Club Notes Archive - 2017

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OCTOBER

3 October

Football
When PJ Buggy was inducted into the Aodh Ruadh Hall of Fame back in 2008, he said his most earnest hope was to see the club back playing division 1 football. There's been plenty of water under the bridge since that night in Dorrian's but on Sunday, 1st October 2017, James O'Donnell and his men made that dream come true. They did it in a bit of style too in Father Tierney Park, winning 4-13 to 1-9. Star of the show was David McGurrin, only 13-years-old back in 2008, the Abbey Isle ace finishing with 2-4 to his credit. Jason Granaghan got things going with an early score with McGurrin hitting two quick points in succession. Conor Patton was next on the mark before Shane McGrath tapped home Aodh Ruadh's first goal of the game. There were further points from McGurrin and Seamus Kane before Malin got themselves a lifeline with a Brendan McLaughlin goal. That left made it 1-7 to 1-3 in favour of the homesters. Damian Cleary and Seamus Cleary combined to set up McGurrin for the Ernesiders second goal and not long after Philip Patton and Conor Patton were the creators as Michael 'Sticky' Ward palmed in Aodh Ruadh's third to make it 3-7 to 1-5 at the turnover. McGurrin's second goal and a brace of Philip Patton points made it 4-9 to 1-7 five minutes into the new half. Patton then added two more to his tally to help kill the game as a contest. The last word went to Peter Boyle who thumped over a 45 to give Aodh Ruadh a 13 point win, but more importantly, promotion back to the top tier of Donegal football for the first time since 2007. It is a great achievement by James O'Donnell, his back room team and everyone who lined out for the seniors this season. It is a credit to the team that they have managed to put us back in the big time with back-to-back promotions after a number of hard years for the town, on and off the pitch. Top level football has been away from Ballyshannon for so long, and the team have given us real reason to be proud. Congratulations once again. We have pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org.

Aodh Ruadh reserves overpowered their Malin counterparts 5-20 to 2-6 to get Sunday afternoon off to the perfect start. Aodh Ruadh led 2-8 to 2-5 at half-time. Dermot Slevin netted a penalty while Kerry Ryan raised a second green flag as they more experienced performers showed the cubs how it's done. The second half saw the hosts dominating. Martin Larkin ended the with game with 1-4. Cian McGloin tucked home Aodh Ruadh's second penalty while James Kelly completed the goal scoring with a nice finish. David Finnerty also pitched in with three points, while the full forward unit all registered on a day of big scoring. Elsewhere, Aidan Murray will be pushing Peter Boyle for the number one jersey after some fine moments between the sticks. We have pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org.

The penultimate game of the division 2 league takes place this Sunday. We travel to Fintra to take on Killybegs with the reserve game throwing in at 1.30pm, followed by the seniors at 3pm.

This Saturday sees Aodh Ruadh taking on Saint Eunan's in the first round of the under 21 championship in Father Tierney Park. Needless to say, we'd love to see a big and vocal local crowd there in time for the 5.30pm throw-in.

Aodh Ruadh under 16s Southern Divisional Final takes place this Saturday against Kilcar. Fixture details still have to be confirmed, but we will publish them on the Aodh Ruadh CLG Facebook page when available and would ask for a big Ballyshannon support could get down and help roar the lads on.

The under 13 continued their winning run with a win against neighbours Four Masters on Monday evening. The Ernesiders had the backing of a strong wind in the first half, but were only two points up at the break. Aodh Ruadh upped it in the second half though and turned in a professional performance to run out 4-7 to 1-4 winners. Ballyshannon had a great showing in defence from Séimí Campbell and Darragh Flood Dolan, while Damian Weber was immense in midfield. Up front Daniel Breen Brosnan was too hot to handle for the Donegal town men. Aodh Ruadh will wrap up the round robin stages of the league with an away trip to Dungloe, details of that fixture yet to be confirmed.

Under 9 training commences this Thursday from 6pm to 7pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. There will be an under 9 blitz this Saturday in Donegal town, time to be confirmed.

The last under 8 blitz of the season took place on Saturday morning in Ardara. Well done to Niall McCready and Damien Conlan for all the effort they have put in all year. The A and B teams had some good tough games. Pride of place went to the C team who finished off the season on a winning note with a win in the Plate Final.

The Bord na nÓg AGM will take place on Tuesday 28th November. All team managers should have reports submitted to Lisa McTernan by Friday 17th November. The committee would like to take this opportunity thank the White Hotel Group for sponsoring the Euro Shot Challenge weekend away.

Ladies
Not the way we wanted the season to end, but the under 16 girls gave it their all in the county semi-final at Letterkenny. Aodh Ruadh hit the opening goal a minute in against Saint Eunan's, a superb Cáit Gillespie pass setting Tia McFarland free to net. However after that the hosts took over and it was 5-5 to 1-0 at the break. The second half was more evenly contested. Cáit Gillespie got a deserved point two minutes in and added a goal five minutes later. Aodh Ruadh's best football came in the final quarter when Orla Keon showed great technique to steer home a tricky shot on goal after a driving run. Cáit Gillespie then added a free before Ballyshannon's player of the match, Caoimhe Keon, fired over a fine point. Her fellow midfielder Andrea McGlynn capped a great season with a good point shortly after before Roisín Daly finished well from mid range. A further point from Caoimhe Keon and Cáit Gillespie left the final score at 8-10 to 4-6. Beyond the scorers Síofra Hughes was excellent in defence with Leah Travers working hard too and Alana Gallagher and Leah O'Brien making a great impression from the bench. A great bunch of genuine players with commendable attitude and spirit. We had good craic across the course of the season and some great days out. The management thanks the players for giving everything they had this year and representing the club with such honesty and dedication.

Congratulations to Caoimhe Keon and Síofra Hughes who were selected to represent Donegal at the Ulster under 15 blitz in Cookstown on Saturday October 28th.

The under 13 girls had a good outing in Derrygonnelly for a challenge against their under 14s on Saturday afternoon ahead of their county semi-final this weekend. The last four opposition in Father Tierney Park this Saturday are Ardara with the throw-in at 12 noon. We would urge all to come out and get behind this exceptional bunch of girls. The team are training on Tuesday and Thursday this week from 4.30pm to 5.30pm.

Hurling
The under 16s bowed out of the B Championship on Thursday evening at home to Burt. Despite the poor weather, both teams gave their all in an entertaining match. The physically stronger Inishowen lads ability to hit the net proved the difference as they ran out winners 4-3 to 1-5.

The lads were back in action on Sunday as we hosted the annual Alan Ryan / Seamus Grimes Tournament. This tournament is in existence since 1998 to honour these two former Aodh Ruadh hurlers and recognise the contribution they and their families have made to Aodh Ruadh. Five teams took part in this year's event namely Loch Mór Dál gCais of Antrim, Sligo side Easkey, Omagh Saint Enda's from Tyrone and Donegal's Buncrana and ourselves.
The tournament was played on a round robin basis and in round one Aodh Ruadh had a great battle with Loch Mór before losing narrowly 1-6 to 1-4. Easkey had a convincing win over Omagh. Round two saw Easkey beat Buncrana while Loch Mór got their second win of the day over Omagh. Round 3 saw Aodh Ruadh up against the strong Easkey team. The lads did well, but the concession of a few soft goals proved costly as we lost 5-3 to 2-3. Buncrana had their first win of the day over Omagh. Round four saw Aodh Ruadh recording a convincing win over Omagh while Loch Mór proved too strong for Buncrana.
At this stage the pairings for the finals were decided, Easkey and Loch Mór Dál gCais were to meet in the Alan Ryan Final, while the two Donegal teams were to meet in the Seamus Grimes Final. Both finals were close affairs. In the Alan Ryan decider Easkey and Loch Mór battled for every ball as if their lives depended on it and at the final whistle it was the west Sligo men who came out on top 2-5 to 1-5 to reclaim the title they last won in 2015.
The Seamus Grimes final was an even tighter battle between the two Donegal rivals. Aodh Ruadh have had a tough season due to small numbers, but they were determined to end the season with some silverware. They gave it their all to claim the victory and their hard work paid off at the final whistle as they won by the minimum 2-8 to 2-7.
After a great day of hurling we adjourned to the Rock Hall for refreshments and the presentations. John Rooney Chairman Aodh Ruadh Juvenile Hurling Committee thanked all the teams who had taken part in the tournament. He spoke of the late Alan Ryan and Seamus Grimes and the contribution they and their families had made to hurling in Aodh Ruadh. He also remembered the late Billy Finn who was one of the main instigators of this tournament. Eddie Grimes spoke on behalf of the Grimes family, he thanked all involved in organising the tournament. He spoke of how proud his family were of this tournament. He presented the runner up medals to the gallant Buncrana squad, before presenting the Seamus Grimes Trophy to a delighted Aodh Ruadh captain Aaron Duffy who certainly led by example all year.
Martin Kerry Ryan was the next speaker. He also thanked everyone involved in making the day such a success. He echoed the previous speaker's sentiments in relation to the late Billy Finn. Martin recalled playing in goals for Aodh Ruadh once and his four sons playing outfield in the same game. He called on his daughter Caroline to present the runner up medals to a skilful Loch Mór team before she presented the Alan Ryan Cup to Easkey's captain Niall Kilcullen who proved equally at home with the microphone as the hurl as he made a good speech thanking all involved in organising the tournament before calling his successful team forward to collect their medals.

Before closing proceedings John Rooney thanked the refs Pat Maguire and Chris Kelly who did a great job throughout the day. He also thanked all involved in the catering, Aodh Ruadh Park Committee for the facilities, John Keon for use of the Rock Hall and Mickey McMahon of Realt na Mara Bundoran for making their pitch available before wishing everyone a safe trip home. We have pictures from the day's action up on aodhruadh.org.

National Draw 2019
The National Club Draw returns once again for 2019 and tickets are out now. The prizes are, as ever, spectacular. They include a new Renault Dynamique, a €2,000 travel voucher, various All-Ireland final ticket packages, and shopping vouchers ranging from €1,000 to €250 in value. To increase your chances of winning further there is also a Donegal County Board draw and an Aodh Ruadh draw for €100. Once again, Aodh Ruadh keeps 100 percent of monies raised by the club. Tickets are available from Lisa McTernan and Gerard Ferguson and committee members.

Diary dates
A few dates for your diaries. The underage football presentation night will take place in the Abbey Centre on Saturday 25th November. The annual club dinner dance will take place on Saturday, 20th January 2019.

Supervalu gear competition
Well done to everyone involved in helping Aodh Ruadh win the Supervalu gear competition in Cosgrove's Supervalu Bundoran last Friday. The massive turnout of Ballyshannon talent and colour saw the club win a prize of gear worth €1,000 plus 100 balls. We had a great evening of games and entertainment in Bundoran and also got to meet Donegal stars Mark McHugh and Paul Brennan. Well done to Des Cosgrove, Supervalu and the staff for putting on such a great community event.

Be safe, be seen
With the evenings closing in all parents and guardians are asked to ensure that children are picked up promptly after training and matches and that they wear high visibility garments if likely walking on the road in the dark.

Abbey Centre Bingo
The September big bingo €800 jackpot was shared three ways between Maria Browne of Dunkineely, and Deirdre Clarke and Cassie Granaghan of Ballyshannon. Margaret O'Loughlin claimed the stand-up game, scooping a €170 pot. The snowball survived another week so it rises to €575 on 49 numbers. Bingo as usual this Friday at the Abbey Centre at 9pm. Books cost just €10 with a €2,300 prize fund up for grabs.

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10 October

Football
Aodh Ruadh had to weather a vigorous Killybegs challenge to take the points at Fintra on Sunday, 2-10 to 3-15 the final scoreline in favour of the visitors. Aodh Ruadh lead by ten scores to five after the first 30 minutes of football. However Killybegs had bagged a goal thanks to Christopher Murrin and that saw them trailing by just three points, 0-10 to 1-4 the score at the interval. The Fishermen got off to the perfect start to the second half and a Evan Broderick seven minutes in saw them take the lead at 2-6 to 0-11. The introduction of Johnny Gethins and Shane McGrath from the bench helped turn matters. That along with some magic from Philip Patton. He was instrumental in a three goals in six minutes to help Aodh Ruadh stretch back into the lead. He finished the first before setting up David McGurrin and Shane McGrath for goals as the game moved in the final quarter to end Killybegs spirited challenge. Peter Boyle, Johnny Gallagher David Dolan, Michael 'Sticky' Ward and Nathan Boyle also hit points for the Ernesiders. But it was Philip Patton with his 1-7 and his footballing vision which was the difference for the winners.

Killybegs reserves conceded their game to Aodh Ruadh and that leaves the reserves sitting fourth in the table.

The final games of the division 2 season will take place on Sunday 22nd October in Cloughaneely. Providing Cloich Cheann Fhaola win their game this weekend against Ardara, the last day encounter will be a straight shoot out between Aodh Ruadh and the hosts at Páirc Naomh Fionain to determine the league champions. The reserve game throws in at 1.30pm, followed by the seniors at 3pm.

Pride of place this week goes to the under 16s. The team raided for goals at the right time to secure the Southern Division 2 Championship title in an entertaining decider against Kilcar played in Ballintra's Páirc Naomh Bríd last Saturday. Aodh Ruadh were against the light breeze in the first half, but it was Kilcar who drew first blood six minutes in, their midfielder sending over a well-worked point. Aodh Ruadh had been tentative up to that point, some final nerves evident, but Kilcar's opener helped spark them to life. From the restart they worked the ball swiftly up the pitch to Eoin Doherty who finished beautifully to the net. Four minutes later Odhran McGarrigle added a point and then as the game moved into the second quarter Shane Brady smashed home the second goal of the game. Kilcar's full forward hit a point, but that was cancelled out within the minute by Eoin Doherty. As the half drew to a conclusion Kilcar began to get a bit more attacking traction and two frees heading towards half time had them back to within four points of Ballyshannon. Then two minutes from half-time came the score of the game. Tiernan Flood-Dolan took possession of the ball down into the corner of the pitch. There didn't look to be much on, but he flighted in divinely struck pass parallel to the end line which was met by the fist of Shane Gillespie and powered to the net. Kilcar responded with another free, but a Shane Gillespie point made it 3-3 to 0-5 at the turn over.
The Towney men came out determined to make a battle of things in the second half. They got off to the perfect start, with a neat point quickly followed by a goal for their number 13. Suddenly there was just a goal in it. Aodh Ruadh didn't panic though and a Shane Gillespie point was followed by Shane Brady goal to provide some breathing space. Kilcar answered those scores with two frees from the boot of their number 13. to make it 4-4 to 1-8 with 37 minutes gone. John McNulty's men were still well in the game, but their chances took a body blow in the 41st minute when Eoin Doherty landed his second goal of the game. Kilcar's number 13 hit a point from play and a free to make it 5-4 to 1-10 with 46 minutes on the clock.
However, just as they had done against Naomh Muire in the semi-final, Aodh Ruadh played good controlled football in the game's decisive stages to take victory. Cian Rooney clipped over a trademark left foot effort in the 48th minute. With time almost up, Matt Gillespie somehow managed to get down to stop a Kilcar penalty. Then in four minutes into added time Marty McGarrigle was the right man in the right place to finish a loose ball to the net and put the seal on a great team performance.
Joint captains Adam Clarke and Shane Gillespie collected the trophy after the game. Man of the match was Eoin Doherty, giving an absolutely outstanding performance, with even his late dismissal on a yellow card a function of giving everything for the team. Captains Clarke and Gillespie were superb, with Tiernan Flood Dolan growing with every passing game into a really stylish footballer. Between the posts, the acquisition of Matt Gillespie from the under 14 ranks has arguably turned this team's whole season around. Eugene Doherty and David Doherty at half back put in an amazing shift of work, while Odhran McGarrigle, Mark McGlynn and Harry Howarth did a great job of keeping the voracious attack well supplied.
The winning Aodh Ruadh team was Matt Gillespie; Kyle Murray, Adam Clarke, Nathan Owens-Kelly; Tiernan Flood Dolan, Eugene Doherty, David Doherty; Senan Rooney, Shane Gillespie (1-2); Odhran McGarrigle (0-1), Mark McGlynn, Harry Howarth; Shane Brady (2-0), Eoin Doherty (2-1), Niall Monaghan. Subs: Cian Rooney (0-1); Marty McGarrigle (1-0); JJ Goan; Cian Barden; Frankie McGinley, Daniel Dolan, Jack McCaffrey, Mark Gettins, Colm McGloin, Aaron Neilan and Ryan Keenaghan.
Aodh Ruadh now have a home quarter-final against Glenfin this Sunday at noon in Father Tierney Park. It would be great to see a big vocal home support up to get behind the lads in their bid to make the last four.

Under 13 training this week is on Wednesday from 5.15pm to 6.30pm. Aodh Ruadh will wrap up the round robin stages of the league with an away trip to Dungloe, details of that fixture yet to be confirmed.

Under 9 training continues this Thursday from 6pm to 7pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. There will be an under 9 blitz this Saturday in Donegal town, time to be confirmed.

Ladies
The under 13 girls put in a powerhouse performance against Ardara to book a place in the county final. Aodh Ruadh were outstanding from goalkeeper Áine Hill out. Ardara battled well in the first half, but in the second Ballyshannon took control and were deserved winners in the end. The team are training on Tuesday and Thursday this week from 4.30pm to 5.30pm in preparation for their county final against Gaeil Fhanada. We await confirmation of fixture details for the final.

There is a ladies committee meeting on Thursday 12th October at 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

Hurling
The final underage blitz of the year took place in the Centre of Excellence in Convoy on Saturday, we had under 6s, under 8s and under 10s at this blitz. The under 6s took part in a fun blitz where all the under 6s in the county were mixed together and our lads did very well. The under 8s played five games winning four and drawing one. The under 8s were unbeaten all year at the county blitzes. The under 10s played four games winning three and losing one. That brings the curtain down on a busy year for underage hurling, despite the fact that we have few people willing to help out with underage hurling and our playing numbers were small, the huge efforts of a dedicated few mentors and a committed bunch of lads saw us fielding seven underage teams this season. Hopefully in 2018 some new people might get involved in helping to keep our great game alive.

World Mental Health Day
The Donegal GAA health and well-being committee in association with the Donegal Youth Council asks Donegal Gaels to support and participate in their mental health awareness campaign as part of World Mental Health Day on 10th October. The campaign aims to send out a simple, but important message about minding your mental health and that of your family, friends colleagues and community.
Our simple message is part of international world mental health day and recommended for everyday use. Put the 4Ls into practice today and start making a difference to all our mental health. The 4Ls are...
Listen, out for our family, friends, neighbours, community and be available to them in a time of need
Look, out for each other, the young, and the elderly those who are vulnerable, those living alone, those who are being bullied and those who might be sad.
Laugh at ourselves, laugh with others, life can be serious, but your smile could warm up someone's day.
Link up, stop talking about it and go and do it. Make that link, connection, phone call, text, e-mail, card, or better still a visit.

Celebrating 1992
The 1992 All-Ireland title winning team jubilee celebration banquet will take place in the Abbey Hotel Donegal Town on Friday October 20th. Tickets can be purchased online at donegalgaa.ie or by contacting the Donegal GAA county administrator, Noreen Doherty, at administrator.donegal@gaa.ie or by telephone 074-9190761. Tickets are also available in the Abbey Hotel Donegal town and locally from Sylvester Maguire. Proceeds from the event will go to Pieta House, Donegal Hospice and the Inishowen Flood Relief Fund.

Abbey Centre Bingo
Last week's €400 bingo jackpot was won by John Mitchell of Tullaghan. Celia Burns of Garrison won the stand up game scooping a €130 pot. The snowball survived another week so it rises to €600 on 49 numbers. Bingo as usual this Friday at the Abbey Centre at 9pm. Books cost just €10 with a €2,400 prize fund up for grabs.

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17 October

Football
It's official. A second successive promotion and a second successive league title for the senior footballers of Aodh Ruadh. Cloich Cheann Fhaola needed to beat Ardara on Saturday to force the destination of the league title to a final day shoot out against Aodh Ruadh back in Falcarragh. They were up against it after Ardara went in at the break leading 1-5 to 0-2 in Pearse Memorial, however the visitors made a mighty battle of it in the second half only to come up short by the minimum, 1-7 to 1-6 the final scoreline. Well done to James O'Donnell, the back room team and every player who pulled on a senior jersey in 2017 for all their hard work over the course of the year. The town couldn't be prouder of you.

The final games of the division 2 season take place this Sunday in Cloich Cheann Fhaola. With the league decided our joust with the hosts at Páirc Naomh Fionain will be purely a celebration of football. The reserve game throws in at 1.30pm, followed by the seniors at 3pm.

Elsewhere, comhghairdeas to Anthony McGrath on his recent appointment as Donegal senior team psychologist.

The under 16s booked their place in the county B championship semi-final with a 4-10 to 2-5 victory against Glenfin on Sunday afternoon. The squad continue to develop and progress and Sunday's victory was another major step along the path. Glenfin were a solid defensive side, but the Ernesiders chipped away with early points before Eoin Doherty picked out Martin McGlynn with a divine ball and the centre forward made no mistake with a cracking shot to make it 1-4 to no score. Further goals from Cian Barden and a real beauty from Senan Rooney (He definitely meant it), saw the hosts holding the lead at the break, but coming out to face the wind in the second half. Aodh Ruadh got off the mark three minutes in with a cracking Eugene Doherty point, but after that things became more attritional. Ballyshannon continued to hold the edge though and well deserved goal for Shane Gillespie seven minutes from time followed by Shane Brady's third point shortly after proved to be the insurance scores. Elsewhere Glenswilly beat Buncrana 2-11 to 2-10 and Red Hugh's got the better of Naomh Columba 5-13 to 2-7. The last remaining quarter-final between Malin and Kilcar will be played this Sunday.

The under 13s came up short against Dungloe in their clash on Saturday evening, 3-7 to 2-6 the final score. They now have a three way tie at the top of the league with Dungloe and Ardara. The Southern Minor Board will announce arrangements on Tuesday. Details will be circulated to the team via the WhatsApp group.

Details have been confirmed for the Ballyshannon Shoe Company under 10 league. Teams are as follows.
TEAM A: Oran Gillespie (C), Garvey Meade (VC), Garreth Brennan, Killian McPhelim, Eoghan Gallagher, Fionn Hartin, Sean Maguire, Cádhla Dolan, James Gallagher, Darragh McCready, Eoghan (Blake) Gallagher, Markko Branley, Jack Gormley, Shaun McGarrigle, Eoghan McNulty.
TEAM B: Ted O'Donnell (C), Liam Doogan (VC), Corey Sheridan, Donagh Kelly, Max Roper, Stephen Doran, Patrick Reynolds, Jessica O'Mahoney, Rossa McCauley, Eoghan McCadden, Conor Grennan, Dara Vaughan, Anton Duffy, Cathal Kelly, Patrick Clarke.
TEAM C: Dara McGloin (C), Eoin Cassidy (VC), Darragh O'Mahoney, Lauren Foy, Fionn Doogan, Daithi Sheerin, Cormac Finnegan, Ben Daly, Tomas Keown, Oisin McCadden, Manus Conlan, MJ Ward, William Ryan, Aaron Reynolds, Callum O'Neill
TEAM D: Barry Campbell (C), Rian McCauley (VC), Sean O'Neill, Alan Vaughan, Joseph Gibbions,Bobby Melly, Kian Dykes, Roise Conlan, Jayden Clyne McGrath, Sam Davitt, Callum Dorrian, Anthony Duffy, Ethan Kerrigan, Joey Daly, Aaron McLoone.
Fixtures are as follows.
League games
Friday 20th October: A v B; C v D.
Monday 23rd October: A v C; B v D.
Friday 27th October: A v D; B v C.
Monday 30th October: Semi-finals - 1st place v 4th place; 2nd place v 3rd place.
Friday 3rd November: Cup Final: Winner semi-final 1 v winner semi-final 2; Plate Final: Runner up semi-final 1 v Runner up semi final 2.
Games will be played according to Go Games rules. Two touch, goals and points count the same.
Players to be up each at 6.15pm for a 6.30pm throw in and to bring €1 to cover the cost of the lights.

Ladies
Aodh Ruadh made it back-to-back under 13 county titles on a lovely afternoon for football in Burt. They did it in dominant style too, excelling in every sector of the pitch against a brave Gaeil Fhánada team. They hit the ground running with a fine early point from Aoibhínn McGarrigle. However with Gaeil Fhánada defending resolutely it took time for the scores to come. Niamh Hughes hit the net with goals in the sixth and ninth minutes. That gave Ballyshannon some breathing space, but it wasn't until the 22nd minute before the next score arrived. Once again it was Aoibhínn McGarrigle finding the range with a quality shot. Ciara Gillespie then tucked over a free before Gaeil Fhánada struck for a point. The Blues pushed hard for further scores just before half-time, but Áine Hill was alert and the defence never gave the opposition any time at all to settle on the ball.

It was 2-3 to 0-1 at the break, and there were 11 minutes gone in the second half before the next score arrived. Again it was another lovely shot from Aoibhínn McGarrigle. That was followed two minutes later by a goal for Ciara Gillespie. Lucy McGlynn raided up from centre back for a deserved point before Aoibhínn McGarrigle hit her fifth point of the day with the game into the final quarter. Niamh Hughes showed her strength to fire home her hat trick goal as Aodh Ruadh pushed for the finish. Grainne Maguire made a great run up the pitch and took a lovely left footed point before midfield warrior Emer O'Brien drew the curtain down on proceedings with a fine point.

After the game Donegal Ladies chairman Liam Skelly presented the division 1 championship trophy to Aodh Ruadh captain Caoimhe Hughes-O'Brien. Caoimhe made a great speech paying tribute to her fellow players, management, parents and sponsors. She then called for three cheers for Gaeil Fhánada. Then it was back to Ballyshannon for a beep around the town before refreshments in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh and a watch of the match video where Pearl McHugh showed Marty Morrissey would want to watch his back. A superb team performance and impossible to pick any players out for individual praise on a day when everyone stood up to the mark. The under 14 league in 2018 followed by a second crack at winning All-Ireland honours at Féile are the next targets for this special bunch of players. We have teams, pictures and the presentation video up on aodhruadh.org.

Hurling
There will be a Hurling Foundation Coaching Course on Friday 10th and Saturday 11th November in Ballybofey. The child protection course will take place on the Friday night. For underage hurling to survive in the club we need some new people to get involved in helping out with teams. Anyone interested in doing this course is asked to contact John Rooney on 086- 2587793 before Tuesday 17th October.

Bring and buy sale
There will be a Bring and Buy Sale in the Mercy Hall on Sunday, 12th November from 11am to 3pm. Have you some unused gifts you want to rehome? Are there things about the house you bought, but never used? Any used items you no longer need? Books piling up on shelves? Clothes you won't be wearing again? This is an excellent opportunity to declutter your home or shed and make a few pounds too. It would also be a great opening to sell seasonal produce. If you would like to hire a stall please contact Karol Foley on 086-8780164. The charge for stalls is a modest €20. Proceeds will go towards getting jerseys for under 12 girls.

Club gear
This Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd from 1.30pm to 3.30pm Chris Kelly will be holdING a sizing session for Christmas orders in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh.

Abbey Centre Bingo
Last week's €400 bingo jackpot was shared by Bernie O'Shea and Vincent Keown. There was one winner of the stand up game for a €150 pot. The snowball survived another week so it rises to €625 on 49 numbers. Bingo as usual this Friday at the Abbey Centre at 9pm. Books cost just €10 with a €2,400 prize fund up for grabs.

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24 October

Football
Aodh Ruadh wrapped up their season as champions of division 2 with a dead rubber clash with Cloich Cheann Fhaola in Falcarragh. The hosts lead by 0-8 to 0-2 at the break and weathered a second half rally by the Ernesiders featuring a David McGurrin goal to run out 0-12 to 1-6 winners. After the game Donegal County Board Central Council delegate, Seamus Ó Domhnaill, presented the league trophy to Aodh Ruadh captain, Damien Cleary. League titles have been rare enough at Father Tierney Park, and to claim two in succession is some achievement. Well done to James O'Donnell, mentors and player on bringing us back to Division 1. Only fair at this point to also acknowledge the unglamorous work put in during the wilderness years too. Our return to division 1 is the product of a hard graft by a lot of people over a number of years. An exciting 2018 awaits.

The under 16s' county B championship semi-final will be against Malin this weekend. Keep an eye on the Facebook page for full fixture details. A big vocal Aodh Ruadh support would be much appreciated on the day.

The under 13s have been drawn to play the Northern Champions Glenfin in the county quarter-final on Wednesday at 7.15pm in Convoy. We'd like to see a big showing of Ballyshannon support down at the Saint Mary's grounds to get behind the lads.

The Ballyshannon Shoe Company under 10 league got under way on Monday evening. There was no separating Oran Gillespie's team and Ted O'Donnell's team, a draw game the end result there after a roller coaster battle. With Barry Campbell's team getting the win after a good game against Dara McGloin's team, his Team D outfit takes an early lead in the league standings. The sides are back in action this Friday at 6.15pm Oran Gillespie's Team A take on Dara McGloin's Team C, while Barry Campbell's Team D will look to keep up their winning run as they take on Ted O'Donnell's Team B. Games will be played according to Go Games rules. Two touch, goals and points count the same. Players to be up each at 6.15pm for a 6.30pm throw in and to bring €1 to cover the cost of the lights.

Bring and buy sale
Stalls are booking up fast for the Bring and Buy Sale in the Mercy Hall on Sunday, 12th November from 11am to 3pm. Have you some unused gifts you want to rehome? Are there things about the house you bought, but never used? Any used items you no longer need? Books piling up on shelves? Clothes you won't be wearing again? This is an excellent opportunity to declutter your home or shed and make a few pounds too. It would also be a great opening to sell seasonal produce. If you would like to hire a stall please contact Karol Foley on 086-8780164. The charge for stalls is a modest €20. Proceeds will go towards getting jerseys for under 12 girls.

Diary dates
A few dates for your diaries. The Ladies AGM will take place in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh on Saturday 18th November at 6pm. The underage football presentation night will take place in the Abbey Centre on Saturday 25th November. The Bord na nÓg AGM will take place on Tuesday 28th November. All team managers should have reports submitted to Lisa McTernan by Friday 17th November. The annual club dinner dance will take place on Saturday, 20th January 2019.

Abbey Centre Bingo
Last week's €400 bingo jackpot was won by Danny Goan of Ballyshannon. The stand-up game prize of €150 was shared by Anne Gallagher of Erne Street and Maeve Conway of Cliffoney. The snowball survived another week so it rises to €650 on 49 numbers. The October Big Bingo is this Friday at the Abbey Centre at 9pm. Books cost €15 or get the book and a half special for €20. There's a great €3,400 prize fund up for grabs including the €1,000 jackpot.

RIP Pat Shovelin
Aodh Ruadh extends sincere sympathies to Ardara CLG on the death of Pat Shovelin and also to his wife, children and extended family.

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31 October

Football
Saturday saw the focus switch to the under 21s, and Aodh Ruadh made the perfect start to the championship campaign with a 2-10 to 0-12 win over Saint Eunan's in Father Tierney Park. The Ernesider played the first half with wind assistance. Shane McGrath opened the scoring, with Nathan Boyle and Philip Patton adding further scores before Saint Eunan's hit two of their own. Philip Patton hit two points to restore the goal cushion by the quarter hour mark. Conall Sweeny then set up Shane McGrath to hit the net. Shane McGrath added a point shortly after and two more from Philip Patton made it 1-8 to 0-5 at the break. Eunan's got two points at the start of the new half, but Ballyshannon responded with a Jason Granaghan point to leave five between the sides. A clash of heads saw Calum Cookie O'Halloran exit the fray and with the only sub available used Aodh Ruadh were down to 14. That allowed Saint Eunan's to cut the deficit down to a single point. Ballyshannon stood up to the challenge well though, Natan Boyle landing a magnificent free before Oisin Rooney palmed home the game's second goal. Aodh Ruadh will now play Naomh Conaill in the quarter-final next Sunday at 3pm in Glenties.

The under 16s' county B championship semi-final will be against Malin in Killygordon this Sunday at 12 noon. A big vocal Aodh Ruadh support would be much appreciated on the day.

The under 13s qualified for the county final this week with great wins against Glenfin in the quarter Final and Ardara in the semi-final. The club must acknowledge the sportsmanship offered by Glenfin who conceded home advantage so that Kerry Ryan could play with the Donegal Masters in their All-Ireland quarter-final. Glenfin sportingly agreed to play midweek which meant a match in Convoy under lights mid-week. It was a feast of attacking football which ended 3-10 to 1-16 after full-time. Aodh Ruadh scored two goals and two points in extra time and kept Glenfin to six points. The Northern Division Champions were relentless in their struggle and their talisman Luke McGlynn led the charge heroically. Aodh Ruadh played brilliantly all over the field. Aaron Cullen in goals was magnificent and it is seldom at this level to see 21 points conceded by a team who succeed in limiting their opposition to a single goal. In the end the goals were the winning of the game for Aodh Ruadh. In attack Danny Breen-Brosnan was superb while Aaron Neilan in midfield marshalled the talented McGlynn grittily. Glenfin were a big scalp to claim and brought out the best team performance of the year from the boys. They were gracious in defeat, very worthy of the Northern Divisional title and as players will provide many great occasions for the people of Glenfin for years to come.
The semi-final took place in Glenties on Saturday with a strong wind influential in proceedings. The boys were happy to be within a point at half-time and the comfort of the breeze for the second-half. We were helped on our way with a few goals that combined skill with fortune and the six point win at 4-6 to 2-6 doesn't show how little was between the teams. With the divisional play-off and final to come after the county final it is likely we will meet Ardara again soon and a hardy battle is guaranteed. Credit to the backs in this game, Seimi Campbell, Pauric Daly, Damian Weber, Shane Delahunty and Darragh Flood-Dolan who stood firm against the Ardara attack.
The county final will be on Saturday in O'Donnell Park, Letterkenny. The Division 2 Final is at 12.30pm with Aodh Ruadh v MacCumhaill's at 2pm. Best of luck to the boys in the game, and please make an effort to get along and show your support for this magnificent group of players.

The second round of the Ballyshannon Shoe Company under 10 league took place last Friday evening. The first game saw Oran Gillespie's team lost out Dara McGloin's team. Meanwhile Barry Campbell's team D continued their winning run with a victory against Ted O'Donnell's Team B. The sides are back in action this Friday when Oran Gillespie's Team A take on Barry Campbell's Team D, while Dara McGloin's Team C are pitted against Ted O'Donnell's Team B. Players to be up at 5pm for a 5.15pm throw in and to bring €1 to cover the cost of the lights.

Finishing the Fitness Trail
Aodh Ruadh Centre of Excellence moves on to the next stage of development with the running track and fitness trail. With all of the heavy construction work completed on the new track the Park / Development Committee are putting the funding together to finish the project the track. The completed circuit will be over a third of a mile long and well sheltered by the high walls at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh and incorporates a 100m sprint section. Our next effort to help the move the development forward takes place this Saturday, 4th November with a Town Collection. Volunteers are needed to assist. We would like help from all parts of the club. Please text your availability to Tom Daly on 087-2390410 indicating your choice of three hour period 9am to 12; 12 noon to 3pm; Or 3pm to 6pm. It is planned to have the track surfaced for use early in the New Year. Please bring a high visibility vest on the day.

Abbey Centre Bingo
The October big bingo jackpot of €800 was won by Damian McGurran of Bundoran. Kathleen Mitchel claimed the stand-up game, scooping a fine €200 pot. The snowball survived another week so it rises to €675 on 50 numbers. Bingo as usual this Friday at the Abbey Centre at 9pm, books cost just €10 with a €2,500 prize fund up for grabs.

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