Maigh Cuilinn’s annual St Stephen’s Day Blitz delivered another memorable showcase of community and basketball, with packed sideline crowds, sharp competition and a brilliant atmosphere from first tip to last. Early games braved icy patches, but the day soon opened into splitting sunshine and near‑perfect conditions—just the ticket for some great on-court play, side-line chats and plenty of smiles.

Men’s Blitz Paul Kelly’s team emerged worthy winners after a gritty run through the knockout rounds. They edged a three‑point semi‑final against Cian Nihill’s side before finding another gear in the decider, defeating Conor Curran’s team by 10 to lift the trophy.

Winning men’s team (left to right): Peter Gannon, Ronan Watters, Evan Fox, Ronan Jennings, Paul Kelly, James Lyons, Gerald Lyons

The Spirit of the Blitz award went to Ronan Watters, celebrating his fifth blitz win and epitomising what the day is all about. Ronan was at the venue from 8am, helping to set baskets and line the court—just as he always does. A true club stalwart.

Women’s Blitz In the women’s competition, Áine McDonagh’s team claimed the title after beating Lily Hynes’ team by 6 in the semi‑final and edging Ellen Power’s team by 2 in a dramatic final.

Winning women’s team (left to right): Nicola Darcy, Barbara Bradley, Loretta Ni Ghabháin, Tegan Plower, Laura Corcoran, Shannon Keady, Aine McDonagh, Ruth O Sullivan, Maeve McManus

It was Áine’s third blitz win, Ruth O’Sullivan’s third in a row, and the first blitz title for Shannon Keady—who was also named MVP after a string of standout performances.

Community, Thanks and Acknowledgements A heartfelt thank you to Lidl for facilitating the blitz on the An Fuarán car park. Your support helps us bring the whole community together in a safe, central and lively setting.

Further thanks to the Loughnane family for the sausages, Cara Morrison for the sausage rolls; John Hynes and his crew for lining the court early; Emma Croke and Siobhán Doran for coordinating the women’s blitz; Mikey Lee for attending to present the men’s trophy (named in honour of Mikey’s father, Jim Lee); Davey Jackson for coordinating the baskets; Nollaig Cunningham for organising with Crinniu for the use of the gazebo; Seán Lydon for the photographs featured with this article; and to everyone who helped out in any small or big way to make what is the best day in the senior basketball calendar in Maigh Cuilinn.

Go raibh míle maith agaibh to everyone who took part and turned up. Roll on next year!

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