The Kerry Diocesan Youth Service (KDYS) in partnership with the Castleisland Garda Siochana ran their annual soccer tournament at Castleisland Soccer Field, Limerick Road on Wednesday, July 2nd. The event was a great success. Eleven teams and around 90 players took part in the tournament which has been held every year since it was established by Sgt. John O’Mahony back in 2003.
This year there were three categories: a primary school section with U-16 and U-18 competitions. The primary school competition had seven teams taking part. It was run in two groups followed up with a semi-final and final. In the end it came down to a final between The Chicks in Green from Currow and St. Stephen’s Park, Castleisland. The final was a thrilling affair with Chicks in Green winning on a score line of 3-1. The Chicks in Green were delighted to win the trophy for the first time and victory brought huge celebrations to the Georgie O’Callaghan coached side.
Two teams battled it out in the under 16’s event. The final was between King B’s and St. John’s Park and after a brave fight from St. John’s Park the King B’s were just too strong in the end and emerged victorious. There were also two teams in the U-18 competition. A fine game of soccer was played out in great spirit and in the end St. John’s Park was edged out by The Track. In each competition, there were also awards handed out to individuals for Player of the Tournament. In the primary game, Daniel Kelly from Chicks in Green received the award. In the U-16 category, John McMahon from King B’s received the award. Ethan O’ Connor from The Track received the award for the U-18 category.
“This event has been held every summer since 2003 and has gone from strength to strength, being enjoyed by participants and spectators alike. Once again Sgt. John O’Mahony alongside the KDYS coordinated the competition; however the event depends on the support and help of many local volunteers. The KDYS and Castleisland Garda Siochana would like to take this opportunity to thank the following for their continued support.
To: Vincent Murphy Sports, who provided medals and engraving; Tom Stewart of EBS for sponsorship of medals and plaques; George O’Callaghan for preparing the soccer pitch; Jason McCarthy who refereed the games and to Sgt. John O’Mahony for all his work behind the scenes.
Thanks also to all the team organisers, players and everyone else who supported the event. We look forward to seeing you again next year,” said a spokesperson for the KDYS.
