McGrady inducted into Hall of Fame

McGrady inducted into Hall of Fame

23 November 2011

SAUL GAC celebrated yet another successful year at the annual presentation dinner dance on Saturday night in the Burrendale Hotel.

Special guests were William James Smyth of the Down County Board and Maria Fox of the Ladies’ County Board.

Club chairman Peter Craig and his wife Angela were sorely missed with Peter currently in hospital, but over 130 members and guests attended.

In terms of awards, in ladies’ football, Tara Laverty deservedly won senior player of the year with Dearbhaile Gaffney lifting the most improved player and Gemma King the sportsperson award.

Ciara McGreevy, Tara Laverty and Rachel Curran were also recognised for their call-up to the Down senior squad in 2011. Staying on county football recognition, Cathail and Deaglan Arnold, and with Rory Mullen were awarded mementoes of their involvement in the Down minor squad this season.

Rory Mullen received the minor player of the year with Conor Fitzsimons named as the ‘team’ player and Lee Magee senior player of the year.

The management representatives Frank Holland and Barry Quayle received deserved plaudits for their outstanding contribution to club success while the massive influence of charismatic outgoing senior team manager Paul Evans was recognised.

Saul stalwart John McGrath was a popular winner of the McMinn Trophy in view of his unflinching support of all club teams over many years. Incidentally, Saturday night was a double celebration for the McGraths as former Saul senior star Hugh showed his management credentials by leading Derry City side Steelstown to the Premier Division in the Oak Leaf county for the first time.

The undoubted highlight of the evening was the presentation of the prestigious Hall of Fame award to Eddie McGrady. Eddie and his family have been ever-present in Saul over the last few decades.

Everyone at the club has benefited from his selfless service to Saul GAC and while his efforts in ensuring the club was able to develop their own facilities stand out, all at Saul GAC are indebted to him for his consistent efforts over the years. Go raibh míle maith agat, Eddie.