A new chapter in Belfast’s Gaelic football story begins with the formation of Cathair Bhéal Feirste, an amalgamated team representing five local schools, set to compete in the prestigious Ulster Colleges Rannafast Cup, which is the A level football competition for the u16.5 age grade. Participating schools are St Malachys College, Rathmore Grammar, Edmund Rice College, Colaiste Feirste and Aquinas Diocesan Grammar. This initiative aims to elevate the profile of Gaelic football in Belfast and provide elite young players with the opportunity to compete at the highest level of schools’ competition.
The programme is proudly teacher-led, with invaluable support from Antrim GAA staff, ensuring a high standard of coaching, development, and mentorship. This collaborative approach has created a structured and nurturing environment for players to thrive.
Kevin Niblock, teacher at St Malachy’s College, commented:
“It is fantastic to see the Cathair Bhéal Feirste Rannafast team launched this week. Developing and raising the standard of Gaelic Football within the City of Belfast Schools is a key cornerstone of our Football Development Strategy, and this initiative allows the boys participating to consistently experience the cut & thrust of A Grade football in Ulster. These boys can in turn bring that experience of high-grade training and games back to their clubs and schools to help drive standards there.
We are very grateful to Ulster Schools GAA for seeing the merits and the developmental nature of this initiative and accepting the Cathair Bhéal Feirste proposal into both the Rannafast and Dalton competitions this year.
Finally, sincere thanks to our sponsors who are supporting this initiative – Clonard Credit Union (CCU), the Clover Group and P Graham Contracts. Their financial support has helped the group focus solely on the training and preparation for games in a professional-like manner.”
Paddy McBride, teacher at Coláiste Feirste, added:
“I am delighted for Coláiste Feirste to be involved in this initiative. Competing at A grade gives our students the opportunity to challenge themselves against the highest standard of schools’ football, something that would not be possible on our own at the minute.
This exposure will not only raise the standard of their individual development but it will also benefit their school and club teams, while contributing to the overall growth of football within the county.”
The project has been made possible thanks to the generous support of three key sponsors: Clonard Credit Union, P. Graham Contracts and Clover Group.
Speaking on behalf of Clonard Credit Union, CEO Terry McCrudden said:
“As a community-focused organisation, CCU Credit Union is proud to sponsor this exciting new amalgamation of local schools coming together to ensure pupil participation at the highest level of Gaelic Sports. At CCU, we believe in the power of teamwork, dedication, and local pride – values that are at the heart of both sport and our community. By supporting these talented young players as they step up to a higher level of competition, we hope to inspire them to chase their goals and showcase the incredible spirit of our local area.”
Phelim McCloskey of P. Graham Contracts added:
“We are happy to support and sponsor the Belfast Schools amalgamation team, Cathair Bhéal Feirste because it’s helping to create a pipeline of talent that can contribute to a successful Antrim team in the future. Working alongside development squads it’s exposing more players to high level coaching, training and more importantly competition. The more players that get exposure and the earlier they get it, the greater the chances of making an impact at the highest level. I look at Odhran Doherty from Roger Casements and Jack O’Neill from Cargin – both holders of MacRory and Hogan Cup medals a year early. Two lads with massive inter-county futures ahead of them.
It can also help elevate the whole team culture, boost morale and increase the overall standard of football within Antrim. It will create a snowball effect where success breeds success, with the players who have been exposed to top level football themselves bringing that back to their individual schools and clubs. Finally, I would like to wish all management and players every success this year in their respective competitions.”
Jim Conlan from Clover Group shared:
“Clover Group is delighted to stand behind Cathair Bhéal Feirste as they embark on their Rannafast Cup journey. By supporting Cathair Bhéal Feirste, we aim to help raise the profile of Gaelic football across the city and inspire a new generation of players and supporters. Cathair Bhéal Feirste offers elite young athletes the chance to compete at the highest level of schools Gaelic football. Clover Group is committed to nurturing talent and believes that every gifted player deserves the opportunity to shine. We believe this initiative will leave a lasting legacy for Gaelic football in Belfast, and we look forward to cheering on the team as they represent our city with pride, passion, and purpose.”
The organisers extend sincere thanks to the sponsors and teaching staff from the five participating schools whose collaboration and commitment have made this initiative possible. Their shared vision and dedication to youth development are helping to shape a brighter future for Gaelic games in Belfast.
Photo credit; Bert Trowlen – The Saffron Gael.
