MTU Cork are back in the county football championship and looking to make an impression

Ahead of their Round 1 fixture in the unseeded divisions/colleges section of the McCarthy Insurance Group Premier SFC against Imokilly, MTU Cork manager Brian Kelleher says the return to the competition has been driven by player demand and a desire to provide meaningful game time at the highest level.

The encounter takes place this evening in Carrigtwohill at 8pm. MTU Cork return having last competed in 2022 and before that was 2019.

Kelleher, who is involved as an analyst with the Cork footballers, pointed to a strong cohort within the MTU Cork panel, many of whom impressed during last season’s Sigerson Cup campaign. 

“There’s a good group of young lads there with a real interest in playing football,” he said.

“They had a decent Sigerson Cup campaign last season and ran UL close in one of the earlier rounds, so there’s a solid base to build from.

“It’s about giving them as many games as possible and the chance to play at the highest level. A lot of these lads wouldn’t otherwise get the opportunity to play in the Cork county senior championship, so it’s a big step up for them.” 

MTU Cork GAA development officer Kevin O’Callaghan had previously indicated in 2024 that they might not return under the existing structure, citing the rules around eligibility. However, changes to the format for this year proved decisive.

“There was a combination of factors,” Kelleher noted of MTU Cork making a return.

“The players were very keen, and the revised structure helped. The divisional section being played as an early knockout round means we’re starting sooner, while lads are still in college, which makes it more accessible. That change has definitely been positive for us.

“We’re delighted the county board has allowed us back into the competition, but that eligibility rule does limit us.

“We don’t have an even spread of players across the divisions. For example, we might have a stronger group from areas like Muskerry or Carbery, and there are lads there who aren’t involved with their divisional panels that we’d love to include, but we simply can’t.

“It might be something to look at down the line perhaps allowing divisions to name their panels first, and then any players outside that could be made available to teams like ourselves. It’s not straightforward, but it’s worth considering.

“Our aim is to give these lads as many meaningful games as possible, help them develop, and send them back to their clubs as better, more experienced players. We’re lucky to have a group that’s fully committed and eager to play.” 

The MTU Cork boss is pleased with the preparation with all things considered ahead of such a crucial fixture with Imokilly where it’s winner-takes-all.

“We’ve had a few matches and training sessions, and the lads have made a great effort. They’re getting good quality work with their clubs as well, so when they come in to us, they’re in a strong place.

“We’re under no illusions regarding the game against Imokilly. They have a great history in football and some very experienced players who’ve played senior championship.

“For us, it’s about getting the lads out playing football and giving it everything. We want to see as many players as possible expressing themselves and having a real go.

“It’s great to be back in action, and hopefully we can build on this and grow it into something bigger over the next few years.”