Treasure trove of memories and memorabilia from Sarsfields LGFA
Sarsfields LGFA committee members Ray Curham, founding members Michael O'Loughlin and Jim Halley, Orla Payne (treasurer) Michael Dowling, multi-medalist Ciara O'Loughlin and her son Shay waving the Sarsfields' flag Photo: Stan Henderson
IN an amazing celebration of its history, community, and sporting excellence the Sarsfield Laois Ladies Gaelic Football club (LGFA) has marked its 30th anniversary with a special exhibition showing three decades of memorabilia, in Mountmellick Library.
This milestone event not only commemorates 30 years of dedication and achievement but also highlights the spirit of the players, coaches, supporters and sponsors who have been the backbone of the club over the years.
The exhibition is a treasure trove of memories and memorabilia and includes a stunning array of team photographs, trophies, medals, jerseys, newspaper cuttings, awards and programmes that tell the Mountmellick club’s journey from its humble beginnings to its current status as a powerhouse in ladies’ Gaelic football.
The display is meticulously curated to showcase the evolution of the team, the pivotal matches that define their legacy, and the personal stories of the players who donned the Sarsfields jersey with pride.
One of the highlights of the exhibition is a dedicated section that honours the founding members of the club. These pioneers laid the groundwork for what would become a thriving community institution. Through their vision and hard work, they established a platform for young women to engage in sport, develop their skills and foster long lasting friendships. Their legacy is evident in the club’s continued success, and the strong sense of camaraderie that permeates every aspect of Sarsfield Laois LGFA.
Speaking to the while laying out the fabulous display, founding member and assistant PRO, Michael O’Loughlin spoke of some successes of the club. He said: “Sarsfields Ladies Football Club was launched in 1995 when Mountmellick Camogie Club decided to branch out and cater for both codes. The Camogie Club had been in existence for a few years from the early 90s, and on the instigation of Brendan Murphy, a primary school teacher in Clonaghadoo NS the club entered teams for the 1995 Laois Ladies Football competition.
“Three teams, U-12, U-24 and Junior, under the Sarsfields banner, took part in the 1995 Laois Leagues and Championships. Safe to say no trophies were brought back. The highlight was reaching the 1995 U-13 Winter League Final.
1997 saw the big breakthrough when a team back boned by Aileen O’Loughlin, Clare Conlon, Rachel and Olwyn Farrell won the Club’s first County championship. Because of the depth of talent, nurtured by the teachers in the local schools, the Club grew and developed winning Laois, and Leinster, competitions at all levels.
“The first Senior success came in 2008, and eight more Senior titles were added, including a 7-in-row between 2013 and 2019. Club players went on to represent Laois at all levels, the high point coming in 2001 when five Sarsfields players featured on the Laois panel that won the county’s only Senior All-Ireland title, Ciara O’Loughlin, Grace Weston, Emma McEvoy, Aileen O’Loughlin and Mags McEvoy. A few years later Sarsfields players Tracey Lawlor and Lorraine Muckian were awarded LGFA Allstar awards.
“By 2003 the football side of the joint Camogie and Football Club, had grown, like a cuckoo, into a much bigger project than Camogie. It was then decided to merge the Camogie side with Ballyfin, and O’Moore’s Camogie Club was formed.
“2025 marks our first 30 years of existence and it was decided by the executive that we would celebrate this milestone by planning a series of events and activities. We have established that Sarsfields teams have contested more than 135 finals, across all levels within Laois, Leinster, and nationally. Of these, it is estimated that we have won 83.” The Sarsfields Laois LGFA 30th anniversary exhibition is more than just a retrospective; it is a testament to promoting ladies’ Gaelic football. It serves as an inspiration to future generations, reminding them of the importance of perseverance, teamwork and community support.
The exhibition is a must-see for anyone with an interest in sports, history, and community spirit. It’s a celebration of the past, a reflection on the present and a look towards the future of the club.
Sarsfields 30th anniversary exhibition remains on display throughout the library’s bright three-roomed gallery until Tuesday 30 September and everyone is encouraged to visit during opening hours.
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