BONNYVILLE – The 2025 Northeast Alberta Schools' Athletic Association (NEASAA) handball zone championship tournament was held in Bonnyville at the C2 field house, where boys and girls teams from Bonnyville (Notre Dame), Mallaig, Two Hills, and St. Paul competed – with both St. Paul teams taking the win in the finals.
Haley Ozga, head coach for the St. Paul girls' team, said she was proud of the St. Paul teams and how they performed against some stiff competition.
“It was a high-stakes event, as only the first-place team in each category would earn the right to advance to provincials. The competition was fierce, with each team bringing energy and intensity to the court,” said Ozga.
The St. Paul girls’ team defeated Two Hills in the finals 29-10, showcasing their “strong defensive structure and discipline.”
The St. Paul boys’ team defeated Mallaig in the finals 62-24 with an “outstanding offensive display that kept the crowd energized throughout.”
Ozga said the St. Paul athletes truly rose to the occasion in the finals.
“The girls demonstrated exceptional defensive teamwork, shutting down key scoring threats and controlling the pace of the game. The boys brought relentless offensive pressure, creating scoring opportunities with fast breaks, precise passes, and great chemistry. Both teams executed their game plans with intensity and discipline.”
Ozga said the entire handball season has been remarkable for both the girls’ and boys’ teams.
“We attended two major tournaments where we competed against much larger schools and still held our own with impressive results. These experiences strengthened our squads, both in skill and in confidence, and prepared us well for success at Zones.”
Along with being proud of their athletic accomplishments, Ozga spoke to how impressed she is with who the young athletes are as people.
“It’s easy to praise our players for their athletic abilities - but what stands out even more is their character. They are leaders in the school, role models to younger athletes, and respectful competitors. They support one another on and off the court and exemplify what it means to be student-athletes.”
As the head coach for the girls' team, she said, “I could not be prouder of the heart and grit these athletes have shown. They consistently prioritize team success over individual accolades, playing a selfless, intelligent brand of handball that reflects their maturity and dedication.”
Ozga spoke highly of the sport of handball, calling it fast paced and high-energy game that combines speed, strategy and teamwork.
“It challenges players physically and mentally, requiring quick decision-making, coordination, and endurance. It also promotes unselfish play, builds strong team bonds, and is accessible to athletes of varying skill levels. Plus, its intensity makes it exciting to watch and even more thrilling to play.”
Ozga gave a heartfelt thank-you to the graduating Grade 12 athletes, who over the past three years have laid the foundation for the success the team is now enjoying.
“They have helped build a culture of excellence and commitment that will carry on long after they graduate. Their presence, leadership, and spirit will be deeply missed next season.”
