Professional paper
https://doi.org/10.70077/et2er.7.2.14
Organization of the regional handball league final during the Covid-19 pandemic: a case study from a project management perspective
Matija Teur
; Veleučilište Baltazar Zaprešić
Zlatko Barilović
orcid.org/0000-0002-5211-4291
; Veleučilište Baltazar Zaprešić
*
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
This paper presents the organization of the SEHA – Gazprom League Final Tournament under the exceptional
circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic, with a focus on project management, crisis adaptation, and innovative
approaches in the execution of sports events. The aim is to demonstrate how high organizational standards, participant
safety, and stakeholder satisfaction can be achieved through careful planning and the application of modern
technologies, even in the context of a global health crisis. Key project phases are analyzed, with particular emphasis on
the initial (start-up) phase, which included strategic planning, risk management, and the definition of operational
protocols in accordance with public health guidelines. Special attention is given to the use of digital solutions, most
notably the implementation of a virtual audience, which enabled continued viewer engagement and sponsor visibility
despite restrictions on in-person attendance. Organizational and logistical challenges involved adapting indoor venues,
participant testing, redesigning movement flows, and maintaining communication with local and international
authorities. The paper highlights the importance of flexibility, cross-sector collaboration, and the ability to respond
swiftly to rapidly c hanging c onditions. I n c onclusion, the S EHA L eague F inal T ournament p roject s erves a s a b estpractice
example of managing sports events under crisis conditions, offering applicable insights for future initiatives. It
also reinforces the broader social significance of handball in the Southeast European region and the role of sport as a
unifying and stabilizing factor in uncertain times.
Keywords
project management; event management; crisis management; digital innovation; SEHA regional handball league; pandemic
Hrčak ID:
341350
URI
Publication date:
16.12.2025.
Visits: 289 *