AMERICAN FOOTBALL FINALS
American Football Ireland held a triple header of finals at Dubarry Park on Saturday last with the event being favoured with a dry afternoon that helped attract a large crowd of enthusiasts and curious to Athlone. The first final commenced just after noon and the final action wound down close to 9 p.m. so a long day of sport and entertainment that included an acrobatic flyover and colourful cheerleaders.
Both mens finals ended in clearcut victories with Belfast Trojans denying champions UCD bid for a fourth title in a row on a 27-0 margin in the Premiership final to claim the Shamrock Bowl. Louth Mavericks proved much too strong for local representatives Westmeath Minotaurs in the Championship final, capturing the Harp Bowl on a 44-0 scoreline.
Six ladies teams vied to win the Claddagh Bowl with the Ladies flag final being a much closer affair before South Dublin Panthers prevailed 7-2 against Belfast Trojans. All in all, an enjoyable and successful day at Buccs who thank American Football Ireland for again favouring our venue to host their finals, sponsored by the Pittsburgh Steelers and partnered by Westmeath County Council. Thanks too to our volunteers on the day led by Barry Reid and Senan Downes.
