Richard Bullick
Armagh skipper Kelly Mallon takes her role as county captain seriously, with the 33-year-old Harps forward’s duties stretching far beyond taking the toss before matches and lifting silverware after finals.
The first woman to lead Armagh to three consecutive Ulster Senior Championship successes, Mallon revealed last Friday night that she was heavily involved in working with kit suppliers O’Neills to design the county team’s new jerseys for the forthcoming campaign.
The reworked orange jerseys with black trim to tie in with the black shorts the team will be wearing for the first time in 2023 have received great acclaim, so the Madden sportswoman can add successful fashion designer to the other labels which can be applied to her.
Expected to continue as Orchard captain for a fourth season, Mallon is about to embark upon her 15th inter-county campaign in the orange jersey and she has received a glowing tribute from Armagh LGFA Chairperson Sinead Reel for her commitment to the cause.
“I can’t thank Kelly and her family enough for their work behind the scenes in McKeever Park. No-one will ever know what this woman does for Armagh. She is an absolute credit and a fantastic role model for all women in sport,” declared Reel.
Mallon has had a few frustrations with injuries in recent years, including having her leg broken playing camogie for Madden last October, but she is already looking forward to the season ahead and was in upbeat mood at last Friday evening’s event.
“A massive thanks to the sponsors who have continued to back us over a number of years and to Mac-Group for coming in now. We really appreciate that support and also those who have come along tonight to support Sinead and the county on this landmark night.
“We’re really excited about the season ahead. There’s a bit of continuity from the last few years under Ronan (Murphy), who did good work, but a fresh feel too and we’re looking forward to getting to know Shane’s new backroom team as well,” she enthused.
