Marie Breen delighted to be back playing and helping her club Glanmire on and off the court

WHEN you have reached the age of 38 and you decided that you want to come back playing after retiring seven years earlier you must have a serious passion for the sport of basketball.

Enter Mallow-born Marie Breen, the former captain of The Address UCC Glanmire who this season has returned to the fray in a bid to help her club get more silverware.

“I joined Glanmire in 2003 after playing underage basketball with Mallow and to be honest it has been a memorable experience both and off court,” she said.

Over the years Marie has been a pivotal member of Glanmire where she also gained recognition to gain Senior international honours.

“I actually played with the club when Sean O’Regan coached along with another Mallow player Donna Buckley who was a great player to be on court with,” she added.

After two years Mark Scannell took over as head coach and in the words of Breen all changed for the better.

“Mark really put the foundation in and success wasn’t far around the corner as you had players like Sinead Leahy, Michelle Fahy, Grainne and Niamh Dwyer and then you had Claire O’Sullivan (Rockall) and you can see the type of players that donned the jersey of this great club.” 

Marie played an integral part in the successes of Glanmire winning five Super League titles and four National Cups but in 2015 after struggling with injury she decided to take a break from the game.

“I actually got married in December 2016 after struggling for a couple of years but my love for the sport never left me and I decided to go back training in 2019.” 

Family life is a priority for Marie and her husband Damien and they were blessed with two children.

The Covid epidemic really took its toll on many people and Marie wasn’t an exception to the rule.

“I suppose after what we all went through I wanted to go back training and get a bit of fitness but more importantly some head space out of the house.” 

Last season despite not being part of the squad Marie trained the entire season with the squad but not having the same intention for this season things changed a little in the squad.

“There was no pressure from Mark but he felt that if I wanted to be part of this campaign I was welcome to do so and to be honest I am delighted to be back despite being in the twilight of my career.” 

When you have been involved in the sport as long as Marie letting go can be difficult.

“Look basketball has been an integral part of my life for over 30 years and I have enjoyed every minute of it but at this stage of my my life I like staying fit.” 

Marie has a full time job in accountancy and believes basketball relieves the stress associated with her full time position.

“When I am training switching off is a real plus but let me add it wouldn’t be possible if I hadn’t a loyal and understanding husband in Damien.” 

Despite only playing minimal minutes this season Marie still has a competitive edge.

“I just love playing and want to contribute even if it’s for two minutes like I got against Killester on Sunday last but I still managed to chip in with two points and a rebound.

“Basketball is not all about individuals and for me its always been about what is good for my team and I don’t think that’s going to change anytime soon.” 

After playing with some brilliant professionals over her distinguished career Marie has one in her mind that was the real deal for her club.

“It would have to be Jennifer Strong as I believe she had it all on court and more off it in the manner she respected her teammates.” 

On the coaching side Mark Scannell’s contribution to Irish basketball is unique.

“To be honest he is a tremendous coach and prepares teams spot on for games especially the big ones and I don’t think Killester saw us putting together a defensive display like we did against them.” 

Looking ahead to the remainder of the season Marie believes the competitive edge associated with the club will stand the test of time.

“There is great camaraderie in the club and with Mark at the helm you always have a chance and let’s hope I can contribute to helping them win silverware this season.”