Setanta Hurling Club honoured with Municipal Reception

Setanta Hurling Club were honoured with a Municipal Reception in recognition of their achievements over the last number of years.

The Municipal Reception took place on Tuesday, April 9, at the Council Chamber in Lifford.

In particular, Setanta were honoured for becoming the first Donegal side to win the Ulster Intermediate Club Hurling Championship in December 2023.

Setanta have won back-to-back Ulster titles winning the Ulster Junior in 2022 which elevated them to Intermediate level.

Patsy Lafferty, Director of Housing, Corporate Services and Cultural Services officiated as MC and welcomed everyone to celebrate the Club’s success.

Speaking at the event, Leas-Chathaoirleach of the Lifford-Stranorlar Municipal District Cllr. Patrick McGowan, said: “Today is about celebrating victory”.

Councillor McGowan acknowledged that when it comes to sports in general it is not just the success of the current team but the determination and hard work of everyone associated with the Club, both past and present, and their family members.

Councillor Gary Doherty said it was a pleasure to host the reception, noting that it is the highest honour the Municipal District can bestow upon a group.

He said: “Today is about celebrating everyone involved in the Club over the last 45 years, from the Chairman to the youth, and also remembering those who are not with us today”.

Councillor Martin Harley, Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, added: “Sport in general is very important for the mental wellbeing of our young people.”

Councillor Gerry Crawford said: “Sport is a conduit for life and all things good and it is down to the commitment of the people at all levels from managers, players, coaches, and everyone associated with the club”.

Cora Harvey, Rúnaí, spoke on behalf of the Club and thanked the Council for honouring them today.

Ms Harvey also thanked the Council for the funding received over the years and conveyed thanks to the management of the club, previous committees, current and previous sponsors, and to all the families involved, both past and present.

Acknowledgement was also given to the Donegal media for supporting the team and providing a platform.

She added: “Occasions like this are lovely for the whole club to be acknowledged”.

Niall Cleary, a player and manager in the club, thanked the elected members and Donegal County Council on behalf of the team.

He said; “It’s been an amazing journey over the last number of years, we were often the underdogs, but worked through the challenges and this is an inspiration for future members.”

The Club was presented with the official document of the Civic Honour and a specially engraved piece of glass.