Basketball Ireland announces closure of international season
By Hayden Moore
BASKETBALL Ireland has announced the closure of its 2020 international season.
The Elite Performance Committee (EPC) made the decision on the back of the government’s roadmap for reopening society and business from the COVID-19 restrictions.
National Basketball Arena
The organisation operates ten international programmes at Senior for Men and Women as well as at Under 16, 17, 18 and 20.
Each of the different squads were at various stages in their preparations for the 2020 Summer tournament when all basketball related activity was suspended in March.
In a statement released on May 14, Chairperson of the EPC, Sinéad Gordon, spoke of how they had a “very difficult” decision to make.
“This has been a very difficult decision for us to make however, given the current pandemic the health and well-being of our players and all involved is paramount to us and we will now look forward to planning for next year,” she said.
“In terms of our sport, the EPC will work closely with Basketball Ireland on how we will get our National Teams back on the court and training together again.
“Social distancing is something that is likely to stay with us and how we incorporate this into team sports is a challenge for everyone.”
In appreciation for all their efforts in being selected for Ireland and possibly competing in European Championships, the EPC will be presenting international jerseys to all squad members during the coming weeks and coaching staff will also receive a special presentation.
The EPC will be finalising the logistical and financial elements of closing the season shortly, working closely with the Head Coaches to ensure a smooth transitioning to 2021 preparations where possible.
Basketball is part of phase five in the government’s roadmap, meaning the sport will not resume until August 10 – although the organisation are working with Sport Ireland before issuing a concrete return date.
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