IHDI Basketball Tournament and Barbecue July 2025

In July 2025, the IHDI Basketball Tournament and Barbecue—a dynamic celebration of sport, community, and wellbeing was held in partnership with the University of Galway Sports Unit the event marked the official launch of the brand-new 3x3 basketball court at the Biomedical Science Building at University of Galway. Student and staff gathered for a day filled with friendly competition. This event reflects the University of Galway’s ongoing commitment to fostering a healthy and active campus culture. The new basketball court at the Biomedical Science Building is a testament to this commitment—providing a modern, accessible space for recreation, training, and community-building. The Sport and Recreation Unit plays a central role in this mission, promoting participation in sport and physical activity for all students and staff. The University recognises the strong link between academic performance, health, and wellbeing, and supports both grassroots engagement and elite-level performance through its comprehensive sports programmes.

As the cheers from the tournament fade and the scent of barbecue lingers in memory, the court stands ready to welcome future games, friendships, and moments of inspiration.

The tournament featured spirited matchups between mixed teams of students and showcasing not only athletic talent but also the inclusive and collaborative spirit that defines the University of Galway. The tournament featured six teams, divided into two competitive pools of three. Within each pool, teams faced off in a round-robin format, battling for a coveted spot in the semi-finals. The top two teams from each pool advanced, setting the stage for high-stakes knockout matches that determined who would reach the final showdown. The format ensured every team had multiple opportunities to compete, fostering both strategic play and spirited rivalry throughout the day.

Congratulations to all participating teams for their energy, teamwork, and positive spirit. A special thanks goes to the University of Galway Sports Unit for their invaluable partnership in hosting and supporting the launch of the new basketball court.

A special thank you to everyone who contributed to the planning and organisation of this event. Special thanks to Des Ryan, Mike Murray, Feargal O'Callaghan, and the Sport Unit for their invaluable support with the launch of the new court. We’re also grateful to Sam Cassidy for refereeing the games.A sincere thank you to all those involved in the launch, including the IHDI team, the Facilities team, and The Maker Space at University of Galway Library for creating the fantastic 3D-printed medals and trophy.We would also like to acknowledge Thomas Fruleux, who originally proposed the idea and played a key role in planning the basketball games, team coordination, and game timetables.

“I am so happy that the first event on the new 3v3 basketball court was a social sports event run by the Institute for Health Discovery and Innovation. They truly live up to their title. The main aim of the court is the help the University of Galway community enjoy activity. This event was an example of how a community can organise a fun, healthy and fulfilling event that involved students and staff. The Sports Unit would encourage all sections of the University to organise similar events using the sports facilities on our excellent campus. These events are great for enjoyment and team building. Thanks to our Director of Basketball Mike Murray for supporting the event and to Basketball Ireland for providing the court.”

Des Ryan

Director of Sport & Physical Wellbeing, University of Galway

"Thanks to The Institute for Health Discovery & Innovation for organizing such a fun inclusive event on the new 3X3 court on campus. It’s great to see the court being utilized in this way and hopefully will be the first of many. Thanks also to the University of Galway Sports unit for their assistance with the event, to the buildings department in the University for their help with the installation of the court and to Basketball Ireland who donated the court. It’s a great addition to the sports facilities available to our students and staff.

Mike Murray

Director of Basketball, University of Galway

“The launch of the new 3 x3 basketball court is a proud moment for the Institute for Health Discovery and Innovation. It represents more than just a physical space—it’s a symbol of our commitment to promoting connection across the University of Galway. Seeing students and staff come together in such a vibrant, inclusive event is exactly what we envisioned. We’re excited to continue supporting initiatives that bring our community together through sport, innovation, and shared purpose.”

Professor Ted Vaughan

Interim Director, Institute for Health Discovery and Innovation