Following their remarkable victory, the team proudly paraded the cup through the Ulster University Belfast campus, marking a historic moment for the university.
Celebrations echoed through the state-of-the-art campus in the city centre as students, staff, supporters and special guests embraced the winning team with a ‘hero’s’ welcome, clapping them into the building as they presented the Sigerson Cup to Ulster University’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Paul Bartholomew.
There to welcome the team home was guests including the Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Ryan Murphy; Economy Minister, MLA Conor Murphy and Incoming GAA President, Jarlath Burns.
Against all odds, the Ulster University GAA team showcased their exceptional talent and resilience in a nail-biting final match against favoured side and 34 times champions UCD, with a six-point win - securing the first championship title since 2008 for Ulster University.
Ulster University Vice Chancellor, Professor Paul Bartholomew congratulated the team as they arrived onto campus:
“On behalf of the university a huge congratulations to the Ulster University men’s GAA team on winning the Sigerson Cup! What a match and what an achievement. No other University has won more Sigersons than Ulster University since we entered the competition in 1986, and today marks 16 years since we brought the cup home."
Incoming GAA President, Jarlath Burns joined Ulster University for the victory, he said:
“It is a real honour for me, in my last official duty before I become President of the GAA to be here among you lads. What you have done is an incredible accomplishment. A University team is a very unique dynamic, it seeps into every county and every club. You’re Sigerson champions, it’s an incredible feeling but you have set a new standard. If you want it again next year you can win it again next year.”
Ulster University’s Head of Sports Services, Dr Nigel Dobson said:
“It is a truly remarkable achievement to win the Sigerson Cup in the 50th anniversary season of the GAA at Jordanstown. We are delighted for all the players, the coaches and management team who have put so much time, commitment and passion into third level football over many years. This success will be remembered for a long, long time. Congratulations to all, we are so proud of your success.”