With the divisions now officially released, the anticipation is building as clubs prepare for a campaign that could see the balance of power at the top of Kilkenny soccer shift dramatically. The big question on everyone’s mind: Will the reigning champions continue their dominance, or is this the year a new contender emerges to shake up the status quo?
Junior St Canices Credit Union Premier Division
The top tier of Kilkenny soccer, the Junior St Canices Credit Union Premier Division, is loaded with talent and ambition. Evergreen A, the reigning league champions, will be eager to defend their title and maintain their grip on the Premier Division. However, their rivals are more determined than ever to topple them.
Freebooters A enters the season on a high after their victory in the Pat Maher Shield, showcasing their ability to perform in big games. Meanwhile, Bridge United A will look to build on their success in the KCLR McCalmont Cup, hoping to translate their cup form into league success.
Adding intrigue to the mix is Thomastown United A, the last team to win the league title before Evergreen’s recent dominance. They have the pedigree and experience to mount a serious challenge and could be the dark horse in the race for the title.
The return of Ormonde Villa FC to the Premier Division after their promotion brings additional spice to the competition. With rumors circulating that other clubs are eyeing their players, Villa will need to keep their squad intact if they hope to make an impact at the top level.
One of the most interesting narratives of the season is the presence of two Evergreen teams in the same division. Evergreen B joins the fray, and while they may not be favorites for the title, their presence will add another layer of rivalry, particularly in the highly anticipated fixtures against their clubmates, Evergreen A.
Deen Celtic A is another team to watch. Despite doubts about their participation this year, they are back and ready to compete. Their ability to perform will be crucial in determining whether they can avoid the drop or even push towards the upper half of the table.
Finally, Callan United A rounds out the division, and while they might not have the recent accolades of their rivals, they have the potential to upset any team on their day.
Junior KCLR Scoreline.ie Division 1 League
The Junior KCLR Scoreline.ie Division 1 League promises to be equally compelling, with a mix of seasoned clubs and ambitious challengers. Fort Rangers returns to league action after a year away, eager to prove themselves after dropping out of the Premier Division. Having failing to successfully lobby drop down to Division 1 last season, they have been granted their wish so they are a team with a point to prove.
Highview Athletic A and Clover United both come into the season fresh from relegation from the Premier Division. Their experience at the top level could give them an edge, but the challenge will be whether they can bounce back immediately or if the scars of last season linger.
Among the other contenders, Castlewarren Celtic A stands out as a team hungry for success. With three teams set to be promoted to the Premier Division next season, this is their golden opportunity to make a push for top-flight soccer.
Newpark AFC, another club with Premier Division experience, enters the season with a renewed focus. Having restructured by folding their A team and rebuilding, they are determined to climb back to the heights of Kilkenny soccer.
Lions A, Freshford Town, and Tullaroan AFC round out the division, each with their own ambitions. Whether it’s to challenge for promotion or to solidify their place in the division, all three clubs will be keen to make their mark.
Junior Division 2 Emerald Tiles League
In the Junior Division 2 Emerald Tiles League, the battle for promotion will be fierce. Evergreen 46 and Evergreen C will carry the Evergreen banner into the lower leagues, with the club’s depth on full display. Their performances will be closely watched as they look to earn promotion and continue the club’s dominance across multiple divisions.
The division also features East End United A, Thomastown United B, River Rangers, Spa United, and Stoneyford United A, all of whom will have their eyes on the top spots. With the promise of promotion to higher divisions, the stakes are high, and every game will count as these teams vie for advancement.
Junior Division 3 League
The upcoming season in the Junior Division 3 League is shaping up to be an exciting and competitive affair, with 11 teams set to battle it out in Kilkenny’s largest division. Each club will play 20 matches, ensuring plenty of action, development, and drama as they vie for success across a packed schedule.
One of the most encouraging signs this season is the return of newer clubs like Paulstown 06 FC and Southend United to the competition. Their participation signals a resurgence and adds fresh energy to the league.
The division also boasts an eight B teams, highlighting the strong playing numbers and the depth of talent across the county. Bridge United B, Callan United B, Castlewarren Celtic B, Deen Celtic B, East End United B, Highview Athletic B, Lions B, and Stoneyford United B will all compete with an eye on development, but don’t be surprised if a few of these second teams push for promotion.
For the B teams, this division offers the perfect platform for emerging players to gain valuable experience and for clubs to nurture their next generation of stars. It also provides a competitive environment where these teams can test themselves against more established squads like St. Johns AFC and the returning Paulstown 06 FC and Southend United.
The sheer number of games—20 for each team—ensures that consistency will be key in this marathon of a season. Every point will matter, and with such a diverse mix of clubs, each match is bound to bring its own set of challenges.
