Spring 2025 marks the launch of an exciting new opportunity for children in Ytrebygda. IL Gneist is introducing a handball after-school program (SFO) in Sandslihallen, specifically aimed at second-grade students at Skranevatnet School. This initiative provides more children with the chance to participate in a fun and inclusive sports activity after school.

Thanks to the support and funding from Meteva Sport og Helse for hall supervisors and coaches, sports clubs can now utilize previously unavailable training slots in Sandslihallen. This has paved the way for the creation of the handball SFO, offering children an engaging environment where they can develop fundamental handball skills through playful activities. The program emphasizes fun with the ball, basic handball techniques, and the joy of staying active in a supportive setting. Participants will experience teamwork, inclusion, personal achievement, and diversity, fostering both social and athletic development.

A Solid Foundation

As the driving force behind this initiative, IL Gneist brings a strong foundation in youth handball development to the program. IL Gneist has approximately 700 members, most of whom are children and youth under 25 years old. The club operates in the Ytrebygda district and aims to provide handball opportunities to all who wish to participate, regardless of skill level or ambition. Currently, Gneist has nearly 80 teams registered in the Norwegian Handball Federation’s league system, with teams across all youth categories on the girls’ side and a growing focus on expanding the boys’ division. The club also offers an adaptive training group for players who may not find a suitable fit in the regular competition structure. Gneist is primarily run through volunteer efforts and community engagement, emphasizing social sustainability and meaningful leisure activities for children and young people

Additionally, IL Gneist and Ytrebygda Basketball Club (YBBK) are working together to maximize the use of Sandslihallen and provide the best possible offerings for children and youth in the local community. YBBK, founded in 1993, has seen rapid growth in recent years, now boasting around 210 active members, ranging from preschool age to senior level, for both boys and girls. The club fosters development both on and off the court in a safe and inclusive environment, guided by core values of joy, respect, and community. They prioritize building a strong club culture where all members experience a sense of belonging and achievement.

YBBK actively gives back to the local community. Older players and coaches serve as mentors and role models for younger teams, while open training sessions, club nights, and inclusive programs provide a welcoming space for children and youth in Ytrebygda. The club is committed to offering quality at every level, investing in coach and leadership development to ensure players receive the support they need, whether they play for fun or have higher ambitions.

A Big Thank You

The new Hand Ball After School initiative would not have been possible without the admirable efforts of Lisbeth Sandtorv, Arne Ingebrigtsen, Peter Bullock, and Miriam H. Danielsen, who have worked tirelessly to strengthen the connection between sports, schools, and culture.

A big thank you also goes to the Fyllingen Lions, who actively contribute to promoting values and positive attitudes in the local community. Their role models, Karamo Jawara, Bouna Black Ndiaye, Nikolas K. Skouen, Eric E. Fongué, Pol Olivier Cañadell, Haji Jawara, Lars Espe and Peter Bullock, inspire and recruit young people into both the basketball and handball environments.

We look forward to the new spring season in Sandslihallen and are excited to see many children take part in this fantastic initiative.