Club Notes Archive - 2014

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JUNE

3 June

Football
Aodh Ruadh are back ACFL division three action this Saturday, 7th June. They travel to Burt with the reserves throwing in at 6pm, followed by the seniors at 7.30pm.

The under 14s did not fair out so well in their championship encounter with Naomh Columba last Wednesday night in the park. Despite the best efforts of Shane Gillespie and Pauric Keenaghan, the centre half forward for the Glen men, Lanty Molloy at six foot two inches, proved to be the difference between the two teams. The final scoreline read 4-10 to 8-9 in favour of the visitors. However there were a lot of positives to be taken from the game from an Aodh Ruadh perspective with best for the home side on the night being Cianán Roper, Senan Rooney and Caolán Dolan all doing very well in defence, Dylan Gallagher, Owen Doherty and Odhran McGarrigle all in fine form up front. The next outing for the lads is away to Ardara on Wednesday evening leaving from the Park at 6pm.

The under 12s hosted Naomh Conaill in their league game of the season. Goals proved the difference in the senior game with the visitors taking the spoils, while Aodh Ruadh were too strong in the junior tie. We have pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org.

The under 10s will be travelling to a blitz in Killybegs this Saturday 7th July. The other teams competing will be Bundoran, Killybegs and Pettigo. 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. We will be departing Ballyshannon at 9.45am. Games will be getting under way at 11am in Killybegs. Training on Wednesday at 6.30pm.

The first under eight skills test of the year takes place at this Friday's training. Just to remind players of the four stations so they can be practicing ahead of the test. 1: Hand pass between poles off left and right. 2: Pick up and solo off left and right. 3: Kick pass between poles off left and right. 4: Point score and goal score. There will also be a mark for speed around the course. Training at the usual time of 6.30pm.

Under 6 training continues this Friday in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh at 6.30pm.

Ladies
The under 8 and under 10 girls put on a great display in Grange last Saturday. Nearly 30 girls in all togged out in the Aodh Ruadh colours and showed great grit and determination both on and off the ball. They played a series of nine-a-side games against opposition from Grange and Drumcliffe / Rosses Point. Thanks to everyone who came along to support and well done to all the girls. Our panel on the day was: Sara Begley, Ciara Caldwell, Rosa Dale, Cara Davitt, Elyssa Finnegan, Eve Flood, Laoise Foy, Lauren Foy, Hannah Gallagher, Orla Gallagher, Ciara Gillespie, Megan Kane, Ãine Hill, Niamh Hughes, Sadhbh Hughes Grainne Maguire, Rihanna Masterson-Burrows, Aoibheann McGarrigle, Kirstin McGowan, Eimear McGuckin, Lucy McGlynn, Evelyn McHugh, Lauren McHugh, Jodie Meade, Zara Meade, Shauna O'Mahoney, Katie O'Brien, Jessica O'Mahoney, Cora Rooney and Fódhla Sheerin. There are some pictures from the game up on the Aodh Ruadh CLG Facebook page. We'll hopefully have another day out soon as there are plans being made with Four Masters at present.

There is training for the under 12s at 6pm this Wednesday ahead of our first blitz of the season this Saturday. We will be hosting Bundoran, Four Masters, Saint Naul's and Killybegs in the Park with games getting under way at 11am. We will be asking parents to help out with the catering for the large attendance of players and supporters expected on the day.

Well done to our under 14s who bagged a win over a strong Termon side at the weekend, the game ending with a score of 2-3 to 1-3. Their next match is away against Gaoth Dobhair this Thursday with the throw-in at 7.30pm. The bus will leave the park at 5pm.

Volunteers are needed for the lotto rota. The slots are 90 minutes and if enough of us between parents and eligible players take a turn it lightens the load for all!

Many thanks to the TY students from Coláiste Cholmcille who have been helping out at our training sessions for under 8s, 10s and 12s. Best of luck to the girls doing their Junior Cert and Leaving Cert this week. The throw-in for that event is on Wednesday 4th June - go néirí an t-ádh libh uilig.

Hurling
Aodh Ruadh return to Ulster Táin Hurling League division three action this Saturday evening when they tackle Warrenpoint in the Tyrone Centre of Excellence at Garvaghey. Throw in for that game is 5.30pm.

Donegal minors were very unlucky to lose to Derry in the quarter final of the Ulster Championship on Saturday last in Letterkenny. This game was lost in the first half as Donegal shot 10 wides, despite that they went in leading at half time by 4 points 1-6 to 1-2. As was to be expected Derry started the second half at a whirlwind pace and shot 2-2 without reply, despite this Donegal battled back and were only a point down entering the last few minutes. Some poor shot selections cost them dearly. Derry got the final score right on the full time whistle and ran out winners 3-8 to 1-12. All present knew that this was a game that Donegal should have won, on a positive note for Donegal ten of the starting team are underage again next year. Aodh Ruadh were well represented on the day with Eddie Lynch (0-1), Ciaran Rami and Eugene Drummond making the first 15. Oisín Rooney (0-1) came on early in the second half. Oisín Roper and Brendan Gillespie were also on the panel.

Best of luck to all our under 16s and minors who start their Junior Cert and Leaving Cert exams this Wednesday.

Underage training continues on Sunday at 12 noon all welcome especially beginners.

Cash for Clothes
Cash for Clothes for the month of June the Aodh Ruadh Juvenile Hurling Committee are having their annual Cash for Clothes fund-raising collection. We're collecting unwanted clothing in good condition, shoes, belts and handbags, we're also collecting blankets, sheets, curtains once they're bagged separately. This is a good chance to clean out your wardrobes and help us raise funds for the promotion and development of underage hurling in Aodh Ruadh. Contact any of the following who will arrange collection of your unwanted clothing etc Tara Keenaghan 086-3331903, Fionnuala Gillespie 087-6668634 and John Rooney 086-2587793.

Fantasy race for Sam
Last week's leader Gerry Gallagher and his Belleek Boys are still top of the pile with 68 points after Tipperary scoring 10 points for him. Alas his home county did not fare too well in the Ulster Championship, so at least he can be consoled with the fact he is still top in the Fantasy Race for Sam 2014. We have five teams in joint second place this week, all on 50 points. Thomas Simmons and his aptly named team The Sad Scousers, Philip Patton and his team County Colours, Damien Conlon and Eileen Vaughan with Any Port In A Storm, Mick McGrath and his under pressure Whistlers Utd and Conal Gallagher and The Concrete C's. With games coming thick and fast in the next few weeks, there will be plenty of changes. At the opposite end of the table we have Aiden Givens with Whiskey is Best still yet to score a point. It's looking grim for the Armagh native even at this early stage, with his home county his only saving grace in their game against Cavan. Pearse O'Neill and Best Cones Around are in second last place on three points, with Noel McGrath and his outfit The Roofer on four points. Joining the race to the bottom is Shane McLoone and Young Boys Of Sound on six points. As always tthe leader board is available every Tuesday on aodhruadh.org, as well as Ballybookies, The Bridgend Bar, Owen Roe's Bar and upstairs in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh.

Bingo
The €1,000 Big Bingo jackpot was won on 49 numbers, well done to Pawel Opryszek. Normal bingo returns on Friday night, €10 book / €8 half book. The game five Summer Snowball still has to be won, which now stands at €300 on 50 numbers or less!

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10 June

Football
Aodh Ruadh showed commendable grit to take full points from Burt on Saturday evening with a 0-10 to 0-11 win just sealed deep into injury time with a long range place kick from Peter Boyle. The first half started with the homesters getting the better of the play, but Aodh Ruadh worked their way back into the match with points from David Dolan, Anthony Boyle and Diarmaid McInerney making it a draw game at half-time, 0-7 apiece. At the break there was a torrential downpour with thunder and lightning thrown into the mix for good measure. Eamonn McGrath got the first score of the second half, but the Inishowen men reasserted themselves once more to take a two point lead. Again patience was a virtue for the Ernesiders in a game where massed defences and treacherous conditions didn't exactly make for free-flowing football. Diarmaid McInerney hit two close range frees to tie things up for a second time before Boyle stepped up to smash the size five over the dixie with almost six minutes of added time gone. We have a team sheet and pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org.

The reserves returned to winning ways with a double scores away victory over Burt, 0-14 to 0-7 in a game where discipline wasn't what it might have been from either side. Aodh Ruadh were quickest out of the traps, racing into a 0-4 to no score lead, but Burt came back to narrow the margin to a point. As the game moved into the second quarter Ballyshannon pushed on again to establish a three point half time lead. The pattern was repeated in the second half, with the visitors forging ahead and Burt doing their level best to reel them back in. However Aodh Ruadh remained in control through to the final whistle and consigned the Hibernian Park outfit to their first defeat of the season. Fine performances across the pitch for the Ernesiders, with Anthony Coughlan clearly enjoying the freedom around lar na páirce, with Michael McNeely providing the legs. There was a lot of solid defensive work especially from Calum 'Cookie' O'Halloran, Ryan Patton and Ciaran Slevin. Up front Michael 'Sticky' Ward was a great point man, ably supported by Dermot Slevin. We have pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org

The weekend's results see Aodh Ruadh sitting on top of the division three and division three reserve tables. They will aim to maintain that momentum this weekend when they host fellow promotion-chasers Naomh Columba in Father Tierney Park this Saturday evening. The reserve game is at 6pm followed by the senior game at 7.30pm.

The under 14s enjoyed a good, but hard fought 4-13 to 2-11 win in their away game against Ardara on Wednesday evening. The Aodh Ruadh men played their best football in the first half against a very strong breeze with Dylan Gallagher, Michael McKenna and Owen Doherty all in fine attacking and helping the visitors to a three point half time lead. The first 15 minutes of the second half saw the Ernesiders lying back expecting a strong wind advantage to do the work for them and the Ardara men drew level for the first time in the game. With some great defensive work from Tiarnan Flood Dolan, Pauric Keenaghan and Senan Rooney the Ballyshannon lads found the Ardara goal once again and finished the game very strong giving them an eight point advantage at the final whistle. The next outing is away to Four Masters on Wednesday evening in a must win game to keep their championship hopes alive. Throw in at Tír Chonaill park is 7.15pm and we'd like to see a good showing of Ballyshannon support down to that one.

It has been a busy few days for the under 12s. They were in Enniskillen on Saturday where they won the plate competition. Check out the Aodh Ruadh image gallery for some pictures from Brewster Park. Then they braved biblical weather conditions on Monday evening to travel to Dungloe. Aodh Ruadh came from the Banks with a 3-3 to 1-9 draw against a fancied home town outfit. The next assignment for Aodh Ruadh is another trip, this time to Mountcharles next Monday where the senior game will be throwing in at 6.30pm. Training on Wednesday evening at 6.15pm and on Saturday at 10.45am.

Aodh Ruadh under 10s travelled to Killybegs for a blitz last Saturday. The seniors got two good wins in their games against Killybegs and Bundoran, playing some super football in the process. Meanwhile the juniors also gave a good account of themselves in their matches against Killybegs, Bundoran and Pettigo. The Aodh Ruadh team that travelled to Fintra was: Ronan Barron, Danny Breen, Conor Cleary, Oisin Daly, Padraig Daly, Shane Delahunty, Darragh Flood Dolan, Michael Doogan, JJ Doran, Jack Gallagher, James Gallagher, Aaron Horan, Niamh Hughes, Eoghan Kelly, Art Mag Fhionnghaile, Lorc Mag Fhionnghaile, Grainne Maguire, Aoibheann McGarrigle, Shane McGloin, Cian McKenna, Ronan McKenna, Cillian Meehan, Aaron Neilan, Aonghus Sweeny, Aidan Sweeny, David Roper and Drew Ryan. Many thanks to Killybegs for an enjoyable and well organised competition. Training on Wednesday at 6.30pm.

The first under eight skills test of the year took place at training last Friday. There was a very high standard on the day and all ran off very smoothly thanks to the help of parents who marked at the various stations. We will have results for all players at this Friday's training with medals for the top scores. Training at the usual time of 6.30pm.

Under 6 training continues this Friday in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh at 6.30pm.

Ladies
Aodh Ruadh hosted an enjoyable blitz on Saturday in Father Tierney Park with teams attending from Killybegs, Saint Naul's, Four Masters and Bundoran. The Aodh Ruadh team played very well, growing in confidence as the day went on. Pulling on the white and green for Ballyshannon were: Eva Breen, Ella Clancy, Alicia Clyne, Chloe Connolly, Mary Kate Finnegan, Aisling Gallagher, Ciara Gallagher, Danielle Gallagher, Laoise Kelly, Síofra Hughes, Ciara Lynch, Bridin Maguire, Laoise McGee, Sorcha McGonigle, Caitlin McLaughlin, Katie McMullin, Ruth McNulty, Danielle Masterson-Burrows and Leah O'Brien. We have some pictures from the day's action up on aodhruadh.org.

Hurling
Aodh Ruadh put in their best performance of the year to date to take a 4-12 to 2-8 victory over Warrenpoint from Garvaghey in the Ulster Táin League. Most of the damage was done in a ten minute purple patch just before half time when the inside forward line of Peter Horan, Chris Kilgannon and Declan Browne caught fire. They blasted Ballyshannon to 4-6 to 1-5 half time lead. The Ernesiders took their foot off the pedal somewhat in the second half and the two goals conceded were both preventable, but overall it was a very pleasing team performance from Aodh Ruadh. Apart from the full forward line Conor McNeely worked his socks off at half forward, while out at midfield Paul Sheridan was calmness itself and made economical use the ball throughout. There will be no club action this week with Donegal facing Down at noon in the senior Ulster hurling championship quarter-final in Clones on Sunday. Aodh Ruadh will be represented by Paul Sheridan, Chris Kilgannon, Ciaran Kilgannon, Paul Hughes and Stephen Sheerin on the Donegal panel. That game will be the curtain raiser to the Tyrone Monaghan match.

Congratulations and well done to Brendan Gillespie and Oisín Rooney who have been selected for the Ulster GAA Phoenix Academy 2014. This is a residential camp to be held at University of Ulster, Jordanstown on the 30th June and 1st July, where the top under 16 hurlers from throughout Ulster are brought together for a training camp in preparation for games against Galway and Connacht later in the summer. It's a great honour for the two lads and the club to be selected for this Academy.

Things are quiet on the playing fields at the moment due to the state exams, but the under 12 and under 16 leagues are beginning on 26th June when both teams are in action against MacCumhaill's.

Training as normal for all age groups on Sunday at 12 noon. We're very encouraged by the large numbers we have training at under 8 and under 10 level and to see how well they're improving since the start of the season. We would like to see more numbers turning out at under 12 so come along and try your hand at our great ancient game you'll be surprised at the fun to be had.

Fantasy race for Sam
After a massive six games in the championship this weekend, there is a lot of movement on the leaderboard this week. Despite all the movers though, no one has been able to shift Gerry Gallagher and his team of Belleek Boys from the top. He has amassed 74 points. Hot on his heels is John Patton Jr and his team of Yes Patsy with 71 points along with Pat Gruddy and his team Mayo This Time also on 71 points. Philip Patton and his team County Colours are in joint fourth place along with John Kennedy and his team Tilly Lad, both on 67 points. High score of the week goes to Michael Melly and his team The Kop Kids with a total of 44 points. (Armagh-10, Mayo-10, Waterford-5, Kildare-10, Tubridy-6, Brosnan-3). At the opposite end of the table, we have Dan Warnock and his team Dan's Your Man in last place with 13 points. A further point up the road on 14 is Sean O'Mahoney and his Rathmore Rebels. We then have four players on 17 points. Jim McGrath with I'd Say So, Shane McLoone with Young Boys Of Sound, Rebecca Patton with Legal Eagles and Pearse O'Neill with Best Cones Around. As always the leader board is available every Tuesday on aodhruadh.org, as well as Ballybookies, The Bridgend Bar, Owen Roe's Bar and upstairs in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh.

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17 June

Football
Aodh Ruadh secured a massive win on Saturday evening when they recorded a 5-8 to 0-12 victory over Naomh Columba in Father Tierney Park. The result is a major fillip to the club's promotion drive as games start to run out. Goals were the key and with a 3-7 to 0-5 cushion at half-time testament to a dominant performance in the opening 30. The second half was rather more tightly fought, with Ballyshannon only managing to add 2-1, but by that stage Naomh Columba's prospects of catching Aodh Ruadh were considerably reduced. David McGurrin was man of the match for the Ernesiders. His precision football was a pure joy to behold. There was a lot of drive from defence with Johnny Gallagher, Ciron Whoriskey and Conor Patton as often in the opposition's half as their own. Kerry Ryan was dominant in the middle of the pitch and made four vital interceptions to disrupt Naomh Columba attacking movements. Up front the physicality and accuracy of Ronan McGurrin, Pauric Patton and David Dolan proved too much for Glen to deal with. We have a full match report from the game and pictures up on aodhruadh.org.

With David Finnerty away getting married Aodh Ruadh were a little under strength for this game. However, while they gave a decent showing for most of this game, they could have few complaints about the final scoreline of 0-14 to 1-14 in favour of Naomh Columba. 16 different players got their names on the score sheet which gives an indication of the end-to-end action served up to the patrons in Father Tierney Park. Aodh Ruadh actually went in at the break leading 0-8 to 0-7 thanks to a lovely Cookie O'Halloran point. However Glen got the goal as the game moved into the final quarter and with time running out it was always going to be an uphill battle after that. Best for Aodh Ruadh on the day were the full back line of Cookie O'Halloran, Ryan Patton and Chris McCabe. Further out the pitch Niall Thomas got on a lot of ball, while up front James Kelly and Sticky Ward worked hard and Nicky Sheerin got himself a nice point. We have a full match report pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org

Aodh Ruadh seniors are on the road next weekend into the heart of Inishowen. They will be taking on Carndonagh on Saturday evening at 7.30pm. There is no reserve fixture this weekend.

The under 16s opening game of the season take place next Monday evening in Donegal Town. That clash with Four Master throws in at 7.30pm, Eugene McHale refereeing.

The under 14s played a real rollercoaster of a game in Tír Chonaill park on Wednesday last as they kept their championship dream alive. Aodh Ruadh were on fire in the first half and really gave an exhibition of football, at one point going into a ten point lead. The homesters had that brought back to eight points by half-time, but Ballyshannon still looked in well control. Four Masters came out in the second half with all guns blazing hitting two goals and then pushing into a four point lead. A shell-shocked Aodh Ruadh finally rallied and clawed their way back into game to put a point in it with five minutes to go. The final nerve-shredding five minutes saw the Ernesiders shoot four wides, but then up stepped captain Dylan Gallagher to fire over a magnificent leveler. That point was the icing on the cake of a great performance from Gallagher. Elsewhere Senan Rooney, Shane Gillespie and Michael McKenna were all outstanding, while there were exceptional displays from the two corner backs, Adam Clarke and Adam Rami. Local Sport Donegal carried a substantial gallery of images from the game. Four Masters' subsequent defeat to Naomh Columba means that they finish the group level on points with Aodh Ruadh and a play-off is now required. That play-off game takes place in Ballintra at 7.15pm this Wednesday, 18th June. We hope to see a substantial Ballyshannon support in Páirc Naomh Bríd to get behind the team. The winner of this match will progress to the regional semi-final against Killybegs.

Our under 12s traveled to Mountcharles on a balmy Monday evening and won both games with the lads playing some decent football. Aodh Ruadh will be hosting Ardara on Tuesday 24th June with the senior game throwing in at 6.30pm. Training on Wednesday evening at 6.15pm and on Saturday at 10.45am. We now have a report from the under 12s shield win in Enniskillen up on aodhruadh.org.

Under 10 training continues on Wednesday at 6.30pm and Saturday at 11pm. We are aiming to host a blitz on Saturday 28th June.

The results from the first under eight skills test of the year were distributed at training last Friday. The top five standings were: 1st: Finn Coady; 2nd: Tom Murphy; 3rd: Tommy Clyne; 4th: James Monaghan; and 5th: Killian Bradshaw. The crucial thing for players to understand is that the first skills test is a benchmark which tells them where their skills are at right now and allows management to target our coaching over the rest of the season. We will be doing a second skills test at the end of the season and this will tell the players how far they have come across the course of the year. The main awards after that test will go to the players who have managed the biggest improvement in their score across the year. The purpose of empowering players with the full breakdown of their scores for the skills test is to let them know the areas where they did well and where they can improve ahead of the final skills test. There are some shots from last Friday's session up on aodhruadh.org. Training at the usual time of 6.30pm this Friday.

Under 6 training continues this Friday in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh at 6.30pm.

Hurling
Aodh Ruadh are back in Ulster Táin league division three this action this Sunday. They are away to Garvaghey to take on Louth outfit Mattock Rangers at 6pm.

Creevy National School made a welcome return to Cumann na mBunscol competition last Thursday. They were beaten by Tooban National School in Convoy. Creevy put on a great show against this famed school which is the main nursery for Burt. A very young Creevy team, which contained only two sixth class boys, battled hard throughout and lost a great game 8-2 to 4-4. Despite losing the lads showed great character fighting right to the end. It is hoped that some of the lads will now start hurling with Aodh Ruadh. Creevy's return to competition is very welcome and is a result of Aodh Ruadh's coaching initiative and the work being done at underage hurling in the club.

Well done to under 12 hurler Declan Breslin who represented Creevy National School at the INTO mini game at half time in the Donegal v Down Ulster Hurling Championship quarter-final in Clones on Sunday. Declan played very well and did school and club proud.

Under 12s and under 16s start their league campaigns next Thursday against MacCumhaill's.

Under 8s and under 10s have their next all-county blitz in Convoy on Sunday 29th June. Training has been going well at these age groups.

Ladies
Our under 12s didn't have a blitz at the weekend, but are training hard for the next blitzes. These will be away blitzes and are coming up on 28th June and 5th July. Thanks again to all the parents who helped with the refreshments when we had our home blitz, to our refs on the day, Sylvie, Terence McShea and Eoin O'Moore. We hope Roisin Daly, who sustained a broken finger, is recovering well and send her all our best wishes.

Best of luck to our under 14s who are in a play-off game against Termon in Killygordon this evening at 7pm.

Summer camp
Aodh Ruadh Summer Camp 2014 runs on Monday 7th July-11th July and Monday 14th July-18th July.

Fantasy race for Sam
This week sees the 'other' Gerry Gallagher - Ardara Forever - take over the top spot with 81 points. I'm sure if he wins the competition, there will be a cup of tea taken to celebrate. Hot on his heels is Michael Clancy's Clyhore Champs on 80 point, with last week's leader, the 'other' Gerry Gallagher and his Belleek Boys in third place on 75 points. John Magee makes his first appearance of the year in the top five with fourth spot on 72 points. We have three teams then in joint fifth place all on 71 points. John Patton Jr with Yes Patsy, Pat Gruddy and Mayo This Time and Cailin McInerney's The West Porters. In joint last place this week, we have Pearse O'Neill and his Best Cones Around and Jim McGrath's I'd Say So. Both are on 17 points. Michael Dolan and the Dolans Dragon are on 18 points and Dan Warnock with Dan's Your Man is on 19 points. Shane Drummond and his Coolcholly Crew is a point further up the road on 20 points. Joint high score of the week with 27 points scored goes to Eugene Loughlin (Monaghan-10, McManus-6, Newman-11) along with Niamh and Pauric McGrath (Monaghan-10, Clare-10, McManus-6, Tubridy-1). As always tthe leader board is available every Tuesday on aodhruadh.org, as well as Ballybookies, The Bridgend Bar, Owen Roe's Bar and upstairs in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh.

Bingo
Bingo continues this Friday night in The Abbey Centre at 9pm sharp, books priced at €10 for a full book, €5 for half book. Winner of last week's €400 jackpot was Helen Lawne of Cluain Barron. The Game Five Summer Snowball continues to grow and now stands at €340 on 52 numbers or less.

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24 June

Club meeting
The monthly club executive meeting takes place this Thursday, 26th June in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh at 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

Football
Aodh Ruadh maintained their position at the head of the division three table with a 2-22 to 0-10 victory over a depleted Carndonagh side in Inishowen. Ballyshannon were slow to start and Carn were picking off some lovely long range points, but the visitors were able to forge their way to a 0-9 to 0-5 half time lead. Aodh Ruadh's first goal was a fine individual effort, Mickey Dolan attacking down the left channel and unleashing a rasper past the Carndonagh net minder. The second goal came when Ballyshannon turned over a Carn attack and the ball was worked to Diarmaid McInerney in space. McInerney was clinical with his finish to the back of the net. In general it was good team performance from the Ernesiders, especially in the second period when fatigue began to tell on the homesters. Conor Patton once again clocked up the kilometers in another indefatigable performance, while Eamonn McGrath led what was an impressive half back display. Also prominent was James O'Donnell who dominated around the centre of the field. We have some pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org.

Aodh Ruadh are on the road once next weekend, this time to the next peninsula over. The seniors will be taking on Milford on Saturday evening at 7.30pm. That game will be preceded by the reserves at 6pm.

The under 16s opened their season with a two point away loss to Four Master on a 3-10 to 3-8 scoreline in the league. Aodh Ruadh took their time to get into the game went in at the break four points down, 1-7 to 1-3. However after a few positional shifts the visitors got on top of things in the second half and the result could easily have swung in Ballyshannon's favour had a few shots been smiled upon by fortune. Oisín Rooney capped a great attacking performance with a well converted goal, while Ryan McKenna nailed a penalty. Aodh Ruadh's joint captains Nathan Boyle and Shane McGrath both excelled, Boyle in particular took a few heavy knocks, but never stepped back. In defence Jason Granaghan and Conall Sweeny both did very well. A quick story to finish on a light note, an Aodh Ruadh player was pulled down while on the attack. A Ballyshannon supporter called out it was a black card, to which a tablet-toting Four Masters mentor responded, "How was that a black card?" The Aodh Ruadh man shot back, "How about you look it up on your iPad!" Anyway, the under 16s will be back in action this Friday in Father Tierney Park when they host Ardara. That game throws up at 7.30pm.

The under 14s championship hopes came to a very disappointing end last Wednesday night in Ballintra, when they met Four Masters in their championship play-off game. From the very start the lads struggled to find form against a very fit and determined Four Masters side and the absence of a few key players up front really made an impact on the outcome of the game. Half-time saw the Aodh Ruadh lads trailing by two points. Donegal made the better start in the second half and pulled away at a steady pace. With the best efforts of Dylan Gallagher, Odhran McGarrigle and man of the match Senan Rooney all finding the back of the Donegal net in the second half it still was not enough and the Four Masters men finished the game very strong, running out the easy 6-14 to 3-7 winners at the final whistle.

Our under 12s will be hosting Ardara on Tuesday 24th June with the senior game throwing in at 6.30pm. Training on Saturday at 10.45am.

Under 10 training continues on Wednesday at 6.30pm and Saturday at 11pm.

The under 8s traveled to Ardara last Saturday for a blitz also featuring Naomh Bríd. It was an enjoyable day out for the team that travelled down with some good football played too. In the senior game Jack McCadden played brilliantly at full back, with Barry Campbell in goals and later had a great game up front. In the junior game, Liam Doogan worked well at midfield and Hugh Óg Maguire up front scoring a great point stood out. The team who represented Ballyshannon were: Killian Bradshaw, Barry Campbell, Liam Doogan, Stephen Doran, Tommy Clyne, Cormac Finnegan, Donagh Kelly, Hugh Óg Maguire, Seán Maguire, Jack McCadden, Cian McDonald, Garvey Meade, Tom Murphy, Conor O'Mahoney, Dara O'Mahoney, Cillian Slevin and James Ward. Training at the usual time of 6.30pm this Friday.

Under 6 training continues this Friday in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh at 6.30pm.

Double joy for Donegal
Sunday proved a great day as Donegal as seniors and minors booked their places in the biggest day in the Ulster GAA calendar. There was a lot of club interest in Clones on with Niall Harley and Colm Kelly figuring prominently in the minors 2-19 to 1-10 victory over Antrim. Mick McGrath is involved in the minor back room team, while Aodh Ruadh hurler Jamie Brennan is going well. too. The Aodh Ruadh interest didn't stop there as Anthony Donagher and John Joe Gettins both took part in the half time games, giving a good account of themselves. Ronan Matthews was in Clones on Sunday and he got a great range of shots from the day which can be browsed at aodhruadh.org.

Hurling
Aodh Ruadh recorded another good win in Ulster Táin league division three on Sunday evening. They defeated Louth outfit Mattock Rangers on a scoreline of 5-11 to 3-10 to third in the ten team table behind Ballela of Down and Sean Treacy's from Lurgan. Ballyshannon got off to a flyer with two earlier goals, Chris Kilgannon instrumental in both, and enjoyed a half time cushion of five points. However Mattock contribute a sizeable contingent to the Louth senior team and weren't for lying down. Two goals after the break saw the Leinster men edge into a one point lead. Aodh Ruadh responded well and battled back to run out seven point winners. The most encouraging aspect of the performance was the grit shown by the youthful Aodh Ruadh full back line of Tommy Anderson, Tommy Gillespie and Jack Matthews who were under huge pressure in the second half.

The under 16s open their league campaign with a home game against MacCumhaill's on Thursday evening. Throw in at Father Tierney Park is at 7 pm and all support will be most welcome.

Best of luck to Brendan Gillespie and Oisín Rooney as they attend the Ulster Academy in Jordanstown next Monday and Tuesday, it's a great honour for the lads and a well deserved reward for their years of dedication to hurling.

Our under 8s and under 10s take part in the third all county blitz this Sunday in Convoy, details will be sent out during the week.

Ladies
Aodh Ruadh said farewell to Fionnuala Gill at the weekend. The Gaelscoil Éirne teacher has made a great contribution to the club since coming to the town almost a decade ago. She soldiered with the senior team, winning an intermediate championship title, and helped coach a number of underage Aodh Ruadh teams too. The ladies team staged a farewell bash for Fionnuala in Dicey Reilly's where she was presented with a few mementos to remember us by when she gets settled in down in Cork. Always available to lend a hand, it's fair to say we'll all miss the Mayo múinteoir about the place. Slán agus go raibh céad maith agat. We have a few pictures from the presentation up on aodhruadh.org.

Our under 8s, under 10s and under 12s continue to train on Mondays at 6pm. Best of luck to the under 12s who travel to Mountcharles this Saturday 28th for a blitz. The following Saturday 5th July they will be playing at a blitz in Donegal Town.

Hard luck to the under 14s who lost their play-off game against Termon last Tuesday in Killygordon. The girls had a great year, topping their group in the first round and finishing up in a play-off situation in Division A in the county.

Training continues for under 16s, minors and seniors on Tuesday and Thursday at 7pm.

Summer camp
Aodh Ruadh Summer Camp 2014 runs on Monday 7th July-11th July and Monday 14th July-18th July. The camp runs from 10am to 3pm daily.

Fantasy race for Sam
After eight games this weekend, the double act that is the two Gerry Gallaghers sees one replace the other at the top of the leaderboard. Its Gerry Gallagher and his team of Belleek Boys who are top this week on 107 points. Hot on his heels is Philip Patton and his team, County Colours, on 105 points. Conal Gallagher and his team, The Concrete Cs, are in third place with 102 points. The other team to break the 100 point barrier are Niamh and Pauric McGrath and their team, Niamh's Creevy Clubhouse on 100 points which leaves them in fourth place overall. Rounding out the top this week is John Patton Jr and his team, Yes Patsy, on 98 points. In last place on his own this week is Jim McGrath and his team, I'd Say So, with a measly 17 points. He has opened a sizable lead on Sean O'Mahoney and his team of Rathmore Rebels who have 24 points. On 28 points is Michael Dolan and his team, Dolans Dragons, with Dan Warnock and his team, Dan's Ur Man' on 29 points. Rounding out the bottom five is Pearse O'Neill and his team, Best Cones Around, on 31 points. Joint high score of the week on 44 points is John Meehan with his team, The Last Mayor (Donegal-10, Limerick-10, Wicklow-10, Marren-4, McNamee-10) along with Trevor O'Mahoney and his team, Coolsense (Galway-10, Cork-10, Wicklow-10, Martin-2, Ryan-8, Mc Cormack-4). As always tthe leader board is available every Tuesday on aodhruadh.org, as well as Ballybookies, The Bridgend Bar, Owen Roe's Bar and upstairs in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh.

Community Employment Scheme Vacancies
Two employment places are currently available on the Community Employment Scheme organised by the Committee for Aodh Ruadh and other local community organisations. Applicants must meet the minimum criteria for a CES placement including a minimum age of 25 years and a minimum period of 12 months on unemployment benefit/allowances. One position is for an Administrative role supporting the CE Scheme operations, based in the office in the Day Centre, College Street, Ballyshannon. The second place is for a person with the skills to function as a Hurling Coach to enhance the current Aodh Ruadh Schools Coaching Initiative. Garda Vetting will apply to this latter position. Contact Tom Daly for further information. Anyone interested should first check with the Department of Social Protection that they meet the eligibility criteria.

Bingo
The June Big Bingo will be held this Friday, with a total prize fund of nearly €3000, including a €1000 jackpot game. Winner of last week's €400 jackpot was Ann McAndrew of Pettigo. The Game Five summer snowball is still growing and now stands at €360 on 53 numbers or less. Books for the big bingo are priced at €15 for a full book, €8 for a half book, or buy a book and a half for a discounted €20. See you there!

Donegal supports safe driving
The County Health and Wellbeing Committee of CLG Dhún na nGall and the Donegal Road Safety Working Group have launched a campaign to encourage all road users to change their behavior and make these changes part of their lives in the future, which will save lives and reduce serious injuries on our roads.
Our message is simple - make smart choices about how you use the roads: never ever drink or drug drive, strictly keep to the speed limits and reduce your speed, make sure you and your passengers are wearing seatbelts before you set off on a journey, no matter how short and never use your mobile phone for any purpose while driving.
The campaign is fully backed by Donegal GAA and Donegal Road Safety Working Group with Donegal senior team player, Ryan McHugh as its Ambassador. Footballers and management will be encouraging people to make their pledge to decide every time they sit in a vehicle before they turn the key, that they will make smart choices about how they use the roads. The hope is that everyone takes note and thinks road safety when using the roads.
This Road Safety campaign for the football season is being co-ordinated by Brian O'Donnell, Road Safety Officer, Donegal County Council and Sean Dunnion, County Chairman, Donegal GAA as part of their road safety education and casualty reduction strategy.
At the launch at MacCumhaill Park on Saturday June 7th, Brian O'Donnell, Road Safety Officer opened by saying, "This is another opportunity to remind football fans about their road safety responsibilities. Fans should ensure the enjoyment of the game isn't followed by tragedy on the roads. Individuals and organisations should follow their football team's example and make a commitment to support this campaign and ask all their family members to adhere to the rules of the road at all times and lead by example. It is also important to factor in a rest break on your journey from Donegal to the game".
Sean Dunnion, County Chairman said, "The new County Health and Wellbeing Committee formed earlier this year immediately identified that Road Safety should be a focus area for their plan for 2014 so we are delighted now to partner with the Donegal Road Safety Working Group in delivering a campaign for our members and supporters as they travel to venues across Ulster and indeed hopefully outside the province later in the season as they support the Donegal minor and senior football teams."
Ryan McHugh said, "It was a great honour for him to be selected as the Donegal GAA Road Safety Ambassador and looked forward to working with both the County Health and Wellbeing Committee and the Donegal Road Safety Working Group in promoting a safe driving culture for both young and older drivers. He also appealed to everybody, both drivers and passengers, to heed the many safe driving messages that will be delivered particularly over social media channels in the coming months."

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26 June

Football
Aodh Ruadh clash with Milford has been brought forward to Friday evening at 7.30pm. That game will be preceded by the reserves at 6pm.

Aodh Ruadh under 12s hosted Ardara in our fourth league game in Father Tierney Park on Tuesday evening. In our first game we got off to a good start with Harry Howarth hitting the onion bag early on, three points followed from Mark McGlynn with all the lads playing well. Senan Rooney struck over two great 45s and a point from play before Cian Rooney stepped up and hit the back of the net. In the second half though Ardara came back strong hitting two goals and a point without reply. The lads rallied with Mark McGlynn hitting a goal and Cian Rooney, Harry Howarth and Senan Rooney hitting a point a piece. The game finished 3-8 to 2-6 in a hard fought battle. In goals Bridín Maguire was in total charge with Kyle Murray and Matt Gillespie in very good form in the full back line. Eugene Doherty marshaled the half back line and Philip Cassidy worked tirelessly in midfield. Up front Calum Ayres and Daire Gallagher played very well linking up with their midfield and other forwards. In our second game we started with a strong line out, Shane Whelan back from injury played a great game in goals. In the full back line David Doherty and Adam Hoey were very solid. In the half back line Nathan Owens-Kelly, Daire Warren and Conal Bradshaw were excellent closing down all attacks. In midfield Kyle McCaffrey and Shane Duffy dominated play, linking up with their forwards. Up front Frankie McGinley took a great goal and was unlucky not to get a second, Mitch McLaughlin hit a fine goal too while Jake Foley and Diarmaid Dolan put in a great shift taking some good scores also.
There was further good news for the under 12s with Kernan's Spar coming on board as jersey sponsor for the team. Pictured at the official presentation of the jerseys to the club are under 12 team manager Martin McGlynn and David O'Donnell who is an under 12 mentor and manager of Kernan's Spar Ballyshannon. The image can be viewed in full resolution on aodhruadh.org. Kernan's are great supporters of the club, hosting one of our weekly lotto sales outlets every Saturday, which brings us neatly on to the next topic of conversation...

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Liam's on cloud nine
Pictured right receiving his winning Aodh Ruadh lotto cheque for €9,300 is Clyhore man Liam McGowan. Aodh Ruadh Treasurer, Catherine McKee, and Chairman, Diarmaid Keon, were on hand to do the honours. The image can be viewed in full resolution on aodhruadh.org. Liam is one of the hundreds of people every week who help sustain our club by playing the lotto.
Aodh Ruadh provides high quality coaching and sports facilities to everyone in Ballyshannon. We train and develop over 20 different football and hurling teams, for boys and girls, men and women. We provide an outlet for all aspects of Irish culture. We help bind our wider community together. We highlight the importance of lifestyle issues to our young people. We produce talented and dedicated footballers and hurlers who go on to represent our county. We build team and community spirit. We work hand in hand with all our local community groups.
We can only do this because of the support provided by those who regularly play club lotto. So many thanks once again to all those who play every week and help make Aodh Ruadh the vibrant community resource it is. Míle buíochas!

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