🏀 Kildare Gliders Interview: Irish International Player – Morgan O’Sullivan
Kildare Gliders recently sat down with Irish international Morgan O’Sullivan to discuss his basketball journey, his connection to the club, and what it means to represent his country on the international stage.
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First Introduction to Basketball
When was your first introduction to basketball?
Morgan:
I was first introduced to basketball in my first year in the PBS by my coach, Mr. McCool, who is still teaching in the school today.
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First Club Experience
Who was the first club you played for?
Morgan:
There was no club in Newbridge at the time, so it wasn’t until I was 18 that I joined Denny Notre Dame in Dublin. I played U19 basketball with them, and we reached the national finals. It was a great experience, but the travel was difficult, so I only stayed a short time.
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School Recognition
Your former coach John Donavan mentioned you were U19 School Player of the Year in 6th year—tell us about that.
Morgan:
There’s a funny story behind that. One day in school my name was called over the intercom to go to the headmaster’s office. I remember thinking, “What have I done now?”
When I went in, Mr. Mullooly and John Donavan were there with big smiles, telling me all the school coaches had voted me Senior Basketball Player of the Year. I was in shock—I never even thought about winning it. I just loved playing.
That same year, I was also awarded joint Senior Sports Person of the Year in PBS. It was a great year for me.
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Return to the Game
You drifted in and out of basketball for a number of years—what brought you back?
Morgan:
My love for the game was always there, but it really came back when my two daughters joined Kildare Gliders. Watching them train and play got me bouncing a ball again, and I thought, “I’d love to give this another go.”
So I joined the Gliders social basketball sessions—and look where it’s led me! (laughs)
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Giving Back to the Club
How have you been able to contribute to the club?
Morgan:
I’d love to give more back, but I run my own gym which is open seven days a week, so time is limited.
When my daughters’ coach Bartek asked if I’d help with the U18 girls, I jumped at the chance. I’ve really enjoyed it—it’s been a great break from work, and I’d love to do more with the club in the future.
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Social Basketball & Community
As a man of a certain age, have you encouraged others to try social basketball?
Morgan:
Definitely. A lot of my friends are stepping away from sport and struggling to replace that part of their lives.
Social basketball is great for fitness, but also for mental health. Coming down once or twice a week, playing and chatting with like-minded people—it makes a huge difference.
I think there’s a big opportunity for Gliders to grow this and give even more back to the community. I’d love to be involved in that.
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Family Support
What does your family think of everything that’s happening?
Morgan:
Without my wife and daughters, none of this would be possible. I’m so grateful for their support.
In fact, our family holiday is now in Greece so they can come and support me—I feel incredibly lucky.
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Representing Ireland
How will it feel standing on court hearing the national anthem?
Morgan:
Even thinking about it gives me a lump in my throat. I never thought I’d be in this position.
To represent my country, with my wife and daughters there—it will be very emotional. I’ll do well to hold back the tears.
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Closing Words
Sean Kearney:
Morgan, thank you for your time. It’s been a pleasure hearing about your journey and your passion for the game.
From everyone in Kildare Gliders, we wish you the very best of luck—we’ll be cheering you all the way!
Morgan:
Thank you, Sean—and thanks to all the Gliders family for the support.
