Athlone set for return to national basketball scene

Athlone Basketball Club will return to National League action for the first time in over 40 years next season.

There will be a new eight-team Men’s Division Two next season, featuring Athlone BC, Ballina Braves, Cavan Eagles, Dublin Raiders, Fr Mathews, Ongar Chasers, Team Northwest and Trinity BC.

Athlone will have David Keogh as their head coach when they play in Men’s Division Two.

Basketball is a sport with a rich tradition in Athlone and the club is looking forward to competing at national level once again.

Speaking about their entry into the competition, club secretary Emma Fagan commented: “We are delighted after many years of developing our underage structure that the club is in a position to enter a team in the National League for the first time in over 40 years.

“It’s a proud milestone for Athlone Basketball Club and we are excited for the challenge ahead.”

The Men’s Division Two will run in a straight league format and the team who finishes top will be promoted to the Domino’s Men’s Division One.

Fixtures for the new National League season will be released in mid-July, with the season starting from October 2-4.