Israel Handball Federation Extends National Team Coach's Contract

The Israel Handball Association held its season-opening gala and awards ceremony for the previous season at Lago Halls in Rishon LeZion. The event, attended by over 300 representatives from clubs, sponsors, players, and coaches, was described as being of the highest caliber.

During the ceremony, Association Chairman Idan Mizrahi announced that Spanish national team coach David Puigro will continue for another campaign. A video was shown where Puigro expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him.

Individual awards were presented to Ram Torkenitz of Maccabi Ramat Hasharon and Shir Wekrat of Bnot Eiko Herzliya for leading their teams to a double championship win last season. The "Team of the Season" selections for both men's and women's leagues were also announced, along with Coach of the Year (Idan Maimon) and Breakthrough Player of the Year (Adi Cohen for men, Maayan Bromand for women).

Special recognition was given to the youth and junior national teams for their promotion to the World Championship. Jonathan Pelach received a special award for breaking the all-time scoring record at the European Junior Championship, becoming the top scorer. A surprise retirement ceremony was held for former national team player Tali Barel-Torkenitz.

Mizrahi also outlined future initiatives, including a cash prize and European competition spot for the winner of the pre-season cup, and the introduction of a Final Four format for both men's and women's league championships. He set a goal for the senior national team to qualify for the upcoming European Championship after a long absence.

Further plans include appointing a foreign coach for the women's national team, who will also oversee a reform of women's handball. Mizrahi highlighted the association's achievements in the past year, including record broadcasts and digital exposure, and announced an upcoming women's handball project expected to generate significant revenue.