Team Handball: Wing Cuts In as a Second Pivot

A 6v6 team handball attack where the wing passes the ball and then runs behind the defense to the 6-meter line to become a second pivot. Students work on movement off the ball, breaking down a 6-0 defense, and passing into the pivot.

How to play

1. Teams of 6 plus a goalkeeper; the defense lines up in a 6-0 along the goal area (2 min).
2. Demo (3 min): the wing passes to the back and runs along the goal-area line behind the defenders until settling between two of them; the back threatens to shoot and passes to the new pivot if the defense steps out.
3. Attack vs. 6-0 (2 x 6 min): a pivot goal after the cut is 3 points, a back's goal after drawing defenders 2, any other goal 1; the defense earns 1 point per steal.
4. Switch roles after each attack; at minute 6 the spare team comes in and the play is run on the other side.
5. Debrief (3 min): which defender had to pick up the cutter, and when did the defense get it wrong?

Rules

• The wing cuts outside the goal area without stepping in it.
• Pivots may not push defenders for space, only fill the gap.
• If the goalkeeper is close, shots go above shoulder height.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: plays the back who feeds the pivot, without cutting.
• Visual impairment: a teammate calls his or her name when the pivot is open.
• Lower fitness: plays the fixed pivot, who moves in a small space.

Learning goals

• Move off the ball to break down a flat defense.
• Pass into the pivot when the defense steps out to the back.
• Analyze defensive responsibilities against two pivots.

Equipment for a class of 25

• Team handballs: 3
• Goals: 2
• Pinnies: 14
• Cones: 10
• Whistle: 1

Teacher tip

The wing often arrives late and steps into the area: mark the outside path with cones. Ask the goalkeeper to talk and warn the defense about the cut.

More activities like this

More main activities for High School