On Saturday night the Gaels of Killinkere headed to the shore of Lough Sheelin to celebrate the achievements of 2019. The storm outside could not dampen any spirits in the lovely venue.As we gathered in the ballroom our fantastic M.C. Aisling McCormack got the night underway by inviting patrons to look at the big screen to view messages from our fellow Killinkere Gaels across the globe from New York to New Zealand and all in between. Despite the miles it is a lovely thought to think of all the supporters united in the pride of the club. A sense of community was a theme of the night, as Chairman James Mooney described how the club only operates with the work of many people and groups within the club that often work behind the scenes as well as the hard work of teams, coaches and committees that brought much success in 2019. In similar thought new Cavan Cathaoirleach Kieran Callaghan commended many of the volunteers of the club who represent us so well in Breffni Park, county committees and refereeing and welcomed the new recruits who will continue this in 2020.
A superb meal that was accompanied by great imagery and memories of the year on the big screen. The main event was without a doubt the medal presentations to our players who saw the huge effort that they have put in over recent years eventually reap their just rewards. Three trophies were on display after winning the Junior Championship and Reserve League and Championship. Representing the previous championship winning team of 1982 Ultan Lynch (Capt.) and Patsy McDermott agreed that after 37 years they were well ready to hand over their status to the 2019 Champions as they presented the championship medals to the captains Louis Fay Cooper (senior) and Anthony Brady(reserve) and their teams. Louis and Anthony paid tribute to all who contributed to the team in all aspects throughout the year and wished well those who were moving on after varying years of dedication. Aisling gave a great commentary on all the players, and many of us got a new insight into some of these guys. Paddy Bates announced the hotly contested 2019 player of the year, and with a memorable quarter final goal against our neighbours in Breffni Park it was Emmet Fitzsimons who walked away with the prize.
Club presentations were made to those who had moved on from their club roles this year. The annual club appreciation award was hardly a surprise to anyone when chairman James Mooney described how a successful community needs a chieftain and Tony Ryan certainly was that in the last number of years and in particular 2019 when he oversaw the redevelopment project as well as the success on the footballing field. He received a well-deserved standing ovation when his name was announced. The formalities were rounded off in style as Patsy McDermott treated us all to a rendition of his brilliant poem reflecting on county final day and the boys who wear the green and gold.
It was on to the dancing and Say La V certainly got the place rocking, there was plenty of great movers on the dancefloor as the great sense of atmosphere and celebration continued for quite a while. A super night was had by all. Sincere thanks to Crover House for the wonderful food and hospitality and a huge well done to the organising committee of Aisling McCormack, Martin McGovern, Anthony Brady, Eoghan Smith and James Mooney who pulled together a brilliant night and again showed what a brilliant team the Killinkere Gaels are. NÍ NEART GO CUR LE CHÉILE
