Team Handball: The Center Back Calls the Play
Each team designs three simple attacking plays, gives each one a hand signal and rehearses them; in the game, the center back flashes the signal and the team must run the play against a defense. Students work on organizing the attack, nonverbal communication and leadership.
How to play
- Setup (2 min): four teams of 6 (5 plus a goalie) and one card per team with three sample plays drawn on it: center-back/back cross, pass to the pivot and swing to the wing.
- Design (4 min): each team picks or tweaks its three plays and assigns a signal: one finger, two fingers or a closed fist.
- Rehearsal without defense (4 min): on a half court, the center back flashes the signal and the team runs the play through to the shot; run each play twice.
- Rehearsal against passive defense (4 min): the other team defends in a 6-0 without stealing, to check that the play works against opposition.
- Game (8 min): 5-on-5 on a half court with possession changing after each attack; a goal off a called play is 2 points, any other goal is 1 point. The resting team tracks whether the play was run.
- Wrap-up (2 min): each team says which play worked best and whether the opponent figured out any signals.
Rules
- Only the center back gives the signal; everyone else repeats it quietly.
- If the play breaks down, play freely until the shot.
- Defend without grabbing or pushing; arms up.
- Switch goalies every four possessions.
Variations
Easier
Use only two plays and keep the defense passive the whole time.
Standard
Three signaled plays and a game with points for running them.
Harder
The defense may switch to a 5-1 at any time and the offense must adapt the play.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: plays center back giving signals from a fixed zone or acts as the team coach.
- Hearing impairment: this task plays to their strengths since the signals are visual; make sure teammates stay in their line of sight.
- Shyness or autism: helps design the plays and plays a fixed position with a clear job.
Learning goals
- Design and rehearse team attacking plays.
- Communicate with visual signals during play.
- Take on and accept the center back's leadership on offense.
Equipment for a class of 25
- team handball: 4
- goals: 2
- pinnies: 12
- cards: 4
Teacher tip
Plays should be simple, two or three passes: if students draw something too long, help them trim it. Rotate the center back spot so everyone gets to run the offense.
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