Club Handbol Garbí prepares to host Calella on Friday at 21:00 at the Garbí Arena in search of the club’s first-ever victory in the Nacional category. Following a promotion-winning campaign in May 2024, the club is managing the financial and organizational demands of competing at a higher level for the first time in its history.
Stepping Up to Nacional
The club’s rise to national competition marks a significant milestone for Palafrugell, a town with deep roots in the sport. Club president Narcís Ferrer, who took office in April 2025, notes that the structural requirements of the category surpass anything the organization has previously managed. The milestone arrives ahead of the club’s 50th anniversary during the 2028–29 academic and sporting season.
«En l’àmbit de club, la complexitat que implica ser on som és tot un repte», said Ferrer, reflecting on the financial investments and administrative upgrades required to maintain competition in the division. The club opened its inaugural campaign in the division with a 29–37 defeat against Sant Vicenç at the Garbí Arena, highlighting the competitive gap the squad must bridge.
Roster Identity and Local Roots
Operating with a limited budget compared to larger metropolitan clubs, Garbí relies heavily on its homegrown talent pool and the return of former players. Because recruiting athletes from outside the immediate Empordà region presents logistical challenges, the club focuses on community engagement and retaining players developed through its youth system.
«Hem apostat pel retorn de jugadors que, per un motiu o altre, són del Garbí, però que estaven jugant a altres clubs», explained Ferrer regarding the summer squad construction. In addition to the senior men’s squad, the organization dedicates resources to its women’s section competing in the Lliga Catalana Or, which features notable additions including Anna Rocas and Elsa Matas from Granollers, Laia Noguera from Mataró, and youth international Janna Sobrepera.
Matchday Atmosphere at Garbí Arena
Community support remains a cornerstone for the club. During the promotion playoffs, the Garbí Arena recorded crowds reaching approximately 1,200 spectators—surpassing standard capacity by roughly 200 attendees through the installation of temporary seating. While general admission for regular Nacional fixtures remains free, the club plans to ticket non-members for upcoming regional derbies against Bordils and Sarrià.
«Dissabte passat, el Garbí Arena va fer goig, perquè els dos sèniors van coincidir», stated Ferrer regarding the turnout for the opening weekend. «El pavelló estava a rebentar, però, sincerament, com ho està sempre.»
What Lies Ahead
The team aims to establish stability in a demanding league while leaning on a membership base that currently approaches 500 supporters.
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