Stephen O'Hanlon returns to Carrick Cruisers

Colm Shalvey

Carrick Cruisers have made a notable signing just in time for tomorrow's start of the National League Division 1 season, with Monaghan Gaelic Football star Stephen O'Hanlon joining their squad.

A former Irish underage international whose skills as a point guard saw him earn a scholarship in New York, O'Hanlon has since become a key player for Monaghan's senior footballers, making more than 70 appearances since 2019.

His best season to date in the county colours saw him win an Ulster All-Star award and earn a first national All-Star nomination. Stephen, whose brother Kevin is instrumentally involved with Carrick Cruisers, is now set for a return to the basketball scene after Carrick Emmets' SFC campaign ended with a narrow quarter-final loss to Truagh.

Announcing the news, Carrick Cruisers BC posted: "Carrick Cruisers are delighted to welcome Stephen O'Hanlon to the National League squad ahead of the season's opening weekend. Stephen joined up with the group early this week, last having picked up a basketball when on scholarship in the US. Eight years on, he is available for selection to Coach Ingle's squad on Saturday evening.

"A former Cruiser, underage Irish international and current inter-county GAA All-Star nominee, Stephen brings an elite mentality and level of professionalism to the squad. We can't wait to see what the next few weeks have in store for Stephen and the entire Cruisers team! Welcome back Stephen."