Women take the reins at Naomh Colum Cille Hurling Club for first time in its 30 year history

Josephine McKeown and Sharon O’Neill have taken over the reins at the club, located between Coalisland and Clonoe, which will celebrate three decades in existence in 2016, and are looking forward to undertaking a busy term of office.

The newly appointed Chairperson of Naomh Colum Cille, Josephine, who is also a key figure in the Cailini an Chnoic camogie club at Derrytresk, told the TIMES she and her Vice Chair, Sharon, were both “highly enthusiastic” about the club’s immediate and long term future.

On the issue of women being appointed to management positions within local sporting organisations and in particular Gaelic Games, Josephine said: “It is something we are seeing more of. Bronagh McCarney, for instance, has been elected to the Chair of Derrylaughan this year, but this is the first time that we have had a female Chair at Naomh Colum Cille.

“It is a position which always brings challenges, of course, but myself and Sharon will do our best to overcome those and work for the best of the club and its members.”

Next on the timetable for Naomh Colum Cille will be a festive fundraising event which runs this Saturday and Sunday, November 28 and 29.

Featuring a wide selection of stall holders, the club’s Christmas Craft Fair has everything from jewellery and food, to candles and cosmetics, as well as facepainting and a chance for children to visit Santa in his grotto.

Special, personalised Santa Home Visits can also be arranged through the club.

Details of the Craft Fair, which runs from 2pm to 6pm, can be found on the Naomh Colum Cille Facebook page. As well as hurling, the club provides coaching in handball and other Gaelic games.