Doheny GAA to commemorate Sam Maguire
The Mayo team celebrate with the Sam Maguire Cup in Castlebar ©INPHO/Tom Maher
Doheny GAA club in West Cork has announced a series of commemorative events to mark the centenary of the death of Sam Maguire.
Maguire was one of the most influential figures in the history of the GAA and the man whose name is forever associated with Gaelic football's most coveted trophy. Inspired by the Ardagh Chalice, the Sam Maguire Cup was first presented to the All-Ireland senior football championship winners in 1928, a year after the Dunmanway native’s death.
A series of commemorative events are planned between Friday, February 5 and Sunday, February 7, 2027. Organised by the Sam Maguire Commemorations Sub-Committee of the Doheny GAA Club, the programme will bring together members of the GAA family, historians, community organisations, schools, public representatives and visitors from across Ireland and overseas. The weekend has the support of the GAA’s National History & Commemorations Committee and will be attended by GAA president Jarlath Burns.
The commemorative programme will feature a number of significant events, including:
The unveiling of a specially commissioned bronze bust of Sam Maguire, creating a permanent tribute to one of Dunmanway's most distinguished sons.
The official opening of the Sam Maguire Walkway, a new heritage walkway around the perimeter of Sam Maguire Park designed to celebrate and preserve the story of Sam Maguire and his connection to the town.
A major historical symposium, bringing together leading historians, authors and GAA scholars to explore the life, times and legacy of Sam Maguire.
A commemorative football fixture between representative teams from Cork and London GAA, recognising Sam Maguire's lifelong connection to both Cork and London and his pivotal role in the promotion of Gaelic games abroad.
An ecumenical service and wreath-laying ceremony will be held to honour Sam Maguire's life and legacy, bringing together community representatives, sporting organisations and civic leaders in remembrance and reflection.
Heritage tours and commemorative ceremonies at locations associated with Sam Maguire's life and legacy.
Community and cultural events designed to involve local schools, clubs, organisations and visitors in the celebrations.
