2026 Electric Ireland GAA Minor Star Hurling Team of the Year announced

Electric Ireland, proud sponsor of the Electric Ireland GAA Minor Championships, celebrates 15 standout players from this season’s Minor Hurling campaign, as it reveals the 2026 Electric Ireland GAA Minor Star Hurling Team of the Year.

The 2026 season produced a spectacular campaign of hurling, defined by high scoring, incredible drama and outstanding individual skill. The campaign culminated in an absolute classic of an All-Ireland final at the TUS Gaelic Grounds, played in front of a passionate crowd of over 12,000 spectators. In a breathtaking finish, Limerick ended a 42-year wait to claim their first Minor title since 1984, snatching victory from Munster rivals Tipperary with a sensational 1-1 stoppage-time salvo to win on a 2-12 to 1-14 scoreline.

In this year’s Team of the Year, All-Ireland champions Limerick lead the way with seven representatives, whilst finalists Tipperary are rewarded for a brilliant campaign with five selections. Showcase semi-finalists Cork and Galway are also represented with one selection each, and quarter-finalists Kilkenny also secure a spot on the prestigious fifteen.

This year’s Electric Ireland Minor Star Hurling Player of the Year is Limerick’s midfield powerhouse, Xavier Neligan. The Kilmallock man was the heartbeat Limerick’s historic triumph. Neligan was sensational in the semi-final win over Galway, scoring 1-2 to help secure their place in the decider. In the final, Neligan's industry was crucial in keeping Limerick in the hunt before he made a heroic, game-saving block on a last-gasp Tipperary shot to secure the Irish Press Cup.

2026 Electric Ireland Hurling Minor Star Team of the Year

1. Sam Collins (Limerick and Crecora-Manister)

2. Colm Ryan (Tipperary and Newport)

3. Rowan Collins (Limerick and Adare)

4. Conor Collins (Tipperary and Galtee Rovers-St. Pecaun's)

5. John O Riordan (Limerick and Bruff)

6. James Finn (Tipperary and Golden-Kilfeacle)

7. Eoin Hennessy (Limerick and Patrickswell)

8. Shane Ryan (Tipperary and Borris-Ileigh)

9. Xavier Neligan (Limerick and Kilmallock)

10. Joe Dowling (Kilkenny and Dicksboro)

11. Conall Morrisson (Tipperary and Moyle Rovers)

12. Shane Waters (Limerick and Na Piarsaigh)

13. Bobby Power (Cork and Ballincollig)

14. Chris Dunne (Tipperary and Gortnahoe-Glengoole)

15. Anthony Poniard (Galway and Athenry)

Uachtarán CLG, Jarlath Burns, said: “I want to offer my warmest congratulations to the fifteen exceptional young hurlers selected on the 2026 Electric Ireland Minor Star Hurling Team of the Year. The talent, skill, and sheer drama on display throughout this year's championship was wonderful to witness, culminating in that unforgettable All-Ireland final between Limerick and Tipperary. These players have represented their clubs and counties with immense pride, and they have a very bright future ahead of them. Finally, I would like to thank Electric Ireland for their outstanding, continued support of the Minor Championships. Their dedication to celebrating and promoting these young players ensures that their achievements are recognised on a national stage.”

Jillian Saunders, Group Sponsorship and PR Manager at Electric Ireland, added: “Electric Ireland is thrilled to announce the 2026 Electric Ireland GAA Minor Star Hurling Team of the Year. As we look back on another fantastic season, we are constantly inspired by the resilience, skill, and passion shown by these young athletes. From the incredible goal-scoring semi-finals to the dramatic, last-gasp finish in the All-Ireland final, this year has given us memories that will last a lifetime. This season we also loved bringing our 'Player POV' series to life, celebrating the unique link between the current crop of talent and the past minor stars who paved the way before them. We are proud to support these player pathways and we congratulate each of the fifteen players selected on this prestigious team.”

The 2026 Electric Ireland GAA Minor Star Football Team of the Year will be announced on Thursday, August 6th, recognising the outstanding performances from this year’s football championship.