Athletes and coaches in Praia Grande, Brazil, wrapped up 2021 with a gala to recognize the year’s best sporting achievements. On December 22, they were joined by the city’s Secretary of Sports and Leisure and Secretary of Social Assistance for the Best of the Year Awards, instituted in 2021 by the Department of Sports and Leisure to recognize the hard work and dedication of members of the sports community.
The winners were chosen through a vote by their colleagues, who the secretary felt would know best who was most deserving of each award. They took into account dedication, team spirit, and leadership qualities, as well as technical skills and performance.
Paulista Handball Club was recognized as a champion of the Brazilian Beach Handball Circuit, and for their overall performance in 2021. In November, the youth beach handball team placed first at a competition in Salta, winning the title of São Paulo champion. They gave a spectacular performance, defeating Gaha 2-0, Tietê 2-0, and finally, Guarujá 2-0.
At the same event, the Praia Grande adult men’s team placed second in their category, after defeating Golfit de Guarujá in the semifinals, but losing to 2-0 to Guarulhos in their final match. The adult women’s team placed third, winning their final match against Tietê by 2-0.
Iasmyn Ferreira Bonfim and Fábio Costa Dalle Piaggi were each awarded Best Beach Handball Player, in the female and male categories respectively.
