Last Sunday, Laois reached their first Leinster senior football championship final since 2007 by defeating neighbours Carlow.
However, the win came at a massive cost as their captain, Stephen Attride, suffered a simply horrific injury.
With the game deep in injury time, the Killeshin corner back dived on a loose ball but accidentally collided with Carlow wing back Ciaran Moran’s leg.
The impact left Attride knocked out on the Croke Park turf and after being treated by Laois medical staff, he was taken by ambulance to the Mater Hospital where he spent the night.
Stephen suffered a double fracture to his skull, received 25 stitches above his eye and was left with a very bad concussion.
However, he is now back home in Killeshin and has begun his recovery.
But rather than rest on his laurels, Stephen has decided to set up his own summer camp – SA Summer Camp.
Speaking to LaoisToday, Stephen revealed that while he is still sore from the blow, he is hoping to be back on the pitch soon.
He said: “My head is still pretty sore but I’m hoping for a speedy recovery.
“I have to go for a check up and more scans over the weekend so that will determine the recovery time.
“I have been absolutely overwhelmed by the level of support and well wishes I have received from the people of Laois – and even outside the county.
“It has been incredible and I am so grateful to everyone who has reached out over the last few days.”
SA Summer Camp is a multi-activity summer camp that promises to be a great week of fun from the Aug 13 to 17.
For boys and girls aged 7-12, SA Summer Camp will take place in Killeshin Community Centre.
It will run from 10am – 2.30pm each day and activities include; sports and astro turf, camp games, arts and crafts.
The cost is €60 for the first child, which works out at €2.67 per hour. (€50 for second family member)
Registration is on June 26 from 3pm to 5pm in Killeshin Community Hall.
Stephen said: “I can guarantee that any child who attends our camp will have an experience they will never forget.”
Further information on SA Summer Camp can be found here.
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