🏆 Aaron Devlin Memorial Tournament 2026 – Congratulations & Thank You 🏆
We were delighted to host our 9th Annual Aaron Devlin Memorial Tournament at Ballinderry Shamrocks GAC. It was a wonderful occasion where the Derrychrin school community, the Ballinderry community, and schools from across Derry and Tyrone came together to celebrate a fantastic festival of Gaelic football in memory of Aaron.
Despite the early morning rain, spirits remained high among the children and the large number of supporters in attendance, creating a fantastic atmosphere throughout the day. The standard of football on display was exceptional, matched by the outstanding sportsmanship, enthusiasm, determination and passion shown by all players, teachers and mentors, making it a truly memorable occasion.
Thank you to all the schools who attended and participated. It was wonderful to welcome 16 boys’ teams and 16 girls’ teams, with approximately 400 children representing their schools in what was a fantastic celebration of Gaelic football.
Thank you to all participating schools who kindly donated £20 towards our nominated charity, Meningitis Now. This contribution will be formally presented at a special school assembly in the coming weeks.
A sincere thank you to Ballinderry Shamrocks GAC for hosting the event and providing excellent facilities once again. The continued support from the club is greatly appreciated and reflects the strong and valued school–club partnership within our community.
We are extremely grateful to all those who contributed to the success of the day, including club members, coaches, volunteers, referees, umpires and scorecard runners, whose dedication and support ensured the smooth running of the tournament.
Special thanks must go to Killian Conlon in his role as overall co‑ordinator, ably supported by Áine and Michael, who co‑ordinated the girls’ competitions, and Enda and Fabian, who oversaw the boys’ competitions. Their organisation, commitment and attention to detail ensured that the day ran seamlessly.
The enthusiasm, teamwork and willingness shown by everyone involved in supporting the school to deliver this event is very much appreciated and is a true reflection of the strength of our community.
Many thanks also to all our teaching and non‑teaching staff who worked tirelessly in a variety of roles, both in school and at the club, to ensure the tournament was such a tremendous success.
We are very grateful to Margaret and the canteen staff for providing hotdogs, tea, coffee and refreshments for staff, and to Cathal Forbes for his generous donation of bottled water for teachers and helpers.
Thank you also to Maureen McKinless and the Community Hub Committee for the use of the hub and for providing tea and refreshments for all spectators.
It was lovely to have the Devlin Family in attendance to present the Aaron Devlin Cups and Shields, along with medals for the runners‑up in each competition.
Congratulations to all the winning schools for 2026
We extend our congratulations to all participating schools for an outstanding day of football. A particularly special mention goes to Derrychrin Primary School, who achieved a remarkable and historic double, winning both the Boys’ Cup and the Girls’ Cup.
Boys’ Cup 2026 – Derrychrin Primary School
Boys’ Shield 2026 – St Patrick’s PS, The Loup
Girls’ Cup 2026 – Derrychrin Primary School
Girls’ Shield 2026 – St Mary’s PS, Bellaghy
Congratulations to all teams and players who participated — your effort, teamwork and spirit made the day such a success. We look forward to welcoming you all back again next year.
