Tom English thrilled with the response from the Cork sporting public to support his wear a jersey day

Sport plays a huge part in bringing communities together especially at a time in need. 

Last Friday morning the superb people of Cork came together to raise funds for the much needed charity Marymount Hospice.

Various sports stars from various codes got together to showcase their silverware for the staff of Marymount and huge credit to organiser Ballyphehane man Tom English.

In his third year of “wear a jersey” day it proved yet again a huge success and English was thrilled with the huge turnout.

“The huge crowed that came to celebrate the day was fantastic,” said English. 

"All the clubs and associations were only too happy to help. 

"St Finbarr's hurling and football club are first on board every year, followed by Nemo Glen Rovers, Castlehaven, Russell Rovers, Pearse Celtic, Togher Boxing Club, Liam Miller Celtic Supporters Club and Bettie Miller (Liam’s mam) to name a few were there to celebrate our day.

“Cork City and County Harriers solid sliver cups, which some are over three feet tall, stood out among the 100 cups on display.

"We had the pleasure of having the Cork players in football, hurling and camogie with the Ó'Duffy Cup and the national league cup, the Sam Maguire, the Liam MacCarthy and the European champions league trophy was also on display. 

"Cobh Ramblers and Cork City were also in attendance. 

"Gary Spike O’Sullivan and Conal Thomas brought in their world title boxing belts which looked fantastic.

“Local man John Lonergan displayed his 10 world Irish dancing medals and world globe which was unreal. 

"College Corinthians, recently crowned FAI Intermediate Cup champions, Cork schoolboys and schoolgirls, Munster senior league representatives all attended along with Ringmahon’s Alan O’Callaghan and players who brought 12 trophies with them.

“We had the pleasure of having professional soccer player Alix Mendez who plys her trade with Scottish side Aberdeen. 

"It was great to see her meet up with former team mates from Cork city who also attended our event.

“This year's event was made more special when Mossie Duggan organised all the Cork GAA captains to sign a 1990 jersey and we had the pleasure of having some of these captains present on the day. 

"Cork double winning captains Larry Tompkins and Thomas Mulcahy presented a signed Jersey to Marymount in front of the huge crowd. 

"Other Cork GAA captains that came to join in our celebrations were Charlie McCarthy, Gerald McCarthy, Mark Landers, Graham Canty, Ray Cummins, and Martin O'Doherty. 

"These great Cork legends stood for photos and chatted with everyone on the day.

“Ger and Pat Mulcahy of The Friars Walk Tavern, Caitriona Twomey from Cork Penny dinners were also on hand to lend their support, which I am always very grateful for.

“I'm afraid to mention too many more people for fear I leave some people out, but I just want to express my gratitude to everyone who contributed in any way they could and for those who turned up last Friday morning. 

"It really was a special day and for any sports enthusiast, you wouldn’t get so much talent in one room, so I’m sure it was as enjoyable for many others as it was for me.

“Once all the photos and presentations were made, everyone relaxed in the lovely sun shine with lovely treats and refreshments. 

"To finish off the day we couldn’t miss the opportunity to get a Cork legend Mr Sean Ó Shea to give us a blast of the banks which was fantastic to hear.

“Special thanks to my work colleagues who get behind me every year and let me sort this fabulous fundraising day.

“A special mention to my wife, Becky and kids, Lillian and Jack, who also back me and help big time keeping track of all the cups that are delivered to the house. 

"At one stage the kids counted 35 cups in the living room. 

"I was delighted to have played my part in helping to fundraise for this fabulous cause which has touched most families in Cork. 

"I hope to make this an annual event and I plan on making it an even bigger occasion next year with hopefully more silverware on display.”