(Sherwood Park) - After a very successful Canadian Handball Championships in Montreal last May, the Sherwood Park “Sharks” Junior Court Handball Club is launching their new season. Open to players age 10 and up, the club is holding free clinics at the Glen Allan Recreation Complex on Wednesdays, September 26, October 3 and 10, from 5:30 to 7:30. Any new players that want to test their hand at the sport, can don the gloves and goggles and give it try.

The Sharks can now boast a Canadian Champion in their club. David Doucette captured the Canadian Championship Boys 15 and Under Doubles title with his partner Tanner Rakochey of Calgary. In addition, Sharks Jamie Slatter won the Consolation final of the boys 17 and under, and Ben Lavin made it to the semi-finals in the boys 15 and under.

Following the success at Canadian Championships, coaches Jacqueline and Mark Broverman, are hoping to attracted new players who would like to take on the extreme sport.

“Handball is a great game for those who are looking for something different and who like individual sports,” explains Mark, who himself captured the Men’s Masters Singles title at the Nationals, and finished second in the doubles. “It has been called ‘the perfect game’ because of the physical and mental demands of the sport.”

Not only is handball a good workout, but it’s a great alternative to the more expensive sports in the community. “Our registration fee is $100 which helps to offset some of the costs of the court time,” Jacqueline said. “For equipment, all you need is a good pair of court shoes, some goggles and a pair of gloves, and if a family is strapped for cash, we’ll even supply the equipment,” she continued.

The 2007/08 season includes an option to play in several Alberta tournaments throughout the year including the Canadian National Championships being hosted in Calgary, and a shot at being chosen to play in the American National Championships in Tucson, Arizona.

Free one-on-one adult clinics are also available. If you or your child would like to try handball, call the coaches at 915-4729.