Louth players pose for a different team photograph
BOYS IN RED AND WHITE THROW SUPPORT BEHIND WOMEN'S AID
Louth and Dundalk Young Irelands player Derek Maguire in the Women's Aid Dundalk 2011 calendar.
THE boys in red and white are back, posing this time for altogether different team photograph - the Women's Aid Dundalk 2012 calendar!
The Louth G.A.A players have joined the 2012 Women's Aid White Ribbon campaign by appearing in the charity's new calendar in a series of artistic photographs at Darver Castle.
'We are delighted to have the team supporting this year's campaign; it's fantastic to have young men, who are such outstanding role models in our community speaking out against violence against women and children,' said Sandra Farrell, Outreach and Awareness worker with Dundalk Women's Aid.
She explained that the calendar is the first of its kind in Ireland and by taking part in the campaign the Louth team are 'speaking out on behalf of mothers, sisters, daughters and all women.'
Paddy Keenan, captain of the Louth team, said 'The Louth G.A.A players and I are delighted to be part of the White Ribbon campaign. The statistics are frightening. Every day women and children are being abused in their own homes. Domestic violence is often ignored as it usually happens behind closed doors and it can seem easier not to get involved.'
'I wanted to take part in this campaign because I feel as men we need to speak out against violence. Men have an important role to play in sending out the message that real men do not hurt or abuse their partners. Just by speaking out against domestic violence and being supportive of those affected, we can all make a positive difference. We can all do something to help end domestic violence.'
The White Ribbon Campaign is the largest worldwide effort by men, working towards ending Violence against Women. In over 55 countries, these campaigns are led by both men and women, through a general public education effort which is focused upon bringing an end to violence against women.
The calendar will be launched in the Marshes Shopping centre on Sunday next with the players signing copies between 2pm and 4pm, making it an ideal Christmas present. They will then be available in shop's and outlets throughout the county.
- OLIVIA RYAN
