Eircom League 2008 Launch
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Eircom League 2008 was officially launched at the Irish Management Institute (IMI) yesterday as men in suits paraded around the room in hushed swarms. Everything and nothing was being discussed by somebody’s and nobodies. Yes, this was the place to be for any follower of our national soccer league. There was certainly a buzzing atmosphere in the room and why not?
It was announced today that €2million will go directly to the 22 league of Ireland clubs this year in television revenue, prize money and contributions. Television coverage of league and cup games have been almost doubled from last season with 13 live games being broadcasted this season as well as a weekly programme on the latest League goings on to be presented by Con Murphy. Good cause for good buzz? FAI Chairman John Delaney thought so, “The profile of the league is being raised every year which is obvious by the huge turnout today. Season ticket sales are up across the board, there is more money being pumped in and we are all set for the season ahead.”
One couldn’t help but feel a jerk of anticipation as all the top-flight managers lined out to be photographed and videoed by the press. John McDonnell (St. Pat’s) and Pat Scully (Shamrocks) shared some tactical advice while the lights flashed and Stephen Kenny (Derry City) and Paul Doolin (Drogheda) cracked jokes. All friends now, opponents from here on in and away from the prying eyes of the sports hacks.
An upbeat press conference followed the chit chat and a get to know you session, and on a large screen behind the stage, the highlights from season 2007 were projected. Kevin McHugh’s 97th minute winner in the Cup Final for Derry City, Cork City’s courageous run in the Intertoto and UEFA cups and Drogheda’s Eamon Zayed putting Pat’s away in a title clincher game.
Heads nodded in fond remembrance as the images were relayed and Con Murphy, MC for the day, took to the mic. After the conference, Chairman of the National League Eamon Naughton said he was delighted with the turnout and predicted an exciting season to come. “Years ago young lads would nearly have been ashamed to support a league of Ireland team but the tide is changing now and this season will prove it.”
There is no doubting the efforts by a number of institutions, including RTE, the league of Ireland executive committee and the FAI to raise the profile of the eircom League and they must be commended. Let’s just hope their efforts pay off to make our national league a coveted and successful one. It’s nearly time to stop talking and time to start performing.
