FORMATIONS 

Positions of attacking (red) and defending players (blue), in a 5-1 defense formation. (German captions)

Players are typically referred to by the position they are playing. The positions are always denoted from the view of the respective goalkeeper, so that a defender on the right opposes an attacker on the left. However, not all of the following positions may be occupied depending on the formation or potential suspensions.

Offense

• Left and right extremes. These typically excel at ball control and wide jumps from the outside of the goal perimeter to get into a better shooting angle at the goal. Teams usually try to occupy the left position with a right-handed player and vice versa.
• Left and right laterals. Goal attempts by these players are typically made by jumping high and shooting over the defenders. Thus, it is usually advantageous to have tall players for these positions.
• Center. A player with experience is preferred on this position who acts as playmaker and the handball equivalent of a basketball point guard.
• Pivot (left and right, if applicable). This player tends to intermingle with the defense, setting picks and attempting to disrupt the defense formation. This position requires the least jumping skills but ball control and physical strength are an advantage.

Defense

• Far left and far right. The opponents of the extremes.
• Half left and half right. The opponents of the left and right lateral.
• Rear center (left and right). Opponent of the pivot.
• Front center. Opponent of the center backcourt may also be set against another specific backcourt player.