Clonakilty Community College rewarded after Simcox Cup success 

While the season did end in disappointment for Clonakilty Community College, it was a campaign to remember.

The senior football team won the Cork Simcox Cup title for the very first time in their history after defeating Coláiste Choilm Ballincollig in the final at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh last December.

That particular competition is always extremely difficult to win and always a sweet one to win. For the second season on the trot, there was first-time winners of the Simcox Cup.

Clonakilty Community College followed Hamilton High School Bandon to win the title.

Micheál O’Sullivan’s charges would have also targeted a sustained run in the Corn Uí Mhuirí competition. They did win their three group games to top their respective group.

Unfortunately from their point of view, they fell at the quarter-final stage when CBS High School Clonmel won on a scoreline of 1-6 to 0-5 last month at Páirc Uí Rinn.

The loss hasn’t put a dampener on what was a great season for Clonakilty Community College. It has been a wonderful experience for all of the players.

To reward the players and management, the primary sponsor of the senior team, Hennessy Timber Group, sponsored a leisure top for all involved with winning the Simcox Cup in 2025.

Hennessy Timber Group is currently run by Aidan Hennessy, a past pupil of Clonakilty Community College.

He was approached originally to gauge interest, but it has since blossomed into a fruitful partnership between the respective parties.

He gave a statement to The Echo with regards to his sponsorship and rewarding the Simcox Cup heroes.

“Clonakilty Community College has had a significant influence on my family and me over the years. As a former student, and with both of my sons attending/attended the school — Ronan currently in sixth year and Patrick now studying at Munster Technological University — it’s a place we feel deeply connected to.

“It was great to have been asked a few years back to come on board as a sponsor for the team jerseys, and again now for the new tops. I’m proud to be able to support the senior football team and contribute positively to the wider school community. 

"Their achievement in securing the Simcox Cup is a testament to their hard work, commitment and determination. Sport plays a vital role in the development of young people, helping to build leadership skills, confidence and teamwork.

“As Hennessy Timber Group celebrates 25 years in business, we are also pleased to welcome local students working part-time with us in Ahamilla in Clonakilty. Supporting young talent and maintaining strong community ties continues to be an important part of who we are.”