An Cosantóir

www.military.ie the defence forces magazine | 29 O'Sullivan, who decided to make history and voted in fa- vour. This was a historic decision, not only for the GAA but also all past, present and future Micks. We are aware that the vote was very close and under- stand there are some strong emotions. But we, as an Irish regiment with proud Irishmen serving in it, just wanted to play football. Recently the London County Board requested us to change our name and Naomh Padraig was voted for by our members; an apt name given that our regimental quick march is called St Patrick's Day. History was cemented on the 6th February 2015 when the Mick's played their first challenge game against Harles- den Harps, a strong London-based intermediate Gaelic football team, in the grounds of Cavalry Barracks. Although a heavy defeat ensued, the score line was secondary; this was all about achievement, team spirit and performance. An Irish Post journalist who was at the match summed it up well: "The difference in experience was telling from start to finish. Nonetheless, the Guards were creating chances of their own on the muddy surface, but wayward shooting caused a sizeable number of wides. Many of their players grew up playing GAA or rugby at youth level, so the ball handling skills were there to be seen and that lack of confidence in front of the target could be eradicated with some much-needed shooting practice. Due to the nature of their work, the Guards will struggle to field a consistent starting XV, but with a growing pool of over 50 players to choose from, they will have no trouble fielding a team any- time soon, even if some of their players are unfamiliar with each other's names thanks to the sheer size of the barracks in which they're based. Despite the heavy defeat, those in- volved appear to be enjoying the early stages of their journey". We have subsequently played in London GAA's McArdle Cup junior football competi- tion, which has seen our performance going from strength to strength. This has been an historic year for the Irish Guards and the GAA, particularly London GAA, and we look forward to meeting our fellow countrymen through sport. As Nelson Mandela said: "Sport has the power to change the world. It has the power to inspire, the power to unite people in a way that little else does. It speaks to youth in a language they understand. Sport can create hope, where there was once only despair. It is more powerful than governments in breaking down racial barriers. It laughs in the face of all types of discrimination." The Irish Guards GAA Football Club must, and will, continue to grow and there is no doubt that we need to improve our team's skills to make us more competitive. This will come in time as the club expands in confidence, skill experience and gains an abundance of new players and members. For us, this venture is about commitment, enjoyment, engagement with the community and the teams we play, and, above all, ensuring the Irish Guards GAA Football Club is inclusive, lasting and enjoyable.

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