Gintaras Savukynas (born February 18, 1971) is a Lithuanian handball coach and former professional player. He is recognized for his contributions to both the Lithuanian national team and several high-profile European handball clubs.
Career as a Player As a player, Savukynas competed as a center back. He spent a significant portion of his early career with the Lithuanian club Granitas Kaunas. He also played professionally for clubs in Iceland and Norway before transitioning into coaching. He was a long-time member of the Lithuania men's national handball team.
Career as a Coach Savukynas has held numerous coaching positions across Europe. His notable tenures include:
- Riihimäki Cocks: He served as the head coach of the Finnish club Riihimäki Cocks, leading the team to multiple Finnish Championship titles and competing in the EHF Champions League.
- HC Motor Zaporizhzhia: Between 2020 and 2022, Savukynas coached the Ukrainian side HC Motor Zaporizhzhia. Under his leadership, the team dominated the Ukrainian Super League and achieved notable performances in the EHF Champions League group stages.
- National Team: Savukynas has served as the head coach of the Lithuania men's national handball team during several periods. He notably led the team during the 2022 European Men's Handball Championship, marking Lithuania's first appearance in the tournament finals in over two decades.
Savukynas is regarded as one of the most prominent figures in Lithuanian handball, known for his tactical approach and experience in top-tier European competitions.
