Donegal’s first GAA Jive Off was a ‘celebration of community spirit’

Donegal’s first GAA Jive Off has so far raised over €80,000 for clubs in the county.

Organised by Glenswilly GAA, ‘Jersey and Jive’ brought together GAA clubs, sporting organisations, local communities and charities for a memorable evening of entertainment and fundraising.

The overall winners, Rhiana Wasson and Ross Farren, received €250 for Carndonagh Football Club, while Michael and Erin Campbell got €150 for McMillan Foundation, coming in second place.

The People’s Choice was won by Matthew and Kayla Lynch and they received €200 for their local clubs, St Eunans and Little Angels. The Glenswilly club winners were Jason Tease and Clare Gallagher.

Held in the Silver Tassie Hotel, the event featured a special showcase by All-Ireland Jiving Champions. MC’d by Gary Gamble, the newest member of The Amigos, Ryan Turner and Band performed before an after-party was hosted by Glór Tire winner Jason McCahill.

The fundraising event was organised by Breda Doherty and Ronan Sweeney, with the aim of allowing participating clubs and charities to raise much-needed funds for their own organisations and worthwhile causes.

The Fundmajor for Glenswilly GAA Jive Off will remain open for a limited time. As part of the fundraising initiative, 50% of all donations raised online and through sponsorship cards go directly to the participating dancers' nominated clubs or charities.

A wide range of charities, schools, GAA clubs, and sporting organisations from across Donegal were represented and will benefit from the funds raised. All remaining proceeds will support the development of Glenswilly GAA’s facilities.

“While the dancing provided plenty of entertainment and enjoyment, the Glenswilly GAA Jive-Off was about much more than what happened on the dance floor,” organisers said.

“It was an opportunity for clubs, families, friends and communities to come together, support one another and raise valuable funds for causes close to their hearts.

“For participating clubs, the money raised will help support their ongoing activities, facilities and development. For the charities and community organisations involved, the event provided both financial support and an opportunity to raise awareness of the important work they carry out.

“The enthusiasm and commitment shown by the dancers, along with the generosity of everyone who supported their fundraising efforts, helped make the occasion a tremendous celebration of community spirit.”

Glenswilly GAA would like to extend a sincere thank you to all the sponsors who supported the Jive-Off and helped make the event such a success.

“An event of this nature would not be possible without the generosity of local businesses, individuals and supporters who willingly get behind community fundraising initiatives.”