Mayo LGFA faces crisis as key positions remain unfilled

Ladies football in Mayo is on the brink of a significant crisis as crucial positions within the LGFA, including secretary, assistant secretary, treasurer, and assistant treasurer, remain vacant.

An Extraordinary General Meeting has been scheduled for next Tuesday in a desperate attempt to attract volunteers willing to take on these roles, including nominations for the fixture committee.

If the positions remain unfilled, a halt to all ladies football related activities will commence.

Des Phillips, the chairman, acknowledged the difficulty in finding volunteers, citing challenges faced by clubs and boards across the county. The urgency is palpable, with the EGM serving as a critical juncture to address this issue and prevent a halt in LGFA activities.

Phillips also highlighted the broader national issue of finding individuals to fill such roles and proposed the consideration of allowances for secretaries and treasurers. While not advocating for fully paid positions, Phillips suggested allowances funded by sources such as Croke Park, County Boards, fundraising, or government grants as a potential solution.

The challenges faced by Mayo LGFA come after a complex saga surrounding the appointment of a new senior manager. Liam McHale, the preferred candidate of an independent appointment committee, initially faced rejection by the Mayo LGFA executive after a secret ballot. However, McHale was eventually ratified for a three-year term in November.

Mayo LGFA is gearing up for the Lidl Ladies National Football League Division 1 campaign, with a crucial game against Meath scheduled for Sunday, January 21. The hope is that the vacant positions will be filled before the EGM, ensuring the smooth continuation of football activities.