In the South Coliseum and the Multi-Sports Complex, expectations are high for the discipline to strengthen and take on new challenges.
Handball in Quindío has established itself as one of the most remarkable sporting disciplines in the department, propelled by the successes of the last three editions of the National and Paranational Games, as well as the recent Youth and Para-Youth Games. These successes propelled the sport, providing recognition and support from the community.
In the youth and para-youth competitions, although gold medals were not achieved in the men’s and women’s categories, fans celebrated the quality of the teams’ performances. This growing interest reflects a phenomenon supported not only by sporting successes but also by the hard work of coaches Juan Alejandro Beltrán Ortiz and Tatiana Herrera, who are committed to developing their teams despite the challenges.
“We are a sport that the people of Quindío follow with interest. The podiums achieved in the recent National Games gave us visibility. In 2023, many did not know what handball was, but now they appreciate it more ,” said Beltrán Ortiz.
The coach highlighted that experiencing this sport live is exciting: “It is a spectacle full of tension and goals, something that attracts children, who quickly become interested in practicing it. Even adults are starting to do it. appreciate it more.”
Furthermore, Beltrán recognized the role of the Coliseum Multi-Sport in strengthening handball: “This venue is an invaluable opportunity. The specifications meet all the requirements, and I am sure that its opening will be a cornerstone for the growth of the sport in the department.”
With the official opening of the coliseum scheduled for March, Beltrán envisions a consolidation phase: “We will have a high quality Terraflex. With Imdera and Indeportes Quindío we plan to organize tournaments and festivals that will expand the base, allowing us to have a stronger league.”
Laura Sofía Bernal, member of the Quindío women’s handball team, highlighted that the recent bronze medal won at the Youth and Para-Youth Games is a significant achievement for the discipline. “Not so long ago, many did not know what handball was, but now they are joining us and realizing that football is not the only option. Handball is a great alternative among many other sporting activities.”
Laura shared how her passion for the sport began: “It started with a few friends who motivated me to train. I used to play volleyball, but seven years ago I took up handball and I I fell in love with this sport and I am very grateful for everything it has given me.”
Finally, she called on the community: “I believe that with the Multi-Sports Coliseum we will be stronger. That is why I invite people to give this sport a chance. It is important that they discover it , and I hope that the authorities will continue to provide their support, as they did during the Games.”
-Pedro José Martínez Puerto, president of the Colombian Handball Federation, highlighted the strength of this discipline in Quindío and the support of the public.
“During the Youth and Para-Youth Games, Armenia was an excellent host, and the Multi-Sports Coliseum was instrumental. We hope that the county government will complete its construction, which will pave the way for international events in this region,” commented Martínez Puerto.
Regarding the national landscape, the official expressed optimism: “We started our term with 10 leagues, and we now have 16, while working to form three more.”
Martínez also highlighted how other departments such as Caquetá, Meta and La Guajira have shown interest in developing this discipline. “Handball attracts with its excitement, skill, strength and prowess, qualities that engage fans,” he added.
The growth of the sport has been supported by programs led by the Ministry of Sports, which have enabled the training of players and coaches with advanced techniques, enhancing the development of the discipline across the country.
The Multi-Sports Coliseum has become a symbol of handball in Quindío. This location, with the South Coliseum in Armenia, allowed the continuity of training and competitions.
In addition, neighborhoods like La Isabela and Arrayanes, where the Teresita Montes educational institution is located, have played a key role in popularizing this sport. Collective efforts in these areas have been decisive for handball to gain popularity and establish itself as a very promising sporting alternative.
Diego Alejandro Moreno, a regular spectator, expressed: “Last year, I discovered handball during the National Games, and I was captivated. It is as exciting as basketball or volleyball. Now, I take every opportunity to come and see him.”
