‘The Rising’ – Laying the foundations

During the spring of 2008, it became apparent that due to increased numbers of Irish traveling to Vancouver coupled with the growing popularity of Gaelic Football among the Australian and Canadian communities that a second team was required within Vancouver. As a result of this necessity, Keith Clarke (The Vancouver Harps Manager for 2008 season) along with Conor Walsh and Peter Agnew took the initiative and the Vancouver Celts were born.

In their first season, the Celts did not participate in the Western Division Championship, as it was deemed a development year for the club. Nevertheless 2008 was an extremely successful season for the Celts both on and off the field. The Celts won the Vancouver tournament beating a very strong Calgary side in the semi finals and narrowly over-coming their local rivals “The Harps” in a very entertaining final becoming Vancouver Champions in their first season.

A month later they brought 17 footballers across the Rockies to participate in the Calgary tournament. The Celts made it to the semis but lost out this time to The Harps (who on the previous day had become Western Canadian Champions). The Harps lost out to the Calgary Chieftains in the final in a one sided affair, with Calgary running out easy winners in the end.

Vancouver Celts 2008 Panel

The 2009 Season – Let the real fun begin

Game on - The Vancouver Celts take on The Harps, Vancouver Final 2008

The Celts will be under the expert guidance of Manager/Trainer Darren Duff (Co.Louth native), an excellent coach eager to develop the skills of his players, he will ably be supported by assistant trainer Gary Howe (Co.Fermanagh native), both living and working in Vancouver city.

The initial panel contains players from all over Ireland and Vancouver, with numerous counties represented. The squad is finely balanced with a number of experienced players helping those new to the game, or those just seeking to get a little taste of home right here in Vancouver. The primary aim for the year ahead is to enjoy our football, develop the club (both on and off the playing pitch) and compete to our highest possible level in the championships and tournaments ahead.

A summers evening in Stanley Park, Vancouver. Middle of the picture with arms aloft is the Vancouver Celts captain and a proud Meath man, Stephen Hanney.