Mayo LGFA players honoured with 2026 HEC All Star and Rising Star Awards

Mayo LGFA is celebrating the outstanding achievements of its players following the announcement of the 2026 Higher Education Colleges All-Star and Rising Star Teams of the Year.

Gráinne Gavin of Louisburgh LGFA has been named at full-back on the prestigious HEC All Star team in recognition of her exceptional performances for TU Dublin. She played a pivotal role in TU Dublin’s historic first-ever O’Connor Cup triumph this year, delivering consistently dominant displays throughout the campaign.

In addition, three Mayo players have been recognised on the HEC Rising Stars Team of the Year, highlighting the remarkable depth of talent within the county.

Siobhán Delaney (Aghamore), Ciara Nyland (Davitts), and Leah Conway (Parke/Keelogues/Crimlin) have all been honoured for their impressive contributions at collegiate level.

Ciara Nyland and Saoirse Delaney were both part of the ATU Galway side that reached the Moynihan Cup final against South East Technological University (SETU Carlow). Ciara captained the ATU side this year and despite the one-point defeat, Saoirse Delaney was named player of the match after delivering an exceptional performance.

Leah Conway (Coventry University) also delivered a superb player of the match display in securing victory in the inaugural International Lagan Cup final, marking another significant milestone during this year’s HEC competitions.

These awards underline the strength and quality of Mayo players competing in higher education football and reflect the commitment, dedication and skill they continue to demonstrate on the national stage.

Mayo LGFA would like to congratulate all players recognised, as well as their colleges and clubs, on their achievements. The standard of football throughout this year’s competitions has been exceptional, providing great entertainment and showcasing the bright future of the game.

Commenting on the awards, LGFA President Trina Murray said: “Well done to all recipients of 2026 AIG HEC All-Star and Rising Stars Awards. I was present at Dublin City University to witness some brilliant football over the course of finals weekend.

“The standard of third-level football is extremely high, and I wish to compliment the hard-working Ladies HEC committee and all of those involved from Dublin City University, who ensured the smooth running of the games.

“A huge word of thanks also goes to AIG Ireland, who came on board in 2024 to become title partner and main sponsor of the Ladies HEC competitions.”

Ladies HEC chairperson Seán Fleming added: “On behalf of the Ladies HEC committee, I want to extend my warmest congratulations to the 2026 AIG HEC All Stars and Rising Stars. These awards celebrate the outstanding talent, dedication and sportsmanship shown by players across the third-level game throughout the season. The standard of football on display this year has been exceptional, and the commitment shown by these students in balancing elite sport with academic life is truly admirable.

“I would also like to sincerely thank AIG Ireland for their continued support of the Ladies HEC championships and awards programme. Their partnership plays a vital role in recognising and promoting the achievements of our players.”

The winners will receive their awards at a ceremony at The Bonnington Dublin Hotel this Friday (March 27).