NEXT year’s Sigerson Cup has been formally launched in Ulster University, Jordanstown, at a function in its Loughview suite this morning.
Vice-chancellor Paddy Nixon and Ulster Council President Martin McAviney spoke at the function, which was also attended by some of Jordanstown’s intercounty players from across Ireland, including All-Ireland SFC winners Paddy McBrearty (Donegal) and Kevin Nolan (Dublin).
The event, which will be held on February Friday 19 and Saturday 20 next year, will mark the first time that Jordanstown has hosted the event since 1993 – and the first time that the premier Gaelic football tournament for higher erducation institutes will be held on the campus itself.
Professor Paddy Nixon, in his first year as vice-chancellor, paid tribute to Jordanstown’s proud tradition in the competition.
“Reflecting on this morning, it’s an absolute delight for me. In February next year there will be 14 teams and 500 players and coaches at the finals," he said.
“This will be the second time the university’s hosted it, the first being in 1993. Ulster University has a really proud and long history in the tournament, first entering in 1985, securing its first title in 1986 with further successes in 1987, 1991, 2001 and 2008 and hopefully in 2016.
“The strength of University Ulster is in large part down to dedicated staff, coaching and otherwise, and I think it’s a genuine inspiration to students.
“I think it’s critical for the university to have a vibrant sporting endeavour, it’s a great showcase and a great way of making sure university is really accessible to the community at large.”
