Centra has announced a new four-year partnership with the Camogie Association that will see Ireland’s leading convenience retailer become the title sponsor of the Centra Camogie Leagues, backing one of the country’s fastest-growing sports through a period of rising participation and visibility.

They take over the naming rights from Very, and before them, the parent brand of Littlewoods, who had been sponsors since 2017.

The announcement comes as the Camogie Leagues prepare to mark their 50th anniversary in 2026. Centra’s involvement as title sponsor is set to increase investment in the sport and drive greater awareness through the retailer’s nationwide network of more than 500 stores and a programme of in-store and national promotional activity.

On the field, the 2026 season will carry added historical context. Tipperary, winners of the first ever League title in 1976, will aim to recapture that success in a highly competitive Division 1A campaign. Defending champions Cork, the most decorated county in League history with 17 titles, begin their title defence with an opening-round clash against Waterford, underlining the depth and competitiveness of the modern game.

Speaking at the announcement, Rita Kirwan, Marketing Director at Musgrave, said the partnership fills a missing piece in Centra’s long-standing support of Gaelic games.

“Camogie is a unique Irish sport with incredibly dedicated players, passionate supporters and a deep connection to communities all over the country,” she said. “The standard is truly elite, with speed, skill and intensity on display at every level. We’ve been proudly linked to hurling for years, but one important piece was missing – a strong, visible connection to the women’s game.”

“Women’s sport in Ireland is growing, with more supporters, more participation, and more young girls stepping onto the pitch every year,” she added. “Through our network of over 500 Centra stores across Ireland, we’re proud to help shine an even brighter spotlight on camogie and support its continued growth nationwide. This sponsorship reflects our commitment to increasing visibility for camogie, growing attendances at games, and helping to inspire greater participation among young girls, ensuring a strong future for the sport.”

Luke Hanlon, Managing Director of SuperValu and Centra, said the retailer is eager to activate the partnership at the community level. “We are looking forward to working closely with the Camogie Association over the next four years to bring the Centra Camogie Leagues to life,” Hanlon said. “We’re excited to be involved in such a dynamic sport and, with our extensive footprint in communities right across Ireland, we truly believe that where there’s camogie, there’s Centra, and where there’s Centra, there’s camogie.

“By supporting a sport that plays such a vital role in communities across Ireland, we hope this partnership helps strengthen the game and inspire the next generation to get involved,” he added.

Uachtarán an Chumann Camógaíochta Brian Molloy welcomed the agreement, describing it as a partnership built on shared values. “The Camogie Association is delighted to welcome Centra as the new title sponsor of the Centra Camogie Leagues,” Molloy said. “Centra recognises the strength and quality of camogie and has shown a genuine passion for supporting Gaelic Games at every level. We look forward to working together to continue the growth and success of the game nationwide.”

The partnership positions the Centra Camogie Leagues as a flagship property within the women’s sport landscape, combining a landmark anniversary season with a sponsor whose community-based model aligns closely with the ethos of camogie across Ireland.

Image Credit: Camogie Association

 

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