Club Notes Archive - 2022

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November

1 November

EGM
We give notice that a club EGM will take place on Wednesday, November 2nd at 9pm in Áras Aoidh Ruaidh. This meeting is open to all fully paid up adult club members, and will consider a unanimous recommendation by the Club Executive Committee that we adopt the Corporate Trustee model, as developed by Croke Park, to secure the ownership of all the Club's property into the future. The EGM will follow the monthly Club Executive meeting on the same date which will commence at 8pm.

Football
Aodh Ruadh got their under 21 B championship campaign off to a good start with a solid 3-10 to 2-9 victory on the road in Glencolumcille. The win was built on a dominant first half performance where Matt Gillespie banged two goals. Those scores helped thrust the Ernesiders into a 2-6 to 0-3 half-time lead. Ballyshannon took their foot off the pedal a bit in the second half and allowed Naomh Columba to work their way back into the tie. However, a well taken goal by Eoghan Kelly put daylight between the sides again and midfielder Colm McGloin floated over the game's final point to settle the tie in Aodh Ruadh's favour as it finished Aodh Ruadh 3-10 Naomh Columba 2-9. The Aodh Ruadh team and scorers were as follows. Aaron Cullen; Conor Foy, Shane Gillespie, Daire Gallagher; Shane Delahunty, Kyle Murray, Ryan Keenaghan; Colm McGloin (0-2), Odhran McGarrigle; Mark McGlynn (0-2), Senan Rooney, Eoghan Kelly (1-1); Eoin Doherty (0-1f), Cian Rooney (0-2), Matt Gillespie (2-2, 1f). Subs: Damian Weber for Eoin Doherty; Aidan Sweeny for Daire Gallagher; Daragh Flood Dolan for Ryan Keenaghan. Next up for the under 21s is a home fixture next Saturday at 2pm when Saint Naul's will be the guests at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.

The under 13 boys got the better of Ardara on Sunday afternoon in the Division 1 shield semi-final at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. It was a cagey first half with scores at a premium and both teams registering a number of wides. Early frees from Callum Dorrian and MJ Ward were cancelled out by Ardara in the opening ten minutes. Cole Connolly pushed Aodh Ruadh ahead and it took until the 20th minute for Ardara to level again. The Ballyshannon boys were grinding it out and another Dorrian point and a peach from distance by Cole Connolly secured a 0-5 to 0-3 half time lead. The visitors opened the second half scoring which was answered by Anthony Duffy with a well taken score. Aodh Ruadh then sprung to life in the middle of the half and were winning every battle and turning over possession all over the pitch. MJ Ward had a golden spell knocking over three frees either side of an excellent team goal as Manus Conlon played the ball across for MJ Ward to palm into the net. It could have been even better for the home side as Dorrian was denied goal by a superb save. Ardara came back with three points in return, but another MJ Ward free kept the hosts well ahead. As Ardara bombarded the Aodh Ruadh rearguard in search of goals, keeper Jack Gormley was outstanding under high ball and made a great point blank save with his feet. As the game entered five minutes of added time, Ward got the insurance score with a well taken goal. Ardara finally forced a goal, but it was too little too late as the boys held out for the victory on a scoreline of 2-9 to 1-7. It was a great team effort, with Markko Branley and Aaron McLoone in top form in the full back line, and with the half backs Dara Vaughan, Darragh McCready and Anthony Duffy breaking down most of Ardara's attacking moves. The midfield performances really stood out with Eoghan Gallagher again leading by example. The forward unit worked well, Eoghan McNulty moving a lot of ball to the front line where Ward and Dorrian delivering the scores. Special mention to Cole Connolly who overcame an early temporary substitution to deal with a bloodied lip to return to the pitch to put in a huge performance, adding two fine points at crucial times in that tight first half. So it’s on to the final this weekend where Aodh Ruadh will Glenswilly. Date, time and venue are yet to be confirmed. Keep an eye on the club's social media output for updates. It would be great to get a big support down for the boys. The have put in a huge effort throughout the year to compete at Division 1 level and are fully deserving of their place in the final. The Aodh Ruadh team and scorers were as follows: Jack Gormley; Markko Branley, Aaron McLoone; Anthony Duffy (0-1), Darragh McCready, Dara Vaughan; Eoghan Gallagher, Cole Connolly (0-2); Eoghan McNulty, Manus Conlon, Ethan Kerrigan; Callum Dorrian (0-2, 1f), MJ Ward (2-4, 4f). Substitutes: Iarla Hartin for Connolly (Temp), Jack Hassett for Eoghan McNulty, Oisín McGrath for Manus Conlon, Micheál McGrath, Darragh Patton, Alex Kerrigan, Harry McGowan.

Last Monday saw the Bord na nÓg AGM taking place in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh with almost 20 in attendance. The team managers went through their reports and reflected on what was generally a very positive season. It is evident that numbers remain high at all underage grades and there was invaluable work being done by the Academy to help develop our coaches. The appointment of officers saw Lisa McTernan stepping down after eight years of service to Bord na nÓg and Micheal McGrath succeeding her in the chairman role. Meanwhile Brian Gillespie is staying on as secretary for his second year. The Academy will be confirming underage management positions in due course.

Ladies
Aodh Ruadh fell in disappointing fashion at the first hurdle in Ulster in their Intermediate Ladies quarter-final on Sunday. The opening spell was reasonably evenly contested with points from Eimear McMahon and Terri Gallagher making it 0-3 to 0-2, but Aodh Ruadh were unable to add further scores before half-time while Steelstown hit an unanswered 3-3. The Derry side added a further 2-2 in the second half, but the Ballyshannon girls just fluffed too many decent scoring chances to really make a game of it and the good home crowd in attendance were never given an opportunity to find their voice. Nevertheless, Aodh Ruadh kept trying to the end and were able to tag on some consolation scores which left the final score reading 5-8 to 0-8. Tara Khan was, by a very far margin, the best Aodh Ruadh player on the pitch, on a day when little went right for the Ernesiders. It would also be fair to mention the contribution of the substitutes, who did inject a bit more life into the hosts' challenge on their introduction. A special mention too for Cádhla Dolan who made her Ulster debut on her 15th birthday. The Aodh Ruadh team and scorers were as follows. Aodh Ruadh: Brídín Maguire; Gráinne Maguire, Sara Gallagher, Hannah Doherty; Lucy McGlynn (0-1), Caitlin McGarrigle (0-1), Anna Rafferty; Orla Keon, Caoimhe Keon; Aoibhinn McGarrigle, Cáit Gillespie (0-1), Cara O'Loughlin; Eimear McMahon (0-3, 2f), Terri Gallagher (0-1), Tara Khan. Substitutes: Kate Cunninghan for Gráinne Maguire 32 minutes; Síofra Hughes for Hannah Doherty 42 minutes; Cádhla Dolan for Terri Gallagher 44 minutes; Meabh McCloskey for Cara Loughlin 49 minutes; Donna Martin (0-1) for Eimear McMahon 55 minutes. Check out aodhruadh.org where we have a big gallery of pictures from the game up. This game concludes the adult ladies action for 2022, a season which the whole squad can reflect on with some pride, having captured the intermediate county title, the Division 2 title and contested the Junior B Championship final. The team put in a huge effort all season and were a real pleasure to work with. Thanks to the management and backroom team for all their efforts over the course of season.

Aodh Ruadh entertain Milford in the first round of the under 21 championship this Sunday at 10.30am. The winners of this game will be travelling to play Gaeil Fhánada in the quarter-finals.

The under 13s booked their place in the county final against Dungloe with a hard-fought victory over Carndonagh in Ballintra last Saturday. In the first half the sides were hard to separate, but goals helped give the Shamettes a good cushion at half-time. Rachel Gillespie hit the net before Aoife Hughes raised a second green flag. Emma O'Donnell then dropped a free short which Faye Gillespie was able to flick to the net to make it 3-7 to 2-2 at half-time. In the second half defences were on top, but Aodh Ruadh edged matters and clinched their final spot with a 3-10 to 2-4 victory. Aoife McPhelim did well in goals and had a great defensive unit in front of her with Eabha Roger outstanding and Ellen Monaghan and Lexi Roper giving great support. Laoise Foy and Aodhbha O'Donnell were superb in midfield while up front Cadhla Gillespie notched a nice point with Lauren Gallagher and Shannon Gavigan also getting in on the scoring action. The county final takes place this Saturday in Dungloe at 10.30am. We wish the whole team all the best in their bid to bring home the county title.

The Ladies AGM will take place on Thursday 3rd November at 8pm in Áras Aoidh Ruaidh. All coaches, mentors, players and anyone with an interest in ladies football in Ballyshannon is welcome to attend.

Hurling
The Juvenile Hurling AGM will take place on Tuesday 8th November in Áras Aoidh Ruaidh. We encourage anyone with an interest in the development of hurling in the club to come along and join us as we look over the activity in the past year, and plan ahead for 2023.

Coaching Corner
Donegal GAA are running four coaching courses during November. The first two are Introductory level courses – one each in the north and south of the county at venues yet to be confirmed – on the weekend of November 4th and 5th. The third is an Award 1 Football course in the Donegal GAA Centre in Convoy from Friday November 11th to Sunday November 13th. The fourth is an Award 2 Football course in the Donegal GAA Centre in Convoy in November with the dates still to be confirmed. Full details and links to register for the courses can be found on the Donegal GAA website.

Elsewhere, the Ulster GAA Coaching Conference will take place on Saturday, 12 November, in Ulster University Jordanstown. This year the conference will have an LGFA element to the day with a practical coaching session led by All-Ireland junior winning coaches, Emma Kelly and Kyla Trainor. Their session will focus on skill development through games from developmental level through to elite inter-county level. Also on the day Gary Longwell and Ryan Mellon will deliver a workshop on performance and lifestyle and female players: Effective goal setting and performance. As well as this other workshops on the day will address topics such as: Adding value to your coaching inputs through use of video analysis; and Managing athletic development between stakeholders; Plus, much more. A fantastic day of learning not to be missed to enhance your coaching and start planning for 2023 and beyond. Tickets can be booked online at eventbrite.ie.

Diary dates
This year's AGM will be in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh on Sunday, 27th November. All sub-committee should aim to have their AGMs held before Friday, 11th November. All reports for the club AGM should be submitted to the club Secretary, Lisa McTernan, by Friday, 18th November. Also, the club's first post-pandemic dinner dance takes place on Saturday, 4th February 2023.

Ballyshannon Bingo
Well done to last week's winners. Linda Breen scooped the 50/50 jackpot, with houses being won by Sonia Kelly, Nyoka Walker (twice!), Deirdre Clarke, Marion Deacon, Ronan Matthews, Charlene McHugh, Rosaleen Branley, Sandra Doherty and Mark Newell, with Kathleen Keon winning the €50 bonus ‘house in the house’ prize. The lines were won by Mary Donagher, Michael Doherty, Brendan Hoey, Lesley Lynch, Frances Gentle, Kathleen McGee (shared), Carrie O’Brien and Josephine McDonagh (shared), Letitia Doherty, Mary McGonigle, Mary Quinn, Joan Keaveney and Philip Doherty. The Snowball escaped so rolls to €400 this week as we play for a €2,100 prize fund. Please note: With Allingham Arts festival events in the Abbey Centre this week, our bingo will be held at the Rock Hall, Ballyshannon, located next door to the Rock Chapel. Start time is unchanged at 9pm. All online purchases made for last week's games are valid for this week. Online players have until 4.30pm Friday to buy their books on Klubfunder. As always, please spread the word and bring along a friend. We will do an early release of online books on Thursday afternoon for those wishing to get their book early. Online players must have their books bought by the 4.30pm on Friday. Books can be purchased online at Klubfunder.com. Players coming to the Abbey Centre can buy their books at the front desk from 8.15pm. Eyes down for first game at 9pm. Looking forward to seeing all again, please spread the word and bring along a friend!

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8 November

Football
The under 21s continued their impressive form with a second win on the bounce last Saturday. They had too much in hand for Saint Naul's, running out 7-20 to 2-11 winners in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. The Mountcharles lads gave as good as they got in the first half, and at the turn around the trailed by 2-10 to 1-8. An early goal had given Saint Naul's an early lead, but that served to rouse Aodh Ruadh and Shane Delahunty struck back with a superb individual goal before the irrepressible Cian Rooney raised a second green flag to make it 2-7 to 1-4. After that the sides traded scores in the run up to the break, but it was the hosts who continued to hold the advantage. The Ernesiders then went up a gear in the second half and Saint Naul's just had no answer to their scoring power. An early goal by Damian Weber set the tone, and after he hit the net a second time, Matt Gillespie, Harry Howarth, Odhran McGarrigle and Jack Gallagher also got in on the goal action. The Aodh Ruadh team and scorers were as follows:- Aaron Cullen; Aidan Sweeny, Ryan Keenaghan, Conor Foy; Daire Gallagher, Kyle Murray, Shane Delahunty (1-0); Colm McGloin, Odhran McGarrigle (1-0); Harry Howarth (1-1), Senan Rooney (0-1), Cian Rooney (1-4); Eoghan Kelly (0-2), Matt Gillespie (1-5), Damian Weber (2-4). Subs: Jack Gallagher (1-3) for Cian Rooney 30 minutes; Conor Foy for Tiernan Dolan 37 minutes; Darragh Dolan for Aidan Sweeny 37 minutes; Cian Bardon for Daire Gallagher 42 minutes; Rory Gethins for Harry Howarth 50 minutes. We have a gallery of pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org. The next assignment for the under 21s is an away fixture this weekend against Glenfin, fixture details to be confirmed.

There was heartbreak for the under 13 boys as they lost out to Glenswilly by a single point after extra-time on Sunday in the Division 1 Shield final. Aodh Ruadh enjoyed home advantage as the venue was decided by coin toss earlier in the week, and the game being fixed for Páirc Aodh Ruadh. The large crowd were treated to a great game with plenty of excitement as both teams played some very neat football and scores swinging over and back. The boys were up against it after only five minutes as Glenswilly hit an early 1-3 without reply, but showed great character to chalk up the five next points to close the gap to a point midway through the half, the scores coming from Cullum Dorrian (3) and MJ Ward. The visitors then kicked on to add two points to take a half-time lead of 1-5 to 0-6, Ward with the other point for Aodh Ruadh. Within minutes of the restart, Callum Dorrian found the net which was followed up by a Darragh McCready point to see Aodh Ruadh lead by two. Glenswilly replied with a goal and a point, before fortune favoured them in a goalmouth scramble with the ball squeezing over the line for their third goal on the 45th minute. For the second time in the match, the boys showed great character chasing down a big lead. MJ Ward hit two frees and a tidy point by Jack Hassett as the gap closed to two points again. Manus Conlon was unlucky to see a delightful chipped effort over the goalie come back off the crossbar. As Aodh Ruadh searched for scores, Glenswilly notched another point as the game entered injury time. Only a goal would do now, and the boys delivered with MJ getting a fist on a long ball in to find the back of the net with the last play of the game to force extra time, the score at 3-7 to 2-10. To say extra time was tense would be an understatement. Antoin Duffy put the hosts ahead early on, only for the visitors to level again. Dorrian restored the lead, only for Glenswilly to hit another two to lead by a point at half-time of extra time. Cole Connolly levelled within seconds of the restart, again Glenswilly nudged ahead only to be cancelled out by an MJ Ward effort. Both teams were really going for it and a fantastic save by the Glenswilly keeper with his foot kept them in it. But just as it looked like a replay was on the cards, the Glenswilly free taker showed nerves of steel to put over a long range free in the final minute. Time just ran out on the boys and ref Greg McGroary blew his final whistle to end a terrific battle, the final score Glenswilly 3-12 Aodh Ruadh 2-14. Every one of the players left everything on the pitch, led by yet another impressive display by Captain Eoghan Gallagher. Yet again, Markko Branley and Aaron McLoone put the bodies on the line in defence. Darragh McCready, Dara Vaughan and Manus Conlon ran every inch of the pitch, with Cole Connolly and Ethan Kerrigan also putting in a huge effort. The boys can be extremely proud of themselves over the course of the match and indeed over the season as they competed in every game at the highest standard of Division 1 football. A big thank you to the managers and coaches over the course of a very long and very rewarding season with the massive improvement in the players evident for all to see. Thank you too to all the parents who travelled to the many matches and tournaments all year. The Aodh Ruadh team and scorers were as follows: Jack Gormley; Markko Branley, Aaron McLoone; Anthony Duffy, Darragh McCready (0-1), Dara Vaughan; Eoghan Gallagher, Cole Connolly (0-1); Eoghan McNulty, Manus Conlon, Ethan Kerrigan; Callum Dorrian (1-4, 1f), MJ Ward (1-6, 5f). Substitutes: Jack Hassett for Eoghan McNulty, Antoin Duffy for Ethan Kerrigan, Oisín McGrath, Micheál McGrath, Darragh Patton, Alex Kerrigan, Harry McGowan, Conor McGloin, Cian Gallagher, Conor Greenan. We have a great gallery of images from the game live now on aodhruadh.org. All eyes now turn to the end of season Bakery Cup. Details and Teams will be released during the week.

Ladies
It was an early start for the Aodh Ruadh ladies as they began their under 21 championship tilt with a quarter-final trip to Gaeil Fhánada. The Ernesiders travelled with just 14 players, but they gave it their all and finished the stronger of the sides. Over the course of an evenly fought first half Ballyshannon had the backing of the breeze and managed to edge away and forge an eight point lead at the break. In the second half the fitness of Aodh Ruadh took its toll on the Fanad defence and the visitors pulled away for a convincing win. Eimear McMahon and Cáit Gillespie were among the goals with Ciara Gillespie, Niamh Hughes, Abbie Barrett and Caitlin McGarrigle picking off some nice points. Orla Keon and Aoibhínn McGarrigle got through a huge amount of work in middle third while the defence of Síofra Hughes, Gráinne Maguire, Tia McFarland and Caitlin McGarrigle were very solid throughout. The team now turn their sights to a semi-final meeting with Saint Eunan's in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh on Sunday 20th November at 10.30am.

It was heartbreak for the Aodh Ruadh under 13s girls on Sunday as a late Dungloe goal denied what might have been a sensational county final victory. Ballyshannon went into the game as underdogs having lost heavily to Dungloe earlier in the season. Once again on Sunday, Aodh Ruadh were taking on physically dominant Dungloe on their home turf, but the Erneside girls showed they had plenty of appetite for the fight. There was little to separate the sides through the first half and at the interval the hosts held a slender one point lead, 1-7 to 2-3, Faye Gillespie having raided through for the Aodh Ruadh goals. In the second half the visitors continued to play their hearts out and with the clock running down it looked like they might grab victory. However, that late Dungloe goal proved decisive, and with the clock now against them, Aodh Ruadh just couldn't claw the deficit back and it finished 2-10 to 2-7. It was a tough defeat for Aodh Ruadh girls to take after having put in so much work this season. The Donegal LGFA representative, Seamus Herron, paid tribute to the Ballyshannon girls in his post match speech, commending their guts throughout the game. Once again Éabha Rogers was outstanding in defence, with Lily O'Donnell and Lexi Roper supplying great support. They harried Dungloe attack the whole way through and never gave them a minute on the ball. In midfield Emma O'Donnell worked hard, as did Laoise Foy who also clipped some nice scores. Faye Gillespie and Ellen Monaghan also hit some good points as they starred in the attack alongside Rachel Gillespie. This concludes the under 13 season, and the club would like to thank the whole management team and squad for all their efforts and hard work over the course of 2022, you really did the club proud.

The Ladies AGM took place in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh on Sunday evening. The meeting reflected on a successful season on the pitch and looked ahead to 2023. Sarah Drummond was returned as Chairwoman, with Louise Larkin staying on as Secretary for another term, and Linda Clyne as Registrar. Paul Gillespie was also returned as County Board Delegate. Team managements will be confirmed at the first meeting of the incoming committee. Expressions of interest should be submitted to Sarah Drummond or Louise Larkin by Wednesday, 30th November.

Our congratulations to Lauren Foy on her selection for the Irish under 16 basketball team.

Congratulations to our near neighbours in Derrygonnelly who won the Ulster Ladies Intermediate title last Sunday in Omagh, and especially exiled Sham Frances Kane who is a mentor with the Harps. Best of luck in the All-Ireland quarter-final against the British champions in a few weeks' time.

Hurling
The Senior Hurling AGM will take place on Friday, 11th November, in Áras Aoidh Ruadh at 9pm. We would love to see a good attendance present for this meeting as we plan ahead for 2023.

The Juvenile Hurling AGM will take place on Tuesday 8th November in Áras Aoidh Ruaidh. We encourage anyone with an interest in the development of hurling in the club to come along and join us as we look over the activity in the past year, and plan ahead for 2023.

The under 9 and under 11 teams enjoyed a trip to the cinema to mark the end of their seasons last week. Big thanks to our helpers on the day, Hannah and Ellen McGarrigle, Finn Doogan and Corey Sheridan.

Suim agat sa Ghaeilge?
Interested in using your own level of Irish in a relaxed, enjoyable conversation group? Aodh Ruadh GAA Club invite you to GAEILGE DO GACH DUINE. Join us in Owen Roe’s, Ballyshannon where we will meet every Tuesday for six weeks commencing Tuesday 15th November from 8.30pm to 9.45pm. All levels of Irish are welcome to join in, speak, listen, or just do whatever you are comfortable with. This event is free of charge. Bain triail as, beidh fáilte romhat.

Coaching Corner
Donegal GAA are running an Award 1 Football course in the Donegal GAA Centre in Convoy from Friday November 11th to Sunday November 13th. An Award 2 Football course will also take place in the Donegal GAA Centre in Convoy with the dates still to be confirmed. Full details and links to register for the courses can be found on the Donegal GAA website.

Ballyshannon Bingo
Well done to Aisling Feehily on taking home the 50/50 Bingo Jackpot last week. The house winners were Joe McGowan and Josie Lynch (shared), Michelle Quinn, Josie Lynch, Letitia Doherty, Anne O’Reilly (also a line), Aileen Fox and Michael Doherty (shared), Mary Gallagher, Joan Keaveney and John McGreevy and Mary McGowan (shared), and Regina O’Connor and Annette McHugh (shared). The cash winners on the lines were Ronan Matthews, Paul Connolly, Barney Cullen, Mary McGowan, Kathleen McCormack, Justine Sheerin, Gerry Murphy, Denis Sheerin, Bernie Sweeney, Linda Breen, Bernadette Sweeney, Mary Donagher, Deirdre Clarke and Caroline Javed. There was no winner of the Snowball so it climbs to €450 this week as we play for almost €2,200 at 9pm in the Abbey Centre. Online players must have their books bought by the 4.30pm on Friday. Books can be purchased online at Klubfunder.com. Players coming to the Abbey Centre can buy their books at the front desk from 8.15pm. Eyes down for first game at 9pm. Looking forward to seeing all again, please spread the word and bring along a friend!

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15 November

Football
The under 21s made it three wins on the bounce on Sunday when they got the better of Glenfin on their travels. The Ernesiders didn't get things all their own way over the course of the first half and had a Harry Howarth goal to thank for opening up a four-point lead at the interval. As has been the pattern so far this season, the Aodh Ruadh lads went up through the gears in the second half and two further goals from Cian Rooney helped Ballyshannon ease to a 3-12 to 0-10 victory. The result sees Aodh Ruadh book their place in the quarter-finals ahead of the first match of the group stages. That game takes place this coming Sunday at 1pm in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh against the only other team in the group with a 100 percent win record, Glenswilly. The Aodh Ruadh team and scorers against Glenfin were as follows. Aaron Cullen; Conor Foy, Shane Gillespie, Ryan Keenaghan; Shane Delahunty (0-1), Kyle Murray, Daire Gallagher; Colm McGloin (0-1), Odhran McGarrigle; Cian Rooney (2-3), Senan Rooney, Harry Howarth (1-0); Damian Weber (0-1), Matt Gillespie (0-3), Eoghan Kelly (0-2). Substitutes: Aidan Sweeny for Conor Foy; Jack Gallagher (0-1) for Harry Howarth; Aengus Sweeny for Damian Weber; James Gallagher for Daire Gallagher.

Ladies
Best of luck to our under 21s in their semi-final meeting with Saint Eunan's in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh this Sunday at 10.30am. It would be great to see a good crowd up to support the girls.

Hurling
The Aodh Ruadh Juvenile hurling AGM took place last Tuesday, with reflections on another busy year of activity. Outgoing chairperson John Larkin stepped down, and the position went unfilled on the night. Any interested candidates are encouraged to express their interest through any member of the Juvenile Hurling Committee.

This Saturday there will be a coaching workshop at 10.30am in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh for all current coaches, as well as those looking to get involved with any of our underage teams. Spread the word.

Santa Party
A date for your festive diaries! On Sunday, 18th December, Aodh Ruadh ladies host a Santa Party in Dorrian's Imperial Hotel. There will be a live DJ, plenty of fun and games, a free selection box for each child and, of course, the chance to meet big man himself, Santa Claus! The event will run from 3pm to 6pm and tickets, priced €12, are available now from Klubfunder.com.

Ballyshannon Bingo
It was a good night for Aileen McNabola with four wins and Fiona Murphy with three and her mam Mary with two. The Jackpot prize went to one of our many regular players, Mary Patton. Well done to all our winners, here are the results game by game. Game 1 - House won by Aileen McNabola who also shared a double line. Ailis Ward was the other double line winner and the line was won by Rosaleen Greene. Game 2 - House won by Toni Anne McGowan; Double line won by Bernadette Sweeney in Glasgow and the line won by Regina Ayres. Game 3 - House won by Aisling Feely, Double Line by Margaret Gilmartin and the line by Marie Ward. Game 4 - Three winners shared the House prize Mary B Kerrigan, Mary Cleary and Aileen McNabola; Line won by Mary McGonigle and the double line won by Mary McGloin. Game 5 - House won by Mary McGowan; Double line three winners, an unusual one as Kathleen Brennan winning twice on two different books and Josie Lynch also winning; the line won by Jake Mullane. Game 6 - Snowball on didn't go on 44 numbers, House was won by Marie Gormley; the double line by Ailis Ward and the line by Patricia McGrane. Game 7 - Another House shared by three players, Packie Johnston, Sally Burrows and Fiona Murphy; The Double Line won by Mary B and the Line won by Philomena Hoey. Game 8 - Lucky Numbers game - Fiona Murphy, on her good run shared the House with Rosaleen Branley, Fiona also won the line prize. Diane Quinn won the Double Line. Game 9 - House won by Caroline Javed, Double Line Margaret Gallagher; Line, Fiona Murphy. Game 10 - Line won by Mart Griffin, Double Line for €50, Aileen McNabola; Jackpot won by Mary Patton. We go again this Friday online and in the Abbey Centre at 9pm. Online players must have their books bought by the 4.30pm on Friday. Books can be purchased online at Klubfunder.com. Players coming to the Abbey Centre can buy their books at the front desk from 8.15pm. Eyes down for first game at 9pm. Looking forward to seeing all again, please spread the word and bring along a friend!

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22 November

Club AGM
The Annual General Meeting of the Aodh Ruadh club takes place this coming Sunday, 27th November in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh at 5pm. The AGM is an open meeting for all those with an interest in the pursuit and development Gaelic games and culture in Ballyshannon. Find out what the club is doing for you, your children, your community. The AGM is the forum for change so why not attend and get involved? If you feel you have something to contribute don't sit on the sidelines. Put your ideas forward, get your point across. This is an exciting time to be part of the club on a number of fronts and we want as many as possible to play their part. Why not become an activist for your club and make a difference to people's lives? Please note, only those registered by the 31s March deadline are eligible to vote on motions and appointments at the club AGM.

Football
Aodh Ruadh's under 21s made it a clean sweep of the group stages with a hard-earned win over Glenswilly in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh on Sunday. It finished 2-5 to 0-8 after 60 minutes played in awful conditions. It was a testament to both sides that they managed to serve up a decent game of football for the big attendance who braved the hostile elements. It took 18 minutes for the game's first score to arrive, and it came courtesy of a gem of a ball from Jack Gallagher into Eoin Doherty who clipped over well under pressure. Glenswilly responded strongly though, notching the next three points to take a two-point lead into the break. Aodh Ruadh got the first score on the restart and it proved a big one. It was created by the heroics of Colm McGloin on the sideline as he battled off repeated Glenswilly attempts to dispossess him before feeding the ball into Damian Weber. Weber went for a shot at the posts, but it dropped into the hands of the unfortunate Glenswilly keeper who could only watch in horror as the wet ball squirted out of his hands and into the path of Odhran McGarrigle who volleyed home. Shortly after that Shane Gillespie put Senan Rooney through to slip over and send Ballyshannon back into the lead again. Glenswilly did manage to level matters in the 41st minute, but that was to prove to be their last score before a flurry of Aodh Ruadh scoring. Odhran McGarrigle gave the Ernesiders the lead again in the 43rd minute, before Damian Weber extended it with a free and Senan Rooney made it 1-5 to 0-5 after Aodh Ruadh turned the Glenswilly kick out. The visitors slowly worked their way back to within a point, but the verdict was decided by a moment of magic in injury time. First Eoghan Kelly ghosted in front of a Glenswilly player as he waited to collect the kick out and robbed the ball. Kelly then found Jack Gallagher with a delightful lob over the last defender, Gallagher then deftly rounded the keeper and stroked home the clincher for Aodh Ruadh. Glenswilly hit the game's final score, but the clock was against them and it finished Aodh Ruadh 2-5 Glenswilly 0-8. Aaron Cullen was very sound between the sticks and Ryan Keenaghan was exceptional in the rearguard. Colm McGloin was superb around the middle third with Senan Rooney also doing a lot of good work, while up front Jack Gallagher and Odhran McGarrigle proved a real handful for the Glenswilly defence. The Aodh Ruadh team and scorers were as follows. Aaron Cullen; Ryan Keenaghan, Shane Gillespie, Mitch McLaughlin; Shane Delahunty, Kyle Murray, Colm McGloin; Odhran McGarrigle (1-1), Aenghus Sweeny; Damian Weber (0-1f), Senan Rooney (0-2), Jack Gallagher (1-0); Eoin Doherty (0-1), Tiernan Flood Dolan, Eoghan Kelly. Subs: Matt Gillespie for Tieran Flood Dolan HT; Darragh Flood Dolan for Mitch McLaughlin 43 minutes; Harry Howarth for Eoin Doherty 43 minutes. Check out aodhruadh.org for pictures from this rain-sodden encounter.

The annual Bakery Cup returns this year and will be played as an under 14 competition. Boys born 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011 are eligible to play. All players are to be at Aras Aoidh Ruaidh at 6.30pm this Wednesday. The first semi-final is at 7pm with the second semi-final straight after. The semi-final winners will contest the Bakery Cup final, with the losers contesting the Bakery Shield. The cup and shield finals will take place next week. Further details will be circulated on the team WhatsApp groups.

Ladies
The competitive ladies season ended on something of a downbeat note with the under 21s losing out to Saint Eunan's in the county semi-final. Aodh Ruadh played their best football in the first half. Saint Eunan's hit the game's first score, but that was quickly cancelled out by Eimear McMahon. The visitors nosed in front again, but Cáit Gillespie levelled and then Eimear McMahon put her side in front on 16 minutes. Gillespie added a further point before a shot from McMahon dropped into the back of the net. McMahon then landed a free in the 23rd minute to make it 1-5 to 0-3 with Aodh Ruadh in control of proceedings. From there though, things fell apart for the Ernesiders, and they failed to register for the remainder of the game. Saint Eunan's got two valuable points before the break to ensure they turned around trailing by just a goal, and over the course of the second half they hit an unanswered 1-9 to run out comfortable and deserved winners. It was a disappointing end to the season for a squad which had been targeting silverware in this competition. Best for Aodh Ruadh on the day were all in defence with Caitlin McGarrigle, Síofra Hughes and Tia McFarland all leaving everything on the pitch for the cause. The team and scorers on the day were as follows. Brídín Maguire; Tia McFarland, Grainne Maguire, Síofra Hughes; Ana Keon, Caitlin McGarrigle, Niamh McGloin; Caoimhe Keon, Orla Keon; Aoibhinn McGarrigle, Cáit Gillespie (0-2), Abbie Barrett; Eimear McMahon (1-2, 1f), Niamh Hughes, Ciara Gillespie. Sub: Rebecca McGuinness for Niamh McGloin HT. We have pictures from the game up on aodhruadh.org.

Hurling
The senior hurling AGM was held on Friday 11th November. Hurling chairman Barry O’Neill thanked all the players for their commitment over the last number of years and especially for their commitment last year when numbers were tight, and a lot of games didn’t go their way. The senior hurling team played in four competitions this year and despite everything, it was a productive year. After a review of the year Barry closed out the meeting and thanked everyone for their support and said he was looking forward to 2023 and to seeing what this team can now achieve with full commitment from all.

On Saturday morning, we had a very enjoyable Coach The Coaches session provided by Marty McGrath, Games Promotion Officer for Donegal. The focus was on fun and engaging games and activities for younger age groups before moving on to hurling specific games and skill development. Thanks to Brian Gillespie and Brian Roper for organising, and to Martin McGrath for coming down as well as the coaches for attending.

Top darts in Sean Óg's
Aodh Ruadh Bord na nÓg held a very enjoyable darts fund-raiser in Seán Óg's on Monday evening with top darter Adrian Lewis taking on all-comers. Thanks to everyone who supported the event. The raffle prize winners were as follows: 1st: Man Utd v Brentford tickets - Chris Ayres; 2nd: Coal voucher - Liz McGrath; 3rd: Sunday dinner for two Whoriskey’s - Kieran Mulligan; 4th: Bottle of GunPowder Gin - Kenneth Monaghan; 5th: Bottle of Jakob Steiner - Billy McManus; 6th: Bottle of Smirnoff vodka - Sean O'Mahoney; 7th: Bottle of Smirnoff vodka - Barry McLaughlin; 8th: Bottle of Jameson - Eamon Flynn; 9th: Bottle of Gordon's Gin - Chris Ayres; 10th: Bottle of Morgan's - Caroline McLoone; 11th: Bottle of Wine - Stephen Dolan; 12th: Box of Chocolates - Declan Patton; 13th: Aodh Ruadh Club Hat and Socks - Thomas Schillaci Gallagher. Winners who have not yet received their prize should message Packie McGrath to arrange delivery. Many thanks to Packie McGrath for all his hard work on this event. Thanks also to Maurice, Maurise, and all the team in Seán Óg's for hosting a great night. All the sponsors, local darts players, ticket buyers, sellers, managers, parents, everyone who supported the raffle. It was an enjoyable and successful night for Bord na nÓg.

Ballyshannon Bingo
Well done to Molly Kerrigan who took home last week's Jackpot prize. The house winners were Margaret McGarrigle, Liam McMenamin, Caroline Finnerty, Kathleen McGee, Ursula McGreevy (with a line), Marian Deacon, Kathleen McGroary, Linda Breen (with a line!) and Aisling Feely. The cash winners on the lines were Tracey Ayres, Marie Ward, Bernadette Sweeney, Denis Sheerin, Jim McGarrigle, Paddy Sexton, Teresa Anderson, Jude Concannon, Regina Dolan and Rita McGullion. The Snowball escaped again to roll to €550 this week, as we play for a prize fund of over €2,300! Please note: Bingo will take place at the usual time of 9pm this Friday. For a trial period, Ballyshannon Bingo will then move to Tuesday nights, with the next Bingo taking place on Tuesday December 6th, at the earlier time of 8.30pm. Online players can buy their books up to 4.30pm Friday on the Aodh Ruadh Ballyshannon at klubfunder.com. Players coming to the hall this Friday can buy their books at the box office from 8.15pm. It would be great to get a good crowd in for this bingo so please spread the word and bring along a friend! Online players must have their books bought by the 4.30pm on Friday. Books can be purchased online at Klubfunder.com. Players coming to the Abbey Centre can buy their books at the front desk from 8.15pm. Eyes down for first game at 9pm. Looking forward to seeing all again, please spread the word and bring along a friend!

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29 November

Club AGM
The Aodh Ruadh AGM took place in its traditional venue of Aras Aoidh Ruaidh for the first time since 2019 on Sunday afternoon. Almost 40 members attended as we looked back on a successful 2022, crowned by our senior ladies footballers' league and championship double, and made plans for the coming season. Detailed reports were submitted by all sub-committees and these were followed by an address from club chairman William Doogan. Reflecting on a very busy season, he thanked all those who had played a role in steering the club successfully through another hectic season on and off the pitch. The Chairman's report and Lisa McTernan's Secretary's report can be viewed now on aodhruadh.org.
With no motions up for consideration, the AGM then proceeded to the election of officers with the following posts being filled. Patrons: Father Ó Fearrai and Canon McGroarty; President: Owen Roe O'Neill; Vice Presidents: Peter Conlon, PJ Buggy, John Magee, Michael McLoone and John Murphy; Chairman: William Doogan; Vice-Chairman: Diarmaid Keon; Secretary: Lisa McTernan; Assistant Secretary: Paul Gillespie; Treasurer: Sabrina Brosnan; Assistant Treasurer: Liam Hassett; PRO: John Hughes; Oifigeach na Gaeilge: Paddy Kelly and Eamonn Martin Maguire; Substitute County Board Delegate: John Travers; Health and Well-being Officer: Maura Gallagher; Child Protection Officer: Josephine McNulty. Coaching Officers: Packie McGrath and Brian Gillespie. Congratulations and best wishes to all those who have taken up a post for 2023.

Football
Aodh Ruadh's under 21s are in action in the B quarter-finals this Saturday when they take on Gaeil Fhánada. The action throws-in at 1pm at the Red Hugh's grounds in Killygordon. It would be great to see a good travelling support down at the Crossroads to get behind the lads.

The Bakery Cup got underway last Wednesday under the lights of Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. It was a great night of football as Corey Sheridan's team got the better of Eoghan Gallagher's to win the first semi-final. In the second semi-final Gareth Brennan's team just nudged out Joe Gibbions team by a single point in a mighty tussle. It was no bother either for the younger lads who got their chance to shine, with Alfie McGowan, Daniel McLoone, Ciaran McGuinness all catching the eye and getting on the score board. The finals will be played this Sunday at Páirc Aodh Ruadh. First up will be the Shield final with Joe's team facing Eoghan's outfit, followed by the Bakery cup final where Corey's side will face Gareth's lads. Times will be communicated through the team WhatsApp groups.

Congrats Ciaran!
Congratulations to our senior Ladies coach Ciaran Smith who has been appointed coach of the senior Donegal Ladies team. Best of luck in the season ahead.

Question time in Seán Óg's
On Thursday 15th December Seán Óg's will be staging a quiz night. Peter Gallagher will be quiz master on the evening and the questions start flying at 9pm. The proceeds from this fun night will go towards the purchase of a new pitch lining machine for the Aodh Ruadh playing facilities. There'll be loads of prizes up for grabs on the night, including four rather fetching Donegal GAA tops for the winners.

Ballyshannon Bingo
Well done to last week's bingo winners. Maggie McGarrigle scooped the 50/50 jackpot. The snowball went unclaimed so rolls to €600 for our next bingo. The house winners were Regina Ayres, Fiona Murphy, Mary Reynolds, Lesley Lynch, Linda Breen, Christina Cox and Jude Concannon. Meanwhile Vincent Keown, Rosaleen Breen and Mary Cleary were house and line winners! The other cash winners on the lines were Mairead McCormack, Marian McDermott (twice!) Claire White, Tracey Ayres (twice!), Jack Hughes, Patricia O’Reilly, Marian Deacon and Kathleen McGee. Please note: We are moving our Bingo to Tuesday nights for the winter time, commencing Tuesday 6th December at the earlier time of 8.30pm. There is no bingo this Friday night. As always, we thank our loyal bingo players for their continued support and look forward to the new night with past and present players. We’ll play for over €2,300, both online and in person. Online players can buy their books up to 4.30pm on Tuesday 6th December at Klubfunder.com, while players coming to the Abbey Centre can buy their books at the box office. It would be great to get a good crowd in for this bingo so please spread the word and bring along a friend!

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