Update from the Camogie Development Leagues
Last weekend marked the start of the 2026 National U14 Intercounty Games Programme. In glorious weather across the country, hundreds of young players proudly took to the field to represent their counties, many for the very first time. The U14 grade is the first step on the intercounty player pathway and a hugely important milestone in every player’s journey. This year, 28 counties are represented by 53 teams, with over 1,400 players taking part. We wish all players the very best of luck for the rest of the season as they represent their families, clubs, parishes and schools with pride.
Last weekend also seen the exciting conclusion of the 2026 U16 Development Games Programme. After wintery conditions during the group stages, the finals weekend brought sunshine, dry pitches and fantastic camogie action all around the country. In Kilkenny, Kilkenny Camogie and Cork Camogie served up a tremendous contest, with the Cats coming out on top 4-10 to 1-9. In the Shield game, Tipperary Camogie edged out Galway Camogie by two points in a very competitive encounter.
In the capital, Dublin Camogie and Limerick Camogie produced a highly entertaining battle, with Dublin finishing strongly to win 2-10 to 1-09. In the Shield tie, Wexford Camogie were in top form as they overcame Clare Camogie by 0-12 to 1-1. In Kildare, Kildare Camogie proved too strong for a talented Meath Camogie side. Meanwhile in Mountrath, Laois Camogie claimed the Shield title with victory over Carlow Camogie. Huge credit to all players, coaches, officials and volunteers who made the programme such a success.
The U17 Intercounty Games Development Programme drew to a close over the past two weekends, finishing on a high with a series of outstanding and competitive matches. In Castleroad, the hosts Cork faced Kilkenny. Early in the year, both counties took part in a high-scoring group clash, with Cork coming out on top The Rebel girls carried that momentum into the final, once again taking the honours after a superb display.
In the Division 2 Cup, Dublin and Limerick met in the final in perfect conditions in the capital. It was a tight, hard-fought contest, with Dublin edging victory on the narrowest of margins, 0-13 to 1-09. Elsewhere, in the plate section, Derry and Waterford served up an entertaining encounter. Level for much of the game, Derry pulled away in the final 10 minutes to claim the win, 3-11 to 2-07. A fantastic programme showcasing the talent, skill and future of camogie across all counties!
