Stiven Tobar Valencia

Stiven, originally born in Colombia, moved to Iceland at the age of 3 with his family. He embarked upon his handball journey at the age of 8 with his local club, Valur in Reykjavik. Joining Valur's senior team in 2017, he played a pivotal role in securing consecutive Icelandic Championship victories in 2021 and 2022.

In the early months of 2023, Stiven made his debut with the Icelandic national team during the qualifiers for EHF Euro 2023. During the summer that same year, he achieved a milestone by signing with Benfica in Portugal, becoming the first Icelandic player to join a club in the country.

I always call my mom before a game

Stiven revealed the reason he started playing handball: "I started because most of my friends were playing both handball and football. Eventually we realized we were better at handball, so we ultimately chose that path."

Additionally, he shared a beautiful pre-game ritual, saying, "I always call my mother before a game."

When asked about his favorite place in Iceland, Stiven didn't have to look far, expressing a fondness for his childhood neighborhood, "Hlíðarnar" in Reykjavík. Like many others, he credited Berlin as his favorite place in Germany - and who could blame him?

It's always interesting to learn more about successful players, their idols and inspirations. When asked about his favorite player of all time, Stiven couldn't help but mention two: "Guðjón Valur and Dibriov". Guðjón Valur stands as one of the most renowned Icelandic handball players in history.

When we asked Stiven if he has any hidden talents, he claimed that he does have a talent but that it’s not really hidden anymore. In addition to his handball career, he revealed that he’s a DJ.

What is the song you use to get hyped before a game?

At the moment, there are a few! These songs are on my rotation right now:

First person - Drake
Money trees - Kendrick Lamar
I know - Travis Scott

Meet Stiven