Orla McDonagh U14 Intercounty Blitz

On Sunday Tipperary Camogie hosted the National Orla McDonagh U14 Intercounty Blitz in Thurles and Borrisoleigh. Dr Morris Park and the Thurles Sarsfields Pitch were a hive of activity as it hosted the division 1 & 2 Cup and Shield competitions while Borris-ileigh GAA was also alive with camogie as it was the venue for the C competitions. 24 teams from all around the country took part in this prestigious tournament which took place on Sunday for the 22^nd year. The sun shone brightly throughout the day as those in attendance witnessed some top class camogie with great displays of skill and talent. Tipperary camogie were honoured once again to have Orla’s parents Michael and Mary McDonagh in attendance and they were on hand to say a few words and present the various trophies. It was a great day for the three Tipperary teams with all 3 teams progressing from the group games into Cup semi-finals. Tipperary’s A team were defeated by a really impressive Kilkenny side who went on to beat Galway comprehensively in the final. The Tipperary B team had a great win in their semi-final to face Kilkenny in the B Cup final. In the final as in all their games they trailed before putting in a really good second half to earn a hard fought victory to the delight of all involved. The Tipperary C team were impressive winners in all their games before defeating Kildare in the final to claim further silverware for the county. Well done to all 3 teams and their mentors. The day wouldn’t have been the success it was if not for all the wonderful work of the development committee led by Tricia O’Dwyer and Grainne O’Leary along with all the volunteers, referees and Tipperary GAA, Thurles Sarsfields GAA & Camogie Club and Borris-ileigh GAA & Camogie Club.  Congratulations to all the winners and all the teams who took part. Camogie was a huge part of Orla’s life before her untimely death. She was a gifted player with her club Silvermines as well as playing on many Tipperary juvenile teams and on Sunday Camogie was the real winner.