Club Notes Archive - 2013
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MAY- 7 May
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~ DONEGAL V TYRONE ~
Fully paid adult club members who wish to request a ticket for the Donegal v Tyrone Ulster Championship match are asked to notify Emma Gaughan by text on 0863039610 by 6pm on Monday 13th May. Indications at the time of sending were that the allocations coming to clubs will fall far short of adult membership figures. In light of the strong demand likely for tickets to this game, Aodh Ruadh are implementing a policy of one member, one ticket. In the event of an over-subscription a random draw will be used to determine ticket distribution.~ FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh were good value for their 0-13 to 0-10 win over Red Hugh's on a chill Saturday evening in Father Tierney Park. Best for Ballyshannon was David Dolan who was a cut above on the day. Calm, strong, measured and precise, he brought great composure and economy to Aodh Ruadh's attacking play. Not far behind him was Kerry Ryan who roamed the field to great effect, stitching play together astutely and his scores coming at good times for the homesters. There were also noteworthy displays from James O'Donnell who had a great game in the air, Niall Harley and Anthony Boyle who racked up the miles at half back and half forward respectively, and Peter Boyle who was called upon to make a number of smart stops. We have a full match report from the game at aodhruadh.org.Aodh Ruadh reserves dug out a well deserved 1-13 to 0-6 win over Red Hugh's in the Park on Saturday evening. The Killygordon men were tough opponents, and didn't allow themselves to lose touch, but on the day a young, athletic Ballyshannon side had too much running for them. Jamie McDonald started the game well and his scoring helped the homesters into an early lead which they were to retain for the remainder of the game. Aodh Ruadh went in at the break leading 0-8 to 0-4, but faced the wind in the second half. To their credit Aodh Ruadh managed the breeze splendidly with a 19 man performance, the four second half substitutes all making pronounced contributions. Ryan Patton was immense at full back, with David McLoone providing reliable support as ever. Daniel Kelly stretched his man and pressed on for a fine point. The partnership of Ciron Whoriskey and Darren Gethins in the middle of the field dominated, but the engine room of the Aodh Ruadh win was the half forward line where Michael McNeely and Niall Murray were assertive and influential. Anthony Coughlan, sprung from the bench in the second half to sow some havoc in a tiring Crossroads rearguard, duly delivered with an accomplished finish to the net which saw any chances of the visitor's robbing the points definitely snuffed out and sealing a morale boosting win for an Aodh Ruadh side growing in stature as the season progresses. We have an extended match report, team sheets and pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org
The division three leagues continue this Saturday, 11th May with Aodh Ruadh travelling to Downings, an important game if Aodh Ruadh are to mount a serious promotion push. The reserve game throws in at 6pm and is followed by the seniors at 7.30pm.
The under 14s lost on their trip to Dungloe last Wednesday going down on a scoreline of 3-20 to 2-12. Aodh Ruadh battled hard and trailed by just four points at half time, but this is a good Dungloe outfit and they showed that in the second half. Ballyshannon never stopped playing though and the lads gave a good all round performance. Outstanding was forward Shane Dorrian who got a goal and was flawless from placed ball. Also going well for the Ernesiders was Dylan Gallagher, who flourished in his new role at full forward. The half back line, in particular Shane Gillespie and Pauric Keenaghan were full of running and never failed to bring the fight to their Dungloe opponents. Find of the season, Sean Taylor, continued his rich vein of form in midfield and finished up with 1-3 to his credit into the bargain. The final fixture in the under 14s league programme takes place this Wednesday when they take on Naomh Mhuire in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh at 7.30pm.
Under 12 training takes place this Wednesday in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh at 7pm and also on Saturday morning at 11am.
Aodh Ruadh under 10s have their first blitz of the year this Saturday, 11th May. Father Tierney Park will be playing host to Bundoran and Naomh Bríd for this tournament, with the games throwing in at 11am. Players are to be up to the park for 10.45am. Under 10 training continues as usual this Friday in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh from 6pm to 7pm.
Under 6 and under 8 training continues this Friday, 10th April from 6.30pm to 7.30pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh this week. The blitz originally planned for Saturday 11th has been postponed. Players will be notified of the rescheduled date in due course.
~ HURLING ~
This Wednesday, May 8th, Aodh Ruadh defend their unbeaten record in the senior hurling league against Saint Eunan's in Father Tierney Park. Ballyshannon are building on two league victories and morale is excellent in the squad right now. All support is very welcome at what is guaranteed to be a tough, competitive contest against our Letterkenny rivals. Throw-in is at 7pm.On Thursday last our minors had a great win at home to Strabane in the Donegal League. The lads were up against a much physically stronger Tyrone team, but as they have done all season they put in a great battling performance and ran out convincing winners. They have now qualified for the league final where they will be up against a very strong Buncrana team.
Thanks to Rossa McCosker and Eamon Cleary of Centra, Ballyshannon, we were delighted to have the Liam MacCarthy Cup in Ballyshannon for the weekend. It was a great honour for us to have this famous trophy visit us for the weekend and attend the County Féile on Saturday and the Alan Ryan/Seamus Grimes tournament on Monday.
We hosted the all-county Féile on Saturday while our lads didn't qualify for the national Féile to be held in Limerick in July they did their best and battled hard in every game. It was a learning experience for the lads and hopefully they'll come back stronger from it. Thanks to all who helped make the day such a success. Thanks to Tara Keenaghan who did a great job on the camera capturing some great action shots. Next up for the under 14s is a home game this Thursday against Letterkenny Gaels.
On Monday we hosted the Alan Ryan/Seamus Grimes Under 16 tournament. In existence since 1998 this years tournament had the highest quality teams. The play began at 10.30am and continued on both pitches till 5pm. The draw threw up the following groups: Group A Tuam (Galway), Tooreen (Mayo) Ballinascreen (Derry) and Easkey (Sligo) while Group B contained Ballycastle (Antrim) Pádraig Pearse's (Roscommon) Na Magha (Derry) and host club Aodh Ruadh. The opening games saw wins for Tooreen against Tuam and a narrow win for Ballycastle over Aodh Ruadh 0-6 to 0-2, where the home team failed to convert a number of scoring opportunities.
The next set of games saw a narrow win for Ballinascreen over Easkey, while Pádraig Pearse's had a convincing win over Na Magha.
Aodh Ruadh's second game saw them up against Na Magha in Father Tierney Park. Again it was another close encounter but this time the home team ran out winners 1-3 to 0-1. At the same time in Páirc Aodh Ruadh Ballinascreen had an easy victory over Tuam. There was a great Connacht derby in Father Tierney Park where Easkey ran out four point winners over Tooreen, while Ballycastle had a good win over Pearse's from Roscommon.
The last round of games saw some great battles as Pearse's beat Aodh Ruadh 2-5 to 0-4 with tiredness becoming a big problem for teams at this stage. Ballinascreen beat Tooreen to claim top spot in Group A. Ballycastle beat Na Magha to claim top spot in Group B and set up a semi-final against Easkey who beat Tuam in their final group game.
So with the final placings now sorted out the stage was set for the semi-finals for each trophy. The Alan Ryan semi-finals saw wins for Easkey over the men from the Glens of Antrim, Ballycastle while Ballinascreen overcame Pádraig Pearse's in a titanic battle, setting up a another game between Ballinascreen and Easkey in the Alan Ryan final.
In the Seamus Grimes semi-finals Aodh Ruadh who were on their last legs at this stage overcame the reigning Seamus Grimes winners Tuam, while Tooreen defeated Na Magha in the other semi-final.
After a great days hurling we now had the final pairings decided. In the Alan Ryan final in Father Tierney Park Ballinascreen faced Easkey, and after ding dong battle where every ball was ferociously contested the Derry men ran out winners by two points showing great determination, which their club man former Derry dual player Tony Scullion would have been proud off.
Over in Páirc Aodh Ruadh the large home support got behind Aodh Ruadh as they faced Tooreen in their fifth game of the day, the lads gave their all in the first half and went in six points down at the break they never gave up but the day's exertions caught up on them and they lost by nine points.
So came an end to another great tournament where new relationships and bonds were formed and another new name went on both trophies, and teams went back to traditionally stronger hurling counties than Donegal admiring our lads battling spirit. From the field where great battles were fought all day we headed up stairs for the presentations.
John Rooney acted as master of ceremonies and spoke of the late Alan Ryan and Seamus Grimes and the loss they were to the club, the roles they played in the club and the support both the Ryan and Grimes families continue to give to the Aodh Ruadh club. He thanked all the teams who came to the tournament and who played some great hurling in the spirit it should be played. Eddie Grimes spoke on behalf of the Grimes family and thanked all who had made the day such a success. He presented the runners up medals to the Aodh Ruadh lads while a delighted Tooreen team came forward to accept the Seamus Grimes cup. Kerry Ryan jr who acted as the tournament photographer all day was next to speak he again thanked all involved in running the tournament and thanked all who helped with the catering on the day. Kerry presented runner-up medals to a gallant Easkey team, while a delighted Ballinascreen team became the second Derry team to win the Alan Ryan Cup. John Rooney finished off proceedings by thanking referees, Aidan Ferguson of Erne Gaels and local whistlers Chris Kelly and Peter Horan, and all the Juvenile Hurling Committee who helped make the day such a success.Our under 12s are due to take part in a blitz in Ballybofey on Sunday.
Training as normal at 12 noon on Sunday.
~ LADIES ~
Senior ladies training continues on Tuesday and Thursday at 6.30pm.The under 16 girls delivered a fine performance to defeat Dungloe last Tuesday night. They'll be hoping to build on that victory at home against Ardara to seal their progression into the county semi-final. That clash with Ardara throws-in at 7.15pm this Thursday, 9th May in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh and all support would be greatly appreciated.
The under 14 and under 12 girls train on Tuesdays and Fridays at 5.45pm.
Under 8 and under 10 girls train on Wednesdays from 6-7pm and the under 10 girls have a second session on Mondays also from 6 to 7pm.
The Duck Race takes place on Saturday May 18th. Cards are out now, so buy your ducks early to be sure of a place at the starting line. The first ducks will be under starter's orders at 2pm
~ FANTASY RACE FOR SAM 2013 ~
It's that time of year again and the championship is only weeks away. The fantasy race for Sam 2013 is about to begin in earnest too. The rules are simple. For your €20 entry fee you will receive a team and a scorer from each province. Every time your team wins you earn 10 points. Also every time your player scores a point you will get a point. There are bonus points on offer for county's which win the provincial title as well as the All-Ireland. The winner will receive €500 with a consolation prize of €100 for whoever finishes in last place. The deadline for entry is the 17th May and the draw for teams/players will take place in the Bridgend Bar on Saturday 18th May. A league table will appear on the website every Tuesday morning.
Entries are available from most committee members as well as in the following outlets: Bridgend Bar, Owen Roe's Bar, Sean Óg's and Ballybookies.
If anyone wishes to enter online, drop an email to info@aodhruadh.org. Come on and see if you can beat the reigning champion Rory O'Neill and his team of Ice Cream Rovers!~ OFF THE PITCH ~
Donegal Creameries 5K Fun run / jog / walk in aid of Special Olympics Ireland takes place at Crossroads, Killygorodon on Tuesday 28th May 2013 at 7pm. Register via e-mail at dc5kfun@gmail.com or register at Donegal Creameries up to 6.30pm on Tuesday. Entry fee of €5 payable on registration which includes entry into a prize draw. Refreshments will be served.Ballyshannon Drama Society present their award-winning Snake In The Grass by Alan Ayckbourn in the Abbey Centre on Tuesday 7th and Wednesday 8th May at 8.30pm. These will be the last local performances before the Ulster Finals which take place in Newtownabbey on 14th May.
Gaelscoil Eirne will be hosting a céilí, old time barn dance in the Rock Hall, Ballyshannon on Saturday 11th May at 9.30pm. Music by The Assaroe Céilí Band. Supper Served. Admission €8.
- 14/15 May
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Service issues
Apologies folks. We've been experiencing technical issues with our internet service provider. Some of you may not have received notes via e-mail in the past couple of weeks, while others will have experienced no interruption in service. Anyway, we seem to be back on the straight and narrow now, so apologies once again for any inconvenience and thank you for your patience.Sean Slevin tournament
The Sean Slevin under 14 tournament takes place this Saturday, 18th May. There will be six teams taking part: Aodh Ruadh, Four Masters, Bundoran, Naomh Bríd, Melvin Gaels and Erne Gaels. There will be two groups of three played-off with the top two teams in each group progressing to the Sean Slevin final with the runners-up in each group going forward to the third place final. The action gets under way at 10.30am and Aodh Ruadh players are to be up at the park for 10am.Minor inter-county challenge
After the Sean Slevin tournament on Saturday the Derry and Mayo minors will be playing a challenge in Father Tierney Park. These are two good sides and should provide a engaging contest for any neutrals who might like to come along and take a look.Cake Sale
Aodh Ruadh Bord na nÓg are hosting a cake sale in Kilbarron House after 11.15am mass in Saint Patrick's this Sunday, 19th May. Anyone willing to bake cakes, bread, buns, tarts muffins and the contribute them to the sale are asked to please drop them off in Kilbarron House on Sunday morning or contact Tracey 0861764997 to make arrangements. Please come along to support our underage teams, not to mention enjoy some delicious home cooking!Discussion night
Donegal GAA Supporters Club are holding a discussion forum, in An Grianán Theatre, Letterkenny on Wednesday 22nd May at 8pm. Special guests on the night are Martin McHugh, Anthony Molloy, John Lynch, and Pat McEnaney. Compere on the night will be Highland Radio's own Charlie Collins. Musical entertainment will be provided by Pat Gallagher of Goats Don't Shave, Eddie Gallagher and David Craig. Admission is only €10. All proceeds go to the training fund for all our county teams. For tickets please contact Aidan Cannon on 0871223177 or An Grianán Theatre 074 9120777. Come along and feel the atmosphere in the lead up to the Donegal Tyrone game.
~ FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh's prospects of promotion in 2013 drifted into the realms of mathematical theory with a 1-15 to 1-8 loss away to Downings last Friday evening. It was vital that Ballyshannon get a win to prevent the top three from cutting loose, but defeat means that promotion is now a effectively matter for Downings, Saint Naul's and Fanad Gaels to decide among themselves. Aodh Ruadh began the game well, as they have tended to do all season and were unlucky not to be leading by more than two points at half time, 0-6 to 1-5. David Dolan and Peter Boyle got the opening three scores of the game. The sides exchanged further scores before David McGurrin's dropping shot which deceived the keeper and dropped under the crossbar for the first goal of the game and give the Ernesiders a four point lead. Downings were level within ten minutes of the break and with only Peter Boyle, Diarmaid McInerney and Anthony Coughlan registering points in the second half Aodh Ruadh were never going to be coming away with the points. We have team sheets and pictures from Cathal Maguire up on aodhruadh.org.The division three leagues continue this Saturday, 18th May with Aodh Ruadh hosting Carndonagh in Father Tierney Park. The reserve game throws in at 6pm and is followed by the seniors at 7.30pm.
The final fixture in the under 14s league programme was postponed to this coming Wednesday 15th May when they take on Naomh Mhuire in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh at 7.30pm. The lads had an excellent work out against Derrygonnelly Harps on Sunday evening and will be going into this fixture in fine form, so come and get behind the lads for this one.
Under 12 training takes place this Wednesday in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh at 7pm and also on Saturday morning at 11am.
The under 10s had their first blitz of the year last Saturday with Bundoran and Naomh Bríd the guests. There was a great performance from the all the players, with Aodh Ruadh getting the better of all their contests on the day. Thanks to everyone who helped put together the wonderful spread of food after and served up tea. Thanks also to our referees on the day Conor Patton and Niall Murray. Under 10 training continues as usual this Friday in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh from 6pm to 7pm.
Under 6 and under 8 training continues this Friday, 10th April from 6.30pm to 7.30pm in Father Tierney Park this week. Please note the change of venue. Training will continue remain in the park unless games necessitate relocating to Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. The under 8s first blitz will be in Donegal Town on Saturday 1st June, with Dungloe and Four Masters also taking part.
~ HURLING ~
Aodh Ruadh enjoyed a fine 2-12 to 1-8 win over Saint Eunan's in the senior hurling league last Wednesday. Ballyshannon got off to a fine start and were in control of the game from an early stage. Christopher Kilgannon was immense in the middle of the field, always at the heart of the action and bringing real quality to proceedings. Peter Horan's sharp running caused the Letterkenny men endless headaches, as did Aidan Begley's unerring free taking. The pair were both also on the mark for Aodh Ruadh's goals. This Wednesday, May 15th, Aodh Ruadh are back in senior hurling league action again when they travel to MacCumhaill Park to take on Ballybofey in a game with a 7.15pm throw-inThe minors play a very strong Buncrana team in the League final this Thursday venue and throw in time is yet to be confirmed. This is very young team and with only one full minor have done very well to get to the final. The lads will be up against a very experienced Inishowen team. It's an indication of the work going on in both clubs that they had ten players on the recent Donegal team that won the Ulster Shield final, and this final is another chapter in the healthy rivalry that has built up between both clubs since they first met in an under 14 final in 2009.
Our under 14s were back in league action last Thursday in Father Tierney Park against Letterkenny Gaels. In a much improved performance from their showing in the County Féile the lads showed a willingness to contest and fight for every ball. They had their fifth win in a row in the league running out convincing winners on a 4-6 to 2-5 score line. They are at home again this Thursday where they will meet a very good Buncrana team.
Well done to Conall Sweeny, Stephen Anderson and Ryan Ayres who took part in the Féile na nGael skills final on Sunday in Letterkenny the lads did very well and enjoyed the experience.
Our under 12s took part in a blitz in MacCumhaill Park, Ballybofey on Sunday morning along with MacCumhaill's, Setanta and Dungloe, the lads did very well and won all their six games. Many thanks to parents Tara Keenaghan, Susan O'Sullivan and Peter Horan who drove the lads to the blitz, your support is much appreciated.
Thanks to Rossa McCosker and Eamon Cleary of Centra, Ballyshannon, we were delighted to have the Liam MacCarthy Cup in Ballyshannon for the weekend of Saturday, 4th May. It was a great honour for us to have this famous trophy visit us for the weekend and attend the County Féile on Saturday and the Alan Ryan/Seamus Grimes tournament on Monday. Kerry Ryan took pictures of some of those who took the opportunity to touch a piece of history.
Training as normal on Sunday at 12 noon. We would still like to see more numbers at under 8 and under 10 level. Come along and give it a try you'll be surprised at the amount of fun you'll have learning the skills of the fastest field game in the world.
~ LADIES ~
There was no confirmed fixture for the Ladies team this weekend at time of writing but training continues on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm.The under 16 girls played out a very tough game last Thursday evening in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh against a very hungry Ardara team. The conditions were blustery to say the least, but it didn't spoil a very competitive game which the home team won by a couple of points. This result sees the girls through to the county semi-final where they will meet Fanad Gaels. The fixture has not been confirmed yet, but is likely to be on Monday evening in Glenfin.
The under 14s and under 12s train on Tuesdays and Fridays at 5.45pm.
The under 8 and under 10s continue to train on Wednesdays at 6-7pm and the under 10s have a second session on Mondays also from 6-7pm.
Best of luck this weekend to Maeve Liston who lines out for the county minor team in the Ulster final against Tyrone, the details for this game weren't available at time of writing.
Well done to Mary Flora Scott who was part of the under 14 county panel last Saturday when they beat Armagh 6-5 to 2-5. Best of luck to her and her team mates this weekend when they travel to Kinnegad for the annual All-Ireland blitz.
The annual Duck Race will take place this Saturday at 2pm down the East Port at McKenna's Brook. Come along and enjoy the quack.
~ DONEGAL V TYRONE ~
Aodh Ruadh's allocation of tickets for the Donegal v Tyrone Ulster championship game was over-subscribed. The club will now proceed through its distribution procedures and a list of successful applicants will be published on aodhruadh.org later this week.~ FANTASY RACE FOR SAM 2013 ~
It's that time of year again and the championship is only weeks away. The fantasy race for Sam 2013 is about to begin in earnest too. The rules are simple. For your €20 entry fee you will receive a team and a scorer from each province. Every time your team wins you earn 10 points. Also every time your player scores a point you will get a point. There are bonus points on offer for county's which win the provincial title as well as the All-Ireland. The winner will receive €500 with a consolation prize of €100 for whoever finishes in last place. The deadline for entry is the 17th May and the draw for teams/players will take place in the Bridgend Bar on Saturday 18th May with a delicious array of finger food also provided on the night. A league table will appear on the website every Tuesday morning.Entries are available from most committee members as well as in the following outlets: Bridgend Bar, Owen Roe's Bar, Sean Óg's and Ballybookies.
If anyone wishes to enter online, drop an email to info@aodhruadh.org. Come on and see if you can beat the reigning champion Rory O'Neill and his team of Ice Cream Rovers!
~ OFF THE PITCH ~
Donegal Creameries 5K Fun run / jog / walk in aid of Special Olympics Ireland takes place at Crossroads, Killygordon on Tuesday 28th May 2013 at 7pm. Register via e-mail at dc5kfun@gmail.com or register at Donegal Creameries up to 6.30pm on Tuesday. Entry fee of €5 payable on registration which includes entry into a prize draw. Refreshments will be served.
- 21 May
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Football
Following on last week's reversal against Downings, Aodh Ruadh sustained another morale-sapping loss with defeat in torrential conditions in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh to Carndonagh last Saturday. The Inishowen men simply had much more appetite for the game than the homesters and where Aodh Ruadh could manage only a solitary point in the first half Carn registered 1-6. It didn't get any better in the second half as the visitors ran in another 2-10 to leave the final scores at 3-16 to 0-6. Peter Boyle and David Dolan each got two points apiece, while Ronan McGurrin and Ciron Whoriskey accounted for the balance of Aodh Ruadh's scores. Not a game to remember for the Ernesiders and one they'll be hoping to efface with a much improved effort against Naomh Bríd this weekend. We have the team sheets from this game up at aodhruadh.org.While it was bad news in the senior game, there were better tidings to report with the reserves where Aodh Ruadh fashioned a 3-10 to 2-9 victory against Carndonagh. There were a number of good attacking displays. Jamie McDonald was in devastating form, getting a goal and four points, a scoring equaled by Anthony Coughlan who arrowed over some audacious efforts from out on the sideline. Johnny Gethins was on target for the Ernesider's third goal. Waddle got a couple of lovely long range points from centre forward. Jamie played very well. Defensively there were very strong performances from Paddy Gillespie and Kieran Keown who was excellent at centre half. Daniel Kelly was in nets for this one and had a good second half. At midfield Darren Gethins and Niall Harley formed a very effective partnership and were the launch pad for the win. We have pictures from the game courtesy Cathal Maguire up on aodhruadh.org.
Aodh Ruadh conclude the first round of division three league fixtures this Saturday when they host Naomh Bríd this Saturday, 25th May in Father Tierney Park. The reserve game throws in at 6pm and is followed by the seniors at 7.30pm.
Good luck to our representatives on the Donegal minor team Eamonn McGrath, the side's vice captain, and Colm Kelly as they prepare to take on Tyrone in the Ulster minor football championship this Sunday. Anyone from the club lucky enough to get at ticket for Sunday is asked to make an extra effort to get along early and support our club men in what will be a full-blooded encounter.
The under 14s finished their league campaign with a deserved 2-16 to 3-10 win over Naomh Mhuire in Father Tierney Park last Wednesday. Ballyshannon prevailed in the end, although they had to hold off a Naomh Mhuire side in the second half that grew in stature as the game wore on. For Aodh Ruadh Odhran O'Neill was the star man. He did the bulk of his best work in the first half, but that ultimately proved the winning of the game. Shane Gillespie was excellent at half back, with Conall Sweeny also featuring strongly. Sean Taylor was the pick of the midfielders from both sides and his scoring threat was a decided asset. Michael McKenna was very energetic and offered great attacking options. Evan McTernan was strong on the ball and economical with his opportunities, while John Conor McGarrigle was good value for his goal. We have a full match report, team sheets and pictures from Cathal Maguire up on aodhruadh.org. We will have a report on the Sean Slevin tournament in due course.
Under 12 training takes place this Wednesday in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh at 7pm and also on Saturday morning at 11am. The lads first game of the season is down to take place on Monday, 3rd June against Bundoran in Father Tierney Park. Throw is 6.30pm for that game.
Under 10 training continues this Friday in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh from 6pm to 7pm.
Under 6 and under 8 training continues this Friday, 24th May from 6.30pm to 7.30pm in Father Tierney Park this week. The under 8s first blitz will be in Donegal Town on Saturday 1st June, with Dungloe and Four Masters also taking part.
Many thanks to all who provided baked goods for our Cake Sale and to all those who supported us on the day.
Hurling
This Wednesday, May 22nd, Aodh Ruadh are in senior hurling league action when they host Strabane Shamrocks in Father Tierney Park in a game with a 7.15pm throw-in.Unfortunately the minor league final didn't take place on Thursday last as no venue could be found. It remains to be rescheduled.
The under 14s played Buncrana in Father Tierney Park on Thursday last. The lads had a tough experience against a very skilful and well drilled Buncrana team who are worthy Donegal representatives in the upcoming Féile in Limerick in July. The Buncrana lads were much stronger physically than our lads and were able to score at will. It was a tough game for the boys and hopefully they'll learn from it. On an encouraging note the lads never gave up and kept going till the bitter end.
The lads are away to Saint Eunan's this Thursday in their final league game. Hopefully they will finish the league on a winning note.
The under 10s took part in a blitz hosted by Four Masters on Sunday. Twelve players travelled and performed very well winning two games against Four Masters and lost narrowly to Setanta. Thanks to all the parents who travelled to the blitz and brought the lads. Thanks to the combined efforts of Tara Keenaghan and Kerry Ryan we have a range of shots from the game up on aodhruadh.org.
We are hosting an under 8 blitz this Sunday with the games starting at 11am.
Training as normal at 12 noon on Sunday for all other age groups.
Ladies
Pride of place this week has to go to Maeve Liston who, along with her county minor team mates, took the Ulster title on Saturday afternoon in Ballyconnell. They beat Cavan on a scoreline of 6-6 to 2-8. We have a picture of Maeve in action in that game below. Click the image for a larger version.
The under 16 girls played Fanad Gaels in the A semi-final on Monday evening Glenfin. The girls prepared well and hard for the game, but it wasn't to be on the night and they are devastated not to make it to the county final. A big thank you to the players for all the work they put in and to the parents who provided the transport to Glenfin for the game.
The county under 14 girls play Armagh next Saturday and we will be represented by Mary Flora Scott who has been enjoying a busy season at county level. Last weekend she got on the score sheet at the All Ireland under 14 blitz and hopefully she'll get another opportunity this Saturday.
The under 12 and under 14 girls train on Tuesdays and Fridays at 5.45pm.
Under 8 and under 10 girls training continues on Wednesday from 6-7pm and the under 10 girls have a second session on Mondays also from 6-7pm.
Thanks to everyone who came out to support the Duck Race, as always it was great fun. First place went to Lorraine O'Mahoney, Rathmore; Second place went to Lauren Foy, Coolcholly; and third place went to John Keon, Erne View.
Fantasy race for Sam 2013
The Aodh Ruadh fantasy race for Sam 2013 is now up and running. The draw for teams and scorers took place in the Bridgend Bar on Saturday night and we have that full draw list up on aodhruadh.org now. A number of extra entries were drawn on the night so it's still not too late to join the race. E-mail info@aodhruadh.org or contact Sean O'Mahoney if you want to take part.
At the end of week one we have Cailin McInerney and her team The Portonians at the top of the Race For Sam leader board. After being roped into the competition at the last minute, her team of Cavan (10), Leitrim (10), Westmeath (10) and Mulligan (16) has seen Cailin open a 5 point gap back to another new entrant Marcella Gethins and her team Queen Of The Hill. Back in third place and 11 points adrift are Pauric McShea's Abbey Shams, Eugene Loughlin's Gum Shield Utd, Mick Melly's King Of The Hill and Mickey Dolan's The Roofers. With games coming thick and fast now every weekend, there will be plenty of changes at the top in the coming weeks, it makes for an exciting battle ahead. There are still 24 players to register a point yet, with last year's winner Rory O'Neill and his team Ice Cream Rovers one of them, but after only four games played so far this year, that too will all change.
Any entrant who has yet to pay for their team is reminded to do so as soon as possible. Also the leader board will be available every Tuesday in the Bridgend Bar, Owen Roes and Ballybookies, of course we also publish the leader board weekly on aodhruadh.org. A huge thank you to all who sold entries and also to those who bought a team.Referee and umpire refresher courses
There will be a pre-Championship referee's refresher course in Jackson's Hotel on Thursday 23rd May at 8pm. The umpire course will now be held on Thursday 30th May at 8pm also in Jackson's Hotel.Fun run
Donegal Creameries 5K Fun run / jog / walk in aid of Special Olympics Ireland takes place at Crossroads, Killygordon on Tuesday 28th May 2013 at 7pm. Register via e-mail at dc5kfun@gmail.com or register at Donegal Creameries up to 6.30pm on Tuesday. Entry fee of €5 payable on registration which includes entry into a prize draw. Refreshments will be served.
- 28 May
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Executive meeting
The monthly meeting of the Aodh Ruadh club executive takes place this Thursday, 30th May, in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh at 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend or forward apologies to Emma Gaughan.Football
Naomh Bríd showed the greater grit and hunger to take the points in a keenly contested division three derby in Father Tierney Park last Sunday. Aodh Ruadh's attack found it difficult getting any change out of a committed Ballintra defence. Donagh McIntyre did finally manage to find an opening and he cracked home his goal well to keep the homester's in the game at the break, albeit trailing 1-2 to 0-7. In the second half Ballyshannon found the going no easier in the second half and Ballintra made the fewer mistakes, in what was an error strewn game, to secure the win. Peter Boyle was called upon to make two acrobatic saves which stopped Naomh Bríd getting out of sight, while Michael Ward was in good form defensively and Ryan Patton showed striking bravery on more than one occasion. Up front David Dolan fought the good fight throughout. We have a full match report, team sheets and pictures up on aodhruadh.org.Aodh Ruadh reserves delivered an accomplished second half performance to secure an impressive 2-8 to 0-7 win over their neighbours up the N15. The first half was played in a steady downpour, with the lighter Aodh Ruadh side struggling to get any traction and going in at the break trailing 0-4 to 0-5. Indeed, the Ernesiders had an excellent rearguard action led by the gutsy Niall Murray, ably assisted by Bréanainn Drummond, to thank for not being further behind. The rain eased off over the break and the slightly less horrible weather seemed to play in Ballyshannon's favour and they went on to fashion a well-deserved win with a gutsy display. Defensively Aodh Ruadh were very sound from one to seven, with Niall Murray deserving of special mention for his appetite for the hard challenge. Anthony Coughlan got the score the game, finishing an excellent team move for the homester's second goal. Jamie McDonald was excellent throughout. We have a full match report, team sheet and pictures on aodhruadh.org.
Aodh Ruadh look set to return to division three league action this weekend when we are down to host Saint Naul's. Full fixture details will follow in an addendum.
Hard luck to our representatives on the Donegal minor team Eamonn McGrath and Colm Kelly on their loss to Tyrone last Sunday. We have a selection of photos of the lads as they lined out for the county plus scenes from the day's action in Ballybofey last Sunday up on aodhruadh.org.
The under 16s first action of the year takes place this Saturday, 1st June as the club hosts its annual PJ Roper tournament. Attending this year are reigning champions Saint Enda's Glengormley, Dromore from Tyrone, Grange of Sligo, Four Masters and Bundoran. Aodh Ruadh players should be at the park for 10am, with the first games throwing in at 11am.
The under 14s are away to Naomh Conaill for their next outing in Championship Group A. Throw in for that game is 7.30pm in Glenties.
Under 12 training takes place this Wednesday in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh at 7pm and also on Saturday morning at 11am. The lads first game of the season is down to take place on Monday, 3rd June against Bundoran in Father Tierney Park. Throw is 6.30pm for that game.
Under 10 training continues this Friday in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh from 6pm to 7pm.
Under 6 and under 8 training continues this Friday, 31st May from 6.30pm to 7.30pm in Father Tierney Park this week. The under 8s first blitz takes place in Donegal Town this Saturday 1st June, with Dungloe and Four Masters also taking part. Games are expected to get under way at 12 noon. We will need assistance with transport to this game. All players, along with anyone available to drive to the blitz, are asked to assemble at Father Tierney Park at 11am this Saturday morning.
Play your part
As the season approaches its height, there is much to be done in the club in many different ways if we want to reach the goals we set for ourselves. We ask that parents and guardians of children playing underage football please take the time to read the short letter on aodhruadh.org about what aims are, what we need to do to meet them and how you might be able help, It is only with the Aodh Ruadh community pulling together that we can really go places.Hurling
This Wednesday, May 29th Aodh Ruadh are in senior hurling league action when they host Setanta in Father Tierney Park. Throw in is at 7.30pm.The minor final against Buncrana has been rescheduled for Thursday, 27th June.
Our under 14s suffered a disappointing defeat away to Saint Eunan's in the league last Thursday. The lads didn't show the required work rate and lost out on a 3-5 to 2-2 score line. Hopefully the boys will learn it is a team game and everyone has to play their part and not leave all the work to three or four individuals. They are now in a play off with a number of other teams for the semi-finals it's hoped to have details of these play offs in the coming days.
We hosted an under 8 blitz on Sunday morning with Setanta, Four Masters and Drumcliffe travelling to Father Tierney Park. Our youngest team played five games in total all of which were very well contested, they drew two games and lost the other three quite narrowly. All the teams had a great mornings hurling and had great fun, thanks to all the parents who helped with the catering as always nobody left Aras Aoidh Ruaidh hungry. Thanks to all who helped organise the blitz and referees Kerry Ryan, Eddie Lynch Jr and John Rooney.
Training for all age groups on Sunday at 12 noon. Under 8s and under 10s are especially welcome.
Ladies
Senior ladies football is on a break for the duration of the Leaving Certificate examinations. The next assignment for Aodh Ruadh looks like being Kilcar on Saturday 16th June.The under 12 and under 14 girls training continues on Tuesdays and Fridays at 5.45pm.
Under 8 and under 10 girls training continues on Wednesday from 6-7pm and the under 10 girls have a second session on Mondays also from 6-7pm.
Fantasy race for Sam 2013
After Donegal's great win in the real race for Sam 2013, we now have joint leaders in the Fantasy race for Sam 2013. Gerry Curran's Cluain Barron FC with 35 points this week (London-10, Kerry-10, Louth-10, Cooper-5) has seen him join Majella Gethins' Queen of the Hill at the top of the leader board with both on 56 points. Eugene Loughlin's Gum Shield Utd is one point further back with last week's leader Cailin McInerney's Portonians back in fourth and Mick Melly's King of the Hill rounding off the top 5 for this week. Every entrant has now scored, although Bobby Murphy and his Chunky Chips and Steven Perry's Eire Og both had to rely on Padraig McGoldrick's solitary point from a free for London in their epic win over Sligo to remove the duck egg from beside their name. Indeed London's win over Sligo had one entrant cheering as loud as he did for Donegal's win over Tyrone, as he realised 10 points were coming his way. Gerald McGloin's North West Heat has two points thank to Adrian Marren's two points in the same game, while Janet Loughlin's Broughin Lane Utd and Gregory Sweeney's Milky Kid have a grand total of three points. With another four games this weekend, there will sure to be more changes at the top and the bottom. The leader board is be available every Tuesday in the Bridgend Bar, Owen Roes and Ballybookies, of course we also publish the leader board weekly on aodhruadh.org.Céilí
Little Angels school will be hosting a céilí, old time barn dance in the Rock Hall, Ballyshannon on Saturday 1st June at 9.30pm. Music by The Assaroe Céilí Band. Supper Served. Admission €8.Yes we can
The next collection for our aluminium fund raiser takes place on Saturday 1st June from 12 noon to 1pm. All other scrap metal is welcome at this session. For any information in relation to this campaign please contact John Rooney 086-2587793 or Kieran Drummond 086-2368295.Fun run
Donegal Creameries 5K Fun run / jog / walk in aid of Special Olympics Ireland takes place at Crossroads, Killygordon on Tuesday 28th May 2013 at 7pm. Register via e-mail at dc5kfun@gmail.com or register at Donegal Creameries up to 6.30pm on Tuesday. Entry fee of €5 payable on registration which includes entry into a prize draw. Refreshments will be served.Creevy are county champions
The boys of Creevy National School took home county honours from Glenswilly on Monday. They defeated Whitecastle and Kilmacrennan to take the county title. Creevy played Whitecastle in the first game. They conceded an early goal, but Creevy showed great character to come back to win by five points. That win meant that victory in the game against Kilmacrennan would see the school crowned county champions. Creevy started well and midway through the second half were leading by 0-4 to 0-2. However, they were hit with a sucker punch when Kilmacrennan hit the net. It took Creevy a few minutes to recover from the blow, but they got a point to close the gap to the minimum before Michael McKenna hit a goal, quickly followed by a point. Kilmacrennan didn't give up though and got a goal at the death, but Creevy were good value for their win. The Creevy National School team were: Aaron Duffy; Paul Diver, Adam Clarke; Pauric Keenaghan, Cianán Roper; Shane Gillespie, Michael McKenna; Emmett Wade, Daragh Ward; Liam O'Sullivan, Diarmuid McFadden. The side were managed by Jamie Timoney and school principal Dara McDaid.Comhghairdeas Cór Craobhaigh
Congratulations to Cór Craobhaigh and Angela and Niamh Currid on coming fourth of 14 choirs in the Community Games national finals staged in Athlone last Saturday. There was strong underage Aodh Ruadh representation in this choir.