Updated / Tuesday, 16 Jun 2026 18:30
A Donegal GAA fan with additional needs has completed the final leg of a journey that began two years ago - visiting every one of the 40 clubs in the north west county.
Darragh Crawford, 24, returned this morning to a hero's welcome at his home club Naomh Pádraig in Lifford, having started his journey in Na Dúnaibh in 2024.
He was given a guard of honour and presented with a Donegal GAA jersey, signed by all the team, a Naomh Pádraig jersey and a photograph of when he met the county team.
Mr Crawford’s father and chairperson of Naomh Pádraig GAA Club, Martin Crawford, told RTÉ News that Donegal Community Inclusion Training Services team came up with a challenge for Mr Crawford to visit the 40 clubs along with his key workers.
What began as a personal ambition born from a deep love of Gaelic games grew into a story of perseverance, community spirit, and inclusion.
Martin Crawford said his son has had "an amazing run around the clubs," adding that clubs and communities held welcomes and celebrations for his arrival.
Darragh Crawford returned this morning to a hero's welcome at his home club Naomh Pádraig
Martin Crawford said there are supporters who may not be able to attend matches, and he urged people to "embrace" them, "get them out and make them part of your community".
"It’s simple things that help young adults and children with additional needs to become a big part of the community.
"From a family point of view, it’s been heartwarming to see the reception that Darragh has received.
"We go to all the county matches around the country. A lot of people come up to us on game day; hello Darragh, how are you getting on?
"Like our other two sons, Darragh is a massive part of the community and people welcome him with open arms, every time and it’s absolutely beautiful," he said.
Diane Crawford told RTÉ News that her son’s passion for the GAA runs deep, and she paid tribute to the staff at the Donegal Community Inclusion Training Services.
"He set out a goal to visit all 40 clubs across Donegal…this means so much to him. It’s absolutely amazing," she said.
Chairperson of Donegal GAA Mary Coughlan said the occasion showed what the GAA encapsulates, adding that age does not matter, and all are welcome.
Read the full article at RTÉ News →
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