McCabe’s operation absence a blow for Cavan

FORMER Cavan Allstar Dermot McCabe has undergone an operation for a ‘Gilmore’s groin’ (torn groin muscles) in Dublin.

He could now well miss the opening rounds of the National Football League which would be a huge setback for new Cavan team-manager Eamon Coleman and his management team as the Gowna clubman is a vital link in the current Breffni set-up.

His scoring ability, leadership and experience will certainly be sorely missed as Coleman's side go in search of morale boosting wins at the start of the league competition.

McCabe said he was confident the operation would be a success, but he added it was important he didn't rush back on the playing field, and instead give himself ample time for recovery.

"I will have a much better idea of my recovery early in the new year, although I am personally hoping to play some part in Cavan's NFL campaign."

There is also some further bad news for the new Cavan regime as McCabe's club and county team-mate, Paddy Brady, is also due to go for an operation for a long-standing knee injury.

Meanwhile, the management team at the Canon Hayes Recreation Centre, Tipperary Town, are receiving final nominations for their annual awards scheme to mark sporting excellence on the international, national and local scenes.

The awards recognising outstanding contributions by individuals and teams were inaugurated in 1996 and ave since developed a strong national profile.

Past winners include: athletes Catherina McKiernan & Sonia O'Sullivan; jockeys Charlie Swan & Christy Roche; horse trainers Dermot Weld & John Oxx; GAA stars Brian Corcoran & Declan Browne; soccer stars Mick McCarthy & Paul McGrath; and national & county teams such as the Irish Paralympic team, Irish Rowing team, Tipperary hurling team & Tipperary camogie team.

All nominees must be over 16 years of age and should have excelled in their chosen discipline during the past 12 months.

A brief resume of their sporting achievements during this period, should be submitted with the nomination and sent to the following address: Sports Awards Committee, Canon Hayes Recreation Centre, Tipperary Town.

The adjudicators will announce a shortlist of three nominees for each award and the winners of the various categories will be announced at the Gala Awards Banquet in Kilshane House, Tipperary on Friday December 5, 2003.