Kang Jae-won Returns to Coach Women's Handball, Emphasizes Need for Speed

After an 18-month absence from the sidelines, renowned handball strategist Kang Jae-won is back, this time at the helm of the newly established Chungnam Development Corporation women's handball team. Kang, known for his intense coaching style and deep understanding of the international game, has already shed six kilograms in his first month, a testament to his hands-on approach with the squad.

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I lost 6kg in less than a month.

Despite the team being in its nascent stages with only nine players currently on the roster, Kang is optimistic about building a competitive unit. He plans to utilize the upcoming year-end draft and free agency to secure the remaining players, with the potential addition of Cuban players and former national team member Jo Ha-rang, who gained public recognition through the variety show 'Physical 100 Season 2,' expected to solidify the team's foundation.

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I have to demonstrate plays and explain the principles of the movements. It's good to be on the court together, and I can also manage my fitness.

Kang's return is particularly significant given his illustrious past, including leading the Korean women's team to the semifinals of the 2012 London Olympics and the quarterfinals of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. His recent observations from European handball have reinforced his belief that speed is the defining characteristic of the modern game. "We have to get faster to survive," Kang asserts, emphasizing the need for quick attacks, rapid shots, and swift transitions back on defense. He believes that adopting this faster pace, in line with international trends, is crucial for the team's success and for captivating fans who appreciate high-scoring, dynamic matches.

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We have to get faster to survive. We have to shoot even with a 50% chance of scoring, not a 100% chance. No matter how good the goalkeeper is, if fast shots keep coming in, the save rate will inevitably drop. We need to attack quickly, shoot, and return.