Watch video: Borderline excitement at local school ahead of Sunday’s showdown

Creggs National School is one of several local schools which captures the fun of border rivalry every time Roscommon meets Galway in big championship games.

School principal Ger O’Dowd is certainly very familiar with that unique rivalry, having enjoyed a long and distinguished GAA career himself both on and off the field.

A former member of the Roscommon under-21 senior panel for two consecutive years, Ger’s connection to the game runs deep.

Speaking about his time managing the St. Brigid’s senior team brings a smile to his face. After a call from then club chairperson Peter McHugh, Ger took charge of the senior team and led them to county glory in 2005.

That long awaited county title proved a springboard for sustained success, with the Kiltoom-based club going on to claim 12 titles since.

For Ger, the GAA is about far more than silverware. “GAA is our life. I have a lot of friends I have made from it that I still have now,” he said.

His later role as a selector with the Roscommon senior team under manager Kevin McStay places him in an unusual position ahead of Sunday’s clash.

Despite his strong Roscommon ties, he admits he remains “a good Galway man” and will be content regardless of who comes out on top.

As for the pupils, the rivalry is just as lively among the next generation. While many pupils are firmly in the Rossies’ camp, a number of Galway supporters are holding out hope for a Tribesmen victory.

The younger fans on both sides of the divide have plenty to say on how Sunday's game will unfold - and if their enthusiasm is anything to go by, the atmosphere both on and off the field will be unforgettable.