A huge congratulations to Philly McMahon and his wife Sarah Lacey, who have welcomed their first child together!
Sharing the exciting news on Instagram, the GAA player wrote, “Welcome to the world Baby Leannain (Lennon) Mc Mahon. Thank you @sarahlaceybindi for bringing this special little man into the world you are amazing.
“Thank you to all the Staff in Rotunda hospital for your unconditional care to both my Wife and Leannain.”
What a gorgeous name.
Fellow Irish sports star Kelly Harrington commented on the post saying, “Congratulations I hope Sarah and baby Leannain are both doing good.”
Parenthood is the beginning of a new chapter for Philly after he announced his retirement from GAA in December 2021.
He announced his retirement in a statement that read, “From kicking my ball against the flats of Ballymun, to kicking the ball over the bar in Croke Park, it’s time to pass the Dublin jersey on. 14 years since my intercounty debut, I could never begin to imagine the journey that would unfold in front of me.
“It would not have been possible without the support of the Dublin County Board, the thankless work & support of the backroom teams. The incredible coaching from selectors, in particular Dec Darcy who has had such an influential impact on my career on & off the pitch. The managers Paul Caffrey, Pat Gilroy, Jim Gavin & Dessie Farrell, who all believed in me-thank you!
“To my teammates, the battles, the wins, the losses & special friendships that have been forged forever-thank you! It has been an incredible journey, one I will never forget. You gave me a purpose in life, to use sport as a platform to help others that are struggling in life, like my brother John did. You have helped me keep his name alive.
“I’m so lucky & proud to have been shaped by my community, Ballymun. Thank you to everyone within my community that has supported me during my Dublin football journey, I am forever grateful.
“My journey began in Ballymun Kickhams, encouraged by a passionate footballer, Paddy Christie. I am forever grateful for the energy you recognised in me as a young kid & how it could be used on the pitch. Without your support on & off the pitch, I would not have achieved what I have today.
“It has been an honour to represent my club, wearing the sky blue jersey, I hope I made you proud. To my late Dad Phil & Mam Val, thank you for every opportunity you gave me, it was all worth it. Thank you to my extended family, close friends & work colleagues from Bedo7 & Nutriquick for endless support on and off the pitch.
“To my wife Sarah, thank you for all the support you gave me throughout my career, I will be forever grateful for the sacrifices you have made.
“Lastly to the blue army, what I will miss the most, walking the pitch of Croke Park soaking in your energy, your infectious roars, passionate singing & the unforgettable vibrations of Croke Park!! Thank you! Yup the flats!!! Philly.”
A huge congratulations to Philly on a wonderful career and this new chapter!