Pride evident at St Joseph's for visit of Jarlath Burns

There was a tremendous sense of pride evident in Horseleap Streamstown Community Centre on Tuesday May 19, as St Joseph’s GAA Club and St Joseph’s Ladies Football Club welcomed President of Cumann Lúthchleas Gael, Jarlath Burns, for what proved to be a truly memorable and historic occasion for the community.

As a club that proudly promotes a one-club approach, bringing together both the GAA and LGFA under the one banner, the visit represented a fitting recognition of the strong community spirit which exists throughout St Joseph’s.

The club and community facilities at Horseleap Streamstown Community Centre continue to serve as a focal point for local life, and amenities including the community walkway help to make it a vibrant and closely-knit gathering place for people of all ages.

Presidential visits are a rare honour for any club but this marked the third occasion that St Joseph’s has hosted the Uachtarán CLG, following previous visits from Jack Boothman in 1995 and Liam O’Neill in 2012.

The opportunity for the latest visit arose following a chance encounter where the question was asked if the president might visit the club at some stage. Once confirmation arrived just two weeks beforehand that a suitable timeslot had become available, preparations quickly gathered pace for what would be a special day for everyone involved.

The centrepiece of the occasion was the presentation of medals to the club’s successful U14 team from 2025, and players and families were understandably delighted to receive their medals from the GAA president himself.

During his visit, Mr Burns took time to meet and speak with many of those in attendance, while a tree-planting ceremony was also held to mark the occasion. The evening also featured a short but enjoyable Scór display, showcasing the rich cultural traditions which remain such an important part of club life.

The event concluded with an inspiring address from Mr Burns, whose words resonated strongly with all present and added further significance to the evening. On his walk up from his car, he said he noticed stone beds and walls built by previous generations. He referenced how the GAA is rooted in communities and is passed down from one generation to the next.

St Joseph’s chairman Daire Lynam spoke about how the whole community is welcome at the club. It’s not all about winning - it ‘is the cherry, it’s not the cake’. Noting the importance of making a difference in people’s lives, the chairman said he believes that if you leave the gate feeling a little bit happier than when you enter the gate, the club have achieved something.

St Joseph’s were also delighted to welcome Westmeath GAA Cchairman Paddy Wallace, who took time from his schedule to attend the event.

For everybody associated with St Joseph’s GAA Club and St Joseph’s Ladies Football Club, it was a day that will live long in the memory and one which perfectly highlighted the spirit of community, volunteerism and togetherness that continues to thrive within the club and parish.