There’s still more curling to do before Irish players can hang up their kippers for the summer, beginning with the European C Division qualifier in Brasov, Romania on 12-17 April.

Ireland will be represented by James Russell, Arran Cameron, Steve Callan and Eoin McCrossan in the men’s competition and Alison Fyfe, Jen Ward, Jacqui Barr and Katie Kerr in the women’s. The respective coaches are Martin Sutherland and Johnjo Kenny.

Before leaving, skip James was hopeful of leading Ireland up to the European B Division.

“It’s that time of year again, final preparations are underway for C-League in Romania. It’s nice to be back playing Europeans after taking last year off to finish University (I know, I’m more surprised than anyone). This year the team is a four- man squad consisting of myself, Arran Cameron, (debutant) Steve Callan, and long time fifth man Eoin McCrossan. Having spent the first half of the season abroad it’s been pretty all go for us since January, but the intensity has paid off and it feels like things are starting to come together and we are hitting a nice rhythm together. We all know our roles in the team, on and off the ice so I am confident that the lads can do the business and let me play guards all week.

“As always its a huge honour to represent Ireland on the international stage and the privilege is not lost on us. Thank you to everyone who sent kind words throughout the season and to those who gave up their time to come help out at practice and play games against us. We hope we do you proud. Extra special thanks go to Steve’s wife, Ailie, for letting him come out to play. He’s very excited and has promised not to go out for the rest of 2019 to say thank you…..what a guy!”

Look out for a profile on debutant Steve later in the week! And check out the draw for both teams here: