News
April 2024
Our three-day Summer holiday handball camp was incredibly successful! The weather couldn't have been better.
We enjoyed plenty of games, tournaments, and awarded numerous prizes.
We handed out total of 68 prizes and awards (13 balls, 15 certificates, 21 silver medallions, 5 gold medallions and 14 trophies).
We can't wait to reunite with everyone at our next holiday camp!
March 2024
Our Handball community program at the Ingleburn Village Easter Fair was a tremendous success!
We had an abundance of kids participating, engaging in tournaments and competing for trophies.
Everyone was pumped and so well behaved and had smiles all day.
We handed out total of 44 prizes and awards (20 balls, 20 gold medallions and 4 trophies).
This event undoubtedly stands as one of the highlights of Sydney's handball community program thus far!
March 2024
Our Term 1 Sydney School North Handball Competition was a huge success!
Invited over 150+ schools!
Results for the North Conference:
Champions: Our Lady Of Good Counsel Forestville
2nd Place: Willoughby Public School
3rd Place: Mosman Public School
We express our sincere gratitude to all those who took part, and we eagerly anticipate our upcoming West & South conference tournament on Sunday, the 24th.
January 2024
The 2nd day of our Summer holiday handball camp was a tremendous success!
Lots of tournaments, trophies, games and waterfights!
We handed out total of 41 prizes and awards (5 balls, 13 certificates, 6 silver medallions, 12 gold medallions and 5 trophies).
Looking forward to seeing everyone at our next holiday camp!
January 2024
The kickoff to our summer holiday handball camp was a resounding success!
Lots of tournaments, trophies, games and waterfights!
We handed out total of 34 prizes and awards (5 balls, 13 certificates, 4 silver medallions, 11 gold medallions and 1 trophy).
Excited for day two tomorrow!
November 2023
The Thriving World of Handball in Australian Schoolyards
Handball, a beloved recess activity in schoolyards across Australia, has been capturing the hearts of students for generations. This simple yet exhilarating game has become a staple in the daily routines of Australian school children, fostering not only physical activity but also social bonds and essential life skills. In this blog, we'll explore the vibrant handball culture in Australian schoolyards, from its origins and rules to its enduring popularity and the benefits it brings to young players.
The Origins of Handball in Australia:
Handball, often referred to as "four square," "downball," or simply "handball," has a rich history in Australia. While the exact origins of the game are unclear, it is believed to have been introduced to Australian schoolyards by immigrants and has since evolved into a uniquely Australian pastime. Over the years, handball has grown in popularity, with generations of students passing down their knowledge and passion for the game.
The Game Rules: Handball in Australian schoolyards typically follows a set of simple but engaging rules:
Court Setup: A rectangular playing area is divided into four squares (hence the name "four square"). Each square is labeled with a letter from A to D, starting with "A" in the top left corner and continuing clockwise.
Players: Anywhere from two to four players can participate in a game, with each player occupying one of the squares.
Gameplay: The game starts with a player in the "A" square serving the ball by bouncing it once in their square and then hitting it towards another player's square. The receiving player must hit the ball into another square without letting it bounce twice in their square or letting it land outside the boundaries. If a player fails to do so, they are "out," and the remaining players continue playing until one player remains.
Scoring: Players aim to advance to the "A" square by eliminating opponents. The goal is to reach the "A" square and stay there as long as possible. Points are often tallied based on the number of rounds won.
Benefits of handball in Schoolyards: Handball offers a range of benefits to young players, including:
Physical Activity: Handball promotes physical fitness and coordination, helping students stay active during breaks.
Social Interaction: The game encourages social interaction, teamwork, and communication among players, helping to build essential social skills.
Healthy Competition: Handball teaches fair play, sportsmanship, and healthy competition, as players learn to win and lose graciously.
Mental Agility: Quick thinking and strategy are essential to excel in handball, enhancing cognitive skills.
Stress Relief: Handball provides a brief but effective break from academic pressures, allowing students to relax and recharge.
Handball remains a beloved and enduring tradition in Australian schoolyards, offering a host of benefits to young players. Its simplicity, inclusivity, and capacity to foster physical activity, social bonds, and essential life skills make it a valuable addition to any school's recess activities. As the game continues to captivate the hearts of students, handball remains an important part of Australian school culture, connecting generations of players through the joy of sport.
November 2023
Our Term 4 Sydney School Handball Competition yesterday was a resounding success!
Highlights of the event:
- Hosted at 2 locations
- Invited over 150+ schools
- 143 students participated
Results for the North/West Sydney Conference:
- Champions: Our Lady Of Good Counsel Forestville
- 2nd Place: Willoughby Public School
- 3rd Place: Mosman Public School
Results for the South/East Sydney Conference::
- Champions: Orange Grove Public School
- 2nd Place: Rose Bay Public School
- 3rd Place: Greystanes High School - Official
September 2023
The second day of our Spring Holiday handball camp was incredibly enjoyable!
Lots of tournaments, trophies, games and water fight!
We're eagerly looking forward to seeing everyone again at our next camp!
September 2023
Our Spring Holiday handball camp's first day was a big success!
Lots of tournaments, trophies, games, water fight and ice blocks! Looking forward for our 2nd day tomorrow!
September 2023
The Inaugural Southern Highland Tournament on 20th September
It was attended by 210 students from 3 schools. Amazing facilities. Excellent kids - polite, keen, great listeners and supportive. Live results were shown on the big screen. 29 awards were handed out. Well done to the 14 champions and 2nd place winners. Roberston Public were the champions on 294 points, Burrawang 224 and Glenquarry 192.
September 2023
Our Term 3 Sydney School Handball Competition 10th September was a huge hit!
Over 175 children from 29 different schools participated, and we had the pleasure of awarding numerous trophies and prizes.
Champions - Rose Bay Public School
2nd Place - Annandale North Public School
3rd Place - Narrabeen Lakes Public School
Without a doubt, it marked the pinnacle of Sydney's handball competitions so far!
June 2023
Schoolyard Handball Competitions and the Competitive Spirit
In the bustling world of schoolyards, where laughter and games echo, handball Competitions and the competitive spirit hold a special place. These exciting events bring together students from different grades, fostering teamwork, sportsmanship, and a healthy sense of competition. In this article, we will explore the thrill of schoolyard handball, discussing their significance, managing the game, and the joy it brings to students.
June 2023
Our Term 2 Sydney School Handball Competition was a huge success!
100+ schools invited
107 students attended
1st Place - Narrabeen Lakes CHAMPIONS
2nd Place - Annandale North Public School
3rd Place - OLGC
We extend our sincerest gratitude to all those who joined us, and we eagerly look forward to welcoming you back for the next term!
June 2023
16 OSH centres all over NSW and Queensland
Autumn holiday program
Massive Autumn holiday program across 16 OSH centres all over NSW and Queensland
Over 700+ kids participated
Over 200+ prizes, trophies and awards
March 2023
March 2023 - Term 1 2023 Sydney School Handball Competition
Term 1 2023 Sydney School Handball Competition
Very hot day. Over 40 students from 13 schools. Lots of awards and prizes
Sydney School Ranks:
1st Place - Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Primary School CHAMPIONS
2nd Place - Annandale North Public School
3rd Place - Forest Lodge Public School
4th Place - Homebush Boys High School
5th Place - Mortdale Public School
6th Place - Killara High School
7th Place - Greenway Park Public School
8th Place - Christian Brothers High School
9th Place - Gymea Technology High School
10th Place - Lindfield East Public School
11th Place - Brookvale Public School
12th Place - Redlands School
Age Champions:
Year 1 Max Devlin - Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Primary School
Year 2 Ryan Petkovich - Annandale North Public School
Year 3 Charlie Gove - Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Primary School
Year 4 Huxley Weiland - Forest Lodge Public School
Year 5 Harry Maginnis - Christian Brothers High School
Year 6 Andrej Vekic - Greenway Park Public School
Year 7 Callum Ly - Killara High School
Year 8 Connor Durrance - Gymea Technology High School
Year 10 Jyothir Aditya karamshetty - Homebush Boys High School
We hope to see you all again on the next tournament!
February 2023
February 2023 - St Patrick's Mortlake
St Patrick's Catholic Primary School Mortlake
113 prizes awarded. Kids were excellent, amazing new facilities . A top 10 Best in NSW Handball rank has been given for St Patrick's Catholic Primary School Mortlake.
February 2023
Why Your Kid Should Play Schoolyard Handball
Why your students should be encouraged to play Schoolyard Handball
Handball is a fast-paced and fun sport that has been a staple in schoolyards for generations. Whether your child is looking to stay active, improve their hand-eye coordination, or make new friends, handball has something to offer. This article will explore the many benefits of playing schoolyard handball for kids.
Increases Physical Activity
Handball is a physically demanding sport that requires quick movements and coordination. Playing handball regularly will help keep your child active and healthy.
Improves Hand-Eye Coordination
Handball requires quick reflexes and the ability to anticipate the movements of the ball and other players. Playing handball regularly can help improve your child's hand-eye coordination.
February 2023
February 2023 - Oxford Falls Grammar
Oxford Falls Grammar
Had an amazing time with kids at Oxford Falls Grammar All the kids were engaged and enthusiastic.
Awards were handed out.
January 2023 - Tharawal Before & After School Care Centre
Tharawal School Care Centre
Awesome kids and facility. Learnt a lot, rewarded with lots of prizes.
January 2023 - 26 OSH Centres
26 OSH Centres
811 kids did our Handball program from 26 OSH centres in Queensland and NSW.
416 awards were handed out.
January 2023 - Orange Grove Public School
Orange Grove Public School
Awesome kids, extremely well behaved. Learnt a lot, rewarded with lots of prizes.
December 2022 - Bunker Hill
Bunker Hill State School QLD
All the kids were engaged, enthusiastic and learn a lot. 22 Awards were handed out.
December 2022 - Minden State & Ripley Valley
Minden State QLD
All kids improved, enjoyed handball and were awarded lots of prizes
Ripley Valley State QLD
Most amazing school facilities in Australia.
November 2022 - Oxford Falls Grammar OOSH Centre
Handball Incursion for Oxford Falls Grammar OOSH Centre
Hot day! 20 kids from Oxford falls grammar care received lots of prizes and awards.
November 2022 - KP Kids
Handball Incursion KP Kids
Indeed one of the best Incursion programs! Lots of games, heeps of fun, memberships, stars, rewards, singles and doubles tournament, trophies and prizes. Held at KP Kids Incursion Center at Humphries Road WAKELEY NSW.
September 2022 - Gold Coast and Brisbane
Handball Incursion Gold Coast and Brisbane #5
Help 70 kids from Catholic Early EdCare, Catholic Early EdCare Runaway bay QLD and Shailer Park State School.
Delivered handball charity presents, awards and trophy to Chappy Matty for the Logan kids handball day.
July 2022
8 Australian Handball Hack Only the Pros Know
Handball is a very simple game to learn but difficult to master. The rules are easy to follow but how well you play all depends on your skills and understanding of the rules. That is why if you want to get really good at the game, knowing a few tips and tricks from experienced players can give you the edge you need.
June 2022
Brayden's Birthday Party!
Indeed one of the best birthday parties!
Lots of games, heeps of fun, memberships, stars, rewards, singles and doubles tournament, trophies and prizes.
March 2022
What Is Australian Handball, Anyway?
You have already noticed, Handball is everywhere in Australia. Before school, after school, during recess and lunch, the playgrounds are sure to be filled with kids playing this beloved pastime. Most schools have dedicated courts. It’s such a staple that everyone, regardless of age, has played this game at least once in their life. But to an outsider, this can be quite confusing as there are really no resources online.
December 2021 - Brisbane and Gold Coast Tour
Brisbane and Gold Coast tour.
Incursion at the OSH Catholic Early Edcare at Upper Coomera, Beenleigh and Clear island waters
December 2021 - Cawdor School
Cawdor School Program
Handball program and tournament for the Bushfire effected school community. Helping the P&C run Sunday parents and kids day.
July 2021
Keyarn's 24Hr Handball Challenge -The Carers Foundation
Keyarn is 8 years old and is wanting to raise funds for The Carers Foundation in Brisbane. This foundation does amazing work, supporting unpaid carers while providing Resilience Wellbeing programs. As well as providing counselling support programs. This vital foundation also supports child carers who look after sick or disabled adult family members. Unfortunately, Keyarn knows all too well about challenges in life. Having been diagnosed with mild Cystic Fibrosis at birth, coeliac disease and most recently a very rare and progressive bone disease. So rare that only 2 other people in Australia have this condition.... read more
Please support this cause
June 2021
Hardball Season 2
Premiere for June 25, 2021
ABC 10 part Television Series
Trained main actors to play handball. Warm up sessions before script rehearsals.
January 2021
National Handball Championships 2021
The inaugural first ever National Handball Australian Championships Children across Australia have come together to battle it out in the nation’s favourite childhood game.. 5000 kids all over Australia from 600 OHS facilities have played in the biggest Handball Tournament in Australia. 16 region finals and 500 kids will play in every state this coming May. Who will be the state champion?
December 2020
School Sport Program
Holy Innocents Croydon
Monday 7th December 2020
Beginners learning the basic rules, sportsmanship and loving the massive trophies and award
November 2020
School Sport Program
Term 4 2020
12th November 2020
Tournament for year 5 and 6. Amazing players and massive trophies
November 2020 - St Patricks Mortlake
School Sport Program
St Patricks Mortlake
Term 4 - 19th November 2020
Coaching year 2, 3 and tournament for year 4.
November 2020 - Joan of Arc
School Sport Program
Joan of Arc
Term 4 Wednesday 4th Nov 2020
Great courts. Amazing experience for the students. The Girls dominate!
September 2020
School Sport Program
St. Michaels
Term 3 Thursday 10th September 2020
Coaching Year 4, 5 and 6.
Great day amazing kids and atmosphere
September 2020 - Holy Spirit
School Sport Program
Holy Spirit
Wednesday 23rd September 2020
Coached 400 students. Over 20 Handball courts, amazing facilities and excellent students
December 2018
Tournament
Term 4 December 2nd 2018
Great competition, hot day and lots of prizes
November 2018
School Sport Program
Lindfield East Public
PSSA school program Term 3 2017 and Term 3 2018
September 2018
Tournament
Term 3 9th Sept 2018
June 2018
Hardball Season 1
Date: June and July 2018
ABC Me 13 part Television Series.
Trained main actors to play handball assisted in rules and end tournament filming scene
Won an International Emmy Kids Award celebrating the best children’s content from around the world. Won the Prix Jeunesse International Award for best fiction program for 7-10-year-olds
Rockie Award for the Best Children & Youth Fiction Series at the Banff World Media Festival in Canada