Congratulations to our wonderful Cadette B and Senior B Basketball teams on winning their league finals in DCU last Friday 24^th February - what exciting matches they were!  We are delighted for the players and their coach Mark Ingle.  Well done to all from everyone in Foxrock - we're very proud of your achievements. 

On the 24^th of February 2012, the Senior B basketball team travelled to DCU to play the final of the Loreto League against Loreto Dalkey. There was great excitement and a fantastic buzz on the bus over to DCU, packed with supporters all ready to cheer on the team to their victory. A special guest also accompanied to supporters in the form of a very ‘foxy’ supporter, Emily Carvill!

The match kicked off with an opening basket scored by Foxrock. Dalkey were soon on our heels with a basket for their team which led to a very tense and exciting first half with both Foxrock and Dalkey constantly adding points to the scoreboard and remaining equal. At the end of the first half Foxrock and Dalkey were equal with 14 points to 14.

A bit of light hearted half time entertainment was appreciated by all in the form of the Fox, Emily Carvill, dancing and doing gymnastics as the crowd cheered her on. As the second half of the match began, both Foxrock and Dalkey were ready for a fight to win the final. A lot of fouling and aggressive play occurred in the third and fourth quarters, resulting in free throws adding to Dalkey’s score. Yet, Foxrock did not let it put them down. In the final three minutes of the match, Sophie Dunne, managed to increase Foxrock’s score making the match equal yet again at 23-23. Dalkey were now under pressure and excitement and nerves set in as Foxrock realised they still had a chance to win.  In the final minute, both teams knew that one valuable basket would win them the game. Dalkey began to lose control of the ball, causing fouls and giving possession of the ball away to Foxrock, benefitting our team. As the clock ticked and the final minute of the game was counted down, in the last 40 seconds, Karen Beegan scored a fantastic basket for Loreto Foxrock winning them the final! All of the players were delighted and as tears were shed and hugs were given, Yasmin Monks, captain of the team and the sixth years on the Senior B Loreto Foxrock basketball team finally raised the Loreto League trophy which they had waited six years to win. Coach Mark Ingle congratulated all of us and we all went home with gold medals. For the sixth years, the victory in this final was especially important as it was the last time they would represent the school in basketball. This made the victory even more worthwhile. It was a great day for all of the supporters who attended. The Senior B basketball team would like to thank all of the supporters who came to DCU and to Ms.Keogh who brought everyone to and home from the match. We would also like to thank Coach Mark Ingle for being such a supportive, hardworking and encouraging coach over the last six years.

Laura French – 6B