Introduction
Welcome to the ultimate guide for Generation Handball, an international handball festival held annually in Viborg, Denmark. This detailed article is designed to provide all the information needed for a seamless and enjoyable experience at Generation Handball. Established in 2014, the festival has become a premier event for young handball enthusiasts globally, blending competitive sports with cultural exchange and community spirit.
Overview of Generation Handball
Generation Handball is more than just a tournament; it’s a celebration of youth, sportsmanship, and international friendship. It caters to participants aged 9 to 20, featuring both indoor and outdoor handball tournaments, as well as a plethora of social events and activities. The festival operates under three core values: FUN, FIGHT, and FRIENDSHIP, emphasizing enjoyment, competition, and camaraderie.
Event Schedule and Registration
Duration and Dates
Generation Handball spans six days in late July and early August. Key registration deadlines include team registrations by May 15 and payments by June 1. Teams can add players even after these dates, ensuring flexibility.
Registration Process
Teams can register online via the Generation Handball website. The registration page provides detailed instructions and necessary forms. For international teams, the festival is pre-approved for digital invitations, simplifying the visa process. Required information includes full names, birthdates, nationalities, and passport details. Visa applications can be submitted up to six months before the event.
Accommodation and Meals
Accommodation Options
Generation Handball offers various accommodation packages to suit different preferences and budgets: This includes 2024 prices, so chances may have changed for later years.
1. Hotel All-Inclusive: Double or single rooms at Palads Hotel Viborg, Hotel Peak 12, or Best Western Golf Hotel Viborg. Prices are 2,995 DKK/402 EUR per person for a double room and 4,595 DKK/613 EUR for a single room. Extra nights are available at additional costs.
2. Large Package: College rooms with beds or bunk beds, including bedding. This option costs 2,595 DKK/346 EUR per person. Extra nights can be added for a fee.
3. Medium Package: Larger rooms like school classrooms or sports halls, with bedding provided. This package is priced at 1,995 DKK/266 EUR per person.
4. Small Package: Basic accommodation in large rooms without additional services, costing 1,695 DKK/226 EUR per person.
Meal Services
Meals are provided in the Food Hall, accessible via a QR code linked to meal tickets based on the length of stay. Additional meal tickets can be purchased for 80 DKK per meal. Participants should not share QR codes as they are linked to individual meal allowances.
Dining Schedule
The Food Hall operates on a fixed schedule to ensure participants are well-fed. Breakfast is served from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM, lunch from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, and dinner from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The menu includes a variety of nutritious options to cater to diverse dietary needs. Participants with special dietary requirements should inform the organizers in advance.
Events and Activities
Daily Program
Generation Handball offers a week full of activities beyond handball matches. The daily program includes cultural exchanges, social events, and entertainment activities to foster interaction among participants. These activities are free and accessible with the Generation Handball keyhanger or using the QR ticket codes.
Special Events
– Show Matches: Featuring top teams, these matches provide high-level entertainment and showcase professional handball skills.
– Beach Handball: Matches held on specially designed courts add a fun and engaging variant to the festival.
– Opening and Closing Ceremonies: Major highlights featuring performances, parades, and fireworks celebrate the spirit of Generation Handball.
Workshops and Seminars
In addition to competitive play, Generation Handball offers workshops and seminars focusing on skill development, sportsmanship, and team-building. These sessions are conducted by experienced coaches and professionals, providing valuable insights and training for young athletes.
Transportation and Accessibility
Getting to Viborg
Viborg is accessible via several nearby airports:
– Billund Airport (90 km)
– Aalborg Airport (90 km)
– Karup Airport (28 km)
Generation Handball offers bus transportation from these airports, ferry ports, and major cities like Copenhagen and Hamburg. Public transport options include trains and Flixbus, with the info desk only 900 meters from the Viborg train station.
Local Transportation
All event locations and accommodations are within walking distance during the festival, ensuring convenience for all participants. No additional local transportation arrangements are needed.
Travel Assistance
Generation Handball provides dedicated support to help teams arrange transportation, including airport pickups, shuttle services, and providing maps and guides for navigating Viborg. Participants can contact the info desk for any travel-related queries.
Medical and Safety Services
First Aid and Medical Assistance
The Red Cross provides first aid services at the festival, and an on-call doctor is available during specified hours for medical needs. Emergency contact numbers and procedures are prominently displayed at all venues and the info desk.
Pharmacy and Physiotherapy
A nearby pharmacy, Svane Apotek Viborg, operates with extended hours to provide medical supplies. Free physiotherapy services are available at the health department on the festival site, ensuring participants can quickly address any health concerns.
Emergency Contacts
– Police (non-emergency): 114
– On-call Doctor: +45 7011 3131 (available from 4:00 PM to 8:00 AM and weekends)
– First Aid: +45 2032 0716
– Info Desk: Located in the main arena at the festival site for all inquiries and assistance.
Tournament Details
Match Rules and Structure
Matches at Generation Handball follow IHF rules with specific modifications for the festival. The tournament features various categories, including youth tournaments, beach handball, and show matches. Detailed match schedules and results are accessible via the Generation Handball festival app website and regular website.
Arenas and Locations
Matches are held across multiple arenas in Viborg, including:
– BioCirc Arena, Svane Rent Arena, Midtbus Arena
– Colors Arena, Sørensen & Lynggaard Arena
– Landbobanken Arena, Energi Viborg Arena
– Viborg Katedralskole Courts, McDonald’s Beach Courts
These venues are well-equipped to host a wide range of events, from indoor matches to beach handball competitions.
Referees and Officials
Generation Handball prioritizes a strong team of referees to ensure fair play and high-quality matches. Referees are selected based on their experience and expertise in handball, ensuring games are officiated to the highest standards.
Prizes and Awards
The tournament awards prizes in both the A and B finals:
– A Finals: 1st place winners receive hoodies, and 2nd place winners receive training jerseys.
– B Finals: 1st place winners receive t-shirts
Additional Services
Lost and Found
Participants who lose personal items can report to the info desk, which handles all lost and found items. The staff will assist in locating lost belongings and provide necessary support.
Laundry Services
Laundry services are available for participants at a charge of 150 DKK for a week’s access. This service can be arranged through the info desk.
Fitness Center Access
A fitness center is available for use by all participants at a cost of 100 DKK per person. Access can be obtained by visiting the info desk. The fitness center is located at Fitnessmentor, St. Sct. Peder Stræde 18, 8800 Viborg.
Excursions
Generation Handball organizes excursions to local attractions such as Djurs Sommerland. The trip costs 290 DKK/40 EUR per person and includes free bus transportation if booked by 6:00 PM the day before. Buses depart at 8:45 AM and 11:30 AM, returning at 3:30 PM and 6:30 PM.
Contact Information
For any inquiries or further information, participants can reach out to the Generation Handball team. Key contacts include the CEO, project manager, and regional ambassadors who can assist with specific needs and provide detailed information. Contact details may be found on our website.
Please write to the team at: info@generation-handball.com
References
Sources used in the compilation of this guide include:
1. Generation Handball Official Website: https://generation-handball.com
2. Generation Handball Festival App Website: https://app.generation-handball.com