AGM

Held in the Portlaoise Parish Centre, the Annual General Meeting reflected on another successful year for Portlaoise GAA, both on and off the field. Members celebrated championship success, recognised the efforts of hundreds of volunteers and began shaping the next major phase in the club's long-term development.

Chairperson James "Jas" O'Reilly opened proceedings by acknowledging the enormous contribution made by volunteers throughout every section of the club. Special thanks were extended to the Lotto committee and volunteers, the Grounds Committee, juvenile coaches and mentors, shop volunteers, the organisers of the annual Club Awards Night, Golf Classic committee, sponsors and the committees of both the Ladies Football and Camogie clubs. Their combined efforts ensured another highly successful year for Portlaoise GAA.

On the playing fields, the senior footballers were congratulated on winning yet another Laois Senior Football Championship, while recognition was also given to the adult hurlers, intermediate and junior footballers, and every juvenile, ladies football and camogie team that represented the club during the year. Individual honours were also celebrated, with Kieran Lillis recognised as the 2019 Laois Senior Footballer of the Year and John Taylor inducted into the Laois GAA Hall of Fame.

One of the most important discussions of the evening centred on the future development of Rathleague. Members received an update from the recently established Facilities Development Committee, which had been formed in late 2019 to investigate the feasibility of constructing a permanent clubhouse. Preliminary architectural plans had already been commissioned and discussions had begun around drainage, utilities, dressing rooms and the long-term layout of the complex.

Alongside the clubhouse proposal, members considered several significant capital investment projects, including new floodlights, additional drainage works and improvements to existing pitches. A grant of €47,000 towards the installation of floodlights had already been secured, with further support approved through Croke Park. It was agreed that a Special General Meeting would be convened later in the year to allow members to consider the various projects and determine development priorities over the next one, three and five years.

The AGM also reflected the club's growing emphasis on governance and player welfare. Members were updated on new child safeguarding legislation, with every coach required to be Garda Vetted and to complete at least Foundation Coaching level. Work was also underway to complete updated risk assessments and display the club's Child Safeguarding Certificate in accordance with national requirements.

Financially, the club continued to strengthen its position. Incoming Treasurer Declan McEvoy spoke of introducing more modern financial systems and welcomed the opportunity to build on the excellent work already undertaken within the club. Members also approved an increase in the levy paid by juvenile, ladies football and camogie sections to support the continued development of the club and its facilities.

Another forward-thinking proposal came from JP Cahillane, who suggested establishing a bursary programme to support Portlaoise members studying areas such as physiotherapy, strength and conditioning and sports psychology. The idea reflected the club's growing ambition to utilise the expertise of its own members while investing in future generations.

The meeting concluded with a strong sense of optimism. While celebrating another successful season, members recognised that the decisions being taken regarding facilities, governance and long-term planning would help shape the future of Portlaoise GAA. Many of the projects discussed that evening would go on to form the foundation of the major developments that transformed Rathleague in the years that followed.

Senior Football

Senior Ladies

One of the greatest days in the history of Portlaoise Ladies Football arrived on 26 September 2020 when the club captured its first-ever Laois Senior Ladies Football Championship. In a magnificent display at MW Hire O'Moore Park, Portlaoise defeated seven-time defending champions Sarsfields by 1-12 to 0-12 to end their rivals' remarkable reign and complete an unbeaten championship campaign.

Having already overcome Sarsfields during the group stages, Portlaoise entered the final believing their time had finally arrived. Facing a side chasing an eighth successive county title, they produced a composed and determined performance that reflected years of steady progress and development within the club.

Player of the Match Aisling Kehoe proved the difference between the sides. After an evenly contested opening quarter, she burst through the Sarsfields defence to score the only goal of the game following excellent approach play involving Fiona Dooley and Sarah Ann Fitzgerald. That decisive score helped Portlaoise establish a 1-4 to 0-5 lead by half-time, with further points coming from Leah Loughman, Alison Taylor and Lorraine O'Sullivan.

Sarsfields fought back throughout the second half, led by the accuracy of Clare Conlon from placed balls, but Portlaoise repeatedly found the answers. Aisling Kehoe, Shauna Jackson, Ellen Healy and Leah Loughman all added crucial scores, while the defence stood resolute as the champions launched wave after wave of late attacks in search of a goal.

With nine minutes remaining the tension was immense, but Portlaoise never lost their composure. Outstanding defensive work and relentless determination kept Sarsfields at bay before Aisling Kehoe calmly converted a late free to stretch the lead to three points and put the result beyond doubt. As the final whistle sounded, years of ambition, hard work and perseverance were rewarded with a long-awaited county senior title.

The victory represented a landmark achievement for the ladies football section. Having developed through successful underage teams over the previous decade, Portlaoise had finally reached the summit of Laois Ladies Football by ending one of the greatest periods of dominance the county had witnessed. It was a championship triumph that inspired a new generation of players and firmly established the club among the county's elite.

Captained by Alison Taylor, Portlaoise lined out with Aoife Conlon; Cíara Byrne, Sarah Fleming, Claire Dunne; Alison Taylor, Sarah Ann Fitzgerald, Aishling Saunders; Fiona Dooley, Ellen Healy; Julia Cahill, Leah Loughman, Shauna Jackson; Aisling Kehoe and Gráinne Moran. Kirsten Keenan, Rebecca Reddin, Maeve Phelan and Fiona Dooley were introduced from the bench as Portlaoise closed out one of the most significant victories in the club's history.

Final: Portlaoise 1-12 to 0-12 Sarsfields played at Laois Hire O'Moore Park, Portlaoise on Saturday, September 20th, 2020. Referee: Brendan Hickey (Graiguecullen)

Senior Hurling

Senior Camogie

The 2020 season produced another landmark moment for Portlaoise Camogie as the club captured its first-ever Laois Junior 'A' Camogie Championship. It was a title earned under extraordinary circumstances, with the final requiring almost a year to be completed due to the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The original county final against neighbours O'Moore's took place in Mountrath on 27 September 2020, just twenty-four hours after many of the Portlaoise players had helped the club's ladies footballers secure their historic first senior championship. Fittingly, Amy Byrne, who had starred in the football success, again played a crucial role, scoring three points including a dramatic late free that rescued a draw and forced a replay.

The contest swung dramatically throughout. Portlaoise led 0-4 to 0-2 at half-time before an early second-half goal from Amy Flanagan gave O'Moore's the advantage. The Town battled back through Ciara Murphy and Ciara Byrne to regain the lead, only for O'Moore's to edge in front again in the closing stages through substitute Amy Singleton.

With defeat looming, Portlaoise won a late free and Amy Byrne calmly converted under immense pressure to leave the sides deadlocked at 0-8 to 1-5. After an absorbing encounter, the championship would have to be decided another day.

Owing to the ongoing disruption to fixtures caused by the pandemic, that replay did not take place until 19 September 2021, almost twelve months after the original final. When the teams finally met again in Mountrath, Portlaoise produced a superb performance to claim the club's first Junior Camogie Championship with an emphatic 3-12 to 1-4 victory.

The drawn final also highlighted the strength and versatility of the Portlaoise squad. Amy Byrne and Ciara Murphy each contributed three points, while Chloe Norton and Ciara Byrne also found the target. At the back, Jasmine Burke, Kami Delaney, Niamh Crowley, Aisling McCauley, Sinead Murphy, Sarah Fleming and Aoibhe O'Brien produced resilient defensive displays, with Regina Ogbulafor, Rebecca Reddin, Gráinne O'Reilly, Tyrah Duff and Shauna Dooley also playing key roles throughout the contest.

Winning the replay almost a year later finally brought the curtain down on one of the most unusual championship campaigns in the club's history and secured a long-awaited first adult county camogie title for Portlaoise.

Final (Replay): Portlaoise 3-12 to 1-4 O'Moores played at Mountrath, on Sunday, September 19th, 2021.

Final: Portlaoise 0-08 to 1-05 O'Moores played at Mountrath, on Sunday, September 27th, 2020.

Intermediate Football

Junior Football

Junior Hurling

Under 17 Football

Under 17 Hurling

Under 15 Football

Under 15 Hurling

Ladies Under 14

Under 13 Football

The disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic meant that the 2020 Under 13 Football Championship was not completed until June 2021, but when the final was eventually played at the LOETB Centre of Excellence, Portlaoise produced a superb performance to defeat Portarlington by 2-8 to 1-5 and lift the county title.

Playing with the aid of a strong breeze in the opening half, Portlaoise made full use of the conditions to build a commanding lead. Darren Brennan opened the scoring from a free before Josh Finn blasted home the first goal of the game. Brennan continued to punish Portarlington from placed balls before Sean Powders produced the score of the match, cutting in from a tight angle before driving a low finish to the net. Cillian Smith added a late point to leave Portlaoise leading 2-4 to 0-1 at the interval.

With the wind now favouring Portarlington, the second half became a stern defensive examination. The visitors battled back through a goal from Tom Corcoran and a succession of points to reduce the deficit to four, but Portlaoise never lost their composure. Outstanding defensive displays from Rio Lacumber and Josh Finn repeatedly broke down Portarlington attacks, allowing the Town to launch dangerous counter-attacks whenever opportunities arose.

As the pressure mounted in the closing stages, Portlaoise showed great maturity. Cillian Smith steadied the ship with an important point before Darren Brennan added another late free to secure a deserved six-point victory and the delayed 2020 county championship title.

Darren Brennan finished as Portlaoise's top scorer with five points, all from frees, while Josh Finn and Sean Powders each found the net. Cillian Smith contributed two points and David Brown added another score in a complete team performance that highlighted the tremendous promise within the squad.

Captained by Jack Ryan from goal, the championship-winning panel featured Ryan Doran, David Whelan, Ben O'Connor, Rio Lacumber, Conor O'Callaghan, Josh Finn, David Brennan, Darren Brennan, Sean Powders, Cillian Smith, Owen McGowan and Jamie Gorman, with Billy Farrell, Mark O'Connor, David Reddin and Odhrán Maher all playing their part from the bench during the campaign.

Under 13 Hurling

2020 honours

• Men’s Football – Under 13 Laois U-13 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 2-8 v 1-5 Portarlington
• Men’s Football – Under 13 Laois U-13 Football Development Competition Portlaoise 4-7 v 3-3 Portarlington
• Ladies Football – Senior Laois Ladies Senior ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 1-12 v 0-12 Sarsfields Captain: Aishling Saunders
• Ladies Football – Under 14 Laois Ladies U-14 ‘A’ Championship
• Camogie – Senior Laois Camogie Junior ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 0-8 v 1-5 O'Moores Captains: Chloe Norton and Niamh Crowley

AGM

Few Annual General Meetings in the history of Portlaoise GAA were held under more unusual circumstances than the club's 2020 AGM. Taking place on Friday, 11 December in the Killeshin Hotel during the COVID-19 pandemic, attendance was strictly limited, with many members joining remotely via Zoom as the club adapted to the unprecedented restrictions facing communities across Ireland.

The evening marked the end of an era as outgoing Chairperson James "Jas" O'Reilly stepped down after serving two terms at the helm of the club. A lifelong servant of Portlaoise GAA, Jas received heartfelt tributes from members in recognition of decades of dedicated and selfless service as a player, mentor, officer and volunteer. Although relinquishing the Chairpersonship, he assured members that he would continue to play an active role in helping the club progress.

Succeeding him as Chairperson was former player and mentor Eamon Fennelly, who outlined an ambitious vision for the future of Portlaoise GAA. He spoke of strengthening links with the wider community, encouraging more volunteers to become involved, expanding the club's membership base, developing Portlaoise as a strong dual club for both male and female players and continuing the transformation of the club's facilities at Rathleague to modern standards.

Eamon also expressed his desire to hold a gathering of the entire Portlaoise GAA community once COVID-19 restrictions had eased, believing that the club's future direction should be shaped collectively by its members.

Secretary Malcolm Nealon reflected on the extraordinary challenges presented by the pandemic and paid particular tribute to the club's COVID Supervisors, whose commitment ensured that training and games could continue safely whenever restrictions permitted. He also acknowledged the tireless work of the Grounds Committee, whose efforts maintained Rathleague to an exceptionally high standard despite the difficult year, while confirming that development plans for the club's facilities would continue to move forward.

An important strategic development discussed during the meeting was the club's commitment to embracing the emerging One Club model. The proposal aimed to bring the GAA, LGFA and Camogie Association together under a single Portlaoise GAA structure, strengthening collaboration across every section of the club and reinforcing the philosophy that all players and members belonged to one united organisation.

Treasurer Declan McEvoy presented his first financial report, noting that while fundraising opportunities had been severely restricted by the pandemic, careful financial management had enabled the club to finish the year with a surplus. He outlined plans to further modernise the club's financial systems and develop more streamlined approaches to fundraising in the years ahead.

Elsewhere, JP Cahillane was elected as the club's County Board Delegate following the only contested vote of the evening, while a number of new members joined the committee and various sub-committees, reflecting the club's continued efforts to broaden participation in its administration.

Despite the uncertainty that surrounded the country throughout 2020, the AGM was characterised by optimism. The meeting demonstrated the resilience of Portlaoise GAA during one of the most challenging periods in its history and laid the foundations for a new phase of growth built on stronger community engagement, improved facilities and the vision of becoming a fully integrated One Club.

Senior Football

Senior Ladies Football

Less than a year after capturing the first senior championship in the club's history, the Portlaoise ladies footballers added the Laois Division 1 League title to their growing list of honours. A commanding 4-14 to 0-10 victory over St Brigid's in the league final completed a memorable league and championship double and confirmed Portlaoise as the dominant force in ladies football in Laois.

Although both teams were without their county players, Portlaoise produced an outstanding team performance, controlling the contest from the opening whistle. Rebecca Reddin and Shaunagh Jackson settled the side early before Gráinne Moran, Rachel Glynn and Maeve Phelan ensured Portlaoise built a healthy advantage heading into half-time, leading 1-8 to 0-7.

St Brigid's battled gamely to remain in contention during the third quarter, but Portlaoise found another gear after the second water break. Shaunagh Jackson struck her second goal after Rachel Glynn's effort crashed off the crossbar, before injury-time goals from Jackson and Glynn transformed a competitive contest into a comprehensive sixteen-point victory.

Gráinne Moran once again demonstrated her importance to the side, finishing with five points, while Shaunagh Jackson was in devastating form with 2-2. Rachel Glynn contributed 1-3, Maeve Phelan added a goal and Rebecca Reddin and Aisling Kehoe also got on the scoresheet as Portlaoise showcased the attacking strength that had become the hallmark of the team.

The league triumph was another landmark in the remarkable rise of Portlaoise Ladies Football. Following the breakthrough senior championship success in 2020, the team had now completed a coveted senior league and championship double, underlining the strength of a squad built around homegrown talent that had progressed together through the club's successful underage structures.

The championship-winning side featured Aoife Conlon-Hyland; Rebecca Reddin, Claire Dunne, Aoibhe O'Brien; Emma Dunne, Maeve Phelan, Sinead Murphy; Amy Byrne, Ciara Byrne; Shauna Dooley, Ciara Murphy, Shaunagh Jackson; Gráinne Moran, Aisling Saunders and Rachel Glynn, with Charlie Walsh, Aisling Kehoe, Rebecca Keane and Eireann Brennan all making valuable contributions from the bench.

Senior Hurling

Intermediate Football

Junior Football

Junior Hurling

Under 20 Football

Under 20 Hurling

Minor Football

Under 17 Football

Under 17 Hurling

Under 15 Football

Under 15 Hurling

Under 13 Football

Under 13 Hurling

2021 honours

• Ladies Football – Senior Laois Ladies Senior ‘A’ League Portlaoise 4-14 v 0-10 St Brigid’s
• Ladies Football – Under 16 Laois Ladies Minor ‘B’ Championship Portlaoise 3-14 v 5-5 Park Ratheniska
• Ladies Football – Under 16 Laois Ladies U-16 ‘A’ League
• Ladies Football – Under 14 Laois Ladies U-14 ‘A’ Championship
• Camogie – Senior Laois Camogie Junior ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 1-15 v 2-5 Camross

AGM

Held in St Mary's Hall, the AGM represented another important milestone in the evolution of Portlaoise GAA. While reflecting on another challenging year emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic, members formally endorsed an ambitious vision that would shape the club's future for many years to come.

Chairperson Eamon Fennelly praised the enormous contribution made by volunteers throughout the club, remarking that much of the work that keeps Portlaoise GAA functioning is carried out quietly behind the scenes by people seeking neither recognition nor praise. He highlighted the continued growth of the club and stressed the importance of attracting new volunteers to help drive the organisation forward.

On the field, Eamon reflected on a mixed season for the adult men's teams. The senior footballers recovered impressively from an opening championship defeat to reach another county final before losing to Portarlington, while the senior hurlers recovered from the disappointment of the delayed 2020 Premier Intermediate Final to win all of their championship group games before exiting in the semi-final. In contrast, the ladies football and camogie sections continued to enjoy significant success and were acknowledged as the club's leading standard bearers during the year.

Particular praise was reserved for the juvenile section under David Powders and his committee, whose coaching structures and player pathways continued to strengthen across every age group. Eamon described the underage system as providing excellent foundations for the future of both football and hurling within the club.

The AGM formally ratified TOWN25 as the agreed long-term development plan for Portlaoise GAA. The ambitious masterplan included floodlighting, pitch improvements, new dressing rooms, a permanent clubhouse, coffee dock and additional facilities designed to meet the needs of one of Ireland's largest GAA clubs. Members also heard that floodlights for Pitch 4 would be delivered for significantly less than originally anticipated, with further pitches earmarked for future lighting.

Another major theme of the meeting was the continued development of the One Club philosophy. Members approved a series of motions designed to strengthen integration between every section of Portlaoise GAA. These included adopting the amended national GAA Club Constitution, improving gender representation across committees and establishing a unified finance committee encompassing the GAA, Ladies Football and Camogie sections. The club also confirmed that Gaelic4Mothers & Others and Club na nÓg would formally come under the main club structure during 2022.

Significant progress was also reported away from the playing fields. Membership continued to grow through the introduction of the Foireann registration platform, the weekly Club Bingo had become a major fundraising success, and the online Club Lotto continued to expand. The revamped club website was recognised alongside the continued success of the monthly Town Tattler newsletter, which had quickly become an important communication tool for members.

The AGM highlighted several new initiatives that reflected the club's increasingly inclusive approach. The introduction of the Town All Stars programme, expansion of Health and Wellbeing activities, acknowledgement of Pride Month and investment in community projects such as the Rathleague Coffee Dock all demonstrated Portlaoise GAA's growing role beyond the playing field. New benches donated by club supporters and defibrillator training for volunteers further strengthened the facilities available to members.

Looking to the future, members also approved a new fundraising model for TOWN25, enabling supporters to contribute through an annual or monthly subscription that included Club Lotto and Bingo participation. It represented another important step towards funding the ambitious development plans that would transform Rathleague over the coming years.

Perhaps the strongest message of the evening came from chairperson Eamon Fennelly's call for unity. He urged members to move beyond any perceived divide between football and hurling, emphasising that Portlaoise must strive to become the strongest dual club possible. Combined with the continued development of the One Club structure, the AGM reinforced the belief that every player, volunteer and supporter belonged under one banner—Portlaoise GAA Club.

Senior Football

Senior Hurling

Junior Football

Junior Hurling

Under 20 Football

Under 20 Hurling

Under 17 Football

Under 17 Hurling

Under 15 Football

Under 15 Hurling

Under 15 Football

Under 15 Hurling

Under 13 Football

Under 13 Hurling

2022 honours

• Men’s Football – Junior Laois Junior Footballer of the Year Michael Dowling
• Men’s Football – Junior Laois Junior ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 1-11 v 0-8 Barrowhouse Captain: Craig Rogers
• Men’s Football – Under 14 & Under 15 Laois Féile Peil na nÓg Portlaoise 3-8 v 1-6 Mountmellick Parish Gaels
• Men’s Football – Under 15 Laois U-15 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 2-5 v 0-8 Na Fianna Óg
• Football – Under 13 Laois U-13 'C 'Football Development Portlaoise 4-6 v 1-5 Portarlington
• Hurling – Minor Laois Minor ‘B’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 2-8 v 1-9 Park Ratheniska-Timahoe
• Hurling – Under 17 Laois U-17 Hurling Championship 2B Portlaoise 2-8 v 1-9 Park Ratheniska-Timahoe
• Ladies Football – Senior Laois Ladies Senior ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 0-12 v 2-5 St Conleths Captain: Aishling Saunders
• Ladies Football – Senior Laois Ladies Senior ‘A’ League Portlaoise 6-12 v 3-6 St Brigid’s
• Ladies Football – Under 16 Laois Ladies U-16 ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 5-6 v 3-8 Sarsfields
• Ladies Football – Under 14 Laois Ladies U-14 ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 1-11 v 0-8 Timahoe
• Ladies Football – Under 14 Laois Ladies U-14 ‘C’ Championship Portlaoise 4-1 v 1-5 St Conleths
• Ladies Football – Under 14 & Under 15 All-Ireland Féile Peile na nÓg Division 2 Shield Portlaoise 5-1 v 3-4 Blessington (Wicklow)
• Ladies Football – Under 14 & Under 15 Laois Ladies Féile Peil na nÓg

AGM

Held in the Killeshin Hotel, the AGM coincided with the 135th anniversary of the foundation of Portlaoise GAA Club. While reflecting on another successful year across all sections of the club, members also celebrated the remarkable progress being made in the transformation of Rathleague under the TOWN25 development plan.

Chairperson Eamon Fennelly thanked the officers, committees, volunteers, coaches, sponsors and supporters whose efforts continued to drive the club forward. He paid tribute to the senior ladies footballers on another county championship success, congratulated the men's junior footballers, the underage championship-winning teams and acknowledged the continued progress of the senior hurlers, senior footballers and camogie section. Particular praise was reserved for the juvenile coaches and Games Committee, whose work was beginning to bear fruit across both football and hurling.

Members received a comprehensive update on the TOWN25 project. The new perimeter walking track was nearing completion, with only the final tarmac surface remaining to be laid. Pitch 5 had been completed, work on Pitch 6 was also finished and the foundations for the long-awaited floodlights on Pitch 4 were in place, with installation due to commence shortly. Planning permission had now been secured for future phases of development, allowing the club to pursue further grant funding for additional facilities.

The meeting heard that CLUB25 and the weekly Club Bingo had become two of the club's greatest fundraising successes. Both initiatives were continuing to generate significant income to support the ambitious development programme at Rathleague, while members were encouraged to continue supporting both schemes into the future.

Another highlight of the year had been the inaugural Walk for the Town, a twenty-four-hour fundraising event that not only raised valuable funds for the club but also generated approximately €3,000 for SOSAD Laois. Following its success, members agreed that the event should become a permanent fixture on the club calendar.

Rathleague also established itself as one of Leinster's premier venues for underage competition during the year. The club successfully hosted six Ladies Football and Camogie provincial and national blitzes, with JP Cahillane recognised for his leadership in organising the events and the many volunteers who assisted with parking, catering and stewarding.

The AGM also celebrated the growing strength of the One Club philosophy. Chairperson Eamon Fennelly reiterated his ambition for Portlaoise to become one of Ireland's leading dual clubs, stressing that football, hurling, ladies football and camogie must continue working together as one family under the Portlaoise GAA banner.

Recognition was also given to many of the club's wider community initiatives. The Town All Stars programme continued to flourish, the monthly Town Tattler newsletter had become an established part of club life, while the club's digital and social media presence continued to expand through the work of Jennifer Fitzpatrick and Richie Coss. Congratulations were also extended to Zach Tuohy on his continuing AFL career, to Allison Taylor and Mickey Dowling on their Laois Football Awards and to Tommy Fitzgerald following his success with St Thomas's in Galway.

The meeting marked the end of Malcolm Nealon's four-year tenure as Club Secretary. Members expressed their appreciation for his outstanding service, while Dermot Costelloe was elected as his successor. Elsewhere, Eamon Fennelly was returned as Chairperson, Catherine Fitzgerald as Vice Chairperson and Declan McEvoy as Treasurer, providing continuity as the club entered another important year of development.

Looking ahead, members heard that 2023 would see the completion of the Pitch 4 floodlights, the finishing of the illuminated walking track and the continuation of the wider TOWN25 masterplan. To celebrate the club's 135th anniversary, a gala celebration was also announced for February 2023, where championship-winning teams and many of the club's greatest servants would be honoured.

The AGM concluded with a renewed sense of optimism. As Portlaoise entered its 136th year, the combination of successful teams, modern facilities, strong fundraising and a united One Club vision placed the club in one of the strongest positions in its long history.

Senior Football

Senior Hurling

Intermediate Football

Junior Football

Junior Hurling

Under 20 Football

Under 20 Hurling

Under 17 Football

Under 17 Hurling

Under 15 Football

Under 15 Hurling

Under 15 Ladies Football

Under 13 Football

Semi-final: Portlaoise 2-10 to 5-7 Ballyfin played at Rathleague on Friday, August 25th, 2023.

Under 13 Hurling

2023 honours

• Hurling – Premier Intermediate Premier Intermediate Hurler of the Year Eoin O’Connor
• Men’s Football – Under 13 Laois U-13 ‘A’ Football League Portlaoise 4-6 v 4-3 Portarlington
• Men’s Football – Under 13 Laois U-13 Development Football League Portlaoise 4-6 v 4-3 Portarlington
• Men’s Football – Under 13 Laois U-13 Football Development Competition Portlaoise 3-9 v 3-3 Stradbally Parish Gaels
• Men’s Football – Under 15 Laois U-15 Football Development Championship Portlaoise 3-5 v 2-7 Mountmellick Parish Gaels
• Hurling – Senior Laois ACHL Div 2 Portlaoise 3-20 v 1-21 Ballinakill Captain: Eoin O'Connor
• Hurling – Senior Laois Premier Intermediate Hurling Championship Portlaoise 0-19 v 0-10 Ballyfin Captain: Eoin O'Connor
• Ladies Football – Junior Laois Ladies Junior ‘A’ League Portlaoise 3-4 v 0-12 The Heath
• Ladies Football – Senior Laois Ladies Senior ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 1-6 v 0-7 St Conleths Captain: Ellen Healy
• Ladies Football – Senior Laois Ladies Senior ‘A’ League Portlaoise 4-6 v 3-4 Sarsfields
• Ladies Football – Under 16 Laois Ladies U-16 ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 0-15 v 0-4 Ballyroan
• Ladies Football – Under 16 Laois Ladies U-16 ‘A’ League Portlaoise 5-12 v 1-6 Sarsfields
• Ladies Football – Under 16 Bennekerry/Tinryland Mary Dwyer Annual 7s Portlaoise v St. Brigids
• Ladies Football – Under 14 Laois Ladies U-14 ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 1-10 v 1-1 Ballyroan
• Ladies Football – Under 14 & Under 15 Laois Ladies Féile Peil na nÓg Portlaoise 4-2 v 2-3 Timahoe
• Ladies Football – Under 14 Laois Ladies U-14 ‘A’ League Portlaoise 4-7 v 1-6 Sarsfields
• Camogie – Minor Laois Minor ‘B’ Camogie Championship Portlaoise 5-10 v 2-5 CRG
• Camogie – Under 12 Laois U-12 Festival of Camogie Portlaoise 3-7 v 1-2 Clough Ballacolla

AGM

The 2024 AGM reflected a club continuing to grow in every area. With membership approaching 1,400, more than forty teams using the Rathleague facilities each week and preparations underway for the next phase of the ambitious TOWN25 project.

Chairman Eamon Fennelly thanked the hundreds of volunteers who continued to drive the club forward, acknowledging coaches, mentors, committee members, sponsors and supporters across every code. Congratulations were extended to the Junior Camogie team on capturing the county championship, the Ladies Footballers on winning the league title, the Minor Footballers on their county championship success and the Under 13 and Under 15 football and hurling squads on another successful season. The continued growth of the camogie section and the work of Town Tigers, Town Óg and the juvenile coaching structures were also recognised.

The meeting heard that significant progress had been made on the TOWN25 development. Drainage improvements had now been completed on four pitches, Pitch 5 had been extended, new ball-stop netting erected on Pitch 7 and plans were confirmed to complete drainage works on Pitches 2 and 3 during 2025. Members were also informed that construction of the long-awaited clubhouse development would commence during 2025.

Away from the playing fields, the club continued to strengthen its commercial and community activities. Walk for the Town, the Golf Classic, development blitzes and sponsorship all made major contributions towards the club's finances, while the communications team was recognised for producing one of the leading digital platforms in club GAA. The Club App surpassed 1,500 users, the Town Tattler continued to grow in popularity and the club's social media output received widespread praise for its professionalism and reach.

The AGM also celebrated several notable achievements away from competition. Portlaoise earned the Joe McDonagh Foundation Bronze Award for promoting the Irish language within the club, while the archives project continued to expand through the work of Teddy Fennelly, Brian Delaney, Laura Bergin, Denis Tynan, Richie Coss and David Maher as preparations began for an updated edition of the club history book.

Looking to the future, members discussed how the continued expansion of the club required new approaches to governance. A proposal to introduce Joint Chairpersons was approved, recognising that the scale and complexity of managing one of Ireland's largest GAA clubs had grown beyond the responsibilities traditionally carried by a single individual. The role would be shared by Eamon Fennelly and Dermot Costelloe from 2025 onwards, while Eimear Holland and Tommy Mulligan were elected as Joint Secretaries.

Members also agreed to establish a dedicated Commercial Manager position, reflecting the increasing importance of sponsorship and commercial partnerships in supporting the club's continued development. Philip Scully, whose work had already transformed the club's commercial activities, was confirmed in the role.

The meeting concluded with a strong sense of optimism. While members acknowledged ongoing challenges around volunteer recruitment, player retention and the continued development of hurling, there was widespread agreement that Portlaoise GAA had never been stronger. With major construction due to begin in 2025, membership at record levels and the TOWN25 vision becoming a reality, the club stood on the threshold of another historic chapter.

Senior Football

Senior Hurling

Senior Camogie

Intermediate Football

Junior Football

Junior Hurling

Under 20 Football

Under 20 Hurling

Under 17 Football

Under 17 Hurling

Under 15 Football

Under 15 Hurling

Under 15 Ladies Football

Under 13 Football

Under 13 Hurling

2024 honours

• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor Footballer of the Year Darren Brennan
• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 4-7 v 0-11 Portarlington Captain: Ben O'Connor
• Men’s Football – Under 13 Laois U-13 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 2-7 v 0-4 Stradbally Parish Gaels
• Men’s Football – Under 13 Laois U-13 ‘A’ Football League Portlaoise 3-5 v 0-1 Ballyfin
• Men’s Football – Under 13 Laois U-13 Football League Division 3 - Shield Portlaoise 5-8 v 2-5 Mountrath
• Men’s Football – Under 15 Laois U-15 ‘A’ Football Championship Shield Portlaoise 3-9 v 1-9 Ballyfin
• Hurling – Under 15 Laois U-15 Div 1 ‘B’ Hurling League Portlaoise 6-9 v 3-9 Ballinakill Ballypickas
• Ladies Football – Senior Laois Ladies Senior ‘A’ League Portlaoise 2-9 v 0-12 St Joseph’s Captain: Ellen Healy
• Ladies Football – Under 14 Laois Ladies U-14 ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 7-9 v 3-5 Sarsfields
• Ladies Football – Under 14 Laois Ladies U-14 ‘A’ League Portlaoise 3-12 v 1-9 Park Ratheniska
• Ladies Football – Under 14 & Under 15 All-Ireland Féile Peile na nÓg Division 2 Shield Portlaoise 4-2 v 1-1 Walterstown (Meath)
• Ladies Football – Under 14 & Under 15 Laois Ladies Féile Peil na nÓg
• Ladies Football – Under 16 Laois Ladies U-16 ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 1-6 v 1-4 Ballyroan Captain: Sarah McDonald
• Ladies Football – Under 16 South East 7s Portlaoise 3-10 v 2-1 St Brigids
• Camogie – Senior Laois Camogie Junior ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 1-15 v 2-5 Camross Captains: Niamh Crowley and Ciara Crowley
• Camogie – Senior Laois Camogie Junior League Portlaoise 1-9 v 1-7 St. Brigid's
• Camogie – Under 13 Laois Camogie U-13 League ‘B’ Shield Portlaoise 5-7 v 0-0 Clough Ballacolla
• Camogie – Under 15 Laois Camogie U-15 League Plate Portlaoise 1-3 v 1-2 CRG

2025 honours

• Men’s Football – Under 13 Laois U-13 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 4-14 v 5-7 Na Fianna Óg
• Men’s Football – Under 13 Laois U-13 Football League Division 1 - Cup Portlaoise 6-9 v 3-10 Na Fianna Óg
• Men’s Football – Under 15 Laois U-15 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 2-10 v 1-5 Mountmellick Parish Gaels
• Men’s Football – Under 15 Laois Coiste na nÓg U-15 Development Féile Football Portlaoise 9-8 v 1-2 Portarlington
• Men’s Football – Under 11 Eddie Hanrahan Blitz (Clonmel Commercials)
• Ladies Football – Junior Laois Ladies Junior ‘A’ League Portlaoise 3-12 v 0-13 St Conleth's
• Ladies Football – Minor Laois Ladies Minor ‘A’ Shield Portlaoise 5-7 v 2-8 St. Brigid's Captain: Sarah McDonald
• Ladies Football – Senior Laois Ladies Senior ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 3-13 v 1-11 St Conleths Captain: Aisling Kehoe
• Ladies Football – Under 16 Laois Ladies U-16 ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 1-6 v 1-4 Ballyroan Captain: Sarah McDonald
• Ladies Football – Under 16 Laois Ladies U-16 ‘A’ League Portlaoise 2-8 v 0-7 Sarsfields Captain: Amarachi Obi

Rathleague redevelopment

The club enters another landmark development phase, with an all-weather pitch, car park, new clubhouse, indoor training facility, stand, landscaping and pitch enhancements planned across the project.

Under 15 Hurling

Under 15 Hurlers End Fourteen-Year Wait for Féile Glory

History was made in 2026 when Portlaoise captured the Féile na nGael Division 1 title for the first time since 2012, securing the club's nineteenth Laois Féile crown and earning the honour of representing the county at the National Féile.

The young Town hurlers produced a series of outstanding performances throughout the day, overcoming Borris-in-Ossory/Kilcotton, Rathdowney-Errill and The Harps to book their place in the county final.

Waiting for them in the decider was Camross, one of the most successful and respected underage hurling clubs in Laois. What followed was a thrilling contest that lived up to its billing, with both teams displaying tremendous skill, determination and commitment.

The final remained in the balance right to the closing whistle. Portlaoise showed tremendous composure under pressure and edged the contest on a scoreline of 0-11 to 1-7, securing victory by the narrowest possible margin.

The win sparked scenes of celebration as players, mentors and supporters recognised the significance of the achievement. Bringing the Féile Division 1 title back to Portlaoise after a fourteen-year wait was a fitting reward for a talented group that had worked tirelessly throughout the season.

The success also ensured that Portlaoise would carry the Laois flag at the National Féile na nGael finals, giving the players the opportunity to test themselves against some of the finest underage hurling teams in Ireland.

Great credit was due to mentors Ed O'Dwyer and Brian Devaney, whose dedication, guidance and commitment helped shape the squad into county champions. Their work, combined with the efforts of the players and their families, culminated in one of the most significant underage hurling achievements for the club in recent years.

Earlier results: Round 1: Portlaoise 2-9 to 0-5 Borris in Ossory/Kilcotton. Round 2: Rathdowney Errill 0-3 to 1-5 Portlaoise.

Division 3 Shield

On Wed 27th May another proud milestone for Portlaoise underage hurling as the club's Under 15 hurlers claimed the Division 3 Shield title for the first time.

Portlaoise 3-9 to 4-5 Mountmellick Parish Gaels and played on Wed 27th May.

In a thrilling final played in Páirc Acragar, Portlaoise edged out Mountmellick Parish Gaels by the narrowest of margins on a 3-9 to 4-5 scoreline.

Captained from goals by Adam Keogh, Portlaoise made an excellent start and led 2-6 to 1-2 at half-time following a strong opening period.

Mountmellick Parish Gaels battled back after the break and eventually moved ahead entering the closing stages, setting up a tense finish.

Portlaoise showed great character and composure when it mattered most, with Zac Bowe firing over the winning point with just two minutes remaining in a very sporting and competitive contest.

The Portlaoise goals came from Eoin McNamara and Logan Peters Fitzpatrick, with Logan finding the net twice, once in each half.

The winning team was coached by Mick Bowe and Brian Bohan.

Earlier results: Round 1: Park Ratheniska-Timahoe 2-9 to 4-12 Portlaoise. Round 2: Portlaoise 1-6 to 5-3 Clonad/Trumera. Round 3: The Harps 5-11 to 2-5 Portlaoise. Round 4: Portlaoise 8-13 to 0-4 Mountmellick Parish Gaels.

Under 13 Football

Under 13 Division 2B Winners

Portlaoise's Under 13 footballers produced a superb all-round display to capture the Division 2B title in 2026, defeating The Harps by 3-9 to 0-3 in the final at the LOETB Centre of Excellence, played on Friday June 19th.

Captained by Zach Smyth, the young Town side delivered a complete team performance from start to finish. Strong and disciplined defending ensured that The Harps were restricted to just three points, while Portlaoise's work rate and determination around midfield provided the platform for victory.

Going forward, Portlaoise were clinical whenever opportunities arose. Their ability to convert chances into scores, particularly goals, allowed them to build a commanding lead and maintain control of the contest throughout.

The final scoreline of 3-9 to 0-3 reflected the quality of the performance and the balance that existed throughout the team. Every player contributed to a memorable victory, with resolute defending, tireless midfield play and efficient finishing combining to secure championship honours.

Earlier results: Round 1: Stradbally Parish Gaels 3-3 to 7-10 Portlaoise. Round 2: Portlaoise 5-10 to 0-4 St. Fintans Mountrath. Round 3: Portlaoise 7-14 to 0-4 The Harps. Round 4: Colt Shanahoe 0-0 to 0-0 Portlaoise. Round 5: Portlaoise 3-14 to 2-3 Camross GAA.

National Féile na nGael Glory

One of the greatest achievements in the history of the club's underage camogie section came in 2026 when Portlaoise completed an unbeaten campaign to capture the National Féile na nGAel Invitationl 2 Cup. Combining skill, determination and outstanding teamwork, the squad produced a series of superb performances to bring the trophy back to Portlaoise.

The campaign began with a dominant display in the group stages. Portlaoise opened with an emphatic 8-4 to 1-0 victory over An Port Mór of Armagh before following up with a 4-5 to 1-3 win over Myshall of Carlow. The group was completed with another commanding performance as Nurney of Kildare were defeated by 3-6 to 0-0.

Winning all three group games secured a place in the semi-final against Burren Rangers of Carlow. In a physical and fiercely contested encounter, Portlaoise showed tremendous composure and maturity. Strong defending combined with some excellent scores helped the girls pull away and record a convincing 5-5 to 0-1 victory, booking their place in the national final.

Awaiting them in the decider were Loup of Derry. The final was played in glorious conditions and Portlaoise quickly settled into their rhythm. Every score came through hard work, teamwork and intelligent play, while the defence remained resolute throughout. A superb opening-half display saw Portlaoise establish a 1-2 to 0-0 lead by the interval.

With the title within touching distance, the players dug deep during the second half and demonstrated tremendous grit and determination. Continuing to dominate throughout the field, they finished strongly and secured a memorable 2-7 to 0-0 victory to become National Féile champions.

2026 honours

• Men’s Football – Under 15 Laois U-15 Division 1A Football League Portlaoise 5-9 v 4-8 Mountmellick Parish Gaels Captain: Tadas Sirvaitis
• Men’s Football – Under 13 Laois U-13 Division 2B Football League Portlaoise 3-9 v 0-3 The Harps
• Hurling – Under 14 & Under 15 Laois Féile na nGael Division 1 Portlaoise 0-11 v 1-7 Camross Captain: Tadgh Graham
• Hurling – Under 15 Laois U-15 Div 3 Hurling League Shield Portlaoise 3-9 v 4-5 Mountmellick Parish Gaels Captain: Adam Keogh
• Camogie – Under 15 All-Ireland Camogie Féile na nGael Invitational 2 Cup Portlaoise 2-7 v 0-0 Loup (Derry) Captains: Sasha Lawless and Emily McEvoy