Stars and Stripes got under way last night. There was a real buzz around the club as Monkstown girls and supporting parents arrived early and keen to get matches underway. Our Sandycove girls proudly walked onto court, probably shaking off a nerve or two but quickly found their composure as they warmed up with their opposition. Rain abating and no wind to upset play, puffy coats and hoodies were thrown into corners. With score boards all reading 0-0 it all quickly changed as the matches got underway. With cups of tea in hand supporting parents adjourned to the balcony some choosing to sit inside, out of the cold, complimenting us on our great club house.
Nia McGuigan, Molly O”Neill, Catherine McDowell, Emma Doheny, Maya Hughes, Lucy Heavy, Pippa O’Connor and Alannah Hughes all practiced what they are learning in their coaching groups. The balcony was entertained with some great serves, lovely volleys and some long rally’s as both Monkstown and Sandycove tried to get games on the boards. With matches over following championship tie-breakers the girls raced to the balcony to share their results- 23 points to 16- well done Sandycove girls.
Mid way through the girls matches the boys teams eagerly arrived. Rackets to the ready, dads predominantly filling the balcony – no-one sitting inside. Game on. Charlie Casey, Cahal Smyth, James Sherry, Jack Pinschmidt, Charlie Hughes and Euan Starbuck proudly stood on court ready and determined to do their best and play some winning tennis. Applause and cheers resounded as some super shots won some points. A small disagreement on court 2 was smoothly ironed out by encouraging dads offering good advice from the balcony. All in a game of tennis. As score boards etched towards 13 games suddenly there was a race to the balcony to enlighten us as to who won. Tough luck Sandycove- better luck next time. Monkstown boys were just too good. With the overall scores added between the girls and boys , it was Sandycove’s night.
Not just a great day for Irish rugby. Also a great day for Sandycove juniors. 30-28 final score! Well done all- bravo.

Away to Shankill next Saturday. No doubt our girls captain Trish Desmond will be in touch as will boys captain Andrew Sherry about the teams.

Balcony tip of the night- when your partner is serving stand closer to the net and be ready to do a killer Volley!
Treat of the night- Rolos. Promise to have more next time!

Best of luck in Shankill.

Sandycove Junior Committee.