DERRY CITY: McClean launches Mark Farren Memorial Cup

Republic of Ireland star James McClean launched the Mark Farren Memorial Cup at Brandywell in honour of the Derry City legend.
Republic of Ireland international James McClean and Stephen Kenny (Dundalk manager) launched the Mark Farren Memorial Cup. Also pictured Shaun Patton (Derry City), Pat Duffy (FAI National League Underage Co-ordinator) and Erin McClean. Picture Margaret McLaughlinRepublic of Ireland international James McClean and Stephen Kenny (Dundalk manager) launched the Mark Farren Memorial Cup. Also pictured Shaun Patton (Derry City), Pat Duffy (FAI National League Underage Co-ordinator) and Erin McClean. Picture Margaret McLaughlin
Republic of Ireland international James McClean and Stephen Kenny (Dundalk manager) launched the Mark Farren Memorial Cup. Also pictured Shaun Patton (Derry City), Pat Duffy (FAI National League Underage Co-ordinator) and Erin McClean. Picture Margaret McLaughlin

The Irish international was joined by Dundalk manager Stephen Kenny, Derry City goalkeeper Shaun Patton, FAI National League Underage Co-ordinator Pat Duffy and Erin McClean ahead of City’s recent game against Dundalk.

The SSE Airtricity League has named the U17 Mark Farren Memorial Cup in his honour in an effort to recognise his contribution to Irish football.

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Farren, who is the Candystripes’ all-time leading scorer, passed away at the age of 33 in February this year after a battle with cancer.

The Donegal-born striker had an illustrious career in the game with Derry City, Finn Harps, Glenavon and Monaghan United.

James McClean said: “I’m delighted to be able to help launch the Mark Farren Memorial Cup.

“Mark was a fantastic role model for me and so many others, not just at Derry City, but throughout the country and to name this competition after him is a great way to commemorate him.”

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Dundalk manager Stephen Kenny said: “It is a great initiative by the FAI to name the Under-17 trophy in honour of Mark Farren. Mark was an outstanding goal scorer and had a huge influence on everyone with his levels of dedication, his commitment to practice and his sheer humility.

“His courage will live long in the players he played with and every supporter who seen him play.”

Pat Duffy, FAI National League Underage Co-ordinator, said: “I’d like to thank James McClean for helping us launch the Mark Farren Memorial Cup.

“Mark Farren had a fantastic career in Irish football, particularly for Derry City, and young players around the country should aspire to his career and his professional approach to the game.

“This competition is not only a fitting way to commemorate Mark’s memory but also, another competition which young talent can flourish in.”