DUBLIN (National Cup) - The 2006 Basketball Ireland Annual Awards sponsored by O'Driscoll O'Neil were held in the Conrad Hotel, Dublin on Saturday night May 20th.
Ireland's basketball talent, ranging from young school players to SuperLeague players and coaches were all recognised for their outstanding sporting performances over the last year.
Speaking at the awards night, President of Basketball Ireland Tony Colgan announced the new format for the 2006/07 National Cup Competition.
"Last Tuesday the Board approved a package of principles to streamline the national competitions structure and for the first time put in place an effective pathway for players. Over the next six to nine months more flesh needs to be put on these bones.
The intention is to provide more opportunities for those who want to play at the highest level, to continue to provide appropriate competitions for the much larger numbers who wish to play recreational basketball and to improve the co-operation between the various strands within our sport.
One of the most immediate changes is that, for next season, the National Cups for both boys and girls will be played at both the under-18 and under-20 level, as opposed to the under-19 level as at present.
While this development is being universally welcomed, many of the other proposed changes will be more difficult for many people. All I can ask is that everyone becomes involved in the debate and that do so with an open mind so that together we can make the best choices for of our sport and those who really matter – those who play the game”.
Also speaking at the awards, Debbie Massey CEO said "The annual Awards event is intended to honour the best in the sport.
It also really illustrates the professionalism of Basketball Ireland and it clearly flags the ambition and the drive we have in Basketball in this country.
This year has proved to be a hugely successful year for Basketball in Ireland. In 2005 income increased by 40% and exceeded 2 million euro for the first time, three years earlier than was envisaged in Basketball Ireland's Strategic Plan. This has allowed the employment of the Regional Development Officers for the first time.
"I am also delighted to have our newly appointed Regional Development Officers here at the Awards tonight - they start work next week and it marks a real milestone and the beginning of another exciting era for Basketball in Ireland", added Debbie Massey in her speech.
In conclusion, looking forward, the future looks bright for the sport of Basketball and 2007 promises to be a hugely successful and exciting year for all the teams and officials involved with the sport.
Ireland Basketball