The Annual General Meeting is a key event that brings together members of an organization, typically on a yearly basis. During the meeting, participants discuss and review important matters such as financial reports, organizational achievements, and future plans. It serves as a platform for members to voice concerns, make decisions on crucial issues, and elect leaders. The AGM plays a pivotal role in maintaining transparency, fostering collaboration, and ensuring the overall well-being and success of the organization.
Do you want to know in detail what happened during the IOHA AGM? Read our detailed report that follows.
The Annual General meeting was attended on 12th November where the association board, was present: Fintal Lyons (President), Michael Moloney (Secretary), João Ferreira (Operations Director/Coaching Commitee), Caroline Nerbas (Development Officer - Women in Sport Lead), Andrea Ongaro (Technical Director, Coaching Committee, Refereeing Committee), Amina Zaiter (Competition Committee), Peter Caufield, and Daniela O’Sullivan (Marketing and Communications). Besides the board members, there were 2 members presents from Astra's management, 2 from DCH, 1 from UCD, 2 from the referees, 1 from DI, and 2 independent members. It should also be mentioned that within the board, there are 3 representatives from Astra club: Andreea Ongaro, who is also the coach of the women's team and club president, Caroline Nerbas, the team captain, and Amina Zaifer, an Astra active player that at the moment is injured. From Dublin International HC, Daniela O'Sullivan, is also an active player but of the DI.
If we exclude PhD Domenico Crognole and his 3 students who attended as guests at the end of the meeting, and the board members who were required to be there, there were a total of 10 participants. It is worth noting that the absence of the 2 Cork clubs and Belfast was observed, but despite that, the meeting was considered a "remarkable success".
The secretary, Michael Moloney, announced the start of the meeting and the need to re-elect the Techical Director. Each affiliated club was entitled to nominate only one nomination for election not less than 21 days before the Annual General Meeting, in writing. Andrea Ongaro was reelected for the same position for the last 15 years, since no club nominated anyone for the open position. Additionally, the position was announced only among the club's management and not publicly.
It was followed by the president, Fintan Lyons' speech, where he thanked everyone for coming along and to the rest of board and emphasized the importance of meeting more frequently.
João Ferreira, the Operations Director, presented the annual report where the clubs had 14 days to ask any questions for clarifications regarding the accounts.
Based on the statistics for 2021-2022, the affiliated numbers consisted of 303 players and 10 coaches. However, for 2022-2023, only 172 players have registered so far, with an increase of 5 coaches from the previous year, making a total of 15 coaches. It is worth mentioning that although there are 15 registered coaches, two clubs are currently struggling to find a coach to train them.
In regard to the board changes, it was mentioned that for the 2021-2022 term, the board consisted of 7 men and 1 woman. However, for the 2022-2023 term, the board was reduced to 7 members, with 6 men and one woman.
The gender aspect appears to be carefully considered, as Sport Ireland and the Minister of Sport require at least 40% representation of women.
Now, turning our attention to grants and funds, a top priority in the Olympic Handball development in Ireland. We need to emphasize the fact that when we discuss only about the grants and funds and no sponsors.
In case you want to verify it yourself, please check the report published by the Irish Olympic Handball Association, which includes the IOHA Annual Report, Anti-Doping Report 2023, and IOHA Financial Statement.
According to João Ferreira, the Operations Director of the association, there were 10 main sources of income, and almost all of them come from Sport Ireland. The exception is the Rank Foundation, a fund from an unknown private company in Northern Ireland, which contributed 32,000.00 euros for both 2022 and 2023.
Based on what was mentioned during the meeting, the following explanations were given:
1. Core Funding - Sport Ireland allocated €60,000.00 for 2022, with a slight increase to €65,000.00 for 2023, as the portfolio was expanded from the association side. As everyone mentions, it is a modest increase compared to the higher amounts allocated to other sports.
2. Woman in Sport - This fund supports the Development Officer, Caroline Nerbas, in continuing her work in schools and promoting women in sports.
3. Oscar Capital Grant - Government funding received in 2021 amounted to €30,000.00. It was utilized to provide equipment to schools at reduced prices compared to retail costs.
4. Dormant Account Funding - Government funding released through Sport Ireland for various projects. In 2021, €10,000.00 was granted, while in 2022, €18,750.00 was allocated, and the 2023 amount is pending release.
5. Special Projects - In 2021, €15,000.00 was allocated, used for the current website. In 2022, €5,000.00 was approved by Sport Ireland, supporting women in sport. Caroline attended the European Handball Manager Program. (European Handball Federation has trained managers for eight years, working for clubs and federations).
6. Rank Foundation - A fund from a private company in Northern Ireland, providing €32,000.00 for 2022 and 2023. Overall, £90k was received, broken down over three years (including an educational upskilling amount that was used for João Ferreira to attend the European Handball Manager Program in Cologne).
7. Recovery Grant - Sport Ireland allocated €25,000.00 for 2023, with the association deciding to use it to retain Caroline in her role as Development Officer - Women in Sport Lead.
8. COVID-19 - €100,000.00 was given by the government in 2021, used for equipment. €20,000.00 was used for wheelchairs to support wheelchair handball in Ireland, and the remaining funds were used for equipment.
9. Return to Sport - Government-funded with €60,000.00 in 2022, addressing the impacts of COVID.
10. COVID-19 - An additional €40,000.00 was granted in 2021 for the pandemic situation.
Do you think that the financial resources are carefully allocated to top priorities?
João Ferreira, the Operations Director of the association, came with some more explanations, highlighting the following message: " All funds we have received to date are based on funds released by the Government (Sport Ireland manages those allocations), with specific guidelines and projects; we apply following those guidelines. We invest a considerable amount of time in those applications to maximize our potential returns, but sometimes that means we find ourselves overstretched to deliver those projects. Considering we have such a small number of staff, it gets very busy.
When you talk about communication/promotion, although you raised very good points, we have to be conscient that all the staff we have, have different roles/tasks, meaning that, communication alone would need someone on contract basis - something that we can't afford currently, just to keep up with social media/website/posts, etc. This being said, as it was presented on the AGM, we are working diligently to make things better. "
What is the problem in not having enough people to help and funds? Was there an intent to find a volunteer between the clubs or publicaly or more sponsors?
Now going back to the meeting information.
The Northern Ireland report was focused mainly in the primary schools, followed by the secondary schools, summer camps, universities and lastly for the teachers trainings.
The Northern Ireland Financial Report is separate as it pertains to a different country. Although Northern Ireland is part of the UK, it has strong links with the Republic of Ireland, resulting in distinct governmental funds separated from those given by the Irish Republic.
As João Ferreira mentioned, funds from Northern Ireland need to be applied for annually and are paid based on project delivery and participation.
The Irish Olympic Handball Association must apply to local sport partnerships for specific funds, which must be accepted to receive money for promoting the sport and creating different events for handball. The funds granted depend on the application, and the amount is determined by the grants requested for the projects.
The Northern Ireland funds are relatively small, with application statuses including around 9 projects in progress, 7 pending, 3 successful, and 5 unsuccessful.
The volunteers who contribute to the projects running in Northern Ireland mainly come from Coleraine FC Academy, numbering 25, followed by Coleraine Grammar School with 20, and Causeway Coast and Glens Council Sports Teams with 3.
As it appears on the rapport presented, Level 0 coaching courses and Olympic Handball Workshops were delivered across the country: in Limerick - 15 teachers, Cork: 42 teachers, Westmeath: 7 teachers/tutors + 8 teachers, Leitrim: 6 teachers/tutors, Galway: 25 teachers, Sport Ireland Campus: 8 instructors (they have private contractors of coaches that usually deliver courses on their own), Meath: 10 teachers and Blitz day with more than 600 kids in all locations.
Events and courses attended:
- EHF Manager Course Participation in Cologne
- Primary School County Finals & All-Ireland: more than 300 kids
- Celtic Cup: Partnership with the Scottish Handball Association
- IOHA Cup
- Senior League Awards night & Beach Handball Awards
- Beach Handball Tournament in Balbriggan: new equipment was provided by the European Handball Federation
- Games on the Beach with Meath LSP
- HerMoves Activity with Meath LSP & Volleyball Ireland - (Women in Sport activity)
- Be Active Festival at Sport Ireland Campus
Dublin International HC was the only club present, as the notice to the clubs was given only 2 days before. It seems that the information was received late from Sport Ireland in confirming the indoor space, based on João Ferreira's explanations. On the other side, Sport Ireland says that even so the European Week of Sport is an annual event that takes part across Europe and the dates are normally confirmed and communicated well in advance, the facilities that are run by a separate facilities company, have advised that finalised floor plans and exact locations weren't issued until 2 days prior, "which unfortunately was the result of a number of both late withdrawals and late entrants to the event".
After such an event happening to a festival that is set in advance, we are questionning the importanace that is given to Olympic Handball. Unexpected issues can occur, but what are the priorities of this festival and Sport Ireland?
Caroline Nerbas, the Sport Development Officer and Women in Sport Lead, continued the meeting by presenting the school programs and taster sessions.
Delivered school programs to the schools that reached out to the association. Initially, a free session was offered, followed by a charge for subsequent sessions. For active weeks, schools such as St Roses NS Dublin and Scoil Aonghusa, both from Dublin, engaged making them the new joiners to the program.
Besides these schools, there is St. Damian's from Dublin, participated in the school program and taster sessions throughout the year. Other schools that were actively involved include St. Peter’s NS Dublin for 8 weeks, Kilcoskan NS Dublin for 8 weeks, and the participation of 3 more schools in Dublin, in addition to the 2 mentioned above during Schools Active Week.
There were only 2 coaches who delivered the schools programms and taster sessions, Alexander Marcović and Volodymyr Khrystych.
To engage with primary and secondary schools, the IOHA focus appears to be on the transition year that children experience during their gap year, as schools introduce activities for them to participate in. If the schools are in proximity to the association, IOHA have the opportunity to deliver Level 0 coaching courses.
These courses involve 1 hour each week for theory, 1 hour for refereeing, and coaching to actively involve children in competitions. Alternatively, there is the hope they can teach the children in their schools to demonstrate the sport and then deliver practical sessions with basic skills.
Women in Sport activities:
Walking Handball WIS Programme in Corduff – 14 participants: This idea originated with partners from Corduff. Since the majority were women for this program, Caroline Nerbas applied for the Women in Sport grant and initiated it as a Women in Sport program. With the grant secured, the program is free of charge for participants and runs throughout the year for 10 weeks, followed by 2 weeks off, and then starting again.
Women in Sport Week Video Series: Interviews with some of the Senior League Women with the aim to showcase women engaged in handball.
WIS Week Taster Sessions in Navan & Fingal: They reached out to the association.
WIS Open Session in DCU: A session to introduce beginners, women, and kids to the sport.
School Activities – to be initiated next year.
Funding for Refereeing and L1 Coaching Courses: Specifically for females, allowing each club to have a few female participants attending for free.
Board Match – 40% of women on the board by the end of 2023: An initiative to recruit more women for the board.
Each country has its own LSP, with some well-established connections with IOHA. The association reaches out to them to inquire if they want to be partners, visiting them to teach handball to teachers. Those interested are then invited to deliver it in their own locations. Level 0 coaching courses are provided to these locations, explaining the organization's activities. If they become interested, they can go to their respective locations to deliver coaching courses.
For the new ones, the decision was made not to actively reach out anymore, relying on a substantial existing number. The focus shifted to the school competitions. When registrations were opened, these counties received applications from interested schools. Subsequently, the association reached out to the LSPs in those regions, asking if they wanted to establish partnerships and promote Level 0 courses.
After two years without sports due to COVID, it was mentioned that 2021 was the year when IOHA was still recovering from COVID. Secondary schools had their first competitions after COVID, a one-day blitz event after delivering courses to the schools.
In 2022, were managed to get 50 schools to participate. Emails were sent to schools asking for their involvement, and after this, courses were delivered. Then, they expanded to different Irish counties, where Meath is the largest one with 13 schools.
How they work with the school competition: There are three stages - county finals, group stage, and then All Ireland. This year, the schools will organize the group stage themselves, and then determine the county winner. Once the county finals are completed and have the winners from 16 counties, will be split into provinces. The All Ireland will be held this year in Limerick; last year it was in Meath in Gormanston. So, people will travel to Limerick on the 9th of February.
João Ferreira added that Galway is the biggest county at the primary level, having over 30 schools registered. IOHA is trying to develop relationships, and at the moment, they have a good number of teachers running their own competitions. For the last three years, IOHA has been trying to bring them back on board for IOHA competitions. Based on that, the exact number of schools is not known yet as they are still waiting for them to respond, given that they run their own organization, making IOHA unable to count the number of kids playing.
Andrea Ongaro, the Technical Director of the Irish Olympic Handball Association, took the stage to present a new coaching plan.
According to information shared on the IOHA website, he "has dedicated the past few months to this important endeavor".
"As Ireland's representative at the RINCK Convention, a body within the European Handball Federation, which, among other things, ensures that coaching awards are standardized across all handball federations. Recognizing the need for improvement, the European Handball Federation decided to revamp and update the curriculum for coaching awards, with Andrea's expertise being invaluable in this process.
Drawing on nearly 30 years of coaching experience, primarily in Ireland, Andrea has played a crucial role in developing the new foundation level of coaching. Together with coaching experts from Sweden, Hungary, England, Denmark, Serbia, and Slovenia, they are drafting the required coaching competencies for each level.
Anticipated for unveiling in 2024, the new coaching curriculum will be a significant milestone in the European Handball Federation's efforts to shape the future of handball coaching." (Source: IOHA Website).
After dedicating the past few months to this important endeavour, we're wondering about the other positions that Andrea has. In case you don't know, Andrea Ongaro, besides being the Astra's club president and women's coach, is part of the coaching committee, the reelected Technical Director for the last 15 years and the only one he serves as the head of referees too. We're curious about how much time he has to excel in all these positions and ensuring visible improvements, besides a full time job and family.
What do you think, having one person on multiple positions is it opening the door for anyone else that want to come and help? Is it again the lack of people interestested or the lack of announcing the positions publicly for new enthusiasts?
Michael Maloney, the IOHA Secretary General presented the Board Activity And Governance Update.
Board Activity:
- Fintan Lyons is an active member of the EHF Nations Board for Men
- Represents the IOHA at Handball Forum Europe meetings (26 Nations)
- Instrumental in getting the EHF to call a meeting of the “Emerging Nations” in Cologne in June 23 (11 Federations with different issues in developing handball).
- The President and Secretary attended the EHF Congress in Basel, SUI in September
- Technical Director, Andrea Ongaro attended the EHF RINCK meeting in Vienna
- Andrea Ongaro appointed to RINCK commission, who are charged with re-writing the Coaching curriculum of European Handball
Miscellaneous:
- 8 International Transfers completed in 2023
- 3 Juniors registering to play handball for the 1st time
- 5 Seniors leaving Ireland to register and play abroad (The IOHA did not request a €150 transfer fee, even though the EHF is asking for €150 from the players and an additional €150 to be given to the association/federation in case of the emerging nations. What do you think? Is it the right decision, considering that these players are already paying to play in Ireland? Also, how important is to let the community know of these players identity?)
- IOHA Re-Branding
The Anti-Doping Report was mentioned by Michael Moloney, Secretary General, a part that is not needed for Irish Handball as there are no tests done and no need for them as is not to consider this aspect yet.
If you want to know more about the branding/rebranding, we will be publishing an article specifically focused for this tomorrow.
Some questions and opinions were addressed regarding of some of the topics, including inquiries about when the new branding will be implemented, concerns about the new logo appearing to be dancing and having dull colours, and queries about the future of secondary schools after the children complete their education.
In response, was mentioned that the rebranding is in its final stage and January 2024 is likely to be the month of completion, confirmed by Daniela O'Sullivan, who has been responsible for Marketing and Communication since March. She also mentioned that monthly newsletters are being sent out regularly. We are questioning, how many newsletters have you received so far?
The president, Fintal Lyons, emphasized that this rebranding work has been ongoing for the past two years, considering the limited resources available for the sport and that this presents a significant challenge and calls for active engagement.
The question about the secondary school was almost overlooked by the president, as it was addressed when other people were asking about the branding. However, João Ferreira, the Operations Director, took charge of it and mentioned that children can join existing clubs or the national academy. It was also noted that the cost of organizing youth academies, including coach payments and facility rentals, is very expensive, and the IOHA is aware of this situation.
How much aware is IOHA of this priority that had to be put in place so far? Was the rebranding a must to be done before such a situation where the future of the Irish Handball depends on?
The second part of the meeting was focused on some other topics of discussion.
The first topic was initiated by Fintal Lyons (President) and João Ferreira (Operations Director) concerning a project that was applied based on a "massive application", to have a home hall for handball. This application was prepared by the association and submitted by the school, as the land is not owned by IOHA. The hall is already built; however, it needs only to be repaired and made suitable for handball, as well as for other sports.
What do you think? Would the government accept the project and offer the money to have the first handball hall? Would be there a IOHA strategy to get sponsors also?
When the hall story was shared, it was mentioned that there is still a need for some engineers, specifically, electrical engineers. To the astonishment of some, the DCH's new president, Alan Gross, is such an engineer and it was mentioned that there could be a possibility to have his company involved in the project at a lower price. This is one of the examples that having an amateur league with players from different backgrounds and professions can make the IOHA implement projects more affordably and also foster engagement, durable cooperations, and valuable relationships.
Would the handball members be valued, or would it be better to hire others at a higher price who are not connected to the sport?
When asked what would happen if the hall application is not accepted, the president mentioned that "the kids learn handball but have no clubs, and that every system works differently. For instance, France's system is based on clubs". He emphasized that "there should be a very close connection between the federation and the clubs" and emphasis the importance of working together as a team. His solution in case the project is not accepted is to "grow the sport," with the new logo designed to "create some excitement for the sport, so people want to get engaged and join."
Now, after such an answer to the question of what happens if the home hall project does not work, and transitioning to the idea that the plan B is to promote the sport with the new logo to increase excitement, is this a solution that seems from the same subject—the hall?
Amina Zaiter, the new competition committee member, highlighted flaws in the current system, noting her solo initiation of the committee due to a lack of information and support. This resulted in a delayed league schedule. Despite interest from many willing to contribute, there's a communication gap in the system. She has requested an IOHA member to be present to everything that is done in the committee and to guide the new joiners on how should be done.
It was suggested that the schedule needs to be out at the end of the season, the rules to be sent out by the end of the August and to have a meeting with referees, clubs, committee, where can be shared suggestions for the new season, to be done an analysis of what worked and what not.
It was also highlighted the need for change, citing a lack of understanding and clear communication and that "It's just too much, it needs change".
The president responded by urging the clubs to take initiative and share their thoughts and solutions, stating, "Look, we are fed up with the system, and this is what we are willing to do."
It was also mentioned that if the IOHA intervenes in the committee, they will likely end up taking over, emphasizing the substantial workload on the board volunteers.
Even so, Amina reiterated that she only needs the basics – someone to ensure that the work is done as it should be. Taking into consideration that no one has explained to her how the competition committee should perform its duties, the president once again reminded everyone of the small amount of money that handball receives compared to other sports.
Andreea Ongaro reminded everyone that he is the Technical Director and is in charge of overseeing everything. He mentioned how the committee begins with the clubs and highlighted the disparity in the effort put forth by different individuals and lack of effort from other parts. After several years in charge of the competition committee, he expressed that he cannot make decisions independently due to potential conflicts of interest, emphasizing the need to delegate such decisions to someone else on the board.
He did confirmed that "is not that dont want someone from exterior, we wish that somebody come at the door and say "I look after the competition”. (Did you see any intent to announce the need for people publicly?)
He also confirmed as the right person to check what is done in the compettition comitee is himself, and that he decided to not get involved because represents a club. " Why you didnt ask ? I am the person to talk with. You were supposed to ask questions."
At this point, Amina expressed that it's unfair, pointing out that in previous years, others in her position had raised significant concerns about why things weren't working and were disregarded. She emphasized, "If you say that we've had 6 or 7 people in the last 10 years in this role, and they've all left the sport completely, it's clear that it's not working. We are not here to talk about the past, but how can we fix it now for the future?"
Despite the need for guidance requested—only guidance—it was mentioned that Caroline and João would not be able to offer any help as they are busy with the school competition.
As Amina confirmed that she will be leaving the competition committee and openly asked, "What happens in January?" Andrea Ongaro inquired about what is needed so that he can provide assistance.
The president's completion was that it is clear that the sport depends on volunteers, and he feels sorry for those who leave, witnessing their dissatisfaction. He expressed the need for more frequent group discussions. Additionally, he emphasized how IOHA gains government recognition from the EHF, IHF, based on engagement with young people.
"It kills me to see adults playing the sport but not having a good time, feeling fed up or frustrated just because the organization is overwhelming and difficult. All I can do,we have this discussion. If there are six clubs, we need six representatives—each club should send their representative."
Amina reiterated the need for clear explanations to guide new joiners, specifying what they need to do and understanding their roles. In response, Julian Eberle remarked, "There's no lack of volunteers; there's a lack of clarity on what they should be doing."
As a conclusion to the discussed issue, the president announced that he would appoint someone for support.
Following all perspectives on the matter, the secretary, Michael Moloney, mentioned that there were position descriptions, and he had not heard of the issue. He recalled being told 15 years ago that the board was spending too much attention on the competition and should allow the clubs to organize.
It was emphasized that each club representative on the board plays a role in shaping the future of the sport and have the opportunity to raise any issues they may have. Emails were sent to the clubs, requesting information on their chair, secretary, and treasurer, but some of them did not respond.
Once again the president stepped in saying that the three key positions within a club—secretary, treasurer, and chair—don't communicate effectively with the IOHA, that need adults to lead the clubs, take responsibility, and give their best. The Amina's concerns is considered as a miscommunication from the clubs, preventing IOHA and the competition committee, from being on the same page.
It was promised to attempt to establish a communication channel, with Andrea stepping in, and that it remains crucial for the clubs to step forward and improve their communication.
However, when we discuss the competition committee, a IOHA board position, shouldn't it be the IOHA's responsibility to ensure that the person in charge is well-trained and knowledgeable about what is needed? If the president is suggesting to the clubs that adults need to lead, take responsibilities and communicate effectevely, should he and the rest of the board take responsibility for the IOHA representatives and decision-makers for the good run of the only Irish league?
The issue of a shortage of referees and poor refereeing quality, which poses safety concerns for the players, was raised by some of the participants.
João Ferreira addressed this concern, stating that everything possible has been done, with two referees having undergone the European courses of EHF and receiving continuous support. It was also noted that the turnover of referees is high, with 90% of them being players and not being in the league for a long period of time.
Andrea Ongaro, the referee committee, mentioned that players typically only serve as referees for up to four years, despite consistent referee courses being offered. It was highlighted how challenging it is to find volunteers for refereeing. Despite the difficulty in devising an improved plan due to people leaving the country, a new experienced referee from Croatia is spearheading a plan to address this. He will personally tailor workshops based on observations from matches to tackle the problems.
It was also noted that referee recruitment is not conducted publicly, and everything was done internally without informing everyone else of the need.
On the other side, Andrea was concerned about how the question was framed. To him, it needs to be changed from what "you" the association can do, to what "we" can do.
The question that arises here is, can we emphasize the importance of "we"when decision-makers are taking decisions based on wants rather than what is needed for the other clubs and members that are arising issues within in system?
Regarding child protection, players under 18 need to have someone present during training with Safeguarding Course Level 1, 2, 3—a requirement from Sport Ireland.
For transferred players, Michael, the secretary, mentioned being unable to take any action as it needs to go through the system, requiring €150 to be given to EHF and another €150 to IOHA. EHF has no exceptions for emerging nations, but for students is free of charge for the first two years.
In this regard, we are once again questioning how EHF can impose such a rule on an emerging nation where players are paying to play and not paid to play?
The president mentioned the established Celtic Cup, stating it will be played every year. There was a suggestion for a potential junior level in the future, hoping clubs will develop together with the players.
British handball's higher standard was highlighted, noting the "interesting fact" that DCH beat the Scottish teams on the 1st Celtic Cup edition.
It was mentioned, "The Irish women and men's teams played with all the disadvantages that we have. You won the matches, that counts for me. I want to see more of that."
There was also discussion about the disinterest of British people in creating a regional league for clubs. It seems the president's ambition is to persuade them to agree to this idea that could surpass the Celtic Cup. He believes the standard would be higher, exciting from a competitive standpoint, and could elevate the club level and competition.
"This is something that we can do, have to work towards, how we're doing for the next few years, how we develop our clubs, what it's going to look like."
On the other side, was confirmed by João, that the Celtic Cup continuity is uncertain, as it dependes of the clubs that participate. (To be reminded, one of the women's teams was close to not participating this year due to the lack of players.)
The president's dreams look perfect: a junior level, developed clubs, a regional league with the British that will surpass the Celtic Cup.
It is impossible not to question and recall what was asked already during this meeting: What will happen with the secondary school children? Where would they go if there is no strategy on how to develop the active clubs and create new ones in different regions so a dream of junior level can happen? Would all the children move to Cork, Belfast, or Dublin?
If clubs are struggling even for a smaller competition, would the regional idea be a good plan when no solution has been found for the juniors?
The meeting was ended with the presentation by PhD Domenico Crognale, a Sport & Exercise Scientist at UCD. The collaboration with IOHA started in 2021, as he says "collaboration focuses mainly in participation and Women in Sport, we have also presented at international conferences."
We need to mention, as was already stated during this meeting by Amina, the Senior League was not discussed among the board members plans at all. There were no strategies or plans to secure sponsors, moving away from sole reliance on Sport Ireland's fund/grant. There was no plan how secondary school children could continue playing handball, how to increase the number of referees, how clubs can develop and new ones be created and supported, and what will happen if the home hall project is not accepted. There could be more issues, but considering all these lacking factors, would any of the strategies/ ideas mensioned be suitable for such an environment? Are the funds/grants used carefully for the primary necessities?
Share your thoughts on the discussed matters and the AGM's effectiveness in uniting members. How do the future strategies look, are they on a solid foundation with clear rationale, direction and basis?
All content was derived from discussions, presentations, and the report publicly available from Irish Olympic Handball Association. The same report was presented during the meeting at AGM in November. Additionally, information was supplemented with clear explanations obtained from individuals who provided further details on specific matters.
Seems like you're quite the critic, always ready to point fingers and find faults. Waiting for someone or IOHA to slip up, just so you can jump in and criticize.
It's really a shame that based on everything you mentioned, you're spending your time and energy criticizing them. They are a small association, as you mentioned, trying their best to do good work. Instead of criticizing, why not use your writing skills and ability to form opinions to volunteer and help them out?
Many information in this article are wrong. Clearly based against the board.
It shown a lack of knowledge and understanding of the reality of Irish Handball