The Dundalk Sports Centre was alive with energy and excitement on Friday, 23rd May, as seven local primary schools came together for the long-awaited return of the annual Primary Schools Basketball Blitz.
Schools taking part included St. Francis, St. Fursey’s, St. Oliver Plunkett, CBS Dundalk, Scoil Naomh Pádraig, Scoil Mhuire na NGael, and Redeemer Boys School. With separate tournaments for boys and girls, the day was packed with fast-paced action, enthusiastic cheering, and impressive displays of skill and teamwork.
In a remarkable twist of fate, both tournaments saw the same four schools topping their groups and progressing to the semi-finals: St. Francis, St. Fursey’s, St. Oliver Plunkett, and Scoil Mhuire na NGael. The girls’ final between St. Francis and Scoil Mhuire na NGael was a thrilling contest that had spectators on the edge of their seats—it went right down to the wire and into extra time before St. Francis edged ahead to claim the trophy.
Not to be outdone, the St. Francis boys’ team followed suit with a strong performance in the final, overcoming a determined St. Oliver Plunkett side to bring home the second trophy of the day.
The event was a celebration of sport and community, and special thanks must go to Fu Fapitto, who refereed throughout the day and played a key role in organising the tournament. His efforts helped ensure the event ran smoothly and was enjoyed by all.
Mrs. Lawless, one of the organisers, reflected on the success of the day: “It was fantastic to see the tournament back in action. The standard of play was brilliant and the sportsmanship on display was even better. There’s already a real buzz about next year’s event.”
With St. Francis proudly taking home both titles, and plenty of talent on show from all participating schools, the future of primary school basketball in Dundalk looks bright indeed.
