Ulster Celebrate 25 Years
- Nov 12,2017
Over 200 Ulster gaels celebrated 25 years of ladies football at a gala ball in Kellys Inn last night. Jerome Quinn was MC and after a beautiful 5 course dinner and presentations dancing to ‘Infinity’ continued until the wee hours.
Current Ulster President Michael Naughton welcomed everyone to what he described as “a special night and milestone for ULGFA”. In his short address he gave a brief history, reminded all present that 25 years years ago we had 4 counties and 15 clubs while today all 9 counties are affiliated and football is enjoyed in over 200 clubs by almost 20, 000. He thanked all those whose commitment had made this possible.
Brian Mc Evoy from Ulster GAA also addressed all present. He was full of praise for the ULGFA and mentioned a number of initiatives such as Gaelic for Mothers and Others that allowed people to participate in Ladies gaelic. He was encouraged that after Fermanagh’s win in the summer all counties bar Derry have now won an All Ireland title. He pointed out that in the last 25years Ulster have had a team in 11 senior finals which is a remarkable achievement. In finishing he said he looked forward to an Ulster President of the LGFA in the future and wished St. Macartan’s, Latton and Corduff all the best for the upcoming All Ireland club semi-finals.
The last speaker was the LGFA President Marie Hickey. She said it was important to mark special occasions and that Ulster had “done it in style”. Marie complimented everyone who had worked so hard and reminded all present that this year there were 3 Ulster teams in action on All Ireland day. In relation to integration Marie said Ulster had set the standard and had made great progress. She thanked all the personnel from the province who had been involved in National committees,sub committees and who had acted as match officials. Jerome Quinn got a wee mention for his outstanding contribution to the sport through his video’s, interviews and promotion. Marie wished all the nine clubs and counties best wishes for the future and hoped Ulster had a very fruitful next 25 years.
Ulster Council then made a presentation to volunteers nominated by their counties for having contributed most to ladies football within their county in the last quarter century. These were as follows:
Antrim – Paul Cooper (award picked up by Shauna Rafferty)
Armagh – Owen Reel
Cavan – Aidan O Reilly
Derry – Terri Mc Calluam (award picked up by Joe Lagan)
Donegal – Hugh Devaney
Down – Philip O Hare
Fermanagh – Pat Chapman
Monaghan – Mary Foy
Tyrone – Mary Connolly and Teresa Kelly (award picked up byMary Connolly)
Ulster Council also made a special presentation to Philip OHare in recognition of his long-term service. Philip has held positions on every Ulster Council since its inception 25 years ago. A raffle on the night raised €1400 for the Climb4Clarecharity.
