Amalgamation of Renmore and Mervue proves a match made in heaven

The word ‘amalgamation’ in the GAA is often treated with disdain. The thought of two rival clubs joining forces can stir resentments within and open old wounds. There is a fear of losing a sense of identity. It is rarely seen as an opportunity to create something better, something stronger.

Yet, a club that has bucked that trend is St. James’. One of Galway’s youngest GAA clubs, it came into existence in March 1994 when Mervue and Renmore agreed to combine their forces at adult level. In the ensuing years, they integrated the minor and U21 grades before the juvenile grades were absorbed into the new structure in 2007.

At the time, there were those who supported the move and those who didn’t. Current St. James’ Chairman Jimmy Newell, who negotiated on behalf of Renmore GAA, notes having arguments for and against the amalgamation was just as important as having consensus across the board. “You actually needed it,” says Newell.

“In fairness, I am very thankful to all those who contributed at that time, even those who gave us food for thought. Thankfully, in the end, they all got behind it and I think that is one of the measures of its success. But you needed all those perimeters in the mix.

“Those fellows who go along and say we will amalgamate two clubs – without thinking about it – and get everyone in agreement always seem to fail, in my opinion. You are better off having a little tug of war. It brings out the best in you.”

In many respects, Newell and Mervue GAA’s chief negotiator Martin Crowley would have expected resistance from some quarters. For one, when the idea was mooted at the respective club meetings to negotiate – and put a package together – the decision to do so was only passed in each by “a slim majority”.

For more, read this week’s Connacht Tribune.

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