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Club Notes Archive - 2007

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Box. FEBRUARY
5th February

The club Dinner Dance will take place in Dorrian's Hotel on Saturday, 10th February. There are still tickets available, priced €30, from Mary Matthews in Shannon's Corner and from David O'Donnell in Mojo's in the Saimer Court Shopping Centre. Terrence McShea and Jimmy Gallagher also have tickets for sale. In order to ensure proceedings move briskly attendees are asked to arrive before 8.30pm to allow the dinner to be served at 9.00pm sharp.

Parents of children intending to play at under 12 level this year (i.e. children born on or after the 1st January 1995 and before the 31st December) are invited to Aras Aoidh Ruadh on Thursday, 8th February at 8.30pm to discuss the co-ordination of the playing group for the 2007 season. The logistics involved in running the under 12 squad are quite considerable and the aim of this meeting is to discuss in what manner parents might be able to help out in terms of coaching, supervision on buses, back-up and general assistance. Refreshments will be available on the night.

The hurlers of Ardoyne Kickhams are in Ballyshannon to play an under 16 challenge game against Aodh Ruadh this Saturday at 2pm.

Outdoor training continues for the senior panel on Monday nights at 7pm and Saturdays at 4pm, with indoor training in the Leisure Centre on Thursdays at 7.15pm. All adult players are welcome to attend these sessions.

Underage training continues on Thursday 8th February, with the Minors in the Mercy Hall from 8pm - 9pm. There is training on Friday night in the Mercy Hall from 7pm - 8pm for the under 8s; from 8pm - 9pm for the under 10s and from 9pm - 10pm for the under 12s. Girls training also continues in the Mercy Hall. The under 10 girls are in the Hall from 6pm - 7pm on Tuesdays. The under 14 girls commence training in the Hall this Thursday from 6pm - 7pm. The under 12 girls are in the Hall from 6pm - 7pm on Fridays.

With activity starting to build up again in the club it is important that ALL pitch bookings are directed through Peter Conlon. Peter can be contacted on 087-6838024 or 071-9851386.

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12th February

The club Dinner Dance took place in Dorrian's Hotel last Saturday with a big turn out present. After a fine meal, Sean Perry took to the podium as master of ceremonies, superintending the distribution of a slew of trophies, medals and awards. The main presentation of the night was to the under 16 and minor hurlers. The guest of honour, County Chairman, Sean Kelly, was called upon to present county championship medals to the teams. This was followed by a presentation to the four Aodh Ruadh hurlers who were part of the Donegal panel that contested the Nicky Rackard Cup final, Aiden Begley, Johnny Dolan, Anthony Coughlan and Peter Horan. There were also tokens of appreciation presented to hurling medical officer, Emma Gaughan, and outgoing hurling board officers Billy Finn and John Larkin.

The Hall of Fame went to Josie Boyle, an award that was greeted warmly on the night by the assembled crowd. His presentation was followed by a thoughtful and moving oration from the 2005 Hall of Fame recipient Michael McLoone. After that, underage stalwart Enda McGurrin received a beautiful crystal bowl as Clubman of the Year.

The 'Players of the Year' section of proceedings saw Chris Kilgannon recognised as Hurler of the year. Matthew Thompson received the award for underage footballer of the year. Louise Foy was the ladies player of the year, whilst Michael Bowering picked up hurler of the year. The dynamic Paul Connolly took the third player of the year gong. Simon Gillespie took the accolade in the reserve team whilst the coveted senior team player of the year went to Jonathan Gallagher. With the silverware presented Paddy Kelly took to the stage and proved that all you need to get a room going is few keyboards and a guitar.

Huge thanks must go to everyone involved in making event such an enjoyable and wonderful occasion

The senior team has an appetizing draw against the Ardara in the preliminary round of the Raidio na Gaeltachta Senior Football Championship. The reserve team will also face Ardara in the preliminary round. Aodh Ruadh will enjoy home advantage in the first leg of those ties. The third team will face their adversaries from the 2006 Junior B final in the opening round of the 2007 championship. The winner of that match will strongly fancy their chances to go all the way. Glenfin will also be the opponents for Aodh Ruadh in the opening round of the Under 21 championship.

Outdoor training continues for the senior panel on Monday nights at 7pm and Saturdays at 4pm, with indoor training in the Leisure Centre on Thursdays at 7.15pm. All adult players are welcome to attend these sessions.

A forum has been added to the Aodh Ruadh website www.aodhruadh.org. The forum is an excellent facility for people interested in club matters to discuss them on line, day and night. A link to the forum labeled “Team Talk Forum” can be found on the left navigation column of the website. Or you can go to the forum directly at http://aodhruadh.org/teamtalk/. The forum is provided on a probationary basis. The expectation is that debate will be civil and courteous at all times. Should maintaining an acceptable level of order and respect present a problem in any way, shape or form, the forum will be removed.

The under 16s have commenced outdoor training. They are training on Tuesdays and Fridays at 4.15pm in Munday's field. With the start of the season not far away all players are asked to attend.

Congratulations to Jim Kane Paddy Kelly, Paddy Gillespie, Adrian Keown, Niamh Gallagher, Shauna Slevin and Lorna Gillespie who took part in the Foundation Level Coaching Course in Donegal Town last weekend. The course concludes this Friday with the Child Protection module, again in Donegal town.

Underage training continues on Thursday 8th February, with the Minors in the Mercy Hall from 8pm - 9pm. There is training on Friday night in the Mercy Hall from 7pm - 8pm for the under 8s; from 8pm - 9pm for the under 10s and from 9pm - 10pm for the under 12s. Girls training also continues in the Mercy Hall. The under 10 girls are in the Hall from 6pm - 7pm on Tuesdays. The under 14 girls commence training in the Hall this Thursday from 6pm - 7pm. The under 12 girls are in the Hall from 6pm - 7pm on Fridays.

With activity starting to build up again in the club it is important that ALL pitch bookings are directed through Peter Conlon. Peter can be contacted on 087-6838024 or 071-9851386.

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19th February

A technical hiccup meant that last week's club notes were not sent. Please accept my apologies for that. The main points from last week's notes are also included with this mailing.

Donegal play Dublin this coming Sunday at 2.00pm in round three of the Allianz National Football League. Stewards are asked to assemble in Aras Aoidh Ruadh at 12 noon. The ladies will be taking care of programme sales on the day. Bord na nÓg are running a half time draw and a large turnout of sellers is requested. The club asks that as many stewards as possible make themselves available for what is likely to be a significant crowd. Help is needed in every aspect of the day, particularly in helping people get parked in and around the town.

Aodh Ruadh is undertaking a major draw to fund the redevelopment of Munday's Field as a top class training facility. The redevelopment plans will include two Prunty playing pitches and a running track. The first prize in the draw is a Nissan Almera from Jim Owen. There will be a host of other eye-catching prizes unveiled at the official launch of the draw in March. Tickets priced €30 each or €50 for two will be available shortly. The club is currently assembling teams to sell the draw tickets. If you would like to help out with ticket sales, please call 087-6431805, e-mail info@aodhruadh.org or contact any committee member. This is a private members draw.

There is a registration night for both boys and girls planning to play under 10, under 12 and/or under 14 football this year on Friday 23rd February in Aras Aoidh Ruadh. Under 10 registration commences at 7.30pm; under 12 registration commences at 8.00pm; and under 14 registration commences at 8.30pm. Families with more than one child to register can register all children at any of these sessions. All players are required to attend. Those who have previously paid membership will be issued with their membership cards on night. Please note: only registered players can play for Aodh Ruadh. Please bring your membership fee of €12.00.

The inaugural Sean Slevin minor tournament is to take place between Aodh Ruadh and Erne Gaels in Munday's field this Saturday at 12 noon.

The senior team has an appetizing draw against the Ardara in the preliminary round of the Raidio na Gaeltachta Senior Football Championship. The reserve team will also face Ardara in the preliminary round. Aodh Ruadh will enjoy home advantage in the first leg of those ties. The third team will face their adversaries from the 2006 Junior B final in the opening round of the 2007 championship. The winner of that match will strongly fancy their chances to go all the way. Glenfin will also be the opponents for Aodh Ruadh in the opening round of the Under 21 championship.

In a novel fundraising twist the Hurlers are running a Hurl-A-Thon in the Mercy Hall on 24th March. This will consist of a solid 12 hours of continuous hurling! The event is being held to help raise funding for hurling right through the club, from under 10 to senior. The hurlers will be out and about with their sponsorship cards over the coming weeks, so please, give generously to this great cause.

On a more serious note Aodh Ruadh hurling star Aiden Begley injured his shoulder badly in a county challenge match recently. The club offers Aidan its commiserations and best wishes for a speedy recovery.

The club Dinner Dance took place in Dorrian's Hotel on Saturday, 10th February with a big turn out present. After a fine meal, Sean Perry took to the podium as master of ceremonies, superintending the distribution of a slew of trophies, medals and awards. The main presentation of the night was to the under 16 and minor hurlers. The guest of honour, County Chairman, Sean Kelly, was called upon to present county championship medals to the teams. This was followed by a presentation to the four Aodh Ruadh hurlers who were part of the Donegal panel that contested the Nicky Rackard Cup final, Aiden Begley, Johnny Dolan, Anthony Coughlan and Peter Horan. There were also tokens of appreciation presented to hurling medical officer, Emma Gaughan, and outgoing hurling board officers Billy Finn and John Larkin.

The Hall of Fame went to Josie Boyle, an award that was greeted warmly on the night by the assembled crowd. His presentation was followed by a thoughtful and moving oration from the 2005 Hall of Fame recipient Michael McLoone. After that, underage stalwart Enda McGurrin received a beautiful crystal bowl as Clubman of the Year.

The 'Players of the Year' section of proceedings saw Chris Kilgannon recognised as Hurler of the year. Matthew Thompson received the award for underage footballer of the year. Louise Foy was the ladies player of the year, whilst Michael Bowering picked up hurler of the year. The dynamic Paul Connolly took the third player of the year gong. Simon Gillespie took the accolade in the reserve team whilst the coveted senior team player of the year went to Jonathan Gallagher. With the silverware presented Paddy Kelly took to the stage and proved that all you need to get a room going is few keyboards and a guitar.

Huge thanks must go to everyone involved in making event such an enjoyable and wonderful occasion.

Congratulations to Creevy school who triumphed in the final of the Cumann na mBunscoil Southern Division Quiz in the Abbey Hotel, Donegal town recently. The winning team was Daniel Gallagher, Eoin O'Malley Daly, David McGurrin and Conan McIntyre.

Best wishes and good luck go the under 19 girls team of Colaiste Colmcille as they head into the Ulster Vocational Schools semi final against Donaghmore of Tyrone this Sunday. At the time of writing the venue and time for the game had yet to be confirmed.

Congratulations to Aoife Buggy who made her senior county debut against Cork last Sunday. Aoife could be proud of herself as she gave a great display on what was an otherwise disappointing day for the Tir Conaill ladies.

This is the last week of training for the girls, before a hiatus of two weeks while mocks take place in the Mercy Hall. The under 10 girls are in the Hall on Tuesday from 6pm - 7pm and the under 14 girls are in the Hall on Thursday from 6pm - 7pm. Training resumes again in the week commencing Monday 12th March. Check club notes nearer the time for the latest information.

Outdoor training continues for the senior panel on Monday nights at 7pm and Saturdays at 4pm, with indoor training in the Leisure Centre on Thursdays at 7.15pm. All adult players are welcome to attend these sessions.

A forum has been added to the Aodh Ruadh website www.aodhruadh.org. The forum is an excellent facility for people interested in debating club matters to discuss them on line, day and night. A link to the forum labeled “Team Talk Forum” can be found on the left navigation column of the website. Or you can go to the forum directly at http://aodhruadh.org/teamtalk/. The forum is provided on a probationary basis. The expectation is that debate will be civil and courteous at all times. Should maintaining an acceptable level of order and respect present a problem in any way, shape or form, the forum will be removed.

The under 16s have commenced outdoor training. They are training on Tuesdays and Fridays at 4.15pm in Munday's field. With the start of the season not far away all players are asked to attend.

A referee's course takes place in the VEC centre, Stranorlar on 3rd March at 10am. Contact Frankie Doherty, the Referees Administrator for further information on 087-6775403. The club encourages people to get involved in refereeing, especially at underage level where the club lacks referees for the under 10, under 12 and under 14 grades.

Congratulations to Jim Kane, Paddy Kelly, Paddy Gillespie, Adrian Keown, Niamh Gallagher, Shauna Slevin and Lorna Gillespie who took part in the Foundation Level Coaching Course in Donegal Town over the past weekends. It is good to see the level of coaching expertise constantly rising within the club. We would ask that people who have done the coaching courses in the past to put their skills to good use, helping out around the club.

With activity starting to build up again in the club it is important that ALL pitch bookings are directed through Peter Conlon. Peter can be contacted on 087-6838024 or 071-9851386.

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26th February

Huge thanks are due to all those who turned out to help out at the Donegal v Dublin Allianz National League 1A fixture last Sunday. Congratulations to John Martin Coyle of Glassagh, Gaoth Dobhair who won €100 in the half-time draw organised by Bord na nÓg. The second prize of €100 went unclaimed on the day. The winning ticket number was 0366. Should this be your ticket, you can claim your prize by posting the winning stub to John Hughes, The Mullans, Ballyshannon and your winnings will be sent on to you by return of post.

Aodh Ruadh seniors host a challenge against Portglenone of Antrim this Saturday in Father Tierney Park. The game kicks off at 2pm. Players should be at the Park for 1.15pm. Outdoor training continues for the senior panel on Monday nights at 7pm with indoor training in the Leisure Centre on Thursdays at 7.15pm.

The minor hurlers are playing a challenge match against Kevin Lynches of Derry on Sunday 4th March. The bus leaves Father Tierney Park at 10.45am. Minor and under 16 hurling training will take place in Father Tierney Park on Friday 2nd March at 4.45pm.

The Hurl-A-Thon, 12 hours of continuous hurling, will take place on Saturday, 24th March in the Mercy hall, Ballyshannon. All juvenile (under 10's to minors), and senior hurlers will take part with a start time of 10am. Sponsorship cards will be distributed to all players this coming week. The event is being held to help raise funding for hurling right through the club, from under 10 to senior. The hurlers will be out and about with their sponsorship cards over the coming weeks, so please, give generously to this great cause.

Underage hurling will start this Sunday at 12 noon at the park. All players from 6/7years to under 14's are asked to attend. All new players are very welcome.

Senior Ladies training starts in the De La Salle field on Wednesday 28th February at 7pm and continues on Saturday at 6.30pm.

Under 16 training continues on Tuesdays and Fridays at 4.15pm in Munday's field.

As you may be aware Aodh Ruadh is undertaking a major draw to fund the redevelopment of Munday's Field as a top class training facility. The full listing of prizes is now available and the line-up is impressive with something there for everyone. First prize is a four door 1.4 Nissan Almera; second prize is €3,000 in cash; third prize is a two week sunshine holiday for two valued at €1,500; fourth prize is a 32 inch LCD Television and DVD player; fifth prize is a golf weekend for two at the Slieve Russell Hotel; sixth prize is a weekend for two in the Camden Court Hotel, Dublin with two All Ireland Football OR hurling tickets; seventh prize is a weekend for two with the White Group; eighth prize is €250 worth of household goods from Slevin's Department Store, Ballyshannon; ninth prize is a €250 shopping voucher sponsored by Mace in Ballyshannon; the tenth prize is €200 in cash. Quite a glittering selection there I think you'll agree. Tickets priced €30/ÂŁ20 each or €50/ÂŁ35 for two are out now. The club is currently assembling teams to sell the draw tickets. If you would like to help out with ticket sales, please call 087-6431805, e-mail info@aodhruadh.org or contact any committee member. This is a private members draw.

The club held a very successful Registration night last Friday with over 80 players being registered. Apologies are due for the confusion over the start time, thanks for the patience and understanding of those who arrived early on the night.

The inaugural Sean Slevin Tournament took place last Saturday with a game between the 2006 minor teams of Aodh Ruadh and Erne Gaels in Munday's field. A downpour in the opening minutes of the match made underfoot conditions very tricky, but, happily, the rain held off after that and a large crowd was treated to as good a game of football as you will see anywhere this February. Erne Gaels made the most of playing down the hill in the first half going into the half-time break four points to the good. Aodh Ruadh piled on the pressure in the second half, but a staunch Erne Gaels defence was yielding few clear cut opportunities. The game turned on a goal mid-way through the second half. A move down the centre saw the ball come to Jason Kane who neatly popped the ball up for Diarmuid McInerney. Still some distance out and a point looking the more likely, Diarmuid shot for goal and the ball rifled past a stunned Erne Gaels 'keeper. That score put Aodh Ruadh into a one point lead, but Belleek were in no mood to lie down. A hard won point brought the Fermanagh side level. With time slipping away the next score was likely to win the day, and that fell to Aodh Ruadh with David Dolan pointing to clinch in the inaugural Sean Slevin Shield on a score line of 1-09 to 1-08. The presentations afterwards were an emotional occasion. There were speeches from Bord na nÓg Chairman, Jim Kane, Aodh Ruadh Chairman, Terrence McShea, and Sean Slevin's widow, Patricia all making reference to the huge contribution Sean made to the club at every level, a contribution now sadly missed. It was agreed the quality, passion and spirit of the game did honour to Sean's memory. Afterwards Patricia made the presentation her son Ciaran who captained the victorious Aodh Ruadh team. Many thanks go to everyone who helped out on the day. Go to the club website (aodhruadh.org) to see some pictures from a great day of football.

There is a meeting of the Bord na nÓg committee in Aras Aoidh Ruadh on Wednesday, 7th March at 9.00pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

The monthly Club committee meeting takes place on Thursday, 8th March at 9.00pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

A forum has been added to the Aodh Ruadh website, www.aodhruadh.org. The forum is an excellent facility for people interested in debating club matters to discuss them on line, day and night. A link to the forum labeled “Team Talk Forum” can be found on the left navigation column of the website.

A referee's course takes place in the VEC centre, Stranorlar on Saturday, 3rd March at 10am. Contact Frankie Doherty, the Referees Administrator for further information on 087-6775403. The club encourages people to get involved in refereeing, especially at underage level where the club lacks referees for the under 10, under 12 and under 14 grades.

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