P4 Skaraborg was the first to state that Henrik Signell quits as the union captain and takes over IFK Skövde's men's team. Then Aftonbladet stated that Tomas Axnér, 50, replaces Signall.
The information has now been confirmed by the Swedish Handball Association and Lugi. Axnér takes over as the national team for the Swedish handball ladies.
- In recent years I have been thinking a lot about working with a women's team and have had some serious offers from strong clubs abroad, so I did not need long reflection time when this became relevant. I have followed the Swedish national team in place in many championships and qualifiers, have looked a lot at the Champions League and SHE and have a good look at the youth national team after following them in the championships in the summers, says Axnér to the Swedish Handball Association's website.
“Four Extremely Exciting and Fun Years”The contract runs over OS 2024.
Signell has been the union captain since 2016. His contract expires after the Olympics this summer and the union has chosen not to extend the agreement.
- It has been four extremely exciting and fun years and I feel a pride and gratitude that I got to be part of the Swedish national team. I have been given the opportunity to work with fantastic players and leaders and for an association that is constantly striving forward both on and off the handball field, Signell says and continues:
- Now I look forward to the challenges we have left during my contract period with the Olympic and European qualifiers and hopefully the Olympics in Tokyo this summer.
Axnér's first championship may be the European Championships in Denmark and Norway in December.