Dalriada School aims for 11th and 12th Irish Volleyball crowns

DALRIADA School’s proud volleyball tradition is set for another historic chapter on Friday (March 6) when both the Under 16 and Senior girls’ teams compete in the All Ireland Volleyball Finals at South Lake Leisure Centre, Craigavon.
As the hosting duties return to the north this year, the Ballymoney school stands on the brink of capturing not just their 11th, but potentially their 12th Irish title - an extraordinary feat even for one of Ireland’s most decorated volleyball programmes.
Head Coach Dr Ian Walker expressed immense pride in his players’ journey.
“The girls have done exceptionally well to reach such a monumental event,” he said. “It’s something they’ve all been dreaming of since they started playing volleyball in Year 8.
“To see them achieve this at both age groups is simply outstanding. Both squads are packed full of international level talent and backed by an incredibly supportive volleyball community, including current senior international and past Dalriada Player, Iona Mairs on the coaching staff.
“The girls have worked tirelessly for this opportunity.”
Experience will be a key asset for the Senior squad, with Hope Ballantyne, Katie Ellen McCaw, Brooke McCalmont and Erin Hart all returning to an Irish final after winning the Under 16 Title last year in Dublin.
This season, they have the chance to claim a second Irish medal, an accomplishment reserved for only the most elite players.
The Senior team is led on court by Coleraine girl Ruby Caskey, whose leadership, composure, and encouragement have made her a central figure of this team over the last seven years.
The Under 16 team, captained by Ballymoney girl Georgia White, has shown maturity, determination and exceptional teamwork throughout their campaign.
This promising young side represents the next generation of Dalriada excellence, eager to follow in the footsteps of the Senior players.
Both squads benefit enormously from the versatility and athleticism of Northern Ireland international Miya McCalmont, who will remarkably compete in both finals - a testament to her talent and importance to the school’s volleyball setup.
Awaiting Dalriada in both finals is the formidable Co. Clare school Coláiste Muire, themselves serial title winners and long‑time rivals of the County Antrim school.
The sides last clashed in the 2025 Under 16 final in Dublin, where Dalriada emerged victorious to secure their 10th Irish crown.
That victory reinforced Dalriada’s status as a powerhouse of volleyball in Ireland, and this year’s double showdown promises to renew one of the most compelling rivalries in the sport.
The Dalriada athletes come from three different volleyball clubs in the Causeway area, reflecting the strength of the sport in the region.
Their unity, combined with club level expertise, has fuelled their rise to the biggest stage in Irish schools’ volleyball once again. We wish the girls every success for their big day.

Finals Day Schedule
• Under‑16 Final: First serve at 11:00am
• Senior Final: Expected First serve at 1:00pm
• Venue: South Lake Leisure Centre, Craigavon