This study aimed to clarify the structure of an effective 1:1 defensive strategy to prevent breakthroughs in handball by applying knowledge obtained from the practical wisdom of top-notch athletes, and to provide knowledge that can be applied to practice in improving the individual defensive strength of junior-level athletes. In order to achieve this, we conducted interviews with five internationally-acclaimed defensive handball athletes and qualitatively analyzed narratives relating to the structure of 1:1 defense strategies. The results were as follows:
1） During 1:1 off-the-ball defensive scenarios, outstanding defenders position themselves specifically to cover the offensive player or ball, depending on the situation. They also close in before the opponent moves into a position to catch the ball, and feint to constrain the opponentʼs incoming speed. In on-the-ball situations, these athletes position and space themselves in ways that make quick shots and breakthroughs on the dominant arm side difficult, and engage in close play to prevent the opponentʼs shots or breakthroughs through feinting without receiving warnings or being ejected from the game.
2） 1:1 defensive plays made by outstanding defensive athletes appear to involve plays that remove extemporaneousness, appropriate measures against the opponentʼs final play, and risk management in response to sudden situational changes, rather than an instantaneous reading of the offensive tactical strategy from movements and responding through extemporaneousness.
