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Killarney Celtic in line for Mayoral civic reception

The Mayor of Kerry Patrick Conner Scarteen will do everything in his power to organise a Civic Reception to honour the achievements of Killarney Celtic who won the FAI National Youths Cup last Sunday.

The National Youths Cup is the biggest soccer championship for underage teams. It is 22 years since a Kerry side has won the prestigious cup with the Killarney team repeating Tralee Dynamo’s achievement of 1998.

They defeated Cork side Douglas Hall in a penalty shootout – it is the first ever national title won by the Killarney club at any level.

After Sunday’s exciting match, Cllr Niall ‘Botty’ O’Callaghan, a member of the club, took to social media calling for a Civic Reception to honour the achievements of the town team.

Club chair Paul Sherry confirmed to the Killarney Advertiser that Botty has made contact with the county mayor regarding the reception.

There are a number of procedures to go through before any person or group can be awarded such a reception but the County Mayor chairs that committee.

He confirmed to the Killarney Advertiser that he would look favourably on Botty’s suggestion

“I would welcome it and I hope his request will accommodated,” Mayor Conner Scarteen told the Killarney Advertiser.“There are procedures in place for such events and now with COVID-19 restrictions it might take a while.”

Meanwhile club chair Paul Sherry said he and his fellow Killarney Celtic are still on ‘Cloud Nine’ following Sunday’s success.

“We are ecstatic, we are still on Cloud Nine, “ he told the Killarney Advertiser. “It is a massive achievement for the club and all involved.”

Local Gardai escorted the team bus through the streets of Killarney on their return from Tralee on Sunday night, the bus was followed by supporters cars, all of whom had to watch the game via live social media feed as COVID-19 restrictions prevent fans from attending any match.

“It was welcome home cavalcade, all within social distancing rules, “added Mr Sherry.