Airport support sees Ballincollig U15s in flying form for finals

A young local hurling team is about to represent Cork at the All-Ireland Féile na nGael finals this weekend, and Cork Airport is backing them all the way.

The Ballincollig U15 Féile na nGael hurling team is heading for the finals in O’Moore Park, Portlaoise, this weekend, where they face Naas and Lismore at national level.

The team will be among more than 200 club teams, made up of thousands of young players, taking part in one of the largest underage sporting events in Europe.

The John West Féile finals draw teams from across the globe and are credited with boosting interest in Gaelic games among children from non-Irish backgrounds.

The Ballincollig squad, who have played together since under-five level, produced an excellent Féile campaign, beating teams from Carrigtwohill, Blackrock, Bandon and Shandrum to reach the knock-out stages.

A semi-final victory over Sarsfields set up a final rematch with Shandrum, where the Ballincollig squad emerged victorious.

This weekend, Ballincollig will face strong opposition from Naas in Co Kildare, and Lismore in Co Waterford, with one team progressing to the cup semi-finals.

Cork Airport is supporting the team through its airport community fund, assisting with travel and logistic costs ahead of the national competition.

Denis Twomey, team manager, thanked Cork Airport for its backing through the community fund.

“This support is hugely appreciated as the team prepares to represent Cork at a national level,” he said.

O’Driscoll, deputy managing director of Cork Airport said all at the airport wished the Ballincollig U15 team every success.

“We’re very proud to be supporting the Ballincollig U15 hurlers as they travel to Portlaoise this weekend, representing Cork at the John West Féile na nGael finals,” he said.

“This team have had a stellar run this year, overcoming many strong opponents in qualifying for the Féile. On behalf of all of the team at Cork Airport, we wish them the very best of luck.”