Photo: Clonard’s Niall Smullen (left) and John Doyle (right)

There was more great news for Clonard’s underage structure recently as two more young players received call-ups to Meath squads bringing deserved recognition for their ongoing commitment and footballing talents.

John Doyle was confirmed in Meath’s Under 14 development squad after several weeks of trials in Meath’s centre of excellence in Dunganny. This is great news for John, his family and the club as his consistent performances as captain of our Under 14’s team this year has Clonard sitting joint top of their Spring League division. This weekend John will line out at midfield in the green and gold when Meath take on Louth in a challenge match in Darver.

Niall Smullen also received the call-up to Meath’s Junior squad as reward for his fine performances for Clonard in the junior championship. Niall is no stranger to county football being part of last year’s Meath minor panel who claimed Leinster glory against Kildare. Last weekend Meath juniors took on the Leitrim senior side with eighteen-year-old Niall coming on a sub and contributing two points for his team.

The pair join their club ladies’ counterparts Louise Coyne and Kirsten Massey who also currently represent their county at Under 18 and Under 16 levels respectively. We wish them all continued success, and who knows, in the future they may mirror the achievements of their club mate Adam Flanagan and represent their county at adult senior level. It’s credit to all the hard work and dedication by the players and coaches to have such county representation by our small and very proud club.

Indeed it’s an exciting time for our juvenile setup with so many of our underage teams performing so well. Consequently, Niall and John are certain to be joined in the elite inter-county setup by more young Clonard stars over the coming years. Last Sunday the Under 16 girls claimed shield honours in Dunganny while this Sunday the Under 12 girls take-on St. Marys of Donore in another shield final. On the boys’ side both our under 12’s and under 14’s sit joint top of their Spring league divisions with every chance of success over the coming weeks. A mention too to our talented bunch of Under 10’s and Under 8’s who are also waiting in the wings. Best of luck to all our teams and we wish them continued enjoyment and success on and off the field of play. Cluain Ioraird abú!