Richardson: Honour to be elected among these players

Jackson Richardson was recently awarded with the title of best centre back in the 20 year history of the EHF Champions League.

Twice world champion in 1995 and 2001 as well as winning one EHF Champions League with Portland San Antonio in 2001. Famous for his original look and style, he is also one of the players that made handball evolve in a spectacular way. ehfCL.com spoke to the man who defined a handball era and rightfully earned his place in the Ultimate Selection.

ehfCL.com: Can you describe what this award means to you?

Jackson Richardson: Of course it's a proud moment, especially in this position where many players could have been awarded. I'm part of a very strong generation; people like Dujshebaev or Lövgren deserve it as well, so to be elected among these players is an even bigger honour.

ehfCL.com: If you could point out your best moment in the EHF Champions League, what would it be?

Jackson Richardson: The best moment was with Pamplona, when we beat Barcelona in the final in 2001. Barcelona had won the cup five times in a row and going at it for the sixth time. It was my first Champions League final and we won, definitely a great moment.

ehfCL.com: Which players did you particularly love playing with?

Jackson Richardson: I guess Ivano Balic. I've always loved him as a player, and still do, he's a magician with the ball. Mikail Jakimovic as well, he's a great centre back and I've learned a lot from him. He was a pleasure to play with.

ehfCL.com: What do you remember about the first time you won an European Cup title with Marseille?

Jackson Richardson: It's another great moment in my career. The first time I played a European final and the first time for a French team as well.

We were an omnisport club at the time, so there were lots of football players in the stands as well, supporting us, with very excited fans. The football players won the Champions League around the same time, so you can imagine what kind of mood the city of Marseille was in. Amazing!

ehfCL.com: What differences have you noticed between the EHF Champions League you were accustomed to and the new format?

Jackson Richardson: Well the main one is that there is a final four now. So you can't really count on your fans to help you anymore. Otherwise, it remains the same, very tough to win, and the best level of handball you can find.