St. Stephen's Day

SHANNON GAELS MINOR GAA CLUB PRESENT…

‘A SPLASH IN THE POND’

STEPHEN’S DAY CAVETOWN LAKE 12 NOON

Local personalities to participate in the swim

PLEASE SUPPORT

Refreshments served to all



All proceeds go to the development of underage football in our club!

SHANNON GAELS MINOR CLUB VISIT TIR CONAILL HARPS IN GLASGOW

The Minor Club on tour at the Hibernian v Celtic game





The Gaels take over the Rangers' grounds!





Show Racism the red card!!






It's a new world of learning in the Rangers Ibrox Stadium

Shannon Gaels Ladies crowned Co. Champions!!!

Captain Fantastic!!!!




SHANNON GAELS LADIES TEAM - Newly Crowned Co. Champions 2008







Shannon Gaels captain Josie Murtagh being presented the Co. Shield by Martin Mc Dermott





The Player of the Match award being presented to Aisling Creighton





Deirdre O'Dowd pictured with Colm & Alo after scoring the golden goal which crowned Shannon Gaels Ladies Co. Champions 2008





The Shannon Gaels team pictured with the great Dickie Beirne

SHANNON GAELS HOST U-8 COACHING & GO-GAMES TOURNAMENT

Kilmore, Shannon Gaels,St. Michaels & Ballinameen players participating in the tournament





The Shannon Gaels & Tir Conaill Harps,Glasgow under 8s pictured after the Coaching & Go-Games tournament in Croghan







Tir Conaill Harps, Kilmore, Shannon Gaels, St Michaels & Ballinameen teams at the U-8 coaching tournament.
A great day had by all!!!

Fun Run & Parish League '08

The Tommie Noone Memorial Shield being presented by Terry Noone to the Woodbrooke captain, Mick Murtagh




Enda Newton presenting the J.P. Newton Memorial Cup to Croghan Captain Daniel Marron




The Killumod Team




The Cortober Team




The Woodbrooke team who were the winners of the runners-up group





The Croghan U-14 team who were winners of the J.P. Newton Cup

the Rossies Best Supporter - Paddy Joe The Barber

Rossies Worst Supporter - Myles the diggerman

County Competitions for Croghan/Drumlion

Girls ART U10
Emma O' Beirne Bronze

Boys ART U12
Aaron Keegan Bronze

Girls Model Making U10
Elaine McDermott Bronze
Shannon O' Dowd Bronze

Boys Model Making U14
Patrick Deane Gold THROUGH TO MOSNEY!!!
Matthew McDermott Bronze

Girls Handwriting U13
Eimear Cryan Silver

U10 Mixed Gaelic Football
Beat Kilglass in 1st round
Lost to Tulsk in the 2nd round.

Swimming
U10 Freestyle Ava Mcloughlin Silver
U10 Backstroke Elaine McDermott Bronze
U10 Freestyle Ava McLoughlin Bronze
U12 Breastroke Emer Matthews Gold
U12 Breastroke Evan Beirne Gold
U12 Freestyle Aaron Keegan Bronze
U14 Breastroke Meg McLoughlin Silver
U14 Freestyle Niamh Murray Bronze
U16 Freestyle Keelan Loftus Gold
U16 Backstroke Fintan Sweeney Gold

U13 Girls Squad Bronze
U13 Boys Squad Bronze

Fixtures

U12 match scheduled for July 6th will now take place the following Monday due to Community Games.

Keep in contact with your trainers if any changes occur.



Division 3 U14 CHAMPIONSHIP:

Fixtures..

Thursday July 3rd

Preliminary Round
(a) St. Michaels v St. Faithleachs
(B) Ballinameen v St. Ronans

Quarter Finals Thursday July 10th
(1) Elphin v B
(2) ShannonGaels v Kilglass
(3) A v Michael Glaveys
(4) Kilmore v Roscommon Gaels


Semi Finals will take place on Thursday July 17th

1 v 2
3 v 4


Final to be held on Saturday July the 26th

Minor Fixtures

Division 2 Group C

We're playing St. Michael's on July 2nd (today) at 8pm in Croghan

On Wednesday July 9th at 8pm against Michael Glaveys in Ballinlough

IMPORTANT!!!!!! FUNRUN POSTPONED!!!!!!!!

The FUNRUN and U14 Parish League Tournament is cancelled due to the Community Games being held next weekend.

It is predicted that the event will be held on the following weekend (12th July)

Keep a close eye for more information

U12 Updates

Shannon Gael's U12s had a great win over Ballinameen last Sunday. They were convincing winners with an impressive score of eight goals and ten points at the final whistle.

Ballinameen managed to convert two goals and five points during the meeting. This match in Croghan was the first of the League fixtures to kick off.

Next up Shannon Gaels face St. Michaels in Croghan on June 15th at 12.30 pm.

On June 24th Ballyleague is the venue for our contest against St. Faithleachs. Supporters and players are advised to note that this game is scheduled for SEVEN PM and not the usual time.


Division 3 Fixtures:
June 15th V St. Michaels (Croghan) at 12.30pm

June 24th V St. Faithleachs (Ballyleague) at 7pm

June 29th V Kilbride (Croghan) at 12.30pm

July 6th V Kilglass Gaels (Kilglass) at 12.30pm

July 13th V Elphin (Elphin) at 12.30pm


We wish our young players all the best in their matches :)

U14 Fixtures - (Changes)

The U14s were due to face Roscommon Gaels this Thursday (June 5th) in Croghan, however this game has been cancelled. It will be played at a later date after the scheduled game against St. Faithleachs on June 19.

This team will then compete against Kilglass Gaels in the Division 3 Championship which takes place on the 10th July.

Upcoming Information of our underage teams

Minor Football
We have played in the Div. 2 League so far against Kilbride, Oran, St. Croans and Byle, winning most matches resulting in a good standing in the League with one remaining game to be played after the exams against St. Aidans.

This team managed by Shane Loftus and Fergus Beirne has many talented players and deserves plenty of parish support once the games recommence.

Best wishes to all concerned with the Leaving Cert and third level exams.


U16 Football
Our U16 team also plays Div. 2 this year. They have played 3 games to date.
Unfortunately we lost out narrowly to St. Aidans in the first round of the championship who then went on to beat Strokestown in the final.

It might have been so different that day in Ballyfarnon had David O’ Dowd not been out through injury. However congrats to St. Aidans we understand that the final was a magnificent game. We look forward to meeting Aidans again in the final stages of the league when we will test the metal.

Again this team is laid off for the duration of the exams and best wishes to all the boys involved. Managers Sean Murtagh and Joe O’ Dowd.


U14 Football
This team is managed by James Deane and Fintan Sweeney, both minors themselves. Great credit to the two lads who despite the time constraints of third level college have made themselves readily available to put something back into the club.

The team has been training together now since the beginning of April and are making steady progress. They have played 3 league games to date and look forward to completing the league over the next few Thursday evenings against Kilmore, St. Ronans, Roscommon Gaels, Ballinameen and St. Faithleachs (June 19th).
All games at 7pm.
Many thanks to Shane Devanney, Sean Murtagh, Seamus Sweeney, Patricia Beirne and many others for assisting in training. Parents are encouraged to bring their children to the games for support.


U12 Team
Managed by Johnny McGuire, John Morahan and Richard O’ Dowd.
This team has commenced training on Monday evenings. Round 1 of the Leagues starts in Croghan versus Ballinameen on Sunday June 1st at 12.30pm.
Games are held each Sunday thereafter at the same time. Most players on this panel have been training to date with U14s or U10s.

U10 Football
Play GoGames this year with host club Boyle. First game was a success with Boyle. Don’t miss this special opportunity
To witness this wonderful new seven a side game in action. Team management Debbie Beirne, teresa Conlon, Trevor McKeown and Michael Carty.

U8s
These are our underage stars namely—Shane Beirne, Caoimhe O’ Dowd, Meggan Carty, Sean Carty, Sean O’ Dowd, Orla Mullaney, Hannah O’ Dowd, Aisling Cryan, Caithleann Surlis, Shane Surliss, Elaine McDermott, Marcus Feeney, Emmet Durr, Jack Durr, Jason Conlon, Lauren Devaney, Rachel O’ Dowd, Colum McDonnell, Evan Corcoran.

Alongside the U10s these children have attended training each week in the sports complex over the winter months and the results are immediately evident on the playing field.

This team has played first touch GoGames seven a-side football over the past two weeks in Boyle and they held their own in every are of the pitch. Some of these children are as young as 6 but the level of skill and competence handling the football for children so young is immense. The club is indebted to all its coaches young and old who participated in the complex with these children.

Battle of the Elitist!!

U14 PARISH LEAGUE TOURNAMENT

We are commencing an U14 Parish tournament involving four teams and a wide range of players from the club.

The teams and managers are as follows: Croghan (Cathal Sweeney), Cortober (Niamh O’ Dowd) Woodbrook (Liam Murtagh) and Killumod (James Deane).

The matches will be 9 a-side, 15 minutes each half and the finals will be held BLANK BLANK

ANYONE ELIGIBLE TO PLAY CAN CONTACT OUR CLUB COACHES.

Team members are as follows: Croghan—Daniel Marron, David McDonnell, Johnathan Beirne, Aideen Filan, Declan Morris, Niall Morris, Evan Beirne, Matthew Burke, Christina Burke, Drew Bell, Jack O’ Dowd, Sarah Surliss, Emma O’ Beirne, Michael Jordan, Jamie McHenry.
Cortober— Darren Conlon, Sile O’ Dowd, Niall Morahan, Jimmy Burke, John Burke, Mairead O’ Dowd, Callum Morahan, Laura Conlon, Aaron Keegan, James Mallaghan, Aine O’ Dowd, Dessie Beirne, Gavin Dolan.
Woodbrook—Michael Murtagh, Conor O’ Dowd, Keelan O’ Dowd, Tess Murtagh, Darragh O’ Dowd, Connie Doyle, Martin Harris, Aisling Egan, Caoimhe O’ Dowd, Stephen Hickey.
Killumod—Matthew McDermott, Matthew Mulvey, Lisa Collins, John McDermott, Diarmuid Beirne, Conal Collins, Eimea Cryan, Laura Deane, Rachel McDermott, Niamh Murray, Seamus Beirne, Patrick Deane, Cian Harmon, Aaron o’ Callaghan, Dillan Harmon.

Return of the Minor Newsletter

SHANNON GAELS MINOR GAA CLUB NEWSLETTER

WELCOME BACK!!! After our short break the Newsletter is up and running again.
We have plenty of announcements to get through including - FUNRUN, Parish League Tournament and lots more... Happy Reading!!



CONGRATS to our U12 player, Matthew McDermott who represented Roscommon in the Mini-seven Cumann na mBunscoil competition at Salthill during the Galway v Roscommon Connaught SFC. What an achievement for such a young player to say they have played for their own county at that age.
Both children from our club and the visiting Tir Chonaill Harps from Glasgow were on hand to offer Matthew all their support.
He proved his excellence by playing better football than most of the Roscommon seniors playing on the day!!!

Matthew McDermott

in action for
Roscommon in the

Mini –7s, Salthill,

May 18th 2008

U8s Receive Sponsored Kit Bags…
Our Under 10s and U8s were delighted when presented with their new club kit bags as Sponsored by Hayden Building Contractors, Drumlion.

New Players...

Shannon Gaels Minor Club are constantly encouraging parents of children of all age groups, but particularly 7 to 8 years and 8 to 10, to join the club.

The benefits are enormous both physically and socially.

It's not just solely about football as the kids are treated to events such as the Youth Exchange and countless fundraisers.
Please do not hesitate to contact any member of the club in this regard…

The Gaelic Glaswegians

Two weeks ago, thirty children from two Glasgow schools visited Croghan for
the weekend as part of a Youth Exchange Programme, effectively integrating them into the local sporting community. This event was organised by Tommy Main from Tir Chonaill Harps, Glasgow along with Chris O' Dowd, Shannon Gaels and its objective was to break down religious and cultural barriers.

All the children were given a tremendous chance to see for themselves how gaelic games are run, with a range of coaches on hand to teach them basic skills. It was a very successful event, and a credit to those who helped in any way over the course of the few days.

The visiting children, along with their mentors arrived in Croghan on the Saturday evening to be greeted with a reception. After this they undertook some coaching followed by an introduction to GoGames which is the format for U10 and U8 Gaelic Games. The coaches on hand were superb, they went to tremendous effort to inform and educate the kids on how both Gaelic football and hurling is played.

Prionsias Killian from the Knockcroghery County Board AND ——- held coaching sessions in the park. There are pictures up on the website from the coaching sessions. A special word of thanks to Tina McLoughlin, who held a workshop with the children based on integration of their two different backgrounds, both culturally and religiously. On the Sunday, the children were given the chance to sample for themselves the electric atmosphere at a Gaelic Games Championship match—as they were brought to Salthill to witness the Rossies take on the might of Galway. Unfortunately the match didn't go to plan, but it was a great experience for them.
It was a worthwhile weekend and a lot of background work went into its organising.
Thanks to all who helped make it a success.

Glasgow Youth Exchange May 2008

Results...

Results for the Croghan / Drumlion Annual Sports Day held on the 5th May in Shannon Gaels GAA Pitch.

Girls U16 100m
1st Sile O’Dowd 2nd Lisa Collins 3rd Niamh Flanagan 4th Lauren Beirne
Girls U10 Hurdles
1st Emma O’Beirne 2nd Caoimhe O’Dowd 3rd Aisling Cryan
Boys U10 Hurdles
1st Jack O’Dowd 2nd Darragh O’Dowd 3rd Marcus Feeney
Girs U12 Hurdles
1st Mairead O’Dowd 2nd Aine O’Dowd 3rd Christina Beirne
Boys U12
1st Jonathan Beirne 2nd Jamie McHenry 3rd John McDonnell
Girls U14 Hurdles
1st Mairead O’Dowd 2nd Aideen Filan 3rd Niamh Murray
Boys U14 Hurdles
1st Daniel Marron 2nd Kialin O’Dowd 3rd Mattie Mulvey
Tiny Tots
1st Mary Collins 2nd Darragh O’Beirne 3rd Sophia O’Dowd
U6 Girls
1st Ailbhe Cryan 2nd Zoe O’Dowd 3rd Leanne O’Dowd
U6 Boys
1st Eamonn Glancy 2nd Jack Keenahan 3rd Torin o’Donaile
U8 Girls 60m
1st Hannah O’Dowd 2nd Caithlin Surlis 3rd Leanne O’Dowd
U8 Boys 60m
1st Shane Surlis 2nd Shane Beirne 3rd Cuan Feely
U10 Girls 100m
1st Caoimhe O’Dowd 2nd Emma O’Beirne 3rd Megan Carty
U10 Boys 100m
1st Darragh O’Dowd 2nd Jack O’Dowd 3rd Colin McDonnell
U12 Girls 100m
1st Mairead O’Dowd 2nd Christina Beirne 3rd Tess Murtagh
U12 Boys 100m
1st Jonathan Beirne 2nd James Mallaghan 3rd John McDonnell
U14 Girls 100m
1st Aideen Filan 2nd Niamh Murray 3rd Karina Gannon
U14 Boys 100m
1st Darren Conlon 2nd Daniel Marron 3rd Mattie Mulvey
U10 Girls 200m
1st Caoimhe O’Dowd 2nd Emma O’Beirne 3rd Megan Carty
U10 Boys 200m
1st Darragh O’Dowd 2nd Jack O’Dowd 3rd Stephen McMorrow
U12 Girls 200m
1st Mairead O’Dowd 2nd Tess Murtagh 3rd Christina Beirne
U12 Boys 200m
1st Jonathan Beirne 2nd Jamie McHenry 3rd Aaron Keegan
U8 Girls 80m
1st Hannah O’Dowd 2nd Leanne O’Dowd 3rd Ellen Collins
U8 Boys 80m
1st Shane Surlis 2nd Shane Beirne 3rd Cuan Feely
U14 Boys 800m
1st Darren Conlon 2nd Daniel Marron 3rd Mattie Mulvey
U16 Girls High Jump
1st Aideen Filan 2nd Niamh Murray
U16 Boys High Jump
1st Daniel Marron 2nd Darren Conlon
U14 Girls Shot
1st Karina Gannon 2nd Niamh Murray 3rd Aideen Filan
U14 Boys Shot
1st Daniel Marron 2nd Mattie Mulvey 3rd Darren Conlon
U14 Girls Long Jump
1st Aideen Filan 2nd Niamh Murray 3rd Karina Gannon
U14 Boys Long Jump
1st Darren Conlon 2nd Daniel Marron
U13 Girls Walk 900m
1st Mairead o’Dowd 2nd Laura Conlon & Tess Murtagh
U13 Boys Walk 900m
1st Michael Jordan 2nd Martin Harris 3rd Cormac O’Rourke
U16 Girls 1500m
1st Aideen Filan 2nd Niamh Murray
NOVELTY EVENTS
U8 & Parent Egg & Spoon Race
1st – Yvonne Collins 2nd Helen Feely Joint 3rd Breda O’Dowd & Diane O’Dowd
Over 12 & Parent Egg & Spoon Race
1st Yvonne Collins 2nd Deirde O’Dowd 3rd Martha Jordan
Girls U12 – Three-legged Race
1st Tess Murtagh & Mairead O’Dowd
2nd Laura Conlon & Aine O’Dowd
3rd Christina Beirne & Sarah Surlis
Boys U12 – 3 legged Race
1st Conall Collins & Colin McDonnell
2nd Evan Beirne & Michael Jordan
Mixed Over 12 – 3 legged race
1st Aideen Filan & Niamh Murray
2nd Daniel Marron & Darren Conlon
3rd Mattie Mulvey & Matthew McDermott
Mothers Race
1st Sinead Keenahan 2nd Geraldine Cryan 3rd Della Beirne
Fathers Race
1st Fergal O’Donaile 2nd John O’Dowd 3rd Stephen Hughes

U8 and U10s

The U8s will be delighted to hear that those in attendance at training and partaking in the Play and Stay with the GAA Go Games in May will be getting a beautiful 20" O' Neills Manilla sportsbag plus Shannon Gaels socks.

This bag needs to be seen to be believed as it is exquisite in style, shape and ALSO provides exceptional space for our young players!!

To add to your delight we have uploaded two images of this bag. Remember kids if you're not in you can't win!!!!!!

Special word of thanks to Sponsor - Hayden Building Contractors, Ballyculleen, Dumlion, Carrick on Shannon.

Minor Club Meeting 28th April 2008

There will be a minor board meeting on Monday in Croghan village at 8.30pm.

There is a significant amount of matters to be discussed and all coaches and delegates are asked to attend.

Fixtures April / May

U-8 First week in May - Boyle blitz in Boyle.

U-8 Second week in May - Boyle blitz in Croghan.

U-10 Kilglass tournament - venue Kilglass
Wednesday 30th April v Kilmore at 6.30pm
v Kilbride at 7.00pm

U-14 Division 3 League
Second Round v Kilglass Gaels in Kilglass
Thursday May 1st - 7pm

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Shannon Gaels U-14 Division 3 Leangue
First Round -V- St. Michaels

The U-14s lined out last Thurday evening in Cootehall in terrible conditions with the pitch itself flooded.

Michael Murtagh captained the team on the day and lived up to his title well. Niall Morahan had a splendid game in goals and made many valuable saves.
His kick outs and distribution of the ball were also exceptional.

Shane McDonnell was the star of the Shannon Gaels defence and broke up many of St. Michael's strong attacks. Aideen Filan and Lisa Collins played with their usual great sense of determination and fight.
Daniel Marron, Mick Murtagh and Darren Conlon tried immensely hard but were always up against it with a very strong and unwavering St. Michael's team.

The final score wasn't kept but was undoubtedly in favour of St. Michaels.

Shannon Gaels panel:
Niall Morahan, Keelan O' Dowd, Shane McDonnell, Lisa Collins, Daniel Marron, Aideen Filan,
Mick Murtagh, Connor O' Dowd, Matthew McDermott, Darren Conlon, Cian Harmon,
John McDermott, John Burke, Mairead O' Dowd, Aine O' Dowd, James Burke, Niall Morris,
Evan Beirne


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The next match, as stated previously, is against Kilglass at 7pm on Thursday the 1st May.

Here is a brief outline of what is EXPECTED OF EACH MEMBER OF THE U14 PANEL...

RESPECT MANAGEMENT

RESPECT YOUR TEAM MATES

RESPECT DECISIONS OF MANAGEMENT

RESPECT MATCH OFFICIALS

ARRIVE ON TIME TO TRAINING

ARRIVE ON TIME TO MATCHES

RESPECT YOUR JERSEY

PLAY WITH PRIDE AND PASSION

ENJOY PLAYING THE GAME


Failure to abide to these rules will ultimately have serious consequences

Community Games Results Spring 2008

RESULTS OF LOCAL EVENTS SO FAR IN 2008

GIRLS ART

U14
1st - Karina Gannon
2nd - Eimear Loftus
3rd - Ulrika McKensie


U12
1st - Eimear Cryan
2nd - Laura Deane
3rd - Laureen Gannon & Sarah Surlis


U10 U8
1st - Emma O'Beirne 1st -Aisling O'Connor
2nd - Aisling Cryan
3rd - Eimear Gannon & Shannon O'Dowd


BOYS ART

U14 U12
1st - Matthew McDermott 1st – Darragh McKenzie
2nd - Kialan O'Dowd 2nd – Aaron Keegan
3rd - Mattie Mulvey


U10 U8
1st - Sean O'Dowd 1st - Shane Beirne
2nd Jack O'Dowd

MODEL MAKING

Girls Boys
U14 U14
1st - Niamh Murray 1st - Matthew McDermott & Patrick Deane
2nd - Karina Gannon
3rd - Aideen Filan


U12 U12
1st -Rachel McDermott Aaron Keegan
2nd - Laureen Gannon
3rd - Eimear Cryan


U10
1st - Shannon O'Dowd NO U10 BOys
2nd - Elaine McDermott



QUIZ MIXED
1st Aideen Filan 2nd Niamh Murray Joint 3rd Karina Gannon & Jonathan Beirne
4th Eimear Cryan

These went forward to Athleague to the county competition and competed very well.


DRAUGHTS TEAMS

U10
Elaine McDermott, Seamus Beirne, Oisin Feely, Shane Surlis, Shannon O’Dowd & Hannah O’Dowd

U12
Aaron Keegan, Christina Beirne, Diarmiud Beirne, Eimear Cryan, Sarah Surlis & Rachel McDermott

U14
Matthew McDermott, Karina Gannon, Aideen Filan, Niamh Murray & Daniel Marron


SWIMMING

Girls Under-10 Backstroke:
1. Shannon O¹Dowd 2. Elaine McDermott 3. Emma O¹Beirne

Girls Under-10 Freestyle:
1. Emma O¹Beirne 2. Elaine McDermott 3. Ava McLoughlin

Girls Under-12 Breastroke:
1. Emer Matthews 2. Laura Conlon 3. Emer Cryan

Girls Under-12 Freestyle:
1. Emer Matthews 2. Mairead O¹Dowd 3. Emer Cyran

Girls Under-12 Backstroke:
1. Emer Matthews 2. Mairead O¹Dowd 3. Christina Beirne

Girls Under-14 Breastroke:
1. Meg McLoughlin 2. Niamh Murray 3. Emer Loftus

Girls Under-14 Backstroke:
1. Meg McLoughlin 2. Niamh Murray 3. Grace Doyle

Girls Under-14 Freestyle:
1. Niamh Murray 2. Karina Gannon 3. Emer Loftus

Girls Under-16 Backstroke:
1. Lisa Collins 2. Sile O¹Dowd

Girls Under-16 Freestyle:
1. Sile O¹Dowd 2. Lisa Collins

Girls Under-16 Breastroke:
1. Sile O¹Dowd 2. Lisa Collins

Boys Under-10 Backstroke:
1. Jack O¹Dowd 2. Kevin Mullaney 3. Rob McHenry

Boys Under-10 Freestyle:
1. Kevin Mullaney 2. Rob McHenry 3. Jack O¹Dowd

Boys Under-12 Breastroke:
1. Evan Beirne 2. Jamie McHenry 3. Michael Jordan

Boys Under-12 Freestyle:
1. Michael Jordan 2. Evan Beirne 3. Aaron Keegan

Boys Under-12 Backstroke:
1. Michael Jordan 2. Jamie McHenry 3. Aaron Keegan

Boys Under-14 Breastroke:
1. Darren Conlon 2. Daniel Marron 3. Patrick Deane

Boys Under-14 Backstroke:
1. Patrick Deane 2. Matthew McDermott 3. Tom O¹Dowd

Boys Under-14 Freestyle:
1. Daniel Marron 2. Matthew McDermott 3. Patrick Deane

Boys Under-16 Freestyle:
1. Keelan Loftus 2. Fintan Sweeney


AREA HANDWRITING RESULTS


U10 GIRLS
1st Emma O’Beirne
2nd Aisling Cryan
3rd Elaine McDermott

U10 BOYS
1st Stephen Hughes
2nd James Costello
Joint 3rd Dessie Beirne & Stephen McMorrow

U13 GIRLS
1st Ulrika McKenzie
2nd Blue Sky Spence McGarry
Joint 3rd Eimear Cryan & Laura Deane

U13 BOYS
1st Drew Bell
2nd Evan Beirne
3rd Stephen Hickey


BASKETBALL

BASKETBALL TEAMS

GIRLS U16

Lauren Beirne Sile O’Dowd Niamh Flanagan
Cara Dolorey Dervilla Dockery Karina Gannon
Ciara McMorrow Siobhan Dillion


BOYS U16

Darren Conlon Fintan Sweeney Luke O’Dowd
Keelan Loftus Liam Murtagh Daniel Marron


INDOOR SOCCER TEAMS

U15 BOYS

John McDermott Shane O’Dowd Daniel Marron
Darren Conlon Michael Murtagh Mattie Mulvey
Dana Babaiee Conor O’Dowd

U13 BOYS

David McDonnell Jonathan Beirne Zana Babaiee
Kialan O’Dowd Matthew McDermott Patrick Deane



Special thanks go to all the coordinators of these events namely:

Phia Gannon, John O'DOwd, Maureen Keenehan, Della Beirne, Marie Matthews, Helen McHenry, Nuala O'Beirne, Paul Beirne, Luke O'Dowd, David O'Dowd, Joe Murray, Shay O'Connor & Seamus Sweeney

Our Annaul Area Sports Day is Bank Holiday Monday - May 5th in Shannon Gaels GAA Pitch.
Registration @ 1.30pm for 2pm Start.
All field and track events including some novelty races, i.e. Egg & Spoon, 3 legged, Mothers and Father's race etc.

Please come and enjoy a great family day out!!!!!!!!!

Tir Chonaill Harps visit last weekend

Shannon Gaels were delighted to welcome Tommy Main along with others from Tir Chonaill Harps in Glasgow to Croghan last Saturday.

The reason they were visiting our club was for the "Pathway to Youth Exchange" conference which was held over the course of the day.

Tommy arrived with six young people and we added ten to this figure from our collection of players. These included James Deane, Cathal Sweeney, Liam Murtagh, Luke O' Dowd, Fintan Sweeney, Paddy Cummins, Niamh O' Dowd, Karen O' Dowd, David O' Dowd, James Filan and Shane Leydon.

The Harps arrived in town on Friday evening and things got off to a flying start the following morning as the conference was held in the newly built Community Centre in the village. This structure formally known as the Creamery was recently renovated by a handful of local residents.
The building is bright, spacious and immense credit deservedly should be given to those involved.
It boasts two meeting rooms with comfortable seating for conferences. An exercise room is situated downstairs.

The conference comprised of tutorials and practicals courtesy of Roscommon County Games Development Committee, the Connaught Council and Munster Council speakers.

Ten O' Clock saw the first of two sessions by Peter Carney, who spoke practically on coaching for young children as well as offering good advice on refereeing and Go Games.
After lunch, those in attendance were treated to a talk by Limerick man Pat Fitzgerald. He spoke with great insight into club administration which was highly beneficial to both our club and the visiting Harps.

Themes covered included
- Understanding the importance of committees and structures in your clubs
- What are these roles
- Where do young people fit in
- Do you want a voice in your club

Afterwards everyone skipped over to the Croghan hotel where Claire and Tracey Duignan had a lovely meal awaiting. Thanks a million girls.

At 5.30 the brilliant Go Games kicked off in the Astroturf in Carrick on Shannon. Tommy introduced how his players effectively carry out training sessions in Glasgow. His idea is based around the clear advantage of using smaller teams to enhance and develop the skills of all the children participating.

The Go Games was structured with 7 a-side teams along with a coach for each player. The extra coaches were simultaneously used as referees throughout the matches.
It was evidently beneficial to all taking part as the somewhat weaker players were able to hold their own against their stronger counterparts.

After this session, Tommy completed the day's events by conducting a talk to all contributors.

This was followed by an enjoyable time at the Senior Dinner Dance held in the Bush Hotel, Carrick at 8pm.

Special thanks to all involved, especially Tommy Main and Tir Chonaill Harps, Peter Carney, Pat Fitzgerald, all at the Roscommon County Games Development Committee (Willie Hegarty and Seamus Sweeney), Connaught Council and Munster Council. Thanks also to our coaches, players and anyone in attendance on the day.

Particular thanks goes to our main Chairperson Patricia who supported the event all day long...

U14 Training

THE U14 TEAM will commence training this Tuesday evening in the Sports Complex, Carrick on Shannon.

All players are asked to attend.

U16 Football 2008

THE ANTICIPATED U16 League kicks off on the 24th March with Shannon Gaels lining out at home to St. Aidans at 12p.m. All players are advised to attend training before this match.

Shannon Gaels U16s are competing in the Division 2 league and the games are as follows:

(THROW IN FOR ALL IS 12.PM)

March 24th St. Aidans Croghan

March 30th Eire Og Croghan

April 6th St. Faithleachs Ballyleague

August 17th Beal na Buille Strokestown

August 31st Castlerea Croghan

September 14th Tulsk Tulsk

September 28th St. Dominics Knockcroghery

Senior Football Update

GREAT to see that the seniors have apparently finally got their act together with a great display of creative football against Clann na nGael over the weekend.

The lads played with fierce passion and determination in easily overcoming a dejected Clann. Hopefully this is the beginning of improvement for the team. Players appeared to have developed a sense of pride that was somewhat missing over the last while.

On a duller note, there are still two players refusing to comply with the club's rules that the complete shorts and socks have to be worn during games and not mismatched colours that highly distract from the overall display of our green and gold. Wake up lads... we have plenty of good young minors who are more than willing to take your place if the opportunity arises!!

The Mighty Minors

SHANNON GAELS MINORS played a lively challenge game against neighbours Ballinameen on Sunday March 10th. Croghan stadium was the venue and there was doubt beforehand on the condition of the pitch. Thankfully the weather held fine and the stadium glimmered in the sunlight. Gaels used the occasion to test players in alternating positions with great success.

Andy Dolan came in between the posts replacing Cathal Sweeney to the full forward position. Both conveyed excellent composure throughout the match and Dolan was a very competent keeper. Sweeney was speedy up front, winning numerous kick outs and proving that he is a player to watch in the future.

Ryan Dempsey and Ciaran Murray completed the full forward line and the two were more than capable of their striking role. These two players will be a vital aspect to the forward force of this team when full fitness is reached.

Pearse Beirne was once again inspirational in most of the attacking play. Niall Lynch lined out at midfield alongside Cathal O' Dowd and gave a much improved display from previous matches. Mark O' Dowd, Fergal Harmon, James Deane and Matthew Molloy were strong and proficient in defence, marking their opponents well and keeping the scoreline close for most of the game.

Liam Murtagh was at his usual best as was Niall Leydon and James Filan, who were entertaining to watch with their immense skill.

Management retained super sub Shane O' Dowd until the final quarter. It was unfortunately too late as the wee man couldn't redeem matters, although his efforts were exceptional.

Ballinameen ran out winners by a four point margin. It was an entertaining contest with the two teams displaying a high standard of gaelic football throughout.

AS FAR AS MINOR PLAYERS ARE CONCERNED, THERE IS A VERY IMPORTANT MATCH AGAINST BOYLE NEXT SUNDAY (MARCH 16TH) IN BOYLE AT 12 p.m.

Full turnout by both the U16s and minors at training during the week is essential if players expect to be part of the starting 15. Failure to be present at training or failure to adhere to wearing the full club colours will mean immediate refusal by team management to play next Sunday.

Minor league success

THE MINORS LADS had a tremendous win over rivals Michael Glaveys yesterday afternoon (March 2nd).

Shannon Gaels were by far the stronger opponents clocking up an impressive 3-8 when the final whistle was blown. Michael Glaveys kicked seven points throughout the match. This achievement follow the previous week's win over St. Croans in Enfield.

James Deane was superb in defence alongside Mattew Molloy, Fergal Harmon and James Filan. They were backed up by solid gaming between the posts by Fintan Sweeney. Liam Murtagh was inspirational in his role as an attacking half back. David O' Dowd along with Cathal O' Dowd lined out at centre-field and were a brilliant force.

We had the return of Shane Leydon playing his first match in the league. He controlled the forward line with his exceptional talent. Also making their mark was Pearse Beirne and Daniel Morris who opened up the Croan's defence line, contributing to many of the scores. Gaels ran out deseved winners by four points even being the under-dogs.

The next Minor game will be against Boyle on Sunday, March 16th at 12 p.m. Boyle will be at home.

Croghan/ Drumlion Community Games...

Draughts
Draughts practice commencing in Croghan NS @ 7pm sharp on this Monday evening - 25th Feb.
Age groups are U10, U12, U14 boys & girls mixed

Basketball
Basketball training commencing in Complex, Carrick on Shannon on Saturday - 1st March @3.30pm.
Teams of U13 & U16 Boys & girls.

Art
Area Art competition on Friday 7th March @ 6.30pm in Cortober Old School.
Ages - U8, U10, U12, U14, U16 boys & girls

Model Making
Area Model Making competition on Sunday 9th March @ 3pm - 5pm
Ages - U10, U12, U14 Boys & Girls

U14 Quiz
Area competition for U14 quiz on Sunday 9th March in Croghan NS @ 5.30pm sharp.
U14 boys & girls mixed

Meeting
Very important meeting in Croghan NS on Monday 25th February @ 8.30pm sharp
It is vital that parents attend and that children have the oppurtunity to participate in the Spring & Summer events. Without your help this will not be possible.

Shannon Gaels Minor Board
There will be a very informal brief meeting of existing coaches/parents/ people interested in coaching in the complex after the training session on next Thursday evening - 28th Feb @ 7pm.
We would be very grateful for your attendance.

Community Games...

Croghan Drumlion U15 five a side footballers took part in this indoor competition on Saturday 16th February 2008.

Captain Shane O' Dowd, one of the county's most decorated players in this event, led his team out against a very strong side from Taughmaconnel. Shane holds 2 county medals, 1 Connaught and 1 All Ireland in this competition. The sides were level 2-2 at half time thanks to a magical strike from Mike Murtagh followed by a goal from defender Daniel Marron. Taughmaconnel used their physical strength to advantage in the second half to run out winners on the scoreline of 3-2. Keeper John McDermott made some excellent saves, Shane O'Dowd and Daniel Marron played their hearts out in defence.

Matthew Mulvey was excellent in defence and should prove a real force in next years event. Michael Murtagh and Darren Conlon tried their very best up front against a much stronger opposition.

Great credit to the team and management of Paul Beirne's and Luke O' Dowd for participating so strongly.

Minor league football

The minor team managed by Shane Loftus & Fergus O Beirne travel to Cootehall this Sunday for a challenge game with St. Michaels. All players to be in Cootehall Sunday morning not later than 11.20 am. The team have played 2 games so far in the Division 2 league drawing with Kilbride in Round 1 and losing out narrowly to Oran in round 2.

The remaining games are as follows:

V St. Croans in Enfield Sunday, February 24th at 12 am
V Michael Glancy's in Croghan, Sunday March 2nd at 12 am
V Boyle in Boyle, Sunday March 16th at 12 am
V St. Aidan's in Croghan, date to be decided

Presentation Night!!!

James Deane aka Deano who was awarded Minor Player of the year for 2007

Thank you to all who attended on the night. Hope ye had a good time :)

Special thanks to the following:

Parents for making sandwiches, O' Dowds and staff of Four P's, Tracy and Sandra Surliss for food, Trevor, Shane Devanney and Debbie Beirne for organising raffle, Seamus Beirne and Brendan Morris for door duty, a HUGE thanks to David Flynn, Willie Hegarty and Seamus Sweeney for their immense contribution.

To the people who gave spot prizes:

John Heslin

Kit O Beirne

Leo Marron

Seamus Sweeney

Shane Loftus

Paul Beirne

..as always your help is greatly appreciated

THANK YOU :)

Minor Presentation Night - February 8th 2008, The Four Provinces

The lady in control of the whole situation!!

Gay O' Dowd receieves his achievement award for his contribution to the U14 success.
David Flynn presents Gerry Flanagan with his achievement award following on from the 3 in a row.

U14 player of the year David O Dowd receiving his medal from All-Ireland minor captain David Flynn. James Egan receives his achievement award for being part of the U14 three in a row alongside Gay O' Dowd and Gerry Flanagan.
THE U14 COUNTY CHAMPIONS 2007
The U11 Kilglass Tournament winners.

Patricia Beirne, Chairperson pictured along with Cian Harmon, (player of the year) Darragh O' Dowd, Aaron Keegan (joint dedicated player) and Aine O' Dowd,(most improved player) members of the U11 panel, which she coached in 2007. Shane O' Dowd receives his 3rd consecutive U14 medal.

Daire Carroll is presented with his medal by David Flynn. Matthew Mulvey pictured with David Flynn.
Fintan Sweeney receives his 3rd consecutive U14 county medal.
David Flynn presents Niamh Flanagan with her 2nd consecutive U14 county medal.

The beautiful array of Shannon Gaels trophies which were presented on the night.
Magnificent 7/8 coaches Shaun Murtagh and Seamus Sweeney pictured with All-Ireland Minor Captain David Flynn.
Aideen Filan receives her Division 2 county U14 medal from David Flynn.
Sheila O' Dowd receives her 3rd consecutive U14 county medal.

Liam Murtagh is presented with his U14 County Medal by David Flynn.