Kilbrittain have a ball as historic season is celebrated in style

Wed, 25 Feb, 2026 - 08:15

Denis Hurley

An odyssey that began in west Cork and went all the way to Croke Park was relived in style by Kilbrittain GAA Club last Friday night.

The club’s 2025 season will be remembered forever – so memorable that it ran on into 2026 as the Ambers followed victory in the Co-op SuperStores Premier JHC with the AIB Munster club title and then, in January, the All-Ireland.

Kilbrittain GAA Club officials and special guests at the club's victory celebrations. Back, left to right: Main sponsor Denis Cronin, assistant secretary Lorna Ryan, committee member Tom Brennan, Seán Kelly MEP, committee members Susan O'Brien and Jim Hurley. Front: Player rep James Hurley, Fr Pontianus Jafla Vitalis, secretary Marion Twohig, chairperson Dermot Hayes, president Con Healy, communications officer Emma Desmond, committee member Denis Healy and treasurer Oliver O'Brien. Picture: Martin Walsh

Such was the demand for the annual dinner-dance that a venue change to Rochestown Park Hotel had to be arranged and it felt like the entire parish was transposed to the city for an evening of enjoyment and camaraderie.

Enjoying the Kilbrittain celebrations were, left to right, Tom and Eileen Brennan with Geraldine and John O'Regan. Picture: Martin Walsh

With Ciarán Murphy of Second Captains as a master of ceremonies par excellence, the crowd of more than 500 people were kept entertained throughout.

Speakers included special guest Seán Kelly MEP – who did so much to bring the All-Ireland intermediate and junior club championships to fruition as GAA President – Cork County Board chairperson Pat Horgan, Carbery board chairperson David White and club chairperson Dermot Hayes.

Bernard and Noelle Madden enjoying the Kilbrittain celebrations. Picture: Martin Walsh

In addition, team manager Joe Ryan and captain Philip Wall were interviewed by Ciarán Murphy, providing insights into a campaign that will never be forgotten.