University College Cork Welcomes Collingwood Cup After Nine-Year Hiatus

University College Cork Welcomes Collingwood Cup After Nine-Year Hiatu

The Collingwood Cup, Ireland’s longest-running inter-university soccer tournament, is making its return to University College Cork (UCC) for the first time in nine years. Established in 1914, this prestigious competition will bring together nine of Ireland’s top universities from February 17 to February 19, with matches hosted at UCC’s renowned Sports Complex in Curaheen and the Sports Grounds at the Mardyke.

This year’s tournament will feature a blend of tradition and intense competition, with defending champions University of Limerick (UL) joining other notable teams such as Dublin City University (DCU), Maynooth University, University College Dublin (UCD), Trinity College Dublin, Queen’s University Belfast, Ulster University, and University of Galway. The action will begin with a preliminary round match on January 22 between Ulster University and the University of Galway to determine who advances to the quarter-finals.

The official launch of the tournament took place at UCC’s Mardyke Arena, where the draws for the quarter-finals and semi-finals were finalized. According to the draw, UCC will face Queen’s University Belfast, while UCD takes on Maynooth University. Defending champions UL will compete against Trinity College Dublin, and DCU will challenge the winner of the preliminary round. The semi-finals and finals promise to deliver thrilling matchups, culminating in the championship game at the Mardyke on February 19.

UCC officials are thrilled to host this landmark event again. Morgan Buckley, Head of UCC Sport, expressed his pride, calling the Collingwood Cup “one of the most historic and prestigious tournaments in domestic football.” He emphasized the university’s dedication to providing a world-class platform for athletes and fostering camaraderie among participating teams. Greg Yelverton, UCC’s Soccer Development Officer, added that hosting the event again since 2016 is an honor and highlighted their commitment to creating a memorable experience for all players and coaches traveling to Cork.

Ray O’Malley, Chairperson of the Irish Universities Football Union (IUFU), also acknowledged the deep connection between UCC and the tournament’s legacy. He noted that Cork has been a vital part of the Collingwood Cup’s history, both on and off the pitch. As defending champions, the University of Limerick will enter this year’s competition with a new challenge, ensuring a dynamic and competitive atmosphere for fans and players alike.

The Collingwood Cup continues to be a significant event in Irish soccer, celebrating the enduring spirit of university-level sports and strengthening bonds within the academic community. With UCC’s picturesque venues and rich history as the backdrop, this year’s tournament is set to leave a lasting impression on ever

yone involved.

 

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