Profile of the Top Player: Bear

In advance:
The profile of the Bear is based on data of the top players of the Dutch National Team.

Definition:The completeness and the combination of specific korfball skills, the mental qualities and physical qualities , which are necessary for the top player to develop the role of Bear at a high level.
We call this whole “the action type” of the Bear.

Specific Korfball Skills:
Killer: The Bear scores 30% - 50 % out of 4 – 12 shot attempts.
The zone in which the Bear operates is around the post: korf zone.
The Bear takes care of the continuity of the attack by rebounding shots. The Bear wins the attack rebound: 70% – 80%
The Bear reads where the shot comes down, at the same time he blocks out his opponent: (double tasking by split vision)
The Bear reads the play and can hold his position and even he can improve his position during the attack

Mental qualities:
The Bear loves dueling and fighting spirit
The Bear gives his teammates confidence by his attitude, position and he shows winning spirit to the teammates of his section
The Bear is tough and steadfast and never gives up
The Bear can handle stress and inspires the players in his section by his firmness
The Bear takes in the service of goals of the team and the section
The Bear can coach the players in his section (double tasking)
The Bear is empathic and clever: He foresees the goals of the defenders and can make profit out of that.

Physical qualities:
The Bear is solid, well build; he is headstrong and a tall player: 1.88 m. – 2.00 m
Reach standing: 2.50 m. – 2.60 m.
Reach from jump: 3.10 m. -3.20 m.
Athletic body: male player
Fat percentage: 15% - 18%; female player: 20% - 25%
( Bears are well build, so they can easily block the opponent out of the rebound zone)
Very good eye – hand coordination: Bear is skilful with one and two hands. He can score nearby the post, using all kinds of techniques.