Double boost for camogie

GAA president Seán Kelly took the opportunity yesterday in Croke Park to announce that €25,000 had been put aside for a camogie fixture or event to be played - possibly abroad - next year.

The announcement coincided with the appointment of Sinéad O'Connor as the first sponsorship and finance manager for Cumann Camógaíochta na nGael.

With its centenary year on the horizon the funds are now available for the promotional "chicks with sticks" campaign to move to an international level. PRO Máire Uí Scolaí said they hadn't yet decided whether the event would take place abroad or at home.

"Camogie is not just played in Ireland. It is played in the US, Canada, Scotland, all over England and even in Dubai. This is an idea that our árd stiúrthóir Sheila Wallace has had for a number of years to further enhance camogie abroad.

"We want to bring those countries into the equation, whether we bring them here or play abroad. We will sit down with the GAA international committee and come to a decision for next year."

Camogie association president Miriam O'Callaghan said: "Sinéad O'Connor brings a professional business acumen and a great energy to make a success of this new position, which was created to focus on the potential commercial opportunities to further enhance the exciting game of camogie."

O'Connor formerly worked as a chartered accountant for Price Waterhouse Coopers for three and a half years in Ireland and America.

"In corporate terms I have a great product to work with. Camogie has a strong national image and we hope to bring in increased sponsorship. It is an exciting time in the association as we face into the centenary year in 2004," said O'Connor.