Future Scholars, if you’re reading about the SCL program and wondering: “what are all the different basketball leagues in Ireland? How does it work?”, I don’t blame you…To be honest, I am just starting to figure it out in my seventh month! In this blog, I will try to explain in full the basketball setup at Ulster University.
In short, Shay and I play for three Ulster Elk affiliated teams in three entirely separate leagues. I will go through my experience with team individually, in hopes that it gives 2019-2020 scholars a general idea of what they can expect next year.
First, there’s the national league Elks- who play in the second highest league in Ireland (super league is the top division). In national league, non-european players are not allowed to be on the floor at the same time, which is really frustrating. We have a national league game essentially every weekend from September to May as well as practice twice a week. Of the three teams you will play on, most consider National League the most “professional”. Lastly, a wee tip if you are a scholar coming in above 6’0! No matter what position you played in college back home, be ready to get your butt in the post… I was a combo guard at Amherst, and have played center all year in Ireland. I would suggest developing your back to the basket game before you arrive in Belfast!
Next is the University team Elks. This is essentially the “NCAA” of Ireland. There are three divisions, and Ulster is in the highest division in on the island. So far, the college league has been my favorite. Shay and I are allowed to play at the same time which is SO MUCH FUN!!! Most games we play 35-40 minutes a game, which allows us to stay in a rhythm and play off each other. Of our three squads, the college team is far and away the most talented. Players from Belfast Star (the local super league team) who study at Ulster join the team which is a lot of fun. So far this season we are undefeated and play in the All Ireland Championship game on Wednesday!! GO ELKS BABY!!!!
Lastly, there is the premier league, or “local league” team as some call it. The premier league is the highest level of basketball in Northern Ireland. Because it’s a Northern Irish league and Ulster University is the only SCL affiliated school in the U.K., Shay and I are the only scholars in this league. I am a coach/player combo for the squad, which has presented a few challenges of its own (see my blog titled “Coaching in Belfast” for more on that). There is is a mix of national league and less experienced hoopers that are signed up, and so far it has been a great season. Playoffs start next week, so I will be sure to keep you guys in the loop on how we do!
I am hoping this provides future scholars with at least a little background on the basketball at Ulster University. While at times frustrating, it’s important to take a step back and maintain perspective. I can’t forget how lucky I am to be continuing my basketball career in a foreign country. Not too many athletes are fortunate enough to say the same.
