Chris White, one of our Master Plan Coaches recently joined the GB senior men's squad as they headed to Varna, Bulgaria for the EHF Euro Qualifiers Phase 1 2028. Chris joined the BHA/EHF Masterplan Coach Development Programme in its second phase in October 2024. The programme offers a year long learning opportunity for a cohort of young potential coaches within England and Scottish Handball Associations on their journey to performance coaching. The programme was developed to enhance coaching expertise across a variety of ways; through formal qualification level, knowledge of the sport through theory, observation and practical application in camps and competitions.
Chris reflects on this practical experience he had with EHF Master Coaches Ricardo Vasconcelos and João Castro.
"This trip was my first experience as a GB coach. As I have had Ricardo as a coach for 8 years, I thought I knew what to expect, but being there on the other side gave me an understanding of the reasons why decisions were made, and how complex situations are. Ricardo and Joǎo have so much experience teaching me their understanding of what they have tried in the past, what worked and didn't.
'When I arrived, Ricardo and I discussed my role which was difficult because I am part of the senior team normally when I'm not injured, but I wanted to make the most of this coaching experience. I observed a lot, and there were some sensitive issues that I was able to be part of and learn within a confidential coach situation. These were vital in really delving into the coaching role.
"My biggest reflection was how to handle players and situations that arose. The thought process around why decisions are made, and how mistakes are learnt from. Player management is everything in effective coaching. I had a fantastic experience."
The six development coaches for this year October 2024-September 2025 are: Chris White, Rose Zubcevic, David Robalo, Artem Kuybida, Jack Lees, Alexandra Ghinter.
Rose Zubcevic
Rose is from Bosnia and started playing handball at her school when she was 12 years old. She joined a club and soon began to represent her club. This followed a successful career in second and first division clubs until 2006. Rose then moved to England, and wanted to continue to play. Unfortunately, the sport was less well known but she was lucky to meet someone ingrained in the sport. She trained and coached at Bucks Bullets Boys for a year before running her own sessions with a group of girls.
Since 2022, Rose has helped run Mavericks Handball Club with Andre Gamerio (a development coach form the first phase of this programme). She is head coach for the U16's, U14's and juniors, and assists Andre on the men's side.
Rose works full time for School Games Organise, and gets to teach handball in primary and secondary schools. At the weekend, she coaches with the England Handball Talent pathway, for U14 and U16 South area.
About the BHA/EHF Masterplan Development Coach programme she says "My aspirations are to absorb invaluable experience and knowledge from the head coaches, paving the way for my growth as a coach."
David Robalo
David began his handball career 10 years ago in his home town in Portugal. His career took a significant step when he joined Sporting CP where he spent 3 years gaining high performance experience at youth level. Since moving to England, he has played for Bishop's Stortford. This is also where he began his coaching career. After earning his level 1 coaching handball qualiification, he started coaching junior sessions, progressing through to the senior mens team, whilst still assisting in junior development. David also works with England Handball as a development coach at the London Regional Academy working with U14 and U16 girls.
David says "Through my participation in this coaching programme, I aim to deepen my knowledge of the sport, further refine my coaching skills, and achieve my level 2 coaching qualification. My aspiration is to continue to grow handball in the UK, particularly at youth level."
Artem Kuybida
Artem writes, "My handball journey began in 2004 in a small Portuguese village. In 2006, I was scouted by the renowned coach Alexander Donner to join Sport Lisboa e Benfica, where I joined the youth academy and developed throughout the years until I eventually reached the senior ranks. I had the privilege of competing at the highest levels of handball in Portugal, playing for CF Os Belenenses, Ginásio Clube, and Vitória de Setúbal.
"Throughout my playing career, I achieved several memorable milestones. I was part of the team that won the Portuguese President’s Cup, won Youth Silver and Bronze medals in the National League, and celebrated the Portuguese Professional League Championship. On the international stage, I proudly represented Portugal in the 2011 Sub-21 World Championship.
"In 2015, I took on a leadership role as Vice-Chairman and Co-Founder of Reading Handball Club. During my time there, I played for the men’s team, coached the women’s team, and managed club operations. Despite being a small club, we achieved impressive results, which was a testament to our dedication and teamwork. These experiences significantly helped me grow as a leader both on and off the court.
"Since 2022, I have been serving as Head Coach of Brighton Handball Club, where I strive to create a supportive and competitive environment for players to thrive. My responsibilities include leadership and team management, as well as designing training programs and game strategies that bring out the best in every player.
"Outside of handball, I hold a degree in nursing and currently work in a managerial position within the NHS.
"Handball has been a lifelong passion, and I remain deeply committed to nurturing talent, promoting the sport, and contributing to its growth at all levels."
The EHF Master Plan project provides support for British Handball to create sustainable development of handball in the UK through key areas of growth. This plan is a 3 year programme across women's and coach development. We are exceptionally grateful to the EHF for the opportunity this provides our organisation to grow our sport.
