Handball Rules and Regulations: The Complete Guide for Beginners and Experienced Players

scouzz@gmail.com 24 December 202324 December 2023 0 Comments

Handball is an exciting Olympic sport that combines elements of soccer, basketball, and netball. Two teams of seven players each pass and dribble a ball with their hands, trying to throw it into the opponent’s goal.

Handball has a long history dating back to ancient Roman times, but the modern sport emerged in Europe in the late 19th century. Today, handball is popular worldwide with millions of recreational and competitive players.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about handball rules, regulations, equipment, positions, violations, scoring, and more. Whether you’re new to the sport or an experienced player looking to brush up on your knowledge, this handball rules overview has you covered.

Handball Court and Equipment

Handball is played on a rectangular 40m x 20m court with a goal at each end. The goals are surrounded by a near-semicircular 6-meter line, also known as the goal area line. Only the goalkeeper is allowed within this line.

The playing surface is typically made of wood or synthetic material. Court markings include the center line and two 9m lines that divide the court into three zones.

Goals measure 3m wide and 2m high. The goal posts and crossbar must be square and made of a solid material like wood or metal. Behind each goal is a net to catch any balls scored.

The official handball is made of leather or a synthetic material. It measures 58 to 60 cm in circumference and weighs 425 to 475 grams for men’s balls and 400 to 425 grams for women’s balls. The ball must be spherical and have a shiny, smooth outer surface.

Players wear athletic shoes and shorts or pants. Jerseys are short-sleeved or sleeveless and made of lightweight material. Goalkeepers wear different colored jerseys than field players.

Handball Player Positions and Roles

Each team has six court players and one goalkeeper on the court at a time. The positions and roles are:

Goalkeeper: Guards the goal and blocks shots. The only player allowed in the goal area.
Left back: Plays on the left side of the court. Takes long shots and defend against opponent’s right wing.

Right back: Plays on the right side. Takes long shots and defends against opponent’s left wing.
Center back: Plays in the middle in defense and starts attacks. Joins attack with line players.
Left wing: Plays on the left side near the sideline. Works give-and-go passes with the pivot. Fast dodging runs to goal.

Right wing: Plays on the right side near the sideline. Works give-and-go passes with the pivot. Fast dodging runs to goal.
Pivot/Line player: Plays in the middle of the attack, works as playmaker. Tries to break through the defense near the goal.

Teams switch sides at halftime. Substitutions can be made any time the ball becomes dead and are unlimited. Most players specialize in either defense or offense.

Handball Rules and Regulations

Handball is a fast-paced game requiring skill, coordination, speed, and tactical sense. Here are the basic handball rules and regulations:

Matches are played in two 30-minute halves with a 10-minute halftime. The clock stops for timeouts, injuries, penalties, and when the referee signals for it. Teams switch sides at halftime.
Each team can have 7 players on the court – 6 court players and 1 goalkeeper. Teams must have a minimum of 5 players to avoid forfeiting.

Players can only hold the ball for 3 seconds max before passing or dribbling. The goalkeeper can hold it for 3 seconds inside and 6 seconds outside the goal area.
Players can take a maximum of 3 steps while holding the ball. Double dribble is not allowed. The ball must always be dribbled with one hand only.
Physical contact between players is illegal. Obstruction, pushing, holding, tripping and hitting are fouls. Defenders must keep 1 meter distance.

After fouls and other stoppages, play restarts with a free throw taken from the spot of the infraction. Defenders must keep 3 meters distance.
If the attacking team commits a foul in the goal area, the other team gets a free throw from the 6-meter line.
7 meter penalty throws are awarded for goal-scoring opportunities illegally stopped in the goal area by the defense.

For major fouls and unsportsmanlike conduct a 2-minute suspension can be awarded. Repeat offenses lead to disqualification.
Out of bounds balls are thrown in from where they left play. The team that didn’t touch it last takes possession.
Goals are scored when the entire ball crosses the goal line. Goals cannot be scored directly from a throw-off, throw-in, or goalkeeper’s throw.

Substitutions can be made any time the ball is dead. There is no limit on the number of substitutions.

In addition to these basics, there are more intricate rules regarding line violations, passive play, advantage rules, overtime procedures, and more. Familiarity with all the nuances comes with time and experience playing handball.

Handball Scoring and Winning

The main objective of handball, like any ball sport, is to score more goals than your opponent. Here are the handball scoring rules:

A goal is scored when the entire ball fully crosses the goal line. Goals can be scored from anywhere on the court.
Goals scored from inside the 6-meter line count as 1 point. Goals scored from outside the 6-meter line count as 2 points.
If the score is tied at full time, a 5-minute overtime period is played. First to score in overtime wins. If still tied, 5 alternating penalty shots determine the winner.

Teams switch sides again before the overtime period begins. All game rules apply in overtime.
The winner is the team with the most goals scored at the end of regulation play or overtime. Typical scores range from 15 to 30 goals for each team.

Handball games require great stamina, speed, skill, and strategy to outmaneuver opponents. Teams must balance a strong offense that creates scoring chances with a solid defense that prevents easy goals. Proper positioning, passing, faking, and shooting technique are also critical.

Handball Violations and Penalties

Handball has strict rules to ensure fair and safe play. Here are some common handball infractions and their consequences:

Traveling/Double Dribble – Taking more than 3 steps without dribbling, changing hands during dribble, or dribbling again after stopping. Penalty: Free throw for opponents.

Illegal Substitution – Substituting at the wrong time. Penalty: 2-minute suspension.

Passive Play – No shot on goal for extended offensive possession. Penalty: Turnover.

Charging/Pushing – Running or stepping into an opponent illegally. Penalty: Free throw for opponents.

Holding – Illegally grabbing or hooking a player. Penalty: Free throw.

Tripping/Obstruction – Impeding opponent’s movement with arms, legs, or body. Penalty: Free throw.

Hitting – Striking or punching an opponent. Penalty: 2-minute suspension or disqualification.

Illegal Screen/Blocking – Blocking without maintaining 1 meter distance. Penalty: Free throw.

Unsportsmanlike Conduct – Inappropriate behavior towards officials, opponents, or spectators. Penalty: Warning, 2-minute suspension, or disqualification.

Knowing the rules and penalties allows coaches to train players effectively and helps referees maintain fair competitions. Playing clean, avoiding infractions, and respecting opponents are key values in handball.

Handball Referees and Their Signals

Handball matches are overseen by referees who enforce the rules and control the game. One or two referees supervise the court and hand signals are used to indicate decisions:

One hand straight up: Stop time/clock.
Inside hand in circular motion or hand parallel to floor waving side to side: Passive play warning.
Both hands forming a T shape: Timeout granted.

One fist punching up: Goal scored.
Diagonal downward motions with both hands: Illegal dribble.
Patting top of head: Suspension, player must leave court.

Arms crossed over chest: Disqualification, player must leave match.
Pointing to spot with one arm: Location of a throw or free throw.
Number signals with fingers: Player number for suspension or disqualification.

These are just a few examples of referee hand signals in handball. Learning them helps players interpret referee decisions during games.

In addition, scorekeepers track goals, playing time, suspensions, timeouts, and substitutions. Delegates oversee the regulations and resolve disputes.

Handball Leagues and Major Competitions

Handball enjoys popularity among over 19 million players in more than 180 countries. It is most popular throughout Europe, and countries like Denmark, Sweden, Spain, France, and Germany have strong professional leagues.

Some top handball leagues and competitions worldwide include:

European Handball League: Club championship league featuring 24 top European teams.
IHF World Men’s Handball Championship: Held every two years, this is the most important national team competition.

IHF World Women’s Handball Championship: The premier women’s handball event held quadrennially.
Summer Olympics: Handball has been included in the summer games since 1972 for men and 1976 for women.
EHF Champions League: Annual championship for Europe’s top men’s and women’s club teams.

EHF European Championship: Biennial event crowning Europe’s best men’s and women’s national teams.
EHF Cup: Secondary European club team competition held annually.

Professional handball continues to grow globally, especially after increased television coverage in recent years. Aspiring young players now have more opportunities to pursue handball careers and compete at high levels.

Handball vs. Related Sports: Key Differences

Handball shares characteristics with other sports like soccer, basketball, water polo, and team handball:

	Handball	Soccer	Basketball	Water Polo	Team Handball
Court/Field Size	40m x 20m	90-120m x 45-90m	28m x 15m	30m x 20m	40m x 20m
Players per Team	7 (6 court + goalie)	11	5	7 (6 field + goalie)	7 (6 court + goalie)
Game Length	2 x 30 minute halves	2 x 45 minute halves	4 x 10-12 minute quarters	4 x 8 minute quarters	2 x 30 minute halves
Ball Type	Smaller handball	Large spherical soccer ball	Standard basketball	Water polo ball	Smaller handball
Legal Ball Contact	Hands only	Feet, legs, head, chest, etc	Hands only	Hands & feet	Hands only
Substitutions	Unlimited during dead balls	Limited (3 per match in soccer)	Unlimited during dead balls	Only after goals, quarters, etc	Unlimited during dead balls
Physicality	Non-contact sport. Minimal contact allowed	Moderate contact sport	Moderate contact sport	Very physical sport	Limited contact allowed
Common Injuries	Hand fractures, wrist sprains	Ankle sprains, head injuries	Ankle sprains, knee injuries	Head injuries, shoulder dislocations	Wrist sprains, knee injuries

While the sports share similarities in terms of team size, court dimensions, and continuous play, handball has distinct rules regarding ball handling and contact. Understanding how it differs from related sports helps newcomers pick up on the nuances.

Handball Equipment and Gear Guide

Handball requires minimal protective equipment and gear. Beginners just need athletic clothing, proper shoes, and a ball. Here’s what individuals and teams should have:

Handball shoes -Lightweight court shoes with good traction.
Shorts and jersey – T-shirt or tank top jersey and athletic shorts or pants.
Gloves (optional) – Provide grip and absorb sweat. Fingerless gloves allow full dexterity.

Headgear (optional) – Lightweight headbands control sweat and hair.
Mouthguard (optional) – Protects teeth and oral injuries for very physical positions.
Compression sleeves (optional) – Reduces arm fatigue and risk of abrasions during play.

Handballs – Different sizes for men, women, and juniors. Beginners can start with all-rubber balls.
Ball pump and needles – Proper inflation is important for correct ball bounce and performance.
Cones and marker disks – Useful for drills and training exercises.

First aid kit – For treating minor injuries, muscle soreness, blisters, etc. Tape, bandages, ice packs recommended.

With these basic essentials, players can participate fully while avoiding injury. Goalkeepers require additional specialized equipment like padded pants and gloves.

Handball Positions: Skills, Tips, and Training

Handball positions require specialized skills and training. Here is an overview of key attributes for each spot:

Goalkeeper

The goalkeeper is arguably the most important position shielding the net. Goalie skills include:

Quick reflexes to block shots.
Agility to move across goalmouth and defend shots from all angles.

Good passing technique to initiate fastbreaks.
Communication to direct defense and warn of offensive threats.
Courage to stop hard shots and withstand physical play near the crease.

Goalies should practice footwork drills for mobility, block shots to improve reactions, and study shooter tendencies to predict shot placement. Weight training builds the strength to hold ground against charging opponents.

Wings

The left and right wing players operate mostly near the sidelines ready to sprint down the court. Key abilities include:

Speed and agility to beat defenders.

Ball control and dribbling skills for fast breaks.
Jumping and shooting accuracy while on the run.
Give-and-go passing with the pivot.

Wingers can improve speed with plyometrics and agility ladders. Ball handling drills and shooting on the move help polish their skills. Watching the defense’s head position indicates if a lane is open for a cut to the goal.

Backcourt

The left and right backs play crucial defensive roles but can also take long shots from the perimeter. They must have:

Endurance to cover the full court.

Footwork to stay in front of opponents.
Tackling skills to stop drives and win ground balls.
Powerful overarm shot from distance.

Man and zone defensive concepts.

Backcourt players should work on defensive slides and lateral movement as well as ballhandling and passing that transitions quickly from defense to offense. Their positioning disrupts the offense and pressures the ball handler.

Pivot/Line Player

The pivot sets up in the low post with playmaking duties. Pivots need:

Strength to establish position near the goal against physical defenders.
Nimble footwork and agility to spin and drive to the basket.
Spatial awareness to pass between multiple defenders.

Screening skills without fouling to create openings for teammates.

Drills to improve foot fakes, head fakes, and ball fakes help pivots drive to the goal effectively. Targeted core strength training provides stability to hold position while absorbing contact.

Center Back

The center back plays an versatile role organizing the attack and linking the defense. Key qualities include:

Vision to see the play develop and exploit gaps in the defense.
Communication and leadership directing the attack.
Toughness to drive toward goal through heavy traffic.

Endurance to support the offense and defense possession after possession.

Decision making drills improve court vision for knowing when to shoot, drive, or pass. Training for explosive power like squats and plyometrics generates more scoring opportunities off the dribble.

With diligent position-specific practice, handball players can drastically improve their abilities. Coaches provide guidance to shore up weaknesses and build on strengths.

Handball Offense and Defense: Strategies and Formations

Implementing offensive and defensive strategies gives teams an advantage. Here are common tactics and formations:

Offense

Fast break – Try to score before the defense sets up by outlet passing to wings sprinting down court.
Give-and-go – Pass to a teammate, make a quick cut, and receive the return pass for an open shot.

Screening – Create space for shooters by having a teammate block or pick the defender.
Driving – Aggressively attack the goal by dodging defenders. Draws fouls.
Pivot play – Establish position near goal, receive entry passes, and create shot opportunities.

Perimeter shooting – Backcourt players take long shots from beyond 6 meters when defenders collapse.
Invert offense – Backcourt players drive toward goal and frontcourt players operate from perimeter.

Defense

Man-to-man – Each defender covers one offensive player closely over the full court.

Zone – Defenders cover areas rather than individual players. Common in 6-0 defense with stacked field players.
Full court press – Defenders pressure offense in their own backcourt to force turnovers.

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Conclusion:

Handball is an exhilarating team sport that combines speed, power, agility, and skill. Originating in Europe over a century ago, handball has grown into a global game played recreationally and competitively by millions worldwide.

As this comprehensive guide has covered, handball requires players to handle and pass the ball using only their hands while trying to score goals against opponents. The sport has strict rules against traveling, double dribble, charging, and other infractions to ensure fair contests between two teams of seven players.Matches consist of two 30-minute halves and the team with more total goals wins.

Handball courts are 40 meters long and 20 meters wide with a goal at each end. Teams take shots trying to throw the ball past the goalkeeper and into the net. Players have specialized positions like goalkeeper, wings, backs, pivot, and center that call for different attributes and skills. For example, wings rely on speed and ball control during fast breaks while pivots use strength and footwork to power shots near the goal.

Top professional leagues exist in countries like Germany, France, Denmark, Spain, and others in Europe where handball is most popular. The biggest global tournaments are the quadrennial Summer Olympics, the biennial IHF World Championships, annual European championships, and the Champions League featuring the continent’s best club teams.

For individuals looking to get into handball, the basic equipment like comfortable athletic shoes, shorts, t-shirt jersey, and proper handball are easy to acquire. Goalkeepers require additional specialized gear for protection. Ball handling drills, agility practice, weight training, skill development, and learning tactics through coaching and videos allow beginners to progress quickly.

Handball truly provides a full-body workout and tests players’ endurance, reflexes, versatility, and mental toughness. Matches are exciting for participants and spectators alike as teams execute set plays and counter each other’s strategies. The fast-paced, high-scoring nature of handball keeps fans and players engaged from start to finish.

While handball faces stiffer competition from more commercial sports like soccer and basketball globally, its inclusion in the Olympics and improving media coverage provides opportunities to expand its popularity worldwide. Youth training programs expose the next generation to handball early and develop lifelong players.

In many ways, handball represents the best elements of sport combining teamwork, skill, and individual talents. Training hard to sharpen fundamental skills and mastering offensive and defensive tactics helps all players maximize their contributions. Remaining disciplined to avoid penalties and unforced errors makes the difference at the highest level.

With the complete handball guide and overview covered here, new players can jump into the sport with confidence. Make sure to practice safely with proper technique and warmups supervised by qualified coaches. Handball offers fun, fitness, and lasting memories for recreational and competitive athletes alike. The popularity growth and possibilities in handball’s future ensure exciting times ahead for this historic and entertaining team sport.

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