Michael Lipov was a lifelong member of the international handball community. His handball journey began in 1964 when he founded SKA-Lvov Army Handball Club which he led to the elite division within 2 years, and went on to win a USSR Army Champions title in 1968.

Michael Lipov's illustrious career included coaching the U21 National team of Ukraine, and earning a "Merit Coach of Ukraine" for his achievements, which included a USSR title. During his coaching time, over 50 players earned the title of "Merit Master of Sport USSR". Among the many players whose paths he crossed was Felix Murokh, who went on to be one of the leaders of Chicago Inter Handball.

M. Lipov was also a highly regarded referee, both at the EHF level, and IHF level, with games officiated at the 1978 women's world cup, and 1980 Olympic games. He went on to chair the National Referee Committee of Ukraine from 1985-1990.

After his passing in 2009, his family agreed to honor his memory, and the Chicago Challenge Cup became known as the Michael Lipov Memorial Cup, starting in 2010. Today, we carry on that proud tradition, and are truly thankful for the Lipov family's continued support of one the United States' most coveted handball events.