Rose of Tralee 2026

On Tuesday , April 14th Sacred Heart Transition Year students extended a warm West Cork welcome to the 2025 International Rose of Tralee, Dancing with the Stars Champion, and Electrical Apprentice Katelyn Cummins.

Katelyn is an incredibly inspiring young woman, whose journey shows what can be achieved through hard work, determination, and confidence in yourself. Katelyn began her career as an Apprentice Electrician, breaking barriers in what is traditionally a male-dominated field,  showing us that we  can follow any path we set our mind to.

Katelyn  went on to achieve national recognition when she was crowned the International Rose of Tralee in 2025. During the competition, Katelyn  proudly spoke about her apprenticeship, highlighting the importance of skills, opportunities, and encouraging more young people—especially girls—to consider careers like hers. This made Katelyn  a very deserving winner, but more importantly a fantastic role model  for us all.

Katelyn then took on a completely new challenge by competing in Dancing with the Stars, where she brought incredible energy, determination, and talent to the show each week. Her journey on the show was truly inspiring, as she pushed herself out of her comfort zone, told her story, and connected with audiences all over the country.

And of course, after weeks of hard work and unforgettable performances, Katelyn went on to win Dancing with the Stars 2026, taking home the Glitterball Trophy—an amazing achievement ,and the perfect ending to an incredible journey.

Katelyn’s story reminds us all to take opportunities when they come, to believe in ourselves, and to never be afraid to try something new.

Our First Year students welcom Katelyn to Sacred Heart