Ravens International Tournament
In July, 10 of our members travelled to Miranda do Corvo in Portugal to compete in the 1st Ravens International Tournament. This tournament was organised by David Cardosa who has been a member of Dublin and Irish Dodgeball for many years and has been instrumental in starting the Portugese Dodgeball Association.
The tournament saw teams from Portugal (Blue Ravens and Yellow Ravens), Spain (Los Linces) and Ireland (Dublin Dodgeball) competing alongside a Multi-Nation team consisting of players from France and the USA.
On the Saturday, each team faced each other to decide the standings for Sundays semi finals. Dublins first match was against a strong Blue Ravens team who demonstared their speed, agility and power. Although Dublins experience kept the score line tight, the Blue Ravens came away with a narrow win. Next up game the Multi-Nation team which boasted lots of talent including our own Dubliners Ken and James. After a tight first few sets, Dublin found their rhythm and won. Match no.3 was against Los Linces which included some players from the Spanish international team. Dublin started slowly, losing the first 3 sets but fought their way back into the game and finished the winners. The final match of the day was against the Yellow Ravens and a win would give them a good semi final draw on Sunday and Dublin did not disappoint.
After Saturdays results, Dublin were placed 2nd overall and so faced 3rd placed Los Linces for a place in the final. Dublin learned from their experience the previous day and started strongly building up a lead. The teams experience saw them to victory and a place in the finals against the Blue Ravens.
After their narrow defeat by the Blue Ravens on Saturday this was Dublins chance to turn the tables. Dublin put on their best performace of the tournament with all team members showing off their dodgeing, throwing and catching skills to help the team to 1st place overall.
At the end of each day the players were able to relax in the sun at the local swimming pool, enjoy the local cuisine and get to know each other through our dance moves and party games. Thank you to David and all the Ravens for hosting us and organising such a great event. We look forward to coming back next year to defend our trophy!