Top Team Ireland spot for DkIT sports scholar
Fíachra Ó Dúill of St. Killian’s is a sports scholar at Dundalk Institute of Technology
Last weekend, Dundalk Institute of Technology sports scholar, Fíachra Ó Dúill of St. Killian’s, and Kevin McGrath of Clann Éireann secured their places on Team Ireland for the upcoming World Wallball Championships in the Senior Singles and Under-15 Singles categories respectively. The championships are set to take place in New York City this September.
Defending World Under-15 champion McGrath delivered a flawless performance throughout the trials without dropping a game. The Lurgan player was particularly impressive in the final against Charlie Roche of Wexford.
McGrath booked his place in the decider with a commanding 15-0, 15-3 semi-final victory over Senan Johnston of Roscommon, while Roche emerged from a closely contested semi-final against Tyrone’s Ciarán Corr, winning 15-10, 15-13.
In the final, the Clann Éireann player showcased his composure, skill and class, producing an outstanding display to defeat Roche 15-6, 15-3 and confirm his place on the Irish team for New York.
Current All-Ireland Senior Champion Ó Dúill (21) faced Ben Devlin of Cavan in the semi-final. In a high-quality contest featuring several exciting exchanges, the South Armagh player advanced to the final with a 15-12, 15-10 victory.
On the opposite side of the draw, Sean Kerr overcame former world champion Conor McElduff 15-11, 15-13 to set up an Armagh/Tyrone final.
Ó Dúill, a sports scholar at Dundalk Institute of Technology made a dominant start in the final, racing into an early lead in the opening game which he maintained despite a spirited comeback from the experienced Beragh player. Carrying the same momentum into the second game, the St. Killian’s man secured the top Senior Men’s position on Team Ireland with a convincing 15-9, 15-5 victory.
Congratulating the two, St Killian’s Whitecross said: "Maith sibh to Fíachra and Kevin on this outstanding achievement and best wishes as they prepare to represent Ireland on the world stage in New York this September".