St David’s 1st Year Boys Crowned Leinster Champions

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s St David’s are crowned Leinster Champions today, we get a full match report from the bould Keith McCabe…

In a moment of history for St David’s Holy Faith, Greystones, the school has been crowned Leinster Champions 2025 following a hard-fought 1-0 win over a talented Willow Park side from Blackrock.

The final, held in Marley Park, Dublin, was a fitting climax to a journey marked by resilience, unity, and sheer determination.

From the outset, this group of 16 boys – coming together from different schools and backgrounds – showed what it means to forge a team in the truest sense. Their bond and belief have grown stronger with each round of the competition, culminating in this remarkable achievement.

The match itself was a tense, tactical affair. St David’s were awarded a penalty around the 15-minute mark following sustained pressure, but the effort, taken by Gethin Davies, went just wide. Credit to Gethin, though, for the courage and character he showed to bounce back and continue fighting for his team.

Shortly before halftime, it was Gethin who lit up the game – breaking through the Willow Park defence with an electrifying solo run before calmly slotting home a clinical finish to give St David’s the lead. It was a moment of magic that proved decisive.

The second half saw a flurry of substitutions from both teams as the intensity ramped up. Willow Park pushed hard for an equaliser, but St David’s stood strong. The back line was immense throughout, with brave blocks, smart positioning, and tireless work-rate. Both David’s goalkeepers played a crucial role, pulling off several fine saves to keep the scoreline at 1-0.

As the final whistle blew, there were scenes of joy and pride – not only had St David’s won the Wicklow-Wexford Championship earlier this season, but now they had made history as first-time Leinster champions.

The squad was made up of Sam Large, Ross Kavanagh, Charlie Dodson, Zenon Duffy, Rispar Barnard, Andrew McCarron, Rian McCabe, Alex Porter, Jack Williams, James Brady, Leo Murphy, Ryan Goff, Chris O’Brien, Gethin Davies, John Byrne and Sean Levins.

Huge credit must go to the coaching team: Mr. McDonald, Mr. Brady, and Deputy Principal Mr. Davies, whose guidance and support have been instrumental. Thanks also to all the teachers and staff who’ve backed the boys throughout this journey.

This win is more than just a trophy – it’s a testament to what belief, effort, and togetherness can achieve. A massive congratulations to every player, coach, and supporter involved.

Well done, St David’s. Champions – in every sense of the word.