Tigers ready to roar against Vincents

Tralee Abrakebara Tigers opening the defence of the Superleague title with a home match against Roma St Vincents on Saturday at 8pm.

Tigers have a new player-coach in American Chris Craig. Vincents will have their new import Paul Tonkovich, who has followed in his brother's footsteps by joining the Dublin club.

It is a big weekend too for Merry Monk Ballina, who are back playing at the top level for the first time in six years, making their SuperLeague debut against Waterford Crystal on Saturday.

Mayo Gaelic Football star Ronan McGarrity will hope to put the defeat to Kerry in the All Ireland Football Final behind him as he lines up on court alongside Mayo selector and Ballina legend Liam McHale.

Expect Waterford to provide stiff opposition to the Ballina outfit, and as they welcome Americans Jamal Johnson and 6'9" centre, Pat Fitzsimons, as well as Belgian Hery Rafidison into their ranks.

Shamrock Rovers Hoops are without their inspirational player/coach Anthony Jenkins, who has moved back to the US, and this year will be under the watchful eye of mercurial coach Ken Black, who has taken over the coaching duties at the Tallaght club.

Black's first game in charge is a home tie against Dart Killester on Friday October 8, in the ESB Basketball Arena.

Meanwhile in the Women's SuperLeague, UL Aughinish will be going for a hat trick of titles, aiming to take the SuperLeague Championship back to Limerick for a third year in a row.

They will call on the experience of Player of the Year Michelle Aspell, who welcomes her international colleague Nessa O'Keeffe back into the squad, as well as Orla Dempsey who has joined from Wildcats.

American Stephanie Graff also joins from St Joseph's, Philadelphia, and at 6'2" will be a big addition to the team.