The Abbey Grammar, Newry is a school with a long and proud sporting history. This has included successes in many different areas in fields, by all pupils. Until last year it was not a school known for its basketball team.

Last year their U-19 team went all the way and won the All-Ireland league (See report below). This year they are hoping to add another title to the collection. They weren’t favourites for this year’s championship, but through hard work and perseverance, both by coach and team, they have succeeded in getting into the finals.

With the talent and skills of Sean Brady and Seamus Toner, the determination and hard work of Niall Duffy and Brendan Allen, have proved to be a success as the four were on the winning U-19 team last year. Also the attitude of the rest of the team has helped them on their way to success.

The starting five players of the U-16 team are: Sean Brady, Seamus Toner, Niall Duffy, Brendan Allen and Scott Rafferty. Sean Brady and Seamus Toner have represented Ulster U-15’s.

Throughout the duration of the Championship the team has worked exceedingly hard by committing themselves to intense training. The squad also boasts other talents as Gerard Mc Garvey is an under age county Armagh Gaelic footballer, and Dean Curran is a European Karate Champion.

The squad sees this All-Ireland as an opportunity to move onto success at U-19 level in future years.