Nicky Brennan opens the new 3G pitch

Thursday, May 8, 2008

Uachtarin Cumann Lúthchleas Gael, Nicky Brennan was at Creggan on Wednesday 7th May to officially open the new 3G pitch. In what was a momentous occassion, a large turn out was there to share in the event, and mark this significant achievement for the club.

Kickhams Chairman Tony McCollum welcomed Nicky Brennan, Ulster Chairman Tom Daly and Fr. Boyle to the opening of the 3G pitch and confirmed how privileged Kickhams Creggan GAC were to have Nicky Brennan there for this special occasion. Following a brief introduction by Tony Fr. Boyle was invited to undertake the blessing ceremony of the pitch. This was a very dignified affair and respected reverently by all in attendance….with the exception of an army helicopter that seemed to appear almost on cue just as the priest was about to anoint the pitch with Holy water. This brought a wry smile to every ones face and introduced a small bit of humour to the proceedings. (bar stewards drowned out the whole thing!!)

Following the blessing and anointing of the pitch with the sacred water, Tony asked Tom Daly to say a few words. Tom briefly addressed the gathering and highly praised the work that had been undertaken by Kickhams Creggan GAC and its patrons, and it is something they should be very proud off.
 
Now it was time for the main man, Uachtarin Cumann Lúthchleas Gael, Nicky Brennan to say a few words.
 
As is traditional and important, Nicky give a short speech in Gaelaige. He expressed how honoured he was to be asked to officiate at the opening of Kickhams Creggan GAC's new football pitch. He commended the club and all its patrons for the work undertaken behind the scenes and the foresight of the club to undertake such a development - not only the 3G pitch but also the new playing field and pavilion.
 
Then speaking specifically to the younger generation assembled around him, he stressed how important it was for them to value the tireless efforts and hard work that has been invested by the club to secure these excellent facilities for them to use. Consequently, they should respect their facilities and use them to develop their talents to bring future successes to their club.

Following the speeches Tony invited the Uachtarin to cut the ribbon and officially open the new 3G pitch to great applause from the assembled masse.

Completing all his official duties Nicky took time out for some photographs with the younger members of the club and signed a few autographs before leaving to complete other official duties in Armagh.

Tony McCollum and all involved with Kickhams Creggan GAC would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank Nicky Brennan and Tom Daly for being so accommodating at the impromptu request to open the new pitch taking into consideration their very busy schedule, for Fr. Boyle for blessing the new pitch and for all the people who attended the event at such short notice.


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