The Judge Family

The Judge family discuss the history of the Newtown Blues club in Drogheda, with which they have been associated for decades. The older members recall the start-stop nature of the club’s early years during a time that was very different to 2010 in terms of lifestyle, economics, technology, facilities and sporting equipment. Although the club was stabilised by the 1930s the country was soon under the shadow of World War II, which impacted on the club in different ways. The 1950s saw Louth claim an All-Ireland senior title and the Judges share their memories of that time. The club remained progressive and there was a hugely successful team during the 1960s. In later years they developed facilities as money became more plentiful and the population of the area expanded. Women began to play a bigger part as the club and wider society modernised. Soccer has traditionally been strong in Drogheda and urbanisation has meant that the GAA is not popular throughout the entire area, but the dedication of the Judges and other families like them should ensure the security of the Association in Drogheda for many years to come.