Mayo FC's aspiring stars honoured at awards night
All recipients of the Mayo FC Player of the Year Awards pictured with Mayo FC's John Durkan. Back row, left Sadhbh O'Donnell (WU19), John Durkan, Emily Coleman (WU17). Front row, left: Cillian Keating (MU14), Harry Naylor (MU17), Jamie Walsh (MU15). Pictures: Ryan Gallagher
The best and brightest talents at Mayo FC were recognised as the club hosted its first ever awards evening at the TF Royal Hotel & Theatre last Friday evening.
Hundreds were in attendance as the club looked back on their second year playing in the League of Ireland Academies, with three boys and two girls teams pitting themselves against the best talents across the country. The event was hosted by Angelina Nugent.
In his remarks, Mayo FC chairman Joe Faughnan reflected on a ‘memorable season’ for the club.
“It's an honour to be here to celebrate what has been a truly memorable season for the club. I'd like to start by acknowledging the hard work, dedication and passion of all the players at the academy.
“From the first day of pre-season to the final match, your commitment to the crew and to working together as a team and to representing the Mayo FC team with pride has been exceptional.
“None of this would be possible without the incredible staff who make this all happen behind the scenes, to our coaches, technical staff and support teams. Thank you for your tireless efforts in creating a positive environment for our players to thrive. Your expertise and support has been vital to ensuring continued growth and development of the academy.”
Faughnan also thanked the parents, families, supporters, committee members and board of directors for all their work and believes ‘something special’ is being created at Mayo FC.
“We are building something special here with Mayo FC, a culture of excellence, hard work and respect. Every player, coach and volunteer has contributed to this foundation, and we look forward to continuing this journey next season.”
The top performers at the club were recognised for their outstanding contributions, with WU17 player Emily Coleman one of the big winners on the night. In addition to being recognised for her call up to the Irish under-16 squad, she was her side’s top goalscorer with 22 goals (the third highest in the country at that age group) and was deservedly crowned WU17 player of the year.
Another player who was a multiple award on the night was Cillian Keating. He claimed not one, but two top goalscorer awards for the MU14 and MU15 teams. He was also selected for the Irish MU15 squad and also won the Mayo FC MU14 player of the year.
Other players recognised for their callup to Republic of Ireland squad were Jane Moran (WU17) for the Ireland WU15 and Mark Rowley (MU14) joining Cillian Keating in the Ireland MU15 squad.
A special recognition award on the night was also given to Cillian Staunton, the club photographer who travelled the length and breadth of the country capturing the action of the Mayo FC squads, and whose pictures have been seen not just on Mayo FC’s social media pages but in various local media.
Emily Coleman (WU17) for Irish U16, Jane Moran (WU17), Irish WU15, Cillian Keating and Mark Rowley (MU14), Irish MU15.
Emily Jennings (WU19), Sarah Gallagher (WU17), Ryan O’Donoghue (MU17), Zac Bristow (MU1), Anthony Slabik (MU14).
Cillian Keating (MU14 and MU15), Rene Vestnicky (MU17), Emily Coleman (WU17), Riona Moynihan (WU19).
Sean Walsh (MU14), Ethan Kelly (MU15), Jamal Sow (MU17), Lauren Neary (WU17), Emily Jennings (WU19).
Jack Monaghan (MU14), Nathan Coldrick (MU15), Charlie Claxton Rock (MU17), Grace Cunningham (WU17), Mary Moran (WU19).
Male: Ewan Buckton, Female: Aisling Farragher.
Cillian Staunton (club photographer).
Cillian Keating (MU14), Jamie Walsh (MU15), Harry Naylor (MU17), Emily Coleman (WU17), Sadhbh O’Donnell (WU19).
