Southern Regional College’s (SRC) Higher Education (HE) GAA team are celebrating after a landmark achievement, winning the HE All Ireland GAA Final title, their first since 2019 with a composed victory over Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Connemara.

After a cautious opening spell that saw ATU Connemara register an early 1-1, SRC responded with determination. Student Conor Ward set the tone, striking 1-1 to draw the sides level and ignite the SRC team’s challenge. Securing further points in the first half were Martin McKinley, Odhran Hynes and captain Conor Cunningham. This comfortable lead was swiftly tested by the ATU Connemara team, who narrowed the gap, with the SRC team leading by the slimmest of margins at half time, 2-5 to 2-4.

Following the break the SRC team responded well to this nail-biting pressure gaining momentum with scores from Danny McLogan and Odhran Hynes. This helped ease the SRC team into a more comfortable position with Donal Coffey, Kyle Clerkin, Dara Óg McCoy and Martin McKinley adding to the tally. Late substitute Oran Wilson made his move to score a vital goal in this second half providing the SRC side with a well-deserved win. The SRC team played exceptionally well in the second half, with their defence strategy limiting the ATU Connemara side to just three points. The final score on the sounding of the whistle, SRC 3-12, ATU Connemara 2-7.

Co-Team Manager and SRC staff member Rory McGreevy praised the team’s performance, saying:

“This group showed outstanding character all season, but especially in the final. After going behind early, they trusted the work they’ve put in and delivered when it mattered most. To bring the title back for the first time since 2019 is a huge achievement for the players and for the College and we couldn’t be prouder of them and this result.”

Mrs Lee Campbell, Principal & Chief Executive of Southern Regional College added:

“This achievement reflects not only sporting excellence but the strength of teamwork, leadership and ambition across the College community. The future of SRC Gaelic football is bright and this victory sets a new benchmark for future seasons. Congratulations to the SRC Gaelic team and team managers Rory McGreevy and Ronan Haughey for their tireless work throughout the season, guiding the team to this All-Ireland success.”