Our Story
South Galway Stormers Basketball Club carries forward a proud basketball tradition in Gort and South Galway that stretches back more than 60 years.
Basketball in the area began in 1963, when the original St Colman’s Basketball Club was founded by Canon Christy Walsh and Tom Muldoon. In those early years, facilities were basic and enthusiasm had to make up for everything else. Players trained and played wherever they could, including the old Mart, where court lines were painted onto concrete and nets were carried in by hand.
From those humble beginnings, basketball grew into an important part of community life in Gort. During the 1970s, St Colman’s became a strong force in Connacht basketball, with local players representing the region and the club building a reputation for commitment, competitiveness, and resilience.
That tradition continued through the strong link between local club basketball and Gort Community School. Generations of players were coached, encouraged, and developed through school and club structures, with many teams going on to compete at regional and national level. A major highlight came in 2015, when the Gort Community School U16 girls completed an All-Ireland League and Cup double, a landmark achievement for basketball in the area.
Like many community clubs, the story has also included challenges. At different points, basketball in Gort depended on volunteers stepping forward to keep the sport alive for young players. That same spirit continues today.
In 2025, the club entered a new chapter and was renamed South Galway Stormers Basketball Club. The new name reflects the wider community we serve across South Galway and surrounding areas, while honouring the history, people, and values that built basketball here over many decades.
Today, South Galway Stormers is focused on giving young people the opportunity to learn, play, compete, and belong. We are proud of our past, ambitious for our future, and committed to building a lasting home for basketball in South Galway.
Mission, Vision & Values
Mission
To grow basketball across South Galway by creating a welcoming, well-run club where players of all ages can learn, compete, develop confidence, build friendships, and enjoy being part of a team.
Vision
To build a lasting home for basketball in South Galway — a club where every player has the opportunity to develop, every volunteer feels valued, and the community can take pride in a strong, inclusive, and sustainable basketball tradition.
Values
Respect
We treat teammates, coaches, officials, opponents, parents, and volunteers with respect at all times.
Teamwork
We believe basketball is built on trust, communication, effort, and playing for something bigger than ourselves.
Effort
We value commitment, hard work, resilience, and a positive attitude more than results alone.
Inclusion
We welcome players, families, coaches, and volunteers from across South Galway and surrounding communities.
Development
We help players grow in skill, confidence, discipline, and understanding of the game, whatever their starting point.
Community
We are a volunteer-led club built by families, supporters, schools, sponsors, and local people working together.
Pride
We honour the history of basketball in Gort and South Galway while building a new future as South Galway Stormers.