USATH declares Salt Lake City its long-term home

The only summer Olympic sport governing body located in the state of Utah has committed to make its long-term home in Salt Lake City.  USA Team Handball (USATH) has signed a long-term lease with SnapSports, the official sports floor provider to USA Team Handball, located at 2330 California Avenue.

"We are proud to join the U.S. Ski Team and USA Speedskating as Olympic sports that call Utah home,” said General Manager Steve Pastorino.  “This expanded partnership with our official floor provider is a critical step forward for USA Team Handball – and will bring a new focus on Summer Olympic sports here.”

During the past year, USA Team Handball's regional coaching staff has built a strong foundation for the sport in Salt Lake City area, leading educational sessions and practices for thousands of children in more than two-dozen area schools.

This Wednesday night, media, prospective players and Olympic fans of all ages are invited to experience team handball at Eisenhower Middle School (4351 S. Redwood Rd.).  The Salt Lake Handball Club will host Park City Handball from 6pm – 8pm.  Boys’ and girls’ youth practices will precede the men’s game.  Media wishing to cover the event should contact Lauren Harrington at Lauren@usateamhandball.org.

USA Team Handball will continue to serve Utah schools and youth organizations as it marches towards its goal of 100,000 children playing team handball by 2012.  The promotion of youth health and physical fitness is one of the federation’s most fundamental goals – a point it intends to pursue with Utah Gov. Gary Herbert, the Utah Athletic Foundation and the state and city elected officials.

“We will take a leadership role within the Olympic movement to create opportunities for our young people to be more active and healthy,” said USATH President Brad Krassner. “Kids love to play – and there are virtually no start-up costs for a school or rec center.”