Dejan Ojeda, the youngest coach in the Women's Honor Division at just 27 years old, has been awarded the 2026 Canarian Sports Award for best technical direction. This recognition, debuting in the third edition of the awards, comes after a historic season for Rocasa Gran Canaria, a club that has secured the Liga Guerreras Iberdrola and the Spanish Super Cup under his guidance.
The award, granted by a jury of 32 sports journalists from the islands, highlights Ojeda's emerging profile in Spanish handball. His career includes a European title as assistant coach and several Canarian championships in youth categories, before leading the Telde-based team to one of its most successful seasons. The recognition also goes to Rocasa Gran Canaria, named best team of 2026, underscoring the club's extraordinary campaign.
On May 31, 2026, Ojeda led Rocasa Gran Canaria to win the Liga Guerreras Iberdrola, reclaiming the national title seven years after their first. Despite his youth, he demonstrated great skill in managing a top-level locker room. Shortly after, on September 5, the team won the Spanish Super Cup in Vigo, defeating Super Amara Bera Bera again 25-23 in a hard-fought final, consolidating the sports project.
Ojeda's coaching development is closely linked to Rocasa Gran Canaria, where he began in the youth ranks, winning several Canarian championships. His experience as an assistant coach during the EHF European Cup victory in the 2021/22 season was crucial for his growth. He represents a new generation of Canarian coaches finding their place in professional sports, championing local talent.
Ojeda's profile has also garnered interest beyond the Canary Islands, participating as a guest coach at the Campus Vila de Pontevedra in July 2026. The coach will receive the award on November 13 at the Teatro Pérez Galdós in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, during the 2026 Canarian Sports Awards gala, which coincides with ExpoDeca.
