Rooted in Heritage. Growing Our Future.
The first weekend of Fás Éireann marked a major milestone for Irish volleyball as our U18 and U20 National Squads stepped into the National League for the very first time. Facing physically stronger and more experienced senior teams, the players gained valuable exposure, meaningful competition, and lessons that will drive their development throughout the season.
This weekend wasn’t about results, it was about growth, confidence, and bridging the gap between youth and senior-level volleyball. And across every squad, that mission was fulfilled.
U20 Girls
The U20 Irish National Women’s Team took to the court for the first time ever against Premier Women’s League sides Santry Calypso and DVC, The champions and the runners up in the Grand Finals last season. It was a landmark step for the programme and an invaluable development opportunity for Ireland’s rising talent.
Despite facing more experienced and physically mature opponents, the squad displayed composure, adaptability, and a fierce competitive spirit. While the score lines reflected the challenge, the true outcome was developmental: exposure to senior-level volleyball, quicker game speed, and the chance to grow as a cohesive unit.
This experience plays a key role in Volleyball Ireland’s long-term strategy. By challenging our high-potential athletes at a higher level, we accelerate their readiness for future international competition. The weekend strengthened the team’s communication, belief, and connection, building a cultural foundation that will benefit the programme for years to come.
A successful first step, and a powerful springboard for the U20 Women’s Programme.
U18 Girls
The U18 Girls enjoyed a full and challenging weekend of volleyball. While the results didn’t fall their way, the experience proved invaluable.
Day one brought nerves as the squad took to the court for the first time in the National League, struggling to settle against a strong and physical Dalkey Devils side. By day two, the team found their rhythm, producing a more relaxed and higher-quality performance. Despite the improvements, Santry Sparks’ experience ultimately made the difference.
A tough introduction, but an important one. These matches provided the perfect icebreaker for the squad’s journey ahead.
U18 Boys
The U18 Boys came out firing on day one, winning their first-ever competitive set 25–23 against Gardians Masters. The opposition fought back, taking the next three sets, but Ireland stayed competitive throughout with tight score lines.
Final Score vs Gardians Masters
Ireland U18 1-3
(23-25, 21-25, 26-28)
On day two, the boys faced top-of-the-table Balbriggan Broncos. Once again, they started brightly, but the height, power, and experience of the Broncos proved to be the deciding factor.
Final Score vs Balbriggan Broncos
Ireland U18 0-3
(23-25, 13-25, 20-25)
Two tough matches, but two performances full of heart, intensity, and learning.
U20 Boys
The U20 Men opened their campaign with an excellent first set victory (25–18) against Balbriggan Eagles, a side featuring multiple Senior National Team players. Balbriggan rallied back, and while Ireland fought hard, the experience gap told in the later stages.
Final Score vs Balbriggan Eagles
Ireland U20 1-3
(25-18, 18-25, 22-25, 22-25)
On day two, the U20s pushed Gardians Fianna to overtime in both the first and second sets. Despite the 0–3 result, the match was far closer than the score line suggests, with Ireland showing resilience and quality throughout.
Final Score vs Gardians Fianna
Ireland U20 0-3
(24-26, 25-27, 20-25)
A competitive showing across both matches, and a clear signal of the potential within this group.
A Promising Start for Fás Éireann
While wins were hard to come by, this weekend delivered exactly what Fás Éireann was created for:
-
competitive pressure
-
exposure to faster, stronger opposition
-
growth in confidence and cohesion
The experience gained will serve as the foundation for the months ahead as the squads prepare for the upcoming tournaments.
First Up – U18 SCA, 12th – 14th January 2026
Fás Éireann: Rooted in Heritage. Growing Our Future.
