Scéalta na Seachtaine - 31 Nollaig 2007  

 Draw is a Wonderful Success 

After months of hard work our big draw paid off with a most satisfactory level of ticket sales. It was the biggest fundraising venture ever undertaken by the club. When the Finance Committee headed by Tomás Ó Moráin decided last summer to go ahead with a €100 ticket draw, there was much debate about how it would turn out. Some thought the price was too high; others thought the prizes were too high. By the end of October when the town had been covered, despite a wonderful response, there wasn’t enough money in to cover the €35,000 prize money. Then the hard slog began. A relatively small number of people put in a trojan effort in covering the surrounding parishes in South Leitrim and also the neighbouring areas in Cavan and Fermanagh from door to door.  Club members away from home also contributed handsomely and the fact that over five hundred tickets came in over the last two days before the draw was a huge boost and most of those were from players and former players living away from home. 

There were also people not closely connected to the club who took tickets and sold them to acquaintances and family members.  To everyone who sold tickets we are deeply indebted. Your work has been immensely important in bringing our great dream to fruition. Buíochas freisin do na daoine go léir a cheannaigh na ticéid. €100 is a lot of money to a lot of people. However it was pleasing to see the amount of people who bought tickets or shares in tickets. Many households too bought multiple tickets; there were households who bought as many as ten tickets. The level of goodwill, even far beyond the bounds of the parish was heartening. On Saturday night there was immense relief that the club’s greatest venture of this nature had gone off so successfully. Ba mhaith linn ar mbuíochas a ghabháil do na daoine go léir a chabhraigh linn san fheachtas seo. 

Na Buaiteoirí 

The draw took place in Prior’s Lounge on Saturday and the following were the winners: €20,000 – Liam Doherty, Clones, Co Monaghan. €5,000 – Paul Beck, Mohill. €1,000 each – 1) Claudia Ní Bhuachalla, Dún na Bó, Ballinamore, 2) Owen and Siobhán Carron, Páirc Feá, Ballinamore, 3) Frank Cox and Francie McGoldrick, Kinawley, 4) Gerard Conefrey, Keshcarrigan, 5) Noel McTague, Mount Argus, Dublin. €500 each: 1) Gavin Kane, Lavour, Drumshanbo; 2) Shared by Mary Beirne Derreen, Shirley Rogers and Nigel Harrison Mohill; 3) Shared by Matthew, Stephen, Mathew Thomas and Monica Fee, Drumreilly; 4) Frank Mulvey, Lustia Drumshanbo; 5) Shared by Brenda Mulvey and Mary A Mulvey; 6) Shared by Sean Martin, Damien McKeon, Terry Mattimoe, Kevin Lavin, Chris Gannon, Eircom, Carrick on Shannon; 7) Morgan Sweeney, Gorey, Co Wexford; 8) Shared by Anne, Ellen, Rita and Gary Reynolds; 9) Shared by AIB syndicate, Dublin c/o Francis Milton; 10) Liam McDevitt, Monkstown, Dublin. Especial thanks to Gay Prior who sponsored one of the €1,000 prizes. 

Comhbhrón 

The club extends sympathy to the Prior Family, Drumrane on the death of Mrs. Bridie Prior. Also to the McKeon Family, Aughatowney on the death of Margaret’s brother in law. 

Comhghairdeas 

Comhghairdeas to Zoe and David prior on the bith of their son, buachaill eile. 

Turas maith 

Best wishes to one of our players, Ronan O’Rourke who has set out on a world tour. We hope he keeps fit and takes part in the Asian, Australian or American championship before the New Year is out. Ronan was the Club’s Registrar for the year just ended. Go n-éirí leat, Ronan.

Scéalta na Seachtaine - 24 Nollaig 2007  

Big Draw 

The big draw for €36,000 in prizes takes place this Saturday night, 29 December in Priors Lounge. This is the biggest fundraiser we have ever organised. If you haven’t got a ticket there is still time and if you have tickets sold please get them to Ann Shanley as quickly as possible, so as not to leave too much work to be done at the last minute. Bígí ann. 

Christmas Lotto 

The big Christmas Lotto was held in Smyth’s Siopa Ól on Thursday last. Ní Raibh aon buaiteoir den Phota Óir. Numbers drawn were: 17643502. House prizes for those present on the night: €100. Padraig and Frances Gallagher. Hamper: Seamus Mac Murchaidh. Half shares for ticket for big draw: Majella and Tony Gallagher, Lahard, Alice Costello, Ardrum. Buidéil Uisce Beatha: Terry Shortt and Brid Sullivan. Winners of €100 each: Ann Mulvey, Drumshanbo, Kevin Punch and Judy c/o Smyths, Fiona Cafferty, Tarmon, Brid Hearty, Church St, John Galligan, Elizabeth McGinley c/o Hugh McTague, Caillin Murphy, Cornacree, Vera Gough, Mona Creamer. 

Hampers: Edel McKeon, Seán Greene, Railway Tce, Ann McCaffrey, Rosóg, Micheál Duignan, Kiltymooden, Thiana Regan, Oughteragh, Nancy Mitchell, Tréan Mohill, Josephine Maguire, Corraleehan, Gearóidín Ní Loideach, Na Guib. Next Lotto is in Jackie’s on 7 January. Pota Óir €4,200. The club would like to thank, Frances and Margaret Duignan, O’Rourke Office Supplies, Reynolds Hardware and Smyth’s Siopa Ól for sponsorship of some of the above prizes. 

Bás Tomás Ó Ríordáin agus Tony McGowan 

It was an extraordinary coincidence that two of the central figures in Leitrim GAA over the last fifty years should die within the same twenty-four hours last week. Both men were at the helm during Leitrim’s greatest footballing periods, the 1950s and the 1990s. 

Tomás O Ríordáin was a very young man when he took over as Rúnaí in 1953. It is hard to envisage a Co Secretary playing football nowadays but Tomás was playing both football and hurling when he took over as Secretary in 1953. What is amazing altogether is that seventeen years later, when he retired as Co Secretary he was still playing. In between he was part of a number of football and hurling success stories at club and County level. In 1958 he played on the first St Mary’s team to win a senior championship. Tommy was also the man who, more than anyone else restarted hurling in Leitrim. In 1953 he got a senior championship going and apart from two or three seasons, there has been a senior hurling championship played in Leitrim ever since. He played on numerous successful St Mary’s senior hurling winning teams. At county level he was also part of successful Connacht Championship winning teams. He played on the Leitrim Junior team that won the Connacht Junior Football Championship in 1962. He won Connacht Junior Hurling Championships with Leitrim in 1969 and 1970 and was Captain in 1970 when they lost the All Ireland Final to Meath. As far as we know, he is the only man to have won Connacht junior football and junior hurling medals with Leitrim. The achievements of Tomás are legendary and one other memorable one was when he organise Leitrim minors to win a Connacht Minor Hurling Championship in 1965. As an administrator Tomás holds the record along with Tomás Ó Moráin as the longest serving Rúnaí Contae in Leitrim with 18 years service. Sar-Éireannach é Tomás a rinne a dhícheall i gcónaí ar son Liatroma. 

Tony McGowan was another of the larger than life characters to have graced the Leitrim GAA scene. Tony was one of only two people who held the two posts of Cathaoirleach and Rúnaí of Leitrim Co Board. He served nine years as Secretary and ten years as Chairman, a remarkable contribution to the GAA in Leitrim. Tony was of course at the helm during the greatest period of Leitrim’s latter day football success. He was chairman when the Connacht Senior football success came in 1994 but Tony was also there either as Rúnaí or Cathaoirleach when Leitrim’s two Connacht under 21 successes came in 1977 and in 1991. Apart from his work as Cathaoirleach and Rúnaí, Tony was involved in every aspect of club and county affairs. He took part in Scór in Music and Trath na gCeist and won a county title in Question Time in 1986 along with Brendan Canning and the late Leo Kenny. Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar an mbeirt acu. 

Comhbhrón 

The club wishes to express sympathy to the Brady Family, Aghadark on the death of Gerry’s brother in Longford.

Playing Statistics 

Last year we compiled statistics about the number of games played by each adult player during the course of the year. This year we have now done the same. In 2006 a total of 59 players played at least one adult game for the club. In 2007 a total of  62 played at least one game. The number who played the recommended 20 game per year was down from seven in 2006 to three in 2007.  There were seven players who had played in 2006 but did not play any game in 2007. These were: Brian Breen, John Galligan, Conor Harte, Shane Harte, Conor Mahon, Kevin McIntyre and Padraig McKeon. On the otherhand ten new players who did not play in 2006, played at least one game in 2007. Six of these were lads who moved up to adult football for the first time. These were: Philip Farrelly, Jim McTague, Stephen Beirne, Neil Hughes, Enda Quinn and John Christie.  Four others returned to playing in 2007: Trevor Martin, Darren McGrory, Denis Dolan and Diarmuid Keegan.  The breakdown of games is as follows: 

 

Number of games played by players in 2007
Played Div 2 Div 3 Div 4 Sen C Jun A Jun C  Shld B Shld C
1 Farrelly Philip 25 9 5 4 3     2 2
2 McLoughlin Paul 22 9 6   3     2 2
3 McKeon Wayne 20 9 4 2 3     1 1
4 O'Rourke Rory 19 8 4   1     4 2
5 O'Rourke Ronan 19 5 6     3   3 2
6 Prior Alan 19   7 8   3     1
7 Smith Adrian 19   6 8   3   1 1
8 Curran Anthony 19   5 9   2   1 2
9 McTeague Anthony 18 3 7     3   4 1
10 Cafferty Brian 17 4 5       3 4 1
11 Dolan Francis 17   2 10     5    
12 Duignan David 16 9     3     4  
13 McCartin Sean Jnr 17   1 10     5   1
14 O'Connor Kevin 17   4 8   3   1 1
15 Hayden Naoise 15 4 5   1     4 1
16 Honeyman Joe 15 9     3     3  
17 McLoughlin Patrick 15 9     3     3  
18 McWeeney James 15 6 4   3     1 1
19 Murphy Philip 15   5 3   3   2 2
20 Sharpley Finnian 14 8     3     3  
21 Arandelovic Anton 13 8     3     2  
22 Ferguson Liam 12 7     3     2  
23 Kellet Jason 12   2 8   2      
24 McTague Jim 13 4   2 2 1 4   1
25 Murphy Joseph 12   3 5   2     2
26 Murphy Adrian 13     8     5    
27 Sullivan Ruairi 12   6     3   1 2
28 Walsh Fred 13   1 8     4    
29 Beirne Stephen 12     7   5    
30 Hughes Neil 11     7     4    
31 McFarland Daryl 12     8     4    
32 Murphy Shane 10 1 4 2 2     1  
33 Sharpley Ronan 10 6     2     2  
34 McLoughlin Thomas 9 5     2     2  
35 McWeeney John  9 5     3     1  
36 Quinn Enda 10     7     3    
37 Dolan Denis 7   1 1   3   2  
38 Ferguson Shane 7 2       2     2
39 Gallogly Adrian 7   3     2     2
40 Hughes Gordon 7     5     2    
41 Keegan Diarmuid 8   2 4     1 1  
42 Reynolds Darren 7     3     4    
43 Galligan Aidan 6   1 2     3    
44 McTeague Joe 6   3     3      
45 Murray Ciaran 6 4     2        
46 O Suilleabhain Cormac 6     5   1      
47 Reynolds Peter 7     4     3    
48 Brennan Gavin 5   1       3   1
49 Brennan Colm 5   2       3    
50 Martin Trevor 6     3     3    
51 McGrory Darren 5   1 1   3      
52 Costello Michael 4   1 3          
53 McCormack Tommy 4     1     3    
54 Prior Paul 4           4    
55 Logan Raymond 3   1     2      
56 Prior Kevin 3   1       1   1
57 Christy John 2     1     1    
58 Dolan Michael 2     2          
59 Maxwell Ciaran 2           2    
60 Dolan Peter 1     1          
61 Earley David 1           1    
62 Murray Sean 1             1  

 

Scéalta na Seachtaine - 17 Nollaig 2007

Park Development – Please Return Tickets. 

With the big Park Development Draw just a week away it is urgent now that everyone who has tickets should return them immediately to Anne Shanley. Anybody who has tickets, especially those players and supporters who have been given tickets to sell, please return them before Christmas so as to lessen the work to be done in the short interval after Christmas. Even if you hope to sell more around the Christmas please return what you have so as they can be accounted for. The hard work is nearly at an end so please give it that last push.  

Ticket Sellers meeting 

All local ticket sellers are asked to come to Smyths Siopa Tae tomorrow night, Thursday at 10.30 ahead of the Christmas Lotto. This is to do a final round up of call-backs etc. 

County Selector 

Best wishes to Brian Breen who has taken up a position as selector with the County Senior team. Brian was manager of the Annaduff senior team last year and was previously involved with Seán O’Heslins as a selector 

Lotto. 

Our big Christmas Lotto is in Smyth’s Siopa Ól on tomorrow Thursday night. There will be ten hampers to be won as well as 10 by €100 prizes. Ní raibh aon buaiteoir den Phota Óir ar an Luan. Winners of the prizes for people present on the night of the draw: €40, Andy Duffy. Two €20 sponsored by Terry Shortt: Mylie McKeon and Noel Sweeney. Bhuaigh na daoine seo €40: Bridie Mulligan, Carrickmakeegan, Patsy Creamer, Lahard, Ciara Creamer, Kildorragh, Bernie Beirne, Ardrum, Bláithín Sharpley, Aughayowla. Uimhreacha: 10327564

Nollaig Shona 

Go mbeidh Nollaig Shona ag gach duine a bhaineann le club Sheáin Uí Eislin agus tá súil againn go mbeidh muid go léir beo bríomhar ag an tráth seo an bhliain seo chughainn.

 

Scéalta na Seachtaine - 10 Nollaig 2007     

 Officers in and Officers out 

During the past week the Co Board and Coiste na nÓg  held their annual conventions. A number of Sean O’Heslins club members were involved in taking up new positions or retiring from them. At senior Board level, Gerry Mahon left his post as Central Council delegate after 23 years service. Andy Duffy was elected onto the CCC (County Competitions Control Committee) while Seán Ó Suilleabháin continues as Oifigeach Cultúir agus Teanga. Meanwhile at Coiste na nÓg level, Dan Gallogly was elected as Cathaoirleach of Coiste na nÓg while Walter Sharpley did not stand for re-election as Treasurer after spending five years in the position. Overall it shows the substantial involvement of the club at Co Board level 

Gerry Mahon – Seirbhís fhada leis an mBord Contae 

On Sunday last Gerry Mahon attended his last Convention as Central Council delegate after representing Leitrim at Croke Park level for 23 years. This was almost a record in itself as only one other man, the late Leo McAlinden from Cloone, had served a longer term in that position. However, in Gerry Mahon’s case this was only part of his involvement with the GAA at Co Board level. His first significant involvement was as Chairman of the Hurling Board, a post he held in the late 1960s and early 1970s. During this time Leitrim won the Connacht junior hurling championship twice in 1969 and 1970 and they reached the All Ireland Final in 1970, only to lose to Meath. B’é Gearóid an céad duine a cheapadh sa post mar Oifigeach Gaeilge i 1979 agus bhí sé sa phost ar feadh dhá bhliain ó 1979 go 1981. Ceann des na scéimeanna a thóg sé isteach ag an am ná málaí a chur ar fáil do gach club le hainm an chlub i nGaeilge orthu. Gerry was Leitrim’s Connacht Council delegate from 1969 to 1979 and, most significant of all, he was Chairman of the County Board from 1981 to 1984 and one of only three Ballinamore men to hold that position.. The latter year was very important as it was the Centenary year of the foundation of the GAA and included a number of significant commemorative events including the publication of the history of the GAA in Leitrim. 

It is interesting to recall that for a period of three years, 1982-1984, the Cathaoirleach and Rúnaí of Coiste Chontae Liatroma lived practically next door to one another, that was when Gerry Mahon was Chairman and Tommy Moran was Secretary. Gerry Mahon has of course always been active in the Seán O’Heslins club as well. His success with underage teams in the 1960s and 1970s was phenomenal. During those years he was in charge of under 12 and under 14 teams in particular and the club won everything going during those years. Ní dócha go mbeidh deireadh leis an mbaint atá ag Gearóid Ó Mathúna leis an gCumann Lúth Chleas Gael, ach caithfidh a admháil gur bheag duine a chaith tréimhse chomh fada sin i mbun oibre ar son na cúise. Gura fada buan thú a Ghearóid. 

Dan Gallogly – Cathaoirleach Coiste na nÓg 

Dan Gallogly has taken over the position of Chairman of Coiste na nÓg Liatroma after Jimmy McNama stepped down from the position. Dan had been Vice Chairman for the past three years. Interestingly he is the first Ballinamore man to hold this position. Best wishes to Dan in his new post. 

Young Hurler of the Year 

Comhghairdeas to Morgan Quinn who has been selected as Young Hurler of the Year for 2007. Morgan was an outstanding member of our under 16 team which won the under 16 championship this year. Comhghairdeas do Morgan ceann des na hiomáinithe is fearr atá sa chontae faoi láthair. 

Lotto 

Next week we will have two Lotto nights. The regular Lotto will be on Monday night in the Heritage Bar and our Christmas Lotto will be in Smyths Siopa Ól on Thursday of next week. Mar sin beidh dhá oíche lotto againn. Pota Oir €4,000. Ní raibh aon buaiteoir den Phota Oir ar an Luan seo caite.. Winner of the prizes for people present on the night of the draw: Padraig Seosamh MacLochlainn €40. Buidéal uisce beatha sponsored by Freddie Walsh: Brid Sullivan. Bhuaigh na daoine seo €40. Laura Creamer, Kiltyhugh, Conor and Eoin McHugh, Gerard Farry, Padraig Seosamh MacLochlainn, Diarmuid Martin. 

Scéalta na Seachtaine - 3 Nollaig 2007     

AGM Report 

The AGM was held in the Community Centre on Sunday. Cathaoirleach, Adrian MacGabhann, outlined the high points of the year, the hosting of Féile, the success of the junior ladies, Aisling Maxwell reaching the All Ireland Finals in Scór na nÓg and the biggest venture of all, the continuing Park Development. Many of those present talked about the need for a big push on ticket sales before the Christmas and the need to get all the tickets in.  

Outgoing Rúnaí, Brid Ní Shuilleabháin presented a detailed report on the year’s activity. Tributes were paid to the all of the club’s players who travel from considerable distances entirely at their own expense. Cisteoir Anne Shanley presented the accounts for the year and with so much work in progress the fundraising issues dominate. There was also concern at the spiraling increase in medical expenses and the need to impress on players that procedures must be followed before incurring medical and physio costs. Concern was expressed at the influence of the GPA at national level and their stance on progressing county player issues only, while totally ignoring the fact that the majority of players are club players. There was smaller attendance than usual at our AGM on Sunday last with 37 present. Overall it was disappointing to see so few players in attendance, no ladies footballers at all, and just one underage player.  

There are two changes in the officer line-up: Alan Ó Bruacháin takes over as Rúnaí from Bríd Ní Shuilleabháin, who did not go forward this year. Ronan O’Rourke stepped down as Registrar and is replaced by Ruairí Ó Suilleabháin. The Executive Committee has yet to be completed with places for the incoming Insurance Officer and Scór Officer. The following are the Officers for 2008: Uachtaráin: Hugh McTague Snr. Leas-Uachtaráin: John Harte, P J Dolan, Joe Gormley, George Price, An tAthair ó Dubhthaigh, Sean Kavanagh, Paddy Smith, Andy Duffy, Paddy Dolan. Cathaoirleach: Adrian Smith, Leas Cathaoirleach: Peter Reynolds. Rúnaí: Alan Banks, Cisteoir: Anne Shanley, Cláiritheoir: Ruairí Ó Suilleabháin. 

Park Development 

The club is delighted with the reception our ticket sellers are getting in all of the surrounding parishes to our Park Development Draw. At this stage sellers are calling to houses in Carrigallen, Newtowngore, Drumshanbo, Cloone, Mohill, Kiltubrid, Aughavas and areas of Cavan around Bawnboy, Killeshandra, Ballyconnell, Templeport etc. It is great to see the courtesy with which they are received. We must also pay tribute to our ticket sellers who are traveling through the country on dark nights in the cold and wet at times. Míle buíochas daoibh go léir. We would ask sellers who have tickets sold in other places to send them in to Anne Shanley as soon as possible. 

Comhbhrón 

Sympathy to the McTague Family, Church St on the death of Hugh’s sister in law. Sympathy also to the Flynn Family on the death of Mrs. Flynn, Kiltyhugh. Finally to the Cafferty family, Tarmon on the death of Jim’s brother. 

Scór na nÓg 

It was a successful weekend for our Scór na nÓg participants with two groups of Set Dancers, one Figure Dance as well as the Ballad Group and Novelty Act qualifying for the finals. In Rince Foirne we had two groups: Sean O’Heslins “A” were represented by Orla McWeeney, Sarah Beth Reilly, Michelle Reynolds, Shauna Cullen, Gráinne Griffin, Niamh Griffin, Alison Sweeney, Aideen McGourty. This group qualified for the finals. The second Seán O’Heslins group was: Emily Sweeney, Katie Cullen, Maeve Gleeson, Caoimhe McCaffrey, Niamh Flynn, Siobhán McTague, Niamh McGourty, Ellen Wrynn. In Rince Seit Sean O’Heslins “A” were represented by Orla McWeeney, Michelle Reynolds, Maeve Gleeson, Ellen Wrynn, Shauna Cullen, Niamh Griffin, Aideen McGourty. Phillipa O’Reilly.  Seán O’Heslins “B” were represented by Caoimhe McCaffrey, Niamh Flynn, Siobhán McTague, Niamh McGourty, Sarah Beth Reilly, Gráinne Griffin, Alison Sweeney, Laura Creaven. 

Aisling Duignan took part in Amhranaíocht Aonair. We had two Tráth na gCeisteanna teams: Kevin Banks, Stephen McTague and Jack Bagge on one and Conor Maxwell, Luke Murphy and Daniel Gallagher on the other. The Bailéad Ghrúpa team was: Aisling Duignan, Katie Duignan, Lauren McGrory, Ciara Martin and Ciara O’Dowd. Finally the Nuachleas competitors were: John Fanning, Eoin McHugh, Conor McTague, Stephen McTague, Mark McGrory, Brian Beirne, Dean Creaven and Dawn Flynn. D’éirigh go hana mhaith leo uile agus beidh lá maith againn i gCluainín Uí Ruairc ar an 6 Eanair.   

Presentation to Sarah McLoughlin

Sarah McLoughlin, Ladies All Star footballer, acted as Bean a’ Tí for Scór in Ballinamore on Saturday and did a wonderful job. Adrian Smith, Cathaoirleach of Seán O’Heslins made a presentation to Sarah on behalf of the Seán O’Heslins club to mark her selection as an All Star and to wish her well on her All Star trip which is coming up after Christmas.

Division 3 Game 

Allen Gaels conceded the Division 3 game last Sunday so that ends football for 2007. 

Lotto 

Ní raibh aon buaiteoir den Phota Oir ar an Luan seo caite. Lotto ar an Luan seo chughainn sa Commercial. Pota Oir €3,900. Winner of the prizes for people present on the night of the draw: Padraig Seosamh MacLochlainn €40. Buidéal vodka sponsored by Bobby Joe’s: Aindrias Ó Dubhthaigh. Bhuaigh na daoine seo €40. Lily Leddy, Gubbs, Miley McKeon, Camagh, Michael Costello, Ardrum, Catherine Fleming, Kilclare, John O’Hara, Kilrush.  Uimhreacha: 65210437

Scéalta na Seachtaine - 26 Samhain 2007   

AGM on Sunday -  Please be there 

The most important gathering of the year is on Sunday with the club AGM in the Community Centre starting at 3.00. We ask all club members, players and supporters to be there. The club is currently involved in the biggest development ever undertaken by a Leitrim club and indeed possibly the biggest development in Connacht at the moment. The club has a huge range of activity with adult and underage teams in football, and also hurling, ladies teams at all levels and participation in so many events. The AGM is for everyone, players, team mentors, parents of players, supporters etc. The ladies teams are now entirely part of the club and we ask ladies players, mentors, etc to attend also. It is essential that everyone interested attend. Ná déan dearmad air. 

Fixture 

The final game of the year for Sean O’Heslins is a Division 3 game against Allen Gaels in Drumshanbo on Sunday. At the time of writing the likely time is 12.00. 

Minors Lose in Final 

Disaster! This was disaster on a grand scale. Oughteragh Gaels, overwhelming favourites going into the final, but on a day when nothing went right, they lost by 1-5 to 1-4. Two years ago Sean O’Heslins won the under 16 Championship on their own, while the combined strength of Aughawillan and Drumreilly didn’t even win the 13-a-side. Now in 2007 add in a number of very strong Aughnasheelin players and it looked a virtual certainty that Oughteragh Gaels would win handsomely. Ach níl mar a siltear bítear! 

The absence of the injured Gavin Sammon was a first blow. Then the injury to Wayne McKeon before half time was another serious blow. However it was a fluky goal with less than five minutes remaining that stole it. The match itself, on a wet drizzly day was never good. At half time Oughteragh Gaels led by 1-4 to 0-2 and amazingly they didn’t score in the second half. Garadice Gaels were coming into the game before half-time and missed a few chances. They also missed a few in the second half but it looked as if Oughteragh Gaels would win until the goal came. It was a day when Garadice Gaels fought for everything and certainly upset the odds. Congratulations to them and well done on taking the title. Final score 1-5 to 1-4. 

Foireann: Philip Farrelly, Paddy McManus, David Leyden, Paul Earley, Enda Quinn, Seán McWeeney, Neil Hughes, Jim McTague, Wayne McKeon (1-2), Brendan Mulvey, Shane Murphy, John Christie, Michael Costello, Damien Gilheaney (0-2), Fergal Earley. Sub Matthew Murphy for N Hughes.  

Under 21s Lose in semi final 

What a weekend it turned out to be for Garadice Gaels. Having lost the Minor Final on Saturday they faced into the under 21 semi final depleted not only in players but also in morale. However, unlike the minor game this turned out to be a very good game with two very committed teams. The absence of the injured Wayne McKeon and Fergal Earley, who had been sent off on the Saturday were severe blows. Gavin Sammon did come on in the second half despite his recent injury. However, it must be said Drumkeerin played excellently and fully deserved their victory and we wish them best of luck in the final. 

At half time Oughteragh Gaels led by 1-7 to 1-5 and, like the day before, looked to be in a good position. However Drumkeerin played better in the second half and won by 1-12 to 1-10. 

Foireann: Philip Farrelly, Joe McGirl, Kevin Prior, Joe Murphy, Kevin O’Connor, Liam Ferguson, Philip Murphy, Fergal McManus, Jim McTague, Shane Murphy (1-0), Cathal Egan (0-2), Vincent Mulvey, Brendan Mulvey (0-1), James McWeeney (0-5), Damien Gilheaney (0-2). Subs: Enda Quinn for Joe Murphy, Gavin Sammon for Brendan Mulvey. 

Wayne McKeon – Best wishes 

Best wishes to Wayne McKeon for a speedy recovery from injury sustained on Saturday. The loss of Wayne was such a huge blow to our chances and what a sad sight it was to see the ambulance take Wayne to hospital just as the winning goal was struck. The value of Wayne to the team was never more evident than the fact that we didn’t get a score in the second half. Best wishes Wayne and we hope to see you back in the colours in the spring. Our thanks to Marie Quinn from Garadice Gaels for her medical help on the field after Wayne’s injury. 

Scór na nÓg 

Scór na nÓg is on this weekend and our competitors will be taking part in Ballinamore on Saturday. Tosnóidh sé ag 6.00in. 

Lotto 

Ní raibh aon buaiteoir den Phota Oir ar an Luan seo caite. Lotto ar an Luan seo chughainn i Bobby Joe’s. Pota Oir €3,800. Winner of the prizes for people present on the night of the draw: Francie Flanagan €40. Buidéal uisce beatha sponsored by Ciaran Smyth: Brendan Burns. Bhuaigh na daoine seo €40. Bridie Gannon, Main St, Conor Ferguson, Kiltygerry, Aidan McGovern, Tráthnóna, Gene Maguire, Garadice, Fiona Cafferty, Tarmon.  Uimhreacha: 21074365

New pictures 

New pictures showing work on the new Stand and Dressingrooms being developed have been added under "Pictures/Pictiuiri - Pitch/An Phairc" Also pictures of the second pitch.

Pictures have also been added of the Joe McInerney Fun Day in the Park in August last. These are under "Pictures/Pictiuiri - Underage/An Aos Og"

 

Scéalta na Seachtaine - 19 Samhain 2007 

Minor Football Final 

The minor football championship final between Oughteragh Gaels and Garadice Gaels will be played in the Park on Saturday next at 2.30 

Under 21 Semi-final 

The under 21 championship semi- final between Oughteragh Gaels and Drumkeerin will be played on Sunday in Kiltubrid at 2.30. 

Sarah McLoughlin - All Star 

Congratulations to Sarah McLoughlin on being selected on the 2008 Ladies All Stars. This is a great honour for Sarah and her entire family. All-star awards for Leitrim are a rare thing. In men’s football only two Leitrim players have ever received All Star awards. In ladies football it is almost as rare. Sarah was selected in the half forward line and fully deserved her award for her outstanding display in the All Ireland final not to mention other games along the way. Sarah’s three brothers Thomas, Paul and Patrick play for our senior team at the present time. Peter of course also played for the club and still plays in England. Youngest brother, David, stars for our underage teams. Sarah plays her football for the Aughawillan club and she has of course represented Seán O’Heslins in Scór na nÓg and won an All Ireland in Novelty Act a few years ago. The entire family including parents PJ and Marge have contributed enormously to the club and no one deserves the award better than Sarah. Comhghairdeas ar an gradam mór. The Seán O’Heslins ladies team and management would also like to extend their congratulations. 

Park Development 

The most important team in the club at present is the team of ticket promoters who are doing the roads of South Leitrim and West Cavan on a nightly basis selling tickets. Wonderful work has already been done but there is still a lot left to do. Paddy O’Connor has now taken on the job of coordinating the organisation of ticket sellers. If anyone is free on a given night to go out selling and they want to find a second person to go, please ring Paddy and he will sort it out. While we have a good team we could do with more subs, so if anyone would like to give a help even for a few nights please let Paddy know.   

Club Jackets for Youngsters for Christmas 

The is a limited supply of club jackets in small sizes for children available and they would be very suitable for Christmas presents. If you wish to get some please contact Adrian Smith or Anne Shanley immediately.

Indoor Hurling 

Indoor hurling for underage hurlers in the Sports Centre on Wednesday nights from 8-9pm 

Scór na nÓg 

Scór na nÓg is around the corners and our competitors will be taking part in Ballinamore on Saturday week 1 December. Tosnóidh sé ag 6.00in. 

Speedy Recovery 

One of our best supporters, Mary Cassidy, tested out the trolleys for a few days in Cavan Hospital recently. She left for home because they wouldn’t let her play the fiddle!! Good to know you are home again Mary.  

Lotto 

Ní raibh aon buaiteoir den Phota Oir ar an Luan seo caite. Lotto ar an Luan seo chughainn i Smyth’s Siopa Ól. Pota Oir €3,700. Bhuaigh na daoine seo €40 ar an Luan: Tommy Dolan, Gerry Mahon, Adrian MacGabhann, David McCabe, Poor Scholar, Sean McCartin, Séamus MacGabhann, Glennan Mór. Half share in ticket for Park development draw sponsored by Gay Prior: John Ryan. Uimhreacha 56210347

 

Scéalta na Seachtaine - 12 Samhain 2007  

 Oughteragh Gaels win in Under 21 quarter final 

In their first outing in the under 21 Championship Oughteragh Gaels had a good win over Camber Gaels, the Aughavas/Cloone combination. It wasn’t easy at all, especially in the first half and Camber Gaels led early on. Points came from Wayne McKeon and a free from James McWeeney but it wasn’t until a good goal scored by Shane Murphy that Oughteragh Gaels went ahead. James McWeeney and Shane Murphy got other points to lead by 1-4 to 0-6 at half time.  

Whatever happened to them, Camber Gaels got only one point in the second half and Oughteragh Gaels got eight and it was clear-cut in the end. James McWeeney was in accurate form from frees and he scored five, and the other three came from Wayne McKeon, Fergal McManus and Liam Ferguson. It finished 1-12 to 0-7. 

Foireann: Philip Farrelly, Joe Murphy, David Leyden, Joe McGirl, Philip Murphy, Liam Ferguson (0-1), Kevin O’Connor, Wayne McKeon (0-2), Fergal McManus (0-1), James McWeeney (0-7), Jim McTague, Vincent Mulvey, Shane Murphy (1-1), Darren McGrory, Fergal Earley. Sub: Kevin Prior for Joe Murphy. 

Final League Fixture 

Our Junior A team play their final league fixture in Drumshanbo in Division 3 on Sunday at 2.00pm 

Stand Development 

Sales are progressing both locally and farther afield. Tickets have now been sent to many players and former players and we would ask all of those who have received tickets to do their best to sell them fairly quickly either in shares or whole tickets. There are only about six weeks left before Christmas so time is moving on. 

Final Game in Division 4 League 

Our Junior A team played their final league game of 2007 in the Park on Sunday. It was good to see two teams taking the field on a fine Sunday afternoon, although neither team had anything to gain or lose. We were behind by 3-4 to 0-2 at half time but the score did not give an accurate reflection of the state of play.  In the second half we came back with goals from Sean McCartin and Diarmuid Keegan but Allen Gaels got a further goal to finish it. It ended 4-7 to 2-6. 

Foireann: Philip Farrelly, Enda Quinn, Francis Dolan, Trevor Martin, Kevin O’Connor, Freddie Walsh, Anthony Curran, Wayne McKeon (0-1), Adrian Murphy, Seán McCartin (1-2), Jim McTague (0-1), Stephen Beirne, Daryl McFarland (0-1), Diarmuid Keegan (1-0), Peter Reynolds (0-1).  

Comhbhrón 

The club extends sympathy to the McLoughlin Family Drumrane on the death of Mrs. Kathleen McLoughlin at the weekend. Go ndéana Dia trócaire uirthi. 

Lotto 

Ní raibh aon buaiteoir den Phota Oir ar an Luan seo caite. Lotto ar an Luan seo chughainn i Priors. Pota Oir €3,600. Bhuaigh na daoine seo €40 ar an Luan: Padraig S Mac an Phríora, M. Dalton, Mullahoran, Eugene Maxwell, Andy Duffy, Liam Redhead, Monaghan, James Cafferty. Buidéal Uisce Beatha ó David McCabe: Brendan Burns. Uimhreacha: 01437265

Scéalta na Seachtaine - 5 Samhain 2007  

 Give us a hand with the Stand 

We are making great progress with ticket selling but we need your help to achieve our target of 2,500 ticket sales. We are asking any club member or supporter who could sell one, two, three or more tickets to family members, work colleagues or acquaintances to contact us immediately. Having covered the Ballinamore area and the surrounding parishes we need to extend sales further afield. There are people who have brothers, sisters, uncles, aunts etc living away from Ballinamore who would possibly buy a ticket or share in a ticket. Maybe you could get a few people at work or elsewhere to share a ticket. If you can help in any such way please contact Tommy Moran, Anne Shanley or Brid Sullivan immediately. We have only about five weeks of selling time left to Christmas and we need to reach our target sales. Please do whatever you can. 

Fixtures. 

The under 21 Championship starts on Saturday when Oughteragh Gaels play Camber Gaels in Fenagh at 3.00. In Division 4 we play our final game against Allen Gaels in Ballinamore on Sunday at 2.00.   

Comhbhrón 

He club extends sympathy to the Keenaghan family, Kildorragh on the death of Paudge’s father in Bundoran last weekend. Sympathy also to the Joyce Family, Anville Court on the death of Paddy’s brother in Galway. Finally to the McCartin and Beagan families on the death of Mrs. McCartin. Ar dheis Dé go raibh siad uile. 

Ladies All Stars 

Congratulations to Sarah McLoughlin on being one of five of the Leitrim Ladies team to be nominated for an All Star. The function when the selections will be made will be live on TG4. The other four are Mary McKeon, Sinéad Brennan, Maeve Quinn and An Marie Cox. 

Lotto 

Ní raibh aon buaiteoir den Phota Oir ar an Luan seo caite. Lotto ar an Luan seo chughainn sa Poor Scholar, Pota Oir €3,500. Bhuaigh na daoine seo €40 ar an Luan: Brid Sullivan, Gerry Farry, David McTiernan, High St, Joan McBrien c/o James Murphy, Brian Cafferty, Katie Cafferty. Half share in €100 Sean O’Heslins ticket for Park Draw sponsored by Frank Flynn: Brid Farrelly. Uimhreacha 07312546

 

Scéalta na Seachtaine - 29 Deireadh Fo 2007  

 Progress on the Stand 

Tickets for the big Park Development Draw are now being sold in areas outside of the town and we would like to thank all of the people in Aughnasheelin, Fenagh, Aughawillan, Drumreilly etc for supporting our draw. Ticket sellers have been delighted with the response they have received and the support from local clubs will be a big help in completing the major development of the Park. 

Division 2 for another year 

The results of the final games in Division 2 have determined that we will remain in Division 2 for another year at least. We have been fairly unlucky over the past three seasons. Losing out on scoring difference this year. Last year we lost in a play-off to Manorhamilton which went to extra time and a fluke goal in the last minute beat us by a point. A year earlier we lost to Aughawillan in the final game. However, for the past two years it was an earlier defeat which proved the difference. Last year we lost by a point to Glenfarne/Kilty on a wet November morning in Dowra. We should have won that game but instead we lost and ended up in a play-off. This year our fate in Division 2 was decided on a Saturday evening in Cloone last July. We were two points up and the time up. However, Cloone got two points in the six minutes of added time played and it ended up a draw. B’fhéidir go n-éireoidh níos fearr linn an bhliain seo chugainn. 

Burn-out how are you!! 

There is a lot of talk about burn-out those times but it wont affect any of our players this year anyway. Our seniors had their first game this year on 23 April and their last game on 14 October, so if the same starting date operates for next year’s leagues, there will be no competitive game for the seniors for over 6 months. Ironically, we weren’t finished in the league last year until the end of January but a number of factors speeded up the competitions this year. The fact that Leitrim were not in the Tommy Murphy Cup was a big addition. Hard to believe that Wicklow are now looking to allow teams to take part in Tommy Murphy and the qualifiers. Another factor was the playing of the shields without county players which gave more games earlier in the summer. The final factor was the use of scoring difference instead of play-offs, which speeded up the completion of the leagues. Overall there has been a great improvement in the running of competitions and great credit is due to the CCC committee and it is great to see all fixtures will be completed before Christmas this year. However, a six-month’s break is a bit worrying in other respects.  

Fixtures. 

The under 21 Championship starts on Saturday week, 10 Samhain, when Oughteragh Gaels play Camber Gaels in Fenagh at 3.00. This is a quarter final. We have just two league fixtures left. In Division 4 we play our final game against Allen Gaels in Ballinamore on Sunday 11 Samhain at 2.00.  This team got a walk-over from Ballinaglera last Saturday. On the following Sunday, 18 Samhain, our Division 3 team play Allen Gaels in Drumshanbo at 2.00. 

Scór na nÓg 

Preparations are now in full swing for Scór na nÓg and the club will be taking part in most if not all events. The dates for Scór na nÓg are: 1st December  in Ballinamore and 2nd December in Carrick.  

Motions for Convention 

Nominations for Co Board officers and motions for convention must be with the Club Rúnaí by 12 November. 

Cruinniú Cinn-bhliana 

The club’s AGM will be held this year on Sunday 2 December in the Community Centre. 

Lotto 

Ní raibh aon buaiteoir den Phota Oir ar an Luan seo caite. Lotto ar an Luan seo chughainn i Pat Joes, Pota Oir €3,400. Bhuaigh na daoine seo €40 ar an Luan: Hugh McTague Jnr, Denis Dolan, Willowfield Rd, Pauric McKeon, Hillary Farrelly, Alan Sweeney, Clane Co Kildare, Adrian McCartin, Aughavas. Buidéal Uisce beatha ó Liam McGirl: Miles McKeon. Uimhreacha: 31527046

Scéalta na Seachtaine - 22 Deireadh Fo 2007  

Fixture 

Juniors play Ballinaglera at 5.00pm on Saturday in Ballinaglera in Division 4 League. 

Promotion Almost Gone 

Promotion to Division 1 of the League looks more unlikely at this stage after Aughnasheelin’s big win on Sunday. It all depends now on the result of the Gortletteragh v St Mary’s game this weekend.  

Ballinamore Boys school – INTO Mini Sevens Champions

For the fourth year in a row Ballinamore Boys NS has won the County INTO mini sevens. This is an outstanding achievement and it guarantees that some of the boys will play in Croke Park next year at some of the All Ireland Semi-finals. Last week they beat Kinlough, Mohill and Carrigallen and drew with Drumshanbo to win the title. The winning panel was: Daragh McNiffe, Conor Moran, Brian Banks, Luke Murphy (Capt), Dean McGovern, Evan Moran-King, Patrick Connaughton, Donal Feely, Caillin McHugh, Brian Leyden. Well done also to Noel McKeon and Seamus McTague, team mentors. 

Win in Div 4 over Glenfarne/Kiltyclogher 

While teams in higher divisions were opting out of league fixtures it was great to see Glenfarne/Kiltyclogher traveling to Ballinamore on Saturday, a distance of over 30 miles to play a bottom of the table Div 4 fixture. It wasn’t a bad game either on a grand evening for football. It was close in the first half and points from Stephen Beirne, Anthony Curran, Adrian Murphy and two from Sean McCartin, one a free, left us 0-5 to 0-3 up. Then Darren McGrory was introduced and got a good goal to put us five points up at half time. Adrian Smith pointed two early frees, Shane Murphy got two points, Wayne McKeon got another and our final score was an Adrian Murphy goal to leave it 2-10 to 1-7 at the finish.  

Foireann: Darren Reynolds, Kevin O’Connor, Kevin Prior, Trevor Martin, Neil Hughes, Jim McTague, Philip Murphy, Adrian Smith (0-2), Wayne McKeon (0-2), Shane Murphy (0-2), Adrian Murphy (0-1), Alan Prior, Sean McCartin (0-2), Anthony Curran (0-1), Stephen Beirne (0-1). Subs Darren McGrory (1-0), Michael Costello.  

Managers of Teams – Reports 

All managers of teams, adult, underage, ladies, scór etc are asked to have their report on the year’s activities for the Club Rúnaí within the next couple of weeks. 

Under 16 girls beaten in Semi-final 

The under 16 girls played Kiltubrid in the semi-final on Friday last in Ballinamore. This proved to be a step too far for the girls as Kiltubrid seemed to be the stronger team and were in control throughout. In fairness to the O’Heslins girls they never gave up to the end. We would like to thank all the girls who turned out for the game. Kiltubrid now meet Aughawillan in the final. We wish both teams the best of luck.  

This brings the curtain down on ladies football for the year. We would like to thank all the girls who came out to train and play for the club throughout the year and hope to see them all out again next year. Foireann: Niamh Smith, Emma Reynolds (Capt), Gillian Leyden, Róisín McTague, Katie Duignan, Ciara O’Dowd, Deborah Gilheany, Sinéad Flynn, Phillipa O`Reilly, Sinéad Gormley, Ciara Martin.  

Many thanks to Emma Reynolds who put all the match reports together on all of the ladies games throughout the year. Míle Buíochas Emma. 

Ballinamore man head of Bord na Móna 

Congratulations to Ballinamore man Gay D’Arcy on his recent appointment as Managing Director of Bord na Mona. Gay played all grades of football with Seán O’Heslins and was corner forward on the team that won the Senior Football Championship in 1988.  

Comhghairdeas 

Congratulations to Philip Farrelly Jnr, Ardrum on receiving the Josie Martin Scholarship for third level education. These awards are sponsored by the Credit Union in honour of the late Josie Martin, who was a former Secretary of the club. 

Under 16 Hurlers in Connacht 

By virtue of being co champions our under 16s took on Castlebar Mitchell’s in the Connacht under 16 competition on Saturday, The played a right good game and it was 1-4 to 0-5 at half time. Well into the second half Colm McGirl goaled to put them one point up. However, Castlebar were fortunate to get a couple of rather easy goals and it finished 3-11 to 1-8 in the end. 

Foireann Joe Earley, Matthew Murphy, Paddy McManus, Shane Moran, Seamus Donnelly, Seán McWeeney (0-1), James Gallagher, Morgan Quinn (0-5), Keith Boyle (0-2), Mark McGrory, Shane Flanagan, Éamon Walsh, Aidan Dolan, Colm McGirl (1-0), Ryan Creamer. Subs used: Dean Creaven, Devin Quinn. Other subs: David Gallagher, Conal McManus, Ciaran Gilhooly, Noel Plunkett, Gavin Boyle, Brian Boyle, Cian Reynolds, Seán Fox. 

Lotto 

Ní raibh aon buaiteoir den Phota Oir ar an Luan seo caite. Lotto ar an Luan seo chughainn i McGirls, Pota Oir €3,200. Bhuaigh na daoine seo €40 ar an Luan: Dominic Wynne, Liam Kelleher, Aughnasheelin, Dominic Wynne, Tommy Gilheaney, Aughaleague, Éamon McGovern, Knockanroe, Corlough, Frank McCabe, Kiltyhugh.  Buidéal Uisce beatha ó Ralph Lennon: James Murphy Uimhreacha: 67045312

 

Scéalta na Seachtaine - 15 Deireadh Fo 2007  

 “Give us a hand with the Stand”

 The sale of €100