Academy graduate Lucas Curtin showed his potential in first start for Cobh Ramblers

It was a night to remember at St Colman’s Park against Dundalk for young defender Lucas Curtin. 

The 19-year-old delivered a commanding performance on his first senior start for Cobh Ramblers, earning the Player of the Match award and the admiration of fans and teammates.

Having come through the club’s youth system over the past four years, his performance at left back on Friday night marked a proud milestone in what has already been a remarkable journey for the Blackrock native. It was the realisation of years of dedication, hard work, and a deep-rooted love of the game.

“It meant a lot to me and my family to get my first start, especially at home in front of the fans,” said Curtin. “I was happy to play the full game because it’s more first-team minutes under my belt. I was satisfied with my performance and getting Man of the Match was an added bonus because the other left-backs have been really good this season.” 

He began his journey at Ringmahon Rangers, where he played from U7 up to U14. Known early on for his athleticism, technical quality, and calmness on the ball, he stood out in Cork’s schoolboys scene.

He made the move to Cobh Ramblers’ U15 squad, taking his first steps into the League of Ireland. 

A season later, he returned to Ringmahon at U16 level — and it turned out to be a pivotal year. Lucas helped his team to a league and cup double, and his performances didn’t go unnoticed. He was honoured as the Cork Schoolboys Player of the Year.

After his triumphant season back at Ringmahon, Curtin returned to Cobh Ramblers U17s, where he continued to impress with his energy, intelligence, and ability to influence games from the back. His efforts earned him the U17 Player of the Year.

Two strong seasons followed with the U20s. The 2024 campaign in particular saw Lucas mature further, becoming one of the standout performers as the team enjoyed a successful season. 

That was rewarded late in 2024, when Lucas made his senior debut for Cobh Ramblers against Wexford. 

BACKING

Sport runs deep in the Curtin household. Both his parents played sport, his mother, Lisa a talented sports star in her teens at both basketball and athletics while his sisters both excel at camogie. Their backing has been crucial to his development.

“I was over the moon to receive Player of the Match because it showed I was able for the level and my family was in attendance,” Lucas said. “They’ve always supported me — from my first game at Ringmahon to now. It was a special night for all of us.” 

Transitioning from academy to senior football can be a challenge for any young player.

“At the start it was tough playing senior as the standard was higher than I was used to, but as the season went on I was able to settle in,” he explained. 

We’re having a good year with the 20s, so the manager was able to trust us when he wanted to rest players.” 

His maturity, tactical discipline, and strong work ethic have allowed him to close that gap quickly. Friday night’s performance was a reflection of how far he’s come.

Lucas is now at the end of his fourth year with Cobh Ramblers, having represented the club at U15, U17, and U20 levels before stepping up to the senior team. 

“I’ve played at 15s, 17s, and two years at 20s,” he said. It’s been a big change coming from my schoolboys team Ringmahon Rangers. I’ve won Player of the Year at U17s, made my first team debut last season, and now my full debut this season. It’s been a great journey so far.” 

For Cobh Ramblers supporters, seeing academy graduates like Curtin break through to the senior team is always special. It speaks to the strength of the club’s youth pathway and its ability to nurture local talent. For Lucas, Friday night was both an achievement and a starting point.

He has set no limits on what he can achieve in the game. For now, the focus is on continuing to develop, earning more minutes in the senior side, and building on the momentum.

If his trajectory so far is anything to go by, Cobh Ramblers fans can expect to see plenty more of Lucas Curtin in the seasons to come.

“This is just the start,” he smiled. “Hopefully I can keep working hard, get more opportunities, and help the team as much as I can.”