Kelly is new Coiste na nÓg Chairman

By Damien Maher

Westmeath have recruited Barry Kelly as the county’s new Coiste na nÓg Chairman. The four-time All-Ireland hurling final referee replaces Alan Leech in the very challenging role and his appointment is viewed as a major fillip for Westmeath GAA.

Kelly (Mullingar Shamrocks) will be joined by Peter Collins (Lough Lene Gaels), who takes up the role of Coiste na nÓg Secretary, with responsibility for all underage fixtures in the county. Collins replaces Kevin Jordan (Southern Gaels) in the hugely challenging role.

The positions were announced at Wednesday’s County Committee meeting in the Mullingar Park Hotel and also joining the County Committee will be Celine Geraghty of Milltown, who takes over as the new Health and Wellbeing Officer. The Safety Officer is Matty Conaty.

Westmeath GAA Chairman Frank Mescall urged clubs to respond when nominations for the vacant treasurer’s position comes out to them this week. The key position remains vacant and James Savage, who has served his five-year term, has continued to fill the void following convention.

“It’s your responsibility as such; so you will get notice for nominations for the position. Otherwise we have a full house,” remarked the chairman, praising the incoming officers.

“It’s brilliant in that regard: to the two people, Barry and Peter, taking up those positions, absolutely delighted that they agreed to do them; very, very important jobs, and we wish them every success in the year ahead.

“I’m sure, we offer our help to them - you will offer your help to them and you won’t be too hard on them during the year.”

He also welcomed Celine Geraghty to the executive.