A legend’s comeback
Considered to be one of the best goalkeepers in the history of handball, Huțupan-Dinu retired in the spring of 2009, after Oltchim lost the EHF Champions League semi-final against Viborg.
Huțupan-Dinu decided to have a baby, but she never let go of handball, becoming the goalkeeper coach at both Oltchim and the Romanian national team.
The void in Oltchim’s goal was initially covered by Paula Ungureanu, but she tore a ligament one year ago and also decided to have a baby. Therefore, Oltchim had big problems between the goal posts. Talida Tolnai and Sanela Knezovic’s lack of form didn’t help matters, and an amazing scenario was unfolding.
Huțupan-Dinu’s comeback was still only a rumour three months ago and nobody could have believed that the rumour would become true. Observing the problems in Oltchim’s goal while coaching, the Romanian champions’ legend felt that she could make an impact on the team and therefore decided to help her teammates achieve their objectives in the second part of this season.
„I am not saying that Oltchim is not going to lose any more games from this moment, but I think that I can help the team. There is a lot of work for me now, as I have to train harder and harder. I haven’t lost my touch, but after three years on the sidelines, there will understandably be a little bit of rust. I only want to help my team and I will do everything in my power to achieve this goal," said Huțupan-Dinu about her comeback, after officially announcing it.
Nearly 1,500 spectators gathered at „Traian Hall" on the 15th of January, when Huțupan-Dinu was eager to play in the Romanian National League match against HCM Baia Mare. When coach Radu Voina sent her between the posts in the 22nd minute, the spectators cheered loudly and made her feel proud. Huțupan’s name was not forgotten!
She played nearly 25 minutes and made 7 saves, helping Oltchim win the game by a confortable margin, 46:23. However, the victory seemed not so important – it was Huțupan-Dinu’s sensational comeback that made the headlines!
Now 40, Huțupan-Dinu is trying to win her fourth EHF Champions League trophy, after being victorious in 2001 and 2003 with Krim Ljubljana and in 2002 with Kometal Skopje. She has also lost two finals with the Slovenian team, in 2004 and 2006 before returning to Oltchim, where she won the Cup Winners’ Cup in 2007.
TEXT: Adrian Costeiu
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