This week we talk rule changes with Willie Barrett, focus on our footballers defeat to Offaly, our ladies footballers defeat to Waterford and we talk to Tommy O’Donnell as the curtain comes down on his Munster career. We hope you like… Tipp FM Radio · Extra Time Monday 31 May 2021
Derry and District: Lockdown exit boost for 100 year-old league
Published
image captionSeventeen teams are competing in the D&D this season
It is the Londonderry grassroots football league that has nurtured future Premier League players and developed international footballers.
Former Man City captain John Crossan and Northern Ireland internationals Felix Healy and Liam Coyle have played in its senior ranks.
As youngsters, so too did James McClean, Paddy McCourt and Shane Duffy.
Now as the Derry and District (D&D) League marks its centenary, there s renewed post-lockdown hope. A few years back we didn t think we d see the D&D make it to the centenary year, secretary Willie Barrett told BBC News NI.
Updated
Wednesday, 19th May 2021, 6:16 pm
.The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Brian Tierney pictured at Clooney Park West on Monday evening announcing the sponsorship of pitches for the Derry and District FA League this season to mark the organisation’s centenary. Included from left are Willie Barrett, secretary, Liam Smyth, games organiser, Jimbo Crossan, chairman and Darren Smyth, match secretary. (Photo: Jim McCafferty Photography)
Mayor Tierney attended the launch of the event at Clooney Park West on Monday night where the gesture was announced that he would pay for approximately 86 games between the 17 teams who have registered for the league’s centenary year.
National GAA referees head Willie Barrett is hopeful that proposals to counter cynical play in football and hurling will get a positive airing at this month's annual congress.