A new era may be about to start for Melvin Gaels as they claimed the 2008 Masonite League Division One crown last Sunday in Pairc Sean Mac Diarmada, defeating great rivals and County Champions Glencar/Manorhamilton without three of their greatest servants.
MASONITE LEAGUE DIVISION 1
MELVIN GAELS 3-8
GLENCAR/MANORHAMILTON 3-6
Forced to line out without the injured James & Gareth Phelan and the absent Colin Regan, the Kinlough men were missing three of the key links from their 1998 Championship winning side, three players who have been the backbone of Melvin Gaels teams for years.
Yet in their absence, a ferociously committed and hungry Melvin Gaels proved the better team in most sectors of the field and were convincing winners, except for a dramatic finale that saw Glencar/Manor grab two injury time goals!
Minus their experienced trio, the young Gaels stepped up to the plate and took on responsibility where it might have previously been left to others, a feature of the game that spells good news for the Kinlough side in the years ahead.
But what Melvin Gaels did display was a ferocious hunger for victory, something that was evident the minute they ran onto the field. Everyone worked their socks off and while their old failing of fading out of games may have hampered them once or twice during the game, their commitment never dropped.
Going for the double, Glencar/Manor never displayed the same sort of desire as their neighbours.
It was clear that the Gaels would run through a brick wall in pursuit of the ball but at the end of a long, tiring season, Glencar/Manor didnt seem to have the same sort of motivation as several of their players stood up and watched after they lost possession.
Yet the Manor men came very close to pulling off a great escape with two late goals that caused quite a deal of consternation on the Melvin Gaels bench. With two minutes of added time announced, James Glancy scored what seemed to no more than a consolationÓgoal.
But the drama heightened as added time continued for another three minutes and the Championship winners grabbed yet another goal, putting Melvin Gaels under ferocious pressure in a dramatic finish to a game where the Kinlough men had dominated.
Gareth Phelan has been a permanent fixture in the Gaels goals for years but young Jesse McGuinness did a man of the match job in denying Glencar/Manor certainÓgoals on at least three occasions, fantastic saves that hint at a long future between the posts.
Colm McGowan also came up with a vital goal-line clearance in the first half as Fabian McMorrow led a defence that might have creaked and groaned under the pressure but one that never gave up battling, working and fighting.
Emlyn Mulligan mightnt have rung up the sort of figures he normally does but that would ignore a vital contribution in controlling the flow of the Melvin Gaels game-plan.The County man showed a different side of his game, controlling the pace in the second half, using his head and doing all the unglamorous work that wins games.
Conor Sheridan, Paul Brennan, Paul Og Ferguson, Stephen McGurran all epitomised the never-say-die work ethic of Melvin Gaels as they spent as much time harrying Glencar/Manor, often in the Gaels half of the field, as they did attacking and causing problems for the Manor rearguard.
Emlyn Mulligan opened the Scóring with a first minute free but had a shot from the right wing gathered by Manor keeper Gary Loughlin shortly after.
Replicating Mulligans feats, Adrian Croal first had a narrow wide after a run but followed up with a lovely point after a Pat Gilmartin catch set Dominic Kelly free following a good pass.
Melvin Gaels almost broke through for a goal on five minutes when a high ball broke loose to Emlyn Mulligan some 20 yards in front of the Manor goal on five minutes. However, the County man blasted a horrible wide in a real let-off.
But the Kinlough side didnt have to wait long for the breakthrough as the ball broke again from a long delivery and David McSharry drilled a wonderful low shot to the Manor net for a dramatic goal.
Both sides were guilty of poor misses with Manors attempt at an instant reply thwarted when the County Champions opened up the Gaels rearguard only for Colm McGowan to block the shot on the line with a fabulous block. From the rebound, Dominic Kelly shot wide in a costly miss.
Kelly then let his frustrationÓget the better of him as he was booked for a foul on Paul Brennan, Emlyn Mulligan sending a monster 55 yard free over the bar in a brilliant score on 12 minutes.
Paul Brennan hit a wide but made immediate amends with a great score from the corner as Melvin Gaels broke quickly and effectively.
However, this finally spurred Glencar/Manor into action as James Glancy & Alan Sweeney both knocked over quick points to narrow the gap to a goal. And they reduced that lead further when Fintan McGourty, who got away with a few steps, twice dodged tackles to fire over from 40 yards.
Glencar/Manor then put together a wonderful team point, started when David Poniard absorbed a big hit on the right wing.
He shook it off and the ball went through two or three hands before Darren Sweeney scored a great point from the right wing on 23 minutes.
Melvin Gaels looked in real trouble at this stage but they showed real mettle, even if their first point in 13 minutes was a missed goal chance! Mulligan and Paul Brennan broke clear and set up Brendan Brennan straight in front of the goal, only six or seven yards out.
A goal looked certain but a fantastic full-length diving block from Shane Devaney saw the shot deflected across the bar.
Mulligan then added a brilliant effort from the left wing, a free that curled in and over the bar before Conor Sheridan added a final coup de grace when Dominic Kelly lost the ball out the field and Melvin Gaels quickly worked the ball to Sheridan for a fine point.
That left Melvin Gaels 1-6 to 0-5 in front at the break
That lead was almost wiped out just seconds into the second half when a free was fisted across the Gaels goal to Brian McDonald. The corner-forward hesitated a fraction and Jesse McGuinness made a wonderful diving save to push the ball around the post.
Manor put a lot of pressure on but all they had to show for it was a James Glancy free on four minutes. It seemed as if the double was gone from their grasp five minutes later when a great move down the wing saw Paul McGurran charge towards the Manor goal.
Having played a one-two with Paul Brennan, McGurran seemed as if he had run into a cul-de-sac when surrounded by three defenders but he worked the ball back to Brennan who came charging past a static defence and floated a ball across the face of the goal to his unmarked brother Brendan who fisted the ball to the net.
It was a crucial score and Manor heads definitely dropped, so much so that Fabian McMorrow popped up from centre-back with a brilliant 40-yard point on 15 minutes.
But Manor showed they werent gone yet when McGuinness made another great save, tipping a fisted Glancy effort onto the post and clear after an Adrian OFlynn shot dropped short on 19 minutes.
However, Glancy wasnt to be denied and after two Melvin Gaels defenders got in a mix-up with a high ball, the County man fisted Brian McDonalds pass to the Gaels net on 21 minutes.
Glancys roller-coaster took another turn when he had a bad wide from a free and Melvin Gaels made them pay with a peach of a goal. The Gaels broke with Emlyn Mulligan and Conor Sheridan making the most of gaps appearing in the Manorhamilton rearguard.
Sheridan played a ball over the top to Brennan who broke through a tackle and then chipped Gary Loughlin for an outstanding goal on 26 minutes.
That seemed to be that, particularly when Packie Hill set up Mulligan for his teams last point.
Indeed, it seemed as if a penalty a minute into the two minutes of added time announced was nothing more than a consolation when Brendan Brennan clearly lay on the ball as Glencar/Manor sought a late consolation.
James Glancy stroked the penalty home but it seemed like nothing more than a late consolation, particularly as the announced time was almost up.
However, referee Brendan Sammon showed no inclination to blow the final whistle and play continued. Incredibly for a team that never got going in attack, Manor struck for a third goal.
Again a high ball in the goal-mouth caused the problems with Pat Gilmartin drilling home to suddenly leave just two minutes in it after three minutes of added time.
With Melvin Gaels mentors and players getting increasingly annoyed by the amount of added time being played, Manor continued to attack but the Gaels held firm, blocking James Glancys free to claim the League crown.
Melvin Gaels
Jesse McGuinness, Joe McGowan, Stephen Clancy, Colm McGowan, Paul McGurran, Fabian McMorrow (0-1), Anthony Tiffoney, Martin McCarron, Stephen McGurran, Paul Og Ferguson, Emlyn Mulligan (0-4), David McSharry (1-0), Paul Brennan (1-1), Brendan Brennan (1-1), Conor Sheridan (0-1). Subs: Packie Hill for McCarron (51 mins), for C. McGowan (62 mins).
Glencar/Manorhamilton
Gary Loughlin, Michael Poniard, Shane Devaney, Thomas McDonald, Shane Loughlin, Adrian OFlynn, David Poniard, Fintan McGourty (0-1), Pat Gilmartin (1-0), Dominic Kelly, Darren Sweeney (0-1), Adrian Croal (0-1), James Glancy (2-2), Alan Sweeney (1-1), Brian McDonald. Subs: Ronan McGourty & James OBrien for A. Sweeney & M. Poniard (42 mins), Anthony McDonald for Kelly (48 mins).
Referee: Brendan Sammon.
This full report is available thanks to John Connolly for the Leitrim Observer
– its available in this weeks edition of the Observer and online here
”
18-Dec-08 by John Connolly – LeitrimObserver.ie
Annaduff’s Maxim Gilmartin shines in the Shannonside Handball League Finals.14th January 2025 - 7:00 pm
Young guns steer Melvin Gaels to League crown
Club FootballA new era may be about to start for Melvin Gaels as they claimed the 2008 Masonite League Division One crown last Sunday in Pairc Sean Mac Diarmada, defeating great rivals and County Champions Glencar/Manorhamilton without three of their greatest servants.
MASONITE LEAGUE DIVISION 1
MELVIN GAELS 3-8
GLENCAR/MANORHAMILTON 3-6
Forced to line out without the injured James & Gareth Phelan and the absent Colin Regan, the Kinlough men were missing three of the key links from their 1998 Championship winning side, three players who have been the backbone of Melvin Gaels teams for years.
Yet in their absence, a ferociously committed and hungry Melvin Gaels proved the better team in most sectors of the field and were convincing winners, except for a dramatic finale that saw Glencar/Manor grab two injury time goals!
Minus their experienced trio, the young Gaels stepped up to the plate and took on responsibility where it might have previously been left to others, a feature of the game that spells good news for the Kinlough side in the years ahead.
But what Melvin Gaels did display was a ferocious hunger for victory, something that was evident the minute they ran onto the field. Everyone worked their socks off and while their old failing of fading out of games may have hampered them once or twice during the game, their commitment never dropped.
Going for the double, Glencar/Manor never displayed the same sort of desire as their neighbours.
It was clear that the Gaels would run through a brick wall in pursuit of the ball but at the end of a long, tiring season, Glencar/Manor didnt seem to have the same sort of motivation as several of their players stood up and watched after they lost possession.
Yet the Manor men came very close to pulling off a great escape with two late goals that caused quite a deal of consternation on the Melvin Gaels bench. With two minutes of added time announced, James Glancy scored what seemed to no more than a consolationÓgoal.
But the drama heightened as added time continued for another three minutes and the Championship winners grabbed yet another goal, putting Melvin Gaels under ferocious pressure in a dramatic finish to a game where the Kinlough men had dominated.
Gareth Phelan has been a permanent fixture in the Gaels goals for years but young Jesse McGuinness did a man of the match job in denying Glencar/Manor certainÓgoals on at least three occasions, fantastic saves that hint at a long future between the posts.
Colm McGowan also came up with a vital goal-line clearance in the first half as Fabian McMorrow led a defence that might have creaked and groaned under the pressure but one that never gave up battling, working and fighting.
Emlyn Mulligan mightnt have rung up the sort of figures he normally does but that would ignore a vital contribution in controlling the flow of the Melvin Gaels game-plan.The County man showed a different side of his game, controlling the pace in the second half, using his head and doing all the unglamorous work that wins games.
Conor Sheridan, Paul Brennan, Paul Og Ferguson, Stephen McGurran all epitomised the never-say-die work ethic of Melvin Gaels as they spent as much time harrying Glencar/Manor, often in the Gaels half of the field, as they did attacking and causing problems for the Manor rearguard.
Emlyn Mulligan opened the Scóring with a first minute free but had a shot from the right wing gathered by Manor keeper Gary Loughlin shortly after.
Replicating Mulligans feats, Adrian Croal first had a narrow wide after a run but followed up with a lovely point after a Pat Gilmartin catch set Dominic Kelly free following a good pass.
Melvin Gaels almost broke through for a goal on five minutes when a high ball broke loose to Emlyn Mulligan some 20 yards in front of the Manor goal on five minutes. However, the County man blasted a horrible wide in a real let-off.
But the Kinlough side didnt have to wait long for the breakthrough as the ball broke again from a long delivery and David McSharry drilled a wonderful low shot to the Manor net for a dramatic goal.
Both sides were guilty of poor misses with Manors attempt at an instant reply thwarted when the County Champions opened up the Gaels rearguard only for Colm McGowan to block the shot on the line with a fabulous block. From the rebound, Dominic Kelly shot wide in a costly miss.
Kelly then let his frustrationÓget the better of him as he was booked for a foul on Paul Brennan, Emlyn Mulligan sending a monster 55 yard free over the bar in a brilliant score on 12 minutes.
Paul Brennan hit a wide but made immediate amends with a great score from the corner as Melvin Gaels broke quickly and effectively.
However, this finally spurred Glencar/Manor into action as James Glancy & Alan Sweeney both knocked over quick points to narrow the gap to a goal. And they reduced that lead further when Fintan McGourty, who got away with a few steps, twice dodged tackles to fire over from 40 yards.
Glencar/Manor then put together a wonderful team point, started when David Poniard absorbed a big hit on the right wing.
He shook it off and the ball went through two or three hands before Darren Sweeney scored a great point from the right wing on 23 minutes.
Melvin Gaels looked in real trouble at this stage but they showed real mettle, even if their first point in 13 minutes was a missed goal chance! Mulligan and Paul Brennan broke clear and set up Brendan Brennan straight in front of the goal, only six or seven yards out.
A goal looked certain but a fantastic full-length diving block from Shane Devaney saw the shot deflected across the bar.
Mulligan then added a brilliant effort from the left wing, a free that curled in and over the bar before Conor Sheridan added a final coup de grace when Dominic Kelly lost the ball out the field and Melvin Gaels quickly worked the ball to Sheridan for a fine point.
That left Melvin Gaels 1-6 to 0-5 in front at the break
That lead was almost wiped out just seconds into the second half when a free was fisted across the Gaels goal to Brian McDonald. The corner-forward hesitated a fraction and Jesse McGuinness made a wonderful diving save to push the ball around the post.
Manor put a lot of pressure on but all they had to show for it was a James Glancy free on four minutes. It seemed as if the double was gone from their grasp five minutes later when a great move down the wing saw Paul McGurran charge towards the Manor goal.
Having played a one-two with Paul Brennan, McGurran seemed as if he had run into a cul-de-sac when surrounded by three defenders but he worked the ball back to Brennan who came charging past a static defence and floated a ball across the face of the goal to his unmarked brother Brendan who fisted the ball to the net.
It was a crucial score and Manor heads definitely dropped, so much so that Fabian McMorrow popped up from centre-back with a brilliant 40-yard point on 15 minutes.
But Manor showed they werent gone yet when McGuinness made another great save, tipping a fisted Glancy effort onto the post and clear after an Adrian OFlynn shot dropped short on 19 minutes.
However, Glancy wasnt to be denied and after two Melvin Gaels defenders got in a mix-up with a high ball, the County man fisted Brian McDonalds pass to the Gaels net on 21 minutes.
Glancys roller-coaster took another turn when he had a bad wide from a free and Melvin Gaels made them pay with a peach of a goal. The Gaels broke with Emlyn Mulligan and Conor Sheridan making the most of gaps appearing in the Manorhamilton rearguard.
Sheridan played a ball over the top to Brennan who broke through a tackle and then chipped Gary Loughlin for an outstanding goal on 26 minutes.
That seemed to be that, particularly when Packie Hill set up Mulligan for his teams last point.
Indeed, it seemed as if a penalty a minute into the two minutes of added time announced was nothing more than a consolation when Brendan Brennan clearly lay on the ball as Glencar/Manor sought a late consolation.
James Glancy stroked the penalty home but it seemed like nothing more than a late consolation, particularly as the announced time was almost up.
However, referee Brendan Sammon showed no inclination to blow the final whistle and play continued. Incredibly for a team that never got going in attack, Manor struck for a third goal.
Again a high ball in the goal-mouth caused the problems with Pat Gilmartin drilling home to suddenly leave just two minutes in it after three minutes of added time.
With Melvin Gaels mentors and players getting increasingly annoyed by the amount of added time being played, Manor continued to attack but the Gaels held firm, blocking James Glancys free to claim the League crown.
Melvin Gaels
Jesse McGuinness, Joe McGowan, Stephen Clancy, Colm McGowan, Paul McGurran, Fabian McMorrow (0-1), Anthony Tiffoney, Martin McCarron, Stephen McGurran, Paul Og Ferguson, Emlyn Mulligan (0-4), David McSharry (1-0), Paul Brennan (1-1), Brendan Brennan (1-1), Conor Sheridan (0-1). Subs: Packie Hill for McCarron (51 mins), for C. McGowan (62 mins).
Glencar/Manorhamilton
Gary Loughlin, Michael Poniard, Shane Devaney, Thomas McDonald, Shane Loughlin, Adrian OFlynn, David Poniard, Fintan McGourty (0-1), Pat Gilmartin (1-0), Dominic Kelly, Darren Sweeney (0-1), Adrian Croal (0-1), James Glancy (2-2), Alan Sweeney (1-1), Brian McDonald. Subs: Ronan McGourty & James OBrien for A. Sweeney & M. Poniard (42 mins), Anthony McDonald for Kelly (48 mins).
Referee: Brendan Sammon.
This full report is available thanks to John Connolly for the Leitrim Observer
– its available in this weeks edition of the Observer and online here
”
18-Dec-08 by John Connolly – LeitrimObserver.ie
Coaching News
CoachingCoach education Workshops
Clubs please ensure that all your goalkeepers from 14 years upwards attend our goalkeeping workshop on 28/12. Venue and time will be confirmed next week.
Coaches dont forget to check out John Morrisons coaching articles on the Leitrim GAA web site each week. It will give you all reading over Christmas.
Further information can be had by contacting Thomas Keenan on 087-6591049 or by email at thomas.keenan@leitrim.gaa.ie.
18-Dec-08 by Thomas Keenan
GAA Announces New Relationship With Google
GeneralThe GAA are delighted to announce today (Wednesday the 17th of December) a relationship with Google to implement a series of technology projects across the Association.
As part of the GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015, communicating more effectively with all internal and external audiences was idenitifed as a key priority. The GAA together with its new technology partner Google will help to realise this aim by providing access to email, calenders and online tools which will encourage greater communication and sharing of information between different GAA groups.
The implementation, which will be supported by Baker Security and Networks, will initially see the development of a more effective and easy to use email system. The second phase will involve the creation of an intranet site to enable club, county and provincial officers, as well as staff, to communicate more effectively with Croke Park and each other. The final phase will see the redevelopment of the GAA web site using the latest technologies from Google to enable our Association to deliver current and relevant information to all our members and the public in a modern and user friendly manner.
"We are delighted to be working with Google, a world leader in web technologies and web enabled solutions. This relationship ensures that the GAA can now utilise world class technologies to enable enhanced communications and sharing of information between individuals, our units at all levels plus the general public." stated President of the GAA Nickey Brennan.
"The GAA has a wealth of information and knowledge which has beenÓgathered by its members over many years," said John Herlihy, Vice-President Google EMEA. "Its important that the sharing of information, both old and new, is encouraged so that the GAA can continue to evolve. Technology, and in particular the internet, can make it easier for members to communicate with each other and access advice, experiences and initiatives held by other groups. Were very excited to be taking part in the creation of a more cohesive and interactive GAA for existing and future members."
In developing this important partnership with Google, the GAA is ensuring that it remains the leading sporting and cultural organisation in Ireland by maximising the latest technologies to deliver quality information and support services to everyone. Work will commence early in the New Year and will be rolled out throughout 2009.
17-Dec-08 by GAA.ie
Leitrim in Croke Park
HandballIn August last a group from the Na Fianna Handball Club in Dublin, came to the Fenagh Handball court to play a friendly with a Leitrim selection. It was a very enjoyable day, so it was decided then that a return would be made to the Na Fianna club before the end of the year.
This took place on Saturday the 1st of December, as a group from Fenagh, Drumkeerin and Drumshambo Clubs made there way to the Na Fianna Handball Court, which is no other but the famous Croke Park court.
It was a great occasion for these youngsters just to be in this famous court but also to have the opportunity to play here, and play they did in both the 40×20 and the 60×30 courts. All it being a friendly occasion,there were many competitive matches on the day. The friendship that were formed on the first meeting in Fenagh were obviously not forgotten,and friendship were quickly renewed.
A trip of the great Croke Park took place, taking in the dressing rooms, Corporate areas, press rooms..etc..a very interesting tour,and everyones thought was that the place looks even bigger when it is empty!
It was a great day everyone enjoyed it,and is now penciled in as a annual event, and hopefully a overnight to go with it next year.
Many thanks to the Na Fianna Club for there hospitality and helpfullness and especially Kevin and Frank,two guys who work really hard at this level of coaching their juveline players,and have a great way with them in this regard.
15-Dec-08 by Brendan Christy – Handball
Scór na nÓg Results
ScórSixteen clubs took part in the two nights of Scór na nÓg last Saturday and Sunday. There were big numbers on stage on both nights particularly the second night in Carrick on Shannon.. Aughavas took part this year while Ballinaglera and Annaduff took part last year but not this year, so there was one club less but, overall, the number of items on stage was up slightly on last year. The entertainment was wonderful and a credit to the club mentors who coached the youngsters.
Some years ago the big numbers were in the relatively easy to organise events like Trath na gCeist, Amhranaíocht Aonair, Aithriseoireacht and less numbers in the dancing and group events. It is gratifying to see that the event with the biggest numbers this year was Rince Foirne with 18 groups taking part. Events such as this take a lot of time so it is great to see this level of involvement.
The winners who have qualified for the County Finals in Manorhamilton on Sunday 4 December are as follows:
Rince Foirne: Drumreilly, Glencar/Manorhamilton, Aughnasheelin, Ballinamore
Hurling
Amhranaíocht Aonair: Drumreilly, Eslin, St Josephs, Naomh Muire
Ceol Uirlise: Carrigallen, Leitrim Gaels, Dromahair, Glencar/Manorhamilton
Aithriseoireacht: Aughnasheelin, Eslin, Carrigallen, Bornacoola A
Bailéad Ghrúpa: Aughnasheelin, Seán OHeslins, Bornacoola A, Mohill
Trath na gCeist: Bornacoola, Fenagh, Fenagh Handball, Eslin, Ballinamore C
Nuachleas: Aughawillan, Seán OHeslins ,Bornacoola A, Bornacoola B
Rince Seit: Fenagh Naomh Caillin, Aughnasheelin, Seán OHeslins, Aughavas
11-Dec-08 by Sean o Suiilleabhan
Handball – 60 x 30 Championship Final
HandballThe Leitrim 60 x 30 Championship has beenÓgoing on for the last three weeks with preliminary games been played in Fenagh and Drumkeeran Alleys. 24 Players took part. The final was Played in Fenagh on Sunday 7th Dec between Eddie Lee from Fenagh and Danny Reilly from Gortletteragh.
Two great games of Handball ended in Eddie Lee winning out the Final. This is the first time the 60×30 championship has been played for in a number of years due to work going on at both alleys
The New perpetual Shield Presented by Dessie and Seamus Doyle for the Doyle Family in Honour of their Father Tom a renowned handballer in his day.
Tom was instrumental in the construction of the 60 x 30 alley in Drumshanbo some years ago and introducing handball to the Drumshanbo area.
Leitrim Handball Board would like to thank the Doyle family for donating the Shield for this competition.
Photos now in the Gallery
10-Dec-08 by Martin Logan
Coaching news
CoachingCoach education Workshops
Great turnout of coaches to last Saturdays workshop. Well done to all, male & female, who braved the frost and it was great to see coaches of all levels in attendance. A Special word of thanks to Terry Mc Manus and the 21 lads from the under 15 panel who made the effort to be present and made the session very effective and to the Allen Gaels club for the use of their grounds. Also to Mickey Moran & John Morrison who conducted the session with an enthusiasm that should be an example to us all. Please note that next weeks session has been postponed till the New Year but the workshop for goalkeepers will go ahead on 28/12/08. Clubs please ensure that all your goalkeepers from 14 years upwards attend.
Coaches dont forget to check out John Morrisons coaching articles on the Leitrim GAA web site each week. It will give you all reading over Christmas.
The games approach to skill development
1. 21/11/08 – Building the future
2. 22/11/08 – The global skills, part to whole – "Head – Hands – Feet"
3. 06/12/08 – Group management of delivery of skills in match related games 1v1, 2v2 etc.
4. Game sense – where skills are seen to play a part in tactics and game plans eg. Cross field, quarter, half and full field games. Postponed till New Year.
Further information can be had by contacting Thomas Keenan on 087-6591049 or by email at thomas.keenan@leitrim.gaa.ie.
New coaching officer elected.
On Sunday last at convention Mr. Kevin Ludlow from the Annaduff club was elected as our new coaching officer for 2009. We would like to congratulate Kevin and wish him all the best in his new position. Kevin replaces Martin McGowan who stepped down from the role to concentrate on his new position as selector with the County senior team. All involved in coaching wish Martin well in his new role and thank him for all his work over the past two years.
Connacht champs.
Congrats to the Leitrim vocational schools team and management who captured the Connacht vocational schools B championship on Wednesday last in Elphin.
09-Dec-08 by Thomas Keenan
Report on Convention 2009
Club FootballYesterdays convention was a relatively quiet affair in the Bush Hotel as club delegates over came the mornings poor road conditions. The business of the day was over in record time which was a reflection on the limited number of motions for up for debate.
The meeting was opened with the referral to the printed reports from an rúnaí, Declan Bohan and from the various subcommittees (actual reports are available online on menu on left).
Cisteoir John Mulvey presented a very detailed report regarding the finances of the county board that sees 2008 run with a deficit of €70,000.
Cathaoirleach Gerry McGovern addressed the delegates and covered many areas including Challenges ahead, Past year, Club development plan, Volunteers, Action Plan for Period 2009-2015 Strategic Planning, 2009 Senior Team, Going Forward 2009, Coaching, Under age football, Code of Best Practice, Developments, Further Developments Needed, Club Developments, Discipline, 125 years of our association and Subsidiary Boards.
He also urged that we as followers of Leitrim GAA must rid ourselves of everything that is negative and concentrate totally on all things positive for our county teams and this belief needs to be replicated in every club in the County.
Following this the election of officers was completed with only one change in the officers with Martin McGowan standing aside as coaching officer due to his commitments as selector with the Senior football management team. Kevin Ludlow from Annaduff was nominated and elected unopposed to the position. All other officers were unopposed in their positions except for the youth officer but Thomas Keenan requested that his name be withdrawn thus leaving Dan Gallogly to be elected otherwise unopposed.
The two motions presented for congress (as outlined in pdf report on left menu) were dealt with efficiently with motion 1 carried while motion 2 from Sean OHeslins was defeated.
Uachtarán Michael McGowan complimented and thanked CLG Liatroma for the efforts of 2008 and looked forward to the accomplishment of all goals in 2009 in a difficult economic climate.
Immediately after the completion of convention the monthly county board meeting was convened to deal with the only proposed motion and 3 recommendations regarding the running of the competitions.
08-Dec-08 by Brendan Doyle – PRO
Leitrim GAA County Board Convention 09
GeneralNext Sundays Leitrim GAA County Board Convention promises to be a quiet affair if the lack of elections and nominations tabled for the end of year review in the Bush Hotel is anything to go by.
In the nominations for post on the Executive, there is only two elections on the cards, although neither may take place. Bord na nÓg Chairman Dan Gallogly and Games Promotion Officer Thomas Keenan are nominated for the position of Youth Officer but Keenan, as a GPO, may not be able to take on the job.
Allen Gaels Martin McGowan and Annaduffs Kevin Ludlow are nominated for the post of Coaching Officer although outgoing officer McGowan has indicated he will be standing down from the post due to his commitments with the County Senior Football team.
In terms of motions, it is also relatively quiet although the fall-out from the Appeals and Counter Appeals which held up this years Senior Championship is evident in a Sean OHeslins motion seeking that where an alleged infraction has taken place against a member or a unit, the member or unit shall be notified and may attend any hearing requested by the accused and also have the ability to give evidence or call witnesses.
OHeslins are also seeking that the All-Ireland Hurling and Football Finals be played two weeks earlier than currently fixed to free up time for club championships while OHeslins and Bornacoola are also seeking that no club games be fixed for the day of the All-Ireland Football Final.
In regard to the U-21 Championship, Aughnasheelin have called for a review of the timing of the Under 21 Championship, which they say, is being under valued by being played at the end of the year.
The following are some of the motions:
Congress
Motion 1 – That Central Council should arrange that the All Ireland Football and Hurling Finals be played 2 weeks before they are currently fixed to free up more time for Club Championships – Sean OHeslins
Motion 2 – That the following additions be made to Rial 147 TO 2008:
(i) In a case where an alleged infraction has taken place against a member or unit, that member or unit shall be notified of and may attend and may give evidence at any hearing requested by the accused.The unit shall be furnished with copy extracts of Official Records or Documents relevant to the case in the possession of the Director General, Provincial or County Secretary or the Council or Committee in Charge upon written application.
(ii) In a case where an alleged infraction has taken place against a member or unit, that member or unit may call witnesses to give evidence on its behalf and it is its own responsibility to secure the attendance of such witnesses – Sean OHeslins
Competition Motions
That no Adult Football fixtures be made by CCC Liatroma on the Saturday preceding and the day of the All Ireland Football Final – Sean OHeslins
Competitions Recommendations
Recommendation 1
The Committee-in-charge of fixtures (CCC) should identify a weekend at a time when no championship match is played and players duly can plan to take annual holidays if they so wish – Bornacoola
Recommendation 2
The Committee-in-charge of fixtures (CCC) shall not arrange any adult football fixtures for the day of the All-Ireland Football final – Bornacoola
Recommendation 3
That the incoming CCC take a serious look at the U21 Championship and timing of same. It is an important competition and is been under valued by placing it at the very end of the year – Aughnasheelin.
The following are the nominations:
President: Michael McGowan (Melvin Gaels)
Chairman: Gerry McGovern (Cloone).
Vice-Chairman: Peter Flynn (Aughnasheelin)
Secretary: Declan Bohan (Bornacoola).
Asst. Secretary: Collette Fox (Glencar/Manor).
Treasurer: John Mulvey (Ballinaglera).
Asst. Treasurer: John Keenan (Gortletteragh).
Development Officer: P.J. Meehan (Kiltubrid).
Coaching Officer: Martin McGowan (Allen Gaels), Kevin Ludlow (Annaduff).
Oifigeach Cultúra agus Teanga: Sean O Suilleabhain (Sean Ui Eislin)
Youth Officer: Dan Gallogly (Sean OHeslins), Tomas Keenan (Gortletteragh)
PRO: Brendan Doyle (Kiltubrid).
Connacht Council:(2) Seamus Prior (Aughnasheelin) & Joe Flynn (St. Marys).
Central Council: Jim Meehan (Dromahair)
Connacht AGM: (4) Gerry McGovern, Declan Bohan, John Mulvey, Michael McGowan, P.J. Meehan.
Congress: (3) Gerry McGovern, Declan Bohan, John Mulvey, Pat Feehily (Glencar/Manor), Brendan Doyle (Kiltubrid); Faoi 21(1) None.
This full report is available thanks to the Leitrim Observer
– its available in this weeks edition of the Observer and online here
04-Dec-08 by LeitrimObserver.ie
Aughawillan surprise neighbours to finish year on a high
Club FootballThey may have lost their Senior Championship status but Aughawillan ensured that 2008 finished on a high last Saturday when they held out for a surprise and narrow Masonite Division Two League Final victory over arch rivals and firm favourites Sean O Heslins at the end of a nail biting showdown in Ballinamore.
MASONITE DIVISION 2 LEAGUE FINAL
AUGHAWILLAN 0-10
SEAN HESLINs 0-9
County Minor star Morgan Quinn slotted over an injury time free to ensure victory for Aughawillan after Sean O Heslins had staged a determined second half come back rally, during which they wiped out a six points interval deficit, to get on level terms by the 56th minute.
It was quite a turnaround in fortunes for Aughawillan who had suffered a massive 0-18 to 0-7 defeat at the hands of their great rivals at the beginning of November but an excellent first half set them up for a famous win.
Aughawillan took complete command in the first half of this game and put O Heslins on the rack during most of the exchanges. But O Heslins turned the tables on their neighbours for most of the second half and outgunned them by eight points to three in that period.
However, Aughawillan prevented O Heslins from getting their noses in front at any stage in the last thirty minutes, despite the fact that the Ballinamore men camped in the Willies half of the field for almost seventy percent of this periods exchanges.
When it came to putting the scores on the board, Aughawillan was by far the more clinical side of the two on view. Much to the annoyance of their supporters and mentors, Sean O Heslins squandered numerous chances, especially in the first half from frees and play.
Michael Quinn edged Aughawillan into an early lead when shot over just 32 seconds after the throw-in. Over the next nine minutes, Aughawillan increased their lead with a Sean Quinn point and a Barry Prior free after Prior himself had been illegally impeded by an O Heslins defender.
In the 19th minute, Morgan Quinn put Aughawillan four points ahead when he fired over.
Sean O Heslins got their account opened two minutes later with a well-executed Brian Cafferty point after good support play by Sean Murray. Caffertys point ended the Ballinamore mens Scóring drought, as O Heslins had registered a number of bad wides in the opening 20 minutes.
Aughawillan had a lucky escape in the 22nd minute when Wayne McKeon blazed a goal chance wide with only keeper John Prior to beat.
But a free tapped over by Morgan Quinn six minutes later, following a foul by Jim McTague on Ryan Creamer, restored Aughawillan four point advantage.
In the 29th minute, Barry Prior slotted over another free and another Jim McTague foul, this time on Barry Prior deep first half injury time, was punished by Morgan Quinn when he converted three free, to leave Aughawillan 0-7 to 0-1 ahead at the break.
After the restart, Sean O Heslins demonstrated a much improved cutting edge when they whittled Aughawillans advantage down to two points in the opening ten minutes of the second half as David Duignan, Wayne McKeon, Finian Sharpley and Kieran Murray shot a point each from play.
Aughawillan, who had played second fiddle during the first eleven minutes of the second half, replied with a 42nd minute point from a Barry Prior free after Ryan Creamer was fouled.
Sean O Heslins David Duignan, from play, and Aughawillans Morgan Quinn, from a free, swapped a point each at opposite ends in the 45th and 47th minutes.
O Heslins put together a determined rally after which they drew level by the 56th minute. Running at the Aughawillan defence, Ballinamore won three frees, which Finian Sharpley confidently put over, to level matters with just over six minutes of playing action remaining.
However, in the 59th minute O Heslins had a close shave when keeper, Philip Farrelly was forced to come smartly off his line, to prevent a goal bound Gavin Beirne effort from entering his net.
But some two minutes later Joe Honeyman fouled Beirne and Aughawillan was now provided with the opportunity to win the game once Morgan Quinn stepped up and hit over the resultant free.
Wayne McKeon had a chance to force a replay in the 62nd minute after O Heslins was awarded free just inside the 45 metre line. However McKeons shot went wide and after that the Division Two League title was claimed by Aughawillan.
Aughawillan
John Prior, Noel Darcy, Paul Prior, Barry McBrien, Gerard McGovern, Kevin McTague, Sean Quinn (0-1), Christopher Prior, Gary Deane, Morgan Quinn (0-5), Michael Quinn (0-1), Barry Prior (0-5), Shane Flanagan, Gavin Beirne, Ryan Creamer. Sub Ciaran Smith for B. Prior (51 mins).
Sean O Heslins
Philip Farrelly, Johnny McWeeney, Joe Honeyman, Liam Ferguson, David Duignan (0-2), Paddy McLoughlin, Jim McTague, Paul McLoughlin, Wayne McKeon (0-1), Anthony McTague, Finian Sharpley (0-4), Brian Cafferty (0-1), Sean Murray, Kieran Murray (0-1), Shane Murphy. Subs James McWeeney for A. McTague (55 mins).
Referee: Sean McCartin.
This full report is available thanks to PJ Leddy for the Leitrim Observer
– its available in this weeks edition of the Observer and online here
04-Dec-08 by LeitrimObserver.ie
Coach education Workshops – Bus Times
CoachingCoach education Workshops
The next in our series of coaching workshops been conducted by John Morrison & Mickey Moran will take place on Saturday morning next the 06/12 in Drumshanbo GAA park, commencing at 11.00 am. This workshop will concentrate on developing skills in match related situations. We would again ask all coaches to make an effort to attend these workshops and ensure that their clubs & teams have best practise information to work with.
For this workshop we are asking all members of our under 15 school of excellence squad to make themselves available. Bus routes and time tables as follows.
Kinlough 9.10, Manorhamilton 9.35, Dromahair ( at cross ) 9.50, Drumkeerin 10.10, Drumshanbo 10.30.
Ballinamore 8.55, Carrigallen 9.15, Aughavas 9.25, Cloone 9.35, Mohill 9.45, Masonite 10.00, Ck-on-Shannon 10.10, Leitrim 10.20, Drumshanbo 10.30.
04-Dec-08 by Thomas Keenan
Hurling Board – Award Winners 2008
Club HurlingThe following are the 3 recipients of the Hurling board awards for 2008:
County Hurler of Year Clement Cunniffe (St Marys)
Club Hurler of Year Padraig McWeeney (St Marys)
Young Hurler of Year Brian Feeney (Glencar/Manorhamilton)
Congratulations to this years three hurling award winners who will receive their awards at the annual function in Januar.
03-Dec-08 by Hurling Board