'Soccer in UCC is going from strength to strength'

An ongoing partnership between Cork City FC and UCC has meant that nearly a dozen young footballers were the beneficiaries of a unique athlete scholarship in the past academic year.

Matthew Kiernan, Dara McCormick, and Denzel Ogbene, all based in Cork City FC’s Academy, are currently in receipt of the dedicated scholarship which has seen dozens of players from City’s men’s and women’s teams benefit since its inception in 2013.

Four of the recipients - Conor O’Sullivan, Samuel Bailey, Ronan O'Shea, and Noah Sowinski – have moved from City to UCC FC over the course of the 25/26 academic year, highlighting the further ties between the two.

A further four players who had received scholarships this year have subsequently availed of opportunities at other clubs.

The partnership between the two is now in its 13th year.

UCC President Prof. John O’Halloran said: “At UCC we see student success as more than excellence in one area, but through their holistic development. Our scholarships are tailored to support our students to achieve their potential both on and off the field.”

Morgan Buckley, UCC Head of Sport said: “We are delighted to work in partnership with Cork City and to provide opportunities to play for Cork City and UCC in 3rd level competitions and cups.

“Soccer in UCC is going from strength to strength and our players are achieving and developing their full potentials through this programme.”

Éanna Buckley, Chief Operating Officer, Cork City FC added: “It is heartening to see so many players from the Cork City FC Academy now playing for UCC FC which underlines the holistic and mutually beneficial nature of the partnership between the club and the university.

“It is important for us to support the development of young players in every way possible and we wish them the very best of luck in their studies at this prestigious institution.”