Michaela Downey, who won three County Senior LGFA titles with Clonduff (2006-2008) was selected as Down’s representative (only one from each county)in the inaugural Over 40s Compromise Rules v Australia.
Like everything she did in Ladies Gaelic, Michaela threw her body and soul into the tournament over the two legs, was Player of the Match in the first game and selected as overall Player of the Tournament over the two legs.
Michaela had previously played in the only other competition between the two sides in 2006 (not Over 40s of course). As well as her 3 Senior titles and 1 Intermediate with Clonduff, she won 10 Senior titles with St John Bosco Newry and then opted to play for her native parish, along with her sister Aoibheann when Bosco Ladies folded at the end of 2004. She won an All Ireland with Down Juniors in 1999 and an All Star in 2008.
Michaela, who was born in Clonduff had moved with her family to Newry when she was still at Primary School but always maintained a great interest in all things Clonduff.
A wonderful role model, Michaela has done herself, her family, her clubs and her county proud and no doubt will again if the opportunity presents itself.
Incidentally the Men’s Over 40s and Over 50s also won their two legs making it a clean sweep for the Irish teams. Well done all!
