Handball Introduction Program (HIP)
Empowering Every Educator to Teach handball with confidence and consistency
The Handball Introductory Program (HIP) is a national participation initiative designed to introduce students to the exciting world of handball in a safe, inclusive, and engaging way. Designed with flexible delivery options to ensure more opportunities to play anywhere, anytime.
The Handball Introduction Program (HIP) – Teacher & Coaches Guide has been designed to support teachers in secondary schools (Years 7/8). This resource equips educators with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to deliver inclusive, curriculum-aligned handball experiences in schools & clubs.
Through engaging, active, and developmentally appropriate activities, the program promotes a lifelong enjoyment of sport.
HIP holistically supports the development of physical literacy, fundamental movement skills, game sense, and social-emotional learning through the exciting, fast-paced sport of handball.
At the heart of HIP is mini handball — a modified, non-contact 4+1 format tailored for young and beginner players. Mixed-gender teams, smaller sides, and simplified rules ensure more touches, equal participation, and a welcoming environment for all. Mini handball is played with a soft-skinned, modified ball, allowing players to try every position — including goalkeeper — in a safe and supportive setting. This builds confidence, lays the groundwork for progression in the sport, and keeps the focus on enjoyment, development, and learning through play — the core principles of the HIP approach.
ARE YOU A HANDBALL CLUB?
Join the HIP program and start offering handball to young people! Click on the button below and fill in a short form to learn more about the program and how to register your club for the HIP program.
WANT TO LEARN MORE OR SEE HIP in your school?
Click on the button below and fill in a short form to learn more about the program and how to register your school for the HIP program.
ACCESS THE SPORTING SCHOOL FUNDING
Sporting Schools is a $320 million Australian Government initiative designed to help schools to increase youth participation in sport, and to connect them with community sporting opportunities, click below to learn how you can access funding to bring handball to your school PE program.
What makes hip stand out?
8 Week program for years 7/8
developed in partnership with ACHPER SA and fully aligned with the Australian Curriculum
Flexible delivery by teachers, coaches, or private providers
Designed for community
or school-based program delivery
Promotes physical literacy,
movement competence, and a lifelong love of sport
Supports diverse learners, making it ideal for all school environments
Creates clear pathways into community handball, keeping students active beyond school
