The sun shone brightly and everyone was in bright form as Ballivor celebrated the 125th anniversary of the GAA as a community. The events began with a blessing at the site of the new ground, led by Fr. Oliver Devine PP. A large number of players, Junior, Ladies etc, all decked out in the Maroon & White paraded proudly through the village to the current GFC ground. This parade was led by Sean Bagnall and M. J. McGearty, 2 long standing and proud members of our club. At the pitch, three exhibition matches were played – Adult, Ladies and Juvenile. The objective of the games was to showcase the football talents in our village, as well as have fun. Refreshments were served in the club house. After a number of hours of football, the celebrations moved to McLaughlins where a ceili was held with the Tara Ceili Band providing the music. I have no doubt that a good night was had by all!
Sincere thanks have to be given to all who helped out on the day (too numerous to mention all the names) but there were the DIY crew who did a number of repairs in the clubhouse, the people who made sandwiches, apple tarts and all the fine food and refreshments, the mentors and coaches who helped to organise the games, the parents and other spectators who celebrated this day with us but most of all, the day was for all of the club members, players etc who came down and made the celebration such a memorable one. A special word of thanks to Fr. Oliver for blessing the new ground and we all hope that we will maintain the momentum and good feeling from the day to develop the new facilities as quickly as possible.
