Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, councillor Grace Uí Niallais, hosts civic reception for Urney St Columba's GFC Ladies Youth teams

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Grace Uí Niallais, hosted a reception for Urney St Columba’s GFC Ladies youth teams to mark their achievements. The Minor Girls team won the Gold League with vice-captains, Aoibhe McDevitt and Abi Moore, bringing the winners trophy. With the team are coaches, Brian O’Kane, Sean McDevitt, manager and Martin McLaughlin. | Martin McKeown.

placeholder image — Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Grace Uí Niallais, hosted a reception for Urney St Columba’s GFC Ladies youth teams to mark their achievements. The Minor Girls team won the Gold League with vice-captains, Aoibhe McDevitt and Abi Moore, bringing the winners trophy. With the team are coaches, Brian O’Kane, Sean McDevitt, manager and Martin McLaughlin. | Martin McKeown.

The Mayor praised the team's passion, dedication, and sportsmanship, highlighting the positive impact their success is having on the wider community, as the club celebrates its 80th anniversary.

MAYOR of Derry City and Strabane District Council, councillor Grace Uí Niallais, hosted a civic reception to celebrate the outstanding historic achievements of the Urney St Columba’s GFC Ladies youth teams during their remarkable 2026 season.

The event recognised a milestone year for the club, which saw the Under 14 Girls secure an exceptional Grade 5 League and Championship Double, while the Minor Girls were crowned Grade 5 Minor Gold League Champions.

Speaking at the reception, the Mayor praised the team’s passion, dedication, and sportsmanship and highlighted the positive impact their success is having on the wider community.

She said: “It was a privilege to host Urney St Columba’s GFC Ladies youth teams and celebrate their incredible achievements.

“To secure a League and Championship Double at U14 level and capture the Minor Gold League title in the very same season is nothing short of phenomenal.

“These young women are a true inspiration to us all.

“Their hard work, grit, and determination on the pitch show exactly what can be accomplished through focus and teamwork.

“They are wonderful role models for young people across our region.”

The Mayor also paid tribute to the immense community effort behind the teams’ success, acknowledging the vital role played by coaches, parents, volunteers, and supporters who give countless hours to build a strong future for girls and young women in sport.

The reception holds extra significance as 2026 marks the 80th anniversary of Urney St Columba’s GFC.

For eight decades, the club has been at the heart of its local community, fostering talent, community spirit, and health and well-being.

In addition to celebrating on-field success, the Mayor encouraged the local community to rally behind the club’s ambitious future by supporting their upcoming major fundraiser.

Urney St Columba’s GFC is currently running a Grand Development Draw, which will take place on Saturday, December 5, featuring a life-changing first prize of £20,000.

Proceeds will directly support the ongoing development and expansion of facilities for future generations.

Tickets are available from any club committee member or online at: https://member.clubspot.app/club/urney-st-columbas-gaa/fundraisers or follow them on Facebook - facebook.com/UrneyGaa