THE victorious Presentation Secondary School Tralee U16 basketballers were celebrated at the school on Thursday for their fantastic success in the Subway Schools U16B All-Ireland Schools Cup win.
The girls won by 33 to 28 against Muckross College Dublin at the National Basketball Arena on Wednesday and the whole student body and staff gathered in the gym at Pres to welcome them back.
Coach of the team, Dell White, said she was very proud of the girls.
“They’re a fantastic bunch. We were put to the pin of our collar yesterday but we pulled through. This team is made up of second years, third years and TYs so it’s a good mix of talent and they’re strong, so onwards and upwards,” said Dell.
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Dell also said it was a fantastic experience for them to play at the National Basketball Arena.
“For these girls, the Tallaght Arena is the Croke Park of basketball and we’re now preparing for an All-Ireland League semi-final, so the double isn’t beyond our reach, hopefully!” said Dell.
That league semi-final is on next Wednesday and if they win they’ll be back in Tallaght at the end of February.
The girls were introduced to the students one by one and they all got a rapturous reception.
Speaking to the student body, Principal of Presentation Tralee, Chrissie Kelly, congratulated the team and thanked everyone involved in the success.
“I want to congratulate each and every one of you. You have done us so proud in bringing the cup back to Presentation Tralee. I want to thank all the girls, their families and the supporters who travelled up to Dublin. And none of this would have happened without the commitment and dedication of Dell,” she said.
A well deserved reception then, but let’s hope there’ll be a repeat at the end of February. Scroll down for photos…
