Handball: Rules, Gameplay, and Player Positions
Handball is a dynamic ball sport played between two teams. Each team consists of 12 players, all of whom must be enrolled in the game’s official record. Seven players from each team (6 field players and 1 goalkeeper) take the field at any given time. The objective is to score by throwing the ball into the opposing team’s goal. The team with the most goals after the game, which consists of two 30-minute halves, wins. A draw is also a possible outcome.
Nature of the Game
The main rule is that players, excluding goalkeepers, may not intentionally touch the ball with their feet during regular gameplay. Players advance the ball into the 9-meter area by passing and dribbling, from which they attempt to score against the goalkeeper. Opposing players try to regain control of the ball by intercepting passes or blocking shots with their arms and hands. Unlike some other sports, physical contact between players is frequent and expected. The game flows freely, stopping only when the ball goes out of bounds or when the referee intervenes. After each stoppage, the game restarts with a specific procedure.
Player Positions and Tactics
Goalkeeper
The handball goalkeeper is the only player allowed inside the 6-meter area. They can take as many steps as they want with the ball in their hands without dribbling. They are also the only player who can touch the ball with their legs, but only to stop shots.
Wingers
Wingers are positioned on either side of the court. They may also move within the 6-meter area. They are typically fast, agile players with strong jumping abilities. They often initiate attacking moves from their static positions.
Backs
The backs are situated on either side of the center back. They are usually tall, powerful players with a strong throw. They are used to break through the defense line from 9 meters and often provide assists.
Center Back
The center back is the central axis of the team. They are the playmaker in attack, calling plays and directing players on where to initiate attacks. They are usually fast players with good reflexes and tactical awareness.
Pivot
Finally, the pivot is responsible for penetrating the defensive wall and creating openings. They are strong players who excel in close-quarters combat.
Rules of the Playing Field
The playing field is a rectangle measuring 40 meters long by 20 meters wide, divided into two halves, each with a goal area. The goals are 2 meters high by 3 meters wide. Each goal is within a 6-square-meter area. The free-throw line is a broken line drawn 3 meters outside the goal area line.
The Ball
The game is played with a ball made of leather or synthetic material. Three sizes are used:
- Junior/Senior (+16 years): 58-60 cm circumference, 425-475 g
- Women over 14 and men between 12 and 16: 54-56 cm, 325-375 g
- Children 8 to 12 years and girls 8 to 14: 50-52 cm, 290-330 g
Often, the ball is coated with resin. The resin helps players catch the ball with one hand, allowing for more complex maneuvers without the risk of the ball slipping. However, it can make the ball and the floor sticky.
Starting the Game
Before the game, both teams greet each other, the referees, and the officials at the centerline. A coin toss or whistle determines which team will start with the ball or choose which half of the court to defend.
Duration and Outcome
The match duration is 60 minutes, divided into two 30-minute periods. The result can be a victory for either team or a draw. In some tournaments, a tie leads to extra time or penalties.
Sanctions
Yellow Card (Warning)
A yellow card can be shown only once to each player (with a maximum of three per team). It is given when a player exhibits unlawful conduct, is excessively physical with an opponent, or displays unsportsmanlike behavior. The referee shows a yellow card to the player.
Two-Minute Suspension
A suspended player cannot play for 2 minutes, and their position remains vacant until they return. If a player receives three suspensions in a game, they are disqualified. The referee signals a suspension by showing a clenched fist with the index and middle fingers raised.
Red Card (Disqualification)
A disqualified player must leave the court for the rest of the game. Their team plays with one fewer player for 2 minutes, after which another player can substitute them. A player is disqualified for a very serious foul, continued unsportsmanlike conduct, accumulating three suspensions, committing an assault, or entering the field illegally. The referee shows a red card to indicate disqualification.
Expulsion
This is the most severe penalty and is used only in cases of blatant aggression on the court. The expelled player must leave the court and the bench and cannot be replaced for the rest of the game. The referee signals an expulsion by crossing their arms in front of their chest.