The Cloughaneely Band poignantly remember Enya McMurrough at MacCumhaill Park

The Cloughaneely Band says they felt the late Enya McMurrough was “there beside us with her big smile” during Sunday’s Ulster SFC fixture between Donegal and Derry.

Ulster GAA invited both the Junior and Senior bands to lead the parade at MacCumhaill Park.

Band member Enya, 13, from Gortahork and a student at PCC Falcarragh, sadly passed away in February, and was a keen supporter of the Donegal GAA team.

“A great day was had by our two bands, who led our Donegal team onto the pitch in Ballybofey for the Donegal-Derry match,” the band posted. “The bands performed as a tribute to our beautiful wee Enya, who was definitely there beside us with her big smile.”

Donegal won out 1-25 to 1-15 in the Ulster SFC preliminary round in front of 15,023 and will now play Monaghan in the quarter-final on Sunday week.

“Enya McMurrough, aged 13, was taken from us far too soon in February,” Donegal GAA shared of a tribute written by the band.

“She was truly one of a kind, kind-hearted, warm, and always smiling. Her infectious laugh and joyful spirit brightened every room she entered. Enya had time for everyone, always ready with a friendly word, making everyone feel seen and welcome.

READ NEXT: Gaeil Leitir Ceanainn launch Fiona Doherty Memorial Cup 2025

“A gifted musician, Enya had a deep love for the band. She never missed a practice, always showing up with enthusiasm and a quiet determination. Her passion for music and for marching alongside her family shone through in everything she did.

“Enya wasn’t just a member of our band, she was family. She loved coming to practice with her mum, Fionnuala, and took such pride in standing beside her, her aunties Sheila, Marion, and Catriona, and her cousin Aimee. Who are all here today. The bond they shared through music was something truly special, and she adored the fun and camaraderie between the junior and senior bands.

“Today, as we played at the match in her memory, we are reminded of how much she loved these days out - especially last April when she was thrilled to meet and get photos with the Donegal team.

“We miss Enya more than words can say, but her spirit lives on in every note we play and every step we march. We will hold her in our hearts always, cherishing the laughter, love, and memories she gave us. These beautiful words were penned by the band who will miss Enya eternally.

“Enya never missed a game and neither did she miss an opportunity to wear her Donegal colours. We send our love and thoughts to her heartbroken family, bandmates, schoolmates and all at CLG Chloich Cheann Fhaola. Forever 13 and forever remembered.”

The band also played at the New York St Patrick’s Day Parade.