Olympic Handball Ireland Announces 2025/26 Award Winners at 50th Anniversary Celebration

Olympic Handball Ireland recognised the outstanding contributions of players, coaches, volunteers and long-serving members of the Irish handball community at its 50th Anniversary Celebration, held on Saturday, 17 October 2026, at the Gibson Hotel in Dublin.

As the organisation celebrated 50 years of handball in Ireland, the evening provided an opportunity to recognise the people whose dedication, passion and commitment have helped shape the sport, both past and present.

Five awards were presented in recognition of outstanding contributions throughout the 2025/26 season, alongside three special awards named in honour of Olympic Handball Ireland's founder, Lindsay Pennycook.

Meet the 2025/26 Award Winners

Volunteer of the Year: Natasha Guilheiro

Natasha has made an outstanding contribution to Irish handball through her dedication, enthusiasm and willingness to volunteer wherever needed.

Throughout the 2025/26 season, she supported approximately ten Olympic Handball Ireland events, officiating at school competitions from County Finals right through to the All-Ireland Finals, as well as Senior National League matches and the Celtic Cup.

Beyond refereeing, Natasha actively contributes to both the Competition and Referee Committees, supporting the organisation and development of handball at a national level.

Her commitment to supporting players, clubs and competitions at every level makes her a valued member of the Irish handball community.

Coach of the Year: Volodymyr Khrystych (Vlad), University College Dublin

Vlad has played an exceptional role in the development and stability of UCD Handball Club, demonstrating that great coaching goes far beyond results on the court.

Despite the constant challenge of players coming and going, particularly international students, he has built a competitive, welcoming and increasingly consistent team.

During the 2025/26 season, UCD achieved an important victory over DCH and completed the season without forfeiting a single match, reflecting the progress made under his leadership.

Beyond the senior team, Vlad has dedicated years to developing young players, particularly encouraging girls to remain involved in handball.

His passion, sportsmanship and willingness to support the wider handball community have earned him enormous respect from players, coaches and officials alike.

Club of the Year: Tipperary Handball Club

Established in 2025, Tipperary Handball Club is a remarkable example of how passion and determination can turn an idea into a thriving sporting community.

Founded by a local teacher and father who wanted to introduce handball to children in the area, the club has grown rapidly from the ground up.

In just a few months, Tipperary Handball Club has attracted approximately 90 children attending weekly sessions, supported by a growing team of dedicated volunteers.

The club is already looking towards the future, with ambitions to establish senior men's and women's teams and create opportunities for players of all ages.

Their rapid growth, strong community involvement and commitment to developing the next generation of handball players make them a wonderful example of what can be achieved through dedication and teamwork.

Men's Player of the Year: Tomas Havel, Astra HC

Tomas has demonstrated exceptional dedication and leadership throughout the season, playing a vital role in supporting Astra Handball Club both on and off the court.

As one of the team's most experienced players, Tomas stepped up to take on the additional responsibility of coaching the men's team when no coach was available.

Despite these extra responsibilities, he continued to make an important contribution as a player, scoring goals and helping his team compete throughout the season.

His commitment extended far beyond playing and coaching. Tomas also supported the club's junior players, helped teammates with transport to matches and took responsibility for matchday administration.

His willingness to step up wherever needed, combined with his experience, leadership and dedication, has made him an invaluable member of Astra Handball Club.

Women's Player of the Year: Virginia Morera Pujol, Astra HC

Virginia has been a dedicated and valued member of Astra Handball Club for many years, consistently demonstrating commitment, leadership and a strong sense of responsibility towards her teammates.

Throughout the 2025/26 season, she played a particularly important role in supporting the club's younger international players, helping them settle into the team and ensuring they felt welcomed and supported.

Virginia also took responsibility for organising the logistics of Astra's participation in the Celtic Cup as part of a combined team with Dublin International Handball.

From coordinating travel and accommodation to communicating with parents and host families, she helped create a memorable experience for the club's younger players.

Her dedication, generosity and willingness to go beyond her responsibilities as a player have made her an invaluable part of Astra Handball Club.

Honouring Our Founder: The Lindsay Pennycook Awards

As part of the 50th Anniversary Celebration, Olympic Handball Ireland also presented three special awards named in honour of its founder, Lindsay Pennycook.

The Lindsay Pennycook Awards were presented to three long-serving members of the Irish handball community, recognising their years of dedication and contribution to the sport:

• Michael Moloney

• Fintan Lyons

• Andrea Ongaro

The awards provided a special opportunity to acknowledge those who have devoted years to supporting Irish handball and helping the sport develop over time.

The evening also included a tribute to Lindsay Pennycook himself, with a special memorial plaque presented to his family in recognition of his legacy as the founder of Olympic Handball Ireland.

As the organisation marks its 50th anniversary, it was a meaningful moment to honour the person who helped begin the journey and recognise those who have continued to carry the sport forward.

Celebrating the People Behind Irish Handball

As Olympic Handball Ireland celebrates its 50th anniversary, these awards are a reminder that the strength of our sport lies in its people.

From volunteers giving their time and coaches developing the next generation, to players supporting their teammates and long-serving members who have dedicated years to the sport, each recipient represents an important part of Irish handball's story.

Olympic Handball Ireland extends its congratulations to all eight award recipients and thanks them for their outstanding contributions to our sport.

As we reflect on 50 years of Irish handball, we also remember the foundations laid by Lindsay Pennycook and look forward to the next generation of players, coaches, volunteers and clubs who will shape its future.