An unorthodox route to inter-county level

[mattockranger]

Yorkshire born players make history
08 March 2010


History was made in O'Moores Park on Saturday night when Yorkshire born players, and first cousins Kevin Meaney (Laois captain wearing no 11) led his County out against Joe Feeney (Armagh no 10) in the Allianz Division 2 game. Both lads mothers Ann and Patricia (nee Toland) were born in Leeds, and were members of Young Irelands GAA club where they helped in fund raising and social events. Both lads learned their skills and football technique with the St Anthonys GAA underage club in Beeston Leeds, representing Yorkshire at U-16 level. Their parents returned to Ireland in 1994 with their children, Ann and Joe Meaney (Kilkenny) to Laois, while Patricia and Malachy (Armagh) to Madden.

The Gaels in Yorkshire wish both lads the best of luck in the future, and are proud of our early adventure in underage development. We also want to acknowledge the progress of Tyrone All Ireland winner Joe McMahon who was born in Yorkshire, and played for the county before winning 2 All Ireland medals for Tyrone. Joe's father Paddy played for Young Irelands in the 1970s before returning to Omagh with his York born wife and children. All three lads parents were present at Young Irelands 40th anniversary in 2008, and keep in regular contact with the clubs progress.

[mattockranger]

A fascinating journey and feel good story to all our ex-pats allover the world who keep the GAA strong wherever they are and produce talented players.