One of the most captivating stories in handball is undoubtedly the tale of Didier Dinar, who began his journey in Guadeloupe. Known as the rock from a small Caribbean island, he has risen to legendary status in France.

This cheerful giant achieved world champion titles both as a player and a coach, and then made his way to Montenegro, seeking to build upon his successes from a small country to larger aspirations.

Dinar took on the role of coach for the “lions” during a challenging time, following a disappointing playoff against Italy for the World Cup. The young man who left his sunny Caribbean home at just 16 years old has learned over the years that there are always solutions to seemingly hopeless situations.

– Before I became the selector, I was aware that Montenegro was a prominent handball nation filled with talent. I also recognized its beauty, but upon arrival, I was even more awestruck. I look forward to returning and immersing myself further in Montenegrin culture, which I believe is vital for understanding and leading the team – Dinar shared in a New Year’s interview with “Vijesti”.

Right from the start, with just two training sessions, he guided Montenegro to two victories in the European Championship qualifiers, pivotal for the “lions” to return to major competitions.

– I felt incredibly positive from my first moments in Montenegro. The fans are passionate, knowledgeable, and very sporty. The warm reception makes home matches especially motivating, encouraging the team to excel and achieve great results – Dinar expressed.

Handball in Montenegro is unsurprising

The legendary handball player gave us insight into his French homeland and reflected on the pivotal moments that shaped his life decisions.

– Guadeloupe’s slogan is “Land of champions,” as we indeed boast talents across various sports. Nonetheless, to advance professionally, I had to leave my island at 16 and enroll in a training center in Dijon, France. This move was tough: I had to leave my family, my routines, and my culture behind. But significant achievements require motivation, self-improvement, and sacrifice. Today, I take pride in that journey – Dinar explained.

Given that Montenegro is a small nation, are you surprised that a country with 650,000 inhabitants produces numerous skilled handball players and good results?

– Not at all. It’s somewhat similar to Guadeloupe: a small territory where sport is of central importance. This reflects the genuine handball culture in Montenegro, fostered by the devoted work of its Association, which passionately invests in the sport’s development. The players demonstrate immense dedication. Nevertheless, there are more steps to take and efforts to continue elevating our presence on the international stage. For instance, France didn’t become Olympic champions overnight; it necessitated time, effort, and a strategic approach to development.

I never minded my role in defense

Didier Dinar is often viewed as the greatest defensive player of all time. Was it challenging to remain motivated despite focusing mainly on defensive play, with few offensive opportunities?

– I have always held perfectionism as a core value in handball. Consequently, I chose to specialize in defense, aspiring to excel in that area. Not participating in offense never troubled me, as I recognized the importance of my role in defense. I consistently sought ways to become the best in that position, hence my dedicated focus on defense.

Numerous outstanding handball legends have crossed your path; was there anyone particularly challenging to defend against?

– I never encountered a specific player that was exceptionally difficult to guard. My objective has always been to improve each year, adapting and surpassing my opponents. I aimed to be better, to anticipate their moves, and to gain a competitive edge over them – Dinar explained.

Dinar’s legacy in France is well known; he was part of the generation that dominated global handball, earning the title of “experts” with two Olympic golds in 2008 and 2012, two European championships in 2006 and 2010, and three world titles in 2001, 2009, and 2011.

– What was the secret behind that national team’s success? The triumph of France sprung from experience amassed over the years. Before we started winning, we faced losses that taught us valuable lessons, allowing us to evolve and solidify our gameplay. This laid the groundwork for creating an exceptional team during that period.

Kanaje, Kostantini, Dushebaev…

As a player, Dinar learned under two coaching legends – Patrice Canaye and Danijel Kostantini. As a coach today, how much do you integrate their teachings, or have you garnered more from a different mentor?

– Canaye significantly influenced the early stages of my career, just as Costantini, who gave me my chance with the French national team. Modern handball heavily relies on game reading, and I draw inspiration from their teachings and from coaches like Talant Dujshebaev. All these experiences enriched my understanding of the game.

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Dinar earned a total of ten medals from major competitions as a player, seven of which were gold – three from world championships, and two each from the Olympic Games and European Championships.

He noted that he also learned valuable lessons from his own journey as a player…

– I adapt these lessons to the evolution of handball. I strive to modify my approach to each team I coach, nurturing individual talent, as each player is distinct and contributes uniquely to the team’s dynamic.

How I became a world champion as a coach

Accustomed to success throughout his playing career, Dinar quickly made a mark as a coach of France, guiding former teammates such as Nikola Karabatić, Daniel Narcisse, Tijeria Omeye, and Luka Abalo…

– I achieved the title of world champion in 2017, having coached the French team since 2013. I initially started as an assistant, which allowed me to familiarize myself with the team, practically participating as a player myself. This title emerged from years of hard work. I knew the group intimately, thereby establishing a solid foundation on which to build – Dinar recounted.

Your victory came without a single loss in front of a home crowd…

– Hosting the World Cup provides added motivation, and no one thought we should let this opportunity slip away. During the tournament, difficult decisions were necessary to maintain momentum and reach our objectives. The team was motivated and well-prepared for the challenge. As someone with a competitive nature, I wasn’t surprised by our outcome, as everything was set up for success – Dinar stated.

The lions possess potential, but others have worked hard to excel

When he initially arrived in Montenegro, the renowned Frenchman emphasized his intention to establish a solid system first and foremost.

– For the national team, such a system is essential. As a coach entering a new team, it’s crucial to define clear principles for both defense and offense, tailored to various situations… Montenegro has the necessary potential and qualities to achieve better results moving forward – Dinar asserts.

However…

– As previously mentioned, it will require time and considerable effort. It’s vital to build everything step by step. I used the French team as an example, but other nations also had to construct and strive hard for their successes. For the time being, our primary goal is to structure the team and lay a strong foundation to tackle future challenges effectively – concluded the champion from the “land of champions”.

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