The first O’Neills size 5 footballs were produced in 1918 by Charles O’Neill & Co., a company founded from Charles’ family home on Dublin’s Capel Street. During the next 50 years, O’Neills became renowned as the manufacturer of footballs and hurling balls for Gaelic games.

In 1955, following the passing of his father, Paul O’Neill took stewardship of the company. His bold ambition saw the company venture into the textile industry and the manufacture of sporting apparel.

Through the expansion of facilities in Walkinstown and Strabane, acquisition of dye houses and investment in state-of-the-art knitting technologies, Paul’s vision of an entirely vertically integrated manufacturing operation has been realised. Today, each stage of the production process is overseen from the knitting of yarn through dyeing, cutting, sewing, printing and embroidery to produce high quality sport and leisurewear garments.

Over 100 years later, O’Neills is still producing the famous size 5 footballs and is still a 100% Irish owned company. From a staff of 3 in 1918, O’Neills has established itself as Ireland’s largest sportswear manufacturer, employing more than 900 people across Ireland, the UK, France, Australia and beyond. Our production experience, innovation and design, has been extended from Gaelic games to include Soccer, Rugby League, Rugby Union, Boxing, Cricket and Athletics among a range of other sports.

We appreciate your custom, thank you for shopping at O’Neills.