The GAA President Jarlath Burns presented the Down senior footballers with their Tailteann Cup medals at a special dinner at the Canal Court Hotel on 23 October.

Having lost out in the decider last year, Down went one better to win a first senior football title in Croke Park since 1994 and secure a place in the All-Ireland Championship next season. A narrow defeat to the eventual All-Ireland champions Armagh resulted in participation in the Tailteann Cup for the third year in a row, but this time an unbeaten run brought success and the security of playing Division 2 football next year with chmpionship status secured.

The campaign started with easy victories over Limerick and London, and late goals overcame Offaly in a dead rubber at Breffni Park. The home advantage was crucial for the quarter final stage, as Down defeated Wicklow before edging out Sligo after extra time ina nail-biting semi final at headquarters.

Despite conceding goals in each half, and a nervy finish, Down completed the job with a final win over Laois by 0-14 to 2-6.

The presentation of medals also featured an address from the Uachtarán and the team captain Pierce Laverty.