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In This Issue:
Maggie GrelleMaggie Grelle, a senior research technician in BWH’s Physiologic Research Lab has her hands full. Under the leadership of Norman Hollenberg, MD, Grelle is helping to conduct a diabetes study by measuring blood plasma samples in diabetic patients. During off hours, Grelle trains to maintain her world championship status as one of the nation’s premier female handball players as well as promote the game among women, young adults and children.
Grelle, who was a scholarship, varsity field hockey player at Southwest Missouri State, was recruited into handball by a friend when she was a freshman. Four years later, she was named a college All-American and went on to compete and win the Amateur Handball World Championships in 2000. Most recently, Grelle defeated the number-five ranked female handballer to win the Boston Open.
Winning on her home court carried much greater significance since Grelle’s vision and passion also resulted in the creation of the first ever women’s competition in the Open’s 25-year history.
With Grelle’s continued leadership in the sport, handball will most certainly grow in popularity in Boston. She has already started a program at a charter high school, leads college clinics for local students, and is working to develop a children’s summer program in South Boston. With determination and natural talent, Grelle is a superb role model for the sport.
“It is my goal to continue to remain competitive, while gaining recognition among my peers and fellow handballers, many of whom are still skeptical that women can play,” she said. “Ultimately, I am trying to set a positive example that handball is a great sport and accessible to all individuals.”
Grelle’s next competition is at the 2002 Nationals in Las Vegas, Nevada in June.