Fundraiser launched for County Roscommon player's basketball trip

A fundraiser has been launched for Roscommon Town’s young basketball star Anna Assis by her mother Valeria, to help fund her upcoming trip to Scotland at the Four Nations tournament.

The Convent of Mercy student has broken onto the Ireland U-17 playing squad after being selected for the extended playing panel last season.

Anna’s selection comes after consistent strong performances with Athlone BC and, more recently, with Longford Phoenix BC.

A successful season resulted in Anna and her Phoenix team-mates scooping Midlands Cup Division One honours in February, with Anna shooting 13 points in the season finale against Portlaoise.

It was a proud moment for Anna and her family when the announcement of her selection was made.

“I was absolutely delighted. All the hard work I put into the sport has finally paid off,” she said.

Her favourite position on the court means that Anna displays leadership.

“I’m the point guard, so it's basically the person that brings up the ball and tells everyone where to go,” she explained.

The Junior Cert student has to manage her Type-1 Diabetes diagnosis alongside her high-performance levels, but she doesn’t see this as an obstacle.

“Of course it’s a challenge, but I say that having diabetes makes me more disciplined, so it’s kind of a bonus. But, at the same time, my diabetes needs to be very well controlled and maintained.” 

Before Anna heads to Scotland, she will complete her Junior Cert exams, but her positive mindset has her well teed up to tackle into the busy academic period.

“It’s not too bad because I prioritise study and I’m getting a lot done.” 

Local support for the fundraiser has been very strong, which the young Roscommon Town basketball player is very thankful for.

“It’s a great feeling, I feel very welcomed and supported.” 

The fundraiser for Anna can be found online at GoFundMe.com and by searching her name on the website.