Australian Wheelchair Handball

HCR has confirmed the date of  First World Championships of Wheelchair Team Handball. The event will be on the  14th September 2013. Brazil is focused on

the World Champs and is preparing to send out material. The Material will include an official invitation letter.  The countries or the number of countries has not been announced but Australia, England and Japan has requested to participate in the event.

The rules/classification and structure of the championships have not been confirmed  but what has been confirmed is that the championship will be held in two cites. The cities of Curitiba and Itajai. Sources say that 7 games games will be played in one city and then we will travel to the other city to play 4 games.

Wheelchair handball is played on a handball or basketball court for non handball countries. The rules vary from county to country and are modified from the abled bodied game. In Australia, the aim of the game is to score as many goals as possible by throwing the ball into a soccer-style goal. A game lasts for two halves of 20 minutes each.

Play generally involves one team forming a defensive line along their 6m goal area, while the other team attacks by passing the ball and trying to score a goal by throwing the ball in the net behind the goalkeeper. Goals can only be scored from outside of the goalkeepers area – field players are not allowed in the keepers area.

After a goal is scored the game restarts with a throw off from the middle of the court.

Players on the move as the ball changes hands

Each team consist of ten players. At any one time four players are on the bench and six are on the court – five field players and one goalkeeper. Unlimited substitutions are permitted.

Donna moves the ball down the court

The ball is passed by using your hands. Players can throw the ball, catch, push or hit the ball with an open hand and hold the ball for a maximum of three seconds. A maximum of two pushes of the wheelchair is allowed before they must bounce, pass or throw the ball to another player or the goal.

Michael passing

While stationary they must bounce the ball repeatedly with one hand. A player can also dribble the ball while moving, once the ball is caught again it must be immediately passed or thrown at goal.

Shane catching

Players can receive two minute suspensions off the court as penalty for rule violations.

Strong interest in wheelchair handball has been developing national and internationally. If you wish to play for your state or Australian national team, contact the president 0414 439 764 for more information.

The strong favorites for the championships are the south America’s due to state and national competition experience but because its the first world Championships of Wheelchair Team Handball. The Australian’s or another non Handball country could pull a rabbit out of there hats and win the tournament. Australia is sending out a call for action for players, funding and sponsors. If you or your country wish to be involved please use the resources below.

Resources

http://bit.ly/champswhb

http://bit.ly/awhball

http://bit.ly/RlG2O3