Council Chair Hosts Reception for former Tyrone Senior Footballer’s outstanding contribution to Gaelic Games

Recently the Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Barry Mc Elduff hosted Noel McGinn to honour his outstanding contribution to Gaelic games, wider sport and Teamtalk digital media. Speaking at the event Cllr McElduff said,

”As Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, I am delighted to welcome you all here to the Grange, Omagh, for this reception to mark Noel McGinn and his contribution to sport in the District.

Noel’s love for sport began in childhood during his primary school years, particularly through break-time soccer sessions. His passion for Gaelic football developed further with the support of his teacher, Donal Magee, who placed a greater emphasis on sport and created additional sporting opportunities. This soon led to organised competitions with other schools, including participation in the Boyle Shield. Noel’s passion for the sport progressed into his secondary school years, with Noel also competing in the MacRory Cup competition.

Throughout his childhood, Noel had a strong passion for the Tyrone teams, often attending matches and continually striving towards his dream of playing for County Tyrone. This ambition was realised when he represented Tyrone at Minor level as goalkeeper in 1977 and 1978, before making his senior debut in 1981 and going on to form part of the team that secured Tyrone’s first-ever appearance in an All-Ireland Senior Final.

After qualifying from Teacher Training College, Noel lived in Belfast, showing his strong commitment by frequently travelling home to Killyclogher for training and matches. He later moved back closer to home, taking up a post at Christ the King Primary School, Omagh, before being appointed principal of

Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School, Greencastle, in January 1997.

During his time teaching, Noel was instrumental in encouraging participation in sport among both boys and girls. He championed sporting opportunities, giving young people the chance to develop new hobbies, learn valuable skills, and further their personal and athletic development.

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council is committed to providing opportunities for inclusive leisure, recreation and sporting activities, individuals like Noel McGinn help the District achieve this commitment by encouraging participation in athletic pursuits and demonstrating that, with determination, dedication, and focus, your goals can also be achieved.

On behalf of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, and on my own behalf, I would like to thank Noel for all he has done for the sporting world, particularly for his contribution to Tyrone football, and for his dedication to supporting and encouraging young people to participate in sport, build the confidence to engage in competition and embrace the opportunity to try something new.

Thank you.”