St Mary’s Aghagallon club were proud recipients of the Chairman’s Award at the Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon council’s Sports awards ceremony recently. The chairman of the ABC Sports Forum, Cathal O’ Neill, selected the club for special recognition as he regarded them to be a club who are a shining example in the promotion of inclusion. Praise was given in particular for the clubs All Stars team, a GAA for All initiative launched in April 2023 and who’s overarching aim was to make gaelic sport accessible for all, improve players social skills and wellbeing, improve fitness and motor skills all while developing fundamental GAA skills.
The All Stars team has been a huge success since its formation last year, and players have had opportunities to play many fun matches in the club jersey both locally and around the province. The team even played in Croke Park last August, the undoubted highlight of the year. A number of Aghagallon players also now play for county, thanks to the Antrim GAA for All team who are based at Creggan Kickhams. No doubt plenty of sporting events lie ahead for both St Mary’s Aghagallon and Antrim GAA for All throughout 2024 also.
The All Stars team has brought a great buzz to the local community and has added a whole new dimension to the club. As Club Chairman, Columb Walsh states, ‘Our All Star initiative has enabled a part of our community who previously thought that they could never wear our jersey to do so. Sometimes we get caught up in the winning of games and championships but really it’s about young people kicking a ball about on a Saturday morning with smiles on their faces.’
St Mary’s All Stars hold their training sessions each Saturday morning and there were wide smiles on faces yet again when the Sports Award was brought to training. St Mary’s would like to thank everyone who has helped them in the formation of their team and who have given their continual support throughout the year. Most importantly though, they thank the players, coaches amd families who make Saturday mornings at Páirc na nGael a joyous and heartwarming place to be.
