SPORTS AWARDS: Team of the Year - Clooney Gaels (hurling)

Sean O'Connell, captain of Clooney Gaels hurling team, receives the Team of the Year award from John Millstead of sponsors Michelin. INBT06-221AC

A season which started in disarray ended in glory for the hurlers of Clooney Gaels.

The Ahoghill club’s exploits in winning both the Antrim and Ulster club championships - where they beat the senior grade champions of Donegal, Tyrone and Armagh - for the first time in their history saw them land the Team of the Year accolade.

“This time last year we didn’t have a manager and we were thinking it was just going to be ‘one of those years’” explained team captain Sean O’Connell.

“But we got a new manager and we went from strength to strength after that.”

Of his team’s achievements, Sean said: “I don’t remember the last time a South-West Antrim team won the Antrim championship, never mind the Ulster championship.

“We won the junior championship six or seven years ago and I felt there was an intermediate title in this team.

“Then we were lucky enough to go on and win the Ulster after that.

“Winning anything is a great achievement but it doesn’t matter whether you win or lose, it’s good to be part of a team,” added Sean.

Also short-listed: Ballymena Bowling Club men’s junior team (bowls); Ballymena Academy junior team (showjumping); Ballymena Bowling Club men’s senior team (bowls).