History in the Making: The U.S. National Handball Center’s First Year in North County
History was made this weekend at the brand-new U.S. National Handball Center (USNHC). Located at the St. Louis Hinder Club on Dunn Road, the facility took center stage as it played host to both the Missouri State Doubles and the World Professional Handball Association tournaments.
Athletes traveled from across the globe to bring a high-spirited level of competition to North County. With the action broadcast live on ESPN+, the eyes of the sporting world were on Florissant. Competitors represented 25 different U.S. states and countries as far away as Ireland and Mexico.
More Than Just a Game
The USNHC is a joint venture between the St. Louis Hinder Club and the United States Handball Association, and its impact on the North County area is already undeniable. In just one short year, the center has successfully:
Hosted two state tournaments.
Organized a national youth tournament.
Held free youth clinics for the community.
Formed vital new local partnerships.
What’s even more impressive is that they’ve achieved all of this while simultaneously managing ongoing construction and preservation efforts on their growing campus.
Preserving Florissant’s Heritage
Beyond the courts, the USNHC has embraced a significant role in local history by purchasing the historic John B. Myers House, which sits directly next to the handball facility. By taking on this responsibility, they are ensuring that the 19th-century landmark house and barn are protected and thoughtfully reused.
The team has already made incredible progress, clearing overgrown vegetation from the exterior to reveal the home's former glory. Interior renovations are slated to begin soon, with current plans involving the conversion of the space into offices—though more exciting news regarding the space may be on the horizon.
A Bright Future Ahead
This weekend was about more than a trophy; it was a glimpse into a bright future for handball, historic preservation, and economic development in Florissant. We are incredibly excited to see what the USNHC does next!
Speaking of what’s next: Mark your calendars for February 18–22. The facility will be hosting the 73rd US Collegiate Nationals Handball Tournament, bringing over 200 college athletes from across the nation right here to North County.