Westport GAA call for support ahead of Croker battle

ON THEIR WAY TO CROKER Two of Westport’s young attackers, Colm Moran and Oisín McLoughlin, celebrate at full-time in Ennis last Sunday. Pic: Conor McKeown

February 19 the date for Intermediate final

Michael Duffy

REIGNING Mayo and Connacht Intermediate football champions Westport caught many experts by surprise with their exciting All-Ireland Intermediate semi-final victory on Sunday in Ennis against Kenmare. And those involved with the club are now calling on the town to get behind the team in the coming weeks as they prepare for an historic final against Leinster Champions, St Colmcille’s of Meath, on Sunday, February 19.
Damian Loftus’s young side have just 19 days to prepare for their big day in Croke Park, and club chairman, Austin Groden, is calling on Westport people from near and far to get behind the side in their quest for All-Ireland glory.
“Sunday was a great day for everyone involved with Westport GAA. The atmosphere was electric in Ennis, despite the damp conditions. Westport supporters travelled in great numbers and it was heartening to see so many Louisburgh supporters stay on and get behind their neighbours. Louisburgh can be proud of their efforts too, they had a great season,” said Austin, who confirmed the club were holding meetings this week to come up with some fundraising ideas.
“The reality is we have very little time but we will undoubtedly be doing some fundraising and I would ask for people to help in whatever way they can. I have to say, businesses in the town have been great so far.
“Everyone knows it won’t be cheap to prepare a team for an All-Ireland final, especially as a lot of our team are still in secondary school or in college. Indeed, five of the starting line-up last Saturday are only doing their Leaving Cert this year, so all them lads have to be looked after as best we can.”
Austin went on to say that it will be a special occasion in Croke Park on February 19 for everyone involved with the club.
“We’ve all had great days out supporting Mayo in Croke Park over the last decade or so, but this will be different altogether. It will be a special day for all the families in the area who have worked so hard to get the club to where it is and it will be extra special for the players themselves. It’s a dream to play with your neighbours and pals in Croke Park.”
Westport GAA will be announcing details of their fundraising plans on their Facebook page and in the local press when plans are finalised.