The Hong Kong men’s handball team admitted it felt it was “now or never” to find success on the court after winning the best team prize for the first time at this week’s Cathay 2025 Hong Kong Sports Stars Awards.
Since the introduction of the sports team award at the event in 2004, most – 17 of the 21 – awarded have been won by rugby or football teams.
The city’s elite men’s handball team has become only the third sport – after cricket and lion dance – outside rugby and football to win the award.
The team won in recognition of their historic effort to reach the semi-finals at the National Games at the Kai Tak Arena last November.
Head coach Hui Man-pong said it felt “real” when their name was called at the awards ceremony on Tuesday.
“Our team had been nominated nine, if not 10 times before, but we were also the only winners,” he said. “I wondered if I heard wrong when our team was called. Once we won, it felt amazing and amazing.
“We thought it would be the same finish this year, but it’s true that everyone has a chance if they work hard. Our cup was proof, so I hope all the athletes will work hard together.”
