FIRST NATIONAL AFTER TWO YEARS
A group of 5 players from Fermoy Junior Racquetball Club travelled to Ballymore and Castlebar on Saturday, 19th February, to compete in their first national tournament in over 2 years as a result of the pandemic. With over 50 junior players in attendance aged from U10 to U18, the buzz across Mayo was palpable, not only from a playing perspective but from a social perspective. Fermoy players did not disappoint. Dedicated training sessions every week for the last 8 weeks paid off.
Abbie O’Meara played some of the best racquetball in her playing career to date, narrowly missing out on a place in the final to Tara Carey (Araglin) who went on to win the Girls U16 Tournament title. Abbie took home the 3rd place trophy. The O’Callaghan brothers were certainly following in their father Noel’s footsteps by competing at the highest level. Darragh took home the runner up trophy in the boys U12 final against Bailey Brown (Araglin) whilst Conor stormed through the U14 boys competition, not dropping a game throughout to take the return to racquetball U14 tournament title.
What happened next is something that we are likely to see again and again over the next number of years. Fermoy U14 players Ciara Noonan and Hannah Noonan, cousins, made it all the way to the final to face each other. A tense final, with neither player willing to give in, ended in a tight victory, with Ciara Noonan taking the title. A hugely enjoyable event and a big word of thanks to the tournament organisers and the Racquetball Association of Ireland. Thanks to the coaches and parents for the continued support of players.
The junior club continues to train in Fermoy Community Youth Centre on Monday nights 6-8pm. We have players aged from 8 to 16 playing with the club and we always welcome new members. Contact Fermoy Community Youth Centre for more information.