The financial statements which treasurer Jim Mullery will present to delegates at next Monday evening's Meath GAA annual convention makes from pleasant reading.

The income & expenditure account shows a healthy €408,249 surplus which is an increase of €296,571 on the previous year's figure.

Commercial income was up significantly from €193,675 to €399,654 while the income from fundraising activities jumped from €77,483 to €329,093.

On the expenses side, €658,487 was spent on team expenses compared to €499,855 in 2016.

Investment in coaching and games development rose from €187,643 to €235,289.

Meanwhile, on the regulations front, there are a number of submissions that are seeking change to the structures of the adult football championships.

For instance, St Peter's, Dunboyne and St Brigid's have joined forces to propose the setting up of a new district championship for junior and intermediate club amalgamations.

It also wants to 'split championships into first team and reserve championships i.16 team senior and intermediate championship ii. 19 team junior championship (first team only) iii. New Reserve Championship'.

In his final report to convention as secretary, Francis Flynn writes: 'I have enjoyed my five years as secretary.

'I would like to think I was part of a management team that tried to improve affairs within the county. I was proud to be involved with the completion of the of the fine facilities in Dunganny.

'We are now at a point where plans for Páirc Tailteann are at an advanced stage and I know that it not beyond us all working together to finance this project. I quote Greek philosopher Heraclitus ''Big results require big ambitions''.

'Our finances are in a healthy state and fundraising income has greatly increased thanks to the number of people willing to become involved.

'On the field of play our Senior Footballers didn't manage to win any trophies but it was a pleasure to be involved closely with both management teams and no doubt the tide will turn.

'Our Junior Footballer and U17 footballers winning Leinster championships were highlights.

'Our Senior hurlers won promotion, our U21 and minor hurlers won All Ireland titles but the stand out moment was the winning of the Christy Ring Cup.

'That moment, standing on the Croke Park pitch watching the joy of the Meath supporters, players and management, as James Toher received the cup will stay with me forever'.

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