GAELS HOST THE TRIBESMEN TO SPECTACULAR WEEKEND

NYPD Captain Danny O'Sullivan presents the cup to member of the Madden family

Photo by Margaret Purcell, The Irish Emigrant

The Galway Garda made the flight across the pond for an extended weekend stay in the Big Apple.  The lads landed at Kennedy on Thursday afternoon, but it wasn't a big yellow taxi waiting for them, but a rusty old NYPD school bus piloted by the magnificent Steve Morrissey.

Friday was an eye opener for the group, as sightseeing was the day's agenda.  The west coasters first took a boat ride through New York Harbor, getting some close up views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the Intrepid, and the Brooklyn Bridge.  Just before the sea legs could set in, they were all safely ashore once again.

The NYPD Police Museum, and the Empire State Building rounded out a picture perfect afternoon on the town.

As the sun set on a fine autumn day, the Tribesmen were the guests of Irish Consulate General in New York, Mr. Niall Burgess.  The hospitality shown to everyone by the Burgess family will not soon be forgotten.  It was getting late though, and curfew for the Galway Garda was 10pm sharp, as there was a match to be played on Saturday!

The NYPD Gaels came out white hot from the throw-in, taking a sizeable five point lead into the half, but the maroon and whites wouldn't roll over for the Exiles, fighting their way back into the match with a flurry of offense that had the scores level with ten minutes to play.  The New Yorkers bent but never broke as a late goal sealed the deal for New York's Finest. 

After a hard fought match, NY team captain Danny O'Sullivan hoisted the cup as the NYPD defeated the Galway Garda by the final score of 2-09 to 1-11.

More important than any football match, the Galway Garda and the NYPD Gaelic Football Clubs would like to thank all of Saturday's supporters, as the match raised thousands of dollars for the American Cancer Society's Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Campaign.

Monday was the last full day in New York for most of the bunch, and the morning was spent touring the United Nations, Saint Patrick's Cathedral and Central Park.  Some of the lads also took a tour of the Irish Hunger Memorial in Battery Park, including a 19th century cottage, brought to New York stone by stone from County Cork.

Tuesday was travel day as the Gards from County Galway bid their farewells and headed home.  Memories were made, friendships were kindled, and a great time was had by each and every person involved.  The spirit of brotherhood among police, and unity through Gaelic sport will leave a lasting impression on the two clubs for a very long time.

KEEPING  THE  HERITAGE  ALIVE