03-07-2025
Kerry GAA girls praised for their sporting nature in iconic photograph
Matt was traipsing the side-line during a recent U14 game between Dr Crokes and Castlegregory/Annascaul when he spotted the spirited gesture. It shows Annascaul's Jane O'Callaghan obliging her direct opponent Emma Broderick from Dr Crokes by tying her boot laces during the game.
Emma is wearing gloves and asked Jane if she would tie her laces. Kindly, Jane knelt down and tied the lace but was astute enough to keep her eye fixed on the game at all times.
Sensing the uniqueness of the moment, Matt clicked his camera for a photograph that has since gone viral for its kind-natured vibes despite taking place during a competitive U14 County League Final.
Matt first posted the image on the Dr Crokes' Facebook page where it soon attracted huge interest. The photograph has since gained 300,000 views, and has been shared by close to 200 different online accounts.
Youth clubs in Ohio in the USA and soccer clubs in the UK have picked up on it, while interest is also reaching organisations in New Zealand and Australia. LauraLynn – Ireland's Children's Hospice – is publishing a book for Christmas and they have also expressed interest in using the image.
'I was just lucky to get it as I was looking for a photo that would get as many kids as possible in it. I remember thinking taking the shot how this would never happen in a fella's game, no matter what the age group,' Matt said.
'It was a very sporting gesture and it's got a huge reaction. I suppose there is an innocence to it and it's just something simple. I've never had a reaction like this to a photo. Some people have even said it should be on the wall of every dressing room in Ireland,' Matt said.
