St Louis High School Minor Camogie team got their 2026 campaign off to the perfect start with an emphatic victory over Oldbawn, in what was the first game of the year for a youthful side made up of first and second-year students. 

From the opening whistle, St Louis took control of proceedings, firing in two early goals within the first few minutes. Chloe Walsh proved a constant danger at full forward, attacking the goal at pace and posing a threat to the Oldbawn defence throughout. 

The midfield battle was dominated by Vivienne O’Sullivan and Emily Richards, both delivering outstanding performances. Vivienne produced a Player of the Match display, working tirelessly with superb hooking, blocking, and turnovers, driving attacks forward while contributing both goals and points. Alongside her, Emily Richards covered every blade of grass, chasing down possession and repeatedly turning the game back in St Louis’ favour with her relentless work rate. 

The team’s intensity was evident across the pitch. Isabella Whybrow showed huge commitment, tracking her marker all the way from wing forward into the half-back line to apply pressure and force errors. At centre back, Isabella Herridge was dominant, clearing ball after ball, while Abbie Jordan, anchoring the full-back line, was like a wall, allowing nothing past her. 

In the corners, Naoise Roddy and Isabella Caroline Kelly displayed tigerish defending, working relentlessly to deny Oldbawn clear scoring chances. Goalkeeper Ailbhe Mangan marshalled her defence superbly, showing excellent game intelligence with smart, clearances, safe handling and fabulous skill throughout. 

Strong defensive support also came from Ioana Chirneciuc, whose tireless chasing limited Oldbawn’s scoring opportunities, and Aoibheann O’Meara, who impressed on the wing by keeping the opposition forwards at bay, showing a crisp first touch. Sophia Hayden worked hard in the middle third, turning over possession and helping St Louis maintain control. 

Up front, Rose Hickey and Vivienne O’Sullivan linked up beautifully at centre forward, producing a fabulous passing display. Rose showed real class in attack, soloing forward with confidence and adding both goals and points. In the corners, Radhika and Flourish worked tirelessly, with Flourish chipping in with a well-taken point. 

At halftime, Emujin and Sophie Fallon Cowan were introduced, both adding further strength and energy to an already dominant St Louis performance. 

The girls demonstrated great skill, teamwork, and determination throughout, securing St Louis their first win of 2026 on a final scoreline of 6–6 to 0–2, despite Oldbawn’s continued effort and determination. 

A special mention also goes to the substitutes Skylar Sullivan, Scottlyn Hallion, Mollie Ryan, and Lily Roche (injured), whose support from the sidelines and team spirit contributed greatly to the overall success of the day. 

Adding to the occasion, the team proudly debuted their new kit, supplied by Intosport in Castlecomer, Kilkenny. 

A fantastic performance from this young squad and a very promising start to the year.