On Wednesday next, June 13, at the Showgrounds astro pitch the Sligo Traveller Support Group (STSG United) and An Garda Siochana will again compete for the honour of winning the Martin Mongan Memorial Shield. The game, which is in its second year, has been organised in memory of the late Martin Mongan, who lost his life tragically in a road accident on October 30, 2014. Martin’s role in STSG was that of men’s development worker in a paid capacity, and he volunteered in Loughan House Prison for eight hours a week for six years. His death was a tragic loss not only for his loved ones but also for both the Traveller population and all those he worked with. The game takes place during National Men’s Health Week which is very appropriate as Martin did a huge amount of work to try and improve the lives of travellers in County Sligo and further afield.
Jamie Murphy is the current men’s development worker at STSG and said: “We were delighted with how the game went last year so we are delighted to be able to organise it again. The only difference is this year we hope that it is STSG that can get the shield back at the full-time whistle.”
STSG manager Bernadette Maughan added: “We are delighted to be able to organise the memorial shield game for Martin. He is someone who is missed by us all everyday and we think this is another good way to help keep his memory alive. We are grateful to the Gardaí and Sligo Rovers once again for helping us organise the game.”
The match kicks-off at 8pm and all are very welcome to come and support. Complimentary tea/coffee and biscuits will be available afterwards. For more information please contact the Sligo Traveller Support Group on 071-9145780.
