Tyrone senior ladies Spinathon 2018

TYRONE are back in preparation for the new season, after progressing to the TG4 All-Ireland intermediate final in September.

But they’re also focusing on a major fundraiser which is taking place in Omagh town centre on Saturday February 17. 

Players, management, officials and indeed a couple of special guests will tackle a sponsored ‘Spinathon’, with all proceeds going to support the senior squad.

Tyrone players said: “There has been plenty of discussion about the costs of facilities and the fact we don’t get the same financial backing as the men’s footballers but it’s a case of not dwelling on that and getting things done ourselves, being hands on. It’s all about raising vital funds.” 

Tyrone management and players hope that the local communities and clubs will get behind the players who will be seeking sponsorship over the coming weeks ahead of this big fundraiser. 

They will also be gearing up for the Lidl National League and team manager Gerry Moane said: “Yes, we could do without the girls being distracted and it’s certainly something that Mickey Harte’s players don’t have to do but look it has to be done in ladies football. 

“It costs money to keep things to the professional standard that we have introduced, if you want success further down the line it’s about the preparation now at this time of the year and, like everything, we need to be using the best facilities.” 

The Tyrone ladies ‘Spinathon’ is just one of several major events planned for the year.

Already in the diary is a golf classic at Omagh golf club on July 20, with Tyrone Chair Donna McCrory admitting that fundraising is a key element for the county. 

She said: “It’s great that the senior girls have taken the initiative to go ahead with the ‘Spinathon.’ 

“We have the golf classic planned and all our underage teams will also be seeking local sponsorship ahead of their seasons.

“It will take a team effort from everyone in the county, from executive to the clubs and players, they all have to do their part.”