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Letter from USHA President Regarding New Handballs

2012-01-04T23:45:00.003-05:00

CLICK HERE for full letter from USHA Pres. Mike Steele regarding handball production efforts.

Snippet...

At the 4-Wall Nationals in 2004, held in Portland, Oregon, I was preparing to ref the 45-plus doubles final. Two hours later, when the match was finished, the players tossed the game ball to me—the last ball out of the four cans that were given to me. They had broken the other seven balls.

I bring this up because many players have fairly short memories. We should not forget those terribly bad batches of balls being produced in Taiwan in 2004. Of course, the sport has survived its various ball crises over the years including a major US company that left us in the lurch, a disaster in Pennsylvania and then a long learning curve in Mexico…and then something like normalcy as the USHA undertook to guarantee a supply of reasonably priced balls with consistent quality.

Please Remember to Renew Your MHA Membership

2012-01-04T13:28:00.004-05:00

Dear Handball Enthusiast,

We appreciate your support in keeping handball alive in our great state.

Please CLICK HERE to bring up a printable 2012 Michigan Handball Association membership application.

Mail your completed form and membership fee to:

Michigan Handball Association
3155 W. Big Beaver Rd.
Suite 116
Troy, MI 48084-3006

Make your check payable to the Michigan Handball Association.

The Michigan Handball Association (MHA) is a non-profit organization whose purpose is "to promote growth of the sport of handball in the state of Michigan.” This includes helping one another play, master, and most importantly enjoy the game of handball while encouraging more men, women, and especially children to play as well as showcasing the sport and promoting events such as leagues and tournaments. Participation is the best way to contribute, so don't miss out.

In addition to our modest membership fee, the MHA depends on the generous financial contributions from members, friends and businesses. Your contribution is welcome at any time and will be used to promote the sport of handball around Michigan.

Thank you,

MHA

Belle Isle Handball 2011 A-B Tournament

2011-08-31T12:18:00.027-04:00

Belle Isle Handball 2011 A-B Tournament

Sponsored by DetroitYES.com and Motorvation Drive and

Saturday, September 10, 2011
Belle Isle Handball Courts, Detroit, MI

Join the fun and competition of our 3^rd summer’s end A-B doubles tournament on beautiful Belle Isle in Detroit, Michigan. Well almost. Mother Nature had other plans...

Belle Isle Handball 2011 A-B Tournament Results

Rain forced a last minute change and the tournament was moved indoors to Total Sports in Mt. Clemens thanks to the accommodation of its handball player owners, the Straetman brothers.

Congratulations to Pete Dembeck and Ron Iles who won a hard fought three game match over runner-ups Kyle Casey and Jack DiGiovanni. Congrats to consolation round winners Pete Brown and Jerry Rynkowski who triumphed over PK Sims and Ken Luchkovitz.

Kyle Casey lines up for one his many kill shots as the ball comes off the back wall.

A scrambling Pete Dembeck, recovered ball in hand, retrieves a passing shot from the deep right corner.

Partner Ron Iles lines up a shot off the back wall.

Jack DiGiovanni digs a shot in the left court.

Pete Dembeck lines up his trademark overhand fist-killshot toward its low front right corner target.

Kyle Casey demonstrates his picture-perfect form as he steps into a kill shot attempt.

Belle Isle Handball 2011 A-B Tournament Results 2011 Pairings and Start Times

KEN LUCHKOVITZ / PK SIMS II
10:00 AM VS
GLENN PARASKEVIN / TONY DESANTIS

HANK KOZAK / STU SHEVIN
11:00 AM VS
PAT OLIVER / MITCH OLIVER

PETE DEMBECK / RON ISLES
10:00 AM VS
PETE BROWN / JERRY RYNKOWSKI

RICK LEONARD / CHARLEY
10:00 AM VS
CHRIS MONSOUR / LOGAN SIEGEL

BARRY DOAN / ANGUS MCINTYRE
10:00 AM VS
KYLE CASEY / JACK DIGIOVANNI

BOB BALCH / PAUL
11:00 AM VS
MARK STUTRUD / CARL HARLOW

ED GREEN / MIKE FROELICH
10:00 AM VS
BILL SIDEBOTTOM JR & SR

DAN COSTELLO / BOB PLATER
10:00 AM VS
NIC BOILEAU / LOWELL BOILEAU

WINNER OF ABOVE MATCH
VS
LANNY GREEN / BOB KOZAK

$20 Entry Fee includes T-shirt, food, soft drinks and beer. Special [surprise] prizes for 1nd and 2^nd places and for 1^st place of the consolation round. How can you beat that?

Teams will be assigned by the “Commissioner” Bob Kozak to create balance – strongest player paired with the weakest player, next strongest with next weakest, etc. All teams will play a minimum of two matches. If a team is eliminated it will play in the consolation round.

Updates, photos and results will also be archived at www.DetroitYES.com/handball.

2011 State 3 Wall Results

2011-08-15T13:46:00.002-04:00

MHA State Singles 3-Wall Handball Tournament Held at Belle Isle, Detroit, on August 13, 2011

Open – Pete Brown over Pete Dembeck
50’s – Joe Ivy over Chris Monsour
60’s – Ed Green over Jim Lowe
70’s – Norm Young over Dave Dodds
B - Jeff Knake over Ted Gramattico

Report by Bob Plater

THANKS to Bill Cantwell, Dale Chimenti and John Schandevel for their great planning, preparing and making possible an amazing day of competition at Belle Isle. Food, drinks, picnic tables, port-a-johns and court reservations don't just happen magically. Bill, Dale and John have been doing this for many years, for which we, the MHA members, say "Thank You".

THE OPEN
What a great event! What a line-up! How about these pairings: Karner/Dembeck, Dembeck/Oliver, Williams/Leonard, Williams/Brown, Brown/Dembeck. Any one of these matches, all of which were played, would have been a good final.

Dembeck was outstanding getting by Pat Oliver and Jim Karner. Likewise, Pete Brown was amazing getting by Bret Williams.

Dembeck and Brown, both, wanted to play the finals on Saturday, even though they were both exhausted after the semi’s. Dembeck, hopefully, said he would rather play Brown when he is tired, rather than give him a day to refresh. Pete Brown, trailing 14-20 in the first game against Pete Dembeck, got the serve, went in, and served out the game, several aces bending around the back corners of the walls. This seemed to lift his confidence for the second game, which was a great contest with Brown overpowering Dembeck for the title.

This was Pete Brown's 18th, 3-wall State Open Singles Championship. No one else is close to this achievement, nor is it likely that anyone will ever be able to duplicate it.

GOLDEN MASTERS (50+)
Joe Ivy won the 50's title over Chris Mansour in three games. Dan Costello and Barry Doan were semi-finalists, both fighting hard before bowing out.

SUPER MASTERS (60+)
Ed Green defeated three highly regarded players, all in one day, on his way to winning the championship in this division: Tom Michael, Rick Graham and Jim Lowe. Green and Lowe, having played matches seemingly all day, 10AM to 6PM, were exhausted in their 11-6 tie-breaker.

DIAMOND MASTERS (70+)
Norm Young wins again. Dave Dodds took second.

B
B - Jeff Knake over Ted Gramattico.

MHA at Metro Detroit Youth Day

2011-07-18T11:03:00.009-04:00

On Wednesday July 13, 2011, the Michigan Handball Association participated in the 29^th annual Metro Detroit Youth Day on Detroit’s Belle Isle. The goal of Youth Day is to bring together Metro Detroit area youngsters from diverse backgrounds for a constructive day of fun, food, and education. The event brings together more than 35,000 children ages 8 – 15, and volunteers for a free day of sports, games, contests, motivational speakers, entertainment, scholarship opportunities, information booths, and other various activities.

This year’s Youth Day included beginner lessons in handball provided by Michigan Handball Association volunteers at the Belle Isle handball courts. Volunteers successfully taught the fundamentals and rules of handball to approximately 65 – 75 children. Volunteering on behalf of the MHA were Pat and Bill Cantwell, Dale Chimenti, Kyle Casey, Dennis Berger, Joe Ivy, Keith Thode, Tom Pfingst, Vic Battani, and Warren McAlpine. The MHA would like to officially thank this year’s volunteers for their participation and for a job well done.

The MHA plans to participate in this Youth Day in the future to help grow the sport of handball and offer today’s youth a constructive form of fun and exercise. Please contact the MHA office if you would like to be a part of the 2012 Metro Detroit Youth Day.

2011 State 3 Wall Doubles Results

2011-07-12T13:26:00.003-04:00

Open – Williams / Osburn over Oliver / Sidebottom

50+ = Ivy / Early round robin winner

60+ = Graham / Love over Michael / Luchkovitz

Click here for Tournament Charts

SCS Handball-Racketball Treaty + Belle Isle Schedule

2011-06-24T15:21:00.007-04:00

Attached hereto is the 2011 schedule for the outdoor courts in St. Clair Shores. This schedule of court use was agreed to by the Handball Committee, the Raquetball Committee, and the St. Clair Shores Recreation Department. Any questions should be directed to Chris Monsour.

- MHA via Patrick Cantwell

Belle Isle Summer 3-Wall Guide

Play is very informal and friendly, yet still competitive, on Belle Isle with the goal of encouraging all, especially new players, but some protocols have evolved.

Players gather on Monday - Wednesday - Friday's starting at 4 PM*.
No reservations required. Show up and you play in order of arrival.
Doubles has precedence over Singles when players are waiting. But there are usually plenty of courts in back if singles is a must.
Player strengths vary from newbie to top notch, so there is an effort made to balance doubles teams and include all.
Winners of matches hold court, next pair in line play them.
Drinking fountain is inconsistent so you are advised to bring your own fluids.
After match 'fluids' are common so pencil in some time for a drink and some natter.
Racquetball player gather on Tuesday & Thursdays afternoons. We have good relations with them and our unspoken treaty is that if we play on those days we cede the front courts to them and they to us on our days.

*Play often occurs on Saturdays and Sunday mornings but those are usual word-of-mouth gatherings.

Come and join us. All are welcome.

Lowell

Metro Detroit Youth Day - Belle Isle July 13

2011-06-24T11:39:00.003-04:00

Thanks for volunteering for the Metro Detroit Youth Day. Attached hereto is a flyer for the event and a parking pass that you can print to get on the Island that day.

Not sure what to expect in the way of kids visiting the handball courts, but basically my plan is to present some instruction and demonstration. Dennis Berger and I are USHA certified instructors and will lead the way.

We could still use some younger blood so feel free to solicit more volunteers.

Bill Cantwell

Click here for printable vehicle pass to get onto Belle Isle.

Michigan State 3-Wall Tournament Schedule Announced

2011-06-07T22:20:00.007-04:00

Please follow the links below to obtain printable entry forms for this summer's Michigan Sate 3-Wall State Handball Tournaments.

Doubles July 9-10 St. Clair Shores

Singles August 13-14 Belle Isle

"Freezing" your LA Fitness Membership for the Summer

2011-05-12T10:24:00.001-04:00

As I recently froze my LA Fitness membership for the summer I thought I would share the policy I learned about as so many of us are now members.

You may freeze your membership, thus avoiding paying another initiation fee, by agreeing to pay a $10 per month holding fee during the freeze.
Requests to freeze your account must be made 10 or more days prior to next payment. Otherwise you must make full payment for the next month and the freeze will begin after that paid period.
Your membership will remain active until the end of the period for which you are currently fully paid.
You may un-freeze your account at anytime.
Payment will then be pro-rated for the time from which you un-freeze your account until the start of your next monthly full-payment date.

So save some money, maybe buy some new balls, [hint, hint] and I will see you on the island.

Changes to the Toledo 3 Wall Courts from the Toledo Handball Club

2011-05-12T10:19:00.000-04:00

Dear Handballers,

Outdoor handball season is finally here! With the warm weather predicted this week it is time to pull the outdoor shoes out of the bottom of your handball bag and pack the cooler with beer for another great summer of 3 wall handball.

Unfortunately, as most of you know, it is not exactly business as usual at the Lucas County Rec center. As is the case with so many government operated assets these days, the County, after running significant financial deficits over the last decade, has pulled out of the management of the Rec Center and has leased the property to a private property management enterprise called Line Drive Sportz. While a necessary move for the county, it is a tremendous loss for those of us who have enjoyed using the facility at no cost and had its maintenance paid for with tax dollars. With the arrival of Line Drive has come a new situation.

This property is now a privately operated “club” rather than a county park and unfortunately in the way of all private property the managers are demanding a fee based use system. Because nobody wants to be locked out of the grounds when we show up for a game, or disappoint the USHA who counts on our support to secure the facility’s use for its annual National Tournament, the Toledo Handball club has been meeting with Line Drive since last summer to try to establish a contract for unlimited handball use. In much the same way that Roy Hobbs Baseball, Toledo Titans Football, National Midget Car Racing, Lucas County Little League etc. have arranged, Line Drive requires a yearly rental fee for the use of its facility. We have negotiated that fee as diligently as possible and agreed to pay $4,000 for an unlimited yearly contract. Incidentally that is a 15% reduction from last year’s total paid.

While preliminary discussions included a daily admittance fee at a secured gate, we think that having unlimited use is the way to go. This brings up some obvious questions so here are some simple answers:

Q: What do we get for our $4,000?

A: Unlimited use of the concrete courts, that's it. Line Drive will mow the grass, empty the trash, provide 3-4 portable toilets, pay the insurance and provide electricity, nothing else. Understandably, these services are paltry, but Line Drive’s response is “You are not paying for our service, you are paying to use our facility.”

Q: Will we have to provide maintenance to the courts?

A: Yes, at whatever level of condition we wish to enjoy the use. Line Drive will perform any service on the courts that we request but they will charge us for their work.

Q: What about the graffiti currently on the walls?

A: THC can contract to have it removed or repainted at its expense, or we could just play on the courts without cleaning them at no additional cost, or we can contract Line Drive to paint but we will be charged for the work.

Q: Will we be charged to park?

A: No, but the new managers require that all cars must use the parking lot. No cars are allowed on the grass near the courts and no driving is allowed on the walking paths. Also no parking will be permitted on the street leading into the Rec Center off of Michigan. Parking will only be allowed in the parking lot. At this point they also claim that the Rib-Off and the State Fair exclusively rent this lot during their events and so we will have to pay these events for parking at these times or park in the local neighborhoods to avoid the fee. We are still attempting to negotiate this point.

Q: Will this affect the National Tournament?

A: Hopefully not in any noticeable way. Line Drive has committed the same availability that we have had in the past, although as a private company with exclusive control of the assets, they are not obligated to provide picnic tables, trash cans or even spectator stands especially if they have other users for these items who are willing to pay for them. They have committed to continue to allow participants to park and camp on the grounds as they have done in the past at no additional charge.

Q: What about all the other users of this facility i.e. raquetballers, walkers, basketball players, tennis etc?

A: Line Drive claims that they reserve the right to charge for their use in the future and may secure the grounds to do so, but they will leave the walking path and basketball courts free for use at this time. Like us, racquetball, and tennis players are also being charged for their use. As most of us know, the tennis courts are padlocked and only those who participate in a paid league or those who pay for an individual hourly use rate will be given the lock code. They claim that they will police the use of all of these facilities in part through a new concession/ admittance stand that will installed in the old storage shed at the entrance of the area which is to be completed this spring.

Q: This Stinks! We’ve put 35 years worth of energy, money and care into this facility, has anyone complained to the county?

A: You better believe it was our first call, but lets face it, in today's economic climate we shouldn't be surprised that in a nice politician’s voice they have repeatedly told us, “Sorry, Lucas County has no more funds for supporting this park, we have given your community’s property away to save our operating budget costs and Line Drive is now the controlling party, at least for the next 4 years.” At the end of their contract, the county could choose not to renew the deal with Line Drive but, be realistic, Lucas County is happy to be rid of this property which they have repeatedly told us operated at a $100,000+ annual deficit. This property is going to be privately managed for the foreseeable future.

Q: How do I pay my fair share so I can keep playing handball all summer long?

A: On behalf of all who plan to continue to play, Toledo Handball Club has agreed to advance your required use fee because Line Dive demands payment in advance of the season. At this time we are requesting that every player who intends to use the courts this season repay THC for its prepayment on your behalf. The requested amount is $100 per person per year. While expensive, it is probably way less than you have paid all winter to play indoors. We realize that this is an increase from last year’s fee of $50 but frankly we came up very short last year mostly because not every user actually paid the requested fee last year and nobody wants to be the payment enforcement police. This year if everybody helps spread the word and encourage others to be honest and fair and everybody pays their share we should have sufficient funds to offset THC’s commitment. Whether you plan to play just occasionally on the weekends or 5 times a week the requested amount is the same. This is not a donation. We all know there are plenty or requests already. This is your court time/ use fee which will be paid to the facility managers. Any additional money will also be used to make repairs as needed so the courts remain the finest in the area.

Q: I live out of town and only use the courts on occasional visits. $100 seems pretty steep. Is there an out of town rate?

A: Yes. We all want to encourage the great handball talent that visits Toledo and improves the level of competition. Some of the best matches of the year are made possible by the players from, Detroit, Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, Chicago etc. As a result, if you live outside of a 50 mile radius from the Lucas Count Rec Center we request that you pay a reduced fee of only $50 for the season for your court time. Because local players get more use of the courts, the local player’s contributions will offset this reduction to encourage you to still visit us. Additionally, for players who are just passing through and plan to play no more than 3 times this year we invite you to play at no charge as a guest of the Toledo Handball Club. Furthermore to encourage the growth of our sport, all juniors will be invited to play as our guest also free of charge.

There aren't too many ways to spin this situation to make it seem like a good thing. It’s crummy to have to pay for something we have enjoyed for free for so many years and especially for something that we have invested in many times over but it is a modern reality.

If you don't want to pay to play, we understand and you will be missed. We need all the players we can get to make our game fun. If you do plan to play, and the by the way, the weather forecast calls for a much awaited glorious stretch and warm playable handball temperatures this week; please make your check out to Toledo Handball Club c/o George Miller and send it to immediately to 316 N. Fulton St., Swanton OH 43058 or hand it to Shain Buerk, Rick Stevens, Phil Kirk or George Miller as soon as possible. Obviously THC does not have the financial resources to allow it to front your fees for very long. We don't want to write any rubber checks.

We hate being Line Drive Sportz’s collectors. Please do not put THC in the uncomfortable position of chasing you down to pay your bill. Please forward this email to anyone who you think is intending to play this season to save them and us the uncomfortable embarrassment of demanding payment when they show up to play. Lastly, if you want more information feel free to contact Shain Buerk or George Miller. Don’t shoot the messenger. We do not enjoy being the negotiators on all of our behalves. It has been a year long pain in the neck but we realize that if we want to play somebody had to do it. If you would like to take over that roll, please consider yourself nominated. We welcome your help. We will happily put you in touch with Al Seegur and Line Drive Sportz or even Lucas County if you want to pursue that angle. Until then, the situation is as described above.

Cant wait to see you on the courts this summer.

Shain Buerk
George Miller

AUTOMATIC EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATOR TRAINING A SUCCESS

2011-04-26T08:47:00.000-04:00

Danielle Hubler, from Cintas First Aid and Safety, moderated a Reviver AED training DVD followed by a question and answer period on Monday evening April 25, 2011

Held at Regal Lanes, our host Paul Straetmans, provided a large screen TV, a great room and PIZZA. Always gracious, we thank Paul for his generosity and kindness.

The MHA would also like to thank the following attendees:

Larry Reuben, P.K. Sims II, Bill Sidebottom Jr., Keith Thode, Larry Jacobs, Jerry Rynkowski, Ed Green, Alex Cooper, Frank Erbecker, John Schandevel.

Please note that the subject AED will be ON-SITE, court-side, at all MHA sponsored tournaments both 3 Wall and 4 Wall and upon request (subject to Board approval) for non-sanctioned MHA events.

THANK YOU everyone for your support.

Dale Chimenti
on behalf of the Board of Directors.

Howe/Early & Shevin/Palazzo top LA Fitness Doubles Leagues

2011-04-25T20:43:00.003-04:00

In an era where piped in noisemakers and made for tv sporting events dominate, it was refreshing to attend this seasons LA fitness doubles finals last Wednesday. Imagine this - Twenty five people attentively watching - alternating between oohing and aahing the plays and players on the court, and warmly cheering on all of the contestants. It was real, it was exciting - the power of real life drama -scenes like this illustrate the powerful and unique way handball connects people. What a great sport we choose to play. Truely handball is the "perfect game".

A Division:
Champion: John Early\Rick Howe
Runner-up: Mike Piccolo\Glenn Paraskevin

Early\Howe won the A final in a fierce match that featured great left court play by both Rick Howe and Mike Piccolo and the punishing right hand of John Early.

B Division:
Champion: Stewart Shevin\ John Palazzo
Runner-up: Bob Hilsinger\Chuck Ferro

The team of Shevin and Palazzo are the new LA Fitness B Champions. They foiled last seasons division champions Hilsinger\Ferro quest to repeat by defeating them 2 games to 0. This match featured two up and comers in the league Stewart Shevin and Chuck Ferro who both played extremely well in both the semifinals and finals.

Thank you to all of the league handball players for competing this season. To all our injured comrades -heal quickly - and let me know where you are hurting. Hope to see you all on the courts soon.

End of season party -- Many thanks to Tim Newhouse for making our end of year party such a rousing success. 30 people attended this years dinner, many great shots were recalled, past players were remembered; all had a great time.

Outdoor season is now upon us - handball Belle Isle - Monday, Wednesday, Friday 4pm - 7:30pm - please join us.

Dan Costello

MHA State Singles 4-Wall Handball Tournament

2011-04-12T18:52:00.004-04:00

Held at the Detroit Athletic Club, April 1,2 & 3, 2011

Recap by Bob Plater

THANKS

What a FANTASTIC venue -- The DAC! And what hospitality! A big thank you to Rick Leonard who spearheaded the direction of this tournament. Rick called numerous players to urge them to enter, and he spent hours and hours organizing, arranging, refereeing, providing food and drink, and seeing that everyone was treated well. Also, thanks to Keith Thode who was on site throughout, assigning courts, refereeing, taking pictures and posting scores. Thanks to Rob Barr (DAC athletic director), and to all the DAC members and staff. This was a Great event!

The Open

Fourteen players competed for the State's most-cherished title -- open singles champion. Rick Leonard's phone calls paid off -- 14 being a large number of entries compared to recent years. The competition was excellent. Defending champion Pete Hanover, of Lansing, was seeking his 5th open title and 9th consecutive year in the finals (a record). Pete Dembeck, of Detroit, had the championship on his mind, also. Other contenders were out to win too -- Leonard, Paul, Clemens, Sickmiller, Sidebottom, Louis-Ferdinand, Bieri, Oliver. But, after two days of 'kills", diving "gets", and relentless efforts, it came down to Hanover vs. Dembeck for the title.

This was one of the best matches ever! The crowd was electrified with both player's diving "gets", deep-court "kills", backwall mastery, wall-hugging serves, amazing stamina, and pure excellence! Both were winners. But Hanover eeked-out the title in an 11-8 tie-breaker. The fans were thankful they had been there to witness handball at such an exceptional level!.

Preliminary: Pete Hanover bye. Matt Paul d. Rick Leonard 20,16. Marty Clemens d. Craig Sickmiller 3,(2),8. Rob Louis-Ferdinand d. Billy Sidebottom 8,8.Pete Dembeck d. Dale Cole 7,6. Ted Grammatico def.Andrew Rockwell. Alex Beiri d. Paul Licari 8,(2),8.Pat Oliver bye..
Quarter Finals: Hanover d. Paul 11,10. Clemens d. Louis-Ferdinand 8,(7),8. Dembeck d. Grammatico 5,3. Bieri d. Oliver 16,20
Semi Finals: Hanover d. Clemens 16,9. Dembeck d. Bieri 13,13def.
Finals: Hanover d. Dembeck (19),9,8.

Golden Masters (50+)

Ten entries competed for the Golden Masters State Singles Title. Bob Straetmans was outstanding while defeating three very formidable opponents -- Tom Fabbri, Rick Howe and Joe Ivy -- to claim the championship. Straetmans makes it look easy with his soft serves, great backwall, smart choice of shots and excellent execution.

Preliminary: Tom Fabbri d. Bob Balch 9,0; Tom Clemens d. Alan Viets 13,16.
Quarter Finals:. Straetmans d.Fabbri 10,8; Howe d. Duane Costanzo 7,9; Ivy d. Chris Monsour 19,(18),1; Tom Clemens d. Jim LaFleur 12,18.
Semi Finals:. Straetmans d, Howe 20,4; Ivy d. Clemens 8,14.
Finals:. Straetmans d. Ivy 9,14.

SUPER MASTERS (60+)

Eight players competed. Rick Graham, who seems to get better and better with age, defeated his long-time friend and doubles partner, Jim Lowe, to win the championship once again.

Quarter Finals:. Graham d. Bill Sidebottom 5,1; Ed Green d. Glenn Paraskevin 19,10; P.K. Sims II d. Carl Valentino 15,17; Lowe d. George Sponseller.
Semi Finals: Graham d. Green 10,16; Lowe d. Sims 11,(14),10.
Finals: Graham d. Lowe 15,16.

DIAMOND MASTERS (70+)

Only three participated. Randy Eschenroder, an unknown from Ann Arbor, recently opted for two new knees which, according to those who know him, enabled him to improve his handball game immensely. Randy's speed, heavy hitting and lack of unforced errors helped him defeat both of his opponents to win the championship.

Champion: Randy Eschenroder; 2nd Bob Plater; 3rd Chuck Thornton.

B Singles

Paul Straetmans, brother of Golden Masters champion Bob Straetmans, has improved his game significantly over the past few years, and showed-off his talent to an eleven-man field in the B division. Paul lost only one game in his journey to the championship.

Preliminary: Mark Stutrud d. Ken Mayer 6,1; Dan Costello d. Mike Froelich 9,11;
Dale Chimenti d. Tony Desantis.
Quarter Finals:. Straetmans d. Stutrud (19),2,6; Rob Barr d. Joe Green 13,10; Costello d. Andrew Rockwell 9,11;Chimenti d. Conner Peterson.
Semi Finals:. Straetmans d. Barr 14,11; Costello d. Chimenti
Finals:. Straetmans d. Costello 18,17.

C Singles

14 players competed in a very competitive event. Two University of Michigan students from New York, George Xue and Brian Kim, made it to the finals, Xue prevailing. Paul Straetmans, Jr., became the 3rd Straetmans participant in these events.

Preliminary: Straetmans d. Alissa Crawford 13,4; Robert Graham d. Mary Harris 13,0; Xue d. Madalyn Hale 3,1; Roger Drummond d. Halle Doyle; Ian Graham d. Danielle Palmer 5,7; Kim d. Laruen Hale 6,7.
Quarter Finals:. Matthew Pingel d. Straetmans 5,0; Xue d. Graham 14,12; Graham d. Drummond; Kim d. Ryan Musolf 3,5.
Semi Finals:. Xue d. Pingel 19,17; Kim d. Graham 10,7.
Finals:. Xue d. Kim 17,3.

RP

LA Fitness Finals & End of Season Banquet

2011-04-12T18:43:00.003-04:00

Springtime brings out the best in Detroit. Warm spring weather, flowers popping up, Detroit Tiger and Red Wing fever; a feeling of goodwill and hope permeates all of us. We have survived the long winter and are now ready to enjoy the fruits of living in beautiful Michigan.

What better way to kick off spring than attending our semi-annual LA Fitness handball doubles league championship and end of season banquet at Marinelli's in Troy, Wednesday April 20th at the LA Fitness Troy location. Championship play starts 4pm with dinner immediately after. It will be a lot of fun - plan on coming.

A Division:

Who finishes 1st, 2nd or 3rd is still to be decided with the top three teams all within 3pts of each other. Currently the team of Piccolo/Paraskevin and Blake/Lukevich are tied for first with 22ts. Close behind and always dangerous with 19pts is the Early/Howard duo. Rounding out the A division bracket will be Seguin/Vanacek currently with 16pts. With games to be played and reported the final playoff pairings are still to be determined.

B Division:

When it comes down to crunch time - playoff time - big time players show up. And this season is no different. Hilsinger, Palazzo, Braun, Kozak - all stars in their own right -are all leading their respective squads back to the playoffs. Hilsinger/Ferro (26 pts), season long league leaders currently leads the surging squad of Harvey Braun and Mike Youngerman(25pts) by one point. In third place with 19pts lurk last seasons runner-up Palazzo/Shevin. Rounding out the final spot for the B bracket is the cinderella story of the year. Bob Kozak and Carl Harlow with 9pts are looking to become this years handball version of the "
Butler" story.

Semifinal matches will be posted on Friday - Semi-final matches to be played on Monday the 18th @ 4pm - Finals Wednesday the 20th @ 4pm at LA Fitness Troy.

Teams - Please report final scores by Thursday April 14th.

All are welcome to come celebrate with us at Marinellis in Troy (5:30-6:00pm) after the finals - it is a lot of fun; handball players love to tell stories, come and share yours.

Sincerely,

Dan Costello

2011 State Singles at the DAC - Report by Keith Thode

2011-04-07T21:08:00.001-04:00

This was the finest MHA tournament in many ways in many years - maybe ever. It was certainly the best organized. To that, we owe Rick Leonard. This was our first chance to observe Rick Leonard's organizational skills applied to one of our handball tournaments.

I have organized and run state tournaments, assisted with many others, and attended many national tournaments, working closely and rooming with the Executive Director of the USHA. I have somewhat of an understanding of what it takes to run a tournament from start to finish. While the national and world tournaments require more work due to the larger scale, a state tournament director, dedicated to the task, still has an obligation to the tournament overall as well as to each individual player. Anyone who has ever run a tournament just had a chuckle at the last sentence, for it is impossible to please everyone. The best one can hope is to please the majority and to not anger anyone more than necessary.

After the entries were collected, Rick and I began our phone conversations regarding the draw and the seeding. My initial concern, before we started, as it would be with anyone who hasn't run one of our tournaments before, was whether he was up to the task. While we all know what a fine player and person Rick is, I had no idea the lengths he, or anyone else for that matter, could go to achieve the goal of a great tournament.

Rick took my ideas, combined them with his ideas, added some of his own, and then proceeded to treat the task as if it were his life's work. I know more than anyone else what he endured, because of our many phone conservations throughout the entire process. Rick went above and beyond what I consider prudent to maintain sanity. I suspect at some point, he may have actually have been bleeding from the eyes.

In most tournaments, there is one or more players with requests for special considerations, such as time constraints, travel distance, desire to not play certain opponents in the first round, etc. Most times, a request or two can be accommodated. In this case, there were many requests - much more than usual. Rick took every one of those requests into consideration and accommodated all of them. I'm not sure that any other tournament director, including myself, would, or could, figure all those requests into the final product.

I'm glad that I was there to assist Rick, and to witness, close-up, what he achieved and how he achieved it. This tournament would not have been the absolute pleasure that it was without him.

Then there was Rob Barr, who not only entered the tournament and played well, but had other concurrent pressing duties as the DAC Athletic Director. Even when he wasn't present at the courts, he was immediately available in the building for whatever we might need. Indeed, when I arrived at 8:30am Sunday morning, one half hour before the matches were scheduled, there was Rob dust mopping the floors of the courts. I'm sure that this is not in his job description.

The beautiful boards used for the draw sheets mounted on the wall, were the work of Rob Barr. Quite frankly, I find this sort of treatment rather embarrassing. We're not used to this kind of treatment. After all, we're just handball players.

Then there was the food and drink. Again, embarrassing. I think that Rick and Rob were just trying to make us, and all of our previous tournaments look bad. It may not be universally known, but it was also no secret that Rick also helped to fund this tournament financially - in a big, and again embarrassing, way.

I'm probably missing some other issues and people deserving of accolades. This was a tournament that will be remembered as though it was something more than just a state tournament.

Thank you Rick, Robb and the DAC for spoiling us rotten.

Keith Thode

2011 State 4-wall Champions

2011-04-04T09:39:00.016-04:00

Held this past weekend, April 1st thru 3rd, the venerable DAC hosted the 2011 State of Michigan 4 Wall State Singles.

The Directors of the Michigan Handball Association on behalf of the membership, would like to thank Rick Leonard [R], his company Long-Term Care Resources, Robb Barr [L], Athletic Director of the Detroit Athletic Club, and Keith Thode for their dedication and hard-work in staging and running the best Tournament in Michigan in recent history.

We are grateful for the organizational skills and financial support of both Rick and Rob on behalf of the DAC, without whose commitment, we would not have had a tournament so spectacularly successful, and we are so grateful to Keith Thode for his ability to "seed the draft" and spend his entire weekend running the tournament alongside Rick and Robb.

63 players entered and competed in divisions ranging from Open through Diamond Masters, with ages ranging from 18 through the 70's. A fantastic turn-out.

As a final note, we congratulate the Michigan State University players, both Women and Men for your great performances and look forward to seeing you again.

Thank you to all! Next up......the Summer 3 Wall tournaments.....Stay tuned!
MHA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Open
Pete Hanover [R] wins vs Pete Dembeck [L] (19), 9, 8

B
Paul Straetmans [R] wins vs Dan Costello [L] 11,17

C
George Xue wins vs Brian Kim 17,3

Golden Masters
Bobby Straetmans [R] wins vs Joe Ivy [L] 9,14

Super Masters
Rick Graham [R] wins over Jim Lowe [L]15, 16

Diamond Masters
Randy Eschenroder [R] wins round-robin over

Plater [2nd] [R] [ and Thorton [3rd] [L]

Photos Courtesy of Keith Thode

2011 State 4-Wall Tournament Pairings

2011-03-31T11:21:00.004-04:00

Click Here for the Brackets
Pops up a PDF with all Brackets - Open - Golden Masters - Super Masters - Diamond Masters

Click Here for the Tournament Overview
Pops up a PDF with everything you need to know about the DAC venue and events.

MHA State Doubles 4-Wall Handball Tournament - Report by Bob Plater

2011-03-11T17:29:00.002-05:00

Report courtesy of Bob Plater

What a great facility Michigan Athletic Club, February 19, 2011] in which to hold a handball tournament - The Michigan Athletic Club (The MAC) in East Lansing. Thanks to the MAC members and staff for their hospitality, and to Norm Young and Mike Fagan, who ran the tournament efficiently! The MAC was very active, hosting a tennis tournament at the same time as the handball tournament, while MAC members did their regular work-outs, the atmosphere being at high level of excitement. All of this plus a shirt and food for the handball participants!

The Open

Six teams competed in the State's number one 4-wall tournament. There were no easy games, all players being highly talented. The "gets" and "kills" were exciting and amazing throughout the draw. Ed Kulka and Matt Paul took the first game from defending champions Pete Hanover and Mike Fagan, before bowing out.

A great match, Joe Ivy and Mike Bontumasi against Pat Myers and Pat Oliver, ended in a tie-breaker.

And, the final match, pitting the defending champions against the defending runners-up, was as good as it gets, all four players demonstrating fantastic effort, determination, scrambling, and shot-making.

Both teams deserved to win - same as last year - but only one can. Pete and Mike eked it out. Pat and Pat are runners-up for the third year in a row ( a great achievement). Congratulations to Hanover and Fagan, State Champions for the third time in the last five years!

Preliminary: Ed Kulka/Matt Paul (Ann Arbor) d. Eric Joneson/Dale Cole (Lansing) 14,5. Joe Ivy/Mike Bontumasi (Detroit) d. Sam Eyde/Charles Drayton (Lansing) 11,11.
Semi Finals: Pete Hanover/Mike Fagan (Lansing) d. Kulka/Paul (19),8,3. Pat Oliver (Detroit)/Pat Myers (Flint) d/ Ivy/Bontumasi (19),15,6.
Finals: Hanover/Fagan d. Oliver/Myers 19,19.

========================================

MASTERS (40+)

Three teams competed in a round-robin format: Jim LaFleur/Kim Koehler (Saginaw) d. Duane Costanzo/Ken Mayer (Flint) 20,16. Lanny Green/Ted Gramatico (Ann Arbor) d. LaFleur/Koehler 10,(14),8. Green/Gramatico d. Costanzo/Mayer 13,6.
Champions: Green/Gramatico. Second: LaFleur/Koehler.

========================================

SUPER MASTERS (60+)

Four teams competed. Rick Graham and Jim Lowe won the championship match in an 11-10 tie-breaker over Ed Green and Glen Paraskevin. Paraskevin lamented he had the winning shot on his hand at close range, but put it into the floor.

Semi Finals: Rick Graham (Ann Arbor)/Jim Lowe (Temperance) d. Mike Murray/Angus McIntyre (Detroit) 15,8; Ed Green/Glen Paraskevin (Detroit) d. Carl Valentino (Lansing)/Keith Thode (Detroit)10,12.
Finals: Graham/Lowe d. Green/Paraskevin Tie-breaker!

==========================================

DIAMOND MASTERS (70+)

Only three teams participated. Norm Young and John Lincolnhol conquered the field.
Norm Young/John Linclonhol (Lansing) d. John Schandevel/Bob Plater(Detroit); Young/Lincolnhol d. George Miller (Toledo)/Carl Porter (Lansing). Miller/Porter d. Schandevel/Plater.
Champions: Young/Lincolnhol. Second: Miller/Porter.

==========================================

B Doubles

Four teams, featuring some young, talented players, as well as veteran handballers, competed for the B Doubles title this year. Last year's runners-up, Andrew Rockwell and Simon Hanover, won the final in a tough struggle with the Sims family.

Semi Finals: Simon Hanover/Andrew Rockwell (Lansing) d. Brian Kim/George Xue 2,3; PK Sims II/PK Sims III (Detroit) d. Jason Block/Joe Green (MSU) 11,17.
Final: Hanover/Rockwell d. Sims/Sims 17,12.

========================================

C Doubles

Three teams competed in a round-robin format: Brian Kim & George Xue played in their second event, winning this one. Contenders were Sean Metcalf and Max Prout, and, Rob Graham & Dakota Gates.
Kim/Xue d. Graham/Dakota 7,9. Kim/Xue d. Metcalf/Prout 14,2. Graham/Gates d. Metcalf/Prout 7,2.
Champions: Kim/Xue. Second: Graham/Gates.

MHA has plan to purchase an Automatic External Defibrillator

2011-03-11T17:23:00.003-05:00

UPDATE

AUTOMATIC EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATOR HAS ARRIVED and the MHA has scheduled the showing of a 20 minute TRAINING VIDEO on a big screen at:

REGAL LANES on Monday April 25th, 2011 at 6:30PM SHARP. Please arrive no later than 6:15 as we will begin the video promptly at 6:30.

A representative from the company that sold us the AED will be on hand for a Q and A immediately following the conclusion of the video.

For those who have previously expressed their interest in attending, we thank you and look forward to seeing you. For those who did not respond to our initial notice, please join us.

REGAL LANES is located at 27663 Mound Road, Warren, MI 48092. It is on the West side of Mound Road, just North of the I-696 Expressway.

If you have any questions, please contact Dale. dale.chimenti@yahoo.com

THANKYOU.

TO ALL MHA members and Michigan handball players:

The Board of Directors of the MHA has plans to purchase an Automatic External Defibrillator for use at all our Tournaments (particularly the outdoor venues) and whenever/wherever it is appropriate to transport and have on-site. For the indoor tournaments, most facilities do have them, but we feel it is important to have one available court-side. For the outdoor venues, we feel having a Defibrillator is a must.

We are very concerned, however, that we have enough players who have been trained in the use of the AED so that its use, while not anticipated nor desired, is guaranteed. The AED's are designed for ease of use. However, as a practical matter, we want as many people familiar with the unit as possible so there is NO HESITATION should there be an emergency.

Our final plans to purchase this unit is contingent upon getting enough players who are willing to meet and watch a 30 minute video and discuss its operational features. This AED will reside with one of the officers most likely to attend a tournament but we will depend on others who are willing to shepherd this unit, when called-upon, to the handball sites.

Please send an email IF you are willing to donate the aforementioned time AND willing to volunteer responsibility for its safe-keeping from time to time.

Send your email to:
dale.chimenti@yahoo.com or
dalechimenti@aol.com

THANK YOU
Board of Directors
Michigan Handball Association

2011 State 4 Wall Tournament Announced

2011-03-06T13:48:00.006-05:00

Michigan Handball Association

Presents the

2011 STATE SINGLES TOURNAMENT

April 1 - 3, 2011

Detroit Athletic Club

241 Madison Ave

Detroit, MI. 48226

Click Here to Download a Printable Entry Form.

Handball Clinic offered by Lake Forest College

2011-02-24T18:24:00.003-05:00

Lake Forest College Handball Clinic
May 26-29, 2011
Click Here for details and printable application.

Wayne Blasutta Passes - Obit by Rick Graham

2011-01-10T09:43:00.000-05:00

It is with incredible sadness that I report that my dear friend and former handball partner, Wayne Blasutta, passed away on January 8, 2011 at the age of 69. At the time of his death he had been living in Scottsdale, Arizona enjoying the sun, the handball courts and the surrounding golf courses. Wayne retired in 2003 after selling his businesses, Northwood Engineering, Skandia Furniture and the Rug Emporium in Michigan. I have never met a man with more zest for life than Wayne. He was always upbeat and on-the-move. Wayne travelled the globe on business and for personal pleasure and I had the opportunity to accompany him to France, Italy and Switzerland in 1984. It was one of the best vacations of my life and, through Wayne, had been planned out to the nth degree as was his wont. Wayne loved handball and played throughout his life. I was honored to have been his partner for several years and together we won many local tournaments. In 1989, Wayne and I won the 3-Rivers Invitational Masters title in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Wayne had also been the club champion at the Fairlane Club in Dearborn, Michigan for five straight years from 1982-1987.

On August 1, 2004, Wayne married the love of his life, Barbara Demman, on the Hawaiian Island of Kauai. Although Karel and I were unable to attend, the picture of the wedding and the location was incredibly beautiful. Wayne and Barbara enjoyed seven years of wedded bliss and were devoted to each other.

About twenty months ago, Wayne was diagnosed with brain cancer, similar to that of the late Senator Ted Kennedy. Wayne fought the bravest and most valiant fight of his life and endured two cranial surgeries, two radio surgeries, IV chemotherapy and many other treatment protocols, refusing to yield to this insidious disease. He, unfortunately, lost that fight on Saturday the 8th of January. Wayne donated his body to the University of Arizona for research and Barbara is planning a life celebration on Saturday the 15th of January in Scottsdale at the Bellasera Club House. More details will follow. I humbly ask all of you that knew Wayne to remember him and Barbara in your prayers.

Rick Graham

Rev. William J. McGoldrick (longtime handball player) passes

2011-01-10T09:42:00.000-05:00

Rev. William J. McGoldrick (longtime handball player) passed away January 8, 2011 at the age of 91. Visitation Monday 5:00-9:00PM at Chas. Verheyden Funeral Home, 16300 Mack, Grosse Pointe and Tuesday 4:00-8:00PM at St. Edmund Catholic Church, 14025 12 Mile, Warren. Funeral Wednesday 11 AM Mass at St. Edmunds.

Killshot Correction

2010-11-08T14:14:00.000-05:00

NEWSLETTER correction: It was erroneously reported that in the Super Masters Division of The 2010 State of Michigan 3 Wall Doubles that the team of Graham/Lowe beat Valentino/Young in the semi-finals.

This was NOT the case.

In a match that resulted in an arm injury to Graham and a serious back injury to Young, Valentino/Young DEFEATED Graham/Lowe in the semi-finals. In the finals, Michael/Luchovitz defeated Valentino/Young....

The Editor apologizes for this error. The appropriate parties will be suitably punished.

Dale Chimenti Editor

The KILLSHOT Goes Digital

2010-10-30T08:17:00.007-04:00

Effective with this edition of the KILLSHOT, the Michigan Handball Association will now be publishing our much heralded newsletter in full-color and available EXCLUSIVELY online.

CLICK HERE to read the new KILLSHOT.

In an effort to “Green Up” both environmentally and financially, we will no longer mail a hard copy to our readers.

No more standing at the mailbox waiting for your copy!

No more digging through old papers to find a previous edition!

The fall/winter 2010 edition will be posted on this website within the next week.

As always, we hope you enjoy….the KILLSHOT

Dale Chimenti
KILLSHOT Editor
MHA Vice President

Bill Sidebottom Jr. & Angus McIntyre Win Belle Isle A-Z Doubles

2010-09-16T17:06:00.009-04:00

Competition in the Motorvation Belle Isle 2010 A-Z Double finished Monday, Sept. 12. The rain-interrupted event, which tragically saw the loss of our fellow player Marv Burke [see tribute below], saw the team of Bill Sidebottom Jr. and Angus McIntyre win a hard fought match over Rick Leonard and Bob Kozak.

Bob Kozak, Rick Leonard, Bill Sidebottom, Jr. and Angus McIntyre

Special thanks to Bob Kozak for organizing this always fun and exciting summer season-ending event and to Motorvation Drive in providing its sponsorship for the second straight year.

Marv Burke In Memoriam

2010-09-16T16:55:00.003-04:00

We are saddened to announce that Marv Burke passed away on the Belle Isle Handball Courts during competition in the Belle Isle A-Z Doubles Tournament. Valiant efforts were made to save him by CPR by follow players Ken Dziuba, Larry Rueben, Kyle Casey, Stewart Shevin and Brian Callahan who worked so hard to save him during the time it took the EMS to arrive.

Bill Cantwell wrote the following.

Perhaps you have heard that Marv Burke passed away this past weekend. Marv was an avid supporter of Michigan Handball and will truly be missed. Here is the obituary and funeral arrangements:

Marvin Edward Burke, age 76. June 1, 1934 to September 11, 2010. An avid sailor, athlete, and barbershopper. He is survived by his loving fiancée Peggy Ann Grover; children, Juli Lynn (Duke Kunkler) Burke, the late Edward Paul Burke and Karyn Burke (Richard) Whitcomb; granddaughter Alexandria Phelps; sisters, Mary Ann (Sam) Adams and Nancy (Hank) Bruggeman; brother Ronald (Peggy) Burke; and many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by countless friends who enriched his life. Marvin is predeceased by his parents Mary Ellen and Edward Samuel Burke, his adoptive father John T. Janisse and his sister Martha.

Visitation will be held Thursday, September 16, from 3- 8 p.m., with a barbershop prayer service at 7 p.m. at Kaul Funeral Home, 28433 Jefferson Ave., St. Clair Shores. Funeral services will be held Friday at 1 p.m. at Trinity Episcopal Church, 30205 Jefferson Ave., St. Clair Shores.

Motorvation Belle Isle 2010 A-Z Tournament

2010-09-09T10:48:00.002-04:00

Sept. 11 Belle Isle Motorvation 2010 A-Z Tournament Pairings
Sponsored by Motorvation Drive

Note from the Commissioner Bob Kozak: "Starting times for the 1st 6 matches will be 9 AM Sat. If any 1st round matches can be played on Wed it will help the congestion on Sat morning."

Click picture below for clearer view.

2010 State 3 Wall Singles Results

2010-09-05T06:21:00.003-04:00

MHA State Singles 3-Wall Handball Tournament
Held at Belle Isle, Detroit, August 14 & 15, 2010

MHA President John Schandevel, along with Vice President Dale Chimenti and Treasurer Bill Cantwell, presented plaques to the families of David Rott, Jim Golden and Ed Novak in a ceremony after the singing of the National Anthem, led by Bob Kozak Dave, Jim and Ed were honored and remembered for their many, many years of handball excellence, accomplishment, leadership and friendship throughout the handball community. Their families spoke briefly, recalling how handball had impacted their lives in a very important, positive and joyous way, and thanking handballers everywhere for being a part of it.
Thanks to your MHA officers for putting this tournament program together. Also, thanks to Rick Howe for assigning courts and keeping things running smoothly. Thanks to Larry Reuben for manning the grill for several hours. And thanks to the others who stepped up to help where needed.

If you like humidity, this was the tournament for you! It was stifiling! Unfortunately, scores and draw sheets were not recorded in an orderly fashion and can not be replicated here. However, the excitement and winners are recalled as follows:

State Open Singles
Many excellent players competed in the most coveted 3-wall tournament offered each year in Detroit, the Open. Rising out of the humidity were two veterans from the state of Ohio, the familiar Phil Kirk (Maumee) and newcomer to Michigan, Jim Karner (Cleveland). Kirk had upended Rob Louis-Ferdinand in a hard-fought semi-final match, while Karner had edged-out Pat Oliver in a very close three gamer. Both Kirk and Karner agreed to put off the final match until the next day, possibly due to the high humidity still lingering over the Island. The Sunday final was a continuation of handball excellence, Karner winning a tight tie-breaker, 11-8, to take the title.

State 3-Wall Golden Masters (50+) Singles

Dale Chimenti upset David Vanecek, which surprised most people, except those of us who have played against Dale this year. But, that joy was short-lived, as the finals pitted Joe Ivy against Rick Howe. Joe, exhibiting a very tough serve, was not to be denied as he powered his way to his second title in this division. Rick, a four-time winner of this event, was heard to say that he could have done much better if he could have gotten Joe's serve back!

State 3-Wall Super Masters (60+) Singles
Tom Michael, in great control of his high game, making it look easy, won this division title for the third consecutive year, a frustrated Carl Valentino finishing second, just as he did last year.

State 3-Wall Diamond Masters (70+) Singles
Norm Young, perennial winner of everything, struggled a little bit in the humidity, but still managed to defeat a very strong challenge from Don Colone (19 points in the second game).

State 3-Wall B Singles
Two great competitors and friends, who beat each other seemingly multiple times each week, met in the finals of the B Singles. Arnold Lackey prevailed this time over Glenn Paraskevin.

Submitted by: Bob Plater

MHA 2010 State 3-Wall Doubles Finals Results

2010-07-17T09:25:00.007-04:00

Open	Oliver & Sidebottom Jr def Clemens & Clemens
50+	Ivy & Early def B. Straetman & McIntyre
60+	Michael & Luchkovitz def Valentino & Young
70+	Colone & Brown def Plater & Dodds
B	Dan Blake & Lowell Boileau def Shevin & Nicolas Boileau

4 Wall Singles Results

2010-04-12T08:08:00.003-04:00

Results from the State Singles - submitted by Bob Plater.

MHA State 4-Wall Singles Tournament
Genesys Athletic Club, Grand Blanc, Michigan, April 10, 2010

4-Wall State Singles Champions for 2010:

EVENT - CHAMPION
Open - Pete Hanover -- Lansing
Golden Masters - Ed Kukla -- Ann Arbor
Super Masters - Rick Graham -- Ann Arbor
Diamond Masters - Norm Young -- Lansing
"B" - Duane Costanza -- Flint
"C" - Lanny Green -- Ann Arbor

All of the 31 players, who participated in six divisions, are grateful to the Genesys Athletic Club management and members for their enthusiastic hospitality while lending their outstanding facility to us for our major, 4-wall singles, handball tournament. Great handball, great food, great time! Also, thanks to the Flint players, headed by Pat Myers, with help from Charlie Doyle and Art Pruitt (good to see you Art) for running this tournament so well.
--------------------------------------
The Open: Pete Hanover continued his march to Michigan handball greatness by making the open singles finals for the eighth consecutive year, winning for the fourth time, defeating Pat Myers in the championship match, 8,8. No other player in Michigan history has made the open finals eight consecutive years.

Quarter Finals: Matthew Paul (Ann Arbor) d. Alex Bieri (Detroit), 18,15; Pat Myers (Flint) d. Ted Grammatico (Ann Arbor) 6,8.
Semi Finals: Pete Hanover (Lansing) d. Paul 7,2; Myers d. Pat Oliver (Detroit) 20,5.
Finals: Hanover d. Myers 8,8.
--------------------------------------

The following players have won the State, 4-wall, open singles title, four or more times:
Pete Brown (12), John Scopis (11), Ken Crespi (8), Paul Merlo (6), Lou Zerbo (5), Pete Hanover (4).
--------------------------------------

Golden Masters (50+): Ed Kulka, from Ann Arbor, after a narrow first-round victory (11-9 tie-breaker) over Joe Ivy (Detroit), continued with wider-margin victories over the always dangerous Dan Costello (Detroit) and former winner from Saginaw, Jim LaFleur, in the finals. Ed's game was outstanding.

Quarter Finals: Jim LaFleur (Saginaw) d.Paul Straetmans (Detroit) 20,19; Duane Costanzo (Flint) d. Ed Green (Detroit) (15),16,4; Dan Costello (Detroit) d. Mark Casey (Detroit) 17,9; Ed Kulka (Ann Arbor) d. Joe Ivy (Detroit) 17,(19),9.
Semi Finals: LaFleur d. Costanzo 13,5; Kulka d. Costello.
Finals: Kulka d. LaFleur 9,6.
--------------------------------------

Super Masters (60+): Four competitors decided on a one-game to 31, round robin format for all matches. Rick Graham of Ann Arbor, once again proved his toughness and skillfulness with 31-19 victories over Carl Valentino (Lansing) and Larry Price (Ann Arbor). Awesome! Keith Thode (Detroit) rounded out the foursome.

..
--------------------------------------

Diamond Masters (70+): Norm Young (Lansing), just too good to be in this division, making great serves and only one unforced error, came out on top in a round-robin format, winning both of his matches over David Dodds (Flint) 2nd, and Bob Plater (Detroit).

--------------------------------------

"B": Duane Costanzo an underrated player from Flint, participated in two events, winning this one by default (unfortunately) when his finals oppponent, Clark Forward, (who had beaten two opponents to get to the finals) chose not to play the championship match.

Quarter Finals: Chris Kirby d. Joe Green (Detroit) 7,7; Clark Forward (Lansing) d. Anthony Guarnaccia 9,7.
Semi Finals: Costanzo d. Kirby; Forward d. Dale Chimenti (Detroit).
Finals: Costanzo d. Forward default

--------------------------------------
"C": Lanny Green, with only one year of experience, beat out this young and/or speedy group of seven, winning the "C" title.

Quarter Finals: Lauren Hale d. Alissa Crawford; Lanny Green d. Lauren Hale; Mike MacDonald (Livonia) d. Alissa Crawford
Semi Finals: Joe Green d. Lauren Hale 5,3; Lanny Green d. Mike MacDonald 16,5.
Finals: Lanny Green d. Joe Green.

Submitted by Bob Plater.

2010-03-22T09:55:00.002-04:00

Announcing the...
Detroit Athletic Club
Masters, Golden, Super and Diamond Masters
DOUBLES HANDBALL TOURNAMENT
Saturday May 8, Wednesday May 12 & Friday May 14, 2010
Click Here for Full Details and Entry Form

State 4-wall Singles Tournament

2010-02-23T13:45:00.003-05:00

Michigan Handball Association Presents...
SHELCO 2010 STATE SINGLES TOURNAMENT
April 10 and 11, 2010
Genesys Athletic Club
801 Health Park Blvd. • Grand Blanc, MI. 48439 • (810) 606-730

CLICK HERE FOR PRINTABLE ENTRY FORM AND DETAILS

2010 4 Wall Doubles Tournament Results

2010-02-15T11:28:00.005-05:00

Open Division - Pete Hanover and Mike Fagan over Pat Oliver and Pat Myers

B Division - Sam Eyde Jr. and Chuck Drayton over Simon Hanover and Andrew Rockwell

50's - Jim Lafleur and Dale Chimenti over Glen Pareskevin and Jim McGurk

60's - Larry Price and Keith Thode over Carl Valentino and Rick Graham

70's - Carl Porter and Norm Young over Bob Plater and partner.

Singles League @ LA Fitness Forming - You're Invited

2010-01-02T11:51:00.002-05:00

This is a pass along. This will be a strength-conscious set up so players of all levels will find equal challenge. Sign up as a regular or sub.
..........................
Dear Handballers,

Interest in a singles league has been high. Below please find the list of players currently signed up to play.

1) Mark Casey
2) Larry Jacobs
3) Ed Green
4) Bob Plater
5) Bob Kozak
6) Carl Harlow
7) Dale Chimenti
8) Dan Blake
9) Barry Doan
10)John Schandeval
11)Glenn Paraskevin
12)Lowell Boileau
13)Nick Boileau
14)Dennis Hannon
15)Stuart Shevin
16)Dan Costello

Subs:
1) Bill Cantwell

My goal is to create 3 six team divisions with inter-divisional play. Divisions will be based on relative skill levels and parity will be achieved through a handicapping system. Matches will be individually scheduled on a once a week basis with Thursday afternoons and Saturday mornings at LA Fitness being the informal playing start times. The responsibility to schedule and play matches are up to the players.

If you would like to play as a regular or sub please call or e-mail me. dgc21156@yahoo.com

Sincerely;
Dan Costello
w:248-543-7070
c:248-854-1526

Dave Oliver Passes

2009-12-02T13:14:00.000-05:00

It is with tremendous sadness that we share news of the passing of Dave Oliver this morning. We have no details of the nature of his death at this time and only bring you this news in an effort to inform our community of friends of this shocking reality. We will advise you of any further news of Dave's funeral arrangements when they are available. On behalf of the entire handball community, we mourn his passing.

Awards banquet and holiday party- DECEMBER 4, 2009 - BE THERE

2009-11-19T11:38:00.000-05:00

As previously announced, this year's awards banquet and holiday party will be held at Total Sports. The festivites begin at 6:30 PM on Friday, December 4, 2009.
We will be serving food (buffet style), beer and soft drinks. Mixed drinks will be available at a cash bar.

Total Sports Bar and Grill is located at 40501 Production Dr., Harrison, MI, 48045. (586) 463-2000

Thanks to the following sponsors for their financial support to make this event possible:

Barry Doan
Frank Erbecker
Victor Battani
Glenn Paraskevin
John O'Neill
Bill Cantwell
Dave Vanecek
Jack Digiovani
Matt Paul
Bruce Kennedy
Bob Howard
Dick Cousino
Harvey Braun
Larry Brown
Ken Luchkovitz

Please post this message at your club. Thank you.

2009-09-11T14:05:00.017-04:00

Belle Isle "Albatross" A-B Doubles Tournament
Results

Ted Grammatico [left] and partner Ed Taylor [right]
in finals match with winners Pete Dembeck and Mike Froehlich.
[click Pictures for larger views]

Winners of Consolations Warren McAlpine [center] Jim O'Donnell [right] vs
Dan Costello [left] and Don Colone [front court].

Special thanks Bob Kozak, Carl Harlow, Ken Luchkowitz, Tom O,Brien & Glenn Paraskevin for their help in making this a success.

Thanks to this year's Sponsor:
Lutheran Social Services of Michigan
"Motorvation Drive" Car Donation Program

Organized and Directed by the
"Belle Isle Handball Commissioner" Bob Kozak

Pairings: Click Chart for Larger View.

Sat. Sept. 19, 2009.

$20 Entry fee.

Food and Drink provided.

Open to players of all strengths -- Teams are matched up to equalize strengths.

2009 Michigan State Three Wall Doubles Handball Championhip Results

2009-08-17T11:45:00.005-04:00

Congratulations to the winners of the three wall doubles tournament this past weekend:

Open Division - Pete Hanover and Phil Kirk over Pete Brown and Bill Sidebottom Jr.

B Divison - Arnold Lackey and Glen Paraskevin over Hank and Bob Kozak

Golden Masters - Rick Howe and Joe Ivy over Larry Price and Glen Paraskevin

Super Masters - Tom Michael and Ken Luchkovitz over Bob Hilsinger and Bill Sidebottom Sr.

Special thanks to Carl Harlow, Bob Kozak and Ken Luchkovitz for handling the cooking and hospitality duties.

Picture: Pete Brown lines up shot. L-R Robert Louis-Ferdinand referees. Pete Hanover, Phil Kirk, Pete Brown, Bill Sidebottom, Jr. [Click Picture to pop up larger view]

State 4-wall Singles & Doubles Results - 2009

2009-04-30T07:59:00.004-04:00

MHA State 4-Wall Singles Tournament
Michigan Athletic Club (The MAC), East Lansing, April 4,2009

EVENT CHAMPIONS
Open Pete Hanover -- Lansing
Golden Masters Steve Fase -- Rockford
Super Masters Larry Price -- Ann Arbor
Diamond Masters Bob Plater -- Detroit
"B" Matthew Paul-- Lansing
"C" Sketter Kittle-- Lansing
Youth Dylan Graham -- Ann Arbor

READ DETAILS

MHA State Doubles 4-Wall Handball Tournament
Held at the Genesys Athletic Club, February 21, 2009

EVENT CHAMPIONS

OPEN DOUBLES Pete Dembeck/ Dave Oliver
GOLDEN MASTERS Joe Ivy / John Early
SUPER MASTERS Jim Lowe / Rick Graham
DIAMOND MASTERS Norm Young / Carl Porter
B DOUBLES Rick Leonard / Clark Forward
READ DETAILS

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Details: MHA State 4-Wall Singles Tournament

The Open: Pete Hanover made it to the finals of Michigan's most prestigious singles tournament for the seventh consecutive year -- an amazing accomplishment. And, he won for the third time, defeating Pete Brown in the final. Hanover had his game in high gear against Brown, holding him to 16 and 5 points. Brown, Michigan's all-time most proflic winner with 12 state-open titles, although hitting the ball very hard most of the time, just could not score against Hanover's defense. The small crowd of fans witnessed a great match!
Quarter Finals: Pat Oliver (Detroit) d, Craig Sickmiller (Detroit) in a tie-breaker.
Semi Finals: Pete Hanover (Lansing) d. Pat Oliver 3,5; Pete Brown (Detroit) d. Mike Fagan (Lansing) injury default.
Finals: Hanover d. Brown 16,5.
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Golden Masters (50+): Steve Fase, playing fantastic handball, dominated this division with wins over Ed Kulka, Joe Ivy and defending champion Garyt Dahl. Steve has amazing shot-making skills and defensive savvy, accompanied by a gentlemanly demeanor.

Quarter Finals: Jim LaFleur (Saginaw) d. Tom Fabbri (Detroit) 11,12; Joe Ivy (Detroit) d. Ed Green (Detroit) 11,5; Steve Fase (Rockford) d. Ed Kulka (Ann Arbor) 12,16.
Semi Finals: Garyt Dahl (Lansing) d. LaFleur 6,3; Fase d. Ivy 13,8.
Finals: Fase d. Dahl 13,6.
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Super Masters (60+): This was a strong group of eight competitors. Defending champion Norm Young had his hands full with the likes of Rick Graham and newly-qualified Larry Price in the field. Price, long a top state contender, demonstrated his expertise, convincingly, in winning the title.

Quarter Finals: Norm Young (Lansing) d. Tom Mudd (Saginaw) 9,5; Larry Price (Ann Arbor) d. P.K. Sims II (Detroit) 12,12; Rick Graham (Ann Arbor) d. James Moore (Wyoming) 2,5; Carl Valentino (Lansing) d. Charlie Doyle (Flint) 4,2.
Semi Finals: Price d. Young 5,5; Graham d. Valentino 5,5.
Finals: Price d. Graham 14,12..
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Deamond Masters (70+): Only three competed for this title, each bringing much experience into the event. Bob Plater came out on top in a round-robin format, winning both of his matches. David Dodds split his two matches, taking second. Carl Porter took third.

Round Robin: Bob Plater (Detroit) d. David Dodds (Flint) (9),8,2;
Dodds d. Carl Porter (Lansing) 12,7;
Plater d. Porter 8,12

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"B": Matthew Paul rose above a tough pack in this field of nine, playing outstanding handball.

Preliminary: Karl Hanover (Lansing) d. Christofer Kerby 7,9.
Quarter Finals: P.K. Sims II (Detroit) d. Hanover 11,(16),5; Jeff Kanake (Lansing) d. Damon Valentino (Lansing) 2,5; Dale Chimenti (Detroit) d. Simon Hanover (Lansing) (12),20,6; Matthew Paul (Lansing) d. Eric Joneson (Lansing) 3,3.
Semi Finals: Kanake d. Sims 12,17; Paul d. Chimenti 6,3.
Finals: Paul d. Kanake 12,7.

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"C": Sketter Kittle excelled in this group of ten, determined runners.

Preliminary: Andrew Rockwell d. Marwan Nashel 16,5; Sketter Kittle (Lansing) d. Anthony Guarnaccia 3,14.
Quarter Finals: Charlie Doyle (Flint) d. Rockwell 13,10; Tom Pritchard (Lansing) d. Joe Green (Detroit) 7,13; Roger Drummond (Detroit) d. Rob Graham (Ann Arbor) 6,1; Kittle d. DavidDodds (Flint) (19),9,7.
Semi Finals: Pritchard d. Doyle (20),4,4; Kittle d. Drummond 14,19.
Finals: Kittle d. Pritchard (15),14,5.

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Youth Singles: Five young, excited athletes had much fun in this hotly contested draw, with Dylan Graham outlasting them all.

Preliminary: Tyler Sickmiller (Detroit) d. Clayton Schulenberg 10,2.
Semi Finals: Dylan Graham (Ann Arbor) d. Sickmiller 8,14; Max Fgan (Lansing) d. Emmet Kulka (Ann Arbor) 13,8.
Finals: Graham d. Fagan 13,13.

Thanks to:
Norm Young, Carl Valentino, Mike Stock, Keith Thode, Carl Porter, Dick Sheldon and the Michigan Athletic Club (MAC) members and staff! Great hosts, great facility, great time!
Submitted by: Robert Plater

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Details: MHA State Doubles 4-Wall Handball Tournament

OPEN DOUBLES

Six teams competed for the most desired doubles title in Michigan. The competition was intense; but one man, Pete Dembeck, was not to be denied. Dembeck did everything just a little bit better than everyone else and led his team to the Open championship. Dembeck's partner, Dave Oliver, helped out with steady front/right court play. Dave's nephew, Pat Oliver, who recently had arthroscopic surgery to repair a knee problem, was slightly off his game in the finals, partially because Dembeck was forcing tough returns. Pat Myers was excellent on defense, getting to "ungetable" shots. But, Dembeck stood out, playing amazing handball. Incidentally, this was Dave Oliver's 14th MHA Open 4-Wall Doubles title, tying him with Joe Ivy for the most wins.

First Round: Marty Clemens (Nashville,IN)/Tom Clemens (Saginaw) d. Ted Grammatico/George Goodman (Ann Arbor) 4,9; Mike Fagan/Pete Hanover (Lansing) d. Matt Paul/Ed Kulka (Ann Arbor) 5,12.
Semi Finals: Pat Oliver/Pat Myers (Detroit/Flint) d. Clemens/Clemens 15,10; Pete Dembeck/Dave Oliver (Detroit) d. Fagan/Hanover 18,12.
Finals: Dembeck/D.Oliver d. Myers/P.Oliver 10,11 _______________________________________________

GOLDEN MASTERS

The 50+ division had four, evenly-matched teams, the outcome of each match not known until the final point was made. Tom Fabbri's back-wall shot mastery led the way in the first game of the championship match, aided by Rick Howe's consistent sharp shooting. In the second game, Joe Ivy, who struggled in the first game, rebounded to a higher level, whcih gave his partner, John Early, a chance to play "his game" (hard-hitting corner "kills" and ceiling shots). The tie-breaker went to Ivy and Early, both playing their best against tired opponents.

Semi Finals: Joe Ivy/John Early (Detroit) d. Mark Casey/Ed Green (Detroit) 19,15; Rick Howe/Tom Fabbri (Detroit) d. Garyt Dahl/Jim LaFleur (Lansing/Saginaw) 10,(15),2.

Final: Ivy/Early d. Howe/Fabbri (5),13,4.
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SUPER MASTERS

A "Super" team won the super masters (60+) as Jim Lowe and Rick Graham added to their huge collection of doubles championship trophies. No team got more than 11 points in any game against this awesome duo.

Semi Finals: Jim Lowe/Rick Graham (Temperance/Ann Arbor) d. Dave Dodds/Pat Murphy (Flint) 8,3; Larry Price/Tom Michael (Ann Arbor/Detroit) d. P.K.Sims/Jim McGurk (Detroit) 11,8.

Finals: Lowe/Graham d. Price/Michael 9,11.
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DIAMOND MASTERS

Only two teams participated. Norm Young had too many good shots, making the difference in the 70+ field..
Finals: Norm Young/Carl Porter (Lansing) d. Harvey Braun/Bob Plater (Detroit) 9,11.
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B Doubles

Only four teams competed in the B Doubles this year. Rick Leonard and Clark Forward prevailed, winning a tough, 3-gme final over Bill Sidebottom, Jr. and Glen Williams..

Semi Finals: Bill Sidebottom, Jr./Glen Wiliams (Detroit) d. P.K.Sims/Jim McGurk (Detroit) 17,1; Rick Leonard/Clark Forward (Ann Arbor) d. Eric Joneson/Karl Hanover (Lansing) 14,7.
Final: Leonard/Forward d. Sidebottom/Williams 14,(5),6

Consolation

Braun/Plater outlasted the field in this one (some teams left without playing) defeating Dodds/Murphy (19),15,5.

Thanks to Dale Chimenti for negotiating with Genesys to gain the use of their fantastic sports and fitness venue for our tournament. Also, thanks to John Schandevel and Bill Cantwell, along with Dale, for all the work they put into our MHA. The players were very appreciative of the generous food voucher given each of them to spend at the facilitiy's restaurant. Thanks to Pat Myers, Art Pruitt, Hugh Armbruster, Gary Nehring and Bob Colles (the best to your son) for helping make the tournament run smoothly, and to the Genesys Athletic Club and their members for bearing with us on a very busy day in which every parking space in their huge lot was occupied.

Article by Bob Plater

Request from Ireland

2009-04-01T12:40:00.002-04:00

Hi, I'm a final year Athletic Therapy and Training student in DCU in Ireland and I'm doing my final year thesis on the Epidemiology of Handball Injuries. I'm handing out a questionnaire on this to as many clubs as possible and I was hoping your club could help out also.

I've attached the questionnaire and was wondering if it would be possible for you to hand it out to your handball players in your club or alternatively I could post them to you. The return address for questionnaires is dcuhandballquestionnaire@gmail.com. Or my postal address is: Siobhán O Connor, c/o School of Health and Human Performance, Dublin City University, Dublin 9.

Thanks a million for your help if you have any questions be sure to ring me or email me back, Siobhán O Connor. (0861639016)

Click Here to Download the Questionaire.

DAC Postponed until Fall 2009

2009-02-21T10:23:00.001-05:00

The DAC will need to postpone our Master’s Handball Tournament scheduled for March 2-6. We thank those of you who did sign up for your interest, but we find the lack of sign-ups will not be beneficial for a successful and enjoyable tournament.

The DAC is committed to the Masters tournament, thus, we will be offering a chance again in the fall to be a part of this long standing tradition. I trust you understand and I am sorry for any inconvenience this cancellation may cause.

We will be sending out refunds in the next week and will look forward to providing a top notch tournament in the fall of 2009!!

Sincerely,
Rob Barr
Athletic Director
Detroit Athletic Club

Killshot Winter 2009 Newsletter

2009-02-15T11:53:00.004-05:00

...has been released.

Click Here to view FULL COLOR high resolution [.pdf] version

Three Wall Nationals

2008-09-03T08:43:00.000-04:00

The MHA and all its members congratulate the following players for their success at the USHA three wall nationals this past labor day weekend:

Pat Oliver and Robert Louis-Ferdinand - CHAMPIONS, B Doubles

Bret Williams and Matt Osburn - CHAMPIONS, 45 Doubles

Roger Berry - CHAMPION, 55 Singles

Pete Hanover - Runner Up, 40 Singles

Tom Michael - Runner up, 60 Singles

Bob Plater and Bob Harris - Runner up, 70 Doubles

3 Wall Singles Results

2008-08-19T08:12:00.001-04:00

Open - Pete Brown over Pat Oliver
B - Bill Sidebottom Jr. over Jeff Knacke
50's - Rick Howe over Dave Vanecek
60's - Tom Michael over Norm Young

Thanks to Dave Vanecek and Cadillac Iron for the windbreakers and thanks to Glenn Williams and Bill Sidebottom Jr. for running the tournament.

2008 State 3-Wall Doubles Results

2008-07-22T22:49:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to this year's
2008 State 3-Wall Doubles Winners

Open – Pete Hanover & Phil Kirk over Pete Dembeck & Mike Piccalo
[BELOW HANOVER & KIRK SERVE TO PAT OLIVER & MYERS]

B – Bill Sidebottom Jr. & Glen Williams over P.K & Presley Sims

60’s – Norm Young & Carl Valentino over Bob Hilsinger & Bill Sidebottom
[BELOW VALENTINO & YOUNG (CENTER) PLAY KOZAK & COLONE]

50’s – Rick Howe & Joe Ivy over Tom Michael & Paul Straetmens