Report and photos from Michael Corcoran in Leighinmhor House, Ballymena
Antrim Camogie’s annual celebrations of success and endevours took place on Sunday 1st February in the ballroom of Leighinmhor House, Ballymena. Not only was this a well attended event, but proceedings ran like clockwork and drew to a closure on the dot of 7pm.
After recapping the events of 2025 from a slideshow accompanied with traditional music, memories and emotions could be seen on some faces as the past year unfolded before their eyes. Antrim’s Chairperson, Úna Kelly welcomed everyone and recapped the year succinctly, followed by a buffet meal and then some opening words from our Ulster Chairperson, Karen McCormick.
Minor past manager, Willie Devlin took to the podium and talked about the minor’s successes being built on determination and a want for delivering success. Willie recapped past events that many probably have forgotten about, like surrendering two goals in the opening minutes of an All Ireland round to Waterford, but cool heads, focus and determination got the squad over the line in the end. Much of that was to shine through for the Ulster and later All Ireland successes. Willie went to lengths in thanking the committee for their support, which he believed was part of the formula for success.
The past senior manager, Carl McCormick then took us on a nostalgic journey where he underlined the importance of community friendship and support from camogie friends and players regardless of where you are in your personal journey through life. Carl congratulated the players and backroom management for their incredible commitment and thanked co-manager, Martin Coulter, for his help and support across the year.
The evening wrapped up with a presentation from Emma Mcneill to Ryan O’Reilly of the Connor McNeill cup for Ryan’s outstanding commitment in 2025, chairing the referee committee and navigating the demands of sourcing referees for our games. Karen McCormick presented the Camogie Association media award for Photography to Michael Corcoran and everyone was entertained to the last minute with fine traditional music from local group Tób go bog é.
Amy Boyle receives the National League 1B cup from joint past manager, Martin Coulter. Antrim will now play in the top flight 1a league this year.
You can see more photos from last night’s evening here…
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