KUWAIT CITY, Oct 7: In a grand ceremony attended by a significant contingent of Kuwaiti sports dignitaries, the Kuwait national handball team received a hero's welcome upon their return to Kuwait. The event took place at the Kuwait International Airport's ceremonial hall, where the team was greeted with flowers and cheers after concluding their successful campaign in the 19th Asian Games held in Hangzhou, China. The team secured a well-deserved bronze medal following a thrilling victory over the Japanese national team in a closely contested match, with a final score of 31-30.

Among the prominent figures present to welcome the Kuwait handball team were the Minister of Commerce and Industry, Minister of State for Youth Affairs, Muhammad Al-Aiban, the Director General of the Public Authority for Sports, Yousef Al-Baidan, the Vice President of the Kuwaiti Olympic Committee, Muhammad Jaafar, the Vice President of the International Handball Federation for the Asian continent, Badr Al-Dhiyab, as well as numerous officials, athletes, and the players' families.

In his address, the Secretary General of the Handball Federation, Qayed Al-Adwani, underlined that this achievement was a testament to Kuwaiti handball's enduring excellence, with its champions consistently gracing the podiums. Al-Adwani praised the tireless efforts of the federation members and the dedicated technical, administrative, and medical staff, acknowledging their role in enabling the players to perform at a remarkable and honorable level that captivated audiences both in Asia and around the world. He expressed profound pride in the players, acknowledging them as the driving force behind this remarkable achievement.

Looking ahead, Al-Adwani mentioned that the handball team is gearing up for upcoming competitions and tournaments. This includes the pivotal Asian Championship, which serves as a qualifier for the 2024 Paris Olympics, scheduled for this month in Qatar. Additionally, the team is preparing for the Asian Championship, a qualifier for the World Cup, set to take place in Bahrain next January. Al-Adwani emphasized the importance of giving due attention to the handball teams, recognizing their standing as regional and continental champions. He stressed the necessity of constructing a dedicated handball facility to enhance the players' capabilities.

Kuwait's handball achievement in securing the bronze medal at the Asian Games marks a momentous return to the podium after a 17-year hiatus, following their gold medal victory in the 2006 Asian Games.
Minister Al-Aiban expressed his heartfelt welcome to the national team and all attendees, commending the exceptional technical prowess displayed by the players, befitting Kuwaiti handball's stature. He lauded the players for fulfilling their commitment to perform at the highest level, underscoring the historic significance of their achievement. Al-Aiban emphasized that the team's remarkable success was just the beginning, promising unwavering support and dedication from the authorities to help them reach even greater heights in the future.

Yousef Al-Baidan also celebrated the team's remarkable achievement, vowing to restore Kuwaiti handball to its rightful place among the champions of the sport. He assured that the General Sports Authority would provide all the necessary support to fulfill their aspirations, aligning with the directives of the political leadership and governmental officials. He reiterated the commitment to collaborate with the Handball Federation to formulate effective strategies and plans for the development of national teams.
In accordance with prevailing regulations, the General Sports Authority will organize a tribute to honor the national handball team in the coming days. Al-Azraq (The Blues) will receive the recognition and support required to continue their pursuit of podium finishes and accomplish their goals in various international competitions, underscoring the resilience and enduring spirit of Kuwaiti handball.
Badr Al-Dhiyab conveyed that Kuwaiti handball remains resilient and steadfast, never succumbing to adversity. He emphasized that the team's dedication and effort had repositioned Kuwait on the podiums, sending a clear message to all Asian teams that Kuwaiti prowess is a force to be reckoned with on the global stage.

Qaid Al-Adwani reiterated that this achievement was the result of collective effort and cooperation. He emphasized that the meticulous preparations of the national team had borne fruit, marking the beginning of a promising era for Kuwaiti handball, filled with ambitious aspirations. He expressed gratitude to all who contributed to this achievement and acknowledged the pivotal role played by the General Sports Authority.

Khaled Talib, the Federation's Treasurer, hailed the youth team's performance, asserting that the bronze medal is just the starting point for our national team, which is poised for even greater accomplishments.
Coach Saeed Hegazy praised the players and the warm reception they received upon their return. He emphasized the need for extensive preparation for upcoming competitions, particularly the Asian Championship, a gateway to the World Cup finals. Hegazy commended the players' high-level performance on the field, competing against formidable opponents like Japan, South Korea, Qatar, and Bahrain. He extended his gratitude to the Handball Federation and the General Sports Authority for their support and facilitation of these achievements.

Players Saleh Al-Moussawi, Hassan Safar, Abdulaziz Salmeen, Muhammad Dhaid, and Fawaz Mubarak echoed a collective sentiment of gratitude and determination, affirming their commitment to continue striving for excellence and further glory for Kuwaiti handball.