Early May (05/05-05/07) four teams of SF Calheat traveled to Spokane, Washington and the club left an indelible mark at the US National Handball Championships. The club’s teams showcased their exceptional skills, determination, and teamwork throughout the tournament, achieving remarkable success. From securing gold medals to developing as a team, SF Calheat’s athletes proved their mettle on the national stage.

The SF Calheat Elite Men team emerged victorious, clinching the gold medal at the US National Handball Championships. Their exceptional performance showcased the culmination of hard work, discipline, and strategic play. With each match, they demonstrated their prowess, leaving no doubt about their place at the top of the handball elite, winning over New York in the final.

The Women Team 1 exemplified the true spirit of champions, securing the gold medal in the open women division. After not having been in the finale of the national championships for more than 15 years, the team really earned the medal after a season of hard work and discipline. With their coach Kristina Alavanja, the team focused on a strong defense and fast-paced offense. After having lost the finale against New York at CalCup earlier this year, the team happily celebrated this performance!

SF Calheat Women Team 2 may have placed 8th in the tournament, but their journey was far from ordinary. The individual players came together from all over the world and over the course of the competition, this talented group of athletes demonstrated remarkable growth. The club is proud of their accomplishments and recognizes the immense potential for future success from this developing team.

The SF Calheat Open Division Men team displayed impressive skill and determination, securing a commendable second-place finish. Their journey throughout the tournament was marked by intense matches, displaying their ability to compete at the highest level.

The US National Handball Championships also recognized the exceptional performance of SF Calheat’s goalkeepers. Lukas Kröger from the Elite Men team, Natallia Zhelnova from Women Team 1, and Omar Bentahar from the Open Division Men team earned the coveted title of Most Valuable Goalkeeper (MVG). Their outstanding saves, quick reflexes, and leadership skills were vital contributions to their teams’ success. SF Calheat congratulates these exceptional athletes on their well-deserved recognition.

Our performance at the US National Handball Championships was nothing short of outstanding. With the Elite Men and Women Team 1 clinching gold medals, Women Team 2 showing significant development, and the Open Division Men team achieving the silver medal, the club’s athletes have set a high standard for excellence in the sport in the US. Additionally, the recognition of our three goalkeepers as MVGs further highlights the club’s commitment to nurturing exceptional talent. As SF Calheat continues to flourish and make its mark on the national handball stage, the future looks bright for the club.