MIA REJ – THE JOY OF HANDBALL
Photo: Thomas Tvilling
35-year-old Mia Rej has played her final game at the top level and is now ready for a new chapter.
And luckily, it'll be at HØJ!
The full stop on a fine handball career was finally placed after the home game against Silkeborg-Voel in Ølstykke-Hallen on 3 May. An active career with many highlights, though one also marked by injuries along the way.
“The decision to end my career was made quite a while ago, so I've had plenty of time to digest it all. That's why I felt I could simply enjoy the day. It got a little emotional after the final whistle, but honestly it was mostly out of relief. The last part of my career has been one long battle. To be completely honest, it feels good to be able to say that I won that battle, but also – that I no longer have to fight.”
Despite the injuries, Mia Rej has both experienced and achieved far more than most on the handball court.
“Of course, you can't help thinking about some of the titles you've won; the Danish Championship gold in Copenhagen and “The Double” with Odense. But I'll also look back on my year at FCK Håndbold, where I got to train and play alongside all my childhood idols. It was a crazy season, with Anja Andersen as coach, but also something I wouldn't have wanted to miss. Last but not least, the “crowning achievement” is of course having had the chance to represent Denmark at both the European and World Championships.”
Mia Rej's active career came to a close at HØJ Elite – and on top of that, in the club's strong debut season in the Håndboldligaen. Here our quick and skilful playmaker really stood out, especially in the second half of the season, when the team sparkled and produced impressive results. Her enthusiasm for HØJ quickly took hold both on and off the court.
“I've gotten a really good impression. First and foremost because there are so many good people at the club who want the best for you. There's a very family-like atmosphere and everyone helps each other. It doesn't feel like there's a big gap between youth and senior level either.
When I had to decide whether to move into a career outside of sport or stay in handball, I realised that I'm not done with the sport at all. I still have a lot of drive and a lot to pass on, so for me it's the perfect solution to be able to give back to the youth players while at the same time continuing to contribute at senior level.
The women have been on a really fine development path, especially over the last six months. So I don't see why that development shouldn't continue. And with the addition of several talented Danish and international players, I absolutely expect the women's team to become a real flagship for the club – and for the young girls who dream of playing top-flight handball.
As for the talent work, the club is in the middle of a major upgrade. There are going to be optimal conditions to develop – and not least – to have a lot of fun. I'm really looking forward to seeing the wealth of talent at the club develop and blossom even more.”
At HØJ we're looking forward to the continued collaboration with Mia Rej. We're proud that she has chosen to stay on as assistant coach for the U19 girls while also becoming part of the coaching team for the women's league side.
“Honestly – the most important thing is that you have fun. That you enjoy the community, that you can find a space where you get to be yourself and have fun. It'll get serious soon enough. So for the most part, I've played handball because it's fun!” says Mia Rej in closing – and she'll continue to be a big part of the HØJ family going forward.”
