Four new clubs set to join Mayo Women's Leagues for 2026

The growth of female soccer in Mayo was highlighted at this week’s AGM of the Mayo Women's League.

Four additional clubs - a mix of new and returning - will feature in the senior women's ranks in 2026 - Ballyvary Blue Bombers, Ballinrobe Town, Castlebar Celtic and Claremorris AFC.

At the close of entries for the season, 18 teams had signed up to play in the women’s league (up from 14 last year, when three new clubs also joined).

Thirteen teams will compete in the Under 17 league, starting next month, with eleven competing at Under 19 later in the summer and the Masters League is already well underway.

Speaking at the league's annual general meeting in Umbro Park, Milebush, chairman Michael Collins welcomed the addition of four senior clubs joining the 14 from last year, which, he said, 'would represent a staggering growth of 29%.’

Player numbers increased in 2025, with growth in participation at all grades apart from the Under 17s, which saw a slight dip.

The chairman reflected on a very positive year for the league committee, setting out key projects for 2026, which include achieving the League Mark, where a lot of groundwork has already been done, and rolling out a Coach the Coaches programme, which will further strengthen the league.

League secretary Joe King's report highlighted the work of the finance committee in bringing new sponsors on board, whose support is so important as the game continues to grow in Mayo.

He extended thanks to Hayes Mechanical and Engineering, Ballintubber, Eco Powered Cabinets, Hollymount, McHale Agri Forest and Garden, Castlebar, LPB Building Services, Manulla, Hurst Heating & Plumbing, Castlebar, and Brian Cunningham Transport, Belcarra and Castlebar, for supporting women's football in the county.

Words of thanks were extended to the club secretaries, managers, coaches and referees, and Mr King congratulated the volunteers in all the clubs for the work they do.

“The Mayo Women's League has 21 clubs, 18 teams in the women’s league, and this is totally down to the work in the clubs. We facilitate you and thank you for your trust in our league.”

On the operational side of things, the secretary said 2025 was 'an exceptionally good year' for the league management committee, increasing to 12 members, with all members active and taking roles to make the leagues a better place for players and managers.

New challenges were taken on and highlights included the runaway success of the Masters League and the awards night in Breaffy House Hotel last November.

NEW PRESIDENT

The committee was unanimously returned en bloc for another year. Tommy Rumley has been elected honorary president of the Mayo Women's Football League.

His appointment was unanimously ratified. Tommy is a legendary figure in Mayo women's football, held in respect and affection in equal measure by all involved in the game across the county and further afield.

His heart belongs to Manulla FC, but his generosity in sharing his knowledge and advice extends far beyond that, and Tommy's love for the game and the joy he takes from it is infectious.

His election as honorary president was warmly welcomed by delegates at the meeting, recognising a figure who has been an excellent role model and promoter of women's football for many years.