With Halloween still fresh in everybodys mind, Aughavas dreams of Connacht glory turned into a nightmare in Salthill on Sunday last as they were comprehensively beaten by An Spidéal in the AIB Connacht Club Junior Championship semi-final.
AIB CONNACHT CLUB JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIP SEMI-FINAL
AUGHAVAS 0-7
AN SPIDEAL 0-12
Having been thoroughly outplayed by An Spideal, Aughavas Manager Kenneth Smith inisisted his team are better than the scoreline suggests and simply did not do themselves justice on the day.
WIth Aughavas second to practically every ball for three quarters of the game coupled with the fact that An Spidéal were playing like a team who would be far more suited to a higher grade, it was looking ominous for the Leitrim junior champions from early on.
An Spidéal signalled their intent straight from the throw-in, but the man who went on to deservedly be crowned man of the match, Breandan Og O Callarain was off target with his effort inside 15 seconds.
Aughavas struggled to get out of their own half in the opening minutes but when they did they made it count with Peter McBrien and Aidan Maguire releasing Colm Maguire whose powerful run ultimately resulted in David Charles Scóring the games opening point.
Having had virtually all the possesion it was no surprise when An Spidéal drew level through Toms O Conghaile although it was slightly controversial as referee Ollie Kelly had appeared to blow for a free for the Galway side before then allowing the point to stand.
An Spidéal took the lead for the first time in the tie when Breandan Og O Callarain converted an eight minute free and Einne O Domhnaill then further extended the lead when he held off the attention of two would be challengers to score a fine point in style.
Although they were creating little as an attacking force Aughavas were making the most of their chances and Colm Maguire who had been so influential in the county final against Eslin reduced the deficit to solitary point with a good score.
With eleven minutes of play gone, Aughavas would have been happy with the fact that they were only trailing by a point but that was the only encouraging aspect for Kenneth Smith and his management team as An Spidéal were dominant in all areas of the pitch and were first to practically every ball.
An Spidéal re-established their two point lead when Breandan Og O Callarain converted another free before Ciaran O Droighneain further extended that lead and the feeling was that Aughavas were beginning to look in real danger.
Unfortunately that proved to be the case for the Leitrim men as An Spidéal struck for two goals in the space of seven minutes to open up a nine point and although there was still a long way to go in the game, it effectively ended the game as a contest.
The first goal was brilliantly worked with Ciaran O Droighneain picking out full-forward Tomas O Fatharta who in turn released Aodan O Curraoin. O Curraoins powerful shot flew low and hard across Philip Charles goal and into the bottom corner of the net.
The second goal was every bit as good with Ciaran O Droighneains moment of quick thinking, as he played a volleball style pass over his head, leaving the Aughavas defence flat footed. Breandan Og O Callarain was on hand to take full advantage of the perfectly placed pass and shot beyond Charles for his sides second goal.
With the Aughavas game plan evidently not working subsitutions were called for earlier than would otherwise have been anticipated and one of those subsitutions, Padraig McLoughlin made his presence felt within two minutes of his introduction as he registered Aughavas third point.
The Scóring for the opening half was completed by Breandan Og O Callarain who despite playing junior football could well force himself into the reckoning for the Galway senior side next year if last Sundays performance is anything to go by.
if Aughavas were to have any hope of getting back into the game, they needed an early goal at the beginning of the second half as they trailed by 2-7 to 0-3. However, it was An Spidéal who almost did just that but Ciaran O Droighneains goal was disallowed for square ball.
Despite that let-off, Aughavas were still struggling to impose themselves on the game and fell further behind as Breandan Og O Callarain converted another free.
That lead grew further when Tomas O Fatharta outpaced Adrian Charles on the outside before delivering a composed finish between the uprights to leave 12 points between the sides.
Another Breandan Og O Callarain point heaped further misery on the Aughavas players, management and supporters, but if there is one positive they can take from last Sundays performance it is that the players did not throw in the towel.
WIth the game all but over as a contest, Aughavas enjoyed their best period of the game. David Charles was only denied a goal by a fine save from Padriag O Maolallaigh, while four further Aughavas attacks yielded only four wides.
With nine minutes of the game remaining, Aughavas registered their first score of the half as Kevin Keegan converted a free after David Charles was fouled. Two minutes later the same player was fouled again and this time Colm Magurie pointed with Aughavas looking like they were determined to finish the game on a high.
Padraig McLoughlin struck for his second point of the game and from an Aughavas point of view it was one of the few moments in the game to get particularly excited. Colin McKiernan and Colm Maguire combined well before releasing McLoughlin who showed that class is permanent by striking with the outside of his boot right between the posts.
Kieran Moran added a further point for Aughavas and the feeling was that if they could find a goal before the end of the game, they would at least have succeeded in putting some respectability on the scoreboard.
Unfortunately for Aughavas, An Spidéal had other ideas as it was they who finished the stronger with two unanswered points from man of the match Breandan Og O Callarain, one of which was from a free.
The final scoreline doesnt make for nice reading for anyone from Aughavas or indeed for anyone with an interest in Leitrim football but it is worth echoing the sentiments of Kenneth Smith who stated that while the better side won, Aughavas didnt play to their potential and that is probably what will hurt them the most.
Aughavas
Philip Charles, Niall Maguire, Adrian Charles, Eoin Brennan, Derek Maguire, Trevor Farrelly, Niall Gallogly, Aidan Maguire (0-1), Kieran Moran, David Charles (0-1), Fintan McBrien, Peter McBrien, Kevin Keegan (0-1), Colm Maguire (0-2), Conor Bohan. Subs: Dan OBrien for P McBrien, Padraig McLoughlin (0-2) for F. McBrien (28 mins), Eamonn Heslin for Bohan (39 mins), Colin McKiernan for Keegan (53 mins),
An Spidéal
Padraig O Maolallaigh, Diarmuid O Droighneain, Aodan Breathnach, Liam O Conghaile, Maghnus Breathnach, Dara Mac an Riogh, Einne O Domhnaill (0-1), Lorcan O Callarain, Micheal O Callarain, Donal O Maolallaigh, Aodan O Curraoin (1-0), Tomas O Conghaile (0-1), Breandan Og O Callarain (1-8), Tomas O Fatharta (0-1), Ciaran O Droighneain (0-1). Subs: Donal De Barra for C. O Droighneain (35 mins), Mairtin O Droighneain for T. O Conghaile (44 mins), Fearghus Tuathail for A. Breathnach (54 mins), Fiachra O Dubhghaill for L. O Callarain (56 mins), Eoin O Droighneain for M. Breathnach (60 mins).
Referee: Ollie Kelly (Roscommon)
05-Nov-09 by Philip Rooney – LeitrimObserver.ie
GAELIC ARMOUR ANNOUNCES LANDMARK PARTNERSHIP WITH LEITRIM GAA20th November 2024 - 9:16 pm
AIB Connacht Club Junior Championship semi – Aughavas
Club FootballWith Halloween still fresh in everybodys mind, Aughavas dreams of Connacht glory turned into a nightmare in Salthill on Sunday last as they were comprehensively beaten by An Spidéal in the AIB Connacht Club Junior Championship semi-final.
AIB CONNACHT CLUB JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIP SEMI-FINAL
AUGHAVAS 0-7
AN SPIDEAL 0-12
Having been thoroughly outplayed by An Spideal, Aughavas Manager Kenneth Smith inisisted his team are better than the scoreline suggests and simply did not do themselves justice on the day.
WIth Aughavas second to practically every ball for three quarters of the game coupled with the fact that An Spidéal were playing like a team who would be far more suited to a higher grade, it was looking ominous for the Leitrim junior champions from early on.
An Spidéal signalled their intent straight from the throw-in, but the man who went on to deservedly be crowned man of the match, Breandan Og O Callarain was off target with his effort inside 15 seconds.
Aughavas struggled to get out of their own half in the opening minutes but when they did they made it count with Peter McBrien and Aidan Maguire releasing Colm Maguire whose powerful run ultimately resulted in David Charles Scóring the games opening point.
Having had virtually all the possesion it was no surprise when An Spidéal drew level through Toms O Conghaile although it was slightly controversial as referee Ollie Kelly had appeared to blow for a free for the Galway side before then allowing the point to stand.
An Spidéal took the lead for the first time in the tie when Breandan Og O Callarain converted an eight minute free and Einne O Domhnaill then further extended the lead when he held off the attention of two would be challengers to score a fine point in style.
Although they were creating little as an attacking force Aughavas were making the most of their chances and Colm Maguire who had been so influential in the county final against Eslin reduced the deficit to solitary point with a good score.
With eleven minutes of play gone, Aughavas would have been happy with the fact that they were only trailing by a point but that was the only encouraging aspect for Kenneth Smith and his management team as An Spidéal were dominant in all areas of the pitch and were first to practically every ball.
An Spidéal re-established their two point lead when Breandan Og O Callarain converted another free before Ciaran O Droighneain further extended that lead and the feeling was that Aughavas were beginning to look in real danger.
Unfortunately that proved to be the case for the Leitrim men as An Spidéal struck for two goals in the space of seven minutes to open up a nine point and although there was still a long way to go in the game, it effectively ended the game as a contest.
The first goal was brilliantly worked with Ciaran O Droighneain picking out full-forward Tomas O Fatharta who in turn released Aodan O Curraoin. O Curraoins powerful shot flew low and hard across Philip Charles goal and into the bottom corner of the net.
The second goal was every bit as good with Ciaran O Droighneains moment of quick thinking, as he played a volleball style pass over his head, leaving the Aughavas defence flat footed. Breandan Og O Callarain was on hand to take full advantage of the perfectly placed pass and shot beyond Charles for his sides second goal.
With the Aughavas game plan evidently not working subsitutions were called for earlier than would otherwise have been anticipated and one of those subsitutions, Padraig McLoughlin made his presence felt within two minutes of his introduction as he registered Aughavas third point.
The Scóring for the opening half was completed by Breandan Og O Callarain who despite playing junior football could well force himself into the reckoning for the Galway senior side next year if last Sundays performance is anything to go by.
if Aughavas were to have any hope of getting back into the game, they needed an early goal at the beginning of the second half as they trailed by 2-7 to 0-3. However, it was An Spidéal who almost did just that but Ciaran O Droighneains goal was disallowed for square ball.
Despite that let-off, Aughavas were still struggling to impose themselves on the game and fell further behind as Breandan Og O Callarain converted another free.
That lead grew further when Tomas O Fatharta outpaced Adrian Charles on the outside before delivering a composed finish between the uprights to leave 12 points between the sides.
Another Breandan Og O Callarain point heaped further misery on the Aughavas players, management and supporters, but if there is one positive they can take from last Sundays performance it is that the players did not throw in the towel.
WIth the game all but over as a contest, Aughavas enjoyed their best period of the game. David Charles was only denied a goal by a fine save from Padriag O Maolallaigh, while four further Aughavas attacks yielded only four wides.
With nine minutes of the game remaining, Aughavas registered their first score of the half as Kevin Keegan converted a free after David Charles was fouled. Two minutes later the same player was fouled again and this time Colm Magurie pointed with Aughavas looking like they were determined to finish the game on a high.
Padraig McLoughlin struck for his second point of the game and from an Aughavas point of view it was one of the few moments in the game to get particularly excited. Colin McKiernan and Colm Maguire combined well before releasing McLoughlin who showed that class is permanent by striking with the outside of his boot right between the posts.
Kieran Moran added a further point for Aughavas and the feeling was that if they could find a goal before the end of the game, they would at least have succeeded in putting some respectability on the scoreboard.
Unfortunately for Aughavas, An Spidéal had other ideas as it was they who finished the stronger with two unanswered points from man of the match Breandan Og O Callarain, one of which was from a free.
The final scoreline doesnt make for nice reading for anyone from Aughavas or indeed for anyone with an interest in Leitrim football but it is worth echoing the sentiments of Kenneth Smith who stated that while the better side won, Aughavas didnt play to their potential and that is probably what will hurt them the most.
Aughavas
Philip Charles, Niall Maguire, Adrian Charles, Eoin Brennan, Derek Maguire, Trevor Farrelly, Niall Gallogly, Aidan Maguire (0-1), Kieran Moran, David Charles (0-1), Fintan McBrien, Peter McBrien, Kevin Keegan (0-1), Colm Maguire (0-2), Conor Bohan. Subs: Dan OBrien for P McBrien, Padraig McLoughlin (0-2) for F. McBrien (28 mins), Eamonn Heslin for Bohan (39 mins), Colin McKiernan for Keegan (53 mins),
An Spidéal
Padraig O Maolallaigh, Diarmuid O Droighneain, Aodan Breathnach, Liam O Conghaile, Maghnus Breathnach, Dara Mac an Riogh, Einne O Domhnaill (0-1), Lorcan O Callarain, Micheal O Callarain, Donal O Maolallaigh, Aodan O Curraoin (1-0), Tomas O Conghaile (0-1), Breandan Og O Callarain (1-8), Tomas O Fatharta (0-1), Ciaran O Droighneain (0-1). Subs: Donal De Barra for C. O Droighneain (35 mins), Mairtin O Droighneain for T. O Conghaile (44 mins), Fearghus Tuathail for A. Breathnach (54 mins), Fiachra O Dubhghaill for L. O Callarain (56 mins), Eoin O Droighneain for M. Breathnach (60 mins).
Referee: Ollie Kelly (Roscommon)
05-Nov-09 by Philip Rooney – LeitrimObserver.ie
125 Years of the GAA Commemorated with Launch of15 Silver Proof Coin
GeneralThe Central Bank on Tuesday launched a limited edition €15 silver proof collector coin marking the 125th anniversary of the founding of the GAA. The coin features the Association crest and a depiction of a hurler in intricate detail.
Only 10,000 of these coins will be issued. Each individual coin is accompanied by a numbered Certificate of Authenticity specifying the quality of the coins and limited issue.
The €15 Silver Proof Coin will be on sale to the public from November4th, at a cost of €36 per coin. The coin can be purchased from the Central Bank (1890 307 607) and also from the GAA Museum (01 8192323). An official order form is available from the Central Bank by phoning 1890 307 607 or from the website, www.centralbank.ie. The set may also be purchased directly from the Central Banks premises in Dame Street and from selected GAA outlets nationwide.
Uachtarán Chumann Lúthchleas Gael Críostóir Ó Cuana received the first coin and said he believed the special issue would be a big hit with members of the Association.
He said: "The box set produced to mark our 125th Anniversary was very well received and I have no doubt that this specially minted coin will be prove to be every bit as popular.
"Its release marks the end of our 125 celebrations and provides members with an excellent collectors item for future generations to look back on.
"It portrays our ancient game of hurling and encapsulates the importance of the year 2009 in the history of the Association and I thank everyone who was involved with the project."
03-Nov-09 by GAA.ie
The GAA – A Peoples History – available to buy online
GeneralIreland without the GAA is unimaginable. As the Association celebrates its 125th anniversary, The GAA: A Peoples History tells the story of how it has carved for itself a unique place at the heart of Irish life. Commissioned by the GAA, this is a peoples history. It outlines how Gaelic games and the social world which revolves around the Association, has shaped the lives of generations of Irish people at home and abroad. From parades and ballads to epic journeys across land and sea, this history of the GAA is as much about what happened off the field as what happened on it.
Buy "The GAA: A Peoples History" Online Today!
View a selection of images from the Book
The GAA – A Peoples History by Mike Cronin, Mark Duncan and Paul Rouse is published by The Collins Press, price €29.99. It is available in all good bookshops and online from www.collinspress.ie
03-Nov-09 by GAA.ie
Daunting Galway task for Leitrim neighbours Aughavas & Cloone
Club FootballNeighbours Aughavas and Cloone will put aside their rivalry for an afternoon next Sunday and will be cheering each other on in Pearse Stadium in Salthill when they travel to Galway for their debuts in the AIB Connacht Intermediate and Junior Championship Semi-Finals.
Cloone take on an impressive Leitir Mor in the Intermediate competition at 2.30 next Sunday while Aughavas open the proceedings when they face An Spideal in the Junior Championship at 1.00.
Both Leitrim teams are just one game away from emulating their neighbours Carrigallen in reaching a Provincial Club Final but both sides will not under-estimate the size of the task against them in Pearse Stadium.
One unusual factor that the two Leitrim teams will have to overcome is the lack of games they have had since they won their titles at the end of September. Due to the early finish of Division 2, both teams have been without competitive League action since they both won their finals in dramatic circumstances.
No doubt, both clubs have been training hard and playing challenge games but there is nothing like the real thing and the lack of hard games will be a concern to Cloone Manager Gerry Flanagan and his Aughavas counter-part Kenneth Smith next Sunday.
However, both are preparing quite diligently for Sundays semi-finals and with the right amount of time to have enjoyed and then recovered from their celebrations, Cloone and Aughavas will be raring to go.
Another factor that both teams will have to consider is the strong sea-breeze that will come roaring down the centre of Pearse Stadium, often turning games into something approaching contests of back & forwards.
Both teams should be prepared to be under the cosh if they are facing a strong wind and realise that they must play intelligent football against the wind but more importantly when they have it at their backs.
There is a tendency in a lot of teams to think that the wind will do all the work for them and both Cloone and Aughavas must realise that the wind wont put the ball over the bar for them!
However, nobody in either camp will be under-estimating the size of the task facing Cloone and Aughavas.
Leitir Mor upset the odds, much as Cloone did against Aughawillan, by beating the fancied St. James in the Galway Final at the end of September, winning a low Scóring match 0-9 to 0-7. They led 0-7 to 0-2 at the break but were pegged back before they staged a late rally to take the victory.
St. James boast current Galway star Paul Conroy in their ranks but Leitir Mor also boast some quality players inÓgalway Senior players Fiachra and Ferdia Breathnach and given the strength of Galway clubs in the Intermediate competition, it is a tough ask.
Leitir Mor suffered just one loss in the Intermediate Championship, losing 2-8 to 0-8 to Menlough but went on to beat Caherlistrane before gaining quite a good deal of revenge on Menlough by beating them 3-10 to 0-7.
They disposed of Oranmore-Maree in the Semi-Finals before pipping Oughterard 1-12 to 1-11 in the Semi-Final.
No more than Leitir Mor, An Spideal have also had a tough passage through the Galway Junior Championship, which is divided into two sections – North and West.
Playing in the West Division, An Spideal defeated Renvyle 3-14 to 2-8 in the first round before overcoming Fr Griffin’s Eire Og in the Quarter-Final by 1-13 to 0-8. In the Semi-Finals, they saw off Salthill Knocknacarra before pipping the Aran Islands in the West Final, 1-10 to 0-12.
That qualified them to meet Headford in the County Final proper and the Gaeltacht side overcame their opponents with two points to spare, 0-13 to 1-8.
The fact that both Galway sides are Gaeltacht based will add greatly to their support and anyone under-estimating the strength of the Galway Junior champions would do well to remember the beating Clifden handed out to Eslin two years ago in Tuam.
Aughnasheelin also suffered at the hands of St. Michael’s last year but Carrigallen’s exploits in 2006 should serve as an ideal boost to their neighbours as they became the first Leitrim club team to beat Galway opposition in a Provincial Club Championship game.
On the other side of the draws, Sligo’s Geevagh take on Westport in the Intermediate competition while Roscommon’s Ballinameen face Kiltimagh in the Junior competition.
Victory on Sunday for either Leitrim team would mean a short turn-around for the winners with both the Intermediate and Junior Finals fixed for the following Sunday, November 8.
Again the big question is what sort of shape, both mentally and physically, the two Leitrim teams will be in ahead of next Sunday’s double clash.
Cloone will be looking to replicate their high intensity and non-stop work of the County Final next Sunday and Damien O’Donnell is sure to be a key player for the Leitrim champions.
If O’Donnell, who is sure to be well marked by Leitir Mor, can make any headway, he could do some serious damage as the dry and hard pitch of Pearse Stadium is sure to suit his pace and roaming style.
In defence, Cloone will be anxious to recapture that defiant spirit that they showed so well against Aughawillan.
Aughavas will also be relying on the prolific Colm Maguire for their scores next Sunday but the supply of ball into them is just as important an issue. When Eslin cut off the supply lines in the County Final, Maguire was left isolated and he will need a better support.
Although most would believe that Aughavas have the slighter easier task, nobody in the club will underestimate An Spideal, particularly after their struggles against Eslin and how close they came to victory.
31-Oct-09 by John Connolly – LeitrimObserver.ie
Information regarding the weekends GAA programming on TG4
GeneralSATURDAY 31 OCTOBER
5:00pm GAA Beo – Albain v Éire
Coverage of todays Senior Shinty/Hurling International between Ireland and Scotland from Bught Park, Inverness. The Shinty-Hurling International is a hybrid game which was developed to facilitate international representative matches between shinty players from Scotland and hurlers from Ireland. Ireland will be hoping to avenge last years defeat in Nowlan Park, Kilkenny when they lost narrowly on a scoreline of 1-10 to 1-09. Gearóid Mac Donncha will provide the commentary of this match.
SUNDAY 1st NOVEMBER (GAA 125 on TG4 – SPECIAL GAA SCHEDULE TO BE BROADCAST ON TG4)
TG4 GAA SCHEDULE
12:15pm Sam Maguire Documentary
1:00pm Top 50 GAA Peil – 50 Best Gaelic Football Goals
2:00pm GAA BEO – Thurles Sarsfields (Tipperary) v Newtownshandrum (Cork) – Live from Semple Stadium, AIB Munster Club Hurling Quarter-Final
4:10pm Top 50 GAA Iomaint – 50 Best Hurling Goals
5:15pm Micheál OHehir Documentary
6:15pm Laochra Gael: Cormac McAnallen
7:20pm Laoch GAA 125 – A look at the top 3 Hurlers & Footballers from the last 25 years.
7:30pm GAA @ 125 Bliain History of GAA Programme 1 – Like a Prairie Fire
8:00pm GAA @ 125 Bliain History of GAA Programme 2 – Conflict and Consolidation
9:30pm Cogar : John 3:7 Documentary
10:00pm Geantraí : GAA 125
11:30pm Ringy
Another first for TG4 – a full day and night of Gaelic Games themed programming as the channel celebrates the 125th GAA Birthday in style
As the countrys biggest sporting organisation prepares to mark the 125th Anniversary of its foundation on 1 November TG4 has unveiled a special GAA programme schedule to mark the occasion. The station has dedicated most of its schedule on that day to Gaelic Games with viewers getting the opportunity to see live GAA action as well as a mouth-watering wide range of GAA-themed content in other programme types including documentaries, profiles and music.
The main live match coverage on this special day will be from Semple Stadium, Thurles for the AIB Munster Club Hurling Quarter-Final with Thurles Sarsfields from Tipperary taking on Cork champions Newtownshandrum in what will undoubtedly be an exciting encounter. There will be special events happening at Thurles during the day to mark the 125th Anniversary of the GAA and TG4 presenter Micheál Ó Domhnaill will have all the latest news from there.
The live match coverage will be complimented by a wide range of specially commissioned/selected programmes with a GAA theme including: Sam Maguire documentary, Micheál OHehir, Top 50 GAA Football Goals, Top 50 GAA Hurling Goals, Ringy, the Cormac McAnallen tribute programme, the first showing of the new John 3:7 documentary and a specially commissioned edition of the traditional music series Geantraí with songs and tunes with a GAA ring to them.
The Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) was founded on November 1st 1884, by a group of spirited Irishmen who had the foresight to realise the importance of establishing a national organisation to revive and nurture traditional, indigenous pastimes. Various winners will also be announced on the day such as the best footballer and hurler of the last 25 years as selected by viewers and GAA fans over the past few weeks. The players selected will be honoured during the live coverage from Semple Stadium, Thurles on 1st November. The public and viewers who selected the players will have the opportunity to win 2 Premium Tickets for three years.
31-Oct-09 by TG4.ie
The West Talks Football – a great night guaranteed in Carrick
MeetingsThe second big event by Leitrim GAA is entitled "The West Talks Football" which will be a night of entertainment and lively debate on the topic by many well known personalities associated with the GAA in this region.
At this early stage Leitrim GAA can confirm that Peter Canavan (All Ireland winning captain and All Star with Tyrone), Kevin ONeill (All Star and Mayo stalwart), Mickey Moran (Leitrim Manager), John Lynch (Head of Sport, Shannonside FM) and John Tobin (Connacht Council Games Manager) will be in attendance and MC on the night will be GAA master coach John Morrison, more names are to be confirmed over the weeks ahead.
The date is Saturday, January 9th and the location is the Bush Hotel, Carrick. Additional information will be announced closer to the date and will be made available at the table quizzes and on this website.
27-Oct-09 by Brendan Doyle – PRO
Scór na mBunscoileanna
ScórLess than two weeks to Scór na mBunscoileanna and indications are that we will have great participation. This year we will have three nights with the top item in each event getting medals and all participants will get certificates in recognition of their participation in a night of Irish cultural entertainment.
On Thursday week, 5 November, St Marys Hall, Carrick on Shannon is the venue and on Friday 6 November, Ballinamore is the venue. Schools will be informed on Monday next, when they return after their mid-term break as to which venue they will be attending. Both evenings start at 6.00pm with Trath na gCeist first item on the agenda. The north Leitrim schools will be taking part on Thursday 12 November in Manorhamilton, with starting time at 7.00.
Scór na nÓg
Clubs are now getting organised for Scór na nÓg which is now just six weeks away. Details have been forwarded to Oifigigh Cultúir in the clubs and we hope to have two good nights of Scór na nÓg activity on 5 and 6 December. Please note that the venues for Scór na nÓg on those two dates have been swapped. Ballinamore is now the venue on Saturday 5 December and Carrick on Sunday the 6th December.
27-Oct-09 by Sean o Suiilleabhan
A bit of Craic with the All County Quiz
MeetingsLeitrim GAA are on tour for the winter and are presenting an All County Quiz which is coming your way this November. You are invited to attend any of the 4 quarterfinals being held throughout the month for a great nights socialising and craic in conjunction with the county players, management team and the supporters club.
How good are you at sports quizzes ? Is general knowledge your best shot ? What about pictures – is your recall up to the challenge ? Maybe youre into music – then the music round will suit you !
Get ready for the tour which is scheduled for three of the Fridays in November in Leitrim with the 4th quarterfinal held in Dublin on Wednesday Nov 25th for the benefit of our many supporters in the capital. All of this leads to the Grand Final on December 4th where the top 4 teams in each quarterfinal pit their wits for the grand prizes totaling €1,000.
The fun starts in Smythss Ballinamore on November 6th, its then to Gurns in Manorhamilton on November 13th, followed by Paddys in Carrick on November 20th . Its up to Dublin to the Leixlip GAA centre on Wednesday November 25th and the big prizes night is in Coxs of Dromod on December 4th.
Cost of entry to the quiz is €40 per team with a max. of 4 members. Get your club flag out and bring along a team to your local venue for a great way to pass a night in bleak November.
We will also be announcing a unique major one night event in the coming days and you can pencil in January 9th in your diary in anticipation of this announcement.
25-Oct-09 by Brendan Doyle – PRO
Coaching News
CoachingFootball Section –
Under 14 School of excellence
Our under 14 school of excellence has now finished and we would like to thank all players and parents for their co-operation and support over the season. We would also like to thank Mark Heslin for the excellent job he done as coach to the squad. Well done to all and we look forward to seeing you all in 2010.
Under 15 School of excellence
No details on when the next session will take place but it will be during the next week. Players are asked to please check the website for details or contact Cormac Flynn 087 6787716
Code of ethics course
As part of the new GAA foundation award course, a code of ethics course for working with children must be completed by all coaches before they can be awarded their certificate.
To facilitate all coaches who completed the new GAA foundation award course in Ballinamore, Drumkeerin and Ck – on – Shannon, during the year, Leitrim GAA in conjunction with Leitrim sports partnership have organised a code of ethics course on Wednesday evening November 4th in the County council offices commencing at 6.30pm.
We are asking the coaches concerned to please confirm your attendance by contacting Thomas Keenan on 087 6591049 or thomas.keenanÓgda.leitrim@gaa.ie
Please note places are limited per course so further courses will be organised as required.
Congrats
The coaching & games development committee would like to extend our congratulations to committee member Declan Conboy and his wife Anna on the birth of their baby boy Thomas David. A future Bornacoola and Leitrim footballer no doubt, note Leitrim Declan.
25-Oct-09 by Thomas Keenan
County Forum – Leitrim Strategic Plan for 2009 to 2015
MeetingsLeitrim GAA wish to remind all clubs of the County Forum in the conference centre of the Bush Hotel on Wednesday night next commencing with registration at 7.30pm sharp. This important forum is a vital tool inÓgetting the clubs valued input on the Leitrim County Strategic Plan for 2009 to 2015.
We are delighted to announce that the Uachtaran Cumann Luthchleas Gael Criostoir O Cuana will be in attendance for the duration of the Forum.
Clubs are reminded that they must be represented by the full quota of 6 Members each and we trust that all clubs have the desired quota of members in attendance.
There is no pre-forum preparation to be entered into by clubs and the nights proceedings will be self containing and facilitated by National Strategic Plan Co – Ordinator Peter Hannon.
The nights work commences at 7:30pm and will be concluded by 10pm when valuable information will have beenÓgathered for final input into the Leitrim County Strategic Plan 2009-2015.
25-Oct-09 by Brendan Doyle – PRO
Munster 1-13 Connacht 1-10
County FootballBrief report from Connacht game last night in Limerick where John McKeon, James Glancy (GM) and Declan Maxwell were Leitrims representation on the panel.
A superbly takenÓgoal by Limericks Pa Ranahan, a minute before half-time, was crucial as Munster beat Connacht in atrocious conditions before an attendance of 350 at the Gaelic Grounds tonight.
Donnacha OConnor had a fine outing for Munster and scored six points – one free and one sideline – as he steered his province to a deserved M Donnelly Interprovincial SFC semi-final win.
Munster made a bright start and had three points from Paddy Kelly, OConnor and Colm ONeill inside the opening five minutes and Paul Kerrigan was inches wide with a goal attempt.
Mark Breheny notched Connachts opening point and after six minutes, and just moments later Paul Conroy struck a powerful shot which beat goalkeeper Paul Fitzgerald but came back off the butt of the post.
Then Joe Bergin was fouled as he bore down onÓgoal and referee Cormac Reilly awarded a penalty from which David Kelly scored – the Sligo attacker followed up after Fitzgerald had saved his initial effort.
Kelly tagged on a point and OConnor had two more Munster points followed by another brace from Waterford dual player Gary Hurney.
David Kelly pulled a point back for Connacht but two more by OConnor had Munster three in front.
Just on half-time, a splendid Munster move involving four players ended with Ranahan blasting past David Clarke to leave it 1-9 to 1-3 in favour of Munster at the interval.
Peadar Gardiner had the first point for Connacht on the resumption but a pointed free from ONeill and a Liam OLionnain effort from had Munster seven points clear and they had a relatively untroubled path through to the final.
scorers – Munster: D OConnor 0-6 (0-1f, 0-1sl), C ONeill 0-3 (0-1f), P Ranahan 1-0, G Hurney 0-2, L OLionnain, P Kelly 0-1 each
Connacht: D Kelly 1-4 (0-3f), M Clancy 0-3, M Breheny, J Glancy, D Meehan 0-1 each
MUNSTER: P Fitzgerald (Tipperary); T OGorman (Waterford), J McCarthy (Limerick), P Reidy (Kerry); M OGorman (Waterford), M Shields (Cork), P Ranahan (Limerick); A OConnor (Cork), R Costigan (Tipperary); P Kelly (Cork), D OConnor (Cork), P Kerrigan (Cork); G Hurney (Waterford), C ONeill (Cork), L OLionnain (Waterford).
Subs used: A Walsh (Cork) for Kerrigan (52 mins).
CONNACHT: D Clarke (Mayo); C Harrison (Sligo), N McGuire (Sligo), J McKeon (Leitrim); P Gardiner (Mayo), D Blake (Galway), G Bradshaw (Galway); J Bergin (Galway), N Coleman (Galway); M Breheny (Sligo), B Moran (Mayo), P Conroy (Galway); S Kilbride (Roscommon), A OShea (Mayo), D Kelly (Sligo).
Subs used: J Glancy (Leitrim) for Kilbride (35 mins), M Clancy (Galway) for Breheny (40), D Meehan (Galway) for Bradshaw (47), S Davey (Sligo) for Conroy (57).
Referee, C Reilly (Meath)
25-Oct-09 by BreakingNews.ie
St Marys host Seanie Walsh Hurling Shield
Club HurlingSt. Marys hurling club are hosting a hurling tournament to honour one of its former players, Seanie Walsh. Seanie is 26 years old and is a native of Dungarvan, Co. Waterford. He lived in Carrick-on-Shannon in 2006 and 2007 and worked as a biomedical engineer with VistaMed Ltd.. During his time in Leitrim Seanie played hurling and football with the St. Marys club and won a county senior hurling championship medal in 2006 lining out at left corner back against Glencar Manor. Seanie also played senior inter county hurling with Leitrim and played in both national league and Nicky Rackard competitions. He was a very dedicated player during his time in Leitrim and his versatility meant he played in most defensive positions as well as centre field. He was always committed to playing with St Marys and Leitrim and he gave total effort in every game he played. He also helped out in the coaching of the clubs juveniles, and was very popular and respected by all who knew him.
Seanie left Ireland in 2007 and spent time in Japan and New Zealand before moving to Sydney, Australia in November 2008. He continued to remain active in GAA affairs and played football and hurling with the Michael Cusacks club in Sydney.
Earlier this year the news emerged that Seanie has gone missing from his Randwick home in Sydney and he has not been seen since the 10th of May last. He was due to fly home to his family in Dungarvan on 12th May but, unfortunately, that trip never materialised. He is missing since that time and despite the efforts of his heartbroken family there is still no trace of his whereabouts.
St Marys hurling club feel that a hurling tournament in Seanies honour would be very fitting at this time and are organising a senior 9 aside tournament on Saturday October 31st. The competition will start at 11am with the final scheduled for 4.30pm. This inaugural competition is confined to eight teams. St. Marys, Glencar/Manor, Gortlettragh, Sean OHeslins, Athleague, Mullahoran, Coolera/Strandhill and Dungarvan have been invited to take part. The competition will be staged at the magnificent Sean OHeslins complex in Ballinamore. All proceeds from the tournament and associated raffles will go towards a fund in Seanies honour.
The competition is sanctioned by Croke Park and should provide a fitting tribute to Seanies zest for sport in general and hurling in particular. All of Seanies many friends in Leitrim miss Seanie very much and hope that this competition will go some way in honouring our dear friend and colleague.
23-Oct-09 by Hurling Board