a math problem (2 + 3) that players must solve first.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: start closer to the ball, and the opponent waits three seconds before defending.
- Deaf or hard of hearing: the caller also shows the number with their fingers.
- Slower runners: when their number is called, a teammate joins them to make a 2-on-1.
Learning goals
- React quickly to an auditory and visual signal.
- Choose between shooting, dribbling or passing in one-on-one and numbers-up situations.
- Follow the start and no-contact rules.
Equipment for a class of 25
- foam balls: 4
- cones: 20
- small goals: 4
Teacher tip
Call numbers in random order and make sure everyone goes the same number of times. If players collide when grabbing the ball, set it on top of a cone so they do not have to bend down as far.
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