Joy in Dublin as Mayo star crowned Footballer of The Year

This evening, there is a huge sense of pride and joy as a Mayo footballer has been named as the GAA / GPA Footballer of The Year.

Ryan O’Donoghue is the third Mayo native to receive the special award after Lee Keegan and Andy Moran both claimed the award in 2016 and 2017 respectively. The pride of Belmullet, the 2026 vice-captain, was exceptional as he played a big part in Mayo’s success.

A previous All-Star in 2021, this season has been a special campaign for the inspirational Erris man. Kicking a superb tally of 2-56 in the championship, O’Donoghue was one of the leading lights for Andy Moran’s men as they claimed Sam Maguire for the first time in 75 years.

Averaging 0-8 a game, the Secondary School teacher had a memorable day in Croke Park as Moran’s men overcame Louth in the last four tie. That day, O’Donoghue kicked 1-11 and led the charge.

In the final against Kerry, the talented soccer player and boxer was exceptional while bringing a relentless work-rate to the pitch. He inspired his teammates and his amazing individual run where he went past numerous Kerry players before passing the ball to David McBrien who ultimately off-loaded the ball to Darragh Beirne will live long in the memory. The Claremorris teen blasted the ball to the net in what will go down as one of the all-time great goals ever scored in Croke Park.

The man widely known as ‘ROD’ also secured the player of the match award on that day while the 28 year old has had a year he will never forget.

What a year it’s been for Mayo and what a year it’s been for Ryan O’Donoghue. The Belmullet attacker has received the crown of becoming the 2026 Footballer of the year as it sparks a significant and special moment for himself, his family and his club.

This year’s three man nominee list included Mayo midfielder and Kilmeena star Jack Carney while Kerry great and Fossa man David Clifford was also nominated after the pair had top-class seasons.