Mayo's Greatest Supporter: some of the first nominees

The search for Mayo's Greatest Supporter in partnership with our friends in Théa Pharma has generated huge interest. We have had a stream of entries already from all across Ireland and we have had a number of enquiries from overseas.

We look forward to even more in the coming days. All you have to do is send us 200 words and a picture to sport@mayonews.ie and we will do the rest.

Here is a sample of the entries we've already received.

SEAN CARNEY

Sean, from Claremorris and now living in Dublin has been nominated by Mary O'Connell.

“One of Sean's favourite football memories was going to Tuam in 1951 with his dad for the Connacht final. It was the beginning of his enduring love and support for his county. He has been a loyal and passionate supporter ever since, travelling far and wide and beyond for his beloved county

“He has never given up hope or stopped believing and his humble and gracious manner sets him apart.

“He loved watching Kieran McDonald having a star game for Mayo in Croke Park in the 2006 semi final against Dublin and was a proud man when Dublin were again beaten in 2012. Favourite players of that time were Aidan O'Shea, Cillian O'Connor and Andy Moran.

He had great admiration for the late John Morley, an outstanding player for Mayo in 1970s. John and Sean joined the guards at the same time. He also has many other favourite Mayo footballers including Willie Casey, Johnny Farragher and Michael Connaughton.

“Sean has had a long and passionate love affair with Mayo football and he's looking forward to even greater days in the future.”

MARTINA EGAN

Martina from Ballina has been nominated by Paul Kelly.

“Martina lives in Sligo town and never fails to display her unquenchable passion for Mayo GAA. A member of her club Ardaree Sarsfields she proudly displays a Mayo flag in her front garden during championship season and is renowned for wearing some sort of Mayo top around work or to training for her LGFA team St Johns. 

“She has an unquestionable loyalty and commitment to Mayo GAA. She has traveled to the likes Killarney, Limerick, Derry, Omagh, Armagh, New York, Dublin and everywhere in between. She is looking forward to a potential trip to Ruislip in London in the coming years.

Martina is a true supporter of Mayo GAA. She will support any team, age or gender in green and red. She has sacrificed a lot over the years to follow Mayo.

PETER O'MALLEY

Peter from Islandeady has been nominated by his son, Peter.

“Dad has attended nearly every single Mayo match since the 1970's and has never lost faith. Despite losing his leg in 2019 and now been wheelchair-bound he still travels to every Mayo match including the Croke Park games. Even when he has no lift he will hop on the the train himself and head off to Dublin. He is now 75 years of age and nothing will stop him missing a game.”

JIMMY LYDON

Jimmy from Kiltimagh has been nominated by his daughter Joan.

“He went to his first Connacht Final in 1952. He remembers it clearly as Mayo, the All Ireland Champions from the previous two years were beaten by Roscommon. He often told us that the Radio Éireann was reluctant to announce the score as they believed it to be a hoax, such was the shock that Mayo had been beaten. He followed Mayo throughout the 50's, 60's, the lean 70's and in the 80's introduced his three children to the rollercoaster ride of Mayo football.

“He now has three new recruits, his three granddaughters who have followed in his footsteps supporting Mayo. He has been all over the country: Newry, Killlarney, Thurles, Derry, Clones following Mayo and of course Croke Park.

“He was in Croke Park recently for the National League final with his granddaughters Ella, Amy and Chloe Gavin. He is 83 years young and is showing no signs of bowing out. His pride at seeing the next generations carry on his love for Mayo has re-energised him. His optimism, positivity and sportsmanship is inspirational. He always supports rather than criticises. He always has hope regardless of the odds. To me, his greatest quality is the way he takes victory and defeat in the same way, with humility and grace. They say it's not the destination, it's the journey but for us, it's the company, Dad's company and we are privileged to still have him on our team.”

JOHN HENRY

John, from Breaffy but living in Charlestown has been nominated by his wife Caroline.

“I can't think of a more worthy nominee. John has Spina bifida and while he wasn’t able to play for Mayo (like his best friend Declan Jennings), having a disability hasn’t stopped him from supporting the Green and Red for over forty years. 

“When he was younger, John would travel to all of the Mayo GAA matches with his Dad Tom. During his wedding speech, Tom acknowledged that "John now had a new travelling companion." I'm glad to report that we became a trio, travelling the length and breadth of Ireland to support our beloved county, as well as destinations like London and New York. John’s best man Declan followed this up in his speech saying that “This man is Mayo GAA!”

“John is the quintessential Mayo fan. When he passes the road signs stating "Welcome to County Mayo", he will always give a cheer and it makes me smile every time.

“The only downside of being a passionate Mayo fan is that sometimes the big games clash with important life events and milestones. John missed my grandmother’s 100th birthday celebrations (with her blessing!) to attend the 2012 All Ireland football final between Mayo and Dublin. The result wasn't what we wanted, but Granny Gleeson was happy to see all of us the day after to commiserate with tea and cake.

“Supporting Mayo is a life-long passion and commitment and John signed up for that at birth.”

AOIFE CORRIGAN

Aoife, from Castlebar has been nominated by her parents Sean and Dervilla.

“Following Mayo brings great joy to Aoife and the whole family. We make memories together and we look forward to many more.

“Aoife is a student in St Joseph's Secondary School Castlebar and showed her passion for the Green and Red when her self-portrait “Up Mayo” received a special merit award at this years Texaco Art Competition.

“The self portrait is of a picture taken during her first trip to Croke Park and she looks forward to many great adventures in the coming years.”

TOM SWEENEY

Tom from Kiltane has been nominated by Lorraine Keane

“Tom, who turns 80 this December, is undoubtedly the most dedicated Mayo supporter the county has ever known. A true stalwart of the Green and Red, Tom has followed the Mayo team for decades, never missing a single game. Come rain, hail or shine, Tom travels the length and breadth of the country to cheer on his beloved team, from the roar of Croke Park to the muddy sidelines of National League clashes. His passion is unwavering, and no matter the outcome of a match, Tom always finds the positives, offering words of encouragement and hope when others might dwell on defeat.

“What sets Tom apart is not just his loyalty, but his commitment to passing on that love for Mayo football to the next generation. He regularly brings the young people of Doohoma with him to matches, inspiring them with stories, songs, and his unmatched spirit. In doing so, Tom keeps the fire of Mayo pride burning brightly, ensuring that the county’s traditions and dreams are carried forward. In a county known for its proud supporters, Tom Sweeney stands alone – a living legend whose heart beats in rhythm with every kick, every point, every dream of Sam Maguire.”

To submit your entry for 'Mayo's Greatest Supporter', please e-mail your 200-word pitch to sport@mayonews.ie