First Ulsters celebrate 125 years

Paul Fitzpatrick at Ballyconnell Ballyconnell First Ulsters are a club going places, but that doesn't mean that they have forgotten their roots. Far from it, in fact; the west Cavan club, who changed their name from Kildallan for this year, celebrate their 125th anniversary with an exciting weekend of activities next month which, according to anniversary committee chairman Damien Brady, marks a unique landmark in their history. "It's a very proud moment and a very proud year for the club," said Brady this week as the club, recognised as the very first organised unit in this province way back in 1885, launched its celebratory programme. "Not alone with being the first club in Cavan, but the first club in Ulster, so it's unique." The club have been planning since early this year for this event and have organised an outstanding weekend of activities, featuring games, historical talks, and celebrations of Irish culture aimed at all ages. Their club grounds, First Ulster Park, are one of the best appointed in the province, befitting a club which, although not enjoying much on-field success at adult level, continues to work hard in establishing the games and keeping the tradition alive in their catchment area. Interestingly, the club played its first match at the same location as its current home ground, providing a direct link to the part for the current members. Brady was brimming with enthusiasm when describing the club's plans. "We will have an Under 10 blitz to kick things off and the entire weekend will cater for all ages. We will have a match in honour of Colm Curry, a man who played for this club and did a lot for it, and we will try to bring in as many of the local clubs around us to partake in our celebrations as well. John James Smith and Patrick Earley will also be honoured." The events will cater for the older members of the community also, he stressed. "It's very, very important for the club, this is an historic event and we are celebrating something very unique," Brady told The Anglo-Celt. "Young and old, past, present and future members are all welcome, as is anyone who will be in Cavan ahead of the All Ireland Fleadh the following weekend." With hard-working officials such as Brady, club chairman John O'Gara, PRO Thomas Cassidy and many others, the Ballyconnell First Ulsters club is in very safe hands. The club thanked all of their loyal sponsors over the years, each of whom has contributed to their ongoing success. See The Anglo-Celt for more information as the event draws near.