UCC to confer degrees on sporting greats

UCC is to confer honorary degrees on some of Ireland’s sporting greats, including a hurling manager who has wrecked many a Cork supporter’s dreams.

Kilkenny manager Brian Cody, who has guided his county to eight All-Ireland titles and is on the verge of another, is one of five sporting legends who will receive their degrees on Sept 7.

It’s the latest in a series of events marking UCC’s centenary of sport 1911-2011.

Cody, who has also led Kilkenny to 11 Leinster and four National League titles, continues to be a driving force in the game.

Togher-born Denis Irwin, who was capped 59 times for his country and formed the backbone of a glorious Manchester Utd for many years, will also be honoured.

During his lengthy career at the club he secured seven premier League winners’ medals, a UEFA Champions League medal, and three FA Cup medals.

For the master of the oval ball it will be Ronan O’Gara’s second degree from UCC. The Munster, Ireland, and British and Irish Lions fly-half already has a bachelor of arts and master’s degree in business economics from the university.

He remains the all-time highest points scorer for Munster and Ireland.

Aidan O’Brien, who is widely acknowledged one of the world’s greatest horse trainers, will also receive an honorary doctorate.

The list of winners trained by O’Brien include Istabraq, Rip van Winkle, and Giant’s Causeway.

He’s achieved enormous success at home and abroad and his commitment to this sport has yielded enormous benefits for the equestrian and equine industry.

Meanwhile, Mary O’Connor will receive recognition for her incredible achievements as both a camogie and Gaelic football player.

She’s won seven All-Ireland camogie medals and five All-Ireland ladies Gaelic football medals. In addition she has won three All-Star Awards in camogie and one in football.

UCC president Dr Michael Murphy said sporting success had been at the heart of the university for more than 100 years since the purchase of the Mardyke lands in 1911.

“As part of our centenary celebrations, we wanted to pay tribute to sports people that have created a sporting legacy for Ireland, and whose drive and dedication reflect our commitment to sport at UCC,” he said.

The centenary of sport started in Dec 2011 and has included a number of outstanding events and capital developments, in particular the official opening of the newly extended Mardyke Pavilion, an international Olympic conference, the opening of the redeveloped Mardyke Arena, and most recently the announcement of elite sports scholarships.