After six months as the newly appointed president of EÓN Horneo Alicante, Jaime Cremades assesses the first phase of the Silver Honor Group, as the tournament leads into its second round, a critical period for the team’s ambitious aims. A return to Pitiu Rochel after a two-year hiatus is also anticipated for the squad.
Question: The final game of the first round is approaching. What is your assessment of the team now?
Reply: First, a warm greeting to all the fans and best wishes for 2024—may it be healthy and filled with joy in handball and EON. Looking at the first round, the performance has been excellent. The squad features a young group that has grown into elite handball players, and that progress is what was hoped for. By the end of the first round the team is positioned where it wanted to be. The second round promises different challenges and opportunities.
Q: Did you foresee the progress achieved in these months?
A: The answer is yes, yes, and yes. The objective was simple: a strong coach with a team that believes in itself. The core is a close-knit group of friends and skilled players, all eager to learn, hungry for victories, and ready to achieve great things.
Q: How would you evaluate the first half of the league?
A: The Silver Honor Division is highly competitive and filled with high-caliber handball, rivaling even top leagues. Seven or eight teams are vying for the All-Star League, which makes earning honors tough. Clubs like Burgos, Caserío de Ciudad Real, Guadalajara, Cisne, and the upcoming opponent Málaga are operating at a very high level and compete fiercely.
Question: What are you most looking forward to in the second part of the season?
A: It is full of energy. For the team, the second phase serves as a validation of their growth. The aim is to keep advancing, with a goal to crack the top five and secure a playoff spot, perhaps even contend for the league title. There are many matches left and many battles to be fought. Alicante fans are essential in supporting EON. The city deserves elite sport, and that commitment remains firm.
“The team has bought into the idea that the coach wants to progress.”
Q: It seems 2024 will bring the long-awaited return to Pitiu Rochel. What are the thoughts on that moment?
A: It is important to note that the renovations at Pitiu Rochel took longer than anticipated. The project, originally planned for six months, extended to nearly two years. During that time, all teams sought other venues to maintain their schedules. While it has been challenging, there is optimism that the interior work will be completed by the end of the month.
During those nearly two years, the team spent time at Maristas School. Grateful gestures are extended to the Marist Brothers for their hospitality and cooperation with the club. The gratitude is heartfelt for their ongoing support and partnership.