Team Handball 3-on-2 with a Goalie
Three attackers try to score against two defenders and a goalie from the 9-meter line. Students learn to draw a defender by driving toward goal, pass to the open teammate and shoot with an advantage from the wing or center.
How to play
- Set up two goals facing each other in the gym. At each goal put a goalie, two defenders on the 6-meter line and three attacking lines at the 9-meter line: left back, center and right back (3 min).
- The center starts with a pass to a back, who drives toward goal to draw one defender.
- If the defender steps up, the back passes to the open player; if not, they shoot. Each attack lasts no more than 10 seconds.
- After each play, attackers rotate lines clockwise and one of them replaces a defender; the goalie changes every 5 attacks.
- Play two 6-minute rounds; attackers earn 1 point per goal and defenders earn 1 point per steal or missed attack.
- Between rounds, take 2 minutes to ask who was open and how they were found.
Rules
- Only the goalie may step into the 6-meter goal area; shots are taken jumping or with feet planted outside the area.
- Three steps maximum with the ball and three seconds without dribbling.
- Defenders may intercept but not grab or push; contact is from the front and never a hit.
- Aim shots at the corners of the goal, never at the goalie's head.
Variations
Easier
Defenders may only shuffle side to side on the 6-meter line without stepping out to pressure.
Standard
3-on-2 plus a goalie with 10 seconds per attack.
Harder
Play 3-on-3, with the third defender sprinting in from half court 2 seconds late.
Adaptations
- Students with limited mobility: play as the fixed center who starts the play, or shoot from a closer spot with a soft ball.
- Shy students: start as goalie with a foam ball and move to attack once they feel comfortable.
- Lower fitness levels: may shoot without the drive, taking only one step.
Learning goals
- Draw the defender with a drive before passing.
- Pick out the open teammate in a numbers advantage.
- Shoot accurately away from the goalie.
Equipment for a class of 25
- team handballs: 6
- goals: 2
- cones: 6
Teacher tip
Use small-size or foam handballs so goalies are not afraid of the ball. Place cones on the 9-meter line to mark where each line starts.
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