Mount Sion GAA Club will once again celebrate two of its most cherished figures this weekend when the annual Mary Mead and John Keane Festival of Hurling takes place on Sunday.
The event, which has become one of the highlights of the club’s juvenile calendar, will see hundreds of young players, parents, and supporters gather at the club grounds for a day centred on hurling, community, and remembrance.
Speaking on WLR, Mount Sion Juvenile Chairperson Michael “Pugsey” Power said the festival is about far more than the games themselves.
“It’s one of the highlights of our juvenile calendar,” he explained. “It’s to celebrate and honour two great Mount Sion people, Mary Mead and John Keane. It’s a day of celebration and fun, but more importantly, it’s about honouring their legacy.”
The festival begins at 10 am with the Mary Mead Tournament, featuring boys and girls aged under six and under seven as part of the GAA’s successful WellKids programme. The John Keane Tournament follows at 11.30 am and will see under-eight and under-nine boys take part in a series of mini-games, with Tramore among the visiting clubs.
Power highlighted the importance of creating memorable experiences for young players and fostering a lifelong connection with the club and the game.
“The matches are only a small part of the day,” he said. “It’s the build-up, the excitement and the memories that stay with the children. They’ll remember marching around the pitch, hearing the National Anthem and wearing their club colours with pride.”
Adding to the occasion, a piper from the De La Salle Band will lead the young participants around the pitch before proceedings begin, creating a special atmosphere reminiscent of major match days.
The festival also provides an opportunity for the club to reflect on those who have made significant contributions to Mount Sion over the years. Power noted that the event will also serve as a moment to remember respected club figures who have passed away in recent times, including Stephen Green and Michael Grant.
“It gives us a chance to reflect and remember all these great people because they paved the way for us all going forward,” he said.
Mount Sion has long been recognised for preserving and celebrating its rich history, with several annual competitions and memorial tournaments honouring former members who played key roles in the club’s development.
Power believes these traditions are an important part of what makes GAA clubs such special places within their communities.
“It’s very important to remember those who came before us. The GAA does that very well. These people helped build our club and our community, and it’s right that we continue to honour them.”
The festival also shines a spotlight on the success of the WellKids programme, which has introduced countless young boys and girls to Gaelic games across Waterford in recent years.
“It’s fantastic to see all the clubs running these festivals and development programmes,” said Power. “They’re vital for keeping our games strong and giving young players positive experiences from the very start.”
With refreshments available throughout the day from Wild Willow Café and a packed schedule of activities planned, organisers are expecting another memorable occasion for players and families alike.
The Mary Mead Tournament gets underway at 10 am, followed by the John Keane Tournament at 11.30 am. All are welcome to attend and enjoy what promises to be a special celebration of hurling, community, and the enduring legacy of two beloved Mount Sion figures.
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