On Sunday 19th September, a fine crowd attended the launch of Askeaton-Ballysteen GAA Story 1884-2020 which was written by local man, Paul Anglim. Well known Weekly Observer sports journalist, Matt O’Callaghan launched the book and was the keynote speaker. Matt gave a fantastic speech on the pre-GAA period and subsequent foundation of the GAA and gave high praise to the recently published book.
There were nine speakers on the day, Alan Kehoe of Ballysteen GAA, Fr Seán O Longaigh, Padraig Fitzgerald of Askeaton-Ballysteen-Kilcornan Bord na nÓg, Eamonn Purcell of Askeaton GAA, Joanie Carrig of Askeaton-Ballysteen Bord na nÓg, Mike O’Sullivan of the West Board and Councillor Kevin Sheahan. John Cregan of the County Board was unavoidably absent. The author of the book, Paul Anglim said that he hoped that this book would inspire the young players of the parish to try and emulate their forefathers and to take pride in what their club has done in the past. ‘By just looking at this book they will see that we have a history that is the envy of a lot of clubs in this county.’ Paul said that he hoped ‘that this book does justice to all those gone before us who have been a part of the GAA in the parish. Without their vision and loyalty to the club and association, we would not be here today. This book is for them and hopefully it brings back memories of them that might have faded away.’
After eighteen months of restrictions and fear, the book launch at Ballysteen Sportsfield gave a great boost to the people of Askeaton-Ballysteen parish with both young and old turning out for the event. Thankfully, the weather stayed dry for the duration of the proceedings. It was great to see so many of the older players from the past at the event. Everything went well on the day with the stewards, book sellers, tea brewers and all the other volunteers doing great jobs to make sure the event ran smoothly.
The four GAA clubs in the parish, Ballysteen GAA, Askeaton GAA, Askeaton-Ballysteen-Kilcornan Bord na nÓg and Askeaton-Ballysteen Ladies Football Club made a presentation of a mirror with the crests of each club to the author Paul Anglim in recognition of his work in producing the 448 page hardback.
The book will be available in all the local shops and is retailing at €20. Paul Anglim has asked that any profits from the book sales will go to Askeaton-Ballysteen-Kilcornan Bord na nÓg who are the lifeblood of Askeaton and Ballysteen GAA clubs.