On Monday 9 June, Queen’s GAA, in partnership with Queen’s Sport and the Alumni Engagement and Philanthropy (AEP) team, hosted a special presentation to mark the end of the academic year — celebrating the leadership, dedication and achievements of three exceptional student-athletes.

Cormac McAnallen Medal 2024 – Matthew Murnaghan

The 2024 Cormac McAnallen Medal, delayed due to last summer’s successful US club tour, was awarded to Matthew Murnaghan. A proud Killyclogher man and captain of the Sigerson team in his final year at Queen’s, Matthew became the 10th recipient of this prestigious honour. His exemplary leadership and dedication both on and off the field have left a lasting impression on the club.

Commissioned by the Queen’s GAA Past Members’ Union, the Cormac McAnallen Medal commemorates Cormac’s profound contribution to the Gaelic Games community at the University. Each year, the award is presented to a student who embodies the same values of leadership, determination, and work ethic that Cormac represented so well.

Cormac McAnallen Medal 2025 – Brid McNally

The 2025 medal was presented to Brid McNally of Emyvale, who becomes only the second female student to receive the award. Her dedication to all aspects of Queen’s GAA life — from performance to club development — made her a standout choice.

Brian Conlon GAA Academy Scholarship – Joey Clarke

Also recognised on the night was Joey Clarke, recipient of the Brian Conlon GAA Academy Scholarship. Delivered in partnership with AEP and funded by the Brian Conlon Foundation, the award celebrates the legacy of the late Brian Conlon — a distinguished Queen’s and Down GAA footballer and successful entrepreneur.

Joey, a Donaghmore native and Future Stars winner, has already captained Tyrone to an All-Ireland U20 title and continues to demonstrate the values of leadership, talent and hard work that the scholarship represents.  

This scholarship is linked to the academic and sporting pathway students pursue and recognises those inspirational qualities Brian Conlon represented on and off the sports field.

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Queen’s GAA extends its thanks to the McAnallen family, the Brian Conlon Foundation, and the Alumni Engagement and Philanthropy team for their ongoing support of student-athletes at Queen’s.

To learn more about the Brian Conlon GAA Academy Scholarship, read more here.