Special Olympics Munster Football Cup highlights all that is great about sport

The Special Olympics Munster Football Cup 2025 was again another remarkable event that brought together athletes, volunteers, and spectators for a day of competitive and inclusive football that was held at the MTU Stadium.

The tournament featured teams from various counties in Munster and Kilkenny showcasing a huge spirit of sportsmanship and leadership.

The tournament saw participation from seven clubs, Ballincollig, Waterford, Kerry Stars, Carriglea, Mallow United, Tipperary and Horizons Leeds AFC.

The tournament featured four men’s divisions and one ladies division with teams competing fiercely to win the coveted Football Cup and qualify for the Ireland Games next year.

Eoin O’Beara of the Munster Special Olympic committee spoke highly of everyone who attended the event and enjoyed themselves in what was another special day for all the athletes.

“Once again there was a very special atmosphere at MTU for our annual soccer tournament,” Eoin said.

“The event was again supported by volunteers from Johnson & Johnson, who again kindly sponsored the event and who were instrumental in setting up the goals, erecting the corner flags and marquees, providing catering and ensuring the smooth running of the tournament. 

"This year marked the 21st anniversary of Johnson & Johnson’s volunteering efforts with the Special Olympics, a milestone that was celebrated with much enthusiasm and appreciation.

“There were several memorable moments during the tournament.

"One of the standout moments was a stunning long-range goal by an impressive player from Mallow, Billy Gallagher, who scored a wonder goal from inside his own half, which drew cheers from the crowd and set the tone for an exciting day of football. 

"Another highlight was when Horizons Leeds player Alex Farmer scored an impressive four-goal haul in their victory over Waterford. 

"However, it was the parade before the tournament that was led by the two pipers Fionnuala O’Leary and Grainne Walsh that was the most poignant highlight of the day as all the athletes, referees and volunteers all marched proudly around the arena.

“The camaraderie and sportsmanship displayed by all teams were truly inspiring.

“Again, I want to that Timmy Kelleher and his 12 referees, who gave up their time for free again, however, I would like to give a special mention to Denis Morley, although he is batting illness, he still arrived in his gear to help his fellow officials in what is his 23rd year attending our event. "Also, I would like to thank the members of the Order of Malta, our own staff, the pipers from the Ballyphehane Pipe Band, the members of the FAI who also attended and our friends of the Echo newspaper for giving us incredible coverage over the years.

“The Special Olympics Munster Football Cup 2025 was again testament to the power of sports in bringing people together and promoting inclusivity. 

"The dedication of the athletes, the support of the volunteers, the professionalism of the officials, and the involvement of the community made this event a memorable and successful for everyone involved,” O’Beara added.

At the end of such a special day for all the athletes it was Ballincollig 1 who won the Division 1 title, while Horizons Leeds came second, Waterford 1 came third and Mallow A came in fourth. 

In the Division 2 event, Waterford 2 claimed first prize, Carriglea came second and Ballincollig 2 took third position. 

It was a great day for the Mallow club as they also won the Division 3 event with Tipperary taking second spot. 

In the Division 4 event, it was Waterford 3 who took the honours with Horizons/Leeds 2 finishing in second place.