John Joyce (blue) in action.
The Irish Athletic Boxing Association (IABA) have named a five-strong team for a meeting with Spain in Spain this weekend.
The IABA accepted an invitation from the Spanish Federation for the match in Albacete.
Both sides meet Friday.
The Irish squad depart tomorrow, weigh-in Thursday and box 24 hour later before returning home Saturday.
Pat Ryan, President of the IABA, said they were looking forward to Friday’s meeting and establishing closer links with the Spanish Boxing Federation.
Jimmy Halpin, who will be working Ireland’s corner with Eoin Pluck, is anticipating a few fireworks on the Iberian Peninsula.
“It will be interesting to see how the young lads operate against Spain,” he said.
“I’m also very interested in seeing Spain as the Spaniards are aggressive boxers and I’m expecting a lot of fireworks in Albacete. Please God we can bring home some wins.”
Irish squad
Senior
52kg T.J Waite (Ormeau Road)
56kg Stephen McKenna (Old School)
64kg Patrick Linehan (St Marys)
75kg John Joyce (St Michaels Athy)
Youth
63kg Sean Dempsey (Sacre Coeur)
Team Manager: Joe Charles
Coaches: Jimmy Halpin,Eoin Pluck
R&J: Michael Gill