UCD

Short History University College Dublin Association Football Club ( UCD AFC ) first began as a team setup by students of the School of Medicine of the Catholic University in 1895.  The Univesity changed it's name and UCD AFC were due to compete in the League of Ireland in XXXX, however a squad of players were not available as the academic year had not begun.  Over many decades, UCD did compete at non-League Intermediate level and occasionally competed in the early rounds of the FAI Cup. UCD AFC were invited into the senior League of Ireland in 1979 and compewted with a squad of students from the University.  The University put in place a 'Scholarship' award system to bring footballers who had academic and footballing ability to the squad.  Keith Dignam was UCD's first receipient of this reward. UCD's early years in the LoI were of little note however before the 1983-1984 season a change in policy was introduced and semi-professional footballers were added to the team.  This brought instant success when the FAI Cup was won at the end of that season, after UCD beat the odds-on favourite and League champions Shamrock Rovers in a Final Replay at Tolka Park. With a Ken O'Doherty 94th minute injury time winner.  This was the first time a Final had being played at this venue. UCD AFC covered themselves in more glory during the following season, 1984, Cup-Winners-Cup when in the 1st Rd. UCD AFC drew 0-0 with Everton FC at Tolka Park and only a Grame Sharp 10th minute goal was the only thing separating the sides at Goodison Park.  Joe Hanrahan from Limerick almost scored in the dying minutes.  (Hanrahan was later signed by Manchester United ). Everton FC were to lift the trophy with only Bayern Munich matching UCD's 0-0 draw against them.  UCD finished 4th in that year of 1984-1985. UCD Bowl UCD AFC currently play at the UCD Bowl a natural amphitheatre. Which has a capacity of 1500 seats in the main stand and further accomodation behind the goals. (This Stadium is shared with UCD Rugby Union). Club Website:   http://www.ucdsoccer.com/ UCD AFC Supporters Club www.ucdsupporters.ie/ UCD FANS blog  ucdsupporters.ie/blog/