Tchoukball Rebounder

Game Rules, Variations, and Activity Ideas!

Tchoukball is an engaging, strategic game that fosters teamwork, precision, and anticipation. Below is a detailed breakdown of the game rules, variations, and additional activities using the equipment to enhance physical education classes.

How to Play:

Field Setup: Place a rebounder at each end of the playing field. The rebounders must face the playing area and be securely positioned to ensure the ball rebounds effectively. Around each rebounder, mark a 3-meter (approx. 9'10") radius known as the "forbidden zone." Players are not allowed to enter this area, nor can the ball land inside it after a shot.

Team Composition: Teams generally consist of 5 to 7 players. Players rotate through positions on offense and defense, ensuring equal participation. The game can be played either indoors or outdoors, with the recommended court size similar to that of a basketball court (28m x 15m or 92' x 49').

Gameplay: The team in possession of the ball can make up to 3 passes between teammates. Players must pass the ball within 3 seconds of receiving it, and they are not allowed to dribble or move with the ball beyond taking two steps after catching it. The objective is to throw the ball at the rebounder, aiming for it to bounce back into the field without being intercepted by the opposing team. Players can score on either rebounder, adding an element of unpredictability and strategy. Defenders may not attempt to block shots directly or obstruct passes. Their primary goal is to anticipate the rebound and catch the ball before it touches the ground.

Scoring: The attacking team scores a point if the ball hits the rebounder and the defending team fails to catch it before it hits the ground. The defending team earns a point if the attacking team misses the rebounder, the ball lands inside the forbidden zone after rebounding, or the ball goes out of bounds after hitting the rebounder. Games typically last for 3 periods of 15 minutes each, with teams switching sides after each period.

Violations & Turnovers: Entering the forbidden zone results in an immediate turnover, with possession going to the other team. Any attempt to block or interfere with a player holding the ball is considered a foul, and possession is awarded to the opposing team. A team loses possession if they exceed the 3-pass or 3-second limits, or if they make an incomplete pass.

Non-Contact: Tchoukball emphasizes non-contact, meaning players cannot physically interfere with each other during the game. Defensive strategy is based on positioning, anticipation, and catching rather than blocking or stealing.

Gameplay Variations:

One-Handed Throws: Only allow players to throw the ball using one hand, either their dominant or non-dominant hand.

Pass Minimum: Require teams to make a minimum of 3 passes before attempting to score, encouraging teamwork and strategy.

Two Ball Mode: Introduce a second ball to increase the speed and difficulty of the game, with both teams having to track multiple plays.

Target Passing: Add specific target zones on the court that teams must pass through before shooting, promoting accuracy and strategic passing.

Penalty Shootout: In case of a tie, resolve the game through a penalty shootout where players take turns shooting at the rebounder while defenders try to catch the ball.

Additional Ways to Use Tchoukball Equipment:

Target Practice: Set up the rebounders as targets, where students must hit certain sections for points. This develops accuracy and hand-eye coordination.

Relay Race: Organize a relay race where teams must pass the ball down the court and bounce it off the rebounder before the next player can start.

Rebounder Passing Drill: Have students pass the ball off the rebounder to a teammate as part of a continuous drill to enhance passing and catching skills.

Goalie Challenge: Select one player as a goalie who stands near the rebounder. Other players take turns shooting, and the goalie tries to catch the ball before it touches the ground.

Dodgeball Variation: Combine Tchoukball with dodgeball, where players shoot at the rebounder while opponents try to dodge or catch the ball.

Timed Shooting Challenge: Give students a set amount of time to score as many points as possible by rebounding the ball off the frame without being caught by the other team.

Obstacle Course Shooting: Set up obstacles around the court. Players must navigate the course before attempting to shoot the ball at the rebounder.

Tag Team Tchoukball: Players are paired up, and only one pair is allowed on the court at a time. They must make a successful shot before tagging in their partner.

Capture the Flag Crossover: Incorporate Tchoukball into a capture-the-flag game, where players must retrieve a flag and score by hitting the rebounder.

Bounce Accuracy Drill: Place targets on the ground, and players must bounce the ball off the rebounder to hit these targets, improving their precision.