Kilkenny's Anna Farrell, Mayo ladies footballer Niamh Kelly, Mayo footballer Lee Keegan and Limerick hurler Aaron Gillane were in Croke Park this week to launch the 2019 John West National Féile and to announce that John West will renew its sponsorship of the National Féile for a further four years until 2022.
The John West Féile competitions are national festivals for Gaelic Football, Ladies Gaelic Football, Handball, Hurling, Camogie and Rounders played at Under 14 level. This is the fourth year that John West will sponsor the underage tournament, which is the biggest competition of its kind. Throughout its sponsorship of the Féile, John West has focused on encouraging children to participate in Gaelic Games while emphasising the importance natural protein plays in fuelling a young athlete.
Speaking at the announcement, John West Country Manager Peter Rooney said: “We are delighted to extend our partnership with Féile until 2022. Féile is a unique series of events which hold a special place in our hearts. The competitions highlight the importance of sport in children’s lives, which is something John West is truly passionate about, and it also allows us to educate on the importance of protein in children’s’ diets.”
Uachtarán CLG John Horan said: “Féile is one of the most significant and successful initiatives in the history of the GAA. It plays a hugely important role in the massive work which takes place within underage coaching and development every year.
“Last year there were 696 teams playing 1,507 games at the various John West Féile finals events in football, hurling, Ladies football and camogie. In addition, more than 80 teams contested Féile finals across Handball and Rounders.
“The ethos and tradition around Féile where teams travel to take part and stay with host clubs is unique to this competition. It adds to the sense of occasion and many great friendships and club links for life get made this way as young people celebrate our games and showcase their skills.
“I am delighted that a partner of the calibre of John West recognises the value of this work in developing young people. I thank them and all involved in preparing and hosting and organising and look forward to another great Féile summer.”
