【High School Handball Tournament】Showa Gakuin High School Wins Championship for the Second Time in 39 Years

Today, March 29, 2026 (Sunday), the women's final of the "49th National High School Handball Invitational Tournament" was held, where Showa Gakuin High School (Chiba Prefecture) defeated Kumamoto Municipal Chiharadai High School (Kumamoto Prefecture) to win their second championship in 39 years.

Showa Gakuin's solid defense functioned effectively from the start, shutting down Chiharadai's powerful offense.

They finished the first half with a 21-12 lead, and in the second half, they maintained their dominance, preventing their opponent from turning the tide and securing the victory.

This marks Showa Gakuin High School's second championship, 39 years after their victory in the 10th tournament. On the other hand, Kumamoto Municipal Chiharadai High School, aiming for their first championship, finished as runner-up in their first-ever final appearance.

■Match Result

Showa Gakuin High School (Chiba Prefecture) - Kumamoto Municipal Chiharadai High School (Kumamoto Prefecture)
38 - 28

(First Half 21 - 12, Second Half 17 - 16)

For details, please visit the Match Schedule and Results page.

Furthermore, the one female MVP and seven outstanding players are scheduled to be announced at the awards ceremony following the men's final, which will be held on the same day from 11:40 AM. We will provide an update after the announcement.

49th National High School Handball Invitational Tournament

■Tournament Period: March 24 (Tuesday) - 29 (Sunday)
■Venue: Cycle Shop Kodama Ozu Arena, Kurasasu Martial Arts Sports Center Courts A and B, Beppu City General Gymnasium (Beppu Arena), Oita Maizuru High School Multi-purpose Athletic Field
■Streaming Information: All matches are streamed on the Douga Jidai! Official YouTube Channel [Playlist]