Trinity GAA Gaelic football captain and Trinity Sport scholar Lee Pearson is preparing to lead his team into the Trench Cup final on Wednesday, 12th February, as they take on Dundalk IT in a highly anticipated clash at the Connacht GAA Centre of Excellence. With Trinity last reaching the final in 2012, Pearson and the Trinity squad are on the cusp of history, aiming to secure victory and elevate the college back to the top division of Higher Education football.

Trinity’s path to the final has been one of grit and determination, epitomised by their dramatic semi-final victory over SETU Carlow. Reflecting on the match, Pearson recalled how his team found themselves four points down late in the second half, but unwavering belief and key contributions from the bench saw them mount a thrilling comeback.

“There was always a belief that if we stayed in the game, we’d eventually come out on top,” Pearson said. “Carlow are a serious team that only came down from the Sigerson Cup, so it’s a great sign of Trinity football’s progression that we can compete with top colleges.”

Trinity will face a well-drilled DKIT side that boasts several high-profile players. With both teams having met three times already this season, including Trinity’s victory in the league final before Christmas, familiarity will play a key role in this matchup.

“Our preparation has been excellent, with huge commitment at training and matches,” Pearson noted. “We’ll feel ready for the final.”

When asked about the key to Trinity’s success this season, Pearson pointed to a passionate management team, strong player camaraderie, and high standards. Manager Don Holmes and his staff have played a crucial role, with Pearson humorously noting Holmes’ commitment “It is rumoured that Don gave up the chance to go to Las Vegas because it clashed with our first-round championship game against Garda College - if that doesn’t demonstrate commitment, I don’t know what does!”

As captain, Pearson leads by example, emphasising the importance of backing up words with actions. “There must be substance to what you’re saying. We’re lucky to have plenty of leaders in this team, particularly final-year students looking for their last shot at Trench Cup success.”

Pearson’s leadership extends beyond Trinity GAA, as he is also captain of Offaly GAA, currently competing in the National League and are looking to make three wins from three against Antrim this weekend. Balancing college and county football is no easy feat, but Pearson credits supportive management teams and a strong focus on nutrition and recovery for helping him manage the intense schedule.

“Playing with Offaly has definitely helped my performances with Trinity this season. The higher intensity and competitive environment have pushed me to improve my fitness, decision-making, and overall game awareness.”

Alongside his sporting commitments, Pearson is a final-year Economics and French student at Trinity College Dublin. As a Trinity Sport scholar, he has benefited from access to high-performance facilities, physio support, and nutritional guidance, which have helped him maintain peak performance. “Google Calendar is a lifesaver,” he admitted. “Planning my week with time for study, training, and recovery takes away a lot of the stress that comes with being a student-athlete.”

With the Trench Cup final marking his last game as an undergraduate, Pearson is determined to finish on a high before shifting focus back to Offaly’s National League campaign.

“The final will be special. Not many Trinity teams have had the honour of winning silverware, and ultimately, it’s about leaving the jersey in a better place than when you got it. Regardless of the result, between the players, Don, and the management team, we’ve definitely achieved that. Hopefully, this is just the beginning for Trinity Gaelic football.”

As Trinity GAA prepares for their biggest game in over a decade, one thing is certain - under Lee Pearson’s leadership, the team is ready to make history.

Trench Cup Final Details:

Trinity College Dublin Vs Dundalk IT

Date and time: Wednesday, 12th February from 4:30pm

Location: Connacht GAA Centre of Excellence.