The Galway Masters Basketball Tournament returns for its 14th year, bringing together masters basketball teams from Ireland across Europe, the UK and the USA.
Taking place at University of Galway Kingfisher from Friday, October 30 to Sunday, November 1, the Galway Masters competition will feature seven age divisions: men's 40s, 50s, 60s and 65s, and women's 40s, 50s and 55s. Teams travelling to Galway will include squads from the USA, Italy, Spain, Croatia, England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and across Ireland.
Operating as a non-profit organisation, the Galway Masters Basketball Association has named Claddagh Watch Patrol as the official tournament charity. Each year, surplus funds and proceeds from the highly anticipated Gala Dinner raffle are directed towards a nominated cause. The tournament will also feature a charity draw, raffling a voucher for dinner, bed and breakfast at the world-renowned Ashford Castle in Cong, Co Mayo, generously sponsored by the Ashford Castle Estate.
"Each week, our volunteers come together with the single goal of making our city that little bit safer, and each week, we see the difference it makes. We are incredibly grateful to the Galway Masters Basketball Association for choosing us as its charity partner this year," said Arthur Carr, founding member of Claddagh Watch Patrol.
"The generous support raised through the tournament will directly fund the essential lifesaving equipment and training our volunteers need to continue keeping watch over the Corrib, raising water-safety awareness and offering help to those who need it most."
Mike Lydon of the Galway Masters Basketball Association said the tournament’s combination of international sport, friendship and community support remains at the heart of the event.
"We are incredibly proud to celebrate our 14th year of bringing the international basketball family to Galway. The tournament strikes a perfect balance between masters competition and the friendships that have developed between players from around the world.
"Most importantly, it gives our players and local supporters an opportunity to come together and support causes that make a real difference in our community. We are delighted to be supporting Claddagh Watch Patrol this year and look forward to making the 2026 tournament another memorable weekend for everyone involved."
The 2026 Galway Masters will be made possible through the dedicated support of volunteers, referees, officials, Galway City Council and the tournament sponsors.
Local residents, basketball fans and visitors are encouraged to come along to the Kingfisher Club to experience the atmosphere, support the competing teams and help raise funds for Claddagh Watch Patrol.
For tournament information and game schedules, visit the official Galway Masters website at www.galwaymasters.ie
