TEMPE, Ariz. — The USHA, through the FIRST ACE Development Program, aspires to train new handball instructors to teach the game in schools, rec centers and clubs across the nation.  Through the efforts of Arizona State University Handball Coach Dan Willeford, a Handball: Teach the Teacher Clinic was held at the ASU Rec Center on Saturday, October 7.  Coach Willeford organized and conducted the clinic which certified eight new instructors, five of whom are on the ASU Handball Team and working to be part of the Mardak Endowment Program. 

The teaching clinic began with a “Handball Jeopardy” Q&A session in the classroom, reviewed lesson plans by LeaAnn Martin and Pete Tyson, discussed teaching strategies, and provided demonstrative drills on the court.

The goal is to have the certified instructors venture to Metro Phoenix high schools to promote handball and teach the game to new players.  Many of the instructors are alumni at the schools, and as members of the college handball team at ASU, they’re testimony that students can play the game and compete at the collegiate level after high school.  The FIRST ACE Development Program will provide handball equipment for all the new instructors who will teach at their respective schools.  

This effort at Arizona State (and at other universities around the country), is part of the Mardak Community Challenge, where communities awarded funding will be tasked to find local funding to match the Mardak awards.  The Mardak funds will pay college students to teach handball and mentor younger students. 

Thank you to Coach Willeford, Sun Devil Handball and the new instructors for their efforts to Grow the Perfect Game! 

Do you want to host a Handball: Teach the Teacher Clinic in your area, or do you want more information about the Mardak Community Challenge?  Contact us today.