Hard work, commitment to training, constructive teamwork and passion go a long way in performing at the highest level in any sport. The first year girls have demonstrated they have these qualities in spades. Before the virus crises that has struck our country unfolded, they coasted through to the county finals in devastating fashion, beating the formidable A.G by a scoreline of 53 to 17 points.
What is impressive about the girls is that they are performing in the A league and have beaten every school they played by more than 30 points. To date, they have recorded comprehensive victories against Ballincollig C.S, Bantry C.S., Midleton C.S. and St. Angela’s. They now join the first and second year boys in the finals making 2020 a year to be proud of for the basketball players of Skibbereen Community School. Perhaps the dedication shown by our under 16 boys is inspiring all our teams. In the words of John Wooden, 'hard work is the difference. Very hard work’.
Due to the fact I coach five teams in the school and the under 16 boys had unprecedented success this year, training times have had to be juggled. Yet these girls entered into the spirit of training with enthusiasm and positive spirit often at 7.30 on Monday morning, lunch times and evenings.
We may never get to play these finals now due to circumstances beyond our control but we in Skibbereen Community School are so proud of these wonderful girls.
I would like to acknowledge my two transition year helpers Maria O'Mahony and Mollaiidh O'Neill who have given so generously of their time for the lunch time sessions and the work done by Colette and her team in the Skibbereen Eagles Club.
My hope is that the leadership, confidence and character shown by these students on the basketball court will stay with them forever.
Ms O'Mahony
