It’s hard to believe it’s been 20 years since Derry man Chris McGarrigle and Jordanstown FC etched their names into the history books by winning the prestigious University All-Ireland Collingwood Cup in 2006.

McGarrigle played football and won the Collingwood Cup with Ulster University at Jordanstown (UUJ). UUJ won the Collingwood Cup in 2006.

The Collingwood Cup is an association football cup competition featuring university teams from the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland

The Ulster team travelled to Coleraine for the tournament, a week-long adventure that would leave an indelible mark on the players and staff.

Chris McCarrigle (bottom row, second from left) with his Jordanstown FC teammates celebrating their 2006 Collingwood Cup victory.

placeholder image — Chris McCarrigle (bottom row, second from left) with his Jordanstown FC teammates celebrating their 2006 Collingwood Cup victory.

The experience of competing against top university teams from across Ireland was invaluable, and the friendships forged during that week have undoubtedly lasted a lifetime.

"We had a great team spirit and a fantastic squad of players,” recalls McGarrigle. “It was a fantastic experience, and I’m so proud of what we achieved. The Collingwood Cup is a huge tournament, and to come out on top is something I’ll always cherish.”

The full-week tournament allowed teammates to bond, creating lasting friendships with players.

"We had a lot of good players in the team like Eamon, Kyle, Kris, Warner, Ruairí, Brian and many others, and it was great to share the experience with them.

“We also had a great manager in Shane McCullough and he has to take full credit in pushing every one of us to win,” says McGarrigle.

The Collingwood Cup win remains a cherished memory for McGarrigle and his teammates, a testament to their hard work and dedication.

“The craic we had that week is unforgettable,” he adds.

The tournament provided McGarrigle and his Jordanstown FC teammates with a unique opportunity to test themselves against top-class opposition from across Ireland in a competitive environment. The camaraderie and banter shared with fellow players will be remembered for years to come.

As McGarrigle looks back on that memorable week two decades ago, he is no doubt filled with pride and nostalgia.

"It was a great experience, and I’d encourage anyone to get involved in tournaments like this. The memories and friends you make are worth it.”