SAM WHEELER O’BRIEN

ROWING | BALLYDEHOB | 16

SAM is following a familiar West Cork path, and already making serious waves of his own. The Ballydehob teenager is part of the latest crop coming through Skibbereen Rowing Club, the same production line that produced Olympic champions Paul O’Donovan and Fintan McCarthy. Like his heroes, Sam has his sights set high. His early progress suggests he’s on the right course.

Remarkably, Sam only took up rowing at 14, but his rapid development has marked him out as one of the club’s most promising young talents. His breakthrough year came in 2025. Sam claimed the Junior 16 single scull title at the Irish Rowing Championships and stepped onto the international stage when he represented Ireland at the Coupe de la Jeunesse. Competing in the men’s single scull, he reached the A final and finished an impressive fifth.

Comfortable in both the single and double scull, Sam continues to build his skillset as he targets another big season. Winning a title at the national championships is on the agenda this summer, while he is also pushing hard for selection to the U19 European Championships in Germany and the U19 World Championships in Bulgaria later in the season.

Given how quickly he has progressed, few would doubt his chances.

DID YOU KNOW? When he’s not on the water, Sam enjoys rock climbing.

Sam Wheeler-O'Brien.

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EVA KORDIC

HOCKEY | CLONAKILTY | 18

AS one West Cork hockey goalkeeping career ends, another begins. In the same year that legendary Irish shot-stopper David Harte hung up his international gloves, Eva received her first call-up to the Croatian U19 hockey squad.

A highly-rated goalkeeper, Eva was born in Croatia and moved to Clonakilty in 2015 – it’s here her hockey adventure began. She started playing when she was in fifth class in national school. Eva previously played in midfield, but once when she was injured, went into goal – and she loved it!

The reports from Clonakilty Hockey Club point to a bright future, with her coach Julie O’Sullivan Nicholson backing Eva to become a top-class goalkeeper. Quick and agile with great reflexes, Eva is fearless in goal, is calm in high-pressure situations like shuttles and is very difficult to beat. 

Scouted for Munster U16 at school and club level, Eva’s talent was spotted by her home country who were quick to get her on board. They asked for a video of Eva in action, and the rest is history. The long-term dream is to play in an Olympic Games, as she hopes to become the best player she can be. A name to remember.

DID YOU KNOW? With Sacred Heart, Eva was Senior B Cup winner in 2025, as well as a Senior B League runner-up!

Eva Kordic.

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AILBHE BYERLEY

CAMOGIE & FOOTBALL | CLONAKILTY | 15

A DUAL player at U16A level for Cork LGFA and Cork camogie this season, Ailbhe’s report card is as good as it gets.

‘Her versatility as a player, her outstanding skill level, her athleticism and her unmatched drive and determination on the pitch set her apart,’ explained a mentor at Clonakilty Camogie Club, where Ailbhe has played since she was five. 

It gets even better, as the Sacred Heart Clonakilty Junior Cert student has been described as one of the most talented young sportspeople to walk through the school’s doors. High praise for the Clonakilty teen who racked up 8-34 during Sacred Heart’s run to the Munster junior camogie final this season. Ailbhe also lines out in football and hockey for the school.

Juggling both Cork squads this year is a challenge Ailbhe is embracing, and her value to both teams is highlighted by her versatility – she can play centre-back, wing-back, midfield or centre-forward. Her athleticism, pace and willingness to learn mark her out as a player with a bright future in both codes.

Already, Ailbhe has represented Carbery and Cork camogie at U14, U15 and U16 levels. Her talent was evident early on – she was joint-captain of the first Gaelscoil Mhichíl Uí Choileáin Clonakilty team to win a Sciath na Scol football title. The plan is for more success this season, with club and county.

DID YOU KNOW? Ailbhe’s brother Jack played minor football for Cork in 2025, and has been part of Carbery and Cork squads since U14. They are a talented family!

Ailbhe Byerley.

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RORY TWOHIG

FOOTBALL | ROSSMORE | 16

HE previously made headlines as a soccer shot-stopper who lined out for the Republic of Ireland U15s, but these days Rory is turning heads as the Cork minor football goalkeeper. He was the Rebels’ No. 1 last season, and the Rossmore teen is back between the posts again this year. The jersey is in safe hands.

Highly rated in both soccer and Gaelic football, Rory’s immediate focus is on the GAA, but the door isn’t closed on a possible return to his soccer journey at a later stage; he was part of the Cork City Academy, having come through the ranks at Lyre Rovers.

As a goalkeeper, Rory ticks a lot of boxes. He has variety to his kick-outs, both short and long; is a quality shot-stopper; and is very comfortable in one-on-one situations.

Given he has played soccer at a high level, there is a natural benefit when he crosses over to GAA. Also, because Rory can play outfield with Kilmeen, he has a very high football IQ.

A transition year student at Clonakilty Community College, he was between the posts when the school captured the Simcox Cup title for the first time in December. He was also in goal for Cork when the young Rebels won the Leinster Development League title in March, defeating Louth in the final.

DID YOU KNOW? Rory kicked two 45s and one free when Cork minors won the Leinster Development League final!

Rory Twohig.

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NIAMH COTTER

SOCCER | BANDON | 19

‘I AM physical and I really like defending’ – that was Niamh Cotter’s message to supporters after she joined Galway United last August. And Galway are certainly getting a player who relishes the art of defending. Aggressive, physical and passionate are three words that neatly describe Niamh’s style, and it is her no-nonsense approach at the back that persuaded Galway to swoop in and secure her signature.

Their gain is certainly Cork City’s loss, after the Bandon native made the move to a side that finished third in the 2025 League of Ireland Women’s Premier Division and continues to challenge for major honours. It is exactly the type of test Niamh wants at this stage of her career: to join a squad competing for the game’s biggest prizes.

This represents the next natural step in a journey that saw Niamh turn heads when she broke through at Cork City and made her senior debut in March 2023. She was crowned Cork City Women’s Young Player of the Year for 2024, shortlisted for the League of Ireland Women’s Young Player of the Year award in the same season, and also captained the side that year – a vote of confidence in such a young defender.

Have we mentioned that Niamh has also lined out as a Republic of Ireland U19 international? This rising soccer talent is one to watch again this season as she looks to make a strong impression in Galway colours. A knee injury sidelined her for much of the 2025 campaign, but she is now back in action, and determined to prove herself in a title-challenging environment. Earning a regular starting place is Niamh’s immediate target.

DID YOU KNOW? Niamh is not the only West Cork link at Galway United, as Bandon man Richie Holland is assistant manager to the men’s first team under John Caulfield from Enniskeane.

Niamh Cotter.

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ETHAN O’DONOVAN

SOCCER | CLONAKILTY | 15

WHEN Ethan was included in last year’s feature, he was described as a player with an eye for goal. In truth, that didn’t go far enough. The Clonakilty teenager is a genuine goal machine. The numbers back it up.

Crowned Cobh Ramblers U15 Player of the Year in 2025, Ethan finished the campaign as the club’s top academy scorer and joint top scorer across the League of Ireland U15 division – hitting an incredible 31 league goals. Across all competitions, that tally climbed beyond 45. Big moments followed. There were hat-tricks against Cork City (4-1) and Galway (4-0) as Ethan helped fire Cobh into the elite phase of the

league for the first time. The former Clonakilty AFC and West Cork Academy striker is building a serious reputation, continuing the prolific form that first marked him out closer to home.

Further proof of his rising stock came last summer when he was selected for the FAI’s National Pathways Programme (NPP) training camp at the FAI National Training Centre in Abbotstown – a programme aimed at the country’s top U15 and U16 prospects. His progress hasn’t gone unnoticed at senior level either. 

Last Friday night, just 15 years, four months and 17 days old, Ethan became the youngest player to ever play senior League of Ireland football for Cobh when he came on against UCD in a First Division game.

This season, the Clonakilty Community College student will also line out with Cobh’s U17s and U20s, and he has already made his mark, hitting a hat-trick for the U17s against Limerick. As ever, he knows exactly where the goal is.

DID YOU KNOW? Ethan lined out for the West Cork Academy at the 2025 Super Cup Northern Ireland, including a glamour tie against Manchester United.

Ethan O’Donovan.

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KIERAN O’SHEA

FOOTBALL | URHAN | 17

STANDING tall at six foot three, talented young footballer Kieran is an imposing figure on the pitch, but given the GAA genes in his family, perhaps it’s no surprise that he’s involved with the Cork minor football team this season.

The youngest of six siblings, remarkably five have now played inter-county for Cork – his older sisters, Rachel (Cork U14s and U16s) and Clare (up to senior), and brothers, Joseph and Niall (both Cork minors and U20s), with Niall still with the U20s. So, Kieran is keeping the O’Shea and Urhan flag flying high.

Already this year, the Beara ace helped Cork win the Leinster Development League final, and Kieran is keen to drive on with both county and club in the season ahead. Given his height and size, it’s no surprise that he likes playing in midfield – it gives him the opportunity to go forward and also help out in defence.

A fourth-year student at Beara Community School, Kieran was part of the team that won the Munster U16 and a half title, while he also boosted his medal collection in Urhan colours, already winning Beara, West Cork, county and league medals. His focus might be on Cork right now ahead of the Munster MFC, but Urhan is never far from his thoughts – he wants to bring his inter-county experience back to Urhan to help drive his club on.

DID YOU KNOW? Kieran’s older brother Joseph was a starter on the Cork minor football team that won the All-Ireland in 2019!

Kieran O'Shea.

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CLODAGH DOWNEY

BASKETBALL | KEALKILL | 18

THIS rising hoops star has already proved she is a player for the big occasion. When Gurranabraher Credit Union Brunell lifted the U20 Women’s National Cup title in January, after a 59-46 win over Templeogue, their West Cork import was one of the chief architects of the triumph.

No stranger to national cup finals at U18 and U20 levels, this was the first time Clodagh captured the U20 title, and her fingerprints were all over this success – the Kealkill teenager dominated defensively with 14 rebounds, had three steals and two blocks, and also chipped in with six points.

This is Clodagh’s second season competing at Superleague level with Brunell, based in Cork city, and she has taken the step-up in her stride. It’s the next destination in her basketball journey that started at home with Bantry Basketball Club where she played until U15 level, before a season with Cobh ahead of joining Brunell.

The five-foot nine-inch forward, in her first year studying PE and Maths at Dublin City University, is strong in attack and defence, and is also athletic and skilful – ideal to make an impact on the hard court. Already, Clodagh has represented Ireland internationally, playing for the Ireland U16s at the Four Nations tournament, and just this week was selected on the Irish U20 squad, as she spearheads the rise of West Cork basketball.

DID YOU KNOW? After a three-year hiatus from football, Clodagh returned to her local club, St Colum’s, last season and played her part in helping the club secure its first-ever U21 county title! 

Clodagh Downey.

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ADAORA NNAEMEKA

ATHLETICS | BANDON | 15

RISING Bandon Athletic Club sprint sensation Adaora Nnaemeka is moving in the right direc- tion – and fast. The current West Cork Sports Star Paudie Palmer Youth Award winner really is one to watch. Ever since winning double gold at U8 level in the 60m and 80m, she has blazed an eye-catching trail, and her progress and development since then have been remarkable.

Already, the third-year student at St Brogan’s College has amassed an incredible collection of sprint medals, predominantly gold. At U12 level, she captured both Munster and national indoor titles. A year later, at U13, Adaora sprinted to Munster and national outdoor gold, and she has since become a familiar sight at the top of the podium.

Her performances in 2025 underlined the Bandon teenager’s enormous potential. Adaora struck gold in the U15 girls’ 100m at the Munster Track and Field Championships in a championship-best time of 12.34 seconds. She made it a double success in Munster by claiming the 200m title with another record-breaking run of 25.21 seconds. The records and medals kept coming – with a time of 12.54, she broke the Munster Schools Athletics junior girls’ 100m record that had stood for 18 years. There was more double gold, again in the 100m and 200m at U15 level, at the national juvenile championships, including a 200m championship record of 25.16 seconds.

Already this year, Adaora has added another double gold – in the U16 girls’ 60m and 200m at the Munster Indoor Championships, more evidence that she is continuing to move smoothly up through the gears. Looking ahead to the outdoor season, her main goal is to finish in the top two at the Tailteann Schools Championships to secure automatic selection for the schools international against England, Scotland and Wales.

DID YOU KNOW? When Adaora won gold in the U15 girls’ 100m in a championship-best time of 12.34 at the 2025 Munster T&F Championships, she broke a 17-year-old record held by Irish star Sarah Lavin.

Adaora Nnaemeka.

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DARA SHEEDY

FOOTBALL | BANTRY | 19

THE secret is out: Dara is not only one for the future, but the Bantry Blues footballer is very much for the present too.

He has quickly become a fixture in Cork’s starting team since the round three win over Offaly, having made a big impact off the bench in earlier games against Cavan – where he played a massive role in a come-from-behind victory – and Louth.

His rise hasn’t gone unnoticed. Former Kerry manager Eamonn Fitzmaurice even compared Dara to former Tyrone playmaker Brian McGuigan, noting that he ‘is equally comfortable pulling strings, creating and setting up scores as he is taking them.’

That creativity, composure in possession and directness have added a new dimension to Cork’s attack. While Dara is making his mark on the scoreboard – with 0-4 against Meath and 0-3 against Kildare among his early highlights – his overall contribution runs much deeper. He has been one of the finds of the season as Cork earned promotion to Division 1 after a ten-year wait.

Cork boss John Cleary admitted he initially viewed Dara as ‘maybe a work in progress that could be good for next season’, but the Bantry teenager has quickly surpassed those expectations. Locally, his potential has been clear for some time. Now, the rest of the country is seeing it too.

What has stood out most is how naturally Dara has handled the step up to senior inter-county football. There has been no hesitation, no sense of being overawed – just a seamless transition and a growing influence with every game. A serious talent, and one already delivering.

DID YOU KNOW? When Bantry Blues’ other Cork senior footballer Ruairi Deane made his inter- county debut in 2014, Dara was just eight years old!

Dara Sheedy.

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MARKUSS BOGDANOVS

KICKBOXING | BALLYMAKEERA | 17

WEST Cork Kickboxing Club has a habit of producing top-class kickboxers, and Markuss is one of the latest talents off the conveyor belt.

Having trained at the club since he was seven years old – under the guidance of former world champion Tony Stephenson, as well as Ian Kingston and Toby Bermueller – he is learning from the best, and this is showing in his performances and results.

Already, the De La Salle College Macroom fifth-year student is a three-time national champion, two-time European Championship bronze medallist, a European silver medallist, and also won a bronze medal at the junior World Cham- pionships in 2024. These results highlight how Markuss is a contender for the big prizes.

Already this year, he won gold at the Italian Kickboxing World Cup event last month, and he has the talent to make an impact at the WAKO World Youth Kickboxing Championships 2026 later this year. That is one of his goals: to become a world champion.

Regarded as a very good kicker with a high kickboxing IQ, Markuss previously competed in light contact but has now switched to full contact in the -67kg category. It’s a team effort to help Markuss reach these heights and, as well as West Cork Kickboxing Club, his parents Ivars and Liene, and also Ruslan and Olan Twohig, have helped Markuss on his journey.

DID YOU KNOW? Markuss is learning from the best ‒ his coach Tony Stephenson from Bantry is a two- time world kickboxing champion!

Markuss Bogdanovs.

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MAIA McCOURT

HOCKEY | INNISHANNON | 19

BANDON Grammar School has a strong tradition as a nursery for talented hockey players, and former student Maia is one of the top stars off the conveyor belt in recent times.

The Innishannon teen is a freshman student on scholarship at Monmouth University in New Jersey, and she’s loving it so far. Train- ing under coaches Carli Figlio and David Williamson, Maia is experiencing a different set-up and culture, and it’s another step in her development. Given the upward trajectory of her hockey career to date, her adventure in the States will help her reach the next level. Rewind to the start: Maia was a member of Bandon Hockey Club and Bandon Athletic Club since she was seven years old. She excelled in athletics, winning county, Munster and national medals in sprinting and the long jump. But hockey is Maia’s sporting passion.

With Bandon Grammar, her talent and leadership shone through – she captained her school in both fifth and sixth year, and led Bandon to Archer Shield success. Maia also played Division 1 hockey with her club Bandon, played Munster U16 and U18, and was voted U18 Munster Hockey Player of the Year in 2024 – the same year, Maia broke into the Irish U18 panel, played in the Four Nations tournament in Belgium, a test series in France and the U18 European Championships.

The next step was the Ireland U21 set-up, and Maia was selected for the Junior World Cup in Santiago, Chile, last December. Her target is to be picked on the Irish squad for the U21 Europeans in Spain this summer, as well as to win the CAA (Coastal Athletic Association) championship final with Monmouth.

DID YOU KNOW? Maia scored her first international goal for Ireland at the 2025 Junior World Cup, on target in a 4-1 win against Namibia!

Maia McCourt.

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AOIFE CALLAN

ATHLETICS | NEWCESTOWN | 19

EARLIER this year, Aoife showcased her talent when she set four new personal bests (hurdles, shot put, high jump and overall points PB) on her way to All-Ireland gold in the U20 women’s pentathlon at the Irish U20 Indoor Combined Events Championships. In her second year at U20 level, Aoife won gold. This underlined the Bandon AC athlete’s reputation as one of the country’s most promising young multi-event competitors. But that shouldn’t surprise anyone who has followed her career.

Incredibly consistent, Aoife has qualified for national championships every year since U11 and has won national medals in javelin from U12 onwards. And she’s moving in the right direction. Just look at her medal haul from 2025, the year the former St Brogan’s College student placed a huge focus on her Leaving Cert exams.

Aoife finished second in the U20 national indoor pentathlon (five events) and second in the U20 national outdoor heptathlon (seven events), confirming her position among Ireland’s top multi-event athletes in her age group. In individual events, Aoife won bronze in the national U19

long jump, underlining her versatility and strength across disciplines. Back in 2023, representing Ireland, Aoife won a bronze medal in the girls’ javelin at the SIAB Schools Track & Field International held in Scotland, competing against the best young athletes from England, Scotland and Wales. Add numerous county and Munster medals across long jump, triple jump, high jump, shot put and javelin, both indoors and outdoors, and you start to understand how consistent multi-event athlete Aoife is.

The plan, under the guidance of her coach Frank Stam, is to keep developing her technical, physical and competitive strengths as Aoife targets new personal bests and further improvement.

DID YOU KNOW? The javelin and long jump are Aoife’s favourite events!

Aoife Callan.

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MICHAEL HAYDEN

BASKETBALL | BANTRY | 14

BANTRY is fast becoming a hotbed for basketball talent in the region – and Michael is one of its brightest young prospects.

The 14-year-old rose to prominence last year when he represented Ireland at the Four Nations U14 Tournament in Glasgow, earning four international caps in the green jersey. Having already sampled that level, Michael’s ambition is clear – he wants more. His goal this year is to break into the Ireland U15 squad and

continue his upward trajectory.

As well as his natural ability on the court, Michael’s appetite to learn and his dedication to training have been key factors in his development. He points to two coaches as major influences on his progress to date. Pat Curran, who has worked with Michael at both club and school level, has played a central role in his journey. So too has U16 coach Mags Downey, whose additional games and coaching sessions have helped sharpen his game.

Among Michael’s standout achievements so far are winning the county schools’ championship and going on to claim All- Ireland U14 glory – a double he ranks among his proudest moments. He has also enjoyed Cork A League success at both U13 and U14 levels with Bantry Basketball Club.

With strong foundations in place and a clear drive to improve, Michael is another name to watch from a town producing serious basketball talent.

DID YOU KNOW? Bantry Basketball Club prospect Emily O’Neill was part of the Ireland U16 women’s national squad last year.

Michael Hayden.

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HOWARD O’DONOVAN

HURLING | ROSSCARBERY | 17

THESE are good times for hurling in Carbery, off the back of Kilbrittain’s All-Ireland success and the development of the division’s first U15 hurling team. And we have more good news: Kilmeen-Kilbree’s Howard O’Donovan is flying the West Cork flag on the county minor hurling team.

The 17-year-old dual player, who attends Clonakilty Community College, is no stranger to the inter-county scene. Just last year he captained the Cork U16 hurling team to win the Todd Nolan Tournament in Kerry.

He was also full back on his school’s senior football team that won the Simcox Cup final for the first time in December 2025. Also, on the way up with his club, Howard has swelled his medal collection, too. There were hurling successes at U15 (2022) and U16 (2024), as well as an U17 football win in 2023. 

A promising young hurler with a sharp touch and a strong work ethic, Howard’s composure and maturity have helped his rise to the Cork minors where his aim is to feature in the upcoming Munster championship. The young Rebels begin their campaign away to Waterford in Fraher Field on Friday (April 10th), and this campaign is the next step in Howard’s journey.

DID YOU KNOW? Howard’s sister Emily previously won an All-Ireland minor A camogie medal with Cork!

Howard O'Donovan.

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HOLLY O’FLYNN

ROWING | BALTIMORE | 16

IT’S no secret that there is something in the water in Skibbereen, and the exciting news is that the next wave of talent is primed to keep Skibbereen Rowing Club on the map.

Baltimore teen Holly, who turns 17 this month, is highly regarded in the club, and is one to keep an eye out for.

Her own journey with rowing started when the current Skibbereen Community School fifth-year student was in second year. Holly dipped her toes in the water for the month-long taster programme Skibbereen Rowing Club runs for beginners – she loved it, and has been rowing ever since.

Given the calibre of female rowers that Skibb has nurtured – Olympic medallist Emily Hegarty, two-time Olympian Aoife Casey, World finalist Denise Walsh – Holly is in the right place to realise her potential. The signs are promising.

She is setting her sights high, too, targeting a spot on the Rowing Ireland U19 squad this year, as Holly hopes to race internationally. As well as competing in crew boats, the Skibb rower also likes racing in the single scull, enjoying the challenge of pushing herself – at the 2025 Irish Rowing Championships, Holly finished fifth in the single scull at J16 level. When she raced at the Ghent International Regatta, Holly finished second in a quad and was fourth in the single scull.

Last Christmas, Holly was part of the Skibbereen junior women’s squad that spent eight days in a training camp in Seville. She loved it, embracing the training and the hard work – it was a glimpse into the life of a full-time rower. Holly’s journey is only beginning, but the signs are promising. Amongst her targets for 2026 is success at the Irish Rowing Championships, to add to her club’s record haul of titles.

DID YOU KNOW? Holly’s sporting exploits extend to dry land too, and in 2018 she won double gold running for Cork and Munster at the national cross-country championships!

Holly O'Flynn.

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LAURA SEXTON

ROAD BOWLING | TIMOLEAGUE | 18

THE Sexton sisters are a formidable force in road bowling, snaffling up an incredible collection of Munster and All-Ireland titles, so it was fitting that Laura, the youngest, has already carved her name into the history books: she is the first winner of the All-Ireland ladies’ junior cup, claiming the title in 2025.

That success sees Laura, who has just turned 18, move into the intermediate ranks this year, and it’s a challenge she is embracing. Laura is now in the same grade as her sister Ellen, and just one level away from her sister Hannah, a two-time Munster senior champ. Still, seeing as this is her last year at U18 level, Laura wants to go out on a high. Last year, the Timoleague bowler lost to Emma Hurley in the semi-final, so she is targeting going further in the business end of the championship.

Laura is no stranger to success, though, and previously won Munster U12 (2019) and U16 (2022) titles, and has also racked up medals in rugby – the Sacred Heart Clonakilty student and Clonakilty Rugby Club player has won nine medals between cups and leagues.

Playing at full back or on the wing, Laura is a force in rugby. This is also her last season with Clon’s U18.5 team. Wait, there’s more! Laura also plays camogie with Kilbrittain/Timoleague, and this is her last season as a minor, while she also lines out with the junior and intermediate teams. A talented teen with a busy sporting schedule!

DID YOU KNOW? Try-machine Laura scored a hat-trick of tries when Sacred Heart won the Munster Schools Girls Senior Cup final last month!

Laura Sexton.

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ÓRAN BRADY

KICKBOXING | BANTRY | 18

‘THAT’S not the norm,’ explained Óran’s coach and dad, Bernard Brady, after watching his son sign off from his junior kickboxing career with yet more gold at the 2025 WAKO Youth European Championships in Jesolo.

The double world champion in 2024 added double European gold to his incredible collection of medals, as the Bantry teen fought his way to the top of the podium in the -84kg light contact and kick light categories.

‘Óran has won major medals in three different disciplines – full contact in the ring, and light contact and kick light on the mat. Often, someone is a light contact fighter or a points fighter, but he has won in all three.’

But ION Kickboxing Club star Óran has made a habit of making the extraordinary look ordinary. A double-double kickboxing champion, the Coláiste Pobail Bheanntraí Leaving Cert student has already won 12 major international medals, as well as many national titles.

Stepping into the senior ranks, the signs are promising. He knows it’s a step up, but has the skill, temperament and determination to make an impact here, too. At the recent Italian Kickboxing World Cup, he set his sights on podium finishes, but surpassed those expectations. Óran won gold in the senior -89kg kicklight category, beating the world number one in the final. He also brought home a silver medal in senior -89kg light contact, unlucky not to win gold after a split decision.

DID YOU KNOW? Óran was crowned the 2024 West Cork Sports Star Paudie Palmer Youth Award winner after his double World success!

Oran Brady.

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CHARLIE MOORE

SOCCER | ROSSCARBERY | 15

A SOCCER journey that began with Clonakilty AFC at U7 level has taken Charlie all the way to facing Manchester United and Kai Rooney at Super Cup NI last year – and the Rosscarbery rising star is just getting started.

His early years were spent with Clonakilty and the West Cork Academy, as well as the FAI Centre of Excellence in Douglas, before Charlie caught the attention of Cobh Ramblers in 2023 and joined the club’s U13 development squad. It’s been upwards ever since.

Charlie has lined out for Cobh’s U14 and U15 teams, and the 15-year- old is currently part of the Ramblers’ U17 squad. Playing above his age group has given him the chance to develop both the technical and physical sides of his game. He was also crowned Cobh’s U14 Player of the Year after the 2024 season.

An attacking player, Charlie looks at home in the number ten role, where his skillset thrives – creative, composed on the ball and able to pick a pass, while his dribbling and finishing are key strengths. His standout performance in a 4-1 win against Cork City last season showcased his quality, as he dominated the game and provided an assist.

The Clonakilty Community College third-year has already tested himself against some of the biggest clubs in the world – and impressed. When Cobh Ramblers won the Valencia Cup in Spain in 2024, Charlie contributed five assists in five games. He was also given the green light to line out with the West Cork Academy at Super Cup NI, where he faced Manchester United and Rangers. He has also played against Celtic and St Mirren.

DID YOU KNOW? Charlie also plays football with Carbery Rangers, lining out at centre- forward or full-forward, and won a West Cork medal in 2024 and a county medal last year.

Charlie Moore.

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JULIE FINN

RUGBY | CLONAKILTY | 17

ONE of the shining stars in Clonakilty girls’ rugby crown, Julie is part of a core group spearheading Clonakilty Rugby Club’s and Sacred Heart’s superb success in recent times.

A scrumhalf since she started playing with her club at U8 level – initially on mixed boys’ and girls’ teams before moving into the girls’ set-up – Julie was part of the U16 league and cup- winning team in 2024. She then repeated the feat with the U18s last season, and earlier this year the U18s defended their league title.

A fifth-year student at Sacred Heart, Julie has racked up medals here too – winning the Munster Schools Girls Junior Cup in 2024, and stepping up to claim senior cups in 2025 and again this year.

It’s no surprise that Julie has also caught the eye at Munster level, and beyond. Involved in the Munster Regional Development squad since late 2023, the Clon teen played her first 15s interprovincial game against Connacht in 2024. She hasn’t looked back, featuring with Munster at U16 and U18 Sevens, as well as lining out in the 2024 and 2025 interprovincial competitions with the province’s U18 side.

Julie’s goal is to keep improving her game as she continues to push forward. Breaking news is that she has been named in the Ireland U18 squad for the Six Nations U18 Women’s Festival in England  – further evidence that the Clonakilty rising star is one to watch.

DID YOU KNOW? Incredibly, four Clonakilty Rugby Club players are on the Ireland U18 squad. Take a bow, Julie Finn, Lani O’Donovan, Jo McCaughey and Clodagh McCarthy!

Julie Finn.

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EMMA HURLEY

SOCCER | DRINAGH | 17

TO get a snapshot of how highly-rated Emma is, consider this: the 17-year-old Drinagh teenager is captain of Cork City Women’s U23 team competing in the inaugural League of Ireland Women’s Development League. She was surprised to be handed the armband, but it’s a clear endorsement of her potential and her rapid rise from home club Drinagh Rangers to Cork City, who she joined in early 2024.

There has always been something about Emma. Think back to the summer of 2023 when she became the first-ever local girl selected on the West Cork U14 Kennedy Cup squad. Impressively, she has kicked on ever since. Named City’s U17 Women’s Player of the Year in 2024, she stepped up to U19 last season and is now operating at U23 level, with her sights firmly set on breaking into the first team.

An all-action central midfielder, Emma relishes the defensive side of the game as much as driving forward, and her recent brace for City’s U23s in a 4-0 win against Wexford offered another glimpse of her attacking threat. Adding more goals is one of her targets this season, with the MICC Dunmanway fifth-year student constantly looking to improve.

We can’t profile Emma without mentioning her road-bowling talent – she is the reigning Munster U18 ladies champion, having previously won Munster and All-Ireland U16 titles in 2023. On the road, just like on the pitch, Emma is a force to be reckoned with.

DID YOU KNOW? Emma was crowned West Cork Sports Star Paudie Palmer Youth Award winner in 2023!

Emma Hurley.

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MATTIAS COGAN

ROWING | SCHULL | 17

RECORD-BREAKER Mattias is powering his way through Irish rowing, and doing it at a remarkable pace for a 17-year-old. The Skibbereen Rowing Club talent has made headlines for his exploits on the erg. In 2024, he set a new Irish mark in the junior 16 2000m. A year later, he raised the bar again with a national junior 18 record of 6:03.5.

At this year’s Irish Indoor Rowing Championships, Mattias smashed his own J18 2000m record with a stunning 5:52.2, underlining his growing reputation as one of the country’s most exciting young rowers.

Mattias is already making waves on the international stage. In 2025, he competed in the men’s eight at the U23 European Rowing Championships in Czechia, having earlier raced in a quad at the U19 Europeans.

The Schull Community College student is equally comfortable in smaller boats, particularly the pair and single scull. In club colours last season, he delivered a standout performance to win gold in the Junior 19 single scull at the Ghent International Regatta.

In 2026, he is targeting success at the Irish Rowing Championships, selection for the U19 European Championships in Germany and the U19 World Championships in Bulgaria, and even a tilt at the junior world 2000m record of 5:45.5.

Skibbereen’s production line of elite rowing talent looks to have unearthed another force of nature. We’ll be hearing a lot about Mattias in the years ahead.

DID YOU KNOW? Mattias was shortlisted for Rowing Ireland’s prestigious Young Male Rower of the Year award last year!

Mattias Cogan.

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LEILA CUMMINS

ATHLETICS | INNISHANNON | 15

THE club that nurtured the immense talent of Ireland’s top women’s hammer thrower, Nicola Tuthill, has another gem on their hands. Step forward, Leila, an up-and-coming hammer thrower with Bandon Athletic Club.

The Coláiste na Toirbhirte third-year student has been throwing the hammer since she was 12 years old and is turning heads, much like Tuthill did on her own rise. Leila’s stats are impressive. She threw a championship record in the U15 hammer at the nationals in 2024, and in the same year, Leila broke the Munster schools’ junior girls’ hammer record with a throw of 52.87 metres.

In 2025, the Innishannon teen threw the hammer even further, setting what was then her personal best of 53.67m (3kg hammer) at the Munster schools’ championships. On top of that, Leila won three national titles, winning gold in the National Spring Throws, intermediate schools, and U16 club championship.

Leila doesn’t need to look far for a hero – Paris Olympian and World championship finalist Nicola Tuthill has walked the same path she is currently on. Leila has the same throws coach as Tuthill, working with

Killian Barry, while her strength and conditioning coach is Roland Korom. With such a strong team behind her, Leila has the ideal platform to build on. She is making

an impression too, described as showing good promise and as a very disciplined, coachable athlete.

For the season ahead, Leila, who will compete in the U18 category, wants to keep improving, gain more experience and enjoy the journey.

DID YOU KNOW? Leila opened her 2026 season with a personal best of 55 metres at the Dunboyne Winter Throws Invitational 2026 in February and will be looking to throw further this season!

Leila Cummins.

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MOMO SHEEHY

EQUESTRIAN | INNISHANNON | 20

WORKING at their horse yard at home in Dundaniel House, Momo is living the dream. Given that she loves and competes in equestrian eventing, everything she needs is right on her doorstep.

First, what is eventing? Momo describes it as an equestrian sport broken into three disciplines: dressage, show jumping and cross-country. Both dressage and show jumping are Olympic sports on their own, and eventing, which is also an Olympic sport, is the challenge of mastering all three disciplines.

Momo has already built a reputation as one to keep a close eye on – just look at her list of accomplishments so far. The Innishannon woman was on the Irish U21 team that won a silver medal at the Eventing European Championships in Poland last year. Also, Momo has won a number of eventing internationals against senior professionals. Incredibly, she is currently ranked No. 1 in the world at U21 level.

Momo has two horses that she loves, TMX Herby and HHS Noble Call, and says HHS Noble Call is one of the coolest horses she will ever ride. Describing him as a flag-finder, he is always looking for the next jump or flags to go through. HHS Noble Call (pictured above with Momo) is one of a kind. Momo explains: ‘He brought me up the levels and through that we have built a trust that I don’t think I will ever be able to put into words.’

DID YOU KNOW? Momo has her sights set high and would love to compete in a five-star event such as Badminton or Burghley, and represent Ireland at the Olympics!

Momo Sheehy.

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ELLEN CONNOLLY

FOOTBALL | CASTLEHAVEN | 17

HAILING from football country, Ellen is flying the Castlehaven flag high at county level, with the Cork minor team. She was a member of the extended county panel that won the All-Ireland title last season, and Ellen is playing a more central role this season as a starter.

The talented Haven young gun is no stranger to success either – just look at her haul with club, school and county, as well as Community Games!

Ellen started her inter-county adventure at U14 level in 2022, and picked up a Munster medal that season before there was an All-Ireland final heartbreak later in the campaign.

But the Skibbereen Community School fifth-year student was an All-Ireland winner in 2025, helping her school to senior A glory; a magical day for Ellen who has racked up numerous county and Munster titles with Skibbereen CS.

Favouring either wing forward or midfield, Ellen has also enjoyed success with her club, winning

West Cork titles at U14, U16 and minor. She was also named player of the match in both the U14 and minor finals. Wait, there’s more!

Ellen, just 15, came on as a sub for Castlehaven when they won the 2023 county senior B title, and enjoying more good days out with her club is one of her aims, including the upcoming county U21A final against Mourneabbey.

DID YOU KNOW? A star on land and water, Ellen won an All-Ireland coastal rowing medal and an Aldi All-Ireland Community Games football medal on the same weekend!

Ellen Connolly.

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ROBERT CRONIN

MOTORSPORT | BALLYLICKEY | 21

ROBERT is certainly moving in the fast lane in motor racing, and after competing in the Porsche Sprint Challenge GB series last year, he is switching cars and teams for 2026. He will line out in the European GT4 series at the wheel of a Race Lab McLaren Artura GT4, with younger brother Colin as his co-driver.

Just like last year, Robert will also compete in rallying – this time in the all-new Stellantis Cup Ireland series and the Motorsport Ireland Junior Rally Series (MIJRS), driving a TGM (Tom Gahan Motorsport)-prepared Opel Corsa Rally4.

The European GT4 series will take in some of the most iconic circuits in Europe, beginning at Paul Ricard in France, before stops at Monza, Spa-Francorchamps, Misano, Zandvoort and finishing in Portimão. His rally calendar is also a six-event programme that began with the Birr Rally last weekend, and includes Carlow, Tipperary Stonethrowers, Galway, Wexford and the Donegal Harvest Rally.

The GT4 series features two 60-minute sprint races per weekend, both requiring a mandatory pit stop and driver change. Having his brother Colin as a team-mate was no great surprise. Robert explained:

‘It was something we were considering for quite a while. We did two rounds of the Winter Series just to get the feel of the car – it’s not that different from the Porsche, they are both very quick.’ As was the case last year, the racing championship is his priority. (BY MARTIN WALSH)

DID YOU KNOW? Robert also plays football with his club St Colum’s and was man of the match in their Carbery U21B football championship final win last year!

Robert Cronin.

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CLODAGH McCARTHY

RUGBY | CLONAKILTY | 18

THERE’S a good reason why Clodagh, an all-rounder, has decided to focus on rugby: the Clonakilty teen is one of the top talents in Munster. One of four Clonakilty Rugby Club players selected for the Six Nations U18 Women’s Festival that kicks off this week, Clodagh has juggled rugby, camogie, football and hockey, but rugby has her full attention now.

Playing with Clonakilty Rugby Club since she was five years old, Clodagh has developed through the ranks to a level where the Sacred Heart Clonakilty Leaving Cert student was involved with the Munster senior women’s squad that won the 2025 interpros.

The talented teen can play in every position in the back line, apart from out-half. Playing 13 (outside centre) brings the best out of Clodagh – it allows her to distribute the ball wide but also make line breaks when the opportunity arises. Her skills have been honed at club level, where Clodagh has enjoyed huge success in recent years.

With Clon, she won the Munster U16 Cup in 2024, the U18.5 league and cup in 2025 and the U18.5 league this season, while with her school Clodagh has been involved in numerous winning teams – she is one of six players to have won three Munster Schools Senior Cups in a row (2024 to ’26). Clodagh also captained the Sacred Heart 7s team that won the All-Ireland Schools 7s in 2025. She also captained the West Cork team that won the Zara Horan tournament in February.

Involved with Munster teams since 2023, one of Clodagh’s targets is to earn her first Munster senior cap – on this evidence, she might not have to wait too long.

DID YOU KNOW? Because club rugby is U18.5 and school rugby is U19, this season Clodagh played on the same team as her younger sister Keelin for the first time. They lined out together for club, school and Zara Horan teams.

Clodagh McCarthy.

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SHANE CROWLEY

ROAD BOWLING | SCHULL | 19

SHANE’S surge to All-Ireland U18 boys’ road bowling glory was one of the sporting stories of last year, given the backstory.

Having lost the All-Ireland decider the previous year, he was determined to take that final step. He delivered, beating Tyrone’s Eoghan McVeigh in the final in Armagh.

‘After losing the 2024 final, I didn’t want to lose two in a row,’ Shane said, as he showed remarkable resilience, steel and skill to scale his Everest one year after suffering disappointment. What made it even more special is that it was a moment that he got to share with his family and friends. It was a major milestone for the Schull teen who now has an All-Ireland U18 title to go with his back-to-back Munster U18 crowns.

Another notable event last year was sharing the same stage as road bowling’s elite at the King and Queen of the Roads Festival in Ballincurrig. Shane teamed up with Emma Hurley to take on Dutch and German bowlers in the International Triple Crown – and the West Cork duo won, underlining their potential on the big stage.

Stepping up to the junior grade this year, Shane, now 19, is targeting a run in the junior A championship, as he tries to make his mark at adult level. Given his underage success, he is certainly to keep an eye on.

DID YOU KNOW? Ballydehob is Shane’s favourite road to bowl on!

Shane Crowley.

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CAOIMHE FLANNERY

ATHLETICS | CASTLEHAVEN | 18

SO, how do you improve on your best-ever year? That’s the challenge Caoimhe has accepted, determined to kick on after a memorable 2025 season saw the Castlehaven teenager smash a national record on her way to gold in the senior girls’ 1500m steeplechase at the All-Ireland Schools Track and Field Championships. It was one of many standout moments in a magical year.

On her run to schools’ gold, Caoimhe set three 1500m steeplechase records (South Munster, Munster and All-Ireland) in four weeks. In fact, she currently holds five school records in her event.

Last summer, Caoimhe turned her attention to the club 3000m steeplechase and qualified to represent Ireland at the European Athletics U20 Championships in Finland – another notable step in her journey. There, she ran a five-second personal best (10:30.33) to qualify for the final, where she finished 13th, despite a fall at the last water jump.

Next, Caoimhe was selected for Athletics Ireland’s Performance Pathway Programme, which supports young athletes with the potential to progress to senior level.

This year, Caoimhe is juggling her Leaving Cert at Skibbereen Community School with athletics. She was on a warm-weather training camp in Portugal in February, before travelling to Spain during the Easter holidays. May has all the hallmarks of a hectic month – Caoimhe has three schools races, as well as a 3000m flat in Clonmel and a 3000m steeplechase in Brussels lined up, but she’ll take it all in her stride.

DID YOU KNOW? Caoimhe has won two All-Ireland schools’ gold medals – at intermediate in 2022 and senior in 2025!

Caoimhe Flannery.

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TIMMY CULLINANE

FOOTBALL | BALLINASCARTHY | 19

A CORK U20 footballer for the third season in a row, this is Timmy’s fourth year on the bounce involved with county squads – he was with the minors in 2023 when the young Rebels lost an All-Ireland quarter-final to Dublin.

With this his final season at U20 level, the Carbery Rangers forward is determined to sign off on a high. He has his sights set on prising the Munster title from Kerry, who denied Timmy and Co in his previous two U20 campaigns.

A former Clonakilty Community College footballer who lined out in the Corn Uí Mhuirí for three years, Timmy is now studying biological sciences in UCC. He featured for the college’s freshers team this season, another step forward on his journey.

While last season’s county championship was a tough one for Carbery Rangers, Timmy played in all of their games – finishing the Cork PSFC campaign with 1-10. Only John O’Rourke and Paul Hodnett scored more for the Rosscarbery side. Starting against teams like eventual county champions St Finbarr’s showed Timmy the standard required at the top level.

Getting Rangers back to premier senior, to go hand-in-hand with a strong senior A campaign, is another target when the club championship comes into focus.

Also, Timmy lines out in hurling with Ballinascarthy and scored 0-2 in their Carbery JAHC final win against Kilbree last season.

DID YOU KNOW? Golf fan Timmy works as a greenskeeper at Clonakilty Golf Club!

Timmy Cullinane.

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OISÍN O’CONNOR

WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL | KEALKILL | 18

‘I LIKED basketball before my injury, but I was mostly GAA. Now I love it. I’ve tried other sports but wheelchair basketball suits me best,’ Oisín explained in a chat with this paper following his latest IWA National Cup success with the Rebel Wheelers in January.

Too strong for South East Swifts, the Rebel Wheelers – based in Cork city – made it seven national cup titles in a row, and the Kealkill teenager has been involved in the last four.

‘This year was probably my favourite year,’ he said, as Oisín continues to improve and develop, highlighted by increased minutes on the court for his club. He was also involved with Paralympics Ireland at the European Para Youth Games in Istanbul last summer, further evidence that his talent is being recognised.

Sports-mad Oisín was just 14 years old when he suffered a serious spinal injury at a mountain bike event in September 2021. Turning to the hard court, wheelchair basketball has provided the Coláiste Pobail Bheanntraí student with the sporting outlet he was looking for.

Oisín has a busy few weeks ahead, as the Rebel Wheelers host the IWBF EuroCup Group 4 qualifiers this month (April 23rd to 26th), with teams from Greece, England, Portugal and The Netherlands travelling to Cork. He will also be involved with Ireland at a U23 invitational tournament in Barcelona in July. Before that, he is keen to drive the Rebel Wheelers on in the league.

DID YOU KNOW? Oisín’s dad, Wesley O’Connor – well known locally from his time with St Colum’s GAA – is also involved with the Rebel Wheelers as a coach.

Oisín O'Connor.

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MAIREAD WHELTON

CAMOGIE & FOOTBALL | BARRYROE | 16

A DUAL talent on the rise, Mairead is making her mark in both camogie and football at underage level with Cork. Having lined out in camogie for the Rebels at U14 in 2024 and U15 in 2025, the Sacred Heart Secondary School transition year student has switched her focus to football this season, playing with the Cork U16A team. Centre back is Mairead’s favoured position, where her reading of the game, composure and leadership stand out. It’s a role she has grown into since starting her camogie journey with Barryroe, before adding football with Ibane Ladies in 2022.

Success has followed. With Cork camogie, Mairead was part of the U15A Shield Munster-winning team, while this year’s football campaign has already seen Cork U16As win their opening three championship games to put themselves firmly in contention for a place in the Munster final.

At club level, 2025 was a standout year. Mairead captained the Barryroe U16 Premier 2 camogie team to a clean sweep of county championship, league and Summer Cup titles, and also played on the minor side that won their league.

With Ibane Ladies last season, she collected an impressive haul of silverware, including U15A West Cork, U16B county championship, minor B West Cork and U16 West Cork honours.

In school, Mairead was part of the Sacred Heart team that won the county junior camogie title, and is currently chasing more success in both football and camogie competitions. With ambitions to reach a Munster final – and beyond – with Cork football, Mairead is a name to watch.

DID YOU KNOW? Mairead also has an All-Ireland silver medal in rowing with Courtmacsherry.

Mairead Whelton.