26 July 2009
Antrim were unquestionably glorious, albeit in final defeat today, in a most thrilling and closely fought ‘All Ireland qualifier, against Kerry. A much larger than expected crowd, which significantly included many thousands of Antrim fans and supporters, watched the newly arrived ‘Bakers Boys’, from Antrim, fight their corner as never before and against incredible odds, all things considered.
Along way from home, yet again, in Tulamore Co Offaly, a young and relatively inexperienced Antrim Senior football Team played some outstanding football, to hold Kerry as few others have managed elsewhere; a mammoth task. 2009 really has been an outstanding year for Antrim senior football. Such inordinate and repeating effort, in any year and on any occasion; these lads rose to meet the challenge time and time again. It can be said, with total justification, that the final score today does not truly reflect the course of this game. Antrim, by sheer courage, more often took on the might of Kerry, challenging again and again that greater footballing superiority of Kerry on the day.
What a difference good management, good discipline and total commitment can make to performance and achievement; with any team on the day. From the ashes of Division 4, only a few months ago, these lads have, by sheer determination and hard work, responded to great leadership and encouragement, to become the real story of the 2009 Senior Football Championship. They have earned the lasting respect of Gaa supporters and fans throughout the Island Ireland and across many parts of the world where emigrants cherish their Irish cultural roots and identity.
For the most part these Antrim lads are but boys making the transition to manhood. They have friends and family, many of whom are today all but speechless in their admiration for such remarkable accomplishment. These lads and their families and supporters have every right to stand proud, for what has achieved, in a very short period of time. This achievement will have spin-off benefit, in all but immeasurable quantity, for young Gaels. What these lads have done for Gaa families throughout Antrim, by way of positive community benefit, is incredible.
This is but a foundation stone, for another great era of proud Gaels within and throughout the county of Antrim. There were and are no town and country barriers on this epic journey; just fellow Gaels coming together with common purpose and out-performing for the benefit of all. That is how it could be, should be and must be; no baggage, no prejudice, nothing but support for those who represent our county, with honour; a proud county tonight with much more to come.
Last but not least, two primary elements in this success story for in effect that is what it is. ‘Baker’ and the ‘back room team’ and ‘you the supporters’, you have been magnificent. You have in effect raised the will of the Antrim lads to win, spurred your team on and made the difference. A sea of saffron has emerged from the wilderness. Men women and children are again proud to wear their county colours. That long awaited day has once again arrived, when you have applauded your County team, both on to and off the field, on the strength of their honest endeavours. What a great place for an Antrim Gael to be.
Lawrence Smyth Antrim PRO.
