SHANNON Graham won the Ulster GAA Writers’ Association Monthly Merit Award back in March 2017 but she wasn’t around to collect her prize.
“I certainly would have loved to be there in person but I really did enjoy my time in New Zealand and I know that mum and dad represented me well,” said Shannon, who was there in person to pick up her second award for her camogie exploits in January.
The Slaughtneil midfield maestro was rock-solid in the 0-8 to 0-4 victory over Ardrahan of Galway in the All-Ireland semi-final last month, a win that kept the Derry girls on course for an AlI-Ireland hat-trick, which they will complete if they beat St Martin’s from Wexford in the final on March 3.
The Magherafelt-based physiotherapist proved to be the perfect link between defence and attack and her brilliant high catch in the middle of the defence in the closing stages, as the Galway side pressed, was memorable in itself.
Her constant running was another feature of her play and she rifled over two points into the bargain.
“It is a team game, of course, but it is always nice to be singled out for an individual award,’’ added Shannon.
Castleblayney hurler Jim McHugh, Tyrone footballer Darren McCurry and Joe Maskey (St Enda’s Glengormley) were also nominated for the award.
