We are thrilled to announce that three outstanding basketball talents from BNI have received well-deserved call-ups to represent Ireland on the international stage. Fiontan Rodgers of Belfast Phoenix has been selected for the U18 Boys team, Aoibheann Donnelly of Belfast Star will be representing the U16 Girls, and Mark Burns, also from Belfast Star, has earned his place on the U16 Boys team.
We are extremely proud of all the endeavours of Fiontan, Aoibheann and Mark. Their hard work and dedication to improve their game as well as giving their all for their clubs and Team NI has earned them a well deserved place in the upcoming Ireland Squads. This announcement is a testament to the positive pathways for elite players with in Northern Ireland to grow. We hope and aim to keep producing elite level players that can go on to represent Ireland on the international stage.
Andy Gill, Elite Pathways Coordinator
Fiontan Rodgers – U18 Boys Team
Belfast Phoenix is buzzing with pride as Fiontan Rodgers, a rising star, has been called up to the Ireland U18 Boys team just prior to Phoenix’s U18 Boys National Cup Victory. Fiontan’s exceptional skills, dedication, and hard work have not gone unnoticed, and his selection is a testament to his commitment to the sport. We wish Fiontan the very best as he competes against the best in his age group.
Aoibheann Donnelly – U16 Girls Team
Belfast Star is elated to share the news of Aoibheann Donnelly’s call-up to the Ireland U16 Girls team. Aoibheann’s passion for the game and her impressive performances have earned her a spot on the national team. Her journey is an inspiration to aspiring young players in Belfast and beyond. We extend our congratulations to Aoibheann and look forward to watching her shine on the international stage.
Mark Burns – U16 Boys Team
Mark Burns, another talent from Belfast Star, has been selected to represent Ireland on the U16 Boys team. Mark last year was key part of Team NI’s squad against their series against Wales. Mark’s athleticism and basketball IQ have set him apart, earning him this well-deserved opportunity. Belfast Star is immensely proud of Mark’s achievements, and we at BNI excited to see him bring his skills to the forefront as he competes with the best in his age group.

This trio of call-ups not only reflects the individual talents of Fiontan, Aoibheann, and Mark but also highlights the strength and quality of basketball development in Northern Ireland. We commend the hard work and dedication of the players, coaches, and everyone involved in their basketball journey.
Join us in congratulating Fiontan Rodgers, Aoibheann Donnelly, and Mark Burns on their Ireland call-ups. We wish them every success as they proudly represent themselves, their families, clubs and BNI on the international stage. Keep an eye out for their performances, as they embark on this exciting chapter in their basketball careers!
Stay tuned for more updates on Basketball Northern Ireland’s rising stars!