Comhairle Laighean C.L.G. Tionolfar

Comhdháil Cinn Bliana 2003 - 2004

In Jury’s Hotel, Ballsbridge Ar an hAoine, 27ú Feabhra 2004 6.15 pm - Leinster Minor Champions 2003 - Leinster Minor Hurling Kilkenny Back L-R: S.Prendergast, N Delahunty, R Maher, P Doheny, D Prendergast, P Hartley, D Cody, Tennyson,J M Fennelly, J Dalton,Wall, R B Beckett, D McCormack. L-R:Front D Fogarty, A Murphy, P O'Donovan, M Nolan, E Guinan, R Power, S Cadogan, C Grant, E McGrath, A Healy, J Fitzpatrick, E O'Donoghue.

2 Clár

6.15pm Registration 6.30pm High Tea 7.30pm (1) Convention Opens (2) Address by Cathaoirleach Coisde Co. Áth Cliath C.L.G. 7.45pm (1) Minutes of 2003 Convention (2) Discussion of Report of Chief Executive (3) Discussion of Sub-Committee Reports 8.10pm Ballot (Cisteoir) 8.15pm Review of Accounts of Comhairle Laighean C.L.G. 8.30pm Ballot (P.R.O.) 8.40pm Address by An Cathaoirleach 9.00pm Election of Officers 9.15pm Guest Speakers 9.30pm Na Rúin 9.40pm Tea/Coffee – Convention Closes

Each is entitled to the following Delegate representation at Convention, in addition to its two representatives on the Provincial Council:

Ceatharloch 5 Cill Mhantain 6 Iarmhi 5 An Mhí 6 An Lú 5 Longphort 5 Cill Dara 6 Uibh Fháilí 6 Cill Chainnigh 5 Laois 6 Áth Cliath 6 Loch Garman 6

A brief meeting of the incoming Leinster Council will be held immediately after Convention, at which only urgent business to hand will be considered.

NOTE 1. Slip on Admission Card to be handed to Hotel Management for High Tea (6.30pm) 2. Full Leinster Convention documentation has already been forwarded directly to each member of the outgoing Leinster Council.

Michéal Ó Dubhshlaine (Rúnaí) Áras Laighean, , Co. Laois.

3 Ainmniúcháin

CATHAOIRLEACH Nioclas Ó Braonáin (Cill Chainnigh)

LEAS-CATHAOIRLEACH Liam Ó Neill (Laois)

CISTEOIR Séamus Aldridge (Cill Dara) Seán Ó Broin (Ceatharloch)

OIFIGEACH CAIDREAMH POIBLÍ Séamus Aldridge (Cill Dara) Pádraig Ó Chapman (Longphort) Brendán Ó Coimin (An Mhí) Pádraig Ó Dúill (Loch Garman) Tomás Ó Lochlainn (Laois) Pádraig Ó Tómhnair (An Lú) Na Rúin

A. That the grant be increased to clubs representing their county in the A.I.B. Club Championships (Uibh Fháilí) B. That the following Rules relating to suspensions be rescinded and replaced by the Rules governing suspensions which are in operation prior to their introduction:- Rule 138 (6) T.O. 2003 - Rule governing period December / January to be deleted. Rule 138 (7) T.O. 2003 - Commencement of term – the words ‘ except as provided in 6 above’ to be deleted. Any other Rules effected by this be amended or deleted accordingly. (An Mhí) C. That the following Rules relating to suspensions be rescinded and replaced by the Rules governing suspensions which are in operation prior to their introduction:- Rule 137 T.O. 2003 - Paragraph relating to ‘level of competition’ to be deleted and paragraph relating to ‘penalty shall include next game’ be deleted. Rule 138 (2) T.O. 2003 - Starting at paragraph ‘a player ordered off the field for a Category (c) offence’ and paragraph ‘The penalty shall include next game in the competition in which the suspension was incurred, even if the next game falls outside the suspension period’ to be deleted. Any other rules effected by this be amended or deleted accordingly (An Mhí)

4 Miontuairiscí Chruinniu Den Chomhdháil Bhliantúil 24 02 2003

N. Uas. Ó Braonáin (Cathaoirleach) presided at T. de Spáinne (Gairmscoileanna); the Annual Convention of Leinster Council G.A.A. B. Ó Leaindí, S. Ó Loinsigh (Lú); held in Seven Oaks Hotel , on Monday P. Ó Ceallaigh, T. Ó Coileáin (An Mhí); 24ú Feabhra 2003. S. Mac Coisdealbha, S. de Róiste (Áth Cliath); S. Ó Duinn, S. Ó Tiomoin (Cill Mhantáin); Also present were: P.P. Ó Dúill, P. Uaiceam (Loch Garman); L. Ó Neill (Leas-Cathaoirleach); S. Mac Carthaigh, S.S. Breathnach (Cill Dara); P. Ó Flannagáin (Cisteoir); L.V. Ó Conbhuí (Ceatharloch); S. Ó hUílin (P.R.O.); S. Ó hÉile, T. Ó Murchú (Cill Chainnigh); S. Aldridge (Iar-Cathaoirleach); T. Ó Lochlainn, A. Breathnach (Laois); P. Ó Cinnseallaigh (Cumann na mBunscol); A. Ó Gallchóir, S. Ó hÓgain (Uibh Fháilí); T. Ó Briain (Liathróid Láimhe); T. Ó Feargháil, A. Mac Roibin (Iarmhí); C. Ó Rónáin (Coláistí); S. Mac an tSionnaigh, S. Ó Floinn (Longphort) T. Ó Dómhnaill (Ard Oideachais); and M. Ó Dubhshláine (Rúnaí).

The following delegates represented the counties: UIBH FHAILI CEATHARLOCH T. O Broin, C. O Tuathaill, B. Mac A Bhaird, E. O Broin, T. O Neill, G. O Lionnain, S. Inglis, M.N. O Broin, A. O Caiside, O. O Dalaigh. O. O Saoluidhe IARMHI ATH CLIATH A. O Muiri, S. O Faolain, A. de Pic, M. Mac Aoidh, S. O Baille, T. O Se, N. O Murchu, S. O Briain. L. Mac an Bheatha, D. O hIceadha LOCH GARMAN CILL DARA S. O Cuirc, M. O Cinnseallaigh, S. Mac Fhearghusa, A. O Suilleabhain, R. O Faolain, B. O Cionnaigh, M. Ni Dhuill, L. Mac Fhearghaile, D. O hUilin. S. O Mearain, C. Ui Neill, M. O Fionnain CILL MHANTAIN CILL CHAINNIGH D. Mac Ghiolla Choda, F. de Paor, M. O hAgain, E. O Cuinn, P. O Donnchu, P. Mac Aindreis, L. O Lochlainn, L. O Cuilinn, S. Napier. S. Breathnach, B. O hIci. Also in attendance at Convention were: LAOIS R. O Muilleoir, B. O hAilin, A. O Dubhshlaine, IAR-CATHAOIRLIGH CO. LAIGHEAN CLG S. O Rannachain, M. O Leathlobhair, P. O hAllai. P. O Bogaigh, S. de Grae, A. O Falluin, S. O Beara.

LONGPHORT SUB-COMMITTEE OFFICERS M. O Sceallaigh, S. Mac Tiarnain, M. Mac A’ Bhaird, S. O hUaine, S. O Seacnasai, P. Chapman. M. Mac Concarraige, T.S. Mac A’ Bhaird. (An apology for inability to attend had been received form P. de Freine Provincial Referees Administrator) LU P. Mac Mathuna, P. O Tomhnair, S. O Broin, DIRECTORS OF COACHING P. O hAmaltuin, B. O Braonain. L. O Riain, G. O Conchuir

AN MHI ARAS LAIGHEAN STAFF F. Mac Ghinneartai, B. O hAilin, C. Mac Fhionnain, M. Mac Raghnaill, S. Ni Chuinn, H. Ni hOrain, P. O Neill, B. O Diomsaigh, T.S. O Raghallaigh. P. Ni Chleir, S. Mac Coitir.

5 FÁILTIÚ TUAIRISC AN RUNAI 2002 Convention opened with all delegates being Adopted and opened for discussion on welcomed to Carlow by Runai an Choisde proposition of S. Napier (Cill Mhantain) Chonndae, Tomas O Neill. At the outset he seconded by S. O Baille (Ath Cliath). invited Mr. Michael Abbey M.C.C., Chairman of At the outset, an Cathaoirleach said that a Carlow Town Council to address the gathering. number of matters raised by an Runai in his report would be considered at a future meeting of Comhairle Laighean C.L.G. MR. MICHAEL ABBEY M.C.C. Mr. Abbey formally welcomed the Leinster The report was then debated at length under its Council to Carlow. He praised the G.A.A. for its various headings. contribution to all strands of society, especially its role in uniting local communities. Citing Carlow’s club successes in the A.I.B. Leinster Club SUB-COMMITTEE REPORTS Championship, he spoke of his town council’s The reports of the following Sub-Committees efforts to provide extra playing facilities for the were then adopted and debated: clubs in Carlow town. In conclusion he wished Comhairle Laighean C.L.G. well in the future. • Coaching and Games Development Committee

EAMONN Ó BROIN • Leinster Referees Committee Convention was then addressed by Eamonn Ó Broin, Cathaoirleach Coisde Co. Ceatharloch • Leinster P.R., Marketing and I.T. Committee C.L.G. His Coisde, he said, was proud to host the Leinster Convention. He thanked Comhairle • Leinster Club Organisation and Laighean for its contribution to the ongoing Development Committee development at Dr. Cullen Park and also for its contributions towards the development of • Leinster Club Fixtures Committee games and preparation of county teams. • Leinster Development (Health and Safety) Referring to the escalating costs of preparing Committee county teams, An tUas. O Broin warned that there was a grave danger that some county • Leinster Development (Grounds and Facilities) committees would soon not be in a position to Committee meet the expectations in this area. This was a matter, he said, which required urgent and • Leinster Comhairle and I.T. Committee immediate examination by the Association. • Coisde Scor Laighean

OSCAILT At this stage Nioclas Ó Braonáin formally ANNUAL ACCOUNTS opened Convention 2003. COMHAIRLE LAIGHEAN 2002 Adopted and opened for discussion on proposition of A. Mac Roibin (Iarmhi) seconded MIONTUAIRISCÍ by S. O Baille (Ath Cliath). CHOMHDHAIL 2002

Adopted and signed by an Cathaoirleach on PRESENTATIONS proposition of B. O hAilin (Laois) seconded by P. An Cathaoirleach presented a special medal of O Tomhnair (Lu). office to each of the Iar-Chathaoirligh in attendance.

6 To mark his retirement as a member of Roibin (Iarmhi) who had also contested the post. Comhairle Laighean C.L.G., an Cathaoirleach An tUas. O hUilin spoke of the need to make the made a special presentation to Seamus Aldridge. public more aware of the expenses being incurred in the preparation of county teams and said the onus for this area was on Croke Park and BALLOT FOR POSITION OF provincial councils. OIFIGEACH CAIDREAMH POIBLÍ (P.R.O.) RÚN With the withdrawal of P. O Tomhnair (Lu) this The following motion was proposed by Padraig left a contest which resulted as follows: O Neill on behalf of Coisde Co.na Mi C.L.G. Seamus O hUilin (Loch Garman) 57 ‘That 5% of all revenue generated from ticket sales for Inter County games by a club be Antoin Mac Roibin (Iarmhi) 39 reimbursed to that club.’ (An Mhi)

ELECTION OF OFFICERS DECISION Referred to Comhairle Laighean C.L.G. for A Nioclas O Braonain (Cill Chainnigh) examination. was formally deemed re-elected as Cathaoirleach for the coming year. He addressed Convention as per attached schedule. CONCLUSION An Cathaoirleach thanked Coisde Co. B Liam O Neill (Laois) Ceatharloch C.L.G., the Hotel Staff and the was declared elected as Leas-Cathaoirleach. In Leinster P.R. Committee for the arrangements of returning thanks, An tUas. O Neill thanked both Convention. Coisde Co. Laoise C.L.G. and Comhairle Laighean C.L.G. for their patience and understanding in allowing him to serve his dual role in 2002 i.e. as THE CONVENTION ENDED Runai, Coisde Co. Laoise and Leas-Cathaoirleach Chomhairle Laighean.

He went on to deal with his own specialist area on Comhairle Laighean C.L.G. i.e. the Comhairle and I.T. Committee and outlined the various courses which would be available to counties / clubs / officers during the year.

C Padraig O Flannagain (Iarmhi) was declared elected as Cisteoir for the coming year. As he returned thanks, An tUas. O Flannagain indicated that this would be his last year in this particular post.

Despite his title, he said, his input was more into P.R. / Marketing than into finance. He addressed the issues of match programmes / roles of County P.R.O.’s and county / provincial websites.

D On being declared elected as P.R.O., Seamus O hUilin (Loch Garman) paid tribute to A. Mac

7 Oráid an Chathaoirligh Comhairle Laighean

not happy playing a club final so close to Christmas and the problem will be compounded all the more this year with the Compromise Rules tour of Australia in the Autumn. This will call for a much tighter schedule of games in the 2003 Leinster Club Championship.

HURLING A cháirde fearaim fáilte romhaibh go léir chuig 2002 saw a very competitive Leinster Senior Comhdháil Cinn Bliana fiche chead a dó is a trí. Hurling Championship. This was badly needed Caithfidh gach duine a adhmháil go raibh bliain and a repeat is essential in 2003. All bar two of shásúil againn anuraidh. Comhgháirdeas do our counties are competing in the Leinster bhuaiteoirí na gcraobh e agsúla. Gabhaim Senior Hurling Championship but right now buíochas do na hiofigí contae as ucht a ndiogras there is no prospect whatsoever of a number of ar son an chumainn. Buíochas freisin do gach them getting to the closing stages. The gap in einne a chabhraigh linn ar slí ar bith. Beimid ag standards is enormous. There is a better way and braith oraibh arís sa tochaí. that is through an alternative competition, which of course must receive genuine and The past year has been another very active one wholehearted support from the G.A.A. I must for Comhairle Laighean and I am pleased that question the commitment of some counties to Cumann Luthchleas Gael continues to prosper what has been called the Senior "B" Hurling throughout our Province. For that I thank you Championship. A promise to play the concluding the Officers and members of each Coiste Contae stages of this competition on the same bill as for your on-going support to Comhairle key Senior Hurling or Football Qualifier games in Laighean. 2002 was delivered on, yet some counties (and not all of them from Leinster) seemed barely COMPETITIONS interested. Changing the name of the I warmly congratulate all the winners of the competition is easy, even playing the final in various competitions. The standard of play and Croke Park would not be a problem, so sportsmanship was very high and I would like to ultimately it is a question of the level of thank the players and team mentors for their commitment from the counties concerned. commitment and dedication. What is most alarming is that feedback from a meeting of most of these counties before FOOTBALL Christmas in Áras Laighean displayed a degree of The house full sign in Croke Park on Leinster apathy towards a championship competition, Football Final day was a marvellous sight and yet in the past week different personnel from showed the newly developed Croke Park in all its the same counties came out with a very diverse splendour. Of course the success of the Longford view which strongly supported playing a minor footballers on the day made for a championship during the summer season. Before wonderful appetiser. If that success was to prove any decision can be made on an appropriate a fairytale, then the same could be said of the championship structure, the bigger challenge is Wicklow footballers who not only captured the reconciling the differing views which are held Leinster Junior title but went all the way to win within the counties concerned? the All-Ireland crown. GALWAY We ran into some difficulties with the staging of On a number of occasions during the past year I our club football championship due to a number commented on the possible participation of of factors which were outside our control. I am Galway in Leinster Championship Hurling. I am

8 certain Galway’s involvement would invigorate point (I could accept the game being shown live our four hurling championships (I am ignoring in mid afternoon), while the late start of the Junior) and I am sure that Galway hurling would Sunday evening game (at 4.30 p.m.) is a benefit also. I believe we should formally invite deterrent to many people going out to a later Galway to participate in all our hurling club game. Our Club Fixtures Committee has championships in 2004 and I will be asking identified this as a problem and we must take Comhairle Laighean to consider this proposition this view on board. shortly. If Comhairle Laighean decides to support such an invitation then the matter will rest with PLAYER’S EXPECTATIONS Galway for a decision. One of the biggest challenges facing our Association right now is the growing expectation RAILWAY CUP from players for improved conditions. In most I warmly congratulate all the players and team instances County Boards adhere to the officials who were involved with our recent guidelines laid down, but not in all cases. That is Railway Cup double success. The competition totally unacceptable. The publication recently of has serious problems with timing and huge county team costs for 2002 at _11.2M covering apathy from the general public. Leinster will all 32 counties was long overdue and finally participate in the 2003 competitions in Ulster brought an air of reality to the debate.When the but after that we will have to reconsider our original Amateur Status Report was published it position. recommended establishing a group comprising of County Board Officers and team members COMPETITION STRUCTURES who would sit down, review the available funds Later this year a review of all competition and outline how best such funds should be spent structures will be undertaken with the for the benefit of the various teams. Counties, expectation that motions will be considered at which established this process in an open and the 2004 Congress. There is little doubt that the sincere way, have experienced far less problems Qualifier Series has impacted to some degree on than counties, which decided on minimal, or no attendances at Provincial Championship games. interaction with their players.Apart from sorting However, I must say that I see no lessening in the out issues relating to player welfare, this process determination of counties to win a Provincial would also help to create mutual respect Championship. Any further dilution of the between players, team management and County Provincial Championships will have serious Board officials. It is imperative that such a implications for the future well bring of process be adopted in every county for all adult Provincial Councils. I have said on many teams without delay. occasions that any review of the Provincial Championships should only be done in The growth in team costs is alarming and simply conjunction with a review of the role of cannot continue at the current rate. The single Provincial Councils. A study of the financial biggest contributor to costs is the number of accounts of all Provincial Councils shows the training sessions which now commence in many diverse range of activities, which receive funding counties in October / November each year and each year, but sole dependence on central funds some realism must be brought to this area could seriously undermine many of the existing immediately. Team Managers are allowed far too projects undertaken at Provincial level. much latitude when it comes to arranging team get-togethers which ultimately cost County TV COVERAGE Boards a small fortune. While agreements with Comhairle Laighean was the first Provincial player’s representatives at central level has Council to actively support the live televising of contributed to increased costs at County Board games and there is no doubt this helped to level, nevertheless, counties have significant create a whole new audience of control over most of the costs associated with followers. However, the extent of current running county team operations. Many counties coverage is causing serious problems in some receive support funding for preparing teams, and instances with local club competitions. The while I strongly support this development, Saturday evening live game is a particular case in ultimately counties must budget to live within

9 their own resources. The alternative is deserving of these additional incentives. transferring funds from other projects to pay for increased team preparation costs. PLAYER’S VOLUNTARY INSURANCE The G.A.A. Insurance Work Group recently No one can deny the commitment of inter- concluded negotiations with the Underwriters to county players today and the great excitement continue the Voluntary Player’s Insurance they deliver week after week. If the recent SRC Scheme for another year. The Underwriters report told us anything it was the overwhelming incurred a loss of _300,000 in the first three feedback from all who were interviewed for the years of this scheme and very reluctantly agreed major survey that amateurism and voluntary to continue for another year on the basis that effort should remain core principles for the the number of players in the scheme would G.A.A. Other sports in this country (and we have show a significant increase from the existing examples from across the Irish Sea also) number of 19,000. That is a serious challenge to continue to struggle in the professional arena us all. The loss of this voluntary scheme will be a and anyone with an iota of financial sense would financial disaster for both Clubs and County see little prospect of the G.A.A. surviving in a Boards. It behoves us all to get the number of professional or even semi-professional scene. participants up significantly, otherwise the The expectations from the GPA relating to a scheme will not be available in 2004. fixed weekly allowance and remuneration for loss of earnings takes scant regard of the overall GROUNDS DEVELOPMENT responsibility which the G.A.A. has to support Significant progress has been made upgrading numerous key activities and projects every year. the main grounds in our Province with the work The GPA state that they don’t want pay for play on-going in a number of counties. In all cases the and I fully accept this, but somebody better start work has been practical and sensible with explaining how remuneration for loss of earnings counties handling such re-development work would not be seen as heading down the semi- within tightly controlled budgets. Comhairle professional road. The implications of moving in Laighean has committed significant funds to this direction are so severe as to change the both Offaly and Carlow in the coming year and entire face of how our Association operates. Take a number of further applications are due to be it from me that what might be implemented to considered shortly. I welcome the developments cover some genuine hardship cases would in a in floodlighting and I am pleased that will short period of time be seen as the norm by have lit up in the not too distant many inter-county players.The impact at county future. level would be major but nothing compared to how clubs would be affected. A report will be The amount of physical development at club presented to Coiste Bainistí and Árd Comhairle level in recent years has been phenomenal. in the near future dealing with the welfare of While this is to be welcomed, I must confess to inter-county players. Senior County Officers will extreme concern that the scale of such be invited to a meeting in Croke Park shortly to developments was often prompted by lottery discuss this report and you will have an fund expectations. Comhairle Laighean has been opportunity to air your views on this critical unable to meet the growing level of applications subject. for development funding. The present policy we operate of funding all applications to set values Our Association has limited capacity to absorb for specific types of development cannot be additional costs without seriously impacting sustained. A new policy is required which will other key areas such as Games Development discriminate in favour of those who need the and Grounds Development. It should be noted funding the most and for specific types of that in 2002 Comhairle Laighean contributed an developments, which cover pitch improvements additional _72,000 towards the provision of and player facilities as a priority. The size of gear for senior inter-county players in our twelve lottery grant will also have to be included in any counties and in excess of _77,000 was also criteria in determining the level of funding which given to players by way of complimentary match might be forthcoming from Comhairle Laighean. tickets. I must add that the players were most While Comhairle Laighean can set a specific

10 budget at the start of each year for grounds development, it will more often than not be into Although the upcoming Congress will again the Autumn, when games income is known, debate , I don’t believe the time is before we can be sure of the precise level of appropriate to make any decision regarding an funding available in any given year. We recently extended use of the stadium.The pitch definitely decided that the annual Árd Comhairle grant needs additional time to mature, the payment of would be allocated to new applicants rather the promised Government funding has to be re- than to applicants who had already received visited, there is the on-going debacle with the on funding from Comhairle Laighean. This helped us again/off again national stadium development in alleviate to some degree an already congested which, I should add, the G.A.A. retain an interest list of applicants for funding. It was not a and finally there is the a major issue concerning decision that received universal support but it our ability to differentiate between an extended was absolutely crucial in the circumstances that use for Croke Park and securing all other grounds prevailed. for G.A.A. purposes only. Right now there is a view in some parts of the Government that CROKE PARK every ground should be opened up. This attitude Few could have anticipated such a spectacular will rightly scare every reasonable G.A.A. person. baptism for the newly developed Croke Park in Too many questions remain and until we get 2002. Comhairle Laighean was present on three satisfactory answers then we should not rush a occasions last year and as our accounts show decision on such a crucial issue for our they proved hugely rewarding days both Association. I believe ultimately that leaving a sportingly and financially. We are fully decision on the future use of Croke Park to Árd committed to playing as many games as Comhairle (as outlined in the SRC report) is the possible in Croke Park and the challenge we have way forward. This would allow Cumann right now is making it as financially rewarding as Luthchleas Gael to react in a timely manner to possible to stage games where attendances are any further initiative, which may emerge. between 20,000 and 30,000. It is important that this matter is resolved otherwise a number of ÁRAS LAIGHEAN counties in our Province can never look forward We reported last year on the purchase of our to playing in Croke Park. This is most unfair to new Áras Laighean building. All staff are now many inter-county players who would cherish happily installed in the new premises and the the opportunity to play in Ireland’s premier feedback from everyone to date has been very stadium. I have received communications from favourable. Work on developing an adjoining car players and team mentors in some counties who park commenced last Thursday and should be feel it is their right to play in Croke Park and I completed in about 12 weeks. We plan to have cannot disagree with them. However, we have a an official opening later in the year. I want to responsibility also to ensure that our gates thank all involved with the project to date and income is maintained as much as possible. also Laois County Council for their assistance in providing a round-about at the entrance. At the end of 2003 the debt on Croke Park will be in the region of _70M and with the expected DUBLIN Government funding of _38M off the table for I want to bring you up to date with the SRC now at least, this level of debt will challenge our proposals relating to Dublin as we discussed this Association over the coming years. While we matter recently at a meeting in Áras Laighean. have the capacity to fund this debt from our Developments are in fact on hold as Coiste own resources and maintain the current level of Bainistí is insisting on an independent Chairman support for key areas such as games of the Dublin Strategic Committee. Dublin development and grounds development, there is strongly disagrees with this decision and is no doubt that the re-payment term will be insisting on their own County Board Chairman significantly lengthened. Of paramount assuming this role. The proposals in relation to importance will be the generation of additional Dublin were agreed between a three-man SRC non-match day revenue at Croke Park through sub-committee and Dublin County Board prior the extensive corporate facilities. to last year’s Special Congress. Leinster Council

11 Officers had no involvement at any stage in this process nor were we consulted for our views. Club Fixtures However, I believe that most of the proposals are Comhairle Laighean, in conjunction with the reasonable but need extensive fleshing out, other Provincial Councils, was asked to prepare a particularly in relation to the ability of the report on Club Fixtures in 2002 and this will be various units of our Association to deliver on the presented at the forthcoming Congress.The sub- funding outlined. The current impasse on the committee’s report mentions a satisfactory year Strategy Committee Chairman issue is holding but it also reports many difficulties and up movement with the proposals but the matter challenges which have to be overcome. Clearly will hopefully be resolved soon as further much more needs to be done to ensure a discussions take place. satisfactory situation for the ordinary club player. SUB-COMMITTEE REPORTS I now want to briefly comment on some matters Comhairle which were covered in the sub-committee Some good progress was made in 2002 reports. implementing additional I.T. and e-mail facilities. It is costing us all far too much to manually Coaching & Games Development communicate with each other so it behoves us This is a major work area for Comhairle Laighean all to get as much correspondence as possible with significant funds being invested. I have into an electronic format without delay. expressed concern lately as to whether we are receiving a sufficient return on this investment. I Finance will be asking the committee for a detailed audit Despite some concerns during the year, our of how well the various schemes are working in overall financial position at the end of 2002 is each county. We have a large number of satisfactory. Our income showed a small personnel employed in a coaching capacity reduction but in reality we are in a very throughout Leinster and I feel we also need to precarious position because with no disrespect review their roles to ensure the work they are to any county, we very much depend on having undertaking is appropriate to the needs of the Meath, Kildare and Dublin involved in the various counties and educational bodies. Leinster Football Semi-Finals if we are to maintain our current level of income. Although Referees our expenditure showed a modest increase of I am very pleased with the progress being made less than 5% in 2002, I believe we need to at Leinster level to recruit and train referees. seriously re-look at each cost area to ensure all However, I am not satisfied that the same such expenditure is necessary and delivering commitment is present in every county. County value for money to Comhairle Laighean. Boards must ensure that there is an active Referees Group with a focus on recruitment and SEAMUS ALDRIDGE training and it goes without saying that the Seamus Aldridge departs the Leinster Council County Referee’s Administrator must receive scene today and on your behalf I would like to every support within his county. thank him for his tremendous contribution over many years. Seamus has made a major impact at Public Relations Comhairle Laighean and it was his astuteness Comhairle Laighean prides itself on the quality which ensured that our new Áras Laighean of match programmes and the publication of Lár building was purchased. I would like to wish you Páirce also enhances the image of the Council. well Seamus in the future and best wishes also During 2002 a number of promotions were to your family who were always your greatest undertaken in local media and these proved very supporters. successful. With a large number of games taking place at Provincial venues I cannot impress enough the importance of quality match programmes. Not all of the publications reached BUÍOCHAS the required standard in 2002. I would like to thank my fellow officers,

12 members of Comhairle Laighean and the 2003. Tá siúil agam go mbeidh an-bhliain again members of all sub-committees for their arís i 2003. Go raibh mile maith agaibh. support and hard work in 2002.We are fortunate to have a most dedicated staff in Áras Laighean and I sincerely thank our Chief Executive Michael Delaney, Michael Reynolds, Julie Quinn, Hannah Horan and Patricia Clear for their commitment to the job in hand. I thank all our Coaching personnel throughout the Province and also John Nioclas Ó Braonáin Cotter for his valuable role in securing vital Cathaoirleach commercial sponsorship. CONCLUSION Finally, I wish you all an enjoyable and successful

13 Comhairle Laighean Clár na gCluichí 2004

PEIL SINSIR IOMÁINT SINSIR

1. Uibh Fhaili v Iarmhi 1. Ceatharloch v Laois 2. 1 v Ath Cliath 2. 1 v An Mhi 3. Loch Garman v Lu 3. Iarmhi v Cill Mhantain 4. 3 v Cill Dara 4. 3 v Cill Dara 5. Ceatharloch v Longphort 6. 5 v Laois 5. 2 v Uibh Fhaili 7. Cill Mhantain v An Mhi 6. 4 v Ath Cliath

8. 2 v 4 7. 5 v 6 9. 6 v 7 8. Loch Garman v Cill Chainnigh

CRAOBH: 8 v 9 CRAOBH: 7 v 8

IOMAINT MIONUIR PEIL MIONUIR

Group A Group A 1. Longphort v An Mhi 1. Cill Chainnigh v Loch Garman 2. Losers (1) v Iarmhi 2. Losers (1) v Cill Mhantain 3. Winners (1) v Iarmhi 3. Winners (1) v Cill Mhantain

Group B Group B 1. Cill Mhantain v Cill Dara 1. Longphort v Ceatharloch 2. Losers (1) v Ceatharloch 2. Losers (1) v Lu 3. Winners (1) v Ceatharloch 3. Winners (1) v Lu

4. Winners A v Winners B 4. Iarmhi v Uibh Fhaili 5. Loch Garman v Ath Cliath 5. Cill Dara v Winners B 6. Laois v Uibh Fhaili 6. An Mhi v Laois 7. Laois v Loch Garman 7. Winners A v Ath Cliath 8. Ath Cliath v Uibh Fhaili 9. Ath Cliath v Laois 8. 4 v 5 10. Uibh Fhaili v Loch Garman 9. 6 v 7

Quarter Finals (to be drawn) CRAOBH: 8 v 9

Semi Finals (to be drawn)

14 FÉ 21 BLIAIN PEIL FÉ 21 BLIAIN IOMÁINT

1. Ceatharloch v Cill Mhantain 1. Buathoiri Speis v Cill Chainnigh 2. 1 v Ath Cliath 2. 1 v Ath Cliath 3. Cill Chainnigh v Loch Garman 3. Uibh Fhaili v Loch Garman 4. 3 v Longphort 5. Uibh Fhaili v Lu CRAOBH: 2 v 3 6. 5 v An Mhi 7. Laois v Cill Dara 8. 7 v Iarmhi

9. 2v4 10. 6 v 8 CRAOBH: 9 v 10

PEIL SOISIR FE 21 BLIAIN IOMAINT SPEIS

1. Cill Chainnigh v Cill Dara 1. Lu v Ceatharloch 2. 1 v An Mhi 2. Cill Mhantain v Laois 3. Loch Garman v Cill Mhantain 3. Longphort v An Mhi 4. 3 v Ath Cliath 4. Cill Dara v Iarmhi

CRAOBH: 2 v 4 5. 1 v 2 6. 3 v 4

CRAOBH: 5 v 6

IOMAINT IDIRMHEANACH IOMAINT SOISIR

CRAOBH: Loch Garman v Cill Chainnigh 1. An Mhi v Cill Dara 2. Longphort v Lu

CRAOBH: 1 v 2

15 Comhairle Laighean Clár na gCluichí 2004

PEIL SINSIR DATE VENUE

1 Offaly v Westmeath 16.05.2004 2 1 v Dublin 06.06.2004 Croke Park 3 Wexford v Louth 16.05.2004 Parnell Park 4 3 v Kildare 06.06.2004 Croke Park 5 Carlow v Longford 09.05.2004 Tullamore 6 5 v Laois 30.05.2004 Carlow / 7 Wicklow v Meath 23.05.2004 Portlaoise

8 2 v 4 27.06.2004 Croke Park 9 6 v 7 20.06.2004 Croke Park

CRAOBH 8 v 9 18.07.2004 Croke Park

IOMÁINT SINSIR DATE VENUE

1 Carlow v Laois 02.05.2004 Carlow 2 1 v Meath 16.05.2004 Carlow / Portlaoise 3 Westmeath v Wicklow 02.05.2004 Mullingar 4 3 v Kildare 15/16.05.2004 Mullingar / Aughrim 5 2 v Offaly 29/30.05.2004 Le Socru 6 4 v Dublin 29/30.05.2004 Venue of Winner 4

7 5 v 6 13.06.2004 Le Socru 8 Wexford v Kilkenny 13.06.2004 Le Socru

CRAOBH 7 v 8 04.07.2004 Croke Park

IOMÁINT IDIRMHEANACH DATE VENUE

CRAOBH Wexford v Kilkenny 30.6.2004 Wexford Park

16 FÉ 21 BLIANA PEIL DATE VENUE

1 Carlow v Wicklow 17.03.2004 Carlow 2 1 v Dublin 28.03.2004 Carlow / Aughrim 3 Kilkenny v Wexford 17.03.2004 Kilkenny 4 3 v Longford 28.03.2004 Kilkenny / Wexford 5 Offaly v Louth 17.03.2004 Tullamore 6 5 v Meath 28.03.2004 Tullamore / Dundalk 7 Laois v Kildare 17.03.2004 Portlaoise 8 7 v Westmeath 28.03.2004 Portlaoise/ Newbridge

9 2 v 4 11.04.2004 Le Socru 10 6 v 8 11.04.2004 Le Socru

CRAOBH 9 v 10 25.04.2004 Le Socru

PEIL SOISIR DATE VENUE

1 Kilkenny v Kildare 09.06.2004 Kilkenny 2 1 v Meath 23.06.2004 Kilkenny/Newbridge 3 Wexford v Wicklow 09.06.2004 Wexford 4 3 v Dublin 23.06.2004 Wexford / Aughrim

CRAOBH 2 v 4 07.07.2004 Kilkenny / Newbridge /

FÉ 21 BLIANA IOMÁINT SPEISÍALTA DATE VENUE

1 Louth v Carlow 12.04.2004 Dundalk 2 Wicklow v Laois 12.04.2004 Aughrim 3 Longford v Meath 12.04.2004 Longford 4 Kildare v Westmeath 12.04.2004 Newbridge

5 1 v 2 24.04.2004 Dundalk / Carlow 6 3 v 4 24.04.2004 Longford / Navan

CRAOBH 5 v 6 05.05.2004 Home Venue of 5

17 FÉ 21 BLIANA IOMÁINT DATE VENUE

1 Special Winners v Kilkenny 02.06.2004 Home Venue of Spec. Winners 2 1 v Dublin 23.06.3004 Le Socru/Portlaoise 3 Offaly v Wexford 23.06.3004 Kilkenny

CRAOBH 2 v 3 14.07.2004 Le Socru

IOMÁINT SOISIR DATE VENUE

1 Meath v Kildare 30.06.2004 Navan 2 Longford v Louth 30.06.2004 Longford

CRAOBH 1 v 2 21.07.2004 Navan / Newbridge

PEIL MÍONÚIR DATE VENUE

A1 Kilkenny v Wexford 03.04.2004 Kilkenny A2 Loser A1 v Wicklow 17.04.2004 Wexford / Aughrim A3 Winners A1 v Wicklow 01.05.2004 Wexford / Aughrim

B1 Longford v Carlow 03.04.2004 Longford B2 Losers B1 v Louth 17.04.2004 Carlow / Dundalk B3 Winners B1 v Louth 01.05.2004 Carlow / Dundalk

4 Westmeath v Offaly 15.05.2004 Mullingar 5 Kildare v Winner B 15.05.2004 Newbridge 6 Meath v Laois 15.05.2004 Navan 7 Winner A v Dublin 15.05.2004 Kilkenny/Wexford /Aughrim

8 4 v 5 30.06.2004 Le Socru 9 6 v 7 30.06.2004 Le Socru

CRAOBH 8 v 9 18.07.2004 Croke Park

18 IOMÁINT MÍONÚIR DATE VENUE

A1 Longford v Meath 27.3.2004 Longford A2 Loser A1 v Westmeath 10.04.2004 Navan / Mullingar A3 Winner A1 v Westmeath 24.04.2004 Navan / Mullingar

B1 Wicklow v Kildare 27.03.2004 Aughrim B2 Loser B1 v Carlow 10.04.2004 Newbridge / Carlow B3 Winner B1 v Carlow 24.04.2004 Newbridge / Carlow

4 Winner A v Winner B 08.05.2004 Le Socru

C5 Wexford v Dublin 10.04.2004 Wexford C6 Laois v Offaly 10.04.2004 Portlaoise C7 Laois v Wexford 24.04.2004 Portlaoise C8 Dublin v Offaly 24.04.2004 Parnell Park C9 Dublin v Laois 08.05.2004 Parnell Park C10 Offaly v Wexford 08.05.2004 Birr

QUARTER FINALS (to be drawn) 22.05.2004 Le Socru

SEMI FINALS (to be drawn) 26.06.2004 Le Socru

CRAOBH 04.07.2004 Croke Park

19 Cluichí Laighean 2003

O’BYRNE CUP S.F. 5/1 Cill Mhantain ...... 2-12 Ceatharloch ...... 2-09 Aughrim 5/1 Iarmhi ...... 0-13 Lu ...... 0-11 Drogheda 5/1 Loch Garman ...... 0-17 Cill Chainnigh ...... 1-06 Skeoughvosteen 5/1 Longphort ...... 0-13 Laois ...... 0-10 Portlaoise 12/1 Loch Garman ...... 2-11 Uibh Fhaili ...... 1-10 Tullamore 12/1 Ath Cliath ...... 1-09 Cill Mhantain ...... 0-05 Thomas Davis 12/1 Cill Dara ...... 1-11 Iarmhi ...... 0-13 Newbridge 14/1 Longphort ...... 1-11 An Mhi ...... 0-11 Simonstown 19/1 Longphort ...... 4-04 Loch Garman ...... 0-12 Gorey 19/1 Cill Dara ...... 0-13 Ath Cliath ...... 1-09 Nh. Mearnog 26/1 Cill Dara ...... 0-12 Longphort ...... 1-06 Longford (F) S.H. 19/1 Ath Cliath ...... 3-19 An Dun ...... 1-14 Nh. Mearnog 26/1 Ath Cliath ...... 2-16 An Mhi ...... 0-10 Navan 26/1 Laois ...... 1-12 Loch Garman ...... 0-09 Portlaoise 26/1 Uibh Fhaili ...... 0-14 Iarmhi ...... 0-08 Mullingar 2/2 Ath Cliath ...... 2-11 Laois ...... 1-09 Croke Park 2/2 Cill Chainnigh ...... 4-13 Uibh Fhaili ...... 1-13 Birr 9/2 Ath Cliath ...... 2-11 Cill Chainnigh ...... 2-10 Parnell Park (F) S.H. 2/2 Lu ...... 1-09 Muineachain ...... 1-05 Termonfeckin 2/2 Cill Dara ...... 1-15 Longphort ...... 1-10 Naas 9/2 Cill Mhantain ...... 1-14 Ceatharloch ...... 0-15 Arklow 9/2 Cill Dara ...... 3-17 Lu ...... 2-03 Drogheda 16/2 Cill Mhantain ...... 0-11 Cill Dara ...... 0-07 Clane (F) 2/3 Cill Mhantain ...... 1-18 Londain ...... 2-09 Ruislip (1st leg) 5/4 Cill Mhantain ...... 6-18 Londain ...... 0-14 Arklow (2nd leg) LEINSTER M.H.L. 15/2 Ceatharloch ...... 1-10 Cill Dara ...... 1-05 Bagenalstown 15/2 An Mhi ...... 0-08 Aontroim ...... 0-07 Longwood 15/2 Cill Chainnigh (N) ...... 2-11 Loch Garman (2) ...... 1-09 Thomastown 15/2 Uibh Fhaili ...... 3-10 Iarmhi ...... 3-05 Robinstown 15/2 Laois ...... 2-15 Loch Garman (1) ...... 3-03 Gorey 15/2 Cill Chainnigh (S) ...... 2-11 Ath Cliath ...... 0-05 Thomastown 22/2 Ath Cliath ...... 2-08 Cill Dara ...... 1-07 O’Tooles Gds. 22/2 Iarmhi ...... 0-10 Loch Garman (1) ...... 0-08 Mullingar 22/2 Uibh Fhaili ...... 7-12 Laois ...... 1-05 Banagher 1/3 Ceatharloch ...... 1-12 Cill Chainnigh (S) ...... 1-08 Dicksboro 1/3 Cill Chainnigh (N) ...... 1-09 An Mhi ...... 0-06 Dicksboro 1/3 Loch Garman ...... 2-08 Antroim ...... 1-06 D.C.U. 8/3 Uibh Fhaili ...... 3-09 Loch Garman ...... 0-09 Ferns

20 8/3 Ath Cliath ...... 5-13 Ceatharloch ...... 1-01 O’Toole Park 8/3 Cill Chainnigh (S) ...... 1-11 Cill Dara ...... 0-03 Celbridge 8/3 Cill Chainnigh (N) ...... 1-10 Antroim ...... 0-04 Longwood 15/3 Cill Chainnigh (S) ...... 0-10 Uibh Fhaili ...... 0-07 Skeoughvosteen 2/3 Cill Chainnigh (S) ...... 5-10 Cill Chainnigh (N) ...... 0-13 Dicksboro LEINSTER SPECIAL UNDER 21 H.C. 1/3 Longphort ...... 2-08 Lu ...... 2-06 Longford 5/4 Iarmhi ...... 2-16 Cill Dara ...... 1-13 Mullingar 5/4 Ceatharloch ...... 3-23 Longphort ...... 1-03 Longford 26/4 Iarmhi ...... 2-15 Cill Mhantain ...... 2-09 Navan 30/4 Ceatharloch ...... 1-11 An Mhi ...... 1-04 Carlow 2/6 Iarmhi ...... 1-18 Ceatharloch ...... 1-09 Carlow (F) LEINSTER UNDER 21 F.C. 15/3 Iarmhi ...... 0-14 Laois ...... 0-09 Mullingar 15/3 Ceatharloch ...... 3-13 Cill Chainnigh ...... 1-06 Carlow 16/3 Loch Garman ...... 0-14 Cill Mhantain ...... 1-08 Aughrim 16/3 Lu ...... 1-15 Cill Dara ...... 2-07 Drogheda 29/3 Ath Cliath ...... 2-13 Lu ...... 0-12 Ardee 29/3 An Mhi ...... 1-16 Ceatharloch ...... 2-11 Carlow 29/3 Iarmhi ...... 2-10 Uibh Fhaili ...... 0-10 Mullingar 29/3 Longphort ...... 1-10 Loch Garman ...... 2-06 Wexford 12/4 Ath Cliath ...... 0-09 Iarmhi ...... 0-03 Navan 15/4 Longphort ...... 0-13 An Mhi ...... 1-08 Mullingar 27/4 Ath Cliath ...... 3-13 Longphort ...... 1-06 Mullingar (F) LEINSTER M.F.C. 29/3 Longphort ...... 3-16 Cill Mhantain ...... 0-11 Ballymahon 29/3 Ceatharloch ...... 4-15 Cill Chainnigh ...... 0-11 Kilkenny 12/4 Lu ...... 0-12 Longphort ...... 0-09 Drogheda 12/4 Cill Mhantain ...... 5-09 Cill Chainnigh ...... 3-06 Aughrim 19/4 Lu ...... 5-18 Cill Chainnigh ...... 0-03 Kilkenny 19/4 Ceatharloch ...... 1-11 Cill Mhantain ...... 1-08 Carlow 29/4 Lu ...... 2-12 Ceatharloch ...... 0-01 Ardee 3/5 Lu ...... 2-13 Cill Mhantain ...... 1-08 Aughrim 7/5 Longphort ...... 2-13 Ceatharloch ...... 2-09 Carlow 17/5 Cill Dara ...... 1-14 Loch Garman ...... 2-02 Wexford 17/5 Laois ...... 3-10 Iarmhi ...... 0-04 Mullingar 17/5 Ath Cliath ...... 0-14 An Mhi ...... 2-04 Navan 17/5 Lu ...... 4-07 Uibh Fhaili ...... 0-12 Ardee 2/7 Laois ...... 1-14 Cill Dara ...... 1-05 Tullamore 2/7 Ath Cliath ...... 0-11 Lu ...... 1-08 Navan 9/7 Ath Cliath ...... 1-12 Lu ...... 1-07 Navan 20/7 Ath Cliath ...... 1-11 Laois ...... 1-09 Croke Park (F)

21 LEINSTER M.F. LEAGUE 29/3 Laois ...... 4-18 Baile Atha Cliath ...... 1-01 O’Toole Pk. 29/3 Ath Cliath ...... 0-14 An Mhi ...... 1-05 Portmarnock 29/3 Cill Dara ...... 1-10 Loch Garman ...... 1-03 Piercestown 29/3 Iarmhi ...... 2-10 Uibh Fhaili ...... 3-07 Shandonagh 5/4 Cill Dara ...... 0-16 An Mhi ...... 0-09 Longwood 5/4 Iarmhi ...... 2-12 Baile Atha Cliath ...... 1-10 Inisfails 5/4 Uibh Fhaili ...... 2-10 Laois ...... 0-15 Walsh Island 6/4 Ath Cliath ...... 1-15 Loch Garman ...... 1-10 Wexford 12/4 Uibh Fhaili ...... 4-26 Ath Cliath ...... 0-05 Edenderry 12/4 Laois ...... 1-16 Iarmhi ...... 0-11 Portarlington 12/4 Ath Cliath ...... 0-12 Cill Dara ...... 1-07 Leixlip 12/4 An Mhi ...... 2-12 Loch Garman ...... 0-08 Meath Venue 16/4 Cill Dara ...... 3-12 Uibh Fhaili ...... 0-07 Sarsfields 19/4 Laois ...... 1-11 Ath Cliath ...... 1-10 Parnell Park 23/4 Cill Dara ...... 1-11 Laois ...... 0-11 Kilcullen LEINSTER M.H.C. 5/4 Iarmhi ...... 1-13 An Mhi ...... 1-09 Mullingar 5/4 Laois ...... 2-15 Cill Dara ...... 0-09 Clane 12/4 Iarmhi ...... 2-13 Cill Mhantain ...... 3-06 Aughrim 12/4 Ceatharloch ...... 2-16 Cill Dara ...... 2-08 Carlow 26/4 An Mhi ...... 3-10 Cill Mhantain ...... 1-06 Navan 26/4 Laois ...... 2-10 Ceatharloch ...... 0-02 Portlaoise 10/5 Ath Cliath ...... 1-16 Iarmhi ...... 0-03 Parnell Park 10/5 Uibh Fhaili ...... 1-09 Laois ...... 0-09 Portlaoise 25/6 Cill Chainnigh ...... 4-12 Ath Cliath ...... 0-11 Portlaoise 25/6 Uibh Fhaili ...... 2-16 Loch Garman ...... 0-12 Carlow 6/7 Cill Chainnigh ...... 0-18 Uibh Fhaili ...... 0-13 Croke Park (F) LEINSTER S.H.C. 3/5 Iarmhi ...... 2-15 Cill Dara ...... 0-07 Clane 4/5 Ceatharloch ...... 0-17 An Mhi ...... 2-10 Navan 5/5 Laois ...... 2-22 Cill Mhantain ...... 0-10 Portlaoise 10/5 Ath Cliath ...... 4-17 Iarmhi ...... 0-13 Parnell Park 10/5 Laois ...... 5-15 Ceatharloch ...... 1-10 Portlaoise 24/5 Ath Cliath ...... 1-18 Laois ...... 2-15 Kilkenny 31/5 Ath Cliath ...... 3-11 Laois ...... 0-15 Kilkenny 7/6 Cill Chainnigh ...... 3-16 Ath Cliath ...... 0-10 Kilkenny 8/6 Loch Garman ...... 0-16 Uibh Fhaili ...... 1-12 Kilkenny 6/7 Cill Chainnigh ...... 2-23 Loch Garman ...... 2-12 Croke Park (F) LEINSTER S.F.C. 11/5 Lu ...... 4-12 Cill Mhantain ...... 2-07 Croke Park 11/5 Iarmhi ...... 1-17 Ceatharloch ...... 1-12 Croke Park 11/5 Laois ...... 1-19 Loch Garman ...... 0-10 Croke Park 25/5 Cill Dara ...... 1-14 Longphort ...... 2-06 Mullingar 25/5 Uibh Fhaili ...... 1-12 Laois ...... 1-12 Portlaoise 1/6 Ath Cliath ...... 1-19 Lu ...... 1-09 Croke Park 1/6 An Mhi ...... 2-13 Iarmhi ...... 2-13 Croke Park

22 2/6 Laois ...... 2-10 Uibh Fhaili ...... 0-13 Tullamore 7/6 An Mhi ...... 1-11 Iarmhi ...... 0-05 Portlaoise 14/6 Cill Dara ...... 0-15 An Mhi ...... 1-11 Croke Park 15/6 Laois ...... 0-16 Ath Cliath ...... 0-14 Croke Park 20/7 Laois ...... 2-13 Cill Dara ...... 1-13 Croke Park (F) LEINSTER J.F.C. 14/5 An Mhi ...... 2-12 Cill Dara ...... 0-09 Newbridge 14/5 Ath Cliath ...... 1-15 Cill Chainnigh ...... 1-07 Kilkenny 14/5 Loch Garman ...... 2-08 Lu ...... 1-09 Wexford 28/5 An Mhi ...... 0-17 Iarmhi ...... 0-09 Navan 28/5 Ath Cliath ...... 0-20 Uibh Fhaili ...... 0-05 Parnell Park 28/5 Loch Garman ...... 1-11 Cill Mhantain ...... 0-06 Wexford 14/6 Loch Garman ...... 3-09 Ath Cliath ...... 0-13 Carlow 14/6 An Mhi ...... 5-14 Laois ...... 1-06 Croke Park 2/7 An Mhi ...... 1-15 Loch Garman ...... 0-07 Wexford (F) LEINSTER I.H.C. 4/6 Loch Garman ...... 3-18 Laois ...... 0-11 Wexford 18/6 Cill Chainnigh ...... 3-14 Loch Garman ...... 1-09 Kilkenny 18/6 Ath Cliath ...... 1-18 Uibh Fhaili ...... 1-08 Birr 9/7 Cill Chainnigh ...... 4-20 Ath Cliath ...... 1-10 Portlaoise (F) LEINSTER UNDER 21 H.C. 11/6 Cill Chainnigh ...... 2-18 Uibh Fhaili ...... 0-10 Portlaoise 18/6 Ath Cliath ...... 2-22 Iarmhi ...... 0-09 Mullingar 24/6 Ath Cliath ...... 2-16 Loch Garman ...... 0-09 Carlow 24/6 Cill Chainnigh ...... 3-14 Laois ...... 0-09 Portlaoise 16/7 Cill Chainnigh ...... 0-12 Ath Cliath ...... 1-04 Carlow (F) LEINSTER J.H.C. 9/7 An Mhi ...... 4-10 Lu ...... 2-13 Navan 16/7 Longphort ...... 0-14 Cill Dara ...... 2-06 Leixlip 23/7 An Mhi ...... 0-11 Longphort ...... 0-09 Navan(F) LEINSTER CLUB H.C. 19/10 Castletown ...... 2-12 Glenealy ...... 0-06 Aughrim 19/10 Coill Dubh ...... 5-13 Clonguish ...... 1-06 Longford 19/10 Knockbridge ...... 2-07 Naomh Eoin ...... 1-10 Knockbridge 19/10 Kilmessan ...... 0-16 Castlepollard ...... 1-11 Mullingar 27/10 Naomh Eoin ...... 6-10 Knockbridge ...... 2-05 Carlow 2/11 Castletown ...... 0-14 Craobh Chiarain ...... 1-09 Portlaoise 2/11 Birr ...... 0-17 Naomh Eoin ...... 2-07 Carlow 2/11 Rathnure ...... 4-12 Kilmessan ...... 1-09 Navan 9/11 O’Loughlin Gaels ...... 0-21 Coill Dubh ...... 0-12 Allenwood 16/11 Birr ...... 4-17 Castletown ...... 1-09 Kilkenny 16/11 O’Loughlins ...... 0-20 Rathnure ...... 2-11 Carlow 30/11 O’Loughlins ...... 0-15 B irr ...... 0-09 Portlaoise (F)

23 LEINSTER CLUB F.C. 26/10 Rathnew ...... 0-14 Clara ...... 1-09 Aughrim 26/10 St. Patricks ...... 3-08 The Downs ...... 0-08 Mullingar 27/10 O’Hanrahans ...... 4-20 James Stephens ...... 0-02 Kilkenny 27/10 Clonguish ...... 2-05 Killanerin ...... 0-06 Longford 8/11 St. Brigids ...... 0-07 St.Patricks ...... 0-06 Dundalk 9/11 Round Towers ...... 1-05 Rathnew ...... 0-05 Aughrim 9/11 Clonguish ...... 1-09 Blackhall Gaels ...... 0-05 Longford 16/11 Arles Kilcruise ...... 0-09 O’Hanrahans ...... 0-08 Carlow 23/11 St. Brigids ...... 2-11 Clonguish ...... 3-06 Mullingar 23/11 Round Towers ...... 2-06 Arles Kilcruise ...... 0-08 Carlow 7/12 St. Brigids ...... 3-11 Round Towers ...... 1-10 Navan (F) LEINSTER UNDER 16 FOOTBALL 18/10 Iarmhi ...... 4-08 Laois ...... 0-09 Rochfortbridge 18/10 Cill Mhantain ...... 1-16 Ceatharloch ...... 0-06 Éire Og 18/10 Dublin ...... 3-15 Longphort ...... 2-05 D.C.U. 18/10 Lu ...... 2-07 Ath Cliath ...... 2-06 D.C.U. 18/10 An Mhi ...... 2-14 Cill Dara ...... 0-04 Simonstown 19/10 Loch Garman ...... 2-07 Cill Chainnigh ...... 2-04 Skeoughvosteen 19/10 Uibh Fhaili ...... 3-05 Luimneach ...... 2-06 Moystown 25/10 Iarmhi ...... 0-12 Uibh Fhaili ...... 1-05 Durrow 25/10 Cill Mhantain ...... 2-10 Loch Garman ...... 2-06 Buffers Alley 25/10 Cill Dara ...... 3-08 Longphort ...... 1-10 Longphort 25/10 Laois ...... 2-13 Luimineach ...... 3-08 Ahane 25/10 Ceatharloch ...... 1-10 Cill Chainnigh ...... 0-05 Clara 25/10 Dublin ...... 4-04 An Mhi ...... 2-06 D.C.U. 25/10 An Mhi ...... 2-13 Ath Cliath ...... 1-09 D.C.U. 25/10 Lu ...... 0-16 Cill Dara ...... 1-10 O’Raghallaighs 27/10 Luimneach ...... 1-09 Iarmhi ...... 0-04 Athlone 27/10 Cill Dara ...... 1-07 Ath Cliath ...... 0-10 Leixlip 27/10 Loch Garman ...... 2-05 Ceatharloch ...... 0-07 Carlow 27/10 Uibh Fhaili ...... 1-07 Laois ...... 0-10 Portarlington 27/10 An Mhi ...... 3-09 Louth ...... 2-10 Simonstown 27/10 Cill Mhantain ...... 5-12 Cill Chainnigh ...... 2-04 Baltinglass 27/10 Dublin ...... 0-11 Kildare ...... 0-09 Leixlip 29/10 An Mhi ...... 4-12 Lu ...... 0-05 Drogheda 29/10 Dublin ...... 1-21 An Mhi ...... 2-06 Navan 29/10 Laois ...... 2-21 Ceatharloch ...... 0-03 Ratheniska 29/10 Longphort ...... 3-10 Cill Dara ...... 0-09 Leixlip 29/10 Uibh Fhaili ...... 6-11 Loch Garman ...... 3-08 Enniscorthy 29/10 Cill Mhantain ...... 0-08 Iarmhi ...... 0-04 Baltinglass 29/10 Cill Chainnigh ...... 1-13 Luimneach ...... 1-10 Callan 29/10 Cill Dara ...... 4-15 Ath Cliath ...... 0-03 Leixlip 1/11 Longphort ...... 1-10 Cill Chainnigh ...... 2-06 Mountmellick (F) 1/11 Uibh Fhaili ...... 4-09 An Mhi ...... 2-10 Tullamore (F) 1/11 Dublin ...... 1-15 Wicklow ...... 0-07 Greystones (F) 1/11 Laois ...... 4-11 Kildare ...... 3-14 Ratheniska (F) 4/11 Kildare ...... 0-12 Laois ...... 1-08 St. Laurences

24 LEINSTER JUNIOR CLUB HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP 8/11 Drumree ...... 6-11 Wolfe Tones (LH) ...... 1-08 Dunshaughlin 9/11 Rathdowney ...... 3-11 Ardclough ...... 2-07 Ardclough 9/11 Carnew Emmets ...... 2-06 Kildavin/Clonegal ...... 2-06 Aughrim 15/11 Bannow/Ballmitty ...... 1-15 Carnew Emmetts ...... 0-10 Grantstown 16/11 Piltown ...... 3-18 Ardclough ...... 0-04 Piltown 23/11 Delvin ...... 1-09 Shinrone ...... 0-07 Delvin 23/11 Piltown ...... 1-17 Rathdowney ...... 2-07 Rathdowney 23/11 St. Vincents ...... 1-13 Drumree ...... 1-03 St. Vincents 23/11 Bannow Ballymitty ...... 1-12 Kildavin Clonegal ...... 1-04 Kildavin 30/11 St. Vincents ...... 3-16 Delvin ...... 0-04 St. Vincents 30/11 Pilltown ...... 1-11 Bannow Ballymitty ...... 1-07 Pilltown 7/12 Pilltown ...... 1-15 St. Vincents ...... 1-05 St. Vincents (F) LEINSTER JUNIOR CLUB FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP 8/11 Eire Og (WW) ...... 1-06 Stradbally ...... 0-04 Greystones 9/11 Milltown ...... 2-08 Rhode ...... 1-11 Rhode 9/11 Ballon ...... 2-11 Graigue Ballycallan ...... 0-02 Ballon 9/11 Lucan Sarsfields ...... 2-10 Dowdallshill ...... 1-03 Dowdallshill 14/11 Confey ...... 4-14 Stradbally ...... 0-00 St. Laurences 16/11 Kilmore ...... 1-19 Graigue Ballycallan ...... 3-02 Kilmanagh 16/11 Wolfe Tones (MH) ...... 2-15 Dowdallshill ...... 0-05 Kilberry 16/11 Clonguish ...... 2-01 Milltown ...... 0-07 St. Lomans 22/11 Wolfe Tones ...... 2-13 Lucan Sarsfields ...... 0-07 Lucan 22/11 Clonguish ...... 1-09 Rhode ...... 2-06 Longford 23/11 Confey ...... 1-09 Eire Og ...... 0-04 Confey 23/11 Kilmore ...... 3-11 Ballin ...... 1-09 Kilmore 26/11 Clonguish ...... 2-07 Milltown ...... 2-05 Longford Slashers 29/11 Rhode ...... 1-05 Clonguish ...... 0-07 Rhode 30/11 Kilmore ...... 3-06 Confey ...... 3-04 Kilmore 7/12 Wolfe Tones ...... 2-09 Rhode ...... 0-06 Kilberry 14/12 Wolfe Tones ...... 1-10 Kilmore ...... 0-06 Kilmore LEINSTER INTERMEDIATE FOOTBALL 16/11 Newtown ...... 0-12 Sallins ...... 0-09 Newtown 16/11 Erins Rovers ...... 0-09 Ballymore ...... 0-06 Tang 16/11 Ballinabranna ...... 0-11 Bannow-Ballymitty ...... 2-06 Ballinabranna 30/11 Erins Rovers ...... 1-17 St. Brigids ...... 1-05 Pullough 30/11 Dundalk Gaels ...... 1-16 St. Maurs ...... 2-11 Dundalk 30/11 Erins Own ...... 1-08 Ballinabranna ...... 0-06 Ballinabranna 30/11 Arles Kileen ...... 1-15 Newtown ...... 1-14 Newtown 13/12 Arles Kileen ...... 2-13 Erins Own ...... 2-07 Castlecomer 3/1 Dundalk Gaels ...... 2-13 Erin Rovers ...... 3-08 Pullough 10/1 Dundalk Gaels ...... 2-05 Arles-Kileen ...... 0-07 Dundalk Gaels

25 Dublin - Leinster Minor Football Champions 2003 Dublin - Leinster Minor Football Back L-R: S.Prendergast, N Delahunty, R Maher, P Doheny, D Prendergast, P Hartley, D Cody, Tennyson,J M Fennelly, J Dalton,Wall, R B Beckett, D McCormack. L-R:Front D Fogarty, A Murphy, P O'Donovan, M Nolan, E Guinan, R Power, S Cadogan, C Grant, E McGrath, A Healy, J Fitzpatrick, E O'Donoghue.

26 Tuairisc an Rúnaí

Early in the year Birr won the A.I.B. All Ireland Club title while Kilkenny retained the Allianz National Hurling League.

The Leinster Railway Cup Hurling team was part of the historic final played in Rome in November while the province had numerous representatives on the International Series team A Chairde, in Australia, the Shinty teams in Scotland and of Even though a new season is already well course the All Stars Hurling tour to Arizona. The underway we are only now gathering to review boundaries for Gaelic Games are forever the happenings of 2003. Such is the almost non- extending. stop games activities nowadays it is difficult to know where the natural break is or when we On the home front we officially opened our should sit down to examine how we’ve done. swish new offices, while we grant aided some However, tradition dictates that the Provinces very excellent county and club developments in have their annual gatherings in late February so the province. here we are. It may have been just another year but, for us The year of 2003 had many highlights in the here in Leinster, 2003 was something special. Province of Leinster. Hurling was, not Roll on the new season. surprisingly, dominated by Kilkenny and they emulated their success at Provincial level when they went on to the national stage. But for an ROLL OF HONOUR 2003 extra-time defeat in the All Ireland Intermediate PEIL BUATHOIRI NEASOIRI Hurling Final they would have had a clean sweep Sinsir Laois Cill Dara of the All Ireland titles open to them. Add in the Soisir An Mhi Loch Garman fact that O’Loughlin Gaels won our A.I.B. Club Mionuir Ath Cliath Laois S.H.C. title and Piltown won the Leinster Junior Fe 21 Bliain Ath Cliath Longphort Club Hurling Championship and you get a clear Club Peil St. Brigids Round Towers picture of black and amber dominance of this Corn Ui Bhroin Cill Dara Longphort code. Oh! and by the way – St Kieran’s won the Club Soisir Wolfe Tones Kilmore All Ireland Colleges title while Castlecomer C.S. (An Mhi) (Loch Garman) won the All Ireland Colleges "B" title. ‘Nuff said!’ Club Idirmheanach Dundalk Gaels Arles Killeen My heartiest congratulations to the players, mentors and county board – these wins don’t IOMAINT BUATHOIRI NEASOIRI happen by accident. Sinsir Cill Chainnigh Loch Garman Idirmheanach Cill Chainnigh Ath Cliath The football titles were more evenly spread Soisir An Mhi Longphort around the province. Laois ended their 57 year Mionuir Cill Chainnigh Uibh Fhaili famine when taking the Senior title. Dublin had Fe 21 Bliain Cill Chainnigh Ath Cliath a very good double at underage level by winning Fe 21 Bl. Speis. Iarmhi Ceatharloch the Under 21 and Minor Championships. They Club Iomaint O’Loughlin G’s Birr also won the Under 21 All Ireland title but Corn Breathnach Ath Cliath Cill Chainnigh ironically lost the Minor All Ireland to Laois (their Corn Mac Eochaidh Cill Mhantain Londain victims in the Leinster Final). Meath captured the Club Soisir Piltown St. Vincents honours in our Junior Championship and they too went on to take the All Ireland crown.

27 INTER COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIPS GUINNESS LEINSTER SENIOR HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP BANK OF IRELAND As the years go by it becomes more and more SENIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP difficult to put a positive spin on a review of the Leinster Senior Hurling Championship. This, I There are two ways in which I could reflect on suppose is understandable when you talk about a the 2003 Bank of Ireland Leinster Senior Football competition which involves four different grades Championship. I could - as I have done for of participant. Firstly there is the almost thirty years - look back on it in a cold, Westmeath/Kildare/Carlow/Meath/Wicklow analytical fashion and record a few highlights section, then Laois and Dublin have another and the end result. On the other hand I could plateau, above that is the ledge with Wexford and look back on it as a success starved Laois person Offaly while seated high up on the precipice is who has at last stumbled on an oasis after fifty Kilkenny. It hardly makes sense to have all these in seven years in the desert. the same mix but such is the way of democracy.

Annual reports, by their very nature, are little Highlights from the 2003 Championship are more than a record of the previous twelve scarce. Dublin and Laois (draw and replay) months activities and so I should confine myself provided reasonable entertainment but that line to that. of form was soon put in context when Kilkenny swept Dublin aside in the semi final. Wexford Apart altogether from the end result, the and Offaly provided a cracker in the other semi Leinster Senior Football Championship of 2003 final with the former just surviving by a point. In was truly exciting. Admittedly it stuttered at the the final there were spells when a surprise beginning when our three match experiment in seemed on the cards but in the end Kilkenny had Croke Park on May 11th was one of our less a relatively comfortable eleven point victory as bright ideas. After that it really took off with they won a record six Leinster titles in a row. some marvellous entertainment. There were the The Qualifier series provided very little respite two Laois/Offaly encounters, two more episodes for Leinster counties with one major exception. of the Meath/Westmeath rivalry and two really Wexford picked themselves up after the Leinster outstanding semi finals between Kildare/Meath Final to drive themselves on to a famous victory and Laois/Dublin. The Leinster Final between over near neighbours Waterford before a full Laois and Kildare was - I am reliably informed - a house in . Though they struggled classic football game. next time out against Antrim they did enough to qualify for an All Ireland Semifinal against Cork. In the end, Laois won the title and the scenes in Here they were part of our best hurling Croke Park at the final whistle will forever championship game for a number of years and remain in the memory. Kildare, unfortunately, deservedly snatched a draw at the very death. In had to line out again six days later in the the replay things did not go their way but they qualifiers where, despite another magnificent surely took enough from the year to encourage display, they fell just short to Roscommon in them to greater things in the upcoming season. extra time. In the meantime Kilkenny skipped into another Those are the hard facts of the 2003 All Ireland Final with a very comfortable victory Championship but believe me, there is no money over their old rivals Tipperary. On All Ireland day - neither that of a Russian oil tycoon or an Irish they lived dangerously at times but in the end racing magnate - which could have bought the they retained their All Ireland title in grand style. emotions evoked when Nickey Brennan called This year’s (2004) Leinster Senior Hurling on Liam O’Neill and myself to present the Championship draw has a strange look about it Leinster Senior Football Trophy to Laois Captain, with eight counties in one half and only two in Ian Fitzgerald on Sunday 20th July 2003. the other.The bookmakers have little doubt about the outcome but now and then even they get it wrong. We will wait and see.

28 UNDER 21 FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP JUNIOR FOOTBALL Despite very elaborate preparations by a number The Leinster Championship in this grade proved of counties, this championship very much to be very uneventful. In our Final, Meath had followed the lines of the previous year. Once eleven points to spare over Wexford. again Dublin proved far superior to all other opposition and had a comfortable thirteen point The Royals then went on to win the All Ireland winning margin over Longford in the Final. title by defeating Kerry in the Semi Final and Galway in the Final. Unfortunately it was events Despite having to wait a number of months for off the field, more than those on the field, which the All Ireland series, Dublin kept up their will last longest in the memory of all those momentum and deservedly won the All Ireland associated with the victory. crown at the expense of Tyrone. UNDER 21 HURLING It is noteworthy that only six counties have Because of their great performances of the entered this championship in Leinster for 2004. previous year much was expected from Dublin in Obviously more and more counties are seriously this grade - and they did not disappoint. They questioning the value of this grade of inter- easily brushed aside the efforts of Westmeath county competition. and Wexford to qualify for an inevitable meeting with Kilkenny in the Final. INTERMEDIATE HURLING Of the four games played in this championship On a miserably wet evening in Carlow, Dublin the smallest losing margin was ten points, while dominated the early exchanges but failed to in the Final itself, Kilkenny had nineteen points show this on the scoreboard. In typical fashion to spare over Dublin. Kilkenny put on a late spurt to emerge with a five point victory. Kilkenny then went on to the Only two counties have entered this year’s All Ireland Final where they had seven points to competition so we just have a Final - between spare over Galway. Kilkenny and Wexford - next June. There has to Incidentally this Under 21 Hurling Championship be a better way to promote hurling among was sponsored, for the first time since it players who are just one step down from senior inception in 1964, by Erin. inter county status!

The Meath Junior Football panel which defeated Galway in the All-Ireland JFC final at Mullingar in August last. Front L-R:Willie Byrne, , Darren Davis, Barry Kieran, Paddy Nugent,Trevor Bannon, Rory Russell, Philip Duff, Stephen Smith, Ciaran McLoughlin, Alan Fox, Fergus McMahon. Back L-R: James Kelly (Slr), Alan Sheehan, Andrew Rennicks, Garry Rogers, Stephen Bray, Nicky Horan (C), Ronan Sheridan, Jim Gallagher, John Curry, Ian McManus, Gordon Weldon, Barry Lynch, Gary Lynch, Brian Farrell, Martin Barry (Mgr), Brian Carberry (Slr).

29 JUNIOR HURLING course, had other ideas and it was they who This competition proved quite competitive, with prevailed by a two points margin. At this stage the widest winning margin being just three they were entitled to think that they had seen points. Once again Meath emerged as the last of Laois for this year but nothing could champions when they narrowly defeated have been further from reality. Longford in the Final. Dublin overcame Fermanagh in the Quarter Final and Cork in the Semi Final to comfortably SPECIAL UNDER 21 HURLING qualify for the All Ireland Final. However, Laois As has become customary in recent years too were on the march again and victories over Carlow and Westmeath qualified for the Final of Tyrone and Kerry saw them back for a re-match this championship. However the trend of recent with the Dubs. years was reversed this time out as Westmeath had a comfortable victory in the Final. They The All Ireland Final was outstanding and a late were, though, comprehensively beaten by Dublin Laois point sent it to a replay. This went ahead in the championship proper. in Dr. Cullen Park, Carlow in October before an attendance of almost twenty thousand people. MINOR FOOTBALL After another titanic battle Laois levelled the This championship, and the subsequent All three match series between the counties but, Ireland series, provided some of the real more importantly, won the All Ireland crown. highlights of the football year. Once again we had a Round Robin section for the so called MINOR HURLING weaker five and this time it was Louth who Ten counties competed in this championship emerged from the pack. They kept their run before Kilkenny and Offaly went through to going by defeating Offaly in the quarter final contest the final. This proved to be quite a good and only bowed out to Dublin in the semi final contest with Kilkenny having just five points to after a replay. spare at the final whistle. Later in the year they went on to win the All Ireland Championship in In the meantime, Laois easily qualified for the this grade. Final from the other half and were strong favourites to take the Leinster crown. Dublin, of

Birr

30 A.I.B. LEINSTER PEIL The A.I.B. Leinster Club Football Championship CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS must rank as one of the most competitive Each year these championships throw up new competitions in the G.A.A. calendar. material for the scribes. We either have old champions achieving new heights or we have There is rarely a clear cut favourite at the outset new clubs emerging to take their place on the of the championship and a county’s standing has roll of honour. little or no bearing on how their club representatives will perform. So it was in Leinster in 2003. Early in the year our hurling champions of the previous winter set So it was once again in 2003 where we had a a new record in the All Ireland Championship situation that not one of the clubs in the Semi statistics while in our most recent provincial Finals had been in a Leinster Final previously and, contests we witnessed the emergence of two in fact, two of them had never even been in the brand new champions. competition before. All games were fiercely contested and in the end Round Towers (Kildare) IOMÁINT qualified to play championship newcomers St. All twelve counties had their champions Brigids (Dublin) in the Final. involved in this championship. At the end of an absorbing contest, victory went Predictably enough, All Ireland Champions Birr to the Blanchardstown outfit and so they again reached the Final. Here their opponents became the eighth club from Dublin to win this were the new Kilkenny Champions, O’Loughlin particular championship. Gaels, for whom this was a new experience. When reviewing this competition I feel it is only A tremendous game ensued and at the end we proper to refer to the unusual achievement of had new Leinster Champions. As they have done the Laois Champions, Arles Kilcruise. in their many victories, Birr accepted their loss with great dignity and we salute them for that. On Saturday November 15th 2003, this club won their first ever Laois S.F.C. title and on the Amazingly, O’Loughlin Gaels won all their games following day they lined out in the Leinster Club in Leinster without scoring as much as one goal. Championship against O’Hanrahans, the Carlow Champions - a game which they won also. ALL IRELAND CHAMPIONS Seven days later, however they bowed out of the Earlier in the year the aforementioned Birr - competition at the hands of Round Towers. Offaly and Leinster Champions 2002 - had created history for themselves by capturing the All Ireland Club Hurling title at the expense of Dunloy. In doing so they became the first ever club to win the Tommy Moore Cup for the fourth time.

31 The O’Loughlin Gaels panel which defeated All-Ireland Champions Birr, in the AIB Leinster Club SHC final to win their first such title. Back L-R: D O'Dwyer, N Bergin, P Dowling, J Daly, N McEvoy Middle L-R: M Kinsella, M Nolan(selector) P Fitzgerald, A Comerford, J Holohan, B Skehan, S Dowling, B Hogan, S Cummins, C Furlong, A Geoghegan, M Holohan, M Comerford, P Cleere (selector) A Fogarty (selector). Front L-R: O O'Connor, J Lawlor,T Lahart, N Skehan, B Dowling, K Cleere, M Nolan, B Murphy, A O'Brien, B Kelly, J Comerford, B Power.

AIB Leinster Club SFC Winners St. Brigid’s of Dublin Back L-R:x

32 JUNIOR / INTERMEDIATE they had home advantage against Kilkenny Champions, Piltown. After a great contest, which CLUB COMPETITIONS went to extra time, it was again the visitors who These competitions were introduced some years prevailed. ago as a vehicle to try out some proposed rule changes in actual match situations. Since then INTERMEDIATE FOOTBALL they have taken on a life of their own and the At the request of the National Club Task Force, Junior Hurling and Junior Football Club Leinster organized an intermediate club football Competitions were upgraded to championship tournament for the first time. Once again the status in 2003. clubs displayed enormous enthusiasm for the competition. PEIL After a series of home and away fixtures, some Louth champions, Dundalk Gaels, qualified for of which necessitated play-offs, we ended up the Final in which they hosted the Laois with a final in which Kilmore (Wexford) champions, Arles Killeen. On this occasion it was entertained Wolfe Tones (Meath) in the Final. A the home side which came out on top in front of huge attendance turned out to see the visitors another huge attendance. get a great start and then withstand the best efforts of the home side. ATTENDANCES It is worth noting that attendances at the Junior Incidentally a number of games in this and Intermediate Club Football Finals far competition were played under floodlights. exceeded that at four of the games in the IOMAINT Guinness Leinster Senior Hurling Played under the same system as its football Championships. These club finals were played in counterpart the hurling championship saw St. the depth of winter, while the hurling games Vincents (Dublin) qualify for the final where were played in the summer. Food for thought!

Leinster Club JFC Champions Wolfe Tones of Meath Back L to R: Declan County, Sean Power, Pat Fitzpatrick,Terry McGarry, Robert O'Kelly-Lynch, Stephen Corrigan, Derek Meehan, John Tiernan, David Cassidy,Trevor McKeever, Cian Ward, Eamonn Hobble, Barry McGovern, Kevin McKeever, Daire Browne, Joey McKeown. Front L to R: David Rooney, Gareth Reilly, Barry McGinn, Niall McLoughlin, Darren McGrath, Eoin Harrington, Ciaran McLoughlin, Paddy Caffrey, Richie Brady, Alan Fox, Rossa McDonnell, Aidan McKeever, Ciaran Shaw and Alan McKeever.

33 Gaels GFC Dundalk, winners of The Leinster Intermediate Football Championship Back L-R: Derek Crilly, David Coleman, Martin Harvey, Davey Mc Donnell, Stephen Faulkner, Conor Deleney, Ciaran Culligan, Stephen Coleman. Front L-R: Andrew Coleman, Ray Rooney, Noel Mahon, Peter Mc Ginnity (C), Anthony Mc Sorley, Paul Greir, Aidan Delaney .

The Piltown team who captured the Leinster Club Junior Hurling Championship Back L-R:Tommy Falconer, John Brophy, Richie Connolly, Kevin Maher, Paul Maher, Conor O’Shea, Robert O’Dea, Dessie O’Dea (C). Middle L-R: Liam Kenny,Vinnie Long, Gerry Long, James Norris, James Farrell, Andrew Norris, Michael Brennan, John Malone, Shane Kinsella, Michael Galvin, Nicholas Kenny. Front L-R: John Lonergan, Richard Brophy, Liam Kearns, Jim Power, David Kirby, james Connolly, Pa Connolly, Andrew McCarthy, John Falconer, Brian Farrell, Philip Kenny.

34 ACCIDENT TOURNAMENT not sure if it was apathy, or something else, but the county sides never really raised a gallop in COMPETITIONS the competition. Apart from having just four The winners of these competitions in 2003 were: points to spare over Offaly, the college side O’Byrne Cup S.F. Kildare totally overran the opposition in their other Walsh Cup S.H. Dublin three games. Kehoe Cup S.H. Wicklow KEHOE CUP S.H. 2004 COMPETITIONS 2004 This trophy has gone to Meath after a break of a Our three Accident Tournament Competitions few years. In the Final they easily overcame the have certainly found a niche of their own on the effort of the defending champions, Wicklow. G.A.A. calendar. This year saw all three expanded Here again a college side did very well. The even more than heretofore. In the O’Byrne Cup toughest challenge Meath had on the way to the we not alone had all twelve counties competing title was from D.I.T. who took them to extra but we also welcomed D.I.T. into the time. This same college side had a good victory competition.This College also participated in the over Kildare earlier in the competition. Kehoe Cup S.H. which also had other welcome visitors in Monaghan and Mayo. In the Walsh Cup we were glad to welcome Down back again while this year also we had U.C.D. on board. O’ BYRNE CUP 2004 Some years ago when Wicklow suggested to the Council that we play the O’Byrne Cup competition in January there were those who thought they had lost the plot completely. Counties would not enter and, if they did, they would not take it too seriously. Certainly the general public would not be enticed from their firesides, even if they were allowed in for nothing. How wrong can you be?

This year’s competition was another outstanding success, in terms of entertainment, attendances and useful preparation for the National Football League. Obviously the Westmeath odyssey attracted more publicity than other facets of the competition but it should be remembered that there were other noteworthy elements also e.g. Carlow’s defeat of a very strong Dublin team or Kilkenny’s only participation in a Senior Football Competition or indeed D.I.T’s wonderful performance against Offaly.

Before a record attendance - both for the venue and the competition - Westmeath and Meath served up a great Final in Mullingar with the visitors just about shading the verdict.

WALSH CUP S.H. 2004 7 February 2004; UCD captain lifts This competition had something of an historic the Walsh cup.Walsh Cup Senior Hurling Final outcome about it. The winners, U.C.D., are the 2004, Kilkenny v UCD, Nowlan Park, Co. Kilkenny. first non-county team to win this trophy. I’m

35 The Meath team that defeated Westmeath in the O’Byrne Cup Final. Back L to R: Niall Kelly, Brian Farrell, Shane McKeigue, Anthony Moyles, David Gallagher, Nigel Crawford, Joe Sheridan, Hank Traynor,Tomas O'Connor. Front L to R: Mark O'Reilly, Donal Curtis, Ray Magee (Capt), , Adrian Kenny, Seamus Kenny.

The Meath team which defeated Wicklow to win the 2004 Kehoe Cup. Back L-R: Evan Lynam, Charlie Keena, Ray Dorran, Neville Reilly, Mark Gannon, David Donnelly, Seamus Wallace, Stephen Donohoe. Front L-R: Anton O'Neill, Ger O'Neill, Martin Horan,Tony Fox, Cathal Sheridan (Capt), David Dorran, Sean Reilly.

36 realms of administration where again they LEINSTER served with distinction.

S.F.C. TROPHY It is coincidental but probably very fitting, that the trophy has been named after a Laois family After fifty years in existence without a name the in the year that the county won the Leinster Leinster S.F.C. trophy has finally be christened. A Senior Football Championship for the first time sub-committee of the Leinster Council in fifty seven years. considered their options and finally settled on ‘The Delaney Cup.’ Incidentally this trophy was presented for the first time in 1953 to the Louth captain, Jack The cup has been so named to honour the Regan, after their victory over Wexford and the famous Delaney football family from Stradbally, referee on that day - Bill Delaney (Laois). Co. Laois.

This family of brothers and uncle served club, county and province for a number of decades as outstanding players while Jack (Leinster Council) and Bill (Central Council) later entered the

‘Don’t leave it so long next time!’ Comhairle Laighean Rúnaí Michael Delaney proudly presents the Delaney Cup to fellow O’Moore Ian Fitzgerald at the end of an emotionally charged Sunday last Summer.

37 n Hoyne, VENI! VIDI! VICI! The Leinster panel which went to Rome and came back with the Railway Cup! the Railway and came back with to Rome went Leinster panel which The VICI! VIDI! VENI! Back L-R: Cody, Denis (Rackard) Brian Mullins, Cuddy, Paul O'Connor, David Henry Shefflin, Keaney, Conal Noel Hickey, Stephen Hiney, Joh Lyng,Derek Hanniffy, Rory Garry Hanniffy,Young, James Mick Jacob. L-R: Row Front , Murphy, Brendan Don Hyland, Brian Carroll, Liam Hyland,TommyWalsh, McGarry, James Franks, David (Capt),Michael Kavanagh Jacob, Rory Whelehan. Brian

38 RAILWAY CUP enjoyable by the hospitality afforded to us by the Irish Embassy and other members of the Irish IOMÁINT diaspora based in Rome and surrounding districts. In last year’s report I suggested that plans to bring the Railway Cups abroad would end up in I wish to place on record my thanks to team the waste paper basket. Obviously I had not captain Michael Kavanagh and his fellow players, taken into account the single-mindedness of Mr. Noel Skehan and his management team, the Croke Railway Cup himself, Noel Walsh from Clare. In Park representatives, the Connacht party and our the face of almost total opposition he managed hosts for a truly memorable sporting occasion. to engineer a situation whereby the 2003 Naturally those in charge of purse strings will Railway Cup hurling final was played in Rome. have a long hard look at bottom lines before Fortunately for Leinster we were lucky enough, decisions are taken on any repetition of the along with Connacht, to end up as part of this experiment but for 2003, at least, I have to say it historic occasion. was worth the effort. The weekend in Rome proved to be an PEIL outstanding success. Naturally, the fact that we Our footballers had to settle for the somewhat retained the title added somewhat to the less exotic surrounds of Enniskillen for their semi occasion but that really was the icing on the cake. final. Here they went to extra time before Players, mentors and officials enjoyed their trip to bowing out to eventual champions, Ulster. the historic city and it was made all the more

HURLING I look forward to the outcome of their In last year’s report I stuck my head above the deliberations when they get down to the work of parapet when making a few well-intentioned spreading the game at underage and school level proposals about the future health of hurling in and, particularly, when they concentrate on how Leinster. Bullets, spears and scuds of varying the game can be resuscitated at club level in the shapes and sizes were hurled in my direction but middle ground counties. when I later examined the debris I could not find one positive alternative proposal. This year I will keep the head down and hope to find an alternative way to get my message across to those who matter i.e. young people who want to play hurling and mentors who want to spread the hurling gospel.

The Hurling Development Committee has come forward with a number of proposals. Admittedly they are only one year into a three year term so it is understandable that they have, thus far, concentrated their efforts on inter-county matters At the feet of the Masters! and - in particular - the The next generation of hurlers soak up words of wisdom from D.J. elite hurling counties. and Henry Shefflin at the D.J. Carey School of Hurling

39 Leinster Gaelic Greats Hall of Fame The Leinster Gaelic Greats Hall of Fame was inaugurated in 2003.

The first greats to be honoured were Ducksie Walsh and Seán Óg Ó Ceallacháin.

40 COMPETITIONS REVIEW situation streamlined at Congress. Despite the A task force has been examining all aspects of very best of intentions of those vested with the inter-county activity, in hurling and football, task of this streamlining we have ended up with over the last few months. They are now putting a farcial situation. forward proposals for consideration at Congress and some of these make interesting reading. By tradition, and necessity, our Leinster Club Football Final (and often times semi finals and There is general agreement in Leinster that the replays) is played in December each year. As inter-county Junior Football and Intermediate things stand at present - no matter how serious Hurling Championships are serving very little an offence a player commits - he cannot be purpose. It is pleasing to note that the Task force prevented from playing in the final or any other would eliminate these competitions entirely. game in December or January. Likewise players Similarly their proposals in relation to the timing serving long term suspensions (up to two years) of the Under 21 inter county championships are eligible to play in competitions like the O’ would find favour in Leinster, while there seems Byrne Cup as long as they continue to be played to be broad acceptance of the proposals to in January. reduce county panels from thirty players to twenty four. There are numerous other anomalies in the situation as it stands at present. A situation However it is in the area of competition for which was created with the best of intentions weaker counties (labelled secondary has developed into an embarrassment. We are competitions) that I detect very little assured that further attempts will be made to enthusiasm for the Task force proposals. It is all correct it this year. Hopefully this time we will very fine to talk about playing the finals of these get it right. competitions in Croke Park but there is a long trek between Round One and the Final. Counties will have already been beaten twice in the championship before they enter these secondary competitions and do we really think players will be that enthused about the prospect of a third defeat in a few weeks?

The Task Force will find great support in Leinster for their proposals in relation to the organization of official inter-club Junior and Intermediate Championships. These competitions have become firmly established on the Leinster G.A.A. calendar and are contested with an enthusiasm on a par with any competition in the province. Grading of clubs may be a problem in hurling but nothing that a little strategic thinking would not solve.

DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES In my annual reports to Convention in 2000 and 2001 I wrote about the chaotic situation of the suspension regulations as they applied in the December / January Séamus McCormack of Meath shows the way to Kildare’s period. Last year I gave it a miss as I was Tadhg Fennin during the Lilywhite’s Leinster SFC Final defeat aware that moves were afoot to have the at the hands of Laois last July.

41 NEW PLAYERS INJURY SCHEME area of annual fees. They must also be prepared Many clubs at the moment are feeling the pain to take ownership of this new scheme and do of the new Players Injury Scheme (pardon the their utmost to eradicate fraudulent claims. pun). The new year has brought news of massive Otherwise the annual contribution will continue increases of contributions for both adult and to spiral or a substantial reduction of benefits youth teams. We hear expressions of shock and will ensue. dismay followed by dark forebodings of a drop off in the number of teams which clubs may Reducing the number of teams a club might field field in future. The reaction is to be expected each year is really a soft option. If a bunch of even if some of the comments are over the top. players want to play on a Junior ‘C’ team or a group of hurlers want to play in a football Having been at the coalface (as a member of the competition (or vice versa), then I cannot accept _ National Insurance Workgroup) when the new that a contribution of 650.00 should be a scheme was devised I have a fair knowledge of deterrent. Similarly a reduction of the number the background to the increases. In fact all of youth teams a club might field should not be involved at county and at club administration a direct result of the new Players Injury Scheme. level should well know where the problems occurred. My appeal is to county committees to accentuate the positives of the new scheme and Quite simply, as an Association we allowed a to ensure their clubs do not opt out of their perfectly good Voluntary Insurance Scheme fall obligations. by the wayside. We can blame the players for not participating but, honestly, have players or PLAYERS – players’ attitudes changed all that much in one AN ENDANGERED SPECIES? hundred and twenty years? They simply want to There was a time when players suffered from play the game and, for the most part, they pulled muscles, bad knees and various types of expect clubs and county committees to look cuts and bruises. The really serious cases were after incidental matters like provision of gear, those with broken limbs. Apart from the latter, travel expenses and compensation for out of the time lost from matches or training was pocket expenses, be it for loss of wages or minimal. Nowadays all that is changed utterly. medical or dental bills. This is normal and it is also how it has always been. Media previews nowadays for a round of the National League or a Championship Sunday are Given the foregoing, and given a scenario dominated by updates on a litany of injuries. whereby we needed to provide an annual fund of Perhaps the most frequent, and certainly the _ in excess of 7 million for an injury scheme, we most long term, is the dreaded cruciate were left with very little option other than the ligament. Surely it is more than coincidental that scheme which is now with us. There was of this particular injury is most prevalent in young course an option of taking an even bigger cut players around the late teens/early twenties age from gate receipts but this would merely lead to bracket. cutbacks in other vital areas and who is prepared to accept a reduction in grants for facilities or a Not being blessed with any medical experience reduction in the contribution towards coaching? whatsoever, I can only offer a layman’s view of where the problem lies. I honestly think we are There was also, of course, a further option of flogging these players to an inordinate degree leaving benefits as they were under the old both in the amount of games they are expected Players Injury Scheme but these have been to play and the training regimes they are outdated for many a year. expected to undergo.

The end result is that we have, as an Association, The top players in this age group are probably got to live with the new scheme. Clubs must playing Inter-County Senior, Under 21 and Third become more innovative about collecting funds Level Colleges. Some of them are even playing and more demanding of their membership in the

42 Dublin Under 21 football panel which defeated Longford to become Leinster Champions Back L-R: Conal Keaney, John Noonan, Declan O’Mahoney, , Paul Copeland, Padraig Brennan,Paul Griffin,Graham Cullen. Front L-R: Niall Cooper,Liam Óg Ó hÉineacháin,Nathan Kane,Alan Brogan (C),,Colin Prenderville,Mark Fitzpatrick. both hurling and football in these grades. This that some players can have up to six such means that, at times of the year, they may be managers at any one time – and that is not to expected to play two or three games a week. include his club manager(s) at home who will On top of that they are probably expected to also expect some allegiance. train with each team also. Basically, what I’m saying is that: (a) The situation needs urgent examination. Now, surely, there is only so much punishment a (b) Players are not best judges in these human body can take. There is no point in asking situations. players to cut down on their activity. Normal (c) Team Managers cannot really be young men will play as often as they get a game expected to concede any perceived and will not opt out of training for fear of losing advantage by releasing – or going easy on their place on a team. – players. (d) Experience tells us that county Recently we have seen much unseemly committees are reluctant to interfere in squabbling between County Senior Team team management. Management, Under 21 Managements and their counterparts in Third Level Colleges. Add to this Consequently I feel the solution lies in the hands the very public wrangling about dual players. of the fixtures makers – both those who devise Surely somebody must stand up and be counted competitions and those who decide on their in all this. Players must be protected, even if at timing. Hard decisions must be made about times they may not approve. matters such as: (a) Should we allow Under 21-Inter-County Team managers have one goal in life – i.e. to win and Third Level College competitions games and competitions. They demand the first overlap. allegiance of players. That is all very fine except

43 (b) Is there any need at all for Under 21 The purpose of this piece is an attempt to Inter-County Competition? initiate some positive dialogue rather than be (c) Should Under 21 at County level be an viewed as another negative outburst. Our adult grade of its own? players are suffering at our own hands and (d) Should we juggle Inter-County fixtures to nobody yet has shouted ‘stop’ – or at least have facilitate dual players. not done so loudly enough to be listened to in (e) Should there be a definite closed period the corridors of power. Please let somebody (games and training) from Inter-County address the issue before the next batch of activity. players is put on the sidelines with long term (f) Should there be a greater involvement of injuries. our medical committee and sports scientists in the preparation of our match programmes or training schedules?

CUMANN CAMÓGAÍOCHTA NA nGAEL

This year we salute and congratulate, the Association as they celebrate their centenary. From the humble beginnings of the first public game played at Páirc Tailteann the association has become a vibrant, well directed movement.

Here in Leinster the game has prospered in most counties and the wish would be that this centenary celebration would give the necessary impetus to those counties who are not so well organized.

Comhairle Laighean C.L.G. has always had a good working relationship with Cumann Camógaíochta na nGael. It is hoped that this will develop even further through assistance in matters like schools competitions and in the sharing of facilities.

Christine from Meath pic

44 DEPARTING FRIENDS SÉAMUS Ó hUÍLIN Our P.R.O’s term of office also expires at PÁDRAIG Ó FLANNAGÁIN this year’s convention. Our Treasurer, Seamus Howlin can Paddy Flanagan, retire from the post in has indicated that the knowledge that he he is not seeking did a good job and re-election this leaves the post in good year. It is only as standing. Convention gets nearer that the real All G.A.A. units need a significance of this good public relations element and Comhairle begins to sink in Laighean C.L.G. was fortunate in this regard. with me. As I chew Whether meeting and greeting government on what I might ministers or ordinary club members Seamus say about the man exuded a charm which put his guests at ease.We it begins to take form like an obituary but, wish him well in whatever role he now opts for believe me, this man is far from that section of in the Association. the newspaper. Then how do you pay tribute to a man you admire, are in awe of, respect utterly DÓNAL Ó NIALLÁIN and, at the same time, knowing that he detests Shortly after I was being spoken or written of in these kind of appointed secretary of terms? the Leinster Council G.A.A. Donie Nealon Paddy joined Comhairle Laighean C.L.G. as a took up a similar post delegate for Iarmhi in the mid sixties. For some with the Munster time now he has been the father of the council. Council. His term of He became treasurer of the council in 1993. office comes to an end Despite this title, Paddy concentrated on public this weekend. relations matters rather than finance. During almost thirty For many years he produced the Leinster years of co-operation with, and from, the man I Championships match programmes and set a received nothing but the utmost courtesy, standard which others then had to emulate. kindness and assistance from him. He was When he handed over this role to John Cotter, always considerate towards our officers when it Paddy continued to take an active and helpful came to a question of ‘Munster Tickets’ - one of role in the publications. the scarcest commodities in our business. We soldiered together on many Croke Park Presentation functions, convention committees and his common sense was a breath arrangements, publications and good image of fresh air on those bodies. Many far fetched were Paddy’s forte and Comhairle Laighean ideas would have gone forth but for the C.L.G. was the better for his involvement. At steadying influence of the Munster Secretary. meetings too, his years of experience were exemplified with quiet words of caution, nuggets Donie has one great passion in life and that is his of advice and a definite soft spot for the love of hurling. I hope he continues in some underdog. capacity in the promotion of the game. I hope, too, that he continues to hit the little white ball I will always remember his loyalty to me, long and straight down the fairways and that he personally, and to the council in general. For continues to be selected on the Munster Council once it can be truly said that ‘Ní bheidh a Golf team - it would not be nearly as enjoyable leithéid ann arís.’ beating them if Donie was not on board.

45 BUÍOCHAS SUB-COMMITTEES On behalf of Comhairle Laighean C.L.G. I would Our numerous Sub-Committees present their like to extend our sincere gratitude to a number own activity reports in the second half of this of groups and individuals without whom our booklet. I merely wish to congratulate and thank duties and responsibilities would be well nigh them on a very positive year’s work. impossible to fulfil. COUNTY COMMITTEES PLAYERS The Leinster Council G.A.A. is as strong, or weak, To players at all levels, club and inter-county, I as its twelve constituent County Committees. extend thanks for their loyalty to our games and We are blessed to have vibrant officer boards in for the entertainment they provide. all twelve counties – who, despite occasional differences of opinion, give the Council total REFEREES AND MATCH OFFICIALS loyalty and co-operation. Personally I again We are blessed in Leinster with an excellent thank the twelve apostles i.e. the County group of referees. Not all of them get recognised Secretaries for their continuing support. for the bigger games but they continue to give excellent service at the lower grades and PROGRAMME PRODUCER/ particularly in Second Level School fixtures. COMMERICAL MANAGER The indefatigable John Cotter produced another The common sense approach of our fine series of match programmes for the Leinster administrator Pierce Freaney rubs off on his Senior Championships. Aided and abetted by his charges and results in it being a joy to work with own backroom team he never fails to meet a this group of men. Naturally any word of praise deadline even if at times he walks a very tricky has also to include linesmen, umpires, sideline tightrope. officials and assessors. In the area of sponsorship and other commercial SCHOOLS DEVELOPMENT OFFICERS activity John also provides the Council with an As games in the schools sector – primary, second excellent service and I thank him for that. and third level – continue to expand there is an ever growing workload and expectation on our ÁRD CHOMHAIRLE people in this field. Once again our team PAIRC AN CHRÓCAIGH TEO continued to give an excellent service in the year After years of expression there is a danger it gone by and for this I salute Tom O’Donnell, might become clichéd but once again I want to Michael Reynolds, Hannah Horan, Tom express my heartfelt gratitude to An tÁrd Fitzpatrick, Jim O’Donovan, Fergal Giles and Pat Stiúrthoír and all his staff for their continued, Henderson. and indeed increased, assistance, advice and courtesy to Comhairle Laighean staff, members I would also include in this tribute the and officers. development officers, full-time and part-time, in our Third Level Institutions. In the course of some hard bargaining – where we usually finish second! – we have come to COACHING DIRECTORS/G.P.O.’s know the Pairc An Chrocaigh Teo staff very well A glance at the report of our Coaching and also. Their help has been immense and I thank in Games Development Committee indicates the particular Peter McKenna, Deborah Kavanagh level of underage activity – on and off the field – and Seámus Meade. To all the members of the in the province. This is overseen and directed by ticketing department I also extend my gratitude. our three Coaching Directors – Lester Ryan, Noel Delaney and Gerard O’Connor. Their agents in the counties are the Games Promotion Officers and I compliment all of them on their work.

46 MEDIA As part of our co-operative venture with D.C.U. The Leinster Council, its games and activities got we had Rob McCabe on our staff for most of last a very balanced and extensive coverage from all year. I think the arrangement was mutually sections of the media in the year under review. beneficial though Rob must have had some There may not always have been mutual mixed feelings in late July – he was a member of meetings of mind but we continue to respect the Kildare squad defeated by Laois in the each other’s position. Leinster Senior Football Final. Bringing balance to the operation of course was the fact that My thanks to the national newspapers, radio, Laois defender, Aidan Fennelly, was also on our television, local radio and provincial newspapers staff for the Summer season. for their daily and weekly coverage. We also appreciate the coverage of our games afforded Having enjoyed the company, and initiative, of a to us by the many Gaelic Games Magazines now Dub and Lily White, in the scheme, in the last on the bookshelves. two years we now look forward to working with a Meath woman – Niamh Hetherington. STAFF The Áras Laighean team of Patricia, Hannah, Julie Ráth dé oraibh go léir and Michael Reynolds put in another great stint dealing with county officers, general public and Micheál Ó Dubhshláine other various callers to our Headquarters. The transition to our new offices was seamless and culminated in a very successful opening ceremony.

47 The Leinster U-21 Hurling Champions Kilkenny panel which defeated Galway in the All-Ireland finalAll-Ireland in the at defeated Galway panel which Champions Kilkenny Leinster U-21 Hurling The Back L-R: S Hennessy, K Coogan,TWalsh, C Phelan, (C),Tyrrell J C Hickey, P Cleere, J Phelan, C Dunne,Seated L-R: S O’Neill. G Joyce, A Fogarty, M Ricre, R O'Neill, D Herity, M Phelan, J Delaney, B Dowling,W O'Dwyer. L-R:Front C O'Neill, E McCormack, M Grace, C O'Loughlin, N Moran, N Doherty, M Phelan, N Sweeney.

50 Sub-Committee Reports 2003

LEINSTER COACHING AND GAMES DEVELOPMENT a General b Leinster Hurling Development Report c Leinster Football Development Report d Cumann na mBunscol Laighean e Comhairle Iarbhunscoileanna Laighean Report f Leinster Third Level Colleges Report g Leinster Tutors Report h Leinster Handball Report

LEINSTER REFEREES ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT

LEINSTER P.R., MARKETING & I.T. REPORT

LEINSTER CLUB ORGANISATION & DEVELOPMENT REPORT

LEINSTER CLUB FIXTURES REPORT

LEINSTER DEVELOPMENT (Health & Safety) REPORT

LEINSTER DEVELOPMENT (Grounds & Facilities) REPORT

LEINSTER COMHAIRLE & I.T. TRAINING REPORT

COISDE SCÓR LAIGHEAN

51 and Aisling O hAnnaidh,Wicklowand (UCD). treet), Horan, Andrew (NUI Maynooth), Offaly irman, Leinster CLG), Dunne Jimmy k's Drumcondra), Michael Griffin, Dublin oyne, (Mater Dei Dublin) Kilkenny and Michael Doyle,Wexford (St. Drumcondra). Patrick's Back L-R: McNulty, Peter Laois (UCD), Eoghan Franks, IT), (Carlow Offaly Brian O'Reilly, (DCU), Meath Doran, John (DIT Bolton S Kildare O'Brien,John Louth (DKIT) and Damien O'Reilly, Dublin (DCU). Comhairle Laighean Bursaries 2003 Comhairle L- R:Front Kelly, Emer Miley,WicklowAdrian (NUI Maynooth) (Athlone IT), Kildare Caitriona Power, Dublin (TCD), (Cha Brennan Nickey Committee), and Games Development (Chairman of the Leinster Coaching Caitriona Power, Dublin (TCD), Emilie Darmody, (UCD) Kilkenny Middle L-R: Bolton, Pauric Laois (St. Drumcondra), Patrick's Shane Kerrigan, Kinsella, Conor Louth (NUI Maynooth) (St. Kilkenny Patric IT),(Tallaght Mitchell, David Dublin (TCD), Liam Burke, Street),Aungier Laois (DIT Behan, Johnny Laois (DIT Bolton Street), H Ciaran

52 Coaching & Games Development Committee Report

Coaching & Games Development Committee Jimmy Dunne (Cathaoirleach), John McCarthy (Rúnaí), Paul Kinsella (Cumann na mBunscol), Michael Reynolds (Secondary Schools), Michael Farrell (Vocational Schools), Martin Maher (Third Level Colleges), John Horan (Football Dev. Committee), Paddy Kelly (Hurling Dev. Committee), Noel O’Sullivan (Tutors Group), Tom Walsh (Liathróid Láimhe), Paddy Oliver (Lú), Brian Carberry (Mhí), John Bailey (Baile Átha Cliath), Martin Coleman (Cill Mhantáin), Willie Carley (Loch Garman), John McCarthy (Cill Dara), Ger Lennon (Ceatharloch), Tom O’Hanlon (Cill Chainnigh), Johnny Dalton (Laois), Ollie Daly (Uibh Fháilí), Seamus Ó Faoláin (Iar Mhí), Eugene Quaine (Longfort).

Coaching & Games Development Executive Committee Jimmy Dunne (Cathaoirleach), John McCarthy (Rúnaí), Paul Kinsella (Cumann na mBunscol), Michael Reynolds (Secondary Schools), Michael Farrell (Vocational Schoools), Martin Maher (Third Level Colleges), John Horan (Football Dev. Committee), Paddy Kelly (Hurling Dev. Committee), Noel O’Sullivan (Tutors Group), Tom Walsh (Liathróid Láimhe), Martin Coleman (Cill Mhantáin), Willie Carley (Loch Garman), Ger Lennon (Ceatharloch) & Ollie Daly (Uibh Fháilí).

Coaching & Games Development Management Committee Jimmy Dunne (Cathaoirleach), John McCarthy (Rúnaí), Michael Delaney (Rúnaí Comhairle Laighean), Michael Reynolds (2nd Level Schools -Non Dublin), Tom O’Donnell (2nd Level Schools -Dublin), Tom Fitzpatrick (Cumann na mBuncsol -Dublin), Lester Ryan (Senior Coaching Director), Noel Delaney (Coaching Director), & Gerard O’Connor (Coaching Director).

Coaching & Games • The expansion of the Urban Projects in Development Committee Dublin. During the year under the review the ongoing • The production of two issues of Lar Pairce. development and expansion of games promotion continued within the province. While • Liaison with the Third Level Colleges in most people are aware of what is happening at assisting with their programme of this level it is worth chronicling some of the activities. areas that our various committees have been involved in during 2003. • Support of new Bona Fide Clubs. • The D.J. Carey School of Hurling. • The expansion of our support to Third Level Colleges. • The implementation of the Catch and Kick Competition. • Supporting the Under 17 Rules International Series. • Preparation of the oncoming Lift and Strike Competition. • Preparing for Summer Camps 2004.

53 GAMES PROMOTION OFFICERS

COUNTIES

LOUTH John Byrne MEATH Christine O’Brien Dudley Farrell DUBLIN Annette Billings Therese Carey DESIGNATED AREAS Peter Elliott Mairead McGahon Martin Nolan Paul McManus Eimear Dignam WICKLOW Hugh Kenny WEXFORD Jimmy Furlong KILDARE David Murphy Noel Mooney CARLOW Brendan Hayden Johnny Nevin KILKENNY Briain Ryan George Leahy LAOIS Ciarán Muldowney OFFALY John Leahy WESTMEATH Michael McHugh Comhairle Laighean gives a e6,350 grant towards a FAS Scheme in Iar Mhí. LONGFORD T.J. Ward Mary Burke Noel Boyce (Hurling)

THIRD LEVEL COLLEGES Dundalk I.T. Michael Heeney Athlone I.T. Garry Sammon Carlow I.T. Valerie Crean U.C.D. Dave Billings D.C.U. Tom O’Donnell (also acts as the Dublin Second Level Schools Development Officer) D.I.T. Des O’Donnell Trinity College Ray O’Brien St. Pat’s College Tom Fitzpatrick Blanchardstown I.T. Ronan Keaskin (combined with the promotion of other sports) Tallaght I.T. Gerry Anderson Maynooth Tom Maher

OTHER Second Level Schools – Non-Dublin Michael Reynolds (also Assistant Chief Executive of Comhairle Laighean) Senior Coaching Director - South Leinster Lester Ryan Coaching Director - North Leinster Noel Delaney Coaching Director - Dublin Gerard O’Connor

54 • Inter County and Club Blitzes in both numbers even further. This year we have Hurling and Football. changed our presentation to include a full set of playing gear for each participant. It should prove • Assisting with the Pilot Programme for very attractive to all attending the camps. Level 2 Coaching. Hurling Promotions While this list indicates some of the activities The Hurling and Football Committees have that were ongoing within the province, likewise comprehensive reports for your attention, never within the counties there was huge growth in the less it warrants that I report on the success the development of our games. of the D.J. Carey School of Hurling. This two To capitalise on this development it is week hurling promotion was without doubt an imperative that each county has an active outstanding success. It shows what can be done Coaching and Games Development Committee with a little bit of co-operation and support. All meeting on a regular basis, receiving reports the players attending the school were so from all the relevant committees working within enthusiastic and the fact the many inter county the county. The committee should also have a stars attended along with D.J. Carey, added to role in a work programme for the County Games their enjoyment. It was an outstanding success. Promotion Officers, the implementation of Another very positive initiative which is now which should be monitored and evaluated on an part of our fixtures calendar is the Indoor ongoing basis. Wheelchair Hurling Tournament. Organised by Tim Maher in St Mary’s Hospital and Residential Reports from theses committees should be on School, it commences in October and finishes in the agenda for each County Committee a grand final in May. With excitement, meeting. This allows all club delegates to be enthusiasm and colour the Final Day is a great aware of the work that is current within the day for the participants, parents and supporters. county. County Coaching & Games Committees Designated Urban Project - Ath Cliath Each year the Coaching and Games The expansion of the Dublin Designated Urban Development Committee provides a budget for Scheme has proved very successful without any consideration by the Leinster Council layers of bureaucratic administration, The Management Committee. This is based on our National Sports Council, along with the National projected requirement for the coming year. As Coaching and Games Development Committee you can see from the financial report presented has joined with Comhairle Laighean in to the convention today we have the highest developing a role model that is increasing expenditure of any committee. This is tangible participation of young children in our National evidence of a council that is committed to our Games and assisting in delivering on social games and coaching programme. It also places inclusion and also heightening the profile of our huge responsibility on the committee to ensure games in Dublin within the schools and local good fiscal management and to make sure that communities. funds made available to the committee are invested as intended. During the past year many Summer Camps counties and some clubs requested financial Last year we witnessed an increase in the support for projects that they had implemented. attendances at our Summer Camps. This is due It would be a very popular decision to finance all in no small way to the amount of work put in by of them. However the funds to do so are not at the Leinster Coaching Directors and the County our disposal. Games Promotion Officers. With more competition coming into this area we must This year every county in Leinster showed a always be willing to change our strategy. The surplus in their financial reports for the year National Coaching and Games Development 2003. In some cases the money spent by the Committee recently received a presentation for County Committees would not reflect that there the marketing of our camps on a national basis. is huge investment by them in games promotion This has the potential of increasing our camps and yet the Leinster Council has been criticised

55 for not supporting some county projects. Each Those receiving bursary awards for 2003 / 2004 year the expenditure on county teams increases, were: but counties do not cut back in this area instead they spend more. Name College County Adrian Kelly Athlone IT Kildare In 2002 Leinster Council invested 1.3m in games Eoghan Franks Carlow IT Offaly promotion. This was over 20% of its total Damien O’Reilly DCU Dublin income. Currently approaches are being made at Brian O’Reilly DCU Meath national level to the National Sport Council to increase fund for games promotion. It is hoped Liam Bourke DIT Aungier St. Laois that the negotiations will have a positive result John Doran DIT Bolton St. Kildare and will allow an expansion of financial Johnny Behan DIT Bolton St. Laois investment in games development. John O’Brien DKIT Louth Ciaran Hoyne Mater Dei Dublin Kilkenny Dual Players Emer Miley NUI Maynooth Wicklow An issue that has come into focus in recent Andrew Horan NUI Maynooth Offaly times in the role of the dual player. We have heard the dictate of some county team Shane Kerrigan NUI Maynooth Louth managers indicating that players can only play Pauric Bolton St. Patricks Laois one game. This has caused confusion in many Drumcondra areas especially at school level where teachers Micheal Doyle St. Patricks Wexford and coaches are trying to encourage our young Drumcondra players to participate in both codes. At club level Conor Kinsella St. Patricks Kilkenny team mentors are already aware of change in Drumcondra emphasis where children are taking account of Michael Griffin Tallaght IT Dublin what is being published as if it were G.A.A. policy. The issue has been raised at many of our David Mitchell TCD Dublin meetings and I feel that it is imperative that a Caitriona Power TCD Dublin clear message should be sent out that we Ciara Lucey UCD Dublin encourage both our field games and not allow a Peter McNulty UCD Laois policy to be implemented that runs contrary to Aisling Ó hAnnaidh UCD Wicklow Association Policy. Emilie Darmody UCD Kilkenny Honours Tomas Mac Giolla Phadraig who is our Games Crioch and Coaching Director in St Patrickís Teacher The Cathaoirleach and Leas Cathaoirleach of Training College was singled out for an award by Comhairle Laighean who have great experience the college for his outstanding contribution to in the Coaching and Games Development along the Clubs and Societies within the college. It with the Management Committee have been was richly deserved. His input into the games most supportive of our committee. and other areas of education within the college is now and will in the future prove to be very The co-operation of the Rúnaí Micheal Ó beneficial to the Association. We congratulate Dubhshláine and Michael Reynolds has always Tomas on receiving this award. been forthcoming. Patricia Clear who handles the administration side of our affairs is always Bursaries willing to help in any way possible. This is the fourth year of the bursaries awards scheme and twenty two students were Our Leinster Coaching Directors Lester Ryan, presented with bursaries to assist them with Noel Delaney and Gerard OíConnor continue to their third level college education. The give excellent service to the council. Their work presentations were made by Cathaoirleach has been commended at national level and may Comhairle Laighean, Nioclas Ó Braonáin at a of their projects and innovations have been function in Pairc an Chrocaigh last December.

56 taken on by the other provinces. We owe them a The chairman and secretaries of the various sub- debt of gratitude for all their work. committees for their assistance and co- operation along with the teachers at all levels for The County Games Promotion Officers who are their goodwill, support and commitment to delivering the various coaching programmes Gaelic Games. within the counties are to be commended on their professionalism and dedication to their work. Séamus Ó Duinn Cathaoirleach I acknowledge the dedication of the County Coaching Officers for all their work within the Sean Mac Carthaigh counties and the manner in which they Rúnaí represent their own county at provincial level.

Leinster Special Under-21 Hurling Champions Westmeath Back L-R: Colm McCormack, Pat Burke, (C), Keith Fitzpatrick, Adrian Smyth, John Fagan, Mark McNicholas, John Curran, Padraig Fanning, Damien Grifferty. Front L-R: Fergal Moran, Damien Fagan, Enda Murray, Daniel Clune, Enda Loughlin, Conaire Flanagan, Shane Owens, Derek McNicholas.

57 gnan, an, The Meath panel which defeated Longford at Páirc Tailteann to become Leinster Junior Hurling Champions Hurling to become Leinster Junior Tailteann at Páirc defeated Longford panel which Meath The Back L-R: Ferguson, Conor Dermot Doyle, Doherty, Colm Liam Newman,Tom McKeown, Charlie Usher, Ledwith,Trevor Cummins, David Dui Seamus Curley,Ronan Christopher Doyle,Vinny Dowley, Smyth. Fergus L-R:Front Flynn, Colm Barry Ferguson, McGowan, David Troy, Melia, Joe David Gaughan (Capt), Dave Fagan, Fergus Eiffe, David Harm Fergus Hanley,Paul Reilly, Owen Murray. Benny

58 Coaching & Games Development Committee Report Leinster Coaching Directors Report

Coaching Officers / Games Promotions Officers To assist in the planning, organising and running of a full programme of activities within each County a constant flow of information, between the Coaching Officers, Games Promotions Officers and Leinster Coaching Directors is vitally important. A high level of contact is maintained by :

• Phone/E-Mail/Fax

• Work schedules/planner

• Individual meetings

• Group Meetings The Programme of Coaching and Games (North, South and Dublin) Development within the Province includes a variety of initiatives with the Coaching Directors • In Service Training days heavily involved in these areas: (for the Games Promotions Officers)

• Coaching Officers Central Grant Allocations / Games Promotions Officers Each year, considerable grant allocations from Croke Park/Pat Daly are available to the area of • Grant allocations Coaching and Games Development in each County.The Coaching Directors - working closely • Provincial Indoor Hurling. with Coaching Officers - administer this funding, ensuring the various areas receive appropriate • Leinster Super Sevens assistance.

• Dublin Urban Area Projects In 2003, funding was distributed under the following headings: • Summer Camps • Sceim Peil • DJ Carey School Of Hurling • Sceim Iomana • Bursaries • Primary School • Teacher Training Colleges • Post Primary School • McDonald’s Catch & Kick • Schools of Excellence • In-Service Training To ensure this area, and all Coaching issues, run • Servicing Officers as efficiently as possible, the Coaching Directors have frequent meetings with Coaching Officers.

59 These meetings are minuted - giving a good record to all involved as regards progress in the various areas in each County.

Grant Allocations 2004 The funding areas for the current year has changed slightly, with the allocations now under the following headings and Counties formulating Plans accordingly:

Primary School e10,000 Post Primary School e10,000 Juvenile Club e10,000 Schools of Excellence e10,000 Development Squads e10,000 Coach Education e5,000

Going forward, there will be ongoing meetings in Croke Park where all planning issues will be dealt with. Pat Daly and Provincial Games Managers – Kilkenny star forward, , Joey Carton and Pat O’Shea (Munster), John presenting hurls and sliotars to all competitors Tobin (Connaught),Terrence McWilliams (Ulster) and Leinster personnel – form the basis for these meetings, which should lead to a standardisation of approach to Coaching and Games Development matters across the thirty-two Counties.

Provincial Indoor Hurling Initiative The National Basketball Arena, Tallaght, was the venue for the Provincial Indoor Hurling Blitz on December 11th last. All twelve Counties took part with Primary School (fourth class) being the target age group.

The day began at 11.00am and with three pitches in operation simultaneously, by lunchtime, all teams had played three games. On the basis of morning results teams were graded into three new groupings. In these new groups, counties played semi-finals, with six teams involved in finals. While we all know Kilkenny had a great year - winning finals in practically all Jimmy Dunne, Gerry Grogan, Lester Ryan and grades - it is not widely known that Longford some of the competitors at the Blitz in Tallaght beat Kilkenny in the showcase Indoor Hurling Final in Tallaght! This event has proved popular over the last A feature of the day was the presentation of a number of years and is seen as the start of hurley and sliotar to all competitors. These were indoor hurling activity ran across the Province- presented by Kilkenny star, Eddie Brennan, who with Cumann na mBunscol and Games had words of encouragement for all players and Promotion Officers working closely in this area. signed autographs on the day also.

60 Midlands Radio 3 / Accelerated Drains Leinster Super Sevens

Second Level Internal Leagues

Introduction Midlands Radio 3 catchment’s area - Laois, Offaly, Westmeath - was the target area for this new and exciting initiative aimed at first year students at Second Level. While formal competitions do cater for some first years, the general feeling was that there is scope for John Leahy (Offaly Games Promotion Officer) development at local level or internal to presenting teacher Gary Kiernan with a Polo Top individual schools. on behalf of Oaklands CC, Edenderry – Leinster Super Sevens Offaly Champions in Boys With this in mind, the target was to get as many Football. Second Level Schools as possible organising 7-a- side internal leagues in four codes:

• Hurling • Football County Final Days • Camogie • Ladies Football With various internal leagues running in February, March and April, the County Finals (for This in turn would lead to a County Final Blitz internal league winners) were fixed for early May Day where all winning teams would come - with Mullingar, Banagher and Portlaoise being forward and compete to be the ‘Super Sevens’ the venues. Champions! Each of these days took considerable If this could be achieved it would generate a organisation with so many teams/pitches huge amount of Gaelic Games activity amongst operating at once. In each case, the football and students who would probably otherwise, not be camogie were completed in the morning involved. (10.00am - 12.00noon) with hurling and ladies football being the focus for the afternoon Uptake - Schools (1.00pm - 3.00pm). The initiative proved hugely successful with over eighty leagues running across the three counties Presentations and approximately 30 schools involved. The Each of the winning teams in each of the four following table gives a breakdown of school codes received a hooded top. This proved hugely involvement. popular amongst the players. Number of Schools involved Planning 2004 Football Hurling Ladies F’ball Camogie From the success of the initiative in 2003 our sponsor (John Foley-Accelerated Drain Cleaning Westmeath 10 8 9 6 Ltd.), is ‘on board’ again for the current academic Offaly 10 10 9 6 year - with the project running in an additional five Counties. From a relatively small beginning Laois 7 5 5 2 the initiative is going from strength to strength.

61 Dublin Urban Area Projects Area 3 (Start Date of this Project was July 2003) A very positive development this year was the Participating Clubs Croí Ro Naofa GAA Club launching of the Urban Club Projects. In Commercials Hurling Club developing this model of Coaching and Games Project Manager Maireád McGahon Development between Clubs, Comhairle Area 4 (Start Date of this Project was July 2003) Laighean is providing innovative solutions by Participating Clubs St. Kevin’s Hurling Club developing partnerships that would enable the Liffey Gaels GAA Club delivery of key objectives in a cost effective and Project Manager Paul McManus progressive manner. This new venture offered the participating clubs with a unique Area 5 (Start Date of this Project was July 2003) management and reporting structure that gives Participating Clubs Clontarf GAA clear ownership to the Programme. The St. Joseph OCB GAA Club participating clubs, supported also by the Clanna Gael GAA Club National Coaching & Games Development Project Manager Eimear Dignam Committee and the Irish Sports Council, are joint stakeholders in this new model. Area 6 (Start Date of this Project is 20th January 2004) Participating Clubs Scoil Uí Chonaill GAA Club Project Managers are assigned to a number of Craobh Chiaráin GAA Club clubs in a specific geographic area. To date, there Project Manager Mark King are seventeen (17) clubs on board with eight (8) full time Project Managers. The current Dublin Area 7 (Start Date of this Project is 20th January 2004) Area Project scheme has the following Participating Clubs Ballymun K’hams GAA Club participants: Setanta Hurling Club Project Manager Larry Mc Dermott Area 1 (Start Date of this Project was January 2003) Participating Clubs Crumlin GAA Club Area 8 (Start Date of this Project is 20th January 2004) Good Counsel GAA Club Participating Clubs St Margaret’s GAA Club Project Manager Peter Elliott St Finian’s Swords GAA Club Area 2 (Start Date of this Project was January 2003) Project Manager Daire O’Neill Participating Clubs Trinity Gaels GAA Club Naomh Barróg GAA Club Plans are under way to explore the possibility of Project Manager Martin Nolan further Urban Projects in the coming year.

Leinster Officials Jimmy Dunne, Nickey Brennan and Gerard O’Connor with recently appointed Urban Managers – Mark King, Larry McDermott and Daire O’Neill

62 Again this year, a high percentage of the Coaches were Second Level students and they carried out their work to the highest standards.

The valuable experience that these students have gained while working on the Summer Camps should encourage them to stay involved within the GAA.

Camp Charges The average cost of the GAA Summer Camps was _35. The feedback to this charge was very positive considering what each child received PlayStation Leinster GAA during the camp. Summer Camps 2003 Attendance 2003 The PlayStation Leinster Summer Camps of 2003 have proven to be the most successful COUNTY Girls Boys TOTALS Hurling Football Combined camps ever organised by the Leinster Council. Kildare 740 130 2470 350 1414 2470 Through the months of July and August Laois 346 617 963 252 328 383 approximately 23,100 young boys and girls Carlow 118 742 860 410 666 42 attended Football and Hurling Summer Camps Kilkenny 250 754 1004 968 36 0 throughout the Province.There were many Wicklow 770 1400 2170 525 645 0 reasons for the success of the camps this year - Wexford 500 1406 1906 1278 628 0 Louth 397 1139 1536 184 1352 0 quality coaching, attractive pack and value for Longford 381 738 1119 0 0 1119 money, to mention but a few. Offaly 614 1224 1838 0 120 1718 Meath 1100 2150 3250 575 2528 147 Summer Camp Pack Westmeath 390 1058 1448 352 1096 0 The feedback to this year’s Summer Camp pack Dublin 1250 3102 4352 1708 2644 0 was very positive. ‘Excellent value for money’, Kildare 740 1730 2470 350 1414 706 ‘very colourful’, ‘cool’, ‘superb value’, ‘a credit to the GAA’ were just some of the comments attributed to the Playstation Leinster GAA pack Guest Players by Parents and Children. The contents of the The Leinster council funded the cost of a "Guest pack were; Player" attending hurling camps throughout the Province. Rory McCarthy was a huge success and • Leinster Cap very popular in all the camps he visited. • T-Shirt • Sports Bag • Water-bottle • Football / Sliotar and Grip

Since all the items were very colourfully printed, they will also be an extra source of promotion for the Summer Camps throughout the year.

Summer Camp Coaches As in previous years, each County provided training for their Summer Camp Coaches. Action from a PlayStation Leinster Summer Camp in Trim – with Christine O’Brien supervising this Special Needs group.

63 Counties were also given a contribution from the Since last Convention, 850 students in St Leinster Council towards organising football Patrick’s, Marino & Froebel Colleges have players to visit football camps within each completed one of the 23 courses presented by County. Leinster Coaching Directors and GPOs. Students have been eager to undertake the courses that This element of the Summer Camp Schedule has aim to instil confidence and competence when continued to be extremely popular. In addition coaching groups of pupils in primary schools to being a major attraction for the participants, during PE classes. Students also enjoyed their the visits of guest players also serve to raise the visit to Croke Park where the certificates were profile of the camps and boost the overall presented by Chairman Coaching & Games, Summercamp promotional campaign. Séamas Ó Duinn.

Johnny Dooley also visited a number of camps in Comhairle Laighean is delighted to acknowledge North Leinster. the work that primary school teachers do in the promotion of Gaelic Games and is pleased with DJ Carey School Of Hurling the positive feedback from the Colleges The Leinster Coaching Directors were very concerning the education programme in heavily involved with all aspects of the Drumcondra, Marino & Blackrock. successful D.J.Carey School of Hurling Initiative, from the planning and organising to the running McDonald’s Catch & Kick stages. The initiative proved hugely popular and Programme will be repeated in the Summer of 2004. The Catch & Kick programme was launched last year along side the National under-age Strategic Third Level Bursaries plan. The Leinster Third Level Bursary scheme forms a core part of the Leinster Coaching and Games This programme was designed to maximise Development Programme. participation and improve playing standards for Primary school children in 5th and 6th classes. Now in its fourth year the award scheme Catch & Kick consists of three main parts: recognises students from within the province who display a commitment to the G.A.A in their 1 Coaching Inputs own colleges. 2 The Skill Challenge 3 Fun Blitzes It has been evident that the Bursary Scheme helps to increase the profile of Gaelic Games in Each county in the province participated in the Third Level Colleges in the province - thus programme, running off regional and County highlighting the Council’s commitment to this Finals, progressing to the National Final, which sector. took place during the All- Ireland Football semi- finals. To date, there are seventy students receiving funding thought the Comhairle Laighean Third Level Bursary Scheme.

Teacher Training Colleges - Course Inputs to this Sector

Comhairle Laighean coach education department has delivered a programme offering student teachers tailor-made courses that address Class Management, Warm up activities, Fundamental Techniques and Modified Games.

64 In-Service Training for Leinster Coaching and Games Promotion Officers - January 2004 The In-service training programme offered to the full time coaching staff in the province is designed to challenge and explore new aspects of the coaching process. Key areas that the Games Promotion Officers participated in were: Technical, Tactical, Biomechanics and Psychological. The Annual in-service provides opportunities to the coaching staff to expand their coaching knowledge and up date on any new ideas. John Morrison working on the finer points of the The training aims to achieve the following: ‘block down’ – assisted by Noel Mooney (Kildare)

• To maximise the learning experiences for the coaching Team presented ideas on| the coaching continuum. • To interact with other coaches from This model of sports developments looks at the different counties acquisition of basic skills from foundation stage • To look at their own performance and to Excellence, other contributions were: evaluate. • Personal Development. • Developmental Characteristic of a child • Activities for gross motor skills Inputs that were delivered in this years in- • Stages of Training service as follows: • Fundamentals

TOPICS The workshop addressed key issues when Wed 7th Jan DCU working with Nursery groups and highlighted Developing Components of Physical Fitness the challenges when advising and designing & Field Testing appropriate programmes for these age groups. Dr. Niall Moyna Developing Reaction Anticipation Skills Thursday 8th Jan Cellbridge St Kieran’s College was the venue and P.E. Coaching Continuum Teacher, Billy Bolster was the facilitator for this John Morrison presentation which dealt with ‘reaction’. All found the day interesting and no doubt his Wed 14th Jan St Kieran’s activities and drills will be put into practice. Developing Reaction/Anticipation Skills Billy Bolster Developing Presentation and Demonstration skills Thursday 15th Jan Celbribge Brendan Harpur and Jim Ryan provided the Presentation and Demonstration Skills/ training in this area - both are very experienced Level One Tutor Training Trainers. The focus of this course was to assist Brendan Harpur/Jim Ryan coaches to apply presentation and demonstration skills directly related to Friday 16th Jan Celbridge delivering Technical 1,2 and 3 of the Level I Presentation and Demonstration Skills/ Coaching courses .All the participants had Level One Tutor Training opportunities to deliver presentations and to Brendan Harpur/Jim Ryan practice Talks and receive feedback with the aid Coaching Continuum of video. John Morrison, a master Tutor from Ulster,

65 Leinster Games Promotion Officers, Dublin Urban Managers, and Dublin Club Coaches with the Coaching Directors at the recent In-Service Training.

During the practical Demonstrations, each tutor [over 200 games in 2003] in both hurling and was assigned 12 participants to and act as football, there is quite an amount of planning facilitator and give feedback to GPOs. This and administration involved. module of the in-service was very beneficial with a good blend of the theoretical and Gerard O’Connor is servicing officer to the practical aspects of presentation and Leinster Tutor Group whose primary function is demonstration skills. to plan and deliver Coaching Courses (Level One mainly) at Provincial Level. With Coaches Attendance continually looking for new ideas and seeking to The In-Service training was very well attended improve by all of the Coaching and Games Promotion Officers over the five days. In addition the Leinster Coaching and Games Development Acknowledgements Committee extended an invitation to Dublin The Coaching Directors would like to thank Club coaches and County Coaches to attend Games Promotion Officers and County Coaching "specific training days". Officers and all who were involved in our activities throughout the year.

Servicing Officers A special word of thanks to Patricia Clear, the - Provincial Committees staff of Áras Laighean and Jimmy Dunne and A relatively new aspect to the Coaching John McCarthy – Chairman/Secretary of the Directors work is that for three specific Leinster Coaching and Games Development committees, they act as servicing officers. Lester Committee. Ryan is on the Hurling Development Committee and works closely with Paddy Kelly and Jim Ryan (Chairman and Secretary respectively) and similarly Noel Delaney is on the Football Committee where John Horan and Michael McHugh hold executive positions.

The primary role of both these committees is to plan and implement a games programme for underage county squads at Provincial level. With games at U-14, U-15, U-16 and Minor (league)

66 Coaching & Games Development Committee Report Leinster Hurling Development Committee Report

Our calendar of events for 2003 was as follows: May 10th 2003 - Under-16 blitz in Longford with the following teams: Westmeath, Meath, Kildare, Wicklow, Carlow, Longford and Louth. Thanks to Longford Slashers who staged the Blitz and the Longford Hurling Officials.

I would like to start off my report by thanking all July 5th 2003 - Under 16 blitz the members of our hardworking committee for in Taghmon,Wexford with the following teams: their work in 2003: Dublin(2), Kilkenny(3), Wexford(2), Laois(1), Offaly(1), Waterford(1). Lester Ryan, Jim Ryan, Thanks to Mick Kinsella and the Wexford John Comerford (Kilkenny), Officials for a very well run blitz. Dermot Healy (Dublin), Michael Kinsella (Wexford), All Ireland under 16 ‘B’ Tom Kirwan (Meath), - Leinster Section including Kerry. Ger Curtin (Kildare), J.J.Murphy (Louth), Teams: Meath, Carlow, Wicklow, Kildare, Lisa Brady (Longford), P.J.Fox (Carlow), Westmeath, Kerry, Longford. Pat Delaney (Laois), Tom Byrne (Wicklow), Seamus Whelan (Westmeath), The Leinster section of this competition was Ollie Daly (Offaly). very well run and resulted in a Leinster Final of Meath and Carlow, which Meath won on the day, I think groups like ours are only tipping at the in Tullamore. It was a pity after all our efforts to iceberg and we are very limited as to what we run this competition properly at Leinster level can do to help with the promotion of the game. and our requests regarding the venue for the All Ireland final that it resulted in the final being The association needs to address the played in a venue totally unsuitable for hurling development of the game of hurling within the on the day. country as a matter of extreme urgency. We can bring about changes in the structure of the adult Under 15 League and Blitz in July and August championships but this in no way deals with the The under 15 league took place in July with all necessity to address the development of the teams taking part over a three week period in game at juvenile level. preparation for the under 15 blitz in August which took place in two counties: The Strategic Management Report suggested A. Meath with Westmeath, Wicklow, that a number of the weaker counties be Kildare, Longford. selected and supported with finance and B. Kilkenny with Wexford, Dublin, Laois, coaching in order to bring them up to the Carlow, Offaly. standard within a certain time frame. Taking it, Thanks to the host counties and the people who that the benefits of any approach may take up to organized everything on the day. ten years to bear fruit it is imperative that there be no delay in this matter. Long Puck Competitions There was a long puck competition run at senior Moving on . . . and under fourteen levels. These took place during half time of the Leinster Hurling Semi- Final games in Nowlan Park.

67 Rory Mc Carthy at work in the handball alleys

D.J. Carey School of Hurling This was an idea, which our committee came up with this time last year and it was great to see a The mentors from the twelve counties. dream become a reality this year. The guest players and managers Brian Coady, I would see the D.J. Carey School of Hurling as a Liam Griffen, Henry Shefflin, Damien Fitzhenry, great way of marketing the game of hurling Rory McCarthy, Brian Whelehan, Peter Barry, within the province and as a badly needed Derek Lyng. support line particularly to the weaker counties whose players benefit greatly from this expert Tom Fitzpatrick, Paudie O’Neill, Christy Hand, coaching and from being in competition with Noel O’Sullivan, , Barry Downey, players from stronger counties. Tom Byrne and Ciaran O’Neill.

Teresa McGinn (Chartered Physiotherapist) and This was a great experience for over two hundred John Hargraves (use of weights) for their advice fourteen year olds to live with the gods for a on proper stretching techniques and use of week and get expert coaching and tuition on all weights. aspects of hurling including health and fitness. Wall Ball Competition We would feel that the School of Hurling was an The committee is in the process of devising a outstanding success and great credit has to go to ‘Wall Ball’ competition. This will be based on certain people namely: Alley/Wall drills that can be practiced by players on an individual basis and a one-v-one Wall/Ball D.J. Carey for allowing his name to be associated Alley competition. It will be club based. with the school of hurling and for making his services available for the two weeks. This competition should prove very popular with young players within the Province and also act The Coaching Directors and all the Games as a means of encouraging these players to Promotion Officers without these people this practice the basic skills of the game. School of Hurling could not function. Additional information on this initiative will be St. Kieran’s College for an ideal setting and for forthcoming in the near future. staging such an event.

68 The Team - Mentors and Event Organisers line out at the 2003 D.J. Carey School of Hurling held at St. Kieran’s College, Kilkenny

Leinster Conference Team Acknowledgements It was proposed by the Hurling Committee that The Leinster Hurling Sub-Committee would like a ‘Conference Team’ be entered into Leinster to thank all who were involved in our activities Hurling Championship. Players playing on this throughout the year. A special word of thanks to team would be allowed play with their own Patricia Clear, the staff of Áras Laighean and County in whatever competition they were Jimmy Dunne and John McCarthy - competing in. It was also proposed that this Chairman/Secretary of the Leinster Coaching Conference team would compete in the Walsh and Games Development Committee. Cup (as are DIT and DCU). Paddy Kelly The Committee feels that this idea has great Cathaoirleach merit, not only for players from the weaker Counties but also for the Leinster Championship itself.

Having forwarded a letter to the Director General requesting direction in relation to rule changes required, it was decided to park this proposal in the short term.

69 Coaching & Games Development Committee Report Leinster Football Development Committee Report

The U-16 tournament was again organised at its traditional time - the Halloween Mid-Term School break. A new departure in 2003 was the granting of the request from to take part in the tournament and their inclusion was welcomed by all the Counties. As in previous years there were four groups of four teams with league section games played between 18th. The Football Development Committee Executive October 2003 and 27th. October 2003. The members for 2003 were John Horan (Chairman) semifinals and finals were played on the 29th. Michael McHugh (Secretary) Noel Delaney October and 1st./2nd.November respectively. As (Coaching Director) Tom Jones (Laois) Martin in 2002 an excellent programme was again Coleman (Wicklow) Jim Conway (Carlow) and produced for the tournament by Alan Ahern Tomás Ó hEochaidh (Louth). (Wexford) a member of the Committee.

Executive meetings were held on a regular basis A feature of all the Blitzes / Tournaments in 2003 throughout the year relating to the organising of was the age requirement i.e. only players in their football blitzes/tournaments for County Schools last year of a particular age group could take of Excellence and Development Squads and part in the blitz / tournament relative to that providing financial assistance, where possible, to age - no underage players could play, also in Counties. In addition, full committee meetings 2003 unlimited substitutions were allowed in all were also held during the year. games. These features were designed to maximise participation of players in the various The first Blitz, held on the 26th. April 2003, was County squads. All players and team mentors in for the U-15's and took place at three venues - the various squads were presented with suitable Carlow Town Hurling Club, St. Lomans Mullingar polo tops, fleeces,and caps. and St. Marys Ardee, the latter was a new venue.The one day blitz, as usual,proved to be A very successful 'Coaching Seminar' was very successful as the majority of Counties organised on the 1st. February 2003 in D.C.U. played all players on their panels on the day. Aimed at the mentors involved with County Following the one day blitz an U-15 summer Schools of Excellence & Development Squads. tournament was organised. This commenced on Speakers at the seminar were Jimmy Dunne the 31st. May 2003 with finals on the 21st. June (Chairman Coaching & Games Development), 2003 and proved to be very popular with the Pat Daly (Head of Games, Croke Park), Dr. Niall Counties due for the most part to the fact that Moyna (Sports Science Dept. D.C.U.) and Paul Counties could organise the various games Caffrey (Dublin Senior Selector & Coach). The themselves within the specific time scale feedback from those who attended was very allotted for the playing of the games. positive with requests to organise similar seminars on an ongoing basis. Next up were the U-14's - again there were three groups with all Counties entering two Finally, thanks to all members of the teams. Each group comprised of four Counties, Committee,the Referees and Officials who i.e.eight teams per group, divided into two controlled the games,to Pierce Freaney Referees sections per group. The tournament was run on Co-Ordinator, to Michael Reynolds and all the the same basis as in 2002 with games played staff at Aras Laighean for their assistance at all between 31st. May 2003 and 21st. June 2003 times throughout the year and to the Counties and this again proved to be most successful with for their co-operation with the running of the the Counties. various blitzes / tournaments.

70 Coaching & Games Development Committee Report Cumann na mBunscol Laighean

played on 20th June 2003 in O’Moore Park with Chairman David Finnegan in charge. 60 girls from primary schools in Laois, Kilkenny,Wexford, Kildare, Carlow, Offaly displayed their skills over four games and after some refreshments returned home with a new sliotar each.

Celbridge Ground Hurling Tens was held on 24th Cumann na mBunscol Laighean games June 2003 - one of the warmest days of the year. programme involved over 260 boys and girls Invitations were issued to 4th class pupils in from primary schools within the province at Kildare, Laois, Dublin, Louth, Offaly, Meath. Tom venues in Carlow, Celbridge Croke Park, Mullingar Ryan acted as organiser and a presentation of a and Portlaoise. The programme of skill sliotar to all player was made. A special word of development through games also gave an thanks to Celbridge Club for the use of their opportunity to primary school pupils to wear magnificent facilities. their county jersey. Teachers & GPOs gave full support to the projects. A word of thanks to Leinster Hurling Final Lift & Strike on 6th July Comhairle Laighean C.L.G. for their support and 2003 involved primary school pupils from for the added funds granted through Cumann na Kilkenny and Wexford in a 15-minute mBunscol Laighean that enabled many games conditioned game. After marching out behind initiatives and leagues to take place within each The Artane Boys Band both teams produced a County. skilful display without taking the sliotar in the hand. Many future stars had their first taste of Carlow Lift & Strike Tournament took place on playing in the magnificent stadium. 13 /6 /2003 at Carlow Hurling Club under the watchful eye of Tony Crowe. Sixth class pupils An Indoor Festival of Hurling was held at The from Carlow, Wexford, Kilkenny, Laois, Wicklow, National Basketball Arena Tallaght in December Dublin displayed great skill and after 4 games involving all 12 Cumann na mBunscol units. each went back to school happy with the sliotars Staged in conjunction with coaching directors presented to allow further individual practice. and GPOs, the venue is ideally suited and allows three games simultaneously.The players listened Mullingar was the venue for the Catch & Kick to Kilkenny ace, Eddie Brennan, before he Annual Festival of Football on 17th June 2003 presented each player with a hurley and sliotar. showcased at St Loman’s GAA facilities. Invitations were posted to Westmeath, Longford, Offaly, Louth, Dublin, Meath. The standard from Cumann na mBunscol Laighean the players of fifth class was very high and all Proposed Games Programme 2004 participants were encouraged by Rúnaí Laighean, Gerry O’Meara, to take the opportunity to use Mullingar ‘Catck & Kick’ Tens the football received to further develop their (6 North Leinster Counties - 6th Class Pupils at skills in their spare time. Gerry, who acted as St. Loman’s in May) event coordinator, acknowledged the cooperation of Michael McHugh - an efficient Celbridge ‘Ground Hurling’ Tens host. (6 North Leinster Counties - 4th Class Pupils at Celbridge G.A.A.Club in June) A new event in Cumann na mBunscol Laighean Calendar, the Portlaoise Camogie Tens were

71 Carlow ‘Lift & Strike’ Cill Chainnigh Liathróid Láimhe Day (6 South Leinster Counties - 5th Class Pupils at (Beginners Handball Dublin / Kilkenny In Carlow Hurling Club in June) November / December)

Indoor Festival of Hurling Wexford ‘Catch & Kick’ Tens (12 Counties - 4th Class Pupils at N.B.A. Tallaght (6 South Leinster Counties - 5th Classes at in December) Wexford Park in April)

Leinster Finals Mini Games Laois Camogie Challenge (4 County selections, 15mins - Football / Hurling (6 South Leinster Counties 5th / 6th Classes at at Páirc an Chrócaigh in July) Portlaoise in June)

Leinster Mini Games Tullamore Tens Treat (Provincial Venues for Mini Games between (6 County Blitz Day Hurling / Football at competing counties in May / June) Drumcondra in April)

COCA-COLA LEINSTER COLLEGES SFC "A" ROUND 2 AND QUARTER-FINALS DRAWS L-R: Jim Whelan, Public Affairs & Communications Manager, Coca-Cola;Tom Spain, Chairman, Leinster Schools; John Coffey, Sponsorship Project Manager, Coca-Cola and Michael Reynolds, Leinster Schools Officer.

72 Coaching & Games Development Committee Report Cumann Iarbhunscoileanna Laighean

Juv. H. ‘C’ Marian College Colaiste Chillian Juv. H. ‘D’ Clonkeen College Colaiste Chiaráin Juv. H. ‘E’ H.F.C.S., Rathcoole Scoil Chaitriona

Tom Quinlan Cup Castle CBS Gormanston Col Tom Quinlan Shield Beneavin Col Larkin C.C. Tom Quinlan Plate Sc. Chaitriona Fingal C.C.

Jun. H. ‘A’ Ardscoil Ris St David's C.B.S. Jun. H. ‘B’ St Benildus College Bray Schools Jun. H. ‘C’ Colaiste Chillian Confey College BUATHÓIRÍ AGUS NEASÓIRÍ Jun. H. ‘D’ Beneavin College St Fintan's H.S. 2002/2003 Sen. H. ‘A’ St Declan's C.B.S. Colaiste Eoin Sen. H. ‘A’ Shield Ardscoil Ris Salesian College COMÓRTAS BUATHÓIRÍ NEASÓIRÍ Sen. H. ‘B’ Lucan C.B.S. St McDara's C.C. Sen. H. ‘C’ Maynooth P.P. Oatlands College PEIL Colleges S.F. ‘A’ St. Mel’s, Longford St. Pat’s, Navan Juv. F. ‘A’ Scoil Aodhain Colaiste Eoin Voc. Sch. S.F.’A’ St. Peter’s, D’boyne Tullow C.S. Juv. F. ‘B’ Clonkeen College Malahide C.S. Colleges S.F. ‘B’ Knockbeg College Col Phadraig, Lucan Juv. F. ‘C’ Chanel College Synge St. C.B.S. Voc. Sch. S.F. ‘B’ Dunshaughlin C.C. Bridgetown V.C. Juv. F. ‘D’ Castleknock C.C. Marian College Schools S.F. ‘C’ Pres. Carlow Colaiste Chillian Juv. F. ‘E’ Section "A" Winner Tallaght C.S. Jun. F. ‘A’ Knockbeg College Scoil Dheaglain Section "B" Winner Scoil Chaitriona Jun. F. ‘B’ Col. Chiarain, Leixlip St Finian’s, M’ingar Overall Winner Scoil Chaitriona Jun. F. ‘C’ Ferbane Schools Beneavin College Jun. F. ‘D’ St Farnan’s, Prosperous Marian College Jun. F. ‘A’ St Declan's C.B.S. Drimnagh Cstl CBS Jun. F. ‘B’ Colaiste Chiaráin Portmarnock C.S. Voc. Sch. Jun. F. ‘A’ Tullow C.S. Ferbane Schools Jun. F. ‘C’ Beneavin College St Joseph's C.B.S. Voc. Sch. Jun. F. ‘B’ Bridgetown V.C. St. Finian’s, Swords Jun. F. ‘D’ Marian College James St. C.B.S. Jun. F. ‘E’ St Aidans C.S. Colaiste Dhulaigh Juv. F. ‘A’ Scoil Aodhain Good Counsel Col. Juv. F. ‘B’ Athlone C.C. Clonkeen College Sen. F. ‘A’ St Declan's C.B.S. Gormanston Col Juv. F. ‘C’ Chanel College Wexford C.B.S. Sen. F. ‘B’ Lucan C.B.S. Malahide C.S. Juv. F. ‘D’ Castleknock C.C. Killina Pres. Sec. Sen. F. ‘C’ Colaiste Chillian Colaiste Dhulaigh Sen. F. ‘D’ Blakestown C.S. Palmerstown C.S. Inter County ‘A’ Longford Wicklow Inter County ‘B’ Longford Wexford LAIGHEAN THEAS PEIL IOMÁINT Col. S.F. ‘B’ Knockbeg College Portlaoise C.B.S. Colleges S.H. ‘A’ St. Kieran’s, Kilkenny St. Peter’s, Wexford Sch. S.F. ‘C’ Pres. Col., Carlow Wicklow D.L.S. Colleges S.H. ‘A’ Lge Kilkenny CBS/St Peter’s, Wexford (shared title) Sch. S.F. League Patrician, Newbridge Sc. Mhuire, Clane Colleges S.H. ‘B’ Castlecomer C.S. F.C.J. Bunclody Colleges S.H. ‘B’ Shd Ballyfin College Portlaoise C.B.S. Jun. F. ‘A’ Knockbeg College Good Counsel Col. Jun. F. ‘B’ F.C.J., Bunclody Castlecomer C.S. Voc. Sch. S.H. ‘A’ Kilcormac V.S. St Fergal’s, R’d’ney Jun. F. ‘C’ Bridgetown V.C. Col. Bhride, Carnew Voc. Sch. S.H. ‘B’ Borris V.S. Enniscorthy V.C. Jun. F. ‘D1’ Bunclody V.C. Abbey CC, Wicklow Jun. F. ‘D2’ St Farnan’s, Prosperous Abbey CC, F’bank Schools S.H. ‘C’ Pres. D.L.S., B’town Col. Phadraig, Lucan Juv. F. ‘A’ Good Counsel Col. Knockbeg College Jun. H. ‘A’ Good Counsel Col. Castlecomer C.S. Juv. F. ‘B’ St. Kieran’s, Kilkenny Col. Iosagain, P’ton Jun. H. ‘A’ Shield St. Brendanís C.S., Birr Kilkenny C.B.S. Juv. F. ‘C’ Wexford C.B.S. St. Kevin’s, Dunlavin Jun. H. B F.C.J., Bunclody L.S.U., Banagher Juv. F. ‘D1’ Col. Bhride, Carnew Ramsgrange C.S. Juv. F. ‘D2’ Col. Eoin, Hacketstown Col Mhuire, J’town Voc. Sch. Jun. H. ‘A’ St Rynagh’s CC, B’gher Sc Aireagail, B’hale Voc. Sch. Jun. H. ‘B’ St. Aengus’ P.P., M’rath Bridgetown V.C. IOMÁINT Sch. Sen. H. ‘C1’ Pres. D.L.S., Bag’stown Wexford C.B.S. Juv. H. ‘A’ St. Kieran’s, Kilkenny Good Counsel Col Sch. Sen. H. ‘C2’ Knockbeg College Mountmellick C.S. Juv. H. ‘A’ Shield Castlecomer C.S. St Brendan’s CS, Birr Juv. H. ‘B’ St. Aengus’ P.P., M’rath Colaiste Eanna Jun. H. ‘B’ F.C.J., Bunclody Bridgetown V.C. Jun. H. ‘C1’ Pres. D.L.S., Bag’stown Col. Mhuire, J’town ATH CLIATH Jun. H. ‘C2’ Grennan Col, T’ostown Knockbeg College Juv. H. ‘A’ Colaiste Eanna Colaiste Eoin Jun. H. ‘D’ Col Cois Siuire, M’coin Wicklow D.L.S. Juv. H. ‘B’ St Colmcille's C.S. Salesian College

73 Juv. H. ‘B’ St. Aengus’ P.P. F.C.J., Bunclody COLLEGES - 40 x 20 ‘A’ Juv. H. ‘C’ Sc. Aireagail, Ballyhale Gorey C.S. U-19 Singles Pres. DLS, Bag’stown Kells C.S. Juv. H. ‘D’ Grennan Col, T’ostown Ramsgrange C.S. U-19 Doubles St. Peter’s, Wexford Col. E. Ris, Callan U-17 Singles Kells C.S. St. Mary’s, E’corthy LAIGHEAN THUAIDH U-17 Doubles St. Peter’s, Wexford Kilkenny C.B.S. PEIL U-15 Singles St. Mary’s, Enniscorthy St. Kieran’s, Kilkenny Colleges S.F. ‘B’ Sc. Dara, Kilcock Col Iosagain, Por’ton U-15 Doubles St. Kieran’s, Kilkenny St. Peter’s, Wexford Schools S.F. ‘C’ Mercy, Kilbeggan Ardee C.S. First Yr. Singles Col. Chiarain, Leixlip Wexford C.B.S. First Yr. Doubles Pres., Carlow St. Kieran’s, Kilkenny Sch. S.F. League ‘A’ St. Joseph’s, R’bridge Moyne C.S. Sch. S.F. League ‘B’ Ashbourne C.S. Kells C.S. COLLEGES - 40 x 20 ‘B’ U-17 Singles Kilkenny C.B.S. St. Peter’s, Wexford Jun. F. ‘A’ St. Joseph’s, R’bridge Marist, Athlone U-17 Doubles St. Peter’s, Wexford Kells C.S. Jun. F. ‘B’ St. Finian’s, Mullingar Kells C.S. U-15 Singles Kells C.S. Col. E. Ris, Callan Jun. F. ‘C’ Ferbane Schools Rathangan P.P. U-15 Doubles Kilkenny C.B.S. St. Peter’s, Wexford Jun. F. ‘D’ Athboy Schools L.S.U., Banagher First Yr. Singles Ardsc. Ch., Clara Pres. DLS, Bag’stown First Yr. Doubles St. Peter’s, Wexford Kilkenny C.B.S. Juv. F. ‘A’ St. Mel’s, Longford St Pat’s Cl Sch, Nvn Juv. F. ‘B’ Athlone C.C. St Mary’s, Drogheda VOCATIONAL SCHOOLS - 40 x 20 ‘A’ Juv. F. ‘C’ Bush P.P. Col. Ris, Dundalk Sen. Singles Mullingar C.C. Wexford V.C. Juv. F. ‘D1’ O’Carolan Col, Nobber St Fintina’s, L’wood Sen. Doubles Col. Bhride, Carnew Wexford V.C. /Col Pobal, R’cairn Junior Singles Col. Bhride, Carnew Bridgetown V.C. Juv. F. ‘D2’ Killina Pres. Sec. Sch. St. Rynagh’s C.C. Junior Doubles Sc. Aireagail, Ballyhale Bridgetown V.C.

IOMÁINT VOCATIONAL SCHOOLS - 40 x 20 ‘B’ Sch. Sen. H. ‘C1’ Castlepollad C.C. Mercy, Kilbeggan Sen. Singles Borris V.S. Kilkenny City V.S. /Columba Col., Killucan Sen. Doubles Col. Bhride, Carnew Kilkenny City V.S. Sch. Sen. H. ‘C2’ St Pats Cl Sch, Navan Col. Ris, Dundalk Junior Singles Ardsc. Ch., Clara Bunclody V.C. Junior Doubles Sc. Aireagail, Ballyhale Bunclody V.C. Jun. H. ‘B’ L.S.U., Banagher St. Rynagh’s C.C. Jun. H. ‘C’ Tullamore College Killina Pres. Sec. Sch. GIRLS LEINSTER SCHOOLS - 60 x 30 Jun. H. ‘D’ Dunshaughlin C.C. Clonaslee V.S. U-19 Singles St. Brigid’s, G’bridge Col. Chillian U-19 Doubles Pres. DLS, Bag’stown Borris V.S. Juv. H. ‘B’ Kilcormac V.S. Boyne C.S. U-16 Singles Borris V.S. St. Mary’s, Arklow Juv. H. ‘C’ Killina Pres. Sec. Sch. Tullamore College U-16 Doubles Gorey C.S. ------Juv. H. ‘D1’ Colaiste Ris, Dundalk Dunshaughlin C.C. First Yr. Singles Mullingar C.C. ------Juv. H. ‘D2’ St Finian’s CC, Mull’gar Castlepollard C.C. First Yr. Doubles Gorey C.S. ------

HANDBALL GIRLS LEINSTER SCHOOLS - 40 x 20 COLLEGES - 60 x 30 ‘A’ Sen. Singles Col. Chillian Bunclody V.C. U-19 Singles St. Peter’s, Wexford Pres. DLS, Bag’stown Sen. Doubles Pres. DLS, Bag’stown ------U-19 Doubles St. Peter’s, Wexford Col E. Ris, Callan Jun. Singles St. Brigid’s, G’bridge ------U-17 Singles Mullingar C.C. Col. Bhride, Carnew Jun. Doubles Pres. Carlow St. Brigid’s, G’bridge U-17 Doubles Kilkenny C.B.S. St. Peter’s, Wexford First Yr. Singles Mullingar C.C. St. Brigid’s, G’bridge U-15 Singles St. Kieran’s, Kilkenny St. Mary’s, E’corthy First Yr. Doubles St. Brigid’s, G’bridge U-15 Doubles St. Kieran’s, Kilkenny St. Peter’s, Wexford First Yr. Singles Wexford C.B.S. St. Kieran’s, Kilkenny First Yr. Doubles Pres. Carlow St. Peter’s, Wexford

COLLEGES - 60 x 30 ‘B’ U-19 Singles St. Peter’s, Wexford Col. San Froinsias U-19 Doubles St. Peter’s, Wexford Col. San Froinsias U-17 Singles St. Peter’s, Wexford Kilkenny City V.S. U-17 Doubles St. Peter’s, Wexford Col. San Froinsias U-15 Singles Bridgetown V.C. St. Kieran’s, Kilkenny U-15 Doubles Good Counsel Col. Bridgetown V.C. First Yr. Singles St. Peter’s, Wexford Col. San Froinsias First Yr. Doubles Col. Bhride, Carnew Kilkenny C.B.S.

74 from outside their own Province ‘ but on the Tuairisc an Rúnaí negative side it can be rather expensive.

Every Provincial win brings joy and happiness. To Both Col. Phadraig, Lucan and Knockbeg College win your first Senior title at the premier level is (our Colleges S.F. ‘B’ representatives) fell to St. special. Gerald’s, Castlebar in the All Ireland Quarter-Final and Semi-Final respectively. St. Peter’s C.C., Dunboyne came of age! St. Peter’s contested and won their first Provincial Senior Castlecomer C.S. retained the Colleges S.H. ‘B’ Football ‘A’ Final and title when ousting one of the title. Scoil Dheaglain provided very stiff opposition regular winners of the Provincial Voc. Schools S.F. in the Semi-Final while F.C.J., Bunclody were very ‘A’ - Tullow C.S. - in a very entertaining Final. 12 worthy finalists. Like their city neighbours, teams participated - the highest number for some Castlecomer overcame the Connacht Champions years. The Meath side were somewhat unlucky to in the All Ireland Semi-Final, St. Mary’s, Galway. loose to Causeway Comp. in the All Ireland Semi- Final. St Joseph’s, Borrisoleigh provided All Ireland Final day opposition in Clonmel. A late goal direct from The North Leinster rivals did battle in the Colleges a side line cut ensured victory for Castlecomer CS S.F. ‘A’ Final - St. Mel’s won their 29th title and a return to ‘A’ ranks (1-12 to 1-08). The first overcoming St. Pat’s in one of the best Schools leg of the Kilkenny double was in the bag. Finals in recent years. In the All Ireland Semi-Final St. Jarleth’s proved too strong for the Leinster Borris V.S. retained the Voc. Schools S.H. ‘B’ title Champions. defeating Enniscorthy V.S. by the narrowest of margins in the Final. St. Kieran’s retained Corn Ui Dhuill overcoming St. Peter’s who were appearing in their first Senior Pres. College, Carlow won their first Provincial Championship Final in a decade. St. Kieran’s Senior Football title winning ‘C’. They had proved much too strong for Gort C.S. in the All impressive wins over Mercy, Kilbeggan and Col. Ireland Semi-Final. Chillian in the Semi-Final and Final respectively. Their long trip to Dr. Hyde Park for the All Ireland St. Kieran’s and St. Colman’s contested the All Semi-Final proved fruitful. Having dominated Ireland Final ‘ the latter going for three in a row. Glenamaddy C.S. for long periods Pres. Carlow did The game was played on Saturday, 26th April well to hold out for a one point win. But sadly the 2003, ironically the first day in weeks when the one point margin was in the other direction in the weather gods decided to treat us to heavy rains Final. A late, late lone range free gave Rathmore and stormy winds. St. Kieran’s in a rampant first Grammar School Victory. half established a 0-10 to 0-01 half time lead using the wind to good effect. Then early in the Senior ‘C’ Hurling is a Regional Competition second half a goal ensured that the Croke Cup was (Dublin ‘B’ is the equivalent to ‘C’ in the other on its way to the Marble City. They ran out 1-15 regions). In recent times the respective Regional to 1- 4 winners. winners have indicated a desire to have a Provincial series. Probably because it is ‘unofficial’ No Leinster School qualified from the Round competition it is played after the rest of the Robin in the All Ireland Voc. Schools S.H.C. ‘A’. The Senior competitions are complete Presently Col. weather disrupted the Leinster Championship in Phadraig, Lucan are in the Final awaiting the November to the extent that it had to be winners of Knockbeg College and Pres. D.L.S., abandoned until Spring time. Kilcormac V.S. and Bageanlstown. St. Fergal’s, Rathdowney contested the Provincial final with the former taking the title for the INTER COUNTY FOOTBALL second time in 10 years. The return of Longford to the Vocational Schools Inter County scene proved to be very dramatic. For the past two School years the Voc. School They won the Leinster ‘B’ and almost fell to sector has operated an open draw system for S.H. Tipperary in the All Ireland Semi-Final. They Will the system continue? There are plus’ and defeated Leitrim in the ‘B’ Final. Nothing dramatic! minus’ - on the positive side Schools play Schools

75 But then convincing winners over holders Meath; JUVENILE FOOTBALL Semi-Final winners over Dublin and defeating Some of the best Fooball played all year was at ‘specialists’ Wicklow with something to spare in this level. Three of the four titles have found a the Provincial decider. The team dug deep in the home at the time of writing. Holders Good All Ireland Semi-Final to come from behind in the Counsel (Sth) survived Semi-Final tilt with St last five minutes to overcome Kerry. They created Mel’s (Nth) but relinguished their crown to Dublin history by taking the All Ireland ‘A’ title defeating Champions -Scoil Aodhain- in an excellent Final. Galway in Athlone on Monday, 05.05.03 thus When scores are plentiful the entertainment is adding the ‘A’ alongside the ‘B’ title. high. So it was for the ‘C’ Semi-Final: Wexford CBS (Sth) 7-12; Bush PP (Nth) 7-07. The scoring rate JUNIOR FOOTBALL for the Final was much lower: Chanel Col. (Db) 1- The exceptional weather in March assisted the 04; Wexford C.B.S. (Sth) 1-02. Junior Football competitions. As per the past few years these competitions became very disjointed The ‘B’ Finalists are newcomers at Provincial Final during the second term. That said 5 of the 6 have level in this grade - Athlone C.C. (Nth.) v Clonkeen been completed. Col. (Db.) - Athlone C.C. overcame Clonkeen College in the Final in a comprehensive manner Tullow C.S. added to their role of honour defeating which was played in Pairc Ui Mhordha 02.05.03. Ferbane Schools to take the Voc. Sch. Jun. ‘A’ title. The same can be said for the ‘D’ Final - Killina Pres. Subsequently they defeated Coachford C.C. in the Sec. Sch. (Nth.) v Castleknock C.C. (Db.) - which All Ireland Semi-Final. However St. Ciaran’s, is still outstanding. Ballygawley proved much too strong in the Final. JUNIOR HURLING Knockbeg College had a very successful Jun. Both the Schools ‘A’ and ‘B’ titles went to the Football ‘A’ campaign - undefeated in competitive sunny South-East. In ‘A’ Good Counsel had a mere games through the season. Winning their first point to spare over Castlecomer C.S. Despite the Schools Jun. ‘A’ they defeated Good Counsel twice annual October difficulty of Club under-age in the South, defeated St. Joseph’s, Rochfortbridge Championships the competition was run more or in the Provincial Semi-Final (in their northern less as per schedule. The knock-out stages and campaign St. Joseph’s had defeated St. Pat’s, many of the League games were keenly contested. Navan twice) and overcame an excellent Scoil On the negative side the participation of a Dheaglain (Dublin winners) in the Final. Westmeath team is serving little or no purpose. I suggest that the experiment has run its course. Col. Chiarain, Leixlip took the Schools ‘B’ title. The 3 Regional winners were impressive winners. St. The ‘B’ competition did not run as smoothly as it Finian’s, Mullingar (Nth.) had a narrow one point should have. When it was all over FCJ, Bunclody win over F.C.J., Bunclody (Sth.) to qualify for the (Sth) were champions defeating LSU, Banagher Provincial Final v Col. Chiarain, Leixlip (Db. region). (Nth) by a point. The Wexford side had 4 points to In a very low scoring Final Col. Chiarain emerged spare over Ardscoil Ris (Db) in the Semi-Final. victors. Perhaps there is merit in playing only the Regional Ferbane Schools (Nth) had a comfortable ‘B’ competitions in the 1st term and leaving the Provincial Semifinal win over Bridgetown V.C. Provincial series to the 2nd term. Either situation (Sth). They went on to lift the Provincial crown at is not perfect i.e. the present system does not the expense of Beneavin (Db) with 2 points to have sufficient dates while the latter has the spare. problem of players waiting months for a conclusion. St. Farnan’s, Prosperous (Sth) and Athboy Schools St Rynagh’s CC, Banagher and St. Aengus’ PP, (Nth) produced a high scoring Semi-Final with the Mountrath were victorious in the Voc Schools Jun former just getting there. In unusual ‘A’ & ‘B’ respectively. The best and closest game in circumstances St. Farnan’s became ‘D’ Champions. the ‘A’ was St Rynagh’s CC, Banagher v St Fergal’s, Marian College (Db) provided the opposition. Rathdowney in the Semi-Final. The ‘B’ Final between St. Aengus’ and Bridgetown VC was very entertaining with the minimum of margins

76 separating the sides. However similar to other SUPPORTERS Hurling competitions some games were very one As always supporters en masse during School sided - to no one’s benefit. hours concerns me. At the same time I must compliment the supporters of both St. Pat’s and St Rynagh’s were defeated in the All-Ireland St. Mel’s at the Colleges Final (on a Wednesday at Semifinal by relative near neighbours Roscrea CC. 1.30 pm) for their behaviour before, during and after the game. Equally the supervision and JUVENILE HURLING control by the respective staffs. The Juvenile Hurling Competitions are on-going presently.Too date some of the results particularly Earlier in the year there was a situation at a major in the lower divisions are absolutely horrendous. It stadium in the Province whereby a student used appears that the Competition structure is useless. the press box to get into a rafter in the roof. Surely much more localized competitions are Sufficient to say that had anything gone wrong I necessary i.e. run by and within a County with doubt if the medical authorities would be able to rules adapted to suit. save the day. Horseplay is enjoyable - that is until something goes wrong! In this year’s ‘A’ it is worth noting that Laois have qualified for the Semi-Finals. The long term DISCIPLINE impact of the experiment is difficult to call. The past School year has had more that its share of serious disciplinary situations. A number of Despite the Juvenile competitions being held in players received 12 week suspensions. I hope that the best of weather it is disappointing to say the this is not a sign of the times. If it is, mentors must least that in some sections schedules do not mean be seen to act first and not leave to others to anything. solve. Mentors must take control and responsibility of both players and themselves. REFEREES Enough said! The whole situation Re: availability of personnal to referee games in general is I suggest, much more The members of our Coiste Gnimh agus Smachta serious than realized. For us at Leinster Schools give enough of their time (voluntary) on all our Level we continue to be indebted to the many behalf and within their respective Schools without who make themselves available. But like the the added burden and hassle of traveling to Aras ‘greying of the sidelines’ the age profile of referees Laighean to deal with matters that should not is going in the wrong direction. have arisen in the first place. On your behalf I extend a special word of thanks and appreciation. Almost all of our games are played during normal For the record members are: Tom Spain working hours. Therefore, it is expecting much to (Cathaoirleach), Tom O’Donnell, John Horan, Con expect referees to arrange umpires also. There is Ronan, Michael Farrell, Bill Cashman and Secretary. an onus on participating Schools to ensure that personnal involved in umpiring and running a line A number of changes Re: Disciplinary Code were have a mind set of doing the job to the best of approved at Congress 2003. If a player receives a their ability and fairness - no better training for suspension of 4 weeks or less the suspension only life! applies to the unit in which the sending off occurred i.e. if Second Level School then applies to PITCHES Second Level only etc. The onus will be on the November-December terrible. February - no player and in our case School to establish exactly better! Rest of the season - brilliant! Since 12th the situation when a suspension is applied. More March or thereabouts there can be no complaints details will be issued when available. with regard to the standard of pitches. As always in Leinster the co-operation and availability of REGISTRATION venues is excellent. The few negative areas I leave Over the years the registering of players by aside. Because of their locations (and sometimes Schools has been on the decline. In an effort to other reasons) there are a few areas that make life easier the Comhairle adopted a policy accommodate us over and above the call of duty - whereby players were registered once except in St. Loman’s, Mullingar, Carlow Town area, Pairc Ui Competitions that went on to an All Ireland series. Mhordha, Portarlington and D.C.U. This failed also.

77 Under Rule the penalty for playing an unregistered have been much greater. In some situations player shall be loss of match on an alternative arrangements were possible. Thanks to objection.Serious situations have arisen due to the the Schools who did arrange to have students unregistering of players i.e. the playing of overage available as per regulation. players in error. The rules covering overage players have potentially serious implications - mentors There are a number of other areas that are causing stand suspended for 96 weeks whether or not difficulties. House Examinations in First Term. I there is an error involved and the player(s) 48 think that from a fixtures schedule that the weeks. From September 2003 we have no choice Comhairle should also put these in the same but to insist on registration and duly apply the category as work experience etc. for example relevant rules. house examinations last week of October; mid to late November. I hope that when everyone realizes the serious implications of even an oversight that when For many years the Dublin Region has operated a Registration Forms reach Schools they will be system of Senior games - Friday’s; Junior games - completed and duly returned to Aras Laighean. Tuesday’s and Juvenile games - Wednesday’s with PLAYER INJURIES the facility that Schools can agree alterations Each year a percentage of players pick up injuries. provided the overall structure is not upset and also In many cases the injuries are ordinary run of the re-fixtures. mill, a few unfortunately are serious and require treatment that at times can be expensive. North and South Leinster operate on the system Unfortunately when a medical bill has to be paid of ‘week-ending’. Increasingly this system is it is too late checking out the situation whether or causing more problems i.e. teachers in charge of not the player has ‘cover’. Similar to the teams timetabled for different days. registration issue player injury cover (Re: the lack of it) can be embarrassing to put it mildly. It is Another practical problem is for example: very important that Schools ensure irrespective of 2 Schools agree to play say S.H. on a Tuesday; the extra curricular activity involved that students another 2 agree on the Thursday for S.H. The are covered Re: medical costs. Junior Hurling say between one of the ‘Tuesday’ teams and one of the ‘Thursday’ teams due for the SPONSORSHIP same week is in trouble! Coca-Cola (Bottlers) Ireland Ltd. continue to be excellent sponsors.Their Public Relations Manager, During the year a number of teachers from North Jim Whelan, is retiring later this year. On behalf of and South Leinster suggested the Dublin type everyone associated with Leinster Schools G.A.A. I system and to advise Schools in advance Re: extend appreciation and thanks to Jim for his timetabling. Interesting topic for discussion! years of support to us and wish him many years of happiness. I think it is time that we have an indepth examination of our competition structure. It may FIXTURES SCHEDULE even be advisable to ask personnel on the outside The overall fixtures scheduled is overloaded as is. to examine the system. A Provincial Schools There will be more pressure in the next School Council has not the authority or facility to be year if the All Ireland Vocational Schools Council active within Counties. More localised activity to goes ahead with All Ireland series in S.F. and S.H. suit all requirements is preferable to the present ‘B’ and Jun. F. and H. ‘B’ - motion passed at system. Congress 2003 has changed the situation Convention last October. If the motion is Re: U-16 players playing more than one grade implemented obviously we must do our part to above their age. We await the precise details. have representatives ready. Suffice to say that the change is not very helpful Re: fixtures apart altogether from the players It is becoming increasingly more difficult to have welfare. a Fixtures Schedule. This School year, work experience and or L.C.A. placements were not MEDIA accepted as reasons for not playing games as per Leinster Schools have had a good year with the schedule. Inevitably some inconvenience was media, particularly local media. During the second caused. But otherwise the inconvenience would term we got excellent coverage in the Evening

78 Herald on Tuesday evenings - John Harrington is Match Day Programmes: To John Cotter and the journalist concerned. Future Print for our 5 ‘A’ Senior Final productions.

Tom Crotty continues to serve our case well. In To Tom O’Donnell, Jim O’Donovan, Pat Henderson, numerous conversations with Tom he has at times Patricia Clear, Robert McCabe and Hannah Horan. expressed frustration with the supply of match reports. If the information is not supplied coverage To John Quirke (photographer). can’t happen. Coaching Department:To all personnal involved in During the year Aertel coverage stopped for a Coaching (external to teachers) for their period of time. Hopefully the situation will be assistance with various projects. rectified for 2003/2004. Ard Chomhairle na gColaisti agus na The Examiner gave excellent coverage particularly nGairmscoileanna: Especially to Cora Weldon, the concluding stages of our Competitions. Bernard Dunne and Tom Lynch for their assistance where and when necessary. Local Radio also gave us very good coverage particularly the Senior Competitions - in some Comhairle Laighean: For the very positive case live coverage. assistance both at administration and practical levels.The decision of 2002 (continued in 2003) to HANDBALL offer teachers involved in the promotion of Gaelic During the year our Comhairle recommended to Games 2 complimentary tickets each per Leinster the Handball authorities that the present system Championship games in which the County that of Singles and Doubles be replaced by a Team their School is located is involved is greatly Competition. The Comhairle is of the view that appreciated. played as a team sport Handball would be promoted to a far greater extent at Second Level. Comhairle Iarbhunscoileanna Laighean & Coiste Hopefully there will be an answer one way of the Gnimh agus Smachta: To the Chairman, Tom other prior to next September. Spain, and the members for their work during the year. BUÍOCHAS On behalf of Leinster Schools I extend thanks to Staff: Comhairle Laighean’s genuine commitment the following groups and individuals whose to Second Level was extended greatly by the contributions assisted the playing and promoting approval of 3 extra part-time School’s of our activities in 2002/2003. officers.Fergal Giles (North), Pat Henderson (South) and Jim O’Donovan (Dublin) have been a Schools: To Managements, Teachers, Mentors, tower of strength during the season. Their Players, Students and Parents. Without their contribution was certainly much greater than ever support as a unit we would not even have the envisaged. Here’s hoping that Fergal, Pat and Jim opportunity to agree about a fixture never mind will be with us for many a day to come. To Tom getting through the programme that we do. O’Donnell for his continued work in the Dublin region. To Hannah (the real boss!) Patricia, Julie, Media: To our own Tom Crotty who is always Robert McCabe and Michael Delaney for their willing and able. To the many other facets of the continued support. media who give us fair and widespread coverage. On a personal note my thanks to one and all. Referees & Officials: To all personnal who officiated during the year. A special thank you to Enjoy the Summer. Pierce Freaney (Leinster Referees Co-Ordinator) for his invaluable assistance and advice during the MICHEÁL MAC RAGHNAILL year.

Venues: To all venues - Schools Pitches, club grounds, County grounds, Neutral venues, Home venues.

79 Coaching & Games Development Committee Report Leinster Third Level Colleges Report

Rinn in Cork. In the Division 2 final, Tallaght IT recorded a memorable win over St. Pat’s, Drumcondra and went on to claim their second title in three years.

In Ladies , UCD defeated UUJ in the O’Connor Cup. The Belfield college went on to claim a memorable double when capturing Comhairle Ard Oideachais Laighean has the Division 2 Lynch Cup. DCU, defeated by UCD responsibility for the development of Gaelic 2 in the semi-final of that competition, gained a Games in over twenty 3rd Level institutions in measure of consolation by winning the Lynch Leinster. The financial support of Comhairle Shield. In Camogie’s premier competition, the Laighean through funding from Scéim Iomána , the hosts UCC overcame UCD in and Scéim Peil is invaluable and has enabled a the final. number of initiatives to be devised and implemented. At provincial level, CAO Laighean organises a number of blitzes to cater for players from all The grant allocation in 2002/03 was as follows: grades and thereby broadens participation. The Intermediate football competition was won by 1 Each hurling club was allocated: UCD who overcame DIT in the final. In • A set of jerseys Intermediate hurling, UCD also emerged • Sliotars victorious. Athlone IT defeated Carlow IT in freshers hurling and DkIT took the freshers 2 Each football club was allocated: football title when overcoming DCU in the final. • 5 O’Neill’s match footballs • 5 O’Neill’s training footballs BURSARIES This is the fourth year of the Comhairle Laighean 3 Each 3rd level college was allocated: third level bursary scheme. The bursary scheme • 1 set of training bibs helps to raise the profile of Gaelic Games in third • First aid pack (cost e175) level colleges throughout the province and is further evidence of Comhairle Laighean’s COMPETITIONS commitment to this sector. Chairman, Nickey The two premier competitions in the third level Brennan, presented the awards to recipients sector are the football from around the province in December. championship and the championship in hurling. These students are in their first year of third level education in colleges throughout Leinster No Leinster team figured in the finals weekend and have been recognised for their commitment of the hurling competition, held in Thurles. to the GAA and achievements to date. There is However, in the Division 2 , Athlone IT no doubt that many from the array of recipients defeated DCU in the semi-final and were on view will be stars of the future. unlucky to be edged out by TRBDI in the final. PARTNERSHIP UCD were finalists in the Sigerson Cup football Third level colleges posess some of the finest championship. However, NUIG denied the playing facilities and gyms in the province. In Dublin side the ultimate prize in third level addition, there is a wide range of expertise Gaelic football in the decider played at Páirc Uí present in the colleges in such areas as sports

80 health and science, information technology, BUÍOCHAS fitness testing and assessment, management The help and cooperation of the following and communication. greatly facilitated the organisation of Gaelic Games activities during the past year. A tremedous opportunity exists for units of the GAA within the province to create linkages with (i) GAA Officers in the various colleges these colleges to develop programmes in the areas outlined above to facilitate their (ii) Leinster Coaching Directors development in the future. (iii) Leinster Coaching & Games In Dublin, pitches in UCD, DCU, TCD and St. Pat’s Development Committee are made available on a regular basis for schools’ matches. In addition, development squads and (iv) Michael Delaney, Michael Reynolds and inter-county panels train on these pitches. The the staff in Áras Laighean Dept. of Sports Science and Health in DCU presented an InService course to all games (v) CAO Laighean Committee promotion officers in Leinster in January. (vi) In particular, thanks to CAO Laighean The strudents from St. Patrick’s College, DCU Secretary, Dave Billings, for his help and and UCD participated as coaches in the Nicky wisdom during the past year. English first year hurling development programme organised for second level schools. In conclusion, I would like to acknowledge the The National GAA Coaching Conference was work of Jimmy Dunne as Chairman of Coaching hosted by the DCU GAA Club in partnership with and Games Development. His support for the Croke Park at the Helix in DCU in November. third level sector has been tremendous and is much appreciated. This sharing of resources is much appreciated by third level students and college authorities and Tom O’Donnell can be attributed to Leinster Council’s proactive Cathaoirleach, thinking and approach to the development of Comhairle Ard-Oideachais Laighean Gaelic Games at third level.

81 Coaching & Games Development Committee Report Leinster Tutor Group

The Tutor group, under the chairmanship of Cyril Leinster piloted a Level Two football course in Kevlihan, had another busy year. Spring Level May, June and October at Hartstown One Courses were held in Dublin (Hurling and Community School, Dublin. Chairman Cyril Football), Kilkenny (Hurling), Meath (Football), Kevlihan worked in conjunction with Jim D’Arcy Athlone I.T. (Football) and Dundalk I.T. (Football), (Croke Park) and was assisted by Brian Ladden, while in the Autumn, courses were completed in John McHale and Brendan Harpur. Dublin (Hurling and Football), Offaly (Hurling) and Kildare (Football). This course is now being reviewed and evaluated and it is likely that a hurling course will follow Courses planned for 2004 include: once this has taken place.

Offaly (F) A presentation night is planned for February Carlow (F) 23rd 2004 in Croke Park to present certs to Wexford (H) coaches for the 2003 courses. Dublin (H & F) in the Spring Once again this year the group worked in close with Autumn courses in co-operation with Jimmy Dunne and John Wicklow (F) McCarthy of this Coaching and Games Meath (H) Development Committee. Dublin/Kildare (H) Great support was also received from the full- A number of new Level One Tutors were trained time staff at Comhairle Laighean, the Leinster by the group this year and four of them have Coaching Directors and the Games Promotion joined the committee, Sean Kelly (Meath), Officers in the twelve counties. Declan Power (Dublin), John Leahy (Offaly) and Declan Smyth (Louth).

82 Coaching & Games Development Committee Report Leinster Handball Report

such complex so the visitors had to find their way to places such as Windgap, Muckalee, Clogh, O’Loughlin’s, Kells (Co Kilkenny), Talbot’s Inch, Kilfane, Cullahill, Monavea, Coolboy, Garryhill, Goresbridge, Borris, Tinryland etc.

Local committees catered for their visitors with sandwiches, cake, tea, tart and many other local World Handball delights. Championship There were at least two great results for Comhairle Liathróid Láimhe Laighean in this. We the Highlight proved that we could organise top class games and we also re-activated handball areas where it Handball received unprecedented coverage from had grown weak. local and national media in 2003 when we successfully staged the World Handball When the games in south Leinster had done Championships. I use the pronoun "we" because their job, it was the turn of Kildare and Dublin to Comhairle Liathróid Láimhe Laighean and its host the major games where Ireland scored members played a major part in organising the brilliantly winning both senior singles titles. events so efficiently. Cavan hosted the remaining games and Kilkenny/ Laois/ Carlow/ Wicklow got a major celebrated the great wins of senior footballer job to do when they were asked to organise Paul Brady in singles and doubles, where he under age, over age and one wall championships. played with Michael Finnegan. Antrim won the It meant building new one-wall courts, ensuring ladies singles through Fiona Shannon. that there was a vibrant committee at every venue and booking hotels and B&Bs around the As well as the fine victories in the top grades, area. one of the most popular victories was that of Pat O’Keeffe (Kilkenny) in the Over 70 competition. 9-11 meant that there was an initial reluctance I’m sure many delegates will find it hard to to fly, but the excitement of the Championships believe that we had over 70s in action but one soon overcame this and the south Leinster area American complained to me that one player had eventually organised games for almost 1,000 ruined the over 70s because he was only 71 and players. If this had been for hurling or football too young for the rest! teams of 15 it would have been daunting enough but for individual players - many of Well done to all concerned. them also playing doubles and one wall - it was a job that would have scared many. Féile na nGael Kildare/ Westmeath/ Meath did a great job in However a brilliant overseeing committee with organising the handball section of Féile na nGael great local committees ensured that the players and, hopefully, will do a similarly efficient job in were well catered for. Some of these players - 2004. As with the World Championships, it particularly those from the US - would have should be a way to engender new enthusiasm in been used to tournaments being played in a areas where the game is in decline. complex of possibly 20 courts. Comhairle Liathróid Láimhe Laighean does not have any

83 Voluntary Officials The Leinster Colleges championships were once Handball, like most sports, is finding it increasing more expertly organised by Michael Reynolds difficult to get new voluntary officials involved and Comhairle Liathróid Láimhe Laighean in our game. Granted one reason is because appreciates his help and the time and effort he players are still actively involved to a later age puts into our fixtures.. than in field sports but this is not the entire reason. Coistí Our Coiste Forbartha continues to function Now Comhairle Liathróid Láimhe Laighean is under the chairmanship of Tom Walsh (Wicklow) about to lose its enthusiastic chairman after just who is joined by Martin Clancy (Carlow), Des 2 years of his term as an increasing workload Lyons (Kildare) Billy Love (Kilkenny) Patsy makes it impossible for him to do the job as he Dowling (Laois) and Robbie McCarthy would like to. There is even a possibility that the (Westmeath). Vice Chairman will be forced to take a similar route. Billy Love (Cathaoirleach - Cill Chainnigh) and Patsy Dowling (Rúnaí - Laois) look after juvenile For a game like ours with such a small base this affairs with a delegates from each county. is a difficult blow to take. Now our National Strategic Plan needs further work for Leinster officials such as Richard Juveniles Willoughby (Wicklow) Walter O’Connor (Meath) 2003 was a good year for Leinster juveniles with Tom Walsh (Wicklow) Liam Mahon (Kilkenny) a large number of entries in all our Sean Ryan (Carlow) John Molloy (Dublin) and championships and a good spread of counties myself. winning Leinster titles. A Singles Title At Last In 40 x 20, 146 boys and 62 girls entered while Finally, well done to veteran Meath player Tom in 60x30 93 boys and 37 girls contested the Sheridan. Tom has a brilliant record in doubles championships with 9 counties winning but could never scale those same heights in Provincial titles. singles. 2003 was his year and he did so magnificently while also retaining his doubles Our players did very well in the All Ireland series title with Walter O'Connor. and our girls are progressing very well. It is great to see an increase in the numbers entering our championships.

Leinster 40 x 20 Champions 2003 U21D Miles Cash Felix Doran Jimmy Goggins (Wx) Cormac Smith (Wx) WINNER RUNNER-UP JunBS Mick Armstrong (Wx) Éanna McCloskey (D) DelCup James Gregan Felix Doran JunBD James Gregan Christy Donnelly Des Willoughby (Ww) Joe Goggins (Wx) Anthony Sheridan (Ww) Éanna McCloskey (D) ConvCup Cyril McCarthy Phil Parsons JunS Conor O’Brien (Oy) Eddie Burke (Kk) Robert McCarthy (Wh) Martin Lalor (Kk) JunD Eddie Burke Conor O’Brien MinS Brian Carroll (Mh) Richard Walshe (Ww) Canice Quigley (Kk) Noel Murphy (Oy) MinD Richard Walshe Tomás Lennon IntS Barry Goff (Wx) Michael Gregan (Ww) Jason Doyle (Ww) Pauric Buggy (Ls) IntD Paul Carty Michael Gregan U21S Miles Cash (Wx) Johnny Willoughby (Ww) Barry Goff (Wx) Sammy Willoughby (Ww)

84 MAS Billy Burke (Kk) Robert McCarthy (Wh) Boys

MAD Martin Lalor Robert McCarthy U12S Adam Kenny (Cw) Gary McConnell (Mh) Philly Parsons (Kk) Cyril McCarthy (Wh) U12D David Delahunty Gary Donohoe MBS Frank Daly (D) Pechelli English (Wx) Patrick Funcheon (Kk) Eric Davitt (Ww) U13S Brendan Bolger (Cw) Jamie Browne (Mh) MBD Frank Daly John Bail Joe Lee (D) Pechelli English (Wx) U13D Conor McManus Declan Clarke (Mh) SMAS John Ward (D) Seán Ryan (Cw) U14S Cian Clancy (Cw) Ivan Carroll (Ke) SMAD Tony Breen Seán Ryan Jimmy Goggins (Wx) Andy Ryan (Cw) U14D Martin Doyle Darren O’Hara Colm Quigley (Cw) James Byrne (Ke) SMBS Martin Clancy (Cw) John Kelly (Lh) U15S Nicholas Anthony (Kk) Martin Doran (Wx) SMBD Jimmy Heffernan Gerry McGrath Peter Larkin (D) Tom O’Malley (Ww) U15D Stephen Shortt Paddy Goggins Kirk Greene (Kk) Gary O’Connor (Wx) GMAS Eugene Kennedy (D) Vinnie Farrelly (D) U16S Robert McCarthy (Wh) Richard Hogan (Kk) GMAD Eugene Kennedy Willie Dunphy Vinnie Farrelly (D) Dick Tobin (Wx) U16D Christopher Doyle Patrick Hogan Jerome Willoughby (Ww) Brendan Burke (Kk) GMBS Neville Farrelly (D) John Barton (D) U17S David Kenny (Wx) Mark Nolan (Kk) GMBD Richard Downey Paddy Berry Neville Farrelly (D) Jerry Connors (Wx) U17D Diarmuid Brennan Seán Flood Ricky Nolan (Kk) Alan Griffith (Wx) EMAS Seamus Reade (Kk) Garret Somers (W x) Girls EMAD Garret Somers Dermot Howard Billy Molloy (Wx) Frank Dooley (Ke) U12S Shauna Hilley (Ww) Alison Walsh (Kk) EMBS John O’Neill (Ke) Jim Bergin (Wx) U12D Rebecca Mulholland Michelle Boland EMBD Jim Bergin Eamonn Deegan Tina O’Brien (Kk) Sandra Kelly (Wx) Tom Donohoe (Wx) John O’Neill (Ke) U13S Orla Egan (Ke) Joanna Timmons (Ke) DMAS Ned Flynn (D) Paddy Lennon (Ww) U13D Claire Comerford Amanda Kelly DMAD Paddy Lennon Tony Buckley Claire Moore (Kk) Róisín Doyle (Wx) Mick Dwyer (Ww) Ned Flynn (D) U14S Maire T O’Neill (Kk) Aileen Quinn (Ke) DMBS Syl Dowd (D) Séamas O’Brien (Ke) U14D Caroline Lynch Ciara Dowling DMBD Ger McWilliams Séamas O’Brien Stephanie O’Neill (Ke) Aoife Carr (Ls) John Somers (Wx) Billy Gobbett (Ke) U15S Ailish Cantwell (Kk) LMinS Eimear Fallon (Ke) Aisling Behan (Ls) U15D Máiréad Whitmore Kirsty Smith LMinD Patricia Doyle Ciara Mullins Sarah Hackett (Wx) Fiona Ryan (Kk) Nadina Murphy (Ww) Miriam Ryan (Cw) U16S Lydia Treacy (Cw) Sarah Merrigan (Wx) LJunBS Mary Murphy (Kk) Grainne Hughes (Kk) U16D Claire Love LJunBD Grainne Hughes Ann Maire Hawe (Kk) Mary Murphy (Kk) U17S Loretta Murphy (Kk) Roslyn Larkin (D) LJunS Maria McCarthy (D) Claire Devlin (D) U17D Sarah Lafford LJunD Maria McCarthy Nicola Kieran (Kk) Claire Devlin (D)

85 Leinster 60x30 Champions 2003 SMAD Tony Breen Andy Ryan Jimmy Goggins (Wx) Seán Ryan (Cw) WINNER RUNNER-UP SMBS Gerry McGrath (Ww) Joe Anthony (Kk) MinS Gerry Kane (Cw) Richard Walshe (Ww) SMBD Gerry McGrath Jimmy Heffernan MinD Richard Walshe Gerry Kane Dick Doyle (Ww) Peter Larkin (D) Jason Doyle (Ww) Mark Doran (Cw) GMAS Vinny Farrelly (D) Eugene Kennedy (D) U21S GMAD Vinny Farrelly Richard Willoughby U21D Miles Cash Cormac Smith Eugene Kennedy (D) Pat Doyle (Wx) Jimmy Goggins (Wx) Felix Doran (Wx) GMBS Neville Farrelly (D) Richard Downey (D) JunBS Michael Maher (Kk) Eamonn Rice (Ww) GMBD Neville Farrelly Con Moore JunBD Michael Maher Ricky Barron Richard Downey (D) Gerry Murphy (Kk) Colm Love (Kk) Phil Coleman (Wx) EMAS Paddy Reilly (Kk) Pat Masterson (Oy) JunS EMAD Paddy Reilly John Molloy JunD Conor O’Brien Ian Griffin Seamas Reade (Kk) John Hoban (D) Noel Murphy (Oy) Christy Donnelly (D) EMBS Johnny O’Mara (Kk) IntS DMAS Paddy Lennon (Ww) Mick O’Brien (D) IntD Michael Gregan Carl Browne DMAD Paddy Lennon Ollie Gough Pat Quaile (Ww) Peter Reilly (Mh) Paddy Lee (Ww) Christy Lynagh (Mh) MAS Billy Bourke (Kk) Johnny Brennan (Kk) LMinS Eimear Fallon (Ke) Patricia Doyle (Ww) MAD Philly Parsons Frank Daly LMinD Eimear Fallon Patricia Doyle Johnny Brennan (Kk) Joe Lee (D) Sinéad Gallogly (Ke) Nadina Murphy (Wx) MBS Pechelli English (Wx) Jimmy Holden (Kk) LJunBS Mary Murphy (Kk) Gráinne Hughes (Kk) MBD John Carroll Pechelli English LJunBD Mary Murphy Stephen Carroll (Ke) John Bail (Wx) Gráinne Hughes (Kk) SMAS Tony Breen (Wx) Francis Carroll (Mh)

86 Leinster Referees Administrator’s Report

In November, the Chairman of the National Referees Committee requested a meeting in Áras Laighean with the Administrator and Chairman or Secretary of each county to discuss all matters relating to refereeing. Unfortunately only five counties were fully represented. In spite of that it was a constructive meeting and it was a pity that all county officers couldn’t see their Leinster Referees Administration Committee way to attend.

Pierce Freaney (Kildare) Chairman Referee appointments are always contentious Aidan Sheils (Dublin) Secretary and last year was no exception. The new Peter Brannigan (Louth) appointments committee appointed by the Joe Harlin (Meath) President, Sean Kelly, were probably not given Tom Byrne (Wicklow) enough time to study their brief and a couple of Tommy Rowe (Wexford) their appointments, i.e. Leinster Football Final Paddy Halligan (Carlow) and the replay between Cork and Wexford, left John Flood (Kildare) them open to criticism from several quarters. John Dillon (Offaly) However, I believe this committee is a victim of Adrian Murray (Westmeath) a system that is constrained by its short term Brian Allen (Laois) and as a result hasn’t had the time to Eamon Higgins (Longford) experiment with newer referees at Tommy Duggan (Kilkenny) championship level. At provincial level, we continued on a policy of giving the major games John Dillon resigned during the year as a result to up and coming referees. These were: Club of an internal problem in his own county. Football - Eugene Murtagh (Longford), Club Hurling - Joe Kelly (Wexford), Minor Football - National Tutors in Province Peter Reilly (Longford), Minor Hurling - Anthony Aidan Shiels, Tom Fitzpatrick, Tony Jordan and Stapleton (Laois), Under-21 Football - David Noel O’Donoghue. Coldrick (Meath) and Under-21 Hurling - Joe Kelly (Wexford). They all justified the trust Leinster Members of placed in them and performed very well in their National Referees Committee respective games. I am convinced that those Pierce Freaney, Tom Fitzpatrick, . who successfully officiate at provincial finals should automatically graduate to the next level The provincial committee met on seven i.e. National League, Minor Quarterfinals and occasions during the year and the meetings were even Senior Championships. well attended and constructive. The individual administrators have an increased work load with Attempts to recruit to the provincial panel extra championship games in all counties due to proved unsuccessful. Only one was added to the the introduction of Junior Club Chamiponships hurling panel and two to the football. However in hurling and football as well as Intermediate in some people left the panels for various reasons football. It was our intention to have the and when those are factored in we are worse off communication equipment for referees and numbers wise. With the number of games rising linesmen at all games and I think we succeeded due to the introduction of Junior and reasonably well. I would hope that as a result of Intermediate Club competitions it may be their endeavours standards are slowly difficult to find officials for them. While I improving. understand the reluctance of counties to have

87 too many of their best referees missing for their to accept the administrators experience, then it club games there are some counties who could is time for club and county officers to do contribute more. something to eradicate the problem.

Fitness for referees is a big issue nowadays and It is unacceptable that team managers or county with that in mind seven sessions were held in officers should criticise individual referees in the Sarsfields, Newbridge during the year. Those press. If they wish to comment on decisions were very successful and well attended. The made by a particular referee then I will always sessions were supervised by Tommy Gorman listen and maybe in this way some good might also from Sarsfields. While these sessions on come. If the game is not within my jurisdiction their own wouldn’t be sufficient they gave the then I can pass the comments on to those who referees an idea of their state of fitness and also are responsible. During the championship there some ideas to incorporate into their own is a spokesman at each venue who is available to training routines. I would like to express my talk to the media and give the referees version of thanks to Tommy and the Sarsfields Club for a controversial incident, or to clarify some other their help. The provincial tests were in Carlow matter. As the main spokesman in Leinster I was twice and Ballymahon in April.The national tests not contacted once during the year even though were in Thurles, Cavan, Tullamore twice and my number was available to them. An incident Athlone mainly prior to the Championship occurred during the All Ireland Semi Final which starting. The policy for national and provincial gave rise to some non-enlightened comments panels is that failure to pass or to do the test on television and other follow up comments in meant no championship match appointment. the press. No one was interested in the referees There were on going seminars for national panel version of the incident which was readily referees held mainly in Athlone. A similar type available. It might have spoiled what was later seminar for Leinster referees not on national described as ‘good television’. The subsequent panels was held in January. phoned death threat and the obvious distress and upset it caused his family has no place in our Training and recruitment is ongoing in the game. counties with Foundation Courses held in Meath, Dublin, Wexford, Kildare, Carlow and Wicklow to As a result of some critical articles in the date. The National Tutors Group who are newspapers a group of senior referees were responsible for running the courses in invited to meet a sub-committee of the national conjunction with the local tutors are examining committee. A meeting was also held of the the idea of the regional courses to make the provincial referees and the Leinster meeting was course worthwhile. Some counties find it attended by our chairman, Nickey Brennan. The difficult to get sufficient numbers to justify a end result was an agreement on a number of meaningful course. This course is now on Power issues including All Ireland tickets, gear, possible Point and is a huge improvement. Most counties sponsorship and an awards system. expect their club referees to reach a reasonable standard of fitness particularly those who will do It is now essential that there is a referees report senior championship. for all challenge games both club and county. Recent happenings well documented have During the year there were a number of serious shown the reason for this. County Officers incidents involving assaults on referees and should make every effort to see this is done and some got widespread media attention. It was the referees on the various panels have been encouraging to see the culprits dealt with informed. quickly and severely. Verbal abuse of referees is still a major problem and is cited by I would like to thank chairman, Nickey Brennan, administrators as one of the main barriers to and Michael Delaney for their guidance and total recruitment. This seems to be more serious at support during the year. The referees are very underage games and it is now reckoned to be conscious of their support. They also appreciate unwise to put an inexperienced referee in charge the commercial skills of John Cotter and they are of Under-14 games. If this is the case and I have proud to display the fruits of his labours. I would

88 like to pay a special tribute to our panel of Finally, I would like to sincerely pay tribute to assessors who play a most important part in the Aidan Shiels who is totally committed to development of our referees. refereeing and all the different aspects, i.e. tutoring, umpiring as well as performing his As usual I got full and total support from the duties as secretary to the provincial committee. staff at Áras Laighean, Hannah, Trish, Julia are He also stands in as assistant to the sideline most pleasant to deal with and no task is ever official at championship games when necessary. too great. Referees are impressed and appreciate I would also like to mention Joe Harlin who has good notice for games and quick payment of also helped out when required. Well done to expenses. I also work well with Michael Reynolds referee Brian White who kept the Leinster flag who needs all the referees he can get for school flying in Croke Park on All Ireland Football day games. He has improved immensely, with the and also in Australia for the International series. coaching directors, the running of underage Overall it was a good year for refereeing in intercounty competitions and it is easier to Leinster with all of them making a significant appoint referees. I thank them most sincerely for contribution to the playing of our games both all their help. within the province and at national level.

Piaras de Freine

National Referee Panelists - Laighean (Iomáint)

Contae 3.2 3.1 Support Probationary Leinster Role Supplementary

Iarmhí James McGrath

Longphort

An Lú

An Mhí Fergus Smith

Áth Cliath Aodhan Mac Suibhne David O Donovan Eoin Mullarkey Eamon Morris

Ceatharloch Pat Ahern John Quinlan

Cill Chainnigh Dominic Connolly Paddy Dunphy John Guinan

Cill Dara Jim Sheridan

Cill Mhantáin

Laois Anthony Stapleton

Loch Garman Joe Kelly Sean Whelan

Uibh Fháilí Pat Horan Noel Flynn

TOTAL 9 8 0 3 2

89 National Referee Panelists - Laighean (Peil)

Contae 3.2 3.1 Support Probationary Leinster Role Supplementary

Iarmhi Patrick Fox Peter Daly Sean Sheridan Sean Carroll

Longphort John Bannon Peter Reilly Pat O’Toole Derek Fahy Eugene Murtagh

An Lú Paul Finnegan Gabriel McKenny

An Mhí Seamus McCormack Jim Smith Cormac Reilly David Coldrick

Áth Cliath Shane Farrell Gary McCormack Eoin Ó Ceallacháin

Ceatharloch Pat Keogh

Cill Chainnigh Paul Devlin

Cill Dara Mick Monahan Bernard Duff Fintan Barrett

Cill Mhantáin Eddie Craul

Laois Eddie Whelan Maurice Deegan

Loch Garman Brian White Syl Doyle Sean O’Shea Tom Quigley

Uibh Fháilí Carthage Buckley Con Costelloe Noel Cooney

TOTAL711564

90 Public Relations, Marketing and I.T. Committee Report

was an occasion that reeked of nostalgia embroidered with the recollections of those who made it possible.

Presentations The Committee organised functions to facilitate the presentation of Railway Cup medals and awards to referees. It was also responsible for the Committee Members 2002-03 presentation of the Annual Convention.

Paddy Flanagan Chairman Programmes Pat Chapman Secretary John Cotter, our Marketing Manager, as usual, Seamus Howlin PRO produced match programmes for all our major John Cotter Marketing Manager championship games. The programmes were of Tommy Murphy the high standard we have come to expect from Alan Aherne John and I must say that the headlines he set Tom O’Donnell I.T. were emulated by most of the counties that Pat Teehan I.T. hosted ‘lesser’ games. I regret to say that, in Patricia Clear I.T. some instances, little or no effort was made to include original material ...reproduction being The duties of the Public Relations, Marketing and the indolent option. I.T. Committee over the past year were many- faceted involving publications, presentations and I have mentioned, previously, the importance of sponsorship as required by the day to day including names (full christian) with team running of Comhairle Laighean. photographs and I mention it again in the hope that programme producers will accept how County PRO’s essential it is and how little effort is needed to Early in the year, the Committee met with most do it right. of the County PRO’s in the province and outlined strategy in accordance with our terms of Games reference. Presentations were made by Alan The Committee, as a Committee, is pleased with Aherne (‘Dealing with the media’); Tom the general presentation of our games. Venues O’Donnell (‘Websites’); Pat Teehan (‘Team that are in fairly constant use have become photographs . . . implications/complications’); accustomed to what is required in this area, but Seamus Howlin (‘Production of match I must stress that it is the ‘venial sins’ that drag programmes’) and John Cotter (‘Summer down our image in most cases. Camps’). It was evident that this meeting was, to say the least, catholic in it’s coverage and was With the increase in live coverage of games, this regarded as being informative, instructive and is an area that calls for constant vigilance as the inspiring. all-seeing camera eye misses nothing.

Áras Laighean Results I think it is fair to say that the highlight of the A look at the national daily papers on a Monday working year was the opening of Áras Laighean morning will show that most counties are on the Mark II. This was an occasion of justifiable pride ball as regards their ‘domestic’ results. People for the different people involved in the away from home value this service . . . “I like to acquisition of our magnficent new premises. It know how the lads are doing” . . . but, again,

91 some counties fail to honour their obligations. I I want to say a special word of thanks to John don’t like what Tony in ‘The Sopranos’ called Cotter who, apart from fulfilling his assigned ‘negativity’, but then the positives don’t need duties, always found time to help me when I correction, so, if I am negative about some called on him, and that was fairly often! I always aspects of our work, it is in the best interests of appreciated his calming influence, his capacity Comhairle Laighean. for work and his professional approach that made him an invaluable asset to the Committee. Summary This is where I shoul outline plans for the year I want to thank every member of the Áras ahead, but as I bow out of office it would be Laighean staff. Over the years, they have been churlish of me to enunciate plans for my unstinting in their support and “no” was never successor who must be given time to formulate part of their vocabulary. his own strategy. As I leave office, I am satisfied that the Committee, that I was privileged to My thanks to Micheál Ó Dubhshláine for his chair for the past ten years, has made tangible guidance and support, often requested, always progress under it’s terms of reference. As the Ad’ freely given and much appreciated. To Council for CIE says “A lot has been done - A lot more to Chairman, Nickey Brennan, I say ‘thanks’ for do.” in an area that demands constant attention unstinted support and trust placed in the and updating to stay abreast of changes that are Committee with never a hint of interference. constant and ever more demanding, especially I.T., in all it’s facets. Míle buíochas díobh ulilig agus slán.

Finally, I want to record my sincere thanks to all Pádraig Ó Flanagáin the members of the Communications Cathaoirleach Committee. Their loyalty was total and their willingness and ability to carry out the tasks assigned to them will stand up to any scrutiny.

92 Club Organisation and Development Committee

The final report is now with Leinster Council and we hope that its findings will be beneficial in the future.

Among the problems facing the GAA in the future are:

1 The availability of land for pitches, and we Committee 2002-03 feel that local authorities and land developers must liaise with each other to Joe Shaughnessy Cathaoirleach ensure that land is zoned for amenities. Kathleen O’Neill Rúnaí Our committee is currently examining Tom Farrell development plans for each area to John Joe Walsh ascertain what land may be available in the future and what options are available for Tomás Ó hEochaidh this land. Dudley Farrell Gerry Harrington 2 The lack of man power is common to all the urban areas. It was referred to on numerous Jim English occasions and must be addressed as a Barry Hickey matter of urgency. Tom O’Loughlin The committee has also undertaken a study of Michael Noel Byrne the small rural villages with a view to Billy Flanagan ascertaining if they are likely to remain a viable Seamus Quinn unit or if at some time in the future new strategies will have to be developed. The primary duty of the committee was to undertake a report on the effects that changing The impact of these strategies will have to be demographics and urbanisation is having on the examined in detail. These surveys are currently GAA in Leinster. being finalised and will be submitted to Leinster Council in due course. As Ireland is becoming more urbanised, the GAA understands that it is essential to monitor the We have also produced, in conjunction with the changing situation, and thus take the necessary Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism, a very action to ensure that the organisation maintains useful pamphlet outlining in details the steps to its popularity nationwide. be taken when applying for Lottery funding and also the follow up needed to draw down the The committee compiled a detailed survey sheet money. to address all the necessary questions in the larger towns in each county. We have also included a list of requirements needed by financial institutions when applying This survey was completed with the help of Aoife for loans for development purposes. Cullen from NUI Maynooth, who used the project for her thesis. The committee would feel that a number of strategic pitches should be identified throughout

93 Leinster and the development of flood lighting Our committee looks forward to giving their and all weather surfaces should be undertaken. support in conjunction with the Coaching and Games Development Committee to these new clubs. To help County Development Officers a very informative meeting was held with Philips, To conclude, I would like to thank all the staff at Lamppost Construction and ESB Contracts. Comhairle Laighean for their invaluable assistance during the year. 2004 sees the completion of the Urban report and the Lottery guidelines. The report on rural I would also like to thank all the committee areas will be completed during the year. members who have worked very hard, and in particular I would like to thank our hard working Our committee feels that while a lot of good secretary Kathleen O’Neill for all her work work is being done more needs to be done. To during the year. I look forward to working with this end we feel that new clubs should be you all in the coming year. supported and encouraged by their County Boards and Leinster Council. Mile Buiochas

Joe Shaughnessy Cathaoirleach

94 Club Fixtures Committee Report

b) Dual Players who play least popular game with a club other than the club associated with the main game in the county. c) County team managers - still a problem to be addressed. d) Examinations + Summer work abroad - major problem particularly now that Government Summer scheme is Committee discontinued. John Greene Chairperson e) Students unavailable for mid-week games. Paul Kinsella Secretary f) Problems created by traffic Tony Robinson - getting home in time. Pat Doyle g) Intransigence of some club officials - still Tommy Collins believe that all games must be played L.V. Conway at weekends. h) Unplayable pitches + lack of pitches with Terms of Reference lighting - all levels of the Association need to • Reviewing the complete Club Fixtures address this area immediately. Programme in each County throughout i) Change in lifestyle of players - are we paying the province of Leinster to ensure an enough attention to this area? adequate and appropriate games j) Round Robin at minor level programme is available to club players k) Backdoor system has made it difficult to and that competitions are being run in a plan fixtures - how will Hurling proposals timely manner and senior B Football effect Club Fixtures? • Make recommendations as necessary l) Poor competition structures - there are 4 - relating to the Club Fixtures 14 team leagues - what number of teams • Programme in any or all counties keep a league most interesting. • Prepare a report for consideration at the m) Overuse of juvenile players - club/school, annual Comhairle Laighean Convention juvenile/adult - according to the medical • The Comhairle Laighean Club Fixtures experts much harm is being done in this area Committee shall report to the - how can we address this problem? Comhairle Laighean Games n) Fixtures committee not autonomous in all Administration Committee counties. o) Too many competitions in first six months of In 2003 it was good to see that all counties year - the value of the Inter-county Junior produced Fixtures Booklets and that most were and Intermediate Championships will have published by early March. Some counties still to be looked at to see if they fulfil any make their Championship Fixtures according to valuable role - still no consensus on this. the progress of their county teams - this can p) Gap between championship and B make completion difficult and it would certainly championship dates help if dates for county semi-finals and finals q) Central and provincial activities committees were cast in stone. making changes without taking into account the impact these changes are having on club Main points highlighted in 2002 where little or fixtures. no progress has been made in the meantime: r) Increased panels mean that some players are playing for neither county or club - this a) No definite Fixtures List for Special situation needs to be sorted out with team Competitions - hence local disruption. managers.

95 s) County Activities Committees do not always f) There has been significant improvement in make provision for re-fixtures after the use of I.T. and Text Messaging for fixtures postponements and draws. and results. t) Playing all games in the calendar year having big effect on club games particularly U'21 CONCLUSIONS championships. a) Fixtures in almost all Leinster counties were quite good in '03. From the experience of PROVISION OF GAMES other years it would appear that all counties a) At juvenile level the average player is must make provision for dealing with receiving probably too few games while the unexpected progress in the championship good player playing in a number of age otherwise championships would not be groups has too many games. completed in time for the Club b) All counties must make a definite decision Championships. on the playing of minor games and adult b) Completion of U'21 championships proving games on the same weekend - should either difficult for all counties. game be changed because of player being c) Very serious consideration must be given to needed for both? the 'Qualifiers' as they are presently c) Is it necessary for all under age structured as they make fixtures planning championships to be 15 a side? very difficult and club games inevitably d) U-16 is probably the most important age suffer, particularly the less popular game in group but in many ways is least adequately each county. catered for - what solution is there given d) Can we continue to add extra inter-county that the view expressed in the S.R.C. report games without effecting club fixtures? was ultimately rejected - might the S.R.C. e) Because of playing all games in the calendar suggestion be viable if we got away from 15 year, it means that counties are completing a side championships. their championships late in the year and e) In some counties 3rd. level and college often in bad weather with poor pitch games have major impact on club fixtures in conditions. This also impacts on the revenue early part of the year. taken in by each county.

FIXTURES PLANNING PROGRAMME FOR '03 a) All counties should meet with County a) Complete games audit on Juvenile games. Officers and Team Managers so that the b) Meet with Colleges to examine their parameters under which they must work are difficulties with fixtures - impact of minor laid down and agreed before any fixtures are leagues, counties completing their made and also to discuss the position of competitions when college fixtures are in full numbers 22 - 30 (or more) on county panels swing, difficulties with pitches etc. who very often end up not playing games for c) Examine possibility of designating pitches in either club or county - no or very little each county for college games and possibly progress in this area. consider aiding these pitches with b) Regulations should be in place to deal with maintenance. postponements and draws i.e. definite rule d) Get all counties to put their Fixtures regarding re-fixture - this should always be Booklets on their own or provincial website. within seven days. e) Examine the possibility of all counties c) There should be alternative dates made to providing results by text message. take 'Qualifiers' into account. f) Examine in detail the different formats used d) There should be alternative dates made to for leagues in each county and see which provide for the amount of progress that a system provides the most meaningful county might make in the championship. games. e) Serious consideration must be given as to g) See if the weaker game in each county could whether adult games should be postponed be helped by taking part in leagues in because of a minor player being on a county neighbouring counties - progress being made panel. in this area.

96 Leinster Development (Health & Safety) Committee Report

There are concerns that many sub-standard projects are going ahead or at the planning stage.

There is also a great concern that basic health and safety issues are not being addressed in these projects.

This committee had a very inactive role in 2003 Overall, therefore, while 2003 was a fairly quiet and that, of course, is a good sign of things. year in this area it is obvious that there is a However, it looks as if this season will be much substantial workload in the year ahead. busier as already plans are being put in train to inspect a number of venues which may, or Aindrias Ó Gallchóir definitely will, host Leinster Championship Cathaoirleach fixtures. These include, Tullamore, Carlow, Birr and Mullingar. Some other venues, which may be used for Qualifier fixtures, will also be reassessed.

This committee also works in conjunction with the National Grounds and Safety Committee. As a result of this our provincial committee will have an input into the following areas in the coming year:

• Matters regarding health and safety at grounds, prioritizing of main county grounds, key secondary county grounds (which are used for National League games).

• Education of County Safety Officers and Event Controllers.

• Strategic issues (on county grounds) arising from the report of the S.R.C. Implementation Committee.

• Policy on club grounds and facilities.

• Sanding programme at various venues.

• County Training pitches.

Another area of activity which will have relevance to our committee is the growing number of floodlit pitches.

97 The Kilkenny panel which won the Leinster Intermediate Hurling Championship the Leinster Intermediate Hurling won panel which Kilkenny The Back L-R:

98 Leinster Development (Grounds & Facilities) Committee Report

Purchase, Pitch Development, Dressing Rooms and Floodlighting only. We were only give the 2003 budget in October, which was e450,000 from Comhairle Laighean and e281,000 from Ard Comhairle, to make a total of e731,000.

There were 127 grant applications from clubs, 7 from second level schools and 2 from third level Committee colleges in 2003, of which 63 clubs, 6 second level schools and 2 third level colleges received John Healy Cathaoileach (Cill Chainnigh) grant aid to a total of e742,402. Michael Delaney CEO Comhairle Laighean Michael Reynolds Rúnaí & Leas CEO It was the intention of the Committee in 2002 Comhairle Laighean that a suitable ground would be financed as far John Lynch An Lú as possible, and that it would be available for Jim Roche Áth Cliath playing college games in Wintertime. This did John Byrne Ceatharlach not happen, but a number of colleges are now Kieran Keenaghan External (Uibh Fháilí) providing their own grounds and it is only right P.J. Murphy External (Iarmhí) that they receive grant aid, and going forward it will be more important to help schools and Many changes took place for the Committee in colleges ahead of additional club developments. 2003, with huge developments going on at club It would also be expected that grounds that level throughout the province, and with most receive grant aid would be made available for counties in the process of updating their County schools and colleges games. grounds, providing training grounds and with some counties planning major moves. The provincial ground grant from Ard Comhairle of e31,745 for 2003 was allocated to Nowlan Clubs and counties must be congratulated on Park Kilkenny. the way they are extending their playing grounds and modernising their spectator and Expenditure by clubs around the province based social facilities at a time when land prices and on applications in system would be in the region construction costs are very high and getting of e35 million with a large portion of this higher every year. amount being borrowed. Bank borrowings are fine where a properly structured fund-raising Where National Lottery funding is available to system is in place and where games clubs, it is a great incentive to take on major development is not affected, but a note of developments, but it should not be taken for caution, where clubs have large borrowings to be granted that grants from Comhairle Laighean or repaid by social centre profit only, there is no Ard Comhairle will follow. Grants will always be guarantee going forward that the same level of subject to availability of finance in any given profit will or can be achieved. year. Members of the Committee visited a number of The guidelines for clubs where grant aid may be clubs during the year to assess their available was changed during the year due to the development progress right across the province, enormous number of applications and to the and the officers, together with the officers from limited budget available. Going forward, any the Finance Committee of Ard Comhairle visited finance available for grant aid will be for Pitch a number of clubs in Dublin that required

99 borrowing facilities approval, and approval for and the time they forfeited towards helping GAA major developments. clubs.

A number of visitations are planned for January A special thanks to Micheál Mac Raghnaill for 2004 in which recommendations will be made the way he simplified everybody’s work and to to Comhairle Laighean re: County Ground the staff of Comhairle Laighean. Developments, Disposing of property, and major club developments. Thanks to the members of all clubs and counties for their continued cooperation and wishing all a Many thanks to club and county officers for their successful 2004. courtesy and hospitality during visits. John Healy Sincere thanks to the committee members for Cathaoirleach the dedicated work they put in during the year

100 Leinster Comhairle & I.T. Training Committee Report

We have trained a significant number of new facilitators this year and they are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to go and meet as many clubs as possible.

For the last two and a half years it has been our privilege to work with Maura Jackman in Croke Park in the area of facilitator training and in Club The year gone by was a mixed one for the area Development. of Administrative Training in the province. Maura has left her post in headquarters and for A significant number of Pre-AGM and Club the second time in four years those of us Development and Planning Courses were held. working in this area have been left without a We were also involved in promoting the use of person to liaise with in Croke Park. email for fixtures and for regular contact between clubs and counties. We helped where We hope to see a realignment of our area of club possible with the completion of registration development with other sections which also forms on disk. deal with clubs so we can coordinate our activities to better effect.We would like to wish While these other involvements are significant Maura well in her new involvements and we our main area of interest centres around people thank her for her diligent work with us in the last training and our courses provide our opportunity few years. for that. Some counties see the value in what we do but others however have failed totally to buy The National Club Development and Planning into the process. Committee has targeted the Setting up of Development Committees in every county as We are having great difficulty in getting across the means of getting to clubs. the message that our courses are not prescriptive. We are not in the business of These development committees would however lecturing nor are we interested in making need to have the full backing of County Officers comparisons between clubs or counties. in order to achieve their aims.

Our courses seek to build on the expertise and Our provincial committee will be putting the competency that already exists in the unit we contact with County Development Committees visit. at the top of our agenda for the coming year.

Step One of any course we do involves the We will continue to target the club Development group being guided through a process of self- and Planning Course as the best way to develop examination. our clubs.

Step Two consists of a comparison between the In the autumn we will target the Pre-Agm course existing state of affairs and where the club as our priority. For too long the Club AGM has would like to be. been neglected as an area for club development. We have failed to plan in advance to achieve Step Three is the setting out of a number of a good results from what is the most important number of carefully planned strategies to meeting in the year. achieve the desired results.

101 The result has in many cases been detrimental to the club. This Pre-AGM Course is a means of involving the Club Executive and a significant number of members in the process of planning in advance for the coming year and then organising the AGM in a manner which will facilitate the achievement of those plans.

We would hope to involve ourselves this year in the area of training people to set up club websites. We see the whole I T area as a means of bringing younger and computer literate people into the area of club administration. If we do it well we could for the first time recruit a significant number of new people for our clubs and counties.

I would like to thank all those who have worked with us in Club Development in the past year and I look forward to making significant progress in the coming year.

Liam Ó Néill Cathaoirleach

102 Comhairle Scór Laighean Report

Leinster Scór Winners 2003

Rince Foirne (Céilí Dancing) Baile Uí Cheoig (Loch Garman)

Amhránaíocht Aonair (Solo Song) Pádraig Ó hAilín, Dún Samhna (An Mhí) Tá sé de phribhléid agam an Tuarascail gear seo a chur faoi bhraid na ndoine atá bailithe anseo ó Ceol Uirlise (Instrumental Music) Cuige Laighean. Na Seamrogaí (Uibh Fháilí)

Our Úachtarán, Seán Ó Ceallaigh, is very anxious Aithriseoireacht /Scéalaíocht that we have maximum participation in Scór at both levels as an expression of our commitment (Recitation/Storytelling) to our cultural aims. Máire Ní Dhiomasaig, San Domhnach (Iarmhí)

For our Scór na nÓg competitions, in most Bailéad Ghrupa (Ballad Groups) Leinster counties, there was a big effort made to Na Seamrogaí (Uibh Fháilí) encourage more clubs to take part and we can say that our entries were up on previous years. Tráth na gCeist (Question Time) We would hope that our entries for Senior Scór would also show an improvement. Might I Naomh Seosamh (Iarmhí) express our gratitude to the County Scór committees in Leinster for their effort in Nuachleas (Novelty Act) organising Scór at the various levels. Eiméid Corn na Bhua (Cill Mhantáin)

I would like to thank all our adjudicators and Rince Seit (Set Dancing) counties which hosted our semi-finals during the Baile Uí Cheoig (Loch Garman) past year.

To our Chairman, Séamus Ó Faoláin, and the Leinster Scór Committee members many thanks for your work and cooperation.

Finally, I would like to thank the officers of Comhairle Laighean, and in particular Nioclas Ó Braonáin, Liam Ó Neill and Micheál Ó Dubhshláine for their assistance and support. Tá sé de phribhléid agam mo bhuíochas a ghabháil go gach éinne a chabhraigh liom.

Domhnaill Ó hIceadha Rúnaí

103 Leinster GAA 2003 ‘The Lighter Side’

“In vacant or in pensive mood” Vice Chairman Liam O’Neill in Rome for the Railway Cup Hurling Final

“Just a minute - I’m a bit tied up at the moment!” P.R.O. Séamus Howlin helps our Iar-Cathaoirleach Jim Berry to get dressed on the occasion of the official opening of Áras Laighean

“Friends! Romans! Countrymen! Lend me your hurls!” Leinster Railway Cup Hurling Selector Mick Jacob goes on the defensive while in Rome

“Contract signed!” Our Cathaoirleach signs up for golf lessons with Seve Ballesteros. Making up a formidable three-ball is Uachtarán CLG, Seán Kelly.

The Leinster Chairman promises the Leinster SFC trophy that (a) it will be in Kilkenny this century or (b) that it will have a new name in 2004

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