SLIGO WILL BE keeping it in the family this summer when an uncle and nephew will line out as they bid for their first Connacht title since 2007.
Mark Breheny (34) is the longest serving player in the squad, heading into his 15th championship campaign.
But joining him in their quest for glory is his nephew Cian, who made his debut for Sligo during the league and is expected to make his championship bow when they meet either Roscommon or London on June 20.
The 19-year old midfielder is a son of former manager Tommy who was in charge when Sligo captured their third Connacht title in 2007.
Mark played very little football with his brother Tommy, who is 14 years older than him, so he is enjoying lining out with the St Mary’s club and now Sligo with his nephew.
“I suppose an uncle-nephew combination on a county team is not something you would hear of that often.
“Cian is a fine footballer. He came up through the ranks, played minor and U-21 for Sligo, and now has a good few league games under his belt.
“It’s something special for the family and hopefully we can have a good summer,” said Mark Breheny.
It’s a situation that is replicated in the Waterford hurling squad with Shane O’Sullivan an uncle of Deise duo Philip and Pauric Mahony.