Limerick’s Caitriona Millane is one of 15 members on Team Ireland for next months World Handball Championships in Calgary, after the youngster won her spot as the 15&U Girls Rep by winning the 2015 Irish 40x20 Junior Nationals back in April.
In a very competitive grade, Caitriona came through four matches in two days, ousting the #1, #2 & #3 seeds en route to victory, sealing the win with a tiebreak win over Armagh’s Megan McCann. We caught up with Caitriona ahead of her departure to Calgary.
What is your earliest memory of Handball?
- My earliest memory would be learning to play handball in the yard of the Model Primary School in Limerick when I was in 4th class. My mother works there and she started up the club at the school as we had two outdoor courts on site.
Who has been your toughest opponent to date & why?
- I would say Brídín Dinan of Clare. I always have tough battles with her and she is very hard to beat.
Who is your favourite Handballer & why?
- I like Ducksy Walsh because he has won so much over such a long number of years.
What has been your biggest achievement in the game to date?
- It has to be winning the place on Team Ireland. I was delighted to win my spot especially because the draw was very tough and there were a lot of other girls capable of winning the tournament.
What are you looking forward to most about the World Championships in Calgary?
- Well this is my first time representing my country which is a huge honour, and I am looking forward to that. But it is also my first time competiting abroad so I am looking forward to that challenge.
How have you been preparing for the Worlds?
- I have just been training hard with my coach and playing training games with different opponents. I want to make the most of this experience as the Worlds don’t come round every year.
You are one of 15 members on Team Ireland….how have you found the experience thus far and how are you getting on with the other team members?
- I am really enjoying the experience and the other team members are friendly and good craic.
Have you any match day superstitions?
- No, I just always go in and give my best.
What is your long-term goal in Handball?
- I have no specific goal in terms of titles, I just have a long-term goal to keep playing and to keep improving and become the best player I possibly can.
What is it about Handball that you enjoy most about everything else?
- The fast pace of the game and having to be able to think on your feet!
Of all the shots in Handball, when executed perfectly, which shot is your favourite?
- The kill shot.
Apart from you home court, what is your favourite Handball court to play on?
- I like playing in Kingscourt. The facilities there are the best around.
What do you like to do outside of Handball?
- Have you had any significant success at other sports? I play camogie for my local club and for my school. I was on the school team which won the Junior B All-Ireland in 2013.
Tell us an interesting fact about yourself that we mightn’t already know.
- My other hobby is playing traditional Irish music. I play the button accordion and melodeon.