Rostov-Don Starts 2026 with Home Match Against Astrakhanochka
The first home game of 2026 for the women«s handball team Rostov-Don will be against Astrakhanochka. The Russian championship match is set for January 24 at the Sports Palace under the leadership of Irina Dibirova.
Return After New Year Holidays
In their last game of 2025 on December 24, Rostov-Don defeated Maykop«s AGU-Adyif 34:20 at the Sports Palace. The team then went on New Year holidays.
The return to competition after the break took place in Tolyatti, where the Rostov players met Lada and won 23:19.
Team right wing Ekaterina Levsha told 161.RU about her first impressions of playing in 2026 and shared expectations for the upcoming match against Astrakhanochka.
«We focused a lot on physical conditioning with our fitness coach. There was also enough handball in training to get back into previous form. In Tolyatti, we played well and worked hard in defense.»
«I believe that any breaks are always beneficial, primarily mentally. You get a little rest not only physically but also mentally. It»s great when you can spend time with loved ones, especially during the New Year holidays.«
«Ahead of us is a good game. Astrakhanochka is a tough opponent; they»ve proven that many times, and we«re preparing seriously for them. It won»t be easy for sure, but of course, we«re all looking forward to »Mishkopa«. This is a very kind and good event that allows us to help children.»
Mishkopa Event
The «Mishkopa» event, which Rostov-Don has been organizing jointly with the Darina Fund for the fifth year, will allow fans to buy plush bears before the game and throw them onto the court after the final whistle. All collected toys will then be donated to orphanages.
The proceeds from the sale will go towards the treatment of 17-year-old Kirill Dergachev, who has been diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia.
Repeating Last Year«s Final
In the final of the 2024/25 Russian Cup season, Rostov-Don and Astrakhanochka already met. Then, the Rostov players won away with a score of 31:26.
In the first round of the current Russian championship, Rostov-Don also defeated Astrakhanochka away with a result of 31:27.
