What is 'Dribbling' in Handball?
Dribbling in handball refers to the action of a player bouncing the ball while moving across the court. This maneuver is essential for maintaining control of the ball and creating opportunities to pass, shoot, or evade defenders. Unlike basketball, where players can dribble continuously, handball has specific rules governing dribbling.
Key Points About Dribbling:
- Each player can dribble the ball multiple times, but they can only take a maximum of three steps without dribbling again.
- If a player holds the ball and takes more than three steps without dribbling, it results in a traveling violation, leading to a turnover.
- While dribbling, players must keep the ball within their reach; they can't carry the ball in one hand while running.
- When a player dribbles, they must ensure the ball remains in motion, as stopping the dribble and then starting again is illegal.
Importance of Dribbling:
Effective dribbling increases a team's offensive options by allowing players to maneuver around defenders and create scoring opportunities. Dribbling also helps players maintain possession under pressure, making it a critical skill for handball athletes.