Handball is a thrilling sport played by two teams of seven players each. It is a fast-paced game like football and requires agility(moving at that fast speed), teamwork, and strategic thinking. This article will explore handball’s rules, gameplay, and point system, providing an easy-to-understand introduction to this thrilling sport.
The basic rule of handball
The International Handball Federation (IHF) regulates the game and sets the rules and regulations. Handball is typically played indoors on a rectangular court(a place), although anyone can play on an outdoor beach court.
The game aims to score goals by throwing a ball into the opponent’s goal while preventing them from doing so. The team that scores the most goals at the end of the match is declared the winner.
One of the critical parts of the handball is its physicality. Defenders can use their bodies to block and obstruct opponents, but they must do so within the rules. Physical contact that risks the safety of players is strictly prohibited, and referees are responsible for ensuring fair play and penalizing any infractions.
How the Gameplay
The game starts with a coin toss like cricket to hand over the ball to toss winning team to throw the ball. The players move to throw the ball by passing or taking up to three steps without dribbling. However, the player must take at least three seconds to perform these actions. Players can also jump and throw the ball while in the air.
Handball matches consist of two halves, each lasting 30 minutes in professional games, with a 10-minute halftime break. In case of a tie at the end of regulation time, the game proceeds to a shootout. Shootouts involve a player starting from a specified spot and attempting to score a goal against the opposing goalkeeper.
Point System
Scoring in handball is relatively straightforward. Like a football goal, a goal is considered when the ball crosses the line. Each goal adds one point to the scoring team’s count. The team with the most goals at the end of the match emerges as the winner.
To keep track of the score, handball courts feature scoreboards displaying the goals scored by each team. Additionally, referees utilize whistle signals and hand gestures to communicate various decisions and fouls to the players and spectators, ensuring transparency and clarity during the game.
Nature of handball
Handball is a sport that values teamwork and coordination. Players must communicate while playing the game, expect their teammates’ movements, and create scoring opportunities through quick passing and intelligent positioning, like in football.
