There were scenes of great jubilation in the Diamond in Ballycastle on Sunday evening as hundreds of supporters, aged from 0 to 90, gathered to welcome home the newly crowned All Ireland Junior Champions after their emphatic victory over Armagh in Croke Park earlier in the day.
Liam Vallely, Brian Kearney, Duck McFadden all praised the girls for their determination and commitment throughout the season, deservedly coming away with the highly coveted Kay Mills Trophy. Joint Captains Maria McLarnon and Emma Laverty addressed the crowds thanking all their families and supporters and praising the faith and trust that was placed in them by their management team. The fans were treated to a rendition of The Green Glens of Antrim and their own version of Shotgun, by the aptly named Amy McDonald, the teams physio. The celebrations continued in the Diamond where young hurlers and Camogs got the chance to meet their hero’s, get sticks and jerseys signed and get pictures galore taken. Many of the U14 All Ireland winners, who were in the parade at half time in the Intermediate game, were also there to meet the team and show their support. The girls were fantastic role models, inspiring the next generation of players! The future is definitely looking bright for the Saffron Ladies, we might need a bigger venue for the next homecoming! As was chanted many times on Sunday evening,
‘Up the Saffs!’
💛🤍💛🤍
