Best wishes to Paidi Fitzpatrick who was announced as senior team captain for 2017. Paidi as he is simply known to all supporters Garney side has been a regular on the Bridge senior team since making his debut against St. Josephs Doora Barefield in 2009. He has starred for Bridge and Clare teams at all levels growing up winning an U14 Clare Feile, U15 and 2 U21 medals while his senior haul includes 2 championship and 2 clare cup medals. Paidi has been one of the most consistent defenders for the club plying his trade normally at wing back but easily at home in any position from 2 to 7.

Growing up in the Bridge Fitz credits John Reddan and Seanie McMahon as his childhood heros - He did mention Niall Gilligan in the list but because he has graduated to marking Gilly at training he now sees the Rossroe man as a Super Hero!

Paidi's puts down his grá for the game to his parents PJ & Mags as well as his brother Stiofan who captained the Bridge to Junior A honours in 2016 after a long career with the club. Despite the rumors of a travel show on the horizon for Fitz (backPacking with Paidi) he has committed to staying on terra ferma up around FortWilliam for now - Rumors are that recently announced Vice Captain Noel Purcell has taken his passport ransom until the end of this season at least.

Team manager John O'Meara has also finalised his backroom team for 2017 consisting of Pat Keane, Brian Culbert, Sean Chaplin and Diarmuid Carr.  The rumors of young Niall Gilligan being spotted at training are also true - watch this space.

Best of luck to all involved for 2017 - The team will start competitive action on 1st April with a Clare Cup game at home to Cratloe.