Senior Women's Programme Announcement

Hi everyone,

As we reflect on another season and look ahead to 2026/27, we remain committed to providing a clear and sustainable pathway for all our players, from junior handball through to the senior game.

One of the club’s key priorities is ensuring that our talented young players can see a future for themselves within Trafford Handball Club. With that in mind, we are delighted to announce an exciting development for our Senior Women’s Programme.

For the 2026/27 season, Bill Baillie and Andreea Balan have been appointed as Joint Head Coaches of the Trafford Senior Women’s Team.

Over recent seasons, our women’s programme has achieved significant success, reflecting the progress and ambition within the club:

• Produced 10+ GB pathway players

• Premier League Promotion (2022/23)

• National Cup Semi-Finalists (2024, 2025)

• Premier League North Runners-Up (2025)

• English Premier League (1st Division) – 3rd place (2025)

This 2025/26 season has also allowed us to better understand our current level and identify where we can grow and progress in the future. Building on our previous success, we are excited about what lies ahead for the programme.

With a strong group of U16 and U19 players progressing through the club, alongside opportunities to compete in both the U19 league, the Women’s Regional North League (Division 2), and the English National Cup, this appointment marks an important step in strengthening our women’s pathway.

Bill and Andreea bring enthusiasm, experience, and a shared commitment to developing players and building a positive, ambitious environment for women’s handball at Trafford HC.

Over the summer, we will be promoting the Senior Women’s Programme and welcoming interest from both existing members and new players across Greater Manchester and the North West. We will also hold a Senior Women’s Programme meeting before the start of the new season to discuss plans, expectations, and opportunities for the year ahead.

A message from Bill:

“I am delighted to be returning to senior handball as Joint Head Coach, working alongside Andreea Balan.

Our goal is to re-establish the Trafford Senior Women’s Handball Programme and provide a strong, sustainable pathway for our young players, while creating an enjoyable and competitive environment for senior players.

We’re excited about the journey ahead and appreciate everyone’s support.”

We would like to thank both Bill and Andreea for taking on these leadership roles and helping shape the next chapter of women’s handball at Trafford HC.

The remaining senior women’s training sessions this season will take place on:

• 8 June

• 15 June

• 22 June

All club players aged 16+ are welcome to attend. Sessions will be jointly led by Bill and Andreea.

Players from outside the club are also welcome and can attend on a pay-as-you-play basis at £5 per session.

We will be sharing this announcement across our social media channels and look forward to welcoming new players into the programme.

This is an exciting step forward for Trafford HC, and we look forward to seeing what the future holds for our Senior Women’s Team.

Thank you for your continued support.