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48 of North Antrim finest Hurlers representing the U10 and U11 development squads travelled to James Stephens' GAA Club in Kilkenny on Saturday past.  It was an early start to the day with a bus load of players and a convoy of helpers / families and supporters traveling over 200 miles to watch the young lads play.  On arrival we received a very warm welcome from the James Stephens Club members and it wasn’t long before our teams where taking to the field getting warmed up for the matches ahead.  The players where sorted into 4 separate teams where they played several competitive games against the opposing James Stephens teams.  It was clear this was no training session as from the line you could see talented teams fighting 'tooth and nail' for every ball at pace. A fact highlighted by one of the James Stephens' mentors when he addressed both teams after the matches.

After the matches the teams, management, families and supporters headed for the club rooms for some well-earned refreshments where tea, sandwiches and lots of goodies were served up by an army of very welcoming and kind kitchen staff which was very much appreciated.

We were all invited outside as rumours of a special guest had arrived at James Stephens.  Damien Casey from James Stephens GAA Club was presented with a gift from Declan Heggarty on behalf of North Antrim in appreciation of their hospitality.  Damien talked about the matches and was very impressed with the level of what we have to offer in North Antrim at this age group competing against their teams.  Then the special guest arrived - the Liam McCarthy Cup appeared giving everyone present a chance for photos. It was then time to set sail for home after a very special day in Kilkenny, stopping in for a meal in the City North Hotel just north of Dublin.

We are looking forward to the 30th May where we will return to the James Stephens' club with 4 teams. The Div 2 U10 and U11 teams along with the U12 and U13 squads.

The James Stephens Club has produced many famous Kilkenny players, including the three Larkins, Paddy, Fan and Philly Larkin, Kilkenny's legendary manager regarded as one of the greatest managers of the modern game Brian Cody along with current inter-county players Jackie Tyrrell and Eoin Larkin who both captained Kilkenny to the All-Ireland success in their inter-county careers. These men are very active in their home club in making sure what is being coached and delivered is consistent right up through the ages.

This day simply wouldn’t have happened without the hard work from both parties.  North Antrim Coaching and Development Officer Declan Heggarty and Bob Cody from James Stephens are to be acknowledged for their leadership and coordination in making it possible.  North Antrim would like to thank the mentors, players, parents and supporters for taking part and travelling the distance.  Our sponsors Paddy Gray who sponsored the U11 training tops, Eoin McCloskey who sponsored the U10 training tops and the jersey sponsors Paddy Gray and Premier Electrics.  See website for photos from the day www.northantrimgaa.com