Copy
View this email in your browser
Colorado Handball Association

Wrap up from the
USHA Portland Juniors 

Colorado Players at the Portland Junior 4 Wall Championships

Good News Everyone!

Six Colorado players participated
in the recent
Junior 4 Wall Championships
in Portland Dec 26-30 , 2018

This is the most players we've had at a National Juniors Event

Jon Gutierrez - 19 and Under
Josh Rivera - 19 and Under
Michael Madden - 17 and Under
Matt Morgenstern - 17 and Under
Abraham Sanchez - 15 and Under
Joshua Smith - 11 and under combined small ball and 13 and under combined big ball

Jon's game has improved so much in the past year.  From my perspective, he's knocking on the door of being an extremely competitive national level player.  He advanced to the quarter-final losing the second game in a heart breaker 21-20.  He lost his semi-final A's match in two games.  The first game score was 21-20.  So close!  Jon and his partner advanced to the semi-finals in the doubles losing in two games to an Irish team, the eventual champions.  Good luck to Jon in the this year's Collegiates!

Josh Rivera and Matt Morgenstern played in their first Junior 4 Wall championships.  They were both very impressed with the level of play.  Both Josh and Matt lost in their drop down Consolation semi-finals.  I'm convinced they will bring a new intensity to their local play and work hard to improve their games.

Michael's game is coming on strong.  As I watched him over the week, it seemed he improved with each outing.  Michael played in three divisions (small and big ball singles and small ball doubles).  Michael finished 2nd place in the 17 and under B Singles.  He's got the athletic ability and desire to go far.  Watch out for this young player.

Abraham moved up from the 13 and Under this year but held his own in all his matches playing very competitive handball.  He lost in the B singles semifinals and placed 3rd in the big ball singles.  Abraham's game continues to improve and he's learning the additional skills needed to compete with the best of his age bracket.

Joshua at only 9 years old, played in his first tournament ever and had to compete with 11 and 13 year olds in both small ball and big ball singles.  This young lad is a joy to watch play.  His enthusiasm and competitive spirit are outstanding.  Joshua advanced to the semi-finals of both small and big ball divisions.  He finished 2nd place in both the small and big ball A Singles.   Joshua's future is so bright.  With a few more skills, he will be a strong contender in the this next year's 11 and under divisions.

All of these players should be congratulated on their performance.  Costigan Youth Handball is pleased to be able to provide financial assistance for this tournament including a $250 travel allowance and payment of their entry fees. The USHA First Ace program also provides travel stipends.
 

Submitted by:  Bob Hickman, Director - Costigan Youth Handball

Copyright © 2019 Colorado Handball Association, All rights reserved.


Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list.

Email Marketing Powered by Mailchimp