Above – New secretary Declan McCarr (left) with new chairman Paddy Gray and treasurer Darrach Ó Maoláiin

On Thursday evening, the North Antrim GAA Extraordinary General Meeting concluded with the transition of positions for Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer. Whilst change can be positive, it is regrettable to see great Glensmen step down from their respective authoritative positions. The success of North Antrim GAA in the past year would not have been possible had it not been for the dedication and intellect of Martin Magee, Frank McCarry and Chris Campbell. It is beyond a shadow of a doubt that these men have left North Antrim GAA in a comfortable and successful place. 

The new Chairman is Paddy Gray, whose experience as the Coaching and Development Officer has garnered respect across our region. Paddy is often seen with a great smile on his face, and his devotion to the game is well known. Declan McGarry of Loughgiel has taken the position of Secretary. We are very lucky to have Declan coming on board with a gifted ability. Declan has stepped up in the past few years as a referee and will no doubt do a fantastic job as Secretary. The Treasurer’s role has been usurped by Darach Ó Maoláin, the former PRO and Secretary for Loughgiel Shamrocks GAC. 

The past year has highlighted that North Antrim is the home of Hurling and Camogie. There have been great strides by North Antrim Clubs to move into Provincial Levels and consequently All-Ireland Competitions. In our cultural pursuits, we’ve seen the hard work of Jimmy Gaston and the NA Cultural Officers being instrumental in promoting Irish Language Classes and participation in Scór. We hope that North Antrim GAA will continue to flourish. We aim to continue our promotion of Gaelic Games and Culture in a positive, inclusive and egalitarian manner. No one should ever feel left out in North Antrim. 

Finally, we’d like to thank the outgoing Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer the best of luck and the best of health. We are all very grateful to have had Martin, Frank and Chris leading North Antrim GAA and acting as positive role models. They are a credit to their respective Clubs.