Six teams from throughout Europe competed in the finals namely, Holland, Spain, Italy, the Czech Republic, France and Ireland. Alison who represented Ulster at U16 level for two years broke into the Irish U16 team last year in her second year with the Ulster U16 squad. These performances earned her a place in this year’s Irish U18 team and by consequence booked her place on the team that travelled to Italy. Indeed, Alison will be underage next year for the European finals which will be held in Spain.

    The competition in Italy was as fierce as the 32 degree heat that girls had to endure at match time. Alison sat out the first two games which Ireland lost to the eventual finalists Holland and Spain. She got her chance thereafter, following an injury to the Irish goalkeeper, performing admirably as Ireland proceeded to win their last three games, conceding only one goal in the process. With Alison as goalkeeper, Ireland beat Italy 1-0, the Czech Republic 3-0 and France 2-1 to finish third and win the bronze medal.

    Alison described the whole experience as “brilliant” enjoying every minute of the eight day tournament as she played against the best in Europe and is already looking forward to next year’s tournament in Spain. Next up for Alison will be the Ulster trials in August and September after which she will hope to be in the team that will compete in the Inter Provincial Championships in December.