‘Maniacs’ are crazy for handball

Sometimes we see them while passing by and pay no mind. Other times we see people lining up to play and we wonder what the fuss is about.

Newly elected President David Poon has been a long time member of the "Handball Maniacs," Baruch College's premier handball club. Poon and ardent supporters of the sport, was keen to stress the reality of the game.

For uneducated observers it may look like the simple task of hitting a ball against a wall repeatedly but as Poon states, "It's a tad more complicated than that."

"What I personally love so much is how challenging the game is. I've also made great life-long friends from this and have had many great experiences." said Poon.

Located conveniently on B-3 at the ARC center of the Vertical Campus, a game is never too far away.

 In fact if one passes there on any given occasion during the school week, one will surely find a multitude of people, especially during club hours. According to Poon, beginners may want to wait a bit longer.

There's usually a high volume of players at that time so the wait may be long. The time following club hours would probably be a better choice if you are interested and don't fancy a long wait."

Though the more avid and skilled players occupy the courts during the club hours, Poon is adamant that beginners to the unique sport should in no way shape or form be intimidated and invites all to come join in the fun.

The Handball Maniacs are open to anyone and due to the unique nature of the sport, in any given game the skill level of the players run the gamut.

"There is no skill requirement to be a part of the club," said Poon. "If you were to observe the players at anytime, you would see that the skill ranges from just starting-out beginners, to the more experienced advanced players.

Often times these different levels are playing together, so there is no alienation of a lesser-skilled player. We also have a female populace that too plays. Albeit it is a small one, but we are always trying to encourage them to play and would welcome anyone interested"

The Handball Maniacs aren't just a recreational club however, some of the more experienced and skilled players are involved in tournaments.

Every semester the club holds two in house tournaments in both the singles and doubles field. Only Baruch undergraduate students are eligible to participate and entry is free, with the top three winners being awarded prizes. When the weather permits, they usually test their wits against other schools.

"When the weather is warm we also have a scrimmage against other schools, usually in a three singles and two doubles team format.," Said Poon.

Handball Maniacs are dedicated to each other and the bonds they have built over the years have become stronger. Poon admits that it's the camaraderie with his peers that motivates him as much as anything

"What it comes down it all, it's about having fun. We are all friends down there. We push each other to be better, to and to grow. Myself, I've been playing for a long time, years. I still see there's so much for me to work on, and I couldn't think of a better group of people to help me get there." Poon said.