Mayo forward named as Young Footballer of The Year
The Claremorris attacker had a superb season in his first year of representing Mayo at senior level
This evening, there is a huge sense of pride and joy as a Mayo footballer has been named as the Young Footballer of The Year.
It has been a special season for Darragh Beirne who featured in his very first inter-county season at the adult grade while helping Mayo secure their first All-Ireland since 1951.
For the Claremorris talent, 2026 has been a year to remember. Earlier in the year, Beirne was representing Mayo at the U-20 grade while being managed by former Mayo legend Keith Higgins. At the time, it was known that Beirne would be featuring for Andy Moran’s senior side down the line as he was training with the side for a period.
In his debut season, Darragh Beirne managed to score an impressive tally of 3-18 across six games including excellent performances in the latter stages. Many people will never forget the moment he stuck the ball into the Kerry net on the biggest stage of them all in the All-Ireland decider. That goal helped Mayo claim their first title since 1951 sparking special and emotional scenes of celebration.
Along the way, the Claremorris attacker picked up a lower leg injury but the flame-haired attacker battled on as he contributed to one of the greatest years in the entire association.
Speaking to RTÉ’s Marty Morrisey, Beirne said It's really special to be recognised as young footballer of the year while he also recognised the other nominees Kobe McDonald and Louth’s Dara McDonnell
When asked about his left foot, the teen said “There's plenty of better left boots than me” as he smiled. The Claremorris talent also spoke highly of his attacking teammates Ryan O’Donoghue and Kobe McDonald while also mentioned Andy Moran for letting them express themselves as footballers.
The hugely talented forward player follows in the footsteps of some Mayo legends who have previously won the accolade. Keith Higgins (2006), Cillian O’Connor (2011 and 2012), Diarmuid O’Connor (2015 and 2016), Oisin Mullin (2020 and 2021) all claimed the award while now 2026 is the year of Darragh Beirne.
A year to remember for the people of Mayo and a year to remember for young Darragh Beirne.