THE Ballinhassig Bulls claimed the first piece of silverware in their history with an emphatic victory over Mayfield Dynamos in the Division 3 championship final at the Parochial Hall in Churchfield.

Formed in 2014, the Bulls finally reached the summit, and did so in style, running out convincing winners to crown a memorable 2026 campaign.

After a tough loss to Crosshaven in the 2025 championship final, the Bulls regrouped ahead of the 2026 season.

Their road to glory started in January with a quarter-final clash against championship favourites Cork Celts. The Bulls produced a statement performance, winning 93-67. That set up a semi-final showdown with East Cork Glenmary during finals weekend at MTU in March. This proved a far sterner test, but Ballinhassig showed their quality down the stretch to pull clear and secure an 82-67 win, sealing a place in the final.

Mayfield Dynamos stood between the Bulls and a first-ever title, but there was to be no stopping a side determined to make history.

With superb defence throughout, especially from Eoin O’Driscoll and Vladan Gojic, and a relentless offensive display from Mark Eria and Papa Bongchie, the Bulls held all the aces. Laimonas Suryvdis was a dominant presence, too, as the Bulls triumphed 82-55.

Peter Desmond had the honour of lifting the first trophy in the club's history.