What a truly special day we had at the Sandra Kelly Tournament, held in the stunning, sun-soaked surroundings of Páirc an Locha, Loughmacrory. Fifteen schools from across Tyrone and Fermanagh came together to put on a spectacular display of Gaelic football – full of passion, teamwork, skill, and sportsmanship. The schools involved included: St Malachy’s Glencull, St Mary’s Pomeroy, St Paul’s Irvinestown, St Joseph’s Galbally, St Colmcille’s Carrickmore, St Mary’s Ballygawley, St Dympna’s Dromore, Our Lady of Lourdes Greencastle, Tummery PS, Roscavey PS, St Patrick’s Gortin, Christ the King Omagh, St Brigid’s Mountfield, St Brigid’s Altamuskin, and of course, ourselves – St Teresa’s, Loughmacrory.
Across 38 thrilling games, boys and girls gave their all in every pass, tackle and score – a true feast of footballing talent from start to finish. The large crowd in attendance was treated to a brilliant showcase of everything that makes our games so great!
After some nail-biting encounters, huge congratulations must go to the talented lads from St Colmcille’s, Carrickmore, who lifted the Sandra Kelly Cup after overcoming a superb St Joseph’s, Galbally in a brilliant final. What a battle that was! Meanwhile, the skilful boys from Our Lady of Lourdes, Greencastle emerged victorious in the Shield Final, after a cracking contest against a gallant St Brigid’s, Mountfield!
A massive thank you to everyone who helped make the day such a success – beginning with our referees, who did a terrific job keeping things moving smoothly all day: Malachy Coyle, Eoin McElholm, Oliver Anderson and Ryan Keenan – thank you for your fairness, patience and energy throughout the day. They were brilliantly supported by our umpires and scorekeeper.
Special mention to the sound providers, the kitchen crew and the tea and coffee servers– your efforts were nothing short of incredible. From start to finish, you helped create a buzzing atmosphere that lit up the entire day! To our principal, Mrs McElholm, and secretary, Damien Mullan – your tireless work behind the scenes ensured everything ran seamlessly. To Mr McCullagh and Mr Gallagher for their super organisation in the lead up and on the day to ensure everything went smoothly. We couldn’t have done it without you.
More than anything, this tournament is about celebrating the life and legacy of Sandra Kelly Her memory continues to bring schools, clubs and communities together in the most special way. There’s no doubt she helped the sun shine down on Páirc an Locha.
Padraigín, Cathal and the entire Kelly family – your continued support, generosity and warmth is something to behold. The hospitality and spread you laid on was second to none. What a tribute to Sandra’s spirit! It was also brilliant to see the continued efforts of schools, clubs and parents in promoting Gaelic games across Tyrone and Fermanagh. Days like this don’t happen by chance – they happen because of the love and pride we all share in our games and in our young people. Great to see… and long may it continue!
Finally, the respect and sportsmanship shown by every player was a credit to their schools, teachers, coaches and families The atmosphere, the energy and the sense of community was something really special.
Thank you to everyone who came along and played their part. We hope you enjoyed it every bit as much as we did… and we’re already looking forward to doing it all again next year!
