Club Notes | Sarsfields Rugby Host Tournament In Honour Of Former Player Sarah Lynch

Sarsfields Rugby is proud to present The Lynch Cup 2025, taking place on Saturday, August 16 at Tom Clifford Park, Limerick.

The tournament kicks off this Saturday at 11am at  Young Munsters RFC, Tom Clifford Park, Limerick — it’s shaping up to be a brilliant day with over 350+ players in attendance, with all the inclusive teams in Ireland on the same pitch for the first time ever.

This historic tournament is more than a day of rugby—it is a tribute to the life and legacy of our beloved teammate, Sarah Lynch, who we sadly lost in December 2023.

This tournament is held in Sarah’s honour, celebrating her impact both on and off the pitch. Her commitment to creating a space where everyone, regardless of identity or background, felt welcome and empowered continues to guide our mission.

Speaking about the competition Gearóid Folan, President of Sarsfields Rugby said:

“The Lynch Cup is an absolute privilege for us to host. Sarah was such an important part of everyone’s life in Sarsfields, and we are delighted to be able to commemorate her in this way.

“Limerick is often called the home of rugby, so it’s only right that a tournament like this is held in Limerick, a city so ingrained in rugby culture and history.”

“We are also delighted with all the support provided to us by our sponsors and partners; the IRFU, SPIN South West and Young Munster RFC. Their backing makes this event possible, and we are truly grateful”.

The tournament will bring together inclusive rugby teams from across Ireland, creating a vibrant, competitive, and joyful space that reflects the diversity of our sport. While the event is aimed at inclusive teams, it is open to all clubs that support and embrace inclusion, making it a truly unifying occasion.

Off the field, the event will also raise vital funds for GOSHH (Gender Orientation Sexual Health HIV), helping to continue Sarah’s legacy of inclusion, education, and support.

Speaking about her involvement Verena Tarpey, CEO, GOSHH said:

“We are delighted to be associated with this inaugural event in memory of Sarah Lynch. We have much in common with Sarsfield Rugby. GOSHH have provided a safe and supportive environment for members of the LGBTQI+ community in the Midwest for 35 years now. We’re only a short walk from Tom Clifford Park, where the event is being hosted”

This marks the first event of its kind in Ireland (an all-Ireland tag and contact tournament for LGBTQI+-inclusive rugby teams), a significant moment for both rugby and the community. Sarsfields Rugby, founded in July 2022, has grown from a handful of players into a team of more than 75 members. As the Midwest’s first LGBTQI+ inclusive rugby initiative, Sarsfields has become more than just a rugby team – it is a safe, affirming space for queer people and allies across the region.

This event is made possible with the support of our Title Sponsor, the IRFU (Irish Rugby Football Union), whose backing marks a powerful endorsement of inclusive rugby in Ireland.

Speaking about the IRFU’s suppport David McKay, IRFU Disability & Inclusion Officer, said:

“The IRFU is thrilled to support the Lynch Cup for the first time.

“This tournament is a celebration of inclusivity, pride and community – values that are central to our game. It’s fantastic to see clubs from across the provinces coming together to support LGBTQI+ inclusion in rugby, and we’re proud to stand alongside them in making the sport welcoming for everyone.”

We are also proud to welcome Spin South West as our Official Media Partner, helping us share Sarah’s story and the spirit of the tournament with a wider audience.

Join us on August 16th in Tom Clifford Park for an unforgettable day of sport, community, and celebration of Sarah’s memory.

For further details email sarsfieldsrfc@gmail.com