Jack follows his dad all the way to Croker
Linda Brown, manager at Elvery Sports, presents an Ireland jersey to Jack Cushe
THE SON of a famed Wexford hurler will follow in his father's footsteps this weekend, as he sets foot on the hallowed sods of Croke Park.
Jack Cushe (11) of Creagh will be watched proudly from the stands by his parents Ger and Margaret and sister Lorna, as he leads out the Ireland team alongside captain Robbie Keane for the crunch World Cup qualifier against France.
Ger Cushe, a member of the 1996 All Ireland winning Wexford hurling team, has attended or played in a fair few matches in Croke Park, and has even been to a few rugby matches, but this will be his first time to see a soccer match in the stadium.
Jack, a keen sportsman himself, was selected for the honour by the Ronald McDonald House at Crumlin Children's Hospital.
Jack was diagnosed with leukaemia in February last year, and underwent a strong course of treatment which finished in July last year. His parents stayed at the Ronald McDonald house while he was in Crumlin, and he was nominated for the honour by their friend Inez Darcy from Kilanerin who has also been a regular visitor to the facility.
Ger said this week that Jack, a fifth class pupil at Gorey CBS, is very much looking forward to his moment in the spotlight.
Jack, who played soccer with Gorey Rangers before his illness, is back playing sport, and like his father is a keen hurler. He also loves football, rugby and soccer. He will receive an Ireland kit as part of his visit to Croke Park. 'He might wear his Wexford jersey underneath it!' joked Ger.
- Fintan LAMBE
