Imagine scrolling through TikTok and discovering your future Olympic dream. That's exactly what happened to Rylee White, a 27-year-old screenwriter who had never heard of handball until her roommate mentioned a viral video about open tryouts for the U.S. Olympic women's team—with no experience required.
Intrigued and inspired, White showed up to the Los Angeles tryouts. Fast forward five months, and she's among a dedicated group of women who have packed their bags and moved to Florida to join USA Handball's national residency program. Their goal? To earn a spot on the team that will represent the United States at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.
Handball, a fast-paced sport that combines elements of basketball, soccer, and hockey, remains relatively unknown in the U.S. despite being a popular Olympic event worldwide. The women's national team is building from the ground up, and these athletes are embracing the challenge with passion and determination. From jump shots to resin-covered balls, each training session is a step closer to Olympic glory.
For these women, the journey is as thrilling as the destination. Whether it's Devyn Holbrook launching a jump shot, Gabrielle Morales gripping a sticky handball, or Grace Curatolo celebrating a made shot, every moment is a testament to their commitment. With the 2028 Games on the horizon, they're not just learning a new sport—they're making history.
