University of Limerick is ‘immensely proud’ of its high-performance student-athletes, a record number of whom have received scholarships this year, it has been announced.
That is according to Acting President Professor Shane Kilcommins, as UL hosted its largest ever Sports Scholarship Academy Awards, celebrating the incredible achievements of over 130 high-performance student-athletes across 23 sporting disciplines, from 23 counties across Ireland, a record-breaking milestone for the university.
The ceremony reflects UL’s reputation as Ireland’s elite sporting campus and its commitment to fostering excellence in both academics and athletics.
This year’s scholarship recipients represent a diverse range of sports, including rugby, judo, athletics, hockey, GAA, equestrian, basketball, and swimming.
Launched in 2016, the UL Sports Scholarship Programme has provided financial support, access to world-class training facilities, professional coaching and mentorship, tailored academic assistance and internationally recognised sports research, helping athletes to achieve their ambitious academic and sporting goals.
The sports programme includes scholarships for women’s coaching initiatives, to develop and reach their coaching potential and promote gender equality in sports leadership.
UL has earned a reputation as one of the premier destinations for student-athletes to connect with like-minded peers who share the highest ambitions for their sporting careers.
Professor Shane Kilcommins, Acting President of UL, commended the recipients and their commitment to excellence.
“At University of Limerick, we are immensely proud of our high-performance student-athletes who continue to excel on both national and international stages. Their dedication, resilience, and achievements are a testament to the comprehensive support system we have in place, from world-class training facilities to tailored academic assistance.
“We also are thankful for the financial support that allows these scholarships to thrive. This year’s record number of scholarship recipients highlights our commitment to fostering an environment where athletes from diverse sporting disciplines can thrive.
“We celebrate their successes and look forward to their continued contributions to the rich and varied sporting legacy of UL. Our commitment to diversity in sports ensures that every athlete, regardless of their discipline, has the opportunity to achieve their highest potential,” added Professor Kilcommins.
UL’s impact on the international sporting arena is seen in its extensive alumni roll call – who are part of a global UL alumni of over 130,000 graduates.
UL graduate and former Limerick hurler David Breen was recently appointed lead physiotherapist to Liverpool FC’s first team; Cork All Star footballer Erika O’Shea, currently a UL high-performance student-athlete, extended her contract with the North Melbourne Tasmanian Kangaroos to 2026, becoming the youngest Irish athlete to play Australian rules football; seven of this year’s GAA All Star hurlers are UL graduates, while Paul Conroy, another alumnus, was named GAA All Star Footballer of the Year.
Neasa O’Donnell, Senior Executive Sports Manager in UL, highlighted the impact of the scholarship awards.
“It’s a privilege to lead the UL Sports Scholarship Academy, the aim of which is to support dual-career student athletes to meet the requirements of their degree programme, while also honouring their sporting commitments. Since its inception, in 2016, UL has invested over €1.5m in our programme which has seen over 300 high-performance athletes graduate.
“As the university continues to expand, so too will the reach of the Academy as we see more students winning All Ireland titles and achieving podium finishes at European and World events, not least the superb collective performances at the recent Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, including Róisin Ní Ríain bringing home a bronze and silver medal in para-swimming.
“We will continue to enjoy and be very proud of our undergraduates’ and graduates’ achievements and wish them the very best of luck as they develop their sporting and academic excellence before going out into the world to make a difference.”
One of this year’s scholarship recipients, football player Jenna Slattery, who is in second year in the BSc in Exercise and Health Fitness Management, spoke about what the award means to her.
“I am a firm believer of what’s for me won’t pass me by and being awarded a sports scholarship at UL is both an incredible honour and a pivotal moment in my football career. It not only recognises my dedication and passion for sports but also gives me the support I need to excel both on and off the field,” said the Limerick native who plays for Galway United and has represented Ireland at U19 level.
“The scholarship allows me to access top level coaching, facilities, and academic opportunities while focusing on my development as an athlete and footballer. It inspires me to continue striving for excellence and to represent my university with pride, knowing that my efforts and potential are recognised and supported.”
UL’s Sports Scholarships programme continues to set the benchmark in supporting high-performance athletes and coaches. With its impact on global sports and a growing record of athletic excellence, UL is securing its position as a leading destination in developing top sporting talent.