History of Handball

Handball has become a popular sport in Canada, and especially Western Canada

where sports enthusiasts have found four wall handball to be an ideal indoor

game to be played during the long winter months.

Handball was introduced to North America by Irish Immigrants in the 1840's and was

a popular game in the streets, schools, and sports clubs.  The game is very popular

in the U.S. where New York and San Fransisco are the hotbeads of competition.  The

first official courts were built at Coney Island Beach in the early 1900's, and New York

City alone boasts over 2000 courts today.

The game is very similar to racquetball.  The main difference is that in handball you

use your hands to hit the ball.

Some people are surprised to learn that handball isn't hard on the hands.  In fact, a

new softer "Family Handball" has been introduced which allows the player to slowly

condition their hands to the sport.  Competitive handball uses a firmer "Regulation"

Handball.

Handball can be played against almost any wall, but is typically played in a four-

walled court.  Handball is a lifetime sport that can be played by anyone who is

reasonably fit.  There are no limits to age or size.