An Cosantóir

SPORTS & CLUBS UPDATE HURLING Defence Forces Hurling Tournaments: Chaplains Cup (11s) and Parsons Cup (7s) Chaplains Cup The 3rd Infantry Battalion won the Chaplains Cup, defeating Collins/ Navy amalgamation in the final. The Defence Forces Training Centre (DFTC) also participated in this competition. Parsons Cup The Parsons Cup featured teams from Galway, Kilkenny, Limerick, and a Dundalk/Finner amalgamation. The final match between 27/28th Battalion and 12th Battalion of Limerick was closely contested, with Limerick's 12th Battalion emerging victorious. Acknowledgements Special thanks to the 6th Battalion of Athlone for logistics support and Comdt Tom Tooher and the 1 ACS for their effort in running the event and Fr Paschal Hanrahan, Head Chaplain of the DF, for conducting the presentation of both cups. DF MEN'S RUGBY DF Men's Rugby will conduct the Hooker Regan 7s Competition (DF Competition) on 02 Jul 25 in Cashel RFC (Tipperary). This tournament will see teams from all Units across the organisation compete for the Hooker Regan Trophy which is currently held by the Cadet School, DFTC. Details of the competition will be disseminated through Bde G7s and through the Connect App. Anyone that plays or has an interest in rugby is encouraged to attend and be a part of this marquee DF Sporting event. DF WOMEN'S RUGBY The Defence Forces Women's Rugby Team have been invited to participate in the Military World Cup in the UK later this year and preparations have kicked off with training camps throughout the summer. Our women are being ably put through their paces by the coaching team of Comdt Niamh Ní Dhroma, Sgt Patrick Behan & Cpl Martin Cummins while Sgt Richard McGrath is on hand for strapping & prep! All interested personnel should contact team managers Comdts Sarah O'Regan, Jane O'Neill and new players always welcome to come and try rugby. The draw is as follows: • 17 1400 Aug 25 – Ireland v Zambia, Esher RFC • 21 1400 Aug 25 – Ireland v UK, Basingstoke RFC • 25 1400 Aug 25 – Ireland v Tonga, Aldershot RFC The participation of the Defence Forces Women's Rugby Team in the Women's Military Rugby World Cup is a proud and historic moment. It underlines the growing role of women in both the military and sport, and offers a powerful platform to represent Ireland and the Irish Defence Forces on the international stage. This tournament highlights the skill, strength, and leadership of women in the military, showcasing their athletic excellence on an international stage. It promotes equality and visibility, inspiring current and future generations of women to pursue both military and sporting careers. Wearing the Irish jersey on the international stage is a source of immense pride. Our team embodies the strength, discipline, and spirit of the Irish Defence Forces and of the nation as a whole. Their participation demonstrates Ireland's values of equality, resilience, and excellence, and enhances the Defence Forces' reputation worldwide. An Cosantóir May / June 2025 www.military.ie/magazine 32 |

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