Saipan, the largest island in the Northern Mariana Islands, has never been a stranger to conflict.
It was the scene of a major battle between US and Japanese forces in 1944, an episode which shaped the island in the decades following. On these shores, however, the mere mention of "Saipan" rehashes a different battle entirely, one which still causes ructions some 21 years after the fact.
The events of May 2002 still rumble on, from public house debates to the corridors of power. When mentioning its major stakeholders, Roy Maurice Keane of Mayfield, Co. Cork and Michael 'Mick' Joseph McCarthy of Barnsley, South Yorkshire, the location of their dispute is never too far from utterance.
Alas, we're not here solely to open old wounds, but we do have something cool to show you all.
Balls Announce 'Visit Saipan' T-Shirt
Everybody, here is the brand new 'Visit Saipan' t-shirt from Balls.
A humorous look at the sheer ridiculousness of one of the nation's maddest episodes. With front and back prints which detail all the reasons why any discerning Irish sports fan should take a trek out to the Northern Mariana Islands, the 'Visit Saipan' tee is a must-have.
The 'Visit Saipan' tee will create discussions amongst chums, debate amongst enemies and holiday plans for those who want to relive history.
The 'Visit Saipan' tee will be launched officially on Wednesday June 7th, but if you want to ensure that you get your hands on one (and get 10% off), sign up to an alert below so you don't miss out!
