Equality group hail Brennan's speech

Luke Byrne

CHAMPION footballer Ger Brennan has been hailed following his All-Ireland club final winning speech at Croke Park.

Speaking following his side's 4-12 to 2-11 victory over Castlebar Mitchels in Croke Park on Sunday, St Vincent's captain Brennan acknowledged the girlfriends and boyfriends who had supported the team.

"You know you've supported us all year," he said in his victory speech.

SUPPORT

"You know, all the games down the country, Westmeath, Portlaoise, Parnell Park, up to Derry and indeed in Pairc An Chrocaigh and, without your support, we wouldn't have done the job today, so thanks very much," he said.

He added: "I think just, before I get on to our management, to the family, girlfriends, boyfriends of the players, everyone involved, there is a lot of work that goes into playing for your club team and, indeed, the county."

The player's speech was welcomed by the Gay and Lesbian Equality Network (GLEN).

Its director, Brian Sheehan, told the Herald: "I think the point is that Ireland has transformed and the GAA has transformed with it in an opening and welcoming way.

"I think what Ger did and what the Cusack brothers did is acknowledge that there are gay and lesbian people in every parish and they are welcome in the GAA."

In January former Cork hurler Conor Cusack joined his brother Donal Og in revealing that he is gay. All Ireland winning goalkeeper Donal Og has previously spoken about the bigotry he has experienced.

HNEWS@HERALD.IE