Eastern Region
Monday, April 15, 2013
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Eastern Region are back at the final tournament for the first time since making their debut in 2007, having earned plaudits for their fluid 4-2-3-1 formation in the preliminary rounds.
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Eastern Region earned plaudits for their fluid 4-2-3-1 formation in the preliminary rounds, qualifying from a group that included hosts San Marino, English representatives Jersey, and 2011's beaten finalists Leinster & Munster. Representing the eastern area of Northern Ireland, the squad features players from the second and third tiers of the Northern Irish league, and includes post office clerks, accountants and meat factory workers, while defender James Cully is a college lecturer. "I took the team to the finals in 2007 and it was an incredible experience in Bulgaria," said manager Harry McConkey as he looked ahead to the 2013 finals. "It's going to be a massive challenge, but it's a great achievement to be there."
Coach: Harry McConkey
A former midfielder. McConkey combines his Eastern Region post with a day job as a physical education co-ordinator at a special needs school in Enniskillen.