National success for local players

AS Tyrone juveniles continue to make their mark in the handball world, two young players have secured their place on Team Ireland.

After their success at the Junior Nationals Caislin Tracey from Greencastle and Shea Munroe from Carrickmore have claimed 17 and under spots to represent their country in the upcoming World Championships.

Caislin had a tough battle fighting her way to the 17&U final where she came back from a 10-3 deficit in the quarter final tie break to win against Claire Minogue 11-10. Caislin’s semi final was against number 1 seed Carmel Kelleher, but she was much more comfortable in this game, securing her place in the final after two games on a scoreline of 15-4, 15-6.

The Greencastle girl faced Kilkennys’ Katie Jordan for her final hurdle and also dominated in this game, securing her National title and Team Ireland position 15-14, 14-4.

Carrickmore juvenile Shea Munroe secured his National title and Team Ireland position after facing Galway’s Gavin Kelly in a repeat of the One Wall National Final.

Shea defeated Cian Dunning in the semi final and secured his final position after two games.

The final wasn’t as easily won for Shea as it went to a tie break decider but fortunately for Shea the results were in his favour this time round.

It is a fantastic achievement for both players to win their National titles and in particular earn the honour of representing their country.

Also winning a National title the same weekend was Emma Conway from Greencastle. Emma came up against Grace Murphy and proved too strong as she claimed 13 and under gold in two games.

Ciaran McCrystal from Loughmacrory reached the 15 and under final, but unfortunately fell short to a strong player in Sean Considine.

The U15B final was contested by two Tyrone boys, Aaron McElhone from Carrickmore and Oisin Kelly from Breacach. The two lads battled it out but it went in Aaron’s favour in the tie breaker.