WPH Handball Destination Series Showcases the South End Rowing Club and Dolphin Club
All info and writing by Brendan Monaghan and Eoin Lehane
WPH Showcase, San Francisco, CA, by Brendan Monaghan and Eoin Lehane
The WPH is excited to continue the WPH Handball Destination Series to showcase the world’s greatest handball cities and venues. On this edition of the WPH Handball Destination Series, we will feature the South End Rowing Club and Dolphin Club in San Francisco, home to the 2005 and 2007 Casey Lawlor Cup.
Courts at the South End Rowing Club and Dolphin Club
Three courts available
The three courts are handball only
Each court measures 40 feet by 22 feet
Singles and doubles at the South End Rowing Club and Dolphin Club
Due to the slightly larger court size is particularly suited to doubles
Players also play singles regularly
Most Popular Times to Play at the South End Rowing Club and Dolphin Club
Midweek evening, as well as weekend morning and afternoon
Number players at the South End Rowing Club and Dolphin Club
60 active players, ranging from national champions to beginners. The Dolphin Club has also seen an impressive rise in participation, thanks to Brendan Monaghan, who took up the sport just two years ago and now serves as commissioner for a program that has attracted 16 new players.
Top players at the South End Rowing Club and Dolphin Club
Rene Lopez, Joe Tierney, Jay Grenfell, Gary Steadman, and Tom McGrath.
South End Rowing Club and Dolphin Club Leaders
Brendan Monaghan: Dolphin Club commissioner
Andreas Acosta: South End commissioner
Adan Diaz: tournament director
Juan Carlos O’Campo and Eoin Lehane: coaches
Tournaments at the South End Rowing Club and Dolphin Club
Annual events include:
St. Patrick’s Day
Cinco de Mayo
Father/Son & Mother/Daughter tournaments
Beginners/Novice Only tournament
Current and Past Players at the South End Rowing Club and Dolphin Club
16 inductees into the Northern California Handball Hall of Fame, 20 national champions, and one world champion
Most Memorable Tournament at the South End Rowing Club and Dolphin Club
The Casey Lawlor event, where Ireland and the U.S. split the honors in 2005 and 2007. Now, the clubs are eager to host another such event—any interested sponsors are more than welcome!
Guests are always welcome at the South End Rowing Club and Dolphin Club
Yes! Day fees are $12-$13, payable via Venmo, making it accessible for players looking to drop in and enjoy a match.
More about the South End Rowing Club and Dolphin Club
A Handball Haven in San Francisco: South End Rowing Club & Dolphin Club
Nestled in the heart of San Francisco’s Aquatic Park, the South End Rowing Club (SERC) and the adjoining Dolphin Club offer an unparalleled experience for handball enthusiasts. With Golden Gate Bridge views from a private beach and a prime location surrounded by hotels, bars, and restaurants, this destination is perfect for a handball getaway.
Women’s Handball on the Rise
Handball at SERC and the Dolphin Club isn’t just for the men. The clubs have seen a growing number of women players, with former professionals Tracy Davis and Courtney Peixoto recently signing on to lead a series of instructional clinics, further expanding the sport’s reach.
Not just Handball!
Beyond the matches, the clubs are known for providing top-notch food and entertainment—after all, how many handball clubs can claim to have a bar conveniently located between two courts?
A Historic Club with a Bright Future
For those looking to experience a piece of West Coast handball history, the courts at SERC and the Dolphin Club have been graced by legendary players such as Rudy Stadelberger, Jay Capell, and Mike Kelly, among many others. Visitors are encouraged to reach out and arrange a game. Additionally, San Francisco offers more handball opportunities at the Olympic Club as well as the public indoor/outdoor courts in Golden Gate Park.
With a vibrant community, rich history, unparalleled location, and an exciting future, the South End Rowing Club and Dolphin Club stand as pillars of the handball world in Northern California. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this is a must-visit destination for any handball enthusiast.
Thank you to Brendan Monaghan and Eoin Lehane on behalf of the South End and Dolphin Clubs for sharing info and what they love about handball at the South End and Dolphin Clubs
Would you like to see your handball facility featured on an upcoming edition of WPH Handball Destination Series? Please contact David Fink at David.fink@wphlive.tv to showcase your city
Check out all of the WPH Destination Series HERE
David Fink
WPH Senior Writer