Cayden McGarrigle

Cayden McGarrigle | Goalkeeper | Age 16 Cayden McGarrigle is a 16-year-old goalkeeper currently playing for Institute FC U16s after earning his place through a successful trial in 2025. A confident and commanding presence between the posts, Cayden has been a first-choice goalkeeper

throughout his football journey, competing in the NIFL, National League & D&D league systems since the age of five. Prior to joining Institute FC, Cayden spent 10 years developing at grassroots level with Tristar FC, where he won multiple leagues and cup competitions. At age 14, he played in the final of the Northern Ireland Cup, demonstrating his ability to perform on big occasions. In 2025, Cayden won the Foyle Cup Plate competition and was awarded Player of the Tournament — recognition of his consistency, leadership, and match-winning performances.

He was also selected to represent County Londonderry at the prestigious SuperCupNI in 2023 at just 13 years old, competing against elite opposition. Academically, Cayden attends St Columb’s College, where he is currently in Year 12. A key member of the school football team since Year 8, he has played an important role in their Northern Ireland Schools Cup campaigns and is set to compete in the final in March 2026. At age 14, Cayden successfully trialled and was accepted as a client of Global Sports Relations (GSR), providing him with the pathway opportunity of securing a soccer scholarship abroad at 18.

Cayden is an ambitious, dedicated goalkeeper with strong shot-stopping ability, leadership qualities, and experience competing at high levels across club, school, and representative football. He continues to seek opportunities to develop and perform at the highest level possible.