A handball team inspired by the 2012 Olympics is appealing for youngsters for their new youth team.

The Brighton Seahawks, launched in September 2012 with the help of The Argus, have gone from strength to strength and are now second in the league.

Founder Juan Reig now wants to launch a youth team. He said: “We have had a really great year and a half but we need to look to the future.

“The team is doing really well but the only way that can continue is if we start a youth team.”

The squad will have their first session at the Portslade Sports Centre, in Chalky Road, on January 18 from 10.30am to 11.30am.

The team, which is for boys and girls aged 16 to 18, will train regularly on Saturdays. Mr Reig said: “It's a very social sport and a really good way to make friends.

“It is also a great way to get fit and improve your skills. The sport isn't as big in this country as in Europe but it's growing.

“By starting at such a young age there is a good opportunity for talented players to end up playing for the national squad.”

Handball was little known before the London Olympics. Despite limited success for Team GB, the sport gained a huge boost.

Mr Reig contacted The Argus in the weeks following the games and asked for the newspaper's support in setting up a Brighton and Hove team.

Readers responded enthusiastically and within a few months they not only had a team but also new kit, a training venue and equipment.

The team is currently flying high in South Regional League sitting second behind London GD II.

Mr Reig added: “Hopefully after a bit of experience in the youth team, players can move up to the main squad and start playing competitively.”

To enquire about joining the team email info@brightonhandball.com.

For more details visit www.facebook.com/brightonhandballclub.