After a 21-year wait, the sun shone for the return of the Tom Markham cup to Galway on Monday evening, after the Galway Minor team scooped a heroic win in the All-Ireland final against Derry on Sunday.

Galway Minors bring Tom Markham cup home

The cup was greeted by a sea of maroon and white, as hundreds of football fans and former players heralded its triumphant return in Eyre Square.

Manager Alan Mulholland, who played on that victorious 1986 side, took pride of place as he and his 32-man panel rolled into Eyre Square just after 5.30pm.

First up on stage were team captain, Paul Conroy, and team mate Tommy Walsh, accompanied by the coveted cup. The atmosphere was electric as the lads held it aloft to resounding cheers from the joyous crowd.

They were quickly joined by local celebrity, Brendan Coffey, who also received a rousing cheer. The stage was full to capacity, with the 32 well-dressed minor managers and selectors, MC Ollie Turner, all of the city council officials, Senator Fidelma Healy Eames and Galway Mayor Tom Costello.

Manager Alan Mulholland took control of the mic and, after naming the panel, he thanked all off their supporters, especially those who had supported them since the first game against Sligo.

He remarked on how “this was not a team that simply fell into place”. He said “it wasn’t down to individuals, colleges, schools or clubs that made this team great. It was the sheer work, effort and determination of everyone involved.”

This year’s minor team came from all corners of the county and this was reflected in the gathered crowd. People from Ballinasloe to Carraroe turned out in force to welcome the cup back to Galway.

St James’ star and captain Paul Conroy spoke well and really thanked his fellow team mates for all their hardwork and dedication during the year. He commended Alan on the effort he put in, as he knows “he’s a busy man.”

City Mayor, Tom Costello, addressed the large crowd by congratulating both the minors and u-21 hurlers.

“In the space of just one week Galway GAA is back on form. These are fantastic young men and it is a great honour for both the city and the county to celebrate this win,” said Mayor Costello.

Just before Paul Conroy signed the book of civic reception, both Alan and Mayor Costello concluded that this win was simply a stepping stone for Galway GAA and that maybe, in the next three to four years, Galway would be celebrating with Liam or Sam.

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