Dinner Dance

A very enjoyable night was had by all at the St Mary’s GAA club dinner dance on Saturday night last in the Villa Rose. Sean Mailey the club chairman welcomed the large turnout and observed a minute silence for the late Honorary president Johnny Patton and previous club members that had sadly passed during the year. Sean spoke of the great strides taken by the club at underage and senior level this year and congratulated the ladies on their promotion to intermediate football. He also stated that the club are honoured to have so many of our underage players, both boys and girls, representing the club on county teams and development squads. He thanked our sponsors and everyone who helped with club activities in any way during the year for their contribution and was looking forward to their continued support and dedication. Special mention was made of the club referees. Sean also appealed to anyone interested in volunteering to help the club in any capacity to come forward. Cora Staunton a winner of no less that seven all star awards and seven all Irelands (and still only 27!) was one of the guests of honour. In her speech she echoed the sentiments of Sean and encouraged senior players to act as good role models and get involved in underage coaching. She pointed out that all achievement in sport is underpinned by hard work and sacrifice. Kenny Griffin manager of the Donegal girls U16 and minor team also spoke and congratulated Niamh, Aoife, Lauren, Fiona and Annie Rose on their achievements. He also thanked St. Mary’s club for their support and use of the pitch during the year. Martin Mc Hugh (Donegal footballer of all time) straight from the McKenna cup final alluded to the welcoming atmosphere that was always present at St. Mary’s club. He also commented on the excellent facilities and if a club is to be successful people need to get involved and give of their time. Johnny Haughey and his band provided the music with the dance floor never empty.

The following presentations were made:

Senior ladies (presented by Cora Staunton)

Most improved player of the year: Sabrina Barnett

Young player of the year: Lydia Fowley

Senior player of the year: Catherine Mailey

Reserves (presented by Martin Mc Hugh)

Most improved player of the year: Billy Sweeney

Reserve player of the year: Emmet Kelly

Most dedicated player of the year:  Andy McNamee

Senior men (presented by Martin Mc Hugh)

Most improved player of the year: Mark Sweeney

Young player of the year: Emmet McNulty

Senior player of year: Marty McNamee

Most dedicated player of the year: John Anthony McMullan Thomas Mc Hugh

Brother and sister duo of Niamh and Packie Mailey were both presented with awards in recognition of their achievements with the county teams. Niamh won an all Ireland medal with the county minors while Packie represented the club on the under 21 county team.

Club person of the year

Club person of the year award presented by Martin Mc Hugh went to Liam O’Keefe. Liam is a key stalwart within the club and the award is deserving for this unstinting contributor.

Hall of fame award (presented by Danny Harkin)

Aodh Gallagher was entered into the hall of fame for his long time commitment and dedication to the club.