Crossmaglen’s All-Ireland achievements recognised

CROSSMAGLEN Rangers’ achievement in winning four All-Ireland club football titles over the last 10 years was formally recognised in Belfast yesterday when club officers received a presentation from GAA President Nickey Brennan on behalf of sponsors AIB.

The occasion was the launch of the 2008 championships, which have continued to grow steadily in popularity. Crossmaglen recently won the Armagh title for the 12th consecutive year.

AIB executive Billy Finn said that not only had they set a standard for commitment ‘and contribution to the competition,’ but that they served as a role model for clubs throughout the country. And, he complimented not alone the players but the club officials on the structures they have in place.

“Staying unbeaten for 51matches, starting in 1997, is some achievement,” he commented. “It will be no surprise if they are back in Croke Park next March.”

The launch was attended by Ulster Council chairman Tom Daly, Munster Chairman Jimmy O’Gorman and Secretary Simon Moroney and the chairman of the Central Competitions Control Committee Jimmy Dunne.