Football

Crossmaglen Rangers prepare to mark 20th anniversary of first All-Ireland

Jubilant Crossmaglen captain Jim McConville lifting the Andy Merrigan Cup on St Patrick's Day 1997.
Jubilant Crossmaglen captain Jim McConville lifting the Andy Merrigan Cup on St Patrick's Day 1997. Jubilant Crossmaglen captain Jim McConville lifting the Andy Merrigan Cup on St Patrick's Day 1997.

CROSSMAGLEN Rangers will host a very special occasion at the end of next month to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the first of their six All-Ireland Club SFC triumphs.

The event will take place in the Rangers Hall on Friday March 31 at 7pm, and will involve a live broadcast of Newstalk’s ‘Off the Ball’ radio show.

A club spokesperson commented: “Crossmaglen Rangers are proud to be hosting a night to celebrate a group of amazing men who in 1997 made a magnificent breakthrough by winning the All- Ireland Club Championship.

“Through their success they created history, made memories, set goals, shaped our community, brought great joy and pride to us all, and they started a journey that is still ongoing today.

“We are very honoured to have a national broadcaster present on the night, when there will be interviews with the team, their management, and supporters, who all have been part of this amazing journey.”

There will also be a number of high-profile special guest appearances, entertainment, and spot prizes, and supper will be served.

Members of the Crossmaglen club have compiled a limited edition souvenir booklet which will be available to buy. “The booklet will capture our memories, feelings and euphoria from that momentous day”, said the club spokesperson.

“This is a night for the history books, a night for us all to celebrate, reminisce, share our memories, and create new ones. Please come along and join in the celebrations.”

There will be a limited number of tickets available; priced £25 or E30, they will go on sale next Tuesday, February 21 at 7pm in the Rangers Hall.