Ulster Leads the Way

July 21st, 2010

The GAA in Ulster is buoyant and leading the way despite the recession, according to Ulster Council Secretary Danny Murphy.

Speaking after a successful sell-out at the Ulster Football Finals in Clones, Mr Murphy stated that membership figures show that Ulster is the most vibrant province.

“There has been a huge increase across the nine counties and at this point in time over 34 per cent of the membership of the GAA are in Ulster. In particular, I think Tyrone has the most membership of any county in the Association”.

Mr Murphy underlined the importance of persisting with values close to GAA communities, families and youth. Under-16s were able to attend most of the 2010 Ulster SFC games without charge, while exhibition games involved Cumann na mBunscol, Gaelic4Mothers and the Live to Play campaign.

“I also believe that keeping the Minors with the Seniors is a great statement for the youth of our country, giving young fellas the opportunity to play in front of almost 35 thousand people. That’s something they enjoy and want to get more of”.

Sunday’s Football Finals marked the 18th year of Mr Murphy’s role as Ulster SFC Event Controller though he was quick to praise the hundreds of volunteers who ensured a smoothly run presentation of the games.

“Stilesmen, stewards, doctors, first aid people and so on, all make these events comfortable to run. And finally I have to say that the new pitch is as good as anything in the world. It is a truly remarkable piece of turf, as any player out there from the Finals will tell you”.

More VIDEOS from Ulster Football Finals day are on the Ulster GAA YouTube channel.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2MZ4LE1SZKA&feature=player_embedded[/youtube]