Partnership funding will support the DCU Sport Scholarship fund, which supports the holistic development of up to 200 high-performance student athletes each year through an athlete-led development programme. The University delivers tailored coaching, sport science, and strength and conditioning support alongside academic and holistic support services for athletes from 18 sports, including its focus sports of athletics, Gaelic football, hurling, camogie, soccer and rugby.

Ballygowan and Energise Sport will be the official hydration partner across DCU Sport, providing hydration support for match days, training and competitions. Dublin City University currently has 36 sport clubs catering to students of all abilities, from participation players to performance athletes. At the 2024 Paris Olympics, DCU was proud to have two students and 10 alumni representing Team Ireland, including Ballygowan brand ambassador Béibhinn Parsons, who plays rugby for Connacht and the women’s national team, and was a member of the Ireland Women’s Rugby 7s team which placed fifth overall in the Paris Olympics.

Ballygowan Natural Mineral Water and Energise Sport are proud Irish brands within the Britvic Ireland portfolio. Ballygowan, Ireland’s number one bottled water brand, sits alongside Energise Sport, the country’s leading Irish sports drink, together supporting active and healthy living across Ireland.

“At DCU, we pride ourselves on the promotion of sport and physical activity as an integral part of the student experience, as well as on our holistic support for high-performance student athletes. The support of Ballygowan and Energise Sport as our official hydration partners will further advance our Sport Scholarship Programme and provide hydration support for match days and training.” James Galvin, Director of Sport at DCU.

“As two trusted, leading brands made in Ireland, Ballygowan and Energise Sport are proud to be named official hydration partners of DCU Sport. Both brands have long championed active, healthy living, and this partnership is a strong reflection of that commitment. Together, we look forward to hydrating the next generation of Irish sporting talent through the DCU Sport Scholarship Programme.” Brian Whelan, Assistant Brand Manager, Water & Water Plus portfolio at Britvic Ireland