Cadbury to continue sponsorship of GAA competition

Cadbury has today announced that it will be extending their sponsorship of the GAA Football U-21 Championship for a further three years.

The confectionary company has awarded over 40 Hero of the Match Awards since 2005 in recognition of the hard work and skills of players at this level.

The Cadbury Hero of the Future Award has been presented to three outstanding players at U-21 level to mark their potential for the future and their dedication to the game - Keith Higgins from Mayo, Fintan Goold from Cork and Killian Young from Kerry.

The Cadbury Hero of the Future Award has been selected by public voting on www.cadburygaau21.com and adjudication from Kildare senior footballer Dermot Earley and TG4 journalist Michael O Domhnaill.

This year sees the introduction of Paul Caffrey, former U-21 Football selector, as a third judge for the awards. The winning player will win a holiday for himself, €1,000 for his club and €1,000 for his Co board. Cadbury are now also offering each of the 15 Heroes of the Match a training kit for their club from this year.

Paul Caffrey said: “I’m very happy to come on board with Cadbury as a judge for the Cadbury GAA U-21 Football Championship. I have fond memories as a selector at this level and I look forward to selecting a true Hero of the Future with Michael and Dermot. The U-21 Football Championship gives us a great opportunity to see the stars of the future perform on the intercounty stage.”

Nickey Brennan, GAA president commented: “Confirmation that Cadbury is to extend its sponsorship of the U-21 Football Championship is to be welcomed ahead of what is shaping up to be another intriguing competition.

“The U-21 grade is an important stepping stone and one that assists players to bridge the gap from the minor to senior grades, the importance of which was highlighted at last year’s Special Congress when delegates voted to maintain our U-21 competitions.”