Historic first Ulster title win for St Mary’s/St John’s girls

St Mary’s/St John’s  6-6  Moville Community School 4-8

IN sweltering heat at the Melvin Sports Complex, in Strabane the combined team of St Mary’s College, Irvinestown and St John’s, Dromore claimed a first-ever provincial title in a thrilling U14 Ulster Ladies PPS Final against Moville Community School, Co. Donegal.

A nervy opening quarter from St Mary’s/St John’s saw Moville race into a five-point lead but after the break the young combined side turned the game on its head.

A combination of belief, grit and hard work, led by their standout ‘keeper Maciee McKinney, who pulled off a string of vital saves, paved the way to victory.

In defence, Amy Williamson rock solid, linking up brilliantly with Jessica Largo-Elis and the tireless Tierna Gormley, who was named ‘Player of the Match’ for her relentless workrate and leadership on the pitch. Codie Muldoon also played a pivotal role, covering a huge amount of ground and driving the team forward. In attack, Maya and Shauna Cameron were clinical, converting key chances and keeping the scoreboard ticking.

While, Juliajana McGourty and Aoife Mc Macken were instrumental in turning defence into attack, intercepting crucial passes, and launching counter-attacks that kept Moville on the back foot.

The final whistle sparked scenes of joy as players, coaches, and supporters celebrated a landmark victory.

A statement from the schools said: “This was more than just a win—it was a moment of history, pride, and inspiration for the future of ladies’ football in both schools.”

They also extended their thanks to Molly’s Bar and Restaurant for the refreshments during the game, to Cassie Bakes in Irvinestown for the treats and to everyone who sent messages and videos of encouragement. After the game Joe Mahon and staff at Mahon’s Hotel invited the champions in for a treat.

Tamara Dolan, who is part of the management team said:

“This is a moment of immense pride—not just for the team, but for the entire school community. Winning our first ever Ulster final is a historic milestone, and it’s a testament to the hard work, resilience, and belief these young girls have shown all season.

“As their teacher, I couldn’t be prouder. They’ve made history, and they’ve inspired a new generation to dream big. This victory belongs to every player, every supporter, and everyone who believed in us.”

St Mary’s College, Irvinestown principal Martina McCauley added:

“We are so proud of this U14 team and their momentous win. It means so much to us as a school community as it is the first time we have won this cup, so these girls are history-makers.

“We would like to thank them for putting our small school on the map and for the great buzz they have brought to us all. I would like to thank their coaches Miss Dolan and Erin for the dedication they have shown these girls all year and the coaches from St John’s Dromore Nuala Kelly and Orla McSorley who treated our girls like their own.”