The wonderful Laois Ladies footballers were celebrated at a civic reception in Laois County Council last week.
The Ladies gave us a wonderful year in 2022 – culminating in All-Ireland Intermediate success in Croke Park against Wexford.
Mo Nerney was subsequently named Player of the Year and top scorer while Eimear Barry won Golden Glove.
Seven players were named in the team of the year and they also held a successful dinner dance on Saturday.
Speaking on the evening, Cathaoirleach Thomasina Connell lauded praise on the team for their achievements.
She said: “Apart from winning the Intermediate Championship, the team has also achieved players of the match awards and ended the year with golden boot and golden-glove awards along with seven contributors to the Team of the Year award and to top it all off, an All Star nomination.
“This team has displayed resilience, passion and determination in their strive for success.
“Each and every one of you, from team players to management have put in the hours, the hard graft, in both good and bad weather but always in the belief that you could win this All Ireland Intermediate Championship.
“The manager, selectors and trainers can look back with justifiable pride on a job well done and equally so can each member of the team.
“The success which you have achieved can only encourage and bring on other young talent and serve as an example to them of what hard work and dedication can achieve.
“The importance of sport cannot be underestimated and apart from the health benefits that are gained from being active and involved, many other important life skills are learned.
“In team sports, the strength of the team is each individual member, the strength of each member is the team.
“It is always with a sense of pride that Laois County Council honours people from within our own community who take that extra kick and go that extra mile. This team and their management is an example of this.
“Once again, I would like to congratulate you on your achievements and wish you every success in your future endeavours in your sporting careers.
“We also take this opportunity to congratulate your team manager, selectors and trainers, your families and all who have contributed to your success.
“We wish you every success in the future and hope that we will be here again next year celebrating another All Ireland title.”
Photographer Michael Scully was present on the night and you can check out his pictures below:
Donie Brennan
