Resin Ban Makes Handball Game Challenging

For those who have never played handball competitively, the experience is drastic. Try to return a ball that has gone out of bounds, and you will understand the importance of a detail that can escape the general public: resin. Sometimes found even on the shoes of players, resin plays a fundamental role in this sport. To the point where it can leave you with a ball in your palm – and a few grams of glue as a bonus – when you want to be helpful.

Resin omnipresent in handball

When they enter the field, it is not uncommon to see handball players applying resin to their fingers. The container is always near the bench. This glue, which obviously enhances grip, allows them to both better control the ball, develop more power in shots and passes, add spin, or even secure the ball with one hand. However, on this Saturday, May 9, 2026, the Colombelles handball players will be without it. Alfortville, where they are heading, is one of the two teams in their National 2 group – along with Caen Venoix – that will play without resin. The gym of the ladies from Ile-de-France is subject to a municipal order prohibiting the use of this product.

Without glue, everything changes… except defense

Winger and captain of CLCH, Jeanne Godey is clear: “Handball without glue, it changes a lot how you play, especially in terms of ball handling and execution speed.” The Alfortville players are used to it. Second in the standings, they win everything at home, often with a wide margin. Colombelles see it as “a real challenge, a beautiful challenge,” despite their streak of 18 wins in 18 league games.

Without resin, it’s almost not the same sport. You will have to accept missing shots, missing passes.

Adaptation will have to be continuous. “Without resin, the ball slips more,” emphasizes Jeanne Godey. Long passes, powerful shots, and feints require a cleaner technique. It is a disruptive fact when you are not used to it. The game is slower, less spectacular. “You need more concentration, more patience, better analytical skills,” explains Paul Vardon. “It’s not insurmountable.” But small hands and those that sweat more are even more affected.

Specific balls

Colombelles does not intend to revolutionize their game, based in part on strong defense and fast attacks. “If we defend well and move the ball up, we find ourselves six meters without a defender.” In this case, there is no need to impose exceptional power or effects. However, the Colombelles players hope to discover balls adapted to the unique setup in the Alfortville venue. “As there is less grip, we must prioritize specific balls without glue that do not have the same technical characteristics as those we play with the rest of the time,” says Jeanne Godey.

A real issue for municipalities

Some brands have tried to develop a ball that eliminates the need for glue, but none have completely convinced. Therefore, it is necessary to deal with municipalities that refuse resin on their floors and walls. “It gets dirty, but it cleans up,” notes Paul Vardon. It’s like removing football players’ cleats because it damages the grass. Resin is an essential tool for handball players.

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