Understanding the terminology of handball is essential for beginners and experienced players alike. Whether you’re reading game analysis, learning new drills, or communicating on the court, knowing these key terms will help you better understand the sport and become a more effective player.
Attack
The phase of play where your team is in possession and trying to score a goal.
Backcourt Players
Refers to the left back, centre back, and right back positions. These players typically initiate plays and shoot from long range.
Bounce Pass
A pass that is deliberately bounced on the ground to reach a teammate, often used to bypass a defender.
Breakthrough
An attacking move where a player successfully dribbles or cuts past a defender to reach a shooting position.
Centre Back
Also called the playmaker, this player directs the attack and coordinates team movements.
Circle / Goal Area
The six-metre semicircle surrounding the goal. Only the goalkeeper is allowed to stand inside it.
Dribbling
Bouncing the ball while moving. Players may only dribble once per possession in handball.
Fast Break
A quick counter-attack immediately after gaining possession, usually to exploit an unorganised defence.
Feint
A deceptive movement intended to trick a defender or goalkeeper, often used during dribbling or shooting.
Free Throw
Awarded for minor fouls or rule violations. Taken from the spot of the foul or the 9-metre line.
Goalkeeper
The only player allowed inside the goal area. Their job is to block shots and start fast breaks with outlet passes.
Jump Shot
A common shooting technique in which the player jumps before releasing the ball to generate power and accuracy.
Line Player / Pivot
Positioned near the opponent’s goal area, this player creates space and looks for close-range scoring chances.
Lob Shot
A high-arcing shot intended to go over the goalkeeper’s head.
Man-to-Man Defence
A defensive system where each defender marks a specific opponent.
Marking
The act of covering or tracking an opposing player to prevent them from receiving the ball or scoring.
Passive Play
A rule violation where the attacking team fails to make progress or attempt a shot. The referee will warn the team before awarding possession to the opposition.
Penalty Throw
Awarded for serious defensive fouls. Taken from the 7-metre line, similar to a penalty kick in football.
Pivot
Another term for the line player who operates close to the goal area.
Red Card
Given for serious or repeated offences. The player is disqualified from the match, and the team plays with one less player for two minutes.
Referee Throw
Used to restart the game when play was stopped without any rule violation, such as after an injury.
Set Play
A pre-planned offensive tactic designed to break down a defence and create a scoring opportunity.
Shot Clock
Handball doesn’t use a shot clock like basketball, but referees can penalise slow play with passive play warnings.
Sideline Throw
Occurs when the ball crosses the sideline. The opposing team throws it back into play from the spot it exited.
Steal
When a defender successfully intercepts a pass or takes the ball from an opponent.
Suspension
A two-minute exclusion for a rule violation. The team plays short-handed during the suspension.
Throw-Off
The action used to start each half and to restart play after a goal is scored.
Turnover
When a team loses possession through a foul, poor pass, or rule infraction.
Wing Player
A player who operates near the sideline and is often involved in fast breaks and sharp-angle shots.
Yellow Card
A warning issued for unsportsmanlike conduct or a minor offence. Does not reduce the number of players on the court.
