Mayo camogie girls named Female Team of the Year

THERE are just three established camogie clubs in Mayo - Westport, Na Brideoga and Castlebar Mitchels. Ballina has also developed in recent years and, as with the other clubs, it too has had to overcome many obstacles.

To produce an All-Ireland winning side from such a small pool of players is some achievement in itself.

For years Mayo camogie has had to content itself with just being able to compete on the national stage. That changed in 2016 when the Under 14 team won an All-Ireland title in what will hopefully be a stepping stone to future success for camogie in general and the further development of this team in particular.

The squad have put in a great deal of time and effort in developing their skills. Every so often a truly special group of players comes along and that is certainly true of this year’s Mayo Under 14 camogie squad.

An All-Ireland title is something many dream of and when you’re from Mayo and the sport is camogie, that dream so often seems unattainable. That no longer is the case and this team can stand proud of their achievement.

They are worthy winners of the award for the top female team in 2106 and the team and mentors will be honoured at The Connaught Telegraph Young Sports Star Awards banquet, which will be held in Breaffy House Hotel, Castlebar, on Friday night, February 10.