The 2024 USA Team Handball National Championships have officially kicked off, bringing together the best club teams from across the country to compete for national titles. With record participation and a surge in interest, this year’s event highlights the rapid expansion of team handball in the United States.
A Tournament Bigger Than Ever
Held at The Podium in Spokane, Washington, this year’s championship features the largest field of competitors in tournament history. Teams from major cities—including New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Dallas—are vying for top honors across multiple divisions, including men’s, women’s, collegiate, and amateur club competitions.
The increased number of teams reflects a growing appetite for the sport, which has long been popular in Europe but is still carving out its place in the American sports landscape. USA Team Handball officials credit the rise in participation to grassroots development programs, expanded youth leagues, and the visibility of American players competing in international leagues.
Fierce Competition Across Divisions
In the men’s elite division, reigning champions New York City Team Handball Club are looking to defend their title but face stiff competition from powerhouse teams based in Texas and California. Meanwhile, the women’s division is expected to be highly competitive, with San Francisco CalHeat and Chicago Inter vying for the top spot after strong seasons.
“The level of play this year is at an all-time high,” said a USA Team Handball representative. “We’re seeing more athletes with international experience, and the competition is getting deeper every season. It’s a testament to how far the sport has come in the U.S.”
Building Toward the Future
Beyond crowning national champions, the tournament also serves as a critical scouting event for USA Team Handball officials. With the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics on the horizon, the organization is focused on identifying and developing top talent to build a competitive national team for future international competitions.
The continued rise in team handball’s popularity in the U.S. suggests a promising future for the sport. With more clubs forming, more youth programs launching, and increased media exposure, team handball is on track to gain a stronger foothold in the American sports landscape.
As the championships unfold in Spokane, players and fans alike are hopeful that this momentum will translate into greater success on the global stage. With each passing year, the dream of making team handball a mainstream American sport becomes more attainable.
