The MTU Kerry Sports Academy was alive with energy as the U18 Girls Tournament brought together some of the country’s best young teams. The day featured drama from start to finish, with thrilling games, superb individual performances, and a glimpse of what promises to be an exciting season ahead.
🏆 Cup Final – Tralee Magic v Limerick Celtics
Both Tralee Magic and Limerick Celtics arrived unbeaten from their groups, setting the stage for a high-quality final.
Magic fought hard, with Priya O’Donovan and Anna O’Sullivan combining for key baskets, while Muireann Teahan worked tirelessly on both ends of the floor, chipping in with 8 points. Celtics edged the first quarter 12–8 before Magic hit back with a big second quarter (20–14) to take a narrow halftime lead.
The second half was where Celtics found another gear. Relentless defence and sharp shooting turned the tide, with standout performances from Laura Buckley (later named Tournament MVP) and Caoimhe Sweeney leading the way. Celtics outscored Magic 15–8 in the third and 18–13 in the fourth, sealing a 59–49 victory in a game played in tremendous spirit.
It was an excellent final between two teams who will undoubtedly meet again in the months ahead.
🥈 Plate Final – St Paul’s v Kilkenny Stars
The Plate Final was another exciting contest, with St Paul’s proving too strong for Kilkenny Stars in the end.
St Paul’s showed balance across the floor, with Aoife O’Sullivan and Annie Brosnan leading the scoring, with point guard Clodagh O’Sullivan pulling the strings and setting the tempo throughout. They set the tone early, racing to a 12–6 first-quarter lead and never looking back. A strong defensive effort limited the Stars’ opportunities, with St Paul’s pushing further ahead in each quarter.
Final score: St Paul’s 41 – Kilkenny Stars 16.
🌟 A Proud Moment – Muireann Teahan Receives Her Irish Cap
One of the standout moments of the day came when Tralee Magic’s Muireann Teahan was officially presented with her Irish Cap.
For Muireann, her family, and her teammates, it was a moment of immense pride. Having represented Ireland with distinction, her cap is a recognition of years of hard work, dedication, and passion for the game.
It was also a proud day for her former club Caherciveen BC, Tralee Magic, and the wider Kerry basketball community. Muireann’s pathway—through local club basketball, schools’ competitions—is an inspiration to the younger players coming through.
🔮 The Road Ahead – U18 National League
This tournament was not only about trophies. With six of the teams involved set to compete in the inaugural Basketball Ireland U18 Women’s National League, it gave a real taste of the season to come.
The quality, intensity, and competitiveness on display suggest fans are in for a treat when the league tips off. Rivalries formed here in Tralee are sure to be rekindled on the national stage.
🙏 Thank You
A sincere thank you goes to everyone who made this day possible:
- The players, for their skill, effort, and sportsmanship.
- The coaches, for guiding and inspiring the next generation.
- The referees, table officials, and volunteers, whose work behind the scenes kept the event running smoothly.
- And the families and supporters, who created a brilliant atmosphere and gave the players the encouragement they deserved.
Final Word
The U18 Girls Tournament was a celebration of the women’s game and a showcase of the bright future ahead. With the new National League ready to begin, this is just the start of what promises to be a thrilling season.
