U14 Girls T2
Coaches: William Daughton & Leanne Haussmann
Team Manager: Brenda Hartnett
Kerry Airport U14 Girls Div 3 Group A
06/03/22 County League
St. Paul's 28-27 Tralee Imperials
Our U14 Girls Team 2 played their final league game of the season on Sunday morning against St Pauls at Kilcummin.
With narrow defeats in their recent games, both teams were looking to get back to winning ways.
Quarter 1 began well for Imperials, a strong defensive effort led by Naomi Osibodu and Katie Enright providing the foundation for some fast breaks.
Imperials got on the scoreboard early in the quarter with excellent scores from Juliette Gleeson and Caoilinn Culloo. Imperials were really limiting the St Pauls offence with some great defensive pressure. Maria Walsh and Naomi Osibodu were really to the fore during the quarter and added to the Imperials account.
Imperials with a slender 2 point lead of 10 - 8 at the end of Quarter 1.
Quarter 2 began with St Pauls taking control of the game. Imperials were really on the back foot, defending well but struggling to keep St Pauls at bay.
Grace Reilly opened the Imperials account early in the quarter after a strong run from defence. This was to be the only Imperials score of the quarter as St Pauls
exerted a massive influence on the game. St Pauls executing a full court press with Imperials struggling to overcome the pressure. St Pauls added some scores on the board to race into a 20 – 12 lead at the end of quarter 2. Imperials with everything to do to stay in the game.
In quarter 3 Imperials began to get to grips with the St Pauls threat, Imperials overcoming the press and beginning to transition at pace. Sarah Slattery opened the Imperials account with a massive score, lifting the Imperials team with a noticeable rise in volume from the strong Imperials support.
Naomi Osibodu added to the Imperials account during the quarter after a great run and fantastic layup, Naomi having the game of her life and contributing massively to the effort. With the Imperials revival gathering momentum, Caoilainn Culloo stormed into the game adding 4 to the Imperials account leaving the score line at 26 – 20 at the end of quarter 3.
When the story of the U14 Team 2 season is told, all will know that the girls are never beaten until the final whistle blows, Sunday morning was no different, the 4th quarter being a classic with both teams giving it everything, Imperials nudging their way back into contention, with both sets of supporters creating a memorable atmosphere for the girls.
Imperials also limited St Pauls to 2 during the quarter with a massive defensive effort, while creating multiple opportunities in offence.
St Pauls were also in foul trouble mid-way through the quarter with Imperials visiting the free throw line.
With 4:54 on the clock, Imperials needed something to get back in the game, the team rallied brilliantly led by Grace Reilly. Grace did what Grace does, brought the game to the opposition and lifted her teammates in the process. Grace drove continuously at the St Paul's defence creating opportunities and drawing fouls. Grace added 3 in succession from the free throw line to move Imperials within 5 of St Paul's.
Aoife O’Connell added to the Imperials account with a superb score after strong defensive work from Naomi Osibodu.
As the clock ticked down to full time, Imperials were back to the free throw line. Naomi Osibodu with the free throws and 55.4 on the clock. With the pressure at its highest, Naomi added both free throws to move Imperials to within 1 of St Pauls. The final seconds were scintillating with both teams giving it 100%. St Paul's taking the deserved win on a score line of 28 – 27.
Congratulations to St Pauls on a fantastic win and for a very enjoyable and competitive game,
Thanks as always to the Table Officials and Referee.
Thanks to the supporters of both teams who created a great atmosphere for the girls.
As the old proverb goes, the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, that step for our U14s began on May 11th 2021, when
summer basketball began for Imperials. It’s been a fantastic journey with all of the twists and turns that we expect from the basketball season.
As the season now draws to a close, Brenda, Leanne and William would like to acknowledge this exceptional group of girls.
The girls playing 10 games in the league, winning 7 and losing the remaining 3 by a cumulative total of 4 points ( 2 + 1 +1).
As we say every week, it’s not the winning or losing that counts, it’s the team work, the effort, the application, the bond, and most of all that team spirit, that was in evidence in abundance. In this regard, the girls have been amazing. The girls have been a credit to themselves and their families and wonderful ambassadors for Tralee Imperials. We’re proud to have been part of the journey. We look forward to seeing all of the girls back on the court soon, in the Blue and White of Tralee Imperials.
A final word of thanks to KABB and our own Tralee Imperials Committee who make all of this possible.
Imperials scorers.
Caoilainn Culloo 8
Naomi Osibodu 6
Grace Reilly 5
Juliette Gleeson 3
Maria Walsh 1
Sarah Slattery 2
Aoife O’Connell 2
16/02/22 County League
Tralee Imperials 23-24 TK Bobcats
Our U14 Girls Team 2 continued their season on Wednesday evening at CBS The Green against TK Bobcats. Imperials were looking to maintain their good form with 7 wins from 8 on the board.
The game was a close encounter with scores at a premium, and both defences on top. Imperials began the game under pressure from a TK Bobcats side that were breaking fast. Katie Enright was having a great quarter for Imperials with multiple defensive rebounds and strong carries.
Katie and Abbey Stephenson combined well, and found Maria Walsh in space to open the Imperials account. Juliette Gleeson added to the Imperials score line with a great finish, after collecting an offensive rebound.
TK Bobcats with a narrow 6 – 4 lead at the end of quarter 1.
The 2nd quarter began well for TK Bobcats who were defending well and transitioning at pace. They added some early scores on the board to give them a slender advantage. Imperials responded as they always do with good team work and 100% effort. Strong running from Grace Reilly found Aoife O’Connell with Aoife duly obliging. Grace followed up with a brilliant effort after a great run from deep. Caoilinn Culloo was working hard and added a brilliant score, giving Imperials the advantage as the quarter progressed. The final score of the quarter fell to Grace Reilly, who finished well, after great work by Keelin Reidy.
The sides all square at 12 – 12 at the end of quarter 2.
Quarter 3 again began well for TK Bobcats with Imperials struggling to cope with the sustained pressure. Bobcats added to the scoreboard to move into the lead, and put some distance between the teams. Imperials were working hard and creating opportunities, but the final shots just not sticking.
Grace Reilly opened the Imperials account with a great layup after strong defensive work. Grace again added to the Imperials account moments later, after great work by Maria O’Connell. The final score of the quarter fell to Amber Ryan who carried magnificently and finished in style.
TK Bobcats continued to keep the scoreboard ticking over and extended the lead to 4. TK Bobcats with a 22 – 18 lead at the end of quarter 3.
The 4th quarter was end to end basketball with strong defensive work from both teams. Scores were again at a premium with both sides finding it difficult to finish. Sarah Slattery opened the Imperials account in quarter 4 with a brilliant long range effort, moving Imperials to within 2 of the opposition. TK Bobcats again capitalised on a fast break and extended the advantage to 4, late in the quarter. With a score line of 24 – 20 entering the final minutes, Imperials rallied. Sarah Slattery carried well and drew the foul. Sarah added 1 from the free throw line to reduce the deficit to 3. Aoife O’Connell added a great basket for the home side with a brilliant effort, after sustained Imperials pressure.
A score line of 24 – 23 with 1:22 on the clock. Imperials mounted attack after attack but great defensive work from Bobcats kept them at bay. Imperials got the final shot off with 2.2 seconds on the clock but it was not to be, TK Bobcats took the win on a final score line of 24-23.
Congratulations to TK Bobcats on a great win and for a very enjoyable and competitive game.
Thanks as always to our wonderful Table Officials and Referee.
Thanks to the supporters of both teams who were fantastic on the night.
The management team of Brenda, Leanne and William were proud of the girls performance, the girls giving it everything, and always supporting each other on the court and from the bench.
Imperials scorers.
Grace Reilly 8
Aoife O’Connell 4
Sarah Slattery 3
Maria Walsh 2
Caoilinn Culloo 2
Amber Ryan 2
Juliette Gleeson 2
04/02/22 County League
St. Colman’s Rockets 21-23 Tralee Imperials
Our U14 Girls Team 2 continued their season on Friday evening at Milltown Basketball Hall against St Colman's Rockets. It was a fantastic evening for all involved, as for the first time in weeks we welcomed supporters back to the game. The girls have missed them, we’ve missed them and it’s great to have them back. For everyone present, they witnessed a thriller, with both teams producing the most exciting game of the season, end to end basketball that had everything, and most importantly 2 teams giving it everything.
Imperials began the game strongly, bucking the trend of recent games. Niamh Fitzgibbon was to the fore as usual, with her strong running and defensive work. Imperials opened the scoring in the game, an inbound from Maria Walsh finding Naomi Osibodu with Naomi finishing in style. Another great run from Niamh Fitzgibbon found Katie Enright under the basket, with Katie completing the finish. At this time St Colman's Rockets began to get momentum and followed with some scores on the board. The final score of the quarter for Imperials fell to Maria Walsh, a brilliant effort finished superbly, after great work by Aobh Cronin. Imperials with a 6-5 lead at the end of quarter 1.
The 2nd quarter began with St Colman's Rockets to the fore. Imperials were creating chances but not applying the finish, with St Colman's defence on top.
St Colman's Rockets secured the opening baskets of the quarter to race into an early lead. Evelyn Moriarty opened the Imperials account with a great score, Evelyn collecting an offensive rebound and finishing superbly. Grace Reilly was leading the charge for Imperials, and after a great run, offloaded to Aoife O’Connell with Aoife finishing from distance. Clodagh Burke and Juliette Gleeson were combining well, with Imperials beginning to create opportunities. Evelyn Moriarty added 1 from the free throw line, Evelyn having a big impact on the quarter for Imperials. The final score of the quarter fell to Aoife O’Connell, a great run and finish from Aoife, ensuring the sides went to the half time break all square.
Quarter 3 opened with both defences on top. Amber Ryan and Maria O’Connell were strong on defence for Imperials. The opening score of the quarter came from Keelin Reidy. A great steal from Abbey Stephenson and an offload to Keelin deep inside her own half. Keelin carried magnificently and finished under pressure. A brilliant score from Keelin, keeping Imperials in touch. Scores were again at a premium for both teams during the quarter. In the final minutes of the quarter, Imperials rallied with an exceptional collective team effort led by Grace Reilly. Grace secured the last 2 baskets of the quarter to nudge Imperials in front. Both scores from under the basket after offensive rebounds. Imperials with a slender 19-17 lead at the end of quarter 3.
With a slender 19-17 Imperials lead, the scene was set for an epic final quarter and both teams did not disappoint. St Colman's Rockets were quick off the mark in quarter 4 with strong running and fast breaks. Imperials were defending well, but finding it difficult to get scores on the board. Lauren Foley was working hard for Imperials and defending brilliantly. Maria Walsh and Juliette Gleeson were combining well and creating opportunities. St Colman's Rockets added to the scoreboard midway through the quarter, to move into a 21-19 lead. The introduction of Naomi Osibodu steadied the Imperials defence. A strong defensive rebound from Naomi, and a fast break and offload to Aoife O’Connell, with Aoife finishing under pressure. The teams locked on the scoreboard at 21-21 with 3:12 on the clock. Both teams were in foul trouble late in the quarter, with both sides visiting the free throw line. With 1:33 on the clock, Abbey Stephenson carried and drew the foul from the Rockets defence. Abbey to the free throw line with the sides all square at 21-21. Abbey slotted shot number 1 to the delight of the Imperials supporters and bench. Could she finish the 2nd to make it a 2 point game. The answer was a definitive yes, Abbey scoring the 2nd shot to give Imperials the lead at 23-21. The final moments of the match were scintillating. St Colman's Rockets in the ascendency putting massive pressure on the Imperials defence. Imperials hold out on a final score line of 23-21.
Thanks to St Colman's Rockets for a very enjoyable, sporting and competitive game. Thanks as always to the Table Officials and Referee.
The girls and Management team would like to wish Penny Costello a speedy recovery from injury and look forward to having her back on the court.
All were delighted when Penny joined the team on the bench for the game, Penny bringing the enthusiasm she always brings to the team!
The management team of Brenda, Leanne and William were delighted with the win, but more importantly the never give up attitude of the girls.
We look forward to the coming weeks and the undoubted twists and turns that the season will bring.
Imperials scorers.
Aoife O’Connell 6
Grace Reilly 4
Evelyn Moriarty 3
Naomi Osibodu 2
Katie Enright 2
Maria Walsh 2
Abbey Stephenson 2
Keelin Reidy 2
22/01/22 County League
Tralee Imperials 32-27 St. Bridget’s
Our U14 Imperials Girls Team 2 continued their season on Saturday morning at CBS The Green against a strong St Bridget’s team.
Imperials coming into the game with a run of 3 straight wins and 6 from 7 overall.
Imperials got off to a slow start in quarter 1 and were finding the St Bridget’s running game difficult to contain. St Bridget’s were well on top and secured a number of
baskets to race into an early 8 – 0 lead midway through the quarter. Late in the quarter Imperials began to stem the St Bridget’s tide with some good work from Maria
Walsh and Penny Costello. As the quarter drew to a close, Clodagh Burke found Caoilinn Culloo, with Caoilinn attacking the defence. Caoilinn found Katie Enright in space with
Katie finishing brilliantly. With support from the Imperials bench getting louder, Imperials were slowly starting to influence the game. Katie Enright with a great steal and run, drew the
foul from the St Bridget’s defence. Katie added both shots from the free throw line, bringing her excellent training ground shooting form to the court.
St Bridget’s with a 10-4 lead at the end of quarter 1. Imperials with everything to do to get back in the game.
The 2nd quarter began with end to end basketball and Niamh Fitzgibbon involved in everything. Imperials opened the scoring in the quarter with a great effort from Grace Reilly.
Niamh Fitzgibbon with a great run offloaded to Grace Reilly with Grace making no mistake. Imperials had really tightened up the defence at this point, with maximum pressure being applied to the St Bridget’s offence.
Grace Reilly followed up with a brilliant individual score from deep inside her own half, a great steal, strong run and customary layup from Grace, noticeably raising the volume levels from the Imperials bench. A brilliant score that lifted the team! Evelyn Moriarty was also really to the fore at this time with some great transitional play.
With Imperials now exerting strong pressure, Grace, Aoife O’Connell and Juliette Gleeson combined brilliantly with Juliette providing the finish.
Juliette followed up moments later with another great score, after great work by Grace Reilly and Evelyn Moriarty.
Juliette was again on hand to finish the quarter strongly for Imperials, a great run by Niamh Fitzgibbon found Juliette under the basket with Juliette again obliging.
A strong 2nd quarter giving Imperials a 14 – 12 lead at the end of quarter 2. The narrowest of margins separating the sides after a great defensive effort by both teams.
The 3rd quarter was again a huge defensive effort from Imperials with scores at an absolute premium during the quarter, both teams struggling to get through the respective defensive guards.
Amber Ryan and Maria O’Connell covered every inch of the CBS court during the quarter with their efforts contributing to limiting the Bridget’s offence.
Imperials were in foul trouble early in the quarter with Bridget’s adding 1 from the free throw line. Imperials improved their defensive discipline late in the quarter and limited their opponents to 3 points in total.
Sarah Slattery opened the Imperials account in quarter 3 with a fantastic long range effort. Sarah and Naomi Osibodu were both exceptionally strong on defensive rebounds during the quarter.
They also combined well for Imperials final score of the quarter, a defensive rebound and fast break providing the platform for a great score from Naomi.
Abbey Stephenson also contributed hugely for Imperials during the quarter. Abbey continuing her excellent run of form from recent games.
Imperials with a narrow lead of 18 – 15 at the end of quarter 3.
With a score line of 18-15 going into Quarter 4, both teams knew that this was all to play for. Imperials needing a strong start to try and maintain their slender lead.
The opening score of the quarter was a brilliant effort from Aoife O’Connell, a defence splitting pass from Grace Reilly, providing the space needed for Aoife to finish superbly.
Imperials were again under defensive pressure during the quarter, strong work from Aobh Cronin and Keelin Reidy minimising the impact of the Bridget’s offence.
Imperials kept the scoreboard ticking over in the early minutes of the quarter, Keelin Reidy with the steal of the game finding Grace Reilly in space with Grace adding to the Imperials account.
Grace was again on target moments later with a great score from under the basket. Juliette Gleeson continued the upward Imperials momentum by finishing from close range.
Juliette and Aoife O’Connell were having a huge impact on the quarter at this time and were a handful for the St Bridget’s defence. Grace Reilly was again to the fore late in the quarter,
Grace finding Aoife O’Connell with Aoife finishing from close range. As quarter 4 drew to a close, the momentum again shifted to St Bridget’s.
With Bridget’s in the ascendency and adding some scores on the board, Imperials defended with everything. The introduction of Abbey Stephenson and Sarah Slattery giving Imperials the impetus to
push on and close out the game. Imperials added the last 2 baskets of the game, the first a strong run from Grace Reilly and a great layup. The final score of the quarter again fell to Grace Reilly.
Grace unstoppable under the basket collected an offensive rebound and finished with the minimum of fuss. Imperials securing the win on a final score of 32 – 27.
The management team of Brenda, Leanne and William are delighted with the progress of the team, the girls giving 100% all of the time and working hard for each other on the court.
All of the girls got valuable game time, with the girls training room efforts clearly visible on the court.
A huge thanks to St Bridget’s for a sporting and enjoyable game. Thanks as always to our table officials and referees.
Imperials Scorers.
Grace Reilly 12
Juliette Gleeson 8
Katie Enright 4
Aoife O’Connell 4
Sarah Slattery 2
Naomi Osibodu 2
16/01/22 County League
Ballybunion Wildcats 38-40 Tralee Imperials
Our U14 Imperials Girls Team 2 had their opening game of 2022 against Ballybunion Wildcats at Ballybunion Community Centre on Sunday afternoon. The game was an absolute thriller, with the result in doubt right down to the final seconds. A fantastic sporting game of basketball between 2 committed teams.
Ballybunion Wildcats started the game strongly, executing fast breaks and creating multiple opportunities.
Imperials were on the back foot defensivly for much of the quarter. Maria Walsh and Naomi Osidobu were working hard offensively for Imperials, however scores were at a premium during the quarter. Niamh Fitzgibbon, Aobh Cronin and Caoilainn Culloo all contributed to a strong Imperials defensive effort limiting Wildcats to 8 during the quarter. Maria Walsh opened the Imperials account late in the quarter with a great score. Ballybunion Wildcats with a convincing 8-2 lead at the end of quarter 1.
During Quarter 2 Imperials began to get to grips with the Wildcats threat. Imperials were again defending well with Juliette Gleeson and Penny Costello working hard. Grace Reilly opened the Imperials account in quarter 2. Juliette Gleeson followed up with a great score, Juliette being particularly impressive under the basket. Sarah Slattery followed up with a great long range score after good work by Penny Costello. Grace Reilly continued the Imperials comeback with a brilliant effort after a great run.
Aoife O’ Connell stormed into the game in the final minutes of quarter 2. 2 great long range baskets from Aoife finished brilliantly. In the final seconds of the quarter, Aoife again got to the basket after a trademark strong drive from defence and finished with a great layup. 3 fantastic baskets from Aoife giving Imperials a narrow 16 – 14 lead at the end of quarter 2.
Quarter 3 began well for Imperials. Maria O’Connell and Abbey Stephenson were immense in defence with Keelin Reidy combining well in transition. The opening minutes of the quarter belonged to Grace Reilly. Grace attacked the basket time after time with runs from deep, causing consternation in the Wildcats defence. Grace scoring 8 points in the opening minutes of the quarter and extending the Imperials lead. Aoife O’Connell was again to the fore in this quarter with 3 great baskets. The score of the quarter came from Keelin Reidy, a brilliant bucket shot from Keelin bringing the loudest cheer of the game from the Imperials bench. A fantastic 18 points from Imperials during this quarter, extending the Imperials lead to 34 – 28 at the end of quarter 3.
With a slender 6 point lead, Imperials knew that this would go right down to the wire in quarter 4. Both teams did not disappoint with a fantastic 4th quarter. Juliette Gleeson with 4 points and Caoilainn Culloo with 2 points kept the screboard ticking over for Imperials. Katie Enright, Evelyn Moriarty and Amber Ryan all contributing to a fantastic team effort during the quarter keeping the Wildcats offence at bay. With a scoreline of 40 – 38 and 11 seconds on the clock, Wildcats mounted a final attack but Imperials defended brilliantly and took the win.
A huge thanks to Ballybunion Wildcats for a very sporting and enjoyable game. Thanks as always to the referee and table officials.
Well done to the Imperials Girls on a great win. All of the Imperials Girls got game time with everyone contributing to the result.
The management team of Brenda, Leanne and William are particulary delighted with the team effort and application and are looking forward to the weeks ahead.
Imperials Scorers
Grace Reilly 14
Aoife O’Connell 12
Juliette Gleeson 6
Caoilinn Culloo 2
Sarah Slattery 2
Keelin Reidy 2
Maria Walsh 2
15/12/21 County League
Tralee Imperials 48-28 TK Cougars
Our U14 Girls Team 2 continued their season on Wednesday night at CBS The Green, with TK Cougars as the opposition.
TK Cougars began the game well with a strong running and skilful team. Imperials gradually got to the pace of the game and
competed well in the opening minutes of the quarter. Sarah Slattery opened the Imperials account after collecting an offensive rebound.
Aoife O’Connell began the quarter strongly, and with her trademark strong running, got to the basket for a great layup.
Maria Walsh was controlling the game well for Imperials, she found Aoife O’ Connell in space and Aoife finished with a long range effort. Maria Walsh was again involved in the
next score, strong defensive work and a great layoff to Niamh Fitzgibbon. Niamh carried brilliantly and finished with a wonderful score.
Amber Ryan and Sarah Slattery also combined well, with Amber finishing from distance. TK Cougars staged a comeback late in the quarter with some excellent scores. The last score
of the quarter fell to Imperials, a long range effort from Sarah Slattery finished magnificently. A strong 1st quarter from Imperials with a 12 – 8 lead at the break.
Imperials again started strongly in quarter 2. With Naomi Osibodu and Grace Reilly strong on defensive rebounds, Imperials executed some fast breaks resulting in early scores.
Grace Reilly and Katie Enright combined brilliantly to find Juliette Gleeson, with Juliette opening the Imperials account in quarter 2. Great play from Evelyn Moriarty found
Grace Reilly, with Grace finishing superbly. With 5:39 on the clock in quarter 2, Juliette Gleeson took the game to TK Cougars. She got to the basket after a great run and finished magnificently.
Seconds later Juliette again got to the basket after a great pass from Grace Reilly. Juliette then collected an offensive rebound and finished superbly.
Grace Reilly secured 1 from the Free Throw Line to add to the Imperials lead. With the countdown on to half time, Juliette Gleeson again scored 2 baskets after great work by Naomi Osibodu and
Evelyn Moriarty. 10 Points for Juliette in quarter 2, leading the Imperials charge with a brilliant display and maintaining an excellent run of form in recent games.
Imperials with a 29 – 18 lead at half time.
The 3rd quarter began with a period of dominance from TK Cougars. Scores were at a premium during the quarter for Imperials.
Imperials were creating a lot of opportunities, but the final shots just not falling. Aoife O’Connell, Sarah Slattery and Maria Walsh were all taking the game to TK Cougars with great team
work and effort. Clodagh Burke was also to the fore during the quarter with strong running and great positional play. Clodagh also scored a wonderful long range effort to the delight of the Imperials bench.
It was during the 3rd quarter that Abbey Stephenson really epitomised the never give up attitude of Imperials.
Abbey was brilliant in defense, providing constant pressure on the ball, making it extremely difficult for TK Cougars to maintain pressure. Abbeys constant pressure and multiple steals, were
a huge part of Imperials limiting TK Cougars to 6 during the quarter. Imperials with a narrowing 31-24 lead at the end of quarter 3.
Quarter 4 began at a blistering pace. TK Cougars finished a great basket to narrow the Imperials lead. Maria O’Connell and Aobh Cronin were defending strongly for Imperials with great support
from Naomi Osibodu. With a 5 point lead and strong TK Cougars pressure, Imperials needed to raise the intensity. And raise it they did, with fantastic team work from all players and Grace Reilly
dominating brilliantly. Grace scored 1 from the Free Throw Line after a strong run. Seconds later Grace supplied Naomi Osibodu, with Naomi driving to the basket and finished brilliantly.
Juliette Gleeson collected an offensive rebound and finished superbly, after strong running by Grace Reilly. Grace followed up with a run from deep and finished with a great layup.
Seconds later Grace was again to the basket for another score, a strong press providing dividends for Imperials at this time. Juliette Gleeson and Maria O’Connell followed up with 2 great baskets to extend the
Imperials lead going into the final minutes. Keelin Reidy and Lauren Foley were strong in defence in the final minutes of the quarter.
With the clock ticking down towards full time, Grace was back to the basket for another great score with Imperials leading on a score line of 46 – 28.
The final score was a great team effort with Juliette Gleeson finding Grace Reilly at the basket. Grace finishing superbly to close out a majestic performance!
A great Imperials win on a final score of 48 – 28. Thanks to TK Cougars for a sporting and enjoyable game.
Thanks as always to our Table Officials and Referees.
This was the final game for the U14 Girls Team 2 for the calendar year of 2021.
The girls are an amazing group and have created a wonderful team environment, where support for each other,
through victory or defeat is always visible. We’re thankful to be part of the journey!
We look forward to seeing everyone back on the court for our first training session of 2022 on January 5th.
Lots more basketball to come in the New Year! The Management team of Brenda, Leanne and William would like to wish
everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Tralee Imperials Scorers
Juliette Gleeson 16
Grace Reilly 14
Sarah Slattery 4
Aoife O’Connell 4
Niamh Fitzgibbon 2
Amber Ryan 2
Clodagh Burke 2
Naomi Osibodu 2
Marie O’Connell 2
8/12/21 County League
Tralee Imperials 35-18 St. Colman’s
Our U14 Girls Team 2 continued their season on Wednesday night at CBS The Green, where our opposition was St. Colman’s Flames.
The opening minutes of quarter 1 started well for Imperials. Naomi Osibodu, Caoilinn Culloo and Juliette Gleeson were winning defensive rebounds and offloading superbly. Maria Walsh at Point Guard was controlling the play brilliantly. The Imperials dominance began to transfer to the scoreboard during the quarter. Juliette Gleeson found Maria Walsh in space, and Maria finished brilliantly for the opening basket of the game.
The same players were again involved in the next score, a great steal by Juliette, a strong run, and a great offload to Maria Walsh, with Maria again obliging.
Imperials followed up with a super team score, Naomi Osibodu found Penny Costello who offloaded to Caoilinn Culloo. Caoilinn found Juliette Gleeson in space and Juliette finished from distance. Penny Costello added 1 from the Free Throw Line to give Imperials a 7-0 lead midway through the quarter. With quarter 1 drawing to a close, Maria Walsh again found Juliette Gleeson who finished superbly. Caoilinn Culloo extended the Imperials lead in the closing minutes of the quarter with 2 brilliant baskets, after great work by Naomi Osibodu and Penny Costello.
Imperials started the 2nd quarter under real pressure from St Colman‘s Flames. The opposition got a number of scores on the board with Imperials made to work hard in defence. With Grace Reilly involved in everything, Imperials began to get a foothold on the quarter. Niamh Fitzgibbon, Evelyn Moriarty and Amber Ryan all raised the intensity levels at this time. Strong running from Grace Reilly resulted in a superb basket. Aoife O’Connell was competing strongly in defence, Aoife collected a defensive rebound, and with strong running finished with a great lay-up. A great score to lift the Imperials team! As the quarter came to a close, Grace Reilly was again to the fore, a brilliant steal, strong run and superb finish. Imperials with a 19-7 lead at half time.
The 3rd quarter began well for Imperials. Caoilinn Culloo found Naomi Osibodu, with Naomi finishing from distance. Juliette Gleeson again broke through the defensive guard to get to the basket. Juliette finished superbly to continue the rich vein of form she has shown in recent games. Imperials ran the bench again in quarter 3. Katie Enright, Maria O’Connell and Abbey Stephenson all contributed to the Imperials ascendency. With the quarter drawing to a close, Grace Reilly and Juliette Gleeson were both on target for Imperials to give a Q3 score line of 27-13 to Imperials.
The Imperials defence was again on top in quarter 4. Great work from Clodagh Burke found Aoife O’Connell with Aoife finishing a long range effort. Grace Reilly and Maria Walsh both finished superbly to give Imperials a 33-18 lead going into the final minutes. The final score of the game fell to Grace Reilly, a brilliant individual effort after a great steal. A great score and a brilliant performance from Grace! Imperials take the win on a scoreline of 35-18.
All Imperial players got game time and contributed to a great win. Brenda, Leanne and William look forward to getting back to training on Saturday, with the next game planned for Wednesday evening. Thanks as always to our Table Officials and Referees. A special thanks also to St Colmans Flames for a sporting an enjoyable game.
Imperials Scorers
Grace Reilly 10
Juliette Gleeson 8
Maria Walsh 6
Caoilinn Culloo 4
Aoife O’Connell 4
Naomi Osibodu 2
Penny Costello 1
27/11/21 County League
Tralee Imperials 18-20 TK Vixens
Our U14 Girls Team 2 continued their season on Saturday morning against TK Vixens at CBS (The Green).
Evelyn Moriarty was unavailable due to injury, we wish Evelyn a speedy recovery and look forward to having her back on the court.
The game started positively for Imperials with a basket straight from tip off. Great work from Naomi Osibodu found Niamh Fitzgibbon who finished with class. Both defences were on top during the early exchanges in the quarter. Caoilainn Culloo and Naomi Osibodu were particularly impressive in defence, and great running by Penny Costello was causing difficulties for the opposition. As the quarter entered the final stages, Juliette Gleeson stamped her authority on the game. Juliette scored 3 great baskets in succession giving Imperials an 8-0 lead at the end of quarter 1.
The roles were reversed in quarter 2. TK Vixens stormed into proceedings with a great running game. Imperials were defending well but under serious pressure. As the quarter progressed Vixens dominance began to translate to the scoreboard. 9 unanswered points in the quarter left the score at 8-9 at half time in favour of TK Vixens.
TK Vixens continued their dominance in quarter 3. Imperials defence had tightened significantly, limiting Vixens to 4 points during the quarter. Sarah Slattery scored a superb basket near the end of the quarter, leaving the score line at 10-13 in favour of the opposition.
The 4th quarter began with some good scores for the opposition. They had extended their lead to 20-10 mid way through the quarter. Imperials rallied superbly at this stage led by Aoife O’ Connell, Caoilainn Culloo and Naomi Osibodu. Aoife scored 2 baskets to narrow the lead to 6. Sarah Slattery was also contributing hugely and followed up with a great score. With the TK Vixens defence under pressure, Aoife O’Connell was really coming into the game. She again got to the basket to reduce the deficit to the minimum with 36 seconds on the clock. Imperials fought for every ball but it was not to be, TK Vixens took the win on a score line of 18-20.
Congratulations to TK Vixens on the win, and thanks for a very enjoyable and sporting game.
As always a huge thanks to the Referees and our Table Officials.
The Imperials bench all got game time, with some valuable experience gained. The Management team of Brenda, Leanne and William are delighted with the effort and application and look forward to the weeks ahead.
On a final note, the U14 Girls and Management would like to wish the very best of luck to Tralee’s own Eoin Quigley who lines out for Ireland against Austria on Sunday afternoon at the National Basketball Arena. The game is live on TG4 at 16:50, which will give us all the opportunity to cheer on Quigs and the national team 🏀🏀🇮🇪🇮🇪
Tralee Imperials Scorers:
Juliette Gleeson 6
Aoife O’ Connell 6
Sarah Slattery 4
Niamh Fitzgibbon 2
20/11/21 County League
Tralee Imperials 32-21 St. Brendan’s
Our U14 Girls Team 2 continued their season on Saturday with a home game against local rivals St Brendan’s.
The first quarter opened with strong defensive work from St Brendan’s and scores were at a premium. Juliette Gleeson opened the Imperials account with a great basket. Imperials showed positively in transition, with Maria O Connell, Caoilainn Culloo and Juliette Gleeson combining well, to find Penny Costello in space, with Penny finishing brilliantly. At this stage Aoife O’ Connell stormed into the game with strong running and 2 great baskets. The final score of the quarter fell to Penny Costello who was involved in everything. Imperials with a slender 10-5 lead at the end of quarter 1.
Imperials really raised the intensity level in quarter 2. Evelyn Moriarty and Naomi Osibodu combined well with Naomi finishing superbly. Evelyn then turned from provider to scorer with a great long range effort. At this stage Imperials were growing in confidence and beginning to take a hold on the game. A brilliant run from Keelin Reidy found Evelyn Moriarty free, and Evelyn duly obliged with a super score. Keelin Reidy and Aobh Cronin followed up with 2 great baskets, after great defensive work by both. The score of the game came from Sarah Slattery with seconds remaining in the half. Keelin Reidy securing a great turnover in her own half, before finding Sarah free with a superb pass. Sarah finished brilliantly to give Imperials a 22-5 lead at half time.
The 3rd quarter began with Imperials under a lot of pressure defensively. St Brendan’s started strongly with some early scores on the board. Imperials slowly began to get to grips with the threat as the quarter progressed. Clodagh Burke was strong in defence for Imperials, with Lauren Foley, Niamh Fitzgibbon, Katie Enright and Maria Walsh doing well in transition. The introduction of Naomi Osibodu during the quarter really steadied the Imperials ship, with Naomi securing turnover after turnover in an awesome display. The quarter closed with Imperials leading 22-13. All eyes focussed on the final quarter with St Brendan’s staging a strong comeback!
Penny Costello opened the Imperials account in quarter 4 with a superb effort. Aoife O’ Connell followed up with 2 great lay ups after great runs from defence. At this stage Naomi Osibodu and Caoilainn Culloo were immense in defence for Imperials. They also popped up at the other end to finish superbly, giving Imperials a slight cushion going into the final minutes. At this stage Imperials ran the bench with all girls contributing strongly to the win.
The support of the girls for each other during the game was a joy to behold!
Special mention to Amber Ryan who was on the bench today but injured. We wish Amber a speedy recovery and look forward to having her back on the court with the girls.
A huge thanks to St Brendan‘s for a very sporting and enjoyable game. Thanks as always to the referees and our wonderful table officials.
A final word of thanks to all the parents, without whose help and support this couldn’t work. The girls are a fantastic group and we’re delighted to be part of the team!
We return to action on Wednesday evening with a home game against St Colman’s.
Tralee Imperial Scorers:
Aoife O’ Connell 8
Penny Costello 6
Evelyn Moriarty 4
Naomi Osibodu 4
Juliette Gleeson 2
Keelin Reidy 2
Aobh Cronin 2
Sarah Slattery 2
Caoilainn Culloo 2
13/11/21 County League
St. Mary’s 17 - 28 Tralee Imperials
(HT St. Mary’s 9 —18 Tralee Imperials)
Our U14 Girls Team 2 began their season against St Mary's in Castleisland on Saturday. It was brilliant to see both teams take to the court for competitive basketball. We had our 1st score on the board after 48 seconds, a great pass from Aoife O'Connell found Penny Costello, who finished superbly. 2 further scores from Penny and a brilliant effort by Lauren Foley left the score 8-5 at the end of Q1.
The 2nd quarter began at an electric pace. A fantastic 8 points in this quarter from Evelyn Moriarty, and a great score from Niamh Fitzgibbon extended the Imperials lead to 18-9 at half time.
The 3rd quarter was very evenly contested with both defences on top. 2 baskets from Sarah Slattery kept the scoreline ticking over with a Q3 score of 22-13.
The 4th quarter began with some great turnovers on both sides. Baskets from Juliette Gleeson and Caoilainn Culloo kept Imperials in front. The final score of the game, came from Niamh Fitzgibbon, a brilliant individual effort, collecting a rebound under her own basket and finishing majestically to the delight of the Imperials bench. A fitting score for Niamhs performance.
All players got valuable game time on the court and showed great effort and enthusiasm. Our teamwork was fantastic and we look forward to the year ahead.
Well done to both teams on a very sporting game. Thanks as always to St Mary's for the wonderful facilities.
