Handball Updates

There was exciting news in Leitrim handball circles recently as Fenagh’s Katie Kane received her first official European 1-Wall ranking ahead of the new wallball season. Katie has entered the 2026 European Ladies rankings in an impressive 35th position, placing her close to the top 10 Irish ladies and reflecting the many successes she enjoyed on the court last year.

Katie, along with her siblings, is set to make a welcome return to the 1-Wall circuit when the European Tour’s Irish leg resumes in Co. Antrim next month. Her inclusion in the rankings is a proud moment for her family and the local handball community, and all in Leitrim will be wishing her every success as the new season begins.

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Attention in Connacht adult handball circles now turns to the 40×20 Doubles Championship, which got underway last weekend. Several Leitrim players will be in action over the coming weeks as the competition gathers pace.

First up for Leitrim are Jesse Marsden and Shaun Gallagher, who face a Mayo pairing in the Men’s Junior C category next Friday evening in Collooney. They will be followed by Manorhamilton’s Joel Smith and Anthony Flynn, who take on Sligo opposition in the Masters B category on March 27th. Best of luck to all Leitrim players as they take to the court in the Connacht championships.

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Annaduff’s Maxim Gilmartin was given a hero’s welcome in Dromod and Annaduff Community Centre following his recent All-Ireland U15 Singles triumph. Friends, neighbours, family, and well-wishers packed the hall to honour the young champion, creating a wonderful atmosphere as Maxim was warmly applauded on his return. Among the crowd, younger supporters were especially eager to catch a closer look at his prized All-Ireland medal.