Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council, Councillor Declan Bree, hosted a Civic Reception on Friday evening last at City Hall to celebrate the extraordinary achievements of the Coolera/Strandhill Junior Ladies Football Team and the Coolera/Strandhill Senior Men's Football Team.
Coolera/Strandhill Football Teams honoured with Civic Reception
The Civic Reception recognised their remarkable contributions, which have brought immense pride, passion, and a profound sense of achievement to County Sligo.
In his address, Councillor Bree emphasised that the evening was a celebration not just of victories and trophies, but of "history... teamwork... and memories that will last a lifetime."
He lauded the Coolera/Strandhill Junior Ladies Football Team for their incredible journey. Their season was marked by an unforgettable Sligo County Final win over Curry, followed by a commanding 13-point victory against St. Fursey’s of Galway in the AIB Connacht Junior Championship Final. The team further made history by travelling to Maastricht, representing Ireland, and triumphing over the Paris-Bordeaux Gaels in the All-Ireland quarter-final. Despite their All-Ireland semi-final clash with Mungret St. Paul’s ending in heartbreak after an epic 80-minute encounter that saw them tie the game at the death, their relentless effort "captured our hearts and showcased the potential of women’s football in our county."
The Cathaoirleach commended Pat Kerrigan for his evident leadership and dedication, and joint captains Edwenia O'Malley and Béibhinn Harte for inspiring "not just your teammates, but a generation of young girls across Sligo who now believe that their dreams on the pitch are within reach."
Turning to the Coolera/Strandhill Senior Men’s Football Team, Councillor Bree hailed their unprecedented back-to-back Sligo Senior Football Championships – a first in the county’s proud history. Their triumphs extended to the Connacht Club Senior Football Championship, brought home for the first time in over 40 years, following a tense final replay victory over St. Molaise Gaels and an unforgettable extra-time win against Pádraig Pearse’s. While their All-Ireland semi-final against Cuala ended in heartbreak, their rally and fight, bringing the game back to just two points, "proving once again that you belong at the very top of the national stage."
John McPartland was praised for his vision and guidance, steering the team through an extraordinary chapter, and Captain Peter Laffey was recognised for his leadership as a cornerstone of this historic campaign.
Councillor Bree underscored that these achievements were not isolated, but "built on the spirit of a community, the roar of supporters, the sacrifice of families, and the dedication of countless volunteers." He stated, "Coolera/Strandhill has become a beacon of what is possible when talent meets hard work, and when a community stands together."
Also speaking at the reception was Aisling Browne, PRO of Coolera/Strandhill, who thanked Cathaoirleach Bree for hosting the civic reception and congratulated both teams on their achievements for the club, community, and county. She also extended thanks to the community for their invaluable funding, particularly for supporting the Junior Ladies Football Team's travel to Europe.
Pat Kerrigan, Manager of the Coolera/Strandhill Junior Ladies Football Team, thanked his players for their hard work and their ability to "dig deep" when needed. He highlighted the great memories made during their European trip and praised the inter-team support.
Peter Laffey, Captain of the Coolera/Strandhill Senior Men's Football Team, thanked his teammates and management for a terrific year. He expressed that it was an honour to have a civic reception held in his team's honour, stating that it "made winning all the more real."
Cathaoirleach Councillor Bree concluded by offering heartfelt congratulations on behalf of Sligo County Council and the people of Sligo, acknowledging that the teams had "made history. You have made us proud. And you have paved the way for future generations."
