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Cairde Aodh Ruadh, the friends of Aodh Ruadh, are people who share a vision of the future for Aodh Ruadh. We believe Aodh Ruadh is important because it is our club, the hub of our community, it is part of what we are. We believe the young people of Ballyshannon are important - because they are our young people, future club and county stars. Above all, we believe Aodh Ruadh is a hugely positive and important contributor to life and well being in our community.
Find out more about what Cairde Aoidh Ruaidh is about and how you can join and help make a difference.

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What's new

15 May 2011
Join The Race For Sam 2012
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12 May 2012
Senior Football Division 3
Fruitless trip to Inishowen for seniors
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12 May 2012
Senior Reserve Football Division 3
Reserves stuff Carndonagh
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12 May 2012
Underage Hurling
Aodh Ruadh hurlers attend MacCumhaill Park Fun Day
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12 May 2012
Ladies inter-county football
Donegal host Sligo in Father Tierney Park
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12 May 2012
Under 8 football
Under 8s pull on the white and green
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11 May 2012
Under 16 football
Aodh Ruadh book their place in league decider
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7 May 2012
Under 12 football
Under 12s come through rugged encounter with a win
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7 May 2012
Underage Hurling
Aodh Ruadh host successful Alan Ryan - Seamus Grimes tournament
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5 May 2012
Under 16 football
Belief sees Aodh Ruadh to Southern title
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3 May 2012
Under 18 Hurling
Aodh Ruadh take on Buncrana
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2 May 2012
Under 14 football
Aodh Ruadh edge Ardara in scorefest
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29 April 2012
Under 8 Hurling
Under 8s take part in Killygordon blitz
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28 April 2012
Senior Football Division 3
Strong finish seals the points
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28 April 2012
Senior Reserve Football Division 3
Reserves win low scoring encounter
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28 April 2012
Successful coaching for coaches session
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28 April 2012
Under 16 football
Donegal progress to Buncrana cup knock-out stages
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27 April 2011
Father Tierney Park hosts Community Games
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24 April 2012
Ladies under 14 football
Under 14s pip Bundoran
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23 April 2012
Under 16 football
Ballyshannon book final place
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22 April 2012
Senior Football Division 3
Defeat in Inishowen for seniors
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22 April 2012
Senior Reserve Football Division 3
Reserves sink to first loss of the season
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20 April 2012
Senior Football Division 3
Goal blitz stuns Glen
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20 April 2012
Senior Reserve Football Division 3
Valuable away win for reserves
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21 April 2012
Underage Hurling
Underage hurlers test themselves at Owenbeg
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21 April 2012
Under 14 football
Dungiven take Sean Slevin back to Derry
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19 April 2012
Under 16 football
Resounding first leg win for Ballyshannnon
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19 April 2012
Under 14 Hurling
Aodh Ruadh put Gaels to the sword
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18 April 2012
Under 18 football
Ardara make Ernesiders work for their points
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15 April 2012
Ladies senior football
Ladies host Milford
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14 April 2012
Senior Football Division 3
Opening points of the season for Aodh Ruadh
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14 April 2012
Senior Reserve Football Division 3
Reserves record comprehensive win over Muff
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14 April 2012
Under 14 Hurling
Aodh Ruadh on their way to Féile na nGael
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11 April 2012
Under 12 Hurling
Under 12s blitz Croker
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11 April 2012
Under 16 football
Honours even between Aodh Ruadh and Killybegs
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8 April 2012
National Football League division one
Donegal secure division one status
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7 April 2012
A report and pictures from the 2012 Duck Race
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7 April 2012
Minors pack bags in Mace.
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6 April 2012
Senior Reserve Football Division 3
Reserves get hard won away point
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6 April 2012
Ladies senior football
Termon ease past Aodh Ruadh ladies
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5 April 2012
Under 14 Hurling
Under 14 hurlers secure second win of the season
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3 April 2012
Ladies under 14 football
Aodh Ruadh host Naul's girls
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1 April 2012
Under 16 football
Aodh Ruadh extend unbeaten run
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31 March 2012
Senior Football Division 3
Boyle points the way for Termon
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31 March 2012
Senior Reserve Football Division 3
New look reserves chalk up impressive win
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31 March 2012
Sixth annual Hurlathon big success
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27 March 2012
Ladies under 14 football
Under 14 girls open season against Four Masters
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24/25 March 2012
Senior Football Challenges
Seniors prepare for season debut
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24 March 2012
Ladies senior football
Aodh Ruadh ladies are back in action
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24 March 2012
Success at Cyclothon 2011
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18 March 2012
Under 16 football
Assured Aodh Ruadh remain unbeaten
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18 March 2011
National Football League Division One
onegal back to winning ways in National League
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18 March 2012
Underage football
Young Aodh Ruadh stars show off their skills
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17 March 2012
Aodh Ruadh take part in the Ballyshannon Saint Patrick's day parade.
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9 March 2011
Senior Football Division 3
Promotion eludes Aodh Ruadh
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4 March 2011
Senior Football Division 3
Draw leaves Aodh Ruadh and Naomh Bríd facing off for final promotion sport
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4 March 2012
Under 16 football
Aodh Ruadh make confident start
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4 March 2012
Underage Hurling
Another year of hurling gets underway
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25 February 2012
Under 16 football
Under 16's ready for competition
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25 February 2012
Operation Ballyshannon runs off well
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11 February 2012
Pictures and Sean Perry's script from the annual Dinner Dance and Presentation night
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12 February 2012
Underage football
Calendar for new season announce
2012 Fixtures Calendar

6 February 2012
NFL division one ladies football
Donegal ladies fall to All-Ireland champions
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27 January 2012
Under 16 football
Under 16 medal presentation
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21 January 2012
Under 14 football
Under 14's are out already
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8 January 2012
Power NI Dr McKenna Cup
Students shock Donegal
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29 December 2011
Big Bad Interactive YouTube fun quiz 2011
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16 December 2011
Underage Hurling
Kilkenny legend Tommy Walsh visits Aodh Ruadh
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19 November 2011
Under 16 football
Rossa end Aodh Ruadh's Ulster dream
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12 November 2011
Under 16 football
Honours even in Titanic Ulster semi-final battle
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30 October 2011
Under 14 football
Aodh Ruadh retain Sean Slevin
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22 October 2011
Under 16 football
Aodh Ruadh progress to Ulster semi-final
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13 October 2011
Senior Football Division 3
Seniors secure two valuable points
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13 October 2011
Senior Reserve Football Division 3
Reserves canter to victory over Naomh Colmcille
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6 October 2011
Intermediate Reserve Football Championship
Reserves clinch county crown
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5 November 2011
Senior Football Division 3
Seniors promotion push falters
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5 November 2011
Under 16 Hurling
Under 16 hurlers do the double
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4 November 2011
Allingham Festival performance
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3 November 2011
Ballyshannon Leisure Centre November update
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30 October 2011
Under 14 football
Aodh Ruadh retain Sean Slevin
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30 October 2011
Strictly Ballyshannon rocks the Great Northern
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28 October 2011
Strictly Ballyshannon rehearsals
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25 October 2011
Championship memories
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22 October 2011
Senior Football Division 3
Aodh Ruadh finally best Saint Naul's
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16 October 2011
Under 14 football
Jason Gallagher's side claim Bakery Cup
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15 October 2011
Senior Football Division 3
Third league loss in a row for seniors
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15 October 2011
Senior Reserve Football Division 3
Reserves whitewash Buncrana
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15 October 2011
Under 16 Hurling
Aodh Ruadh hurlers romp to county under 16 title
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10 October 2011
Under 14 football
Bakery Cup Final 2011
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8 October 2011
Intermediate Reserve Football Championship
Aodh Ruadh face Carndonagh in reserve decider
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8 October 2011
Carnival 2011
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2 October 2011
Good club representation at Kilometres for Kids
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1 October 2011
Senior Football Division 3
Walsh drives Naomh Bríd to victory
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1 October 2011
Scrap Saturday goes super
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1 October 2011
Under 16 Hurling
Aodh Ruadh through to under 16 semi-finals
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Club News

17 May 2012

~ FIRST AID COURSE ~
Liam Thomas is delivering a Basic First Aid Course in Arás Aoidh Ruadh this Tuesday from 7pm to 9.30pm. The course will cover common injuries such as sprains, bleeding, concussion, head injuries, torn and pulled muscles as well as the dos and don'ts of what to do in these situations. All managers and trainers involved with teams should attend this course. The course is open to everyone.

~BORD NA NÓG QUIZ ~
Don't forget the quiz in support of Bord na nÓg tonight, Thursday, in Owen Roe's. It has been a great year so far for underage football in the club. However that success is built on hard work and investment, both in terms of time and money. To help support this work we would like to see a good turnout, especially of Bord na nÓg parents. Quiz master for the night is Sylvester Maguire.

16 May 2012

~ JOIN THE RACE FOR SAM ~
We have €600 in prize money up for grabs in Aodh Ruadh's very own Race For Sam 2012. For €20 you can enter the draw for teams and top marksmen from each county and be in with a chance of a top prize of €500, not to mention significantly increasing your interest in the progress of the championship. And with €100 for the entrant who racks up the lowest points there's an incentive for even the unluckiest punter. We have full details on rules, scoring and prizes here. Updated tables will also be published every Tuesday on aodhruadh.org from next week. The draw will be taking place on Saturday evening so there is limited time left to get your name, number, team name and €20 in. Entry cards are available in Sean Óg's, The Bridgend, Owen Roe's and Ballybookies. Packie McGrath, Sean Perry, Terence McShea and Catherine McKee also have entry cards. You can also register your interest by e-mail to info@aodhruadh.org.

~ RACE NIGHT ~
Aodh Ruadh senior footballers invite all for some classic race night action on Saturday, 26th May in Sean Óg's. The action gets under way at 9.30pm. We have the very last couple of races left to sponsor so if you are interested in taking a race please contact senior team manager, Philip O'Reilly on 086-8955141.

~ FOOTBALL ~
Following on from the all-star Sean Slevin tournament, we have another feast of football for you in the Father Tierney Park and Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh as we host the under 16 PJ Roper tournament this Saturday, 19th May. Aodh Ruadh will be welcoming Belfast sides Lámh Dhearg, O'Donovan Rossa and St Enda's, Glengormley. All three of those clubs are noted for the significant strides being made at underage level. Lámh Dhearg won the 2010/11 St Paul's Ulster minor championship, while O'Donovan Rossa will be familiar to Aodh Ruadh from our epic two game battle with them in the Paul McGirr Ulster under 16 championship semi-finals at the end of 2011. Glengormley have a very progressive committee and are making great headway in both football and hurling. Saint Patrick's, Cullyhanna will be making their way up from Armagh with real ambitions too. Their under 21s won the Armagh title last year leaving a slew of more vaunted title contenders in their wake. Malachy Mackin plays a big role in underage football in the club and this will doubtless be another well drilled and formidable Saint Patrick's outfit. Making up the six along with Aodh Ruadh will be Killybegs. We have fought two memorable battles with the Fishermen at this level already this year and the prospect of a third would be worth the price of admission, if we were charging for this! The action gets under way at 11am and with the quality of teams involved it promises to be a great day of football.

~ PRO ~
Some of you may have noticed that Aodh Ruadh is on Twitter, @aodhruadh. People can text 51210 from their mobile phone and have their texts appears as @aodhruadh tweets, providing their phone has been designated as the linked mobile and, of course, any tweets are compliant with the GAA's Social Media Policies and Guidelines. If anyone would like to tweet updates from a game or club event, just text John Hughes on 087-6431805 or e-mail info@aodhruadh.org and we'll take it from there. Please note, only one mobile number can be enabled to tweet to @aodhruadh at any given time.

15 May 2012

~ FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh had a frustrating trip to Carndonagh on Saturday. Playing with the benefit of a strong wind Ballyshannon went in at the break level 0-6 to 0-6. Playing into the breeze in the second half it looked like a tall order. And that it proved as the Inishowen men pulled clear with a strong performance to win on a score line of 2-12 to 0-9. Michael 'Sticky' Ward, Anthony Boyle, and Diarmuid McInerney all hit two points apiece while David Finnerty and David Dolan also registered points. There is a more detailed match report and pictures up.

Aodh Ruadh made hay with the backing of a powerful wind to overwhelm Carndonagh challenge in the first 30 minutes of this match, and left them chasing their shadows in the second. Aodh Ruadh hit 1-12 in the first period which was a sufficient cushion to see the visitors comfortably through second half playing into the breeze. Turlough McIntyre was very good in the middle of the park for the Ernesiders fetching an ocean of ball. The main beneficiary was brother Fiachra McIntyre who bagged 2-2 in a real fox in the box exhibition. With only the bare 15 travelling co-manager Val Murray pulled on the boots and got five points, form is temporary, and all that. Dermot Slevin and Ryan Granaghan were also on song getting 0-4 and 0-3 respectively. The defence also got in on the act with Ronan Matthews hitting a point and Danno Kelly had a very profitable trip up the park for a point at the expense, not just of his marker, but of Niall Murray, allegedly. Also in defence David McLoone had a particularly good game at left back while Ryan Patton also had a fine 60 minutes. We have pictures from the game up.

This weekend Aodh Ruadh once again face Inishowen opposition, this time in the shape of Burt, who will be visiting Father Tierney Park this Saturday. The reserve game throws in at 6pm followed by the seniors at 7.30pm.

Aodh Ruadh came through a physical encounter with Burt to book their place in the league final against Gaoth Dobhair on Friday evening last. Burt are a strong side with a number of players on the county under 16 panel so a tight game was expected and that was exactly what played out, but Ballyshannon prevailed on a score line of 1-11 to 1-8. It was a gutsy display from Aodh Ruadh and that was best exemplified by Matthew Maguire's defiant performance. Eddie Lynch was massive in the attack, linking play up and mastering his opposite number, a starting member of the county under 16 team. Shane McGrath also put in a solid shift, while Philip Patton's haul of 1-5 was key to seeing Aodh Ruadh over the line. We have a full match report and pictures up. Next up is the county league decider and the challenge of Gaoth Dobhair who defeated Killybegs in the other semi-final. As yet we don't have a firm date for the final.

Aodh Ruadh under 14s had a sobering trip to Glenties last Wednesday, where they lost 5-12 to 2-6. Playing against the breeze in the first half Ballyshannon were down 1-4 to no score after 10 minutes. A goal by Shane Mc Grath gave us a start however Naomh Conaill went straight up the pitch and scored a goal. Glenties dominated the first 20 minutes of the game until some great work by Oisín Rooney saw the Ernesiders start to get some traction in midfield and the Corker man added two points before the break. A good start to the second was needed, but it didn't materialise. Naomh Conaill added a number of further scores to stretch into an unbridgeable lead. Oisín Rooney, who battled throughout, was Aodh Ruadh's man of the match. The under 14s next assignment is this Wednesday, 16th May when they will be on their travels to Annagry where the throw in against Naomh Mhuire will be at 7.30pm.

The under 12s are training this Friday at 4.15pm. Next Monday, 21st May they will be taking on Four Masters in the park at 6.30pm, players are to be up at the park for 5.45pm.

Under 10 training continues this Thursday, 17th May in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh from 6pm to 7pm. Parents/Guardians are asked to please collect children promptly after their session is finished.

Aodh Ruadh's under 8s took part in their first blitz of the year in Father Tierney Park last Saturday. We hosted Four Masters and Naomh Bríd for what was a great day's craic. Aodh Ruadh's teams, featuring the talents of Eoghan Kelly, Drew Ryan, Michael Doogan, Tommy Winters, James Gallagher, Ronan Barron, Aengus Sweeny, David Roper, Darragh Dolan, Shane McGloin and James Monaghan acquitted themselves very well on the day. It was amazing to see how much the lads' skills came on across the course of the afternoon. Thanks to Kerry Ryan, Terence McShea and Sylvester Maguire for officiating on the day. Thanks to Colm McGloin for his invaluable work on the day! Thanks also to Fred Ormston and Mace for supplying crisps and minerals, which went down a treat after a hard day's football. Finally thanks to Cathal Maguire and Ronan Matthews who captured some great images of the day.

Under 8 and under 6 training continues this Friday 18th May from 6pm to 7pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.

Can all parents please ensure that young children attending training bring warm clothing to training sessions as the weather is very changeable at the moment. Children are also asked to bring their own water bottles with them to training.

The monthly Bord na nÓg meeting takes place this Friday 18th May at 9pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. All committee members are asked to attend.

The quiz in Owen Roe's this Thursday, 17th May, is in aid of Aodh Ruadh Bord na nÓg. All support on the night would be greatly appreciated. It gets under way at 10pm with plenty of prizes and craic on offer.

Good luck to Conal Sweeny and Dylan Gallagher who will be playing in the half time exhibition game on Sunday in Kingspan Breffni Park. The boys will be representing their schools, Gaelscoil Éirne and Creevy, in the Cumann na mBunscoil mini sevens.

~ HURLING ~
On Thursday last for the third week in a row the under 14s made another long trip to Inishowen. This time to take on traditional Donegal kingpins Burt. On a miserable evening the home team could only field 12 players and were physically stronger than the Aodh Ruadh lads. Aodh Ruadh were a tired looking team and were very slow getting out of the blocks. Burt got off to a good start scoring an early goal and maintained that lead throughout the game. Despite never getting into their rhythm Aodh Ruadh never gave up and battled hard for the evening but unfortunately they suffered their first defeat of the league on a score line of 3-5 to 2-5. They play Saint Eunan's this Thursday evening in the league semi-final in Father Tierney Park. We would urge all to come along and support this small panel of only 17 players who have given their all for Aodh Ruadh this season.

Burt conceded the minor game on the same night and as a result our minors have qualified for the minor league final where they will face Setanta. This young team have only suffered one defeat in the league away to Setanta so the final should be a close affair. The date remains to be confirmed.

Hard luck to Colaiste Cholmcille's under 14 and a half side who lost the Ulster colleges B quarter final against Coleraine in Cookstown on Tuesday last on a score line of 6-7 to 4-9. The lads put in a great effort, but the exertions of the previous day in winning the Alan Ryan/Seamus Grimes took its toll on the team. Thanks to Colaiste Cholmcille who supported our efforts in promoting underage hurling this year by entering all the school competitions. It was much appreciated and gave our lads the opportunity to test themselves against different opposition they wouldn't normally meet.

Well done to Colm Kelly, Jamie Brennan, Eddie Lynch, Eugene Drummond, Donal Sweeney and Paul Cummins who were part of the Donegal under 16 panel who took part in an Ulster GAA under 16 blitz in Owenbeg. Despite losing to Antrim, Derry and Down all the lads did well.

On Saturday last over a dozen of our young hurlers and their coaches took part in a very enjoyable Centra sponsored fun day event in MacCumhaill Park, Ballybofey. Dublin stars Conal Keaney and Liam Rush conducted a coaching session for the young hurlers from all over the county. The two lads were great ambassadors for the game and happily answered all questions and posed for photographs with all. After the coaching session all enjoyed the lovely Barbeque provided by Centra and a great day was had by all. We have some shots from the Fun Day up, thanks to Peter Horan and John Rooney.

Training as normal on Sunday at 12 noon all welcome especially beginners any queries please contact John Rooney (086-2587793).

~ LADIES ~
Donegal's senior ladies took part in a challenge match with Sligo in Father Tierney Park on Saturday morning. There was local interest with the participation of our own Tara Khan. She lined out at half back and gave an excellent account of herself on home turf. Thank's to Ronan Matthews for the pictures which we have up.

This Sunday the seniors are due to play Glenfin in Glenfin at 12 noon.

There are no under 14 fixtures available to date, but the next game should be played early next week.

Under 12 training will take place this Wednesday evening from 5pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.

Under 10 and under 8 training will take place in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh from 6pm on Wednesday evening to 6.45pm.

~ FANTASY CHAMPIONSHIP ~
Aodh Ruadh are running a fantasy football competition to run in parallel with the provincial and All-Ireland championships. It works like this. We have two pots, one has the leading attacker in each of the 31 remaining counties in the football championship, the second has the corresponding manager for each county. Each entrant has a manager / attacker combination drawn for them. Managers and attackers then accumulate points across the course of the championship and the combination which has gathered the most points at the end of the season wins a big cash prize. The closing date for the competition is close of business this Saturday. If you are interested in taking part, e-mail info@aodhruadh.org or text 0876431805. We will have more details on the competition on the website and in addendums later in the week.

~ YES WE CAN ~
Thanks to all who continue to support the above campaign. Our next collection day of aluminium cans for recycling is Saturday 26th May from 12 noon to 1pm in Father Tierney Park. So help do your bit for the club and the environment by recycling your aluminium cans. For any queries regarding this campaign please contact John Rooney (086-2587793) or Kieran Drummond (086-2368295).

~ FIRST AID COURSE ~
A course in basic first aid is being organised for Tuesday, 22nd May. Course will be delivered by Liam Thomas, further details will follow soon.

~ OFF THE PITCH ~
Weekend Tickets for Rory Gallagher International Tribute Festival Big Top Concerts are NOW on Sale in Ballyshannon at O'Neill's Next Door Off-Licence and at Kernan's Spar Supermarket at Just €50 for the three Nights. Tickets are selling fast, so if you would like to be a part of these special gigs, secure your tickets ASAP. We expect the big top nightly festival concerts to sell out in advance of the Festival. Horslips, the Mick Taylor Band, Doctor Feelgood, Sinnerboy, Johnny Gallagher and Boxtie, Moonchild and more will be performing from Thursday 31st May to Sunday 3rd June 2012. Night Tickets also available at €30. All details on www.goingtomyhometown.com.

10 May 2012

~ HURLING ~
On Saturday last the under 14 hurlers showed that their hard work was not just confined to the field as they had a busy day bag packing in Mace, Ballyshannon to raise funds for their trip to Féile na nGael in July. Thanks to all the parents who helped on the day and thanks to all who supported the lads. Special thanks to Fred Ormston and his staff for their help on the day and for his continued support for Aodh Ruadh which is much appreciated.

~ YES WE CAN ~
Thanks to all who continue to support the above campaign. Our next collection day of aluminium cans for recycling is Saturday 26th May from 12 noon to 1pm in Father Tierney Park. So help do your bit for the club and the environment by recycling your aluminium cans. For any queries regarding this campaign please contact John Rooney (086-2587793) or Kieran Drummond (086-2368295).

~ TABLES ~

Minor Hurling League

Under 14 Hurling League

8 May 2012

~ FOOTBALL ~
The seniors and reserves had no game last, but we are back in action this Saturday when we are on our travels to a Carndonagh team in a fine vein of form. The reserve game throws in at 6pm with Paul Clifford taking charge. That will be followed by the senior game at 7.30pm when Convoy's Ciara Foy will be refereeing.

The minors maintained their unbeaten progress through the league with a 0-6 to 1-7 away win over Dungloe. They travelled to Dungloe missing a lot of players, and with the homesters in customarily tenacious form the first half, played into a strong breeze, was a real contest of wills. Nevertheless Aodh Ruadh were 0-3 to 0-2 up at half time with David McGurrin and Johnny Gethins on the score sheet. The real heroes of the first half however were the back line of PJ Gillespie, Eamon McGrath and Ryan Patton. They were exceptional throughout the game, but particularly in the first half when Dungloe were really pounding the ball in on top of them. In the second half it was Ballyshannon's turn to lorry the ball in, and they did so to profitable effect. The forwards were given a great platform by the powerful work being done around the centre of the field. Alan Finan upped the game in second half and with Pauric Storey, Kieran Keown and Pauric Patton foraging ravenously and showing some great reading of the game there was a plentiful supply of ball for the forwards to work with. The goal came from a ball won in midfield, a diagonal ball was swung out to James Barron who let on to Johnny Gethins. He rampaged through and unleashed a left foot rocket to give the visitors some breathing space. David McGurrin added further scores as Aodh Ruadh put themselves two points clear at the top of the league table. The minor's last game of the round robin stages sees them take on Saint Naul's in a welcome home fixture. The downside is that there will be a seven week wait for that game due to the leaving certificate examinations. The game will be at Father Tierney Park on Wednesday 27th June with the throw in at 7.30pm.

Aodh Ruadh claimed the Southern Minor Board under 14 League title with a three point victory over Killybegs in another epic encounter between the teams last Saturday. The sides matched each other score for score in the first half. The problem for Ballyshannon was that most of Killybegs scores were raising green flags. Aodh Ruadh got the first four points, but then Conor Kennedy was injured releasing a pass. The disruption to the Aodh Ruadh defensive alignment allowed Eoin Bán Gallagher the opportunity to dominate the middle third for what was left of the half and his driving runs were the key factor as the Fishermen proceeded to outscore Ballyshannon 3-2 to 0-1 in the remainder of the half. At half time the score was Aodh Ruadh 0-5 Killybegs 3-2. The sides exchanged points early in the second half to take the score to 0-8 to 3-4. Then came the breakthrough Aodh Ruadh had been threatening. Oisín Rooney or Niall Harley goaled and then Philip Patton followed up with a point to cut the deficit to the minimum. Killybegs had stretched the gap out to a goal with five minutes remaining when Philip Patton goaled. Aodh Ruadh poured forth and Shane McGrath and then Eddie Lynch hit the points which took the Southern divisional title back to the banks of the Erne. In goal Kevin Warnock was excellent. The defence played well as a unit. Once again Cookie O'Halloran distinguished himself with another eye-watering effort. Colm Kelly was immense in midfield, but once again Niall Harley played a captain's part really driving Aodh Ruadh on to the title. Up front the forwards acquitted themselves well. On this occasion Philip Patton was the pick, while Eddie Lynch covered every inch of the park. There is a full match report and pictures by Cathal Maguire from the game up. The county semi-final against Burt takes place this Friday at Red Hugh's with a throw in of 7pm. We would appeal for a big Ballyshannon crowd to make the trip down to Killygordon for this one.

Aodh Ruadh had a real ding dong battle with Ardara in their opening game of the under 14 league. The visitors got off to a blinding start with and were 2-2 to 0-3 up with 10 minutes gone. Aodh Ruadh stabilised their position after the initial burst of scores and started to assert themselves around the middle of the park, Oisín Rooney in particular helping to steady things. For the remaining 20 minutes the Ernesiders restricted Ardara to a single point from Oisín Brennan, whilst adding a further 1-3 themselves. The closing stages were evenly enough matched, but Aodh Ruadh were more clinical about taking their chances. It was perhaps Aodh Ruadh's better spread of finishers which saw them over the line. Ardara's central pairing had a great battle with Oisín Rooney and Shane McGrath, but Rooney had an outstanding game. He got 1-4 from play, but his general contribution was excellent also. He was run close for man of the match by Jason Granaghan whose precision tackling repeatedly frustrating burgeoning Ardara attacks. Jimmy Ward hit three fine points while Shane Dorrian took his goal and a point with the absolute conviction of a born finisher. We have a full match report and pictures from the game up. Next up for Aodh Ruadh is the trip to Glenties on Wednesday night where Naomh Conaill will be providing just a stern a test. The game throws in at 7.30pm.

The under 12 league started with the visit of Ardara to Father Tierney Park on Bank Holiday Monday. Aodh Ruadh delivered a good performance to take the points in trying circumstances. The full back line were excellent with Ciaran Meehan constantly out in front and Pauric Keenaghan very secure under the high ball and Caolan Dolan treating every ball like a prisoner. Shane Gillespie at centre half back was another who had a good 60 minutes. The midfield pairing of Dylan Gallagher and Michael McKenna were excellent. Gallagher in particular covered every inch of the park and notched up 1-4, with a further two efforts coming back off the crossbar. Up front Evan McTiernan proved a difficult presence for Ardara to deal with, as was the industrious Nathan McNeely. We have a full match report and pictures up. The under 12s are training this Friday at 4.15pm and next Monday, also at 4.15pm.

Under 10 training continues this Thursday, 10th May in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh from 6pm to 7pm. Parents/Guardians are asked to please collect children promptly after their session is finished.

Our first under 8 blitz of the year takes place this Saturday 12th May in Father Tierney Park at 12 noon. All players are asked to bring club shorts and socks and be at the pitch for 11.15am.

Under 6 training continues this Friday 11th May from 6pm to 7pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.

Can all parents please ensure that young children attending training bring warm clothing to training sessions as the weather is very changeable at the moment. Children are also asked to bring their own water bottles with them to training.

~ HURLING ~
Last Thursday night was a great night for underage hurling in Aodh Ruadh. Our under 14s were on the road again making the long trip to Buncrana to play the strong local team. In a great game two evenly matched teams gave their all and the Aodh Ruadh boys recorded their first win at this level in Buncrana and won out by the slimmest of margins on a score line of 2-2 to 1-3, that maintains the lads 100 percent record as we head to Inishowen again this Thursday to play our last game in the league section against Burt.

Meanwhile in Father Tierney Park Buncrana and the host club went into battle in the minor league. Both these teams have dominated the under 14 and under 16 leagues in Donegal over the last few years and as a result it was two very young minor teams who went into battle in this game. Aodh Ruadh got off to great start but the Buncrana men battled back and narrowed the game coming up to half time setting up what promised to be a close second half. Again Aodh Ruadh were quick out of the blocks in the second half, but as the game neared it's finished Buncrana scored two late goals. Aodh Ruadh held on and ran out winners on a 4-6 to 3-4 score line. We have pictures from the game up. This Thursday the lads play Burt in their final game of the league stages in Father Tierney Park.

On Monday Aodh Ruadh hosted the annual Alan Ryan / Seamus Grimes under 16 tournament. This tournament has been in existence since 1998 and it is fair to say that this year's tournament attracted the best collection of teams yet. The following teams took part McQuillan's Ballycastle of Antrim, Kevin Lynch's Dungiven from Derry, Eire Óg Carrickmore of Tyrone, Coolera/Strandhill from Sligo, Moytura of Mayo, Tuam from Galway and host club Aodh Ruadh. Conditions were difficult with heavy rain throughout the day, the draw threw up two groups. One based in Father Tierney park and the other in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.
In the opening games of the day Ballycastle played Tuam in the Park and Aodh Ruadh played Coolera/Strandhill in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. The famed Antrim team ran out convincing winners and the host club easily defeated Coolera / Strandhill, but were not very impressive in doing so.
The next set of games had two of Ulster's top under 16 teams, Kevin Lynch's and Ballycastle, in opposition in the Park, while across the road Moytura from south Mayo faced the famed Carrickmore. The Mayo men ran out easy winners while Kevin Lynch's came out on top against Ballycastle in a tempestuous affair. The next set of games were very important for the final group placings, in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh Aodh Ruadh faced Carrickmore while in the Park Tuam played Kevin Lynch's. After a poor first half Aodh Ruadh upped their performance in the second and ran out convincing winners against the Tyrone men. Meanwhile in Father Tierney Park Tuam and Kevin Lynch's put on a great show and the Derry men won after a very close game and as a result topped group one.
The scene was now set for the final round of games. In group two with Aodh Ruadh facing Moytura and Coolera / Strandhill facing Carrickmore in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. Aodh Ruadh missed a number of chances to put away the Mayo men, and due to poor finishing and a spirited Mayo team Aodh Ruadh found them themselves two points down with seconds remaining on the clock they played the ball up the field and with only a goal on their mind they got it with the last puc of the game to beat the Mayo men by a point. It was tough on the Mayo men who fought so well to put themselves in a winning position, but for the first time that day the Aodh Ruadh men showed their renowned never say die attitude to get the goal at the end, and by doing so top group two.
Meanwhile over in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh the Tyrone men ran out easy winners against the Yeats men.
The stage was now set for the Alan Ryan semi-finals. First up were Kevin Lynch's against Moytura, this is a very talented Mayo team with a great attitude to the game of hurling. They contested every ball with the Derry men and there was only two points in it at the end. Over in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh the Seamus Grimes final was played between Tuam and Carrickmore, and the men from the West saved their best performance till last and much to the joy of their large travelling support they ran out easy winners to add another new name to the list of winners of the Seamus Grimes memorial trophy.
Over in Father Tierney Park Aodh Ruadh were facing Ballycastle, both teams were evenly matched in the first half, but in the second half the local lads began to pick off long range points and they ran out winners by six points. The stage was now set for the Alan Ryan final between Kevin Lynch's and an Aodh Ruadh team going for two-in-a-row in this tournament. It was clear from the early stages that Aodh Ruadh were up for the battle against a team who hammered them by over 40 points less than a month ago, the young Aodh Ruadh team fielding seven under 14s found themselves two points down at half time. For the second half Aodh Ruadh threw everything at the Derry men and after a fierce battle got themselves back level in a low scoring game and with less than a minute to go they scored the winning point to record an historic victory for the home team on a 0-7 to 1-3 score line.
From the field it was up to Aras Aoidh Ruaidh for the presentation and a feast of food prepared by the Ryan and Grimes families and the mothers of the Aodh Ruadh under 16s. Martin 'Kerry' Ryan opened proceedings by welcoming all to this year's tournament and thanked all the teams who had come he then called on John Rooney to say a few words. John spoke of the important role both the Alan Ryan and Seamus Grimes played in keeping hurling alive in Ballyshannon, they were both great club men who unfortunately left this world too early. He spoke of the great player Alan was and that he was part of a youth policy which Seamus Grimes among others had pioneered in the 80s in Ballyshannon. He thanked the families for their support and thanked all clubs who travelled and thanked all the managers who brought the lads to Ballyshannon. Eddie Grimes spoke on behalf of the Grimes family and thanked the local juvenile hurling committee for organising this tournament, he spoke of the high standard of hurling that had been played and he called on the Tuam captain Jonathon Ward to come forward to accept the Seamus Grimes trophy. The winning captain thanked the Aodh Ruadh club for inviting them and thanked all involved in running the event. Martin spoke of how proud he was that Aodh Ruadh had retained the title, thanked the local club and all the sponsors who had supported this event, thanked all the ladies who had catered for all and called forward his daughter Caroline to present the Alan Ryan trophy to winning captain Colm Kelly.
Colm thanked all the clubs who had travelled he thanked John Rooney and Peter Horan who have managed this team since they were under 10. John Rooney finished proceedings by thanking all the juvenile committee who had helped on the day and especially thanked referees Eddie Lynch and Peter Horan who did a great job in very difficult conditions, he hoped to see all back in 2013.
We have pictures from the tournament up.

Training as normal on Sunday at 12 noon all welcome especially beginners any queries please contact John Rooney (086-2587793).

~ LADIES ~
The senior ladies play Four Masters this Sunday at 12 noon in Father Tierney Park.

Under 12 training will take place this Wednesday evening from 5pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.

Under 10 and under 8 training will take place in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh from 6pm on Wednesday evening to 6.45pm.

~ FIRST AID COURSE ~
A course in basic first aid is being organised for Tuesday, 22nd May. Course will be delivered by Liam Thomas, further details will follow soon.

1 May 2012

~ FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh went on a goal-scoring spree in the final 15 minutes of their tie with Urris on Saturday evening to clinch an important home win. The visitors started off the better when they went into a four point lead, including a goal by corner forward Mark McLaughlin who with Alan Friel (0-2) was causing Aodh Ruadh a few headaches. Dean Kelly also got on the score sheet for Urris with two converted frees. But Aodh Ruadh came from behind thanks to scores from Michael Ward (1-1), Diarmuid McInerney (0-2,1f), David Dolan (0-2) and Ciron Whoriskey (0-1) to draw level 1-6 a piece at half-time. Urris went into to the lead in the opening minutes of the second half with a free from Dean Kelly, but it wouldn't be until the 45th minute that the next score of the game would come. Kelly also went on to score the only other two points for his side in the second half. Substitute Niall McCready scored the goal which proved to mark the turnaround for Aodh Ruadh as two more goals followed from Conor Patton, who gave an outstanding performance, and another substitute Shane Ward, yes that Shane Ward, who scored the fourth goal and sealed the deal for Aodh Ruadh. We have pictures from the game and a list of scorers up.

Playing 13-a-side Aodh Ruadh overcame Urris in a rather stop start affair. Despite struggling with the 13-a-side dynamic, Aodh Ruadh dominated the first half with Damien Cleary, Dermot Slevin and Steven Perry firing over points to help Aodh Ruadh to a 0-7 to no score lead by half time. Honours were shared in the second half, but the points remained on Erneside as Ballyshannon returned to the top of the division three reserve table. We have some pictures from the game up. We will also be adding extra pictures taken by Cathal Maguire at the senior and reserve games later in the week.

There is no game currently scheduled for this weekend, but Aodh Ruadh will definitely be back in action the following weekend when we are on our travels to Carndonagh.

The minors recorded their third win of the league with a 0-9 to 2-11 away win over Naomh Conaill. The Ernesiders played against the breeze in the first half and were doing well to only be two points down at half time - 0-7 to 1-2. David McGurrin hit a free and James Kelly hit a nice point from play, while Michael McNeely got goal, drawing on the ball after it landed into a scramble in the square. Aodh Ruadh made good use of the breeze in the second half. David McGurrin added to his tally and Jamie McDonald came on fired over a few Jamie specials to give Aodh Ruadh the lead. The decisive score came when Michael McNeely collected a long diagonal ball, swiveled and rifled the ball in the top corner for a real cracker of a goal. Ryan Granaghan added further scores as Ballyshannon secured the points. Eamonn McGrath was very staunch at the back, while Thomas Anderson who came on for PJ Gillespie also had a great game in defence. The lads are back on the road this week, and the trips aren't getting any shorter. This time it's away to Dungloe on Friday with Martin Coll throwing the ball in at 7pm.

A busy bank holiday weekend coming up for the under 16s. First on the order of business is the Southern Minor League final against Killybegs. That takes place this Saturday 5th May at 12 noon in Dunkineely. This promises to be an epic game of football so a good showing of Ballyshannon support would be much appreciated. Next up after that is the preliminary round second leg game away to Four Masters on Monday, 7th April. That game throws in at Tir Chonaill park at 7pm. Thanks to Cathal Maguire we have some pictures from the under 16s Southern Minor Board league semi-final win over Naomh Conaill in Dunkineely last Monday up. Aodh Ruadh had strong representation at the Buncrana cup and under 17 inter-county games staged in Ballyshannon last Saturday. We have a report on the Buncrana cup game and some pictures of the action.

Aodh Ruadh missed out on Féile by the narrowest of margins, losing to Saint Eunan's 2-0 to 0-7 at MacCumhaill Park last Wednesday. Playing with the benefit of the breeze, Ballyshannon were a point up at half time. First Jimmy Ward dispatched a goal and then a long ball in from a Shane Dorrian free ended up in the net. Aodh Ruadh fought a valiant rearguard action in the second half, but eventually a free and a point from play saw Eunan's get the scores they needed to go through to the national competition. The full back line of Brendan Gillespie, Nathan Boyle, Shane Gillespie deserve special credit for the defensive work they got through, as does Caolán Drummond. Up front Michael McKenna was the most dangerous of the Ballyshannon attackers on show. The under 14s now get their league campaign for the year under way with the visit of Ardara to Father Tierney Park on Wednesday, 2nd May with the game throwing in at 7.30pm.

The under 12s final Go Games blitz of the year took place on Monday evening. Saint Naul's and Naomh Ultan came to Ballyshannon and contributed to a great evening of football. Under 12 training continues this Friday at 4.15pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh, concluding at 5.20pm. The formal under 12 league starts next Monday, 7th April, with a game against Ardara. All players are to be up at the Park for 5.45pm. Throw in at 6.30pm with Mark Granaghan refereeing.

Under 10 training resumes this Thursday, 3rd May in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh from 6pm to 7pm. Parents/Guardians are asked to please collect children promptly after their session is finished.

Under 6 and under 8 training continues this Friday 4th April from 6pm to 7pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.

Can all parents please ensure that young children attending training bring warm clothing to training sessions as the weather is very changeable at the moment. Children are also asked to bring their own water bottles with them to training.

~ HURLING ~
On Thursday last the under 14s made the long journey to Carndonagh to play Carn in the league. Due to injuries we just had the bare 15 players and it is to their credit that they made this trip, many of them coming straight from school. On a terrible night of wind and rain the boys stuck to the task in hand and after a very tough battle in a game full of passion and commitment they ran out winners on a 5-9 to 3-4 score line. Next up for the lads is another long trip to Inishowen on Thursday to play the very strong Buncrana team who competed in division one of the Ulster Féile on Saturday last winning two of their three games.

The under 14 hurlers will be competing in division five of Féile na nGael in Dublin from 5th July to 7th July. We are being hosted by Saint Maur's in Rush in north county Dublin. As part of the fund-raising for this trip we are bag packing in Mace in Ballyshannon this Saturday. Please support the lads in their efforts.

The minors are back in action this Thursday with a home game against Buncrana.

Commiserations to Colaiste Cholmcille's under 14 and a half team who were beaten in the Ulster C final against Abbey CBS Newry on Tuesday last. The boys got off to a terrible start and found themselves behind 5-1 to 0-2. They fought back well in the second half, but had left themselves too much work to do and lost on a 5-4 to 2-4 score-line.

The majority of Hurlathon cards are in now and we are glad to say that €6,862 has been raised to date for the promotion and development of juvenile hurling in the club well done to all concerned.

Our under 8s travelled to Killygordon on Sunday morning to take part in an all-county blitz hosted by Setanta, they put on a great show beating Burt, Letterkenny Gaels, Carndonagh and drawing with Gaoth Dobhair. Thanks to Pauric Keenaghan and Michael Ayres who managed the lads and special thanks to all the parents who drove the lads to Killygordon.

On Bank Holiday Monday next, 7th May, we have a feast of under 16 hurling with the hosting of the annual Alan Ryan/Seamus Grimes tournament, this tournament has been running since 1998 and this year's event promises to be the best yet with quality teams such as Ballycastle (Antrim) Kevin Lynches (Derry) and Carrickmore (Tyrone) among the eight teams committed to this year's tournament. The action gets under way at 10.30am. all are welcome to see some serious hurling.

Training as normal on Sunday at 12 noon all welcome especially beginners any queries please contact John Rooney (086-2587793).

~ LADIES ~
There is no Senior fixture this weekend. The next game for the senior ladies will take place Sunday week against Four Masters.

The under 14s played their third league game of the year hosting Bundoran in a truly gripping game which could have gone either way. Both teams put on a great performance, trading scores throughout the first half. A couple of goals by the Bundoran girls left the Aodh Ruadh side trailing by two points at half time. The start of the second half showed the Ballyshannon girls in excellent form and taking their scores to secure the lead. Another goal put the visiting side in front with only a couple of minutes left on the clock. The home team battled hard and put a goal and a couple of points on the board to come out on top by the narrowest of margins at the final whistle. This was an excellent team performance by all the girls to win their first match of the season. We have a few pictures from the game up.

Under 12 training will take place this Wednesday evening from 5pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.

Under 10 and under 8 training will take place in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh from 6pm on Wednesday evening to 6.45pm.

~ COACHING COURSE ~
We had a very successful coaching workshop last Saturday in Pairc Aodh Ruadh. All participants enjoyed the session and thanks to Sylvester Maguire and Brendan Drummond for giving their time to deliver course. Thanks also to all the young boys who came along to do the demos: Colm McGloin, Mark McGlynn, Cian Rooney, Seosamh and Liam McGee, Mark and Rory Gettins, John Patton and Dylan Gallagher. Due to high interest on the day another workshop will be run shortly. We have a few pictures from this session up and hope to have some video at a later date.

~ FIRST AID COURSE ~
A course in basic first aid is being organised for Tuesday, 22nd May. Course will be delivered by Liam Thomas, further details will follow soon.

~ YES WE CAN ~
The next collection of aluminium cans for recycling will take place at Father Tierney Park this Saturday 5th May from 12 noon to 1pm. we've got a great response from the local community and from local businesses and we ask all to support this project to help raise much needed funds for Aodh Ruadh and to help protect the local environment.

~ COMMUNITY GAMES ~
Father Tierney Park played host to the Community Games last Friday. There were a huge number of children present to compete in the various sprinting, hurdle and longer distance events. Needless to say there was a strong Aodh Ruadh representation present on the day. Well done to everyone who took part and those who organised. We have a few pictures from the day's action up.

27 April 2012

~ COACHING FOR COACHES ~
The course is aimed at people currently coaching looking for new ideas, teachers, parents and anyone with an interest in coaching. The course, which takes place this Saturday, is FREE to all interested in taking part.

Organiser | Tracey Flood
Coaches | Sylvester Maguire and Brendan Drummond

For more information on coaching check out Coaching Corner on aodhruadh.org.

24 April 2012

~ MEETING ~
The monthly senior club meeting takes place on Thursday 26th April in Aras Aoidh Ruadh 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ LADIES ~
Aodh Ruadh's under 14 girls defeated Bundoran in Father Tierney Park tonight by a single point. We have pictures from the game up now, with match report to follow.

~ FOOTBALL ~
In a correction to last night's under 16 Southern Minor Board league semi-final score line, Aodh Ruadh won by 4-10 to 1-12.

Last modified: Wednesday, 16 May 2012 at 11:51pm

Read more in the club notes archive.