About the club

The first recorded challenge match involving an Innishannon team took place in 1967, when local players faced a team from Bandon in the school field. Coats were used as goalposts and the match ended in a 3–3 draw. By the summer of 1969, Innishannon Soccer Club had entered the Kyre Factory League in Kinsale, marking the beginning of organised competitive football for the club.

In 1971, the club joined the Cork Athletic Union League. The early seasons were difficult, with limited facilities, strong opposition and significant travel. Progress followed in the 1973/74 season, when the team won its Division 3 section and secured promotion to Division 2. The club later withdrew from league football for a period during the 1970s as player numbers declined.

The team was re-established in 1980. A committee was formed, players were recruited and a field was rented at Killaminogue. The club operated with very limited resources; its records showed a bank balance of just £32.11 at the end of 1981. Despite these challenges, support from local players and volunteers kept the club active.

A major development phase began in 1992, when the club moved to Skevanish. Over the following years, volunteers helped install dressing rooms, pathways, dugouts, lighting, fencing, electricity and water. These improvements provided a stronger base for the club and supported the next stage of its growth.

In 1999, the club entered its first schoolboys team, an Under-12 side, in the West Cork School Boys League. More underage teams followed, attracting children from Innishannon and surrounding areas.

By 2003, Innishannon and Knockavilla had developed a close working relationship at underage level. At the end of the 2004/05 season, the two clubs combined under the name Innishvilla AFC, creating one club to represent the wider parish and provide a clearer pathway from underage to adult football.

The club’s next major milestone was the purchase of approximately seven acres at Knocknacurra. The site was secured in 2007 following significant fundraising, financial planning and commitment from committee members and trustees. Development work created two full-size grass pitches, parking, dressing rooms, fencing and high netting.

From early matches in school fields to the development of a permanent home at Knocknacurra, Innishvilla AFC has been built through the dedication of players, coaches, volunteers, families and supporters. Its history reflects resilience, local pride and a long-standing commitment to providing football opportunities for future generations.