Sinn Fein’s Elisha McCallion meets members of GAA in Derry

The Foyle election candidate said: “I met today with representatives of GAA clubs from across the city to discuss the plans for the growth of the association in Derry.

“A phenomenal amount of work is done across this city by clubs and coaches and it’s great to see so many young people, particularly girls and young women, getting involved in and playing Gaelic Games.

“We looked at the strategy for the continued development of GAA in the city and district and while there are challenges in terms of availability of pitches, facilities and coaches, it is clear there is a vision for the future growth of the association.

“The GAA plays a key role in our society, not just in terms of promoting health, fitness and wellbeing but also celebrating our culture and heritage.

“The role of Gaelic Games in boosting our local economy is often overlooked and there are huge opportunities to develop that.

“The GAA and the city and district is entering a new era which will see it continue to grow from strength to strength and I will do all that I can to support it in the future.”

John

GOOD news for City fans today as goalkeeper Peter Cherrie has extended his stay at the Brandywell for the 2020 season.

The Scottish netminder has helped improve Derry’s defensive stats this season.

And he will be looking forward to a new campaign beginning in February and the prospect of a European tie later in the year.

Declan Devine was delighted to confirm the news.

Said the Candystripes manager: “He’s a fantastic keeper and the type of person we want at Derry City.”

John

Foyle Arena to host all NI Judo 2020 tournaments

The move follows the success of the NI Judo Open taking place in the venue last April when over 500 judoka in 11 categories competed at the Waterside venue.

Next year’s events in the Main Hall will include the NI Judo Open the NI Schools Championships, and an inaugural event for adaptive / inclusive judo to allow players of all abilities to take part.

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Michaela Boyle, said the Federation’s decision was a ringing endorsement for the venue.

“I am delighted that the cream of judo in the North will return to our Council area in 2020 and that the Federation will now host all their events there next year,” she said.

“The tournaments will attract hundreds of visitors to the city, growing our reputation as a host of international level sports events and providing a welcome boost to the local hospitality sector.

“It is a fantastic endorsement of the Foyle Arena as a state of the art leisure and events facility that can cater for large crowds of people.”

Mark Donald, Commercial Manager NI Judo, added: “After the success of staging events in 2019 we have decided to move all our events to the Foyle Arena for 2020,” he said.

“They know our set up now, the team there do a great job working with us and it makes sense to block book and advertise the events so we can maximise attendance.

“We’re looking forward to 2020 and bringing plenty of action to the Foyle Arena.”

The Championships will be sponsored by City of Derry Airport and Airport Manager Charlene Shono added: “We are absolutely delighted to sponsor the NI Judo Open Championships once again, particularly as the Foyle Arena has become the Northern Ireland hub for the sport which is hugely popular with our local community.

“The Championships bring a fantastic opportunity for the airport as participants and supporters will be travelling from across the UK and Europe to attend and we look forward to giving them a warm welcome to the North West.”

The Foyle Arena opened to the public in April 2015 at a cost of £12m and includes an event space that can cater for 2,000 people.

Facilities include a 25m swimming pool with a movable/ adjustable floor alongside a separate children’s pool and a new outdoor floodlit 3G synthetic five-a-side pitch.

The climbing area which is designed to cater for all levels from complete beginners to international competitors boasts an international standard 15m high competition climbing wall complemented by a technical bouldering section, the most advanced of its kind anywhere in Ireland.

To learn more out more about the Foyle Arena and what it has to offer, visit derrystrabaneleisure.com/foyle-arena, email info@foylearena.com or call 028 71 376555 and to find your nearest Judo club, log on to www.nijudo.com.

John

James McClean subjected to torrent of anti-Irish abuse at Barnsley match last weekend

The revelation from the Creggan-born footballer coincides with the FA’s unprecedented decision to investigate an allegation of “discriminatory behaviour” directed at the player during Stoke’s clash against Barnsley last Saturday.

James was booed and subjected anti-IRA and anti-Pope chants from Barnsley fans.

The FA has previously investigated online abuse directed towards McClean, who also plays for the Republic, over his principled decision not to wear a poppy in commemoration of Remembrance Sunday.

But this is the first instance in which they have broadened their scope to include specific abuse during a match.

“For the first time ever, I got a text message from the FA showing support on the eve of the game, so that’s a first one,” said McClean, speaking ahead of Ireland’s crucial Euro 2020 qualifier against Denmark on Monday.

“Maybe the tide is turning.

“I appreciate the text, it said if there were any issues, I should report it. It was the first time that such support was shown.

“It’s a long time coming and it’s something I appreciate. I was shocked because it was a random number. As much as I was shocked, I appreciate it as well.

“It came from somebody high up. That is why I was so shocked that it actually came.”

McClean has criticised the FA for their double-standards in differentiating between sectarian and racist abuse but is unsure whether this week’s developments mark a change of culture.

“Maybe, maybe not. I think if you bang on the door long enough eventually someone is going to answer,” he said.

“Maybe it took me calling it out a few times for them to respond.

“But they responded, so fair play.”

McClean had previously accused the FA of turning a “blind eye” to the abuse he had received from fans since he first took his brave stance in 2011.

John

Jason Smyth powering his way to gold medal No 20 at World Para-Athletics Championships in Dubai

He won the 100 metres T-13 final at 2019 World Para-Athletics Championships in Dubai.

At age 32 the Derry athlete is showing no signs of slowing down either, clocking a championship record of 10.54 seconds to win his ninth World Para-Athletics gold in all, including one indoors, and his fifth out of the last six over the 100m.

Smyth proved as dominant as ever in the T13 category for the visually impaired, breaking clear halfway down the stretch, leaving Chad Perris from Australia to win silver some distance back in 10.86 seconds.

“It’s another incredible world championships, things obviously have been going very well this year,” he said.

“And such a strange time of the year, November, to be trying to put up fast times but to come here and put up one of my fastest times of the season, it’s testament to a lot of the people that are around me and supporting me and putting me in a position to get here and do so.”

Last summer in Berlin, Smyth further extended what is, by his own admission, a quite remarkable winning strea.

Now 15 years undefeated on the international stage, he pocketed another double sprint gold at the European Para-Athletics Championships, with another record to boot, bringing his tally at that stage to 19.

That made it five Paralympics gold medals, another six European gold medals plus his now eight at the World Championships (including one indoors, from 2005).

By any standards it is unique in Irish sport – and Smyth is already eyeing up Tokyo 2020, his fourth Paralympics, where even at age 33 there is the promise of yet more gold.

Since making his major breakthrough at the 2008 Paralympics in Beijing, Smyth has repeatedly proven himself the very best in his category, the father of two now looking to maintain that winning streak in Tokyo next August.

Jason Smyth with gold medal No 20

Jordan Lee, only 19 and making his major debut, came into the T47 high jump final having recorded the third highest jump of the field this year when he jumped a 1.95m.

However, Jordan had been suffering from a heel injury that had impacted on his preparation over the last month and this showed as he struggled on his approach to the bar.

It took his final effort to clear 1.87m after a few aborted attempts at the height; with the bar at 1.91m Lee struggled to summon the momentum that he needed and he couldn’t quite get the clearance he needed to finish in joint 6th position: “I believe in situations like this it really shows and defines your true character and you rise above it and that’s what I’m going to do,” he said.

John

DERRY City have signed forward Walter Figueira as Declan Devine adds to his squad for the 2020 season.

The striker may be familiar to the Brandywell faithful as he bagged himself two goals against the Candystripes in August for Waterford in the EA SPORTS Cup semi-final that City went on to win 4-2.

City manager Declan Devine said of his new signing Walter Figueira: “Walter is a quality player.

“Derry fans who saw him play for Waterford against us in the Brandywell will know exactly the type of player we’ve brought here.

“He wants to play every minute of every match and that’s what we need at this club.

“He had a host of offers from clubs in Ireland and Scotland so we are delighted to have secured his signing.

“Walter obviously won’t be the last player coming in.

“The hard work continues to strengthen the squad ahead of what is certain to be a fiercely competitive league in 2020.”

The former Chelsea youth player signed for Waterford halfway through the 2019 season and also scored in wins against Cork City and Sligo Rovers.

The English-born 24-year-old joined Chelsea in 2010 after impressing at Hampton & Richmond Borough, but injury hampered his progress with the U18s and U21s.

Walter then had spells with Greek club Platanias, Portuguese club Moura and English non-league side Dulwich Hamlet.

Figueira spent the 2018/19 season with Merstham FC, scoring 16 league goals; losing in the promotion play-off.

The striker adds attacking options for Declan Devine, with the recent news that Darren McCauley will not be returning for the 2020 season.

The player was linked with a move to Scotland, but has opted to move north to the Brandywell with the lure of European football and the prospect of helping City close the gap at the upper end of the Premier Division.

John

DERRY City are seeking to join the Donegal Schoolboys and Youth Leagues with the matter to be discussed by delegates at Monday’s annual general meeting.

Last night, Derry City representatives – including the club’s Head of Youth Academy, Paddy McCourt – met with members of the Donegal Schoolboys/Youth League committee in Letterkenny.

Derry have forwarded two proposals for consideration.

In correspondence to affiliated clubs, the Donegal Schoolboys/League secretary Steve Coll has outlined Derry City’s proposals.

The Brandywell club have requested that their Under-14 be allowed to play ‘development matches’ within the Letterkenny North West Division.

Derry City have also asked that they be allowed to enter their Under-16 team in the Under-18 Youth League in 2020.

“Both requests can be opened for discussion under AOB at the Donegal Schoolboys/Youth League AGM Monday 25th November,” clubs have been advised.

“A further meeting between Letterkenny/North West clubs and the Derry City FC delegation, to discuss the 1st proposal in more depth, was also requested by both LK/NW representatives, and Derry City F.C.”

Chris McNulty

Sports writer from St Johnston, now based in Letterkenny, with ten years’ experience covering sport in Donegal. Was a nominee for NUJ Sports Journalist of the Year in 2010. Honoured by the Donegal Boxing Board in 2016 for his coverage on the sport.

DERRY City FC are feeling on top the world this evening after picking up a prestigious honour today.

At the 2019 SSE Air Tricity Awards, the Brandywell side was voted the ‘Best Multi Media Club of the Season’ in the League of Ireland.

Derry City FC said on its twitter feed: “We’ve been awarded Multimedia Club of the Season at the #SSEClubAwards19

“We couldn’t have done it without all of your likes, comments, shares, views and retweets.

“So from all at DCFC, thank you! #RAWA28.”

Well done to City!

Meanwhile, Cork City won ‘Club of the Season’ for a third year in a row at the awards ceremony as well ‘Best Match Day Experience’.

John

THERE will be plenty of festive cheer for Derry City supporters this Christmas after the Football Club announced an exciting new partnership with the local Northbound Brewery.

The club say that over the past few months, Derry City and Northbound have worked together to create a lager which will be sold in the city and further afield to provide patrons of hotels, pubs, and restaurants with a refreshing local beverage, and the club with an additional revenue stream.

Brandywell Brew has been created, brewed, and bottled in the city of Derry.

The bottle labels were also designed and printed in the city, so this enterprise has been supporting the local economy before it has reached the market.

Brainchild of Derry City FC Director, Declan Callaghan, Brandywell Brew is expected to be on sale to the public from the start of December 2019.

Speaking at the launch, the City Director was full of praise for Martina and David Rogers who run the local Brewery.

“Martina has been vital in bringing this idea to life and the importance of her support on this project has been immeasurable.

“Northbound already have several beers in restaurants and pubs throughout Northern Ireland but they jumped at the chance to work with Derry City FC, and that is simply a testament to the support she and Northbound give to the local community here in the north-west.”

Declan urged local people to support this venture by buying Brandywell Brew when they’re next out with friends and family.

“Operating a senior football club is a difficult and costly exercise and no club can exist on gates receipts alone any longer.

“To ensure our club survives and thrives, we need to create additional revenue streams such as this one and, most importantly, we need the public to support these ventures.

“This is a fantastic product and I am sure those who buy it will love it.

“Derry City FC will get £0.50 from every lager sold.

“We are not asking for people to give us their hard-earned cash; we’re giving them the opportunity to buy a great product which supports employment in the city and which will help the local economy.

“Every penny we have spent on this has been spent in Derry and all profit stays in Derry- nothing goes outside the city.”

Martina reiterated those sentiments, adding: “It was a great privilege to be asked to brew a beer for Derry City FC.

“As avid supporters we were really excited to produce Brandywell Brew for the club and support its work in the city.

“It has been a fun project that has resulted in a refreshing, tasty drink while also being a true collaboration of local businesses here in the NW. We look forward to sharing this drink with consumers & toasting the club with this great beer.”

Declan and Martina have been meeting with local Hoteliers, Publicans, and Restaurateurs over the past few months and orders have already been coming in for Brandywell Brew.

In the next few weeks, 500ml bottles and mini-kegs will go on sale in Chill and Mailey’s off-licences, while 500ml bottles and draught Brandywell Brew will go on sale on Badger’s Place and Mailey’s among a number of local hosteries.

The club added that it is a “a good chance then for the Red and White army to support the club over the festive season”.

Commercial enquiries can be made via dc@derrycityfc.net

John

Ronan Curtis bans mum Marie from Twitter over ‘fat’ player row

Former Derry City player Ronan Curtis’s mum Marie was ‘gagged’ after she questioned the weight of Portsmouth FC star Brett Pitman, whose nickname is Pitts.

The Derry woman, who has regularly posted her thoughts about Portsmouth since her son joined them, tweeted: “Has Pitts put on weight or is it just TV?”

A number of furious Portsmouth fans urged Marie to keep quiet and she later said sorry to Pitman.

Adding a tearful emoji, she tweeted: “I’d like to apologise if you found my tweet offensive. I didn’t mean any harm in it but I’ve always been told TV makes you look twice the size.”

In another recent tweet Marie Curtis also questioned the decision by Portsmouth manager Kenny Jackett to pick a player called Anton Walkes in midfield in place of another fan favourite, Andy Cannon.

Jackett admitted he’d heard about the tweets over Pittman’s weight and his team selections but didn’t appear perturbed.

Jackett said: “I’ve got no real comment on this particular situation, other than of course it’s been mentioned.

“Anyway, social media is what it is and everyone is entitled to their opinion on it. That’s just how it is.

“You can’t get worried about these things. Opinions are opinions and they are out there on social media.”

In the past, Marie has also been known to respond angrily to social media posters who criticise her son.

And on Remembrance Day last month she tweeted: “Why do we not have our Poppy on and the other team have there’s on???” (sic).

Marie’s posts invariably spark lively debates among Portsmouth supporters but in her last tweet she said: “Sorry folks my son has barred me from Twitter.”

That led to a number of supporters urging her to keep on tweeting and they added #freemarie to their posts.

Striker Ronan (23), who was born in England but raised in St Johnston, Co Donegal, joined Portsmouth in May last year in a £100,000 transfer from Derry City where he had played for four years, making over 100 appearances and scoring 24 goals.

He made his international debut for Republic of Ireland in November 2018 in a 0-0 draw against Northern Ireland.

In a recent interview he credited former Derry manager Kenny Shiels – now boss of Northern Ireland’s international women’s team – as a major influence on him.

“He was a lovely man, he gave me my chance,” said Ronan, whose goal-scoring with Portsmouth has been attracting interest from several top clubs, including Derby County and Leeds United.

Earlier this year Marie was featured on Sky Sports as Ronan cooked a Mother’s Day meal for her.

John

DERRY City Football Club is planning to jump ship from the local schoolboys and youth leagues and join forces with its Donegal counterparts next season.

The revelation is contained in a letter obtained by Derry Daily which has been sent this week to club secretaries of all schoolboys and youth leagues in Donegal.

The proposals are to be considered next week by representatives of Letterkenny/North West clubs and Derry City FC officials.

The letter states: “To all Club Secretaries.

“Donegal Schoolboys/Youth League received a request from Derry City F.C., to meet with the Donegal Schoolboys/Youth League executive committee.

“The meeting took place in the Mount Errigal Hotel, Letterkenny.

“All Donegal Schoolboys/Youth League divisions were represented on the Donegal Schoolboys/Youth League executive delegation.

“Derry City F.C. forwarded 2 proposals for consideration by Donegal Schoolboys/Youth League,

“1. Derry City F.C requested that their U14 team be allowed to play development matches within the Letterkenny North West Division league, in the 2020 season.

“2. Derry City F.C requested that they be allowed to enter their U16 team in to the Donegal Schoolboys/Youth League U18 Youth League in the 2020 season.

“Both requests can be opened for discussion under A.O.B., at the Donegal Schoolboys/Youth League A.G.M. Monday 25th November.

“A further meeting between Letterkenny/North West clubs and the Derry City F.C. delegation, to discuss the 1st proposal in more depth, was also requested by both LK/NW representatives, and Derry City F.C.”

John

Jason Smyth powering his way to gold medal No 20 at World Para-Athletics Championships in Dubai earlier this month

The long list of nominees for the RTE award includes no less than six sporting icons from the Northern of Ireland.

Five times consecutive World Superbike champion Jonathan Rea has also been announced following his snub from the BBC equivalent.

As well as Smyth and Rea, the list also includes golfing superstar Rory McIlroy, Portaferry runner Ciara Mageean, Newtownards gymnast Rhys McClenaghan, and Lisburn boxer Kurt Walker all recognised for their sporting achievements.

Also among those nominated is golfer Shane Lowry who celebrated winning the prestigious Open Championship on its return to Northern Ireland at Royal Portrush.

RTE said its criteria for those that made the list should reflect Irish sporting achievements on the national and international stages as well as reflecting on their impact on the nation. Those who had won medals and championships were considered.

The BBC has come under huge criticism for not including record-breaking Rea on its 2019 shortlist for BBC Sports Personality of the Year (SPOTY).

In 2017 Rea picked up over 80,000 votes when he finished runner-up to Mo Farah.

On the BBC’s decision to drop Rea from the shortlist, professional motorcycle racer Ryan Farquhar said he believes the sport is not perceived to be as glamorous as others and that may have contributed to the decision.

“I’m a road racer through and through, I love motorbike racing and what Jonathan has done in his field of the sport to be world champion five times in a row is something very, very special,” he said.

“I would have thought somebody who is representing their country and is a multiple world champion would have been in with a shout for BBC Sports Personality of the Year but there are other people who will argue that motorcycling is a minority sport.”

The 26-strong RTE long list will be cut down to a final shortlist on Sunday, December 8 with the winner announced on Saturday, December 14.

The long list of nominees for the RTE Sport Awards 2019 Sportsperson of the Year are:

Jason Smyth with gold medal No 20

Derry sprinter Jason Smyth scorched his way to his eighth World Para-Athletics Championships gold medal, winning the 100m in the T13 class in Dubai in a championship record time of 10.54 seconds. The 32-year-old was just .08 off his own world record time, set in London in 2012.

JONATHAN REA

Antrim man Jonathan Rea secured a record fifth straight World Superbike title. Rea has surpassed Carl Fogarty’s tally of four World Superbike titles and equals compatriot Joey Dunlop’s achievement of five consecutive Formula TT world titles.

CIARA MAGEEAN

Ciara Mageean ran a personal best in the 1500m final at the Athletics World Championships in Doha, finishing in 10th place amongst a stellar field. She is only the second Irishwoman in history to make the world 1500m final, after Sonia O’Sullivan in 1997. The 26-year-old Portaferry runner also won her first indoor medal with bronze at the European Indoor Championships in Glasgow.

RHYS McCLENAGHAN

Rhys McClenaghan created history this year as he became the first Irish gymnast to medal at the World Championships, after claiming a bronze medal in the pommel horse in Stuttgart. He also booked a berth in the event at the 2020 Olympic Games by qualifying for the final earlier in the week.

RORY McILROY

The 30-year-old Northern Irishman won four titles during the season, including the Players Championship, the season-ending Tour Championship in Atlanta, where he also claimed the FedExCup and the WGC-HSBC in Shanghai. In one of his most consistent years to date he was also named the PGA Tour ‘Player of the Year’ for a third time.

KURT WALKER

Boxer Kurt Walker won gold at the European Games after beating Mykola Butsenko of Ukraine in the bantamweight final. The 24-year-old from Lisburn beat top seed Peter McGrail of Britain on a split decision in the semi-finals, whilst he won the final on a unanimous decision over Butsenko, who was the second seed.

SAM BENNETT

The Carrick-on-Suir road cyclist picked up 13 stage wins in 2019, including a double victory at the Vuelta a España, where he secured the third and 14th stages. His performances this year cemented his place as one of the most prolific sprinters in the pro peloton this year.

LYDIA BOYLAN

Dubliner Lydia Boylan claimed Ireland’s first silver medal at the World Track Cycling Championship in five years. The 31-year-old narrowly missed out on gold by one point in the 25-kilometre Points Race in Poland.

JACK BYRNE

Shamrock Rovers and Ireland midfielder Jack Byrne had a standout season for the Hoops. The playmaker was rewarded for his efforts with a call up in the Republic of Ireland squad, ending the year with two caps and lifting the FAI Cup. He was also named the ‘PFAI Player of the Year’.

SEAMUS CALLANAN

Tipperary’s All-Ireland winning captain finished his summer with a scoring contribution of 8-18, scoring eight goals in eight games, including a goal and two points in their final win over Kilkenny.

STEPHEN CLUXTON

The inspirational Dublin stopper captained his side to a fifth All-Ireland title in-a-row. 37-year-old Cluxton had a phenomenal year, pulling off a string of vital saves and continuing to re-define the goalkeeper position.

CATHAL DANIELS

Galway’s Cathal Daniels produced a magnificent performance at the Longines FEI Eventing European Championships in Germany to claim the individual bronze medal aboard Rioghan Rua. It is the first Irish senior European Eventing medal win since 1995.

KATIE-GEORGE DUNLEVY and EVE McCRYSTAL

The Irish tandem para-cyclists claimed time trial gold at the UCI Para-cycling World Championships, doing so for the third year in succession. The duo also took silver three days later in the women’s tandem road-race.

ELLEN KEANE

Ireland’s Ellen Keane won bronze in the 100m breaststroke SB8 at the World Para-Swimming Championships in London. Keane’s performance in the final was a season’s best for the Dublin swimmer.

SINEAD GOLDRICK

Six-time All-Star Sinéad Goldrick put in a series of outstanding performances this year and scored a crucial goal for Dublin in their All-Ireland final victory over Galway, as the Sky Blues claimed a famous three-in-a-row.

NIAMH KILKENNY

Niamh Kilkenny collected the Camogie Association/WGPA Senior Players’ Player of the Year award following Player of the Match displays in both the All-Ireland semi-final and final, as the Tribeswomen claimed a third ever O’Duffy Cup with victory over Kilkenny.

SHANE LOWRY

Golfer Shane Lowry claimed his first major title in commanding fashion in the 148th Open at Royal Portrush. The Clara man battled miserable conditions to become the fifth Irish player to lift the Claret Jug. He also won his first tournament in three and a half years with victory in the Abu Dhabi Championship at the start of the year.

OISIN MURPHY

Killarney native flat jockey Oisin Murphy rode 166 winners in the season to be crowned ‘British Flat Racing Champion Jockey’. The 24-year-old is the youngest competitor to win the title since a 23-year-old Ryan Moore did so in 2006.

DONNACHA O’BRIEN

Donnacha O’Brien was officially crowned ‘Irish Champion Flat Jockey’ for the second time on the final day of the season at Naas. O’Brien’s title victory means he matches the feat of his older brother Joseph, who won back-to-back championships in 2012 and 2013.

AOIFE O’ROURKE

Aoife O’Rourke was crowned European Champion in Madrid as the Roscommon native defeated Poland’s Elzebieta Wojcik in the 75kg final. She becomes only the second Irish female fighter after Katie Taylor to claim a gold medal at the championships.

DENISE O’SULLIVAN

Republic of Ireland star Denise O’Sullivan helped North Carolina Courage to the National Women’s Soccer League title in the USA for the second year running. She was also named the clubs ‘Most Valuable Player’ for the second campaign in a row. The 72 cap international was also in excellent form for country and was named ‘Women’s Senior International Player of the Year’.

SANITA PUSPURE

The Latvian-born rower successfully retained her women’s single sculls gold medal at the Rowing World Championships in Austria. The Ballincolling resident also won a gold medal in the single sculls event at the European Rowing Championships in Lucerne, and in doing so, set a new European record.

DAVY RUSSELL

Jockey Davy Russell raced into the history books onboard Tiger Roll, as he became the first horse since Red Rum to win back-to-back renewals of the Aintree Grand National. It’s 46 years since Red Rum claimed the first of his three victories in the most famous steeplechase in the world.

KATIE TAYLOR

The Bray boxer made history by unifying all four World Lightweight titles with a hard-fought, narrow victory over Delfine Persoon at Madison Square Garden. With the victory, the 33-year-old added the WBC Lightweight title to her IBF, WBA and WBO belts. KT wasn’t finished though, as she moved up in weight to become only Ireland’s third two-weight world champion, with a unanimous points victory over Christina Linardatou, adding the WBO Super Lightweight belt to her collection.

PAUL TOWNEND

The Cork jockey won the title of ‘Irish Champion National Hunt Jockey’, having ridden 109 Irish winners in the campaign, including five Grade One victories. The most famous of which was the Cheltenham Gold Cup on Al Boum Photo.

NICOLE TURNER

17-year-old Portarlington native Nicole Turner showed incredible resolve as she powered through the final ten metres to move from fifth to third and claim the bronze medal at the World Para-Swimming Championships in London.

John

Declan Devine welcomes Conor Clifford to Derry City FC

The former Chelsea youth captain has spent the last season and a half with St. Patrick’s Athletic.

He helped them to 5th place this year and chipping in with a couple of memorable goals from distance.

Prior to his time with the Saints, Conor spent a season at Dundalk before a very brief stint with Limerick.

The 28-year-old was capped for Ireland at U17, U19 and U21 levels and also captained Chelsea to an FA Youth Cup in 2010.

Last month City signed forward Walter Figueira as Declan Devine adds to his squad for the 2020 season.

The striker may be familiar to the Brandywell faithful as he bagged himself two goals against the Candystripes in August for Waterford in the EA SPORTS Cup semi-final that City went on to win 4-2.

Declan Devine described Walter as a “quality striker”.

John

POPULAR Derry middleweight Sean McGlinchey has announced that he is retiring from boxing.

The 27-year-old Creggan man hangs up the gloves with a 2-2 record from what was an ultimately frustrating switch to the professional ranks.

The 2014 Commonwealth Games bronze medallist had been expected to face a rematch wit Julio Cesar in Belfast next February.

However, last night McGlinchey revealed that he had made the decision to bow out, citing a lack of fire.

“I feel my time in the game has come to an end,” he said.

“I don’t have the love or fire in my belly that I should have and feel I would be putting myself at risk.

“I love what I am doing now, passing my knowledge onto other people and I feel that I can give a lot.”

McGlinchey rose through the ranks of the Oakleaf ABC and his surge arrived in tandem with the explosion of the likes of Tyrone McCullagh, Connor Coyle and Brett McGinty, who was a colleague at Oakleaf.

In Glasgow five years ago, McGlinchey won a Commonwealth bronze and his switch to the pro ranks brought a surge of excitement.

Points wins over Josef Obesio and Dan Blackwell inside a matter of weeks in 2017 signalled intent, but McGlinchey was subsequently beset by injuries and agonising medical issues.

He returned in October 2018 with a defeat to Padraig McCrory and it would be a further year before ‘Mummy’s Bhoy’ returned – losing to Cesar at the Devenish Complex, Belfast in October.

McGlinchy had signed with Boxing Ireland before the Cesar fight, but he has confirmed that he has fought for the last time.

He added: “Boxing since I was 8 years of age. I had a good run at the game. I’d like to thank everyone that supported me and gave me the massive support.

“Derry boxing is on the high and I look forward to watching the talent in this city come through.”

McGlinchey’s former Oakleaf team-mate McGinty, who is training under Ricky Hatton in Manchester, is expected to make his pro debut in early 2020.

Chris McNulty

Sports writer from St Johnston, now based in Letterkenny, with ten years’ experience covering sport in Donegal. Was a nominee for NUJ Sports Journalist of the Year in 2010. Honoured by the Donegal Boxing Board in 2016 for his coverage on the sport.

James McClean subjected to racial abuse at Huddersfield on New Year’s Day

O’Neill was furious at the treatment of the Republic of Ireland international who has been consistently targeted by terrace bigots over his decision not to wear a poppy because of the British Army’s Bloody Sunday massacre in Derry in January 1972.

The second half was briefly halted by a tannoy announcement at Huddersfield’s John Smith’s Stadium saying “racist chanting is affecting the game and will not be tolerated”, with McClean immediately applauding the announcement.

Ref James Linington spoke to both managers before the announcement, and afterwards O’Neill insisted those responsible need to be punished.

“Things are said when James goes and takes a corner, home or away,” said O’Neill after a 5-2 victory that lifted Stoke out of the relegation zone in the Championship.

“It’s clear that the things that were said were of a sectarian nature and there’s no need for that in any stadium.

“James is a player who’s particularly targeted for this and has been consistently.

“It will not affect James. James is mentally tough.

“People have to be held accountable for their behaviour when they come to a stadium.

“It’s not something we want to be consistently talking about – sectarianism or racism or whatever.

“We want to be talking about the game, because there was seven goals here,” added O’Neill who is also the Northern Ireland team boss.

McClean was subjected to similar abuse from opposing supporters during Stoke’s home game on Boxing Day against Sheffield Wednesday, although no announcement was made on that occasion.

Huddersfield manager Danny Cowley condemned the racial abuse hurled at McClean.

He said the club would investigate “and make sure the people involved in it are duly punished”.

“There’s no place for discrimination of any type, is there?

“We’re in the 21st century in 2020,” he said.

John

James McClean subjected to racial abuse at Huddersfield on New Year’s Day

The Creggan born winger, 30, does not wear a poppy on his shirt for the games scheduled around Remembrance Day over the murder of 13 innocent people on Bloody Sunday in January 1972 by British soldiers.

Barnsley have until next Friday, January 10, to respond to the charge.

They said in a statement: “Barnsley Football Club has a zero tolerance policy on any form of discrimination.

“As a club, we are saddened to have had this charge brought against us.

“We will await and respect the outcome of the FA’s charge against us before communicating further on this matter.”

The Potters won the game at Oakwell 4-2.

On Wednesday, an announcement was made over the public address system at Huddersfield warning fans about “offensive behaviour” affecting the game between the Terriers and Stoke after it was alleged that sectarian chants were aimed at Republic of Ireland international McClean.

James applauded the announcement and his manager Michael O’Neill condemned those behind the racial abuse of his star player.

The Professional Footballers’ Association has said it plans to hold talks with the English Football League and refereeing body Professional Game Match Officials Limited to discuss how to deal with the issue.

John

Paddy McCourt in his prime with Celtic Football Club

The ex-Celtic winger, who also played for the Candystripes, moves into the new role after 14 months heading up the academy at the Brandywell.

McCourt retired as a player in 2018, finishing his career with Finn Harps.

Club chairman Philip O’Doherty revealed the news as he announced that City manager Declan Devine’s budget has been increased by 30% from last season.

“There’s a fair amount of effort put in by the Board of Directors to basically to give Declan a bigger budget so he can compete at an even higher level than last year,” O’Doherty said.

Talking about his new role, McCourt, whose playing career also included spells at Rochdale, Barnsley and Brighton, tweeted:

“I’m privileged to continue my association with this brilliant football club.

“Look forward to working hard in my new role to improve all aspects of Derry City.”

John

FANCY joining Derry City Women’s Football team?

Well, the club is on the look out for new members.

In a message on its Facebook page, the club says: “We will be hosting another open training session at The Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium.

“Any young or experienced players interested in trialing for Derry City Women’s FIRST TEAM or UNDER 19 squads come along to our final remaining session before 2020 pre-season commences.

Wednesday 15th January 2020
8pm – 9pm
Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium

Contact First Team Manager, Kevin McLaughlin if interested on ‭00 353 (86) 074 2746‬.

Or you can message the club on its Derry City FC Women Facebook page directly for more information.

John

New kid on the Derry block Stephen Mallon

The 20-year-old played for Belfast’s Donegal Celtic & St. Oliver Plunkett before joining the Blades’ academy.

Mallon is comfortable playing across a range of positions but can usually be found on the left wing whether it be in midfield or defence.

Stephen spent part of 2019 on loan in Australia’s A-League with the Central Coast Mariners making several first team appearances and bagging himself a goal.

The Belfast man has represented both Northern Ireland and the Republic at international youth levels, most recently he has featured for Stephen Kenny’s Irish U21 side.

Said Declan Devine on his latest addition: “He’s a talented boy with a fantastic left foot and gives us versatility.”

Stephen follows in the footsteps of fellow Sheffield United player David Parkhouse who played for the Candystripes on loan in 2019 and finished as the club’s top goalscorer.

The left-footer got stuck in straight away as he took part in Wednesday’s training session at the Brandywell.

Stephen Mallon trained with Derry City team mates this week

John

DEFENDER Shane McEleney has left to Larne FC club to join Finn Harps.

The former Derry City man leaves the club after two years at Inver Park, having arrived in January 2018, from Canadian outfit Ottawa Fury.

In his time with the Invermen, Shane helped the club reach the Irish Cup semi-finals in 2018 and was a key part of the side which won the Bluefin Sport Championship last April.

This season he started 13 games for the club, since the club’s return to the Danske Bank Premiership.

Boss Tiernan Lynch said: “Shane goes with our thanks for everything he has helped us to achieve on this part of the journey.

“He was coming out of contract in the summer and this opportunity to join Finn Harps now allows him to be part of their pre-season preparations and play a full part in their League of Ireland of campaign.

“We thank him for all of his contribution and wish him well at his new club.”

John