BY NONTSETSELELO DLAMINI (INTERN)
MBABANE– Eswatini’s Under-18 and Under-20 national handball teams have returned home from Zambia following their participation in the International Handball Federation (IHF) Trophy, where they recorded two wins and two losses, narrowly missing out on qualification for the semi-finals.
The teams arrived back in Eswatini on Sunday after completing their fixtures in the regional competition, which brought together emerging handball nations competing for advancement to the next stage of the tournament.
Despite not progressing to the semi-finals, Eswatini’s campaign was marked by notable individual achievements, with players from both the Under-18 and Under-20 squads earning “Man of the Match” accolades, highlighting standout performances during the competition.
The results saw the teams fall short of qualifying for the next round of the IHF Trophy, a platform that offers young athletes international exposure and an opportunity to advance within the global handball structure. However, officials have described the experience as a valuable learning curve for the players.
Participation in regional competitions such as the IHF Trophy continues to play a crucial role in developing young athletes by exposing them to high-level competition and diverse playing styles. The experience gained on the international stage not only sharpens technical skills but also builds confidence, discipline, and teamwork, which are essential for strengthening the growth of handball in Eswatini.
The Eswatini squads demonstrated resilience and determination throughout the tournament, competing against strong regional opponents and gaining exposure to high-level match situations. Their ability to secure victories and individual honours reflects progress in the development of the sport in the country.
Stakeholders have noted that while the teams did not advance to the semi-finals, the experience gained will contribute to future preparations and performance improvements. Emphasis has been placed on continued investment in training, youth development, and international participation.
The return of the teams marks the end of a challenging but impactful campaign, with focus now shifting to building on the lessons learned and preparing for upcoming competitions. As Eswatini continues to strengthen its presence in regional handball, the performances in Zambia are expected to serve as a foundation for future success and growth in the sport.
#EswatiniHandball#TeamEswatini#IHFCompetition#YouthSports
(Courtesy Pic)
