Team of the Year Finalist: Back to back All-Ireland titles for Virginia
To win one All Ireland title is a fantastic achievement but to go and win back-to-back All Ireland titles at the highest grade is the sign of a remarkable side, and that is exactly what is present in Virginia College as the U19 girls team retained the All-Ireland A league title in style with a 10-point victory (52-42) over Mercy Mounthawk in the National Basketball Arena.
Virginia’s captain and Irish U18 international Emma Tolan hit a game high of 25 points and deservedly was crowned the match MVP after a prolific game at both ends of the court. But in truth it was a whole team display that earned the Cavan ladies the top honours in the country as all 10 members of the squad played their part in the victory over the Tralee side.
The team were impressive from the outset with their superb defensive structure and composure from the free throw line a huge deciding factor throughout the clash. The opening quarter was evenly contested as both sides took their time to settle into the tie played in front of an electric atmosphere. The large travelling support from Cavan made their voices heard throughout the contest and played a huge part in getting the Virginia girls across the line.
The sides were level at 8-8 at the end of the first quarter and the second quarter was just as tight as neither side were willing to give an inch in an entertaining half. The hardworking Katie Noble, Ciara Brady and Katelyn McElhinney were all to the fore as Virginia led 24-20 at half-time. A third quarter masterclass at both ends of the court from the Virginia girls saw them open a 42-27 lead going into the final quarter.
Mercy Mounthawk managed just seven points in a quarter which saw Virginia continue their relentless defensive efforts and ruthless attacks. Virginia Scorers: E. Tolan (25), S. Kelly (10), C. Garcia (6), C. Brady (5), K. McElhinney (4), K. Noble (2) Virginia College team: Emma Tolan (Captain), Keelin Fay, Katelynn McElhinney, Roisin Flanagan, Sinead Kelly, Katie Noble, Ellen Murray, Riona Fay, Ciara Brady, Celia Vigil Garcia Coaches: Niamh Ní Chearra (Coach), Aideen Coyle (Assistant Coach)