Preparations are well underway for the new handball season and East Kilbride 82 boss Michael Lavery reckons they can pose a challenge in the league this campaign.
The squad have been working hard for five weeks now with their first pre-season friendly games coming up on September 14, ahead of their opening league match with Livingston on September 21.
They finished fifth in Division One last season and the senior men’s team have strengthened for the new season with three talented players coming in from the juniors.
Goalkeeper Ewan Hunter, centre player Aonghas Slevin and right wing Ryan Kealy have all made the step up, while the club have also re-signed Roan Perrie after a year out at university.
EK82 Handball Club’s head coach and development team manager, Michael Lavery, said: “I believe all four will make an important impact on the team this season.
“And I really believe we can challenge this year.
“We have a much stronger squad than last season and while inexperience may hold us back slightly with four or five players under the age of 18, l am very confident we are in for a good year.”
Meanwhile, opportunities are available to try out the sport this summer, with EK hoping to build the sport’s profile.
EK82 assistant, Gary Charles, added: “Scottish handball are running a male and female development league this year.
“This will give opportunities to the people of EK to play handball even if you’ve never played before.
“The idea is to give players aged 15 and above – no matter what experience you have – the chance to get involved.
“Handball training will improve your fitness, while having fun at the same time.”
• EK82 sessions are held on Mondays from 8pm until 10pm and on Wednesdays 7pm-9pm at the Alistair McCoist Complex.
If your not sure about training or playing come along to the Alistair McCoist Complex on September 14 for the club’s annual Tom Cooper tournament and gala day, where you can have fun and learn more about the club.
