Club Notes Archive - 2012
Notes navigaion
Click on a year to select a month.
JULY- 3 July
-
~ CONDOLENCES ~
The club extends their sincere condolences to the Gallagher family on the recent sad passing of Eithne Gallagher. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal.~ FOOTBALL ~
Congratulations to Donegal who progressed to their second Ulster final in as many years with victory over Tyrone last Saturday. There was Aodh Ruadh involvement on the day with Anthony Donagher taking part in the half time games, where he scored a fine point. There was further Ballyshannon representation with John Joe Gettins also playing. We have pictures from the victory on up. Now might be an opportune time to remind those who have not yet paid membership that it is still possible to become an Aodh Ruadh member for 2012. Anyone who becomes a member at this stage will not have a vote at AGM, but they will still be able to apply for tickets through the club, although members paid before the 31st March cut-off will be given preference in all events. Contact Emma Gaughan (0863039610), John Hughes (0876431805), or any committee member if you wish to become a memberAodh Ruadh seniors slumped to a disappointing defeat against Downings last Sunday. An eight point cushion was squandered as Downings chalked up an unanswered 12 point run of scores to win on a scoreline of 2-10 to 1-9. Aodh Ruadh did much good work in this game, but it was all undone in the final 20 minutes. Among the positives to take from the game were the displays of Michael Dolan, PJ McGee and Niall McCready who all did well defensively, while Donagh McIntyre and James O'Donnell enjoyed long spells of midfield dominance. Up front Anthony Boyle's free taking was exceptional and David Dolan took two fine points. We have a full match report and pictures up.
Aodh Ruadh went clear at the top of the division three reserve table with a win over Downings on the deceptive scoreline of 4-11 to 1-7. The game was tit-for-tat much of the way through with very little in the game at half time. It was late in the second half before Ballyshannon were able to cut loose and two late goals from Johnny Gethins and one from Ronan Matthews put the tie definitively beyond the visitors. A sturdy display was required and delivered at the back from Michael Ward and Thomas Anderson. Once Aidan Murray delivered a very good shift in midfield, while up front Steven Perry was very lively up front and Anthony Coughlin was a constant threat. We have pictures from the game up.
There were no fixtures available for the coming weekend at the time of sending.
Saint Naul's conceded their final league game against the Aodh Ruadh minors. This sees Ballyshannon progress to the Southern League final where we await the winners of section 1 where the Killybegs / Naomh Ultan combination Saint John's are currently leading the way.
Aodh Ruadh progressed to the Southern Regional final with a hard-fought 2-11 to 1-6 win over Naomh Mhuire in Father Tierney Park. Aodh Ruadh battled through the first half, going in at the break leading by two points, thanks in the main to a Shane McGrath goal and an superbly taken point. Niall Harley had a huge role to play in the win, working like a dog in midfield. Defensively the half back line once again excelled with Calum 'Cookie' O'Halloran and Conor Kennedy in particularly fine form. Colm Doyle and Matthew Maguire were very solid in the full back line. Up front Shane McGrath was a little bit of class, while Philip Patton worked very hard and finished the game with six points to his credit. Oisín Roper was another who put in a good, hard shift at half forward, While Stephen Thompson was in flying form after his introduction, bagging himself a goal and two points. We have pictures of the game up. Aodh Ruadh's opponents in the final will be Dungloe who slayed a fancied Ardara outfit and will present doughty opposition. The final is penciled in for Monday, 16th July, but we await final confirmation of date, time and venue.
Aodh Ruadh under 14s lost their first round first leg championship clash to Four Masters by 3-5 to 2-14. The teams traded scores in the first 5 minutes until Donegal town opened up a six point lead. While our defence was holding firm, with Brendan Gillespie in particular having a good game, we struggled to get scores until a fantastic goal from Shane Dorrian brought us back into the game and a good save by Mark Gallagher saw Ballyshannon four points behind at half. Aodh Ruadh started the second half strongly but failed to capitalise on the amount of possession we had with some wayward shooting. A goal by Shane McGrath half way through the second half put the Ernesiders back in touch, but again our inability to convert possession into scores was our downfall with Donegal adding points late on. Mark Gallagher was sound in goals, with Nathan Boyle and Jason Granaghan strong in defence. Up front Shane Dorrian, Dylan Gallagher and Ryan McKenna were prominent, however Brendan Gillespie was the stand out performer throughout. The under 14s next game in the championship is away to Dungloe on 18th July with the throw in at 7.30pm.
The under 12 Willie Rogers tournament takes place this Saturday, 7th July. Games throw in at 11am, with teams taking part including Aodh Ruadh, Bundoran, Erne Gaels, Devenish and Melvin Gaels. Aodh Ruadh players are to be at the park for 10.30am. All parents are asked to help with the catering on the day by providing at least a loaf of sandwiches. There is a training session for the under 12 footballers this Friday at 4.15pm.
Under 10 training continues this Thursday, 5th July in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh from 6pm to 7pm. Parents/Guardians are asked to please collect children promptly after their session is finished.
Aodh Ruadh hosted the Bundoran under 8s for a very enjoyable blitz last Friday. Well done to all our players who gave excellent accounts of themselves: Ronan Barron, Aaron Cullen, Ben Daly, Pauric Daly, Ryan Daly, Darragh Dolan, Eoin Doogan, Liam Doogan, Michael Doogan, Niamh Hughes, Eoghan Kelly, Gráinne Maguire, Micheál Keown, Cillian Meehan, James McGinley, Shane McGloin, Fergal McGowan, Cian McKenna, James Monaghan, Tom Murphy, David Roper, Drew Ryan, Aengus Sweeny and Tommy Winters. We have pictures from the blitz up. Thanks to Sylvester Maguire for assembling the posts as well as Terence McShea and Peter Horan who reffed the games. Thanks to Bundoran for two good games. Big thanks too to the parents who put on a great spread of grub afterwards in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. Certificates were issued ahead of the summer break, but, due to popular demand we will continue with training through the summer, resuming this Friday from 6pm to 7pm.
~ HURLING ~
On a lovely evening for hurling both teams served up a very entertaining minor league final full of passion and commitment that saw the underdogs Aodh Ruadh claim the title. Before the game there was a minute silence for Eithne Gallagher, wife of Aodh Ruadh President Jim 'The Natch' Gallagher who died in a traffic accident the previous day. Setanta were quicker to get into their stride and raced into a five point lead. Indeed it could have been more only for a great save by Aodh Ruadh keeper Donie O'Keefe. But credit to Aodh Ruadh they never dropped their heads and gradually they played themselves into the game. A few long range frees from Eddie Lynch kept the Ernesiders in touch and a great goal before half time by Jamie Brennan left the bare minimum between the teams at the break, Setanta 0-8 Aodh Ruadh 1-4. The second half was a very tight affair as the physically stronger Killygordon men looked like they were going to hold on for victory, but a couple of quick fire goals by Jamie Brennan and Colm Kelly set Aodh Ruadh on the road to victory. The men from the Cross ensured a nervous last few minutes when they grabbed a goal, but some heroic defending by Aodh Ruadh ensured they ran out winners. It was a delighted captain Conor McNeely who accepted the cup on behalf of the team. This is Aodh Ruadh's first minor title since 2007, it was a great all round team performance from this young team and all 16 played their part in a great display of passion and commitment. The minors now look forward to the championship which starts on the 8th July with a trip to play Saint Eunan's. We have pictures from the game up.On Saturday last our under 8s, under 10s and under 12s travelled to Owenbeg in Derry for a blitz. They performed very well against all the leading Derry clubs in atrocious conditions and showed they were well able to compete at this level. The under 8s were in a group with Banagher and Na Magha they beat both teams in two very competitive games. They played another game against Banagher and this time the Derry men won.
The under 10s were grouped with Lavey, Slaughtneil and Banagher, they won their opening two games before drawing their final game against Banagher. The under 12s were grouped with Burt, Na Magha and Swatragh in their opening game against the Burt men they drew, before losing narrowly to the two Derry teams.
Sunday was another hectic day on the underage hurling front with the under 8s and under 12s in action against Manorhamilton in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. There were two very enjoyable games with some great skill and commitment on show by the young hurlers with the Aodh Ruadh lads winning both games on this occasion, plans are underway for return games in Manorhamilton shortly.
Later on Sunday afternoon the under 14s in their final action before heading to Féile na nGael in Dublin on Thursday played Strabane in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. This was a great contest. Despite getting off to a slow start Aodh Ruadh battled their way into the game against the more physical Tyrone lads. Aodh Ruadh led narrowly at half time and they upped their game considerably in the second half to run out convincing winners. On Monday night Aodh Ruadh under 14 hurlers invited their parents and sponsors to Aras Aoidh Ruaidh to say thanks for all their support as they prepare for the upcoming Féile na nGael in Dublin. The lads did all the catering for the night and for a change it was the parents who were waited on by the lads. After the lovely meal, it was onto the presentation of the Féile gear to the squad. Manager of the squad John Rooney welcomed all to the event. He especially welcomed Town Mayor Phonsie Travers and his son Councilor Brendan Travers and Councilor Pat O'Malley representing Ballyshannon Town Council, sponsors Fred Ormston his wife Deirdre and Lorraine Gallagher from Mace Ballyshannon and Kevin Byrne. He also welcomed club secretary Emma Gaughan and all the parents. On behalf of the panel sincere thanks to Fred Ormston Mace for gear bags and T-shirts and Kevin Byrne for hoodies, Ballyshannon Town Council, Ballyshannon Credit Union, James 'Freddie' Grimes and a number of anonymous donors for their financial support. John Rooney assured all present that the lads would represent Aodh Ruadh and the town of Ballyshannon well on and off the field in Rush this weekend. Also thanks to all who have wished the Aodh Ruadh under 14 hurlers well at Féile na nGael in Dublin this weekend especially to our neighbours in Bundoran CLG for their good wishes all the support. It is much appreciated. We have a full report on the evening and pictures up.
~ LADIES ~
On Tuesday, 2 July, at 7.30pm in Father Tierney park the Aodh Ruadh under 14 ladies will face Bundoran in the county league final. After playing the neighbours twice already this season the girls know that they have a tough task on their hand if they are to come out as champions. All support would be greatly appreciated on the evening. Why not check out the excellent in-depth match preview on the Ulster Ladies GAA website.Bright and early last Saturday morning, a select few Aodh Ruadh ladies made the journey to Glencolumbkille to take part in the Darren McGinley seven-a-side tournament. Even though the girls were faced with torrential rain and some very questionable decisions from the man in the middle the girls proved to be a force to be reckoned with. With two goals from Fionnuala Gill, and a goal each from Niamh Gallagher, Tara Khan and Áine Cunningham the girls were happy to have beaten Kilcar. After a less than five minute break, the homesters Naomh Columba, were next to face the Aodh Ruadh ladies. This was another very physical game, and having travelled with just eight players there was very little chance of anyone getting a break. However the girls gave it their all, with Claudia Coughlin, Elaine Dorrian, and Emma McPhelim adding their names to the score sheet. The girls were once again successful in their efforts. The girls came out on top of their group and went on to face a strong team from Glencolumbkille in the semi-final. Going in two points up at half time the girls could only have been happy with their performance, however the second half things did not go the way of the Ernesiders. It was evident that the physicality of the previous games and the fact that the girls had such a small panel had taken its toll on the girls. While some super saves from Loraine Roper kept the girls in the game, it ended with the Aodh Ruadh ladies coming in second place having been defeated by two points.
Well done to Tara Khan and the Donegal ladies who followed their male counterparts footsteps on Sunday when they had a comprehensive over Tyrone in the Ulster championship.
Maeve Liston and Roise Keon will be hoping to continue this winning streak when they take on Tyrone this Saturday in the Ulster championship with the Donegal under 16s. Best wishes the two girls and all the team.
Last Thursday evening it was the turn of the under 10s and under 8s to show off their skills in Father Tierney park. The eight months of hard work the girls had put into their development of skills was very evident on the evening when three teams lined out to face Four Masters. While it was evident the Aodh Ruadh girls were much younger than the visitors they did their best and all should be very proud of what they achieved throughout the season. The girls will now take a break for the summer, training will recommence in the autumn. We have pictures from the girls in action up.
~ FAMILY FUN DAY ~
Aodh Ruadh are hosting a family fun day on Sunday July 29th. It is set to be a day packed with fun, craic and excitement with events planned including Wacky Triathlon, Novelty Races, Vintage Cars, Face Painting, Home Bake Sale, Photo Exhibition, Penalty Competition, Bric-A-Brac sale and lots, lots more. If you have any unwanted books football boots, pictures or the like in good condition that you have no use for any more why not donate them to our bric-a-brac sale? Items for sale can be left up to the park from Monday 23rd July. Also if we will be welcoming donations of home baking between 10am and 12 noon on Sunday 29th July at Father Tierney Park.~ YES WE CAN ~
Our next collection of aluminium cans for recycling to raise much needed funds for Aodh Ruadh takes place on Saturday 7th July from 12 noon to 1pm at Father Tierney Park, this campaign had been a great success so far and we thank all the community and businesses who have supported us with this campaign.~ RACE FOR SAM ~
We now have 10 people on 100 points or more in the Race for Sam. There is no change at the top of the leader board, with Johnny Gallagher still on leading the way, and he could have been further ahead if Kildare hadn't been beaten. Stephen Ward and his Woodland Warriors haul of 38 points (Donegal-10, Meath-10, Donnie Shine-7, Sean McCormack-11) has seen him rocket to second place ahead of Michael Doherty's The Docs (34 points this week) and Moya Ferguson's Magic Hands (30 points this week). Meanwhile we have a new last place with Brian Boyle and The Apprentice who scored a solitary point this week thanks to Stephen Bray's late score for Meath, this despite Brian having four teams (Armagh, London, Waterford, Wexford) in action at the weekend. Finbar Gethins haul of four points keep him rooted to second last place while Charlie Patton's 14 points pushes him up the table ever so slightly. With 25 bonus points on offer for winning your provincial title and the second round of qualifiers coming up in the next fortnight, there is still a lot to play for at the top and the bottom of the table. View the week seven leader board on aodhruadh.org or in The Bridgend Bar every Tuesday.~ BINGO ~
Bingo was cancelled last week as a mark of respect to the Gallagher family. Apologies to anyone who did not hear about the cancellation on time. This Friday the Abbey Centre plays host to a bumper bingo with a jackpot prize of €1,000 in last game on 50 numbers or less and six games with house prize of €100 and four games with house of €150. All lines are €40. Bring a friend for a great night of craic and prizes.~ SUMMER CAMP ~
The 21st annual Aodh Ruadh Summer Camp, sponsored by McDevitt and McGlynn Certified Accountants and Registered Auditors, is now underway and continues until Friday, 20th July. There's loads to do with football, hurling, swimming, rounders, obstacle courses and plenty of other fun and games. Each week of the camp concludes with a sports day on Friday. The camp runs from 10am to 3pm and is open to all children from six to 14 years-of-age. This year prices remain unchanged for the eighth year in a row and represent excellent value. The cost per week is €70 per child. Family concessions are as follows: €130 for two children; €180 for three children; and €200 for four children. Children should bring a packed lunch as no one will be allowed to leave the camp during the day. Applications have been distributed to local schools, but forms can also be downloaded from aodhruadh.org. These should be returned to Sylvester Maguire at The Mullans Ballyshannon or brought to camp on the first Monday of the week. Enquiries to 071-9858277 or 086-0532495 or check out www.aodhruadh.org or "Aodh Ruadh CLG" on www.facebook.com.~ CPR AND DEFIBRILLATOR ~
We now have a confirmed date for CPR and defibrillator course. It will take place in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh on Wednesday 25th July from 6.30pm-9.30pm approx. Places are limited to 18 and club members get priority. There is a €10 charge to book your place and all money raised will be donated to Irish Heart Foundation. As there is a large interest in this course places are allocated on a first come first served basis. Club members interested must book with €10 by 9th July to Tracey Flood 0861764998, after that places are being opened up to anyone else interested. Club members are encouraged to participate in this course as this is of huge benefit to everyone. Aodh Ruadh has a defibrillator on the premises and it is important as many people as possible know how to use it. It could literally be a matter of life and death.~ OFF THE PITCH ~
Best wishes to David Downey who is heading off tomorrow to climb Kilimanjaro for two very worthy causes: The North West Hospice and Our Lady's Hospital for Sick Children, Crumlin.Gaelscoil Eirne are celebrating their 10th anniversary with a concert by John Spillane in Dicey Reilly's on Friday 27th July. Not only is Spillane a noted advocate of the language, but he is one of the country's most compelling, vivid and original song writers and performers. His set in the intimate surroundings of Dicey Reilly's is not to be missed. Tickets are available from Dicey Reilly's now priced €10.
- 9 July
-
9 July 2012
~ CPR AND DEFIBRILLATOR ~
The CPR and defibrillator course will take place in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh on Wednesday 25th July from 6.30pm-9.30pm. There will be four instructors present on the night so we need to ensure we have all places filled, otherwise the number of instructors will be reduced. As we have a AED on site it is important that as many people as possible know how to use this in case it is needed. It could literally be a matter of life and death. Also, it is important that those have done the course previously ensure their skill and knowledge are up to date. Liam Thomas and the other instructors are donating their time free. The €10 charge for the course will be donated to Irish Heart Foundation. As there has been a low uptake by members so far, the date for members to book a place is extended to Thursday, 12th July after which the course will be available to everyone on a first come first served basis. Club members are encouraged to attend this course. To book a place please contact Tracey on 086-1764998, booking is confirmed on receipt of €10.~ ULSTER FINAL TICKETS ~
Ulster final ticket orders must be place with Aodh Ruadh club secretary Emma Gaughan ()0863039610 by 12 noon next Thursday, 12th July. Orders can not be accepted after the deadline. Prices are as follows:Gerry Arthurs stand
Adult: €27; Senior Citizen: €15; Under 16s: €5.Pat McGrane and Eastern Stand open seating
Adult: €25; Senior Citizen: €15; Under 16s: €5.The Hill and O'Duffy Terrace standing
Adult: €15; Senior Citizen and Students: €10; Under 16s: €5.Note that tickets can also be purchased at Supervalu in Bundoran.
~ FOOTBALL ~
The seniors and reserves are back in action this weekend when Naomh Columba visit Father Tierney Park on Saturday. The reserve game throws in at 6pm, with the seniors following at 7.30pm.The division one minor final is down to take place this Wednesday, 11th July at 7.30pm. Aodh Ruadh will take on one of either St John's, Kilcar or Four Masters. The venue awaits confirmation, but a good showing of Ballyshannon colour is important in what we anticipate will be good hard game.
The under 16 Southern Regional Championship Final Division 1 takes place this Friday, the glorious 13th July at Naomh Ultan's ground in Dunkineely. Our final opponents are a Dungloe side who turned over a fancied Ardara outfit to reach the decider. Throw in is 6.30pm with Connie Doherty refereeing. Once again a good vociferous Ballyshannon crowd is sought as we try to take home silverware for the second time in three days.
Aodh Ruadh's next game in the championship sees them up against Dungloe on Wednesday 18th July with the throw in at 7.30pm.
Aodh Ruadh brought the Willie Rogers trophy back to the banks of the Erne last Saturday. They progressed to the final with three round robin wins over Erne Gaels, Bundoran and Devenish. It was evidence of how evenly matched the competition was that the other three teams were all tied on two wins apiece and could only be separated by scoring difference. In the Devenish were the team that progressed to the decider, a game which proved to be a mighty battle. Devenish were on fire in the first half and went in at half time winning by 2-4 to 0-1. After a rousing half team speech Aodh Ruadh tore into the Garrison boys in the second half. It was an end-to-end second period with lots of thrills and spills, but it was Aodh Ruadh who had the lion's share of the scoring and they emerged four point winners. The tournament win was truly a team effort and one of those occasions where it would be wrong to separate any player out for special mention. Bord na nÓg chairman Shane Toolan was compere for the presentations with Willie Rogers' sons, Barry and Gavin, stepping up to present the Willie Rogers trophy to the Aodh Ruadh captain Dylan Gallagher. Dylan thanked all the participating teams, referees, the parents for the spread of the food and concluded with three cheers for a gallant Devenish outfit. We have pictures from the tournament up.
The under 10s will be travelling to a blitz in Mountcharles this Saturday 14th July. Teams taking part include ourselves, Saint Naul's and Four Masters. We will be looking for parents to assist with transport to this game. All players and parents able to help with transport are asked to assemble at Father Tierney Park for 9.30am. Games will be getting under way at 10.30am in Mountcharles. Under 10 training continues this Thursday, 12th July in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh from 6pm to 7pm.
Under 8 training continues this Friday from 6pm to 7pm.
~ HURLING ~
Last Thursday morning our under 14s headed off to Dublin to take part in Féile na nGael it was a very excited group that met at Father Tierney Park at 7am that morning. After a lovely breakfast in Monaghan the lads were ready for the challenges that lay ahead in Rush. We landed in Rush on a lovely day. The St Maur's club had a great reception laid on for us. Our first game was against the host club St Maur's. Despite the long trip and the early start the lads really tore into the Dublin lads. They showed no ill effects of their early start, the lads settled into the game and soon got into their stride playing some lovely hurling. In a very close game with both teams going hell for leather the large Ballyshannon support got the boys over the line in a great game winning out 2-7 to 2-3. Straight after the game the host club laid on a great feed for both teams and supporters and after meeting the host families the stage was now set for the trip to Croke Park for the parade. It was a proud bunch of lads who took their seats in the Hogan Stand ready for the parade. We made our way down to O'Connell Street where the great Mícheál Ó Muircheartaigh gave the Aodh Ruadh boys a great introduction to the huge crowds, again it was wonderful for the lads to see so many parents cheering them along the route. From O'Connell Street it was back to Rush and the lads went to the host families for a well deserved night's sleep.Bright and early on Friday morning we all met up at Rush all four teams in our division paraded onto the field in Rush led by a band, our lads proudly stood for Amhrán na bhFiann ready for the next game knowing that they were well up for the challenges that lay ahead. We played another Dublin team Good Counsel who were playing for their Féile survival. In one of the best performances of the season the lads played some brilliant passionate hurling, they led throughout the game and all 17 players gave a great display full of commitment passion and skill and ran out convincing winners on a score line of 2-7 to 0-3 in atrocious conditions. So with two games under our belt and two wins recorded the boys were delighted to have the lovely lunch laid on by St Maur's and to get some rest from the terrible weather. St Maur's had some great entertainment laid on to lift the spirits on what was now a terrible day weather wise, an inflatable five-a-side soccer pitch. There were some great games as vigorously contested as any of the hurling matches.
That night there was more great food laid on by St Maur's with all the children and parents being looked after brilliantly by their hosts, St Maur's main Feile organiser Peter Monks thanked the Aodh Ruadh club for making it such a great weekend and thanked all the teams for the great hurling that was played. On behalf of Aodh Ruadh juvenile Hurling Committee John Rooney thanked St Maur's for their hospitality over the weekend and invited them to Ballyshannon for the Alan Ryan/Seamus Grimes under 16 tournament next May and made a presentation to them on behalf of Aodh Ruadh. All the parents had a great night and let their hair down on the dance floor in Tamango's rolling back the years with all the disco classics. On Saturday morning we all met up again at the club house and all the lads said goodbye to their host families where once again the Rush people were at pains to point out that not alone were the Aodh Ruadh lads well able to hurl they were very well behaved and were a credit to their club and families. So a great weekend came to an end and we all learned a lot and our squad will be the stronger for it. On behalf of the panel we want to thank all the parents who made a great effort to make it to the Féile taking time off work to support the lads, their support proved very valuable and was much appreciated by the panel and management. We will have pictures from Tara Keenaghan up on aodhruadh.org later this evening.
Under 12s and under 16s begin their league campaign this Thursday night away to Dungloe and Burt respectively.
On Sunday last the minors suffered a very disappointing defeat away to St Eunan's in the championship. This was very disappointing after such a good league campaign.
~ LADIES ~
The senior ladies travelled to Letterkenny to take on Saint Eunans in the 13-a-side league last Wednesday evening. Travelling with just the bare 13 players it was never going to be an easy task for the visitors on the evening. Saint Eunan's started off very strong with three goals before the Aodh Ruadh girls started to play. By half time the girls had a deficit of 3-6 to make up. While the second half saw the Aodh Ruadh Ladies outscore the girls from Letterkenny, with goals coming from Katie Gallagher and Elaine Dorrian. Unfortunately it wasn't enough to counter the score the Letterkenny girls had built up in the first half.Well done to Maeve Liston who lined out at full back for Donegal under 16s and Roise Keown who was part of the Ulster semi-final panel when they became the third team from Donegal to conquer Tyrone in the Ulster championship this year.
~ SUMMER CAMP ~
The 21st annual Aodh Ruadh Summer Camp, sponsored by McDevitt and McGlynn Certified Accountants and Registered Auditors, is now underway and continues until Friday, 20th July. There's loads to do with football, hurling, swimming, rounders, obstacle courses and plenty of other fun and games. You can check out some of the pictures from last year's camp on aodhruadh.org. Each week of the camp concludes with a sports day on Friday. The camp runs from 10am to 3pm and is open to all children from six to 14 years-of-age. This year prices remain unchanged for the eighth year in a row and represent excellent value. The cost per week is €70 per child. Family concessions are as follows: €130 for two children; €180 for three children; and €200 for four children. Children should bring a packed lunch as no one will be allowed to leave the camp during the day. Applications have been distributed to local schools, but forms can also be downloaded from aodhruadh.org. These should be returned to Sylvester Maguire at The Mullans Ballyshannon or brought to camp on the first Monday of the week. Enquiries to 071-9858277 or 086-0532495 or check out www.aodhruadh.org or "Aodh Ruadh CLG" on www.facebook.com.~ FAMILY FUN DAY ~
Aodh Ruadh are hosting a family fun day on Sunday July 29th. It is set to be a day packed with fun, craic and excitement with events planned including Wacky Triathlon, Novelty Races, Vintage Cars, Face Painting, Home Bake Sale, Photo Exhibition, Penalty Competition, Bric-A-Brac sale and lots, lots more. If you have any unwanted books football boots, pictures or the like in good condition that you have no use for any more why not donate them to our bric-a-brac sale? Items for sale can be left up to the park from Monday 23rd July. Also if we will be welcoming donations of home baking between 10am and 12 noon on Sunday 29th July at Father Tierney Park.~ RACE FOR SAM ~
With the extra 25 bonus points on offer for Cork winning their provincial title along with the 10 points for winning the game, it propels any man/woman with Cork up the leader board. So we have a new leader in Philip Boyle and his team The Toshers although Kevin Loughlin and Leaks are only one point behind. At the bottom this week is Finbar Gethins and his team Finner Forever and Philip's brother Brian Boyle and his team The Apprentice only one point in front. With nine games on this weekend and 25 bonus points on offer for either Sligo or Mayo, there is sure to be a new leader again next week. And with nine teams currently out of the race for Sam and another eight departing the scene this weekend, points are going to be a lot harder to collect after this weekend. View the week eight leader board on aodhruadh.org or in The Bridgend Bar every Tuesday.~ OFF THE PITCH ~
Gaelscoil Eirne are celebrating their 10th anniversary with a concert by John Spillane in Dicey Reilly's on Friday 27th July. Not only is Spillane a noted advocate of the language, but he is one of the country's most compelling, vivid and original song writers and performers. His set in the intimate surroundings of Dicey Reilly's is not to be missed. Tickets are available from Dicey Reilly's now priced €10.
- 17 July
-
Senior footballers
Obviously there is no game for seniors or reserves this weekend given that Donegal are in the Ulster final. On Saturday, July 28th, we will be away to Saint Nauls with 6pm and 7.30pm throw-ins. On Tuesday week, July 24th our u-21s are scheduled to play Naomh Colmcille in the championship.Underage football
U-10 football has finished for the Summer and there will be no more training on Thursday evenings. Management would like to extend their thanks to parents for assistance during the year in both catering for blitzes and transport to matches.Hurling
The u-12s and u-16s began their league campaigns on the road to Dungloe and Burt respectively. The u-12s played Co Uladh a combination of Dungloe and Gaoth Dobhair, despite the long journey this young team played very well showing some fine pieces of skill and ran out convincing winners against the West Donegal men.The u-16s travelled to the traditional home of Donegal hurling, Burt, for their opening fixture in the league. The lads were very rusty early on and only began playing as a team towards the end of the first half, they put in a great second half and ran out easy winners in the end. An encouraging aspect of this win was that the team finished with 7 u-14s on the field.
Both teams face difficult assignments this Thursday night with the u-12s on the road, again to Buncrana, and the u-16s facing a difficult game at home to Buncrana. Both games throw in at 7pm, all support appreciated.
The hurling committee and the club would like to thank all the sponsors who gave so generously to the u-14s who took part in Feile na nGael in Rush last week, their support in these tough economic times is much appreciated and is acknowledged by the panel, management and parents. The sponsors were as follows: Fred Ormston Mace Ballyshannon (T-shirts and bags) Kevin Byrne Coach Hire (hoodies), Ballyshannon Town Council and Ballyshannon Credit Union who both made donations to the cost of the weekend, James "Freddie" Grimes also made a donation to the fund and a couple of anonymous donors. Thanks also to Anne O'Boyle who gave a first aid kit to the panel.
Peter O'Keefe Memorial U-15 Connacht/Ulster Tournament
On Saturday last, the second annual Peter O'Keefe Connacht/Ulster tournament took place in Father Tierney Park and Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh in ideal conditions. Four teams took part in this years event they being Mayo, Roscommon, Sligo and Donegal.In the first set of games, Donegal played Roscommon in Father Tierney Park while Mayo faced the Yeats county men in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. Both Donegal and Roscommon were slow to get out of the blocks and both teams looked very rusty the Connacht men led throughout, but never put the Donegal lads away, they held the perilous two point lead entering the last minute when Donegal struck for a goal and ran out one point winners.
Over in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh Sligo with a number of the recent Féile na nGael Division 5 winners from Easkey in their side ran out easy winners over Mayo. Next up in Father Tierney park was Donegal against Mayo, Donegal were slowly beginning to play a better style of hurling and the team backboned by Aodh Ruadh and Buncrana players ran out convincing winners. Across the road Roscommon were playing for their lives and they edged a close battle with Sligo, leaving the tournament wide open entering the final round.
Donegal played Sligo in the final series of group games in Father Tierney Park and this North West derby turned out to be the best game of the day up to that point and Donegal ran out winners and maintained their 100 percent record in the competition. Over the road Mayo caused a surprise by beating Roscommon which led to the calculators coming out to see which side emerged to play Donegal in the final as three sides ended up on two points. When all the figures were totted up Roscommon earned the right to play Donegal by the narrowest margin of 1 point.
The stage was now set for the final and what a game it turned out to be, it was end to end stuff full of passion in total contrast to the opening game between the two sides. Roscommon were the bigger physically stronger team and they were ahead throughout leading by 4 points going into the final minutes. Donegal won a 21 yard free when Aodh Ruadh's Oisín Rooney was fouled and Buncrana's Tom Clare sent a rocket of a shot to the Roscommon net to leave the minimum between the teams. As the clock counted down Donegal again won a free in which Tom Clare pointed to leave the final score Donegal 1-5 to Roscommon's 2-2. The game was now set for extra time and the Donegal team had the bit between their teeth, Roscommon never recovered from losing the lead at the end of normal time and Donegal ran out convincing winners 2-9 to 2-2 ensuring that the Peter O'Keefe trophy stayed in Donegal for the second year.
Donegal Hurling Board Chairman thanked all four teams for attending the tournament he thanked both Roscommon and Donegal for putting on a great display of hurling in the final. He thanked the O'Keefe family and spoke of how delighted the late Peter O'Keefe would have been watching the standard of hurling on display. He thanked the Aodh Ruadh club for hosting the tournament, and providing umpires and linesman and the ladies who catered for everyone, he also thanked the refereees John Doyle and Chris Kelly. Peadar O'Keefe spoke on behalf of the O'Keefe family and thanked Donal McLaughlin and John Rooney for all the work they had done in organising this tournament, he thanked the local Aodh Ruadh club for all their help. Rosaleen O'Keefe wife of the late Peter presented the cup to Donegal's winning captain Sam Doherty, who thanked all involved in the running of the tournament, thanked the management team of Tom Clare and Paddy Lennon and called for three cheers for the gallant Roscommon team.
And so ended the second annual Peter O'Keefe tournament and there's no doubt Peter was a proud man looking down on a Donegal team containing six Aodh Ruadh players winning this trophy for the second year. As a great worker for underage hurling in Aodh Ruadh and Donegal Peter must be delighted at the strides being made by Aodh Ruadh in underage hurling in the last few years. It's a credit to Aodh Ruadh Juvenile Hurling Committee that this tournament runs so smoothly with umpires and linesmen provided for all games, and as is usual no one leaves Father Tierney park hungry due to the great work of the mothers of the young Aodh Ruadh hurlers, thanks to Aodh Ruadh park Committee and Pat Melaniff for the wonderful facilities and thanks to Brian Drummond whose great photography always adds to these occasions.
Yes We Can
Saturday 28th July is the next date for collection of aluminium cans for recycling to raise much needed funds for Aodh Ruadh and to help protect the environment, we will be collecting the aluminium cans at Fr Tierney Park from 12noon to 1pm on that date. Thanks to all the local community and business community who have supported this recycling campaign. Anyone looking for information in relation to this campaign please contact John Rooney 086-2587793 or Kieran Drummond 086-2368295.Ocean FM
On Friday evening next, Ocean FM will broadcast and "Up for the Match" special as Donegal aim to make history by winning back-to-back Ulster titles. The broadcast begins in Owen Roe's Bar at 7pm and runs until 9pm, admission is free and all are welcome to attend. There will be a number of special guests and lots of lively debate and musical entertainment, the programme will be presented by Sean Perry and Pauric McShea. There may even be a few spare tickets for lucky punters.
- 25 July
-
Family fun day
The club family fun day takes place this Sunday with the hope of having a special guest along in the form of the newly won Anglo-Celt. This promises to be a great day of free entertainment and all are welcome to come along and support/enjoy. Bric-a-brac donations can be dropped off to Fr Tierney Park this Friday.All Ireland quarter-final Ticket arrangements
Final details for ticketing arrangements will not be announced until Monday, July 30th. Ticket orders can be placed until 8pm on Monday, July 30th by contacting Emma Gaughan 0863039610 alternatively tickets can be purchased through Supervalu. Prices are likely to be set at €30 for adults with a concession given on the turnstile for students, OAPs and juveniles.Ladies
The Aodh Ruadh Ladies will play Termon in Championship this Sunday at 12noon in the park. Best of luck to all concerned.Hurling
On Friday last, three Aodh Ruadh u-16 hurlers represented Ulster against Connacht in Ballyhaunis in the annual tournament between the provinces. Ulster comprehensively won the two games, Colm Kelly Jamie Brennan and Eddie Lynch wore the Ulster jersey with pride and showed they were well able to hurl at this level. Itâ€Ã¢â€žÂ¢s a great achievement by the lads to represent their province and all in Aodh Ruadh are very proud of them.The u 12s made the long trip to Buncrana on Thursday to take on the local lads in the league. The lads put up a good show but the Inishowen menâ€Ã¢â€žÂ¢s ability to take their scores was the difference between the sides. They play Four Masters at home this Thursday. The u-16s got a walk over from Buncrana; they are also at home this week to Carndonagh.
Date for the diary - the underage hurlers are making their annual trip to Croke Park on the 12th of August for the All Ireland semi final between Galway and the winners of this weeks encounter between Cork and Waterford
Fantasy GAA
Johnny Gallagher and his team "Falcarragh Shamrocks" are back on the top of the leaderboard this week after picking up 45 points (Donegal-35, Kildare-10) this weekend. He is only one point ahead of another former leader, Rory O'Neill and his "Ice Cream Rovers" who collected 42 points (Donegal-35, Ian Ryan-7). High score of the week goes to Moya Ferguson who amassed 70 points thanks to Donegal with 35 and Dublin with 35. This score propels Moya and her team "Magic hands" into 4th place. Last weekâ€Ã¢â€žÂ¢s leader Michael Doherty and his team "The Docs" fall to 3rd place while Bernard Drummond and his team "Barney the bookie" rounds out the top five.At the opposite end of the table Brian Boyle and his team "The Apprentice" remain rooted to the bottom of the table, and are in a titanic battle with Finbarr Gethins and his team "Finner Forever". Only six points separate them and Charlie Patton and "Bookie men" are also in the mix a further single point ahead. With four more games this weekend, we are sure to see more changes next week. As always the leaderboard is available every Tuesday in the Bridgend Bar.
Yes we can
The next aluminum can collection for recycling to raise much needed funds for Aodh Ruadh takes place this Saturday, July 28th at 12noon until 1pm at the Park. All other scrap metal is also welcome, please support.
- 31 July
-
~ ALL-IRELAND QUARTER FINAL TICKETS ~
Tickets for Sunday's All-Ireland quarter-final between Donegal and Kerry will be distributed in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh this Thursday, 2nd August from 8pm-9pm. All tickets must be paid for on collection. Orders for All-Ireland quarter-final tickets via the club are now closed. Tickets should still be available via Supervalu and Ticketmaster.~ FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh fell to a bunch of sixs last Saturday in division three. For Naul's it was their sixth win on the bounce, for Ballyshannon, our sixth defeat. The homesters were 1-12 to 0-5 winners. The Aodh Ruadh scorers were Anthony Boyle with two frees, Michael 'Sticky' Ward with two points and Kerry Ryan with a point. The team was: Paul Kane; Michael Dolan, Ciron Whoriskey, David Finnerty; PJ McGee, Anthony Boyle, Niall McCready; Kerry Ryan (0-1), Padraig Loughlin; David Dolan, Conor Patton, Donagh McIntyre; Diarmaid McInerney, Michael Ward (0-2), Brian Roper.The reserves came from behind to earn a 0-15 to 2-4 win over Saint Naul's. Aodh Ruadh found themselves a point down at half time after the homesters hit a goal just before the break. However, the Ernesiders got back into it thanks to a couple of good scores from Ryan Granaghan, Fiachra McIntyre and Christopher 'Spanny' Goan. Still, Naul's put up a good battle right to the end and it took a good defensive effort from Ballyshannon to secure the points. Thomas Anderson was excellent, while Bréanainn Drummond was very good in the corner. Wing backs Francis McShea and Stephen McGrath also put in an impressive shift. Kudos too to David Finnerty who played both games and played a starring role at midfield for the reserves.
The division one minor final finally took place last Wednesday in Dunkineely. It was a fascinating contest and one where Aodh Ruadh will have learned a great deal ahead of the sides' first round, first leg championship meeting this Wednesday, 1st August, down in Kilcar. Aodh Ruadh ultimately lost 1-20 to 2-13, but it was a below par first half that ultimately cost Ballyshannon the game. Kilcar started very strong in Dunkineely, scoring 1-6 in the first 10 minutes with most of the threat coming from half back and midfield. Aodh Ruadh got back into the game thanks to scores from David McGurrin and Ryan Granaghan, but Kilcar finished half strongly, hitting eight points without reply to send Aodh Ruadh in down by nine at half time. The Ernesiders outscored in the Towney men in the second half and finished the stronger of the two sides. Colm Kelly coming in at half time put in a big performance, scoring a great goal to bring Aodh Ruadh back into the game. David McGurrin and Johnny Gethins struck a number valuable points throughout the game. Ryan Patton worked hard to control the defence, while Alan Finan and Kieran Keown worked hard in the middle of the field. That result gave Kilcar the Southern Board league title, but it also set up a mouth-watering championship rematch where Aodh Ruadh will be eager to give a better account of themselves. If you like good football, you are highly advised to get along and see this contest. The throw in is at 7.30pm this Wednesday and a big travelling support would be a considerable lift to the lads.
The under 16s finished their year with a battling defeat to a physically very strong Gaoth Dobhair side in the county championship semi-final at Glenties. It has been a good year for the lads with a lot of good results and fine performances and lots of promise for the future. Thanks to Cathal Maguire we have pictures from the semi-final game up on aodhruadh.org.
Under 8 training continues this Friday from 6pm to 7pm.
~ HURLING ~
On Thursday last the under 12s suffered a disappointing defeat at home to Four Masters in a local derby. The lads got off to a great start with an early goal but for whatever reason the Aodh Ruadh lads seemed to go to sleep and Four Masters came back strongly. Four Masters eventually ran out winners on a 4-4 to 2-3 score line. Aodh Ruadh will hope for a big improvement in their next game away to Setanta this Thursday. There are pictures from the Four Masters game up.The under 16s received another walkover last week when Carndonagh were unable to field, so far this league has been very disappointing for the lads who have been unable to get any regular games in the league. They play Easkey in a challenge game on Tuesday night which should be a close encounter. We are due to play Setanta at home in the league this Thursday.
The latest under 16 and under 12 tables can be viewed in the divisional tables section of this mailing.
During the family fun day on Sunday last Aodh Ruadh Chairperson Betty Mc Intyre made a presentation to the under 14 Féile na nGael squad who performed so well in the National Finals in Dublin recently where they were unbeaten, on behalf of the club. Each member of the squad were presented with a beautiful framed team photograph, the lads were delighted with this token of appreciation from the club. The squad and parents then made a presentation to the management thanking them for all the work they put in with the lads.
The annual trip to Croke Park takes place on Sunday 12th August for the eagerly awaited All-Ireland semi-final clash between Galway and Cork. Anyone looking for information in relation to this trip please contact John Rooney 086-2587793.
~ LADIES ~
Last Sunday morning, after a long wait the Aodh Ruadh ladies commenced their championship campaign. In adverse weather conditions, the Ladies knew that it was never going to be an easy task to overcome the women from Termon. While the homesters fought hard throughout and were well on top of things for the first 20 minutes, two goals against the run of play from Termon saw Aodh Ruadh heads drop. In truth the girls were fighting an up hill battle from then on. Two second half goals from Donna Martin and Elaine Dorrian were too little too late as the opposition managed to find the net with little difficulty on numerous occasions in the second half. This game ended the senior championship of 2012 for the Aodh Ruadh Ladies, and while they have suffered a heavy defeat with a little bit more experience this young team will be hoping for bigger and better things in the coming years. We have pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org.Hard luck to Maeve Liston and Roise Keon and the Donegal under 16s who were beaten by the narrowest of margins against Tyrone in the Ulster final on Saturday last.
~ FAMILY FUN DAY ~
Big thanks to everyone who attended the Aodh Ruadh Family Fun day last Sunday. The weather wasn't exactly on our side, but it was a great day out all the same, made all the better thanks to the welcome visit of the recently reacquired Anglo Celt. Thanks also to everyone involved in the setting up and running of the day, which was a sizeable cast of people, too many to name here. Thanks to everyone who made donations of bric-a-brac as well as items for the bake sale. Thank also to our vintage cars owners, people who organised the games on the pitch and everyone who took part, those in charge of the burger stand, everyone behind photographic exhibition, the face painters, the tea makers, the stall attendants and anyone who helped in way, shape or form. Of course we couldn't forget the lady herself, the cow who delivered the goods in Father Tierney Park, under the watchful eye of her handsome assistants. Congratulations to the winners in the Cow Pat competition who were Peter Horan: €100; John Rooney, Eoghan Kelly, Darren Sharpe, and Marie Dowdican: €50 each. The photographic exhibition will remain up in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh until Friday 10th August. We will be distributing photographs ordered at the Family Fun Day between 7.30pm to 8.30pm on that day, and those seeking to purchase pictures or make other orders are more than welcome to come along and make them then. We have a large selection of pictures from the Family Fun Day so we've decided to publish them to aodhruadh.org in batches. The first batch is almost 50 images from the Anglo Celt's trip to Ballyshannon, including visits to Aras Aoidh Ruaidh and the Rock Hospital. The rest of the pictures will be published later in the week. Keep an eye on the Aodh Ruadh Facebook page to find out when the pictures are live. If you aren't a member of our Facebook group, then why aren't you!~ RACE FOR SAM ~
Johnny Gallagher and Falcarragh Shamrocks have increased their lead this week with 15 points (Kildare-10, A Marren-2 and D Tubridy-3) but he now has only 2 teams left, his days at the top could be numbered. Rory O'Neill and Ice Cream Rovers stayed in second place despite scoring nothing this week. He is also down to two teams left. Declan O'Mahoney and Team Tinnakill with 27 points this week (Kerry-10, Laois-10 and C Cooper-7) is in joint third along with Michael Doherty and The Docs. Stephen Ward and Woodland Warriors round out the top five for this week. Only eight teams left now in the championship, points are getting harder to come by and the leader board will see more changes by the time the third Sunday in September comes around. High score of the week went to Betty McIntyre and Macalla's Mates with 31 points (Down-10, Kerry-10, Laois-10, S Bray-1). The picture at the bottom is clearer. Brian Boyle and The Apprentice haul of 4 points (D Tubridy-3, S Bray-1) was not enough to get him off the bottom. Finbar Gethins and Finner Forever are just two points in front, but has no teams or scorers left. Indeed Brian only has Conor Mortimer left and he has decided to leave the Mayo panel, but whether he stays away is another thing. All Finbar can do is hope that he comes back and scores more than 2 points to push him into last place. Rumour has it that Finbar spent some time on the phone yesterday to both Conor Mortimer and James Horan the Mayo manager trying to solve the impasse between the 2. Only time will tell which of them will have the distinction of finishing last.. View the week 11 leader board on aodhruadh.org or in The Bridgend Bar every Tuesday.