THE new Fermanagh GAA county chairman laid down the gauntlet to clubs in the county to “drive things forward and come up with solutions” to promote and enhance local Gaelic games.
History was made at the South West College in Enniskillen on Monday night, when John McGovern became the first member of Derrygonnelly Harps GFC to be appointed to the role, in 101 years of the club.
“I’m very proud and honoured to take on the role as a Derrygonnelly Harps man,” Mr McGovern told the ‘Herald.
“It’s exciting times for Fermanagh GAA at the minute with the new Operations Manager and Commercial Manager coming in and we hope to push things forward in the next few years.”
The new county chairman, who takes over at the helm from Brian Armitage, wasted no time in calling for more support from the GAA clubs in Fermanagh.
“The new Fermanagh GAA strategic plan is almost finalised and it will be the roadmap for the county over the next five years,” Mr McGovern said.
“I’m not going to stand here and make any wild promises or predictions about the next few years, but I will throw out a few challenges to you, the clubs.
“The future of Fermanagh GAA lies with you, as much as anyone. Are you prepared to get involved with the County Board to drive things forward and come up with solutions, rather than highlighting problems?”
The county chairman also urged clubs in the county to make sure that they are fully supporting the many youngsters in their communities.
“Will you put the work in at underage to improve standards year on year and ensure that those young players going out to academies and development squads have the necessary skills to allow coaches to further develop them?,” Mr McGovern asked.
“Will you work harder to bring in more volunteers to your club to ease the workload on the ever decreasing pool of people that are already there?
“Can you make sure that every available boy and girl in your area is given the chance to play our games, especially with the challenge of decreasing numbers in rural areas?
“Will you row in behind any initiative that Club Eirne is doing? You can see where the money is going and needed.”
Mr McGovern paid tribute to the outgoing Brian Armitage and Tom Boyle, who have stepped down from their positions as county chairman and secretary.
The two men have been active figures in the Fermanagh GAA County Board for decades, with a special presentation made to Mr Boyle during the County Convention.
“I want to take this opportunity to thank all my fellow county officers, representatives and clubs for their cooperation and respect throughout my term as county secretary,” Mr Boyle said, in his annual statement.
“Since 2003, I have also had the privilege of working alongside our county team managers and player panels across all levels and codes. I want to place on record my sincere appreciation and thanks to all.
“To my club, Brookeborough Heber McMahons, where my journey in GAA administration began in 1982, thank you for your continued support and for grounding my lifelong connection to our Association.”
Mr Armitage also said it was an ‘honour and a privilege’ to serve as county chairman for the past four years.
