The ever growing popularity of Olympic Handball was reflected in the number of teams which participated in the IoMOHA’s mixed round robin Registration Tournament last Saturday at the NSC.
Onchan , Douglas, St. Ninian’s, Ramsey and the Police battled for the honours with Ramsey’s exciting mix of youth and experience just edging out their rivals by the odd goal in each match. Their classy left hander, David Rousseau who cut his handball teeth in the French Leagues coupled with debut boys Tom Barker, Patrick Knight and Oliver Brew proved too much for their rivals.
Runner’s up, St Ninian’s will be one to watch in the forthcoming IoMOHA Winter League. This is a very young and talented side that play a very fast paced game with Andrew Burkitt and Alex Cade scoring some class counter attacks and Will Soliven, solidly commanding their defence.
Onchan played with a player less in their matches but still proved formidable opposition. Max Greleweiz showed his growing improvement with some strong goals from distance and Nicki Dycher, returning after a long lay-off from the sport, scoring with class from left wing.
Making her competitive handball debut for Douglas, Nicki Naden easily transferred her game intelligence and decision making skills from football. Island volleyball stalwart, Roberto Villani and GB Tchoukball star Ste Quayle played and scored like they were born for handball.
Appearing in their second handball tournament, Mike Crompton’s Police team showed great improvement and have some strong players in Emily Perkins and Emily Butler which will put them in good stead in the mixed league.
It’s not too late to get involved in the Island’s fastest growing sport. Individuals will be guaranteed games as well as applications from Corporate teams, School Teams (school yr 10 and above) , and teams of friends. Registration details for the first round of the league on 8th November at the NSC. will be published on the Facebook page, (Isle of Man Handball Club) or contact mhiomhandball@gmail.com for more details.
IoMOHA Registration Tournament – Final Table
1. Ramsey Grammar
2. St Ninian’s
3. Onchan
4. Douglas
5. IoM Police
