Two volleyball titles for Grammar

Back row (l-r) C. Doherty (coach), D. Curry, C. Greenwood (c), L. McClurg. Front row: C. McReynolds, C. Mitchell, L. Logan

The girls took home the Under-18s Northern Ireland Schools’ Plate with a win over Rudolf Steiner School, while the Under-16 boys produced the goods to win the annual NIVB Schools’ Cup.

The Grammar girls squad, made up of Dara Curry, Caris Greenwood (captain), L. McClurg, C. McReynolds, Chloe Mitchell and L. Logan, dominated the opening stages taking the first 10 points.

Rudolf Steiner hit back and drew level before Carrick upped their game to take the title.

The setters – Mitchell and Logan were providing high balls for outside hitters Greenwood and Curry, while middle hitters – L. McClurg and C. McReynolds spiked the ball well to help claim a memorable 25 – 22 victory.

At Lisburn Racquets Club the boys lost their opening match 25-14 to Craigavon, before defeating neighbours Ulidia 25-21, thanks to some great hits from Fionn and Rowan McCormick.

They went on to beat Campbell College Thirds 25-15 to finish second in the group and qualify for the cup.

Kris and Reece Berry produced strong performances to claim a 25-17 success over Larne Grammar at the quarter-final stages.

They then came up with a magnificent display to send holders Campbell College Firsts packing in the semi-final with a narrow 28-26, with the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, Christian Robinson, coming up with a vital match-point block.

Carrick met Lismore Comprehensive in the final and despite losing their first set (25-19), they hit back to claim the second on a 25-22 scoreline before winning the last tie-break set 16-14.

Both the girls and boys squads are coached by Conor Doherty.