SAN FRANCISCO — The Golden Gate Park Handball Courts came alive on Saturday, November 15, as players, families, and community leaders gathered for Echoes of the Alley—Golden Gate Handball, a multicultural celebration centered on “connection through community.”

Hosted by the Irish Consulate of San Francisco, with support from the Mexican Consulate, GAA, USGAA, USHA, San Francisco Recreation & Parks, and several local clubs, the event highlighted handball’s deep Gaelic roots and its long-standing presence in the Bay Area.

Special guests included:

• Michael Smith, Consul General of Ireland
• Marco Mena, Consul General of Mexico
• GAA Handball President Conor McDonnell
• SF Fire Chief Dean Crispen

Youth Clinics & Community Play

The day opened with a junior clinic led by pros Loren Collado, Rene Lopez, and Coleman McGrath, alongside volunteers from the South End Rowing Club and Dolphin Club. Young players received instruction, gear, and the chance to compete in developmental matches. Standouts included Aidan Pecko, Alileo Acosta, and Fintan Reidy.

Men’s and Women’s Exhibitions

With the courts buzzing, spectators filled the gallery for two thrilling professional exhibitions. Hall of Famer Tracy Davis faced UC Berkeley sophomore Nicole Eike. Davis claimed the win in two games, but both players delivered an engaging, high-quality match that left the juniors inspired and the crowd energized.

Bay Area pros Coleman McGrath and Erik Torres followed with an intense exhibition featuring athletic rallies, momentum swings, and—fittingly for San Francisco—a decisive backwall rollout that helped McGrath edge out the victory in two spirited games.

A Shared Celebration & Major Contribution

After the Golden Gate Handball Day Ceremony, consulate leaders and special guests awarded medals and thanked the community for its support. A highlight of the day was a GAA $10,000 donation to San Francisco Recreation & Parks to support court maintenance and improvements.

Strengthening a Growing Partnership

The event extended the momentum of the new USHA–USGAA partnership, demonstrating how handball continues to bring communities together across cultures and generations.

Thank you to all partners, volunteers, and players who made this special day possible. Special thanks to Vice Consulate Naoise Kenny for tremendous work behind the scenes, and thank you to Joheem Eike for all-day support at event! 

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