The St. Patrick’s Challenge returns to the University of Limerick on March 14th, bringing Ireland and Northern Ireland together once again for a full day of international volleyball.
This year’s edition carries added meaning. After last year’s Challenge ended 3-1 in favour of Northern Ireland, Ireland’s squads will arrive with renewed focus, clear motivation, and recent international experience driving standards forward.
For several teams, this fixture represents an opportunity to right the wrongs of last year. For others, it’s a chance to push on and build momentum.
Looking Back at 2025
Last year’s St. Patrick’s Challenge delivered a number of intense and competitive matches, with performances that showed promise but left Ireland searching for more consistency.
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U18 Girls showed positive moments but ultimately fell to a 3-1 defeat
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U20 Men pushed Northern Ireland all the way in a five-set battle, narrowly losing 3-2
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Senior Men experienced a tough contest, with lessons that have shaped preparation since
These results have not been forgotten. Over the past year, each squad has continued to develop through camps, competition, and international exposure including the recent U18 Small Countries Association (SCA) Championships.
Momentum from the U18 SCA
January’s U18 SCA, hosted on home soil, marked a significant step forward for Irish volleyball. The tournament saw:
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U18 Men claim a silver medal, including a victory over Northern Ireland
That success now feeds directly into the St. Patrick’s Challenge, with the U18 Men aiming to repeat their SCA victory over Northern Ireland, and the U18 Women eager to apply lessons learned against familiar opposition.
Senior Women Looking to Push On
Ireland’s Senior Women were one of the standout positives from last year’s Challenge, producing a resilient 3–2 victory over Northern Ireland.
This year, they return determined to push on further, building on that performance and making another strong statement against the North as part of their preparation for upcoming international competition.
Six Squads, One Day
The 2026 St. Patrick’s Challenge will feature six Irish squads:
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Senior Men
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Senior Women
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U20 Men
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U20 Women
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U18 Men
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U18 Women
The expanded format reflects the continued growth of the national programme and provides a unique opportunity to see the full pathway, from U18 through to Senior level, competing on the same stage.
Another Step Forward
More than a rivalry, the St. Patrick’s Challenge plays a key role in Ireland’s international preparation. It offers:
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Meaningful match experience
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A chance to measure progress year-on-year
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An opportunity to test systems under pressure
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A home environment to showcase Irish volleyball
For many players, it’s also another step toward larger goals later in the season, including SCA Championships and European qualification events.
Event Details
📅 March 14th
📍 University of Limerick
🏐 St. Patrick’s Challenge – Ireland vs Northern Ireland
With pride, momentum, and unfinished business on the line, this year’s St. Patrick’s Challenge promises a compelling day of international volleyball.
Éire Abú!
