Above – 22 Mairead Maguire daughter of 1946 star ‘Cocker’ Murray with her son Philip and Dónal McAnallen at Monday’s launch in O’Donnell’s GAC clubrooms. Pics by Bert Trowlen
The Story of One of Antrim’s Greatest Football Teams – A History of Antrim Football 1926–1946 takes place at St Mary’s University College, Belfast, at 7pm on Friday 6 November 2026.
The Antrim History Talk 1926-46 was officially launched in Mac Rory Park, home of Cardinal O’Donnell’s GAC.This was an appropriate venue since the first McKenna Cup final in 1926 was played in Shaun’s Park now known as Mac Rory Park on the Whiterock Road.
The event was opened by Joe Herald, chairman of O’Donnell’s, who was delighted that this historical venue of Mac Rory Park was selected for the launch. Joe welcomed the families of the 1926 and 1946 teams, GAA historian Dónal McAnallen, Brendan Mulgrew Antrim PRO and Paul McErlean who will compere Friday’s event. Dónal spoke about the historical significance of Mac Rory Park and the importance of it in the history of Antrim and Ulster GAA. He is looking forward to this unique opportunity to tell the story of two of Antrim’s great teams. Dónal previously gave a talk for the Gaels of Antrim in November 2012 in the Titanic Quarter highlighting the Antrim football teams of 1908 to 1913.
A large crowd is expected in St Mary’s University College on Friday 6th November for the event. A 64 page Souvenir Programme will be on sale on the night at a cost of £10. The programme features contributions from Dónal McAnallen, George Cartwright (Cavan Historian and Author), Dr Richard McElligott (Kerry GAA Historian and Author), Jack Devenny (former chairperson of Queen’s GAA) , Patrick McAteer ( Historian and Author) , Johnny Watterson (Irish Times Award winning journalist) and Dr Angela Feeney. The souvenir programme would not have been possible without the support of the McAteer and McMahon Families who provided many articles and photos.
Could people wishing to attend Friday night’s event please use the link below to register
