Mark Daly picked up the Players player of the match award and was highly involved in the orgainsation and promotion of the event, together with many other hard working volunteers. He was presented with the award by Troy Reilly, who also spearheded great work in securing sponsorship for trophies and medals for the occasion. For more photos, see this week's print edition of the paper. PHOTO: Sean McMahon

Hobby soccer team raises money for SOSAD

Nicole McDermott

Published: Thu 10 Jul 2025, 6:02 PM

In memory of their late friend Aidan Deegan, a group of soccer enthusiasts organised the 'Brotherhood Rising Cup'. Last weekend, they gathered at the Castlerahan community pitch for a charity soccer match against Sporting BJD men’s team, raising an impressive €3,356.44 for SOSAD in the process.

Aidan Deegan, fondly known as Giggan, passed away in April. Known for creating a mental health page to provide a safe outlet for men to open up, Giggan’s legacy was honoured with this match.

Organiser Mark Daly expressed heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed. Special thanks were given to Troy Reilly and Eimear Gannon, who played key roles in organising the day, and to The New Inn Bar, which generously sponsored the team jerseys with a crest that Aidan Deegan had designed himself.

In addition to the main match, the day featured a kids’ penalty shootout at halftime, a community-driven bake sale with treats donated by friends and family, and a raffle supported by businesses across the Ballyjamesduff and Cavan area.

Originally formed for this match only, Adam Daly says the team will continue. After six weeks of preparation, the young men in their 20s and early 30s want to continue training and playing friendlies. “It’s good for the head.” While they cannot commit to a full league, the interest in playing regular friendlies is there.

With hopes to continue the Brotherhood Rising Cup as an annual event, organisers are committed to keeping Aidan’s memory alive — not just through soccer, but through the continued message of support and mental health awareness.