News Story
SAM MAGUIRE CENTENARY COMMEMORATIONS 2027 - (Number of times read: 4)
Monday 12 October 2026
The commemorative bust is currently taking shape in the sculptor's studio, where a full-scale clay model is being meticulously crafted before the work proceeds to the bronze casting stage.
Press Release
On behalf of the Sam Maguire Centenary Commemorations Committee, I am writing to invite your County Board to become a partner in the national commemoration marking the centenary of the death of Sam Maguire, one of the most influential figures in the history of the Gaelic Athletic Association.
The centenary programme, which will take place in Dunmanway, Co. Cork, from 5th to 7th February 2027, is being organised by Doheny GAA Club in collaboration with a broad range of community, heritage and sporting stakeholders. We are particularly honoured that Uachtarán CLG, Jarlath Burns, has endorsed the commemorations and will be attending the event, reflecting the significance attached to this centenary by the GAA at national level.
For every county in Ireland, the name Sam Maguire represents the pinnacle of achievement in Gaelic football. While the Sam Maguire Cup remains the most iconic trophy in our games, it is fitting that the life, contribution and legacy of the man behind that trophy should be commemorated in a manner worthy of his enduring place in GAA history.
The commemorative programme will feature a number of significant events, including:
- The unveiling of a specially commissioned bronze bust of Sam Maguire, creating a permanent tribute to one of Dunmanway's most distinguished sons.
- The official opening of the Sam Maguire Walkway, a new heritage walkway around the perimeter of Sam Maguire Park designed to celebrate and preserve the story of Sam Maguire and his connection to the town.
- A major historical symposium, bringing together leading historians, authors and GAA scholars to explore the life, times and legacy of Sam Maguire.
- A commemorative football fixture between representative teams from Cork and London GAA, recognising Sam Maguire's lifelong connection to both Cork and London and his pivotal role in the promotion of Gaelic games abroad.
- An ecumenical service and wreath-laying ceremony to honour Sam Maguire's life and legacy.
- Heritage tours and commemorative ceremonies at locations associated with Sam Maguire's life and legacy.
- Community and cultural events designed to involve local schools, clubs, organisations and visitors in the celebrations.
Delivering a programme of this scale will require substantial financial resources. Accordingly, we are seeking the support of every County Board in Ireland through a once-off commemorative contribution towards the cost of organising these national commemorations.
As Sam Maguire's name is carried by the trophy contested annually by every county in Ireland, we believe this centenary represents a unique opportunity for the entire Association to contribute towards creating a lasting and fitting tribute to a figure whose influence continues to resonate across all levels of Gaelic football.
We respectfully ask your County Board to consider making a financial contribution in support of the Sam Maguire Centenary Commemorations. Any contribution, regardless of size, will be greatly appreciated and will assist in delivering a programme worthy of Sam Maguire's immense contribution to the Gaelic Athletic Association.
Contributions will be used to deliver the commemorative programme and to establish lasting heritage elements that will preserve and promote the story of Sam Maguire for future generations. All supporting counties will be appropriately acknowledged in commemorative publications and event materials.
We would be grateful if you would place this request before your County Committee at its earliest convenience.
Thank you for your consideration and for your continued service to our Association. We hope that your county will join us in ensuring that the centenary of Sam Maguire's death is marked with the dignity, respect and national recognition that it deserves.
Le meas,
Edward Moloney
Secretary Doheny GAA Club