The Olympic Games on home soil in 2028 adds to the interest of the national teams in USA. The men´s team, which has been in a few worldwide championships will be coached by Mark Ortega from now on.
USA got a feel for the prospect and difficulties of top handball by reaching 20th place in WC 2023 and 26th two years later. Robert Hedin who coached the team on both occasions has left for other assignments, now USA has set the bar for the next few years with a familiar name in charge.
Ortega represented the national team as an player for ten years (2004-14) and became team captain. In the coaching role he also had assignments on national level, assistant coach from 2015 to 2022.
– We take on the honor of leading program with the confidence and commitment to delivering what American Handball needs—a clear vision, a strong system, and a team of leaders that’s all in. We’ve made real progress, but now it’s time to take the next step, Ortega said to the national federation website.
With David Degouy as European Expert, Daniel Eggert as team Leader and Darrick Heath in the role of National Team Talent Identification & Domestic Development Advisor USA has employed further new staff looking forward to the North American and Caribbean Championship in 2026.