While Davitts G.A.A. club is a relatively new one (1973), this does not mean that football was late coming to the parish of Kilvine. In fact the game was alive and well in 'Davittland' as far back as 1917.

The first football teams in the parish were formed after the ending of the Civil War (1923-1924), a team in Irishtown and a team in Ballindine. Some of these men had memories of playing football with a ball of newspapers tied with string. There were no championships or leagues then. They made matches among themselves. There were no rules, neither were there a definite number of players on each side. There were no jerseys, togs or football boots, corduroy pants and hobnail boots were the fashion of the day. Muscle and brawn were of greater importance than brains and skill. It was a case of the survival of the fittest!

However, that has all changed. The G.A.A. drew up rules and regulations and decided that there should be fifteen aside. The Davitts club colours are black and red. Davitts are currently playing in the Intermediate Championship, and the division two league. Because of the team's intense training sessions three times a week, they are playing very well.

'Mol an oige agus tiocfaidh si' (encourage the youth and it will respond) is an old Irish phrase that sums up how we should treat our youngsters. Davitts have one of the best underage 'set-up' in the county. We would not have this fine reputation if it wasn't for the dedication of both club and team officials, parents and most of all the players down through the years. Last year was probably the best year yet for the club. The under-14 team won both the South Mayo and the County Championship and were runners up in the League. The under-16 team won the South Mayo Championship and were runners up in the League. The minors won the County League and the Brennan Cup.

So all male chauvinists think football is for men only? They began first as Davitts Ladies Committee on the 10th April, 1984. They raised most their funds at socials in Bourke's in Irishtown and by cakes sales. It was then decided to form a Ladies Football Club-lots of the boys told us we had lots of talent!-and we were affiliated in April, 1985.

We had a number of games last year but we were not successful on the playing fields. However, with more intensive training this coming year we look forward to winning a few games.

By Darina Daly