Gooch brings star quality as St James’ lands €5,000 club boost

St James’ GAA has been rewarded for its contribution to community life after landing a €5,000 funding boost and a special visit from Kerry football legend Colm ‘Gooch’ Cooper.

The Ardfield club was unveiled as the winner of Solgar’s All-Ireland ‘Train Like A Legend, Support Your Club’ competition, an initiative designed to highlight the work carried out by GAA clubs, volunteers and coaches across the country.

As part of the prize, Cooper travelled to West Cork last Saturday to put St James’ underage players through their paces during a unique coaching session.

The event attracted players, parents, mentors and supporters, with the former Kerry star taking time to work with the club’s young footballers while also recognising the importance of volunteers and families in sustaining local GAA clubs.

The competition was launched by Solgar, the official vitamin partner of the GAA/GPA, at the beginning of the 2026 championship season as part of celebrations marking the company’s 40th anniversary.

In addition to the coaching session, St James’ received €5,000 towards club improvements, funding that will be directed towards enhancing facilities used by players of all ages and ensuring the club remains a welcoming hub within the local community.

Therese O’Shea, chairperson of St James’ GAA, said the visit from Cooper and the financial support represented a major boost for the club.

“We were overjoyed to welcome Colm Cooper to the club and to provide our players with the opportunity to learn directly from one of the game’s most accomplished figures,” she said.

“The session offered valuable guidance, encouragement and practical insights that will support the players’ continued development and make the occasion particularly memorable.

“The €5,000 award is a significant investment in our club and will contribute to enhancing the facilities and opportunities available to players of all ages.” 

Five-time All-Ireland winner Cooper said he was impressed by the enthusiasm shown by the St James’ players and emphasised the central role local clubs continue to play within communities.

“It was a privilege to work with the players of St James’ in Cork and to see first-hand their skill, commitment and enthusiasm for the game,” he said.

“Local club players are at the heart of the GAA, and the opportunity to support their development is particularly meaningful.

“Clubs such as St James’ provide players of all ages with a place to learn, compete and develop, while also bringing families, volunteers and generations of supporters together.” 

Jessica Gyateng, marketing director for Solgar, said the initiative was intended to recognise clubs whose influence stretches far beyond sporting activity.

“We are delighted to recognise the winning club and the important role it plays in bringing people together,” she said.

“GAA clubs are sustained by the commitment of players, coaches, volunteers, families and supporters, and their contribution extends far beyond the pitch.

“Solgar is proud to continue to support memorable experiences for the players and provide an investment that will deliver a lasting benefit for the wider community.”