PICTURES: Doon dream of going back-to-back in Limerick Senior Hurling Championship

DOON GAA Club made history last year when they claimed the Daly Cup for the first time after a 129 year wait and they’re not in a hurry to give it back.

Na Parsaigh will be waiting in the short grass of TUS Gaelic Grounds on Sunday to gain revenge after last year’s county final loss. There are a lot of similarities between the two clubs despite one being northside city slickers and the other from rural north east Limerick.

Br James Dormer says Doon and Na Piarsaigh are the only two clubs in Limerick fielding four adult hurling teams. The president of Doon GAA club and retired Doon CBS Primary School principal for 23 years congratulated the four adult hurling teams and mentors of Doon GAA Club. 

“For a rural parish like Doon - with valued assistance from Oola - to field four adult hurling teams in the same year is a remarkable achievement. All of these players have come through the juvenile ranks of the club, which speaks volumes for the strong foundations laid down over the years in both the club and CBS primary school,” said Br Dormer.

The Christian Brother said that if you don’t sow well, you cannot reap or, “as St Paul reminds us, ‘thin sowing means thin reaping’.” 

“That certainly cannot be said of Doon GAA at present, and long may this fine tradition continue,” said Br Dormer.

The Dublin native said this weekend will be a special one with Doon competing in two county hurling finals - premier junior against Knockaderry on Saturday and then senior on Sunday.

“It is heartening to see them continue to play with such pride for their club and parish, and to see so many go on to represent Limerick, win Munster medals, and even achieve All-Ireland honours,” said Br Dormer, who was recognised by Doon captain Darragh O’Donovan in his acceptance speech last year for his coaching at underage level.

There is great excitement in the CBS, Convent and breakfast and afterschool club. 

Principal Derek Walsh said: “All of us at Doon Convent Primary School are shouting loud and proud ‘Best of Luck Doon’.  You're legends already, but now it's time to bring home the two-in-a-row.

“We've got the flags flying, the posters ready and the voices warmed up to cheer you on!  We are so proud of your hard work, dedication and team spirit.  You've got the whole school behind you!” said Mr Walsh.

His counterpart in the CBS - Joanne Breen - said the team’s visit to the school after winning the John Daly Cup for the first time was electric. 

“Excitement and immense pride filled the air as they were given a hero’s welcome through their former school gates where for many their hurling careers began under Br Dormer. 

“It was wonderful that the school got to share in the joy and celebrate the historic achievement with the team and past pupils,” said the principal.

Ms Breen said the school is awash with red and white bunting and flags ahead of Sunday and has provided inspiration for maths and english lessons along with plenty of art!

“I would like to extend my warmest wishes to our past pupils  taking to the pitch.  We are incredibly proud of the team’s hard work and dedication. To our esteemed teacher and team selector we wish Denis Moloney all the best also,” said Ms Breen.

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