Boarding the 19A The group traveled to Dublin to take in the sights and the shopping. The first stop off of Connelly Street was the sports store that we don’t have in America. It curiously looked like Dick’s or Sports Authority but was held in fascination to the players. Jerseys and cleats were thrown around as much as Mom and Dad’s Euro. Some parents did go the commercial route and headed to Arnotts, aka Macy’s to find some memorabilia at discounted prices. Jerseys were chosen from all countries and teams and were worn within seconds of purchase. The Americans were on the loose.
Smaller groups all headed out in various directions in the city to find….additional sports stores and a lunch. The majority of players opted out of the local Pubs like Flannery’s and choose the famed Irish institutions, McDonalds and KFC.
Some lucky players had the opportunity to take the guided 1 ½ hour bus tour that quickly resembled a tour that was taken by similar tourists that was said to be a 2 hour tour. The excited boys were gleeful to see the Book of Kells at Trinity College (a book of “cartoons” as told by a nameless 12 year old) Then there was a small conversation with the staff that led to some insight on how seriously the Long Hall is to the Irish.
The statue of Molly Malone was seen in all her glory with some more notable information that had been omitted by the previous descriptions as well as the history of the mental institution, prison and of course the most famous sight of all, Guinness.
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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