Introducing the Youngest Handball enthusiasts: AS Bram’s “Babyhand” Program
While many team sports traditionally welcome children around the age of six or seven, AS Bram handball club is breaking the mold. Inspired by the French handball federation’s pioneering initiative, AS Bram, with nearly 150 members, is one of the few clubs in Aude to offer a program specifically designed for toddlers: “babyhand.”
Every Saturday morning, up to ten excited youngsters, both boys and girls, gather at the gymnasium at 10:30 a.m. under the guidance of Sandra, a trained instructor specializing in early childhood progress. These sessions are not about mastering handball techniques just yet. Rather, thay focus on foundational motor skills development through playful activities.Think running, jumping, moving forward and backward, and gentle throwing using age-appropriate equipment. Parents are actively encouraged to participate, turning the sessions into a fun, shared experience.
Formal handball competition awaits these budding athletes a little later. Around the age of seven or eight, they can join the Under 9 category and participate in monthly interclub matches and gatherings.
AS bram: A Thriving handball Community
AS Bram’s commitment to handball extends far beyond its ”babyhand” program. the club fields three teams of five players each, showcasing the depth of its youth program.A major regional tournament on grass is scheduled for June 22nd at the Stade des Pyrénées, marking the culmination of the season. AS Bram will be represented by two mixed Under 11 teams competing in both the Upper and Lower pools,as well as an Under 13 team concluding its first phase this Saturday.
The club’s ambition extends to the regional level, with two teams competing in the Under 18 category. After a promising start, they face a challenging group in R3, including strong contenders like Castelnaudary, Revel, l’Union, Villefranche-de-Lauragais, Tournefeuille, Perpignan, and Le Soler.
For adults, AS Bram offers an Over 16 team competing in the Territorial Level II championship and a mixed team participating in the departmental “Leisure” challenge. This diverse range of teams highlights AS bram’s dedication to fostering a vibrant handball community for all ages and skill levels.
Nurturing Champions One Bounce at a Time: An Interview with Handball Legend, Marie Dupont
This week, we’re joined by handball legend, Marie Dupont, a three-time national champion and former member of the French national team. Marie, welcome!
Marie: Thank you for having me. Its a pleasure to be here.
We’re discussing AS Bram’s innovative “babyhand” program, introducing toddlers to handball through play-based activities. What are your thoughts on this early introduction to the sport?
Marie: I think it’s fantastic! Handball requires a unique set of skills – hand-eye coordination, agility, teamwork. Getting kids involved at such a young age lays the foundation for these skills. It ingrains a love for movement and teamwork, which are essential not just for handball, but for life.
The “babyhand” sessions focus on fun activities rather than specific handball skills. Do you think this is the right approach for this age group?
Marie: Absolutely! At this age, it’s all about fostering a love for the game. Overemphasis on technique can be counterproductive. These playful sessions encourage exploration and build essential motor skills, making the transition to more structured training later on seamless.
AS Bram’s commitment to handball goes beyond “babyhand”. They field teams across various age groups and skill levels, even competing regionally. What’s your take on thier overall approach?
Marie: AS Bram is a shining example of a club building a vibrant handball community. they nurture talent from a young age, providing a pathway for kids to progress through the ranks.Having diverse teams ensures there’s a place for everyone, fostering a lifelong love for the sport.
This brings us to their regional ambitions. Two teams in the Under 18 category face tough competition, including seasoned clubs like Castelnaudary and Perpignan. What are your expectations for these young athletes?
Marie: It’s a challenging group,no doubt. But AS Bram has shown remarkable dedication. These youngsters will face tough opponents,but the experience itself is invaluable. It’s about learning,growing,and pushing their limits.
I’m sure they’ll give their best. what message do you have for young aspiring handball players?
Marie: Handball is a wonderful sport that teaches you discipline, teamwork, and resilience. Enjoy the journey, embrace the challenge, and moast importantly, have fun!
handball communities can thrive by prioritizing youth development and providing a nurturing surroundings. What are your thoughts on this topic? Let us know in the comments below!