2013 Shannonside SFC Final Programme

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Coiste Chontae Ros Comáin CLG Senior Football Championship Final 2013

Rúnaí

LUACH €3

SENIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP FINAL

Naomh Bríd v Gaeil an IarthairPáirc de hÍde, Ros Comáin

6ú Deireadh Fómhair 2013 ag 4 i.n.

Preceded at 2pm by theABBEY HOTEL MINOR "A" CHAMPIONSHIP FINAL

Clann na nGael v Gaeil an Iarthair

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ABBEY HOTELCONFERENCE & LEISURE

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for Business or pleasure.Our Our Fortfield Suite, complete with Bar and Dance Floor, is ideal for

private parties and functions.

Carvery and Bar Food served daily

For Reservations or Further Information:Phone: 090 – 6626240

E-mail : [email protected] visit www.abbeyhotel.ie

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Coiste Chontae Ros Comáin

Craobh Mionúir Roinn 1 agus Craobh Sinsear Ros ComáinCluichí Ceannais 2013 - 6 ú Deireadh Fómhair 2013

Clár an Lae * Subject to any additional time played

13:45 Foireann Mionúir Clann na nGael amach ar an bPáirc

13:47 Foireann Mionúir Gaeil an Iathair amach ar an bPáirc

13:55 Toss for choice of ends.

14:00 Abbey Hotel Minor Division 1 Football Championship Final commences.

14:30 *Half time Interval

14:40 *Second-half commences

15:05 * Abbey Hotel Minor Football Championship Division 1 Final concludes

15:15 *Presentation of the Canon Thomas O’Flynn Cup to winning Captain by

Cathaoirleach Coiste Mionuír Ros Comáin Oilibhéar Ó Ceallaigh

15:38 Foireann Gaeil an Iathair amach ar an bPáirc

15:40 Foireann Naomh Bríd amach ar an bPáirc

15:47 Toss for choice of ends

15:50 Paráid na Fóirne leis an “Castlerea Brass and Reed Band”

15:58 Amhrán na bhFiann

16:00 Shannonside FM Senior Football Championship Final commences

16:30 *Half-Time Interval

16:45 *Second-half commences

17:15 *Shannonside FM Senior Football Championship Final concludes

17: 25 *Presentation of the JJ Fahey Cup to the winning Captain by

Cathaoirleach Coiste Chontae Ros Comáin Micheál Ó Fathaigh and

Presentation of Man of the Match Award and Referee’s Award

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Nota ó an Eagarthóir Thank you purchasing this souvenir programme for the Senior and Minor Football Finals. The publication contains lots of information about today’s teams as well as look back on our games from the past year (and beyond) and I hope you enjoyed it.

By purchasing this programme you are also supporting Roscommon GAA Inter-county teams and Development Squads as all profits from the sale of the programme will be re-invested into Gaelic Games.I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the following who made this publication possible:

• The representatives of the competing Clubs who collected and compiled information on their teams: Denise McNamara (Clann na nGael) Áine Martin and Diane Dennehy (St Brigids), Gary Jordan and James Ryan (Western Gaels),

• Today’s Referees: Paddy Neilan and Paul Daly• Padraig Duke who provided the historical material.• Eamon Donoghue, Micheál McHugh and Emmet Haughian for their articles • Seán Mannion, Thomas Murray and Noel Collins for their assistance.• All at DPS Print, Carrick on Shannon and especially Kilian for his patience in producing the

programme

Finally, I’d like to wish all the teams the best of luck and I hope we have two enjoyable games.

Is mise, le meas,

Colm BeirneO.C.P. Coiste Chontae Ros Comáin CLG

National AnthemToday, the National Anthem will be performed by Bernadine Casserly, an award winning singer from Frenchpark

MusicToday’s musical entertainment is provided by the Castlerea Brass & Reed Band. Formed in 1890, therefore making it one of the oldest brass bands in the country, the group had to disband on a few occasions over the year due to emigration, however with such a great history of brass music in the area, each time they came back stronger than ever.

In modern times they have become truly international being the first and only band from Roscommon to lead St. Patrick’s Day parades in London, Birmingham, Manchester, Newark, New Jersey, Philladelphia and the biggest one of all 5th Avenue, New York, indeed they have played New York on no fewer than five occasions. They also appeared on coast to coast television in America and on TV in New York and New Jersey. Other highlights was performing at the state house New Jersey and at the Governers mansion, they have also played in each of the four provinces and indeed were honoured to back the massed choirs at the pioneer rally in Croke Park. Other highlights include performances at the closing celebrations of the 200th anniversary of Westminster Cathedral and performances for three Presidents of Ireland, some years ago a vigorous youth policy was pursued which has been a resounding success and with this in place the future looks bright. Anyone wishing to join, young or old, or to book the band contact Sean Mannion (086 8388756)

PhotographyAll the photos of the Club Championship and Inter-county competitions are provided courtesy of

Andrew Fox Photography, Ballymurray, Co. RoscommonCall 09066 61478 from 9am to 6pm or visit www.andrewfox.ie

The Photos of Benny O’Brien and Donal Casserly on Page 23 and the photo of Niamh Ward onpage 57 are courtesy of Gerard O’Loughlin / the Roscommon Herald

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Fáilte ón gCathaoirleachA dhaoine uaisle thár cheann Coiste Chontae Ros Comáin ba mhaith liom fáilte a chur roimh gach éinne go Páirc de hÍde inniu do Craobh Ceannais Peil Sinsear agus Mionúr “A”. Cuirim fáilte leith roimh na foirne ó Cumann Naomh Bríd, Gaeil an Iarthar agus Clann Na Gael.

A sincere welcome to all our senior finalists St Brigid’s and Western Gaels, our minor finalists Clann Na nGael and Western Gaels, their supporters and to all who are here today on the occasion of the biggest day in club football in the county.

Our senior Final sees All-Ireland Club Champions St. Brigid’s put their title on the line as they seek to win their fourth County Championship in a row. St Brigid’s have reached the Final having overcome stern challenges from St Faithleachs and Clann na Gael in the quarter Final and semi-Final respectively. St Brigid’s showed their worth in these games by the manner in which they closed out both games.

Western Gaels have had a varied road to the Final. They had the opportunity to defeat St Brigid’s in their opening round game and ran them close and were subsequently lucky in the to qualify directly for the knock out stages of the championship. Their defeat of Roscommon Gaels in the Quarter-Final was emphatic but their Semi-Final victory over Castlerea St. Kevins was a closer affair.

Today’s Final has the potential to be a thrilling Final. The reigning Champions St Brigid’s have been weakened by injury and emigration but won’t release the Cup without a fight while Western Gaels have experienced the pain of a County Final loss in recent years and will not want to experience it again. I look forward to a game which showcases the best in our games and I am sure that today’s victors will be worthy representatives in the forthcoming provincial club series.

The County Board are currently undertaking a root and branch examination of various aspects of the organisation in the county. Chaired by County Vice Chairperson Seamus Sweeney a review group will look at four areas; Finance, Infrastructure, Club structures and transition from minor to senior at inter county level. An opportunity is being provided for all clubs and those with an interest

in the GAA in the county to make suggestions and give their views known. Submissions can be made by mail or by email and all opinions will be welcome. The hoped for outcome from this exercise is to try to put in place structures that will provide a strategy that will allow us to build on the wonderful work that has gone on at underage level and to translate this success into success at senior level.

Today a plaque was unveiled in the County Library building to commemorate the first All-Ireland Senior Championship Final victory in 1943. Members’ and representatives of deceased players of that team were present this morning at the unveiling. Their pride in and love for the county was evident and the desire for success at national level was palpable among all in attendance. We, as an organisation, have an obligation to strive to emulate that victory in the near future.

A special word of thanks to Mary Butler and her staff in the County Library for all they have done to accommodate us in the Library. I wish to acknowledge the part played Tony Conboy in this project. Tony’s enthusiasm was evident in the manner in which he drove this project and Tony was primarily responsible for its success.

I wish our Referees Paddy Neilian at Senior level and Paul Daly at Minor level, and their teams of officials, good luck today. To the Hyde Park Committee thanks for your work today. To our clubs, officials, gate collectors and all who contributed to the promotion of the GAA in the county many thanks. To Shannonside FM, sponsors of our Senior Championship, thank you for your continued support and thank you to all our competition sponsors.

Finally, I wish to thank you, the spectators; we very much appreciate your support at Club and County level and I hope you enjoy our Finals.

Michéal Ó Fathaigh

CathaoirleachCoiste Contae Ros Comáin

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Best of luck to today’s finalists from

Roscommon CoachesMini Bus & Coach Hire

Bailey Bay, Knockcroghery,Call Pat on 090 6661058 or 087 4105449

Proud sponsors of the RoscommonUnder 16 Football Competitions

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Today’s Match Officials

Minor Final Referee: Paul Daly

Paul Daly takes charge of his first Minor Championship Final today. Paul is one of the younger Referees in the county and started refereeing in 2008. So far, the Ardcarne Garden Centre employee has officiated County Finals at all under-age levels and regularly Referees adult League and Championship games.

At inter-county level this year he has taken charge of Connacht Minor League fixtures and officiated at Allianz League games.

A former player with Strokestown, Paul won Division 2 Minor and Under 21 titles with the Club in 2005 and 2008 respectively.

Paul’s Umpires today are his brother Brendan, John McHugh, Gerard Collins and Paul Fahy – all members of the Strokestown Club

Stand-by Referee: Francis Keane (Michael Glaveys)Linesman: Shane Gilleran (St. Josephs)Fourth Official: Declan Hunt (St. Josephs)

Senior Final Referee: Paddy Neilan

Today is Paddy’s second time in charge of a Senior Championship Final having also refereed last year’s encounter. He began referring in 2006 and has progressed steadily since. His first appearance in an major County Final was 2010’s Minor Football Championship Division One Final and in 2011 he was the “man in the middle” of the Intermediate Final between Padraig Pearses and St. Dominics

During his short career Paddy has refereed games at all levels and in 2012 he was appointed to the National Refereeing Panel. In Febraury he Refereed the AIB All-Ireland Club Junior Semi Final Replay between Castleknock and Kenmare Shamrocks and the M Donnelly Inter-Provincial Football Final in Croke Park and throughout the year he also also Refereed and acted as Standby Referee and Linesman in many Allianz League and Inter-County Championship Matches.

An electrician by trade, Paddy has won minor league and championship medals with St Faithleachs as well as a County Intermediate medal in 2002.

Paddy’s Umpires today are Michael Neilan, Tom Morris, Damien Rooney (St. Faithleachs), and James Murray (Athleague)

Stand-by Referee: Seán Feeney (Clann na nGael)Linesman: Michael Brehony (Michael Glaveys)Fourth Official: Damien Wallace (St. Barrys)

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Best of Luck to both Western Gaels teams today

from

Michael Cooney & Sons Ltd.Homevalue Hardware

Elphin - Castlerea - Tibohine - Athenry - Ballina

Proud sponsors of the Minor Football team

Good Luck to St. Brigids and Clann na nGael todayfrom

Tony Ward M.C.C.Full Time Public Representative

Curraghboy, Athlone.Tel.: (090) 6488294 - Mob.: 087 9165226

Independent Member of Roscommon County Council

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Making your GAA club the healthy option

Each day we hear about the health challenges facing the people on the island of Ireland.

From obesity to mental health and addiction to isolation, organisations and charities across the 32 counties turn to the Association seeking to tap into our unrivalled reach into every parish and community. At grass roots level, clubs align themselves with local causes, charities or organisations to raise awareness or badly needed funds to help tackle issues affecting their communities. County and Provincial Boards support the roll-out of relevant education and awareness programmes, while some county teams have carried messages of support or logos

on their jerseys in order to lend their support to a cause.

As a result, the role that the GAA plays in the health and well-being of the Irish population north and south of the border is ever increasing. But the Association is also driving the health agenda.

The physical benefits accrued from playing and training for our various games is obvious. It helps all our playing members reach their recommended weekly activity levels. It also helps them develop a healthy respect for their bodies and should encourage healthy eating habits. Our coaches act as role models for young members encouraging them to be the best that they can be on and off the field.

Beyond our games, programmes such as the ASAP programme and the GAA Social Initiative, both of which are thriving in Roscommon, aim to tackle wider societal problems such as the misuse of alcohol and substances or the isolation and loneliness experienced by some older members of our communities. The notable success of both these programmes is as a result of the tireless work of the GAA’s army of volunteers and officers, from club level up to the national committees that help drive them on.

One of the latest initiatives in this area is the GAA Healthy Club Project, run in partnership with the Irish Health sector and featuring 18 clubs from around the country (including local Club, Oran) that are determined to put the health and well-being of their members first. Among the areas covered by the project are:

• Healthy eating and diet• Mental health and well being• Drug and alcohol misuse• Suicide prevention and response• Promotion of health and well being through physical activity• Activities for older and non playing members i.e. social initiative• Training for coaches under the safe talk programme

The GAA healthy club project is an extension of the ASAP programme that offers guidance and direction to all GAA clubs in the area of positive mental health and well being. For more infomation on some of the health related activities that the Association is currently involved in visit www.gaa.ie/clubzone or contact Noel Collins, ASAP Officer with Roscommon GAA on 086 1984 252

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Abbey Hotel Minor “A” Football Championship - the story so far

Preliminary Round

Pádraig Pearses 2-11 v Kilmore/Shannon Gaels 1-6Clann na nGael 4-21 v Castlerea St. Kevins 0-7Oran 1-13 v Roscommon Gaels 0-11Western Gaels w/o St. Ciarans scr

Quarter Finals

Pádraig Pearses 1-15 v Oran 1-10Clann na nGael 1-16 v St Brigid’s 2-2Western Gaels 3-14 v Boyle 1-10Strokestown 5-15 v St. Croan’s 2-8

Semi FinalsClann na nGael 3-19 v Pádraig Pearses 1-8Western Gaels 2-10 v Strokestown 0-12

Last Wins:Clann na nGael 1995Western Gaels 2002

Did you know....Clann na nGael are top of Group A of the Division One League with eight wins out of eightWestern Gaels are top of Group B of the Division One League with six wins out of eight

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Fáilte ó an gCathaoirleach Coiste Mionúir

Ar son Coiste Mionúir, Contae Ros Comáin ba mhaith liom fáilte mór a chur

roimh gach duine, agus go háirithe, roimh luch leanúna Gaeil an Iarthair agus

Clann na nGael go Páirc Dubhghlas de hÍde inniu le haghaidh cluiche Craobh

Mionúir, Roinn a hAon.

The Roscommon Minor Committee welcomes everyone here today

and especially those from the two clubs competing in our Abbey Hotel

Minor Final. Clan Na nGael and Western Gaels last met in the Final in 2002

with the team from West Roscommon claiming the title. That game was

Western Gaels last appearance in the top division Final whereas Clann also

appeared in the 2006 Final with their last win coming in 1995.

This year, both clubs deserve great credit on reaching this ultimate stage and it is indicative of the

outstanding underage coaching being carried out in their localities. For this year, Western Gaels have

welcomed players from Ballinameen into their ranks at underage grades from Minor down to U10 level.

With the great run by our County Minor Team this year and with both finalists laced with emerging talent

I expect that this game will reflect the high standard set by our County team.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Abbey Hotel for sponsoring the Minor Leagues and

Championships; all our other sponsors for their ongoing generosity towards our competitions and county

teams and I’d also like to thank the Roscommon and Dublin based Supporters Clubs for their assistance

during the year.

I would like to welcome here today, our Referee Paul Daly, his umpires, linesmen and fourth official and

I would like to thank all our Match Officials who have officiated at our underage games this year. Our

Referees deserve the respect of all players,officials and supporters.

Our CCC have a difficult year in trying to complete competitions and ensuring that the fixture schedule

was kept on track. I would like to thank our Gate Collectors for their work during the year.

In conclusion I hope everyone has an enjoyable County Final and the best of luck to everyone taking part

in the Minor and Senior Final.

Tá siúl agam go mbainfidh sibh sult agus taitneamh as na cluichí inniú. Go n-éirí an tádh libh go léir.

Ollibhéar Ó Ceallaigh

Cathaoirleach, Coiste Mionúir CLG Ros Comáin.

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Clann na nGael - a brief history

Clann na nGael is a rural club situated on the outskirts of Athlone, in the southern end of Roscommon. The club was formed in 1936 when Drum and Clonown amalgamated and the pitch at Johnstown was developed and opened in 1971. In the early 1990’s the grounds and clubhouse were re-structured and new dressing rooms, a function hall, training pitch and parking area were added and was officially opened by Jack Boothman, President of the GAA, on the 27th August 1994. In 2012 a third playing pitch was added behind the existing main stand to help cater for the increasing numbers of players and teams.

Clann na nGael now fields over 20 teams, catering for a large numbers of girls and boys from U.6s right up to Minor level and, at adult level, Mens Under 21, Junior, Intermediate & Senior teams and Ladies Senior teams.

Immense work has been on-going with Clann’s underage players over the last number of years and recent results and performances are showing that this work has not been in vain. Over the last six years Clann have won League and Championship honours at U12 & U14 level and have won the last two U16 Championship titles. Already this year our boys have claimed the U14 Championship and our girls, the Minor Championship.

Manager: Paul WhyteClann’s minors are very lucky to have a management team that have played at all levels of football from underage the whole way up to Senior level. Between manager Paul Whyte and selectors Fergal Shine, Keith Gavin and Tommy Naughton they have over 20 county titles to their names and this experience gives them a great basis for coaching and managing this team. They are ably supported by Gerry Shine, Joe Fallon and physio Tony Flannery.

Captain: Ultan HarneyFor a long time now Ultan has been known as being “one to watch” for the future. The future is now arriving and Ultan is not disappointing anyone who has kept an eye on his progress over the years. His performances with Roscommon minors for the last two years have always been impeccable and he is recognised across the country as one of the Game’s top young players. He has played at Senior level for Clann na nGael for the last two years and, along with four of his Minor team-mates, had the honour of winning the O’Rourke Cup earlier this year.

Ultan is one of the most complete young players you will come across and, added to that, he is a well-grounded and genuinely sound young man who has a great future ahead of him, both on and off the pitch.

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Clann na nGael Minor Pen Pics 2013Dylan Colgan Goalkeeper Dylan Earle Defender

U12, 14 & 16 Championship U12 League & C’ship 2008, U14 C’ship 2010, U16 C’ship 2011 & 2012

Aaron O'Reilly Corner Back Colin Meehan ForwardU12 League & C’ship 2008, U14 C’ship 2010, U16

C’ship 2011 & 2012 U16 C’ship 2011

Paddy Harney Full Back Malcolm O'Hanlon Forward

U16 C’ship 2011 U16 C’ship 2011

Martin Flannery Corner Back Shane Lacey ForwardU12 League & C’ship 2008, U14 C’ship 2010, U16

C’ship 2011 & 2012U12 League & C’ship 2008, U14 C’ship 2010, U16

C’ship 2011 & 2012Jack Connaughton Wing back Ian Wall Defender

U12 League & C’ship 2008, U14 C’ship 2010, U16 C’ship 2011 & 2012

U12 League & C’ship 2008, U14 C’ship 2010, U16 C’ship 2011 & 2012

Shane Pettit Centre back Martin Costello Defender

U16 C’ship 2011, O’Rourke Cup 2013 U16 C’ship 2011

Feargal Lennon Wing back David Kildea ForwardU12 League & C’ship 2008, U14 C’ship 2010, U16

C’ship 2011 & 2012 U16 C’ship 2011

Ultan Harney Midfield Richard McManus DefenderU16 C’ship 2011, O’Rourke Cup 2013, Connacht

Minor C’ship & League 2012 U16 C’ship 2011

Aaron Shine Midfield Ciaran Connaughton Defender

U16 C’ship 2011 U12 League & C’ship 2008

Killian Bannon Wing forward David McManus ForwardU12 League & C’ship 2008, U14 C’ship 2010, U16

C’ship 2011 & 2012 U12 League & C’ship 2008

Cathal Callinan Centre forward Cathal Shields DefenderU12 League & C’ship 2008, U14 C’ship 2010, U16


David Connaughton Wing forward Gary Nicholson DefenderU12 League & C’ship 2008, U14 C’ship 2010, U16


Jamie Fahy Forward Darragh Lennon ForwardU12 League & C’ship 2008, U14 C’ship 2010, U16


Mark Shine Forward Eoin Hannon ForwardU12 League & C’ship 2008, U14 C’ship 2010, U16


Rían McNamara Forward Brandon Ryan Forward

U16 C’ship 2011, O’Rourke Cup 2013 U12 League & C’ship 2008

Gary Mannion Goalkeeper Séan McManus DefenderU12 League & C’ship 2008, U14 C’ship 2010, U16


Cian McManus ForwardU12 League & C’ship 2008, U14 C’ship 2010, U16

C’ship 2011 & 2012

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CLANN NA GAEL(Dathanna: Gorm agus Bui)

1 Dylan Colgan Diollún Mac Colgan

2 3 4 Aaron O’Reilly Paddy Harney Martin Flannery Aron Ó Raghallaigh Padraig Ó hAthairne Mairtín Ó Flannabhra

5 6 7 Jack Connaughton Shane Pettit Feargal Lennon Seán Ó Connachtáin Seán Pettit Feargal Ó Leannáin

8 9 Ultan Harney (C) Aaron Shine Ultán Ó hAthairne Árón Ó Seighin

18 11 12 Killian Bannon Cathal Callinan David Connaughton Cillian Ó Banáin Cathal Ó Callanáin Daithí Ó Connachtáin

13 14 15 Jamie Fahy Mark Shine Rían McNamara Séamus Ó Fathaigh Marcas Ó Seighin Rían MacConmara

Cúil Cúilíní Seachaí 45m Saor Ciceanna

1adh Leath

2adh Leath

IOMLÁN

Subs16. Gary MannionGearóid Ó Mainnin17. Cian McManus Cian MacMánais18. Dylan Earle Diollin Mac an Iarla19. Colin Meehan Coilín Ó Miacháin20. Malcolm O’Hanlon Maolcholaim Ó Hanlon21. Shane Lacey Séan de Léis22. Ian WallIan de Bhal 23. Martin Costello Mairtín Mac Coisteala24. David Kildea Daithí Ó Giolla Dé25. Richard McManus Risteard MacMánais26. Ciaran ConnaughtonCiaran Ó Connachtáin27. David McManus Daithí MacMánais28. Cathal Shields Cathal Ó Siadhail29. Gary Nicholson Gearóid Nicholsan30. Darragh Lennon Darragh Ó Leannáin31. Eoin HannonEoghan Ó h-Annáin32. Brandon RyanBreandán Ó Ríain33. Séan McManusSéan MacMánais

Manager:Ultan Harney

Selectors:Paul WhyteFergal ShineKeith GavinTommy NaughtonGerry ShineJoe Fallon

Physio:Tony Flannery

Sponsors:KLR Construction

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1adh Leath

2adh Leath

IOMLÁN

WESTERN GAELS / GAEIL AN IARTHAIR(Dathanna: Spéirghorm agus Dúgorm)

1 Paul Dwyer Pól Ó Dubhuír

2 3 4 Liam Mahon Bernard Morahan Sean Conry Liam Ó Macháin Bearnard Ó Murcháin Sean Ó Conaire

5 6 7 Tommie Devine Colin Dowd (C) Conor Kelly Tommie Ó Daimhín Coilín Ó Dúda Conchubhar Ó Ceallaigh

8 9 Conor Casserly Ian O’Reilly Conchubhar Mac Casarlaigh Eoin Ó Raghallaigh

10 11 12 Sean Carroll Niall Higgins Martin McGovern Sean Ó Cearbhaill Niall Ó hUiginn Máirtín McGovern

13 14 15 James Tansey Jack Higgins Michael Carroll Séamus Mac an Tánaiste Seán Ó hUiginn Mícheál Ó Cearbhaill

Subs16. Alan CarlosAiléin Mac Cathail17. Declan O’Grady Déaglán O Grady18. Adrian Cummins Adrian Ó Comáin19. Andrew Beirne Aindriú Ó Beirn20. James Duffy Séamus Ó Dufaigh21. John DuffySeán Ó Dufaigh22. John Devine Seán Ó Daimhín23. Damien Nolan Damien Ó Nualláin24. Francis McGovern Proinséas McGovern25. Aidan Dowd Aodán Ó Dúda

Management:Padraic Cassidy

Selectors:Sean CaseyGerard ShannonPeter KeanePadraic CooneyJames Ryan

Sponsors: Cooney’s Homevalue Hardware

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Western Gaels Minor Pen Pics 2013Adrian Cummins Defender James Tansey Forward

U11 Keenan Cup; U14 Garda Cup; U14 Div 2 League; U16 Div 2 C’ship; 1st Year Campbell Cup ; Junior Connacht C C’ship; Special

Minor Div 1 League Minor Div 3 Cship 2011; Special Minor Div 3 League 2011

Aidan Dowd Midfield John Devine Defender

U12 Cship; Connacht Colleges League & C’ship; Colleran CupU 10 Gavin Lee Cup; U 11 Keenan Cup; U 14 Div 2 League; U 14 Garda Cup; U 16 Div 2 C’ship; U 16 Div 2 League; Special Minor

League Alan Carlos Goalkeeper John Duffy Forward

U12 C’ship; Minor Div 3 Cship 2011; Special Minor Div 3 League 2011

U 10 Gavin Lee Cup; U 11 Keenan Cup; U 14 Div 2 League; U 14 Garda Cup; U 16 Div 2 C’ship; U 16 Div 2 League; Special Minor

League Andrew Beirne Forward Liam Mahon Defender

U12 C’ship; Minor Div 3 Cship 2011; Special Minor Div 3 League 2011

U16 Div 2 League; U16 Div 2 C’ship; Special Minor Div 1 League; Connacht Colleges

Bernard Morahan Defender Martin McGovern ForwardU11 Kennan Cup; U14 Garda Cup; U14 Div 2 League; U16 Div 2

C’ship; Special Minor Div 1 League; School - Junior League 2012 & 13; Junior C’ship 2012 & 13; O’haire Cup ‘A’ 2012; Colleran’a’

2012 & 13

U16 Div 2 League; U16 Div 2 C’ship; Special Minor Div 1 League; 3 Connacht Colleges

Colin Dowd Defender Michael Carroll ForwardU16 Div 2 Cship And League 2010; U16 Div 2 Cship 2011; Divi 1 Special Minor League 2012; Junior Mayo Schools League 2012

Special Minor League; U16 C’ship; U16 League; U14 Garda Cup; U14 Div Two League

Conor Casserly Midfield Niall Higgins ForwardU16 Div 2 League; U16 Div 2 C’ships; Special Minor Div 1 League;

Connacht Colleges; Collaran School C’shipU10 Gavin Lee Cup; U16 Div 2 League; U16 Div 2 C’ship; Special

Minor Div 1 League; 3 Connacht CollegesConor Kelly Defender Paul Dwyer Goalkeeper

U16 Div 2 Cship 2010 & 11; U16 Div 2 League 2010; Special Minor League Div 1 2012

U11 Keenan Cup 2008; U 14 Garda Cup 2010; U14 League 2010; U16 League 2011; U16 C’ship 2011 & 12; Juvenile League & Cship

2012; O’haire A Cup 2012; Junior League & Cship 2013; Junior C’ship 2013; Colleran A Cup 2013

Damien Nolan Forward Sean Carroll ForwardU10 Gavin Lee Cup; U11 Keenan Cup; U14 Garda Cup; U16 Div 2 C’ship; U16 League; Special Minor League. School - 1st Yr Fr

Manning Cup; 2 X Connacht School Junior Final

U11 Keenan Cup; U14 Garda Cup; U14 Div 2 League; U16 Div 2 C’ship; Special Minor Div 1 League; U16 Connacht C’ship

Handball; Minor Connacht C’ship HandballDeclan O'Grady Forward Sean Conry Defender

Minor Div 3 Cship 2011; Special Minor Div 3 League 2011 Special Minor League 2012; U16 C’ship 2011; U14 Garda Cup 2010; U14 Div Two League 2010

Francis McGovern Defender Tommie Devine Defender

U11 Keenan Cup; U11 Gavin Lee Cup; U14 Garda Cup; U14 Div 2 League; U16 Div 2 C’ship; Special Minor Div 1 League

U 10 Gavin Lee Cup; U 11 Keenan Cup; U 14 Div 2 League; U 14 Garda Cup; U 16 Div 2 C’ship; U 16 Div 2 League; Special Minor

League Ian O'Reilly Midfield

Special Minor League; U16 C’ship; U16 League; U14 Garda Cup; U14 Div Two League

Jack Higgins ForwardU 10 Gavin Lee Cup; U 11 Keenan Cup; U14 Garda Cup; U16

League 2011 & 12; U16 Cship 2011James Duffy Forward

U11 Keenan Cup; U14 Garda Cup; U14 Div 2 League; U16 Div 2 C’ship; Special Minor Div 1 League

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Western Gaels - a focus on the Minor Team

Western Gaels GAA Club competes in all Underage Grades from Minor

right down to U 12 Levels where we have 2 teams currently playing at

U 12 Grade in 2013. The club also runs a very successful Kids coaching

camp every Saturday morning from April to October for various age

groups from U 10 to U 6’s for boys and girls.

This year’s Minor team have become only the 2nd in the club’s 50 year

history to qualify for the Division 1 Minor final. The only other time this

happened was back in 2002 when we defeated Clann na Gael to capture our 1st and only Division 1 Minor

title. Ironically there are several members on today’s Senior Panel that were an integral part of that historic

day for the club.

The backbone to this year’s Minor team comes from winning back to back U 16 Div 2 championships in

2010 and 2011. We also won the Division 1 Special Minor League in 2012.In this year’s campaign we have

defeated Boyle in the Quarter Final on a scoreline of 3-14 to 1-10 and then emerged victorious against a

very strong Strokestown side in the semi-final on a final scoreline of 2-10 to 0-12.

Western Gaels GAA Minor Board welcomed players from Ballinameen GAA Club into their ranks at Minor

and all underage levels under a temporary arrangement that was approved by the County Board and both

clubs in early 2013 in order to provide the necessary opportunities and teams for Ballinameen Underage

players.

Manager: Padraic CasserlyPadraic is a native of Clegneragh and a long serving member and servant of Western Gaels GAA Club,

having served in various roles and positions as a player, manager and administrator. Padraic along with

others have played a key role in the development of underage football within the club, he has been

involved with both the U-16 & minor panels over the past number of years. Padraic is married to Marie

and they have four young children. In his day job Padraic is a teacher and is also involved with a number

of school teams. He is assisted today by Sean Casey, Gerry Shannon, Peter Keane, Padraic Cooney & James

Ryan. Liam, Margaret & Olivia look after the first aid and Physio needs of the team.

Captain: Colin DowdColin is a native of Ballinagare and is currently studying at Trinity College Dublin. He has won a number of

titles with the most recent being the Under 16 League and Championship double in 2010, a “Special Minor

League” and Mayo Schools Junior League medal in 2012 but the highlight of his Club career had been

captaining the Under 16s to to the Division Two Championship in 2011.

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It gives me great pleasure to welcome you all here today to Dr. Hyde Park for a fantastic

Roscommon Senior Football Championship Final between St Brigids and Western Gaels.

The Shannonside FM Senior Club championship has been a fascinating one both through the

group stages and also on drama, excitement and surprise results in plentiful supply along the way.

Going on what we have seen and heard to date, this is the stand out fixture of the club season in

Roscommon.

We are very proud of our partnership with the Roscommon GAA and we have enjoyed working

closely with them in the past five years. I would like to thank the Roscommon GAA staff and

management, county and club players and all the volunteers whom we have worked with over

the last 5 years. Their dedication to Roscommon football is simply tremendous and will lead us to

further successes at all levels.

On Shannonside, our coverage of everything Roscommon GAA would not be the same without

the passionate and honest commitment of Willie Hegarty, Donie Shine, John Lynch and Tony

Ghee.

Thanks to all Shannonside listeners for tuning in for every game we broadcast and sending in their

thanks every Monday. Tune it to Sportsbeat on tomorrow at 6pm to hear all about the game. You

can also listen to Shannonside on line at http://www.shannonside.ie/ and on your smartphone

(free app download on iTunes and Android)

Joao Soares

General Manager – Shannonside Northern Sound

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St. Brigids and Western Gaels - the story so farEamon Donoghue looks at the two very different paths which the teams have gone down since they first met in their championship opener in early May.

Round One St Brigids 2-12 Western Gaels 1-13

Western Gaels took on St. Brigids in Kiltoom on Saturday 18th May and for many the Frenchpark men would provide the county’s sternest test for the freshly crowned All-Ireland champions. After a rip-roaring start from the home side; 1-3 to 0-0 after only seven minutes things were looking ominous for Western Gaels, yet a Cathal Cregg inspired come-back set up a terrific encounter.

An excellent score from substitute Ultan Muleady had put Western Gaels one up on 45 minutes, to the delight of their strong following, only for Darragh Donnelly to equalize instantly with the subsequent attack. Six minutes from the end a dropping ball from Karol Mannion found it’s way into the back of the net, and the fortuitous goal proved the difference in the end.

Round TwoWestern Gaels 0-9 St Aidans 1-7

Western Gaels’ misery continued as they were again edged out by a single point a week later in round two against St Aidan’s, Sunday 26th May. An early Martin Connolly goal for St Aidans set the tempo for the South Roscommon team as they held on to a slender lead going into the break.

A brace of points form the Cregg brothers, Cathal and Finbar, put the home side in front early in the second half, yet late scores from Johnny Coyne in particular seen Aidan’s claw back and eventually take a late lead. One they held onto for the Final two minutes of injury time despite strong Gaels pressure; putting them top of the group table, and leaving the Frenchpark side joint bottom.

A day earlier St Brigids travelled to struggling Kilbride with expectations high for a convincing win.....

A weakened St. Brigids side without a number of important players, many of whom had decided to travel in the earlier part of the summer, started slowly. By half-time the game remained very much a contest due to a stubborn Kilbride showing led by Gerry Lohan and Conor Devaney. Frankie Dolan was introduced in the second half and proved the catalyst for a one-sided contest, scoring 1-3. Eoin Sheehy also found the back of the net to give St. Brigids two wins from two.Final score: Kilbride 0-4 St. Brigids 2-12

Round ThreeSt Brigids 2-21 St. Aidans 0-8

This top of the table local derby encounter proved a huge anti-climax, as a weakened St Aidan’s side was easily put to bed by their rampant, “noisy neighbours”. Some early Ferdi Coyne scores kept the Ballyforan men in touch in the opening fifteen, after which St. Brigids completely took over with Frankie Dolan and Darragh Donnelly to the fore.

This result meant that on the 11th August St. Brigids and St Aidan’s would qualify in first and second place, respectively, from Group A.

Western Gaels 1-15 Kilbride 3-9

On the same day in Strokestown, Western Gaels required maximum points against Kilbride to ensure a third place finish in the group. The return of free taker Derek Moran, who had missed the entire campaign through injury, proved vital as he added seven points on the day. Western Gaels were in the ascendency

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throughout the game, yet a late come back inspired by Conor Devaney and Seamus O’Neil dramatically brought Kilbride level. The late sending off of Devaney killed any hopes of a winner for Kilbride, and Western Gaels would qualify through scoring difference despite failing to win a game thus far.

Quarter-FinalsSt Brigids 1-12 St Faithleachs 1-11

St. Brigids were given a huge wake up call by a fired up St Faithleach’s side in their Quarter-Final in Dr Hyde Park on Saturday 17th of August. Despite a strong start from the reigning champions, Faithleach’s stayed in touching distance and after twenty minutes trailed 1-4 to 0-3. Good work from the Murtagh brothers for Faithleach’s reduced the lead to two going into the half-time break.

St. Brigids quickly opened up a three point lead in the second half, and the goal remained the difference between the sides as they went score for score for much of the half. With less than five minutes remaining a Senan Kilbride insurance point increasing the lead to 1-12 to 0-11 ultimately proved the winning score, after Ciaran Murtagh found the back of Shane Curran’s net in the Final moments.

This year, a change in the Championship format saw the three third placed teams put into a Draw with the winner receiving a bye into the Quarter-Finals. Western Gaels were chosen and were pitted against a young Roscommon Gaels side in O’Rourke Park on the 31st August.Western Gaels 1-16 Roscommon Gaels 0-10

Western Gaels took full advantage of their opportunity, Finally constructing a performance their talent was capable of after a year of frustrating performances. Derek Moran pointed straight form the throw in, proving a signal of intent. Roscommon Gaels battled on yet the same man who started it, Moran, ended the first half scoring with a pointed free. Leaving the scores 0-7 to 0-5 for Western Gaels at half time.

During the opening 18 minutes of the second half Western Gaels outscored their opponents 1-8 to 0-2, a period Mike Ryan’s team would never recover from. And it was none other than Moran who ended the day’s scoring with another free before referee Aaron Clogher brought proceedings to an end.

Semi-Finals - Sunday 15th SeptemberIn a repeat of the 2009 County Final Western Gaels and Castelrea St. Kevins met in the first of semi Final double-header in a stormy Dr. Hyde Park.

Western Gaels started brightly, and a Cathal Cregg point was quickly added to with points from Kevin Higgins and Finbarr Cregg within the first four minutes. With a huge wind to their advantage, Western Gaels went into the break 0-8 to 0-1 up.

Early second half points from Ger Heneghan narrowed the lead to four after six minutes, yet Castlerea struggled to find scores from play despite the assistance of the wind. Three goals in quick succession in the Final minutes left the score at 1-10 to 2-4.The Finbarr Cregg goal on 59 minutes proving crucial as Castlerea failed to find an equalizing goal in the Final minute.Final score: Western Gaels 1-10 Castlerea St. Kevins 2-4

That game was followed by another local derby with this year’s in-form team Clann na nGael taking on the Champions. With the wind to their backs Clann surged into a 0-3 to 0-0 lead, with Matt Scally and Donie Shne providing much of the early scores. After ten minutes Frankie Dolan managed St. Brigids opening score, yet his side could only muster another two before the break; leaving the scores 0-6 to 0-3 for Clann playing with the elements.

A Cathal McHugh goal on forty minutes put the All-Ireland champions in the lead for the first time in the game, yet points from Ronan Gavin and Donie Shine quickly levelled proceedings. A Frankie Dolan point into the Final ten minutes gave St. Brigids a one point lead they would hold onto until the end of this low scoring affair. Setting them up for a forth-consecutive Final. Their eighth appearance since 2003.

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St. Brigid’s GAA Club would like to thank everyone that supported us throughout the

AIB Club Championship in 2012/13.

We would like to wish our Senior Teamthe best of luck in today’s final.

Music in the Clubhouse tonight by‘Shaney Mac’

WIN, LOSE OR DRAW.

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Meet the Managers

Western Gaels: Donall Casserly

Donall is a native of Frenchpark and has represented Western Gaels and Roscommon at all levels as a player. He is currently in his second spell as Western Gaels manager having previously guided the team during the 2004 – 2006 seasons.

Highlights of the first term include victories in the County and Connacht Intermediate championships in 04/05. Donall has also coached in Galway for 2 seasons with the Annaghdown GAA club. Donall is married to Geraldine and has two girls, Gemma aged 5 and Lauren aged 2.

He works as an R&D Engineer with Merit Medical in Galway. Away from football Donall enjoys watching TV, swimming and farming.

St. Brigids: Benny O’Brien

Benny O’Brien made his St. Brigids senior debut in 1982 and continued to play with his native club until 1992 before transferring to Tullamore GAA Club where he had resided since the mid 1980’s.

He returned to play with St Brigids in 1997 and was a member of the successful Fahy Cup winning team of that year. His management career commenced in 2000 when he got involved with underage teams in Tullamore and he successfully led Tullamore to county titles in all grades from u14 to u21 before taking over at the helm of the senior team for a two year stint in 2010.

He was a founding member of the Tullamore Ladies football club and managed them to several county titles in addition to an All Ireland Feile title and a Kilmacud Seven’s title. Benny has also worked with underage development squads in Offaly and was a selector with the Offaly U21 team in 2012.

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25


Meet the Captains

St. Brigids: Ian Kilbride

Childhood sporting heroes Tony McManusPadraig Kilcommins, Brendan Dixie O’Brien.

Best player you have played withSenan Kilbride

Best player you have played againstSean Cavanagh

Your greatest GAA achievement2013 All Ireland Club Final win. Winning something that big with friends cannot be topped.

Most disappointing sporting moment2011 Club All Ireland Final Loss versus Crossmaglen.

Best game you have seenTable Tennis

Tell us about your Team mates Best TrainerNiall Grehan

Worst TrainerPadraic Kelly

Best motivatorMark “Frosty” O’Carroll

Most SkilfulFrankie Dolan

The JokerRobbie “Robert” Kelly. Ger Aherne

Fastest playerEoin Sheehy

Rising StarsNiall McInerney / Padraic Kelly

Western Gaels: Seán McDermott

Childhood sporting heroesMichael Jordan & Paul Scholes

Best player you have played withTough question! I couldn’t pick one, there are quite a few.

Best player you have played againstNiall McNamee (Offaly)

Your greatest GAA achievementWinning the Connacht SFC 2010Representing Ireland International Rules Series 2010

Most disappointing sporting momentCounty Final 2009 Connacht SFC Final 2011

Best game you have seenDublin v Kerry - All Ireland semi final 2013

Tell us about your Team matesBest TrainerDermot McGarry

Worst TrainerEamon Ryan ..... Sorry Rhino!!!

Best motivatorMe

Most SkilfulDerek Moran

The JokerSean Mahon (Milky)

Fastest playerCathal Cregg

Rising StarCiaran Cafferky / Finbar Cregg / Barry Creighton

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St. Brigid’s GAA Club: A Brief History

The name Craobh Cumann Naomh Brid made its first affiliated appearance in 1944, prior to that our

games were being played officially under the names Kiltoom, Brideswell or Curraghboy for many years

depending on where the most enthusiastic group of players came for at any given time. St. Brigid’s first

major breakthrough came in 1952-53, when the club won the county Junior title and resultant Senior

final on the very first attempt. Thankfully we have managed to retain our senior status ever since and

Craobh Cumann Naomh Brid has continued to flourish through the years with great strides being made in

underage activity and the development of our club grounds and facilities.

The Clubs headquarters stands at Newpark in Kiltoom, where development has continued through the

years since the original purchase of five and a quarter acres for the large sum of one hundred and fifteen

pounds in 1953. The development of club facilities is of course due in no small way to the fantastic support

we get from all of our members, sponsors, supporters, friends and well-wishers. St. Brigid’s now boasts

of three floodlit pitches as well as its Handball Complex in Curraghboy and can feel justly proud of its

achievements.

When the senior men line out today, they will be aiming to retain their county title for the fourth year in a

row and win their seventh county title since 2005. Of course it cannot go without mention that St. Brigid’s

Senior Men’s team are the current AIB All Ireland Champions for 2013.

Celebrations in Croke Park after our historic All-Ireland Club Final win

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Roscommon GAA County Board Chairperson Michael Fahey presents Pat Daly, from Ballintubber and Galway, with his prize from the Roscommon GAA Members Draw. Also pictured are Gary Cunnane, Jimmy

Egan, Michael Holland (all of St. Croans GAA Club) and Joe Gilligan (County Board Treasurer). Pic: www.hursonphotography.com

Facts and FiguresThe teams that start out in May have gone through a long journey since. Here’s how they started out and a few facts and figures from their journey

St. Brigids: S. Curran; R. Stack (0-1), P. Domican, J. Murray; I. Kilbride, G. Aherne, N. McInerney; K. Mannion (1-5, three frees), N. Grehan; G. Cunniffe, D. Donnelly (0-2), D. Dolan (1-1); R. Blaine, S. Kilbride (0-3, two frees), E. Egan. Subs used: P. Kelly for Egan (39 mins), G. Dolan for McInerney (39 mins), C. Sheehy for D. Dolan (41 mins), F. Dolan for Blaine (54 mins), R. Blaine for Grehan (60 mins). Western Gaels: E. Queenan; T. Mahon, D. Ward, D. Ryan; S. McDermott, C. Cafferky, J. Murran; K. Higgins (0-1), D. McGarry (1-1); O. Ward, C. Cregg (0-8, four frees), J. McDonnell; N. Murray (0-1), B. Creighton, F. Cregg (0-1). Subs used: U. Mulleady (0-1) for O. Ward (35 mins).

StatsOverall Scoring Difference 2013:Western Gaels For 4-63 Against 8-42St. Brigids For 8-64 Against 2-45

Average score Per Game 2013:Western Gaels For 0-15 Against 1-10St. Brigids For 1-15 Against 0-10

Last Five Championship meetings:18th May 2013 Round One Kiltoom - St. Brigids 2-12 Western Gaels 1-1316th September 2012 Quarter Final Hyde Park - St. Brigids 2-12 Western Gaels 0-1311th September 2011 Quarter Final Hyde Park - Western Gaels 0-6 St. Brigids 2-1022nd May 2011 Round one Frenchpark - Western Gaels 0-8 St. Brigids 1-1515th August 2009 Round One Kiltoom - St. Brigids 1-11 Western Gaels 1-10

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ST BRIGIDS PEN PICS 2013Niall Grehan 26 Defender David O Connor 31 Forward

1 All Ireland SFC Club, 5 Roscommon SFC, 4 Connacht SFC, 5 Roscommon U21FC


Alan McInerney 20 Forward Eddie Egan 19 Forward


1 All Ireland SFC Club, 1 Roscommon SFC, 1 Connacht SFC

Cathal McHugh 24 Forward Eoin Sheehy 22 Defender / Forward


1 All Ireland SFC Club, 3 Roscommon SFC, 3 Connacht SFC, 3 Roscommon U21FC,

Conor McHugh 25 Forward Frankie Dolan 34 Forward



Cormac Sheehy 29 Utility Garvan Dolan 29 Midfielder

2 Roscommon SFC, 2 Connacht SFC 1 All Ireland SFC Club, 6 Roscommon SFC, 4 Connacht SFC

Darragh Donnelly 27 Defender Gearóid Cunniffe 26 Defender



Darren Dolan 22 Forward Ger Aherne 28 Defender / Midfielder



David Nestor 25 Defender Ian Kilbride 30 Defender / Midfielder



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ST BRIGIDS PEN PICS 2013Johnny Murray 21 Defender Ronan Stack 21 Defender



Karol Mannion 32 Midfielder Senan Kilbride 27 Forward



Mark O Carroll 29 Midfielder Shane Curran 42 Goalkeeper



Adrian Gleeson 19 Forward Shane Mannion 17 Goalkeeper

1 All Ireland SFC Club, 1 Roscommon JFC B

Niall McInerney 19 Defender Shane Monaghan 25 Forward

1 All Ireland SFC Club, 1 Roscommon JFC B 1 Roscommon JFC B

Padraig Kelly 22 Forward


Paul Furey 20 Defender


Robbie Kelly 29 Forward


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1adh Leath

2adh Leath

IOMLÁN

ST. BRIGIDS / NAOMH BRÌD(Dathanna: Glas agus Dearg)

1 Shane Curran Shane Ó Coiréann Eskerbane

2 3 4 Ronan Stack Ger Aherne Johnny Murray Ronán Stac Gearóid Ó hEathrín Sean Ó Muirí Moyvannion Barrymore Faemore

5 6 7 Niall McInerney Darragh Donnelly Niall Grehan Niall Mac an Airchinnigh Dáire Ó Donnaile Niall Ó Greacháin Barrymore Curramore Pollalaher

8 9 Karol Mannion Garvan Dolan Karol Ó Mainín Garbhán Ó Dualláin Moyvannion Curnaseer

10 11 12 Eoin Sheehy Gearóid Cunniffe Padraig Kelly Éoin Ó Síthigh Gearóid Ó Cunnuibh Padraig Ó Ceallaigh Derryglad Cappalisheen Curnalee

13 14 15 Frankie Dolan Senan Kilbride Cathal McHugh Proinsias Ó Dualáin Seanán Mac Giolla Bhríde Cathal Mac Aodha Barrymore Barrymore Lysterfield

Subs16. Shane Mannion Shane Ó Mainín Hodson Bay

17. Eddie EganÉamonn Mac AodhagáinCurraghboy

18. Adrian Gleeson Adrian Ó Gliasáin Barrymore

19. Robbie Kelly Roibéard Ó Ceallaigh Grange

20. Conor McHugh Conchúir Mac Aodha Curraghboy

21. Alan McInerney Ailéin Mac an AirchinnighBarrymore

22. Shane Monaghan Shane Ó Muineacháin The Derries

23. David Nestor Daithí Mac an Adhastair Lysterfield

24. Mark O Carroll Marcus Ó Cearrúill Barrymore

25. David O Connor Daithí Ó Conchubhair Newpark

26. Cormac Sheehy Cormac Ó Síthigh Derryglad

27. Ian Kilbride (C) Ian Mac Giolla Bhríde Barrymore

28. Darren Dolan Darran Ó Dualáin Barrymore

29. Paul Furey Pól Ó Foirréidh Moyvannion

Manager:Benny O Brien

Selector / Coach:Liam McHaleBasil Mannion

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WESTERN GAELS / GAEIL AN IARTHAIR(Dathanna: Spéirghorm agus Dúgorm)

1 Emmet Queenan Eiméid Ó Cuineáin Frenchpark

2 3 4 Adrian Freyne Donal Ward Thomas Mahon Jnr Adrian De Fréine Dónall Mac an Bháird Thomas Junior Ó Macháin Aughurine Lisananny Rathra

5 6 7 Barry Creighton Ciaran Cafferky Sean McDermott (C) Barra Mac Críocháin Ciarán Mac Eachmharcaigh Sean Mac Diarmada The Demense Fairymount Lissian

8 9 Dermot McGarry Kevin Higgins Diarmaid Mag Fhearadhaigh Caoimhín Ó hUiginn The Demense Fairymount

10 11 12 Eamon Ryan Derek Moran James McDonnell Eamonn Ó Riain Darach Ó Móráin Séamus Mac Domhnaill Bellanagare Lisacurkia Frenchpark

13 14 15 Stephen Ryan Cathal Cregg Finbar Cregg Uinseann Ó Riain Cathal de Creag Fionnbharr de Creag Bellanagare Frenchpark Frenchpark

Subs16. Adrian Hardiman Adrian Ó hArgadáin Barnahalla17. David Ryan Daithí Ó RiainFrenchpark18. Paul O Connor Pól Ó Conchubhair Lisacurkia19. Ultan Mulleady Ultán Ó Maoiléidigh Bellanagare20. Oisin Ward Oisín Mac an Bháird Lisananny21. Derek Ryan Darach Ó Riain Bellanagare22. Gerard Woods Gearard Mac Conchoille Moyne23. Noel Higgins Nollaig Ó hUiginn Fairymount24. Brian CafferkyBrian Mac EachmharcaighFairymount25. James Murren Séamus Ó Muireáin Frenchpark26. Fintan Casserly Fiontán Mac Casarlaigh Fairymount27. Padraig Groarke Pádraig Groake Fairymount28. Niall Murray Niall Ó Muirí Sheepwalk29. Sean Mahon Sean Ó Macháin Rathra30. Seamus O Gara Seamas Ó Gadhra Aughurine

Manager:Donal Casserly

Selectors:Gerard NolanMichael Gilligan

Team TrainerPadraig Mitchell

PhysioCiara McDonnell

Main SponsorThe Chariot Bar, Frenchpark


1adh Leath

2adh Leath

IOMLÁN

34


WESTERN GAELS PEN PICS 2013Adrian Freyne 38 Defender Derek Ryan 19 Forward

O’Rourke Cup ‘09 and ‘10; IFC ‘04 and ‘98; Connacht Club IFC ‘04; Junior C’ship 1990;

Tansey Cup ‘12; Div 4 League ‘10; O’Gara Cup ‘07; Connacht Inter-firms ‘12;

Special Minor League Division 1 ‘12; Tansey Cup ‘12

Adrian Hardiman 28 Goalkeeper Dermot McGarry 27 Defender

Tansey Cup ‘12; O’Rourke Cup ‘10; Minor “A” League & C’ship ‘02

Minor Div 1 League & C’ship ‘02; Connacht Club IFC ‘04, IFC ‘04; O Gara Cup ‘07; Leo Kenny Cup ‘08; Connacht Junior C’ship ‘09; O’Rourke Cup

‘09 & ‘10

Barry Creighton 20 Defender Donal Ward 25 Defender

U16 Fr. Manning Cup; Division 4 League ‘10; Tansey Cup ‘12

Minor “B” Cship ‘05; U-21 “B” Cship ‘07; O’Gara Cup’07; O’Rourke Cup ‘09 and ‘10; Connacht

C’ship ‘10

Brian Cafferky 22 Defender Eamon Ryan 29 Defender

O’Rourke Cup ‘09 and ‘10U-21 “B” C’ship ‘00; O’Gara Cup’01; Minor “A”

C’ship ‘02; Minor Div 1 League ‘02; IFC ‘04; Connacht IFC ‘04; O’Rourke Cup ‘09

Cathal Cregg 26 Forward Emmet Queenan 27 Goalkeeper

Connacht Senior C’ship ‘10; O’Rourke Cup ‘09 and ‘10; Connacht Club IFC ‘04; IFC ‘04; O’Gara

Cup ‘07; U-21 “B” C’ship; Minor Div 1 C’ship ‘02; Minor Div 1 League ‘02; Minor Div 2 League ‘05; Boston Senior C’ship ‘12; Sigerson Cup ‘10, ‘12; Sigerson League ‘10; Fresher’s All Ireland ‘05

Tansey Cup ‘12; O’Rourke Cup ‘10, Division 4 League ‘10; Leo Kenny Cup ‘10; Minor “A” League

and C’ship ‘02

Ciaran Cafferky 20 Defender Finbar Cregg 21 Forward

O’Rourke Cup ‘10; Connacht U-21 C’ship ‘12; Freshers All-Ireland ‘11; Sigerson ‘12; O Byrne

Cup ‘12Connacht U-21 C’ship ‘12; O’Rourke Cup ‘10

David Ryan 26 Defender Fintan Casserly 21 Forward

Minor Div 1 League & C’ship ‘02; IFC ‘04; Connacht Club IFC ‘04; Minor Div 2 League ‘05;

O’Gara Cup’07; Leo Kenny Cup ‘08; O’Rourke Cup ‘09 & ‘10; Tansey Cup ‘12

O’Ryan Cup With DIT ‘13; Junior All Ireland C’ship With DIT ‘12, ‘13; O’Rourke Cup ‘09, ‘10;

Tansey Cup ‘12

Derek Moran 32 Forward Gerard Woods 27 Defender

U-21 “B” C’ship ;IFC ‘98 and ‘04; Connacht Club IFC. ‘04; O’Rourke Cup ‘09 and ‘10; 2 Connacht

Junior C’ships; Sigerson Cup - IT Sligo ‘04Minor “A” League & C’ship ‘02; O’Rourke Cup ‘09

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WESTERN GAELS PEN PICS 2013James McDonnell 26 Forward Seamus O'Gara 39 Forward

O’Rourke Cup ‘09, ‘10; Tansey Cup ‘12; U-21 “B” C’ship ‘07; Minor “A” League & Champ ‘02

Junior A C’ship ‘90; IFC ‘98; Tansey Cup ‘12, O’Gara Cup; North America intermediate ‘04

James Murren 22 Defender Sean Mahon 23 Defender

U-21 “B” C’ship ‘07 O’Rourke Cup ‘09 and ‘10 ; Leo Kenny Cup ‘08; U-21 “B” C’ship ‘07; Minor “B” C’ship ‘05

Kevin Higgins 24 Midfielder Sean McDermott 29 Defender

U-21 C’ship ‘07; O’Rourke Cup ‘09, ‘10; County: Minor Connacht C’ship ‘06, Minor All-Ireland

C’ship ‘06; Connacht U-21 C’ship ‘10; Connacht Senior C’ship ‘10

International Rules Panelist ‘10; Connacht Senior C’ship ‘10; Sigerson Cup Sligo I.T. ‘04 & ‘05;

Connacht Club IFC ‘04, IFC ‘04; O’Rourke Cup ‘09 & ‘10; Minor “A” C’ship ‘02; Minor Div 1 League ‘02

Niall Murray 27 Forward Stephen Ryan 19 Forward

Minor “A” ‘02; U-21 “B” ‘07; IFC ‘04; Intermediate Connacht C’ship ‘04; Intermediate London ‘10

Ted Webb Cup ‘10; Division 1 Special Minor League ‘12; Tansey Cup ‘12 ; Connacht Colleges

Divison 4 League ‘12 and ‘13

Noel Higgins 25 Forward Thomas Mahon 25 Defender

U-21 “B” C’ship winners ‘07 ; O’Rourke Cup ‘09, ‘10; Junior A Tansey Cup ‘12;

Minor Division 2 League ‘05; U-21 B C’ship ‘07; O’Gara Cup ‘07; Senior Connacht League ‘08;

O’Rourke Cup ‘09-’10; Connacht Junior C’ship ‘09

Oisin Ward 18 Forward Ultan Mulleady 31 Midfielder

Special Minor League Div 1 ‘12; Connacht Colleges Juvenile C C’ship ‘10; Connacht

Colleges Junior B C’ship ‘11

County IFC ‘04 ; Connacht IFC ‘04; O’Rourke Cup ‘10

Padraig Groarke 22 Defender

Tansey Cup’12; O’Rourke Cup ‘10; Minor Div 2 League ‘08

Paul O' Connor 33 Defender

IFC ‘98; U-21 “B” C’ship ‘01; Tansey Cup ‘12; Adult Div 1 League ‘05 with St Vincents, Luton

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Western Gaels GAA Club

Western Gaels Club was formed in Fairymount Hall in 1962. Gerry Finneran, John Lavin and Fr. Gerry O’Rourke were the founder members who set up the club following the recommendation of a special committee of the County Board in that year.

The club area consists of the parishes of Frenchpark and Fairymount in West Roscommon, close to the towns of Castlerea and Ballaghaderreen. Prior to that there were clubs in both parishes but due to emigration both of these clubs were very weak. Probably the most famous son of the area is Dr. Douglas Hyde of Tibohine, who was Patron of the GAA from 1902 to 1915, and the first President of Ireland from 1938 to 1945. Ironically, he was banned from the GAA at Congress in 1939 for attending a soccer match. Another loyal servant to the GAA, Pádraig Ó Caoimh, Ard-Rúnaí 1939-1964 was born in the village of Ballinagare.

The amalgamation of both parishes proved very successful and success on the playing field began to come our way in the 1970’s when the club won five juvenile titles. This in turn helped us to our first major title at adult level - the Junior County Championship in 1977.

One of the Club’s greatest achievements was on July 31st 1983 when a first class enclosed playing field (the Martin Nash Memorial Park) and Club rooms (the Canon Flynn Memorial Club rooms) were officially opened. The programme that day consisted of a Junior Championship game between St. Ronan’s and Michael Glavey’s, an Intermediate Challenge between Western Gaels and St. Croan’s, and a Senior Inter-County Challenge game between Roscommon and Galway. Refurbishment of the ground, including the development of a new stand and an extension and upgrading of the club rooms took place in 2005.

The success of underage teams in the early 1990’s - U-12, U-14 and two U-16 titles back to back contributed in no small way to winning the Co. Intermediate title for the first time in 1998, an U-21 title in 2000, a Minor ‘A’ title in 2002, and a second Intermediate title in 2004. That Intermediate team also brought further glory to the club by winning the Connacht Intermediate Championship.

We won back to back O Rourke Cup’s (Div 1 League) in 2009 and 2010 and our Junior team won the Tansey Cup (Div 3 League) in 2012. Our U 16 team won back to back Div 2 Championships in 2010 and 2011.

The Club is honoured to have five members who won All-Ireland medals with Roscommon in the past. Seamus Lavin RIP - Minor (1939), John Lavin - Minor (1951), Michael Finneran - U-21 (1978) and Kevin Murray - U-21 (1978). The most recent winner was Kevin Higgins from Fairymount who was a member of the victorious Roscommon Minor All-Ireland champions in 2006.

Western Gaels has also a very successful Ladies Club that competes in all grades and has had numerous successes over the years at U14 and U16 levels with our biggest win at Adult level came when we won the Junior Championship in 2011.

The Club has only last year in 2012 celebrated its Golden Jubilee 50th Anniversary and this was a historic milestone for the club. A host of events were held through the year to mark the event.Today is a unique day for our club as have our Senior and Minor teams contesting their respective championship finals and we wish them the best of luck for both games. It’s a culmination in a huge amount of dedication, hard work and no shortage of knowledge from numerous mentors over the last decade or so.

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Best of luck to Western Gaels todayfrom

Main sponsor of the Senior Team

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The Club extends its thanks to all those that have sponsored our teams over the years and those that have contributed to our Training Fund for 2013 are listed below:

M Cooney & Sons LtdFinesse Medical The Chariot, FrenchparkKilraine O Callaghan SolicitorsEcoflex Surfacing LtdPat McCrann Tyre CentreBernard J Morahan & Co. AccountantsMitchell’s Shop/Post office, FrenchparkJames & Noreen Tully, FrenchparkThe Fiddlers Elbow, BallaghaderreenTullys Bar & Off Licence, FrenchparkClub Infinity, BallaghaderreenBoland’s Bar, FairymountThe Sideline Bar, FrenchparkPat Tully Plumbing, FrenchparkInto The West, SheepwalkThe Goalpost, BellanagareFarrells Bar, FrenchparkMolly’s Bar, BallaghaderreenPat Towey Filling Station, BallaghaderreenBallaghaderreen GAA ClubDuffy’s Supervalu, BallagahaderreenConnacht Gold, Charlestown Road,BallaghaderreenTommy Sharkey, BallaghaderreenDrury Oils LtdJohn Mulvihill ElectricalBilly Lavin Veterinary Paul Casey Plant Services LtdHiggins Bar, FrenchparkJoe McDonnell HackneyCreighton AluminiumMichael Carney Memorials LtdRyan Engineering Ltd, TibohineGrange Fuels LtdBallinameen GAA ClubGairdin Bia CateringSean O Connor Painting & Decoration ContractorCreighton & Regan Cleaning Services, MoyneFrank & Bernie Ward Mini Bus Hire

Dermot Casserly Mini Bus HireMaddens Builders Providers LtdAlistair Martin ElectricalRos Plant Hire LtdSeamas Casserly / OKM Architects LtdSinead & Tommie DevineAherne & Co. Chartered Accountants, BoyleNoel and Imelda CreightonDavid Regan Electrical LtdGary Neary CarpentryMark Lohan Fitted FurnitureBartley Cullinan Guttering ServicesPaul Hardiman Taxi ServicesDavid Cummins Plant HireJoe Harrington BlocklayingKBSR Ltd/Nigel KeenanMichael Morahan Land Drainage ServicesJohn Caulfield AI Technician / Progressive GeneticsSeamas Beirne / IDL LtdEamon Ryan PlasteringTed DalyGerard Nolan Roofing and CladdingAnthony and Kathy Harrington / White House B&B, BellanagareRory and Marie DuffyNestor & Co. AccountantsPaul Neary Barber, CastlereaJohn Nolan (Oz)David Jordan (Oz)Mark Drury (Oz)Sean and Sheila NolanPadraig Durr / Castle Mechanical LtdCahill’s Supervalu, CastlereaCastlerea Co-Op Livestock MartTom & Frances McCann, GrallaghGroarke Construction LtdPatrick Ryan / Padraig Cummins / Shane Boland / Adrian Morris / Vincent Moran

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Senior Football Championship Roll of Honour

Clann na nGael (19) 1961, 1966, 1970, 1976, 1977, 1979, 1981, 1982, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1993, 1995, 1996

Elphin (15) 1889, 1891, 1931, 1932, 1937, 1950, 1951, 1955, 1956, 1957as Elphin William O’Briens 1901, 1902, 1903, 1904, 1905 St. Brigids (12) 1953, 1958, 1959, 1963, 1969, 1997, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2010,

2011, 2012Roscommon Gaels (11) 1962, 1972, 1974, 1975, 1978, 1980, 1994, 1998,1999, 2001,

2004Strokestown (10) 1915, 1916, 1917, 1918, 1922, 1926, 1928, 1933, 1992, 2002Castlerea St. Kevins (6) 1968, 1971, 1973, 2003, 2008, 2009Kilbride (6) 1907, 1908, 1909, 1911, 1914, 2000St. Patricks, Knockcroghery (6) 1942, 1943, 1945, 1946, 1948, 1949Tarmon (6) 1935, 1939, 1940, 1941, 1944, 1947Donamon (4) 1919, 1920, 1921, 1925Roscommon (3) 1930, 1936, 1938Tulsk Lord Edwards (3) 1906, 1910 (as Tulsk), 1923, 1924Fuerty (2) 1929, 1934Roscommon “The Blues” (2) 1912, 1913St. Comans Roscommon (2) 1952, 195418th Battalion Boyle (1) 1927Boyle (1) 1890Castlerea (1) 1967Kilbride Emmets (1) 1914Kilmore (1) 1983St. Faithleachs (1) 1965Shannon Gaels (1) 1964“United Stars” Creggs / Oran (1) 1960

Note: Definitive records are not available for the period between 1890 and 1901 as the “Parnellite split” has a serious effect on the GAA.

The Fahey CupThe victorious captain today will lift the Fahey Cup, named in memory of JJ Fahey RIP, one of the longest serving GAA officials in the country. First elected as Secretary of the Mid Board in 1927, he went on to become Secretary of the County Board in 1935 until 1948. He also held a number of positions in the association outside the county but his term as Treasurer of the Connacht Council from 1935 to 1972 stands out. He was Secretary of the Connacht Council at the time of his death in 1974.

In 1947, while Secretary of the County Board JJ purchased a cup for the Senior Football Championship and it became known as the Fahey Cup. The present Cup was designed in 1984 and was first presented at the 1985 County Final to Clann na nGael.

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Shannonside FM Senior Football Championship - Results to date

Round Group A Results 1 St Aidan’s 1-16 v Kilbride 1-11 1 St Brigid’s 2-12 v Western Gaels 1-13 2 Western Gaels 0-9 v St Aidan’s 1-7 2 Kilbride 0-4 v St Brigid’s 2-12 3 Kilbride 3-9 v Western Gaels 1-15 3 St Brigid’s 2-21 v St Aidan’s 0-8

Round Group B Results 1 Elphin 0-15 v Castlerea St. Kevins1-7 1 Roscommon Gaels 1-7 v Strokestown 0-11 2 Castlerea St. Kevins1-12 v Strokestown 0-9 2 Roscommon Gaels 1-9 v Elphin 1-8 3 Strokestown 1-8 v Elphin 2-8 3 Castlerea St. Kevins0-9 v Roscommon Gaels 0-15

Round Group C Results 1 Pádraig Pearses 1-9 v St Faithleachs 0-12 1 Kilmore 0-7 v Clann na nGael 2-11 2 St Faithleachs 3-9 v Kilmore 1-10 2 Pádraig Pearses 0-11 v Clann na nGael 3-9 3 Kilmore 0-11 v Pádraig Pearses 0-10 3 Clann na nGael 1-12 v St Faithleachs 0-12

Relegation play-offs First play-off Strokestown 5-20 v Kilbride 0-5Final Pádraig Pearses 0-18 v Kilbride 1-1

Championship Knock-out stages 8th Play off Castlerea St. Kevins 1-12 v Kilmore 0-12

Quarter Finals Western Gaels 1-16 v Roscommon Gaels 0-10 Castlerea St. Kevins 1-14 v St Aidan’s 1-10 St Brigid’s 1-12 v St Faithleach’s 1-11 Clann na nGael 2-9 v Elphin 1-7

Semi Finals St Brigid’s 1-7 v Clann na nGael 0-9 Western Gaels 1-10 v Castlerea St. Kevins 2-4

Group ARank Team P W D L F A PTS

1 Clann na nGael 3 3 0 0 50 30 62 St Faithleachs 3 1 1 1 42 40 33 Kilmore 3 1 0 2 31 45 24 Pádraig Pearses 3 0 1 2 33 41 1

Group BRank Team P W D L F A PTS

1 St Brigids 3 3 0 0 63 28 62 St Aidans 3 2 0 1 37 50 43 Western Gaels 3 0 1 2 43 46 14 Kilbride 3 0 1 2 36 55 1

Group CRank Team P W D L F A PTS

1 Roscommon Gaels 3 2 0 1 37 31 42 Elphin 3 2 0 1 40 33 43 C’Rea St. Kevins 3 1 0 2 34 39 24 Strokestown 3 1 0 2 31 39 2

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Best of luck to Western Gaelsfrom

Royal Canal Business Park, Athlone Road, Longford,

Call 043 3349586 or visit http://www.finessemedical.com/

Best wishes to Western Gaelsfrom

Pound St., Ballaghaderreen Co. RoscommonCall 094 986 0013

E-mail: [email protected] www.facebook.com/KilraneOCallaghanCoSolicitors

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The Season in Review - Part One

JanuarySaturday 5th The Roscommon Under 21 Footballers were the first inter-county team to take the field in 2013. They faced Longford in the Hastings Cup and an experimental line-up suffered a heavy defeat

Sunday 6th John Evans began life in charge of the Senior Footballers with a six points to five loss to eventual Champions Leitrim in the FBD Connacht League in a game played in heavy conditions at the Orchard Park, Elphin

Sunday 13th The Seniors enjoyed a comfortable 1-20 to 1-4 win over GMIT in Strokestown with Fintan Cregg and Scott Oates scoring six point apiece

Saturday 19th The Under 21s got back to winning ways with a 2-11 to 0-8 win over Wicklow in Johnstown

Sunday 20th The Senior Hurlers suffered a 3-21 to 0-10 defeat at the hands of GMIT in Round One of the Bord na Móna Kehoe Cup. Meanwhile, there was better news for the Senior Footballers as they played out an exciting Draw with All-Ireland Finalists Mayo in Round Three of the FBD Connacht League

Sunday 27th Our Senior Hurlers bounced back from their defeat to GMIT with a 2-16 to 1-8 win over Trinity College Dublin in Round One of the Bord na Móna Kehoe Shield

FebruarySunday 3rd The win over TCD put the Hurlers into a Semi-Final clash with another third level side - Queens University, Belfast. This game, played on the 3G Pitch at St. Lomans GAA Club, was a closer affair with Roscommon winning by 2-16 to 2-10. At the same time in Dr Hyde Park John Evans collected his first Allianz League points as the Footballers defeated Sligo by 1-11 to 1-8

Saturday 9th Brewster Park was the next destination for the Footballers in Round Two of the Allianz League as the took on Fermanagh but they left the Erneside empty handed after being defeated by 2-12 to 2-6

Saturday 16th The Hurlers faced Down in the Final of the Bord na Móna Kehoe Shield in the familiar surroundings of the 3G Pitch at St. Lomans GAA Club. Aided by a strong lead they lead by 1-11 to 0-6 at the break but the Mourne Men fought back after the interval scoring 13 points to win by 0-19 to 1-14Elsewhere in Mullingar, St. Brigids defeated long time rivals Crossmaglen Rangers to book a place in the AIB All-Ireland Senior Club Championship Final. A Conor McHugh goal gave the County Champions a 2-7 to 1-9 win

Sunday 24th The extended competitive run meant that the Hurlers were back in action just eight days later in Round One of the Allianz League and a local derby in MacHale Park ended all square Roscommon 1-15 Mayo 0-18

MarchSunday 3rd After a long break the Footballers returned to Allianz League action and hosted Wicklow in Dr Hyde Park and they looked to be picking up another two points until Wicklow’s Jack Dalton scored an injury time goal to tie the game; 1-10 to 0-13.

Sunday 10th saw both teams in action and will be remembered mainly for stormy weather conditions and no wins recorded. The Hurlers were defeated by Armagh in a high scoring encounter in Athleague with the game ending 2-11 to 3-15. In Dr Hyde Park, Meath were aided by a gale in the first half and led by 2-6 to 0-3 at the break. A brave fightback followed but it was not enough as the Royal county ran out 2-11 to 0-12 winners

Friday 15th The Roscommon Minors Footballers began the defence of their Connacht League title with

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0-13 to 3-9 defeat by Mayo however they didn’t let that defeat get to them as they had six points to space over Longford in their Round Two meeting on Bank Holiday Monday.

Saturday 16th While the Minors were playing Mayo the Senior Footballers and Hurlers were making their way to Ulster to take on Antrim and Down respectively. The Hurlers has a disappointing 1-12 to 2-24 loss but there was a two point win for the Footballers with Cathals Cregg and Colin Compton scoring 0-3 apiece in a 0-11 to 1-6 win

Sunday 17th Croke Park was the venue as St. Brigids became the first Roscommon team to capture an All-Ireland Club title by defeating Ballymun Kickhams. They trailed by 2-3 to 0-1 after just ten minutes but they fought back and exchanged the lead with the Dublin side four times in a cracking second-half before a point in injury time from Frankie Dolan brought the Andy Merrigan Cup back to Roscommon

Saturday 23rd A Roscommon v Leitrim Double-Header in Kiltoom began another busy weekend. In the opening game the Minors had six points to spare in their Connacht League meeting. That game was followed by the Connacht Under 21 Semi-Final. Roscommon got off to the perfect start leading by 1-2 to no score after two minutes and scoring a total of 4-5 in the first half. They failed to

start the second half with the same level of performance and Leitrim began a fightback although it was too big of a mountain to climb and Roscommon hung on for a 4-10 to 2-8 win

Sunday 24th Another home double-header in the Allianz League but mixed fortunes again. The Senior Hurlers continued to find life in Division 2B difficult and were defeated by Meath on a scoreline of 1-20 to 0-9 but there was positive news for the Footballers as they put in one of their best performances of the year to claim a 0-8 to 0-7 win over promotion favourites Monaghan

Saturday 30th The Senior Hurlers made the Journey to Ruislip but their fortunes didn’t improve as they lost out to London by 2-18 to 2-10. There was better news for the Minor Footballers as they defeated Sligo by 0-17 2-6. That result set up a “winner take all” clash with Galway.

AprilSaturday 6th Dr. Hyde Park was the venue for two important “title deciders” v Galway opposition. A win for the Minors would see them complete a Connacht League three-in-a-row while a win for the Under 21s would see them retain the provincial title for the first time. However, it wasn’t to be. The Minors suffered a poor start but recovered and were unlucky to suffer a two point defeat; 2-9 to 0-13.The Under 21 game was one of the most tense and exciting games seen in the ground in a long time. Roscommon led by 2-8 to 1-8 in the closing stages, but three points from Shane Walsh for Galway forced extra-time. They enjoyed the better of the exchanges in the additional period to claim the title on a scoreline of 1-17 to 2-11. They subsequently won the All-Ireland title.

Sunday 7th Two goals from David O’Gara helped the Senior Footballers to a 2-14 to 1-7 win over Cavan in the last Round of Allianz League. The win left Roscommon fourth in the Table but again showed the fine margins in the Division as loss of a point to Wicklow ultimately led to the team missing on a promotion spot.

Saturday 27th There was double joy for Roscommon at the All-Ireland Scór Sinsear Finals with St. Dominics taking the Ballad Group title and Clann na nGael winning the Tráth na gCeist

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MaySaturday 4th May became “Nicky Rackard month” at Inter-county level with four games on four successive Saturdays. It began with a comfortable 1-18 to 0-14 win over Sligo in Athleague

Saturday 11th Donegal were the opposition in Athleague for Round Two and were a more difficult opponent and after a closely contested game it was the visitors that emerged victorious with a 1-16 to 0-16 win

Saturday 18th The defeat in Round Two meant that Roscommon would have to play in a Quarter-Final. We were drawn to face Louth in Athleague and due to record rainfall at that time the game was moved to the Connacht GAA Centre of Excellence. In stormy conditions the team made up for the defeat to Donegal with a seven point win 2-14 to 0-13

Saturday 25th The win set up a Semi-Final meeting with Tyrone and in what was the performance of the year we enjoyed a comfortable 3-28 to 0-14 win with Gerry Fallon scoring a total of 1-13, Gary Fallon with 1-3 and Robbie Fallon with 1-2. Another meeting with Donegal was on the cards.

JuneSaturday 8th Croke Park was the venue for an exciting and tense Nicky Rackard Cup Final. Roscommon began brightly and lead by 1-7 to 0-5 after the first quarter but Donegal responded well and a goal from a Gerry Fallon free left it 2-10 to 1-10 at the break. The high tempo continued for the second half with a goal apiece in the space of a minute. Points were traded and Donegal got a third Goal after about 50 minutes. Their superior fitness and strength began to show, resulting in a number of pointed frees and although Roscommon kept going until the very end the game was just out of reach. Final score: Roscommon 3-16 Donegal 3-20. There was some small consolation for Gerry Fallon as he 2-9 haul earned him the Man of the Match Award and later, the Player of the Tournament Award

Sunday 16th The Senior Hurlers put their Nicky Rackard Cup Final defeat behind them with a 1-11 to 0-12 win over Mayo in the Connacht Hurling Shield Final - a competition which was established earlier this year.

The game was played in Elvery’s Mac Hale Park as the curtain-raiser to the Connacht Senior Football Semi-Final v Mayo. Roscommon started well but a series of small errors and conceded frees left the half time score at Roscommon 0-4 Mayo 0-13. The team regrouped at the break and fought hard but could not keep up with the 2012 All-Ireland Finalists. Final score Roscommon 0-9 Mayo 0-21.

As we all know, Mayo went on to reach the 2013 All-Ireland Roscommon was the only team which kept a clean sheet against them in the Championship

Sunday 23rd The Roscommon Minor Footballers recorded a 0-12 to 1-5 over a defensive Sligo side in Pairc Seán Mac Diarmada, Carrick on Shannon to advance to another Connacht Final

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Roscommon GAA Members Draw

Since 2006 the annual Roscommon GAA Members Draw has been the main source of funding for Roscommon GAA and over this time it has generated in the region of 1.35 Million Euros. This year under the direction of Members Draw Co-ordinator David O’Connor the Draw was revamped to feature a top prize of €35,000, Cash Prizes, Hotel Breaks and €500 vouchers for local businesses. The Draw took place in the Abbey Hotel on June 15th and the winners were as follows:

1st Prize €35,000 ................................................................................................................................................Pat Daly (Seller: St. Croans)2nd Prize €5,000 ........................................................................................................ Padraig Naughton (Seller: St. Dominics / On-line sale)3rd Prize €3,000 .................................................................................................................................Maeve & Niall Kilroy (Seller:Tremane)4th Prize €1,000 ....................................................................................................................................James Egan (Seller: Shannon Gaels)5th Prize €500 ........................................................................................................................ Seamus & Teresa McHugh (Seller: St. Brigids)6th Prize €500 ...........................................................................................................................Angela Sweeney (Seller:Roscommon Gaels)7th Prize €500 ............................................................................................................Seamus, Stephen & Kevin Sheerin (Seller:St. Ronans)8th Prize €500 ........................................................................................................................Peadar & Anne Brennan (Seller: St. Dominics)9th Prize €500 .................................................................................................................................................. Agnes Finan (Seller: Éire Óg)10th Prize €500 .......................................................................................................................Peadar & Kathleen McCaffrey (Seller: Elphin)11th Prize €500 ............................................................................................................................................ Michael Keane (Seller: Éire Óg)12th Prize €500 ................................................................................................................................Mary Finneran (Seller: Clann na nGael)13th Prize Two All-Ireland Football Final Tickets and one night B&B in the Ashling Hotel: ............David Gannon (Seller: Roscommon Gaels)14th Prize Two All-Ireland Hurling Final Tickets and one night B&B in the Ashling Hotel: Anne Marie McDermott (Seller: Oran Hurling Club)15th Prize Two nights B&B and an evening meal in the Galway Bay Hotel ................................................ Ronnie Beirne (Seller: St. Brigids)16th Prize Two nights B&B and an evening meal in the Regency Hotel, Dublin James, Stephen and Jake McKeague Family (Seller: Creggs)17th Prize Two nights B&B and an evening meal in the Mill Times Hotel, Westport .................Catherine Beirne (Seller: Tulsk Lord Edwards)18th Prize Two nights B&B and an evening meal in the Park House Hotel, Galway .....................................Frances McEvoy (Seller: Kilmore)19th Prize One night B&B and an evening meal in the Hilton Hotel, Malahide Road, Dublin: .... Neil Harrington (Seller: Oran Football Club)20th Prize One night B&B and an evening meal in the Welcome Inn, Castlebar .......................................Padraig Flanagan (Seller: Kilbride)

All Clubs who reached their quota were entered into a separate Draw and the winners were as follows:€2,000 cash: ...................................................................................................................................................................... Michael Glaveys€500 voucher for Class Grass, Castlecoote......................................................................................................................Tulsk Lord Edwards€500 voucher for Seamus Hunt Sports Therapy ............................................................................................................. Oran Football Club€500 voucher for Roscommon Leisure Zone .................................................................................................................................St. Barrys€500 voucher for Connolly’s Red Mills ............................................................................................................................Roscommon Gaels€500 voucher for J.F. Hanley Groundcare ................................................................................................................................... Four Roads€500 voucher for Roscommon Signs ...................................................................................................................................Clann na nGael€500 voucher for Abbey Hotel Health and Fitness .........................................................................................................................Tremane€500 voucher for Treacy Decór / Colortrend Paints ...........................................................................................................................CreggsTwo All-Ireland Football Final Tickets .........................................................................................................................................St. RonansTwo All-Ireland Hurling Final Tickets ............................................................................................................................................... Éire Óg

Roscommon GAA would like to thank this opportunity to thank all those who supported the Draw, all who sold Tickets, our sponsors listed above and our Media Partners, the Roscommon People.

As well as generating income for the Board the Draw has also benefited Clubs, as they have received commission for exceeding their sales targets. This year alone approximately €35,000 commission has

been paid out to Clubs.

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Reunion at the Races

On Tuesday August 6th Roscommon GAA held an enjoyable and successful event at Roscommon Racecourse entitled the “Reunion at the Races”. The event gave Roscommon Supporters from home and abroad the opportunity to meet old friends and enjoy a great evening out while raising much needed funds for our Inter-County Teams and future development. Roscommon GAA would like to thank the following sponsors who helped make the event such a success:

Athlone Towncentre - 60 stores, one roofBrian Keenan Bookmakers, Roscommon

Carrigy Bus & Coach Hire, Ballinalee, Co. LongfordCarthy’s Bar, Castle St. Roscommon

Collins Boyd, Engineers & Architects, RoscommonCunnane Insurance, Castlerea

Dermot Hughes Cars, Roscommon. Main Toyota DealerDG Roofing, Williamstown, Co. Galway

DPS Print, Carrick on ShannonGeraghty Travel, Castlerea

Honest Bakery / Molloys of Abbeytown, RoscommonJ&C Kenny, Wines & Spirits, GalwayJoe Simon Building Supplies, Boyle

John Gill Auctioneer, BallinloughKeen Print, Roscommon

Keenans, Hotel & Restaurant, TarmonbarryKinetica Sports Nutrition

Leinster GAALiam Mc Neill Foodstore & Catering, Roscommon

Lydon House Catering, GalwayMichael Holland Tyres, Ballintubber

Mulhern Leonard Accountants, Boyle & SligoMycro Sports - www.mycrosport.com

OCR Waste Mnangement, RoxboroPaul Byron Shoes, Roscommon

Reuben’s Catering, AthloneRoscommon GAA Supporters Club

Star Trophy Centre, BallymoeSupport Mayo Roscommon Hospice

Tom Costello Bus Hire, Menlough, BallinasloeBarry Miley Tulsk Fuels/FloGas

Vitto’s Restaurant, Carrick on ShannonWillie Compton Electrical, Clooncagh, Strokestown

www.sportsnewsireland.com

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Supporters Club Awards reach milestone

Roscommon GAA Supporters Club celebrate our first milestone as we host our 5th Annual Awards Banquet on Saturday November 30th in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon. 17 Award winners, chosen from each code of Gaelic Games will be honoured on the night. Nominations are open and can be submitted atwww.gaaroscommon.ie/awards

Tickets for the Banquet cost just €50 and are available from any of the Committee Members listed below.

We are delighted to announce that this year’s Special Guest will be Galway hurling star Joe Canning.

Anyone who wishes to advertise in the Commerative Booklet or Sponsor an Award can contact any of the committee listed below or can email [email protected]

Roscommon GAA Supporters Club 2013Chairperson: Brian Carroll (Kilmore) 087-2420896Secretary: Seamus Donoghue (Tulsk) 086-8368031Committee Members: Anthony McCormack, Tom Murray, Seamus Clogher, Larry Brennan

For all the latest news visit www.gaaroscommon.ie follow us on Twitter @RossSupporters or find us on Facebook

County Senior Footballer of the Year2009: Senan Kilbride (St. Brigids)2010: Geoffrey Claffey (Castlerea St. Kevins)2011: Michael Finneran (St. Dominics)2012: Cathal Cregg (Western Gaels) County Under 21 Footballer of the Year2009: Donal Ward (Western Gaels)2010: Donal Shine (Clann Na nGael)2011: Darren McDermott (Castlerea S)2012: Paddy Brogan (Strokestown) County Minor Footballer of the Year2009: Niall Kilroy (Fuerty)2010: Michael Holland (St. Croans)2011: Donal Smyth (Boyle)2012: Ronan Daly (Padraig Pearses) County Junior Footballer of the Year2009: Niall Carty (Padraig Pearses)2010: Niall Daly (Padraig Pearses)2011: Matt Scally (Clann Na Gael) County Senior Hurler of the Year2009: Padraig Kelly (Four Roads)2010: Colm Moran (Athleague)2011: Gary Fallon (Athleague)2012: Sean Melia (Tremane)

Michael Duignan and Cllr. Eugene Murphy presented the County Minor Ladies Player of the

Year Award to Caoilionn Beirne, pictured were (l-r) Seamus Donoghue, Roscommon GAA Supporters Club, Michael Duignan, Guest of Honor, Caoilionn

Beirne, Cllr Eugene Murphy, Sponsor and Brian Carroll, Roscommon GAA Supporters Club

Chairman. Picture: Andrew Fox/www.andrewfox.ie

Michael Duignan and Adrian Grealy, Abbey Hotel Roscommon presented the Male Handballer of the

Year Award to Damien Martin and Rikki O‘Gara, pictured were (l-r) Seamus Donoghue, Roscommon GAA Supporters Club, Damien Martin, Rikki O’Gara,

Adrian Grealy, Abbey Hotel, Michael Duignan, Guest of Honor and Brian Carroll, Roscommon GAA

Supporters Club Chairman. Picture: Andrew Fox/www.andrewfox.ie

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County U-21 Hurler of the Year2009: Mark McLoughlin (Four Roads)2010: Niall Kilroy (Tremane)2011: Johnny Coyne (Four Roads)2012: Naos Connaughton (St. Dominics)

Senior Club Footballer of the Year2009: Nigel Dineen (Castlerea St. Kevins2010: Frankie Dolan (St. Brigids)2011: Darren Dolan (St. Brigids)2012: Senan Kilbride (St. Brigids) Intermediate Club Footballer of the Year2009: Eamon Towey ( St. Croans)2010: Conor Silke (Strokestown)2011: Michael Duignan (Padraig Pearses)2012: David Hoey (St. Aidan) Junior Club Footballer of the Year2009: Basil Mannion (St. Brigids)2010: Peter Keane (Ballinameen)2011: Darragh Lennon (Clann Na Gael)2012: Tomas Featherstone (Oran) Senior Club Hurler of the Year2009: Tomas Lennon (Four Roads)2010: Johnny Coyne (Four Roads)2011: Michael Kelly (Four Roads)2012: Padraig Kelly (Four Roads) County Senior Ladies Footballer of the Year2009: Sinead Cooney2010: Emer Casey 2011: Michelle Walsh 2012: Natallie McHugh County Minor Ladies Footballer of the Year2009: Sarah Brady2010: Jennifer Higgins 2011: Natalie McHugh2012: Caoilinn Beirne Senior Ladies Club player of the Year2009: Louise Tully (Kilglass Gaels)2010: Michelle Walsh (St. Brigids)2011: Cliodhna McHugh (St. Brigids)2012: Clare Grehan Mens Handballer of the Year2009: Lorcan Maughan2010: Chris Doolin2011: Aengus Cunningham2012: Rikki O’Gara and Damien Martin

Ladies Handballer of the Year2009: Deirdre Donohoe2010: Marianna Rushe2011: Fiona Tully2012: Fiona Tully County Camoige player of the Year2009: Niamh Coyle2010: Caroline Connaughton2011: Annette McGeeney2012: Annette McGeeney

Club Camoige player of the Year2009: Donna Kelly2010: Marie Glennon2011: Lizzie Glennon2012: Lizzie Glennon Hall of Fame2009: Gerry O’Malley2010: John Joe Nerney2011: Frank Dennehy2012: Johnny Haughey

Michael Duignan and John Kelly, Campion Insurance presented the Female Handballer of the Year Award to Fiona Tully, pictured

were (l-r) Brian Carroll, Roscommon GAA Supporters Club, Michael Duignan, Guest of Honor, Fiona Tully, John Kelly, Campion Insurance and Seamus Donoghue, Roscommon GAA Supporters

Club. Picture: Andrew Fox/www.andrewfox.ie

Michael Duignan, Oliver and Michael Hanley, Star Trophies presented the County Camogie Player of the Year Award to Annette

McGeeney, pictured were (l-r) Seamus Donoghue, Roscommon GAA Supporters Club, Michael Duignan, Guest of Honor, Annette

McGeeney, Michael and Oliver Hanley, Star Trophies and Brian Carroll, Roscommon GAA Supporters Club Chairman. Picture:

Andrew Fox/www.andrewfox.ie

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Roscommon GAA - giving backIn January 2012 it was announced that local couple John and Lily Murphy were the new sponsors of our Senior Football team. The couple were long-time supporters of Gaelic Games in the county, and requested that the jersey and leisurewear feature details of another organisation which was close to their hearts - the Hospice Movement. The aim of this gesture was to raise awareness of the great work done by Hospice groups throughout the country and since the announcement Roscommon GAA used a variety of methods to further the goal. The first of these initiatives saw Roscommon Jerseys being offered as prizes in fundraising draws which were held in all Primary Schools throughout the county. Another event was a fundraising challenge match between Roscommon and Louth and in addition to this Roscommon GAA has used its resources and facilities to promote annual events such as the Sunflower Day and Coffee Morning.

Earlier this year it was decided to host a “singing competition with a difference” in order to raise much needed funds for the Charity and “It takes two” was born. The premise was simple; a number of brave volunteers from Clubs throughout the county would perform the hits of Joe Dolan and Tina Turner and the audience would cast a vote for their favourite. Each vote would €2 and the person who raised the most money for Mayo Roscommon Hospice and received the most votes from the judging panel would be declared the winner.

The event took place in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon on Saturday June 15th and saw 13 brave performers from throughout the county “sing” the hits of Joe Dolan and Tina Turner while treating the audience to an excellent night of entertainment. The winner, based on donations, votes from the audience and votes from the Judges was Stephen Murphy representing St. Dominics. The night proved to be a very successful fundraiser with over €11,000 being raised for the Hospice.

Once again, Roscommon GAA would like to thank the following for making the night such a success - the performers; Seán Morris; Michelle Corrigan; John Duggan; Órla Conroy; Cormac Kelly; Rosaleen Kearney; Gerry Grehan; Catherine Kelly; Stephen Murphy; Oona Cox; Jimmy Reynolds and Clodagh Compton; Our host for the evening, Michael Rock; The Judges - Cynthia Clampett, Paul Earley and Paul Healy; Karen and the Dolans, who provided backing music for the singers and continued to entertain the crowds until the early hours of the morning; Adrian and staff at the Abbey Hotel and all our “count staff” and those who gave up their time to help run the event.

Highlights and interviews from the “It takes two” can be viewed at www.youtube.com/OfficialRoscommonGAA

Two men inspired by the link between Roscommon GAA and Mayo Roscommon Hospice are Roscommon Senior Football Team Coaches Niall Kilcrann and Enda Daly. On Bank Holiday Monday, October 28th, they will run the Dublin City Marathon in aid of the Charity. In order to raise funds they are holding a Raffle with the following prizes on offer:

• 1st Prize: €500 sponsored by P&G cards Athleague, Cox’s Bar Rooskey & CJ’S bar Rooskey

• 2nd Prize: overnight stay & round of golf in the Glasson Golf Hotel

• 3rd Prize: 2 tickets to the 2013 GAA-GPA All Star Awards

• 4th Prize: 2 tickets to the 2013 LGFA All Star Awards

• 5th Prize: A 2013 Signed International Rules Jersey

• 6th Prize: Signed inter-county jersey of your choice.

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Tickets are priced at €5 and are available from Niall & Enda & also in local retail outlets in Rooskey & Roscommon Town. The Draw will take place in Cox’s Bar, Rooskey on Friday 25th October, and the event will feature live music, refreshments, a number of GAA stars of the past and present and the visit of some special silverware! To buy tickets or for more information call Niall on 087 7640679 or Enda on 086 3355067.

Each year Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation has to raise €1.3 million through donations and fundraising efforts to fund approximately 50% of their Palliative Care service costs. They are now in the final stage of negotiation with the HSE to develop Hospice Units in both Mayo and Roscommon. Plans are drawn for an 8-bed Unit in Roscommon and the Foundation has to fund 100% of the capital cost of the Units which will cost in the region of €4.5 million. More information on how you can support the work of the Hospice can be found on the advert following this article.

Roscommon GAA County Board Treasurer Joe Gilligan and Roscommon GAA County Board Chairperson Michael Fahey present Ollie McGuinness and Paul Foxe (Mayo / Roscommon Hospice) with a cheque for €11,240 which was

raised at the recent “It takes two” fundaiser organised by Roscommon GAA. Pic: www.hursonphotography.com

Stephen Murphy of St. Dominics was the winner of “It takes two” - the fundraiser for Mayo Roscommon Hospice, hosted by Roscommon GAA.

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Teams of 43 and 44 rememberedEarlier today, a plaque was unveiled at the Roscommon County Library to mark the 70th anniversary of Roscommon’s first All-Ireland Senior Football Championship Final win. Many of the surviving members of the 1943 and 44 panels and representatives of all other Panel members were in attendance.

The following is a brief look back at their paths to history, which began much earlier. Our story begins with a quote from “Seán” the author of “Six glorious years” which chronicled this great period of success:

“September 1939 is associated throughout the world with the outbreak of World Ward II but for the Gaels of County Roscommon it recalls happier events, for it was in that momentus month and year that a Roscommon football team won an All-Ireland title for the first time in the history of the Association.

That was the County Minor Football team, which, captained by Liam Gilmartin, defeated Monaghan in the Final. And it proved to be a forerunner to greater achievements by Roscommon footballers; a couple of weeks later the county junior team was unluckily defeated by Dublin in the Final. But the Juniors weren’t disheartened , and their efforts were rewarded the following year when they took the title by defeating Westmeath.

In six years, years that may well be described in Roscommon’s GAA history as glorious, no fewer than five All-Ireland Football titles have come to the County - almost a title a year. The Championships won were: - 1939 Minor; 1940 Junior; 1941 Minor; 1943 Senior and 1944 Senior. The Connacht Senior League was also won in 1942”.

Our story of the first senior win begins in on July 4th in Carrick on Shannon were Roscommon faced a Leitrim side who had defeated a much fancied Sligo side in the first round a week earlier. Leitrim were no match for the much faster Roscommon team who lead by 2-2 to 1-2 at break. In the second half Roscommon dominated and added ten points while restricting Leitrim to just one. Final score: Rocommon 2-12 Leitrim 1-3. In the other Semi-Final Galway defeated Mayo by seven points - this would be the third successive Final meeting of Roscommon and Galway.

The sides would meet in Roscommon on July 18th and it turned out to be a fine day and the game, which was played on front of a huge crowd, was referred to by many as one of the best Connacht Finals ever. Frankie Kinlough got the game’s opening Goal and boosted by a number of Donal Keenan frees Roscommon lead by 1-3 to 0-4 at the interval. A Donal Keenan goal and points from Jimmy and Phelim

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Murray as well as Jack McQuillan gave Roscommon our first Connacht Senior title since 1915.Final score 2-6 to 0-8.

A meeting with Louth in Croke Park on August 8th followed and it was full of goals and excitement. Roscommon had a great start as Frankie Kinlough scored an early goal but Louth fought back and scored some of their own and take the lead. A late goal from Derry McDermott and points from the Murrays left Roscommon just one behind at half time: 3-3 to 2-5. Points were traded throughout the second half and Roscommon led by one heading into the closing stages and Louth attacked in search of an equaliser. The Roscommon defence won the ball, cleared to Jimmy Murray who in turn passed to McQuillan, who fed Kinlough for his second goal of the game. Final score: Roscommon 3-10 Louth 3-6.

On September 26 Roscommon met Cavan on the biggest day in the Gaelic Football Calendar at Croke Park. Cavan settled quickest with Paddy Smith and Joe Stafford dominating the Roscommon defence scoring a goal and four but Liam Gilmartin and Phelim Murray replied to leave it 1-4 to 0-3 at half time. Roscommon responded well and Jimmy Murray got the opening goal of the second half. Donal Keenan equalised from a free and Phelim Murray before Cavan replied. Donal Keenan put Roscommon in the lead again and in the closing minutes John Joe Reilly equalised and the game ended at 1-6 each.

The replay took place on October 10th and Roscommon started at a great pace. Frankie Kinlough and Jack McQuillan both scored early goals. Two points were added before Cavan got their opening goal. Shortly after they got a second, to leave the half-time score Roscommon 2-2 Cavan 2-0. Roscommon had the better of the play in the second half - Donal Keenan adding two points before Cavan replied with two of their own. Frankie Kinlough responded with a point. Cavan were reduced to 14 men and Roscommon continued to pile on the pressure. A Phelim Murray point was disputed by Cavan and a melee followed, but the game was soon over and Roscommon were the All-Ireland Champions on a scoreline of 2-7 to 2-2. The homecoming saw the team arrived back to Roscommon two via Train and were escorted back to the Square by the Knockcroghery Band. Many receptions followed, until January, when it was time to begin the road back to the top again....

In the 1944 Connacht Semi-Final a Roscommon, minus a number of the All-Ireland winning side, faced Sligo, who had defeated Leitirm in Round 1. Roscommon led at half time by 1-3 to 0-3 but had a poor second half and the game finished level at 1-5 to 0-8. The replay drew a record crowd back to Boyle and Sligo continued where they left off - leading by 1-3 to 0-4. Roscommon knew that they had to up their game in the second half and they did to record a 0-13 to 1-6 win. In the Final Roscommon met Mayo in Tuam and in a low scoring first half led by 4 points to 3. Again, an excellent second half performance was enough to give them a 2-11 to 1-6 win.

A meeting with Cavan followed in the Semi-Final and just like ‘43 it was a tight game; a Hugh Gibbons goal giving Roscommon at 2-3 to 1-3 lead at the interval. Roscommon’s ability to “step up a gear” in the second half was to the fore again - with 2-3 scored in a ten minute spell alone and just one Cavan attack. Final score Roscommon 5-8 Cavan 1-3.

Kerry, who defeated Carlow in the other Semi-Final stood between Roscommon and another piece of history. Over 79000 witnessed the game in Croke Park with many more being lock out as the Stadium was full an hour before throw-in. Roscommon led by two Donal Keenan points two at half time. Kerry fought back well in the second half and a goal and a point saw them lead by two with ten minutes to play before two Donal Keenan points levelled the game. Frankie Kinlough put Roscommon in the lead and Keenan added another as Roscommon continued to pile on the pressure. Derry McDermott was fouled and Donal Keenan missed the resulting free but it didn’t matter; Roscommon had won by 1-9 to 2-4

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Two All-Ireland Scór wins in 20132013 will be fondly remembered by Roscommon people for the three GAA All-Ireland Club titles won; one on the hallowed turf of Croke Park and two on another great Stage in “The Venue”, Ebrington, Derry City at the All-Ireland Scór Sinsear Finals.

A large crowd from Roscommon made the long journey north to Derry in support of the St. Dominics Ballad Group and the Clann na nGael Tráth na gCeist team. Although the event got underway at 3pm both teams had a long wait for their chance to perform, as their competitions were midway in the programme. Just before 5pm St. Dominics made their way to the microphones. The team of Áine O’Connor, Ciara Naughton, Louise Fallon, Alastair Beegan and Gordon O’Connor had suffered heartbreak at this stage of the competition in the INEC, Killarney twelve months ago but this was to be their day; although they had to endure a long wait until the result was announced by “Bean An Tí” Áine Ui Chionn.

Singing “An Sean Duine” and the Paul Brady classic “Follow on” they defeated the reigning All-Ireland Champions, Clara from County Offaly; Munster Champions Newport from Co. Tipperary and Antrim Club Aghagallon to take the title. The win was extra special for Ciara, Louise and Alastair as they were also part of the St. Dominics team which last won the Club’s last Scór Sinsear Ballad Group title in 2004.

The cheers continued from the “Primrose and Blue” section of audience as the next team called on stage to receive their medals were Tom Nolan, Seán Murray and Oliver Connaughton - the Clann na nGael Question Time team. Earlier in the afternoon they produced an excellent comeback to take the title. After the three rounds of individual questions the team sat in 3rd place on 24 points. The deficit was 14 points by the time Clann received their first team question. While some may have given up, the men from south Roscommon remained composed and correctly answered three of their next questions to take the title with 42 points. In doing so they defeated Ulster Champions, Scotstown; St. Josephs of Westmeath and three time winners Monaleen from Co. Limerick. The Clann na nGael win was tinged with sadness as it occurred close to the first anniversary of the death of their former team-mate Tommie Harney. Tommie, along with Tom and Seán won the Club’s last All-Ireland Scór title in 2005. On Saturday, the 2013 team dedicated their win to Tommie.

The Finals in Derry concluded the 2013 Scór season, a season which saw the following Clubs and individuals “rule the roost” in Roscommon

Scór na nÓg County ChampionsRince Foirne: St. DominicsAmhránaíocht Aonair: Peter Hoey, St. BarrysCeol Uirlise: Padraig PearsesAithriseoireacht: Katie Kenny, St. DominicsBailéad Ghrúpa: St. Dominics BTráth na gCeist: Padraig PearsesNuachleas: Padraig PearsesRince Seit: St. Dominics

Scór Sinsear County ChampionsRince Foirne: Kilglass GaelsAmhránaíocht Aonair: Elsa Luggers, St. MichaelsCeol Uirlise: St. MichaelsAithriseoireacht: Grainne McDonnell, St. BrigidsBailéad Ghrúpa: St DominicsTráth na gCeist: Clann na nGaelNuachleas: St. DominicsRince Seit: StrokestownSean-nós: Catherine Hanly, Strokestown

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New season and new rules for Scór

Calling all GAA clubs in Roscommon, the GAA’s social and cultural competition Scór na nÓg will kick off in early November. Open to all GAA club members under the age of 17 on Jan 1st 2014, Scór offers a great opportunity for young people to display their talents and represent their parish once the Football and Hurling Competitions have concluded. This year has seen a change in certain Scór rules and indeed a change to the competitions. The biggest difference to the line-up is the replacement of the Novelty Act discipline with the new “Leiriú” drama competition. The Question Time, as we know it, has been replaced by a 32 County Table Quiz to be held on the eve of the National Scór finals. Coiste Scór Ros Comáin will meet shortly to decide how they intend to run this new quiz format and pick our county representatives. The other notable change to events comes in the Solo Singing. Singers must provide their own musical accompaniment if they so wish but may not have accompaniment from another musician as before. The new Scór Rule Book is available on line from the culture section of www.gaaroscommon.ie or can be requested by [email protected]. The following dates have been confirmed for the upcoming Scór na nÓg season:

South Quarter Finals Friday November 8th – Taughmaconnell Hall at 7.30pmSaturday November 9th – venue tbc at 7.30pm

North Quarter FinalsFriday November 15th – Kilmurry Hall at 7.30pm Saturday November 16th – Dangan (Kilmore) Hall at 7.30pm

County Semi-finals Friday November 29th – Venue TBC at 7.30pm Saturday November 30th – venue TBC at 7.30pm

County FinalSunday December 15th – Dean Crowe Theatre, Athlone at 1pm

Deadline for entries is Friday November 1st and all entries must be processed by filling out the online entry form which will be available on www.gaaroscommon.ie nearer the time. Any questions or queries can be sent to [email protected]. While participation in Scór na nÓg remains generally strong within the county, there are still clubs that are not promoting the cultural element to their members. If you are reading this and your club is one of these areas then please drop us a line at [email protected] and we would be happy to help and advise. Finally Coiste Scór Ros Comáin would like to send a huge word of thank you to our former County Secretary Thomas Murray of St. Dominics as he departs from his tenure on the National Scór Committee.

A vastly experienced Scór administrator, Thomas has given tremendous service to Scór and his time, effort and energy have undoubtedly benefited the movement within in Roscommon and nationally. We salute Thomas and the conviction in which he has represented his county and look forward to his contribution to Scór in the future.

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GAA Social Initiative continues to grow

The GAA Social Initiative project, which aims use to GAA networks to

combat loneliness and isolation among older people in rural Ireland

has gone from strength to strength in Roscommon with 15 Clubs

actively promoting the programme.

The Initiative arose as a result of former President Mary McAleese

and her husband, Martin, noticing an absence of older men in

attendance at official functions during their many visits to local

communities over the years. The President came to the conclusion

that many men, because of the changing patterns of life, were

falling through cracks in the system and either risking or already

experiencing isolation and loneliness.

The aim of the initiative is simple: to offer a social outlet that is safe and welcoming and that provides a

route into, and a place in, the community. So far, 15 clubs in the county have participated in the programme:

St. Brigids, St. Dominics, St. Croans, Tulsk Lord Edwards, Roscommon Gaels, Éire Óg, Michael Glaveys, St.

Josephs, St. Michaels, Kilglass Gaels, Padraig Pearses, Boyle, Fuerty with St. Ronans and Castlerea St. Kevins

being the latest Clubs to come on board. The efforts of all the Clubs are greatly appreciated by those

involved and they have given many people a new social outlet.

Clubs have provided a various array of activities and events for their members – from card nights, music

sessions, plays, trips to Croke Park and reunions. A good example of a larger scale activity would be that

of St Josephs who teamed up with other community groups in their locality to organise a trip to Belfast.

Speaking following the tour Eileen Fahy of the St. Joseph’s said “For many of our group this was a first

trip to Belfast. We visited the Titanic experience, had an open top bus tour of Belfast, the opportunity to

engage in retail therapy and of course visit some of Belfast’s historic sites. One of the highlights of our trip

was a memorable visit to An Lámh Dhearg Club (in Hannahstown on the outskirts of the city) where a night

of fun, song and stories left many of our group with everlasting memories and new friendships for life. We

returned home on Sunday night singing their praises and looking forward to returning to Belfast soon

again. The trip proves the value of the GAA Social Initiative.”

The group consisted of former club players and officials, representatives from the local community groups

and community members and while the Social Initiative retains a focus on men in the community, it

is not exclusive and clubs are encouraged to vary the type of activity they organise. Further examples

of club activities can be seen in the Social Initiative Newsletters which can be viewed at www.gaa.ie/

socialinitiative.

For more information on the GAA Social Initiative contact Seán Mannion on 086 838 8756. Alternatively

you can email [email protected]

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Best wishes to all of today’s finalists from

John Corcoran Menswear &

Dress Suit Hire

Church Street, Roscommon. Tel 090 66 26097

Sponsors of theAdult Football League Division Two - O’Gara Cup

Dermot Hughes CarsMain Toyota Dealer Roscommon

T: 090 66 26160 E-mail: [email protected]

Dermot Hughes & all his Staff would like to wish theVery Best of Luck to All involved in today’s County Minor and

Senior Football Finals.

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Upcoming EventsSunday October 13th

Venue: Athleague. TimeRoscommon Under 16 Hurling Championship Final

Venue: Athleague. TimeKepak Senior Hurling Championship Final

Thursday October 17th

Venue: Na Fianna GAA Club, Glasnevin, DublinRoscommon GAA Supporters in Dublin - Annual Table QuizTables of 4 - €40 and individuals also welcome

Saturday October 19th

Venue: Kingspan Breffni Park. Time: 7pmIrish Daily Mail International International Rules - Test 1Ireland v Australia

Sunday October 20th

Venue: Strokestown. Time: 1pmAbbey Hotel Minor “C” Football Championship FinalMichael Glaveys v St. Dominics

Venue: Strokestown. Time: 3pmIntermediate Football Championship FinalBoyle v Tulsk Lord Edwards

Sligo Venue. Time: 2pm AIB Connacht Club Junior Football Championship - Preliminary RoundSligo Champions v Roscommon Champions

Saturday October 26th

Venue: Croke Park. Time: 7pmIrish Daily Mail International International Rules - Test 2Ireland v Australia

Sunday October 27th

Sligo Venue. Time: 2pmAIB Connacht Club Senior Football Championship - Preliminary RoundSligo Champions v Roscommon Champions

Monday October 28th

Venue TBC. Time: 2pmAIB Connacht Club Intermediate Hurling Championship Semi-FinalMayo Champions v Roscommon Champions

Sunday November 3rd

Leitrim Venue. Time: 2pm AIB Connacht Club Intermediate Football Championship Semi-FinalLeitrim Champions v Roscommon Champions

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Roscommon Ladies Gaelic - a year in reviewBy Micheál McHugh, PRO, Roscommon LGFA

One of the biggest conundrums regarding Roscommon Ladies Football in recent years has been the issue of underage success not being translated into senior success. Roscommon has had its fair share of success at underage level over the past few years beginning with the under 14s of 2007 winning the Connacht B title and reaching the All Ireland B Final. They lost that Final to Wicklow but they won the All Ireland League blitz that year and gave an indication that with the right preparation, Roscommon teams had the ability to compete at any level. Several Connacht B titles followed over the following years but the breakthrough at All Ireland level was made in 2009 when the minors defeated Tipperary to bring All Ireland glory to the county.

This ability to compete with the very best was illustrated this year when our under 21s defeated a highly rated Mayo team in Ballindine in the first round of the Aisling McGing cup before losing narrowly to Galway in the Connacht A Final in Ballintubber. That Galway team, who but for a missed penalty in the dying minutes of that encounter, might never have overcame the home side, went all the way to win the All Ireland title.

It was against this backdrop of underage achievement and senior mediocrity that Kieran Kilkenny and his management team, set our their stall for this years adult campaign. Dealing with the sense of negativity that had grown among many of the senior players was one of the major obstacles that had to be overcome. In fairness to those players, many of whom had given sterling service to their county down the years, the lack of stability at management level had become a major problem. Management teams had come and gone, some with only a year in the position, each bringing a change of style and modus operandi, which over a period of time had rendered the girls stale and unenthusiastic about their prospects.

After the first few training sessions it became clear that a new style of trainer had arrived, one who organized sessions that were enjoyable as well as worthwhile.

The numbers that attended were excellent with some girls travelling from Dublin Galway and other places for midweek as well as weekend sessions. A sense of spirit began to grow among the group and

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a new, enthusiastic and popular captain, Niamh Ward, was chosen. Niamh and the vice captain Jenny Higgins epitomised the younger, vibrant and positive players and proved effective choices as the year progressed. The building blocks were being put into place not just for 2013, but for future of ladies football in Roscommon.

The first two rounds of the League brought defeats against Louth and Offaly and it became clear that the lack of confidence gleaned from regular beatings down the years, including a full year without a victory in 2012 had taken its toll. However when that first victory came against Limerick, one could sense the confidence of the players growing and this was followed by big wins against Derry, Carlow (w/o) and Antrim. The victory against Antrim was particularily significant as this was a must win game in Belfast against the strong Antrim team. The girls were magnificent, grounding out a hard earned victory by a single score. The panel and management stayed overnight in Dundalk after the game and it was now obvious that a bond was forming within this group. An easy victory followed against Limerick in the semi Final before we lost to Offaly in the televised division 4 League Final. This was a disappointing end to our League campaign as a win in the Final would have secured promotion in the League.

Despite this disappointment the girls had little time to feel sorry for themselves as they had to prepare for a first round Connacht championship joust with Leitrim the following weekend. To their great credit they put the loss to Offaly behind them and with a magnificent second half performance, overcame a spirited Leitrim team in Ballyhaunis. A defeat of Sligo followed in Croghan, but unfortunately our failings in Finals came back to haunt us as we succumbed to a rejuvenated Sligo team in the Connacht Final. This was our worst performance of the year and we just never got going in a game where everything that could possibly go wrong went wrong. One of the disappointing aspects of this game was that most of the girls seemed to drop their heads in the face of adversity and it was something that the management insisted afterwards, could never happen again. They responded with a win over Leitrim in the All Ireland intermediate championship but faced a formidable Fermanagh outfit in the quarter Final. A big performance was required and it was given, but in the end it was not enough as a combination of injuries to some of our players, allied to the superior teamwork and experience of our opponents proved too much to overcome.

In assessing the success or failure of the year and whether progress was made or not, it is important to note where the starting point was. From that evaluation, 2013 can only be seen as a good year. Despite the fact that there is no silverware on show, we reached three Finals; the Division 4 League, the Connacht Under 21 championship and the Connacht Intermediate Final, two of which we probably should have won. A dedicated panel of players has been assembled, combining a mixture of youth and experience and after this year, have a positive and confident outlook. The future can only be bright for the Roscommon Ladies.

Strokestown - Senior County Champions 2013

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The Year in review - Part Two

JulySaturday 6th The Senior Footballers received the toughest possible Draw in the All-Ireland Qualifiers - a meeting with Tyrone (for the third year in a row). In what was a closely contest game it took almost 15 minutes for the first score to arrive - a Conor Devaney point. A point from Neil Collins and a Goal from Devaney gave Roscommon a 1-2 to 0-2 lead but Tyrone responded with three points in a row. Tyrone continued their good run after the break, scoring six in a row but Roscommon responded by kicking five points and had enough chance to get something out of the game. Final score: Tyrone 0-12 Roscommon 1-7

Sunday 21st The old adage the “goals win games” was true in Elverys MacHale Park as two goals in the first five minutes from Mayo left the Roscommon Minor Footballers with a uphill task. Roscommon responded well and went in to the half time break 2-4 to 0-5 behind. A third Mayo goal early in the second half appeared to end any Roscommon chances though, as it put Mayo 3-5 to 0-6 ahead. However, Roscommon made a brave fightback for the remainder of the game, and outscored Mayo by 1-4 to 0-2 for the closing 25 minutes - the goal coming from a Diarmuid Murtagh penalty leaving just two between the sides. A tense finish followed but Mayo score a late free to take the title on a scoreline of 3-7 to 1-10

AugustMonday 5th O’Connor Park in Tullamore was the venue for the Minors next game against a highly fancied Kildare side who had some comprehensive wins in the Leinster Championship. Roscommon couldn’t have gotten off to a better start and led by 2-2 to 0-0 after 11 minutes. Kildare scored three unanswered points before Diarmuid McGann scored Roscommon’s third goal of the game. Kildare added another three points to leave it 3-2 to 0-6 at the interval. Tadhg O’Rourke was harshly sent off late in the first half for a second yellow card but Roscommon worked very hard in the second half to maintain the lead throughout the second half. Final score 3-8 to 0-12. Next stop Croke Park

Saturday 10th The Roscommon Minor Hurlers made the long journey to Letterkenny for a Quarter-Final meeting with Donegal in the All-Ireland B Championship and it was a disappointing trip as they were defeated on a scoreline of 0-9 to 0-8.

Thursday 15th There was better news on the Hurling front as the Under 21s maintained their excellent Connacht Final record at this grade by defeating Mayo on a scoreline 2-12 to 1-11. Roscommon led by 2-5 to 0-8 at half time and maintained at least a three point lead for most of the second half but with a little over five minutes remaining Mayo scored a goal and a point in quick succession to leave just a point between the sides. The Roscommon players kept their cool and added three points to retain the title with Robbie Fallon picking up the “Man of the Match” award.

Saturday 24th Their next game was a Semi-Final meeting with Kildare, which was a repeat of the 2012 All-Ireland Final. The team made the short trip to Ballinasloe and started well with a Tomás Fetherston goal helping them to a 1-6 to 0-3 lead after the first 30. A Peter Leahy goal early in the second half looked to have sealed the game but the Kildare fight back began and they reduced the lead to a single point before being awarded a penalty in the dying moment of the game. The resulting shot was deflected over the bar by Noel Fallon but Kildare kept the pressure on and scored another point. Deep in injury time it looked as if Cathal Kelly had earned a draw but a pointed from Kildare, in what was the last puc of the game, put them into the Final.

SeptemberSunday 1st The Minor Footballers returned to the All-Ireland Semi-Final for the second time in three years but it was not to be their day as they were defeated by a more physical side. The game started well and Roscommon had a three point lead heading into the break and Ronan Daly added another after the restart. Tyrone then got their first score in 20 minutes and then levelled the game with a goal. Roscommon responded well with three points in a row, however Tyrone began to pile on the pressure and levelled the game with six minutes to go. Tyrone then took the lead before Cathal Compton equalised but the Ulster men added another two points in injury time to claim the win. Final score Roscommon 0-13 Tyrone 1-12.

Don’t forget that you can nominate your Roscommon GAA Supporters Club Players of the Year at www.gaaroscommon.ie/awards

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Mixed emotion and mixed resultsNiamh Ward looks back on her first year as Roscommon Ladies Captain

In a year of mixed emotion and mixed results, the Roscommon Ladies Football Team look into the future with high hopes and expectation. 2013 was the year which saw the introduction of a new management team made up of Kieran Kilkenny, Brendan Cregg, Val Beirne, Mary Fleming and Kathleen Holmes. It also saw Seamus Maher come in as the Ladies County Board Chairperson, with new ideas and anticipation for the year ahead. He was joined on the County Board by Marie McAleer, Michéal McHugh and Annmarie Hynes. With these changes in place, the return and addition of key players to the squad left us all excited about the future of our team.

With the new management being appointed slightly later than one would hope, we faced our League campaign shortly after getting together. We were unlucky in our first two games against Louth and Offaly but once we got momentum in training and a solid panel in place we faced the following three games against Derry, Limerick and Antrim with an improved attitude and belief in ourselves and that resulted in three great wins. We then faced Limerick in the National League semi Final where we produced a great performance and came out on top. After a few years of struggling with numbers and disappointing results we suddenly found ourselves facing Offaly in a National League Final but unfortunately we lost out on the title to a strong Offaly team.

We had no time to think about our loss however as we faced Leitrim the following week in the first round of the Connacht Championship. This game gave us the win we needed to get back on track and we next looked forward to Sligo a few weeks later. The Sligo game gave our management a chance to try out new players and to alternate new position and we left Kilglass with our second Championship win. These wins left us facing Sligo again in the Connacht Final where unfortunately we didn’t reach our full potential and lost out on another Cup. The back door system led us back to Leitrim again and we recorded a huge win to give us back our confidence and belief after the heart-breaking Final. We then met Fermanagh in the All-Ireland Quarter-Final. Going into the match as underdogs, we surprised all concerned including ourselves and put up a brave fight. Fermanagh unfortunately ran away with the game towards the end but we left the pitch in Clones with high hopes for next year. We proved to ourselves and management that there is a hunger and fight in this young team which will go a long way in the upcoming years. Lack of experience throughout the team was one of the main obstacles of this year but I hope that we can use our experiences this year and build on them in the future.

Surrounded by so many great players and leaders, it was a privilege to be chosen to lead the team to whatever was put in front of us. My job however was made very easy by the support of the management team and by each and every player on the panel. All of the girls showed great commitment, passion, hunger, honesty and leadership in their respective positions on the pitch and during training. This bond within the team grew into strong friendships between players and it leaves us all looking forward to returning as a team next year.

Supporters Club in Dublin host Table QuizFor over 30 years the Roscommon Supporters Club in Dublin has been contributing to the development of Gaelic Games at home and this year their focus has been on providing transport to and front Training Session for the many young Roscommon players studying in Dublin. Their fundraisers so far this year have included a very well attended Golf Classic at Rathcore Golf & Country Club and their annual All-Ireland Ticket Draw. On Thursday October 17th they will host their Annual Table Quiz in the Clubhouse of ìNa Fianna GAA Club, Glasnevin. There will be prizes galore and entry costs just €40 per team of four or €10 per individual with teams being formed on the night.

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Biggest readership in

County Roscommon

The LOCAL paper!

Distributed FREEevery Thursday

Abbey Street, roScommontel. (090) 66 34633 Fax: (090) 66 34303

[email protected]@[email protected]

Biggest readership

in County

Roscommon

Roscommon People copy A4 sports.1 1 24/09/2013 13:18:40

66


2013 Shannonside SFC Final Programme

Documents

minor football finals

final concludes15

foireann gaeil

abbey hotel minor division

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