Sunday morning "Handball"

For months I have known that Doina is a competitive "handballist." This title hasn't been translated to fit in an English box for my America readers, that is actually the word used by Moldovans. But here's the thing...well, two things. Handball, in Moldova, is not played in a white cube with an exceptionally loose two-inch rubber ball. Also, it is called "handball" despite that fact that most players and spectators don't associate the word "hand" and "ball" with anything. English has been adopted without a well-known translation (I would suggest "minga mînile," but that is beside the point).

Here's how it works: Like soccer, there is a goal on each end of the terrain. Like basketball, the ball can be dribbled, traveling and double-dribbles both exist. Like Ultimate Frisbee, if you are carrying the ball, then you are limited in the number of steps you can take. Like soccer, yellow and red cards are given to players that fail to exemplify good sportsmanship. Like basketball, free throws exist. Like water polo, you have to throw the ball in the net to score. Like every collegiate and professional sport, the mens' games draw more spectators, noise, and blood than the womens' matches.

Of course, Doina's team took first place. They were promptly awarded their diploma and T-shirt, following the championship game. Doina, the team captain and the best 15 year-old friend this girl could have, scored the first and last points of the day for her team! Woot Woot!