Miriam O'Callaghan (camogie)

Miriam O'Callaghan (Miriam Ní Cheallacháin) became the 26th president of the Camogie Association when she defeated Helen McAleevy of Down 39-27 at the 2003 congress in the Arklow Bay Hotel.[1][2]

Miriam O’Callaghan, Miriam Ní Cheallacháin
26th President of the Camogie Association
In office
2003–2006
Succeeded byLiz Howard
Personal details
ProfessionHealth official.

Background

From Tullamore, she chaired Offaly County Camogie Board and refereed the 1991 and 1993 All Ireland senior finals.

Presidency

Her presidency was distinguished by new marketing initiatives including a brash and high-profile centenary "‘chicks with sticks"‘ campaign.[3] She launched the 2004-08 strategic plan that increased the camogie’s club base by 20pc, and led to new county boards being established in Mayo, Kerry and Donegal. At the end of her presidency club numbers reached an all-time high of 515.[4]

During her presidency the Camogie Association appointed a full-time National Development co-ordinator and two regional development co-ordinators.

She renegotiated, with the assistance of Leinster Chairman Liam O'Neill, the twinning of the camogie finals with the under-21 hurling final, an arrangement that lasted from 2006 to 2009.[5]

She initiated moves to integrate the camogie association and GAA.[6]

In 2003 the first full-time sponsorship and finance manager was appointed and the All-Ireland Junior Club Championship was inaugurated and won by Crossmaglen.

Centenary

In 2004 she unveiled a plaque at Navan to celebrate the centenary of the Camogie Association.[7] The Association celebrated 100 years with a Gala Banquet, the announcement of the Team of the Century and numerous other events. The first All Star team was announced in December 2004. As part of the centenary celebrations, RTÉ covered the All Ireland semi-finals live on television for the first time.[8]

Other roles

While Camogie President she was appointed to serve on the Broadcasting Complaints Commission.[9] After her presidency she was elected Chair of Offaly Sports Partnership.[10]

References
  1. Moran, Mary (2011). A Game of Our Own: The History of Camogie. Dublin, Ireland: Cumann Camógaíochta. p. 460.
  2. "Irish Independent Mar 30 2003". 30 March 2003.
  3. Foley, Cliona (20 September 2003). "Liberated 'Chicks' with attitude". Irish Independent.
  4. "Camogie membership drive". Irish Examiner. 27 March 2010.
  5. "CAMOGIE: Historic final deal". Irish Independent. 14 December 2005.
  6. Keys, Colm (27 April 2005). "Female relations forge stronger bond in the GAA's family". Irish Independent.
  7. "Irish Independent July 19, 2004". 19 July 2004.
  8. "Irish Independent: RTE going live for semis, Feb 4 2004".
  9. "Sunday Independent Aug 6 2006".
  10. "Offaly Sports Partnership May 5, 2010".
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