HeartBeat HandBall: Celebrating the 20th Anniversary

The EHF celebrated its 20th birthday in 2011 in style with an event under the banner of ‘HeartBeat’ HandBall in Eventhotel Pyramide in Vösendorf, south of Vienna, Austria.

Over 500 guests including past and present players, federation officials, partners and sponsors were in attendance at the celebrations

Speaking at the time, the then EHF President Tor Lian said: “It gives me great pleasure to look back on the achievements of the EHF during this time of celebration. I have been witness to many positive changes within the game and have been lucky enough to meet members of the handball family across Europe. I have also seen a huge amount of hard work and dedication throughout my travels. The events to celebrate our 20 years will not only provide a great opportunity for us to look back, but forward, so we can continue to push this wonderful sport to be one of the very best in the world.”

Secretary General, Michael Wiederer, said: “The 20 year anniversary is a fantastic event where the whole European handball family, past and present, can come together to celebrate the fantastic work that has taken place since 1991 - we are 20 years young, not old!

He continued: “HeartBeat HandBall is also an opportunity to look forward to the next 20 years and beyond as the EHF continues to listen to all stakeholders in the game and ensures the innovation, development and growth of the game continues.”

Alongside working meeting of the federation, there were a number of workshops providing participants with an opportunity to have their say on the future of the sport including:  ‘Club Competitions - A Living Product’, ‘Women’s Handball - A Chance for Our Sport’, ‘Media Matters - Raising the Profile’, ‘Beach Handball – A Professional Sport?’, ‘Handball & Law - A Working Balance’, ‘EHF Euros – Professional Brand Performance’, ‘Game Management – Future Challenges’ and ‘Coaching Licensing – A Tribute to the Next Generation’.

Additionally, the 10th Conference of Presidents and the 6th Conference for Secretaries General were held as was 1st EHF Scientific Congress as wellas the HeartBeat HandBall Gala itself.