Ballinrobe school to celebrate at Sports Stars
Ballinrobe Community School's remarkable achievement in capturing the 2026 All-Ireland Post-Primary Schools Senior ‘C’ title represents far more than a sporting success. It is the rekindling of a proud tradition that has long been woven into the fabric of Mayo football.
When Ballinrobe Community School opened its doors in 1990, few could have imagined the golden era that would follow. Within a year, the school began a remarkable journey that became known as the ‘Nine in the Nineties’, securing nine All-Ireland titles and establishing itself as one of the foremost nurseries of ladies football talent in the country. Many of those successful players would go on to help Mayo enjoy unprecedented success on the national stage, among them Sinéad Stagg (née Costello) who more than three decades later, helped history come full circle.
Under the guidance of the former All-Ireland winner and current Mayo LGFA chairperson, this outstanding group of young footballers has restored Ballinrobe Community School to the summit of schools football. Fittingly, many of the team’s players are daughters of those who helped create the school's rich footballing legacy, highlighting the enduring strength of football traditions in South Mayo.
Indeed for the majority of the team it was their second All-Ireland victory in the school colours having won the Junior ‘C’ title back in 2024 when storming to a 24 points win against St Mary’s of Macroom.
The journey to Ballinrobe Community School’s latest All-Ireland glory was impressive in every respect. After claiming the Connacht title with a five points win over Headford’s Presentation College, Ballinrobe displayed resilience, character and quality throughout the knockout stages, overcoming Dominican College, Fortwilliam after extra-time in a dramatic semi-final before producing a commanding performance in the All-Ireland final against St Anne's Secondary School of Tipperary.
Despite late venue changes and difficult conditions, Ballinrobe delivered a superb display to record a convincing 2-9 to 0-4 victory. Defensively, they were outstanding, with the likes of Kayla Hughes, Sari Vahey and Lola Tiernan helping to keep their opponents scoreless from play. Further forward, Kate Brennan, Chloe Stagg, Maura Hughes and Ursula Shaughnessy provided the scores that secured victory and ensured the All-Ireland trophy returned to Mayo.
This Mayo Sports Stars Award proudly recognises a team that honoured its past, inspired its present and created memories that will endure for generations. Ballinrobe Community School are worthy All-Ireland champions and deserving recipients of this special recognition.
