Na Magha announce Sean Mellon Hurling Festival for 2023 

Following the success of last year’s event, Na Magha Hurling and Camogie Club have announced it will once again host the Sean Mellon Hurling Festival. 

Gerry Mathews, on behalf of the Festival organisers, said: “Na Magha hosted 16 teams playing at U11.5, including a return visit from Sean Mellon’s great friends from Cork, Blackrock National Hurling Club, The Rockies last year. This year The Rockies U11.5 players, coaches and families are returning, as well as teams from Derry, Antrim, Donegal, and Tyrone, to give a total of 16 teams once more.”

The Sean Mellon Hurling Festival will be held at Páirc na Magha, Ballyarnett Country Park, in Derry City, on Saturday 3rd June, commencing at 9 30am. 

Mathews added: “The connection between the late Sean Mellon of Na Magha and the late Al Coughlan of Blackrock developed many years ago. It is a vital part of the story of both clubs. The Festival is Na Magha’s extension of their legacy for young players today. The Sean Mellon Hurling Festival, features Blackrock and 15 other clubs celebrating the great game of hurling. Hosted at Páirc Na Magha, the festival will raise the profile of hurling in Derry City and provide a sporting spectacle second to none. If you’ve never seen hurling played live with all its skill, passion and excitement, this Festival is for you. Come along and join us.”

Eamon Harkin, chair of Na Magha, said: “Sean Mellon developed and coached many young hurlers and camogs. Through Sean’s efforts, with a small band of enthusiasts, Na Magha was founded and is now thriving on the hill where Amelia Earhart’s plane landed. We’re looking forward to welcoming the flyers from Cork and other counties to the green sward of Páirc na Magha at Ballyarnett, to enjoy a feast of excellence in our unique national game.”

Full details of the Festival can be found on Na Magha’s Facebook Page.

Contact Gerry Mathews 07850045391 or Daryl Connolly 07968144013.

Email pro.namagha@gmail.com