Today was a very enjoyable day for all. For many of the chaperones it started off with the attendance of services in the center of town at various churches throughout the town center area, only a short walk from the B&B. The churches themselves were old, beautiful, and full of rich history.
After that it was off to the football stadium in the city, again a short walk from the B&B, to watch the boys play teams from the host Drogheda Football Club. It certainly appeared to be a thrill for all the boys, including the Drogheda teams, to play in the stadium, in front of a crowd that cheered each exciting play and made each player feel special as they were substituted for with rousing applause. The U14's played two matches and the U13's one match with the game reports to follow in the morning.
Once again, the chaperones had some small time to chat with the boys and the host families; and it appears that all the boys are having a great time. Many had plans to go see movies, such as Batman, or go the the indoor waterpark here in Drogheda. Some even had a chance to try the game of Hurling with the some of the host kids. All appeared to be eating well and many had compliments about the home-made shepherd's pie that is a staple of Irish families.
Following some very exciting football and interaction with the families, the chaperones were back on their own and the boys were back with their host families. The chaperones split off for the evening in smaller groups and found local pubs and restaurants downtown for dinner. Towards the end of the evening, all seemed to converge at The Punt Pub for a surprise 40th birthday party for Pearse that included his family, his relatives, and many of his old friends.
A good day and evening was had by all.
That's all for now.
Quote of the Day
“I don’t think I could have a higher opinion of any footballer than I already had of the Irishman, but he rose even further in my estimation at the Stadio Delle Alpi. The minute he was booked and out of the final he seemed to redouble his efforts to get the team there. It was the most emphatic display of selflessness I have seen on a football field. Pounding over every blade of grass, competing if he would rather die of exhaustion than lose, he inspired all around him. I felt it was an honour to be associated with such a player.”
Sir Alex Ferguson (on Roy Keane after the European Cup semi-final in 1999)
English soccer manager
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