Liathróid Láimhe C.L.G. na hÉireann An Chomhdháil Bhliantúil 2017 AN CHOMHDHÁIL BHLIANTÚIL 2017 Ar an Domhnach, 5 Feabhra 2017 ag 10.30 r.n.

Venue: The Bridge House Hotel, Date: Sunday 5th February

Clár an Lae 9.30am: - Registration Opens - Tea/Coffee & Scones on arrival

10.30am: - Fáiltiú - Addresses from Special Guests Chairman Offaly Handball Chairman Offaly GAA - Adoption of Standing Orders - Minutes of Comhdháil 2016 - Report of Bainisteoir Náisiúnta - Annual Accounts 2016 - Motions & Elections - Oráid an Uachtaráin, Willie Roche - Presentation and Oráid an Uachtaráin Nua, Joe Masterson - Aon Ghno Eile & Close of Congress - Congress lunch on Sunday at approximately 1.30pm

Liathróid Láimhe C.L.G. na hÉireann – GAA Handball

Páirc an Chrócaigh, Baile Átha Cliath 3 - Croke Park, Dublin 3 More Than A Sport www.gaahandball.ie NOMINATIONS Delegate to GAA Ard Comhairle: Willie Roche (An Clár) Nominated By: An Clár, Corcaigh Liam O’Ceallaigh (Ros Comáin) Nominated By: Ros Comáin. STANDING ORDERS In order that the proceedings of the Congress be carried out expeditiously, the following Standing Orders will be observed: 1. The proposer of a Resolution or an Amendment thereto may speak for 5 minutes, but not more than 5 minutes

2. A delegate speaking to a Resolution or an Amendment must not exceed 3 minutes. A maximum of two delegates from any one shall speak on any one motion.

3. The proposer of a Resolution or Amendment may speak a second time for 3minutes before a vote is taken, but no other Delegate may speak a second time to the same Resolution or Amendment.

4. The Chairman may at any time he considers a matter has been sufficiently discussed call on the Proposer for a reply, and when that has been given a vote must be taken.

5. A delegate may, with the consent of the Chairman, move “that the question be now put”, afterwhich, when the Proposer has spoken, a vote must be taken.

6. A speaker to National Manager’s report or to any other general discussion shall not exceed 3 minutes on any one topic.

7. Any motion seeking to amend a rule in Fo-Rialacha (GAA Handball Ireland) must have a majority equal to two-thirds of those present entitled to vote and voting.

8. Standing Orders shall not be suspended for the purpose of considering any matter not on the agenda, except by the consent of a majority equal to two-thirds of those present entitled to vote and voting.

9. The Chairman may change the order of items on the agenda with the support of a simple majority of those present entitled to vote and voting.

Annual Report 2017 • GAA HANDBALL • 3 TUARASCÁIL AN BAINISTEOIR NAISIUNTA Tuarascáil an Bainisteoir Naisiunta

Ba mhaith liom an deis seo a thabhairt chun fáilte a chur romhaibh go léir anseo go Tulach Mhór inniu don Cruinniú Cinn Bhliana CLG Liathróid Láimhe.

extend a warm welcome to all would be played under the one roof at RECORD BREAKING IRISH WALL- I delegates who attend today’s Kingscourt HC, Cavan for the singles BALL NATIONALS Annual General Meeting in Tullamore and venues for the doubles, GAA Handball were delighted to to reflect on what has been an it proved to be a fantastic festival announce that this year’s Irish outstanding year of success on the of Handball with large crowds in Wall-Ball Nationals at Breaffy House courts for GAA Handball. attendance each day. Arena in Castlebar was the biggest tournament held at the Mayo venue Following the excitement of the 2015 since its first tournament held at the World Championships many would MCCARTHY A CLASS APART AS venue in 2009. have been forgiven for expecting a HE SEALS HAT-TRICK OF 40X20 quiet year however there was plenty CROWNS that happened in the past year that In 2016, Westmeath’s Robbie DUCKSY ROLLS BACK THE YEARS gives great cause for optimism going McCarthy oozed class as he claimed TO WIN 60X30 NATIONALS forward and reflects the progress a consecutive hat-trick of All-Ireland At July’s Irish 60x30 Nationals in being made on all fronts in GAA crowns, joining the great names such Kilkenny, local man Ducksy Walsh Handball. as Paul Brady, Tony Healy, Michael sensationally rolled back the years to Ducksy Walsh & Pat Kirby in an win the Mens Open title, defeating In 2016 we witnessed the following: exclusive list. Dublin’s hot favourite Eoin Kennedy in the final. TEAM IRELAND HONOURED BY REMARKABLE YEAR FOR CATRIONA UACHTARÁN NA HÉIREANN CASEY 60X30 FINALS RETURN TO CROKER Early in January saw the hugely Yet again in 2016, Ballydesmond’s For the first time since 2010, Senior successful Team Ireland that Catriona Casey showed what a Softball returned to Croke Park, much competed in the 2015 World sensational all round handballer she to the delight of 60x30 enthusiasts Championships five months earlier, is, with victories both nationally and across the country. Four major days; and took home 20 medals, honoured internationally, across 4 codes of Singles SF’s & Finals, Doubles SF’s by Uachtarán na hÉireann Michael Handball. & Finals, were held at the iconic D Higgins at a reception in Áras an venue, drawing the biggest spectator Uachtarán. numbers on Finals Day for several GALWAY HOST SUCCESSFUL years. JUNIOR NATIONALS 40X20 FINALS FESTIVAL WEEKEND Galway Handball Board stepped up In an effort to rectify low attendances this year offering to host the 2016 MARTINA MCMAHON ANNOUNCES and to give Handball supporters Junior Nationals, and they did a HERSELF ON BIG STAGE the best chance of seeing as much brilliant job. It was one of the best Limerick woman Martina McMahon Handball as possible a decision by Junior Nationals in recent years with claimed her first All-Ireland Ladies GAA Handball was taken that every the standard of play higher than ever. Senior Singles title when defeating All-Ireland Singles Finals at all grades reigning champion Catriona Casey in

4 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2017 ANNUAL REPORT

Annual Report 2017 • GAA HANDBALL • 5 TUARASCÁIL AN BAINISTEOIR NAISIUNTA

the 60x30 Singles Final at a packed Croke Park. Casey was bidding for 5 in a row, and between both the big and small courts, you have to go back to the 40x20 final in 2012 to find a winner of a Senior Singles All-Ireland other than Catriona Casey or Aisling Reilly.

CROKE PARK HANDBALL CENTRE GETS GREEN LIGHT The news we were all waiting for finally came in September when it was announced that as part of a plan for the renewal of the Sackville Avenue area of Ballybough the building of a world class National Handball and Community Centre had got the go ahead in an agreement between Croke Park and Residents groups.

Today we look back on all this plus a lot more besides in a year that had its fair share of ups and downs as we lost a number of dear friends and legends of the game. We will also take a look to the future as we aim to increase exposure and participation in our sport.

Today’s Congress sees us descend on Tullamore in Offaly in what is a proud day for the Faithful county as one of their own takes up the position of Uachtarán of GAA Handball as Fahy’s Cross clubman Joe Masterson will take the baton from outgoing President Willie Roche who completes his three year term today.

Having worked with Joe over the past number of years I have always found him to be a very fair and astute person to work with. He is a man that is capable of making his point and to take a call for advice or to give his levels of our top athletes are a joy to has the ability to bring all sides with thoughts on any situation and he watch and I commend each and every him. I know he has some great ideas has a huge knowledge of the rules one of them for their dedication to for the game going forward and I have and the history of Handball and was the game. We have a responsibility no doubt that he will be a fantastic a great assistance to me in my role as an association to showcase these success in the role. I look forward to over the last 3 years. I wish him the players and to help them to gain the working with him over the next three very best of luck with whatever the recognition that their talents deserve. years. I welcome his wife Annette and future holds and on behalf of the his family and friends here today. association I would like to thank him 60x30 - 2016 saw the 60x30 finals for his outstanding service during his return home for the first time since I have no doubt that our outgoing tenure. Although I know we will see 2010 and what an occasion both Uachtarán Willie Roche will welcome him involved in Handball for some finals proved to be. There was once the break and the opportunity to time to come. I welcome all our more a genuine excitement around play some more golf as he steps special guests who are here today the code and long may it continue. down from his three year tenure and to join us as we reflect on another 12 Following Congress in 2015 where I am sure his wife Jo will welcome months of success on the courts in concerns were raised about the the chance to have a few weekends GAA Handball. current Juvenile 60x30 ball a work at home too after what has been group was assigned to provide a hectic three year stint for them recommendations with regards both. Willie has been an outstanding OUR CODES to producing a more suitable ball. President for GAA Handball and has Open Grades - Our open grades Uachtarán Tofa Joe Masterson chaired always represented the association continue to showcase our sport at the group which also consisted of with great pride at any event that he the very highest level and our top Vincent O’Shea and Eddie English. An has been asked to. From a personal stars are reaching heights we have extensive review process took place point of view he was always available not seen before. The fitness and skill across the country, with the aim

6 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2017 ANNUAL REPORT

THERE WAS PLENTY THAT HAPPENED IN THE PAST

YEAR THAT GIVES GREAT CAUSE FOR OPTIMISM GOING weekends were a massive success. The standard of 40x20 Juveniles has FORWARD AND REFLECTS THE PROGRESS BEING MADE never been higher than at present and it is a credit to the wonderful coaches ON ALL FRONTS IN GAA HANDBALL. we possess in this sport. Our Irish Nationals attracted disappointing numbers and this competition is in of revamping the old Challenger 3 championships entries similar to last need of a revamp to attract interest to Handball in a bid to develop a new year and the quality of games in the it once more. ball, better suited to Juvenile 60x30 championships this last year was players’ needs. Coaches from all four outstanding. On the US Tour Irish Hardball - Each year we come to provinces were consulted and the ball players again dominated and here Congress and each year we ask the was tested among Juveniles with a at home we witnessed spectacular same questions about the game of general consensus that the new ball finals in the Mens Singles and Doubles Hardball. When you consider the low is much improved and will hopefully Finals aswell as cracking contests in entries and the number that then pull help in attracting more youngsters to the Ladies Finals. This year we saw out before the competition starts play the 60x30 game. I want to thank the introduction of a Finals Festival and the fact that it takes up 7 weeks the workgroup for the work they put weekend where all 40x20 finals were to run off the Hardball with just 62 into developing the new ball. Overall it played in the one area of the country entries. Add to this that Ladies and has been a good year for 60x30 with to create a festival of Handball. Juveniles cannot play the game then entries up and attendances at finals Kingscourt was the venue for the we need to ask the question would the best they have been in years. singles finals with Kilkenny hosting we be better off with those 7 weeks the doubles finals. Both weekends dedicated to other codes or even used 40x20 - The 40x20 code continues saw huge crowds attend and players for workshops and training? We are to remain strong with the and officials all agreed that the currently awarding All Ireland medals

Annual Report 2017 • GAA HANDBALL • 7 TUARASCÁIL AN BAINISTEOIR NAISIUNTA for a competition that less than 1% Our Wallball Nationals continue to Ladies Handball - A lot of work is of our members take any interest in. grow and are without doubt the been done at present to promote Attendances are poor at games and standout weekend on the National the Ladies game but it requires our there is no games organized at Club, Clár. The Saturday night finals are players to buy in and continue to County or Provincial level. I completely a fantastic occasion and I would commit to entering the competitions. understand the historical element encourage anyone who has yet to If this continues then there is no to the game but this does not justify witness the weekend to take a trip reason why Ladies Handball won’t the time and money invested into this year. You will not be disappointed. flourish as the standard at the the competition with very little Plans are still in the pipeline to host moment is as high as ever. return. I would suggest retaining a stop on the European Tour but the the game as an exhibition sport but issue is finding space in a packed Clár Our next aim is to attract more over a much shorter period of time. I to host such a weekend that suits the females to the administration side of would welcome any thoughts on the European calendar of stops. Talks will the game and in areas like coaching format or on how we can improve continue to find a solution. and refereeing. There are plenty able participation if anybody wishes to The Wallball game continues to people within Handball to take these submit same. flourish with many clubs and schools jobs on and with a bit of assistance around the country embracing the and encouragement we could have Wallball - This past year saw the game and erecting walls. There is a many more female officials in our introduction of a Wallball All Ireland huge opportunity to introduce the sport. There are already a number Championship and the inaugural game of Handball on a large scale to of very capable female officials in championships took place in Mount clubs and schools through the game different positions who are doing a Talbot in Roscommon. While initial of Wallball and one which we must fantastic job. I would like to think that numbers were quite low and interest act upon before it is too late. With we as an organization that promotes was low it was felt that the finals took new and unique forms of exercise in Men and Ladies participation could place at the wrong time of the year. constant demand in this country to be a step ahead of the Governments They have now been moved this year beat the battle of obesity what better gender quota proposal and promote to a more appropriate time of the year way is there to get out in the fresh air our women to positions of importance which will hopefully result in a greater and exercise and all you need to bring based on their ability and not just interest for the competition. is a ball! because of a quota. With further exciting plans for promotion of Ladies Handball it promises to be an exciting period for the Ladies in our game. I thank the She’s Ace Committee of Paula Clarke, Frances Ni Churraoin, Pat Murphy and Paula Doyle for their help throughout the year.

GOVERNANCE One of the biggest things to have happened in 2016 was the work carried out on the new GAA Handball Constitution by the Rules Advisory Committee of the GAA and a GAA Handball delegation. A number of meetings took place to update the current Bye Laws and to produce an up to date version for all members going forward. At an EGM of GAA Handball on 18th December in Croke Park the new updated Constitution of GAA Handball was unanimously passed.

Since the EGM the new constitution has been passed by the Rules Advisory Committee of the GAA and now will go to GAA Management for approval. This is the culmination of a years work by the GAA Rules Advisory committee and members of GAA Handball to bring our Constitution up to date and it means as an association we now have a much clearer defined guidance document in relation to the running of our association. I wish to thank Mel Clarke, Phonsie Tully, Dan McCartan and Michael Burns of the RAC for their work and assistance and also to Willie

8 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2017 ANNUAL REPORT

THE ISSUE OF BURN OUT AMONGST PLAYERS AND OFFICIALS NEEDS TO BE CONSIDERED AS CONTINUING TO RUN SUCH A LARGE SCALE OF COMPETITIONS MEANS THAT OUR PLAYERS AND OFFICIALS ARE CONSTANTLY BEING ASKED TO PROVIDE THEIR TIME TO HELP RUN OUR GAMES

Roche, Peter Dennehy (Chairman CCCC) and Austin McKenna for their assistance with this project. Once this has been ratified by GAA Management printed copies will be issued to all clubs.

Following on from the production of the new Constitution 2017 will see a new strategic plan introduced for GAA Handball. A lot of work has taken place gathering information through surveys and meetings with various bodies and further meetings will take place before all this information will be used to formulate a Strategic Plan for 2017-2020 for the Association. The plan will take the views of all units of the association on board. Once produced it will have clear and ambitious but realistic goals to guide the association into what should be a very bright future for the sport.

COMPETITIONS & CLÁR A quick glance at the table of competitions provides an eye opening insight to the amount of competitions currently ran at National Level. Across four codes and age groups from Under 11 to over 70’s a total of 1,835 games were organized and ran by the National Office in 2016. This breaks down to 32 different competitions and 302 different grades of competition.

Annual Report 2017 • GAA HANDBALL • 9 TUARASCÁIL AN BAINISTEOIR NAISIUNTA

While this in one way is a credit to the clearly defined and easy to understand staff, venues and volunteers across seasons and competitions then we the country it has led to an ever also become much more attractive to increasingly congested Clár and has media and sponsors. put pressure on other areas of the association as a result. Remember At the moment it is impossible this is competitions run at National to assign time for promotion and level and does not include the many development, coaching courses and provincial, county and club fixtures training of officials as the seasons added to the many club tournaments overlap and people do not have the that take place throughout the year. time outside of competitions to give to training and development. Only 3 years ago in my first report as Various workshops for administrators, National Manager I asked the question coaches etc could be run in the off if at the time 275 competitions was season so that the people who run too much for an organization and I the sport are receiving the same outlined the issues with attracting TV support as those who play it. This can and Sponsorship with this number only lead to a better run more efficient of grades and competitions yet here sport for all. we are three years on with more competitions than ever. The issue of too many All Ireland medals raises it’s head again with over There are a number of competitions 150 All Ireland medals distributed in that are existing for history’s sake GAA Handball in 2016 and again it is just because we have always had that an area we need to seriously look at competition. The issue of burn out before it becomes farcical. People amongst players and officials needs associate All Ireland medals with to be considered as continuing to run significant achievement and that such a large scale of competitions is why winning one should be a rare means that our players and officials are momentous occasion. We are handing constantly being asked to provide their far too many All Ireland medals out time to help run our games. We have and the consequence of that is a long spoken of the need to have clear devaluation of what the medal stands seasons with a break between each for. and our volunteers the best that it season to not only give our players the can. A Clár with defined seasons and best chance to compete but also give I am not necessarily saying we need defined breaks that allows players our volunteers a much deserved break. less handball but we need a better, to play as many codes as they If we don’t we may find ourselves with more defined programme of National want and gives our volunteers well nobody to run our games. If we have Fixtures one that serves our players deserved breaks. It is important to

In this respect I would like stem from and the more to say a massive thank coverage we have here the PR/COMMUNICATIONS you to Paul Fitzpatrick for more likely that the regional his work in sending press and National media will releases to the media take notice. In recent years T his year saw Handball both from a structural point and to Dan Sheridan and the profile of our game in general appear of view and also the skill Tommy Dickson from has risen considerably yet in the media on a more levels involved in the game. Inpho for his creativity there is room for so much consistent basis thanks to Perhaps if they were to try and vision throughout more improvement in this an increased drive for media it out they would see the the year. I extend a thank area. Our players deserve coverage that included pace, power and skill of our you to all photographers tremendous credit for meeting journalists from top players and this may who continue to capture the effort they put into the National papers and make them pay it a bit more Handball images and share the game and it is vital for also a more structured respect. As mentioned them increasing our profile them as athletes that they form of reporting on games previously in this report a all the time. I also thank all receive the profile they and previews of upcoming better balanced programme PRO’s and freelancers who deserve to. games. This is still an area of games with meaningful continue to provide content We currently have of huge potential growth for All Ireland’s would help in for news outlets at all levels. released a survey to our association. this respect. It is vital that clubs and clubs and counties as We have a duty here too The presence of Inpho counties are working to the first step to develop to make our game easier to Photography for our major increase the profle at a Communications Plan understand and to promote launches and finals meant local level as every bit of for GAA Handball in our top players as it is only that we received much coverage that we get all conjunction with the GAA the elite that will get media needed media coverage for adds up and creates more Communications team and attention at National level. I the sport and this standard awareness of our game. In the completion of this will feel that the media struggle must be maintained to fact it is at local level where be one of the main aims in to understand handball keep Handball in the media. much of the recognition will 2017.

10 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2017 ANNUAL REPORT

of eating into other timeslots as the games ran late. It is not possible in the current format.

For packaged highlights there are significant costs associated with the recording and packaging of same and would require a major sponsor at the very least to allay these costs before approaching a TV company.

In the competitive market of sports TV rights, sports no longer rely on just their games to attract viewers it is now an entertainment package as much as a sports game and it is all about the user experience. Music, Dance, Walk-ons, half time entertainment, crowd interaction all form vital parts of finals programmes. Our current games have no element of entertainment planned around them and if you are not a handball fan they do not have much to entertain you. While the action in the court is top notch the in between parts can be boring for non handball fans and so the user experience will not be the same as with other sports.

Things like player walk-ons, music, and interactive commentary are all things that add to the occasion of remember that some of our players Take for example the All Ireland the games and could be very easily and our venues cater for all codes and Doubles Final in 2015 when all games introduced. Take the All Ireland these are the ones at greatest risk on the programme went to a tie finals in football and as an of burnout. If we do not change our break. This resulted in a six hour example, the games are part of an structures we risk losing these people plus programme of games by the overall entertainment package with for good from our association. time the Senior game finished which dancers, music acts and on pitch incidentally finished early due to an interviews and while the game is the Over the course of the next 12 injury. If you take into account that centerpiece it is now much more months it is planned to appoint a the TV cameras were there two hours than just about the game. This is workgroup to look at the Clar and our prior to the start and one hour after something we need to seriously fixtures programme and come up then you have a 10 hour day without consider in GAA Handball. with recommendations to improve travelling and then you have the costs same. I would urge all members to We have constantly asked the get involved and contribute. With the question what would players like right balance we can all thrive and more of and the number one answer make this a better association for all. we get is TV coverage. However I would like to thank Austin when we ask if they would be McKenna and the CCCC for their willing to change the formats of work in putting together such a games to achieve this the answer comprehensive fixtures plan over the is no. We have to accept that this past year. is the main reason that TV stations are not interested and until we are brave enough to show the TV COVERAGE courage to change and package our When we look at Handball compared competitions for TV purposes this to other sports and compare both it will not change. gives us a clear picture of where we need to change as an association with regards to attracting TV coverage. There are two types of TV coverage, WHEN WE LOOK AT HANDBALL COMPARED TO OTHER live or packaged highlights. To record live is not an option as Handball SPORTS AND COMPARE BOTH IT GIVES US A CLEAR PICTURE games are too unpredictable in length and this makes it impossible to book OF WHERE WE NEED TO CHANGE AS AN ASSOCIATION WITH slots for coverage. REGARDS TO ATTRACTING TV COVERAGE.

Annual Report 2017 • GAA HANDBALL • 11 TUARASCÁIL AN BAINISTEOIR NAISIUNTA

WEBSITE & SOCIAL MEDIA ur website is now the hub of our • A dedicated fixtures and results hub O association and will be a valuable on the homepage of the website tool not only in the marketing of our which will allow live score feeds from game but also as a complete resource for games and people to post up results Handballers and non Handballers alike to as they happen meaning there will gain information and to keep up to date be instant access to scores on the with the association as it moves forward. weekends of games. Some of the new features of the site that were introduced in the past year were: One of our main strengths has been in our Social Media especially our Facebook • We introduced our Online Shop where account which has seen a massive growth COMMUNICATION CHANNELS Handball members and Clubs as well to over 19,000 likes. For an association of as members of the public can buy our size this is an excellent achievement The introduction of the GAA Handball Handball equipment and accessories. and it is now one of the most important newsletter will keep all members This has made Handball more communication tools we have. The ability informed of all updates throughout accessible to those who have never to communicate with so many people the year. Also members are reminded played before while also it is a huge at the touch of a button is an important that all News is available on the benefit to players and Clubs looking marketing tool for our association. GAA Handball website and also on to buy accessories. While initially We have also increased our presence on Facebook and Twitter and I would the take up was slow sales have Twitter and other media channels in a bid encourage all units to share any started to grow in recent months as to keep up with other sports and I would Facebook stories or Tweets to ensure more awareness was created around encourage every club in the country to the news reaches as many people the shop. Going forward it is key to set up a Twitter and Facebook account. as possible. It is vital that we work promote this shop to all members It is encouraging to see more and more together to ensure any information is as the profit from the sales will be clubs and counties set up websites and reinvested in the game. social media accounts as it is a fantastic received by all the appropriate units way to interact with and attract potential that it is targeted towards. Similarly • A members newsletter was launched new members and to also spread news I would appeal to county boards to and sent out at regular intervals about your club to your members. The inform their members of the correct throughout the year to keep members amount of extra exposure it would channels for communicating with up to date with what’s happening in bring to Handball to have all units with the National Office. Contact should GAA Handball. This will continue in Facebook and Twitter would be immense. only be made through the county 2017 with quarterly newsletters. They are free resources and a brilliant way secretary and if we all adhere to • A new “What is Handball” video of promoting your club/county to large this structure then communication covering all codes of Handball was numbers in an instant. channels will be much clearer and produced and is the introductory We have also introduced a range of news will spread throughout the point of the website for visitors who promotional videos for each code and whole association in a much more may never have seen the sport before. these have received a fantastic response. fluent way. I also would reiterate A number of further viral videos are that all counties should be using planned for the future to showcase the The next stages in development of the the secretary.county.handball@ elite element of our sport. I would like to website will include the following exciting gaa.ie email addresses. I would projects: thank Dan Sheridan from Inpho.ie, Ronan Morris and the team from Webtogether, hope to role these addresses out to chairmen and to provincial councils • A streaming portal to allow live and also the Communications team in in the near future as this will make streaming of key GAA Handball Croke Park especially Alan Milton, Lisa fixtures and collation of previous Hayden and Colman Hanley for their communication a lot easier within games. assistance throughout the year. the association.

12 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2017 ANNUAL REPORT

CLUBS & VOLUNTEERS only be good for the association as a their needs. However, we do hope Over the past few years a lot of the whole. The programme itself is quite this accreditation scheme can be focus has been on creating a brand easy to understand yet it is vital in embraced with enthusiasm, and image for GAA Handball and steadying order to establish quality clubs within used to help build on the current the ship financially. Now that we our association. excellent work continuously being are in a good position in both these carried out in Clubs nationwide. We areas it is time to provide some much The Club is the lifeblood of our are confident that there is something needed support for our clubs and our association, and we are indebted to in this document that all Clubs can volunteers who are the lifeblood of our our volunteers. It is within the Club that learn from as they continuously association. future generations of Handball players endeavour to create positive sporting are introduced to the sport, where experiences in a safe, enjoyable and countless hours are spent coaching, supportive environment CLUB IONTACH playing, volunteering and inspiring a A lot of work has gone into the Club life time of positive experiences and Club Education – I am delighted to Iontach scheme at National Level in involvement in GAA Handball. GAA inform you that GAA Handball will order to have it ready to roll out. Club Handball have taken the initiative to be part of the GAA Club Leadership Iontach is GAA Handball’s new quality provide our Clubs with this resource and Development Programme standards programme for Handball document to assist them to continue throughout 2017. The Club Leadership Clubs across Ireland. The programme to evolve and strive for excellence. Development Programme (CLDP) was devised to help guide clubs to To complement this, a dedicated aims to provide the principal officers achieve minimum operating standards Club Iontach section on the national in each Club - namely the Chairperson, in core areas, aimed at improving website www.gaahandball.ie has also Secretary, Treasurer and PRO - with an all aspects of club development been developed to help guide clubs opportunity to gain the key knowledge nationwide with a benchmark to through this accreditation process, and skills to fulfil their roles effectively. assess their approach based on best via a resource repository of guidance It consists of two mandatory modules practice, thereby maximizing each documents and sample templates to for each participating officer and club’s potential. help simplify the process for Clubs. a number of optional ones. All modules contain learning activities to While this may sound daunting initially There is not a ‘one size fits all’ answer encourage problem solving and idea the benefits of such a scheme will for improving Clubs’ standards, and sharing with fellow club officers. This only be seen if all clubs embrace it this document is not to be viewed as is an excellent programme and one as it will produce a rising tide lifts all an exhaustive list. Unique situations that will be highly rewarding for our boats effect whereby all clubs will can arise within a Club, who may club officers. Further details will follow raise their standards in order to keep have previously developed their in the near future but I encourage up with next club which in turn can own ideas and methods to best suit all clubs to avail of these courses. I

Annual Report 2017 • GAA HANDBALL • 13 TUARASCÁIL AN BAINISTEOIR NAISIUNTA

would like to thank Ruairi Harvey for burden on our current volunteers and his assistance with this project so far. help to attract new volunteers to the game. As always the National Office Resources – A bank of online are only a call or an email away should resources for clubs are available on our you need any advice or help and it is website at https://www.gaahandball. through working together that we will ie/clubzone/club-development. This truly grow as an association. resource will be continuously updated to keep the information fresh and DISCIPLINE relevant for clubs. Our CCCC committee have one of Volunteer Awards – I feel our Award the toughest jobs in the association. Ceremonies need to be more volunteer I would appeal to counties to allow centred. Our players receive their the CCCC to do their job. Each reward in the form of titles and medals/ has a representative on trophies but our volunteers and officials the committee and so their views often receive very little in terms of and concerns will be heard. When recognition. Sometimes a simple thank you look at the amount of fixtures you will suffice and give the personal that are organized on a yearly basis satisfaction of a job well done. As an it shows that with very few issues association I would like to see us reward the committee are working very the outstanding volunteers that we well. Too often players or officials have and give them their moment in the think they have a given right to spotlight at an awards ceremony. Going contact committee members or staff forward I hope to introduce a more members and demand changes or volunteer centric awards programme disciplinary action to be taken. The to recognize the great work being done across the country. AS ALWAYS THE NATIONAL OFFICE ARE ONLY A CALL OR This is just a few of the steps being taken to help our volunteers and our AN EMAIL AWAY SHOULD YOU NEED ANY ADVICE OR HELP club network. There will be further initiatives once the above have been AND IT IS THROUGH WORKING TOGETHER AND KNOWLEDGE introduced and are working and hopefully these will help ease the SHARING THAT WE WILL TRULY GROW AS AN ASSOCIATION.

14 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2017 ANNUAL REPORT VENUES A s outlined earlier in the report a massive 1835 games took place in 2016 using 197 venues to host same. Once again our venues have stood up to the challenge of hosting an incredible amount of games throughout 2016 and great credit must go to every venue official, referee and all the volunteers who clean, provide refreshments, lock up and open the alleys and who are constantly there when they are needed. Without these incredibly dedicated people we would not have a sport and it is one of the great features of GAA Handball that no matter what venue door you open across Ireland a warm welcome awaits you and the spirit of volunteerism is alive and well. Often times we can leave a venue without acknowledging this so next time remember to thank your hosts as sometimes a simple thank you can mean so much to a volunteer. A special word of thanks to the structures and appeals procedures Club Registrations - Our Club venues that hosted All Ireland are now clearly laid out in the new Registrations increased in 2016 by finals days for the fantastic job and constitution so there is absolutely over 20% on 2015. In 2017 we will be the warm welcome that your club no excuse for this sort of behavior launching our new online Registration afforded everyone. anymore and it will not be tolerated. system which will make it easier on Some of our venues are in need Also please bear in mind the next everyone when it comes to registering of urgent attention and I would time you are looking to change a members. urge clubs to apply for this year’s fixture that while in your mind it only Sports Capital Grant. A total of concerns you there are numerous Sponsors - A huge thank you must €30m in funding was announced others involved in setting fixtures go to our main sponsors O’Neills by the Department of Transport, such as the venue official, a referee, (40x20 Championships), Myclubshop. Tourism & Sport as part of the 2017 your opponent, spectators and all ie (60x30 Championships) and Sports Capital Grant Allocation. In these people deserve the respect to MacSports (Wallball Nationals) who the last round of funding in 2015, not have fixtures changed just to suit continue to support our competitions Handball clubs benefitted greatly one person. The Clár is now available and have been loyal supporters of from the Sports Capital Grant, with from December so there should be no Handball for a number of years. I €457k being spread over seven reason why players cannot plan ahead would urge each and every one of you clubs. Clubs can contact the office and avoid requesting changes. to remember their support when you should they need any assistance are buying merchandise and to give with applying for the Sports some business back as their support Capital Grant. FINANCE over the years has meant a lot to GAA With the increased income from Over the past number of years we spoke Handball. Club Registrations and the online about the need to increase the levels shop talks have taken place to set of self-income in the association and Online Shop - We launched our new up a Club Development scheme I am pleased to say that 2016 saw an online Shop in 2016 and this has been that will provide finance at a increase in income in many of our key successful so far. There are a number reasonable cost for units of the areas. In 2016 we raised income levels of initiatives planned for 2017 and Association that are developing by 25%. This is a great start and must I would encourage all members to facilities for the promotion of our be continued if we are to continue to purchase their equipment through games. This is a very positive step grow and prosper as a sport. A word the online shop as all profits are re- forward and one which should help of caution however is that as we add invested in the sport of Handball. out our clubs who wish to upgrade more competitions to our calendar our their facilities. Further details on expenses also rise. It is important that Gate receipts - We have seen a huge this initiative will follow in the we invest the extra income in our clubs increase in 2016 in Gate Receipts coming months. and volunteers and developing our sport. which is great news for our game. The

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staging of the 40x20 finals weekends of income in order to continue to needed assistance for our National in Kingscourt and Kilkenny meant introduce new initiatives. Development Officer Darragh Daly. all games were held under the one I would however see this as a step roof and so this enabled supporters I would like to extend my thanks to towards having a minimum of four to attend multiple games over the Tom Ryan, Joan Kelly, Rachel O Reilly, Development Officers throughout weekend. This was a tremendous Ciara Dunne and Sinead McLaughlin in Ireland in order to fully realise our full initiative which saw huge crowds the GAA Finance department for their potential. attending the 40x20 finals. Long may help and assistance throughout the it continue! Also from the point of year and in preparing the accounts for Credit must go to our National view of the 60x30 finals they returned today’s AGM. Development officer Darragh Daly who to Croke Park for the first time since continues to embrace his role with 2010 meaning the galleries were great enthusiasm and professionalism packed as the crowds swarmed to HQ. COACHING & DEVELOPMENT since he took the position five years Both initiatives were the main reasons There was some excellent news last ago. Darragh’s attention to detail for the increase in Gate Receipts but year when we announced that we and his new ideas with regards to more importantly it led to an increase would be hiring a new Development coaching methods has meant he of people watching live Handball Officer in GAA Handball. On that note has been and continues to be a huge which is far more important. I want to welcome Deborah Foley to success in the role. I also thank him for the full time team who commenced his Coaching and Development report The increase in our income has employment with GAA Handball in that he prepared for this year’s AGM. already had an impact on the November. Deborah has accumulated association with the addition of a new almost 10 years’ experience working A huge thank you must go to our Development staff member. Also the within the health and leisure industry, National Tutors who deliver courses proposed introduction of a Club Loan including Development Officer and continue to spread the good word scheme and Club Education initiatives positions with Triathlon Ireland of Handball throughout the country. means that the additional funding is and Kilkenny Recreation & Sports I also thank all the coaches and now being seen in a very real way by Partnership. It is a much welcomed development officers throughout the those who need it most. It is essential addition to the Development country who give their time so tirelessly we maintain and increase these levels team and will provide much to teach the game of Handball.

16 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2017 ANNUAL REPORT

CROKE PARK CENTRE involved in the talks to bring this to a • Hall of Fame Recipients: Mary The news we were all waiting for resolution and look forward to bigger Lindsay (Antrim), Patsy Murray finally came in September when it and brighter days ahead! (Wexford), Brother Finbar Spring was announced that as part of a (Munster), Michael Naughton plan for the renewal of the Sackville (Roscommon) Avenue area of Ballybough, which will AWARDS include the reconstruction of Sackville Congratulations to all our Award In February, Vincent Brennan was Avenue. This will provide new housing, winners in 2016. The 2015 Handball honoured for a lifetime of service the demolition of the existing Croke Award winners were presented at to the GAA and in particular GAA Villas, a new entrance to Croke Park a ceremony in Croke Park and the Handball when he received the to take pressure off other local streets following received awards: Gradaim an Uachtaráin 2016 at a and most importantly the building of special banquet in Croke Park in a world class National Handball and • Male Player of the Year: Paul February. Community Centre. Brady (Cavan) Vincent has dedicated his life to the The new Centre will replace the • Female Player of the Year: Aisling game of Handball and in particular the existing facility beside Hill 16 and will Reilly (Antrim) code of Hardball the oldest form of finally give Handball a world class Handball in Ireland. A truly deserving • Young Male Player of the Year: “home” to be proud of. Seeing the recipient of this award and on Niall Joyce (Mayo) crowds return to Dublin this year, it is behalf of GAA Handball we offer our sincerest congratulations to Vincent. exciting to think of the potential the • Young Female Player of the Year: new Handball complex has for the Fiona Tully (Roscommon) game of 60x30, and for GAA Handball Armagh’s Charly Shanks received the in general. This centre has been in the • Clubperson of the Year: Tom Special Merit Award at the Ulster GAA pipeline now for a long time and to O’Brien (Broadford, Limerick) President’s Awards 2016 finally see some positive progress is a huge relief to all and it means that • Club of the Year: Tinryland Ballydesmond & ’s Aishling there is a very exciting future ahead. (Carlow) O’Keeffe was awarded the 2016 I’d like to thank Paraic Duffy and all Munster GAA Handballer of the Year

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Award at the Munster GAA Awards in the Rochestown Park Hotel in Cork.

Congrats to talented Armagh Handballer Dearbhla Coleman who picked up the Ulster Young Player of the Year at the Ladies Football All- Stars proving that her talents extend to outside the court too.

Carrickmore’s Lorcan MacBride was the youngest ever winner of the Ulster GAA Writer’s Award following a year that saw him capture three All Ireland titles and also completed a clean sweep of US Junior titles in Tucson Arizona. There were many other award winners and I congratulate each of them for excelling in their respective fields.

SYMPATHY 2016 saw it’s fair share of big names depart. The music world lost David Bowie and Prince. The world of film lost one of it’s greatest in Gene Wilder. Closer to home the entertainment world lost Sir Terry Wogan. The fitting that we remember two men ANTI DOPING INFORMATION International sporting World grieved who gave so much to the game and Anti Doping Information for all GAA for their greatest son Muhammad who provided so much entertainment Handball members is available on Ali. All were icons in their respective on magical final nights on so many www.gaahandball.ie. Also anti doping industries and all taken before their occasions two of the finest men ever wallet cards are available at Congress time. GAA Handball also lost a number to grace a Handball court, two legends or from the GAA Handball Office, Croke of members and friends throughout of the game who’s presence is sorely Park, Dublin 3. Phone 01-8192385. For the year but two in particular rocked missed and will be for some time to any members who wish to learn more the sport to it’s foundation. come. May they rest in peace. or who have any questions in relation to anti-doping further information In May one of the all time greats of In the course of the year we lost many can be found on http://www. the game, Joey Maher (Louth) passed more friends of the sport and I extend irishsportscouncil.ie/Anti-Doping/ away suddenly. Joey was a multiple the sympathies of our association to All Ireland Senior, Canadian and World anyone affected by bereavement Champion and was an extremely throughout the year. BUÍOCHAS popular and well liked person on the Handball circuit. In August we received I want to say thank you to Uachtarán the shocking news that Michael CLG Aogan O Fearghail and Ard “Ducksy” Walsh had passed away Stiurthoir Paraic Duffy for their following a brief illness. A loveable unwavering support for GAA Handball. rogue as he was described, Ducksy Paraic has been fully commited to transformed the game of Handball supporting our efforts going forward and everywhere you since I took up this role and has always went in Ireland the name been a great help to me when I have Ducksy was recognized. needed any assistance. The ongoing He won an incredible 38 support of the two highest profile Senior titles including an positions in the GAA is tremendous amazing 16 Senior titles in a row for our Association and I look forward and had just won his final senior title to working closely with both in the at this year’s 60x30 Nationals in his coming year. I also thank Teresa Rehill home court of Talbot’s Inch. At 50 for her assistance throughout the year years of age he had been taken far too with rules and various other queries. soon. His funeral was testament to how high regard that he was held as I would like to again thank Uachtarán people from the four corners of the Willie Roche who once more this year country came to pay their respects. has embraced the job whole heartedly. Leading figures from the sporting Willie has travelled the length and world paid tribute to the man who breadth of the country to represent was an icon not just in Kilkenny but the association and has invested a lot in Ireland and across the World. As of time and personal effort into the we gather in Tullamore today it is role. He has been a great support to me and to the full time office and I

18 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2017 ANNUAL REPORT

I have hopefully at least provoked some thought as to change within our association and if this is to happen than it needs to be embraced by all with a positive mindset and the greater good of the association in mind. If you cast your mind back five years ago have we really changed as an organization? Yes we have made some changes but there has been no major change that will make people sit up and take notice. We saw this year that changing the format of the All Ireland 40x20 finals was a resounding success and this is proof that change can work. Other sports have embraced change and are reaping the benefits of same. Going forward we as an association need to make some brave decisions in order for change to happen and our association to grow and realise it’s potential before it’s too late and we are left behind in the slipstream.

It is time to reconsider our national competition structures and Clár thank him for that and wish him well your willingness to work multiple so that the value of the All Ireland in his future. I thank our incoming weekends without question. I also championship medal is recognised President Joe Masterson for his extend thanks to Jennifer Purcell and we can provide a balanced assistance over the year and look who has joined us on an internship programme of games that is easy forward to working closely with him for and is a valuable addition to the to follow and best maximizes the the next three years. office. Despite being a small team potential of players and volunteers. It in numbers they are never found is also time to decide if we are serious I thank our GAA Ard Comhairle wanting in terms of work ethic about television and media coverage Rep Robert Frost for his assistance and I am extremely proud of the and if we are willing to make the throughout the year. I also thank contribution they have made to changes necessary to achieve this. Joe O’Shaughnessy who has been another successful year. a great help to us throughout the It is important to remember that year and a very valuable source of Thank you also to our Ard Comhairle change is in the hands of you the information and advice. I also wish to committee for their support delegates here today and at future acknowledge our sister associations throughout the year and to our CCCC AGM’s. In a democratic association The Association, Ladies GFA comittee led by Chairperson Peter you are the ones who will decide on and GAA Rounders and look forward Dennehy who have an incredibly tough the future and I encourage you to be to continuing the strong relationships job but continue to perform the duties the generation of change that will set with each of them. requested of them and have always the shackles free and allow our sport made balanced and fair decisions. to really flourish. I extend thanks to the full time staff Thank you to our four Provincial in Croke Park who have assisted us in Admistrators who have a huge I thank each and every one of you many areas throughout the year and workload each year but they continue for building our great association to look forward to working closely with to ensure Handball prospers in their where it is today. Now together let us them in the coming year. respective provinces. I also extend take the next step to building an even thanks to the provincial boards and greater future. To Sport Ireland and the Federation to all our county committees and of Irish Sports for their assistance club committees who administer Finally, I wish you all the very best for throughout the year I say thank you. our sport. Your help is invaluable and 2017 and look forward to working with A huge thank you to Antonia and to greatly appreciated. you all throughout the year. Keep up the team in The Bridge House Hotel the good work! for their assistance in hosting last To sum up there is so much we have to night’s awards and today’s AGM and be proud of in our great sport and we Is mise le fíor mheas, for their help in preparing for same. are doing so many things right. With a To the full time staff in GAA Handball few changes I have no doubt that our I thnk each one of you for your sport holds an extremely exciting future tireless dedication to your job. To and potential massive growth. We are Darragh Daly, Austin McKenna, Brigid looking into a future where we will have Doheny and Deborah Foley a huge a state of the art complex to call our thanks for the immense workload home and we need to have a state of Seán Ó Ceallaigh. you get through each year and the art modern sport to match it. Bainisteoir Náisiúnta

Annual Report 2017 • GAA HANDBALL • 19 COMPETITIONS REVIEW COMPETITIONS REVIEW 2016… what a year it has been!

O’NEILLS 40X20 CHAMPIONSHIPS grade Fiona Tully captured the Minor title defeating Kildare’s Hannah Dagg Westmeath’s Robbie McCarthy oozed while Armagh’s Niamh Coleman and class back in March as he claimed a Megan McCann took the doubles title consecutive hat-trick of All-Ireland defeating reigning champions Clare in crowns, joining the great names such the final. as Paul Brady, Tony Healy, Michael Ducksy Walsh & Pat Kirby in an In team events Kells (Kilkenny) exclusive list. defeated Breacach of Tyrone in the final as they captured their second In the 40x20 Open Doubles it was a Club title in a row. In the Junior fairytale win for Dublin’s Eoin Kennedy grade Cashel (Tipperary) defeated and Carl Browne as they overcame Moycullen of Galway while Cork hot favourites Cavan’s Paul Brady and side Boherbue won the Junior B title Michael Finnegan over three games defeating Williamstown from Galway. in Kilkenny to capture the newly Overall the most titles went to dedicated Tommy O’Brien Cup for the Kilkenny this year with twelve titles an first time. I thank the O’Brien family and impressive haul, followed in second Leinster Council for this fitting tribute by Dublin with 8 titles and Cork on 7. to such an iconic figure in our sport. In total twenty two counties claimed one or more titles in the 40x20 code. In the Ladies Singles final Antrim’s referees and officials and anyone who Aisling Reilly renewed battle with The most pleasing aspect of the year helped out in any way to make both Cork’s Catriona Casey and while the was the All Ireland Finals Festival weekends a success. Here’s to 2017! Antrim woman looked in control in the weekend which was an outstanding first it was Casey who took the first success and reinvigorated the All and despite losing the second held Ireland Finals weekends. Record MYCLUBSHOP.IE 60X30 SOFTBALL her nerve to take the tie break and crowds flocked to Cavan and Kilkenny CHAMPIONSHIPS secure her second titl. In the doubles for the singles and doubles weekends The big news in 2016 was the return of Catriona Casey and Aishling O’Keefe as all finals were played under the one the big alley finals to Croke Park! took the title back to Cork when roof for the first time. Players, officials The crowd’s flocked to headquarters they defeated Limerick’s Martina and supporters all agreed that it was in September to witness two of the McMahon and Katie McCarthy a fantastic initiative and one that is finest exponents of the game Dublin’s set to stay for the foreseeable future. Eoin Kennedy and Westmeath’s Robbie Tyrone’s Sean Kerr took a cracking The Juvenile Finals on Sunday saw McCarthy lock horns once more. The Minor title as he defeated Cork’s crowds never seen before and it was atmosphere was cracking as the Tadhg O’Neill while he could not great that our up and coming juvenile home of handball was bursting to the complete the double as O’Neill joined players got to mix with our top stars seams as old friends met once more up with David Walsh to take the over the weekend. A special word of at the big alley finals. The occasion title defeating Kerr and his partner thanks to the Kingscourt committee, was tinged with sadness as the loss Turlough Clarke. In the Ladies Minor Kilkenny Handball Board, all the of legend Michael Ducksy Walsh was

20 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2017 ANNUAL REPORT

still very fresh and having dominated being returned since the 2014 final. have any knowledge as to the cups the big court in Croke Park for so This highlights a real problem for the whereabouts to contact the office in long his absence was certainly felt. association in handing out cups and the strictest confidence. The first game was a tight affair but the subsequent care that is afforded McCarthy stepped it up to capture his to these cups. It is an area that needs Limerick woman Martina McMahon fifth title much to the delight of his urgent review in light of this situation. claimed her first All-Ireland Ladies rapturous support. The Men’s Senior It is incomprehensible to think that Senior Singles title when defeating Doubles final saw Meath pairing of a cup of such history could be simply reigning champion Catriona Casey in Tom Sheridan and defeat lost or mislaid and the real people the 60x30 Singles Final at a packed Dublin’s Eoin Kennedy and Carl Browne that lose out here are the previous Croke Park. Casey was bidding for 5 in two straight games in Croke Park in winners of this cup the men who in a row, and between both the big front of a packed gallery and a raucous performed on those special night’s and small courts, you have to go back atmosphere. In the end it was the in Croke Park and who’s names are to the 40x20 final in 2012 to find a Meath pairing who had too much for proudly etched into the history of our winner of a Senior Singles All-Ireland the Dublin duo and they captured their game on the said cup. It is an insult other than Catriona Casey or Aisling sixth title as a pairing. to their efforts and to their memory Reilly. It was a fantastic achievement that this cup has been mislaid and I for the Limerick woman and one The one disappointment is the would urge that all possible efforts that has been coming as she has continued disappearance of the are made to find the cup and return been knocking on the door in recent 60x30 Doubles Cup which has not same. I would urge anybody who may years. In terms of the Ladies game it

Annual Report 2017 • GAA HANDBALL • 21 COMPETITIONS REVIEW

is great to see genuine competition with some fantastic now at Open level and with many very displays of Handball on talented Juveniles on the way up then show especially from the this can only bode well for the game. Under 11s. The One Wall Casey did however capture the competition held on the Sunday doubles title completing 3 out of the was a great success. four major titles by winning the Senior Doubles with her partner Aisling Once again there was a high entry O’Keefe defeating McMahon and her in the Ladies Open grade which is partner Katie McCarthy. fantastic to see the younger girls stepping up to take on the established In the Minor Singles Tyrone’s Sean stars. A lot of work is been done at Kerr was attempting to capture both present to promote the Ladies game Minor Singles titles but he faced up and it requires our players to buy in to one of the up and coming stars in and continue to commit to entering the big court in Shane Dunne who the competitions. If this continues after being runner up in 2015 went then there is no reason why Ladies one better capturing his first Minor Handball won’t flourish as the 60x30 title in 2016. It capped a fine standard at the moment is as high as year for Dunne in the big alley. In the ever. Doubles Kerr was also unlucky to lose out as he and partner Turlough Clarke were defeated by the strong pairing HARDBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS of Wexford’s Daniel Kavanagh and Limerick’s CJ Fitzpatrick claimed Anthony Butler. his first Senior Singles Hardball crown when he defeated Dublin’s Kells collected yet another club title Eoin Kennedy in a cracking final in when they defeated Ballaghaderreen Thurles. Both players displayed their in the Open club final while Tipperary’s full array of skills in one of the best Cashel collected the Junior title and finals in recent times. In the Doubles St Patrick’s of Kilkenny were the Kennedy teamed up with Carl Browne Junior B winners. to gain revenge on Fitzpatrick as they defeated the Limerick man and his JUVENILE COMPETITIONS Overall entries were slightly up on partner Pat Murphy to take the crown. In the 40x20 Juvenile Championships last year and the standard of play finals which were held in Kingscourt was excellent as the big alley season Kilkenny’s Shane Dunne continued as part of the festival weekend of gave us plenty of thrills. Wexford and his fine form taking the Minor Singles Handball, Kilkenny lead the way with Kilkenny shared the the most titles and Doubles crown with partner Eoin 6 titles followed by Clare with 4 then with ten each, with twenty counties Brennan and the Kilkenny youngster is Tyrone 2, Limerick 1, Galway 1, Wexford collected one or more titles in the definitely one to watch in the 60x30 1, Mayo 1 meaning 7 counties in total 60x30 code. court. Intermediate titles went to took homne titles. The standard of Cork in singles and Tipperary in the play in Kingscourt in front of probably Doubles while Wicklow took the Junior SHE’S ACE HANDBALL what was the largest ever crowd at Singles and Cork the Junior Doubles Juvenile finals was a joy to behold and The Sportslann in Castlebar, as well titles. a credit to both players and coaches. as Aughagower, Ballinrobe, Kiltimagh, Newport and Carnacon Handball The breakdown of Hardball titles were The 60x30 Juvenile Championships alleys hosted the She’s Ace handball as follows Kilkenny 2, Cork 2, Limerick, finals were played in Kingscourt and weekend in January. Overall over 120 Dublin Tipperary and Wicklow 1 a Loughmacrory with Wexford leading took part in the weekend’s handball piece. the way on 4 titles followed by Tyrone 2, Kilkenny 2, Tipperary 1, Galway 1, Roscommon 1, Kildare 1, Waterford 1, Cork 1. It is great to see a spread of counties winning titles with 8 counties from the four provinces taking titles. Again the standard here was excellent and hopefully numbers at juvenile level will continue to grow in 60x30.

The 26th Annual Gael Linn competition took place in Tinryland, Carlow. Galmoy’s (Kilkenny) Billy Drennan and Aine Duggan came out top of the pile following a 67-24 final victory against St. Joseph’s (Wexford) Mark Doyle and Ellie Murphy O’Gorman. In the Plate section, Adam Hogan and Alva Rodgers of Tuamgraney Clare overcame fellow

22 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2017 ANNUAL REPORT

Banner players Cian Fall and Ellen final say as they defeated Waterford as the counties young Handballers Casey from Newmarket on Fergus on to take the Under 16/17 Team of 4 provided great entertainment and a 49-32 scoreline. Championship. skills for all the spectators and clubs who travelled in their droves to venues In the 40x20 Colleges finals Sinead In the 40x20 Interprovincial Girls across Tipperary & Waterford. Meagher St. Mary’s, Nenagh, Team of Ten, Munster continue to Tipperary defeated Fiona Tully, dominate this event and in the final It was Windgap (Kilkenny) who came Convent of Mercy Roscommon to this year they defeated Ulster 95- out on top in the Boys 40x20 Division capture the Senior Girls Singles 68. In the 60x30 Interprovincial 1 final, defeating Monaghan Harps title while Gavin Coyle, Ballybay C.C. Girls Team of Six, Munster took top in the decider, whilst Tuamgraney Monaghan defeated Kevin Diggins of honours again as they defeated (Clare) won the Girls 40x20 Division Col Chiarain, Leixlip, Kildare to take Leinster 70-67. 1 final with the slimmest of margins the Senior Singles title. to spare with a one ace win over Other very successful juvenile Loughmacrory (Tyrone). The 60x30 Colleges saw Aoife Holden competitions included the Paddy Grennan College, defeat Grogan Memorial Invitation and the In the 60x30 Final, it was Lahorna Sile Spain (Nenagh Convent of Mercy Liscarroll Juvenile Open competitions. (Tipperary) who saw off Clogh to capture an exciting Senior Girls (Kilkenny) to win this competition for final while Shane Dunne, Castlecomer The standard at the moment in the fourth year in a row. Elsewhere CC continued his fine season Juvenile Handball is reaching new Tuamgraney also won the Boys Div defeating Gearoid O’Connell, Davis levels all the time and great credit 2 grade, there was also wins for College, Mallow to take the Senior must be given to the coaches who Boherbue (Div 3 Boys), Kingscourt Singles crown. dedicate their time to develop the (Div 4), Glenbeigh (Div 5) and skills and transfer their love of the Annaghdown (Div 6). In the Girls The 40x20 Boys team finals saw game to the Juveniles throughout the Div 2 the title went to the west with Kilkenny taking the Boys U12/13 and country. Large entries in our Juvenile Micheal Breathnach winning it and 14/15 titles defeating Cavan and events are very encouraging and finally Clogh won the Girls Div 3. Down respectively while Cork won the the standard of play at our 40x20 U16/17 championship defeating Cavan and 60x30 Nationals in the Juvenile GAA Handball have struggled with in the final. grades proved that the future of the entry numbers over the past couple of game is in safe hands. years with players only allowed to play The Juvenile Boys Team of Six/ one code of either Hurling or Handball. Four Championships in 60x30 saw This results in players missing out and Kilkenny defeat Tipperary to take the FÉILE NA NGAEL usually Handball as an individual sport Under 12/13 Team title while in the The John West Féile na nGael Handball loses out as it is much tougher for a Under 14/15 Team Final Waterford dft competition once again proved to young person to let a team down. In Kilkenny but Kilkenny would have the be an exceptional day of Handball an effort to rectify this from 2017 the

Annual Report 2017 • GAA HANDBALL • 23 COMPETITIONS REVIEW

Handball weekend will take place on the first week of Féile allowing players to now play multiple sports which will hopefully see a rise in clubs taking part in one of the best weekend’s in the GAA calendar.

A huge thank you must go to Tipperary and Waterford for hosting such a fine event last year. I also thank our Féile Rep Brendan Falvey for his work throughout the year.

WALLBALL This past year saw the introduction of a Wallball All Ireland Championship and the inaugural championships took place in Mount Talbot in Roscommon. Limerick’s Paudi Quish and Cork’s Catriona Casey were the inaugural winners and congratulations to both. Our Wallball Nationals continue to NATIONAL TOURNAMENTS in an entertaining encounter against grow and are without doubt the The Adult 40x20 Nationals were Kerry’s Ashley Prendiville. It was to be standout weekend on the National held in Belfast with Armagh’s Charly Walsh’s final title in the court as sadly Clár. The Saturday night finals are Shanks and Cork’s Catriona Casey he passed away just a few weeks later a fantastic occasion and this year’s taking the Open titles. A disappointing but it was fitting that he won his final finals were no exception. In the aspect of the weekend was the low title in the court he had graced so Ladies Open Final Down’s Lorraine entries with only 100 entries. Thank often and had given such an exhibition Havern defeated Limerick’s Martina you to the Belfast clubs who provided in doing so. Our thanks go to Kilkenny, McMahon to capture her title. In the the officials and hospitality for the Carlow, Tipperary and Wexford for Men’s Open final it was a repeat of weekend. their hospitality. last year’s final and what a game it was ending with Galway’s Martin Kilkenny, Tipperary, Wexford and Having seen a reduction in entries in Mulkerrins capturing his first senior Carlow hosted the 60x30 Nationals our 40x20 Nationals this year I think title as he defeated Tyrone’s Conor in July. Kilkenny’s Ducksy Walsh & we need to start looking outside the McElduff in a thrilling tiebreak in front Cork’s Catriona Casey took the 2016 box at innovative ideas to spice up of a packed crowd. Irish 60x30 Nationals Champions the action whether it is modifying the

after two high quality finals in Talbot’s games or introducing timed games Plans are still in the pipeline to host Inch HC, Kilkenny. Walsh was the big in order to make the tournaments a stop on the European Tour but the success story of the weekend as the more exciting and appealing. There issue is finding space in a packed Clár 50 year defeated hot favourite Eoin is no shame in admitting something to host such a weekend that suits the Kennedy (Dublin) in the final, whilst is not working and clearly the Adult European calendar of stops. Casey, favourite herself, was pushed Nationals are not working at the

24 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2017 ANNUAL REPORT moment. The more we stay the same the more other sports adapt and change and we are in danger of being left behind. We need to embrace change and if it works great if not then all is not lost as we can always go back to the drawing board and come up with new ideas.

OTHER TOURNAMENTS Club Tournaments continue to go from strength to strength each year and last year was no different with tournaments in various codes held across the country. I commend the great work being done by the many clubs hosting tournaments and look forward to seeing many more in years to come.

The Gardai and the Defences forces continue to promote our game by running a number of different events throughout the year, thanks must go to everyone involved.

The only downside to more club tournaments is that we are running out of space to accommodate them all on the Clár. Perhaps a better balance would be achieved having less All and more Club Tournaments?

THIRD LEVEL HANDBALL Third Level Handball continues to At the US Juniors in Tucson Arizona, grow in popularity throughout 2016 The 40x20 Singles Championships Tyrone’s Lorcan McBride completed and great credit must go to the took place in Kingscourt with Martin a clean sweep of titles in 15&Under ICHA for their excellent promotion Mulkerrins (UCD) defeating Galen singles and doubles with Michael Kiely of the game at third level. Over the Riordan (UCD) and Ciana Ni Churraoin (Waterford) and Big Ball 15&Under next number of years we will work (UL) defeating Ciara Mahon (TCD) Singles in what was an incredible closely together for the development in the Open grades. The 60x30 achievement for the young man. of Handball and I hope to see the Intervarsities were staged in Kilkenny continued growth of the ICHA and venues where Keith Armstrong In Wallball the European Tour congratulate the committee on their (NUIM) defeated Ryan Mullan (QUB) continues to grow and the aim is still sterling work once again this year. and Ciara Mahon (TCD) dedeated very much for Ireland to be part of Ciana Ní Churraoin (UL) in the Open the tour. We are continuously in touch grades. with our European counterparts in INTERNATIONAL SCENE relation to calendars and options for St. Joseph’s handball club in Wexford 2016 was another great year for all hosting such an event. hosted the 40x20 Doubles In the our players on the International stage Men’s Open grade Michael Hedigan/ with many Irish players travelling We need to develop stronger Daniel Relihan (UL) defeated Colin abroad and returning home with links with our sister associations Crehan/Seamus Conneely (UL) while various titles. throughout the World to develop in the Ladies Open Ciana Ni Churraoin/ Handball not just as a National brand Niamh Dunne (UL) defeated Ciara The Irish continued to dominate in but also as an international brand. Mahon/Lisa McKenna (UL). America with Cork duo Killian Carroll I would also like to explore a Casey and Catriona Casey taking the US Lawlor style competition whereby Kells (Kilkenny) clubman Peter Nationals Open titles. Casey also Team Ireland and Team USA would Funchion & Michael Breathnach captured the US Open title to add to travel in alternative years to play each (Galway) clubwoman Ciana Ni titles in New York and Portland as the other much like the Ryder Cup in Golf. Churraoin won the US Collegiate Mens Cork woman was in devastating form There are many possible avenues to & Ladies Open Singles title for the first at home and abroad. Westmeath’s be explored but we need to develop time at the University of Minnesota. Robbie McCarthy took the US Open the International side to our sport. Funchion, representing IT Tralee, Mens title while Killian Carroll followed It is one of the great feathers in our defeated Tyler Stoffel (USA), whilst Ni his win over Paul Brady in the US cap that we provide the only truly Churraoin, representing the University Nationals Brady won titles in Salt Lake international dimension of the GAA of Limerick, defeated Ciara Mahon City, New York and New Orleans to family and this is something we must (Trinity) in an all Irish final. ensure the Irish dominated the US continue to grow. circuit.

Annual Report 2017 • GAA HANDBALL • 25 COACHING & DEVELOPMENT REPORT 2016

Coaching & Development REPORT 2016

26 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2017 ANNUAL REPORT

(1) COACH EDUCATION at the University of Limerick, • Males: 251 before also completing a series of • Total: 409 2016 was another busy year on the assessments and observations. Coach Education front for GAA With this in mind, and the additional Teacher In-Services: Handball, with a total of 49 coaching preparation time and travel that goes • Courses: 26 sessions, coordinated nationally, being into each individual course, I would • Females: 329 delivered in clubs & schools across like to extend my sincere gratitude • Males: 236 the country. This culminated in 1,110 for the National Tutor team for their • Total: 565 coaches receiving coach education. continued support and dedication to GAA Handball. Foundation (Certified): Given the small base of Tutors and • Courses: 8 Development staff, these numbers The seven active tutors at present • Females: 32 remain to be very impressive and are a comprise of; Darragh Daly (National • Males: 84 real positive as we continue to promote Development Officer), Ryan • Total: 116 GAA Handball around the country. Daly (Tyrone), John O’Donoghue (Tipperary), Richard Willoughby Level 1 (Certified): It is important to note that this (Wicklow), Tadgh Carroll (Cork), • Courses: 1 number does not include the Darragh Ruane (Mayo), Gavin Buggy • Females: 2 numerous sessions run locally/ (Wexford). • Males: 18 provincially by our Handball Clubs • Total: 20 nationwide. Limited tutor numbers is the obvious focal point preventing us deliver The content of both the Foundation 2016 saw Mayo’s Darragh Ruane and more courses, but a severe dearth of & Level One Coaching Courses have Wexford’s Gavin Buggy complete time available on the National Clar now been updated to a satisfactory their Tutor Education with Coaching is also a major stumbling block for level, with a successful Level One Ireland, which is a major boost, clubs to host coaching courses. As an pilot course in Ballydesmond in Q4 bringing the number of active tutors association this needs to be looked at completing the review process. to seven. This number is still not at a in depth, with a designated down time satisfactory level for GAA Handball from tournaments required in order Clubs/Counties/Provinces are to reach their desired levels, but we for Coach Education opportunities to encouraged to host Coaching hope to have added another two more become more accessible. Coaches to up skill their coaches, tutors to this list by mid 2017. and this can be done by contacting TASTER SESSIONS [email protected]. A new Becoming a tutor is an arduous task, (GAA Clubs & Schools): calendar of courses will be released in comprising of ten full training days at • Courses: 14 early 2017. the Coaching Ireland Headquarters • Females: 158

Annual Report 2017 • GAA HANDBALL • 27 COACHING & DEVELOPMENT REPORT 2016

(2) SCHOOLS

ONE-WALL FOR SCHOOLS INITIATIVE:

The growth of One-Wall for Schools Initiative doesn’t appear to be slowing down anytime soon, with more new schools getting involved again in 2016. It is extremely refreshing to see the outreach this initiative has in areas not traditionally associated with Handball.

I would like to especially mention the Kingscourt HC, who this year showcased an incredible level of support to the Schools One-Wall Initiative, and seeing the potential benefit to their club that exposing children to Handball at school can bring. The club, at a self funded cost of over €20k, erected 6 full size outdoor concrete based One-Wall courts in 5 of their local feeder Primary Schools, with an approximate combined attendance of 1000+ pupils.

No Handball presence existed in these five schools until the walls were for the initiative to reap its full 2017 educating clubs on development completed in October, with the walls potential, there needs to be a greater practices, school club links, and how also providing a brilliant permanent relationship between schools and to attract and maintain increased road side bill board for GAA Handball, the local Handball clubs, to provide a volunteer help, among numerous who’s logo feature prominently and pathway for children to play the game other topics. are visible to vast numbers on a daily as an extra curricular activity, and to basis. develop an interest in the four-wall SCHOOLS MEMBERSHIP SCHEME: versions of the game. Now in its third year, the Schools As Handballers we all appreciate Membership Scheme for the the health benefits of our game, and Of course this is easier said than done, 2016/17 School Year is now open for thus understand how successful the with most clubs under resourced with registration on an ongoing basis from game can be used as a recreational volunteer help, so plans are in place September through to the end of the activity among schools. But in order to establish regular workshops in school year.

28 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2017 ANNUAL REPORT

(3) RESOURCES

GAA Handball continue to provide an extensive resource bank of free online coaching material on www. gaahandball.ie/coaching. Content ranges from technique, shots, serving, fitness related, 60x30 skills, etc. If there is any aspects of coaching material that your clubs feel is not being provided, or would like to see developed, then please contact [email protected]. We welcome all suggestions.

An extensive video resource is currently under production aimed at providing real time and slow motion visual resources for coaches and players alike. It will be of great benefit to Handballers of all ages, to be able to view individual aspects of technique, serving and shots at

The principle aim of the scheme is and provincial blitz days are being to help schools kick start Handball held, particularly across Leinster and among their pupils by subsidizing Ulster. costs of handballs, and thus reducing the financial strains purchasing Last year a new eligibility ruling was equipment may create. introduced where players who have won a provincial title in any code An addition to this year’s offer were restricted from playing. This left was the availability of Challenger the events open for new children to 1 Handballs. This was introduced experience Handball and continues after a review process with schools, to be a success. particularly Primary schools, who felt a slower/softer ball would be an Ideally we hope to expand these excellent addition to cater for the tournaments to all four provinces, but deviation of abilities and ages in the unfortunately at the minute staffing school. levels simply do not make this feasible. Discussions with County & Over 80 schools have already signed Provincial will continue to take place up to avail of the offer again this in 2017 around the potential for full year, which amounts to 2000 approx time GAA Development Officers to Handballs being distributed to deliver Handball sessions in schools. schools since September. Such help will be invaluable, with the prime example being Ulster GAA, Currently the offer is advertised who’s Regional Development Officers through email, social media, national Shane McCann & Paul Callaghan website, and flyers distributed at all continue to run very successful blitz Teacher In-Services. I do however feel days in every county in Ulster at that this number has the potential various age levels over the course of to grow hugely if all Handball Clubs the school year. could encourage their local feeder schools to take up the offer. This will of course be of benefit to the clubs themselves with new children PLANS ARE IN PLACE TO ESTABLISH REGULAR gaining an interest in the game at school. Full details available on www. WORKSHOPS IN 2017 EDUCATING CLUBS ON gaahandball.ie. DEVELOPMENT PRACTICES, SCHOOL CLUB LINKS, AND COMPETITIVE STRUCTURES: To progress the Schools One- HOW TO ATTRACT AND MAINTAIN INCREASED VOLUNTEER Wall initiative to its next stage of development, numerous county HELP, AMONG NUMEROUS OTHER TOPICS

Annual Report 2017 • GAA HANDBALL • 29 COACHING & DEVELOPMENT REPORT 2016

the click of a button. The finished year GAA Handball released a having a full knowledge of the rules content will be available exclusively ‘Respect Your Sport’ campaign will reduce any misunderstandings on on GAAHandball.ie, and will be used aimed at instilling a widespread level court. in future certified Coaching Courses. of respect through all aspects of Handball. One such are is refereeing, (6) OTHER and the attitudes towards referees (4) NEW DEVELOPMENT OFFICER from players and spectators alike. Unseen to the general Handball public, GAA Handball continue to I am pleased to welcome, for the Of courses mistakes can be made provide a strong presence at various first time in GAA Handball’s history, a given the speed of the game, but conferences throughout the year. second full time Development Officer an improved knowledge of the rules Two key conferences each year in Carlow’s Deborah Foley. Deborah will minimise errors, so initial steps are the IPPEA (Irish Primary PE is a very competent and driven are underway to develop a Referee Association) and INTO (Irish National individual and I am sure she will be a Education Pathway where people Teachers Organisation), where great addition to our team. can progress through the grades of GAA Handball meet and provide refereeing. Once released we would information to large numbers of The appointment is a very hope for a widespread uptake from Teachers keen to develop Handball in encouraging one for the association handballers of all ages and abilities, their schools. as we continue to promote our game as even if you do not wish to carry to all corners of the country. Whilst out refereeing duties in the future, I also would like to thank Antrim’s two development officers to cover the entire country is still far from ideal, it is a progressive step to our aim of having one development officer per province. A NEW ‘CLUB IONTACH’ CLUB ACCREDITATION IS BEING FINALIZED FOR A NATIONAL RELEASE EARLY IN 2017, (5) REFEREE PATHWAY WITH AIMS TO HELP HANDBALL CLUBS STRENGTHEN, Refereeing can be one of the toughest jobs in sport, particularly GROW AND CONTINUE TO MAINTAIN HIGH STANDARDS. the higher the level of play is. Last

30 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2017 ANNUAL REPORT

Ricky McCann for delivering a make to the development of sport of again. The Wild Geese HC in Oldtown, presentation on the physical benefits Handball in Ireland. North Dublin is one such club that of GAA Handball at the 2017 GAA used to be a hot bed of Handball Coaching Conference. Ricky is A series of five specialised 60x30 in the county, that is now back in one of the finest Handballers of Coaching Clinics were organised in use again, whilst up in Derry, the his generation, and he provided a regions nationwide last year, and I Bellaghy HC is in the early stages of fascinating insight into a recent study would like to thank Eoin Kennedy, getting their 40x20 court back up of his from his role as a sport scientist Michael Finnegan, Martin Mulkerrins, and running, with regular evenings for with the Sports Institute of Northern David Maloney and Gavin Buggy for recreational Handball being hosted Ireland. their willingness to deliver the clinics weekly. in a bid to help boost the growth of A new ‘Club Iontach’ Club 60x30. Disappointingly though only There are numerous clubs all over Accreditation is being finalized two of these clinics went ahead due Ireland in a similar boat to the above for a national release early in 2017, to insufficient participant numbers; clubs, where courts are lying unused with aims to help Handball clubs Moycullen & Na Fianna. and with some support they are in a strengthen, grow and continue position to become active again. If to maintain high standards. The It is always a real positive to see there are such clubs in your locality, programme aims to identify, develop, Handball Clubs where activity had please let your county board know accredit and recognise high quality ceased over the years, to make an and we at GAA Handball will do our clubs and the contribution that they attempt to comeback into the fold utmost to help their revival.

Annual Report 2017 • GAA HANDBALL • 31 2016 TITLE BREAKDOWN

Official Competitions: 2016 Breakdown by title breakdown Event and Code

MALE FEMALE MIXED COMPETITION ADULT JUVENILE ADULT JUVENILE JUVENILE TOTAL

60x30 Championship 40 8 10 6 64 40x20 Championship 40 8 10 8 66 Hardball Championships 8 8 Team Events 6 6 2 14 Gael Linn 1 1 Féile na nGael 7 3 10 2nd Level College 12 8 20 Third Level College 18 11 29 40x20 Adult Nationals 9 3 12 60x30 Adult Nationals 6 3 2 3 14 Irish Junior 40x20 Nationals 8 8 16 Wall Ball Championships 4 2 3 2 11 Wall Ball Nationals 10 7 4 6 27 She’s Ace 5 5 10

TOTALS: 141 61 48 51 1 302

Open Championships 2016

40X20 60X30 WALL BALL HARDBALL CLUB COUNTY OPEN OPEN OPEN OPEN OPEN TOTALS

Cork 2 1 1 4 Limerick 1 1 1 3 Westmeath 1 1 2 Dublin 1 1 2 Meath 1 1 2 Galway 1 1 Down 1 1 Kilkenny 1 1 4 4 4 2 2

32 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2017 ANNUAL REPORT O’Neills GAA Handball 40x20 Championships 2016

MENS LADIES BOYS GIRLS COUNTY ADULT ADULT JUVENILE JUVENILE TEAM TOTALS

Kilkenny 3 0 3 3 3 12 Dublin 7 1 8 Cork 3 2 2 7 Tipperary 4 1 5 Tyrone 3 1 1 5 Galway 2 2 1 5 Clare 1 0 2 2 5 Carlow 3 3 Mayo 2 1 3 Wexford 2 1 3 Antrim 2 2 Kerry 2 2 Laois 2 2 Limerick 1 1 2 Armagh 1 1 Kildare 1 1 Meath 1 1 Monaghan 1 1 Roscommon 1 1 Sligo 1 1 Waterford 1 1 Westmeath 1 1

TOTALS: 40 10 8 8 6 72

MyClubShop.ie GAA Handball 60x30 Softball Championships 2016

MENS LADIES BOYS GIRLS

COUNTY ADULT ADULT JUVENILE JUVENILE TEAM TOTALS

Wexford 6 2 2 10 Kilkenny 3 2 2 3 10 Tipperary 7 1 1 9 Dublin 5 5 Meath 3 1 4 Limerick 1 3 4 Mayo 3 3 Kildare 2 1 3 Clare 1 2 3 Tyrone 1 1 1 3 Roscommon 2 1 3 Westmeath 2 2 Galway 1 1 2 Cork 1 1 2 Waterford 1 1 2 Carlow 1 1 Cavan 1 1 Kerry 1 1 Laois 1 1 Sligo 1 1

TOTALS: 40 10 8 6 6 70

Annual Report 2017 • GAA HANDBALL • 33 2016 TITLE BREAKDOWN

GAA Handball Competition Entries Breakdown

ENTRIES NO OF NO OF COMPETITION ADULT (M) ADULT (F) JUV (M) JUV (F) TOTAL GAMES PLAYED VENUES USED

60x30 Open Championship - Singles 19 9 - - 28 23 12 60x30 Open Championship - Doubles 26 8 - - 34 14 9 60x30 Adult Championships - S&D 128 22 - - 150 111 30 60x30 Juvenile Championships - S&D - - 30 23 53 35 6 60x30 Juvenile Colleges - - 24 14 38 25 3 60x30 Juvenile Team of 6/4 - - 6 - 6 8 1 60x30 Club Championships 50 - 0 - 50 18 3 60x30 Girls Team of Six - - - 24 24 3 1 60x30 Nationals 61 9 24 15 109 123 8 Totals 60x30 Championships 284 48 84 76 492 360 73

40x20 Open Championship - Singles 20 9 - - 29 20 6 40x20 Open Championship - Doubles 22 8 - - 30 10 4 40x20 Adult Championships - S&D 143 24 - - 167 125 31 40x20 Juvenile Championships - S&D - - 32 23 55 47 7 40x20 Juvenile Colleges - - 24 16 40 30 1 40x20 Juvenile Team of 6/4 - - 48 - 48 16 1 40x20 Club Championships 60 - - - 60 27 4 40x20 Girls Team of Ten 0 - - 48 48 20 1 40x20 Adult Nationals 77 14 - - 91 119 4 Irish Junior 40x20 Nat. & Qualifiers - - 214 90 304 321 26 Totals 40x20 Championships 322 55 318 177 872 735 85

Hardball Championships 62 - - - 62 42 16 Totals Hardball Championships 62 0 0 0 62 42 16

Wall Ball Nationals 115 52 151 84 402 358 2 Wall Ball Championships 16 11 8 8 43 25 1 Totals Wallball Championships 131 63 159 92 445 383 3

Cumann na mBunscoil - - 16 16 32 48 1 Gael Linn - - 7 7 14 7 1 Féile - - 35 13 48 96 11 She’s Ace - 40 - 41 81 164 7 Totals Other Competitions 0 40 58 77 175 315 20

TOTAL 799 206 619 422 2046 1835 197

* Table based on National Competitions only and on individual participants. E.g. 60x30 Club Championships had 10 teams of 5 entered = 50 players. Doubles entries counted as 2 players.

34 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2017 ANNUAL REPORT

Where does our Income come from?

2% Profit on Sale of Merchandise

Sponsorship

Registrations

GAA Grants Gate Receipts

Comp & Event Income

Irish Sports Council Grants

Income growth over last 3 years

€300,000.00

€250,000.00

€200,000.00

€150,000.00

€100,000.00

€50,000.00

€0.00 Registrations Gate Receipts Competition and Irish Sports Council GAA Grants Sponsorship and Profit on Sale of Event Income Grants Commercial Income Merchandise

2016 2015 2014

Annual Report 2017 • GAA HANDBALL • 35 LIATHRÓID LÁIMHE C.L.G. NA HÉIREANN FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 OCTOBER 2016

36 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2017 LIATHRÓID LIATHRÓID LÁIMHE C.L.G. LÁIMHE C.L.G. NA HÉIREANN NA HÉIREANN INFORMATION STATEMENT OF MANAGEMENT BAILLE DEN ARD CHOMHAIRLE • Liam de Róiste – Uachtarán • Seán Ó Ceallaigh – Bainisteoir Náisiúnta CLG Liathróid Láimhe RESPONSIBILITIES • Seosamh Mac an Mháistir – Uachtarán Tofa • Seán Ó Cleirigh • Padraig Ó Riain M anagement are responsible for preparing the annual report and the • Seamas Ó Maoildeirg financial statements in accordance with applicable Irish law and • Eoghan Mag Uidhir Generally Accepted Accounting Practice in Ireland, including the accounting • Cionnaith Ó Cionbhuí standards issued by the Financial Reporting Council and published by the • Roibeard an tSeaca Institute of Chartered Accountants in Ireland. • Seosaimh Ó Seachnasaigh • Dónal Ó hAodha Management is required to prepare financial statements for each financial • Liam Ó Ceallaigh year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of An Chomhairle • Seán Mag Lochlainn and of the surplus or deficit of An Chomhairle and in preparing those financial statements, Management is required to: ADDRESS - Select suitable accounting policies and then apply them Croke Park. Jones Road, Dublin 3 consistently;

- Make judgments and estimates that are reasonable and prudent; AUDITORS Mazars, Chartered Accountants & - Prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless Registered Auditors, it is inappropriate to presume that An Chomhairle will continue its Harcourt Centre, activities. Block 3, Harcourt Road, Dublin 2 Management is responsible for keeping proper books of account which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of An BANKERS Chomhairle. Management is also responsible for safeguarding the assets of AIB plc An Chomhairle and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and 140 Lower Drumcondra Road, Dublin 9 detection of fraud and other irregularities. Bank of Ireland Drumcondra, Dublin 9

Seán Ó Ceallaigh Liam de Róiste Bainisteoir Náisiúnta CLG Liathróid Láimhe Uachtarán

21 Nollaig 2016

Annual Report 2017 • GAA HANDBALL • 37 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2016

REPORT OF THE INDEPENDENT AUDITORS To the members of Liathróid Láimhe C.L.G na hÉireann

W e have audited the financial statements appropriate to the Liathróid Láimhe C.L.G of Liathróid Láimhe C.L.G na hÉireann na hÉireann’s circumstances and have been for the year ended 31 October 2016, on pages consistently applied and adequately disclosed; 6 to 9, which comprise the Revenue Account, the reasonableness of significant accounting the Balance Sheet and the related notes. The estimates made by the management financial reporting framework that has been committee; and the overall presentation of the applied in their preparation is the accounting financial statements. standards issued by the Financial Reporting Council and promulgated by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Ireland (Generally EMPHASIS OF MATTER – GOING CONCERN Accepted Accounting Practice in Ireland). In forming our opinion, which is not qualified, we have considered the adequacy of the disclosures RESPECTIVE RESPONSIBILITIES OF made in note 1 to the financial statements MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE AND AUDITORS concerning Liathróid Láimhe C.L.G na hÉireann’s ability to continue as a going concern. Liathróid As explained more fully in the Statement of Láimhe C.L.G na hÉireann reported an operating Managements’ Responsibilities, Management surplus of €3,555 and a net surplus of €103,555 is responsible for preparation of the financial during the year ended 31 October 2016 and, statements giving a true and fair view. Our at that date, current liabilities exceeded its responsibility is to audit and express an opinion total assets by €1,394,097. These conditions, on the financial statements in accordance with along with the other matters explained in Irish law and International Standards on Auditing note 1 to the financial statements, indicate (UK and Ireland). Those standards require us the existence of a material uncertainty which to comply with the Auditing Practices Board’s may cast doubt about Liathróid Láimhe C.L.G Ethical Standards for Auditors. na hÉireann’s ability to continue as a going concern. The financial statements do not This report is made solely to the members of include the adjustments that would result if Liathróid Láimhe C.L.G na hÉireann, as a body. Liathróid Láimhe C.L.G na hÉireann was unable Our audit work has been undertaken so that we to continue as a going concern. might state to Liathróid Láimhe C.L.G na hÉireann members those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor’s report and for no other OPINION ON FINANCIAL STATEMENTS purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to In our opinion the financial statements give a anyone other than Liathróid Láimhe C.L.G na true and fair view in accordance with Generally hÉireann and its’ members as a body, for our audit Accepted Accounting Practice in Ireland of the work, for this report, or for the opinions we have state of Liathróid Láimhe C.L.G na hÉireann’s formed. affairs as at 31 October 2016 and of its results for the year then ended and have been properly prepared. SCOPE OF THE AUDIT OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Mazars Chartered Accountants An audit involves obtaining evidence about & Registered Auditors the amounts and disclosures in the financial Harcourt Centre statements sufficient to give reasonable Block 3 assurance that the financial statements are free Harcourt Road from material misstatement, whether caused Dublin 2 by fraud or error. This includes an assessment of: whether the accounting policies are 21 Nollaig 2016

38 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2017 ANNUAL REPORT

REVENUE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 OCTOBER 2016

2016 2015

Income Schedule € €

Registrations 104,456 82,397 Gate Receipts 21,000 7,395 Competition and Event Income 24,109 28,095 Irish Sports Council Grants 89,660 87,671 GAA Grants 1 161,000 241,000 Sponsorship and commercial income 51,800 15,640 Women in Sport 7,500 6,834 Profit on Sale of Merchandise 7,334 - Other Income 830 803

467,689 469,835 Expenditure

Women in Sport 29,027 23,287 Competition and Event Expenses 70,686 55,808 International competitions - 67,237 Provincial and urban regeneration grant Grants 4,000 4,000 3rd Level Grants 5,000 3,194 Juvenile Expenses - - Promotional Materials 19,056 16,024 Trophies and Medals 26,373 24,458 Meetings and Officials’ Travel 47,728 32,417 Coaching, Leadership and Development 41,864 41,930 Administration and General 2 208,940 183,608 Depreciation 11,460 7,528

464,134 459,491

Operating Surplus 3,555 10,344

World Handball Championships Deficit 3 - -

Grant from Central Council - World Deficit 100,000 100,000

Balance at beginning of year (1,453,097) (1,563,441)

Balance at end of year (1,349,541) (1,453,097)

The Council had no recognised gains and losses other than as reported above for the current and prior year. Subsequently, a statement of comprehensive income has not been prepared.

The Council has no movement in reserves during the current or prior year, except as noted above. Subsequently, a statement of changes in reserves has not been prepared.

Annual Report 2017 • GAA HANDBALL • 39 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2016

BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 OCTOBER 2016

2016 2015 Note € €

Non – current assets Property, plant & equipment 4 15,804 14,226

Current assets Inventory- handball courts 250 6,219 Receivables 5 515,317 504,302 Cash & cash equivalents (excluding overdrafts) 1,793 1,793

517,360 512,314

Current liabilities Payables 6 824,510 970,026 Bank overdraft 7 1,058,196 1,009,611

1,882,706 1,979,637

Net current liabilities (1,365,346) (1,467,323)

Net liabilities (1,349,542) (1,453,097)

Represented by Accumulated deficit (1,349,542) (1,453,097)

On behalf of the board

Seán Ó Ceallaigh Liam de Róiste Bainisteoir Náisiúnta CLG Liathróid Láimhe Uachtarán

21 Nollaig 2016

40 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2017 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 OCTOBER 2016

1. GENERAL INFORMATION

These financial statements comprising the Statement of Income and Retained Earnings and the Balance Sheet and the related notes constitute the individual financial statements of Liathróid Láimhe CLG na hÉireann for the financial year ended 31 October 2016.

Liathróid Láimhe CLG na hÉireann is an unincorporated association.

The Council transitioned from previously extant Irish GAAP to FRS 102 as at 1 November 2014. An explanation of how transition to FRS 102 has affected the reported financial position and financial performance is given in Note 9.

Liathróid Láimhe CLG na hÉireann is deemed to be a public benefit entity (PBE) in accordance with FRS 102.

Statement of compliance The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with FRS 102 “The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and ” (FRS 102) and accounting policies. These are the first financial statements that comply with FRS 102.

Currency The financial statements have been presented in Euro (€) which is also the functional currency of the Council.

2. BASIS OF PREPARATION

The following accounting policies have been applied consistently in dealing with items which are considered material in relation to the financial statements.

The financial statements have been prepared on the going concern basis and in accordance with FRS 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland issued by the Financial Reporting Council and promulgated by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Ireland and the accounting policies below.

Liathróid Láimhe C.L.G. na hÉireann reported an operating surplus of €3,555 (2015: €10,344) for the year ended 31 October 2016 and a net surplus of €103,555 (2015: €110,344). At the year end the accumulated deficit on reserves amounted to €1,349,542 (2015: €1,453,097) The financial statements have been prepared on the going concern basis which assumes Liathróid Láimhe CLG na hÉireann will continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future.

Management consider that it is appropriate for the financial statements to be prepared on the going concern basis as the measures taken to improve operating performance together with the on-going support of the Cumann Lúthcleas Gael will ensure the continued operational activity of the Liathróid Láimhe CLG na hÉireann for the foreseeable future.

The exemptions contained within Sections 1.12(b) and 33.7 of FRS 102 has been availed of in the preparation of these financial statements.

3. ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Income Grant income is recognised when performance related conditions are achieved.

Other income is recognised on an accruals basis and recognised in the Statement of Income and Retained Earnings in line with underlying agreements.

Property, plant & equipment All property, plant and equipment are initially recorded at cost. This includes legal fees, stamp duty and other non- refundable purchase taxes, and also any costs directly attributable to bringing the asset to the location and condition necessary for it to be capable of operating in the manner intended by management, which can include the costs of site preparation, initial delivery and handling, installation and assembly, and testing of functionality.

Annual Report 2017 • GAA HANDBALL • 41 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2016

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 OCTOBER 2016 (CONTINUED)

Finance costs incurred during the construction period of property, plant and equipment that are directly attributable to the construction of those assets are capitalised as part of the cost of those assets.

Depreciation is provided on all property, plant and equipment, other than land, at rates calculated to write off the cost less estimated residual value, of each asset systematically over its expected useful life, on a straight line basis, as follows:

Office Equipment - 20% Straight line Computer equipment - 33% Straight line

Inventory Inventories are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Cost is based on normal levels of cost and activity and comprises cost of purchase and, where appropriate, cost of conversion to current condition and location.

Net realisable value comprises the actual or estimated selling price less all further costs to completion and all costs to be incurred in selling.

Financial Instruments

Cash and cash equivalents Cash consists of cash on hand and demand deposits. Cash equivalents consist of short term highly liquid investments that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash that are subject to an insignificant risk of change in value.

Other financial assets Other financial assets including receivables, are initially measured at the undiscounted amount of cash receivable from that individual or entity, which is normally the invoice price, and are subsequently measured at amortised cost less impairment, where there is objective evidence of an impairment.

Other financial liabilities Payables are measured at invoice price, unless payment is deferred beyond normal trading terms or is financed at a rate of interest that is not a market rate. In this case the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, and the financial liability is measured at the present value of the future payments discounted at a market rate of interest for a similar debt instrument

3. ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Management consider the accounting estimates and assumptions below to be its critical accounting estimates and judgements:

Going concern Management have prepared budgets and cash flows for a period of at least twelve months from the date of the approval of the financial statements which demonstrate that there is no material uncertainty regarding the Council’s ability to meet its liabilities as they fall due, and to continue as a going concern. On this basis , management consider it appropriate to prepare the financial statements on a going concern basis. Accordingly, these financial statements do not include any adjustments to the carrying amounts and classification of assets and liabilities that may arise if the Council was unable to continue as a going concern. Please refer to note 2 for further details surround the going concern assumption.

42 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2017 ANNUAL REPORT

4. PROPERTY, PLANT & EQUIPMENT

Office Computer Total Equipment Equipment € € € Cost At 31 October 2015 15,948 29,669 45,617 Additions for the year 13,038 13,038

At 31 October 2016 15,948 42,707 58,655

Accumulated depreciation At 31 October 2015 15,784 15,607 31,391 Charge for year 82 11,378 11,460

At 31 October 2016 15,866 26,985 42,851

Net book value At 31 October 2015 164 14,062 14,226

At 31 October 2016 82 15,722 15,804

5. RECEIVABLES

2016 2015 € €

Amounts due from Cumann Lúthchleas Gael 477,650 433,718 Other receivables 37,667 70,584

515,317 504,302

6. PAYABLES

2016 2015 € €

Payables and accruals 66,890 111,286 Taxation and social welfare 39,220 39,274 Deferred income 716,333 815,493 Other payables 2,067 3,973

824,510 970,026

7. SECURITY

Liathróid Láimhe CLG na hÉireann bank facilities are secured by Cumann Lúthchleas Gael.

Annual Report 2017 • GAA HANDBALL • 43 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2016

8. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

The analysis of the carrying amounts of the financial instruments of Liathróid Láimhe C.L.G. na hÉireann required under section 11 of FRS 102 is as follows:

2016 2015 € €

Financial assets that are debt instruments measured at amortised cost

Amounts due from Cumann Lúthchleas Gael 477,650 402,000 Cash and cash equivalents 1,793 1,793

Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost

Taxation and social welfare 39,220 39,274 Bank overdraft 1,058,196 1,009,611

9. TRANSITION TO FRS 102

Liathróid Láimhe CLG na hÉireann transitioned from previously extant Irish GAAP to FRS 102 as at 1 November 2014. The transition to FRS 102 had no significant impact on the comparative prior year amounts, and therefore no restatement of comparative figures was necessary.

10. APPROVAL OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The financial statements were approved by the Council on the 21 December 2016.

44 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2017 ANNUAL REPORT

SCHEDULES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 OCTOBER 2016

SCHEDULE 1

GAA Grants 2016 2015 € €

Annual Grant 100,000 100,000 Administration Grant 36,000 36,000 Promotional Grant 25,000 45,000 World Travel Grant - 60,000

161,000 241,000

SCHEDULE 2

Profit on sale of merchandise 2016 2015 € €

Sale of Handballs 14,334 -

Opening inventory - - Purchases 7,000 - Closing inventory - -

Cost of sales 7,000 -

7,334 -

SCHEDULE 3

Administration & General Expenses 2016 2015 € €

Staff Costs 175,973 151,511 Printing, Stationary, Advertising & Office Supplies 14,305 14,578 Postage and Telephone 8,615 5,217 Audit and Professional Fees 6,150 12,546 IT and Website 2,877 - Interest, Charges & Financial Costs 410 254 Miscellaneous (610) (498)

208,940 183,608

Annual Report 2017 • GAA HANDBALL • 45 MOTIONS 2017

Congress 2017 MOTIONS PLAYING RULES MOTIONS

PART V (B) REGULATIONS FOR INTER-CLUB 1 CHAMPIONSHIP

Amend Fo-Riail 47 (K) as follows:

The Irish Handball Council shall organise Inter-Club Championships in Novice, Junior and Open in 60 x 30 and 40 x 20. Each team to consist of four players and one substitute. Duplication in different teams is not permitted. Regulations for the Inter Club Championships shall be decided each year by the Central Competitions Control Committee

CCCC/Ard Comhairle

2 PART V (B) REGULATIONS FOR INTER-CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS. AMEND AS FOLLOWS:

GAA Handball Ireland shall organise Inter-Club Championships in Junior B, Junior and Open in 60 x 30 and 40 x 20 (Fo-Riail 47 (N) refers). Each team to consist of four players and one substitute. Duplication in different teams is not permitted.

The order of play is as follows:

- 1st Singles 2 x 15 points - Doubles 2 x 15 points - 2nd Singles 2 x 15 points

Before the match commences each team shall exchange lists showing the team members in the order of play. Aggregate scores shall decide the winner. In the event of a tie, any pair from each team shall play one game of 21 points to decide the winner.

Uíbh Fhailí

46 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2017 ANNUAL REPORT

GAMES REGULATIONS MOTIONS

1 THAT RULE 47 (A), (B), (C) & (D) OF THE GAMES REGULATIONS BE AMENDED AS FOLLOWS

The following All-Ireland Championships shall be promoted each year where facilities offer:

(A) (i) Senior Softball and 40 x 20 Singles and Doubles. Insert: (ii) Men’s only Senior Hardball Singles and Doubles. (B) (i) Intermediate Softball and 40 x 20 Singles and Doubles Insert: (ii) Men’s only Intermediate Hardball Singles and Doubles. (C) (i) Junior Softball and 40 x 20 Singles and Doubles. Insert: (ii) Men’s only Junior Hardball Singles & Doubles. (D) (i) Minor Softball and 40 x 20 Singles and Doubles. Insert: (ii) Minor boys Hardball Singles and Doubles

THAT RULE 47(G) OF THE GAMES REGULATIONS BE 2 AMENDED AS FOLLOWS

Over 35 A & B Singles and Doubles 40x20 & 60x30 Championship. (i) Over 35 ‘A’ - Confined to players over 35 years of age. (ii) Over 35 ‘B’ - Confined to players over 35 years of age, who have not won Minor, Under 21, Junior B, Junior, Intermediate, 35B ,Masters or Senior All-Ireland titles.

THAT RULE 47(H) OF THE GAMES REGULATIONS BE 3 AMENDED AS FOLLOWS (H) Masters Singles and Doubles and Masters ‘A’ and ‘B’ Softball and 40 x 20 Singles and Doubles. (Over 40). (i) Masters ‘A’ - Open to players over 40 years of age. (ii) Masters ‘B’ - Confined to players over 40 years of age who have not won Minor, Under 21,Junior B, Junior, Intermediate, Senior, Over 35 A or B or any Masters ‘A’ or ‘B’ All-Ireland titles.

Annual Report 2017 • GAA HANDBALL • 47 MOTIONS 2017

THAT RULE 47(M) OF THE GAMES THAT RULE 49(D) OF THE GAMES 4 REGULATIONS BE AMENDED AS FOLLOWS 6 REGULATIONS BE AMENDED AS FOLLOWS

47 (M) (i) Ruby Masters A Softball and 40 x 20 (D) The Intermediate Singles and Doubles All- Singles and Doubles (Over 65). Ireland Championships shall be confined to (ii) Over 70s Singles and Doubles the following players: championships in 40 x 20 and 60 x 30 (i) Players who have won a Minor or Under 21 or grades Junior All-Ireland Singles or Doubles Championship. Remove: (ii) Players who have won a Junior Singles or 5 RULE 47 (R) BE AMENDED AS FOLLOWS Doubles Provincial Championship before June 1994. “Interprovincial Girls Team of 6 & 10 Competitions (iii) Players who win the new (post June 1994) Junior Singles or Doubles All-Ireland 60x30 Team of 6 Championship (a) A team consists of 6 players, two at each age group at Under 13, Under 15 & Under 17 THAT RULE 49(E) OF THE GAMES (b) Order of play is from Under 13 to Under 17 7 (c) Team in order of play to be supplied in writing REGULATIONS BE AMENDED AS FOLLOWS to official in charge before game before play commences In Doubles a player must play with a partner (d) Each pair play two games to 15 aces from his own county (e) The aggregate score decides the winner A player who is not eligible to play in the Senior (f) In the event of a tie any two players from each grade may play Senior Doubles to partner a player side play a tie-breaker to 11 points, who is eligible to do so and also play in his/her own (g) Full Playing rules apply “ grade. (without affecting their own grading)

40x20 Team of 10 A Senior is a player who has represented his/her (a) A team consists of 10 players, two at each age county in the Senior All-Ireland Championships group at Under 13,14,’15’16 & Under 17 and/or won: an Intermediate or Senior men’s (b) Order of play is from Under 13 to Under 17 Singles or Doubles All Ireland title or a Ladies Junior (c) Team in order of play to be supplied in writing Singles or Doubles All Ireland title to official in charge before game before play commences Remove: Hardball: (d) Each pair play two games to 15 aces (i) The All-Ireland Senior Hardball Singles and (e) The aggregate score decides the winner Doubles Championships shall be open to all (f) In the event of a tie any two players from each players who have won a Minor, Under 21 or side play a tie-breaker to 11 points, adult All-Ireland title in that code, seeding (g) Full Playing rules apply “ to apply. Players who take part in the Senior

48 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2017 ANNUAL REPORT

THAT RULE 52(A) OF THE GAMES REGULATIONS 9 BE DELETED

“In Doubles a player must play with a partner from his own county. Where a Senior player has no available Senior partner in his county he may be partnered by a player of any other grade. A player who is not eligible to play in the Senior grade may play Senior Doubles to partner a player who is eligible to do so and also play in his/her own grade. “

THAT RULE 52 (B) AND (C) OF THE GAMES 10 REGULATIONS BE AMENDED AS FOLLOWS:

(A) The All-Ireland Ladies Senior Softball and 40 x 20 Singles and Doubles Championships shall be run on an Open Draw system. (B) The Senior, Intermediate, Junior and Minor Hardball Singles and Doubles Championships shall be run on an Open Draw system.

11 DELETE THE FOLLOWING:

57. Over 70s Singles and Doubles championships shall be inaugurated in 40 x 20 and 60 x 30 grades. ALL CCCC/Ard Comhairle championship may compete in one other grade if they are eligible to do so. 12 49. GRADING (B) Remove: (i) A Junior All-Ireland Hardball title (viii) That Ladies Junior B All Ireland Singles and Doubles Championship in 40x20 and 60x30 be 60x30 Softball: confined to players who have not won a Ladies All (i) The All-Ireland 60 x 30 Senior Singles and Ireland Junior B Singles or Doubles Championship Doubles Championships shall be open to all or any All Ireland championship above this grade. players who have won a Minor, Under 21 or (Delete) Provincial Junior B Championship adult All-Ireland title in that code, seeding success does not rule a player from competing to apply. Players who take part in the Senior in the Ladies Junior B Championship in the years championship may compete in one other following said success. grade if they are eligible to do so. Uíbh Fhailí 40x20: (i) The All-Ireland 40 x 20 Senior Singles and Doubles Championships shall be open to all 13 49. GRADING (F) players who have won a Minor, Under 21 or adult All-Ireland title in that code, seeding to apply. Players who take part in the Senior Reword to: All-Ireland Club Championships championship may compete in one other (i) A Junior B player in the All-Ireland Club grade if they are eligible to do so. Championships must be eligible to play Junior B in the Singles or Doubles Championship and must not have played on a Junior B Club Championship THAT RULE 49(F)OF THE GAMES REGULATIONS winning team. 8 BE AMENDED AS FOLLOWS (ii) A Junior player in the All-Ireland Club Championships must be eligible to play Junior in the Singles and Doubles Championships or won a (F) All-Ireland Club Championships Junior B Club All-Ireland Championship and must (i) A player in the All-Ireland Junior B Club not have played on a Junior Club Championship Championships must be eligible to play Junior winning team. B in the Singles or Doubles Championship (iii) The Open Club Championships are open to all and must not have played on a Junior B Club grades of player. Championship winning team. Uíbh Fhailí (ii) A player in the All-Ireland Junior Club championships must be eligible to play Junior B or Junior in the Singles and Doubles 14 That in Juvenile All Ireland Championship competition, Championships and must not have played on that an All-Ireland Final cannot be refereed by a fellow a Junior Club Championship winning team. club member of any of the players contesting the final. (iii) The Open Club Championships are open to all grades of player. Ciarraí

Annual Report 2017 • GAA HANDBALL • 49 2016 RESULTS SUMMARY

ALL THE RESULTS FROM THE HANDBALL YEAR

(Denis Phelan) 17-21, 21-16, 21-14 McElduff) dft Kilkenny (Ciaran Neary/ 40X20 RESULTS DMAS Carlow (John Rossiter) dft Antrim Brendan Burke) 21-11, 21-19 (Tony Caddell) 21-16, 21-8 O35AD Kerry (Dominick Lynch/John Joe DMBS Tipperary (Billy Mullins) dft Mayo Quirke) dft Mayo (Vinnie Moran/ GAA HANDBALL O’NEILLS ALL IRELAND (Columba Holleran) 21-12, 21-4 Campbell Brennan) 21-7, 21-12 40X20 ADULT SINGLES - FINALS RMS Dublin (Eugene Kennedy) dft Mayo O35BD Tipperary (Kevin Dempsey/Paul (Martin Cronin) 21-11, 21-4 Mullins) dft Mayo (Michael Ginley/Paul MSS Westmeath (Robbie McCarthy) dft O70S Antrim (Seamus Graham) dft Dublin Judge) 21-17, 21-17 Armagh (Charlie Shanks) 21-13, 21-7 (Ned Flynn) 21-16, 21-16 MAD Kilkenny (Michael “Ducksy” Walsh/ LSS Cork (Catriona Casey) dft Antrim LMS Roscommon (Fiona Tully) dft Kildare DJ Carey) dft Antrim (Sean Devine/ (Aisling Reilly) 21-20, 4-21, 21-9 (Hannah Dagg) 21-19, 17-21, 21-12 Seamus O’Tuama) 21-12, 21-11 MS Tyrone (Sean Kerr) dft Cork (Tadhg LJBS Limerick (Katie McCarthy) dft MBD Dublin (Ciaran McCallan/Christy O’Neill) 21-8, 21-19 Roscommon (Aoife McDonagh) 21-5, 21-3 Donnelly) dft Tyrone (Seamus McCrory/ U21S Clare (Colin Crehan) dft Tyrone LJS Laois (Niamh Dunne) dft Waterford Rory Grogan) 15-21, 21-10, 21-3 (Gabhain McCrystal) 21-11, 21-17 (Aoife Landers) 21-2, 21-8 SMAD Meath (Tom Sheridan/Michael JBS Monaghan (Gavin Coyle) dft Carlow LIS Galway (Ciana Ní Churráin) W/O Clare Sheridan) dft Antrim (Paddy Crothers/ (Kevin Barrett) 17-21, 21-11, 21-4 (Louise Hayes) inj. John McGarry) 21-16, 16-21, 21-16 JS Waterford (David Walsh) dft Tyrone SMBD Tyrone (Mark McCartan/Tony (Barry Devlin) 21-15, 19-21, 21-20 GAA HANDBALL O’NEILLS ALL IRELAND McElduff) dft Wexford (Ricky Barron/ IS Tyrone (Conor McElduff) dft Kildare 40X20 ADULT DOUBLES - FINALS Phil Coleman) 21-14, 21-18 (Paul Moran) 21-20, 21-7 GMAD Tipperary (Paul McGrath/John O35AS Kerry (Dominick Lynch) dft Cavan MSD Dublin (Eoin Kennedy/Carl Browne) dft O’Donoghue) dft Antrim (Joe (James Brady) 21-15, 21-7 Cavan (Paul Brady/Michael Finnegan) McAllister/Paddy Duffy) 21-3, 21-7 O35BS Galway (Trevor Hannon) dft Wexford 21-16, 12-21, 21-13 GMBD Wexford (Mick Armstrong/Mick Carty) (Fergal McWilliams) 21-5, 21-3 LSD Cork (Catriona Casey/Aisling O Keefe) dft Galway (Brendan McNeela/Denis MAS Kilkenny (Michael “Ducksy” Walsh) dft dft Limerick (Martina McMahon/Katie Phelan) 10-21, 21-16, 21-2 Antrim (Sean Devine) 21-15, 21-5 McCarthy) 19-21, 21-16, 21-8 EMAD Kilkenny (Johnny Brennan/Joe MBS Sligo (Shane Bruen) dft Dublin (Ciaran MD Cork (Tadgh O’ Neill/David Walsh) dft Hennessy) dft Antrim (Thomas McCallan) 21-19, 18-21, 21-16 Tyrone (Sean Kerr/Turlough Clarke) Maguire/Anthony Caddell) 21-19, 21-15 SMAS Antrim (Paddy Crothers) dft Carlow 21-14, 21-5 EMBD Galway (Jimmy Connaughton/Martin (John Ryan) 21-3, 16-21, 21-5 U21D Cork (Daniel Relihan/Michael Hedigan) Ward) dft Westmeath (Anthony SMBS Mayo (Michael Ginley) dft Dublin dft Tyrone (Gabhain McCrystall/Pol Mulligan/Brendan Menton) 21-8, 21-18 (Christy Donnelly) 21-11, 21-16 Clarke) 21-3, 13-21, 21-16 DMAD Carlow (Sean Ryan/John Rossiter) dft GMAS Dublin (Egin Jensen) dft Mayo (Joe JBD Dublin (Cian O’ Dálaigh/Michael Carrie) Mayo (Kevin Geraghty/Pat Hopkins) Dowling) 21-15, 21-8 dft Monaghan (Gavin Coyle/Gary 21-14, 21-14 GMBS Wexford (Mick Armstrong) dft Mayo McElroy) 21-17, 21-13 DMBD Mayo (Columba Holleran/Jimmy (Tom McCormack) 21-13, 15-21, 21-16 JD Carlow (Oliver Ryan/Daniel Fenlon) dft Sheridan) dft Kilkenny (Gerry Murphy/ EMAS Kildare (Mickey Dowling) dft Tyrone (Barry Devlin/Ryan Daly) 12-21, Joe Anthony) 21-9, 6-21, 21-14 Roscommon (Ger Walsh) 21-1, 21-6 21-14, 21-14 RMD Dublin (Eugene Kennedy/Vinny EMBS Cork (Brendan Hurley) dft Galway ID Tyrone (Johnny Woods/Conor Farrelly) dft Galway (Morgan Darcy/

50 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2017 John Keleghan) 21-11, 2-0 ret. inj. BU14S Kilkenny (Kyle Dunne) dft Monaghan Silver Masters Paddy Crothers (Ant) dft Niall O70D Dublin (Ned Flynn/John Molloy) dft (Eoghan McGinnity) 15-9, 12-15, 15-14 Kerr (Tyr) 15-8, 1-15, 11-10 Antrim (Seamus Graham/Richard BU14D Wexford (Josh Kavanagh/Diarmuid Golden Masters John Herlihy (Cor) dft ) 21-14, 21-8 Moore) dft Galway (James Cummins/ Cassidy (Mon) 15-3, 15-9 LMD Armagh (Niamh Coleman/Megan Enda Collins) 7-15, 15-7, 15-10 Eme. Masters Michael Dowling (Kild) dft McCann) dft Clare (Doireann Murphy/ BU15S Clare (Mark Rodgers) dft Galway Thomas Maguire (Ant) 15-6, 15-5 Clodagh Nash) 21-14, 21-18 (Jason O’Tuathail) 8-15, 15-4, 15-8 Diam. Masters Eugene Kennedy (Dub) dft LJBD Dublin (Meadhbh Ní Dhálaigh/Lisa BU15D Kilkenny (Jack Buggy/Billy O’Neill) dft Anthony Caddell (Ant) 0-15, 15- McKenna) dft Roscommon (Siobhan Cavan (Diego Di Folco/Emmett Boylan) 8, 11-2 Tully/Linda Connolly) 9-21, 21-19, 21-14 15-2, 15-9 LJD Laois (Niamh Dunne/Ciara Dowling) BU16S Clare (Tiarnán Agnew) dft Tyrone GAA HANDBALL O’NEILLS 40X20 dft Clare (Ella Donnellan/Natasha (Antoin Fox) 21-20, 21-13 JUNIOR NATIONALS - FINALS Coughlan) 20-21, 21-14, 21-19 BU16D Tyrone (Cormac Munroe/Lorcán LID Galway (Sinead Ní Ainlí/Ciana Ni McBride) dft Kilkenny (Ciarán Cooney/ Girls 13&U: Mairead Fox (Tyr) dft Noelle Churraoin) dft Clare (Louise Hayes/ Conor Drennan) 19-21, 21-6, 11-6 Dowling (Kilk) 15-10, 15-13 Annmarie Fitzgerald) 21-2, 21-2 BU17S Mayo (Patrick Murphy) dft Laois Girls 13&UB: Siobhan Prentice (Tip) dft (Padraig Delaney) 21-10, 21-16 Cailiosa Ni Dhuill (Arm) 13-15, GAA HANDBALL O’NEILLS ALL- BU17D Kilkenny (Aidan Barry/Cathal Barry) dft 15-1, 11-6 IRELAND 40X20 JUVENILE - FINALS Tyrone (Tiernan McAleer/Rian McCaul) Girls 15&U: Leah Doyle (Kild) dft Niamh 21-17, 12-21, 11-3 Hefferan (Gal) 15-8, 15-11 GU14S Tyrone (Mairead Fox) dft Clare (Amber Girls 15&UB: Emily Sheridan-Fox (Mea) dft Nolan) 15-5, 15-8 GAA HANDBALL O’NEILLS 40X20 Karen Collins (Gal) 15-2, 15-5 GU14D Clare (Orla O’Brien/Shauna Doyle) dft ADULT NATIONALS - FINALS Girls 17&U: Fiona Tully (Ros) dft Hannah Tyrone (Sarah Devlin/Seana Clarke) Dagg (Kild) 15-2, 15-7 15-4, 15-5 Mens Open Charley Shanks (Arm) dft Martin Girls 17&UB: Laura Finn (Sli) dft Eimear GU15S Kilkenny (Mary-Ellen Phelan) dft Mayo Mulkerrins (Gal) 15-4, 14-15, 11-5 Dunphy (Lao) 15-6, 15-3 (Claire Reynolds) 15-4, 15-3 Ladies Open Catriona Casey (Cork) dft Aisling Girls 19&U: Ciana Ni Churraoin (Gal) dft GU15D Kilkenny (Laura Foley/Edel Mulholland) Reilly (Ant) 7-15, 15-4, 11-3 Eilise McCrory (Tyr) 15-2, 15-2 dft Tyrone (Meabh McCrystall/Emer Mens A Ciaran Neary (Kilkenny) dft Boys 13&U: Josh Kavanagh (Wex) dft Jack Kerr) 15-11, 15-13 Michael Hedigan (Cork) 15-9, 15-14 Doyle (Kilk) 15-12, 15-8 GU16S Limerick (Catríona Millane) dft Galway Mens B Gavin Coyle (Mon) dft Daniel Boys 13&UB: Darragh Ducey (Cor) dft Tiarnach (Niamh Heffernan) 21-5, 21-14 Relihan (Cork) 10-15, 15-5, 11-9 Doheny (Lao) 15-11, 15-6 GU16D Clare (Aoife Floyd/Niamh O’Brien) dft Ladies B Siobhan Tully (Ros) dft Linda Boys 15&U: Antoin Fox (Tyr) dft Lorcan Tyrone (Caitlin Conway/Ciara Mullan) Connolly (Ros) 9-15, 15-7, 11-6 McBride (Tyr) 9-15, 15-10, 11-9 21-17, 21-17 Mens C Kevin Diggins (Kild) dft Kevin Boys 15&UB: Niall Delaney (Cor) dft Anthony GU17S Kilkenny (Dearbhal O’Keeffe) dft Sligo Barrett (Car) 13-15, 15-12, 11-8 O’Connell (Cor) 8-15, 9-15, 11-1 (Laura Finn) 21-19, 21-6 Lad. Challenger Michelle Warren (Tyr) dft Elish Boys 17&U: Sean Kerr (Tyr) dft Tadhg O’Neill GU17D Galway (Ashling Ni Mhaolain/Aine Nic Owens (Tyr) 15-2, 15-10 (Cor) 15-9, 15-13 Giolla Dé) dft Cork (Anna Dunne/Aoife Masters Michael “Ducksy” Walsh (Kilk) Boys 17&UB: Caolan Smith (Cav) dft Aidan Hurley) 21-8, 21-12 dft Sean Devine (Ant) 15-4, 15-6 O’Flaherty (Tip) 15-5, 15-13

Annual Report 2017 • GAA HANDBALL • 51 RESULTS SUMMARY 2016

Boys 19&U: Johnny Woods (Tyr) dft Fergal Cavan (Oisin Byrne, Oliver McCrystal, Matthew Tipperary) W/O Holly Hynes (Presentation SS Coughlan (Cla) 15-6, 15-12 Smith, Daire Martin, Philip Smith, Antonio Ignay, A Wexford) sick McCormack, B Weldon) 60-18 SF1: Fiona Tully (Convent of Mercy Roscommon) GAA HANDBALL 40X20 dft Eilise McCrory (Dean Maguire, Carrickmore, ALL IRELAND INTERCLUB Under 14/15 Team of 6 Championships Tyrone) 15-14, 15-11 CHAMPIONSHIP SF 2: Kilkenny (Jamie Maher, Eamonn Brennan, Final: Sinead Meagher (St. Mary’s, Nenagh, Jack Doyle, Pauric Foley, Eoin O’Brien, Robert Tipperary) dft Fiona Tully (Convent of Mercy) OPEN Culleton, Jack Hanrahan, Michael Prendergast) Roscommon) 15-13, 15-5 SF1: Breacach (Tyrone) dft St. Coman’s dft Clare (Sean Coughlan, Jimmy O’Gorman, (Roscommon) 105-56 Cormac Murphy, Fionn Slattery, Seanie Doyle, Senior Girls Doubles SF2: Kells (Kilkenny) dft Mallow (Cork) 84- Sean Wiley, Mark Crehan) 60-29 SF1: Niamh Coleman/Megan McCann (St. 35 SF 1: Down (Tom Savage, Padraig Clancy, Jamie Michael’s Grammar School, Lurgan) dft Aisling Ni Final: Kells (Kilkenny) dft Breacach (Tyrone) McDonald, Daire Savage, Phillip Doran, Rhys Mhaoláin/Áine Nic Giolla Déa (Coláiste Naomh 97-70 Cunningham) BYE Éinne, Inis Mor, Galway) 15-4, 15-0 Final: Kilkenny (Jamie Maher, Eamonn Brennan, SF2: Katie McCarthy/Kathy Foley (Hazelwood JUNIOR Jack Doyle, Pauric Foley, Eoin O’Brien, Robert College Dromcollogher, Limerick) dft Aileen SF1: Moycullen (Galway) dft (St. Gall’s Culleton, Jack Hanrahan, Michael Prendergast) Hennessy/Saoirse Delaney (Castlecomer CS, (Antrim) 84-40 dft Down (Tom Savage, Padraig Clancy, Jamie Kilkenny) 15-7, 15-5 SF2: Cashel (Tipperary) dft Tinryland (Carlow) McDonald, Daire Savage, Phillip Doran, Rhys Final: Niamh Coleman/Megan McCann (St. Final: Cashel (Tipperary) dft Moycullen Cunningham) 87-31 Michael’s Grammar School, Lurgan) dft Katie (Galway) 94-93 McCarthy/Kathy Foley (Hazelwood College Under 16/17 Team of 4 Championships Dromcollogher, Limerick) 15-8, 15-4 JUNIOR B SF 2: Cork (Niall Delaney, Stephen O’Rourke, SF1: Williamstown (Galway) dft Breacach Michael O’Malley, Tadgh Jones, Jimmy O’Donnell) Junior Boys Singles (Tyrone) 107-100 dft Kilkenny (Eoin Regan, Michael Power, Nick SF1: Eoghan McGinnity (St. Macartan’s, SF2: Boherbue (Cork) dft St. Brigid’s O’Shea, Padraig O’Neill, Keelin O’Grady) 60-12 Monaghan) dft Eimhíón ÓDiollúin (Coláiste Chroi (Dublin) 86-51 SF 1: Cavan (Conor Owens, Cillian O’Reilly, Mhuire, Galway) 15-3, 14-15, 15-1 Final: Boherbue (Cork) dft Williamstown Brandon Boylan, Leo Doyle, Adam Crosbie, Conrad SF2: Jack Holden (Grennan College, Thomastown, (Galway) 108-87 Martin) BYE Kilkenny) dft Mark Rodgers (Scarriff CC, Clare) Final: Cork (Niall Delaney, Stephen O’Rourke, 3-15, 15-5, 15-12 GAA HANDBALL SHE’S ACE Michael O’Malley, Tadgh Jones, Jimmy O’Donnell) Final: Jack Holden (Grennan College, dft Cavan (Conor Owens, Cillian O’Reilly, Brandon Thomastown, Kilkenny) dft Eoghan McGinnity 40x20 Finals: Boylan, Leo Doyle, Adam Crosbie, Conrad Martin) (St. Macartan’s, Monaghan) 15-8, 15-5 11&U Fun Event; 13&U Roisin O’Keeffe (Kilkenny) 60-37 dft Orla O’Brien (Clare) 25-14; 15&U Niamh Junior Boys Doubles Heffernan dft Leah Doyle (Kildare) 25-10 GAA HANDBALL 40X20 SF1: Lorcan Mc Bride/Antoin Fox (Omagh 17&U Sinead Meagher (Tipperary) dft Megan JUVENILE GIRLS TEAM OF TEN CBS) dft Dylan Hanley/Magomed Yakhyaev McCann (Armagh) 25-21 CHAMPIONSHIPS (Roscommon CBS) 15-1, 15-3 Ladies Challenger Marie Kerrigan (Galway) dft SF2: Conor Downes/Fionn Slattery (Scarriff CC, Catherine Kelly (Tyr) 30-10 SF 1: Ulster dft Connacht 88-55 Clare) dft Kyle Dunne/Billy O’Neill (Castlecomer Ladies B Siobhan Tully (Roscommon) Aisling SF 2: Munster dft Leinster 87-70 CS, Kilkenny) 15-14, 15-5 Fitzgerald (Clare) 15-7 3rd/4th: Leinster dft Connacht 94-68 Final: Lorcan Mc Bride/Antoin Fox (Omagh CBS) Ladies A Fiona Tully (Roscommon) dft Hannah Final: Munster dft Ulster 95-68 dft Conor Downes/Fionn Slattery (Scarriff CC, Dagg (Kildare) 25-22 Clare) 15-7, 15-3 Ladies Open Catriona Casey (Cork) dft Eilise GAA HANDBALL ALL IRELAND McCrory (Tyrone) 15-1, 15-0 40X20 2ND LEVEL COLLEGES Intermediate Boys Singles CHAMPIONSHIPS SF1: Diarmuid Mulkerrins (St Mary’s, Galway) dft One-Wall Finals: 11&U Fun Event Caolan Smith (St. Patrick’s College, Cavan) 15-8, Team Event Team McCartan (Michaela Junior Girls Singles 9-15, 15-0 McCartan, Linda Seoige, Mollie Dagg, Claire SF1: Niamh Heffernan (Coláiste Baile Clar, SF2: Eoin Brennan (St. Kierans, Kilkenny) dft Sean Reynolds) dft Team O’Keeffe (Dearbhail O’Keeffe, Galway) W/O Dearbhla Coleman (St. Michael’s Murphy (St. Joseph’s, Tulla, Clare) 15-13, 15-6 Aisling Mullin, Afric Ní Ghibne, Eithne Munroe) Grammar School, Lurgan) scr. Final: Diarmuid Mulkerrins (St Mary’s, Galway) dft Mother & Daughter Michelle Warren & Michaela SF2: Dearbhail O’Keeffe (Grennan College, Eoin Brennan (St. Kierans, Kilkenny) 7-15, 15-7, McCartan (Tyrone) dft Collette & Laura Finn (Sligo) Thomastown, Kilkenny) W/O Bridín Dinan (St 15-14 Beginners Challenge Michelle McCoy (Down) dft Joseph’s Tulla, Clare) scr. Charlene Lively (Down) Final: Niamh Heffernan (Coláiste Baile Clar, Intermediate Boys Doubles Galway) dft Dearbhail O’Keeffe (Grennan College, SF1: Turlough Clarke/Pauric Mullan (Omagh GAA HANDBALL 40X20 JUVENILE Thomastown, Kilkenny) 15-1, 15-7 CBS) dft Jack McNeela/Liam Power (St. Enda’s, BOYS TEAM OF SIX/FOUR Galway) 15-3, 15-9 CHAMPIONSHIPS Junior Girls Doubles SF2: David Walsh/Tadgh O’Neill (Patrician SF1: Cuilleann Bourke/Heather Burke (Balla Academy Mallow, Cork) W/O Liam Rossiter/ Under 12/13 Team of 6 Championships Secondary School, Mayo) W/O Meabh Anthony Butler (St. Mary’s CBS, Enniscorthy, SF 2: Kilkenny (Kyle Jordan, Conor Holden, Billy McCambridge/Beth Doris (St. Michael’s Grammar Wexford) scr. Drennan, Gearoid Phelan, Daniel Hanrahan, David School, Lurgan) scr. Final: David Walsh/Tadgh O’Neill (Patrician Sherman, Sean Purcell, Sean Barron) dft Cork SF2: Leah Doyle/Molly Dagg (Col Chiarain, Leixlip, Academy Mallow, Cork) dft Turlough Clarke/ (Hayden Supple, Ben Sullivan, Cian Cronin O’Neill, Kildare) dft Aoife Floyd/Niamh O’ Brien (St Pauric Mullan (Omagh CBS) 15-2, 15-7 John Cronin, Gearoid Healy, Darragh Bowen, Owen Joseph’s Tulla, Clare) 15-2, 15-5 Hegarty, Keelan Murphy) 58-26 Final: Leah Doyle/Molly Dagg (Col Chiarain, Senior Boys Singles SF 1: Cavan (Oisin Byrne, Oliver McCrystal, Leixlip, Kildare) dft Cuilleann Bourke/Heather SF1: Gavin Coyle (Ballybay C.C. Monaghan) dft Matthew Smith, Daire Martin, Philip Smith, Burke (Balla Secondary School, Mayo) 15-5, 15-6 Cathal O’Connor (Roscommon CBS) 15-3, 15-0 Antonio Ignay, A McCormack, B Weldon) BYE SF2: Kevin Diggins (Col Chiarain, Leixlip, Kildare) Final: Kilkenny (Kyle Jordan, Conor Holden, Senior Girls Singles dft Aidan O’Flaherty (Nenagh CBS, Tipperary) Billy Drennan, Gearoid Phelan, Daniel Hanrahan, SF2: Sinead Meagher (St. Mary’s, Nenagh, 11-15, 15-8, 15-5 David Sherman, Sean Purcell, Sean Barron) dft

52 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2017 ANNUAL REPORT

Final: Gavin Coyle (Ballybay C.C. Monaghan) dft Louth (Ben Devlin) 15-8, 12-15, 11-0 Kevin Diggins (Col Chiarain, Leixlip, Kildare) 15-5, WALL BALL RESULTS GU17: Kildare (Leah Doyle) dft Armagh 12-15, 15-5 (Megan McCann) 8-15, 15-14, 11-4 BU15: Galway (Jason O’Tuathail) dft Cork Senior Boys Doubles GAA HANDBALL MACSPORTS WALL (Anthony O’Connell) 15-7, 15-8 SF1: Mark Rice/Mickey Kelly (St. Colman’s, BALL NATIONALS - FINALS GU15: Galway (Niamh Heffernan) dft Kilkenny Claremorris) dft Gary McKenna/Dermot Boyle (St. (Mary Ellen Phelan) 15-9, 15-3 Macartan’s, Monaghan) 15-6, 12-15, 15-4 MO: Martin Mulkerrins (Gal) dft Conor SF2: Tiernan Agnew/Cathair Agnew (St Camin’s McElduff (Tyr) 15-6, 8-15, 11-2 College Shannon, Clare) W/O David Doheny/ LO: Lorraine Havern (Down) dft Martina 60X30 RESULTS Podge Delaney (Col Mhuire Johnstown, Kilkenny) McMahon (Lim) 15-6, 15-13 scr. LB: Avril McNamee (Don) dft Michelle Final: Tiernan Agnew/Cathair Agnew (St Camin’s Warren (Tyr) 25-9 GAA HANDBALL MYCLUBSHOP.IE ALL College Shannon, Clare) dft Mark Rice/Mickey LCh: Annie Havern (Down) dft Bronagh IRELAND 60X30 ADULT SINGLES - FINALS Kelly (St. Colman’s, Claremorris) 15-4, 15-2 Alison (Tyr) 22-8 MB: Patrick Mc Crory (Tyr) dft Galen SS Westmeath (Robbie McCarthy) dft GAA HANDBALL FÉILE NA NGAEL Riordan (Wex) 14-10 Dublin (Eoin Kennedy) 21-13, 21-17 MC: Jack O’Shea (Ker) dft Conor O’Gorman LSS Limerick (Martina McMahon) dft Cork 40x20 Boys Finals (Mon) 17-12 (Catriona Casey) 21-10, 14-21, 21-10 Div 1: Windgap dft Monaghan Harps 35-14 MCh: Mike Dillon (Gal) dft Graham Casburn MS Kilkenny (Shane Dunne) dft Galway Div 2: Tuamgraney dft Galmoy (Gal) 20-15 (Diarmuid Mulkerrins) 21-9, 21-10 Div 3: Boherbue dft Cullohill 30-17 M: Michael “Ducksy” Walsh (Kilk) dft Eddie U21S Wexford (Gaelon Riordan) dft Tyrone Div 4: Kingscourt dft Ballydesmond 42-20 Bourke (Kilk) 26-8 (Ryan Mullan) 21-14, 21-18 Div 5: Glenbeigh dft Mallow 35-23 SM: Niall Kerr (Tyr) dft Matthew Paterson JBS Dublin (Rob Farrelly) dft Sligo (Jason Div 6: Annaghdown dft NaFianna (Wick) 21-12 Earlis) 21-1, 21-7 GM: John Herlihy (Cor) dft Paul Cassidy JS Dublin (Keith Burke) dft Cavan 40x20 Girls Finals (Mon) 25-9 (Cormac McMahon) 21-8, 21-12 Div 1: Tuamgraney dft Loughmacrory 26-25 EM: Brian Havern (Down) dft Frank Macken IS Galway (Ollie Conway) dft Kilkenny Div 2: Micheal Breathnach dft Ballina 42-12 (Mayo) 18-14 (William Love) 21-17, 8-21, 21-17 Div 3: Clogh dft Kells (K/K) RM: Eugene Kennedy (Dub) dft Sean Devlin O35AS Wexford (Gavin Buggy) dft Mayo (Louth) 26-11 (Vinnie Moran) 21-4, 21-6 60x30 Boys Finals B13&U: Billy Drennan (Kilk) dft Josh Kavanagh O35BS Tipperary (John Ferncombe) dft Lahorna dft Clogh 42-9 (Wex) 31-14 Galway (Trevor Hannon) 21-1, 21-4 B13&UB: Kyle Jordan (Kilk) dft Jake O’Kelly MAS Tipperary (David Moloney) W/O Skills Results (Wick) 28-11 Wexford (Tommy Hynes) inj. 40x20 Boys Div 1 B15&U: Antoin Fox (Tyr) dft Conor Drennan MBS Dublin (Conor Maxwell) dft Monaghan 1st Eoghan McGinnity (Monaghan Harps) (Kilk) 25-14 (Michael Clerkin) 21-4, 21-2 2nd Billy Drennan (Galmoy) B15&UB: Fionn Cusack (Ros) dft Anthony SMAS Carlow (John Ryan) dft Mayo (Tom 3rd Jack Doyle (Windgap) O’Connell (Cork) 19-9 Sweeney) 21-9, 21-2 B17&U: Daniel Kavanagh (Wex) dft Sean Kerr SMBS Mayo (Michael Ginley) dft Meath 40x20 Girls Div 1 (Tyr) 14-11 (Michael Sheridan) 12-21, 21-11, 21-14 1st Mairead Fox (Loughmacrory) B17&UB: Daniel Lydon (Gal) dft Caolan Smith GMAS Laois (Paddy Donovan) dft Sligo 2nd Amber Nolan (Tuamgraney) (Cav) 16-14 (Martin Cooney) 21-6, 21-7 3rd Abby Tarrant (Leixlip) B19&U: Keith Armstrong (Wex) dft Niall Joyce GMBS Tyrone (Conor Kerr) dft Kildare (Mayo) 23-12 (Brendan Higginbotham) 21-19, 21-11 60x30 Boys G13&U: Mairead Fox (Tyr) dft Sadhbh Ni EMAS Westmeath (Robbie McCarthy Snr.) dft 1st Kyle Dunne (Clogh) Fhlaithearta (Gal) 24-10 Sligo (Francis McCann) 21-15, 21-12 2nd Rory Grace (Lahorna) G13&UB: Skylyn O’Malley Walsh (Gal) dft EMBS Mayo (John Conroy) dft Tipperary 3rd Cormac Doheny (Lahorna) Éadaoin Nic Dhonncha (Gal) 24-14 (Martin Ryan) 21-10, 21-19 G15&U: Niamh Heffernan (Gal) dft Dearbhla DMAS Tipperary (Billy Mullins) dft Mayo GAA HANDBALL GAEL LINN Coleman (Arm) 26-8 (Kevin Geraghty) 21-5, 21-19 G15&UB: Edel Mulholland (Kilk) dft Claire DMBS Wexford (John Bail) dft Mayo (Columba Cup Section Reynolds (Mayo) 14-7 Holleran) 13-21, 21-19, 21-13 QF: Monaghan Harps, Monaghan dft Newmarket G17&U: Fiona Tully (Ros) dft Hannah Dagg RMS Dublin (Eugene Kennedy) dft Donegal on Fergus, Clare 48-42 (Kild) 20-14 (Dave Mulhern) 21-6, 21-11 St. Joseph’s, Wexford W/O Kiltimagh, Mayo O70S Kildare (Dermot Howard) dft Cork (Pat Tuamgraney, Clare Bye GAA HANDBALL WALL BALL O’Brien) 21-6, 21-4 Galmoy, Kilkenny dft Micheal Breathnach, Galway CHAMPIONSHIPS - FINALS LMS Roscommon (Fiona Tully) dft Tipperary 95-36 (Sinead Meagher) 21-11, 21-17 SF: St. Joseph’s, Wexford dft Monaghan Harps, MO: Limerick (Paudi Quish) dft Tyrone LJBS Clare (Louise Hayes) dft Galway (Roisin Monaghan 57-37 (Sean Kerr) 15-10, 15-11 Ní Chonghaile) 21-15, 17-21, 21-15 Galmoy, Kilkenny dft Tuamgraney, Clare LO: Cork (Catriona Casey) dft Down LJS Limerick (Katie McCarthy) dft Galway 65-22 (Lorraine Havern) 11-15, 15-6, 11-2 (Janet Connaughton) 21-20, 21-2 Final: Galmoy, Kilkenny dft St. Joseph’s, Wexford MB: Tyrone (Patrick McCrory) dft Carlow LIS Roscommon (Lauren O’Riordan) dft 67-24 (Kevin Barrett) 15-13, 15-1 Kilkenny (Rachel Hogan) 21-13, 21-6 LB: Galway (Eimear Ní Bhiada) dft Kilkenny Plate Section: (Deirdre Purcell) 15-9, 15-4 GAA HANDBALL MYCLUBSHOP.IE SF: Newmarket on Fergus, Clare Bye MC: Down (Barry McCoy) dft Offaly (Cathal ALL IRELAND 60X30 ADULT Tuamgraney, Clare dft Micheal Breathnach, McNamee) 8-15, 15-2, 11-1 DOUBLES - FINALS Galway 69-50 LC: Kildare (Ellen O’Connor) dft Galway Final: Tuamgraney, Clare dft Newmarket on (Aine Ni Dhroighnain) 15-6, 15-5 SD Meath (Brian Carroll/Tom Sheridan) Fergus, Clare 49-32 Mas: Tyrone (Niall Kerr) dft Cork (John dft Dublin (E Kennedy/C Browne) 21-7, Herlihy) 14-15, 15-13, 11-0 21-14 BU17: Galway (Diarmuid Mulkerrins) dft LSD Cork (C Casey/Aishling O’Keeffe)

Annual Report 2017 • GAA HANDBALL • 53 RESULTS SUMMARY 2016

dft Limerick (M McMahon/Katie GU14D Tipperary (Siobhán Prentice/Isabel (Dub) dft Jonathan Westlake / McCarthy) 21-12, 21-4 Farnan) dft Kilkenny (Noelle Dowling/ James Smith (Dub) 15-6, 15-8 MD Wexford (Daniel Kavanagh/Anthony Kellyann Ryan) 11-15, 15-5, 15-7 Ladies B/C Winner’s Meadhbh Ni Dhalaigh / Butler) dft Tyrone (Sean Kerr/Turlough GU15S Wexford (Cliodhna O’Connell) dft Mayo Deirdre Purcell (Dub/Kilk) Clarke) 21-4, 21-9 (Claire Reynolds) 15-5, 15-4 Runner Up’s Rebecca Mulholland U21D Tipperary (Daniel Hayes/Padraig GU15D Wexford (Ciara Parnell/Leanne Boland) / Maria Walsh (Kilk) O’Donoghue) dft Tyrone (Ryan Mullan/ dft Mayo (Heather Burke/Cuileann Masters Edward Farrell / Paul Mullins Pauric Mullan) 21-7, 21-13 Bourke) 15-11, 15-13 (Tip) dft John Ryan / Pat Quaile JBD Dublin (Cian O’Dalaigh/Rob Farrelly) dft GU16S Galway (Niamh Heffernan) dft Kilkenny (Car/Wick) Sligo (Jason Earlis/Stanley Harte) 21-9, (Dearbhail O’Keeffe) 21-9, 21-6 Golden Masters Paddy Donovan / Frank Daly 21-6 GU16D Kildare (Mollie Dagg/Leah Doyle) (Lao/Dub) dft Michael Dowling / JD Limerick (JP O’Connor/Mike O’Toole) dft Tyrone (Ciara Mullan/Elizabeth Padraig Maguire (Kild) dft Galway (Declan Connaughton/ McGarvey) 21-8, 21-10 Dia. Masters Winners Sean Ryan / John Kevin Craddock) 21-5, 21-18 GU17S No Competition Rossiter (Car) ID Cavan (James Brady/Paul Brady) dft GU17D No Competition Runner Up’s Fintan Farrelly / Kilkenny (William & Daniel Love) 21-6, BU14S Wexford (Josh Kavanagh) dft Eugene Kennedy (Dub) 21-13 Monaghan (Eoghan McGinnity) 15-7, Boys 13&U Mark Doyle / Josh Kavanagh O35AD Kerry (Dominick Lynch/John Joe 15-11 (Wex) dft Jack Doyle / Billy Quirke) dft Mayo (Vinnie Moran/Paul BU14D Kilkenny (Padhraic Foley/Jack Doyle) Drennan (Kilk) 10-15, 15-12, 11-8 Flynn) 21-4, 21-11 dft Galway (Enda Collins/James Boys 15&U Billy O’Neill / Kyle Dunne (Kilk) O35BD Tipperary (John Ferncombe/Denis Cummins) 15-3, 15-3 dft Jack Holden / Jack Buggy White) dft Galway (Trevor Hannon/ BU15S Roscommon (Magomed Yakhyaev) (Kilk) 15-7, 15-11 Bernie McDonagh) 21-3, 21-6 Winner Boys 17&U James Prentice / Jerome Cahill MAD Tipperary (Paul Mullins/Eddie Farrell) BU15D Wexford (Cian Kehoe/Josh McMahon) (Tip) dft Shane Dunne / Ciaran dft Mayo (Jason Judge/Martin Vahey) dft Cavan (Diego De Folco/Niall Cooney (Kilk) 15-8, 10-15, 11-4 21-2, 21-5 McMahon) 15-3, 15-4 Girls 13&U Noelle Dowling / Amy Brennan MBD Clare (Tom Kirby/Fergal Coughlan) dft BU16S Tyrone (Antoin Fox) dft Kerry (Daire (Kilk) dft Siobhan Prentice / Tyrone (Chris Curran/Stephen Conway) Keane) 21-6, 21-6 Amy McKeogh (Tip) 21-5, 21-11 BU16D Cork (Conor Walsh/Cian O’Driscoll) Girls 15&U Mollie Dagg / Leah Doyle (Kild) SMAD Meath (John Leahy/Tom Sheridan) dft dft Galway (Paul Conneely/Fiachra dft Caitlin Conway / Ciara Mullan Mayo (Tom Sweeney/Joe Dowling) 21-7, Mulkerrins) 21-4, 21-2 (Tyr) 15-3, 15-5 21-7 BU17S Waterford (Kavan O’Keeffe) dft Girls 17&U Winners Dearbhail O’Keeffe / SMBD Wexford (Damien Kelly/John Roche) dft Roscommon (Khalid Yakhyaev) 21-1, Aoife Holden (Kilk) Mayo (Michael Ginley/Seamus Grier) 21-0 Runner Up’s Fiona Tully / Aoife 19-21, 21-7, 21-13 BU17D Kilkenny (Aidan Barry/Cathal Barry) Floyd (Ros/Cla) GMAD Sligo (Martin Cooney/Francis McCann) dft Roscommon (Fionn Cusack/Oisin dft Tipperary (Paul McGrath/John Cusack) 21-8, 10-21, 11-2 GAA HANDBALL 60X30 JUVENILE O’Donoghue) 21-8, 21-8 BOYS TEAM OF SIX/FOUR GMBD Wexford (Mick Carty/Frank Maddock) GAA HANDBALL ALL IRELAND 60X30 CHAMPIONSHIPS dft Cavan (Brendan Gargan/Phill Reilly) INTERCLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS 20-21, 21-11, 21-15 Under 12/13 Team of 6 Championships EMAD Kilkenny (Johnny Brennan/Joe OPEN Final: Kilkenny (Billy Drennan, David Hennessy) dft Galway (Jimmy SF1: Ballaghaderreen (Mayo) Bye Sherman, Cillian Kelly, Conor Holden, Harry Connaughton/Martin Ward) 21-12, 21-7 SF2: Kells (Meath) dft Hospital (Limerick) Delaney, Sean Purcell, Sean Barron, Padraig EMBD Kilkenny (Billy Love/Ned Lawlor) 105-51 Lennon) dft Tipperary (Jack Mulcahy, Evan Carey, dft Sligo (Peter Chambers/Michael Final: Kells (Meath) dft Ballaghaderreen Brian Burke, Rory Grace, Kian Donnelly, Adam Murphy) 21-2, 21-17 (Mayo) 84-37 Fogarty) 67-46 DMAD Tipperary (Billy Mullins/Pakie Mullins) dft Mayo (Kevin Geraghty/Pat Hopkins) JUNIOR Under 14/15 Team of 6 Championships 21-4, 21-6 SF1: Moycullen (Galway) Bye Final: Waterford (Sean O Sullivan, Daniel Treen, DMBD Mayo (Columba Holleran/Mike SF2: Cashel (Tipperary) dft Coolboy Oisin Halloran, Jamie Moylan, Niall Buckley, Munnelly) dft Wexford (Miley Byrne/ (Wicklow) 100-62 William Beresford) dft Kilkenny (Jamie Maher, John Bail) 21-12, 21-15 Final: Cashel (Tipperary) dft Moycullen Eoin O’Brien, Tom Holden, Mickie Prendergast, RMD Kildare (Anthony Campbell/Dermot (Galway) 126-54 Jack Buggy, James Love, Ryan Grace, Jamie Joy) Howard) dft Mayo (Matt Coady/ 82-54 Seamus Clarke) 21-9, 21-5 JUNIOR B LMD Kilkenny (Aoife Holden/Ailis O’Shea) SF1: Loughrea (Galway) W/O Kingscourt Under 16/17 Team of 4 Championships dft Roscommon (Fiona Tully/Jennifer (Cavan) scr. Final: Kilkenny (Robert Dowling, Harry Jordan, McCormack) 12-12, 21-20, 21-20 SF2: St. Patrick’s (Kilkenny) dft Friary/ Michael Power, Kevin Murray, Colin McKenna) dft LJBD Clare (Louise Hayes/Ella Donnellan) dft Abbeyside (Waterford) 84-39 Waterford (Rory Cuscak, Jake Moore, Jack Treen, Galway (Roisin Ni Conghaile/Eimear Ni Final: St. Patrick’s (Kilkenny) dft Loughrea Keelan Dee Carter, Adam Clarke) 55-40 Bhiadh) 20-21, 21-14, 21-2 (Galway) 126-25 LJD Limerick (Katie McCarthy/ GAA HANDBALL 60X30 Siobhan Lehane) dft Galway (Janet GAA HANDBALL MYCLUBSHOP.IE JUVENILE GIRLS TEAM OF SIX Connaughton/Karen Finnegan) 20-21, 60X30 NATIONALS - FINALS CHAMPIONSHIPS 21-3, 21-9 LID Kilkenny (Clare Love/Rachel Hogan) Mens Open Michael “Ducksy” Walsh (Kilk) Final: Munster dft Leinster 70-67 dft Roscommon (Siobhan Tully/Laura dft Eoin Kennedy (Dub) 15-9, Mannion) 21-0, 21-12 15-11 GAA HANDBALL ALL IRELAND Ladies Open Catriona Casey (Cork) dft Ashley 60X30 2ND LEVEL COLLEGES GAA HANDBALL MYCLUBSHOP.IE ALL Prendiville (Ker) 15-11, 15-5 CHAMPIONSHIPS IRELAND 60X30 JUVENILE - FINALS Mens B Galen Riordan / David Kenny (Wex) dft Daniel Fenlon / Oliver Girls Junior Singles GU14S Tyrone (Mairead Fox) dft Kilkenny Ryan (Car) 15-3, 15-14 SF1: Mollie Dagg (Col Chiarain, Leixlip) dft (Rosin O’Keeffe) 15-3, 7-15, 15-12 Mens C Cian O’Dalaigh /Robert Farrelly Niamh Heffernan (Colaiste Baile Clar)

54 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2017 ANNUAL REPORT

10-15, 15-5, 15-7 W/O Ciaran Cuddy (Dean Maguire, JUNIOR SINGLES FINAL: SF2: Mary Ellen Phelan (Presentation Carrickmore) scr. Convent, Thurles) W/O Caitlin Conway Final: Jack Holden (Grennan College, Wicklow (Jerome Willoughby) dft Meath (Peter (Dean Maguire, Carrickmore) inj. Thomastown) dft Sean McAdams Reilly) 21-17, 21-12 Final: Mollie Dagg (Col Chiarain, Leixlip) (Borrisokane CC) 15-2, 15-6 dft Mary Ellen Phelan (Presentation JUNIOR DOUBLES FINAL: Convent, Thurles) 15-4, 15-0 Boys Intermediate Doubles SF1: Ciaran Cooney/Eoin Regan Cork (Michael Hedigan/Donnacha O’Dea) dft Girls Junior Doubles (Castlecomer CS) dft Michael Egan/ Tyrone (Barry Devlin/Gabhainn McCrystal) 16-21, SF1: Edel Mullholland/Noelle Dowling (Pres Gareth Delaney (Roscommon CBS) 21-3, 21-6 SS Kilkenny) dft Cuilleann Bourke/ 15-10, 10-15, 15-3 Heather Burke (Balla SS, Mayo) 15-2, SF2: Anton Fox/Lorcan McBride (Omagh 15-1 CBS) dft Conor Walsh/Cian O’Driscoll SF2: Ciara Mullen/Elizabeth McGarvey (Patrician Academy, Mallow) 15-2, 15-7 ICHA RESULTS (Loreto College, Omagh) dft Siobhan Final: Anton Fox/Lorcan McBride (Omagh Prentice/Isobel Farnan (St Anne’s, CBS) dft Ciaran Cooney/Eoin Regan Killaloe) 15-6, 15-0 (Castlecomer CS) 15-7, 15-5 40X20 SINGLES Final: Ciara Mullen/Elizabeth McGarvey (Loreto College, Omagh) dft E Boys Senior Singles Men’s Open: Martin Mulkerrins (UCD) dft Mullholland/N Dowling (Pres SS SF1: Shane Dunne (Castlecomer CC) Galan Riordan (UCD) 21-11, 21-7 Kilkenny) 15-4, 15-14 dft Diarmaid Mulkerrins (St Mary’s, Ladies Open: Ciana Ni Churraoin (UL) dft Ciara Galway) 15-10, 15-3 Mahon (TCD) 21-17, 21-0 Girls Senior Singles SF2: Gearoid O’Connell (Davis College, Men’s A: Colin Corbett (UL) dft Niall SF1: Aoife Holden (Grennan College, Mallow) dft Oran Kiernan (Patrician Bolton (UL) Thomastown) dft Laura Finn (Colaiste College, Carrickmacross) 15-3, 15-0 Ladies A: Niamh Dunne (UL) dft Deirdre Purcell Mhuire Ballymote) 15-3, 15-4 Final: Shane Dunne (Castlecomer CC) dft (UL) 21-7, 21-6 SF2: Sile Spain (Nenagh Convent of Mercy) Gearoid O’Connell (Davis College, Men’s B: Conor Noone (NUIG) dft Darren Bye Mallow) 15-2, 15-6 Carter (NUIG) Final: Aoife Holden (Grennan College, Ladies B: Lisa McKenna (TCD) dft Niamh Farrell Thomastown) dft Sile Spain (Nenagh Boys Senior Doubles (DCU) Convent of Mercy) 15-0, 15-2 SF1: Aidan Barry/Cathal Barry (Castlecomer Men’s C: Ronan McNea (NUIG) dft Brian CS) dft Patrick Murphy/Daniel Huane Busher (WIT) Girls Senior Doubles (St Colmans, Claremorris) 15-11, 15-9 Ladies C: Shannon Geoghegan (ITC) dft Fiona SF1: Fiona Tully/Jennifer McCormack SF2: David Walsh/Tadgh O’Neill (Patrician McKenna (ITC) 21-4, 21-0 (Convent of Mercy, Roscommon) Academy, Mallow) dft Pauraic Mullan/ Men’s Mark McDonnell (QUB) dft dft Deabhail O’Keeffe/Eilis O’Shea Turlough Clarke (Omagh CBS) 15-1, 15-1 Contender: Colin Beckett (ITC) (Grennan College, Thomastown) 15-10, Final: David Walsh/Tadgh O’Neill (Patrician 15-11 Academy, Mallow) dft Aidan Barry/ 60X30 TEAM SF2: Katie Gould/Laura Shinners Cathal Barry (Castlecomer CS) 15-6, (Borrisokane CC) Bye 15-2 A: DCU dft UL Final: Fiona Tully/Jennifer McCormack B: UCD dft UL (Convent of Mercy, Roscommon) dft K Gould/L Shinners (Borrisokane CC) 60X30 SINGLES 15-8, 15-3 HARDBALL RESULTS Mens Open: Keith Armstrong (NUIM) dft Boys Junior Singles SENIOR SINGLES FINAL: Ryan Mullan (QUB) SF1: Billy Drennan (Kilkenny CBS) dft Ladies Open: Ciara Mahon (TCD) dft Ciana Ní Cormac Scollan (Ballinamore) 15-2, Limerick (CJ Fitzpatrick) dft Dublin (Eoin Churraoin (UL) 15-6 Kennedy) 17-21, 21-17, 21-16 Mens A: Jamie Kelly (GMIT) dft Kevin SF2: Eoghan McGinnity (St Macartans, Diggins (DCU) Monaghan) dft James Loughnane SENIOR DOUBLES FINAL: Ladies A: Meadhbh Ní Dhálaigh (DCU) dft Deirdre (Nenagh CBS) 15-2, 15-9 Purcell (UL) Final: Billy Drennan (Kilkenny CBS) dft Dublin (Eoin Kennedy/Carl Browne) dft Limerick Mens B: Tyrnan Ruane (UCD) dft Ciaran Eoghan McGinnity (St Macartans, (CJ Fitzpatrick/Pat Murphy) 21-16, 21-16 Tynan (UCD) Monaghan) 15-11, 3-15, 15-8 Ladies B: Winner: Roisin Meehan (TCD) MINOR SINGLES FINAL: Boys Junior Doubles 40X20 DOUBLES SF1: Kyle Dunne/Billy O’Neill (Castlecomer Kilkenny (Shane Dunne) dft Mayo (Patrick CS) W/O Enda Collins/James Cummins Murphy) 21-15, 21-1 Mens Open: Michael Hedigan/Daniel Relihan (Colaiste Baile Clar) scr. (UL) dft Colin Crehan/Seamus SF2: Luke Barrett/Donal Jones (Scoil Mhuire, MINOR DOUBLES FINAL: Conneely (UL) 21-2, 21-15 Kanturk) dft Cathair Munroe/Fiontan Ladies Open: Ciana Ni Churraoin/Niamh McNamee (Dean Maguire, Carrickmore) Kilkenny (Shane Dunne/Eoin Brennan) dft Mayo Dunne (UL) dft Ciara Mahon/ 15-1, 15-4 (Patrick Murphy/Martin Mulhern) 15-21, 21-8, 21-11 Lisa McKenna (UL) 21-5, 21-1 Final: Kyle Dunne/Billy O’Neill (Castlecomer CS) dft Luke Barrett/Donal Jones (Scoil INTERMEDIATE SINGLES FINAL: USHA COLLEGIATES Mhuire, Kanturk) 15-0, 15-5 CHAMPIONSHIPS 2016 – Cork (Daniel Relihan) dft Tipperary (David MINNESOTA Boys Intermediate Singles Moloney) 21-10, 21-13 SF1: Jack Holden (Grennan College, Mens Open: Peter Funchion (ITT) dft Tyler Thomastown) dft Eimhin O Diollion INTERMEDIATE DOUBLES FINAL: Stoffel (USA) 21-8, 21-14 (Colaiste Croi Mhuirean, Spideal) 15-0, Ladies Open: Ciana Ní Churraoin (UL) dft Ciara 15-8 Tipperary (Ger Coonan/David Moloney) dft Cork Mahon (TCD) SF2: Sean McAdams (Borrisokane CC) (Daniel Relihan/John Hedigan) 21-5, 21-6

Annual Report 2017 • GAA HANDBALL • 55 56 • GAA HANDBALL • Annual Report 2017 www.gaahandball.ie

GAA Handball would like to thank the following for their support throughout the year

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Annual Report 2017 • GAA HANDBALL • 57