What a day!
4th September 2019
An amazing day was enjoyed by many family, friends and Gaelic football players, (past and present), supporters and all those associated with the club over the last 50 years! The weather was kind, everyone was so generous and all gave 150% from those playing on the day in the three separate tournaments, young and not so young and all who organised the event before and on the day. Was a great team effort and most of all Darron's memory was at the heart of the whole day and into the evening with a display of live music, enjoyed by all.
I shared a few words with everyone, after the raffle and before the auction...…. and to share now with those who could not be present...………
" So hard to believe Darron is not with us, but this day means so much to me,
The GAA club I know was the reason Darron stayed in Leicester, until he met me of course! Becoming part of the then St Colmcilles team and finding a gaelic team in Leicester, with Greg picking him up for his first training session, Tony Smith, Tony Morgan, all definitely helped him settle here, it was a piece of home.
The club, the people soon became our family 32 years ago and we both enjoyed the game, tours to Ireland, sessions after the game making many many life long friends for both of us.
They all have been with us throughout life events, marriage, children joining us, then with Darron, myself and the girls, during his illness.
These occasions mean so much, bringing people together help me to keep going, to share in Darron's passion for this club and sport and continue to remember and feel his love for life.
I know so many will never forget his smile. Darron loved all sports, music, and a good session so this is so fitting here today.
Already in 10 months the occasions we've held so far have raised over £3,000 for Bowel Cancer UK and around 1,100 for LOROS. The fundraising is a small part but very important and also fitting for Darron, as during his illness we talked about his desire to help others in the future, so by supporting these 2 charities we can continue to do that for him. Please when you get a chance check out the Bowel Cancer UK charities work and website and look after yourself and as the posters say around today 'know your symptoms'.
Finally, Darron's football boots, I would like these to stay here at the club, in the changing room if possible (keep them safe) and we can work out a few words to be with them so players in the future and now, can know who they belonged to. I know Darron had a lot to say in the changing room before and after a game, always being the last one out, so by keeping these there I hope they can continue Darron's presence felt in there and inspire others to be vocal in a positive way and players for a long time will recall him and reflect on his love and passion for the game.
He will be so proud of not only today but the club as a community centre and what the GAA football team are achieving now.
Thank you everyone of you for making this possible.