Portumna’s Junior A girls are officially Pat Barrett Connacht Champions after a phenomenal display of heart, skill, and sheer determination in Ballyforan on Saturday, 22 November.
Facing the Roscommon champions Four Roads, Portumna delivered a composed and courageous performance to seal a 1–14 to 0–10 victory and with it, a historic provincial title.
From the opening whistle, Portumna set the tone. Every tackle, every run, every score reflected what this group stands for: fight, unity, and pride in the blue and yellow. Despite tough underfoot conditions, the girls adapted brilliantly, showing maturity beyond their years in a game that demanded real grit.
Team manager Johnny Kelly reflected on what made the difference: “The game was a tough encounter. Four Roads played a really physical game and with the pitch in a really poor condition it made it difficult for our young players.”
He explained that the team had prepared for exactly that kind of contest:
“We spoke to them about the conditions before the game and that it was basically going to be more about grit and determination rather than skill in this game.”
Portumna started strongly, putting early scores on the board, but Four Roads stayed in the fight. As Johnny noted: “We got off to a good start again but as the game went on it was obvious that we weren’t going to run away with the win.”
Even so, Portumna managed the game superbly: “We hurled well but at times brought their sweeper into the game with poor deliveries. This was an issue again in the second half but we never looked in danger in defence so it suited us to continue that way, as we were always four or five points in front.”
With 10 minutes to go, tactics shifted decisively: “We decided to push up on their sweeper and play five on five in our defence. This resulted in those extra scores but it did briefly leave us under pressure in defence,” said Johnny.
Ultimately, it was Portumna’s collective hunger that shone brightest.
“It was another good team performance and win with numerous girls contributing with some excellent play. However it was their overall willingness to work hard and put in the tackles right to the end that made all the difference,” he said.
Team captain Alannah Kelly (above) spoke about the team’s mindset heading into the final, showing the maturity and freedom with which the girls approached the day.
“After the county final win, we got back down to training and promised ourselves that we would play a Connacht final where we’d put no pressure on ourselves and play freely.”
The physical intensity was no surprise to Alannah.
“We didn’t expect anything less, and all our girls worked extremely hard, which I think is what we’re built on in Portumna Camogie,” she said.
And the performance brought real satisfaction: “We got some lovely team scores and it was just a really satisfying game to play in. We had an enjoyable night after a long season!”
A day to remember for the entire club
This was more than just a match. It was a celebration of community. Our U12 superstars lit up halftime with their mini-games, bringing colour, excitement, and incredible support.
“Fair play to all the parents of juvenile girls for making the trip down to allow the kids to play at half time. The support was excellent and I’d like to thank everyone for travelling,” said Johnny.
“Thanks Ivan, Denise and Leo for getting them organised,” added Club Chairperson Shane Madden.
“Last Saturday’s Connacht final victory over Four Roads ensured an unbeaten championship run in 2025 for these newly promoted intermediate ladies. It was a really tough game played on a fairly cut up surface, which called for the girls with the biggest hearts to step up which of course our Portumna ladies did.”
Shane also paid tribute to the management and those who support the team behind the scenes.
“A word of thanks to the two Johnnies, Claire and Maureen for their commitment over the last two years to this group. Last Saturday was the fruit of their labour! A special thank you to Eoin Fahy in An Caislean and Johnny Keane of the Hurling Hub for once again putting their hands in their pockets to provide the meal afterwards. Thanks gents.”
Acknowledging all who help drive the team forward, he continued:
“We must also thank everyone who contributed to these girls throughout the year. It is always appreciated.”
Shane finished with a powerful message for the players: “Lastly to the panel themselves: I told them in the dressing room after the game that this can be seen as the beginning of their camogie journey rather than the end. I have no doubt that if they apply themselves in 2026, they will have no problem stepping up to intermediate and hopefully have another memorable year!”
Looking Ahead
Johnny echoed that sense of potential and ambition as the team steps into intermediate camogie next season: “It brings to an end a good year for this group and the club in general. It’s great to have achieved our targets. Hopefully they can push on now and give the intermediate championship a real go next year.”
With talented young players coming through and momentum behind them, the future is bright.
“There will be a few talented young players eligible so if everyone remains positive and puts in the effort there can be more success in 2026,” said Johnny.
“They’re a great bunch to work with and even though it’s not always easy for everyone to make training they have shown great conviction and determination in all their championship games this year.”
Alannah echoed that gratitude and excitement for what lies ahead: “On behalf of the girls, I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all of the businesses, club top table and committee as well as our own management team for all the support throughout this year. Without this, it wouldn’t have been possible. The girls and I look forward to returning and competing in the Galway intermediate championship next year. We hope everyone can continue to support our journey.”
Alannah summed up the achievement beautifully: “Winning the County and Connacht Junior A titles this year, with this bunch of players, has been, without doubt, the most meaningful and proudest accomplishment of my camogie career so far. I was honoured to captain this group, full of so much talent and experience, young to old.”