09/09/2026
As the dust settles on a historic weekend for the Dublin Rebels, we wanted to take a moment to reflect on something truly special. 🏆
Founded over 31 years ago, the Rebels have won 10 National Titles. But Sunday brought something we had never achieved before — our first Setanta Bowl.
The journey started in 2024, when Sam Doran took the helm with Bryan Molloy and relaunched our youth programme after a five-year absence. With just 13 players, the team reached the semi-finals in their first season.
In 2025, with Jack Cronin joining the coaching staff and more players coming through, we reached the semi-finals again.
This year, 30 players came together — some new, many returning to finish what they had started. With Tadhg Fitzsimons joining the coaching staff, the goal was simple: take the next step.
Week after week, the work continued. The result was a 5–1 regular season and, on Sunday, a gritty comeback victory in Overtime of the Championship Game that perfectly captured the determination and character of this group.
To everyone who played a part in building this programme over the last three years — former coaches Jason, Dave and Mike, former players, volunteers and supporters — thank you.
A special mention to Sam, Aaron, Carlos, Jonah, Ivo and Danny who have been with the team since day one. They have epitomized dedication and finally achieved the goal they had been chasing for three years.
Congratulations to our coaches Sam, Bryan, Jack and Tadhg on bringing home the first Setanta Bowl in Dublin Rebels history.
But most of all, congratulations to the players.
Your hard work, commitment and dedication made this possible. You earned this moment. Enjoy it. 🏆
The future of these players is incredibly bright, and we can’t wait to see what comes next.
Want to be part of the next National Championship-winning squad? 👀
Send us a DM. The 2027 season starts now. ⏰
📸 CharMaeDucs photography
