Mallow's David Walsh secures his second Southern Classic title

Mallow’s David Walsh made the perfect start to his 2026/27 4-Wall handball season by capturing his second Southern Classic title after a thrilling three-game victory over reigning All-Ireland Senior Champion Robbie McCarthy.

Competing on his home court in Mallow and the neighbouring Liscarroll Handball Club, Walsh produced an outstanding weekend of handball to lift the prestigious Michael Jordan Cup, overcoming some of the country’s top players and underlining his credentials ahead of another busy season.

The Southern Classic remains one of the most respected events on the handball calendar and once again attracted a strong field featuring many of Ireland’s leading senior players. 

With ranking points and early-season momentum on offer, competition was fierce throughout the weekend, but Walsh looked focused and in control from his opening match.

The Mallow man began his campaign with a dominant 15-4, 15-0 victory over Monaghan’s Oran Kiernan.

A quarter-final clash with defending champion Kyle Jordan of Kilkenny represented a sterner challenge, but Walsh again produced a polished display.

An all-Cork semi-final against Daniel Relihan followed, ensuring at least one local player would contest the showpiece decider. Relihan tested Walsh throughout, particularly in the opening game, but the Mallow native responded well at key moments to emerge with a 15-12, 15-8 victory. 

Awaiting him was McCarthy, a multiple-time All-Ireland Senior champion and widely regarded as one of the finest players in the game.

With the title hanging in the balance, Walsh produced some of his best handball of the weekend to prevail. 

Reflecting on the final, Walsh was full of praise for his opponent.

“I wasn’t surprised Robbie clawed his way back into the match. He’s the number one ranked player in Ireland, a multiple-time and current All-Ireland Senior Champion, so you know he’s never going to go away. I was very fortunate to get over the line in the end.” 

The victory carried extra significance given the opportunity to compete in familiar surroundings.

“It’s great to win the first ranking event of the season here in Cork, especially getting to play on my home court. 

"It’s the only competition throughout the year where I get that opportunity, so it’s one I always really enjoy. It’s a great way to start the season and get off on the right foot.” 

Looking further ahead, Walsh is excited for what is to come.

“It’s a big year ahead. We’ve the Golden Gloves in Belfast followed by the Irish Nationals in Clare at the end of November before we head into the Championship season."