The Scorchers Cheerleading club has made history after their senior team, Code Black, secured a bronze medal at the All Star World Championships in Orlando, Florida.

Competing against 44 elite teams from around the world, the Killarney-based squad finished on the podium in one of the most competitive cheerleading events globally. The achievement follows a strong run of form for the club, which recently earned a direct bid to bypass the opening “Battle Round” and advance straight to the semi-finals based on their previous performance scores.
The team’s success in Florida is the result of months of intensive training at their local base. Head Coach Katlyn Moynihan noted that the athletes’ dedication and focus throughout the season were key to their performance on the world stage.
“To stand on that podium is an incredible achievement,” she said. “These athletes have given everything this season, and to see it all come together in Orlando is very special.”
Club owner Jackie Jeal highlighted the significance of the result, given the disparity in resources compared to major American programmes.
“We are a small club from a corner of Ireland without the facilities of the top US teams,” she said. “They proved that teamwork and heart can stand with the best in the world. To bring home a bronze medal against those odds is a historic milestone for our club.”
The Scorchers have seen a massive wave of support from the Killarney and wider Kerry community, with local fundraising efforts helping to get the team to the United States.

The Killarney Autism Friendly Town committee received national recognition at the AsIAm Autism Friendly Town Awards 2026, held recently at Dublin City Hall.
The awards ceremony, hosted by Ireland’s national autism charity AsIAm and supported by PTSB, celebrates towns that have made significant progress in accessibility and inclusion. Killarney, which was officially designated an Autism Friendly Town in early 2025, continues to be a leader in the programme by implementing practical changes across the community.
Representing the Killarney committee in Dublin were Em Rypalska, Jessica O’Connor, and Claire Fowler. The group has been instrumental in several local projects, including the launch of a new website and a video series showcasing “Autism Friendly Champions”—local businesses like Portwest and Ross Castle Boat Tours that have adapted their services for neurodivergent visitors.
The judging panel, which included Ciara Jones and Kevin Hanly, praised the town’s commitment to creating sensory-friendly environments at major events like the Christmas in Killarney parades. AsIAm CEO Adam Harris presented the awards, noting that Killarney’s efforts serve as a blueprint for other communities across Ireland.
Listowel’s committee also received an award on the night for their Inclusive Event category.

A shift in culture for Killarney events

The national recognition for Killarney follows a busy year where the committee collaborated on over 20 local events to improve accessibility. From major fixtures like the Christmas in Killarney parades and St Patrick’s Day to festivals such as Wander Wild, Bikefest, and the Rally of the Lakes, the group has implemented practical changes to support neurodiversity.
These measures include designated quiet hours, the provision of sensory tents, and identifying safe spaces for those who may become overwhelmed. According to the committee, there has been a notable shift in how events are planned, with organisers now proactively seeking guidance on inclusion rather than waiting to be asked.
Chairperson Jessica O’Connor noted that the next project for the group is the development of a sensory map for Killarney to further assist locals and visitors. The atmosphere at the Dublin City Hall awards reflected this commitment to inclusion, with attendees using “silent hands” (waving) instead of loud applause to ensure a comfortable environment for all.
For committee members Caroline Neenan, Claire Fowler, Jessica O’Connor, Maureen Hegarty Vogels, and Elaine Doonan, the focus remains on ensuring every family feels they belong at Killarney’s public celebrations. The goal is to continue turning high-energy community moments into accessible experiences for everyone.