New York hurlers enjoy eight-day stay in Westmeath
The New York senior hurlers enjoyed eight memorable days in Westmeath this week, staying in Mullingar as they prepared for tomorrow’s (Saturday) Lory Meagher Cup final against Cavan in Croke Park.
A highlight of their visit was a training session hosted by Castletown Geoghegan hurling club on Thursday, where the Westmeath side proudly welcomed the travelling team to Páirc Mhic Eochagáin. With Castletown Geoghegan’s own James Bermingham part of the New York team side, it was a particularly special occasion for the local club.
“We are delighted to welcome them here today and it’s great to have that connection,” said club chairman Ian Corrigan.
Alan Gallagher was one of the leading figures in organising the New York visit and he presented Michael Stones with a specially designed sign to mark the occasion.
The visitors trained at Páirc Mhic Eochagáin, a venue which has seen significant development in recent years, including a new stand, pavilion, and state-of-the-art gymnasium. Michael J. Stones, New York's logistics and travel manager and a native of Kilbeggan, was full of praise for the facilities.
“As my late mother said, ‘It’s nice to be able to give something back’. That is important for us and we have great friends here in Castletown Geoghegan,” he said. Stones, who co-founded MJS Building and Development in New York with his brother James, played hurling with Castletown Geoghegan and now sponsors the club’s underage teams.
Following the training session, the team was treated to a reception in the new pavilion, organised by Ian Corrigan and members of the ladies committee – Ann Fagan, Dorrie Mangan, and Yvonne Kane – along with Ger Linnane. Among the supporters in attendance was long-time club member Eamonn Clarke, who was proud to welcome the team.
Later, members of the Castletown Geoghegan underage club gathered for a photo in the new stand wearing gear sponsored by MJS Building and Development.
The homecoming was especially meaningful for dual star Adam Loughlin Stones, who previously lined out for Clonkill and The Downs, and for James Bermingham. “It has been years since I trained and played here; I have some great memories and it’s wonderful to be back,” said James, who now plays hurling with Waterford, New York.
Adam reflected on the team’s semi-final victory over Monaghan at TEG Cusack Park: “We started slowly; it had been a while since we played, but we grew into it. The talent in the side is incredible; we have players from all over Ireland involved, including Johnny Glynn, who won an All-Ireland title with Galway in recent years.”
Michael Stones, who watched proudly as his son Adam helped New York to that win, said: “To return to your own county grounds and win is special, and of course it’s extra special to have your son involved. It’s a great memory.”
Before departing, Michael shared a heartfelt message of thanks to everyone who supported the team’s visit:
“As we, New York GAA, get ready to leave Mullingar, Co. Westmeath, this trip would not have been made possible without the support of a lot of people and businesses. We thank each and every one of you for your absolutely fantastic support over the last eight days: Annebrook House Hotel, Centra Kilbeggan, Centra Summerhill Meath, The Downs GAA Club, Castletown Geoghegan Hurling Club, Sheerin Sign Graphics Ltd, Moran Hurleys, Westmeath GAA, Slevins Coaches, Dr Jerry Flynn, Kilbeggan Health Centre, Peak Performance Clinic.
“We, all the players and management, cannot thank you enough for all your help and support. We look forward to returning next year.”
New York meet Cavan in the Lory Meagher Cup hurling final at Croke Park on Saturday, May 31 at 3pm.