Cork University Business School (CUBS) at University College Cork and the Gaelic Players Association (GPA) have partnered to offer two new postgraduate scholarships, one for a male player and one for a female player, designed to support GPA members pursuing taught master’s degrees at CUBS.
The scholarships were officially launched at UCC on Friday, 6 June 2025, at a launch event attended by Cork ladies’ footballers and UCC students Niamh McNabola and Aimee Corcoran, Cork senior hurler and UCC student Ethan Twomey, Professor John O’Halloran (President UCC), and Dublin footballer Brian Howard (GPA Education & Programme Manager).
This initiative highlights the strong, shared commitment between CUBS and the GPA to empower current and former inter-county players through education. It recognises the importance of supporting players as they plan for life after their sporting careers while enriching their skill sets and opening new professional pathways.
Commenting on the partnership, Dublin footballer and GPA Education and Programmes Manager Brian Howard said:
“At the GPA, we’re committed to creating meaningful opportunities for our members to grow academically and professionally. These new scholarships with CUBS offers players a valuable pathway to pursue postgraduate study at a top-tier institution, helping them build successful careers beyond their sporting achievements.”
Professor Anthony McDonnell, Dean of Cork University Business School, welcomed the initiative and highlighted UCC’s deep ties to the GAA community:
“We’re proud to partner with the GPA on this important initiative, which reflects our shared commitment to the academic and personal development of GAA players. UCC has a long-standing connection with the GAA community, and UCC GAA is a cornerstone of our sporting tradition—offering opportunities in Gaelic football, hurling, and camogie. With a strong record of success, we’re pleased to extend that legacy through these scholarships. By investing in players’ education, we’re helping to develop future leaders who will contribute both on the field and in wider society.”
Applicants must be members of the GPA, have received and accepted an offer for a taught postgraduate programme at CUBS, and submit a personal statement (max. 500 words) explaining what inspired them to pursue a master’s at this stage in their career and how it aligns with their personal and professional goals. Applications will be reviewed by a CUBS Graduate Studies subcommittee.
To learn more about the scholarship and how to apply visit :
Pictures by Rob Lamb.