SINN Féin’s Northern chairperson Declan Kearney has praised everyone involved in hosting and organising the “Special Football Championship” game between Counties Antrim and Derry held at Kickham’s GAC, Creggan last week.
Mr Kearney said: “I want to extend my congratulations, and deep appreciation to the committee and members of Kickhams Creggan GAC for the “Special Football Championship” which they organised and hosted at the Club grounds.
“This was a brilliant event during which some fantastic football was played by the special players from both Counties Antrim and Derry who participated.
“I want to pay tribute to all the players, their families and everyone who came along to support them.
“Of course, this event would not have happened without the efforts of Kickhams GAC, it’s Chairperson Tony McCollum, the Club committee, and the members who put on the buffet and refreshments after the match.
“Their generosity and that of the match sponsors, who included Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, O’Neill’s Sports and Gus Shields, all contributed to this game being such an outstanding success.
“Very special mention is also due to the match referee, Kickham’s club man Gerard Dougan whose excellent management of the match ensured everybody was able to participate fully.
“I was delighted and privileged to be asked by the Club to present the medals at the end of the game. Every player received a medal, because all the players were winners!
“The GAA is all about community, inclusion and participation. We had all of that and much more, during the “Special Football Championship” in Creggan.
“I hope this might become the start of an annual initiative to encourage even greater levels of participation in Gaelic games by members of our community with special needs.”
