After the incessant rain of the previous hours, the weather remained kind for the playing of Gearóid’s Blitz at Davitt Park this morning. Teams from Ballycroy, Burrishoole, Islandeady, Kilmeena, Kiltane, Louisburgh and Tourmakeady joined their Under 10 Achill counterparts as games got underway. Group 1 comprised Achill, Islandeady, Kilmeena and Kiltane, while Group 2 was made up of Ballycroy, Burrishoole, Louisburgh and Tourmakeady. Kilmeena were by far the strongest in Group 1, while Group 2 was a much tighter affair. Victories for Louisburgh and Burrishoole in their first two matches meant that the last match, which was between this pair, would decide who would progress to contest the final against Kilmeena. After a thrilling encounter, Burrishoole just did enough to edge out the boys in black and amber on a score line of 3-5 to 3-2. And so to the final, where Kilmeena proved too strong for the Newport/Mulranny outfit, emerging victorious just as the rain began to spill (someone was teasing...after a brilliant morning of football from the 80 plus children in attendance. Before the cup was presented to the victorious Kilmeena, Maeve Gallagher of Ballycroy Bord na nÓg was announced as the worthy winner of the Player of the Tournament for her unflinching efforts and attitude on the field of play. Eóin Murphy, older brother of Gearóid, presented Jamie Durcan, captain of the Kilmeena team, with the winners’ trophy. Comhghairdeachas arís le Kilmeena, the first team to earn a second engraving of their name on Gearóid’s cup! Thanks to everyone who helped to ensure the smooth running of today’s event. To all the coaches, who do so much for the youngsters of our rural parishes, and to the players’ parents/guardians for making sure that they get to days like today. As someone remarked during the course of the morning, any day you’re able to get up, walk on to a field and kick a ball, you’re a winner anyway.. Very true words. Thanks to the parents of the Achill lads who provided and served refreshments for everyone today. It is sincerely appreciated. A word to Neil Cooney, Paddy Chambers and Mel Kenny who each did an excellent job in the middle during today’s matches. Míle buíochas to the young people who helped out with the various jobs during the playing of all games. To all supporters and anyone else not already thanked, go raibh míle maith agaibh for helping us continue to keep alive in our hearts and our minds a brave and fun-filled little boy, in a way that he loved during his all too short time with us. On days like today Gearóid, you are as close to us as you ever were. Until we all meet again next year, go dté sibh uilig slán |
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