The first round of competitive matches in the IoM Winter Handball League got underway at the NSC last Saturday (8th November). Seven teams will be competing for the title which promises to be a tight contest.
Three teams made their competitive handball debuts. The young guns from Ramsey Grammar School and St Ninian’s will be teams to watch for the future, both fielding young and talented sides that play a very fast paced game. Douglas Webbers, under the guidance of Stacey Brookes and Nicki Naden, who easily transferred her game intelligence and decision making skills from football, only took up the game during the summer and they have attracted some very talented athletes playing with a never say die attitude. They will only get better as the season progresses. Whilst Mike Crompton’s Police team couldn’t play Saturday, they have already showed their talent in the two previous tournaments and have some strong players in Emily Perkins and Emily Butler which will put them in good stead.
The more experienced sides include Derby Square Teramo boasting former GB Handball International and Island vets football player Mike Hegarty and England Handball International Brett Callow who opened with three wins. They will prove tough but not unbeatable opposition. Certainly, Rhumsaa Raiders also set out their store for their rivals with three wins. Classy left hander, David Rousseau, who cut his handball teeth in the French Leagues commanding the exciting mix of youth and experience. Onchan proved formidable opposition with Max Greleweiz showing his growing improvement scoring some strong goals from distance.
Week 1 = 8/11/14 Results
Onchan Germinators 5 - 8 Rhumsaa Raiders
Douglas Webbers 3 - 5 Ramsey GS
Rhumsaa Raiders 5 - 0 Ramsey GS
Douglas Webbers 2 - 5 St Nininians
Ramsey GS 1 - 5 Derby Square Teramo
Rhumsaa Raiders 7 - 2 St Nininians
Derby Square Teramo 8 - 4 Onchan Germinators
St Nininians 1 - 7 Onchan Germinators
Douglas Webbers 0 - 13 Derby Square Teramo
It’s not too late to get involved in the Island’s fastest growing sport. Individuals wanting to play in the league will be guaranteed games.
The application for entry into the IoMOHA Christmas Cup is at the NSC Sat 27th December . A great way to get rid of the Christmas excesses!! Applications particularly welcome from and Sports Teams, Corporate teams, School Teams (school yr 10 and above), and teams of friends.
If you are interested, simply contact Mick Hegarty mhiomhandball@gmail.com.
