Northern Ireland

Fake Sam Maguire brought to Armagh schools, pubs and other event venues, county says

Substantial amounts of money charged for appearance of the sham All-Ireland trophy, according to Armagh GAA

Craigavon Area Hospital Armagh Team
Four-month-old Faé McKee, from Portadown, in the real Sam Maguire cup during the All-Ireland champions visit to the Craigavon Area Hospital in Portadown, Armagh. PICTURE: MAL MCCANN

Schools, pubs and other event venues handed over “substantial” amounts of money in return for the appearance of a fake Sam Maguire, according to Armagh GAA.

The county organisation has issued a warning to be aware of a “counterfeit Sam Maguire trophy being taken around a number of pubs, event venues and schools in exchange for substantial amounts of money”.

Armagh defeated Galway 1-11 to 0-13 in the All-Ireland Final in late July. Over August and early September, the real Sam Maguire has been brought to various venues, including clubs, schools and health facilities.

“Armagh GAA have been made aware of a counterfeit Sam Maguire trophy being taken around a number of pubs, event venues and schools in exchange for substantial amounts of money,” the country posted on Facebook.

“Armagh GAA have clearly established guidelines and methods for requesting the use/appearance of the Sam Maguire and will NEVER charge for this.”