Club Notes Archive - 2022
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April
- 5 April
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Football
Aodh Ruadh bagged two valuable points on their opening day visit to Towney on Sunday afternoon. Conditions were rather less than optimal for football, with driving rain and a strong breeze making life difficult for both sides. However, it was the Ernesiders who made the best fist of things against a Kilcar outfit minus many of their marquee players. Aodh Ruadh started well with Shane McGrath, Diarmaid McInerney and David Dolan giving their side a cushion they would retain right through to the final whistle. Kilcar only managed to register two points in the opening half, and with Darren Drummond, David Dolan and Eamonn McGrath all finding the range it was 0-6 to 0-2 in favour of Aodh Ruadh at the turn-around. Kilcar had the benefit, such as it was, of the conditions in the second half, but Aodh Ruadh won the second half, thanks primarily to some outstanding goalkeeping by Peter Boyle and flinty defending from the likes of Johnny Gallagher, Eddie Lynch and Conor Patton. Over the first 20 minutes of the second half Ballyshannon rolled with the punches as two points for Kilcar left that dangerous two-point margin between the sides. Aodh Ruadh finished strongly though and three points on the bounce from Nathan Boyle, Matt Gillespie and Niall Murray sealed the result in the visitors' favour. The Aodh Ruadh team and scorers were Peter Boyle; Jason Granaghan, Conor Patton, Colm Kelly; Michael McKenna, Johnny Gallagher, Kyle Murray; Eamonn McGrath (0-1), Shane McGrath (0-1); Diarmaid McInerney (0-1), David Dolan (0-2, 1f), Gary Carty; Eddie Lynch, Matt Gillespie (0-1), Darren Drummond (0-1). Subs: Nathan Boyle (0-1) for Gary Carty HT; Niall Murray (0-1) for Darren Drummond 54m; Ryan Granaghan for Matt Gillespie 59m.It was a relatively young Aodh Ruadh reserve squad which made the trip to Kilcar on Sunday afternoon, with Brian Gillespie and Spanny Goan taking on the managerial reins. That didn't stop them putting in a gritty performance to earn the points in their league opener against the hosts. As in the senior game, Aodh Ruadh had the elements at their backs for the opening half, but after 30 hard fought minutes with the sides going point for point, it was the homesters who edged matters at the interval with the scoreline reading 0-5 to 0-4. The Ernesiders looked like they had it all to do in the second half, but they got the perfect start when Dylan Gallagher rattled to the back of the Kilcar net. The sides went point for point again, before Aodh Ruadh opened up a two-point margin midway through the half, and they managed to hold that to the final whistle as it finished 1-8 to 0-9. One of the old guard, Karl O'Brien, was impeccable between the posts, keeping a clean sheet, while in front of him the young Daire Gallagher was very impressive, Ciaran Slevin played some neat football, and recent Grange import Cathal Kelly looked sound at centre back. Around the middle Donagh McIntyre really caught the eye with a strong display while Senan Rooney, Damian Weber and Odhran McGarrigle contributed well also.
Next up for Aodh Ruadh is the visit of Cloich Cheann Fhaola to Páirc Aoidh Ruadh this Sunday. The reserves get the action under way at 1.30pm, followed by the senior clash at 3pm.
The minors had their first outing of the season against Four Masters last Friday. Unfortunately, they came up second best in Tir Chonaill Park against a strong home outfit. The Aodh Ruadh lads are at home this Friday at 7pm when Ardara will be the guests in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.
Good luck to Senan Rooney, Kyle Murray, Aaron Cullen and the Donegal under 20s in their Ulster under 20 championship this Friday against Tyrone. Donegal booked their place in the last four with a 1-13 to 0-9 win over Armagh in Ballybofey. This Friday's semi-final clash takes place in Celtic Park, Derry with a throw-in time of 8pm. Well done to Eoghan Kelly, Shane Delahunty and the Donegal minors on their 0-12 to 1-4 win against Sligo in the Ulster minor league last weekend. Next up for the squad is their Ulster Championship opener on Saturday 23rd April against either Fermanagh or Down in Ballybofey.
Training continues for the under 15s this Wednesday from 5.30pm to 6.30pm on the top pitch at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.
Our under 13 training continues on Saturday at 3pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh, and on Monday at 6.45pm on the Coláiste Cholmcille pitch.
Hurling
Aodh Ruadh comfortably accounted for Monaghan Harps in the latest round of the Táin League. Played in a sunny Lisnaskea on Sunday afternoon, Ballyshannon had too much firepower for their Oriel opponents and ran out 1-18 to 1-8 victors. The Ernesiders got on top in the early exchanges, but a goal just before half-time let the Harps back in to the game as the sides turned around at 0-11 to 1-4. Aodh Ruadh started well again in the second half and an early goal put them in control of proceedings as they ran out convincing winners on a ten point margin. This Sunday Aodh Ruadh will be in Táin League semi-final action against Portadown-based outfit Saint Malachy's, venue and throw-in time to be confirmed.Our under 13s had their first outing of the season this evening at home to Lisnaskea Emmet's in the Táin Óg League. The boys sported a new set of jerseys for the occasion, Kindly sponsored by the Tyre Specialist Centre. The new gear proved lucky as the Ernesiders strolled to a comprehensive victory over a youthful Emmet's outfit. Next up for the under 13s is a trip to Ballybofey to take on MacCumhaill's this Thursday in the Donegal League, throw-in at 6.30pm.
Underage training continues this coming Sunday. Our under 11s and under 13s will be training at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh from 10.30am. The under 13s will also be training at the same venue on Thursdays from 6.15pm. The under 5s, under 7s and under 9s are training on Sunday from 11.45am at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. Any new player who wants to link up with any of those teams should please contact John Larkin on 086-1076883 to be added to the team WhatsApp group. We would warmly welcome any new players at all of these age groups, hurls and helmets will be provided. We have some great shots of last Sunday's training up on aodhruadh.org.
Give it a go Session: We plan to run a give it a go session for ages under 5 up to under 11 in the coming weeks. This will be separate to our underage training and will give players an opportunity to try the game before coming up to a training session! Keep an eye on the club Facebook page and club notes for more details!
Our under 15s and under 17s continue to welcome new players, or players who have played in the past and are interested in playing again. For under 15, please contact Paul Sheridan on 087-6572157. For under 17 please contact Daithi Breen on 087-9287965.
Ladies
The senior ladies entertained Carndonagh for the opening match of their division two campaign at a bright and sunny Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh on Sunday morning. It was a very dominant display by the Shamettes, with the immensely impressive Eimear McMahon getting the scoring under way with an early free. Points for Terri Gallagher, Síofra Hughes and Cáit Gillespie followed before Cáit found the net. That was followed shortly after by a goal from Terri Gallagher, and a second green flag for Gillespie. Aoibheann McGarrigle then clipped over the point of the game to become her side's fifth scorer. Carndonagh notched a point before half-time, but at the break the hosts were well in control at 3-12 to 0-1. Highlight of the second half from an Aodh Ruadh perspective was a 1-1 haul for repurposed full back Sara Gallagher, but credit to a gallant Carndonagh side who kept carrying the fight to the homesters to the very end. A very encouraging start to 2022 for the senior Aodh Ruadh ladies, with every member of the attack deserving of particular praise. We have a great gallery of images from the game live on aodhruadh.org.The junior ladies took on Red Hugh's on Sunday morning. This was a reprise of the Ernesiders' opening game of 2021, when they had come up short against the well-drilled Red Hugh's girls on a blisteringly hot day in Killygordon. The Crossroads ladies were just as strong this time out, but the progress made by the Aodh Ruadh girls was very much in evidence in this very evenly fought contest. The visitors hit the opening two points of the game, but those were cancelled out three minutes in when Amanda Mahon swept home a well-taken goal. Red Hugh's came back with 1-1 in reply, but that was answered by two superbly executed Sarah Daly frees and another excellent dead ball strike by Brídín Maguire to make it 1-3 apiece at the end of the first quarter. Killygordon hit another 1-1 salvo, but again Aodh Ruadh reacted well with an Abi Barrett goal keeping her side very much in the game. Red Hugh's engineered two points in response, but another fine Brídín Maguire free meant that at half-time the scores read Red Hugh's 2-6 Aodh Ruadh 2-4. The Shamettes stepped things up on the restart, and after Red Hugh's had opened the scoring with a free, responded with a brilliantly finished goal by Katie Gallagher. That made it a draw game and shortly after Brídín Maguire edged the hosts in front with a free. Amanda Mahon extended the lead with a lovely point, but Red Hugh's came back to level once more with two points. With time running down another Maguire free was followed by another point for Ballyshannon to make it 3-8 to 2-9. Aodh Ruadh were looking like they might grab the win at this point, but a Red Hugh's point was followed by a goal to thrust the visitors back into the lead with very little time remaining. Aodh Ruadh did manage to cut the deficit to a point, but couldn't engineer an equalising score as Red Hugh's snatched the points. All in all, a superb display by the Ballyshannon junior ladies, even if the final result didn't go their way. Elaine Dorrian was very sound between the posts, while the full back line of Megan McGee, Roisin McGloin and Shauna Dolan gave great cover. In midfield Erin O'Loughlin and Kate Cunningham were fantastic, as was Katie O'Brien who offered a lot of creativity in the middle third. We have a large gallery of images from the game live on aodhruadh.org.
Our under 16s were the first ladies team in action for 2022 last Thursday, making the trip to O'Donnell Park to take on Saint Eunan's. After a period of cat and mouse it was Aodh Ruadh who made the first impact on the score board, with Cara O'Loughlin striding through and calmly stroking past the Eunan's netminder with seven minutes gone. The hosts took charge after that though, and hit an unanswered 1-5 and looked to be well set as the interval loomed. Ballyshannon hadn't been without their chances though and when Ellie Hoey finished crisply to the net it probably put a fair reflection on the exchanges, with the visitors trailing by just two points. Unfortunately, at half-time half forward Abbie Gallagher was unable to continue and there was much concern about her condition. We have to thank Saint Eunan's for all their help and assistance with this incident. Abbie had been having a great game, so it was sad to see it brought to a premature end and we all hope she makes a full and speedy recovery. Back on the pitch, Saint Eunan's continued to dominate possession, but Ballyshannon were still in touching distance at the second-half water break. In the end though a couple of goals in the last quarter helped see the hosts to the win. Cara O'Loughlin and Jodie Meade both netted for the Ernesiders, but it was Saint Eunan's who finished deserved victors on a 4-8 to 4-1 scoreline. Cara O'Loughlin was outstanding for Aodh Ruadh, while Fodhla Sheerin and Katie McGowan were superb in a defence which had a lot of work to get through over the 60 minutes and Shauna McGloin made some cracking stops. Lauren Foy was excellent when she dropped to half back, while further up the pitch Ellie Hoey and Orlaith Gallagher put in big shifts. Training continues on Tuesday at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh from 7.15pm to 8.15pm.
Under 14 training will start this Tuesday, 5th April, at 7pm at Coláiste Cholmcille school pitch. Can all parents ensure that the girls are there for 6.45pm sharp so we can start for 7pm please. Training will last an hour. With COVID on the rise again girls are asked to bring their own water bottles. The management are looking forward to seeing everyone on Tuesday night. Anybody who can't make it should notify the management.
Training continues for under 12 girls this Tuesday at Coláiste Cholmcille from 6pm to 7pm. Please note that Thursday's session at Coláiste Cholmcille will now run from from 5.30pm to 6.30pm. Please bring water and gum shields. It was great to see some new faces last week. If you haven't tried football before, why not come up and give it a crack, you will be made very welcome.
Pick of the Pundits!
Have you made your Pick of the Pundits selection yet? This is the Ladies' major fund-raiser of the year with €500 to be won! Use your sporting smarts to select the winner of 20 of this year's marquee sporting events from five options offered. If your selection comes up, you receive the corresponding number of points, and take a step closer to the Pick of the Pundits title! First prize €250. Second prize €100. Third prize €75. Fourth Prize €50. Fifth prize €25. Enter online at aodhruadh.org/pundit/, or you can get a card from any member of the senior ladies teams. Cards are also available in the Bank Bar, Bundoran, Andrew Doherty's Bookmakers, Seán Óg's, O'Donnell's Bar, The Bridgend Bar, Owen Roe's and the Bullfrog. Keep an eye on club social media channels over the next couple of weeks for some expert guidance on making your Pundit selections! Our thanks to the Bank Bar, Bundoran who have come on board as a competition sponsor. We hope to have further sponsors announced shortly. In the event of a tie, the winner will be decided by the closest answer to a tie-breaker question. Entry fee is €10 and the closing date for entries is Friday, 8th April 2022. In the event of cancellations or postponements, the leader board as at 1st August, 2022 will be final. Standings will be published regularly on www.aodhruadh.org as the competition progresses.Healthy Club initiative
Aodh Ruadh are delighted to be selected as one of 440 GAA clubs nationally to take part in the GAA’s Healthy Club Project. Recently, Jo McNulty and Maura Gallagher represented the club at a Healthy Clubs Conference in Croke Park. The main aim of this conference was to encourage clubs to become Health Hubs within their communities and support the development of Healthy Club priorities for the year ahead. This project is an excellent opportunity to gain recognition for all the great work the club is already doing to promote health and well-being, alongside utilising the club to reach as many people in our community as possible to make healthier life choices. Our newly formed Healthy Club team will work together to develop the club into a GAA recognised ‘Healthy Club’ working on a number of key areas such as: Physical activity and social games, diversity and inclusion, community development and signposting to supports and services, healthy eating, mental health, alcohol, drug, gambling awareness and working towards becoming a smoke free club. We have a number of exciting ideas that we will be working on over the coming months and ask that if you have any suggestions or would like to lend your support to any of our key areas to please contact the club's Health and Wellbeing Officer, Maura Gallagher, by email at mauragallagher1@hotmail.com.Club gear
Chris Kelly will be taking orders for club acadmey / LGFA jerseys and club gear over the next week. Keep an eye on Facebook and the club's social media output where we will have full details on what's available and how to place your order.Ballyshannon Bingo
Well done to all our winners last Friday night! Rosaleen O’Brien took home €250 on the 50/50 Jackpot. Mary Travers won two house prizes and it was a good night too for the Brennan/McGonigle family too with three checks between Kathleen and Mary. House winners were Mary Travers x 2, Mary Clancy, Michael Doherty, Josie Lynch, Avril O'Brien, Kathleen Brennan, Aisling Davis and Lesley Lynch. Line winners were Bríd Barrett, Sharon Coyle, Margaret Meehan, Sally Burrows, Kathleen Brennan, Sharon McDonald, Aaron McLoone, Martin Travers, Rosaleen O'Brien, Sarah O'Shea, Fergus Molloy, Helen Coughlin, Mary McGonigle, Regina O'Connor and Breda Gallagher. We also had eight books won for this weeks bingo. The new Snowball survived its first night so rolls to €250 this week as part of a €2,000 prize fund.
Be sure to follow our like and share competition during the week to be in with a chance to win free books! We will play 10 games of bingo including our snowball, jackpot and lucky numbers games. Books are now available and can be purchased up to 4.30pm on Friday.
Click this link to buy a SINGLE BOOK for €10.
Click this link to buy a DOUBLE BOOK for €15.
Books bought by 9am Thursday morning will be emailed at lunchtime on Thursday. Books bought by 9am Friday will be emailed at Friday lunchtime. Books then bought before the 4.30pm deadline will be emailed by 6pm Friday. The Zoom invite will be circulated with your books. The Zoom call will open at 8pm with the first game starting at 8.30pm. Make sure to check your spam or junk folder if you don’t think you received your books. We’re looking forward to meeting you all again and thank you as always for your continued support!Last man standing
The weekend of National Football League action saw our four remaining entries pick the winners of each of the four league finals. Daryl Brennan went out on Saturday and he was followed by Ryan Calvey on Sunday. That left us with joint winners Sean Perry and Susan Sheridan, who picked all four winners over the weekend! Thank you to everyone who entered and supported us, and thanks as always Liam Gallen and Mr G's for his generous sponsorship.Club registration
The club registration deadline has passed for 2022. We would like to thank all those who signed up and everyone who helped facilitate the process. Players can still register, but, as per GAA rule, they will not be eligible to field until five days after their date of registration. Of course, no player can line out for the club if they are not registered. Non-playing adults can still register if they wish, but they will not be eligible to vote at AGM, and those registered prior to 1 April will continue to receive first priority for the club's allocation of All-Ireland final tickets in the event of Donegal contesting the decider.Juvenile Hurlers Table Quiz
Thank you to everyone for supporting our table quiz last Thursday. We had a great nights craic and well done to all our prize winners on the evening.
- 12 April
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Ulster Championship Ticket Orders
Those who wish to order tickets for the Donegal v Armagh Ulster Senior Football Championship quarter-final should text Club Secretary Lisa McTernan on 085-1061456 by 8pm on Tuesday, 12th April. Adult membership must have been paid to be eligible to order tickets.Football
Aodh Ruadh joined Naomh Conaill and Glenfin in making it two wins from two in ACFL Division 1. They put some early nerves behind them to run out reasonably comfortable 1-13 to 0-6 winners against Cloich Cheann Fhaola on Sunday afternoon in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. The visitors had opened up a two-point lead after a bright opening first quarter, with the Ernesiders having only a Diarmaid McInerney free to show for their efforts. Aodh Ruadh settled though and held the Blues scoreless for much of the remainder of the game as they steadily moved through the gears and began to pick off scores themselves. Indeed, the homesters had rattled off seven points in the run up to half-time to head in at the break leading by 0-8 to 0-3. The game was definitively tilted in Aodh Ruadh's favour six minutes into the new half when Nathan Boyle and Eamonn McGrath combined to put Matt Gillespie in on goal and the Creevy ace made no mistake. Dead balls from Diarmaid McInerney and Peter Boyle helped ease John McNulty's side to the victory as time ran down. The Aodh Ruadh team and scorers were: Peter Boyle (0-1f); Jason Granaghan, Conor Patton, Colm Kelly; Michael McKenna, Johnny Gallagher, Kyle Murray; Eamonn McGrath (0-1), Nathan Boyle (0-2); Eddie Lynch (0-2), David Dolan, Diarmaid McInerney (0-4f); Shane McGrath (0-2), Darren Drummond, Matt Gillespie (1-1). Subs: Niall Murray for Johnny Gallagher 10 minutes; Ryan Granaghan for Darren Drummond 54 minutes; Gary Carty for Eamonn McGrath (55).The reserves' scheduled clash against Cloich Chean Fhaola fell by the wayside, but fortunately they were able to organise a challenge against the Belcoo seniors. The Aodh Ruadh lads put in a very strong display. Damian Weber was a dynamic, bustling presence at full forward, winning a lot of ball when he was outnumbered and holding the play up well. Donagh McIntyre followed up on his dominant performance in Kilcar with a big shift around the middle of the park fetching a lot of ball. Ryan Keenaghan put in another very promising display at full back, with Daire Gallagher tigerish at corner back and coming out with a lot of ball. Special mention also to Darragh Flood Dolan who worked tirelessly up and down the pitch from wing forward.
Aodh Ruadh are back on the road this Easter Sunday, Glenswilly providing the opposition at Páirc Naomh Columba. The reserves get the action under way at 1.30pm, followed by the senior clash at 3pm.
The minors had their second league fixture last Friday, with Ardara coming to Ballyshannon for what proved an evenly fought encounter. Aodh Ruadh had to line out with just the bare 15, but the lads who pulled on the jersey put in a great shift and could have maybe snatched the result with a bit of luck. The game was a great spectacle for the neutral with play ebbing back and forth, but Ardara finished with their noses in front on a final scoreline of 3-9 to 3-7. Best for the homesters on the day was midfielder Dara McGloin in midfield who put in another of his consistent, heart-on-the-sleeve display. Back in defence there was a resolute performance from Ted O'Donnell. In the attack Jack Gallagher capped an excellent display with a well-taken goal, while Cian Duncan and Robbie Murphy both also managed to raise green flags.
After a wee bit of a lay off our under 15s return to action this Wednesday when Saint Naul's are the visitors to Páirc Aoidh Ruadh for a 7pm throw-in. Well done to Joseph Gibbions, Sean O'Neill, Garreth Brennan, Corey Sheridan and Eoin Gallagher who all played for an under 15 South Donegal side mentored by Brian Roper at the Donegal Centre of Excellence against both Fermanagh and Antrim.
This Wednesday sees the under 13s continue their programme of pre-season challenges with an away game against Enniskillen Gaels. Throw-in at Brewster Park will be 6pm, with the game taking place on the on pitch behind the John Vesey Stand. Training for the team continues on Mondays at 5.45pm at the Coláiste Cholmcille pitch and on Saturdays at 3pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.
Our under 11s are taking on Bundoran this Saturday in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh with the action getting under way at 12.15pm.
There will be no under 9 training this Friday. Under 9 fixtures will commence on Saturday, 23rd April with a home blitz against Dungloe. Further details will be posted on the team's WhatsApp group.
Indoor under 7 training has concluded with sessions now moving outdoors. Training will change to a Friday night from 5.30pm to 6.30pm with the first training taking place on Friday, 22nd April. Location will confirmed closer to the date. Happy Easter to all our players.
Hurling
Aodh Ruadh returned to Donegal Senior Hurling League action against Setanta's senior side in Killygordon on Friday evening. Despite losing by 1-16 to 0-6, a young Ballyshannon team fielded in determined mood and gave a good account of themselves. At half-time the Ernesiders trailed by 0-8 to 0-4, with Rory Cullen firing over three from frees and one from play. Former Tyrone senior footballer, Mark Devine had a great second half tussle with Aodh Ruadh full back Adam Rami. Devine eventually managed to shake of Rami's tenacious shackles and found the net with the Setanta goal. The final scoreline was a promising sign against a seasoned senior Setanta team. Well done in particular to the younger members making the step up to senior hurling. Aodh Ruadh's next senior league game is at home to Buncrana this Saturday at Páirc Aoidh Ruadh at 7pm.Our under 13s started their Donegal league campaign with a defeat at the hands of MacCumhaill's down in Ballybofey on Thursday. Our lads put in a brave performance and fought right until the final whistle, but goals from MacCumhaill's proved to be the difference between the two sides. Our team had some very strong performances right across the team, but in particular some of the older members of the team really put their shoulder to the wheel. The team continue their campaign with a fixture at home against Dungloe on Thursday, with a throw in time of 7pm.
Our under 15s campaign is due to get underway this week with a Táin Óg League fixture, facing off against Armagh kingpins, Middletown Na Fianna. They will be sporting a new set of jerseys kindly sponsored by Diarmuid Whoriskey from Rathmore Mechanical Services. The very best of luck to all the players and the panel for the upcoming season.
Underage training continues as normal on Easter Sunday for under 5s, under 7s and under 9s at 11.45am in Páirc Aodh Ruadh with a mini-internal blitz to run off some of the Easter eggs! Our under 11s will be training at 10.30am
Give it a go Session: We plan on running a give it a go session for ages under 5 up to under 11 in the coming weeks. This will be separate to our under age training and will give an opportunity to players to try the game before coming up to a training session. Keep an eye on the club Facebook page and club notes for more details. This week we had our first of these sessions when we visited our neighbours in Realt na Mara and took part in their under 9 football session. Bundoran have a great tradition of players hurling for us and we look forward to continuing this into the future. We will be back again with Bundoran on Saturday, thank you to Tommy Hourihane for facilitating this initiative.
Our under 15s and under 17s continue to welcome new players, or players who have played in the past and are interested in playing again. For under 15, please contact Paul Sheridan on 087-6572157. For under 17 please contact Daithi Breen on 087-9287965.
Ladies
The senior ladies had a very enjoyable Sunday on the road, travelling up to Dublin to watch the National League finals. Ahead of the action in Croke Park the squad got in a challenge against Swords-based outfit Fingallians. It was a great sporting affair, probably most notable for birthday girl Cadhla Gillepie and her cousin Faye Gillespie making their senior debuts at the ages of 13 and 12 respectively! After that it was off to Croke Park, and while the result on the pitch didn't go Donegal's way, it was a great experience to be at HQ, with nobody having been at Croker since before lockdown. After that it was up the road with plenty of craic flowing on the bus and a stop for a bite to eat in Cavan before rolling back into Ballyshannon at near midnight. Huge thanks to Sarah Daly for organising the bus and tickets to the big match, thanks also to Paul Gillespie for helping to pull the outing together, and, of course, a big shout out to the good people at Fingallians who took such great care of us. Adult ladies training continues on Wednesday and Friday. This Sunday there is a return to more serious business with the Division 3 ladies travelling to Towney to tackle Kilcar at 10.30pm. The following week, Sunday April 24th, both adult ladies sides will be at home with the Division 3 ladies getting the action under way at 10am against Four Masters before the Division 2 ladies take the field at 11.30am to face Gaoth Dobhair.The under 16 girls have their second outing of the season this Thursday when they entertain Ardara in Páirc Aoidh, throw-in at 5.45pm. Training has moved to Mondays at 7pm and Wednesdays at 7.30pm on the Coláiste Cholmcille pitch.
A huge thank you to Rossa and Rosemary Danagher of Rossano’s Hair and Beauty who have sponsored a new set of jerseys for the under 14 girls this year. The jerseys should be ready just in time for the start of the league. Training continues at 7pm sharp on Tuesdays at Coláiste Cholmcille school pitch. Players are asked to be at the pitch for 6.45pm. The girls have a challenge game this Friday against Grange in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh at 5pm.
Training continues for under 12 girls this Tuesday at Coláiste Cholmcille from 6pm to 7pm. Please note there will be no Thursday sessions over the Easter fortnight.
Well done to Cara O'Loughlin and the Donegal under 16s who had an excellent 4-18 to 6-9 win over Cavan in the Ulster Championship on Saturday afternoon.
Park Development Committee Table Quiz
What better way to ease yourself into the long Easter weekend than by testing your knowledge at the quiz in Owen Roe's this Thursday evening?! The classic table quiz format, and just €20 entry for a table of four with a bumper raffle on the night too. A great night of craic in store and no work on Friday!All-Ireland Basketball success
Huge congratulations to under 16 girls Lauren Foy, Fodhla Sheerin, Cadhla Dolan, Jodie Meade, Hannah McGuinness, Emer McDevitt, Nessa Mitchell and Aoife Travers and the rest of the Ballyshannon 88ers under 16 basketball team who claimed the All-Ireland C title on Sunday in Gormanstown. A super achievement by players and management and we are all very proud of them.Healthy Club initiative
Aodh Ruadh are delighted to be selected as one of 440 GAA clubs nationally to take part in the GAA’s Healthy Club Project. Recently, Jo McNulty and Maura Gallagher represented the club at a Healthy Clubs Conference in Croke Park. The main aim of this conference was to encourage clubs to become Health Hubs within their communities and support the development of Healthy Club priorities for the year ahead. This project is an excellent opportunity to gain recognition for all the great work the club is already doing to promote health and well-being, alongside utilising the club to reach as many people in our community as possible to make healthier life choices. Our newly formed Healthy Club team will work together to develop the club into a GAA recognised ‘Healthy Club’ working on a number of key areas such as: Physical activity and social games, diversity and inclusion, community development and signposting to supports and services, healthy eating, mental health, alcohol, drug, gambling awareness and working towards becoming a smoke free club. We have a number of exciting ideas that we will be working on over the coming months and ask that if you have any suggestions or would like to lend your support to any of our key areas to please contact the club's Health and Wellbeing Officer, Maura Gallagher, by email at mauragallagher1@hotmail.com.Club gear
Chris Kelly will be taking orders for club acadmey / LGFA jerseys and club gear over the next week. Keep an eye on Facebook and the club's social media output where we will have full details on what's available and how to place your order.Ballyshannon Bingo
Well done to all our winners last week. Doreen McDonald took home €250 on the 50/50 game. The house winners were Conal Gallagher, Rose McGee, Regina Dolan, Nyoka Walker, Marion Matthews, Marie Gallagher, Aaron McLoone, Patrice Cox, Doreen Patton, Aine Burns, Breege Gormley and Meave Doherty. Other cash winners on the lines were Grace Martin, Nyoka Walker, Fiona Murphy, Regina Dolan, Regina O’Connor, Kathleen Brennan, Christina Gallagher, Mary Fitzpatrick, Martin Travers and Rosaleen O’Brien. The Snowball escaped to roll to €300 on 43 numbers this week. A total of 11 free books for this week's bingo were also won.
Be sure to follow our like and share competition during the week to be in with a chance to win free books! We will play 10 games of bingo including our snowball, jackpot and lucky numbers games. Books are now available and can be purchased up to 4.30pm on Friday.
Click this link to buy a SINGLE BOOK for €10.
Click this link to buy a DOUBLE BOOK for €15.
Books bought by 9am Thursday morning will be emailed at lunchtime on Thursday. Books bought by 9am Friday will be emailed at Friday lunchtime. Books then bought before the 4.30pm deadline will be emailed by 6pm Friday. The Zoom invite will be circulated with your books. The Zoom call will open at 8pm with the first game starting at 8.30pm. Make sure to check your spam or junk folder if you don’t think you received your books. We’re looking forward to meeting you all again and thank you as always for your continued support!Pick of the Pundits
We pulled down the shutters on entries for our Pick of the Pundits competition, kindly sponsored by the Bank Bar, on Saturday afternoon with the competitive end of things getting under way with the Grand National at Aintree. Noble Yeats took the honours there, just ahead of Any Second Now, so if you had 'Others' for the National you were up four points. The Ladies Football national league final saw Meath getting the better of Donegal, so anyone who was on the Royals saw five points added to their tally. Then later on Sunday Scottie Scheffler won the Green Jacket at Augusta, so once again, 'Others' was the smart pick there with five points going to those who took that option. We'll have a full listing of rankings on aodhruadh.org shortly. Next up is Snooker World Championship which gets underway this Saturday. Thank you to everyone who entered and supported us, and thanks as always Hannah Doherty and the Bank Bar for their generous sponsorship of this competition.
- 19 April
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Football
After two wins from two, enforced absences and injuries meant that Aodh Ruadh travelled to Glenswilly with a considerably altered squad for Sunday's ACFL Division 1 clash. It was low-scoring and cagey fare with Aodh Ruadh perhaps guilty of some profligacy in front of the posts. In a low key first half the sides went blow for blow, Diarmaid McInerney and Shane McGrath on the mark as the the score board read 0-2 apiece running up to half-time. However the homesters grabbed two points before the interval to hold the psychological edge at the break. The resumption saw Ballyshannon return with a much more business-like attitude and points from Nathan Boyle, Cian Rooney and Diarmaid McInerney edged the visitors in front seven minutes into the new half. Glenswilly responded with two points before a booming effort by Donagh McInerney leveled matters again at six points apiece on 40 minutes. That was to be as good as it got for John McNulty's men though as Glenswilly got their noses in front again and this time managed to keep Ballyshannon at arm's length as the clock ran down. Aodh Ruadh did manage to keep on the hosts' tails with points from Nathan Boyle and Colm Kelly, but in the end Glenswilly held on to take the victory on a scoreline of Glenswilly 0-11 Aodh Ruadh 0-8. The Aodh Ruadh team and scorers were: Peter Boyle; Jason Granaghan, Conor Patton, Colm Kelly (0-1); Michael McKenna, Eddie Lynch, Kyle Murray; Nathan Boyle (0-2, 1f), Shane McGrath (0-1); Ryan McKenna (0-2f), Cian Rooney (0-1), Diarmaid McInerney; Ryan Granaghan, Donagh McIntyre (0-1), Matt Gillespie. Subs: Gary Carty and Dylan Gallagher for Matt Gillespie and Diarmaid McInerney (50), Ryan Keenaghan for Ryan McKenna (56), Calum O'Halloran for Jason Granaghan (58).In the reserve curtain-raiser Aodh Ruadh started off very brightly with Damian Weber hitting 1-1 in the space of five minutes. The back line were doing well and generating some good turn over possession. With Colm McGloin at full back and Mark McGlynn getting on the ball and helping out the forward line the Ballyshannon lads were generating some good forward momentum. Glenswilly fought back strongly though and it was 1-9 to 1-5 at half-time in favour of the homesters. Once again Ballyshannon had a good start to the half on the restart with Dermot Slevin slotting two quick points to leave just the minimum between the sides. Glenswilly raided for the next two points before Senan Rooney swept over his second point of the day. Harry Howarth capped a good display by turning the ball over and firing over a point. Damian Weber also hit a second half point to bring his tally to 1-2. Manager for the day, Kerry Ryan, then came on for a late cameo and flighted over a trademark score. It was a a great team effort by the boys who traveled down and they never threw in the towel at any stage, but the game finished in a 1-9 to 1-17 win for the Glenswilly men.
Aodh Ruadh will be entertaining Naomh Conaill this coming Saturday in the next round of the league. The reserves get the action under way at 5.30pm, followed by the senior clash at 7pm.
The minors had no game last week. Their next fixture is this Friday when they take on Four Masters in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh at 7pm.
The under 15s turned in a very impressive display against Saint Naul's in the league on Wednesday evening. Aodh Ruadh got on top early with Garvey Meade and Eoin Cassidy really taking charge of matters in the middle of the field. They were able to keep plenty of quality ball flowing into the attack where Dara McGloin and Killian McPhelim made great use of it. Ballyshannon were well clear at half-time and steadily extended their advantage over the course of the second half. Corey Sheridan came out from goals for the second half and took a nice point. Meanwhile Jun Hui Lin kept the rearguard well-marshalled throughout as it finished Aodh Ruadh 4-23 Saint Naul's 4-6. On Bank Holiday Monday the squad were in Inishowen for the group stages of the Féile competition. After winning their first outing against Malin by two points, the Ballyshannon lads were unfortunate to lose out to Muff by two points. Muff then went on to win the competition. Highlight of the day was a cracker of a goal by Killian McPhelim, with some great performances across all three matches by Eoin Cassidy, Liam Doogan and Jun Hui Lin. The next assignment for the under 15s is a league clash with Four Masters in Tir Chonaill Park on Wednesday at 7pm.
This Wednesday sees the under 13s continue their programme of pre-season challenges with an away game against Melvin Gaels. Players should be in Kinlough for 6.50pm. This Saturday the team will be taking part in an under 13 blitz in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. All players should be at the park for 9.45am.
Our under 11s will get their Go Games programme under way this week. The 'Green' squad play Ardara at home on Wednesday evening at 7pm, while the 'White' squad play Bundoran away on Saturday at 3pm.
Under 9 fixtures will commence this Saturday with a home blitz against Dungloe. Further details will be posted on the team's WhatsApp group.
Hurling
It finished all square in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh on Friday evening after a feisty contest between Aodh Ruadh and Buncrana. Having sparred for top honours at underage level in recent years, there was no need for introductions here and both sides got stuck in from the start. It was Ballyshannon who made the best of things in the first half, getting off to the perfect start after Ryan Ayres doubled on the sliotar to send it to the back of the net. Thereafter points from Aaron Cullen, Senan Rooney, Stephen Connolly and Brendan Gillespie helped the Ernesiders to seven point lead with eight minutes remaining in the half. However Buncrana got a lifeline when a high ball dropped into the back of the net. Aodh Ruadh did steady matters though and picked of a few more point to turnaround with the scores at Aodh Ruadh 1-12 Buncrana 1-5. On the restart the Inishowen men came into the game more and a couple of goals helped take them into the lead for the first time. With time running down it was starting to look like the visitors might snatch the result, but a Senan Rooney point cut the gap to the minimum before Ryan Ayres landed a late leveller to leave the sides sharing the points on a final scoreline of Aodh Ruadh 1-19 Buncrana 3-13. The Aodh Ruadh team and scorers were: Conor Kennedy; Peter Horan, Adam Rami, Pat Cassidy; Stephen Sheerin, Stephen Connolly (0-1), Céalán Drummond (0-1); Ryan Keenaghan (0-2); Brendan Gillespie (0-1), Senan Rooney (0-7f); Ryan Ayres (1-2), Martin Larkin, Rory Cullen; Michael Reddin, Aaron Cullen (0-6f) Subs: Kyle McNulty for Pat Cassidy (26), Daithi Breen for Michael Reddin (47), Pat Cassidy for Martin Larkin. Aodh Ruadh's next senior league game is away to Saint Eunan's this Friday, with throw-in at O'Donnell Park at 7pm.Our under 17s start their season this Thursday with a clash against Saint Eunan's in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh at 7pm.
Our under 15s are also due to get their competitive season under way this week with a Táin Óg fixture against Armagh kingpins, Middletown. We hope to have this fixture played by this weekend, as we gear up for our county Féile on April 30th.
Best of luck to both managements and teams for the coming season.
Our under 13s continued their Donegal league campaign with a victory over a young Dungloe team in Páirc Aodh Ruadh. We had some great performances across the team, and were comfortable throughout. We continued our Táin Óg campaign with a game against Easkey in the Táin League on Monday, in Ballinode Community Colleges grounds. Easkey were the stronger team, but our boys put in a great performance, and fought right to the end. Next up is Saint Eunan's at home in the Donegal league this Thursday with throw-in at the earlier time of 6pm.
Under 11 training continues on Sunday at 10.30am.
Next week our under 9s will train at the earlier time of 10.30am to 11.30am
We had a great morning of activity for Easter Sunday with a rain-soaked internal Under 7 mini blitz. We had some great performances and four high scoring games. Well done to all the boys and girls who braved the elements and the Easter Bunny paid a visit at the end to send all the players home happy! Our under 7s will have next Sunday off.
Give it a go Session: We plan on running a give it a go session for ages 5 up to under 11 on Saturday, 30th April – with a time to be confirmed. We have kindly been sponsored for this by the As Daire Did Charity, and welcome the opportunity to bring our great game to those who haven’t had the opportunity to try it. This will be separate to our underage training and will give an opportunity to players to try the game before coming up to a training session! Keep an eye on the club Facebook page and club notes for more details! This week we had our second of these sessions when we visited our neighbours in Realt na Mara and took part in their under 9 football session. We already have one new recruit from this and hope to welcome a few more in the coming weeks. Thank you to Tommy Hourihane for facilitating us.
Ladies
The Division 3 ladies had to dig deep and come from behind to get the better of a strong Kilcar side on Sunday morning. The game was spared the worst of the rain, but underfoot conditions were soft enough in Towney. In the end though it was Aodh Ruadh who adapted best to grind out the win. Not that they had things their own way by any stretch of the imagination. Aoibheann McGarrigle and Mary Flora Scott sent the Ernesiders in to an early lead, but Kilcar came back well to edge in front. A Donna Martin free leveled matters before Kilcar hit a 1-2 burst to really take charge of matters. A well-taken Anna Rafferty point was crucial in keeping her side in contact at the break with the scoreline reading Kilcar 1-5 Aodh Ruadh 0-4. After some tough talking at half-time Aodh Ruadh really got the bit between their teeth in the second half. Donna Martin and Terri Gallagher were on the mark following the restart to make take the visitors into a three goal lead. Kilcar's only score of the second half was a goal about ten minutes from time and set things up for a nervy finish. After a spell where play ebbed and flowed Donna Martin kicked the next point to effectively decide the result in Ballyshannon's favour. A strong and gritty display from our reserve ladies. Erin O'Loughlin was magnificent in the middle of the park, while Katie O'Brien and Kate Cunningham provided a marvelously mobile platform at half back. Up front Donna Martin turned in a superb shooting display and Mary Flora Scott really used the ball well. This Sunday both adult ladies sides will be at home with the Division 3 ladies getting the action under way at 10am against Four Masters before the Division 2 ladies take the field at 11.30am to face Gaoth Dobhair.The under 16 girls came off second best against a very strong Ardara outfit on Thursday afternoon. The opening exchanges were reasonably evenly balanced with Aodh Ruadh creating some good chances, although, crucially, only Dairín Sweeny was able to register. Up the other end Ardara were a lot more clinical with their chances and as the half wore on they opened a wide gap. Ballyshannon had to work hard for their scores, but with only Dairín Sweeny and Andrea Moore managing to convert the hosts were well off the pace at half-time. Matters didn't improve much in the second half with Ardara continuing to score at will while Aodh Ruadh continued to make hard work of things. Ciara Larkin managed to get on the score sheet late on, but there was never any real doubt about the victors. Katie McGowan was player of the match for Aodh Ruadh and showed great spirit throughout, while Orlaith O'Neill also battled hard. The girls have a challenge this Wednesday against Saint Naul's in Mountcharles with the throw-in at 6pm.
The under 14 girls had their first challenge game against Grange on Good Friday. It was a great battle between the sides and great win for the girls. Molly Begley, Emily Doherty, Rebecca Downey and Lily O’Donnell were spectacular in defence. Both Megan Murphy and Ciara Larkin were outstanding around the field. The three Gillespie girls Cadhla, Faye and Rachel were a force to be reckoned with throughout the game. While up front Hannah Downey, Katie McGowan and Niamh Duffy gave us superb goals along with some great points from Emily McNamee. A big thank you to Eamonn O'Donnell and Paul Gillespie for helping us out on the day. Training continues on Tuesday from 7pm to 8pm on the Coláiste Cholmcille pitch and Fridays from 6pm to 7pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.
Well done to our under 13 girls who got their season off to a great start with a 1-9 to 0-10 win over Ardara in Pearse Memorial Park on Monday evening. Captain Laoise Foy led the way from midfield with Rachel Gillespie terrorising the opposition defence and Lauren Gallagher contributing 1-2 from play. There was an excellent defensive display from our backs and a clean sheet for the always brilliant Erin Gallagher. The girls are due to take on Killybegs in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh this Saturday at 12.30pm.
Training continues for under 12 girls this Tuesday at Coláiste Cholmcille from 6pm to 7pm. Please note there will be no Thursday sessions over the Easter fortnight.
Ballyshannon Bingo
Well done to all our Online Ballyshannon Bingo winners last week. Sonia Kelly took the 50/50 Jackpot for €250. There was no winner of the snowball which rolls to €350 this week. House winners were Fergus Molloy, Marion Matthews, Collette Roper, Margaret McGarrigle, Paddy Sexton, Mary Griffin, Dolores McDonagh, Conor Gallagher, Rosaleen O’Brien and Letitia Doherty. Other cash winners on the lines were Mary Travers, Lesley Lynch, Regina Dolan, Mary McGowan, Helen Coughlin, Agnes Ryder, Thomas Sweeney, Bernadette Sweeney, Patricia Bradshaw, Breda Burns, Mary Patton, Peggy Coughlin and Christina McDonald. We’ll do it all again this Friday at 8.30 with over €2,100 to play for.
Be sure to follow our like and share competition during the week to be in with a chance to win free books! We will play 10 games of bingo including our snowball, jackpot and lucky numbers games. Books are now available and can be purchased up to 4.30pm on Friday.
Click this link to buy a SINGLE BOOK for €10.
Click this link to buy a DOUBLE BOOK for €15.
Books bought by 9am Thursday morning will be emailed at lunchtime on Thursday. Books bought by 9am Friday will be emailed at Friday lunchtime. Books then bought before the 4.30pm deadline will be emailed by 6pm Friday. The Zoom invite will be circulated with your books. The Zoom call will open at 8pm with the first game starting at 8.30pm. Make sure to check your spam or junk folder if you don’t think you received your books. We’re looking forward to meeting you all again and thank you as always for your continued support!
- 26 April
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Football
Aodh Ruadh continued their promising start to the year with a draw against Naomh Conaill in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh on Saturday evening. After an absorbing tussle it finished 1-8 to 0-11, Nathan Boyle securing a share of the spoils for the Ernesiders with a late free conversion. As has been the case so far this season, Ballyshannon got off to a great start, with three unanswered points giving them an early lead. Nathan Boyle showed the way with two frees, while Colm Kelly added the third. Naomh Conaill started to come into the game at that point, but Aodh Ruadh continued to get greater joy on the score board. Further points from Shane McGrath and Nathan Boyle were followed by a Darren Drummond goal to leave the hosts leading by 1-6 to 0-5 at the half-time whistle. The second half was to see something of reversal of fortunes, with the Glenties men hitting Aodh Ruadh for six points, the last of which came on 55 minutes and put them into the lead for the first time in the tie. Cometh the hour, cometh the man though, and Nathan Boyle coolly slotted his placed ball effort in added time to ensure the league points would be split between these sides for the second year in succession. The Aodh Ruadh team and scorers were: Peter Boyle; Callum O'Halloran, Kyle Murray, Mark McGlynn; Eddie Lynch, Colm Kelly (0-1), Michael McKenna; Niall Murray, Nathan Boyle (0-5, 3f); Diarmaid McInerney, David Dolan, Gary Carty; Cian Rooney (0-1), Darren Drummond (1-0), Shane McGrath (0-1). Subs: Dylan Gallagher for Cian Rooney; Matt Gillespie for Darren Drummond; Senan Rooney for Diarmaid McInerney; Donagh McIntyre.In the curtain raiser on Saturday evening Aodh Ruadh development squad had a comprehensive win over Naomh Conaill reserves, running out 1-14 to 1-6 winners. The sides went tit-for-tat for the first quarter with Odhran McGarrigle opening for Aodh Ruadh. Glenties reeled off the next three scores before the evergreen Kerry Ryan turned his man to send over a fine score. Aodh Ruadh turned over the resulting kick out for Odhran McGarrigle to send over his second point of the day. A fourth point for the opposition followed, but that was as good as it was to get for the Glenties men in the first half. Aodh Ruadh’s strong defence and robust tackling was starting to reap rewards with Glenties being turned over repeatedly in the Ballyshannon half. Damian Weber sent over a trademark left-footed free before Oisin Kerr went on a storming run from wing back to poke home to the back of the Glenties net. Aodh Ruadh’s pressure continued as the half finishing with Mardy McGarrigle and Kerry Ryan both slotting over to make it 1-6 to 0-4 at the interval. Aodh Ruadh resumed the second half with real intent with Mardy McGarrigle slicing through the Glenties rearguard to clip over an excellent point. Glenties saw plenty of the ball, but struggled to break down a dogged Aodh Ruadh. The visitors were kept at arm's length and forced to take on shots in difficult areas. The Ballyshannon men continued to cut through on counter attacking raids including a trademark effort from Dan Warnock to keep the hosts score board ticking over. A controversial penalty decision after Conor Foy looked to have picked the ball up correctly with 10 minutes to go briefly caused a few nerves, but the Ernesiders took control again with three points from Mardy McGarrigle, Odhran McGarrigle and Damian Weber to settle the contest. Aaron Cullen’s restarts gave Aodh Ruadh a great platform to attack, while the central pairing of Odhran McGarrigle and Colm McGloin were able to repeatedly steal the Glenties kick out. Conor Foy and Daire Gallagher put in another solid display in the full back line while up front the pace and directness of Damian Weber and Mardy McGarrigle was too much for Glenties to handle. Overall, a pleasing performance from a squad that featured 12 players under 19. The Aodh Ruadh team and scorers were: Aaron Cullen; Daire Gallagher, Conor Foy, Daniel Warnock (0-1); Christopher ‘Spanny’ Goan, Ciaran Slevin, Oisin Kerr (1-0); Odhran McGarrigle (0-3), Colm McGloin; Cathal Kelly, Mardy McGarrigle (0-4, 2f), Darragh Dolan; Harry Howarth, Damian Weber (0-4, 2f), Kerry Ryan (0-2). Subs: Conall Bradshaw for Harry Howarth, David Roper for Kerry Ryan, Rory Gethins for Christopher Goan, Jamie McGee-Gilmore for Oisin Kerr.
Our adult footballers have a break this weekend, with their next league fixture being a trip to Magheragallon to tackle Gaoth Dobhair on Saturday, 7th May. The reserve game goes off at 5.30pm, followed by the seniors at 7pm.
The minors were without a game again last week. Their next fixture is this Friday when they travel take on Ardara in Pearse Memorial Park at 7pm. Congratulations to the Donegal minors on booking their place in the Ulster Championship semi-final with a 4-15 to 0-5 win over Fermanagh in Ballybofey on Saturday. Eoghan Kelly started at centre back, with Shane Delahunty also a panel member. We wish the squad the best of luck as they prepare for their last four meeting with Derry.
Our under 15 boys will be returning to action this Wednesday when they take on Naomh Bríd at 7pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.
The under 13 boys hosted a successful and well-organised seven-a-side tournament on Saturday morning. Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh played host to teams from Melvin Gaels, Naomh Muire and Saint Michael's, with each club fielding two teams. In the A Cup competition it was the Dunfanaghy lads who prevailed, managed by none other than Jim McGuinness. In the B Cup competition Aodh Ruadh secured the honours with captain Shaun McGarrigle collecting the silverware. A huge shout out goes to the parents who prepared mountains of food and helped serve on the day. Thanks also to the referees, umpires, traffic attendants and all other helpers, and in particular to Peter and Johnny Gallagher for preparing the pitches, the top field really looked the part altogether! Training schedule for this week will be communicated via the team WhatsApp group.
Our green squad hosted Ardara on Wednesday evening. We played two highly entertaining matches with 24 boys getting lots of game time. Our white squad traveled to Bundoran on Saturday and played a strong Bundoran team. 18 boys got lots of game time in their first game of the season. The under 11 White squad will be entertaining Kilcar this Wednesday in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. Players are to be at the pitch no later than 6.30pm with the game throwing in at 7pm. The Green squad are training at the same venue from 7pm to 8pm. On Saturday the under 11 Green squad are away to Naomh Muire, with all players to be down at the venue for 3pm.
Hurling
It was home comforts for Saint Eunan's in Friday's Donegal Senior Hurling League clash with Aodh Ruadh. The hosts ran out convincing 3-16 to 0-10 winners in O'Donnell Park. They were well in control at the break, with a nine-point cushion at the turn-around. It was the younger lights who were proving most accurate for the Ernesiders with Senan Rooney and Aaron Cullen accounting for their side's four-point haul in the first half hour. Letterkenny continued to dominate in the second half, with sporadic answering scores from Stephen Connolly, Senan Rooney and Kyle McNulty not sufficient to create much real doubt about the likely final result. Friday sees Aodh Ruadh return to league action with another away fixture. This time the opposition are Dungloe, with the throw in at 7pm.Our under 17s had to have their season start postponed due to a referee fitness test taking place last Thursday. They have no game this week, but expect to be back in action again on Thursday, 12th May.
Our under 15s have their first action of the year when they take part in the Donegal County Féile on Thursday evening in the Donegal Centre of Excellence in Convoy. Best of luck to the team and management. Well done to Corey Sheridan, Garreth Brennan and Jun Hui Lin who were all on the starting 15 for the county under 15 hurlers in their 3-13 to 3-3 win over Sligo. All three lads got on the score sheet and contributed strongly to a great performance.
Our under 13s were due to play Saint Eunan's in the Donegal League last Thursday, but this has now been rescheduled due to a referee fitness test taking place. Training continues Tuesday at 6.15pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh and Sunday at 11.45am.
Under 11 training continues on Sunday at 10.30am.
We are looking forward to welcoming our neighbours from Four Masters for an under 7 and under 9 blitz this Sunday, with the action throwing in at 10am.
Our first Give It A Go session, for ages from 5 to 11-years-old will take place on Bank Holiday Monday, 2nd May at 4.30pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. If you want your child to try the game of hurling, but outside of a normal training environment, then pop up to Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh on Monday to get a feel for the game. This will be separate to our underage training and will give players a chance to try the game before coming up to a training session! We have kindly been sponsored for this by the As Darragh Did Charity, and welcome the opportunity to bring our great game to those who haven’t had the opportunity to try it.
Ladies
It was a very strong performance by the senior ladies on Sunday morning as they had too much in hand for a battling Gaoth Dobhair side. Aodh Ruadh were in control throughout and finished winners on a 5-13 to 0-3 scoreline. Lucy McGlynn marked her return to club action with a superb individual effort after a driving run up the pitch. Score of the game probably came when Kate Cunningham turned over possession and four quick kick passes put the ball in Donna Martin's hands and she applied a polished finish for the goal. Elaine Dorrian and Cáit Gillespie also raised green flags as the scores flowed easily for the Shamettes. In the defence Ciara Caldwell and Lauren Foy did a good job of taking care of any threats which came their way.The curtain raiser on Sunday was the Division 3 meeting of Aodh Ruadh and Four Masters. It was to prove a very entertaining tussle, with the Ernesiders again showing huge determination in the second half to grind out the win. Just like the Kilcar game the week before, Ballyshannon had been up against it in the first half, with the Donegal town girls moving well and taking some good scores. Aodh Ruadh worked their way into the game though, and a well finished score by Terri Gallagher helped raise spirits just before half-time. Still, with the scores at 1-9 to 0-5 there was plenty of work to be done. Fittingly enough, Ladies Chairwoman Sarah Daly took some executive action and kick-started her side's second half with a goal. Not long after, Cadhla Dolan was fouled for a penalty which Eimear McMahon blasted to the back of the net. Cadhla Dolan then followed up with her first senior competitive goal, doubtless the first of many. Ironically the fire was really lit under the Ballyshannon challenge when Fiona McGonigle was sin-binned. The 14-woman homesters got the bit between their teeth and tore into the game from there to the final whistle. Roisin McGloin and Katie O'Brien were doing huge work in the defence to try and contain the Four Masters defence, but with the visitors leading by two points with two minutes to go it was looking like it might be a case of just having to be satisfied with a good performance. Sarah Daly was determined to have one last word though and she connected sweetly with a ?long-range strike which rocketed right to the back of the net. That propelled Aodh Ruadh into a one-point lead and after a huge defensive shift in the last few minutes the hosts sealed a memorable 2-13 to 4-8 victory.
There is a break in the league season now for the adult ladies with the next round of games taking place on Sunday 15th May. The Division 2 team will be taking on Saint Naul's, while the Division 3 team with be facing off against Dungloe, with both games away fixtures.
The under 16 girls had a very encouraging challenge against Saint Naul's last Thursday in Mountcharles. They put together some nice passages of play throughout the game and showed considerable improvement on their previous two league outings. Player of the match was Andrea Moore who was back to her tigerish best. Up front Shauna McGloin took a real peach of a point, with Dairín Sweeny also taking some lovey scores. Hannah McGuinness and Jodie Meade were both also very lively in the attack too. Defensively Megan Murphy was magnificent with Kate McGowan as polished as ever. Training continues for the squad this Wednesday from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Coláiste Cholmcille with the girls returning to league action this Saturday against Muff.
Well done to the under 13 girls who continued their fine start to the season with a 4-11 to 4-4 win against Killybegs. If the three Gillespie cousins played a starring role the first day out against Ardara, then this week it was the turn of the three O'Donnell cousins to do the damage. The Ballyshannon girls just had too much for their visitors on the day, with Sarah O'Brien also putting among those putting in a big shift. Next up for the team is an away fixture against Dungloe the week commencing Monday, 2nd May.
Training continues for under 12 girls this Tuesday at Coláiste Cholmcille from 6pm to 7pm and on Thursday from 5.30pm to 6.30pm.
Get your club gear order in
Chris Kelly will be taking orders for club gear up to Sunday, 1st May. You can check out the kit available on the pinned post on the Aodh Ruadh CLG Facebook page. We have items in stock for ages from 3-years-old up to XXL. To make your order send Chris a text or message WhatsApp on 086-8813553. To pay for your order, please go to the Aodh Ruadh page on Klubfunder.com, submit the appropriate payment via the General Payments section, then send a screen shot or a copy of your payment receipt to Chris. Orders will only be fully processed on proof of payment via Klubfunder.com.Owen Roe's Table Quiz
The table quiz in Owen Roe's this Thursday night is in support of the underage and senior ladies. We hope to see a good turn out, so please let the family and friends know. The action gets under way at 9.30pm with great prizes on the night, and not only for the winners! See you there!Club executive meeting
Please note that the April Club executive meeting has been postponed until Thursday, 5th May.Ballyshannon Bingo
Congratulations to all our winners last Friday night. The 50/50 jackpot was split three ways between Sharon McDonald, Margaret Meehan and Margaret McGarrigle. The Snowball escaped to roll to €400 this week. House winners were Maura Casey, Grace Martin, Ursula McGreevy, Teresa Richardson, Mary Fletcher, Mary Reynolds, Ann Patterson, Aisling McGullion, Sarah O’Shea and Margaret Meehan. Cash winners on the lines were Paddy Sexton, Nyoka Walker, Michael Doherty, Mary Kane, Jim McGarrigle, Gary O’Brien, Regina O’Connor, Michelle Quinn, Mary Travers, Avril O’Brien, Michelle Mahon and Helen Coughlin. We also had 12 free books won for this week's bingo. Thank you to all our bingo players for your continued support. We look forward to treating you all online again this Friday where we’ll play for €2,200! Spread the word and bring along a friend!
Be sure to follow our like and share competition during the week to be in with a chance to win free books! We will play 10 games of bingo including our snowball, jackpot and lucky numbers games. Books are now available and can be purchased up to 4.30pm on Friday.
Click this link to buy a SINGLE BOOK for €10.
Click this link to buy a DOUBLE BOOK for €15.
Books bought by 9am Thursday morning will be emailed at lunchtime on Thursday. Books bought by 9am Friday will be emailed at Friday lunchtime. Books then bought before the 4.30pm deadline will be emailed by 6pm Friday. The Zoom invite will be circulated with your books. The Zoom call will open at 8pm with the first game starting at 8.30pm. Make sure to check your spam or junk folder if you don’t think you received your books. We’re looking forward to meeting you all again and thank you as always for your continued support!Father Tierney Park Development
Prunty Contracts have been busy at Father Tierney Park since returning on site two weeks ago. With the good weather they have made magnificent progress with the project. This stage of the rebuilding is a weather-critical phase to allow the contractor to work the clay, completely de-stone the site, and install the next layer of drainage consisting of gravel filled mole drains. If the weather holds, we will see rapid progress on this phase and then over 2,000 tons of sand will be drawn in and spread in order to provide the seed bed for the sowing out of the new playing field. Alongside this, works are continuing on the environs of the playing field, including the completion of the spectator terracing on the town side of the grounds. Over the coming days a substantial quantity of excess hard-fill will need to be removed from the park. This is available by arrangement for collection from the site. Arrangements can be made to fill lorries and dump trailers if prior contact is made with Tom Daly or Dinny Loughlin.