Following the overwhelming success of last year’s tournament, the Dingle Daly Festival of Football will make its return to Holm Park, Armagh!
The hugely popular festival – celebrating the life and enduring legacy of Sean ‘Dingle’ Daly – will be held on Friday 8, Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 May 2026, and will continue Friday 15, Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 May 2026.
A deeply respected and much-loved figure within Armagh City FC and the wider community, Sean Daly was a former player and manager at the club before going on to play a pivotal role in the cross-community development of youth football.
Known for his passion, commitment, and unwavering dedication, he spent countless hours mentoring and supporting young players across the region. His experience within the senior ranks of the club gave him a unique understanding of the game, which he later channelled into developing and inspiring the next generation.
More than a coach, he was a friend, role model, and inspirational figure whose influence extended far beyond the pitch.
His legacy continues to be honoured by Armagh City FC, including the naming of a stand in his memory and the annual festival held in his name – ensuring that his contribution to youth football and the community lives on for generations to come.
The festival attracts hundreds of young players aged U7–U14 from across Northern Ireland, promoting community spirit, inclusivity, and sportsmanship. Over 150 teams and 1,500 players are expected to participate, with thousands of spectators attending throughout the two weekends.
Enable Care Services is confirmed as the Main Sponsor of this year’s event, with strong support also provided by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council.
Armagh City Hotel continues its valued backing of Armagh City Youth, alongside additional community support from local businesses including Linwoods, Deli Lites Ireland, Daly Recruitment Ltd, 3C Global, PDA-NI and Raffs Electrical.
Niamh McGirr from Enable Care Services said: “We are incredibly proud to support the Dingle Daly Festival of Football as main sponsor.
“Sean Daly required dedicated care in his final days, and this makes our involvement particularly meaningful. It reflects a strong alignment between the values we share –
compassion, community, and supporting people at every stage of life. We are honoured to help continue his legacy and contribute to such a positive event for young people.”
Nichola Daly, daughter of Sean Daly, said: “We are incredibly proud to see Dad’s legacy live on in such a meaningful way.
“Armagh City FC has played such an important role in keeping his memory alive not only through this fantastic tournament but also with the naming of the stand in his honour.
“He gave so much of himself to the club and to young people, and to see that recognised and continued means everything to our family. The support behind this year’s festival has been amazing, and we know he would have been so proud.”
Michael McKenzie, Tournament Organiser and Small Sided Games Programme Co-ordinator at Armagh City FC, added: “The Dingle Daly Festival is more than a football tournament.
“It is a celebration of community, opportunity, and the future of the game. With the continued support of our sponsors, partners, volunteers, and the local council, we can deliver a truly special experience for players and families each year.”
The festival will take place across both weekends in May, delivering an action-packed programme of matches, community engagement, and presentation ceremonies. The event has become a cornerstone of the local sporting calendar and continues to grow in scale and impact each year.
For more information, to register a team, or to explore sponsorship opportunities, please contact Michael McKenzie on 07734 352434.
