Galway Students Raise Over €2,000 for Jigsaw in 24-Hour Football Tournament
By Kyle Kelly
A 24-hour charity football tournament organised by the University of Galway’s Irish Football Society has raised more than €2,000 for youth mental health charity, Jigsaw. The tournament, held at XV Arena in Ballybrit, saw more than 120 players compete across 25 teams in support of the charity.
The fundraiser comes amid growing demand for youth mental health support in Ireland. Jigsaw’s 2025 annual report, published in July 2026, revealed that the organisation accepted 11,064 referrals during 2025, an increase of 23% on the previous year and the highest number in its history.
Eoghan Mullin, Vice-Auditor of the Irish Football Society, said the event had been organised to support a cause that affects young people across Ireland.
“Everyone knows someone in their life that’s had struggles with mental health. “So, we were like, there’s no better cause for us to dedicate our event to.”
Mullin said Jigsaw had supported the society throughout the tournament, providing t-shirts and refreshments for participants, as well as checking in on players during the night.
“They supplied T-shirts, snoods to keep us warm, everything we’d need. They even came down and just made sure we were alright during the night, and we’ve been in contact with them all night.”
The event proved to be a huge challenge for those involved, with Mullin reflecting on the night he’d had.
“You know what, after nearly 18 hours of football, the body’s not so good, but the mind is still there. “I’m happy, not too tired. Very happy to have done it in aid of a very good cause.”
Liam Joyce, a player with the Irish Football Society, said the physical toll had been worth it, although he’ll be in no hurry to lace up his boots for any longer than 90 minutes again.
“Sore, very sore, but it was all worth it. I don’t think I’ll rush back to playing football for 24 hours again anyways.”
Joyce said the opportunity to support a cause affecting so many people had motivated him to take part.
“Everyone knows someone that struggles with mental health. So, all for the good cause.”
Anyone aged 12-25 years old wishing to avail of Jigsaw’s services can contact the organisation through their online portal here.
