Executing throws
IHF · 2025Position and release · Whistle and errors
Position and release
For a formal throw, the player must hold the ball and occupy the prescribed position. Except for a goalkeeper throw, the thrower must be upright before execution. Part of the same foot normally stays on the floor until release; goalkeeper throws and throw-offs from the throw-off area have exceptions. Teammates and opponents must observe the positioning rules of that particular throw. A goal can be scored directly from any throw, but an out-of-play goalkeeper throw cannot produce a direct own goal.
Whistle and errors
A throw-off and seven-metre throw always require a whistle. Other throws require one after a time-out, position correction or certain other interruptions. Following the whistle, release the ball within three seconds. Execution errors without a restart whistle normally lead to correction and a repeat with a whistle; errors after the whistle normally give the opponents a free throw, subject to advantage. The thrower cannot touch the ball again before another player or the goal has touched it. Seven-metre throws impose an additional restriction on teammates.
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