As the sun sets on El Camino Real Park in Orange, you hear cars passing by, making the drive home from work. In between cars, you hear music you would normally hear at a quinceañera, the pop of rubber balls bouncing, friendly insults between call-outs and the occasional “guey” (pronounced way). This is a common occurrence at this park and many other parks in Orange County, as about 30 men play handball and hang out with their friends.
Santa Ana had a rich history of handball and was once a mecca for the sport; so much so that Santa Ana College had courts on campus and would host tournaments, some of which were sponsored by el Don.
Although the sport has a long history, not only in Santa Ana but overall, there is a negative stigma associated with the game. Many people see the game as a pastime for people who are incarcerated or who have a criminal past…