Joe’s participation in the Laochra 2016 celebrations in Croke Park on Sunday 24 April was one of the most memorable experiences of his life as well as a great honour in representing Clonard GAA club and Wexford.
Leading the parade of flags, both the Irish Tricolour and County flags, down through a section of the Hogan Stand and subsequently on to the field in front of the Hogan stand was a very proud moment for Joe and something that he will remember for the rest of his life.
The welcome of the 80,000 spectators that echoed around the famous Croke Park stadium was fantastic . We have all dreamed of playing in a Senior Hurling or Football final and what it must be like and on the day the playing of and the singing by all in attendance of the our national anthem, Amhrán na Bhfiann, gave him a first hand experience of what it could be like. It was very emotional and something that he will always remember. To the GAA and those who put so much time into the organising of the celebrations Joe would like to say many thanks for allowing him to be part of such an event and it also reflects what the GAA is all about, we the Irish people all belong to the organisation.