Volleyball Ireland made history today as the first nation in the Small Countries Association Zone to host and compete in a European Championship Final, as Pool B of he Women’s u20 Volleyball European Championships kicked off in Dublin today.
Volleyball Ireland President Clodagh Nic Canna welcomed guests,
“Día dhaoibh gach daoine. Tá bróduil an domhain orm na clichí seo a oscailt innú. Céad míle failte romhaibh go léir go hEireann. Very Literally translated to English that means… God be with you all, the pride of the world is on me today for the opening of these games. 100 thousand welcomes to you all to Ireland.”
The u20 Women’s Volleyball European Championship, held at the Sport Ireland Campus, got off to a flying start, with a titanic battle between Serbia and Ukraine. With the Serbians coming back from deficits in several sets to take the opening match 3-1, (21-25, 27-25, 25-22, 28-26), before a stylish Italy overcame Czechia in straight sets (25-21, 25-19, 25-19).
Ireland’s first appearance at this level was a tough defeat to Portugal, but with some promising moments from the hosts, as opposite Avril MacHale scored well. Ireland, who have the youngest team in the finals fought well with plenty of spirit, in front of a proud local crowd.
Poland cruised into a 2-nil lead against Finland, before the NEVZA team flicked on a switch. They dominated the third and ran Poland close in the fourth but it was the Poles who claimed an opening day victory 3-1 (25-11, 25-19, 17-25, 25-21).
So a memorable day in Dublin, one that will last long in the memories!
All matches are available for viewing here: https://www.youtube.com/@VolleyballIrelandVLY
