Kilbeggan girl power on show at Croke Park

Neither the biting cold wind nor the early start could dampen the enthusiasm of the Kilbeggan Shamrocks U10 girls who fulfilled many a young person’s dream by gracing the hallowed turf of Croke Park recently.

There was great excitement as a bus full of players, family members, friends and team mentors pulled out of St James’ Park at 7am for a day none of them will ever forget.

To be chosen as one of three clubs to represent Westmeath at GAA headquarters for the LGFA Activity Day was like winning the lotto for the girls who acquitted themselves brilliantly in games against Leixlip (Kildare), St Joseph’s (Louth), Éire Óg (Armagh) and Castlewellan (Down).

The skill and determination on show was a joy to behold and certainly bodes well for the future of ladies’ football in Kilbeggan. Afterwards, the girls were presented with a set of medals and were encouraged to go on to play for their county in the coming years when the opportunity to play in Croke Park again might present itself.

By 2pm, the bus was on its way back down the M4. Along the way, the girls stopped off for a well-earned meal in Supermac’s in Kinnegad where they were joined by a number of the other competing clubs who were also making their way home

Thanks to the coaches Richie McMahon, Stephen Cornally, Sabrina Nannery, Benji McDonnell and John Ryan for having the girls well-prepared for the blitz. It’s amazing to think that the game against Leixlip was their first of 2023! The mentors must also be commended for their input to the fantastic programme which featured pen pictures of all the players. It will make for a great souvenir in years to come!

Thanks also to thank Paul Daly, Brendan Nannery and John Whelan for sponsoring tops, shorts and flags. And not forgetting bus driver Alan Salmon for getting the girls to and from Croke Park safely and on time.

Kilbeggan Shamrocks U10 panel: Ava Kirby, Anya Daniels, Anna-Mai McDonnell, Tessa Marshall, Abaigeal Scally, Sofija Luka, Pippa Larkin, Rose Kinahan, Layla Cornally, Casey McDonagh, Bella Nannery, Maddie Nannery, Ashling McDonnell, Eve McMahon, Ellen-Joe McLoughlin and Emelia Ryan.