Since its founding 51 years ago, HK Vaggeryd has been at the heart of community sports in Vaggeryd, Sweden. The handball club is now taking bold steps toward revitalizing its competition status with ambitious plans for the future. Under the leadership of Mousa Mousa, the club aims to re-establish both men's and women's teams within the next five years, aiming to replicate its former successes.
Mousa Mousa, 28, has been instrumental as chairman for the past two years and is passionate about the role of youth within the club. "Our children and youth are the core and backbone, but within five years we will have both a men's and women's team competing just like before," he expressed confidently.
Founded as Skillingaryd/Vaggeryds Handbollklubb (S/V HK) back in April 1972, the club made its mark quickly by starting league play for both men and women the same year. For many years, both teams achieved levels of success, occasionally competing at the second highest tier.
Despite this rich history, HK Vaggeryd has faced challenges over the years, particularly recently, as they have not had any senior teams for the past decade. Currently, the focus is primarily on youth, with around 80 members chiefly comprising young players. The club fields three girls' teams aged nine to ten and one boys' team of the same age. Older youth are also engaged, though they do not participate competitively but rather play friendly matches on weekends.
Mousa's personal story adds depth to the club's narrative. He arrived in Sweden from Somalia as one of the first unaccompanied refugee minors back in 2014. Adapting to his new environment, he began playing football, but after suffering from severe injuries during his teenage years, he discovered handball. "I came from Somalia, didn’t know what handball was, but I got to know many wonderful people through sports," he recalled.
His affection for the sport deepened through involvement with the club, leading to his election as chairman due to his unwavering commitment and vision for the future. He now also works as an athletic consultant, reinforcing his deep connection to sports as part of his integration and identity within Swedish society.
Under his stewardship, Mousa expressed hopes to not only revitalize older traditions but instill new energy within the community. He emphasizes broadening the base by starting one new age group each year, enhancing retention rates, and players staying engaged longer. "That’s what can create the conditions for us to once again have two senior teams," he highlighted, projecting optimism for the club's culture and ambition.
Even with dreams of competitive teams returning, practical challenges loom large. Mousa acknowledges, "There is much competition these days. It’s a challenge every day to see to it the organization can continue to operate," underscoring the intense competition for youth engagement from various sports and activities.
Despite the obstacles, Mousa maintains the club has a stable economy. Still, it faces persistent issues like program leadership. He mentions the pressing need for more parental involvement—volunteers are invaluable, especially help with transportation to matches. "We are, like many other associations, in need of leaders and parents who can help drive the children to the various matches," he stated firmly, highlighting the importance of community support for achieving their shared objectives.
HK Vaggeryd’s future vision is clear and focused. The paths are set for reintroducing competitive play to create memories and forge new friendships within the community. With Mousa's dynamic leadership and the enthusiasm for handball at its roots, the club stands ready to embrace its next chapter.
