Club Notes Archive - 2016

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MAY

3 May

Lá na gClub
The club are staging a Lá na gClub on Sunday 8th May at 3 pm in Father Tierney Park. There will be a flag raising ceremony with music from the Ballyshannon Brass and Reed Band. This will be followed by a sports day in the Park which will feature penalty kick competitions, poc fada, races, and many more fun events. Refreshments will follow in Aras Aodh Ruadh. Please come along for what will be a proud day for our club.

Football
Aodh Ruadh recorded a five point victory over Urris last Saturday to chalk up their fifth successive win of the league campaign. It was tit for tat in the opening stages, with the lead changing hands three times. However Aodh Ruadh turned on the style before the break hitting an unanswered 1-4 to go in leading by 1-10 to 0-7, David McGurrin scrambling home the Ernesiders's goal. Ballyshannon went into a seven point lead at one point in the second half, before the hosts trimmed it back to leave the final scoreline Urris 0-14 Aodh Ruadh 1-16. We have a full report and pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org.

The reserves made their longest trip of the season to Clonmany with just the bare 15. The lads gave a great account of themselves and can point to a few harsh refereeing decisions ultimately being the difference between the sides. It was tit for tat for the opening quarter, with points from Anthony 'Waddle' Coughlin and Francis McShea keeping the sides tight. However, Urris were awarded a soft penalty when a shot on goal was deemed to have been foot-blocked. The resulting goal and a further few points from the hosts saw them take a healthy half time lead of 1-6 to 0-3, the other point of the half for Aodh Ruadh coming from Ryan Granaghan. Aodh Ruadh worked hard through the second half and tagged on a few more scores through Ryan Patton and the Granaghan brothers, but were unable to make any real inroads in reducing the gap. That was until Waddle Coughlin banged in the visitor's first goal. However Aodh Ruadh took another body blow when Urris managed to rob possession and slot in their second major despite the visitor's appeal for a foul in the build up. That stretched the host's lead out to seven points. But with great fortitude the lads fought back again, and when Eamon McDonnell palmed in a cross goal pass from Waddle the game was back on. Further points from Waddle, McShea and Drummond and a volleyed finish from soccer man David Dorrian had the visitors within three points going into the closing stages. Unfortunately time ran out on the tired travelling 15 and Urris hung on to finish on a winning scoreline of 2-16 to 3-10. Best for Aodh Ruadh were Mickey Dolan and Packie McGrath in defence, Ronan Drummond put in a big shift and Francis McShea was lively on his return to the fold. We have a report and pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org

Next up will be the visit of Letterkenny Gaels to Father Tierney Park on Saturday, 7th May. The reserve game throws in at 6pm, followed by the seniors at 7.30pm.

A date for your diary. The senior footballers will be hosting a fund-raising quiz in Seán Óg's on Friday, 6th May. All support would be greatly appreciated.

Aodh Ruadh minors league campaign ended at the semi-final stages in Ballintra last Wednesday. The team played their hearts out, but came up five points short against Naomh Conaill. Once again Nathan Boyle played a captain's role in midfield and was ably partnered by Conall Sweeny. Michael McKenna battled hard at half forward, while Jason Granaghan also gave a superb account of himself. Oisin Rooney came on and played through the pain barrier in the second half, and hit the back of the net into the bargain. The minors now have a break until championship in July.

The under 14s will host Ardara this Friday at 6.30pm. Training continues on Wednesday at 4.30pm.

Under 12 training on Tuesday, 3rd May from 5.15pm to 6.30pm. This will be an important tactical session as the league starts the following day on Wednesday away to Ardara. Our away games this year are against Ardara (May 4th), Killybegs (May 18th) and Glenties (June 8th) and we will need parents / guardians to help with transport to all these games. We are hopeful that there will be a good few parents interested in travelling to support the team and that transporting all players will not be a problem. However with such a large panel of players we will need to be well organised and sure of places for everyone in advance. We understand that many parents are just not able to drive to games, so we ask those who intend travelling to the Ardara game to contact management and let them know how many players they you can bring with them.

Dates and venues for under 8 and under 10 blitzes have been released and are as follows.

UNDER 10 GO GAMES
Saturday 14th May @ 11.00am
Saint Naul's (hosts), Aodh Ruadh, Four Masters, Bundoran.
Saturday 11th June @ 11.00am
Naomh Muire (hosts), Aodh Ruadh, Ardara, Pettigo.
Saturday 2nd July @ 11.00am
Bundoran (hosts), Aodh Ruadh, Naomh Conaill, Naomh Ultan.
Saturday 20th August @ 11.00am
Four Masters (hosts), Aodh Ruadh, Dungloe, Bundoran.

UNDER 8 GO GAMES
Saturday 7th May @ 11.00am
Four Masters (hosts), Aodh Ruadh, Saint Naul's and Bundoran.
Saturday 4th June @ 11.00am
Ardara (hosts), Aodh Ruadh, Naomh Muire and Pettigo.
Saturday 25th June @ 11.00am
Naomh Conaill (host), Aodh Ruadh, Bundoran and Dungloe.
Saturday 16th July @ 11.00am
Aodh Ruadh (hosts), Four Masters, Dungloe and Bundoran.

The under 8s have their first blitz of the year this Saturday in Donegal town. The games get under way at 11am. As many parents / guardians as possible should come along to ensure we have lifts for all the players. We will be leaving the park at 10am. Those planning to head directly to Tir Chonaill Park are asked to text John on 0876431805 to let him know.

Under 10, under 8 and under 6 training continues as usual this Friday from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Páirc Aoidh Ruadh.

Ladies
The Realt Ruadh senior team are away to Glenties this Sunday at 12pm. Best of luck to the girls.

Aodh Ruadh under 14s won their away game against Glenfin last Tuesday. The Shamettes held a decent lead by the break and extended that over the second half to run out 3-13 to 3-3 winners. Leah O'Brien and Bridín Maguire were among the goals, while Lucy McGlynn and Leah Travers did well in defence. Under 14 girls training takes place this Tuesday, 3rd May at 6pm. The team travels to Glenties on Wednesday evening to take on Naomh Conaill. Throw in is at 7.30pm and we will be leaving from the park at 5.40pm. We will need help with transport of players to the this game and would greatly appreciate if parents / guardians could drive.

The under 12s fixture against Kilcar will not go ahead on Tuesday as scheduled. We are awaiting information on when it will be refixed for. Under 12 training continues this Thursday from 6pm to 7pm when we hope to have clarity on the situation. We should definitely be getting our season under way the following week when we travel to take on Mountcharles. The training tops have now been ordered and anyone who wants to pay their for top can bring their €13.50 to training.

Under 8 and under 10 training is moving outdoors to Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh (Munday's) next Monday 9th May from 6-7pm.

This year's Duck Race will take place on Saturday 28th May at 3pm. So mark the date in your calendar as it's always an entertaining afternoon.

It is the ladies turn for the club lotto this Saturday 7th May. The slots to be covered are as follows:
10am-11.30am - Under 12 parent
11.30am-1pm - Under 14 parent
1pm-2.30pm - Under 12 parent
2.30pm-4pm - Under 14 parent
Could parents of these age groups please contact Karol, Sarah or their team manager if they are available to fill a slot. Remember once you have done the hour and a half that's you finished and you won't be asked again. However if no one contacts us to fill a slot Karol will do up a rota for the whole year and make a random selection and then it will be your sole responsibility to either fill that slot or find someone to help you. It cannot be left to the same people who volunteer their time to the various teams and who sit on the committee and who organise games, training, transport and fund-raising to also have to do the slot, which has been the case for last number of years. Your help with this would be hugely appreciated.

Hurling
Our minor hurlers were up against an exceptional Buncrana team in Father Tierney Park last Thursday. Although well beaten the lads showed great character throughout the game and kept battling to the end. It's been a very difficult campaign for the lads but they deserve great credit for the way they competed all season, they are in action again this Thursday at home to strong Burt team.

The under 14s had a bye last week. They make the long trip to Dungloe this Thursday.

On Saturday the Donegal minors were in action against Tyrone. Brian Mc Henry and Conall Sweeny both made the starting 15. Disappointingly Donegal lost out to Tyrone 3-13 to 1-15.

Well done to Ryan Keenaghan who represented Creevy National School in the Cumann na mBunscol exhibition game at half time in the Nicky Rackard Cup game in Letterkenny on Saturday. Ryan did very well and was on the winning Fermanagh team.

On Bank Holiday Monday we hosted our annual Alan Ryan / Seamus Grimes under 14 hurling tournament. Eight teams from five counties took part in the tournament played in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh and Erne Gaels pitch in Belleek. The draw was made that morning and threw up the following groupings, in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh we had Aodh Ruadh, Keady, Drumcliffe and Easkey while out in Belleek we had Buncrana, Tuam, Naomh Eoin and Na Magha.
Aodh Ruadh played Keady in our opening game and lost narrowly by four points to the Armagh men. We were well beaten by Easkey in our second game while in our final group game a good performance saw us run out comfortable winners against Drumcliffe.
Out in Belleek Buncrana topped the group followed by Tuam, the stage was now set for the Alan Ryan Cup semi-finals between Buncrana and Keady and Easkey and Tuam, while the Seamus Grimes Cup semi-finals saw Na Magha against Drumcliffe and Aodh Ruadh up against Naomh Eoin. We produced our best performance of the day against the Sligo lads and in a nail biting finish came out on top by a goal setting up a final against Na Magha. Wins for Buncrana and Easkey wet up an eagerly awaited pairing for the Alan Ryan Final.
First of the finals to be played was the Seamus Grimes Cup, Na Magha were a strong physical team and were well on top at half time, but fair play to our lads who put in a great second half only to come up short, losing out 6-5 to 3-3. The Alan Ryan final was an eagerly awaited a game and it certainly didn't disappoint as two evenly matched teams tore into each other from the start. At half time there was only four points separating the teams with the Buncrana lads in front. The Inishowen lads put in a great second half and ran out convincing winners to claim their first Alan Ryan Cup.
The presentation and refreshments took place in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. Eddie Grimes spoke on behalf of the Grimes family while Martin Kerry Ryan spoke on behalf of the Ryan family. Alan and Seamus were fondly remembered by John Rooney, Eddie and Martin presented the cups to the respective team captains. So the curtain came down on a great day of hurling. Thanks are due to the following for making the day such a success. Aodh Ruadh Juvenile Hurling Committee, the Ryan and Grimes families, the ladies who catered for all the teams, the mothers who provided refreshments, referees Aidan Ferguson and Peter Horan, special thanks to Erne Gaels for the use of their pitch and Faustin McGonigle in particular who organised same.

Our clothes collection has been such a success we've extended the deadline till the 10th May. All unwanted clothing, shoes, handbags and belts will be gratefully accepted. For any information in relation to this fund-raiser please contact Denis Daly 0863269550, Tara Keenaghan 0863331903, John Rooney 0862587793 or John Larkin 0861076883.

Recreational football
Recreational football is back in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh this Saturday at 6.30pm for the warm up with the game getting going at 7pm. It's excellent value at just €3 for the session. For more information text or call Alan on 0868052816.

Abbey Centre Bingo
The April big bingo jackpot of €1,000 was won by Kevin O'Connor of Cliffoney, checking on 50 numbers. There was no winner of the spring snowball so next week's snowball prize will be €425 on 47 numbers or less. Bingo as usual at 9pm this Friday at the Abbey Centre. Books priced at just €10.

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10 May

Football
Peter Gallagher and James O'Donnell's men continued their faultless start to the season with a hard earned 2-11 to 1-11 victory over a pugnacious Letterkenny Gaels side in testing conditions at Father Tierney Park. A pulsating first half ended with the hosts holding a two points lead, 2-6 to 1-7. The second half ebbed and flowed, but Aodh Ruadh got the better of it to confirm their sixth successive win of the league campaign. Callum O'Halloran was outstanding at corner back, while Michael Ward also made some telling interventions. Again the half back line distinguished itself, Johnny Gethins, Colm Kelly and Niall Harley getting through a heap of work. Seamus Kane took two class scores and was a great option all through. David Dolan continued his mightily impressive early season form with another heavy haul of points, while Sticky Ward was ever the calming influence, picking the right options. We have a full report from the game up on aodhruadh.org with pictures over the course of the week.

The reserves recorded an impressive win over Letterkenny Gaels. They started at a high tempo and maintained that to the break where they went in leading on a scoreline of 0-8 to 0-2. The second half was more evenly fought, but a goal from the excellent Cáelán Drummond saw Ballyshannon finish 1-13 to 0-9 victors. We will have a full match report and pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org over the course of the week.

Attention turns to the championship next Saturday, 14th May, when the reserves and seniors travel to take on Cloughaneely in the first round of the group stages. The reserves go off at 6pm with the seniors throwing in at 7.30pm. The other teams in Group B are Naomh Colmcille and Naomh Ultan.

Aodh Ruadh under 14s made the long trip to Dungloe on Monday evening and came back with a draw on a scoreline of 3-9 to 4-6 which ensured Ballyshannon topped division 1 after the round robin stages. Aodh Ruadh had the better of the first half to go in at the interval leading by 2-5 to 1-5. However the hosts came out all guns blazing in the second half and it took a wonderstrike of a goal from Frankie McGinley to ensure that Aodh Ruadh topped the table. Also among the goals was Senan Rooney with a brace which capped another fine outing at midfield from the Corker man. There were decent defensive showings from Kyle Murray and Eugene Doherty, while up front Colm McGloin continued his fine attacking form. That result sets up a rematch in the league semi-final which will take place on either Friday or Saturday, with Dungloe travelling to Ballyshannon for that fixture. Training continues on Wednesday at 4.30pm.

The under 12s had a good start to the league on Monday with an away win against Ardara. Each league fixture features senior and reserve matches and they were two great games where 25 players in all represented the club. The reserve match was a great contest with James Gallagher in midfield and the two Cians - McKenna and Hunter - showing very well. Ardara finished stronger in the second half and the reserves lost by five points. The seniors on the other hand were on top from the beginning with Ryan Daly getting off to a blistering start from corner forward. Our defence was on top throughout with Darragh Flood Dolan commanding at full back. Aaron Neilan controlled midfield and the link up play from defence to attack was a joy to behold. Aaron Cullen pulled off one magnificent save in the second half and his skill in kick outs were the starting point for our best scores. Cian McKenna who swapped nets for full forward when he came on as a sub bagged three goals in a second half where Aodh Ruadh just had a bit too much for Ardara on the night. Many thanks to the green and white army who travelled in big numbers to support the boys, to the Ardara club for their hospitality and Pat Walsh for refereeing. The under 12s will be entertaining Four Masters this Wednesday in Father Tierney Park. Players to be up at the park by 6.30pm with the game throwing in at 7pm. Training continues as usual every Monday and Friday from 5.15pm to 6.30pm.

The under 10s have their first blitz of the year this Saturday in Mountcharles. The games get under way at 11am with Aodh Ruadh playing teams from Saint Naul's, Four Masters and Bundoran. All players to be at the venue for 10.30am. We are gathering at the park at 9.15am to arrange lifts for players whose parents / guardians can't travel. We will be leaving the park at 9.30am sharp.

Huge thanks to Naomh Bríd for hosting our under 8s at their blitz last Saturday, our your footballers loved getting into action for the first time this season. Huge thanks also to Southern Board fixtures secretary Paul Martin who arranged for us to take part in Ballintra at short notice. Despite the cold and the wet the lads and lass all gave great accounts of themselves and played some lovely football. Lining out for Aodh Ruadh on the day were Garreth Brennan, Patrick Clarke, Manus Conlon, Sam Davitt, Joey Daly, Finn Doogan, Callum Dorrian, Antóin Duffy, Eoghan Gallagher, Joseph Gibbions, Tomás Keown, Ethan Kerrigan, Finn Hartin, Sean Maguire, Eoghan McCadden, Oisin McCadden, Shaun McGarrigle, Ethan McGowan, Jayden McGrath-Clyne, Sean O'Neill, Éabha Rogers, Max Roper, Dáthaí Sheerin, Corey Sheridan and MJ Ward.

Under 10, under 8 and under 6 training continues as usual this Friday from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Páirc Aoidh Ruadh.

Ladies
Congratulations to the Donegal ladies, and our representative on the panel, Sarah Patton, on capturing the NFL division two title last Saturday with a 3-17 to 0-13 victory over Westmeath.

Aodh Ruadh under 14 girls put in a fantastic team display last Wednesday evening against a strong Glenties side, to remain unbeaten in the league. Aodh Ruadh were straight out of the blocks and within a few minutes were two points up thanks to Bridín Maguire and Sarah Jane Keon. Glenties began to get their hands on the ball, however they found it very difficult to break down a strong Aodh Ruadh defence who played as a unit and forced the Glenties forwards to shoot from distance. Aodh Ruadh continued to chip away at the score board and led 0-0 to 0-7 at half time. The lead would have been much greater only for a number of fantastic saves from the Glenties keeper. The Ernesiders continued to push ahead and got the first score of the second half before Glenties enjoyed their best period of the game. A high ball into the Aodh Ruadh box somehow ended up in the net for the hosts only score. Aodh Ruadh continued to push forward, adding another five points without response. Aine Hill was again rock solid in goals, the entire defence gave nothing away and Caoimhe Keon and Ella Clancy covered very blade of grass on the pitch. The forward line continually troubled the Glenties defence and took their scores well. Overall a fantastic team performance.

The under 12 girls have their first fixture of the season this week. They play Saint Naul's this Wednesday at 6.15pm in Mountcharles. We will be meeting at the park at 5pm to arrange lifts for players whose parents / guardians can't travel and leaving the park at 5.15pm.

Under 8 and under 10 training continues at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh (Munday's) on Mondays from 6-7pm.

This year's Duck Race will take place on Saturday 28th May at 3pm. So mark the date in your calendar as it's always an entertaining afternoon.

Hurling
The under 14s made the long trip to Gaoth Dobhair on Thursday night to take on the amalgamated Dungloe / Gaoth Dobhair team. It was a tough battle from start to finish. The effects of the long trip were shown early on as the Gaeltacht lads struck for three early goals. Midway through the half we slowly got into the game and finished the half strongly only finding ourselves three points down at half time. With the aid of a strong breeze we were well on top, but found scores hard to come by. A strong finish saw us come out on top on a 7-9 to 6-6 scoreline. We are away to Four Masters this Thursday.

Our young minor team's difficult season continued on Thursday with a home game against Burt. It was a tough low scoring game with very little between the teams. Burt's ability to hit the net was the difference between the teams, and they ran out worthy winners 3-3 to 0-7. This very young team deserve great credit for fielding for all games this season, unfortunately a number of players didn't make themselves this season resulting in us struggling to field in all games. The lads have shown great commitment this season. We have our final league game this Thursday another difficult trip to Letterkenny to take on Saint Eunan's.

The first under 8 and under 10 blitz of the season takes place on Sunday week, May 22nd in Convoy. The lads are really looking forward to the blitz. We will have full details at training this Sunday.

Our clothes collection to raise funds for underage hurling comes to an end on Saturday 21st May, thanks to all who have supported this fund-raiser so far. All unwanted clothes - except duvets and pillows - shoes, belts and handbags welcome.

Lá na gClub
Aodh Ruadh marked Lá na gClub on Sunday 8th May at Father Tierney Park. Ballyshannon Brass and Reed Band lead a procession to the park where club chairman Gerard Ferguson addressed the assembly before club president Owen Roe O'Neill raised the flag. That was followed by a reading of the 1916 proclamation, stirringly orated by Sylvester Maguire. We have pictures from the ceremony up on aodhruadh.org

Inter-county minor challenge
On Tuesday May 10th there is an inter-county minor challenge in Father Tierney Park between Donegal and Sligo. As both teams are preparing for their respective Championship encounters this should be an entertaining game. Throw-in is at 7pm.

Let's play darts
On Friday May 27th Seán Óg's will host a darts exhibition with Jelle Klaasen. The proceeds will go towards extensive surface repair works required at Father Tierney Park. Tickets priced €5 are available via adult team managers and from key club personnel. Contact Tom Daly, David McLoone or Conal Gallagher for information or tickets for this important club fund-raiser.

Maintenance and development works on club premises
Towards the end of this week we expect to commence substantial surface repair works at Father Tierney Park. The park will be unavailable for the duration of the works. Down-time will be kept to a minimum, but weather will be a factor. Keep in contact with with Peter Conlon in relation to the possible impact on coaching, training and games. During May repair and maintenance will also be undertaken on both playing fields at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. No significant impact on activity is anticipated. The first phase of refurbishment works at Aras Aoidh Ruaidh will also commence later this week. Construction work on the new hurling / rebound wall at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh is entering its final phase and this new facility will soon be available for use by individual players and club coaches. It will be a resource for hurling, football and handball skills development.

Abbey Centre Bingo
Congratulations to Packie Boyle on winning the spring snowball prize of €425, checking on just 40 numbers. The €400 jackpot prize was won by Caroline Murphy of Donegal town. Bingo as usual at 9pm this Friday at the Abbey Centre. Books priced at just €10.

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17 May

Football
Aodh Ruadh scored a notable win in the first round of the intermediate championship, making the long trip up to Cloughaneely and coming away with a 4-8 to 2-11 victory. The visitors impressed in the first half and went in leading by 3-5 to 1-8, Seamus Kane, David McGurrin and Eamonn McGrath with the Ballyshannon goals. Cloughaneely tied it up straight after the break, but Aodh Ruadh were the better of the sides from there on out and took a deserved three point win in the first of the three round robin games in the championship. We have a full report and pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org.

The reserves travelled to Falcarragh with a good squad for their opening championship game against Cloughaneely. After a promising start against the division 2 outfit it all fell apart and the visitors simply didn't put up a challenge, with the difference in quality evident from the outset. The only points of the game for Aodh Ruadh came from Ryan Granaghan and Anthony Coughlin, both within the opening quarter to keep the game in contention during the early stages. However two sucker punch goals in the second quarter both when the hosts had men over inside, left Aodh Ruadh with a mountain to climb in the second half as they trailed at half-time by 2-4 to 0-2. In what was a disappointing second half, Aodh Ruadh failed to score and ended up losing on a scoreline of 2-6 to 0-2. The visitors had Kevin Warnock to thank for a string of fine saves in goal to ensure the deficit was not worse. We have the full team sheet and pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org.

This Sunday Aodh Ruadh will be looking to keep their winning start to the league going when they host Fanad Gaels. The Gaels are a side who have always given us our fill of it, so a large attendance at the park would be most welcome to get behind the lads. The senior game is at 3pm, with the reserve game the curtain raiser at 1.30pm.

It was a mixed few days for the under 14s. The side qualified for the Southern league final with a resounding 12-4 to 2-5 win over Dungloe in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh on Friday evening. While Aodh Ruadh impressed in every department in that display, it proved poor preparation for the League final against Naomh Conaill on Monday evening in Killybegs. Ballyshannon were slow out of the blocks and Glenties ran up a 2-5 to 0-2 lead by the interval. It was a much improved display in the second half by the Ernesiders though. However despite winning the second 30 3-4 to 1-3 with Senan Rooney, Kyle McCafferty and Harry Howarth hitting the net for Aodh Ruadh, it was Glenties who took the title on a final scoreline of 3-8 to 3-6. A tough defeat to take, but the team will know what they have to work on ahead of the county league semi-finals. Training continues on Wednesday at 4.30pm.

Aodh Ruadh under 12s will travel to Fintra this Friday to take on Killybegs. We will be meeting at the Park at 5.30pm. Throw-in will be at 7pm in Killybegs. We would appreciate if parents / guardians could help with transport for players to the away venue.

Some 30 of our under 10 group took part in our first blitz of the year at the Saint Naul's club last Saturday morning. In perfect weather conditions both our senior and development teams played well against the host club and Four Masters teams. Thanks to the parents who provided transport and supported our players. Thanks also to the Saint Naul's club for their hospitality at the blitz. Next up is a trip to Ardara this Saturday morning. We are meeting up at Father Tierney Park at 9.15am.

Under 10, under 8 and under 6 training continues as usual this Friday from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Páirc Aoidh Ruadh.

Ladies
The Realt Ruadh ladies had a ding dong battle with Robert Emmet's last weekend. They found themselves trailing by 14 at the break in Castlefin, but they worked hard over the second half and got within touching distance only for time to run out. The final score was 3-11 to 1-14 in favour of the Emmet's.

The under 14 girls had a league game against Ardara last Thursday. Aodh Ruadh maintained their unbeaten run. Ardara battled hard, but Aodh Ruadh kept the score board ticking over to win by a good margin. Caitlyn McGarrigle did well at centre half back while Brídín Maguire, Eva Moore and Emer O'Brien lead a very dangerous attack. The team also had a challenge game against Devenish on Monday evening with good showings from Katie McMullin and Áine Hill while Aideen Walsh gave a great account of herself in defence. Under 14 training as usual on Thursday at 5.45pm.

The under 12 girls have got their season off the mark in the past week with two matches, panels of 26 and 22 players turning out for each game. The first was down in Mountcharles where the girls recorded a convincing win in very warm conditions. Ciara Gillespie was very sound between the posts and Fódhla Sheerin's defensive display was picked out for special mention by the referee after the game. Elsewhere Niamh Hughes went well at half back while Lauren McHugh was on fire up front. It could hardly have been a greater climatic contrast on Tuesday evening when the Shamettes hosted Four Masters in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh with the second half played in freezing rain. Once again the girls had too much for a plucky Donegal town side and ran out comfortable winners. Ciara Caldwell once again impressed with her reading of the game at full back while Hannah Gallagher and Megan Kane also fought well. Clodagh O'Connor, Emer O'Brien, Katie O'Brien and Cora Rooney were tireless in the central diamond. Up front Áine Hill proved very difficult for the opposition to deal with while Lucy Gallagher scored for the second game on the bounce. Training as usual on Thursday at 6pm and Saturday at 10am. Naomh Columba next week are the next scheduled opposition, with Aodh Ruadh down to travel to Glencolumbcille. The training tops are being crested next week, so we should have them for distribution shortly. If anyone wants to get their €13.50 paid ahead of time that would be most welcome, otherwise it will be payment on delivery.

Under 8 and under 10 training continues at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh (Munday's) on Mondays from 6-7pm.

This year's Duck Race will take place this Saturday 28th May at 3pm. Players are asked to have their cards completed and returned over the course of the week. There will be a whole heap of chocolate goodies to be won on the day so come a long and enjoy the quack.

Hurling
Our under 14s had a good win over Four Masters in Donegal Town on Thursday last. The lads got into the game early, taking some lovely scores and ran out comfortable winners 6-8 to 2-3. Many thanks to the parents who drove the lads to the game. The team have a busy week ahead with games away to Setanta on last night and Letterkenny Gaels on Thursday leaving the dual players with four games in five days this week.

The minors ended a very difficult league campaign with a trip to O'Donnell Park to take on Saint Eunan's. We got off to a great start and put it up to the Letterkenny lads in the first half. A physically stronger Eunan's side gradually got on top and ran out convincing winners 3-14 to 0-7. This is a very young minor team containing nine under 16s and deserve great credit in fielding for all their games this season with many of those games against much stronger opposition. There is a break now for the state exams and the championship begins in July.

The under 12s had a challenge game on Sunday morning in Manorhamilton. It was the lads' first game of the season and although they were rusty starting off, as the game wore on they played some great hurling and ran out convincing winners. Many thanks to the parents who drove the lads to the game. Your support is much appreciated.

The first all county blitz for under 8s and under 10s takes place this Sunday in Convoy. Both squads have been training hard since the start of the season and are eagerly looking forward to the game. Full details will be circulated during the week.

The under 14, under 15 and under 16 county development squads are in action at Garvaghey, Tyrone this Saturday and we expect to have players involved with all squads. Best of luck to all on the day.

It's the final week of clothes collection which ends on Saturday 21st May thanks to all who have supported this campaign to date.

Let's play darts
This Friday May 27th Seán Óg's will host a darts exhibition with Jelle Klaasen. The proceeds will go towards extensive surface repair works required at Father Tierney Park. Tickets priced €5 are available via adult team managers and from key club personnel. Contact Tom Daly, David McLoone or Conal Gallagher for information or tickets for this important club fund-raiser.

Abbey Centre Bingo
Last week's €400 jackpot prize was won by Anne Granaghan of Bundoran. Bingo as usual at 9pm this Friday at the Abbey Centre. Books priced at just €10.

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24 May

Meeting
The monthly meeting of the club executive takes place this Thursday in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh at 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

Football
Aodh Ruadh did well to overcome a determined Fanad Gaels side in Father Tierney Park to record their eighth win in succession over league and championship. Aodh Ruadh played into a stiff breeze in the first half and trailed 0-2 to 1-4 at the break, however Ballyshannon pushed on in the second half and a four minute spurt of five points as the game moved into its final ten minutes proved decisive. David McGurrin finished with 1-4 to his credit, but he contributed a lot more to the team around the park. Michael 'Sticky' Ward again managed exchanges up front astutely. In midfield Conor Patton and Eamonn McGrath soldiered well, although in Michael Sweeney they had a serious opponent to contend with. The defence were in magnificent form with Michael Ward, Damian Cleary and Callum O'Halloran, although again, it must be said Fanad's Seamus Friel was a serious threat. We have a full report and pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org.

The reserves had an entertaining contest with Fanad, but in the end the honours were shared with the final scoreline Aodh Ruadh 0-8 Fanad Gaels 1-5. The result leaves Aodh Ruadh in fifth place in Senior Reserve Division 3, but just three points behind table toppers Buncrana. All still to play for. We will have pictures and a report from the game on aodhruadh.org over the course of the week.

This Saturday Aodh Ruadh will be chasing a ninth successive win when they travel to take on Letterkenny Gaels. The senior game is at 7.30pm, with the reserve game the curtain raiser at 6pm.

The under 14's league campaign ended against Termon on Sunday evening. A big physical Termon team had too much for the Ballyshannon lads and were leading by 3-10 to 1-2 at the break. Aodh Ruadh put in a much improved second half, but were unable to make much headway in cutting the deficit and it finished 7-16 to 6-5 in favour of the northern side. Overall it was a great effort by the boys. Senan Rooney did the lion's share of the scoring for Ballyshannon, hitting four goals while Jake Foley also hit the net. Further out the pitch Eugene Doherty, Martin McGlynn and Shane Brady all put in good shifts while Matt Gillespie did well in nets. There is no under 14 training this week. See the notes next week for details of the revised training schedule.

The under 12s travelled to Fintra on Saturday evening and scored two wins. The Reserve team won 4-12 to 0-14 and the seniors made it three wins out of three by overcoming Killybegs 1-14 to 0-4. Fair play to both keepers Aaron Cullen and Fionn Gallagher who kept the clean sheets and all the lads who all played really well. Half back Shane Delahunty deserves a special mention for his awesome display of honest to God football. The side's next fixture is in Father Tierney Park against Saint Naul's on Wednesday 1st June. Training continues as usual on Mondays and Fridays from 5.15pm to 6.30pm.

Aodh Ruadh under 10s travelled to Ardara for a blitz last Saturday. Communions saw the squad travel slightly depleted, but still fielding 24 players. The lads faced off against sides from Ardara and Fanad Gaels and there was a very high standard of football on display. The lads gave a good account of themselves and enjoyed their day of football. They will be pulling on the jersey again this Saturday when Melvin Gaels and another team to be confirmed will be the guests in Father Tierney Park for a blitz. Players are to be up for 10.30am with first game throwing in at 11am. We ask that parents / guardians to help out on the refreshments front by supplying a loaf of sandwiches, tray of buns or similar to help feed all present on the day. Also, we would appreciate if parents / guardians could lend a hand in the kitchen.

Under 10, under 8 and under 6 training continues as usual this Friday from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Páirc Aoidh Ruadh.

Ladies
Realt Ruadh had two goals to spare on Ardara on Sunday. They got two early points against a defensive Ardara formation, but the visitors hit an unanswered four points to lead by the end of the first quarter. Realt Ruadh made some positional switches which helped swing the game back to the hosts and they repaid Ardara's scoring spurt with interest to go in leading 0-7 to 0-4 at the interval. Ardara had the advantage of the wind in the second half and hit the first four scores to move back into the lead. Realt Ruadh responded with a rapid attack which saw Sarah Patton teeing up Elaine Dorrian for a fantastic goal. Ardara answered with a goal of their own, but Realt Ruadh hit back hard with Elaine Dorrian and Roisín McGloin both raising green flags. Danika Doherty also sent over a fine point to seal a deserved six point win over last year's intermediate champions. Well done to both teams on serving up an entertaining first league game of the season. Next week Realt Ruadh play Convoy in Bundoran in the Shield competition.

Under 14 training as usual on Tuesday and Thursday at 5.45pm.

The under 12 girls travel to Glencolumbcille this Wednesday to play Naomh Columba. We are taking a bus for this one and will be leaving the park promptly at 5pm. Players to be up for 4.50pm. There is a charge of €5 per person on bus and we should have room for parents / guardians who want to come and support. We will also have our training tops available for distribution on Wednesday. These are €13.50 and we'll need payment on delivery if this has not already been made. There will be no training this Thursday, but we will be training as usual at 10am on Saturday. We need to get Duck Race cards back this week, so we'd appreciate if you could bring those along on Wednesday or Saturday.

The under 10 girls travelled to Ardara last Saturday for their first blitz of the year. They played three games and had great fun. The Aodh Ruadh team who lined out were Cádhla Dolan, Lauren Foy, Orlaith Gallagher, Sadhbh Hughes, Nessa Mitchell, Marija Njegic, Jessica O'Mahoney, Aimee Roper, Dairín Sweeny, and Aoife Travers. Many thanks to Ardara for their hospitality on the day.

Under 8 and under 10 training continues at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh on Mondays from 6-7pm.

The Duck Race will take place this Saturday, 28th May at 3pm. Players are asked to have their cards completed and returned over the course of the week. There will be a whole heap of chocolate goodies to be won on the day so come a long and enjoy the quack.

Hurling
The under 14s travelled to the Cross on Tuesday last to take on top of the table Setanta. We were unable to match the commitment of the Killygordon lads who were really up for the game. A number of our players had played in the Southern Minor Board under 14 football final the previous night and it was clear to see they were still feeling the effects of that game. In the end Setanta's ability to get goals proved the difference and the they won on a scoreline of 7-12 to 4-7. Thanks to the parents who drove the lads to the game. Your support is much appreciated. Next up for the lads is the league semi-final at home this Thursday to a strong amalgamated Dungloe / Gaoth Dobhair outfit. Throw-in is at 7pm and all support would be most welcome for this young squad.

On Sunday the first all county under 8 and under 10 blitz took place in the Centre of Excellence in Convoy. Aodh Ruadh had 19 under 8s and were the only club to field two teams at the blitz at that age. Each team had four games and both teams won all their games. It's great to see the improvement in the lads from last season and their hard work at training is certainly paying off.
We were missing a number of under 10s due to other commitments but the seven lads who travelled did well and won all three of their games. Weather conditions were atrocious, so great credit to all the young hurlers who played their hearts out on such a terrible morning. Many thanks to all the parents who drove the children to the blitz and gave them great encouragement.

The under 12s continued their preparations for the upcoming league with a good win on Sunday morning against our neighbours, Erne Gaels.

Well done to Adam Rami and Eoin Doherty who lined out for the County under 15 development squad at the Ulster Blitz in Garvaghey on Saturday and to Senan Rooney and Nathan Owens-Kelly who played for the county under 14s at the same blitz. All the lads did very well. It is great to see these lads representing the club at this level.

Our Clothes Collection finished on Monday and was a great success, many thanks to all who contributed to it.

Training for all age groups as usual on Sunday at 12 noon.

Abbey Centre Bingo
Last week's €400 bingo jackpot was won by Danny Goan of Ballyshannon. It's Big Bingo time again with the May big bingo this Friday at 9pm at the Abbey Centre, with a massive €2,700 prize fund including the €1,000 jackpot game. Books are priced at €15/€8, or get the book and a half deal for just €20.

Last modified: Tuesday, 2 June 2020 at 3:54pm