Head of handball Benidorm Javier Abinzano emphasizes that the club’s ascent to a top European level comes from hard work, dedication, and a clear sense of purpose rather than wealth. His leadership has guided the team through a rapid rise to the elite, securing three promotions since joining and establishing stability in the Asobal league while reaching the King’s Cup final rounds.
He notes that there are no miracles or luck involved. The formula is simple: work, keen observation, listening, and selecting the right people to join the journey and share in the club’s vision.
The Benidorm president argues that the recent achievements achieved with limited resources deserve broader recognition. He believes devotion and making choices that may seem risky at first are often the decisive factors in long-term success.
Abinzano recalls that growth occurred in a challenging climate marked by economic strain and a post-pandemic recovery. The club remains ambitious, positioned fourth in the league, and eyeing further progress by watching the teams that lead the table, while aiming to become stronger and more prominent. The leadership model earns admiration from neighboring sports organizations, reflecting a broader pride in the region.
When asked about future objectives, Abinzano stresses pursuing the maximum potential for the team, the region, and its handball program. He uses a bold metaphor, saying if the goal is to reach the moon, aiming for Mars is a practical mindset, acknowledging that each step forward will require greater investment. The focus extends beyond wins to expanding a social audience and attracting more sponsors and investors.
The Benidorm president also highlights the plight of larger clubs in the country, particularly football, and underscores the value of history, loyal fans, and substantial potential, even when recognition falls short of expectations.
Professionalize sports leadership
The club sits proudly among the leading teams in the region, with Elche in football, La Vila in rugby, Elche handball, and Benidorm handball marking a high point for the province. The president reiterates that the local sports landscape should push for professional leadership across all clubs.
He argues that managing a professional club with only two training sessions per week is no longer feasible. Routine approaches fail to yield results, and bold decisions are necessary to drive change. Part of the success is rooted in courageous choices made during difficult moments.
Abinzano believes that continued support from local, provincial, and regional institutions will be crucial as the team prepares to compete in European competition next season. The project has proven itself as a solid, trustworthy venture, not only because it finished fourth in Asobal but also due to the club’s functioning, its youth academy, and the campuses and events that promote handball and the country.
The president closes with confidence that the team’s initiative will be sustained by a community that values sport, youth development, and regional pride, even as it faces the demanding challenges of higher-level competition.