Captain fantastic Amy Murphy is enjoying her basketball once again

Amy Murphy began playing basketball at the age of 10 with Brunell Basketball Club. 

Her first experience playing was the Andrew Drumm Tournament held in the Parochial Hall and she immediately fell in love with the game. 

Over the past 16 years, she had the opportunity to compete with and against a wide range of players that have played a crucial role in her growth and development as a player. 

Murphy has had some very influential teammates such as the Dwyer sisters, Niamh and Grainne, Amy Waters at club level and international players like Rachel Huijsdens, Claire Melia and Sorcha Tiernan just to name a few.

“I first played basketball with Brunell at the age of ten when I played in the Andrew Drumm Tournament in the Parochial Hall,” Amy said.

“Winning the U18 National Cup with Brunell stands out as one my most memorable moments. 

"From the very beginning, we were seen as the underdogs, which made the win all the more meaningful. This cup holds a special place in my heart, as it shows nothing is ever out of reach.

“My favourite team I played on underage with Brunell was the U14C side, as it was a year filled with fun, learning, and enjoyment. 

"That is what basketball should be all about really making connections, showing up for one another when it’s needed and that lead to the passion I have for the sport."

Amy is now in her 10th year playing at Super League level, four of these with Brunell and she has been part of the Fr Mathew’s team for the last five seasons and this season has been appointed team captain.

“I’m now beginning my 10th season playing at Women’s Super League level.

"I played my first four years with Brunell and then transferred to Fr Mathew’s for the 2019/2020 season.

“The 2023 cup semi final against Liffey Celtics in Neptune really stands out for me, as the incredible support we received was both uplifting and motivating, reminding us of our role in inspiring young girls within the club.

“I want to say a big thank you to Niamh Dwyer and Shannon Brady for their incredible support on and off the court with my time in Mathew’s, as they were always there for advice whenever it was needed."

Murphy has also had a very successful international career where she won an U18 sliver and U20 European bronze medals with her fellow Cork players Annalise Murphy and Louise Scannell, an achievement that she is very proud of.

“I’m incredibly fortunate to have been part of the Irish teams that achieved remarkable success, winning a bronze medal at the U20 European Championships in Kosovo and a silver medal at the U18 level in Dublin. 

"One of the greatest moments of my time playing with Ireland was the U18 final against Germany. 

"Standing in the arena and listening to the crowd sing our national anthem was unforgettable and the constant support throughout the tournament was amazing. 

"These accomplishments are very special for me, and I don’t take them for granted. 

"The unity among my teammates was exceptional and that strong bond translated into our performance on the court, which contributed to our success as a unit.

“I’m incredibly fortunate to have a family that has always been there for me, traveling far and wide to support me in every team I've played for, from Cork to Belfast, to Kosovo and Macedonia. 

"Their support is a big motivator for me to improve and truly enjoy the sport I am passionate about.

“My plans for the future in terms of basketball are to keep growing and pushing myself to play basketball at the highest level for as long as I can, but most importantly, to enjoy it. 

"In terms of my future within my personal life, is to hopefully travel and explore more parts of the world I’ve never been and experience more cultures.

“On a professional level, I’m very lucky that I really enjoy my job and have a fantastic team at work. 

"Overall for me, it’s about balancing it all, chasing my passion for basketball while also developing myself as a professional and as a person.

“In terms this season, we plan to keep building as a team and to be competitive in the Women’s Super League. 

"We have a lot of young girls coming through from our BIDL league that will add to our competitiveness and also help build the club.

“I also want to our sponsor, Eoin Leonard from Catalyst. 

"Eoin has been incredibly supportive and has played a vital role in promoting women’s sports. 

"His overall commitment and continued support helps inspire young girls to aim to play at Super League level,” Murphy concluded.