The Albert-Malatesta Sports Complex hosted the tenth edition of the Women’s International Torball Tournament, organized by ANICES, last weekend. It was a day full of matches, spectators, and shared moments. Nice finished in third place.
The Albert-Malatesta Complex opened its doors early to kick off this anniversary edition. An important date for ANICES, which has been hosting this tournament for ten years and brings together European teams involved in this parasport each year. Over one hundred fifty people filled the stands. A lively atmosphere accompanied all the matches. Numerous exchanges between volunteers, players, managers, and spectators paced the day.
Six teams responded to the invitation. Graz represented Austria. Dortmund and Sankt Pauli – Langenhagen formed the German delegation. Bergamo wore the Italian colors. Clermont-Ferrand, reigning French champion, represented the national competition. Nice completed the lineup.
The team from Nice relied on a cohesive group: Clarisse, Kamélya, Laurie-Anne, Lucie, Mélanie, and Sandrine. The management was handled by Sébastien and Angélique, the group leaders. The motivation of the group was evident before every match, particularly during team gatherings on the sidelines. The busy schedule demanded constant attention, as each game sequence could impact the final standings.
The matches offered a fast pace. Torball relies on rapid phases and a very unique auditory and spatial engagement. The audience experienced the tension inherent to the sport. All teams alternated between defense, anticipation, and offensive attempts. Each team developed its own strategy, often based on internal communication and the ability to maintain concentration despite the movements around the court.
Nice held its position. Several decisive actions allowed them to achieve third place in the overall standings. The competition concluded with a victory for the Clermont-Ferrand team ahead of Graz, followed by Nice. This bronze medal rewards a collective effort that has been in place for many months. This position also represents a forward-looking approach to the next sports season.
An organization structured around loyal partners
This tenth edition benefited from significant logistical support. Several local organizations and regular partners provided support and convivial spaces. Hotel Monsigny offered accommodation solutions for teams coming from abroad or other French regions. An opportunity for these groups to enjoy a shared environment before the competition.
The day before the tournament, a meeting event brought together all the delegations for a shared meal at the Chez Garpo restaurant. The players, coaches, and attendees exchanged views on the sporting challenges and the history of their respective teams. An open atmosphere prevailed throughout the evening. This social dimension remains essential in such events, as it strengthens ties between European teams.
The competition day ended at the L’Oscar restaurant around a convivial dinner. This gathering extended the spirit of partnership present since the tournament’s inception. Discussions focused on the dynamics of women’s Torball, upcoming projects, and possible exchanges between clubs.
The youth section of ANICES also participated in the event. A presentation of its activities was offered. This moment highlighted the upcoming generation in training and the efforts made to encourage Torball practice among young people.
Thanks were extended to the volunteers involved from the beginning to the end of the day. Their role remains central, particularly in setting up the courts, welcoming the teams, and general coordination. A message of gratitude was also expressed to the participants of the No Finish Line, who initiated a wave just before the final.
Several institutional representatives attended this tenth edition. Their presence confirms support for parasports in the Alpes-Maritimes. Among them were:
• Mr. Éric Ciotti, Deputy of Alpes-Maritimes
• Mr. Pascal Condomitti, Deputy Mayor for Sports in Nice
• Mrs. Valérie Sergi, Vice-President of the Department delegated to Disability
• Mrs. Martine Martinon, Municipal Councilor sub-delegated to Sports
The 2026 event is already announced. A new chapter for the history of women’s Torball in Nice. In the meantime, a future event is scheduled: the Closing Evening of the project Hand in Hand for Everyone’s Happiness, on December 12 at the Holiday Inn Nice Centre Hotel, 20 Boulevard Victor-Hugo.
