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06 Sept 2025
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06 Sept 2025
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The 1984 Donegal Vocational School team in McCafferty's Bar in Lettermacaward
McCafferty's Bar in Lettermacaward played host to a special evening celebrating the Donegal Vocational Schools team that made history by winning the All-Ireland final at Croke Park in 1984.
The team triumphed over formidable opponents including Tyrone, Down, Derry, and Leitrim, before securing victory against Longford in the final. Their achievements remain a source of pride for Donegal football, marking a golden era of talent and teamwork.
It was a groundbreaking win for Donegal in Croke Park as the Donegal Vocational Schools became the first side representing Donegal to win an All-Ireland final at headquarters on April 15 1984.
Patrick Gallagher from Ardara, a student at Glenties Comprehensive School, made history by becoming the first winning captain of a Donegal side at Croke Park as they defeated Longford in the final by 3-9 to 2-3.
Remarkably, seven members of this squad went on to claim All-Ireland U-21 medals in 1987 with Donegal, solidifying their legacy in Gaelic football. Among them were Manus Boyle and John Joe Doherty, who would later play pivotal roles in Donegal's senior team’s historic All-Ireland victory in 1992.
The team in 1984 was managed by future Donegal senior boss PJ McGowan, whose leadership was instrumental in their success and the evening at McCafferty’s Bar was a heartfelt tribute to the achievements of this remarkable group.
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