Gulf Coast Handball Association

Florida – Georgia – Alabama – Mississippi – Louisiana – Texas

  • What is GCHA?

    GCHA is the US arm of the International Handball Federation, the governing body for global handball teams. Our goal is to bring handball students in K–12 schools across our city, region, state, and support states across the Gulf Coast .

  • WHO is, or does it involve?

    Handball is for all children regardless of age, size, gender, or fitness level. It’s an inclusive sport that works for all activity and fitness levels—whether a kid is super active or just starting out. The rules are simple: throw a ball at a goal. It’s fast-moving, encourages teamwork and communication, and is easy to pick up with minimal equipment or setup. Best of all, it gets everyone involved and having fun.

  • WHY should anyone care?

    As this global sport makes its way into U.S. schools, it offers a ton of benefits such as promoting physical health, encouraging cultural awareness, and even opening up college and career opportunities for students.

  • WHERE is the impact, benefit, or data?

    Handball is truly a gateway sport with lots of pro athletes in the U.S. got their start playing it, building athletic skills that carry over into other sports. Plus, it opens the door to opportunities to play and compete internationally, giving students a chance to connect with a global sports community.

  • WHEN are events, training, opportunities happening?

    The indoor court season runs in the fall, and the beach handball season kicks off in the spring. There are also camps, clinics, and tournaments happening throughout the year to keep students engaged and active.

  • HOW do I get more information, get involved, or give?

    Visit WWW.GCHA.ORG

Fast Facts

  • Handball is the second largest club sport in the world, right behind soccer.

  • It’s played professionally across multiple continents.

  • It’s an Olympic sport with a strong global following.

Why Now?


With the 2028 Summer Olympics coming to Los Angeles, the U.S. will have both men’s and women’s teams automatically entered—creating a huge opportunity to grow the sport nationally.

K–12 and College Opportunities


Over the next 2½ years, we’re launching K–12 handball programs in select Florida cities, giving all students the chance to play. For older students, college scholarships and competitive pathways will become available as the sport grows at the collegiate level.

Where and How It’s Played


Handball can be played on a basketball-sized indoor court or on the beach. It’s a fast-moving, team sport with simple rules and skills, making it accessible to all students.

Think of it like basketball: players move up and down the court, passing a small ball, and instead of shooting into a hoop they throw it into a goal. It’s a contact, not collision sport, which helps keep it safe and inclusive.

KPI

  • K-12 PE classes, weekend clinics, league, and tournaments

  • Tampa, Pinellas, Manatee, and Sarasota Counties

  • International team tournament stop in area

Staff

Corey King – Director of Operations
A former multi-sport athlete and Tampa-area teacher, Corey played for the USA Beach Handball Team and now serves as Assistant Coach for Team USA. He brings a strong mix of athletic and educational experience to help grow the sport at the youth level.

Taylee Tellechea – Administration & Events
Taylee is a former dual-sport college athlete who’s represented Team USA in both beach and indoor handball. She helps lead our events and program coordination, bringing firsthand experience as a player and organizer.

Lyndon Suvanto – Coaching, Officiating & Player Development
With experience coaching college teams, European clubs, and Olympic qualifiers, Lyndon is a key part of our training team. He currently focuses on coaching, referee training, and player development at all levels.