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The Desy Jennings Football Festival 2026 has wrapped up after a wonderful weekend of youth football, community spirit and family fun at Jennings Park in Newry. The event welcomed 96 teams and more than 1,200 players, coaches and supporters over the four days from 4 to 7 June.
Photograph: Columba O'Hare/ Newry.ie
Despite at times there being torrential rain of biblical proportions, hundreds of matches were played across multiple age groups, giving young players the chance to showcase their skills, build friendships and create lasting memories on and off the pitch. Despite the weather the energy on the pitch never dipped, with players continuing to give it their all throughout.
A standout feature of the festival is its commitment to honouring those who have made a lasting contribution to football and community life. This year's event featured 11 Memorial Cups, each named after individuals whose legacy continues to inspire future generations.
Organiser Marty Jennings said the festival means more than just football. "It is about bringing people together, creating opportunities for young people, celebrating our community and remembering those who have played such an important role in local football. Seeing nearly 100 teams and over 1,500 people enjoying the weekend is a testament to the hard work of everyone involved."
The organisers paid tribute to coaches and volunteers who work throughout the year to provide sporting opportunities for young people, with their commitment helping football to promote physical activity, confidence, teamwork and social inclusion.
The weekend closed with a Family Fun Day on Sunday, with families enjoying entertainment, activities, games and community stalls, ensuring there was something for all ages alongside the football.
Special thanks were extended to main sponsor Playr-Fit Teamwear, along with all volunteers, referees, first aid providers and community partners whose support helped make the event possible.
Planning for the 2027 festival is already under way, with organisers aiming to build on this year's success.
The Winners
Kevin Marron Memorial Cup: Windmill Stars
Oisin McGuinness Memorial: CupLisburn Rovers
Raymond Mullen Memorial Cup: Annagh United
John Doran Memorial: Cup: Glentoran
Artie Green Memorial Cup: Shelbourne
Marty Lynch Memorial Cup: Lisdrum FC
Gary Quinn Memorial Cup: Killingsworth FC, Newcastle UponTyne
Desy Jennings 2016 Plate: Newry City FC
Josephine Devlin Memorial Cup: Camlough Rovers
Shea Haughey Memorial Cup: Cliftonville
Desy Jennings Memorial Cup: Shelbourne
Pauline Jennings Memorial Cup: Warrenpoint Town
