31/08/2026
From schoolboy hurler to All-Ireland glory, Cathal O’Neill graduates from University of Limerick.
Just weeks before graduating, Limerick senior hurling star Cathal was named Player of the Match after scoring 1-4 in the All-Ireland hurling final, including a memorable second-half goal.
Today, he adds another achievement to that journey, graduating with a BSc in Physical Education with Irish, alongside more than 3,000 students at UL’s autumn conferring ceremonies.
His degree brings together the three passions that have shaped him: hurling, Gaeilge and teaching, with a career in teaching on the horizon.
Cathal’s UL story began long before he pulled on the jersey himself.
“I chose UL because I had grown up going to training for Limerick underage out there. My father also used to take me to Fitzgibbon Cup games so, I suppose, I was never going to go anywhere else.”
He went on to become a key part of UL’s Fitzgibbon Cup success.
“You know you only get a small window to put on the UL jersey so you want to make the absolute most of it.”
But for Cathal, his time at UL has been about much more than silverware.
“My time at UL has been about the relationships I built during my time there. I think going to college matures you a lot and it definitely helped me find my way as such and figure out who I want to be.”
From the young hurler watching Fitzgibbon Cup games with his father, to Fitzgibbon Cup winner, All-Ireland champion and UL graduate, it has been some journey.
Comhghairdeas, a Chathail! 🎓🏆💚