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Seamus Coleman awarded Freedom of
Donegal
06.06.17
DONEGAL sporting hero
Seamus Coleman has been honoured with the freedom of
the county at a civic reception in Lifford.
Cathaoirleach Terence Slowey paid warm tribute to
the Republic of Ireland captain and Everton
full-back, who was accompanied to Friday's event by
his wife Rachel, baby daughter Lily; parents Maire
and Henry and brothers Stevie and Francis. “Seamus
Coleman is well known not only here in Donegal and
in Ireland but throughout the UK and across the
globe for his skills as a world class footballer. |
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Seamus Coleman was awarded the
Freedom of Donegal at a civic reception in Lifford
on Friday, 2nd June, 2017. |
“But here in Donegal,
that is not all he is known for," said Cllr Slowey.
"He is known for his love of Killybegs and for his
love of Donegal. He is known as the boy who has made
good but has never forgotten his roots and he is
known for his love of Gaelic football and for his
lifelong support for his local GAA team Na Cealla
Beaga."
Coleman started his footballing career with St
Catherine's in Killybegs, joining League of Ireland
side Sligo Rovers in 2006 and then moving to England
to sign for Everton in January 2009.
He has made more than 200 appearances for Everton
and is regarded as one of the Premier League's top
full-backs.
He has been a senior international for the Republic
of Ireland since 2011 and has had 40 caps to date.
He won the 2011 Nations Cup and was awarded the FAI
Under-21 International Player of the Year in both
2009 and 2010.
He was selected for the Ireland squad at UEFA Euro
2016, captaining Ireland against both Italy and
France and in September 2016 he was named as
Ireland's permanent captain following the retirement
from international duty of Robbie Keane.
An emotional Seamus Coleman told the gathering at
the County House, that he was shocked to receive the
honour and that the award would take pride of place
in his home.
He also talked about his pride in being from
Killybegs and Donegal adding that his heart would
always lie here.
He thanked his parents for their support and told
the audience he was taught from a very early age to
always say 'thank you' and it was something he had
carried with him throughout his life.
The father-of-one also spoke about the horrific
leg-break he suffered in the World Cup Qualifier
against Wales in March. A council spokesperson said
the sportsman left guests at the reception in no
doubt he is "still hungry" to get back to top-flight
soccer action.
The talented player concluded his remarks by paying
tribute to his wife Rachel, thanking her for her
endless support and commitment.
Coleman became only the eighth recipient of a
specially-commissioned badge and pin exclusively
made for those on whom the Freedom of the County is
conferred. To view more photos
click here . |
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