Hamilton High School Bandon receive their medals following historic Simcox Cup success

Cork’s 2010 All-Ireland winner Alan Quirke last week presented medals to the Hamilton High School Bandon senior football team after a very successful playing season.

The function took place at the Munster Arms Hotel in Bandon to reward Hammies for winning the Simcox Cup for the first time in their history back in March.

They got the better of West Cork rivals Skibbereen Community School in the decider by two points, which sparked wild celebrations. Overall, it was a very positive season for Hamilton High School as they were also the last Cork team standing in the Corn Uí Mhuirí as they reached the semi-final stage.

They were well beaten by the eventual winners Mercy Mounthawk Tralee, which made the Simcox Cup triumph more impressive as they had to recover from the 2-19 to 0-5 defeat.

While there was a positive vibe in the room with a large crowd in attendance as the players received their medals, there was also sadness at the loss of one of Hamilton High School’s best players, Oisín Gillain.

The midfielder passed away suddenly seven days after the Simcox Cup success. He was a key player on the team from the very start of the season. He showed his character and determination that despite carrying an injury, the Kilbrittain player came on in the final to help his team over the line.

Oisín's parents Christophe and Catherine and sister Sinéad were in attendance and were presented by the school with a framed picture of Oisín in action for the Hammies this season. It was a lovely gesture and it brought everyone in the room to its feet.

The team manager Paddy Lordan spoke at length at the function, speaking glowingly about his players and their commitment from the very first day they went back training in preparation for the season.

Lordan also spoke passionately about the late Oisín Gillain and how much of a loss he will be. He said Oisín was a real leader in the dressing room and on the field of play.

Alan Quirke, who was the guest speaker, the former Cork football goalkeeper was a past pupil of Hamilton High School Bandon and he spoke of his honour at being invited to such a special occasion.

He praised the players for winning the Simcox Cup for the first time and said the achievement will be talked about for years and years to come and will bring the group even closer.

Quirke credited the management team for instilling a belief into the players that had always been around the school. 

The Valley Rovers clubman finished his speech by pleading with the players to mind themselves in the weeks and months ahead on the back of the sad passing of Oisín Gillain.