SuperLeague introduces home-grown players rule

The SuperLeague Management Board has announced the introduction of a new competitions rule aimed at ensuring greater playing opportunities for talented young Irish players during the forthcoming Nivea For Men’s SuperLeague season.

Under the new rule, all teams must have three category 1 players ('home grown' or 'locally trained' players) on the court at all times. These players are required to have gone through the Irish Schools system for at least three years.

The rule applies to people who have come through the schools or clubs programme in Ireland, irrespective of nationality and will make a significant contribution to the integration of non nationals involved in the sport in Ireland.

Previously, the requirement was for teams to have at least two category 1 players on the court at all times but the clubs and the Board have been actively involved in progressing this change over the past season.

Basketball Ireland’s CEO Debbie Massey said: "The primary objective is to give the many excellent young players being produced by both the schools’ and clubs’ programme the opportunity to grow their skills in Irish basketball’s premier competition.

"The rule change will also reduce the dependence on non EU players, providing clubs with the option of freeing up money to invest the ongoing development and promotion of the League, and increase the number and standard of players eligible to represent Ireland."

The rule will have a positive impact on the future of Irish Basketball. It will encourage SuperLeague clubs to develop their underage sections and to develop their own home grown talent for spots on their Superleague teams.