The second round of the European Hurling/Camogie Championship was held on September 3rd in Leuven. The tournament was co-hosted by Belgium GAA and the Earls of Leuven. Belgium GAA brought a total of 45 players who were all ready for action. Our Camogie continued their good form by winning the competition outright with both men’s teams falling short.
9 Hurling teams competed on the day with Belgium ‘A’ (Schuman) and Belgium ‘B’ (Flagey) in search of some silverware. Belgium ‘B’ (Flagey) were drawn into a very difficult group losing out to Luxembourg, and Eindhoven. Because of their position they were entered into a playoff for a chance to qualify for the Shield semi-finals. A great performance saw Flagey overcome Darmstadt to advance into the semi-final against Paris. Unfortunately, after a close encounter, the lads just missed out on a shield final and gained 3rd place in the shield competition receiving a walkover from Cologne.
For the Belgium ‘A’ (Schuman) side, they manage to top their group winning against Den Haag and Darmstadt, this meant they were drawn against Hamburg in Semi Finals. The Semi final resulted in Schuman overcoming Hamburg and Qualifying for the final against Luxembourg. A very exciting game against a strong Lux resulted in extra time as both teams couldn’t be separated. Unfortunately, after extra time Luxembourg proved too strong and won the tournament. A disappointing day overall from the Hurler’s side, but the lads will be looking to bounce back again and have a run at this year’s new competition, the 15-a-side Championship.
For camogie, 5 teams fought it out on brand new astroturf pitches: Eindhoven, Germany, Frenelux and two Belgian teams. Frenelux won third place and the two Belgian teams meeting in the final, with Belgium A winning by just a few points. It was Irene Kirwan’s big comeback to the club and we’re delighted to have her back! The camogie team continue their great success, where they will have their eyes on winning the final tournament of the season in Amsterdam.
Congratulations to Aine Charlton who went home with the player of the tournament award for her tremendous work throughout the day! Want to know her secret? She once said, “always bring your hurl and boots on holidays”. So now you know the key to success 😉
A special shoutout has to be given to our very own Aiden Murphy, and The Earls Alan Fitzgerald. Without the cooperation from the two, we wouldn’t have been able to host a great day. Thanks to the Irish Ambassador to Belgium, Kevin Conmy, for attending and presenting the awards on the day.
Thanks to Jan from Jjt Gaelforce for providing pictures from the day which can be found here:
Belgium GAA 