U16 & U18 NE Knights set for Eurobasket 2026
The big day has almost arrived for NE Knights basketball players across the North East as they set off for Spain on Saturday to represent the region at an international tournament, part of the North East Basketball Board’s (NEBB) ongoing development programme.
U16 & U18 NE Knights squads following the presentation of teamwear at the Carrickdale Hotel
The U16 and U18 Girls’ and Boys’ North East Knights squads will travel to the Costa Brava to compete in the EUROBASKET BASKETBALL FESTIVAL 2026, joining teams from across Europe. This year, 43 players from ten clubs in Cavan, Louth, Meath, Monaghan, and Westmeath have been selected for the regional squads.
The players will spend a week in Lloret de Mar, combining a packed schedule of basketball with opportunities to experience the culture and scenery of the area. Over six days of competition, from 28 June to 3 July, the Knights will face opposition from Spain, France, Italy, Turkey and others. The teams will stay in a central hotel and, during their limited free time, enjoy the tournament’s social activities, the beach, and the sunshine.
Coaching & Management Team
A ten‑person coaching and management group from seven clubs will support the players throughout the trip. The team includes Sinéad Byrne; Jessica Byrne; Tom Smyth (Drogheda Wolves); Debbie Kelly (East Coast Cavaliers); Jane Larkin; Brian and Clare O’Reilly (Cavan Lakers); Kevin Tuohy (Cavan Eagles); and Emmet Staunton (Streete Warriors). Tony Ayres and Ursula Thompson have also played key roles throughout the extensive preparation process, including the trials, training sessions, and travel arrangements.
Missing from photo: Jane Larkin & Tom Smyth
Training & Preparation
Introductory training and trials began last September, with final selections confirmed at the end of December. Since then, players and coaches have met regularly for training sessions and challenge games in venues across the region — Athboy, Carrickmacross, Mullagh, Multyfarnham, Virginia and Streete — reflecting the wide geographical spread of clubs within the NEBB. The squads have also taken part in challenge games to prepare for the international competition. Combined squads also took part in two U17 Interregional tournaments in Galway in May.
Support & Sponsorship
Taking teams abroad involves significant costs, including team kits, walk‑out gear, medical supplies, and equipment. While players and clubs have undertaken extensive fundraising, the trip would not be possible without the generous support of sponsors. The NEBB gratefully acknowledges the financial contributions of O’Reilly Hoofcare (Cavan) and DIGI Group (Mullingar), along with several other donors who made financial contributions to the overall cost.
Team Building Weekend
One week before departure, the players enjoyed a team‑building weekend at the Carrickdale Hotel outside Dundalk, where they received their team gear and kit bags and took part in a range of group activities. The day began with some outdoor activities on the hotel’s all weather pitch
This was followed by the presentation of teamwear with the group then taking a hike in the nearby forest. After dinner players participated in some indoor team building activities.
A Valuable Development Opportunity
The aim of the Knights programme is to give young basketball players the chance to experience the sport at an international level. These tournaments also provide coaches with valuable opportunities to develop their skills through working with regional squads and competing abroad. Collaboration between coaches, managers, and support personnel from different clubs continues to be a major strength of the programme.
Over the years, North East Knights teams have brought home silverware from various international tournaments. While this year’s U16 and U18 squads have worked hard in preparation for Eurobasket, the focus remains on the experience — one that promises to be memorable and rewarding for players and mentors alike. The regional programme continues to build basketball skills, confidence, and strong relationships across the North East.
Missing from photo: Blake McVicar