A SUNNY Finlay Park and Whitegates played host to this past weekend’s Doran Family Soccer Blitz on Saturday in a fantastic feast of football in Wicklow Town.
p to 50 teams rocked up to the homes of Wicklow Town and Wicklow Rovers on the day, including some from outside the county – including Malahide, who were described by one other club coach as one of the best under-eight teams he had ever seen .
Blitz competitions took place from under-eights up to under-13s and made for such absorbing prospects that even this humble hack couldn’t escape the temptation to get involved as a scorekeeper, having driven down to say hello and participate in some wish-fulfilment by getting their photo taken with the Premiership trophy.
Yes, Premiership rather than Premier League. It was a throwback to a time when Manchester United were the dominant force in English football; a point that was mentioned a few times by those present at the blitz. Attendees of all ages, be they players, coaches, or parents, also took the chance to take a photo with the replica of the iconic cup.
The day was attended by a number of representatives of Wicklow Cancer Support, to whom proceeds from the day went. It was organized, as ever, by Tony ‘Butch’ Doran, while a litany of local referees officiated the various games, all of which were entertaining showcases of fantastic young talent.
Special mention also goes to Stephanie Carton, who kept this writer fueled with coffee and hydrated with water from the club shop all day, starting early in the morning and not finishing until well into the evening.
While the blitz was formatted as a competition, every team came away with medals at the end of the day. A wholesome celebration befitting a wholesome day of football.