DAN ROONEY WAS present in Pennsylvania yesterday for the U.S. launch of next year’s Croke Park Classic, which has a trophy named after the former U.S. ambassador to Ireland.
The 81 year-old served in the role of ambassador between 2009 and 2012 and he flew in from Pittsburgh for yesterday’s launch in State College, Pennsylvania.
The U.S. launch took place before last night’s meeting of Penn State and UCF (University of Central Florida), the two colleges who clash in Croke Park on August 30th 2014.
UCF, who included Cork-born Sean Galvin in their ranks as a kicker, won the game 34-31 against Penn State at Beaver Stadium.
Rooney had been previously involved with the GAA in attempts to bring an NFL game to Croke Park but after that fell through, the GAA switched their attentions to college football.
Rooney has been honoured by the fact that the teams will compete next year for the Dan Rooney trophy – a replica football made of bog yew and Pittsburgh steel.
Rooney expressed his delight that the game is set to take place in Croke Park next August.
YouTube: Fintan O’Toole
GAA Director-General Paraic Duffy was also present at yesterday’s press conference. While being quizzed by US media, he was asked to explain hurling and the amateur status of GAA players.
YouTube: Fintan O’Toole
