The Romanian women’s handball team that won the bronze at the World Championship in Herning, Denmark, returned home Monday night with the players and staff members welcomed at the Official Hall of the ”Henri Coanda” International Airport by Youth and Sports Minister Elisabeta Lipa, Secretary of State Carmen Tocala and president of Romanian Handball federation Alexandru Dedu, friends and relatives.
The athletes received hugs and flowers from Elisabeta Lipa, whose motivational message to them was that she wants to see the national squad win the 2016 Olympics.
”I congratulate you on your World Championship performance, as well as on the determination and dedication whereby you fought until the last minute of each match. I am sure that the pre-Olympic tournament will be just as the Romania — Poland match and I hope to see you Olympic champions next year, because you have shown that you can deliver and are well-deserving,” said Lipa.
Team captain Valentina Ardean Elisei thanked for the warm welcome: ”We are glad that we returned home with a medal. We want to carry on like this and further have as many as possible positive results.”
The Swedish coach of the Romanian squad Tomas Ryde did not return with the team.
Some 50 fans greeted the athletes in front of the airport waving flags and chanting ”Romania! Romania!”, ”Honor to the champs!”, ”You are our pride and joy!” The players got off the bus for pics with the supporters. More…