Young Leitrim Soccer star makes a big move to prestigious St Kevin's

A talented young Longford football player has joined one of the most prestigious schoolboy clubs in the country. Daithí Davis (10) recently moved from Drumlish-based Gaels United where he played for over three years to St. Kevin's Boys FC in Dublin.

Dad Padraic, the well-known former Longford Gaelic football manager and player and manager of the Mohill senior team whom he led to Leitrim SFC triumphs, said both himself and Daithí's mum Emma and the youngster's three siblings Bronagh, 19, Saoirse, 18, and Donagh, 8, are very proud of him.

"He took to it well, he works hard and he is very coachable, he hangs on every word the coach says and you tend to see that with good kids. "Obviously you need a little bit of natural talent but they listen, they're picking up all of the time and he has the capacity to do that."

Daithí, who lives j in Gortletteragh, trained with St Kevin's Boys FC just over two weeks ago where he made a positive impression. He made the transfer shortly afterwards and he was immediately brought into St Kevin's Boys first team. The club is where Irish international Evan Ferguson honed his skills and they have eight teams playing at under-10 level.

Daithí has already played in a tournament for his new club in Derry where St Kevin's Boys reached a final.

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Padraic stated there is some sadness for Daithí leaving Gaels United and he praised the excellent coaching he received: "We are obviously delighted with Daithí’s move to St. Kevin’s FC, but at the same time a little sad to leave the brilliant Gaels Utd club behind. We would like to sincerely thank all his coaches, Kevin Murtagh, Tim Connellan, Brean Kane, Gordon Smith, Michael Cooney, Corey and Nathan Maher, Mia Kiernan and Oisin Kane."

Padraic said no doubt someone had been left out and they are grateful to everyone who helped Daithí: "A special mention for our club’s head coach Ian Maher. The time and opportunity he gives weekly to the kids of Drumlish and Ballinamuck, and the very large contingent that travel from county Leitrim is absolutely remarkable.

"To the administrators of Gaels Utd and in particular Caroline Maher, many thanks for all your help and support. I look forward to staying involved with the club."

Padraic, who is self employed and has his own auctioneering business, said both him and Emma will be driving Daithí to Dublin up to four times a week for training sessions and matches: “We will work it, it's a commitment but this is what you have to do. It's great for Gael's United too and it shows even coming from a rural village it can happen for you and if you're good enough you can get out and go from there to straight to, arguably, one of the best under-10 teams in the country.