Medal presentation and dinner dance

The Tullamore Court Hotel was the place to be last Friday night when it hosted our dinner dance and medal presentation to the 2018 junior football champions.

Almost 250 people attended what was the club’s first big night out since our Night At the Oskars fundraiser at the same venue two years ago. Among the guests were Westmeath football captain Kieran Martin, who presented the medals, county board vice-chairman Frank Mescall and county board secretary Pat Reilly. Following the meal and medal presentation, the gathering danced the night away to the sound of The Lols and a DJ after that.

As a video of last October’s joyous JFC final win over Ballynacargy played in the background, compere TP O’Gorman introduced the various speakers and medal recipients. Club chairman Ken Scally, JFC-winning manager Keith Higgins, JFC-winning captain Shaun Pidgeon and Frank Mescall were lavish in their praise of the players and the management team. Tubber man Keith spoke of how he had been warmly welcomed into the club at the start of the year and thanked the committee for their support. Regardless of what happens in the future, he said the club would always hold a special place in his heart.

Keith highlighted the work ethic and the never-say-die attitude of the players and also paid tribute to Kilkenny hurling manager Brian Cody’s right-hand man Michael Dempsey for his small yet important role in the success. He predicted a bright future for the team which has one of the lowest age profiles of any in the county and thanked Ronan McCarthy of the M6 Service Station for his generous sponsorship.

As Ballynacargy chairman, Frank Mescall said the county final had been a huge disappointment for him on a personal level, but acknowledged that Kilbeggan were full value for their victory. He also referred to Kilbeggan’s rich football history and said Westmeath GAA needed a club with their tradition to be strong and successful.

Kieran Martin had plenty of words of encouragement too and stressed to the players that “hard work beats talent”.

Presentations were made to Nicky Finn, who oversees the running of our all-weather facility, Noel Collins, who is synonymous with the club lotto, secretary Marie Lynagh, treasurer Martina Rochford and the management team comprising Keith Higgins, James Higgins, Damien McLoughlin, Ciaran Daly and Mattie McCormack in recognition of their efforts. Marie’s massive contribution to the success and the club on a daily basis was acknowledged by all present.

Shaun Pidgeon and Niall Carey had the added bonus of winning the Overall Player of the Year and Emerging Talent awards on what was a memorable night for the club.

Upcoming fixtures

Our first and second teams are due to play Bunbrosna (away) and Garrycastle (at home) in Division 3 and 6B respectively of the All-County League this coming weekend. See fixture details elsewhere in this issue.

Lotto

Last week's lucky numbers were 5, 11, 18 and 27. Marian Quinn was the only Match 3 winner. This week's draw takes place in Paddy Ryan’s, Horseleap with the jackpot standing at €15,000. Tickets, costing €2, can be purchased locally. Thank you for your continued support.

Tweet

Most Read Stories