Club Notes Archive - 2014

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SEPTEMBER

2 September

Double delight for Donegal
What an afternoon for Donegal in Croke Park it was! Aodh Ruadh extends their congratulations to everyone involved in the senior and minor panels on what is an outstanding and historic achievement. Well done in particular to Niall Harley and Colm Kelly and Aodh Ruadh hurler Jamie Brennan on booking their place in the All-Ireland semi-finals with an epic 1-12 to 1-11 victory over Dublin. Well done also to Mick McGrath, Anthony McGrath and Gary Walsh who are involved in the back room team. Of course we can't forget John Duffy who is playing a valuable role in Jim McGuinness's back room team. Congratulations all round and the very best of luck in the weeks to come. There is no news on ticket arrangements just yet, but we will be doing our best to keep members informed. There will be an open training day and press event this coming Saturday afternoon with further details to be announced over the course of the week. We should have some shots from the day's craziness up on aodhruadh.org over the course of the week.

Aodh Ruadh is Up For The Match
Aodh Ruadh will be staging a chat night ahead of the All-Ireland final with Joe Brolly and Kevin Cassidy heading up the bill in Dorrian's Imperial Hotel on Thursday, 18th September. We will be bringing you announcements of more big name guests and event details in coming days. Tickets will available before the end of the week in Shannon's Corner, Pearse O'Neill's and McCosker's Centra.

Family Fund-raiser
Some funds are required to complete the fitness trail and provide a Hurling/Rebound Wall for youth coaching of all Gaelic games at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. Tom Daly is co-ordinating a small fund-raiser to meet some of the costs of these works. The 'Family Fund-Raiser' is a simple format where a family hosts ten people at a meal in their home for a donation of €20 each. To participate you host your table on a day which suits you or before Saturday September 6th and make a return of €200 on September 8th. Each person who participates and makes a €20 donation will be entered in a draw for two stand tickets for the 2014 All-Ireland final and double room and dinner for two in the Croke Park Hotel on Saturday, September 20th, the night before the final. Further details are available from Tom Daly or email ftdaly@hotmail.com. Aodh Ruadh supporters living away from Ballyshannon are particularly welcome to participate.

Football
The seniors eventually returned to action on Saturday evening following an unwanted seven week summer break, their last game being the win over Burt when they visited the Park on July 12th. Aodh Ruadh had to overcome a tricky first half, having gone in trailing back 1-1 to 0-7. They turned on the style in the second half to run out 1-12 to 1-9 winners. There were strong performances from all the lads in the second half, with the hard work of Mickey Dolan, Eamonn McGrath and James O'Donnell catching the eye. We have an excellent match report and selection of pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org

Aodh Ruadh reserves got the points after Red Hugh's were only able to field 11 players for the curtain-raiser last Saturday. The sides decided to play a game anyway, with a few Ballyshannon lads pulling on Red Hugh's jerseys to help take the Killygordon men up to a full compliment. It was an entertaining match, played in a good spirit, with the Aodh Ruadh lads on the Red Hugh's team playing suspiciously well. In any event Aodh Ruadh won on a scoreline of 2-12 to 1-8. We have some pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org.

The under 21s face Saint Eunan's in O'Donnell Park in the under 21 A championship quarter-final on Tuesday 2 September, throw in is at 7pm. Talking to the Aodh Ruadh lads ahead of this they are in determined form so we hope to have a good showing of Ballyshannon support down at this one.

The under 16s went down to a heavy loss in their first round first leg tie against Naomh Conaill in Father Tierney Park. The lads now face the prospect of having to get a win in Glenties next Monday, 8th September in order to keep their championship hopes alive.

Captains and fixtures have been announced for the 2014 Bakery cup. Details are as follows.

Teams
Captain - Evan McTernan
Shane Gillespie, Damian Webber, Donagh McGowan, Colm McGloin, Jake Foley, Ciaran Hodgins, Mitchell McLoughlin, Dáire Warren, Calum Ayres, Cian Barden, Eugene Doherty, JJ Goan, Adam Rami & Aaron Peach.
Captain - Michael McKenna
Senan Rooney, Frankie McGinley, Ryan McDonald, Mark Gettins, Jack McSharry, Corey Ryan, Shane Brady, Daniel Dolan, Kyle Murray, Adam Clarke, Kyle McCaffrey, Mark McGlynn, Harry Howarth & Owen Doherty
Captain - Pauric Keenaghan
Tiernan Flood-Dolan, David Doherty, Conal Bradshaw, Jack Melly, Dáire Gallagher, Joe Danagher, Daniel Byrne, Shane Duffy, Jack McCaffrey, Aaron Duffy, Matt Gillespie, Cianan Roper, Mark Gallagher & Caolán Flood-Dolan
Captain - Dylan Gallagher
JC McGarrigle, Adam Hoey, Conor Foy, Calum Doherty-Craig, Rory Gettins, Luca Rivenna, Niall Monaghan, Nathan Kelly, Diarmuid Flood-Dolan, Cian Rooney, Marty McGarrigle, Odhrán McGarrigle, Philip Cassidy & Odhrán Kennedy

Fixtures
September Saturday 13th - Training (Get to know your team)
September Wednesday 17th - Round 1
Evan McTernan V Michael McKenna
Pauric Keenaghan V Dylan Gallagher
September Saturday 20th - Round 2
Evan McTernan V Pauric Keenaghan
Michael McKenna V Dylan Gallagher
September Wednesday 24th - Round 3
Evan McTernan V Dylan Gallagher
Pauric Keenaghan V Michael McKenna
September Saturday 27th - Semi-Finals
First V Fourth
Second V Third
October Sunday 5th Â FINAL.

Under 10 training will be at the usual time of 6.30pm this Wednesday. This Saturday we will be travelling to the Southern Minor Board finals blitz in Ardara. Full details will be supplied at training on Wednesday evening, so it is essential we get a full attendance at this session.

The second under 8 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. We will need some parents / guardians to help out with marking at stations, so if you are free we'd love to have your help.

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

Hurling
Aodh Ruadh were defeated 6-17 to 1-5 by MacCumhaill's in the championship last Saturday. That result puts Aodh Ruadh definitively out of the championship reckoning, with only a dead rubber against Saint Eunan's remaining to be played.

On Thursday last we had the replay of the Minor Hurling Championship final. Replays normally don't live up to the first game, but this one was different, as the replay was equally as good a game. On an atrocious night it's a credit to both teams that they put on such a great display of whole-hearted hurling full of commitment and passion. Aodh Ruadh played with the aid of a strong breeze in the first half, but unfortunately didn't use it to their advantage. There was nothing between the teams when mid-way through the half Aodh Ruadh suffered two bad blows. Brendan Gillespie had to leave the play due to injury and Buncrana scored a fortunate goal direct from a 65. Aodh Ruadh finished the first half strongly but went in trailing at half time 1-6 to 0-5. The weather got worse with the rain getting heavier and the wind rising, but both teams battled away in front of a large enthusiastic crowd. The Ballyshannon lads needed a goal and we nearly got it midway through the second half, but the Buncrana goalie pulled off a brilliant save. Our lads never gave up and two points in injury time for Buncrana put a gloss on the final score line which read 1-11 to 0-7 in favour of the Inishowen men. There was disappointment all round for our lads, but they should be very proud of their achievements this year losing the league final by two points and going to a replay in the Championship final, considering we were missing a number of our main players due to other sporting commitments. We had a very young squad with only two players over age next year. There is no shame losing to a very strong Buncrana team where every one of their 15 players play for the county under 15s, under 16s or minors. Thanks to all our supporters who braved such terrible conditions at a venue which wasn't suitable for such a prestigious game. The officials who fixed the game for this venue with a pitch not lined, no proper dressing rooms, no shelter for subs or supporters showed very little respect to both teams and their supporters.

On the same night our under 12s lost to Saint Eunan's in Letterkenny. The majority of this team is under 10, they tried very hard, but their difficulty in getting scores was the difference between the teams, as the table topping Letterkenny lads ran out winners 2-9 to 1-1. They are at home to Letterkenny Gaels this Thursday evening.

The under 16s play Carndonagh this Thursday in the championship, venue to be confirmed.

On Saturday the All-Ireland blitzes took place in Newry. We were well represented in all the squads and three All-Ireland medals were earned by Aodh Ruadh players. The Donegal under 15s entered the under 16 C competition. They drew with South Ulster in their opening game, beat Leitrim in the next game and they claimed the title beating Longford in the final, a result which saw Conal Sweeney, Stephen Anderson and Paddy McCaffrey winning All Ireland medals. The under 14s took part in the B competition where the standard was very high. They played Derry, Roscommon and Westmeath losing all three games, but gaining invaluable experience and an insight into the skills needed to play at that level. We were represented on that squad by Pauric Keenaghan, Aaron Peach and Liam Sullivan.
The under 16s were also competing in the B competition and again they met opponents of a higher standard in the form of Down and Kildare and lost both games. They were unfortunate to lose to Sligo by a point in their last game. We were represented on this squad by Oisín Rooney who captained the team and Kieran Daly. Brendan Gillespie was unable to take his place due to injury.
All our players gained great experience playing at this level and well done to them all on making the various squads.

Fantasy Sam
After the All-Ireland final line-ups have been completed, it is John Patton Jr and his team, Yes Patsy, who have an almost unasailable lead over the chasing pack on 285 points. Although we all know what can happen to huge odds-on favourites after last weekend's game in Dublin! In second place is Karol Foley and her team, Biggest Losers, on 248, with Barry Travers and his team, Still The Greatest Reserve, on 244 points. In fourth place is Paul McLoone and his team, Abbey Utd, with 237 points followed in fifth place by John Keon and his Lakeside Boys on 233 points.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.

Bingo
The big bingo jackpot was shared between Marie Ward, Legaltion €400 and Mary Butler, Erne Dale Heights €400. Bingo as usual this Friday at the Abbey Centre, €10 full book, €5 half book. See you there!

Farewell Father Frank
Aodh Ruadh extends our best wishes to Club Patron Father Frank McManus as he departs Saint Joseph's for his new posting in Ederney.

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9 September

Aodh Ruadh is Up For The Match
Aodh Ruadh are staging the chat night to end all chat night's ahead of the All-Ireland final with Joe Brolly, Brian McEniff, Kevin Cassidy and Brendan Devenney heading up the bill in Dorrian's Imperial Hotel on Thursday, 18th September. Sean Perry will be your host as the experts assess Donegal's chances of All-Ireland glory. We also have an undercard shaping up nicely with Niall McCready and Sylvester Maguire already signed up and Donegal Democrat Editor Michael Daly putting the searching questions. Doors are at 7pm and a great night's entertainment is assured. Tickets priced just €10 are available in Shannon's Corner, Pearse O'Neill's and McCosker's Centra.

Family Fund-raiser
Some funds are required to complete the fitness trail and provide a Hurling/Rebound Wall for youth coaching of all Gaelic games at Pairc Aodh Ruadh. Tom Daly is co-ordinating a small fund-raiser to meet some of the costs of these works. The Family Fund-raiser is a simple format where a family hosts ten people at a meal in their home for a donation of €20 each. With the prize of two stand tickets and Saturday night accommodation & dinner in Croke Park Hotel available - there has been good interest in the Family Fundraiser which gives each person who participates at €20 the opportunity to win this super prize. The draw will be made at Ãras Aodh Ruadh on Monday 15th at 9pm. All returns should be made to Tom Daly by lunch-time on Monday the 15th.
Club members have undertaken this event in different ways, with some hosting their group of ten in smaller groups over two or three nights. The format can be varied to suit individual needs. €20 in respect of a minimum of 10 participants (€200) should be returned to Tom Daly together with a list of those who participated as their individual names can be entered in the draw. Each person who participates and makes a €20 donation will be entered in a draw for two stand tickets for the 2014 All Ireland Final and Double Room and dinner for two in the Croke Park Hotel on Saturday September 20th, the night before the Final. Details from Tom Daly or email ftdaly@hotmail.com. Aodh Ruadh supporters living away from Ballyshannon are particularly welcome to participate.

Football
Aodh Ruadh made their fifth and final trip to Inishowen for this division three league campaign to play their penultimate game at Urris. Both teams had much to play for but for very different reasons, Aodh Ruadh looking to win promotion out of the league, and Urris needing the points to make sure they avoided the drop down from it. In the end Urris's need proved the greater as they emerged 0-10to 0-8 winners after a tough encounter. Despite the defeat, there were some solid performances, especially in the third quarter when the lads turned the game and were on top, during which we also saw two goal attempts come off the woodwork. Kerry Ryan did particularly well in the middle, as did Johnny Gallagher and Mickey Dolan at the back. The lads must now pick themselves up to make sure they can finish out the league campaign with a win in the final game at home to Naomh Bríd. Aodh Ruadh can still finish top of the league to ensure automatic promotion, but this defeat means we now need other results to go our way. We have pictures from the game and a full match report from David McLoone up on aodhruadh.org.

Aodh Ruadh reserves made the long trip to Clonmany on Saturday afternoon for the final away league game of the season. The Erne men knew that a win would wrap up the league title, but following Urris's 0-7 to 0-6 victory Aodh Ruadh will have to wait a wee while longer before laying hold of the league honours. Urris clung on to win by the narrowest of margins. The wide count for Aodh Ruadh was at least 16, and in a day where there was so little between the sides, a bit more composure in front of goal would have won this game. The Aodh Ruadh defensive unit were solid keeping the hosts to a low score, and there was good energy in the middle and half forward lines. Nicky Sheerin won a sight of ball when he moved out to the half forward line. We have a full match report by David McLoone up on aodhruadh.org.

Aodh Ruadh's under 16 championship dreams ended with a 1-14 to 1-10 defeat to Naomh Conaill in Glenties on Monday evening. It was a sorely disappointing evening for players and management, having been two points down at half time there was the real chance of forcing the contest to the third game. Unfortunately for Ballyshannon poor passing in the final third of the field proved our downfall and Glenties managed to get a good few turnovers on the back of this. Aodh Ruadh were without Dylan Gallagher who was injured, but Glenties had their injury problems too so there are no excuses offered on that account. Shane Dorrian was unlucky to see a gallant goal effort come back off the post and had that score gone in it would have drawn the game level with 10 minutes to go and the closing stages could have taken a different complexion. There were encouraging performances from Ronan McMullin and Gareth Sheerin, but beating Saint Eunan's in the league county semi-final will require more intelligent and precise passing and better decision making in the final third of the field.

The Bakery Cup starts this Saturday 4.30pm - 5.30pm with a light training session.

The under 13s are back in action this Wednesday when they host Naomh Muire at 6.30pm in Father Tierney Park.

Under 10s did very well down in Ardara on the finals day last Friday and were unlucky not to come away with the spoils. This is the last week of the official season. We will be having the final skills test of the season on Friday evening at 6.30pm. 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. We will need some parents / guardians to help out with marking at stations, so if you are free we'd love to have your help. Then on Saturday we will be hosting senior and junior teams from Glencar Manorhamilton, Melvin Gaels, Grange and Saint Naul's for the annual Mick Shannon under 10 tournament. The clubs will be competing for the two trophies up for grabs on the day and we will also be presenting the skills awards for the season too. With around a hundred children expected we need parents / guardians to help out by supplying a loaf of sandwiches, tray of buns or similar refreshments to help feed all present on the day. Also, we would appreciate if parents / guardians could lend a hand in the kitchen on the day.

Prizes for the second under 8 skills test will be presented at this Friday's training which will be at the usual time of 6.30pm. There was a great display from the 26 players who took part. Part of the point of doing the skills test is to benchmark players' progression over the season. For the first test the average points scored per player was 70.9. In last Friday's test the average score was 80.7, which is great to see. On Saturday the under 8s will be taking part in the Southern Minor Board Finals day. The blitz takes place in Ballintra with Aodh Ruadh, Naomh Bríd, Naomh Ultan and Bundoran taking part. 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 9.30am this Saturday morning.

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

We have signed up to Lucozade Kit Out Project. We are not asking people to start buying Lucozade, but could anyone who does drink it please note the code on the bottle under the wrapper and pass it to your manager or to Tracey Flood. Codes will be added to our account and we get some free kit. Please pass this on to your friends or anyone you know that drinks Lucozade and ask them to keep codes for the club. The more codes we collect the more gear we can get.

Hurling
The senior hurlers final competitive game of the season is down for this Saturday in O'Donnell Park, where they take on Saint Eunan's in the championship, throw-in 6.30pm

The under 16s had a good win against Carndonagh in the Centre of Excellence in Convoy on Thursday. We were very slow to settle and only led at half time by four points. A much improved all round performance in the second half saw us run out convincing winners 3-15 to 2-6. The lads now play old rivals Buncrana this Thursday in the championship semi final in Buncrana. It is a big challenge for our lads against the very strong Inishowen men, but as always we're sure our boys will give it everything they have. Thanks to our very loyal parents who once again drove the lads to the game as always your support is much appreciated. Thanks to Tara Keenaghan for the photographs she put up on the Aodh Ruadh CLG Facebook page.

The under 12s had a narrow win over Letterkenny Gaels in Father Tierney Park on Thursday, this very young team have had a tough campaign, but it was encouraging to finish the league with a win. They have now qualified for the C final which they play this Thursday against Burt in Hibernian Park, Burt. Another tough challenge faces the lads we wish them all the best in this game and hope they can build on recent encouraging form.

On Saturday last our under 8s made the short trip to Belleek to play Erne Gaels in a couple of challenge games. We had 20 players and fielded two teams. All had great fun, it's great to see our neighbours taking up the caman again, there has always being a great hurling tradition in Belleek and thankfully the ancient game has returned to Erne Gaels. Many thanks to them for their great hospitality afterwards to young and old. We hope to have a return game in Ballyshannon before the end of the season. Thanks to all the parents who gave our youngest team great support and encouragement in Belleek, thanks to Andrea Gallagher for all the photographs she put on the Aodh Ruadh CLG Facebook page.

This Sunday sees the final all-county blitz for the season for the under 8s and under 10s at the Centre of Excellence in Convoy.

Donegal Social night
There will be a Donegal-themed social night in The Bridgend this Saturday 13th September with a viewing of the All-Ireland minor and senior semi-final victories over Dublin. There will be a few special guests present who will be able to give an inside view on how the minor game went! There will also be a draw for an All-Ireland final ticket with raffle tickets being sold on the night and all proceeds going to Aodh Ruadh.

Know your sport?
There will be a Know Your Sport quiz in Melly's Bar this Friday 12th September in support of the Donegal GAA training fund. The action gets under way at 9pm so get yourself a team, pull on your county colours and test your sporting knowledge against the best quiz master Peter Gallagher can throw at you!

Bingo
The €400 bingo jackpot last Friday was shared between three winners. Bingo continues as usual this Friday night at 9pm in the Abbey Centre, with a €1,700 prize fund. Books priced at €10 for a full book, €5 for a half.

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16 September

Desperately seeking Sammy. And Tommy
Best of luck to Jim McGuinness, our own John Duffy, and everyone associated with the Donegal senior set-up as they go in search of a second All-Ireland title in just two years. Ãdh mór also to Declan Bonner's minor squad who are looking to create history by bringing a first ever Tommy Markham trophy back to the Hills. It would be a particularly special victory for Aodh Ruadh with Niall Harley captaining, Colm Kelly in the defence and Aodh Ruadh hurler Jamie Brennan in attack. Then of course we have Mick McGrath, Anthony McGrath and Gary Walsh lending their experience to cause too. Once again, please please travel safely to and from Dublin on the big day. Check out Ulster GAA's road safety initiative Live to Play.

All-Ireland final tickets
All-Ireland final ticket distribution takes place tonight, Tuesday, 16 September from 8pm to 9pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. Successful applicants will be notified by text. Payment must be made in full on the night. Preparing the ticket allocation has been a far from easy task for club officers. The allocation procedure was transparently established and agreed at a club committee meeting last Friday. Those administering the distribution are volunteers giving their time freely and gladly for the development and promotion of Gaelic games and culture in Ballyshannon. While we appreciate that the ticket distribution will not meet with everyone's satisfaction - due in the main to the well-documented issues surrounding the centrally driven All-Ireland final ticketing policy and allocation issues within Donegal - we must insist that our volunteers are treated at all times with respect and courtesy.

Aodh Ruadh is Up For The Match
Aodh Ruadh are bringing you a pre-All-Ireland final chat night to remember. We will be in Dorrian's Imperial Hotel, Ballyshannon ahead of the All-Ireland final with Joe Brolly, Brian McEniff, Kevin Cassidy and Brendan Devenney. The peerless Sean Perry will be compere on Thursday, 18th September as the final fever really starts to mount. Ahead of the main event on the night we also have an attractive undercard to get you in the mood. Brian Roper, Niall McCready, Sylvester Maguire and Mick McGrath will be sharing their take on the big games, with Michael Daly posing the questions. Tickets are available priced just €10 in Shannon's Corner, Pearse O'Neill's and McCosker's Centra. Tickets will also be available on the night with doors at 7pm. See you there!

Catch the games at the Gables
Well folks the countdown is on. Sunday is All-Ireland Final Day and Backing Ballyshannon in association with Aodh Ruadh, local businesses and the local community are delighted to present an All-Ireland special live from the Gables in Ballyshannon. Come along and enjoy the Minor and Senior games on the big screen followed by music with the Rockhill Ramblers. There will face painting and a few surprises for the kids, so this promises to be a great family day out. Thanks to Billy Grimes for co-ordinating the day's activities. So come on everybody, nothing beats being there except being at the Gables this Sunday! Best of luck to both teams on the day. Donegal Abu!

Football
The under 13s season wrapped up last Wednesday evening with a narrow 2-11 to 3-17 defeat to Naomh Muire.

The under 10 season concluded over the weekend just past. On Friday evening we had our third and final skills test of the season, the awards being presented at the Mick Shannon Tournament the following day. Winners in the third skills test were Ryan Daly (100 points), Eoghan Kelly (92 points) and Séimí Campbell (87 points). The overall skills champions for 2014 judged on their best two results were Eoghan Kelly (90.5 points), Ryan Daly (90 points) and Jack Gallagher (82 points). Honourable mention to Shane Delahunty on 81 points who just missed out. Next was the most important award as far as the coaches are concerned. These are the lads who are really working hard at their game and trying to improve it. These were the progress champions, those with the biggest improvement from their lowest score. Oisin Daly (46 point improvement), Aidan Sweeny (44 point improvement), (35 point improvement). Just missing out on the honours were Darragh Flood Dolan (33 point improvement), David Roper (32 point improvement) and Shane McGloin (31 point improvement.)
For this year's Mick Shannon memorial tournament, We welcomed Glencar Manorhamilton, Saint Naul's, Saint Molaise Grange - the reigning champions, and Melvin Gaels. Along with ourselves, all clubs fielded senior and junior teams, and partook in an afternoon of committed and highly entertaining football.
Each team played each other on a league basis. In the senior tournament, Aodh Ruadh had narrow wins over Melvin Gaels, Saint Molaise and Saint Naul's, before pipping Glencar Manor by a point in the final league game. That set up what promised to be a thrilling final between the same opposition, Aodh Ruadh and Glencar Manor.
In the final, a tight battle ensued, but Aodh Ruadh's huge commitment, and flowing football saw them come out on top, and reclaim the Mick Shannon memorial cup. It would be wrong to mention any one player as standing out, as this display was a fine example of team work, desire and full-blooded commitment, mixed with flowing football and eye-catching score-taking.
The junior competition saw some brilliant games in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh, but it was Aodh Ruadh and Saint Molaise who made it through to the final having both won three out of four. Indeed the game played between the two in the round robin stages was a real hum dinger, Aodh Ruadh overcoming Saint Molaise by two points, and another close encounter was on the cards between the two in the final. And so it proved. Again, the two teams played excellent football, with little to choose between them. But Saint Molaise seemed to have one last burst in them as the final whistle neared, and Aodh Ruadh tired in the closing stages, with Saint Molaise running out three point winners.
Tom Daly was on hand to present the trophy and cup to the respective winning captains, and spoke fondly about Mick Shannon, who had been a manager of underage teams for many years in the late 80s and early 90s.
Many thanks to Melvin Gaels, Saint Molaise, Glencar Manorhamilton and Saint Naul's for attending and contributing to an excellent day. Thanks also to referees on the day, Val Murray, Barry Ward, David Hoey, Niall McCready and Gerard Ferguson, to all the ladies in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh who kept over 150 people fed and watered, and to all the parents who supplied the sandwiches and treats. Thanks to Sean O'Mahoney who co-ordinated the running of both competitions, and Johnny Gallagher and Louis Boyle who prepared the pitches and dressing rooms. We have a great gallery of pictures from the day up on aodhruadh.org as well as on the Aodh Ruadh CLG Facebook page.

Under 8 training last Friday saw the awards presentation for the 2014 skills competition. The winners in the second skills test were Killian Bradshaw, Tom Murphy and Liam Doogan. The overall winners for 2014 with the best average over the two tests were as follows: Tom Murphy (103.5 points), Finn Coady (101.5 points) and Killian Bradshaw (100.5 points). Next was the most important award as far as the coaches are concerned. These are the lads who are really working hard at their game and trying to improve it. These were the progress champions, those with the biggest improvement from their lowest score. Dylan McGuinness (40 point improvement), Liam Doogan (39 point improvement) and Jack McCadden (32 point improvement). An honourable mention to James Ward who just missed out with a 23 point improvement.

Then on Saturday the under 8s travelled to Ballintra for the Southern finals blitz. They fielded two strong teams and turned in a brilliant performance. All players stepped up to the mark showing the skills they have developed during the year. Playing five games each with the grand finale between Ballyshannon's Team 1 v Team 1A, with the winner being Team Aodh Ruadh. The players who pulled on the Aodh Ruadh jersey were: Killian Bradshaw, Barry Campbell, Eoin Cassidy, Finn Coady, Ronan Delahunty, Eoin Doogan, Liam Doogan, Stephen Doran, Cormac Finnegan, Odhran Gillespie, Tom Holland, Donagh Kelly, Michael Keown, Hugh Óg Maguire, Cian McDonald, Dylan McGuinness, Garvey Meade, James Monaghan, Tom Murphy, Conor O'Mahoney, Daire O'Mahoney, Ted O'Donnell, Cillian Slevin, Darragh Summerville and James Ward.
Under 8 training continues this Friday in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh at 6.30pm. We will also have a training session on Friday 26th September, but this will be our last training for the year. The last action for the under 8s will be a blitz in Father Tierney Park on Saturday 4th October.

Please note that under 6 training has now concluded for the year.

We have a superb gallery of pictures up on aodhruadh.org from Friday evening in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh where the under 6s and under 8s were training and the under 10s were doing their skills test. It was a glorious evening with the weather and wonderful to see so many children enjoying their football.

Hurling
The senior hurlers season concluded last Saturday with a 4-9 to 0-9 defeat to Saint Eunan's in O'Donnell Park. It has been a curate's egg of a season for the seniors, but full credit to Kevin Loughlin and his back room team for their hard work all year, as well as all the lads who gave it their all on the pitch in 2014.

On Thursday last the under 16s travelled to Scarvey, Buncrana to play the home team in the semi-final of the Championship, the lads put in their best performance of the year. This Buncrana team have never been beaten up through the age levels, but they came very close to it last week. Aodh Ruadh hurled with great belief and determination and led at half time 0-10 to 1-2. As expected Buncrana started the second half with a bang and got the first five points to level the game. For the last 20 minutes it was tit for tat in a rip-roaring game. With five minutes to go Buncrana led by a point when the ref controversially disallowed an Aodh Ruadh goal. Our lads never gave up and unfortunately lost narrowly 3-9 to 1-12. It was a great display from all the squad who were a credit to the club and themselves with their discipline on the night. They have given great commitment all year, a small panel of only 18 players should be very proud of their achievements this season.

On the same night the under 12s travelled to Burt to play the home team in the under 12 C final, we had a very young team with seven of the starting 11 being under 10. Try as hard as they might the lads just found the task too much against a fine Burt team who ran out convincing winners on the night. Next up for the under 12s is our annual Aodh Ó Dálaigh tournament which takes place on Sunday 28th September.

On Sunday morning our under 8s played Four Masters in a number of games in Father Tierney Park. We had a great mornings hurling as we fielded two teams against them and all 25 of our panel played their hearts out and have shown a great improvement week on week learning the basic skills of our ancient game. Many thanks to Four Masters for coming down to play us at such short notice as the all-county blitz scheduled to be played on Sunday was rescheduled late on Friday night. We hope to travel to Four Masters for a return game before the end of the season. Thanks to Andrea Gallagher for all her photography which she put on the Aodh Ruadh CLG Facebook page.

Best wishes to Colm Kelly, Jamie Brennan and Niall Harley who are part of the Donegal panel who play Kerry in the All-Ireland Minor Final on Sunday. Hopefully the lads get their hands on another All-Ireland Medal to go along with the under 14 C hurling medals they won with Donegal in 2010.

Aodh Ruadh soft shell jackets
Aodh Ruadh now has a new piece of kit for club members to buy. It is a navy blue soft shell jacket with the Aodh Ruadh crest on the left and the GAA crest on the right. They are priced €49 each with the option of initials on the sleeve for an extra €5. Jackets are available in sizes small, medium, large, XL and XXL. They will be available for viewing and sizing on Tuesday night at All-Ireland final ticket distribution in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh and at the Up For The Match event in Dorrian's on Thursday night. You can view samples of the jacket on aodhruadh.org.

Family Fund-raiser winner drawn
Thanks to everyone who so generously supported our family Fund-Raiser initiative. Club President Owen Roe O'Neill made the draw in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh on Monday evening and whose number did he draw out only Owen Rua O'Neill! Well done Rui, you are now they proud possessor of two stand tickets for the 2014 All-Ireland Final and Double Room and dinner for two in the Croke Park Hotel on Saturday September 20th, the night before the Final. See pictures from the draw up on aodhruadh.org.

Television theft
The television in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh was stolen from the premises last week. This significantly reduces the amenity of the hall in Aras as it was used for presentations, displays of pictures after blitzes, videos during wet days in the summer camp, and various other purposes. The door into the Aras was vandalised in the process, but has thankfully been restored to a decent state of repair. The theft is a disheartening loss of a valuable social amenity which was put in place as a significant cost. Wherever it is now, it won't be doing quarter as much good. Any information which leads to its return will be gratefully received. Contact any club committee member, or the local Garda station.

Bingo
Bingo continues as usual this Friday night at 9pm in the Abbey Centre, with a €1,700 prize fund. Books priced at €10 for a full book, €5 for a half.

National Coaching Forum
The 11th National Coaching Forum entitled "Fun to Full Potential, Coaching the Whole Athlete" takes place on 26th-27th September in the Institute of Technology, Sligo. The Forum will celebrate the impact good coaching makes at all levels to individuals, clubs, communities and nations and will challenge and inspire coaches to implement best practice and continue to raise the standard of coaching. The title of the Forum "Fun to Full Potential, Coaching the Whole Athlete" reflects these overall aims. Attendees will have the opportunity to discuss the challenges in providing a holistic approach to coaching, to examine the notion that coaching is not about developing sport alone, but developing individuals also. There will be a specific emphasis on a child centred approach for young people and an athlete centred approach as the person gets older. To register visit: www.coachingforum2014.com.

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23 September

Proud of our lads
Commiserations to Jim McGuinness, our own John Duffy, and everyone associated with the Donegal seniors on Sunday's All-Ireland disappointment. Hard luck also to the minor squad and their sizeable Aodh Ruadh contingent on coming up just short. It was heartening to see a good turnout in the Market Yard to welcome the minor team home after creating history by becoming the first Donegal team to reach an All-Ireland final. We have a gallery of pictures from the homecoming up on aodhruadh.org.

Football
There were no senior or reserve fixtures available for the upcoming weekend at the time of sending.

Aodh Ruadh under 10s have received an invitation to take part in Melvin Gaels end of year tournament this coming Saturday. Play gets under way in Kinlough at 12 noon and players are to assemble at Father Tierney Park for 11am ahead of traveling to the blitz. We will be having a training session this Friday at 6.30pm in order to prepare for the tournament.

The last under 8 training session of the year takes place this Friday in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh at 6.30pm. The last action of the season for the under 8s will be a blitz in Father Tierney Park on Saturday 4th October with Corofin visiting Ballyshannon.

Hurling
Things were quiet on the hurling field this week, with the only action being a number of challenge games for the under 8s against Erne Gaels in Father Tierney Park on Saturday morning, this very young squad have trained enthusiastically all season and have shown great improvement every week. Numbers have been very encouraging with this squad all year. Thanks to Andrea Gallagher for all her photography work which she posted on the Aodh Ruadh CLG Facebook page.

The annual under 12 Aodh Ó Dálaigh tournament takes place this Sunday. Inaugurated in 1982, this is always a great day's hurling. Easkey are going for a four-in-a-row, while Tuam are back to defend their Primary Shield. The action gets underway at 11am.

Ladies
The lotto rota for the year has finished and a big thanks is due to the 60 people who took part. A new rota is now being put together for the coming year and it is hoped to repeat last year's approach and everyone's support would once again be much appreciated.

Aodh Ruadh on the run
Aodh Ruadh Bord na nÓg are launching our first annual fund-raising run. The date for your diaries is Sunday October 12th with route details to follow shortly.

Club crest soft shell jackets
Aodh Ruadh now has a new piece of kit for club members to buy. It is a navy blue soft shell jacket with the Aodh Ruadh crest on the left and the GAA crest on the right. They are priced €49 each with the option of initials on the sleeve for an extra €5. Jackets are available in sizes small, medium, large, XL and XXL. They will be available for viewing and sizing on Tuesday night at All-Ireland final ticket distribution in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh and at the Up For The Match event in Dorrian's on Thursday night. You can view samples of the jacket on aodhruadh.org.

Bingo
Angela Nicholson was the winner of last week's €400 jackpot. This Friday night is the September big Bingo with a €2,700 prize fund including a €1,000 jackpot game. Books cot €15/€8, or buy that book and a half for €20.

Up For The Match
Many thanks to everyone who helped out at our Up For The Match. The night was a great success and perfect build-up for the All-Ireland final. We will have a gallery of images up from the event later in the week.

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30 September

Football
Aodh Ruadh got their intermediate championship off to a good start with a solid display to see off Downings in Father Tierney Park on a scoreline of 1-13 to 0-8. Best for Aodh Ruadh were Ciron Whoriskey with his driving runs from deep defence, Eamonn McGrath and Conor Patton who dominated at half back. Anthony Boyle and Diarmaid McInerney who showed well in attack and hit three points from play apiece. There is a full match report and pictures up on aodhruadh.org.

The reserves got a walk over, but they should make their 2014 championship bow this coming Sunday when they face Naomh Bríd in Ballintra. Their game throws-in at 1.30pm and is followed by the seniors championship meeting with the neighbours at 3pm.

Bakery Cup action is due to get going soon so we went along to Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh and had a look at the players going through their paces. We have pictures from the session up on aodhruadh.org.

The under 10s attended Melvin Gaels end of year blitz in Kinlough last Saturday. After an opening loss to Devenish the seniors rallied well and got wins against Bundoran and Melvin Gaels. The juniors won both their games against Melvin Gaels and Bundoran with strong performances across the pitch. Fielding for Aodh Ruadh were Danny Breen-Brosnan, Séimí Campbell, Conor Cleary, Oisin Daly, Padraig Daly, Ryan Daly, Shane Delahunty, Michael Doogan, JJ Doran, Diarmaid Flood-Dolan, Jack Gallagher, James Gallagher, Ryan Keenaghan, Eoghan Kelly, Art Mag Fhionnghaile, Lorc Mag Fhionnghaile, James McGinley, Shane McGloin, Cian McKenna, Cillian Meehan, David Roper, Drew Ryan, Aidan Sweeny and Aonghus Sweeny.

No under 8 training this Friday. Our final blitz of the year takes place in Father Tierney Park on Saturday 4th October. Players to be up at the park for 11am, games at noon. Corofin and Erne Gaels are visiting so we need a good spread of food. A loaf of sandwiches, tray of buns or similar from ALL PLAYERS is absolutely essential. Help will also needed with catering in Aras. After the games there will be treats, presentation of participation certificates and a minidisco and under 6s, under 10s, and siblings are all welcome to attend.

Hurling
The curtain came down on the under 12 season on Sunday with the hosting of the annual Aodh Ó Dálaigh tournament. In existence since 1982, this year's event was one of the best tournaments we've had. The following teams took part Tuam (Galway), Easkey (Sligo), Drumcliffe (Sligo), Manorhamilton (Leitrim), Keady (Armagh) and ourselves. We were blessed with a beautiful day weather wise and both Father Tierney Park and Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh were in splendid condition which led to great hurling being played by all teams. The competition was played on a round robin basis with games of 20 minutes, ensuring all teams had lots of hurling. In round one Easkey were victorious over Drumcliffe in the Sligo derby, a very young Aodh Ruadh team had a good win over Manorhamilton and Tuam had a narrow win over the Armagh boys. Round two saw a big win for Keady over Drumcliffe, holders Easkey had an easy win over Aodh Ruadh, while Tuam had their second win beating Manorhamilton. The top two teams were to contest the Aodh Ó Dálaigh final while third and fourth were to play for the Primary League shield so round three was going to be make or break for a number of teams. This round saw important victories for Keady over Manorhamilton, Easkey continued their pursuit of four-in-a-row of titles with a win over Tuam, while Drumcliffe had a narrow win over Aodh Ruadh. Round four saw a victory for Drumcliffe over Manorhamilton in a northwest Leitrim Derby, a determined Tuam team had a good win over Aodh Ruadh where their extra physical strength proved decisive and Easkey suffered their first defeat in this tournament in a number of years at the hands of Keady. The stage was now set for the final round and the final places were still to be decided, Tuam had a narrow win over Drumcliffe, Easkey had a facile win over Manorhamilton while Keady defeated the home team over in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.

The round robin section was now over and it was time for the calculators to come out as three of the teams finished on eight points, it took scoring difference to separate Tuam, Keady and holders Easkey. When all was totted up Easkey (+74) and Keady (+65) qualified for the Aodh Ó Dálaigh final and Tuam (+45) were through to the Primary League Final against Drumcliffe. Both these finals were full of everything that's great about hurling; Passion, skill and determination. In the Primary League final after a great game Tuam showed that goals win matches as they completed a two-in-a-row on a 2-3 to 0-3 scoreline.

The Aodh Ó Dálaigh final was a classic between two very evenly matched teams. The large crowd were treated to a classic where the first goal was to prove crucial and it was the West Sligo men who got it early in the first half. Every ball was ferociously contested and Easkey led at half time 1-2 to 0-1. The strength of the Easkey panel proved crucial in the second and after a titanic battle they ran out worthy winners 2-5 to 0-2 against a gallant Keady team who never gave up. After the battles the presentations took place on the Park. Chairman of Aodh Ruadh Juvenile Hurling Committee John Rooney thanked the Daly family for allowing them to run this tournament annually, he thanked all the teams who took part on the day and thanked all the members of the juvenile committee who helped running the event. He called on the newly appointed Principal of Creevy NS Aoibhínn Kelly to present the Primary League Shield on behalf of all the local national schools in the area. Ms Kelly thanked all involved in organising the event, she complimented all the teams on their skill levels, as a Sligo woman she was happy to see Sligo teams in both finals. She presented the runners up medals to Drumcliffe and then called on the Tuam captain to accept the Shield on behalf of the Galway team.

John Rooney then thanked all those who helped out as umpires and linesmen and thanked all the refs who did a great job which was made easier by the attitude of all the teams who just wanted to play hurling, the refs were Peter Horan, Niall McCready, Ciaran Rami and John Rooney.

Michael Daly then spoke on behalf of the Daly family. He spoke of his late father Hugh Daly in whose memory the tournament is played, he complimented all the teams and officials as well as the local National Schools who promote Gaelic Games in the area. He spoke of how this tournament started off as a local town league, but over the last number of years it has grown to be one of the most prestigious tournaments in the northwest characterised by the quality of teams it attracts. He presented the runners up medals to a great Keady team, before handing over the Aodh Ó Dálaigh Shield to the joint captains of Easkey, he acknowledged the fact that they had completed the four-in-a-row and described them as the Kilkenny of the northwest. Before finishing John Rooney thanked the Aodh Ruadh Park Committee and the club for the wonderful facilities which we all enjoyed. He described them as being a major factor in their ability to run tournaments and attract good quality teams, he thanked caretaker Johnny Gallagher for all his help on the day. All agreed that as always hurling was the real winner again in Ballyshannon today. From the pitch it was up to Aras Aoidh Ruaidh for welcome refreshment's for all which as always were provided by our very loyal mothers and we're very grateful to them for their continued support at all our tournaments.

We have a substantial gallery of images from the day's action up on aodhruadh.org along with more on the Aodh Ruadh CLG Facebook page.

The final under 8 and under 10 blitz takes place in Convoy on Sunday, details will be circulated during the week.

Aodh Ruadh 5K
Aodh Ruadh Bord na nÓg present our first annual 5K on Sunday 12th October. Registration on the day from 1pm - 2.30pm before runners and walkers go under starter's orders at 3pm. We have selected a level route from the park out towards the Knather and back to suit all abilities. The map and elevation of the route can be viewed at the event's Facebook page. There are category prizes for the boys and girls in the under 14, under 16, under 18, senior and over 40 age grades, with trophies for the first man and first woman home. Registration fees are as follows. Under 16s €5; Adults €10; Families €20. This is Bord na nÓg's main fundraiser for the year and we will be building it up in the years to come. We especially want to encourage club members to come out and support this event.

Fantasy Race for Sam
After Kerry winning the All-Ireland this year, there were still two fairly happy men in Ballyshannon. Johnny J Patton and his team Yes Patsy have won the Fantasy race for Sam 2014, along with the top prize of €500. His final tally was 309 points. He was pushed most of the way by Paul McLoone and his team Abbey Utd on 257 points with John Keon and his team Lakeside Lads finishing in third place with 253 points. In fourth place we had Rachel Patton and her team Dunmuckrim Dolly Bird on 249 points while Karol Foley and her team Biggest Losers finished in fifth place on 248 points. In truth Michael Dolan and his team Dolans Dragons had last place and the €100 prize wrapped up long before, Kieran Donaghy stuck the ball in the back of the Donegal net. His tally of 50 points was pushed close by Jim McGrath and his team I'd Say So on 52 points. Two runners up prizes were drawn out of the hat with Jean & Eoin and their team The Royal Blues earning them a Club Donegal jacket, while Rebecca Patton and her team Legal Eagles won an Aodh Ruadh Jacket. I'd finally like to say a big thank you to all who took part this year, and hopefully we'll see some similar names enter again next year. Also thanks to John Hughes and Sean Perry for their work on finalising the scoring players. The final leader board will be available on the website, and also in Ballybookies, Owen Roes bar and the Bridgend bar.

Bingo
The big bingo jackpot of €800 was won by Mary Patton of Creevy. It's back to normal this Friday at 9pm in the Abbey Centre, with books priced €10 for a full book or €5 for the half book.

Up For The Match
Aodh Ruadh were Up For The Match on the Thursday before the All-Ireland final. With almost 300 packed into Dorrian's it was a great night of debate, banter and craic. The undercard of Brian Roper, Niall McCready, Sylvester Maguire and Mick McGrath compered by Michael Daly got the crowd rightly in the mood for the main event. The highlight was McCready's rendition of his first time marking Joe Brolly. Then shortly after nine Joe Brolly, Brian McEniff, Brendan Devenney and Brian Roper took to the stage, Roper back on after an injury at Gaoth Dobhair training ruled out Kevin Cassidy. Sean Perry steered the discussion masterfully, before the debate was opened out to the floor and a number of penetrating questions dissected by the panel. It was close on midnight by the time things were wrapped up and everyone headed home in good form and raring for the big day. Thanks to our all our panelists who put in such a great performance, Brolly, McEniff, Devenney, Roper, McCready, Maguire and McGrath. Thanks also to our comperes on the night Sean Perry and Michael Daly who made such a professional job of pulling things together. Thanks to our raffle prize sponsors on the night White's Hotels, The Great Northern Hotel and O'Neill's Sportswear and everyone who helped out on the night in whatever capacity. We have a mountain of pictures from the night up on aodhruadh.org.

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