Sandpoint handball crew will miss you, Jim
—Photo by ERIC PLUMMER Longtime Sandpoint handball players, pictured from left to right: Don Helander, Jim Lovell and Bruce Sletager.
Sandpoint handball is unique in this day and age, and not just because it boasts one of the highest per-capita player/people ratios found anywhere outside of Ireland.
A tight-knit group of players battle hard on the courts for a couple hours a couple nights a week at the SWAC, then honor the game’s tradition by sticking around afterward for a post-match beer or two and some enjoyable conversation.
For the better part of the last two decades, one of the hearts and souls of that group was Jim Lovell, and his recent passing was a loss felt by everyone.
Jim was a fierce competitor on the court, yet smiled while playing more than anyone. Nobody gave more high fives during the action, whether winning or losing.
Jim was a stellar player, too, using top notch quickness and court savvy to advance to the finals of many tournaments and hold his own with the best players around. When his opponent made an outstanding shot, it wasn’t uncommon for Jim to grab him by the arm, look into his eyes and say “great shot.”
He always helped run the Idaho state tournament when it was hosted by the SWAC, and his positive energy always made the event better.
Jim will be missed by many in the community, as genuinely likable folks often are when they’re gone.
He’ll damn sure be missed by the Sandpoint handball crew.