NOT surprisingly, a plethora of young stars from Limerick have been chosen on the Electric Ireland GAA Higher Education Rising Stars Hurling Team of 2026.
In an All-Limerick Fitzgibbon Final, holders University of Limerick (UL) overcame Mary Immaculate College (MIC) at Croke Park.
The triumph by Brian Ryan’s team further cemented their legacy with an impressive fourth win in five seasons.
In that showdown, there were notable individual displays by Limerick pair Adam English (UL, Doon) and Shane O’Brien (MIC, Kilmallock).
Also among the stand-out selection were Cian Scully (MIC, Dromin/Athlacca), Colin Coughlan (UL, Ballybrown), Jimmy Quilty (MIC, Blackrock), Aidan O’Connor (UL, captain, Ballybrown) and Oisín O’Farrell (MIC, Askeaton/Ballysteen/Kilcornan).
“These young athletes embody the spirit of the championships, showcasing incredible dedication in balancing their demanding academic studies with their performances on the field,” commented GAA President Jarlath Burns, who will be at the Gaelic Grounds to present the National Hurling League Cup on Sunday.
Added Jillian Saunder of Electric Ireland: “The dedication and phenomenal talent displayed by these student hurlers creates truly unforgettable moments on the field. We extend our warmest congratulations to each of the 15 players chosen, as well as to University of Limerick on their hard-fought championship success.”
Each recipient were presented with a unique award made from renewable Beechwood.
Rising Stars Team: Liam Hoare (University of Galway, Offaly); Cian Scully (MIC, Limerick), Mark Fitzgerald (UL, Waterford), Daniel O’Meara (Dublin University, Kildare); Killian Doyle (UL, Kilkenny), Colin Coughlan (UL, Limerick), Jimmy Quilty (MIC, Limerick); Adam English (MIC, Limerick), Jack O’Neill (UL, Clare); Sam O’Farrell (University of Galway, Tipperary), Aidan O’ Connor (UL, Limerick), Denis Walsh (Dublin City University, Kilkenny); Adam Screeney (UL, Offaly), Shane O’Brien (MIC, Kilmallock), Oisín O’Farrell (MIC, Limerick).