Conflict Brews Over Handball Team Selection for National Games in Himachal

Shimla Dec 31

The Himachal Pradesh Handball Association (HPHA) has announced trials for the state women’s handball team for the 38th National Games, to be held on January 2, 2025, in Sundernagar. The trials, according to HPHA General Secretary Nand Kishore Sharma, will follow Indian Olympic Association (IOA) guidelines, ensuring transparency through video recordings and supervision by national-level medalists and coaches.

However, tensions have escalated between the HPHA and the Himachal Pradesh Olympic Association (HPOA). The HPHA accused the HPOA of conducting arbitrary trials on December 30 in Una without prior coordination. Concerns over alleged favoritism and lack of clarity on trial venue and requirements have further deepened the rift.

HPHA claims previous trials saw biased selection, favoring players from a private academy. Despite multiple communications with HPOA, no consensus was reached, prompting HPHA to schedule their trials independently. HPHA has also informed the IOA about the issue and requested an observer to oversee the upcoming trials.

The controversy reflects a growing struggle for fair representation in sports, with national players demanding transparency and equal opportunity.

38thNG_AthleteregistrationSystem