Cumann Lúthchleas Gael Coiste Chontae na Gaillimhe

SENIOR CHAMPIONSHIP FINAL 2020 Sunday 4th October 2020. Kenny Park, . KPW Print Management, . 090 9642297

Turloch Naoimh v Mór Thomais Reiteoir: Alan Kelly Message From The Sponsors

“All at Brooks are thrilled to be associated with GAA. We have had an enduring relationship over the years and are delighted to have had the opportunity in recent years to extend our involvement with Galway Hurling with the sponsorship of the Minor Club Championship in 2019 progressing to sponsoring the Minor, Intermediate and Senior Club Hurling Championships in 2020. The importance of sport is evident to all, particularly in this year of Covid. To have helped fund the streaming of the games to the GAA public, at home and abroad, is particularly special. The organisation for and the quality of the games, the streaming, the commentary and media coverage is a credit to all involved. Congratulations to all and thank you. Liam Brady Branch Manager, Brooks Galway.

2 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 3 Fáilte ón Cathaoirleach

On behalf of Galway Hurling Committee and Galway To all our referees and match officials, who have the GAA we extend a warm welcome to all patrons to most difficult jobs of all, we say a big thank you for Kenny Park, Athenry for the clash of St. Thomas’ your efforts this year. Alan Kelly is the man in charge and Turloughmore. This is a final day with a today ably assisted by linesmen Conor Quinlan and difference given the challenging circumstances we Seamus Moran. We wish Alan, his team of umpires have all faced this year. If anything, this has enhanced and officials the very best of luck today. the importance of a very special occasion for the This year we were delighted to see Brooks extending players, officials and clubs involved. It is fair to say the their sponsorship of club hurling in Galway having best two teams have made it to the final following previously sponsored our Minor competition. To have a fantastic championship that gave us no shortage Brooks commit to sponsoring the Senior, Intermediate of quality, excitement, and drama. With St. Thomas’ and Minor championships for the next three years seeking to join an elite club of 3 in a row champions, is a great endorsement of club hurling in Galway. Turloughmore are striving to bridge a 35-year gap Their engagement and support throughout the year since they last secured this elusive title. It will truly be has been fantastic and we would like to thank Mark a momentous achievement whatever the outcome Lohan, Liam Brady and the team in Galway for this. and we wish both clubs the best of luck today. In a year of limited attendances, the importance of Under normal circumstances we would have the our local media has become very apparent. Galway pleasure of honouring the Sarsfields team that Bay FM, Tribune, Herald and Raidió regained the Tom Callanan Cup in 1995. While we na Gaeltachta are fantastic promoters of our games. cannot do so in person today, we pay tribute to a great We want to thank them for their continued coverage team and congratulate them, their families and the and support of all our competitions no matter what Sarsfields club on their achievement twenty-five years the level and ensure it is never taken for granted. The ago which added to an era of unprecedented success. streaming of our games has been a lifeline for those While today is rightly about St. Thomas’ and who could not attend this year’s games. It has been Turloughmore, the completion of our Senior Hurling a fantastic initiative and we are delighted to have Championship is testament to the trojan work of GAA brought over 60 matches across hurling and football members in every club in Galway. We want to take this to people in Galway and to many more across the opportunity to pay tribute to all clubs and particularly world. Subscriptions will surpass 30,000 this weekend club officers for their massive contribution, not just to highlighting the appetite for Galway club action. the GAA in these times but also to their communities Again, we want to say a special thanks to Galway Bay during the hardest times of the Covid 19 pandemic. I FM for supporting this initiative and to Nemeton for would like to thank all club officers for their support their brilliant work in covering so many matches and and positive engagement throughout the year in to such a high standard. getting our calendar of games played to date. Lastly, I want to acknowledge the contribution of We are almost there with our Intermediate, Junior and the Hurling Committee, Coiste Iomána na nÓg and Minor competitions and to have gotten to this point Galway GAA officials who worked extremely hard we are indebted to the people that make it happen. throughout the year to ensure we are here today to We want to acknowledge the often-underappreciated see the completion of our flagship competition and work that goes into our pitches and facilities so we at the finishing point for many can play our games. We thank our pitch committees, more. We wish all the players, stewards and gate people for facilitating our matches, management, club officers and for ensuring the highest safety standards and we also supporters the very best of luck thank patrons for their conduct and understanding today and hope you enjoy the so far this year when attending games. Today sees occasion. the return of the County final to Kenny Park, Athenry and I would like to take this opportunity to thank Mise le meas, Gerry Larkin, Malachy Hanley and the Kenny Park Pitch Committee for the preparation that went into Pól Beilliú today and for having the ground in such immaculate condition.

2 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 3 Senior Hurling Championship Final Preview By Cian O’Connell, GAA.ie Lally’s panel were all important factors at Pearse Stadium. Such grit and determination remains part of the Thomas’ fabric. Even when Cappataggle were posing the most awkward questions, Thomas’ were able to summon the required answers. It is why the drive for a three in a row continues. Not that Thomas’ are dwelling on that aspect, they have adopted a sensible and pragmatic approach throughout the campaign. For Turloughmore reaching a first decider since 1990 represents a clear sign of progress. Throughout the past decade sterling work with underage teams hinted at a bright future in the senior arena. That is beginning to become evident, Joe Hession, Franny Forde, and Barry Cullinane have occupied central roles in that journey. The fact that the Turlough intermediates advanced to the penultimate stage too captures just how much development is taking place. Young hurlers are being nurtured, but Hession So much has happened since July 24. That wet is simply thrilled that these emerging players are Friday evening Kenny Park provided the backdrop being exposed to high level knockout fixtures. for the first game in the 2020 Brooks Galway Titles have been collected in the juvenile and Senior Hurling Championship when Tommie Under 21 ranks, but the learning continues Larkins defeated . according to Hession. It supplied a reminder of how important sport “Turlough haven’t played in a lot of knockout is and it started the hurling journey in the west. games over the past 10 years,” Hession states. Fittingly, the famous Athenry venue hosts the “I’d say probably five or so. That experience, you last match of the competition: what an eagerly have to gain it. Winning underage and being anticipated contest it is too. successful is a help, but it is only part of the Since emerging on to the winning stage in 2012, process. St Thomas’ have cemented their status as serial “It is getting to the senior knockout games which contenders Corribside. Any team overcoming is key for the development of these young lads.” Thomas’ has earned the victory. Presently the most demanding assignment in the Thomas’ willpower was evident from the outset Galway game is spending an hour in the company this year too. Castlegar, stitched together in of a decorated St Thomas’ team. splendid fashion by Fergal Lynch and Dinny Cahill, were primed for their opener with Thomas’. Three of the last four Galway Championships have been secured by Thomas’. A significant standard At one stage in the opening period Thomas’ has been set, but an emerging Turlough will relish trailed Cashel by 10 points, but they still found this opportunity also. a way to survive, and subsequently thrive. When referee Alan Kelly commences this contest There were so many moments of substance a lively battle awaits. A total of 72 days after it all and style. David Burke’s flicks, Conor Cooney’s started, this eagerly anticipated decider could finishing, and the increasing depth of Kevin go the distance.

4 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 5 Kenny Park GAA Grounds.

Covid 19 Health and Safety Procedures Co Hurling Final.

This is a Covid 19 Health and Safety statement on behalf of the Kenny Park GAA Grounds Committee. • Patrons are asked to maintain at least one metre distance between yourselves and others. • At the end of the Game, patrons present are asked to refrain from entering the pitch area. • The presentation of the Tom Callanan Cup will be made on the pitch by Galway Hurling Committee Chairman Paul Bellew, in the presence of Championship Sponsors Brooks, to the winning captain. • The presentation of the cup will only proceed if Covid 19 guidelines are followed. • We ask all present to please respect these guidelines. Thank you for your support.

Gerry Larkin Malachy Hanley Chairman Secretary Kenny Park GAA Grounds Kenny Park GAA Grounds

An Réiteoir

Alan Kelly Alan is a member of the Rahoon Newcastle club. Married to Elaine they have two daughters Ríona and Aoife. A member of the National Referees panel since 2007 he has refereed a number of All in various grades including All- minor, U21 Intermediate and Senior club finals. He has also been the man in the middle for National League finals and Railway Cup. Today he referees his 4th County Senior Final having previously officiated in 07, 09 and 2011. His umpires today are Pat Palmer, Paul Monroe, Morgan Darcy and Seamus Canning.

Senior Final Linesmen

Conor Quinlan Ogie Moran

4 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 5 Tom Callanan Cup (Senior)

Named in honour of the late Tom Callanan who was Chairman of the Galway Hurling Board from 1979 until his tragic death in a car accident in 1996. The Kilconieron man presided over the most successful era in Galway Hurling and it was decided at a meeting of the Hurling Board in 1997 to name the cup in his memory. He led by example with hard work and fulfilled his role of Chairman of the Board with decency, honesty and integrity. Galway Senior Club Hurling Roll of Honour

Castlegar 17 1936, 1937, 1938, 1939, 1940, 1944, 1950, 1952, 1953, 1957, 1958, 1967, 1969, 1972, 1973, 1979, 1984. 11 1894, 1895, 1896, 1901, 1902, 1903, 1910, 1949, 1974, 1975, 1978. Liam Mellows 9 1935, 1943, 1945, 1946, 1954, 1955, 1968, 1970, 2017. Turloughmore 8 1956, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1985. St. Mary’s Athenry 8 1987, 1994, 1996, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2002, 2004. Peterswell 7 1889, 1898, 1899, 1900, 1904, 1905, 1907. 7 1914, 1916, 1934, 1981, 1983, 2011, 2014. Sarsfields 7 1980, 1989, 1992, 1993, 1995, 1997, 2015. 6 2003, 2005, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2013. Tynagh 5 1920, 1922, 1923, 1925, 1928. 5 1909, 1915, 1918, 1930, 1931. Kiltormer 5 1976, 1977, 1982, 1990, 1991. St.Thomas’ 4 2012, 2016, 2018, 2019. Kilconieron 3 1908, 1912, 1919. Mullagh 3 1906, 1929, 1932. College Road 2 1892, 1893. Woodford 2 1913, 1917. Army 2 1947, 1948. Fohenagh 2 1959, 1960. Loughrea 2 1941, 2006. 2 2001, 2010. Meelick 1 1887 1 1897 Derrydonnell 1 1911 Maree 1 1933 Ballinasloe 1 1951 Tommy Larkins 1 1971 Killimordaly 1 1986 Abbeyknockmoy 1 1988 • Finals were not played in the following years: 1888, 1890, 1891, 1921, 1924, 1926, 1927, 1931, 1942. 6 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 7 Group Stats 2020

Senior A Championship Group 1 Rank Team Played Won Drawn Lost For Against PTS 1 Cappataggle 3 2 0 1 58 51 4 2 Loughrea 3 2 0 1 59 54 4 3 Tommy Larkins 3 2 0 1 45 40 4 4 Tynagh Abbey Duniry 3 0 0 3 50 67 0 Senior A Championship Group 2 Rank Team Played Won Drawn Lost For Against PTS 1 Turloughmore 3 2 0 1 60 52 4 2 Liam Mellows 3 2 0 1 59 50 4 3 -Maree 3 1 0 2 48 62 2 4 Clarinbridge 3 1 0 2 55 58 2 Senior A Championship Group 3 Rank Team Played Won Drawn Lost For Against PTS 1 St Thomas 3 3 0 0 101 63 6 2 Sarsfields 3 2 0 1 75 59 4 3 Castlegar 3 1 0 2 79 70 2 4 Portumna 3 0 0 3 54 117 0 Senior B Championship Group 1 Rank Team Played Won Drawn Lost For Against PTS 1 Craughwell 3 2 1 0 84 59 5 2 Gort 3 2 1 0 67 42 5 3 3 1 0 2 55 74 2 4 3 0 0 3 51 82 0 Senior B Championship Group 2 Rank Team Played Won Drawn Lost For Against PTS 1 Killimordaly 3 2 0 1 66 52 4 2 Ardrahan 3 2 0 1 49 47 4 3 Athenry 3 1 1 1 60 62 3 4 Beagh 3 0 1 2 42 56 1 Senior B Championship Group 3 Rank Team Played Won Drawn Lost For Against PTS 1 -Fohenagh 3 3 0 0 72 60 6 2 Mullagh 3 2 0 1 63 56 4 3 Padraig Pearses 3 1 0 2 52 58 2 4 Kilnadeema-Leitrim 3 0 0 3 58 71 0

6 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 7 Sarsfields 1995

The 90’s proved to be a dream decade for Sarsfields GAA Club. They captured their 5th county title in 1995 defeating Portumna. The teams met twice in this year. They met in June in a group game with Sarsfields winning that day by three points. This Sarsfields team defeated Athenry in the quarter-final and Gort in the semi-final. Then on October 22nd at Loughrea they once again faced up to a very young and upcoming Portumna side in the County Final and Sarsfields won on a score line of 0-17 to 1-9.

Sarsfields Team: Tommy Kenny, Pakie Cooney, Brendan Cooney, Michael Cooney, Padraig Kelly, Gerry McGrath, Willie Earls, Noel Morrissey, , Michael McGrath, Joe McGrath, Aidan Donohue, Peter Kelly, Michael Kenny (Capt), Peter Cooney.

Substitutes: Francis Madden, Michael Ward, , Paraic Forde, Michael Stratford, Alan Moran, Tom Stratford, John Kelly, Gabriel Leslie, Adrian McMahon, Donal Keane, Paul Manicle, Dermot Hynes, Cathal Murray. Management: (Manager and Trainer) Michael Murray and Michael Mulkerrins (Selectors). Officers: Pat Hynes (Chairman), Gerry Leslie (Secretary) and Michael Cooney (Treasurer).

8 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 9 Turloughmore Hurling Club A Brief HistoryTBC Founded in 1968

At a meeting of the Irish National League held 1981 the first ever County Minor was won while in in on 14th May 1886, Turloughmore 1985 captained the team to victory in G.A.A. Club was formed. The guiding light of the the County Senior Championship Final to bridge Club in those years was Patrick Murray. The club a 19 year gap. appeared in their first County Final in 1893 where In 1991 the club captured their first Junior title College Road defeated Turloughmore. The first since the fifties and in 1996 and 1997 back to County title to come to the parish was in 1907 back Minor titles were won with the club adding when Turloughmore Sarsfields won the County another Junior title in 1997. In 2003 and 2005 Junior Hurling Final. In 1935 a group of young the club captured U14 championship titles and men gathered in Conneely’s Forge in Carheenlea in 2007 the U16 and Minor. In 2010 the County and set up their own team in the area. That team U14 championship & Feile Na nGael titles were introduced the famed Black & White colours to won and then Turloughmore became the first the Club. Galway team to capture the Feile In 1949 Cregmore, Coolarne and Turloughmore title outside the county. amalgamated and played under the name St. That feat was repeated in 2018 and 2019 when Vincent’s. In 1956 all the clubs in the parish Turloughmore won the Christy Ring Trophy for amalgamated - Coolarne, Cregmore, Knockdoe two years in a row, as well as the Galway Feile and and Lackagh – to play as Turloughmore in the U14 titles. With Co A titles won in Minor (2013 Senior Championship. The Club captured the & 2014), U16 (2011 & 2012 and this year 2020), County Senior Hurling title that same year. The U14 (2014, 2018 & 2019), U13 (2013, 2017, 2018) amalgamation of the parish Clubs paved the and U12 (2015), the club continues to develop its way for the historic record of Turloughmore’s young players. A notable highlight came in 2016 six in a row Senior Hurling Championship titles when the Club’s first U21 title was won, while the from 1961 to 1966 - a feat never before or since 2 in a row was achieved one year later. The senior accomplished in Galway Hurling. team reached their first County semi final in eight In 1966 Turloughmore also made the historic years in 2019 and now have reached their first breakthrough when capturing the inaugural Joe senior final since 1990. Salmon County U14 Championship trophy. In Turloughmore Roll of Honour

Senior 8 1956, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1985 Junior A 6 1907, 1949, 1954, 1991, 1997, 2018 Junior C 1 2018 U-21 2 2016, 2017 Minor 7 1981, 1984, 1996, 1997, 2007, 2013, 2014 U-16 8 1975, 1982, 1995, 2007, 2008, 2011, 2012, 2020 U-15 2 2018, 2019 U-14 8 1966, 1988, 2003, 2005, 2010 (Galway & All Ireland Feile Champions), 2014, 2018 (Galway & All Ireland Feile Champions), 2019 (Galway & All Ireland Feile Champions) U-13 3 2013, 2017, 2018 U-12 5 1986, 1987, 2008, 2010 (Rionn 5), 2015 (Rionn 1)

Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 9 10 Turloughmore Senior Hurling Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020

Back Row L to R: Matthew Keating, Brain Callanan, Richard Doyle, James Collins, Ronan Badger, Fergal Moore, Diarmuid Mullen, Damien Holland, Daniel Loftus, Barry McDonagh, Daithi Burke (Capt), Paul Dullaghan, Brion Connolly, Conor Walsh and Mikey Morris. Front Row L to R: Brian Murphy, Sean Lyons, , Conor Shaughnessy, Mark Murphy, Karl Connelly, Mark Fahy, Kevin Hussey, Barry Callanan, Sean Linnane, Gary Burke, Sean Loftus, Jamie Holland and Vincent Doyle. Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 11 Turloughmore Senior Hurling

Captain: Daithi Burke Daithi Burke will captain Turloughmore in today’s County Final. The four time All-Star was part of the Galway team that won the All Ireland title in 2017. The Cregmore man has a medal collection that is truly exceptional. He has won an All-Ireland Minor hurling medal in 2009, an All Ireland U21 football medal in 2013, 4 All-Ireland Club Football medals with Corofin, a National Hurling League title and 2 Leinster Senior Hurling Championship titles. He has eight county senior football medals with Corofin, as well as numerous Connacht titles. He won a Co Minor Medal with Turloughmore in 2007 as a 15 year old. Daithi has a plethora of personal awards picking up numerous Man of the Match awards as well as being selected on a host of Team of the Year selections. Paths to Final Rd 1, Won v Liam Mellows 1-17 to 1-15 Rd 2, Won v Oranmore-Maree 1-21 to 0-11 Rd 3, Loss v Clarinbridge 0-16 to 0-23 Quarter-Final, Won v Sarsfields 2-25 to 2-19 Semi-Final, Won v Loughrea 2-17 to 1-17

Turloughmore Senior Hurling Team Management 2020 L-R: , Cyril Donnellan, Joe Hession, Peter Fahy and Barry Cullinane

Additional panel members: 31. Sean Lyons, 32. Aaron Shaughnessy, 33. Tom Quirke

Best wishes to Turloughmore senior hurling team & management in the county final. from The Home of Hurling, Murray’s Bar, Turloughmore

10 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 11 Brooks Senior Hurling Final 2020 Senior sponsors Turloughmore

Mark Fahy

Mikey Morris Ronan Burke Daniel Loftus

Fergal Moore Jamie Holland Kevin Hussey

Daithi Burke Sean Loftus 13

Sean Linnane Conor Walsh Barry McDonagh

Barry Callanan Ronan Badger Gary Burke

Fior Ionaid: 16. Paul Dullaghan, 17. Mark Murphy, 18. Karl Connelly, 19. Matthew Keating, 20. Brian Murphy, 21. Richard Doyle, 22. Diarmuid Mullen, 23. Brion Connolly, 24. Conor Shaughnessy, 25. Vincent Doyle, 26. Damien Holland, 27. James Collins, 28. Oisin Fahy, 29. Brian Callanan, 30. James Burke.

Management: Joe Hession, Francis Forde, Cyril Donnellan, Barry Cullinan and Peter Fahy Backroom: Brendan Keane, Denis Forde and Darragh Walsh. Medics: Dr. Brendan Day and Kevin D’Arcy. Covid Official: Mary Forde. Club Officers: Chairperson: Tom Shiel, Secretary Collette Walsh, Treasurer: Emily Keating. Cúil Cúiliní Seachaí 65m Saor Pocanna 1st Half

2nd Half

Total

12 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 Brooks Senior sponsors Senior Hurling Final 2020

CÁIRDE NAOMH THOMÁIS St. Thomas’

Gerald Kelly

Cian Mahony Fintan Burke David Sherry

Cathal Burke Sean Skehill

David Burke

Darragh Burke Conor Cooney Evan Duggan

Oisin Flannery Bernard Burke Eanna Burke

Fior Ionaid: 16. Conor Haverty, 17. Donal Cooney, 18. John Headd, 19. Brendan Farrell, 20. Kenneth Burke, 21. Dara Cormican, 22. Damien McGlynn, 23. Damien Finnerty, 24. Cian Kelly, 25. Joe Caulfield, 26. Colin Fallon, 27. Anthony Kelly, 28. Jason Niland, 29. Kenneth Murray, 30. Victor Manso.

Manager: Kevin Lally. Selectors: Claude Geoghegan, T.J. Ryan, Kenneth Larkin.

Cúil Cúiliní Seachaí 65m Saor Pocanna 1st Half

2nd Half

Total

12 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 13 14 St. Thomas’ Senior Hurling Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020

Standing: Victor Manso, Conor Fahy, Michael Fallon, Conor Haverty, Gerald Kelly, Dara Cormican, John Headd, Cian Mahony, Donal Cooney, Oisin Flannery, Brendan Farrell, Eanna Burke, Shane Cooney, David Sherry, Cathal Burke, Cian Kelly, James Regan, Fintan Burke, Glen Linnane, Anthony Kelly, Damien Cunningham, Jason Niland. Sitting: Kenneth Murray, Sean Fallon, Kenneth Burke, Colin Fallon, Damien McGlynn, Damien Finnerty, Darragh Burke, Conor Cooney, Bernard Burke, Evan Duggan, Sean Skehill, Joe Caulfield, David Burke, Gary Connolly. Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 15 St. Thomas’ Senior Hurling

Paths to Final Rd 1, Won v Castlegar 2-23 to 3-18 Rd 2, Won v Sarsfields 0-22 to 1-18 Rd 3, Won v Portumna 4-38 to 0-15 Quarter-Final, Won v Killimordaly 1-23 to 2-16 Semi-Final, Won v Capptaggle 0-17 to 1-15 Captain: Conor Cooney Conor Cooney will today captain the St Thomas’ team for the third year in a row having led the Peterswell/Kilchreest outfit in the last two championship successes. The 2017 All Star is much decorated having won 1 All Ireland Snr, 1 All Ireland U21, Leinster Snr, 1 All Ireland Club, 3 County Snr, U21 Club and Minor Club together with numerous under age titles. The primary school teacher currently leads the scoring chart for this years championship.

St. Thomas’ Senior Hurling Team Management 2020 L-R: T.J. Ryan, Kenneth Larkin, Kevin Lally, Claude Geoghegan, Cathal Daly, Maureen Duggan, Club Secretary Additional panel members: 31. Sean Fallon, 32. Gary Moylan, 33. Adrian Sherry, 34. Conor Fahy, 35. Glen Linnane, 36. Gary Connolly, 37. Michael Fallon, 38. James Barrett, 39. Damien Cunningham.

Sportsman of South Galway for 2019 in 1984 for his success with the Galway Joe Larkin Kilchreest was selected minors. Joe has played a significant role Sportsman of South Galway for 2019. over the past five decades in the activities He is the third person from the club of the GAA. He played for the local teams, to be selected for the award which is acted as an officer, was selector on many accompanied by the magnificent Josie teams and assisted the promotion of Gallagher Cup. Josie Gallagher was also hurling among the youth and officiated involved with Thomas’ in the late 1970’s as a referee. Joe is a serious contributor when he was trainer to the senior team. to the local club lotto and is a well- Sean Fahy a founder member of the club recognized for pulling the lotto book was recognised in 1973 and John Fahey out of his pocket at the drop of a hat.

14 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 15 St. Thomas’ GAA A Brief History Founded in 1968

on the 1st November 1884. Kilchreest won the South Board Junior Championship in 1928 and again in 1951 when they reached the county final, only to fail to after a replay. The club won the South again in 1955 but suffered a semi-final defeat at the hands of . The final championship victory was in the 1960 South Junior Final with a win over Kinvara but they lost the county semi-final to Abbeyknockmoy in a best forgotten game in Craughwell. 50th Anniversary St Thomas Peterswell Mikey Coleman, Andy Lynskey, Sean Fahy, Bernie Forde, Brendan O’Donnell Peterswell, in the early 1900s, was regarded as the top team in senior club hurling in the county. During that glorious period, the club won 7 Senior It is recorded in the minutes of the South Board Championships and 2 Junior Championships. So held in February 1966 by Mick Silver that ‘while strong was hurling in the parish that in 1902, the Kilchreest were a strong force for the past 15 years, Peterswell No. 2 team, as they were known, reached they can no longer field a team and will join with the County Final, only to be defeated by Ardrahan. Peterswell in Junior.’ Many members of those successful teams wore the Peterswell also had its own troubles. Due to Galway jersey with distinction. From this time until emigration after the war years the number of hurlers the last senior team of 1935, the men of Peterswell 17 in the parish dwindled, and this is evident in the could hold their own with any team in the county. lack of success of the parish team. Both parishes They lost the 1928 county final to Duniry. Due were associated with hurling since the foundation to emigration after the war years, the number of of the GAA. hurlers in the parish dwindled and this is evident Local patrons of the GAA within the parishes in the lack of success of the parish team. The club recognized the warning signs, that GAA within won the South Junior Championship in 1954 but their environs was evolving and that to stay relevant the next fourteen years were lean ones with no required a big step forward in trust and respect team success coming its way. for each other. A few forward-thinking men took Who would expect a GAA connection between that giant step forward and extended the hand of south Galway Thomas’ situated in the shadow of friendship to each other to form St. Thomas’ GAA the Slieve Aughty mountains and the north Galway club. This prompted an amalgamation to form St. Turloughmore club, but Patricia Burke Cartymore, Thomas’s in 1968. roots extend back to Peterswell where Kilchreest her grandfather Tom Burke married Mary Martyn. Tom was part of the Peterswell On the 15th August 1884, Michael slashers that won seven county titles Glennon of Kilchreest, was among a between 1889 – 1907. His brother Pat was deputation of seven men, led by Michael captain of the team on many occasion and Cusack, who met in Loughrea with a Tom himself captained Connacht (Galway) view to forming the GAA. Unfortunately, in the 1907 Railway shield against Tipperary this was not to be as the ageing Bishop and again against in 1908 in the of Clonfert, Dr. Duggan, declined the 1904 Connacht Croke Cup offer to become patron of the fledgling Championship St. Thomas’ association. Instead he recommended Medal Patrick Dr.Croke of Cashel. As a result, the actual Burke Peterswell The club was formed at a meeting held in founding of the GAA moved to (Captain) Peterswell in early 1968. Officers elected

16 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 17 St. Thomas’ U12 B County Champions St Thomas’ 3-6 2-3. Back Row L to R: Niall Smyth, Ian Kelly, Paul Caulfield, Cathal Burke, Conor Cooney, James Ragan, Michael Gleese, Donal Cooney, Darragh Burke, Tony Keeley, Front Row L to R: Paul Brady, Cian Kelly, Brian Gardiner, James Kelly, Justin Cunningham, Patrick Skehill, David Burke, Anthony Kelly, Gabriel Egan, Bernard Burke, Owen Burke, Sean Skehill.

for the first year were: Chairman, Fr. Matt O’Connor; Mary McAleese, in May 2006, and also the purchase Vice-Chairman, Sean Fahy; Secretary, Andy Lynskey; of additional land to provide a much needed second Ass. Secretary, Bernie Forde; Treasurer, Paddy Burke . playing field. The first year in competitive hurling was a successful Since 2002 a group of young, talented, dedicated one. The under 14 team brought the club its first hurlers have emerged with championships secured success by winning the county title. The under in both Minor and U21 in later years. These players 16 county title was won in 1970 and the South now form the backbone of the Senior Championship Board minor title was won in 1972. The club then had a group of young committed players and the team who have won four Senior Championship amalgamation was running smoothly and proving titles in the last decade in 2012, 2016, 2018 and to be a success. 2019 and an All-Ireland Club Championship in The junior team won the South Board Championship 2013. The success of the club is testament to the in 1972 but lost to Meelick/ in the County hundreds of officers, players, volunteers, members Semi-Final. However, in 1974 Thomas’ progressed and supporters since the foundation of the club. Can further by winning the County Junior Title after a you spot the current senior players before looking classic confrontation with Castlegar in Ballinderreen. at the names? was trainer and coach to that team. The GAA association fosters in a big way the In 1978 another milestone was reached when the profound sense of place for most people and their club was promoted to senior ranks after reaching attachment to their native parish. It established a the county intermediate final. Having achieved sense of identity, loyalty to the jersey and memories Senior status, the St Thomas’ club decided that a that last a lifetime. This was never as evident as clubhouse and playing pitch were required. Land in 2020 with the country affected by the Corona was bought in 1977 and the clubhouse building Virus pandemic the GAA proved their worth in project was undertaken voluntarily. The hall opened on the 20th of January 1978. the community, through supporting people in challenging times and connecting with people Work commenced on the pitch development in safely. The year 2020 will not be easily forgotten. August 1979 and the grounds were officially opened by the President of the GAA Mr , on With lockdowns and limited access to games, live Sunday 5th June 1983. The past decade has seen streaming keep the GAA fraternity somewhat sane further development in the provision of facilities unless you were one of the brigade that scaled the with the new hall and additional dressing rooms walls around Kenny Park to catch a glimpse of your being officially opened by Uachtarán na hÉireann club’s heros. Stay safe one and all.

16 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 17 Galway Hurlers Reach for the All-Stars By Sean Walsh

The game of Hurling has always produced Hurling team. The Cannings are not the only set good hurlers, and that began to be recognised of Galway hurling brothers to have won All-Stars, at National level with the establishment to the though the do lead the way with an exceptional All Star scheme in 1971. Castlegar man John total of 9 Awards between the two star men from Connolly won Galway’s first ever All Star Award Portumna. in that inaugural year. Today as St Thomas take The Cooneys of Sarsfields come next with 7 on Turloughmore in the 2020 County Final, awards – 5 for the legendary Joe and two for we will see four All Stars in action – namely St Jimmy, while Castlegar’s and 1980 Thomas duo David Burke and Conor Cooney, Captain have a total of 3 awards with Fergal Moore and Daithi Burke in action for between them. Ahascragh Fohenagh’s Padraig Turloughmore. Mannion (2017 & 2018) and his brother Cathal Ollie and became the first set of (2015) joined the brotherly grouping in later Galway brothers to receive All-Stars in the same years, with 3 Awards won between them also. year when they were named on the 2009 All-Star Galway Hurling All-Stars 1971 - 2019

No. Name Club Year Pos YEAR Pos YEAR Pos YEAR Pos YEAR Pos 5 Peter Finnerty Mullagh 1985 5 1986 5 1987 5 1988 5 1990 5 5 Joe Cooney Sarsfields 1985 12 1986 12 1987 11 1989 11 1990 11 5 Joe Canning Portumna 2008 15 2009 14 2012 14 2017 11 2018 11 19 4 Mullagh 1975 7 1978 9 1979 7 1980 7 4 Portumna 2001 4 2003 4 2005 4 2009 2 4 David Burke St Thomas 2012 15 2015 9 2016 9 2017 9 4 Daithi Burke Turloughmore 2015 5 2016 4 2017 3 2018 3 3 Sylvie Linnane Gort 1985 4 1986 4 1988 2 3 Kiltormer 1986 3 1987 3 1988 3 3 Abbeyknockmoy 1989 9 1990 8 1995 9 3 Portumna 2005 15 2010 10 2012 12 2 John Connolly Castlegar 1971 9 1979 8 2 Niall McInerney RIP Liam Mellows 1975 2 1980 2 2 Sean Silke Meelick-Eyrecourt 1975 6 1980 6 2 Frank Burke Turloughmore 1976 8 1979 11 2 Jimmy Cooney Sarsfields 1980 4 1981 4 2 Kilbeacanty 1981 8 1987 8 2 Noel Lane Ballinderreen 1983 12 1984 14 2 Tony Keady RIP Killimordaly 1986 6 1988 6 2 Michael McGrath Sarsfields 1987 10 1988 13 2 John Cummins Gort 1988 1 1989 1 2 Sean Treacy Portumna 1989 7 1991 4 2 Joe Rabbitte Athenry 1993 14 2000 11 2 Kevin Broderick Abbey-Duniry 1997 13 2001 12

18 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 19 Interestingly the number 4 corner back position is Indeed Iggy Clarke won one of his Awards in the position that Galway have won most awards 1980, despite missing the final due to injury. in. Ollie Canning (3), Sylvie Linnane (2), Jimmy Peter Finnerty won all his Awards at no. 5, while Cooney (2), Kiltormer’s Ollie , Sean Joe Cooney won three of his at centre forward. Treacy, Fergal Moore and Daithi Burke have all Conor Hayes won all of his 3 All-Stars at full back, won awards at no. 4, thus giving Galway a total while Michael Coleman won three at midfield, of 11 awards in that position. two of them in the no. 9 position. The much lauded achievement of being honoured Going back to today’s game, the two clubs with an All-Star in every position on the field was have won a total of 13 Awards between them. completed for Galway when Damien Hayes was Turloughmore have 8 – Daithi Burke (4), Frank named at left corner forward in 2005. Galway’s full Burke (2), (1) and Fergal Moore list of All-Stars shows Peter Finnerty, Joe Cooney (1), while St Thomas have won 5, with David Burke and Joe Canning leading the way with 5 awards (4) and Conor Cooney (1) bringing the honours each, while Iggy Clarke, Ollie Canning have 4 each to the club who are seeking the 3 in a row this as do, fittingly enough, two of today’s opponents afternoon. namely David and Daithi Burke. Galway’s full list of 95 All-Stars is as follows: Galway Hurling All-Stars 1971 - 2019

No. Name Club Year Pos YEAR Pos YEAR Pos YEAR Pos YEAR Pos 2 Padraig Mannion Ahascragh-Fohenagh 2017 2 2018 5 1 Joe McDonagh RIP Ballinderreen 1976 5 1 PJ Molloy Athenry 1977 12 1 Joe Connolly Castlegar 1980 10 1 Bernie Forde Ardrahan 1980 13 1 Seamus Coen Mullagh 1985 2 1 Brendan Lynskey Meelick-Eyrecourt 1985 11 1 Ollie Kilkenny Kiltormer 1987 4 1 Martin Naughton Turloughmore 1988 12 1 Eanna Ryan Killimordaly 1989 10 1 Padraig Kelly Sarsfields 1993 7 1 Oranmore/Maree 1993 8 1 Tom Helebert Ballindereen 1996 2 1 Liam Hodgins Abbey-Duniry 2001 6 1 Eugene Cloonan Athenry 2001 14 1 Derek Hardiman Mullagh 2005 5 1 Ger Farragher Castlegar 2005 13 1 Fergal Moore Turloughmore 2012 4 1 Liam Mellows 2012 7 1 Iarla Tannian Ardrahan 2012 8 1 Colm Callanan Kinvara 2015 1 1 Cathal Mannion Ahascragh-Fohenagh 2015 10 1 Gearoid McInerney Oranmore/Maree 2017 6 1 Kinvara 2017 13 1 Conor Cooney St Thomas 2017 14

18 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 19 Cairde Naomh Thomais CÁIRDE Wishing St Thomas’ Players & NAOMH Management THOMÁIS All the best in today’s Final

Colm Farrell Auctioneers Colin Burke Electrical Ltd Mike Kelly Engineering Ltd Yeat’s Lodge John Niland Construction Flannery Meats D K C Carpentary & Construction Willie Glouster Plant Hire Bright Beginnings Pre-School Coshla Quarries Mathieu & Mitchell Building Contractor Christy Slattery Plant Hire Shane Flynn Paddy Fahy Aidan Murray John Neylon Patrick Fitzgerald

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20 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 21 Top Scorers

Senior A and B championship top scorers Senior A top scorers from play Eanna Burke St Thomas 2.19 (25) Conor Cooney St Thomas 2.49 (55) Conor Cooney St Thomas 2.14 (20) Tadhg Haran Liam Mellows 3.42 (51) Ja Mannion Cappataggle 1.14 (17) Brian Burke Killimordaly 3.40 (49) Oisin Flannery St Thomas 2.10 (16) Aidan Helebert Gort 0.49 (49) Barry Callanan Turloughmore 2.08 (14) Craughwell 1.38 (41) Sean Linnane Turloughmore 0.14 (14) Alan Dolan Cappataggle 0.40 (40) Oisin Connolly Castlegar 2.07 (13) Mark Kelly Ahascragh/Fohenagh 0.36 (36) Anthony Burns Loughrea 2.07 (13) Conor Walsh Turloughmore 1.32 (35) Alan Dolan Cappataggle 0.11 (11) Kevin Cooney Sarsfields 4.22 (34) Niall Collins Cappataggle 2.05 (11) Joe Canning Portumna 1.31 (34) Senior B top scorers from play Kilnadeema/Leitrim 2.27 (33) Brian Burke Killimordaly 3.13 (19) Cian Burke Athenry 1.30 (33) Padraic Mannion Ahascragh/Fohenagh 2.13 (19) Evan Niland Clarinbridge 0.31 (31) Jamie Ryan Craughwell 3.07 (16) Oranmore/Maree 1.26 (29) Cianan Fahy Ardrahan 3.05 (14) Cathal Dervan Mullagh 0.27 (27) Brian Concannon Killimordaly 1.10 (13) Eanna Burke St Thomas 2.19 (25) Mark Kelly Ahascragh/Fohenagh 0.11 (11) Tommy Larkins 0.25 (25) Dean Earls Killimordaly 1.08 (11) Conor Whelan Kinvara 2.18 (24) Cathal Mannion Ahascragh/Fohenagh 1.07 (10) Shane Moloney Tynagh Abbey Duniry 1.21 (24) Roy Lane Ballindeereen 2.04 (10) Ger Farragher Castlegar 0.24 (24) Niall Healy Craughwell 1.07 (10)

Conor Cooney - Top Scorer

20 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 21 KEVIN BURKE TYRES

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MAIN ST. - 090 964 3151 • DUBLIN RD. - 090 9642178 SARSFIELD RD. - 090 9643814 BALLINASLOE Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 23 County Senior Hurling Championship Winning Captains 2019 Conor Cooney (St.Thomas’) 1977 Andy Fenton (Kiltormer) 1934 Jack Deely (Gort) 2018 Conor Cooney (St.Thomas’) 1976 Andy Fenton (Kiltormer) 1933 Martin Walsh (Maree) 2017 D. Collins / A. Callanan (Liam Mellows) 1975 Michael Cunningham (Ardrahan) 1932 Tom Morgan (Mullagh) 2016 Patrick Skehill (St.Thomas’s) 1974 Michael Cunningham (Ardrahan) 1930 (Craughwell) 2015 (Sarsfields) 1973 Ted Murphy (Castlegar) 1929 Pakie Fahy (Mullagh) 2014 Greg Lally (Gort) 1972 John Connolly (Castlegar) 1928 (Tynagh) 2013 Ollie Canning (Portumna) 1971 Tony Breheny (Tommie Larkins) 1925 (Tynagh) 2012 Robert Murray (St.Thomas’s 1970 Mick Lally (Liam Mellows) 1923 (Tynagh) 2011 Andy Coen (Gort) 1969 Stephen Francis (Castlegar) 1922 (Tynagh) 2010 Paul Callanan (Clarinbridge) 1968 Gerry Mahony (Liam Mellows) 1920 (Tynagh) 2009 (Portumna) 1967 Patsy Kelly (Castlegar) 1919 (Kilconieron) 2008 Ollie Canning (Portumna) 1966 Frank Coffey (Turloughmore) 1918 (Craughwell) 2007 Ollie Canning (Portumna) 1965 Paddy Fahy (Turloughmore) 1917 Charlie Stanley (Woodford) 2006 Damien McClearn (Loughrea) 1964 Mickey Cullinane (Turloughmore) 1916 John Hayes (Gort) 2005 Eugene McEntee (Portumna) 1963 Michael Cullinane (Turloughmore) 1915 (Craughwell) 2004 Eugene Cloonan (Athenry) 1962 Jackie Gill (Turloughmore) 1914 John Hayes (Gort) 2003 Ollie Canning (Portumna) 1961 Jimmy Egan (Turloughmore) 1913 Charlie Stanley (Woodford) 2002 Brendan Keogh (Athenry) 1960 Tony O’Gorman (Fohenagh) 1912 Owen Comer (Kilconieron) 2001 Micheal Donoghue (Clarinbridge) 1959 Martin Glynn (Fohenagh) 1911 Patrick Keane (Derrydonnell) 2000 Joe Rabbitte (Athenry) 1958 Mick Connell (Castlegar) 1910 John Mitchell (Ardrahan) 1999 Joe Rabbitte (Athenry) 1957 John Molloy (Castlegar) 1909 (Craughwell) 1998 Joe Rabbitte (Athenry) 1956 Pakie Burke (Turloughmore) 1908 Ned Keane (Kilconieron) 1997 Padraig Kelly (Sarsfields) 1955 Jimmy Duggan (Liam Mellows) 1907 Pat Burke (Peterswell) 1996 Brian Feeney (Athenry) 1954 Sean Duggan (Liam Mellows) 1906 Amby Briscoe (Mullagh) 1995 Michael Kenny (Sarsfields) 1953 Stephen Connor (Castlegar) 1905 Pat Burke (Peterswell) 1994 Pat Higgins (Athenry) 1952 Stephen Connor (Castlegar) 1904 Pat Burke (Peterswell) 1993 Pakie Cooney (Sarsfields) 1951 M.J. “Inky” Flaherty (Ballinasloe) 1903 Pat Mitchell (Ardrahan) UPGRADE YOUR MEAL 1992 Pakie Cooney (Sarsfields) 1950 Stephen Connor (Castlegar) 1902 (Ardrahan) LET’S GET WITH DRESSED FRIES 1991 Aidan Staunton (Kiltormer) 1949 Tommy Cunningham (Ardrahan) 1901 (Ardrahan) 1990 Aidan Staunton (Kiltormer) 1948 Vin Basten (Army) 1900 Pat Burke (Peterswell) CHOOSE FROM : TACO • CURRY & CHEESE 1989 Michael McGrath (Sarsfields) 1947 Jim Brophy (Army) 1899 Pat Burke (Peterswell) tasty & tempting GARLIC & CHEESE • CURRY • GARLIC SAUCY! 1988 Noel Flaherty (Abbeyknockmoy) 1946 (Liam Mellows) 1898 Pat Burke (Peterswell) 1987 Mattie Gannon (Athenry) 1945 Sean Duggan (Liam Mellows) 1897 Paddy Coughlan (Killimor) 1986 Michael Earls (Killimordaly) 1944 Mike Murphy (Castlegar) 1896 Pat Mitchell (Ardrahan) 1985 Frank Burke (Turloughmore) 1943 (Liam Mellows) 1895 (Ardrahan) 1984 Michael Connolly (Castlegar) 1941 Joe Keller (Loughrea) 1894 (Ardrahan) 1983 Josie Harte (Gort) 1940 Matt Hackett (Castlegar) 1893 John Walsh(College Road) 1982 Sean Cormican (Kiltormer) 1939 Matt Hackett (Castlegar) 1892 John Walsh(College Road) 1981 Sylvie Linnane (Gort) 1938 Matt Hackett (Castlegar) 1889 (Peterswell) 1980 Sean Kelly (Sarsfields) 1937 Matt Hackett (Castlegar) 1887 Pat Madden (Meelick) 1979 Michael Connolly (Castlegar) 1936 Matt Hackett (Castlegar) 1978 Martin Kerins (Ardrahan) 1935 (Liam Mellows) • Finals were not played in the following years: 1888,1890, 1891, 1921, 1924, 1926, 1927, 1931, 1942. • I have been unable to find out the captains of some county championship winning teams as records appear to be in MAIN ST. - 090 964 3151 • DUBLIN RD. - 090 9642178 short supply. Please contact [email protected] if you have details of the captains that are missing from this list. SARSFIELD RD. - 090 9643814 BALLINASLOE Galway Senior Hurling Finals 2020 23 TIMBER BUILDING MATERIALS

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