DOWN GAA 2019 ANNUAL CONVENTION

TURASCAIL AN RUNAÍ 2019

Secretaries Report to Annual Down GAA County Convention 1 www.DownGAA.net #OfficialDownGAA

DOWN COUNTY GAA ANNUAL CONVENTION 2019 2

TURASCAIL AN RUNAÍ 2019 At this time of the year County than in the direction of what is right. This is where passion is masked in a Secretary’s throughout the Country I have been very proud of the values red mist of anger and vitriol, yes, we reflect in their annual report on how that Down GAA espoused over the want people to be passionate about their County has performed in the decades, values that served us well our games, but we want it to be in a GAA world in 2019. We do so in a even in the most difficult of times in positive vein. No one should have to twin fashion looking firstly at our our nation’s history. We as a County leave our games because they are County within and then at the GAA, and our people have always had feeling intimidated by those around it is as if we have x-ray glasses as we backbone, we have had dignity, them, that is something that has scrutinise and examine, we probe honesty, humility and compassion belonged in other sports and not in and we ponder, it is what we do. and we have always acted in a the world of the GAA. There should The objective is too for critical manner that was right for our be no difference in how people analysis on a range of matters and Association. behave in the stand or on the to create debate and hopefully to Sideline at a GAA match than they stir the passions of those who take In the summer of 2019, I think our would do so in their place of work, the time to read the writings of a moral compass went off in a their homes or amongst their Rúnaí Coiste Chontae. My report different direction and showed a friends, a GAA match should not be this year will be no different, very different side of how we should the opportunity for someone to hopefully it will provide a critique of treat people. Respect for the person vent all of their frustrations on how we performed internally and sitting beside you or in front of you those in close proximity to the contribute to debates that are at a Club Game went out the extent that people feel they have to ongoing nationally. window as emotion and passion leave our venues and leave them in were channelled in a negative tears. I have often said that the greatest direction.Respect for your asset the GAA has is its people and I opponent was cast aside as we Similarly there must be respect firmly believe that is particularly moved in a direction of who could shown to those who play our true in . This year in cast the biggest derogatory and games, we are all part of the GAA Down we lost some outstanding hurtful insult to their direct Family and is it necessary that on people in the Club and County opponent, knowing that this would occasions that we stoop to lows of scene, people called far too early to unnerve them and cause upset, directing hurtful comments to our their eternal reward and I will their focus would shift from the direct opponents as a means of dedicate a section of my report to game to a painful time in their lives gaining an advantage in a game? those great people. and the perpetrator would gain an This win at all cost’s mentality is advantage and his team would win. being instilled in players at all levels, Yet in how we treat people I feel Respect for our Match Officials also there is a fine line in this mentality that we need to return to the values reached a low level this year with a and when that fine line is crossed, that helped make our Association serious physical assault and we are left to wonder has that win the great body that it is, and which numerous instances of verbal been worth all that it involved. sets us apart as not just a sporting abuse. Indeed, we seem to live in a Clubs have a responsibility to ensure body but the cultural heartbeat of a society now where verbal abuse of that the players who go out to nation. Values are by definition: the those in any post of responsibility represent their Club are aware of regard that something is held to is an acceptable norm and is the values of the Club and that deserve, the importance, worth or especially directed towards when they transgress and are in usefulness of something, they are volunteers. Would it be the norm in breach of the values of the Club, one’s judgement of what is any of our Homes? then the Club will uphold and important in life, a person’s support any sanction imposed. principles or standards of That’s where I feel that our values behaviour. need to be reaffirmed, it is So, I believe that we in Down GAA unacceptable that in 2019, mothers need to refocus on Respect, and So, in 2019 how important were watching their son play in a match, respect for all our people, either values in the world of Down GAA, feel that they have to walk out of supporters, opponents on the field, did we put our values above a win Pairc Esler because of the abuse Club and County Officials, Match at all costs attitude, has our moral being directed towards their son, by Officials. We are not asking that you compass been turned in the people sitting beside them but who must like everyone, but you must direction of need and must rather are followers of their opponents. show respect to the position that

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the person might have within our Pairc Esler and there was a great used by especially those looking Association. We want people to atmosphere about the Mayo game. from outside to see how healthy the enjoy participation in our games as was alive on that Saturday, GAA is in your County. The County players, as managers, as coaches, as footfall in the local Shopping Teams are what attracts referees, as administrators, as Centres was increased and all in all sponsorship and much needed parents and as supporters, we want there was an economic dividend for financial support into the County them to value their part in the the city of Newry that economic and in respect we have been very family that is Down GAA. Let us say spin off makes it easier for Down lucky at a time when our fortunes that in 2020 enough is enough and GAA to knock doors in the business are not as high as we would wish, reaffirm our commitment in every community and seek sponsorship. that we can attract Blue Chip club and in every dressing room in Sponsorship in the form of EOS I.T our County to Respect those around The rescheduling of the Under 20 Solutions. us and return to the values that Competition now to February is I made us the County that we are, a feel a decision that is The reality is though that if we County respected throughout the incompressible, a decision taken want to continue to enjoy the GAA world for doing the right thing. because some counties could just preparations and lifestyle of a not manage their Team County with Super 8 and Joe Moving to the direction of the GAA Managements and the schedules McDonagh Cup ambitions then we nationally I am very concerned that they wished to implement. In a have to have success on the field. about the dilution of the Inter County like Down where our second Promotion in football and County Calendar to I believe the level schools will most likely be in 2020 has to be a requirement, detriment of many young men who involved competitively in February we have to set targets and we have will no longer get the opportunity to and possibly into March, then to achieve them. As administrators play Inter County Football or reality is that some people will not we have to ensure that the Hurling. Down is a County who has a get the chance to play Inter County environment for success is in place well-oiled Club programme of football in 2020. We are once again both on and off the field, after that fixtures in Football and Hurling. making life difficult for the player, it is up to players and management, we are saying he can train with the there has too to be accountability We set out our calendar at the start Under 20s but not play as long as his and in 2020 we have to deliver in of a year in agreement with our school is involved in competition, terms of promotion from Division 3 Clubs, in 2020 our Senior Football what school focusing on the of the Football League and from Clubs will have 18 League games MacRory or McLarnon Cup is going Division 2B of the Hurling League. and a Minimum of 2 Championship to allow a player to train with the No Down Team in my term as games, in Divisions 3 and 4 the County. It is a ludicrous suggestion Secretary and I know in the years players will get more games. We that it could even happen. preceding have ever been denied in have catered for the need of the anything that was asked for in terms Club player and yet because some County Teams are the Shop Window of preparation and that is how it Counties fail to have a fixture for Counties we are in real danger of should be, reality is though that may calendar or indeed provide squeezing the Inter County calendar not always be the case as economics meaningful fixtures to their Clubs, to death all because some Counties and the possibility of a Tier 2 we in Down are being penalised. cannot manage either their fixture participation may dictate otherwise. programme or their Team A Tier 2 Championship has been Managements. That is extremely In Football and in Hurling both introduced and it is a distinct disappointing that the rest of us and Senior Team Managements have possibility that Down could end up our players pay a price for poor had a year in post, talent has been playing in such a Championship in governance. identified and Managements have 2020, to avoid doing so we need to had a chance to learn on what we either gain promotion to Division hope is the curve of success. Year Two or reach the Final. It is COUNTY TEAMS Two now in sense reflects the end certainly within our gambit to of that honeymoon period, the Our County Teams are our shop achieve both or either and avoid Down follower wants to see tangible window, the performances of our Tier 2 and the prospect of playing in signs of upward improvement and County Team is how people such a competition is certainly not success, there have been enough measure the performance of the an enticement for the Gaels of gallant defeats over our lifetime, the GAA in Down, this can be deemed Down. In 2019 we hosted Tipperary time now is for the Red and Black to to be a simplistic approach but and then Mayo in Qualifier games in be back in the winners enclosure. reality is that it is the barometer DOWN COUNTY GAA ANNUAL CONVENTION 2019 4

As momentum in the County gets with the Hurlers on at 5.00pm and would go on to Win the Division and behind the new proposed the Footballers playing Laois at gain promotion! As I said in my development, one of the biggest 7.00pm. report last year I firmly believe that impacts in supporting that if we can get promotion from development would be success for Over the years Derry have Division 2B, then we will I have no our County Teams. County Team traditionally proved a difficult doubt be able to hold our own in success brings a feel good factor to hurdle for Down and given too that Division 2A, the hurdle of getting a County and it does give people a winning this game was in effect promotion is a psychological barrier lift, in their lives, in their working virtually going to decide one of the that we have to overcome. In 2020 day and in how they see things in League Finalists, it was going to be a if we can manage that then there is general, people want to be big task for either side. The every right to believe that Down associated with success, it is human physicality of the Derry men created Hurling will flourish. nature. Successful Down Teams difficulties for Down and sometimes over the next five years for example games are defined by small margins Down continued on their travels would I firmly believe expedite the and when a speculative lob by Alan with a trip to Pairc Na h Eireann in programme of works at Ballykinlar, Grant deceived Stephen Keith in the Birmingham up next and a game people would want to be associated floodlights you sensed that this was against Warwickshire. An early start with the County, they would take not just going to be Down’s night. and flights out of Dublin saw us take pride in playing their part in our On a damp night in Newry on a the field for a 1.00pm throw in to renaissance. In general this is heavy pitch, the light Down facilitate flights back home again another reason why I am concerned forwards were going to struggle and that evening, it was all as the man about the dilution of the Inter were never going to get a chance to says in a day’s work. On the County Calendar, if we end up play their expansive game. In the Warwickshire side was a fellow playing less games at Inter County end Derry had 5 points to spare on a Down man Eugene Magee from Level then the impact that would score of 1-16 to 0-14 and the Ballela and he certainly created have on our Counties would I promotion battle was going to be an some difficulties for the Down believe be a heavy price to pay onerous one with away trips to defence, the winning ways because of the reluctance of some Wicklow and Kildare in particular to continued though as we maintained Counties to address their own follow. composure to win 1-16 to 0-11. The Internal Fixture Programme. journey was a satisfying one as I Next up was a journey to Aughrim thought back to a previous trip to The Down Hurlers were the first to face Wicklow and a win was Birmingham when in 1978 Down County Team in competitive action needed here to get any hopes of played Warwickshire in a Division 2B in 2019 with their participation in Promotion resurrected. The Down Football Final and in the company of the Conor McGurk Cup at Queens men responded magnificently and in my late Uncle Francis and the great and it gave new Team Manager the toughest of venues came out Val Murphy of Rostrevor we Ronan Sheehan a chance to have an with an 11 point win 1-23 to 0-15, managed to overcome travel early look at the potential that he this showed there was a lot of disruption and returned via had for the season ahead. Down character about this team. There Stranraer on the Monday evening! qualified for the final with wins over were outstanding personal Glebe Farm the home of Q.U.B and Fermanagh before performances from Paul Sheehan Warwickshire in those days was a meeting U.U.J in the final where we who notched 0-10 and Daithi Sands very poor relation to the great had three points to spare winning who rowed in with a total of 1-4. facilities and hospitality of Pairc Na by 1-19 to 0-19 after a late rally by Not belittling upcoming games hEireann in 2019. We hope to the students caused a few anxious against Warwickshire and Donegal return the Kindness shown to us moments. but the heads were looking towards when Warwickshire visit in 2020. the last game of the League away to Ronan Sheehan was joined in his Kildare as a possible league final With momentum behind us from management team by Mick Blair, place decider. our away trips Donegal made the Niall Coulter, Tony Austin and Cork journey now to Pairc Esler and legend Diarmuid O Sullivan who was The intricacies of Division 2B are Down were in no mood to relax, the filling an advisory and coaching role well documented though and by the Sands brothers Daithi and Eoghan with the Team. On January 26th the end of the Season the table would were certainly in form and netted Hurlers opened their Allianz League show that a Wicklow team defeated three goals between them as we ran campaign against old foes Derry as comprehensively at home by Down out comfortable winners 3-21 to 1- part of a Double Bill at Pairc Esler, would indeed be the Team who 15. One of the highlights of how the

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team were performing this year was Memberships are available for all would be best suited to the firm that new blood was coming to the County Hurling Panellists, Ivan ground, a dry sod and an expansive fore, players like Ronan Costello, McQuade and Eamonn Crothers pitch. The was Tim Prenter and Marc Fisher were have been identified to bring the going to put that theory to the test now starting to command places on professional direction necessary and fully. the team. This was a sign of the to support the players in their good work being done at programmes, now we just need the Derry were once again the visitors in Developmental and Schools Level work to commence and I believe Round One and this time the game coming to fruition as too was the that this can make a difference. This was in Portaferry, on this occasion noticeable spread of clubs amongst is evident not just in the County Down really did not turn up and it the members of the panel. Hurling Scene but in the Club scene was a disappointing performance all as well, for our Club teams to make round. Derry comprehensively were Next up was to be that journey to the necessary impact outside of winners 3-20 to 2-14 and it was Newbridge where a win was to be Down, the players need to be going to be a big task for Ronan and necessary if we were to have any committed to an Off the Field his Management team to lift the hope of a League Final place and programme of preparation as well. players for a trip once again to possible promotion. Sometimes Aughrim and a meeting with things are just taken out of your The Christy Ring Cup campaign saw Wicklow. Lift the team though is hands and on a day when Met Down once again pitted against old exactly what they were able to do Eireann issued a snow and ice foes in Derry, Donegal and Wicklow and with the forwards showing the warning for County Kildare, I have to in the Group Stages with journeys to way Down showed great character say I was never colder at a match Aughrim and Letterkenny once to go and win in Aughrim for the than I was on that Sunday in again the order of the day. second time in 2019. Newbridge. A sign of how cold it was came that when substitutions This is where I feel that we have Score difference was going to play a were being made the player coming now at this stage too many levels or part in deciding the two teams who off was wrapped in a foil blanket by tiers in the Hurling Competitions as would qualify for the Semi Finals the first aid attendees of the Civil you end up playing the same teams and Down having lost out on Score Defence. In reality the game that you have played in the League Difference last year were became of little importance and it again in the Championship. Do we determined that they would not fall was far more important that no one need to think about combining the foul in 2019. Preparations were was injured or suffered any reaction Joe McDonagh and Christy Ring good and the form was excellent for to the weather, the records show competitions and giving counties the trip to O’Donnell Park in that Kildare won by 0-13 to 1-6, the chance to work at bettering Letterkenny , it was a day when the common sense and player welfare themselves by playing at a standard Sands brothers Daithi and Eoghan would ask how did the game that they already aspire to? I predict were in excellent form with both proceed. The Thirty players at any that the same will happen with Tier grabbing hat tricks as Down made given time on the field deserve all 2 of the Football, Counties will no the headlines with a score of 7-22 to the credit, they totally braved the longer get the opportunity to test 2-15 for the home side and in turn elements and gave of their very best themselves against the top counties, managed to top the table. on a day that you wouldn’t have put when you are in Division 2B of the the cat out! Allianz Hurling League it is indeed Roscommon were to be our sometimes hard to see the wood for opponents in the Semi Final and a There was disappointment that the Trees. We need to be creative trip to Inniskeen in Monaghan hopes of promotion were gone but about raising standards and it is not beckoned on a sunny Saturday the mood was lifted for the journey all about Money, it is about a afternoon. Down had to work hard home when the news came through pathway for progress and the to shrug off the challenge of that Clonduff Camogs had won the opportunity to test oneself in pure Roscommon and qualify for a first All- Intermediate hurling teams against counties who Christy Ring Final since our 2013 Title. you compete against at National success. Leading at half time by -2 8 Blitzes etc at Underage level. to 0-10 with the goals coming once Tentative steps were made in 2019 again from the Sands brothers in addressing the deficit in The Down Senior Hurling Team Down were in control but not yet conditioning for our Hurlers and this Management had always contended playing their expansive game. In the is certainly an area that needs work that the game and style of hurling second half with both teams off the field in 2020. Gym that they were seeking to develop reduced to 14 men, Down added on

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the points and on a final score of 3- responded in a positive manner and and once again promotion from 18 to 1-15, we were back in Croke approaching half time thanks to Division 2B must be the top priority. Park. goals from Paul Sheehan and Daithi In the age of target setting and KPI’s Sands, Down had reduced the then for Management and Players Meath were to be our opponents in margin to one point at the interval promotion must be the marker. the Final of the Christy Ring in what Meath 1-12 Down 2-8. It had When someone comes to evaluate was to be a busy day for the Down certainly been an exciting thirty-five Down Senior Hurlers performances GAA family, the Hurlers in Croke minutes in Croke Park. in 2020, I sincerely hope that they Park, The Footballers in Newry to will be ticking a big box and saying face Mayo and the Camogs also at The second half began again for Number One Target – Promotion – home that day. Thanks to the good Meath in a hectic fashion with a Achieved. offices of the CCC in Croke Park goal within the first minute of the accommodation was made half to reinforce their authority on I would like if I may at this stage pay regarding timings for the Hurlers the proceedings. A second goal tribute to the Team Management and the Footballers which facilitated followed in the 45th minute and try for their work this year, they often people wishing to get to both as they did Down could not find the went above and beyond the games. net again, whilst Meath had the expected to ensure that all final say with a further goal in injury preparations were in place and that The start to the game in Croke Park time. the welfare of their players was was delayed due to the fact that the paramount. I must acknowledge the Lory Meaghar Final had gone to This was a very brave performance contribution of Diarmuid ’O Sullivan Extra Time and whether the waiting by a young Down Team and it was whose presence in the dressing had an adverse effect on Down is much deserved of the work that room and on the training pitch gave not known but the team were very they had put in during the past year the players an increased belief in slow to get into their stride and that they should reach a Christy themselves. Diarmuid brought all of within 15 minutes Down were ten Ring Final in Croke Park. The slaps his experience to the role and it is points down and had not scored. on the back for encouraging easy to see why Kieran Kingston performances will though only take would want him at his side with It is though testimony to the you so far, Down Senior Hurlers Cork in 2020 and I wish him well and character of the side that they then need to get back to the next level thank him for his work with Down, I

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know that he will be keeping an eye The All Ireland Final would see terms of effort, but in the final on our performances in the year Down journey to Navan to play reckoning they just couldn’t ahead. Kerry who were seeking a three in a compete with Kerry’s class. row in the same competition. The The Under 20 hurlers were still in men from the Kingdom were Our Under 17 hurlers competed in action on August 3rd this year, physically stronger than the Down the Celtic Challenge and in the indeed that were amongst a small boys, had far too much skill, power, Minor Hurling group of Counties still playing and finishing nous for a game where Championship in 2019. There is hurling in the month of August, that the Down team tried their hearts indeed a discussion to be had in is an encouraging sign. The Under out but simply couldn’t cope with regard to our participation levels in 20 hurlers played 5 games this year Kerry’s scoring power. 2020 but like our Under 20 team I and that certainly will stand to good think that the greatest benefit will stead in their player development, It was a supreme team effort from come from games and from surely that is also good reason to the Kingdom, but within that frame- participation in both competitions. indicate to fixture planners that work individuals like Barry such competitions are beneficial to O’Mahony and Donal O’Sullivan In the Celtic Challenge Down the Counties who choose to were especially impressive, indeed qualified at National Level for the participate. Matches will give both had played Under 20 football Corn William Robinson and had a people the opportunity to pit their for Kerry this year. They scored a Quarter Final date with Westmeath, skills against their peers from other combined tally of 3-6 from play, 3-5 this was a game of high intensity Counties, they will be themselves of it in the first half, and tortured and Down were unlucky to concede measuring their own development the Down defence with their pace, a goal in the last moments to end up against players that they movement and hurling technique. losing on a score line of 2-15 to 3- encountered perhaps at Celtic 11. Westmeath were then beaten in Challenge level. Young people like Kerry dominated this game from the a semi final by Derry who went on to measure, they like to test very start and were already 1-4 to to win the Competition. themselves against targets and the no score ahead by the ninth minute Under 20B Hurling Championship with O’Sullivan hitting- 1 1 with his In the Leinster Championship Down allowed our players and first two touches of the match. were in Tier 3 with Carlow and management see where we are on Meath and were guaranteed a the Development level. Down rallied by hitting four of the minimum of three games in total. next five points– two of them from Results were very disappointing and The campaign began against classy wing-forward Tim Prenter – Down were well beaten in their two Donegal on a Tuesday night in but they were rocked again when group games and then by Kildare in and I salute the Donegal O’Sullivan scored his second goal of the Knockout Stages. Team and Mentors who travelled the match. When O’Mahony then mid-week to play the game, Down scored a spectacular third goal for The performances asked more were comprehensive winners, but Kerry on 30 minutes the match was questions than they gave answers, Hurling was the real winner. 20 already as good as won, and by the at Under 14 and Under 16 Blitzes young men got to represent their time the half-time whistle blew they held at National Level in recent County for Donegal, they made a were 3-13 to 0-8 to the good. years Down would more than have commitment when it might have held their own with any of those been easier to make a phone call The contest was always likely to three Counties. Yet here at Under and say we can’t travel, if the shoe peter out in the second half, and so 17 level a seismic gap appears to had been on the other foot I might it proved. Kerry eased off the gas, have arisen, one is forced to ask if not have been so certain. but they still clipped over points at a we are not then doing the right nice rate, with four in a row in as development work with these Sligo were visitors to Newry for a many minutes mid-way through the players after Under 16 and even up Quarter Final and after some edgy half emphasising their continued to Under 16 are they doing the work moments Down took control and supremacy. that they need to do away from the were winners 4-21 to 0-14. The collective sessions. Indications are Semi Final v Derry in Owenbeg was They proved their panel has a good that we have the nucleus of a good an epic encounter that ebbed and depth of talent too, because even Minor Hurling Team this year flowed and at the final whistle when they emptied their bench they coming 2020, do we just compete at Down were in front by the continued hurling at a high level. Celtic Challenge or do we continue narrowest of margins, 2-17 to 0-22. Credit to Down for never stinting in to enter at Leinster Minor Hurling DOWN COUNTY GAA ANNUAL CONVENTION 2019 8

level also? My preference would be Three for the 2020 season, once environment where the players can that we participate in both, the again we seemed to take two steps flourish. Team Managements are County Committee will as always forward and three steps backwards appointed by County Committee, make the resources available for in a season that promised but didn’t they are another cog in the wheel, a teams to compete in both. The deliver. There are three cogs in the vital cog and at the end of the day Leinster Council have always been wheel that can take Down Football they will be judged on results but supportive of Down participating in back to a higher level, there is the they too have the capacity to make their competitions and in 2020 also County Committee, there is Team things happen and to deliver for our Senior Hurlers will compete in Management and there are the Down. the . players. These three cogs need to be working in tandem to ensure The third cog is the players, from a I ask why you would not want to try that the wheels of Down Football panel photograph of All Ireland Final and participate at the highest are turning in the one direction and day in 2010 only 5 players remain in standard, the Kildare team that all parties need to respect each a Panel for 2020, this is by and large defeated Down in the Leinster other’s roles for this to be a new group of people who have Minor Hurling Championship in successful. the task of turning the corner for 2019 got to a Semi Final where for Down. The immediate priority is long periods of the game they The County Committee and its promotion, the introduction of a troubled Kilkenny. That did not Senior Officers are the people who Tier 2 Championship in 2020 has happen by not training or deciding must ensure that the environment is made Promotion a necessary maybe we will take the handy right for Inter County success. In my priority if Down Football is to have option here and get the gear and time as Secretary and in different any ambition of returning to past just compete in the Celtic Challenge. times in my past involvement the glories. Delivery of promotion has to Players and Management must be County Officers have been unfairly come from within this group of prepared to work hard to build a and unjustly castigated for the players, they have to have the team that is willing to test itself failures of County Teams. I can desire within to make it happen, against the best, we can no longer categorically state that no request and they have to have the work win an Ulster Minor Hurling Title, for assistance from a Team ethic to go that extra yard when and there is no such competition so Management or Players has ever needed. The burning desire must we must aim to be the best that we been refused, the opposite has come from within the Jersey, the can be. To me that means we always been the case and the GPS monitor will not give you a compete in the Celtic Challenge and County Officers have always reading on determination and the Leinster Minor Hurling managed to deliver. The job of the desire that comes from within the Championship in 2020. County Officers is to ensure that the player himself, and we need people environment is right for success, to wearing the Down Jersey who have On reflection 2019 was a good year put in place all logistical support those qualities. for County Hurling in Down, we did necessary to allow Team not win any silverware but we got Managements and Players to If we are able to combine three to the top table in 2 of 3 the Adult complete the tasks at hand. I can units, County Officers, Team competitions that we competed in assure that this is a task willingly Managements and Players working and if you are getting to the table undertaken by Senior Officers and in tandem to the optimum of their often enough the fruits of success whilst our Team is in Division Three abilities then I do believe that will be yours. I believe that we can the resources at the disposal of success on the field will follow. Any look forward to 2020 in an Management and Players would be weak link in the chain will be optimistic manner with regard to the envy of a Division One Team. Is detrimental to any future success our hurling prospects. that sustainable if promotion in for Down Teams, there needs to be This time last year we welcomed a 2020 were not achieved that is a a recognition of each other’s roles new Senior Football Team Manager question I hope we don’t have to and a respect for the roles in Paddy Tally and there was answer in the year ahead. undertaken, all of these things will optimism that our stay in Division help ensure that the environment Three would be a short lived one The Team Management now have for success is right. and that we would climb the ladder had a year to find their feet in the again to the top tiers. demanding roles of Inter County Paddy Tally got his career as Down Senior Management, they know the Team Manager up and running in Unfortunately, that was not to be stock of the County by now and we the Dr McKenna Cup on the 30th of the case and we remain in Division hope that they too can create an January in Kingspan and

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unfortunately it ended in a one in terms of score difference later in new rules worked to Down’s point defeat 0-13 to 1-9 with the the season. There were a number of advantage as in Injury time Jerome Cavan winning score coming in debutants in the Down team that Johnston in as a sub claimed a Injury Time. night and for some it was a hard forward mark and slotted over the lesson in Inter County Football. winning point for a most unlikely There was a gulf in class apparent in victory. our second game when Donegal A trip to the West was next up and came to Newry and were it really was into the West weather The old Cliché that goals win games comfortable winners by 10 points as the rain poured down in rang true when Down made the on a score of 1-17 to 0-10. Down Coolaney, the Down supporters who journey to Glennon Bros. Pearse were always behind in the game and had made the journey were the Park in Longford as a hat trick of trailed 0-9 to 0-3 at the break. bravest of the brave for the day that goals from Donal O’Hare inflicted a Possible bright shoots were the was in it. It took a Caolan Mooney first defeat on Longford and kept return of Pat Havern and the goal five minutes into injury time to Down firmly on the promotion trail. introduction of young players like earn Down a dramatic two point win Once again Rory Burns showed his Eoin McCabe from Carryduff. in Sligo. Paddy Tally showed too progress with a penalty save from that he was not afraid to make early Michael Quinn at a crucial stage in The Mid Week game in Pairc Esler substitutions in a game and midway the second half. Never an easy place against the students of Queens through the first half Donal O’Hare for Down teams to go and win University was not going to affect was introduced for Jerome games and the team showed good the group placings but at least Johnston, the impact was almost character putting three consecutive Paddy Tally got a home win with Pat immediate with the Burren man wins together on a score of 3-7 to 0- Havern notching goals either side of pointing twice before the break to 8. Half Time as Down scored 4-18 to leave Down two points behind. the visitors 1-5. Offaly were up next as visitors to Caolan Mooney scored the first of Pairc Esler for another Saturday In recent years Down had found his two points to put Down ahead night fixture and the Home fans themselves in good positions at Half with 20 minutes to go but with the were smiling as Down moved to the Time in games but had been unable game well into injury time Sligo top of the Table with a well- for some reason to maintain were two points ahead and a win deserved victory thanks to two goals momentum and deliver a win, for Down looked unlikely. There was from Mayobridge man Cory Quinn unfortunately in 2019 that was to time for one last attack and Donal who had entered the fray as a be the case again in the first game O’Hare set up Mooney for the second half sub. The first half had of the Allianz League at home in Rostrevor man to palm to the net on been a tight affair with Down Pairc Esler. Laois were the visitors the full-time whistle. There was leading by two points at Half Time, and into the second half we were heartbreak for Sligo but for the but the gap increased when Quinn leading by 0-10 to 0-5. Our visitors soaking wet Down supporters they in as a sub cleverly sidestepped the were buoyed by the introduction of never felt the rain as they made goalkeeper to slot home. Both sides Donie Kingston and they reeled off their way back to their cars, happy exchanged points before Down seven unanswered points to lead by with two points and plenty to talk added the icing on the cake as Cory 2 after 50 minutes. Down had not about on the way home. Quinn added a second goal in come out for the second Half. Laois stoppage time with an emphatic stretched their lead thanks to a goal Westmeath were the visitors next to finish to send the Home support from Colm Murphy and this seemed Newry for a Saturday night fixture away happy withy their team at the to rouse the home crowd and they and again this was a game that top of the table. were back in full voice as sub Donal Down grabbed at the death. O’Hare palmed to the net to leave Reduced to 14 men with the first With Two games to go Down had only a point between the teams. half sending off of Pat Havern and their destiny in their own hands, thankful to Rory Burns for a penalty two wins would guarantee Spirits were dampened though as save, Down were fortunate to be promotion and a return to Croke Paul Cahillane pounced for an going in at the break only one point Park for a League Final, it was as insurance goal in injury time and down 0-5 to 0-4. Westmeath simple as that. Laois were six-point winners, continued to lead right up until the reflecting an 11 point turn around in closing moments when Donal On March 16th Down travelled to the last 30 minutes. The six point O’Hare and Conor Poland grabbed Carlow to meet a home side whose defeat would come back to haunt us points to bring the sides level. The reputation was growing and who

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also had a Down man in their Newry for the final League Games of this was only momentarily as Louth Management Team – Stephen the Season and with Down needing corner back Fergal Donohoe pointed Poacher, this was going to be a big a win or a draw for promotion there in the next attack, the previous game. Indeed, this was a game that was optimism amongst the home score proved indeed to be the ebbed and flowed and in the end it supporters that they would be back winner. Down rallied with three would be fair to say that Carlow in Croke Park for a League Final. The unanswered score but could not were left reeling and in shock at the optimism was to be misplaced as a find an equaliser and it was Louth end of the game. Long after the determined and hungrier Louth Side who retained hopes of promotion as allotted three minutes of injury time took the game to Down and fully the teams came of the pitch in had been played Carlow converted a deserved their win. It was a day Newry. free to tie the game and it seemed when Down who had become the secure their Division 3 status for masters of late victories in Sligo The loss to Louth was a real blow for 2020. To everyone’s surprise play and Carlow finally saw their Down, hope had been invested in continued and when Down played a charmed existence catch up with players and management to ensure free short to Donal O’Hare the them. Despite playing with the that we made a speedy return to Burren man made no mistake in breeze Down failed to score from Division 2, even in cold financial kicking the winning point. Carlow the tenth minute of the first half terms it was imperative that we had had led 0-7 to 0-4 at the interval, and at the break trailed 0-4 to 0-3. gained promotion. Even Admission with 6 of those scores coming from prices to games in Division Three frees, in the second period Down Louth exploited once again the are at a reduced rate, patrons looked like pulling away before a Down failing of being slow out of attending the Armagh v Clare game Carlow goal brought the sides level. the blocks after half time and the in Pairc Esler paid €10 per person Then came the dramatics at the end wee County had 5 more points more in admission than those who of the game and when James added before Darren O’Hagan made attended the Down v Louth game, Bermingham blew the full-time his way up the field to take a pass hence our share of the League whistle Down were winners 0-15 to from Connaire Harrison and finish to Dividend would be reduced by our 1-11. the net. This was Down’s first score remaining in Division 3. Leaving in 43 minutes, hardly promotion finance aside it is also about status There was a good attendance in gaining form, hopes were raised but and Down to be a Division Three

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team does not sit easily as we try to hopes of all of Ulster went with There was one more twist as a Paul portray ourselves as a top County. them and so there was a great bond Devlin free was deflected to the We can have notions of grandeur, amongst all of the Counties and yet Armagh net with only seconds but reality is very different, we all it was a closeness that also brought remaining, no one was leaving the need to be aware of this. great rivalry. ground but, on the kick out, Anthony Nolan sounded the Final As I stated earlier in regard to the Sunday 19th May was the day set Whistle and the bragging rights County Hurlers, I rephrase in regard for the clash of Armagh and Down belonged to Armagh. to the County Footballers, to and with a good attendance of over emphasise that Promotion must be 15,000, the atmosphere in Pairc Down could take heart from the achieved. Esler from early was building to performance, 3-13 is a score that great excitement. This was a game would win many games and going The slaps on the back for that provided full value for the out the gate the Down Supporters encouraging performances will patrons as Armagh came from were looking forward to the though only take you so far, Down behind in Extra Time to win by one Qualifiers, the disappointment of Senior Footballers need to get back point on a score of Armagh 2-17 missing out on promotion was to the next level and once again Down 3-13. parked and there was hopefully a promotion from Division 3 must be summer to look forward to. the top priority. In the age of target The game really did ebb and flow, it setting and KPI’s then for had so many talking points, in the The Qualifier Draw rewarded us Management and Players first half the major one was the with another Home Tie, with promotion must be the marker. straight red card for Caolan Mooney Tipperary to be the visitors to When someone comes to evaluate in stoppage time, which left Down Newry. It took an inspirational Down Senior Footballers leading 1-5 to 0-7 at the break but performance from captain Darren performances in 2020, I sincerely facing into the second half with only O’Hagan and a strong last quarter hope that they will be ticking a big 14 players. Discipline was to cost before Down could manage to break box and saying Number One Target Down again in the second half as away from the Munster men and – Promotion– Achieved. Goalkeeper Rory Burns picked up a secure a victory. Tipperary showed black card for a trip on an Armagh that they were fully up for the Players went back to their Clubs for player after Rory had lost challenge and at the interval led by the commencement of the Club possession. Carryduff’s Mark Hynes 1-5 to 0-5 thanks to a Philip Austin Season and we turned our attention came on for his County debut and goal. With ten minutes to go the to meeting Armagh in the Ulster Armagh had 1-2 on the board in no game was level and all to play for Championship in Newry. Having an time as Down were opened up in before Donal O’Hare seized on a Ulster Championship game in Pairc defence. In the 67th minute Armagh loose ball and drove a powerful shot Esler means a lot to us after having led by 1-13 to 1-8 and were looking along the deck to the net. Cory been on the road for too many set for victory until Donal O’Hare Quinn who had been making an years, having Armagh in Newry is scored a goal out of nothing, Paul impression as a sub in recent games extra special. It is about the Devlin and James Guinness added entered the fray and added three bragging rights, it is about points and we were headed for points from play to leave Down neighbours and families being Extra Time. winners 1-13 to 1-10. divided in the battle to say we won the day, we are kings of the Town. Down were back to 15 players for There was great buzz when Down The Provincial Championships and in Extra Time and were soon three were drawn out to face Mayo in Ulster especially create that sense points up and with the momentum Newry in the next round of the of pride of place and local rivalry against them it looked a big lead for Qualifiers on Saturday evening 22nd unique to the GAA. Maybe we in Armagh to claw back, though credit June. The draw of Mayo against Ulster value our Provincial where credit is due, the Orchard Down was an indication of the Championship that wee bit more, men rallied. It was the grandson of a merits of the Qualifiers and if Tier 2 maybe we have always had to value former Down great of the same is fully up and running in 2020 and our a bit more than in name, one Andrew Murnin who Down unfortunately are in it then any of the other provinces because would be the catalyst, introduced as this type of fixture will not be at times we really did have to a sub in Extra Time he grabbed a allowed to happen. From early protect and defend our games. Goal and a point to put Armagh morning and indeed even the night When Ulster teams went to Croke three up and Rian O’Neill added before Mayo people descended on Park in less fashionable times, the what was to be the Insurance point. Newry, the Green and Red Jerseys

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were prominent in local shopping showed and at the interval, they led winners of this competition. It was a outlets, there was an economic 0-10 to 1-3. Lee Keegan and Caolan good concept, instead of trying benefit too for Newry. This all helps Mooney traded scores before Conor frantically to source challenge to enable us to go and approach Loftus reacted to some quick games and source referees you had local businesses and remind them thinking by to hit the a meaningful competition with that Pairc Esler is an asset to the net and Mayo were ahead 1-11 to 1- games listed as Official Fixtures. community and to remind Croke 5. Both Sides exchanged points on Park and Ulster that Newry is an ongoing basis, but the gap never Down were in a group with strategically located as a venue for really closed, and Mayo stayed in Monaghan, Armagh and Meath and major games. front to win by 1-16 to 1-11. were successful in all three games with some impressive scoring along The stand was filled early, and the For Down the season was over on the way and Conor Deegan and his terraces were soon filling at a rapid June 22nd taking stock one would management had the team playing rate as we came close again to the say that there is still much work to an attractive brand of football. 15,000 people that had attended be done, it is still 25 years since our Down were through to the final and the Armagh game. On a lovely last Ulster Senior Title and going it was symbolic perhaps that they summer evening Pairc Esler into 2020 we are still in Division should meet Cavan in the decider a exemplified everything that is good Three. Hopefully the wheel will turn, county with whom Leo Murphy had about the GAA. and this coming year will see Down many a tight tussle in his playing remain in the top 16 teams in the career. In the presence of Leo’s Down produced a battling Country by whatever means that widow Sodilva, Down showed that performance to push the men from this is achieved. they meant business from the the West to the pin of their collar outset and by half time had built up and indeed had we taken more of This year we in Down were very a lead of 1-8 to 0-4. Liam Kerr was our chances it could have been proud when a new Under 20 the talented marksman on the day closer, though it always seemed like Competition was launched and it with a goal and three points before Mayo were playing within was named after our former great the interval. Cavan did rally as one themselves and were in control of and prince of full backs the late Leo would expect in the second half, but the game. Caolan Mooney lifted the Murphy. There was extra spring in the gap was too big and Down home side with an early goal after 8 the step of the Down team who finished strongly to win on a score minutes but Mayo’s experience were determined to be the first of 1-14 to 0-11.

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There were emotional scenes and a Clones as the curtain raiser to the other for the first time that tear in the eye as Sodilva Murphy Ulster Senior Football Final. Down’s afternoon. At the break Tyrone led 2 presented the Leo Murphy cup to a pace, penetration and finishing -6 to 0-2 and were turning round to proud Down captain Shane Annett, proved too much for Antrim in play with a strong breeze, indeed it was if history was in the making Clones, at half time Down led by 0- Darragh Canavan had opened the and football was coming home 10 to 0-3 with Liam Kerr, Seamus scoring with a goal after a Down again. The Team were a credit to Loughran and Ross Carr showing defender was caught in possession, their management, their families prominently. Down dominated the Down were caught in the and their clubs as they posed for second half and had a goal from headlights. Tyrone added a second photographs with Sodilva and they Aaron Devlin, worryingly though goal before Half time and few knew on that day what the proud they never really asserted full watching would have predicted that history of Down means to many control over Antrim and allowed the Tyrone would be holding on at the people. Leo Murphy must surely saffron to score 8 second half end of the game. have smiled down upon those points. Still it was a job done and players and management in the Tyrone would be up next on the Patrons from all sides felt that the on that Saturday. following Sunday in Omagh, two game as a contest was all but over, There are those who tell us and sides who would have both however they had failed to consider want to remind us that we cannot aspirations on Provincial and how talented this Down side really live in the past, but we can look to National Honours. was. Down players were now the past and cherish the future, demanding the ball and with that is what happened with the What happened in that Cormac O’Rawe introduced and Down Under 20s on that day in Sunday defied all that the Down playing a pivotal role, Liam Kerr, Armagh. Under 20s had represented Seamus Loughran and Conor Clarke throughout the season, in the first came to the fore. Down hit 1-10 in Hopes were high then for the Ulster half they did just not turn up, there the second period with Conor Clarke Championship and we gave up was no energy, no flair, no panache, getting on the end of a superb team Home Advantage to play Antrim in it was if they had just met each move to finish to the net and leave

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only a point between them entering were playing good football in the target. It was the Moortown man injury time. first half and landed some Devlin who struck for goal for impressive points to lead 0-5 to 0-4 Tyrone after good work from Tyrone nerves were jangling but at the interval, James McCartan was Michael McGleenan winning a with 39 minutes played in the certainly getting the best out of his turnover for Tyrone in the build-up. second half Team Captain Ruairi players. Hopes were really lifted That strike knocked the stuffing Gormley finally ensured the win for when midway through the second from Down and scores from Danny Tyrone with a superb score to leave half John McGovern showed real Fullerton and Luke Donnelly sealed the result 2-11 to 1-12 in Tyrone’s flair as he set up Adam Crimmins for the Tyrone win. favour. Down were a team a goal and Down led 1-8 to 0-8. transformed after the break and However, Monaghan were to show The stand out player for the Minors even the most dyed in the wool their experience and finished had been their captain John Tyrone man would admit that their strongly to leave 3 points between McGovern who showed a full work rate and commitment the teams at the finish with the repertoire of skills as he led deserved something from the game. Farney men winning on a score of 1- defences a merry dance, I can only 13 to 1-10. hope that this young man is not lost Potentially our best chance of to in the years ahead winning a Provincial Title in 2019 A trip to Enniskillen was next up for as he certainly as all the attributes was gone, players and management Down and they took full advantage to wear the Red and Black at the were at a loss as to how a Team of the back-door system to register highest level. could not just turn up in the first a 1-12 to 0-11 win over Fermanagh, half. This game will have been a you could see that as the season So as always, we look to 2020 with harsh lesson for those who will go went on the players were optimism, we hope that this will be on to represent Down at Senior developing. Indeed, in the Minor the year when we make the Level over the next few years, it will Management Team we are very necessary breakthroughs in be a day that was part of their lucky that we were able to call upon Football and Hurling, hopefully football education. I would like to the wealth of playing experience of gaining promotion and bringing thank Conor and his Management James and Dan McCartan, Mark some silverware back to the Team for all their work this year and Poland and Ambrose Rogers, this County. We hope too that it is a to thank Michael Walsh and Bernie will only stand to these young year when the good work that is Ruane who have now moved to players as they hopefully develop ongoing at Academy and different roles in 2020. into Senior Players. Development level is reflected in success for our Minors and Under The Down Minor Football side of Next up was a home tie v Tyrone as 20s, the tide is turning, it just needs 2019 could not be faulted for the a curtain raiser for the Down v a win, lets hope that happens in efforts that they made in the League Armagh Senior Tie and a great 2020. and Championship, they were a side opportunity for the young Down that had lots of talented footballers Team to play before a big and in a lot of cases players who attendance in Pairc Esler. It was CLUB COMPETITIONS were still eligible for this coming Tyrone who advanced to the semi- When I reflect on the number of year. Having come through the final of the Electric Ireland Ulster games that are available to the Club group stages of the League the team Minor Football Championship Player in Down, I think we can be travelled to Clones to meet Sligo in thanks to a 1-15 to 1-10 victory over very proud of what is on offer, we the Shield final, a competition that Down. The young Red Hands were can hold our heads high that the they had won in 2018. It was a made to work for their win however needs of the Club player are being frustrating game where Down and a John McGovern goal early in met by Down GAA. Much has been wasted many chances to be out of the second half for Down left made about the plight of the Club sight and then were caught in the Tyrone adrift and seemingly player on the national stage and we very last attack by an opportunist struggling. Mark Devlin proved to be as administrators are all being goal which left Sligo one-point their hero however keeping his side tarred with the one brush for not winners 1-9 to 1-8. in touch in the opening half with a providing regular games. I look at string of scores as they trailed at the this and I think that the blame break 0-8 to 0-6. Down spread their The draw was once again not kind should be apportioned certainly at scores around with Cian McLoughlin to the Down Minor Footballers and those counties who fail to devise a hitting a pair of beautiful points in the preliminary round we were fixture calendar and more so fail to away to Monaghan in Clones. Down while Adam Crimmins was also on

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implement the fixtures calendar. Manager. Parents too need to be In 2020 we will move to a new When Kilcoo took the field in last aware of such, there are rules in the format for Club Competitions in Sundays Ulster Senior Club GAA that reflect our ethos and now Down, this has been two years in Championship Final they had where we have parents who are the making and Clubs have had the followed a path that saw them perhaps first generation GAA, and opportunity to contribute to participate in 20 League games in do not understand how our transfer discussion around the planning. The Down and 6 Championship games, system works. They do not realise movement to Under 13, 15, 17 and Sunday in Omagh was game that you cannot play for this Club 19 will I believe soon become number 29. That is something that this week and another Club next Association policy so in effect we we can rightly be proud of in Down, week as might be the case in the are getting ahead of the posse, time that we have consistently provided Carnbane or Youth will tell if it is a good move. It is fixtures for the Club player. League. This is part of what makes likely that the decision will be made our organisation different in that we to retain Under 13 in the remit of An area of concern that I do have seek to develop affinity and a sense the Divisional Committee with about Club Competitions is that the of belonging, we need to ensure Under 15, 17 and 19 being preparation and training for such that people are aware of such and organised on an All County Basis competitions has become driven by that it is a positive to have loyalty to with the option for competition at the need to have a record number a Club. 13 or 15 A Side. When meeting with of sessions in advance of the League Clubs it perhaps was a bit surprising Commencing. It is reasonable to To this end too as more and more that the importance of competition assume that our Leagues will people attend our games, we need at Under 19 was a forceful commence in April as they have to make our venues more argument, the fear of drop off and done for many years, is it thus hospitable and we need to develop losing people was great amongst necessary for Clubs to have already our match day facilities. Parents Clubs. The fact that there would be commenced training? I am left to now accompany their children to a perceived big gap between Under ponder who has decided on the most activities and that includes 17 and Senior holds fears for Clubs need to commence training in Gaelic Games so now more than and thus the need to assist player November for a competition ever we have an increasing number retention by having an Under 19 starting in April, might it have of females attending our games, Competition. Having structures at something to do with the fact that training and other activities. Do we Under 17 will assist County squads the Manager gets paid by the make them welcome; do we open at that age group too as the player Session, the more sessions he can our Clubs to new people or are we will not now be pulled on the Club have then the greater his bill. The still sticking to a belief that we front to play Under 16 and Minor big question for Clubs is this all must check a persons GAA lineage whilst also being pulled to play sustainable in the long term, it is the before we embrace their potential Under 17 County. elephant in the room, but it does involvement? need to be addressed. It often leads Change always brings with it fear, to a question too as to who is Is it a possibility that there could be we hope that fears of these new running the Club, is it the Tea/Coffee stations pitch side at our Age Grades will be unfounded and Committee democratically elected grounds when underage training is that they will in 2020 be successful. at the AGM or is it the Team taking place, this could have several Being played on an All County basis Manager and in some instances not benefits, most of all we might even will also mean that Clubs will in just the Senior Team Manager. get new members into our Club? Lo some cases be out of their comfort and behold some week a new mum Zones but will now be playing on a Players need to know that they or dad might even offer to make the regular basis Clubs from their own belong to a Club, they play for that Tea or bring the biscuits; we would hinterland, whom they would not Club, they do not play for a Team be thinking outside the box. Where previously have encountered. I Manager, that is a practice too that many of our Clubs now have walking would ask Clubs to be positive is creeping into our game and our trails in and around our grounds, about the new Age Groups and the Association. The Team becomes would it be too much to ask that new competition format, it will John Joes team it does not become perhaps a walking Club could take time to bed in, CCC will have for example The Gaels Under 15s. emerge. One of the positives of this to adapt its structures to ensure When the player first features for could be that the Underage Coaches that the organisation and his Club then that is where he get the opportunity to coach in an governance of the new belongs, to the Club not to the atmosphere free from parental competitions is of the highest person who may be his first discouragement! quality. The objectives of more and

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more people playing our games and community, their County and their with only 12 Teams in our own Junior enjoying playing our games is a in the search for All Ireland our Champions are going to be at a priority with the new Age Groups, it glory. They are worthy standard disadvantage again in Ulster. Bright will allow us to develop the vision of bearers on all counts. If I might single won our Junior Football fostering and developing youth out one Kilcoo player for whom I am Championship in 2019 and then players with a desire to maximise particularly pleased and that is their faced the Cavan Champions who play their potential. joint Captain Aidan Branagan. Aidan Division One Football in their home has lived and breathed his club for County! This was always going to be The Championships of 2019 were the many years now, he was also a an uphill task for Bright from Division most competitive, well attended and committed County player in his day 4 in Down. entertaining that we have had in and I am delighted that he had the recent time. The work done by honour of lifting the Seamus We cannot do anything about the Maureen O’Higgins and the PR McFerran Cup. composition of our Football Committee boosted the profile of our Championships now and I have to say Championships. We are though in a I think here particularly of our too that our Clubs are by and large strange sense victim of the success of Intermediate and Junior Winners in happy with the entries and the our own Championships as we Football and Hurling, through no format of our Football continue to fail to make a fault of their own they invariably Championships, so we should leave breakthrough at Provincial Level, meet teams at Ulster Level who are well enough alone. In the hurling though we will be hoping that by the playing Club Football at a higher Championships we have though a time you read this Kilcoo will have level. If we take the case of Glenn, responsibility to look at the format of reversed the trend. they win a competitive Down our Junior and Intermediate Intermediate Football Championship Championships. Again, on the I am delighted to now say that the overcome the Fermanagh and then Provincial tier no Down Club has won trend has indeed been reversed, meet Magheracloone of Monaghan an Ulster Junior or Intermediate Kilcoo are Ulster Champions and who were playing in the Monaghan Hurling Title and while the new deservedly so. The players have Senior Championship Semi Final of format in our own Senior Hurling brought great credit to their families 2018. The odds are then against Championship has helped prepare and to their community. They go Glenn through no fault of their own, our Senior Champions better for forward now to represent this is more so the case too in the Ulster the same cannot be said of themselves, their club, their Junior Football Championship where Junior and Intermediate. This year

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Newry Shamrocks reached the time to defeat Loughinisland in the a great atmosphere and excitement Ulster Junior Final and met Eoghan winners section of Round 2 whilst building about County Final Day, Rua of Coleraine, the bookies had the big Belfast derby was won by with Glenn and Newry Shamrocks Coleraine at 1/15 to win the game Carryduff at the death against contesting the Intermediate Final. It and the odds were stacked against Bredagh. Kilcoo recorded a second was to be an emotional day too as Shamrocks. Eoghan Rua had won win with a victory over Rostrevor the County mourned the passing of the Ulster Junior Title in 2015 and whilst Burren sent Castlewellan out our All Ireland Winner and former now with the structures in Derry of the Championship in Round 2. Team Manager Eamonn Burns who working to their advantage they Warrenpoint had too much for had died so suddenly on the were in 2019 Ulster Champions Clonduff and were being quietly Wednesday beforehand. again. talked about as real contenders. It was a very moving moment as I do not begrudge Coleraine, I well The Quarter Finals were tight affairs Eamonn’s sons Cathal and Thomas remember as a student at NUU and it took two games to separate led the Down 1994 All Ireland when there was no hurling played in Burren and Kilcoo in a repeat of the winners on to the pitch in memory Coleraine, indeed a young man from 2018 Final, this time after two of their father ahead of the county's the Heights in Coleraine by the games it was Kilcoo who came out senior football final. The poignant name of Liam Moran made his way on top in a replay and the 2018 moment took place before throw in out to the University on a Champions had lost their crown. on Sunday as Cumann Pheadair Wednesday to play hurling for NUU. Mayobridge ran out of lives as they Naofa prepared to play Kilcoo. The It is great indeed that our game has fell to a Ballyholland team who were stand in Pairc Esler rose in applause spread and developed as the times showing themselves to be the before remembering in silence a have changed in the North of surprise packet of the great man, as Cathal and Thomas Ireland, a positive indication of Championship. Warrenpoint and Burns walked onto the pitch with such was the attendance of DUP Clonduff had wins over Longstone the team the day after their father's Lord Mayor Bill Keery at our County and Carryduff respectively to make funeral. There were tears in many Hurling Final as he delivered on a the semi Finals. eyes on that Sunday afternoon in commitment that “ During his/her Pairc Esler. term of office, the Mayor will seek The Draw saw Cumann Pheadair to accept invitations from all Naofa facing Ballyholland with History will show that Kilcoo sections of the community”. Favourites Kilcoo out against their regained their Down Senior Football neighbours and rivals Clonduff. The Championship title as Dylan Ward's The Senior Football Championship first semi final saw the Blues from goal eight minutes from time and the prize of the Frank O’Hare the Bay prove to be too strong for proved the difference between the Cup is of course the blue riband of Ballyholland who seemed just not to Magpies and St Peter’s our Club competitions. There was turn up on the night. The battle of Warrenpoint. It was something of a excitement too about the first the neighbours in the second semi- war of attrition at Pairc Esler, with venture of Mickey Moran into Down final was a tentative affair which both sides wary of each other's Club Management with Kilcoo as Kilcoo won by three points in a strengths from the outset and the Magpies sought to bring the game that didn’t live up to happy to size each other up for Frank O’Hare back to the Square, expectations. most of the match. But when Ward there is no doubt they were hurting converted with as cute lifted finish from 2018. The early rounds Cumann Pheadair Naofa were back from Conor Laverty’s deflected pass brought great excitement in the in a Down final for the first time in the 52nd minute, it gave the form of the performances of since 1978 and indeed were seeking Eoghan Rua men a two-point lead, Mayobridge under the guidance of their first title in 66 years, whilst and although Warrenpoint made a Ciaran McKeever, they met Kilcoo were seeking to reclaim the valiant effort to claw their way back defending Champions Burren and Frank O’Hare Cup for a 17th time. into it, Kilcoo’s vast experience saw thanks to a Cory Quinn in extra time The County for the first time for a then over the line. Kilcoo led 0-06 to they got home by a one-point County Final sold tickets in advance 0-05 at the break in a scrappy affair margin. Carryduff showed that their as the Ticket Van made its way to that didn’t exactly set the pulses good form at the top of Division Warrenpoint, Kilcoo, Glenn and racing of the bumper crowd in Two was no flash in the pan as they Newry, this was a great initiative Newry. were winners over Castlewellan. and meant that on the day there were only 800 stand tickets Paul Devlin top scored for Kilcoo Mayobridge again availed of extra available for sale. There was indeed with four points, all from placed

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balls, but it was the young midfield Kilcoo despite going down to 14 duo of Ward and 18-year-old Ryan The final was well worthy of the day men proved to be too strong for McEvoy who were the game and with a good attendance in early Burren and it was to be the second changers for their side, hitting 1-04 both sides gave of their very best in leg of a Kilcoo treble of between them and dominating the end there was two pints Championship wins. kickouts from either end of the between the sides with Glenn John pitch. Warrenpoint, playing in their Martins on the right end of a 1-12 to In the Reserve final Mayobridge had first Down senior final since 1978, 1-10 score line. The teams had been too much firepower for their will live to rue a huge missed goal level on five occasions and even neighbours Saval indeed any team opportunity midway through the when Cormac Clarke goaled for that can boost Michael Linden, second half when Ross McGarry Glenn in the 57th minute, Ronan Sexton and Benny Coulter in threw himself full length to attempt Shamrocks replied with a Niall a forward line is not going to be to fist Donagh McAleenan’s cross Rafferty goal to leave only a point short on scores. The Premier ball into the empty net. However, between them going into injury Reserve title went to Kilcoo who McGarry, who hit seven frees in his time, it was Glenn however who got overcame Clonduff with seven total of nine points could look on in the final score to win by two. points to spare 2-10 to 0-9. At despair as the ball shot wide of the Juvenile level Bredagh overcame St post. The Junior Final once again brought John Bosco in the Under 14 Final great colour to Pairc Esler as Bright whilst Burren swept the boards at Dylan Ward then struck his goal and and Aughlisnafin met in the decider, Under 16 and in recent weeks have although Kilcoo led 1-12 to 0-11 with both looking for a first title. gone on to win the Ulster Paul with three minutes of normal time There was a great atmosphere and McGirr Competition. We hope to remaining, Niall McAleenan’s Blues those patrons who left after the see many of these young men hit the next three points in a row, Minor Final missed out on a fine playing County Minor Football in the but just couldn’t get the break to example of how much the GAA next two years. force a replay in the dying seconds means to some of our smaller Clubs. of the match as Kilcoo did what Bright had lost all their previous The County Senior Hurling Kilcoo generally do – closing the finals and had been one point Championships saw the return of game out with their huge behind Aughlisnafin in the one of our Oldest Clubs to the fray experience of dealing with pressure promotion stakes as the Fin claimed as Liatroim Fontenoys made it a situations. The Frank O’Hare cup the Division 4 Title a few weeks four-team competition. Liatroim was going home to Kilcoo and that earlier. Both teams were a credit as gave of their best but fell to great servant of many years Aidan they produced an honest hour’s Ballygalget and then Ballycran in the Branagan was deservedly named football where blanket defences knockout round. The games in the Mourne Observer Man of the did not exist, and it was a question Championship were indeed Match. of outscoring your opponents. competitive and we had two of the games go to Extra Time, I certainly The Intermediate Final played on Aughlisnafin were making all the think that the format works for us in the same bill as the Senior in Pairc early running and at the interval led Down. Esler that day brought together two by three though Bright had been Clubs who were in their history guilty of several wides. Bright put There was a good attendance at the winners of the Senior Championship the pressure on after the restart and Hurling Final in Ballygalget and we when Glenn met Newry Shamrocks. substitute Matthew McKernan even had GAA Presidential Glenn had been amongst the early drove to the net after an opening Candidate Larry McCarthy from New favourites for the competition and created by Gareth George their star York in attendance along with the their achievement in getting to the performer. Both sides exchanged Mayor of North Down and Ards final was even more worthy points up to the finish, but it was Borough Council. considering that they had three Bright who on the final whistle were recent County Panellists now based ahead by the tightest of margins Ballycran retained the Down senior overseas in sunnier Climates. Newry Bright 1-14 Aughlisnafin -0 15. hurling title with a seven-point win Shamrocks on the other hand were over Portaferry in Ballygalget. The the surprise package and were The Minor Final played between final was a repeat of last year's appearing in a first Adult Final since Burren and Kilcoo as the Curtain decider, which Ballycran edged by winning the Senior Title in 1961, Raiser ended in a Draw when a two points. This time around, they their appearance can only but be fancied Kilcoo team were held by a have seven points to spare in the good for the game in Newry. young Burren Team. In the replay end though they were hit with an

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early sucker punch with Brendan were crossing the County borders I as both sides played with great Coleman's goal in the opening suppose but credit to Antrim they energy and commitment with minute. gave us assistance too in the Portaferry earning the bragging management of the event. Bredagh rights in the Peninsula. Things looked bleaker still for the after a slow start went in ahead at champions when Colum McManus Half time and were dominant after I have already mentioned Newry was issued with a straight red. the break winning by 2-13 to 1-8. Shamrocks in relation to Ulster Club However, they gradually got a hang and unfortunately Bredagh and of the game, Stuart Martin lashing Newry Shamrocks after many Ballycran fell at the semi final stage home a goal. And soon they were attempts finally became the brides to Antrim opposition. The Club back on terms numerically as when they overcame old foes Season has not yet ended with the Portaferry's Connor O'Prey was sent Ballela to win the County Junior Joe McCrickard Under 21 off after receiving two yellows. Title. It was a bittersweet victory as competition ongoing and with it came with the cost of a cruciate nearly 500 games of hurling played Ballycran led by four points at the injury to star forward Paul Sheehan in Down this year, I pay tribute to break and were never reeled in, and he would prove to be a big loss the work of Liam Quinn and Conor eventually winning by seven, 1-20 in their Provincial campaign. It was Watson in ensuring that our hurling to 1-13 to claim their 25th Down though a fairy-tale for our County fixtures were meaningful and were senior hurling title. The Jeremiah Senior Manager Ronan Sheehan played. McVeigh Cup would once again rest who played in goals on the winning in McKenna Hall for the next 12 Shamrocks team. The Patrick Dinsmore Cup in Under months. 21 Football has been won for the The Minor Hurling Title was won by third year in a row by Carryduff The Intermediate Hurling Final Ballygalget all with a panel of only while a Bryansford team captained would go to a replay as Carryduff 17 players they overcame Bredagh by Cathal Burns and with Thomas at and Bredagh could not be separated in the final in Drumaness. The Under Full Forward was too strong for in St Patrick’s Park Newcastle. The 16 Final between Ballycran and Clonduff in the Joe Donnan Cup replay made history as a night-time Portaferry was played before the Final. fixture played at the Arena at Senior Final and was perhaps the Queens University playing fields. We more entertaining game of the two The Leagues saw Kilcoo add the

DOWN COUNTY GAA ANNUAL CONVENTION 2019 20

O’Neills Division One to their EOS are leaders on a global stage Sponsors are as follows: Championship Title, Carryduff were and Daniel and Brendan Strain impressive winners of Division Two have been extremely supportive to  Morgan Fuels who sponsor our while Annaclone went unbeaten to the County throughout the year, Senior and Minor top Division Three. We must salute they are passionate Down men Championships in Football and Aughlisnafin who topped Division 4 who want the County to be Hurling and now after a long long absence successful in the first instance as return to Division Three in 2020. Down supporters and in the second  The Parador Lodge Belfast who instance as Team Sponsors. They sponsor our Intermediate and In Hurling Ballycran added Division have also provided employment Junior Football Championships One to their Championship win opportunities for many young whilst Cumann Pheadair Naofa got a people in our County as they too  O’Neill’s Sportswear who reward for the strides they are try to offer support to the best of sponsor our All County Leagues making in hurling by winning local talent in their workforce. Division Two. There are a lot of young GAA players  Eamonn Rooney Coach Hire in employment in EOS and this all who sponsor our Reserve and Premier Reserve A wee word of caution for the year adds to the economic contribution Championships 2020, we need to keep our eyes of the company to the community.

focused on what is happening in  Autoline The Insurance Partner Division 4 of our All County We in Down GAA and in the GAA in of Down GAA general must be conscious of our Leagues, we have teams struggling, Sponsors and how we cater for their teams indeed who were once the  O’Hare and McGovern requirements, they in the case of kings of the County. They need all Associate Sponsor of our help to ensure their survival, EOS are investing in Down GAA, Down Football needs Clubs like they are allowing us to make things  The Quays Shopping Centre Newry Mitchels, Ballykinlar, happen by their generous Newry Associate Sponsor Aghaderg and St Michaels to be sponsorship. We are very lucky to actively playing Senior Football in have a good professional  Modern Tyres Road Safety 2020 and beyond. To those who relationship with EOS and to know Partner of Down GAA have reached the top echelons in too that they are committed to Down a simple thought “never Down and to the brand that is Down  The Murdock Group Associate forget the bush you dried your first GAA. I hope that in 2020 we can Sponsor shirt on “, is there anything you bring some success and plenty of could maybe do to help a struggling media exposure to EOS and that  Fegan Transport Associate Club. We are after all the family their business will continue to grow. Sponsor that is Down GAA. EOS are also committed to working with us to develop the streaming  The Milestone Rathfriland facility for matches at Pairc Esler Associate Sponsor and this is something that we hope SPONSORS AND will really take off in the  Canal Court Hotel Hospitality SPONSORSHIP Championship of 2020. This shows a Partner As 2019 ends we are delighted to be commitment to Down GAA and its able to announce that EOS IT followers at home and abroad that  Tullyraine Quarries Associate Solutions will be Official and Main goes beyond just a name or brand Sponsor Sponsor for the next two years at on a jersey.  Mc Cartan Bros Official Clothing least and hopefully for a longer duration. We are very lucky indeed Partner Down GAA We have now Eighteen companies to have EOS as our Sponsors, they who directly input into Down GAA  HMT Shipping Associate are not just sponsors, they are also with Sponsorship in different forms Sponsor advocating to others to do business and I want to place on record our with Down GAA. They sponsor all of thanks to those companies for their  KN Group Associate Sponsor the County Teams in all Codes support throughout the year. Their showing that they as a family Contributions help to ensure that all  Highline Construction New York business are very conscious of the of our teams are looked after and Down GAA Family. that we can organise our games and  Ulster Bank – Down Club improve our facilities. Our Associate Awards Sponsors

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We can only offer our sponsors I think in the world of the GAA Bulking up they sought the expertise three real benefits, Access to where too often we are caught up in of people who had by and large tickets, access to players and the desire to win, that we lose the worked in the world of Rugby and Advertising in Pairc Esler and Online. basic instincts of looking after the we then put a lot of emphasis on There are though great people around us, how often might weight training. I am not trying to opportunities to be associated with we ask of someone in a Club or demean the expertise that those Down in 2020. County Are you well? Maybe we feel people bring to the table, but I do it might be taken in the wrong way, contend that Gaelic Games are In 2019, we organised a Race Day at maybe we are not comfortable played by athletes who need the Down Royal which was a great doing so but in a casual manner it is conditioning yes to take tackles but success and was enjoyed by all of all right to say to someone Well Joe also to move at pace. The strength those in attendance. If we organise are you well? It could just be the aspect of Rugby is not a component one event for the County in any catalyst that they need to unlock part of Gaelic Games. given twelve months, then that inner troubles, or it might just give leaves lots of opportunities for them the sense that they are cared The way forward is that we are Clubs to undertake their own about. now at the stage where Down GAA events. We need to plan events, will be advertising for a Head of there needs to be coordination and So in 2020 as we enter a new Athletic Performance, the Job communication. The County needs Decade please don’t be afraid to Description is agreed, and the to set out its calendar of events use the word well, to ask someone advertisement will be online early in the year to avoid the clashes in your Club or your community shortly with a closing date for with Clubs and sister organisations. How are you? Are you well? You applications Friday 3rd of January. could be doing them the biggest This post was requested by the I thank Michael McArdle and his favour you will ever do them. Let Mourne Academy steering group team for all of their work in us not lose the ability to and whilst it has taken time for it to coordinating the Race Day, there communicate with those around us be delivered, we are now at the are already tentative plans for an in the language of the Old BT Ad its stage where it will be happening. event in 2020 and details of that good to talk! and its good to know Financially it can be funded and should be known for County that someone is well. sustained, we are already paying Convention. I would encourage individuals for work on a part time patrons to support the event and let basis and if we looked at the us all get behind the County as we MOURNE ACADEMY Budget and sought to procure less move towards a new phase with an material goods and invested in a Now in its fourth year the work of exciting development planned for person then the post can be the Mourne Academy could be said Ballykinlar. created. to be a work in progress with there

being a need for ongoing evaluation There had been previous discussion and achievement of goals. There is of a High Performance Director but I WELL no doubt that there has been feel that this post is something that It’s a small word but it can mean a improvement in the coaching of our may come to fruition at a later lot and I just thought in this report I Development Squads but it is only a stage, a post of that status needs would dwell for a moment on the work in progress. As stated more evaluation of the need and it word Well and how it can play a previously we really need to would need to complement existing part in our ever busy GAA World of develop a programme of work in posts not lead to them becoming the next decade. Gary Doherty our relation to the conditioning of our obsolete. Heath and Well Being Officer has players and it needs to be submitted a report which is included developed in conjunction with our We need to upskill Down people to in your booklet and gives some Academy, our Schools and our be the very best in this speciality insight into the work of his County Teams at Under 17, Under rather than all of the time having to committee in Down. It is 20 and Senior. I use the term rely on people from outside the appropriate that the word is in the conditioning as opposed to the County to develop our players. The title of his role, we sometimes use Term Strength and Conditioning as I problem then is when a Team the word Well as a greeting, we will believe that the aspect of strength Managements term comes to an say Well How are you as force of work has been taken out of context end we have to start again and habit and in that instance well is a in the world of the GAA. It had reinvent the wheel, that only friendly greeting and usually said become a fad that when people felt stymies progress and we lose with the tone of an introduction. that a Team Club or County needed DOWN COUNTY GAA ANNUAL CONVENTION 2019 22

ground another case of one step to contribute to the betterment of We are looking forward too in forwards and two steps backwards. Down Football or Hurling. We search of the next group of County The Coaches within Down GAA as should never be afraid of opinions, Administrators and I would be employees of Down or as Mourne and never be afraid too of keeping concerned as to where they would Academy Coaches must be the door open and being prepared be coming from. We need to in our encouraged and supported to to take a chance on a player if it Clubs and in our County engage in develop personally and works great, if it does not what succession planning, the person professionally, the steering group really have, we lost. It is after all taking on any role must assume must identify courses etc that these better to have tried and failed than that role because they are the best people must attend. The Down never to have tried. person for the job, and they want County Committee must support to do the job. The reshuffling of the any opportunity for personal and I thank Paddy O’Rourke as seats around the top table at Club professional development with Chairperson of the Academy and or County does not aid the long- financial commitment, I have often the other members of the steering term direction and vision of either said the our people are the greatest group for the work that they have body. asset Down GAA has now we in undertaken, I laud in particular the tandem with the steering engagement with parents and At Convention we will elect Committee need to make them the guardians of the young people delegates to Ulster Convention and very best that they can be. entrusted to our care as part of the to GAA Congress it is distinctly Mourne Academy. We have work possible that the people who we The Mourne Academy Steering to do all of us, the Steering will elect as our Ard Comhairle Rep group has also a responsibility to Committee needs too to be and Ulster Council Rep will not get the player, it must be of a mind to refreshed and strengthened, the elected as a delegate to GAA develop players holistically, both as County Committee need to engage Congress or Ulster Convention. That people and as players. It will do so fully with the Academy, only as one scenario defies logic. Under Rule we by providing opportunities to will real progress be made. can either elect or select the develop knowledge which will delegates and I would propose empower players to engage in many going forward that we adopt a challenges that will encounter along policy that we select the delegates a player pathway. We in Down need GOVERNANCE to Congress and Ulster Convention. to develop Leaders on and off the At this time of year in preparing for field and in 2020 work will be County Convention the Governance I have also made enquiry to the initiated with outside bodies to button has been pressed, the Office of the Ard Stuirthoir for work on the development of Auditors have moved in! the County exemption under rule to allow us to Leaders. There is much work to be Officers are busy preparing reports appoint two additional people to done, at times I am aware the and accountability is fully embraced. Coiste Banisti in an advisory non- Academy Group feel that the pace The reality is that Governance is voting role. Advice is that this will of change is too slow, but there is something we do all year round and necessitate a change to rule, and I progress and with proper planning yet it is a term that strikes a degree would hope that Down would take and engagement we will bring about of nervousness in GAA Officials at such a motion for a rule change to change for the better. Club and County level, indeed if GAA Congress. I see this as a key truth were told probably even at the departure for us as we enter the We need too to develop our whole higher echelons. biggest project that Down GAA has recruitment process and talent ever undertaken in the identification for the Academy, In preparing for Convention we seek development of our own home at there needs to be a full process of motions and nominations from Ballykinlar. Hopefully that we will engagement where Schools and Clubs, reality is that we get less than secure a rule change at Congress to Clubs can input into the process at 50% of a return and indeed some of allow Counties to do so and in turn varying stages. We must develop a those don’t even carry any the Association as a whole would be network of scouts whose opinions nominations. Yet Convention is the reflecting good governance. are regarded and valued all working decision-making body for the to identify talent and hand it over to County for the year ahead, I cannot I would also propose that we move the team of top-level coaches. guarantee that all our Clubs will be now to appoint an Audit and Risk There are a lot of people in the present, that is not good committee which would I believe County who if asked to take on a governance. give us greater protection as we scouting role would be very happy move forward in terms of major

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developments. When one looks at REFEREES just say Job done and we pat the spotlight put on some counties Seamus Walsh as chair of Referees ourselves on the back. This cannot and other sports I feel that we need Administration will have submitted be the case under any to be conscious that we have proper a report on Refereeing to circumstances, just as important in structures in place to deal with any Convention, I would just like if I may the recruitment of referees is the potential scrutiny that might come address a couple of issues. We as a recruitment of Assessors and our way. County have work to do regarding Tutors. The Only assessment of many aspects of the role of referees referees happens as we near the Governance will dominate the next and referees administration. finals of our Championships, we just don’t have the people to assess decade in regard to sporting referees on an ongoing basis. So organisations, we in the GAA will be In the first instance we need to challenge number 2 is to recruit under the spotlight from recruit more referees, we need to Assessors and when you sit in the Government across the Island, We make the role as attractive as stand in Newry or on the Sideline need to ensure that it is not positive, a professional campaign there are certainly plenty of people something we address when needs to be undertaken amongst with thoughts on referees and how preparing for our Convention or our Clubs to drive recruitment. This they could do better. Assessment AGM but it should be there in some campaign needs to be assigned to a may start as an informal format at every meeting that we small subgroup whose sole focus is arrangement where Referees Admin conduct. As I said in the opening the identification and recruitment of identify people who would maybe paragraph it is something that we Referees, we need to look at past observe a referee on duty and do anyway in many cases players, but we also need to create revert with thoughts or comments unbeknownst to ourselves, a prime awareness amongst members of this might we would hope example is that we ensure that all how they might become referees. ultimately to lead to formal our Coaches are Access NI vetted, We need to profile some of current assessment as people grew into the that is good governance. younger whistlers, and we need to role. use their experiences to encourage

Another example of good others, we need to show a clear governance is the practice under pathway for new referees. We need We have too to support and protect rule of returning the Club Accounts, to show that there is transparency our referees and again this comes I am pleased that this year, we have and governance in all matters back to the whole issue of values, if had a healthy return of Clubs regarding refereeing in Down, people behaved in the manner Accounts post the AGM’s and I look sometimes in the case of refereeing towards a person that they do at a forward to receiving a full quota. perception and whispers are our game towards a Referee then they greatest hindrance to development. might well find themselves facing a criminal charge. It is not any more So, the simple message in relation acceptable to verbally or physically to Governance is Feel the Fear and So what happens when we get the abuse a person at a GAA pitch than Do It Anyway. people recruited to referee, do we it would be for you to do so in your

DOWN COUNTY GAA ANNUAL CONVENTION 2019 24

own home or in your own town. If of Income for the County, we set So let us meet the issue half way – we are serious about recruitment our prices to try and be fair to let the GAA have a policy too and retention of Referees then everyone. Prices have largely where Under 12s go Free, it would there needs to be zero tolerance of remained the same over the past save a lot of hassle at entry points any abuse verbal, physical or online few years and yet some of the for stewards and Ticket staff and for any of our referees, it is figures might surprise you: people would know well in unacceptable full stop. advance. Is it too much to ask a  34% of our attendees pay Full 14/15/16 year old for £2/€2 to On a positive note I congratulate Price Admission as adults watch Down v Derry in the Allianz Ciaran Branagan and Paul Faloon on League on Saturday 1st February. their performances at Provincial and  31% of our attendees pay National level in the past year, Colin Reduced Price as Seniors or There is also a Health and Safety Murrays progress at these levels has Students concern with the numbers of been hampered by injury and Children that enter our grounds hopefully he too will make progress  35% of our Attendees gain Free unaccompanied and unsupervised, in 2020. Paul will be joined on the Admission as Under 16s believe me there is a situation National list this year by his brother waiting to happen here and we all Kevin now refereeing for Armagh So you see that out of our gates we have responsibilities none more so but I like to think still a Down man derive 66% of the Income as either than the parents who take the at heart and I wish both men well. Free or Reduced Admission. In a children there in the first instance. long-term model for the GAA the We are not trying to be the kill joys To all our referees I say thank you policy of Free Admission for Under but please think for a moment, the for the role you played in making 16s is unsustainable, this is last game you were at in Pairc Esler games happen in our County and I something that we feel will need to did you know where your child was ask only that in this quiet off season be addressed going forward. I would while you were engrossed in you might be a persuader and strongly advocate that the GAA watching the game. recruit a new referee who in 2020 Nationally adopt a policy of Free might make a difference. Admission to non all ticket games We would like to outline where we for Under 12s. On the Warrenpoint spent our monies in the past year as Road in Newry a large MVS Board we show you where Down GAA DOWN GAA FINANCE announces Newry City’s Home derives Income from and where it games and includes the Message then it spends that income. We in The money collected at the Under 12s go Free, yet 500 yards the GAA are a not for profit Championship Gates is counted from one ground patrons in another organisation. upon by Down GAA as a large part are up in arms if there is a charge of our spend in any particular year. for Under 16s.

The gate receipts are a vital source

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FINANCIAL REPAYMENT COMMITMENTS OF DOWN GAA We are delighted to be able to say that our historic loan with Croke Park is now performing at a level that reflects improved and prudent financial management by Down GAA.

In 2018 Down GAA negotiated with the National Finance Committee and the loan which in the 2017 Accounts was amounting to Where does Down GAA Spend its that we are getting the best value €2,072,549.01 was reduced to Money? for money. £1.4m with repayments of £15,000.00 per month meaning that County Football and Hurling It is great to be able to invest money in effect the Loan with Croke Park We Spent £539,966.00 in our player’s football and hurling will be cleared earlier than from under 14 right through to previously expected. This is a good Coaching and Games Development Adult level. Training commences in news story and reflects the good We spent £175,029.00 November time and we all want to work being done by the Core be still playing in August/September Finance Team under the direction of if we are lucky enough. Running Costs Feargal McCormack and Diarmuid We spent £315,456.00 Cahill as County Treasurer. We have In 2018 our Inter County season we met all of our Repayments to date ran to the end of June with our These are the figures from our and that is reflected in the Accounts Hurlers reaching a Christy Ring Final audited accounts presented at the presented at Convention. and an All-Ireland Under 20B Final. County Convention last December.

This year we are unlikely to see We also transferred our banking It is the duty of the County facility to Ulster Bank and we are much difference in the spend, we are after all only the gatekeepers of Committee to provide the very best happy that Ulster Bank renewed for the men who go out to their partnership with Down GAA the money, we budget each year and we bench mark where possible represent Down, who wear the Red when they returned as Sponsor for and Black from for the first time at our Down GAA Club Awards. against other counties to ensure DOWN COUNTY GAA ANNUAL CONVENTION 2019 26

Under 14 through to those who we hope will return the glory days to Fundraising Down at Adult level. Initiatives £250,740.00 Where does Down GAA’s Income Here you can come from? play your part by continuing to Commercial Income purchase a Clubs £171,080.00 Draw Ticket, you In 2018 Commercial Income are helping your marginally increased and this is a County and most revenue stream that we need to importantly, you continue to grow. There are benefits are helping your for Commercial organisations in Club. For every ticket sold at Gate Receipts in 2018 brought us being associated with the biggest £120.00 your Club will get £96.00 in an increased figure on previous Sporting body in the County, which return after the Prize Fund has been years of caters for young and old and covered. James and Mary McGrath provides the largest volunteer base continue to do outstanding work on £146,234.00 in the Country. We have more behalf of the County in ensuring the associate Sponsors on-board and we success of the Draw and I cannot Club Fees and Competition Entries thank the people and firms who thank them enough for all that they brought us an income of have shown themselves good do in ensuring it is a great success. £284,630.00 supporters of Down GAA. We wish to place on record our There are challenges too and I thanks to the Clubs for their  EOS would ask those Clubs who do not ongoing and continued support. actively support the Draw to look Their contribution has made a real  Canal Court and Carrickdale again in 2020 and see that the Draw difference to our financial Hotels is a major opportunity for you to performance over the last few generate funds for your Club in the years, which in turn has allowed us  The Murdock Group first instance. I say to those Clubs to go and negotiate in a position of speak to Diarmuid, James or myself, strength, having the support of our  O HARE and McGovern we will come meet with you, we will Clubs. support you in every way to ensure  Morgan Fuels that you can maximise a return for So that is a brief outline of where

your Club. we spend the Money entrusted to  The Quays Shopping Centre us, it is not our money, we are only

In 2018 we worked with Clubs to the guardians of it, to ensure that it  Fegan Transport have a very successful Race Day and is spent wisely on behalf of Down  Milestone Rathfriland Nite at the Dogs in Dundalk GAA. Stadium, in 2019 our Fundraising  Modern Tyres Limited team under Michael McArdle hosted a major Race Day at Down WHAT CAN YOU DO TO  McCartan Bros Sugar Island Royal which was a great success. HELP?  Tullyraine Quarries Well it is simple, you might start by buying a Half Time Draw ticket on entering Pairc Esler, you might buy a  HMT Shipping Ticket in the Clubs Draw, you might GAA Bodies, Nationally and  Autoline Insurance join Club Down now with charitable Provincially Income Received status and with a focus on our  Killowen Contracts £461,043.00. This is money that youth. comes to us from National and

 Ulster Bank Provincial Level and the share of the You might choose to join and National Leagues in 2018 brought us support Club Down and indeed for  The Parador Lodge Belfast in an additional £43,444.00 which parents whose Children are getting was down on 2017.  KN Networks the full benefits of the Mourne 27 www.DownGAA.net #OfficialDownGAA

Academy in Football and Hurling THE RULES OF THE GAA – the Cambridge rule, but with "at then joining Club Down should be a THE PLAYING RULES least three" rather than "more than part of the package. Over the year three" opponents. I happen to believe as do millions of your son will get for more benefits other people that the GAA have a in gear, nutrition, medical support In 1924, the concept of passive great product in our games and and life coaching to name but a few, offside was introduced. that will surpass the £10 per month football and hurling, games we like to showcase across the globe and contribution that you will be asked The rule changed to "two to make to Club Down. games that we are very proud of. Yet I find myself asking why we opponents" in 1925 and led to an

engage in so much tinkering with immediate increase in goal-scoring. Into the future Club Down and our playing rules and strangely more 4,700 goals were scored in 1,848 Down GAA need to have a strong so in football than in hurling. I look Football League games in 1924–25. working relationship, there needs to to our competitor sports and in This number rose to 6,373 goals be trust and there needs to be a particular to Association Football, (from the same number of games) recognition of roles and most ground football as we sometimes in 1925–26. importantly there needs to be call it and the biggest debate there delivery of commitments. for years in regard to rules has been In 1990 the law was amended to about the Offside Rule. I went adjudge an attacker as onside if You or Your Company might looking to see what I could find level with the second-to-last purchase a sign to advertise here in about the Offside Rule and I came opponent. This change was part of Pairc Esler or you might go a step upon the following: a general movement by the game's further and become an Associate authorities to make the rules more Sponsor - the doors are open – the When the original Laws of the conducive to attacking football and opportunities exist. Game were first drafted in 1863 no help the game to flow more freely. forward passes of any sort were I know that this might be a strange permitted, except for kicks from So, I was interested and surprised one but please when you a making a behind the goal line.[14] The rule that since 1990 and with all modern Will, think of Down GAA, think of states: technology barring the introduction leaving a legacy in some form or of VAR there has been no attempts other that will ensure that your 6. When a player has kicked the to change what is perhaps the most memory is kept alive, it may be a ball any one of the same side controversial rule in Association financial gift or the gift of archive who is nearer to the opponent's Football. We in the GAA seem to material that you may wish to goal line is out of play and may have developed an obsession for bestow but know that anything you not touch the ball himself, nor changing our playing rules, why do might leave in a Will, can make a in any way whatever prevent we feel the need to do so, 2020 is a difference for generations to come. any other player from doing so year for motions to amend the We now have the vision Down 2020 until the ball has been played, playing rules, Motions will appear at and a centre of our own in but no player is out of play County Convention and we will Ballykinlar, we have the vision, you when the ball is kicked from debate changes to a game that is have the means, together we can all behind the goal line already in good stead. I ask is it not play our part in ensuring that the time to leave well enough alone and future is indeed Red and Black. stop the tinkering with the Rules of As football developed in the 1860s our Games. and 1870s, the offside law proved Support our funding initiatives and the biggest argument between the we will repay your confidence in us, clubs. Sheffield got rid of the "kick- for years people spoke of not throughs" by amending their laws helping the Black Hole of County so that one member of the Board Debt, there is no longer a defending side was required black hole, there are transparent between a forward player and the accounts and there is governance opponents' goal. and accountability, now is the time to put your shoulder to the wheel. The compromise rule that was

Bealach an Duin – Ag Obair le Cheile written into the Laws of the Game

in 1866, and eventually adopted universally, was to adopt a form of

DOWN COUNTY GAA ANNUAL CONVENTION 2019 28

BALLYKINLAR PROJECT AN  Extension to existing pavilion  Community walkway to EXCITING NEW DAWN including second storey-4 x perimeter of site By the time that you read this changing rooms on ground floor report, a planning application will and gym at first floor level. Capable of works being phased have been lodged with Newry subject to funding availability Mourne and Down District Council  New pavilion incorporating 4 x on behalf of Down GAA for a Down changing rooms, An Interpretive GAA Centre of Participation at Pre-Application Notice was Centre Down GAA Ballykinlar. We have reached the submitted on 5thSeptember, administration offices multi- target stated at last Years acknowledged on 9th September purpose rooms capable of Convention for a Planning accommodating 156 people, Application to be submitted before  Meeting with Planning Services canteen capable of we met again this year. There are and Road Services held on site accommodating 108 people. we hope exciting times ahead. on 24th September 2019.

 Physio and rehab suite doctor’s The submitted Planning Application  Schedule 6 [Rivers Agency] room referees ‘room generous comes after a very meaningful submitted via McGurk storage space Public Consultation, with Public Architects

events held at Ballykinlar and in  8 changing rooms in total to Newry.  Public Consultation– service the 4 pitches Ballykinlar 6th November 3-

The Planning application includes: 8pm  75x 32 Multi Use Games Area Pairc Esler 7th November 3- (MUGA) 8pm  Development of the 4-pitch

option including utilising the  All accommodation in a central existing pitch and pavilion  Week commencing December concourse area 2nd Planning Application facilities however, with significant improvement. submitted.  363 car parking spaces and 10

coach park spaces–including We are very excited about this  The existing pitch will be separate players and official’s retained in part but moved project and I must acknowledge the carpark work to date of all of those involved towards the Tyrella junction in order to facilitate a new site in taking us to planning stage.  900 seater stand at ‘stadium entrance. pitch’ Anthony McNeill of Faithful and

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Gould has been the Project are changing. At National Level the URBAN CHALLENGE Manager and has ensured that all GAA have been very supportive of Over the past number of Target dates have been met and our efforts and we have involved Convention reports we have aired that all Reports and Requirements them at every step of the way, the the topic of Urban Challenge with I are being commissioned. Anthony GAA Director of Communications have to be honest not a lot of has been joined at Faithful and Alan Milton has been on site and success to date. I am still working to Gould by Steven Trainor who has Communications around the try and get a blueprint which brought his own level of expertise to project will be handled at the initially for Newry would then be the Project and who has been a highest level. The Irish Government transferrable across other Urban great guide to us in relation to and the Department of the centres including Downpatrick and funding opportunities. Taoiseach have been briefed on the North Down. scheme and are excited by its

prospects, former Taoiseach Bertie Colm McGurk an old adversary of In regard to Newry we have had to Ahern has also been a help to us in Down on the playing fields in think outside the box so to speak ensuring that the significance of Football and Hurling has been great and look at the option at a cross- the project is fully understood. to work with as the Project border, cross-provincial initiative

Architect, his company have won involving both Leinster and Ulster many major awards and it is plain to We will need to early in 2020 councils and Newry and Dundalk. To see why. His hands-on approach and establish a project board to ensure this end in mid-December we hope the attention to detail from Colm delivery on the scheme and I would to have a festival of Football under and his colleague Edelle has appeal to people from all walks of the floodlights at Pairc Esler resulted in the exciting designs that life that if you get the call to serve involving juvenile players from have been created and which reflect on the project board then please Newry and Dundalk who will not be a vision for the next decade and make yourself available. Down GAA representing their clubs but will just beyond. Resolve Planning need expertise to assist in the be playing Gaelic games. It’s a small Consultants through Damien and delivery of this exciting project and step on the road to try to increase Sarah have also provided expert your expertise might just make the participation in both Newry and guidance to ensure that we get to difference. Dundalk, the hope being that we this stage of the process. We have will then be able to employ full time had a good team of people working In 1994 the time was not yet right Development Officers in both on the project and we also have had for Down GAA to contemplate towns. good engagement with the Planning entering into a lease and legal Team at NMDDC, now we just need agreement with the Ministry of to bring the project to fruition. Defence, as we enter 2020 and a new decade, we hope we will see The Ballykinlar Club always have the delivery of the Project. It can been kept informed of all progress herald a new era not just for Down to date and I would like to place on but for Ballykinlar and for Ireland as record my thanks to Fiona, to Maria a whole. It is exciting times that and to Paddy Doherty for all of their hopefully lie ahead as Down GAA practical help and support. Whilst return to what has been a spiritual this will be the Down GAA Centre of home, a place where All Participation, we hope that this were won, a place where one of our project will reenergise Ballykinlar, greatest Paddy Doherty learned his we hope that Teams of all ages from skills. the Club will play on these pitches going forward, we hope that this 100 years ago, Ballykinlar camp will be a hub too that lifts the spirits housed Internees including a man of a community and once again who would go on to be Taoiseach, breathes life into this proud Club. it would be great if a century later a Taoiseach, a GAA President and a This is a big project, it sends out a Down Chairman were turning the message of new beginnings as the first sod of a new beginning. Ministry of Defence and the GAA come together in a project that really does say that the times they

DOWN COUNTY GAA ANNUAL CONVENTION 2019 30

IRISH AND CULTURAL great entertainment at all venues from the hosting of Scór, the only Our Language and our Culture are and there is a tremendous change has been that one vital parts of our Association, they innocence in the competitors as committee is organising all but that help us to be more than a sporting they represent their Club perhaps committee calls upon people from organisation, they give an for the first time. We cannot lose the Divisional Committees for help. opportunity to those who want to this innocence and sense of be part of the GAA family and are participation and representation, Paula Magee returned in 2019 as not going to be footballers or the photographs featured of the Irish and Cultural Officer to hurlers. Every year the Clubs of respective Divisional Finals showed complete her five years in the role Down send young people to the young people enjoying what they and I pay tribute to the work she Gaeltacht to assist them with their do. Long may that continue, their does for Scór not just in Down but development of our Language, it is a participation in an activity of the also as Provincial Chair and as a positive enforcement of our GAA should be and must be an member of the National Committee. commitment to our Language. The enjoyable activity. The Adults will Paula puts her heart and soul into challenge is though how do we get get plenty of opportunity in Scór any role that she undertakes and something back from those young Sinsir. this year having to lift the baton people, how do we get them to after the death of William Smith it bring back to the Club environment In 2019 Aoife Trainor did her family, was never going to be easy. what they have gained from their her Club and her County proud as course in Donegal. On a County she won the All Ireland Scór na nÓg To all of our National Anthem front could we be looking to try and Solo Singing Title, she maintained a singers I say thank you for develop from this group of people, great tradition of Down success and enhancing our games in particular at future announcers for matches, for at all times Aoife was a great County and Club level in 2018, to the young people it is perhaps a ambassador for all that is good in the mummy’s and daddy’s who case of pay back time to their Club Scór. drove you to games, thank you too and their County. it was much appreciated, and to Whilst Scór is organised on an All Plunkett McConville and his team of Scór provides a great focus for Club County basis by the County Scór announcers I thank you all for activity in the winter nights, already committee, the Divisional making yourselves available even if this year Scor na nÓg has provided committees still are involved at all at times this was at short notice. venues and they also gain financially

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PAIRC ESLER YOUTH 25 YEARS AGO In Down GAA we are very proud of To our youth I owe you an apology. 25 Years ago, we were kings, the the stadium that is Pairc Esler and At last year’s Convention I said that Sam Maguire and the Anglo Celt yet its popularity presents us with we would host a Down Youth Forum rested easily in the Mournes, a fifth new challenges. The more games on 26th January with the aim of All Ireland had been won and DJ was played at the venue mean increased listening to our Young people and our Leader. We did not think then costs and Down GAA need to seeing where we can find a place for that neither of those two trophies maximise our income within the their undoubted talents in County would visit us again with our name ground. This is a topic that will have Administration going forward. The on them in the period since. to be discussed by the Pairc Esler Youth Forum did not happen and for management committee before a that I apologise to our young The players celebrated in June at a ball is kicked or pucked at the venue people. function in the Canal Court and in 2020. There are opportunities again at Warrenpoint Golf Club with within the ground for advertising on I make a promise that before the a Classic in August, in Clones on match days and we also need to be end of February in 2020 we will host Ulster Final day they took to the creative in our thinking as to a Youth Forum and we will listen. field again and were acknowledged maximise income we may have to in Down GAA needs more than ever by patrons with great affection. In the first instance speculate. This is a new blood on the Administration September at Croke Park, their matter that will have to be given side of things, I have already entry onto the pitch was delayed as very serious consideration. referred to the need to succession the Minor Final went to Extra time plan, a new generation need to be and they made an entry at Half Time The hosting of games also brings its part of that planning. in the Senior Final. There was great own logistical problems and in 2019 pride in the Down people present as there was discontent from residents So, I give you that commitment that they saw these great men once of the area in the way that patrons we will have a Youth Forum before again take centre stage in Croke parked at the venue with little the end of February, I need the Park, they were our heroes in 94 regard for the wellbeing or safety of Clubs to encourage their young and in 2019 they were still our residents. We in Down GAA want to people to attend, for it will not just heroes. be good neighbours and in 2020 we benefit Down it will benefit the Club will have to engage with all parties too. So, let’s make it happen – No We were not to know the to try and ensure that the hosting of more Apologies. significance of that appearance in games at Pairc Esler becomes a Croke Park until that day of good experience for residents, local Wednesday 9th October when the businesses and patrons alike. word broke of the sudden passing DOWN COUNTY GAA ANNUAL CONVENTION 2019 32

of Eamonn Burns. A County was in manager Eamonn Burns stepped up After the Championship of 2018, shock and a band of brothers had to the mark and took on the role of Eamonn resigned as County Senior lost one of their kin, Sinead, Cathal County Senior Football team Team Manager and he did so in a and Thomas lost a husband and a manager. For Eamonn it was a case manner fitting of the man, quietly, father taken much too soon from us. of serving his County when he was with dignity, decency and with only needed and at a time when Down the best interests of Down in mind. Eamonn Burns was the youngest of football was not enjoying the best of When Eamonn made up his mind to three brothers who all would wear fortune, Eamonn Burns remained a quit as senior manager, he made his the green and gold of Bryansford and dignified figure at all times who only way to the County Office it was a the Red and Black of Down. Having ever gave of his very best in the measure of the man, he had a card graduated through the ranks Eamonn cause of Down. He was a man of for the County Officers, he had a gift made his Senior County debut in Honesty and Integrity, a man who I for Martina in the office to thank her 1987/88 and will be best was proud to say was a friend and for her work, it’s the wee things that remembered as midfielder on the All- with whom I was privileged to share say the big things about a person. Ireland winning team of 1991. so many good moments as he sought only to try and bring success to Down Eamonn was a great ambassador for Down fans will remember Eamonn’s Down as a player and as a manager. two points from play in that win over In 2017 there were memorable days He was one of the good guys, always Meath as Sam Maguire returned as relegation was avoided in Cork about the greater good, always North for the first time in 23 years. In and the Ulster Championship saw us selfless with his time and only 1994, Eamonn was once again to the record victories over Armagh in wanting to give of his best in any task fore this time at right half back on Newry and on a particularly special that he undertook. Down GAA have the team that defeated Dublin night in the Athletic Grounds a win been privileged to have Eamonn playing through the pain barrier to over Monaghan and against all the Burns amongst our sons, he gave us ensure that his beloved Down made odds Eamonn Burns had guided as supporters many magical it five All Ireland titles. Down back to an Ulster Final. moments, he brought a smile to our faces and in those days of 1991 and After his distinguished playing career Success was to elude us against 1994 he helped bring us glory days. with both Club and County, Eamonn Tyrone, but pride had been restored took on coaching and managerial in our County in no small way due to Eamonn has been taken from us too roles guiding Bryansford to a Down the efforts of Eamonn Burns, a man soon, we will miss you Eamonn, but Senior Championship success. In who himself had great pride in the we will smile in the memory of the 2015 when Jim McCorry had resigned Red and Black. days that you gave us. You were a as Down Senior Football team true son of Down.

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The band of brothers has been most talented footballers to wear Business to the world stage and to broken with the loss of Eamonn, as the Red and Black in the mid 1980's be leaders in their field. Brian still a County we will come together on before injury cut short what could retained a great love for the GAA the 11th January to honour the men have been a most promising career. and for Down, this year he was able of 1994, we hope that Sinead, The Newry Mitchels player won a to be present for our Championship Cathal and Thomas and the Burns Minor Football Championship with meetings with Armagh and Mayo family will join us on that night his Club in 1982 and had been an and one could see the passion and when Eamonn will be very much in outstanding underage footballer for love he had for the game as he met our thoughts. both Mitchels and Abbey CBS in with former players and shared Newry, he was identified then as a good memories. future senior County player. LOST LIVES Brian was a great friend to Down It was no surprise then that Brian GAA in so many ways, quietly and At Convention each year we take a made his Inter County debut in the without ceremony he made a minute to remember those who are 1985 National League before difference to the County just as he no longer with us, who we have lost featuring in the Ulster made a difference for his home city in the past year and for each of us Championship defeat to Donegal of Newry, where he created there is always someone that we that same year in Ballybofey. In the employment and never ever forgot remember at this time of year. The 1986 National League Brian was his roots. Brian Conlon was one of people we think of have touched finding his feet on the Inter County our own who only ever wanted our lives in some small way perhaps scene and firmly announced his Down to be successful and if he and in many cases gave us the love arrival when in the first home game could play any part in making that of the GAA that we now have. For of the League he grabbed Down's happen, he was never found that we thank them, we cherish fifth goal in an impressive win over wanting. what they gave us, and we Monaghan. Brian's performances remember them. This year in Down helped Down win their section in we said farewell to some great James Dynes was a former County the Ford National League as it was people and some like Eamonn Burns Hurling Manager and Ballygalget then, before falling to Laois in extra who were taken from us too soon. I stalwart who died suddenly in Spain time in the League Quarter Final. think in particular of two Club men on holiday. James had managed of my own Shane Brunker and Brian Down in the 1980s and had also Conlon who both wore the Red and Under the management of Sean served as Chairman of his Club, he Black of Down in their day. Smyth, Brian was to play a key role was a man committed to Hurling as an impact substitution in that and was one of life’s great years Ulster Championship, after characters. In 1977 Down won their first Minor defeating Donegal, Down faced All Ireland Football Title when they defending champions Monaghan overcame Meath and at left full Pearse McAvoy was a man who was and ended their reign in a replay in back that day was Shane Brunker. very good to Down GAA and to Castleblaney when Brian Conlon in Shane was a tough uncompromising many of its Clubs. A former as a sub took a pass from Brendan defender who had come through Annaclone player and indeed Club Mason to shoot to the net and put the ranks with Mitchels and the Chairperson, Pearse had a the seal on a Down victory 2-11 to 1 Abbey. He was one of those players successful business too undertaking -11, Brian featured again in the Semi who you knew when he was in your many Pitch developments in the Final where he returned the favour team you had a real chance for County. Pearse was not afraid to for Brendan Mason to goal and in Shane Brunker would not let a support County Initiatives even the Final where Down lost to corner forward pass easily. Many before it was fashionable for us to Tyrone. days Mitchels hearts were lifted have associate sponsors, he was when at William Street corner as prepared to financially support the they gathered their few, the An Injury in the County in the preparation of its bearded Shane would appear, bag campaign of 1987 playing for teams. over the shoulder and suddenly you Queens brought an end to Brian's knew you could take on anyone playing career and alas we would In a year when Cumann Pheadair because Shane was there. never get to know the full potential Naofa reached the County Final, of this most talented footballer. In they did so without one of their life Brian became a very successful Brian Conlon was a former County greatest supporters John Carr, much businessman when he founded First Footballer and a great friend of loved son of All Ireland winning Derivatives and went on to take the Down GAA. Brian was one of the manager Barney. John was very DOWN COUNTY GAA ANNUAL CONVENTION 2019 34

much a part of life around the town played in with an odd horse story Ballycran came out on top. of Warrenpoint and with the band thrown in. and the GAA Club, he certainly There was great sadness in Saul would have enjoyed as The Bryansford Club this year when word broke that Niall Laverty Championship fervour saw the town suffered tragic losses on many had died suddenly, this was a young become a sea of blue. fronts, the death of Eamonn was a man who on 17th March had huge loss to the Club, a wise counsel starred for St Patricks Grammar Siobhan McCann was an had been taken from them at a time School Downpatrick as they had inspirational young girl who in a when he looked set to be of great brought glory to the County in short lifetime, touched the hearts of value to the Club. On one weekend winning the Maclarnon Cup. Niall so many, Siobhan was admired for in particular the club lost three was a young man who loved Gaelic her courageous battle against people in tragic circumstances and games, he played football with his cancer. Together with her team of one of those was Ruth Maguire a beloved Saul and hurling with helpers in St John’s Siobhan set young Belfast mother who had Ballygalget. Wherever he went he about fundraising to ensure that made her home in Newcastle. Ruth made a real impact and his mum, many organisations would benefit and her children became part of the dad, brother and sisters will we for future research to try help fabric of the Club and it was heart- hope in time be able to smile in the others beat this dreadful disease. A breaking news for the Club when memories that Niall brought them. community rallied around Siobhan word broke of a tragedy in His friends at St Patricks Grammar and her family and there was great Carlingford. School hosted an Under 21 sadness when the word broke that tournament in his memory already Siobhan had died, it should just not Ciara Cunningham was another this term which showed the esteem be that one so young and so good young mother taken too soon, the to which Niall was held by all who should be taken from a loving wife of Bryansford stalwart Johnny, knew him. family. Ciara leaves behind a young family. On 30th November 2018 a Cork Atticall lost one of its great stalwarts We lost too a man who was a great man Jeremiah Sheehan known to us when Linus Grant a man who had servant of his Club and his County all as Jerry passed to his eternal been to the fore of the Club since its when Thomas Walsh lost his battle reward having made an outstanding foundation passed away in his 90s. with illness. Thomas had been there contribution to hurling in his Grants shop had been a hub for GAA from the re launch of the Ford and adopted home of Kilkeel and County in the parish and still to this day served in so many roles from player of Down. Jerry had served Linus’s sons carry on the tradition of to mentor, to committee and to as Chairman of the Hurling Board support for the Club and the County Committee. He had a great and was a man who kept Hurling County. passion too for athletics where he and Camogie alive in the Mourne was involved with the Dunleer Club. and South Down area in barren In recent years Alfie Fitzsimons Thomas was one of life’s gentlemen, days. It was fitting that Jerry should became a regular visitor to the he had time for the young, he loved pass away on the day after his County Office as he sought to try to hear how they were doing. At beloved game was granted and obtain newspaper accounts and County matches Thomas was one of protected status by UNESCO for he imagery of when he had played for Brendan’s trusted and reliable gate was a champion of the protection of Down Juniors in the 1960s. We were team and he loved the banter with our game and the spreading of the successful in getting Alfie patrons as they made their way into Hurling gospel. He has left an newspaper reports of games that he the ground, there were not too outstanding legacy, his son Ronan is had played in, but we couldn’t get many people that Thomas did not County Senior Hurling manager him a photo of the team beaten by know. whilst grandson Paul has been a Cork in the All Ireland Junior Final of regular on the County Team for 1966 of which he was a member. The Ballycran club suffered a blow many seasons. The exploits of the Down juniors in on Championship weekend when the 60s and early 1970s has long they lost two valued members with been forgotten but when we look at the death of Mrs Gilmore and Mr the composition of those teams you Masterson, the club with the see that it was a great starting support of the families played their ground for later Senior Teams. Alfie championship game and the God have mercy on him regaled us influence from above ensured that with many stories of games he

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REFLECTION about remembering Down GAA in inwardly and says we need to I look on my role with great pride, I your will and some people might be develop ourselves, somehow, we am honoured to be the Secretary- aghast at that thought but it is a feel guilty about sourcing the CEO of Down GAA, as I say there is very real option for people, and it development it is as if in someway it not a day when you are not the would ensure that their memory cannot be justified. County Secretary but as one who and their association with Down has spent my life in the GAA it is a lived on. We have to as a County Executive job that I love. You get to work with invest in our own development, to good people, you get to engage with We need also to be on site in develop us as the Leaders that we people and hopefully you get to Ballykinlar as soon as Planning are, each member of Executive has make a difference to the world of Permission is granted and by that, I a portfolio so to speak, for which Down GAA. mean that the County Offices should they are responsible for. I have to move immediately upon receipt of ask the question have they in turn Over the next period Down GAA will planning to our new Home. been prepared for such a role, for undergo change in the physical Financially this is important on two them not to be prepared will only sense, where we will be developing counts, firstly we will save on rent, lead to failure in the role and will our infrastructure but also in the secondly and more importantly we set the County backwards. sense of developing our people. will be making a major statement by Over the past number of months saying yes this is going to happen. So, Over the next five years let us not a day has gone by when I You can then with confidence ask develop our future leaders, let there haven’t had to deal with something people for funding to support the be no further apologies to our related to Ballykinlar and what we Development. youth, recognise that our Senior are trying to do and as you see Officers will have to take and make things progress you become more One of the best magnets for funding decisions, let that happen but excited, you believe that this is would be if there was an upturn in empower them with the tools to going to happen. the fortunes of our County Teams, make the right decisions. As the with a feel-good factor people are County Secretary and CEO I will There will be a period now as the more open to supporting your have to drive both areas of Planners consider our application ventures. So good performances on Development, the physical and the where in a sense all that work the field can be the catalyst for people, there are busy days ahead around surveys and compliance is support off it in terms of people but potentially great days, when we complete that there will be a lull at wanting to support the can seize the moment and make a this phase of the project. We hope development at Ballykinlar. real difference for Down GAA. It is a that the planning process will be challenge and a task that I am ready completed in 2020 and we must use Whilst we will engage hopefully in to embrace. the interim period to our own physical development, the next five scrutinising of the project. years also present a challenge for us To each and every member of the in developing our people, we need Down County Committee I say thank We must spend that period ensuring to empower other people to you for your support and I say thank that we move to a state of become leaders and to develop you for the work that you do on an readiness, a Project Board will need leaders on and off the field. At ongoing basis for your Club and your to be established, a Financial County Convention we have one County you are making a difference Management Board will also need election and we have possibly only in a very positive way. Let us all to be established, further visits to two new people appearing at the continue to make that difference. other projects will have to be Executive Table there may not be undertaken. Fundraising any seismic change again until 2024. Martina Maxwell has worked Opportunities will have to be We need to create a culture within extremely hard to ensure our explored and discussions held with the County of Officer development financial reporting is all kept in other Counties to assess what may at County level as opposed to Club order and up to date. For people have worked or not worked in their Level. To do this we need to invest visiting the County Office Martina is case. The opportunity for a legacy in our people and not just our the first point of contact and she scheme is one such possibility and in players, if a Team Management feel tries to accommodate all the varying the structure of the complex we the need for another specialist needs and requests that people or need to ensure we have the object “the missing piece of the Clubs have. Martina also acts as the opportunities to fundraise by brick Jigsaw” we will endeavour to servicing officer to the Health and or paving sales. I know I said earlier provide. So, when a County looks Well Being committee and is giving DOWN COUNTY GAA ANNUAL CONVENTION 2019 36

of her time voluntarily in this role. allow him to take forward new performance. Recently too we have Martina continues too to support initiatives which will be for the benefitted from the addition of Officers to allow the smooth betterment of the County in Michael McArdle and Oisin running of our organisation and I Football and in Hurling. MacManus as new Department/ personally thank Martina for all of Ulster Council coaches to work in her good work for Down GAA. Conor enjoyed a successful year on our Schools. On the Hurling Front Sometimes we don’t say thank you the playing pitch too ensuring that we have access to two Hurling enough. he didn’t get too dizzy by going too Development Officers in Danny far up the field as Loughinisland Toner and Eamon Blaney who work Our Games Development Manager made a good start on their return to across the County in the promotion Conor O’Toole is responsible for our Division One, all was kept tight at of hurling in our schools. coaching staff and for the the back! organisation of the Cúl Camps as To all of those who lost loved ones well as the entire Games In 2019 Conor married Victoria a throughout the year I extend my Development Programme. Conor footballer and camog who dons the deepest and heartfelt sympathy, manages our Coaching Staff daily colours of Loughinisland and tonight at Convention we remember and represents the County on the Portaferry, the jury is out on the everyone in a prayerful minute Board of Gaelfast. We have had an question who is the better before proceedings begin. The idea increased number of coaching footballer. On behalf of Down GAA I of including names of deceased programmes in the past year and wish them both every good luck in members in our annual Convention that is down too to Conor’s work as the future. booklet is I feel a nice chance of a Tutor for many of our courses. The showing to us all that we are Coaching and Games department is To all our Schools coaches, our own acknowledging the work of those a big part of our annual budget and Kyla, Liam, Benny, Ambrose, Mark I who have gone before us and it is disappointing that at County say a big thank you for the work helped to make us who we are. Ar Convention we will be unable to that you do in our schools as Dheis De go Raibh go Raibh a anam. elect a Coaching Officer. ambassadors for Down GAA. You are the Team that makes it all To my fellow officers as always Conor needs the support of a pro happen in our Schools and we take thank you for all of your work during active Coaching Officer and great pride in the positive feedback the year and for your help and Coaching and Games Committee to we get from our Schools about your support shown to me. The mantra

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now for The County and Club Officer always willing to try find solutions to on the National Feile Committee. In Training Programme is that the best problems that may have arisen. To Down he also acts as I.T Officer and Teams are those off the pitch and Sean and his wife Mairead I thank is very keen to develop the in Down GAA we are lucky in this them for their work in the role of possibility of streaming our Club regard. When people take up leading our County, and I am sure Championships in 2020. Besides all County Office they do so in the we will not see Sean lost to County of this Diarmuid also has a day job desire to serve, to make things Administration. and a young family and I thank him better, to give freely of their time for the work he continues to do for and to make a difference. As Vice Chairperson John Devaney Down GAA and for his assistance to also chaired CCC and ensured that me personally in my role. We in Down GAA are proud of the we worked as close to the fixture people that we elect to Office or calendar as possible, ensuring that Brendan Fitzpatrick has been a good appoint to Office in any given year, the Leagues were finished in good support to Diarmuid and has they have been chosen by the Clubs time. Our Championships continue continued with the responsibility for in a democratic process to be the to be of a high standard in playing the management of our gates and person to serve in the position to terms and in organisational terms, ensuring that we maximise our the very best of their abilities. With and CCC under John’s leadership Income from our Championships. any position on an Executive body have ensured that we are playing Brendan and his team of men are comes an expectation that the our games at the correct time at the often the public face of Down GAA person will work hard for their own most suitable venues to allow for for many of our patrons, they are remit and for the greater good of good attendances. John has shown the first people that you see at a the executive. In 2016 we created that as Chair of the CCC he was ground and I thank them for their an organisational chart for the never afraid to take big decisions efforts in all weather. Brendan leads County Executive, I feel now would and as he steps up to become the team in a quiet and efficient be a good time to revisit that Chart, County Chairperson there is no manner and it is a great help that as refresh and update accordingly. doubt that he will have strong ideas we try to profile Pairc Esler for more on what is needed to take the and more fixtures, that you have a There is much to be done on County County forward. team led by Brendan who will be on Executive, Off the Field we must be hand to support whenever called the best team that we can be, and upon. we must deliver on key objectives in Our treasurer Diarmuid Cahill This year we were joined by a new 2020 and beyond. The next five continues to do phenomenal work secretary of CCC as Michael years will be big in this county, we in ensuring that our County is in O’Rourke took on the role and fitted will be commencing on a good financial standing. The support in very smoothly. Michael is well Performance Centre in that time of the Clubs in ensuring this organised and was very supportive and there will be demands on all situation is much appreciated and of Clubs throughout the year and members of County Executive, they Diarmuid ensures that we are worked with Clubs to ensure that need to be up to the task that lies transparent and accountable in difficulties over fixtures were ahead. everything that we do. We are after successfully overcome. This year will all only the guardians it is the Clubs present new challenges for CCC with Our Chairman Sean Rooney of Down who trust us to manage the change in the Age Groups but I completes his five year term here at the affairs of the County, at have no doubt that Michael will be Convention, he committed upon Convention there is a proposal to up to the challenge. taking office to try and source a change a bye law to extend the home for Down Teams of all Codes term of the Treasurer. As we enter I would like to thank too Liam Quinn and at Convention he will be able to into one of the potentially biggest and Conor Watson who did say that the Planning Application developments in the History of excellent work in looking after the has been lodged for the Down GAA Down GAA, at Ballykinlar to me it hurling fixtures both men gave Performance Centre at Ballykinlar. would make sense to have a man of selflessly of their time in a fair and Sean will hand over that baton to the stature and financial capabilities honest manner as members of CCC. incoming Chairperson John Devaney of Diarmuid Cahill at the helm of our As I said earlier over 450 hurling knowing that he himself played a County Finances for the duration of games were played this year. key role in taking the proposed the project and beyond if necessary. development to the next level. Sean In addition to his role as County Willie Gribben was appointed as had a good rapport with our Clubs Treasurer Diarmuid is also chair of County Development Officer last during his term of Office and he was the National Youth Committee and year in accordance with rule and is

DOWN COUNTY GAA ANNUAL CONVENTION 2019 38

again the nominee for the post in representation for our Clubs and Provincial and National level. Paula 2020. The role of Development venues. Michael and Maureen leave is also a member of the PR team Officer is one that Willie enjoys and their posts at Ulster at the County and along with Maureen and Fiona one that covers physical Convention and I thank them for ensured that the rest of us were development and the development ensuring that Down were kept to kept on our toes to deliver positive of our people, it is a key role in the fore of Provincial decision publicity for the County. Paula also ensuring that our County and its making. ensured that singers were available Clubs have facilities and structures for Amhrán na bhFiann throughout on a par with other Counties. Willie Fiona Murphy as County PRO has the County and whilst Paula’s term is your first port of call if you are ensured that there are good has come to an end as Irish and thinking of any development in your channels of Communication Cultural Officer I hope that into the Club, he is here to help and if you between Down GAA and all our future Paula will fill other officer look at the monies made available units and especially at Provincial roles within the County. to our Clubs in the form of grants and National Level. Fiona ensured you can see that Willie is good at his that Programmes were available for Tom Potter completes his term as job. all Club Championship games as well Coaching Officer at Convention, as maintaining a high quality of Inter Tom has a passion for Coaching and Our two Ulster Council reps County Match Day programmes. certainly was always willing to Maureen O’Higgins and Michael Indeed, it was a good year for Fiona, promote and create awareness of McArdle make sure in the first the PR Team were busy on Match coaching activities within the instance that the County is best Days and on County Final day she County. As a member of the represented at Ulster and then they was delighted as the Glenn Mourne Academy Steering take on other roles too, as Secretary to see her Club win the Committee Tom was also able to Integration Officer Maureen has WJ Farrell Cup. Fiona also have an input into our Development once again raised the profile of coordinated all post-match media structures. I thank Tom for his work Integration and ensured that it is activities around our County Teams and wish him well in any future working at a practical level in Down. and ensured that Team roles that he may undertake. Maureen continued to lead the PR Managements were available to the Team and once again they were to Media without too much delay. Donal McNally and Ger Connery the fore in the promotion of our play vital roles as Chairpersons of Championships and in ensuring that Seamus Walsh has announced that their respective Divisional good news stories went out from he will be retiring from all Officer committees and they do vital work the County. There was no Fake roles within the County after in the organisation of juvenile and News for Maureen and her team! Convention, in the past 20 years adult reserve fixtures. The remit of There is no doubt that when Seamus has held many roles in the the Divisional Committees will Maureen takes on a role it is County including holding the roles change into the future and the delivered upon and she has also of Secretary and Chairperson. challenge then is that they are fit for managed to get a good team of Seamus always gave of his very best purpose in any new role that may people working with her, our to any role that he undertook and in come to fruition. Donal steps down County profile has increased 2010 he took great pride of being as South Down Chair this year and accordingly as have our County Chairman as we hosted GAA as a former colleague from the Championship Gates. Congress and reached the All Down Youth Board where we both Ireland Final. Not too many people served under the tutelage of Dan Michael McArdle was the man get the opportunity to fill the roles McCartan, I wish Donal well into the behind a very successful race day at that Seamus did, and I thank him for future and hope that he will not be Down Royal in May and I know that all of his work in East Down and at lost to us. he is planning for next year and a County Level over the years. I wish similar event. Michael also himself and Breia well in the years Conor Watson is our County Hurling coordinates the Half Time Draw ahead and hope that he will not be Officer and is now two years into sellers in Pairc Esler and the totally lost to us. the role, Conor ensures that there is financial return from patrons does a voice for hurling at County help towards the increased Paula Magee returned this year as Management and he brings too a expenditure at our County Ground. Irish and Cultural Officer a role to hands-on approach to the role. Michael also represented our which she is extremely dedicated County on Ulster CCC and worked and gives selflessly of her time in Conor has been very supportive of hard on that front to ensure fair the promotion of Scór at County, our hurling Clubs and represents

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Down as well on the Ulster Hurling hidden work people do not see. The Supporters Club and Dr Eddie Committee. There are challenges GAA is deep in the genes of Seamus Harney enough for the jobs that ahead for hurling in Down, but I Ryan and Down GAA hold a special they do on our County Sub have no doubt that with good place too. Seamus also serves on committees, to each and every guidance from Conor Watson those County Hearings Committee and is a person who does anything for Down challenges will be met. prime example of volunteers who GAA I say Thank you, you help make do wee jobs for Down and do them a difference. You are all part of the So that is the Team Off the field in quietly, no fanfare no fuss. To great Down GAA family. Down GAA , a team I am proud to Seamus and the many others like be a part of and a team that works him I say go raibh a maith agat. One person I would like to well together, there are many particularly thank is Aileen Smith others who play a key role and none Mark Fitzsimons has taken on the who this year took on the role of more so than James and Mary role as County Children’s Officer and looking after hospitality on match McGrath who coordinate the Clubs does excellent work in ensuring that days in Pairc Esler. I needed Draw. The Clubs Draw needs now to our Clubs are informed of all new someone to fill this role, someone be embraced by all of the Clubs as initiatives and that we are fully who would be reliable and part of their fundraising drive in any compliant. He works very closely personable, someone who would given year, it can make a difference with Bernie Fox at Ulster Level and enjoy the role. I asked Aileen and to your Club, you only have to look is a great confidential source of she didn’t hesitate. It is very at some of the development that support for us all. reassuring that you know that when has taken place at your there is a match on in Pairc Esler neighbouring Club. Gary Doherty quietly fills a key role Aileen will look after the hospitality, for Down GAA as our Health and no worries no questions asked. The bottom line is that Down GAA Wellbeing Officer and as society could not survive without the Clubs changes, we too need to be aware To the people who serve on Sub Draw and we would be even better of the societal changes that affect Committees nationally and placed if all Clubs were embracing our members. Gary has a good team provincially, I thank you very much of it. So I ask you to just take stock in the Health and Well Being for the work you do, you are and see how could your Club really Committee, but he needs more help representing your County and giving benefit and ask yourself how you too. I have mentioned in my report of your time to ensure that Down can justify your Club only selling 24 already that it is okay to ask GAA plays a central part in the Tickets. James and Mary do a someone are you Well and in taking affairs of our Association. tremendous job month in month those small steps we can help and out and all on a voluntary basis for support Gary and his team in their There are great people in Ulster the good of the County. The Draw work. We are creating awareness GAA, Geraldine McKavanagh has takes over their home in January/ and if we do that then we are been a great person to deal with in February and I cannot thank them starting to win. Gary has also been Ulster, as the PA to the late Danny enough for all that they do. an outstanding support to Clubs Murphy, Geraldine always had a soft who have sadness and tragedy spot for Down and she would still be James has also been invaluable to us placed upon them, typical of the of a great help to us on anything in the past twelve months as a man if it is done quietly and with that needs sorted. support to Diarmuid and me in gentleness. Thank you Gary, for the managing the County Finances. work you do touches many people People like Geraldine help make the James challenges and probes to and makes a real difference. GAA a special organisation, one ensure that our Financial where we are not aloof and Management is what it should be, There is good work being done by a removed from our base and where he has overseen the transition to whole lot of people all for the accessibility to people who care is Ulster Bank and the healthy state of betterment of Down GAA and it is still very important. I have our finances today is in no small way our failing that we don’t shout it mentioned Bernie Fox earlier for her down to the good work of James enough from the rooftops and we work with Mark Fitzsimons and we McGrath. don’t thank people like Sheila Kelly, are very lucky to have someone like Tony Burden, Donal McCormack, Bernie working in such a key area as Seamus Ryan selflessly puts his own Paul Rooney, Richie Reynolds, Safeguarding. business at our disposal to ensure Gerard Leneghan, Dermot Donnelly, that we are fully compliant with all Ciaran Rafferty, Michael Gillen, On behalf of Down GAA I thank also regulations; this is the type of Anita Brannigan, the Down Paul Sanders who has been very DOWN COUNTY GAA ANNUAL CONVENTION 2019 40

supportive to our Clubs in terms of strength of our Association we are a optimistic note and as we look to assisting developments and works family of equals. You get as County 2020 and we say we can make closely with Willie Gribben while Secretary to meet great people in things happen on and off the field. Stephen Donnelly is a guide for us our Organisation the Staff in Ulster We will hope that our footballers all in terms of fixtures and match and Croke Park, I can only speak and hurlers can gain promotion in programmes. Ashelene and Rose highly of, like us all they are all part the coming year, that is the first keep us right on Tickets and I hope of the great GAA family that target, we will hope that the work that in 2020 we are keeping them continues to go from strength to that has been undertaken by the busy as Down progress in the strength. Mourne Academy will start to show Provincial Championships. shoots and we will have success at For me to do this job and fulfil the Under 20 and Under 17. I believe To all the staff of Comhairle Uladh role as I see it, I need the support at that the wheel is turning and that and to the Provincial Director Brian home for this job is no 9-5 job, it’s a our day will come again soon. McAvoy I say thank you for all your bit like Ronnie Barker yes, we are help and support to me in 2019. I open all hours. As I said before Off the field we will plan for the would also like to acknowledge the there is no day when you are not development of our own home at support too of Brian and Stephen the County Secretary, but I would Ballykinlar, hoping that in 2020 we Mageean in ensuring that we got not have it any other way. I know get Planning Permission and we the planning application lodged for that as time marches on one will move on site, a new decade, a new Ballykinlar. have to accept that things may have beginning, hope for the future, An to just be done at a different pace Dun Abu. In Croke Park Tom Ryan is into year but rest assured, they will still be two now as Ard Stiurthoir Tom was done. Bealach an Dúin: Ag Obair le Chéile always a good support to Down over the Down Way: Working Together. the years and he has maintained an At home Teresa, John and Fiona are interest in our Development at the team that make it possible for Seán Óg Mac an tSaoir Ballykinlar. This is after all a project me to do my job. They are a great Runaí Coiste Chontae that makes a major statement not support to me and at all times keep an Dúin just for the GAA at County Level but me right. In the GAA we don’t say very much at National and thank you often enough we just Leadership Level. expect from people but in the case All Photos used within the of Teresa, John and Fiona I really Secretaries Report have been have to say a big Thank You. To all the staff in Ulster and in Croke supplied by SportsFile Park I say thank you on behalf of the Gaels of Down, this is the great It is best to conclude on an

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