THE GAME

I can go back to the earliest years of the organized game of Handball in N.S.W. and note changes that have occurred.The first acknowledged National games were played in 1920 and at the time the ball used was smaller than that used today.It was one and seven eighths inches in diameter and quite hard. It was used into the 1930’s and then changed to 2 inches in diameter.The larger ball felt much better on the hand. Amongst some of the older players in the 1920’s there were devotees of the Irish Handball game. I played a few games using that ball but did not like it much. It really could only be used on a 4-wall court and was as fast as a golf ball, just as hard and made of sheepskin.

I began my Handball using a skinned tennis ball, as most kids did.My first introduction to the little black ball was whilst at school. The Brothers invited me to make up a doubles game. My hand was sore for several days afterwards; such was the different effect between the larger tennis ball and the small handball.With my partner, Steve Nolan, we won the N.S.W. schoolboys doubles in 1932. In those years there was an annual presentation of trophies and a very correct protocol was followed.The first procedure was the toast to the reigning monarch, the king in those days, followed by various toasts throughout the meal. The final toast before the presentations began was to “The Game”.

I feel pretty sure that  toast lasted up to the beginning of World War 2 and unfortunately  was never revived. As a schoolboy at my first presentation I have never forgotten the enthusiasm displayed by the members present.

Some guests included priests and brothers who were just as enthusiastic as anyone else.I know in Australia the game was played only in the Catholic schools, but it entertained so many boys that I know if private courts were available the game would have flourished because I have spoken to so many over the years who would have continued playing if the courts had been there.

This new court, so enthusiastically organized by John Marsh, could be the beginning of a new era in “The Game” and make people realize the benefits they can derive from it, with very little expense compared to other glamour sports and can even be used as a fitness programme to improve their prowess in other directions.

My only regret is that I can no longer play, but I have such wonderful memories of my Handball days and I know that those who keep the game alive will have them also.

George Macris

(George is the original member of the Australian Handball 'Hall of Fame'. He has achieved at the highest level of handball and has a hundred stories to tell about the game in Australia over the last 70 years. He is a great handball ambassador and inspires all when he attends handball functions. At age 90 and living in Sydney we see him only occasionally now. He is the elder statesman of our game).Ed.