Offaly's camogie stars honoured with Civic Reception
"WHAT a difference a year makes," declared County Manager Pat Gallagher as the all conquering Offaly camogie side were accorded a Civic Reception at Áras an Chontae, Tullamore on Friday evening.
Mr Gallagher described how on September 13 last at Croke Park he had the privilege of witnessing Offaly become All-Ireland Junior Camogie queens for the first time following their impressive victory over Waterford.
Just twelve months earlier the Offaly girls endured torture as they succumbed to a sucker injury time Clare goal with the winning post in sight.
He paid tribute to the players, led by their charismatic captain Marian Crean, team mentors Joachim Kelly, Catherine Byrne, Mark Corrigan and Ger Fogarty and to the County Board and club officials for their commitment and dedication.
Mr Gallagher said the girls were exemplary and proved what can be achieved when people set defined targets.
"To bounce back was unbelievable. You have elevated women's sport in this county to a new plateau."
Marian Crean famously said after lifting the New Ireland Cup, "The tears are tears of joy today. Last year we were absolutely distraught. It is great that everyone's hard work has paid off." And she thanked the members of Offaly County Council for bestowing the team with the 'highest civic honour' in the county.
"This is unbelievable, a truly memorable occasion," said Ms Crean on behalf of her team mates. She referred to the huge goodwill and messages of congratulations they had received in the wake of winning the All-Ireland title.
She spoke of the pride the players possessed each time they put on the 'Faithful County' jersey and predicted they'd be doing all in their power to bring further glory to Offaly.
Ms Crean thanked MC Monica Cleary for her work in helping to organise the civic reception and she complimented the clubs and County Board for their tireless efforts.
"There are great people involved in camogie. The number of players playing the game is increasing all the time and being involved fosters a sense of pride in one's home place and community."
Camogie County Board Chairperson Caroline McCarthy, GAA County Board Chairperson Pat Teehan, former Camogie Association President Miriam O'Callaghan and Seanad Cathaoirleach Pat Moylan were present while Offaly County Council Cathaoirleach Noel Bourke explained that An Taoiseach Brian Cowen was hoping to attend however he had got delayed following a trip to Brussels and then a Dil vote.
Cllr Bourke presented a specially commissioned framed scroll to Marian Crean and Joachim Kelly, while the players and mentors were each presented with a crystal clock which Ms Cleary said should ensure the players 'show up for training on time'!
Cllr Bourke said he too had the pleasure of watching the girls create history and he praised them for the extra effort they put in during 2009.
"To become All-Ireland champions is a tremendous achievement and it is a marvellous honour for the county." He spoke of the brilliant blend of youth and experience that existed in the victorious squad and the high calibre of people involved with the team management.
Cllr Bourke said it was no fluke that Offaly made the breakthrough as in 2005 and 2008, All-Ireland U-16 'B' & All-Ireland Minor 'B' titles, respectively, were annexed.
He outlined that six Offaly players had recently been presented with 'Soaring Star' awards - Audrey Kennedy, Fiona Stephens, Karen Brady, Michaela Morkan, Arlene Watkins and Elaine Dermody.
He referred to the excellent work been done by the County Board, clubs, secondary and primary schools to promote camogie and said he'd no doubt the game had a very bright future. He also mentioned initiatives that were spearheaded by Offaly Sports Partnership.
Following the reception, guests and councillors, made their way to the Bridge House Hotel for the launch of 'Pride and Passion - Camogie in Offaly'.
See Also
Faithful girls dominate inaugural camogie 'Soaring Stars'
Picture Special: Offaly's historic All Ireland Camogie victory
Offaly's 'chicks with sticks' savour All Ireland camogie
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Thursday 17 May 2012
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