Title: Farewell to Niclas Ekberg: THW Kiel's 12-Year Stalwart Heads Home
Bid adieu to record champions THW Kiel and their esteemed right winger, Niclas Ekberg, as they part ways at the close of the ongoing season. Ekberg, a 34-year-old Swedish sensation, has returned to his homeland to ink a three-year contract with Ystads IF. Ekberg's impressive journey with THW Kiel commenced when he joined the club from AG Copenhagen in Denmark in 2012.
The Swede's tenure at THW Kiel was nothing short of triumphant. Ekberg amassed an impressive roster of achievements, including six German championship titles, four DHB Cup victories, five Supercup trophies, and a 2019 EHF Cup win. In 2020, Ekberg and his team shone brightest when they clinched the Champions League. Ekberg's skill and prowess on the court earned him the recognition of scoring 2627 goals, a testament to his tenure with the club from the "Zebras."
As Ekberg takes his leave, the vacancy on the far-right wing will be filled by Sven Ehrig and Lukas Zerbe, who have agreed to transfer from TBV Lemgo Lippe to THW Kiel for the following season.
Ekberg praised his time with THW Kiel, acknowledging that it was an era full of cherished experiences and achievements, stating, "I'm incredibly proud to have been a part of this club. The years in Kiel were a time filled with dreams realized."
After a decorated career with THW Kiel, Ekberg also represented Denmark in the 2012 Olympic Games, where he secured a coveted silver medal. His dedication and talent proved unwavering when Switzerland's national team regained gold at the 2022 European Championships.
Insights
- Despite Ekberg's departure from THW Kiel, his remarkable accomplishments in the Bundesliga, such as scoring 2627 goals in 595 games, will be an asset for his new Swedish team, Ystads IF.
- Born in Sweden, Ekberg commenced his professional handball career in Denmark before relocating to Germany to play for THW Kiel.
- As a dual-purpose athlete, Ekberg contributed significantly to both THW Kiel and Sweden's national team, culminating in commendable performances in major international tournaments.
For all the latest up-to-date handball scores, schedules, and highlights, visit the THW Kiel homepage.
Additional Reads
[1] 2025 IHF Men’s World Championship, Player Highlights: Rangel Da Rosa vs. Niclas Ekberg. Retrieved from (April 3, 2023).
