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Handball Academy

Handball Academy

Almost immediately after the recognition of the independent Handball Federation of Greece YMCA Thessaloniki showed interest in handball. The first mention of forming a handball team was at YMCA Thessaloniki’s branch in Kalamaria on May 31, 1979. However, official correspondence with the Hellenic Handball Federation began in the spring of 1980, when YMCA Thessaloniki became a member of the Federation and issued its first player registrations.

The 1985-86 season marked a significant milestone for the team as they won the 2nd group of the B’ National Division with modest resources, earning promotion to the A’ National Division—a remarkable achievement for the time and setting the stage for the team’s future development.

True to the club’s philosophy, the handball department focused on developing its infrastructure, which saw substantial growth from 1990 with the introduction of handball tournaments for primary schools in Kalamaria. These tournaments became a significant system for attracting and selecting young players for handball. They provided numerous talented players at young ages, including notable talents such as Alexis Alvanos, leading to significant successes for the department.

In the 2004-2005 season, YMCA Thessaloniki was crowned Greek champion in the unified A2 division, boasting 11 international players—6 in the U-19 national team and 5 in the U-17 national team.

Since then, except for 4 seasons, the team has established itself in the A1 National Division (now known as Handball Premier), primarily with players developed through its own youth system. The club’s trophy cabinet includes 3 Greek Youth Championship titles (2004, 2005, and 2008).

YMCA Thessaloniki’s handball team has participated in 37 national finals for Youth and Cadets, winning 14 medals: 3 gold, 8 silver, and 3 bronze. In the National Evaluation of the Hellenic Handball Federation this performance places Χ.Α.Ν.Θ. 4th in Greece among approximately 150 clubs, behind Filippos Verias, Doukas, and Ionikos N.F.

Currently, the team, entering its 41st year, competes in the A2 National Division and continues to develop the sport according to the principles and philosophy of YMCA Thessaloniki

For Boys & Girls Aged 5+

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Participation requires a medical certificate.

Academy Program by Birth Year:

  • K10 (2014 and younger): Weekend and 2 weekday practices
  • K12 (2012-2013): Weekend and 3 weekday practices
  • K14 (2010-2011): Weekend and 3 weekday practices
  • K16 (2008-2009): Weekend and 3 weekday practices

For precise practice times, please contact the academy coordinator.

Cost of Training Cycle (Annual Single Payment):

  • K10 (2014 and younger): 280€
  • K12 (2012-2013): 300€
  • K14 (2010-2011): 330€
  • K16 (2008-2009): 280€
  • Payment possible in up to 6 interest-free installments with a credit card (SPECIAL RATE).

Cost of Training Cycle (Installment Payments):

  • K10 (2014 and younger): 3 installments of 100€/installment
  • K12 (2012-2013): 3 installments of 110€/installment

Installment Payment Dates:

  • 1st installment: By September 15
  • 2nd installment: By December 5
  • 3rd installment: By March 3
  • K14 (2010-2011): 4 installments of 90€/installment

Installment Payment Dates:

  • 1st installment: By September 15
  • 2nd installment: By November 5
  • 3rd installment: By January 5
  • 4th installment: By March 5
  • K16 (2008-2009): 2 installments of 150€/installment

Installment Payment Dates:

  • 1st installment: By September 15
  • 2nd installment: By February 5

Academy Coordinator: Giorgos Vassiliadis

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