Beach handball is a variation of traditional handball, adapted to be played on sandy terrain. The sport has been gaining popularity around the world, which is why we decided to explain more about how it works.
In this article, then, you’ll find out what the rules of beach handball are. We’ll explore in detail the rules regarding the structure and size of the playing area, as well as the main infractions and penalties applied.
If you like the sport and want to know more about it, get ready to learn the main rules of beach handball!
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Beach handball rules: complete list
- Playing area;
- Duration of the game;
- Scoring;
- Players;
- Substitutions;
- Equipment;
- The game;
- Infractions and penalties.
Beach handball rules: playing area
The beach handball pitch must be a rectangle measuring 27 meters long by 12 meters wide. The side and end lines delimit the field, and the side lines should be marked by 5 to 8 cm wide tapes.
In the center of each end line, there is a goal area, which is a semi-circle with a radius of 6 meters. The goal area is an exclusive zone for the goalkeeper, and the line players can only enter it in the air, in a throwing motion.
Beach handball rules: duration of the game
The game is divided into two sets of 10 minutes each, with a 5-minute break between sets. If each team wins a set, a third period called the “shoot-out” is held to determine who the winner will be.
This shoot-out is a sequence of direct free kicks, which takes place when each player tries to score a goal against the opposing goalkeeper in one-on-one situations.
Beach handball rules: scoring
In beach handball, points are awarded not only for the number of goals scored, but also for the difficulty of scoring them.
An ordinary goal, for example, is worth 1 point, while goals scored in acrobatic maneuvers, such as 360-degree spins or in special situations like the goalkeeper-line, are worth 2 points.
This scoring system encourages creative and spectacular plays, increasing the attractiveness of the game and making it more competitive!
Beach handball rules: players
Each team is made up of a maximum of 10 players, only 4 of whom can be on the pitch at the same time: 3 line players and 1 goalkeeper.
Substitutions are unlimited and can be made at any time during the game, without the need for an interruption, as long as the players leaving and entering do so within the substitution area, which is close to the sidelines.
Beach handball rules: substitutions
Substitutions in beach handball are unlimited and can be made at any time during the game, without having to notify the referee.
Players must enter and leave the field through the substitution zone, located at the side of the field, thus avoiding any confusion or undue advantage.
Beach handball rules: equipment
The basic equipment for beach handball includes a special ball made of synthetic material, which must be water-resistant and have a good grip, even when wet.
Players must also wear appropriate clothing for the sand: shorts for men and tops and shorts for women. Footwear is not allowed, except for special socks if necessary.
Beach handball rules: the game
Here’s how a beach handball match works:
- The game starts with a throw-in from the center of the field, determined by a draw. The team that wins the draw then decides whether to start the game or choose their side of the pitch.
- The throw-off must be taken within 3 seconds of the referee’s whistle and can be taken in any direction.
- Offensive and defensive actions are dynamic in beach handball. Therefore, line players can enter the goal area while in the air, but cannot touch the ground inside it.
- Defenders must avoid excessive contact and may not obstruct attackers illegally.
- Throws and passes must be made quickly, and the ball may not be held for more than 3 seconds.
- In beach handball, two referees are responsible for overseeing the game, ensuring that the rules are followed. They have the authority to make decisions on infractions, validate goals and control the playing time.
- In addition to the referees, there is a timekeeper and an annotator who help control the time and document the game.
- Each team is entitled to a time-out of one minute per set. The coach must request it from the scorer or the referee during a break in play. Time-outs are strategic, allowing teams to re-evaluate their tactics and rest briefly.
- If each team wins a set, the game is decided by a shoot-out. Each team assigns five players to take individual shots against the opposing goalkeeper in one-on-one situations.
The player must then pick up the ball, run and try to score a goal in a single attempt. The team that scores the most goals at the end of the series wins the game. If there is still a tie, the match continues with one player from each team until there is a winner.
Beach handball rules: infractions and penalties
Beach handball infractions include unsportsmanlike conduct, excessive physical contact and illegal entry into the goal area.
Penalties can range from free kicks for the opposing team to temporary exclusions or disqualifications of the offending player.
Temporarily excluded players must leave the field for 2 minutes, leaving the team one player short.
Beach handball rules: complete list
- Playing area;
- Duration of the game;
- Scoring;
- Players;
- Substitutions;
- Equipment;
- The game;
- Infractions and penalties.
Since you’ve come this far and enjoyed learning about the rules of beach handball, take the opportunity to continue browsing the site and acquire much more knowledge about this and other sports!
