World Footy News

Ireland’s own UCC Bombers footy team, based down in Cork, has been gradually developing a full head of steam as it heads closer to becoming a key part of the continued growth of Australian Rules football in the nation. The club’s Public Relations Officer, Ian O’Brien, was happy to give an overview of their season to date and a look at the inspiration that Geelong’s Irish ruckman, Padraig Lucey has become to the club.

“The UCC Bombers started the new season in a positive manner with a win over the current Rebel Shield winners the Leeside Lions. This proved to be a close encounter with a highly skilled and experienced opposition. The Bombers came out on top in the first leg of the Rebel Shield competition with a 5 point margin and the final score being UCC Bombers 7.12.54 defeating Leeside Lions 7.7.49.”

“This was a major test for the club, especially the newcomers who performed with such enthusiasm and determination with a mere five weeks training under their belts. The game itself proved to be an intense test of physicality and in the end the Bombers pulled ahead by the narrowest of margins.”

“The UCC Bombers are a team that have yet to reach its peak in terms of potential and for the past number of years the club has been constantly developing for the better. This win over the Leeside Lions bodes well for the club and forms the basis of a successful year ahead. The performance by the old and new members of the UCC Bombers team solidifies them as contenders for the upcoming Fitzpatrick Cup.”

“The UCC Bombers have been developing as a club for more than three years and over this period of time there were new innovative additions to the club. For the very first time the Bombers had the honour of being coached by both players and coaches from the VAFA. This was a major contribution to the club’s training sessions as it opened up new training techniques and skill tips in the process.”

Another key addition to the club was the opportunity to train with a current AFL player. The Bombers also had the pleasure to train with one of their former teammates, now a member of the AFL’s Geelong Cats. Padraig Lucey was a former member of the UCC Bombers when he had the opportunity to further develop himself into a professional Aussie Rules player.”

“Padraig Lucey came out to join the club the year he was invited to the Irish Testing Combine with Tadgh Kennelly. He trained with the Bombers, got to know the rules of the sport, and learned various techniques in order to further develop his skill level.”

“The Bombers were a stepping stone for Lucey in order to reach a professional level. The UCC Bombers are honoured to have a former player represent the club on a professional and global scale. The club thrives off the idea that it is possible to reach a professional level and this idea was realised through the success of Padraig Lucey.”

Certainly the Bombers have come a long way in a short time, and the steps they have taken remain positive in terms of future growth and possible expansion to the national league at some point, if this should be their wish. Until then we will watch their development with great interest and wish them luck.