Armagh and Tyrone lock horns for a good cause on Friday evening as they funds for the Time2Play James Reel Playpark.
The Reel family wish to leave a legacy for James and this challenge match with the All-Ireland champions will help them do so.
Kieran McGeeney paid tribute to the Red Hand County for making the game happen. “We’re very grateful for what Tyrone have done.”
First outing as All-Ireland champions
“I’d just like to thank them for what they’re doing. It’s a very magnanimous gesture on their behalf. To play their first game (as All-Ireland champions) in their neighbours back yard”.
“Fergal’s (Logan) a good fella, I’d have played with him at Queens. I know Peter (Canavan), I chatted to him as well. So we’re very grateful for that because we know Tyrone will always bring a good crowd. They’re mad GAA and their All-Ireland champions”.
While fans will be glad to see their teams back on the field of play, there will be a feeling of “sadness” in the Athletic Grounds.
“The night itself, it’s going to be good to get the players back, but it’ll be tinged with sadness. It’s been a tough time for the close family and hopefully this particular night will show what the GAA community is like in terms of times like that”.
“You could fill the stadium and it’s not just about that. It’s about the profile of it, it’s about them going on a journey to help some of the things that have happened”.
“It’s leaving something behind, a legacy that James had in terms of Time2Play. And when the kids play there and they grow up and they see it, it’ll remind them of their dad”.
Grateful
“I’m grateful that the GAA has allowed it to happen. Sometimes we can be at loggerheads with each other. But I’m delighted this is going ahead and I hope it’s a huge success”.
All money made on the night will go towards building the playpark, located inside the Silverbridge GAA grounds.
“The one thing about this game is Armagh will not make a single penny out of it. Whatever is raised will go to James and if we raise more than that, we have two or three other charities that will be getting it”.
“We want to make sure it’s a good night for everybody coming up to Christmas. You put your hand in your pocket, £10, not a big thing. You get a good game of football, a bit of crack, kids get to see Santa Claus and me in a Grumpy jumper. What more would you ask for!”
