IN PICTURES: Laois GAA handball club hosts annual Battle of the Courts doubles tournament

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The Battle of the Courts 2025 Doubles Tournament was hosted by Clough-Ballacolla Handball Club on Sunday 28th December and once again proved to be a major success. The annual Wallball event aims to bring together players of all ages, genders and abilities in a competitive but inclusive setting. Over 40 players aged from 16 to over 70 competed across three grades, with more than 50 matches played on the club’s three championship courts. READ FULL REPORT BELOW THE PICTURE.

The Mixed Doubles Open was highly competitive, with 15 teams entered and a wide variety of pairings including family members, friends and coach juvenile combinations. Una Brophy and Kyle Jordan won the title after a series of closely fought matches, defeating Emer Barron and John Hayes in a dramatic final that went to a tiebreaker.

In the Men’s Open, last year’s finalists met again, with Kilkenny’s Kyle Jordan and Dan Breen overcoming Kevin Brennan and Graham Casburn. The final was played at a very high standard, with Jordan and Breen secured the title with straight game victories.

The Ladies Open showcased elite female Wallball, with Emer Barron and Una Brophy delivering a dominant performance throughout the competition. After impressive wins in the earlier rounds, they claimed the title with a comfortable straight games victory over Karen Monaghan and Siobhan Prentice in the final.

The tournament also featured competitive B-grade finals in the men’s, ladies and mixed categories, highlighting the depth of talent across all levels.

Overall, the 2025 Battle of the Courts Doubles Tournament was praised for its high standard of play, strong participation and excellent organisation, with thanks extended to players, volunteers, referees and supporters for contributing to another successful event.