Cork Primary Cup returns with 105 schools and 2,000 children taking part

The Cork Primary Cup competition returned last week for the 2026/2027 school year following a hugely successful inaugural season, with participation growing from 70 to 105 schools across the county.

Providing boys and girls with the opportunity to represent their schools, develop their footballing skills and enjoy the benefits of team sport, the competition continues to make a significant impact on primary school football in Cork.

With approximately 2,000 children expected to take part, the Cork Primary Cups highlight the importance of inclusion, participation and creating lasting memories through sport, while helping to build a strong foundation for the future of football in the county.

The idea behind the competition came from Alan Bennett, who brought the 11-a-side primary school tournament to life last year. Conor Kerins, a teacher from Carrigtwohill CNS has now taken over the reins and with his enthusiastic personality, I’ve no doubt it will continue to be a success.

“One of the greatest strengths of the Cork Primary Cups is the opportunity it provides to children who may not otherwise have access to organised football outside of school,” said Kerins. School sport can play a vital role in ensuring that every child has the chance to participate, regardless of their circumstances or previous experience of the game. 

"By creating an inclusive environment where children can compete, learn and enjoy football, the competition helps to strengthen the connection between schools and sport across Cork.” 

Providing young players with more opportunities and pathways to develop their skills can only benefit the future of football in Cork. Beyond improving their technical ability, children learn valuable lessons about teamwork, communication and respect.

The success of last year's competition also demonstrated the importance of maintaining that enthusiasm throughout the school year.

“The Cork Primary Cups worked hand in hand with the FAI Primary 5s programme, ensuring that children had continued opportunities to participate in football across different formats. By keeping young players engaged throughout the year, both initiatives helped sustain motivation and excitement for the game in schools.

For many of the children involved, the competition has already become one of their favourite memories from their primary school years. 

"That speaks volumes about the impact school sport can have. Giving children the chance to play alongside their classmates, represent their school and share in the excitement of competition creates experiences that can stay with them long after their school days are over. The value of providing these opportunities is difficult to measure, but the benefits are clear.

Visionary

“A huge thank you must go to Alan Bennett, whose vision and determination brought this competition to fruition before he moved to his involvement with Cork City.

“There has also been tremendous support behind the scenes to ensure the smooth running of the tournament. Jonathan Coughlan and Aisling Finn have been excellent in their roles as fixture secretaries, maintaining communication with the many schools involved. Aiden Twomey has provided invaluable support in answering questions on behalf of the FAI, while John Collins has been a fantastic supporter and coordinator, helping guide the overall success of the competition.

“A special mention must also go to Mark O’Connell and Anthony West, whose work in helping to ensure that every game is officiated by official Cork referees has been invaluable to the competition. Their support provides reassurance to the organisers, schools, players and parents that each fixture is being managed appropriately, with the safety and well-being of the children remaining a priority. 

Having qualified referees involved in every game helps maintain the standards of the tournament while allowing the children to enjoy their football in a safe, organised and positive environment.” 

As the 2026/2027 competition gets underway, the focus remains on giving as many children as possible the chance to participate, enjoy football and create memories with their classmates. Schools that have not yet entered are always welcome to get involved by contacting Kerins, with the hope of increasing participation even further next year. If the success of the first two seasons is anything to go by, the future of the Cork Primary Cups looks incredibly bright.