By Luke Mangan

Last weekend, the MEK Galaxy U14 girls made all the county proud.

They brought European silverware back to the Kingdom by winning a prestigious U14 competition in Barcelona.

They did this by competing against youth teams from across Europe, including 22 other Irish teams.

The outstanding squad of 15, whom they all hailed from Fossa, Listry, Fieries, Milltown, Ballyhar and Killorglin, travelled to Barcelona with coaches Tony and Jo Harty and Nuala Quigg to compete against the top talented adolescent squads from the continent.

MEK’s first test was in the group stage when they faced IFK Stocksund, hailing from Finland. This was a convincing 3-0 win for the Irish girls with Ava Harty, Alannah Daly and Grace Ryan each converting once to seal a win.

The girls from Kerry continued their impressive form when they beat Spanish side TFC in their second group game.

The goals came from Alanah Daly, Isabelle O’Connor, Sinead Curran, and Ava O’Sullivan who played through injury but incredibly scored a brace.

Within the first two games, this talented set of players scored eight goals, and had six different goalscorers.

This showed the team’s superior talent and their versatile squad.

Their final group match was a sturdy test as they faced Norwegian side SK Brann, but thankfully a draw was enough to see the Kerry natives get into the knockout stages, thanks to a savory goal from Ava Harty.

In the ‘A’ semi-final, Galaxy faced anther strong Norwegian opponent, this time being Tertnes IL.

Both teams were unable to find a goal in normal time, so the match would be decided by a penalty shootout.

Despite being under pressure, the girls managed to pull through and triumph by winning 5-4.

With only two hours to rest and recover, they were back in action for the final which was held in the Futbol Salou Arena.

The girls faced one of Sweden’s best youth teams, Brommapojkarna IF.

There was a huge crowd in attendance.

The girls put out an incredible display of defensive and attacking football.

At the end of 90 minutes, both teams were held to 0-0; this did not seem to faze the girls as they had already been in this position during the tournament earlier.

The game would be decided by penalties, and Galaxy won the game in a comfortable 4-3 shootout.

Goalkeeper, Saoirse Teahan pulled off two outstanding saves and Aoibhinn O’Flaherty scored the decisive goal, despite carrying an injury from the semi-final. MEK Galaxy U14 girls were then crowned champions of Barcelona.

Each member of the squad played superbly throughout the tournament, and this was evidential throughout every game they played. Esmee Van Benthem was deservedly named as player of the tournament due to her exceptional performances.

Huge celebrations followed full time, and the girls were welcomed home by their families.
Two captains, Grace Barry and Ava Harty, with the cup


Esmee Van Benthem, who won Player of the Tournament


Full squad:

Saoirse Teahan
Grace Ryan
Lily Fogarty
Isabelle O Connor
Alannah Daly
Tara O Connell
Sinead Curran
Ava O Sullivan
Aoibhinn O Flaherty
Grace Barry
Megan Quigg
Ava Harty
Elise Brunner
Beibhinn Kelly
Esmee Van Benthem

Killarney Community College are proudly presenting Disney’s Aladdin this November.

A dazzling whole-school musical project filled with music, colour, and heart.

Over 30 students auditioned for the roles, with 11 performers cast as leads.

The students involved vary from 1st to 6th year and are supported by the school’s largest-ever chorus line, which features 35 students.

Rehearsals have taken place every Wednesday evening and Saturday morning, demonstrating remarkable commitment from students and staff alike.

All preparation occurred outside normal school hours.

The entire school community has come together to bring this production to life.

The Art Department is creating stunning Agrabah-inspired sets, while the Woodwork and Metalwork Departments are building the stage and backstage areas.

The Home Economics Department is designing vibrant costumes, and the Technology Department is producing dynamic backdrops and visuals.

Staff and students are supporting the show through lighting, sound, makeup, props, publicity, sponsorship, ticketing, social media, and local school outreach.

The creative team is comprised of choreographer Cassie Leen, choral and chorus directors Joanna Hughes and Sarah O’Sullivan and acting and stage directors Mike Lynch and Sasha Furlong.

Together, they’ve shaped an unforgettable performance that brings Disney’s Aladdin to life, a story of adventure, friendship, and discovering one’s true worth.

Audiences can expect a vibrant mix of comedy, emotion, and music, featuring beloved hits like Friend Like Me and A Whole New World.

The story follows Aladdin as he discovers the Genie’s lamp, seeks the love of Princess Jasmine, and outsmarts the evil Jafar in a thrilling journey that celebrates courage and kindness.

Performances will take place at 7:00 p.m. on November 4th, 5th, and 6th, 2025.

Tickets are priced at €15 for adults and €5 for children, available now from the school office.

Don’t miss this unforgettable production showcasing the energy, creativity, and community spirit of KCC.