2020 – Will we ever forget it?
The Covid pandemic changed the way we live our lives. In Feb ‘ 20, when filling out Feile paperwork, the wise owl Gerry Madden said, “That’s if Feile even happens.”
From March 2020, we were brought together in a different way. We looked out for each other. Our lives went on pause, and we stopped to consider that our families, friends and neighbours were doing ok. We shouted over the hedge to ask them did they need anything? If Duff was out for a walk, we offered him a bottle of Coors in the garden. He rarely refuses. The point being, we connected with each other, we reached out. Until the Spring time, we must continue to be vigilant in terms of health and safety; but beyond that, let’s continue to connect. Take care, and look after each other.
At Drumragh, we are grateful to and appreciate the Covid grouping who quietly but importantly served the club and community through this critical time. Both in terms of Covid support and continuation of club business and development. I personally extend gratitude to each and every one who contributed to keeping the Drumragh flag flying in 2020. And boy did it fly.
Credit to Simon McGeary, our Armagh coach who came in like a breath of fresh air. Assisted by Bax, Barry and Mickey G, they built upon the work of their predecessors. After an enjoyable Ulster League run, the panel of players continued to develop their bond through the pandemic.
With each game, they developed. The Killeeshil performance was described as one of the best in recent years. The Castlederg and Drumquin victories were assured and different players stepped up when the need arose. The injury setbacks did factor against us in the Final, however to be ahead at half time in the Junior Championship Final will motivate the senior squad to kick on that extra step. Go raibh mile maith agaibh players and coaches.
Of equal importance is the joy that the Championship run delivered for the members and community. Additionally the support and goodwill that was generated. Decorating the Parish in green and white. The lads themselves really bought in – 6 of them held the ladder for Garbhan to go up it.
But a telling statement for me towards the end of the year was when I asked a young player what was her most disappointing moment of the Covid year? The answer was missing the Final because she was self-isolating. This shows the extent to which the entire club benefit from watching our senior teams succeed.
My good friend Ricey (John McManus’ favourite Fermanagh Manager) opines that the senior football teams ought to be at the pinnacle of each club for all youth players to aspire.
And Martin Taggart who played in the ’99 Championship also got a run-out in the 2020 Final. He has one boot hung up on the nail, as one door closes, another one opens. Congrats to he and Nicola upon birth of number 2 baby girl yesterday. And I must mention Jackie’s work for going beyond the call of duty in facilitating as many as possible to get access in through or over the gates. Think back a couple of years to the Ladies Intermediate final in Carrickmore, or the Tyrone Intermediate All Ireland success. Every member takes delight in waving a flag for their Club and County.
The involvement and development of our youth brings me to our coaches. During a disruptive year, our coaches stood up when called upon. Youth teams got varying degrees of action, but when called upon, they came out in their usual numbers to avail of GAA activity.
The under 14 boys and their coaches showed precisely what can be achieved by bonding together and developing as a group. There is so much potential to be fulfilled across all youth teams. Cherish our youth, keep them connected. It’s easy to say they spend too much time on devices. So invite them outdoors to engage in activity. We are faced with another couple of months of restriction, but we can use this time to prepare for a return to play in the spring, so a hearty thanks to all young players, parents and coaches. We will see all of you, and more, on the pitches at Clanabogan soon.
The Committee also have had to work in different ways. The use of Zoom and Teams introduced people to speaking into laptops without turning on their mics. Who knew that Anne Broderick was a minefield of trivia? Offline, a loyal and dedicated group of volunteers continued to work selflessly and generously of their time to enhancing our facilities at Clanabogan. Our PRO Paddy’s updates were vital in keeping everyone informed. All of those wee novelty events serve to keep people occupied, interested, informed and connected. Most recently we remembered our loyal friend and clubman, Cathal McLaughlin RIP.
Emotionally 2020 came at a very heavy price. Today we share the grief of families who lost loved ones. During this past month, the Maguire (Blee) and McAshee (Montague) families within our club suffered tragic bereavements. Go ndeana Dia trocaire orthu.
I conclude by thanking our Presidents, Committee, players, members and especially our families for their vital support in 2020. From today through to a brighter Spring, we will be looking to re-energise some club structures. We will also set up a SubCommittee to prepare for the 50th Anniversary.
Today a trio of Committee members take one step back – one step only. I for one could not have done without the assistance of Mary Maguire, Cathal Gormley, and Gerry Quinn in recent years. The way in which they work for the club doesn’t appear in any online webinar, but is second to none. I know where you each will be, and thank you for everything you have done.
Keep safe all. We must continue to connect- with young and old alike. One Club. Keep the wheels turning.
Slan go foill.
Mile Buiochas,
Adrian O’Cathain
An Cathaoirleach
10 Eanair 2021
