Feature Article - December 2005

8th Graders Learn about the Perfect Game

Photos and Story by Jim Joyce

Phil Kirk shows future handballers basic skills

Maumee, Ohio. All St. Patrick's 8th grade students were involved in a 5 week handball lesson that is taught by Mrs. Galvin and Mrs. Trojan. Mrs. Galvin approached me after seeing my daughters wearing handball T-shirts in gym class and asking if we would like to get involved. Apparently they have been doing this for years and I am glad that we were finally able to get involved.

The Toledo handball club offered to go to the 3-wall courts (across the street from the school) and assist the teachers in any way we could. This involved instructing and also some limited participation as the kids tried to pick up the game. The teachers from St. Pat's and the Toledo handball members were not only trying to teach the fundamentals of the game but also stressed the sportsmanship of a game that you must referee yourself.

The kids from St.Pat's were very fun to be around and full of enthusiasm. I hope we can continue this every year. The THC members involved were Phil Kirk, Matt Osburn, Pat Denman, Shane Buerk, Tad Langenderfer, Ed Kristjanis and myself. Special thanks to Pat Denman and Vern Roberts (United States Handball Association) for eye protection and supplying the school with the big blue balls as well as instructional videos.