BALLINA GAA CLUB Secretary Report
CLUB AGM 29 Nov 2019 8pm in Club Complex Squash Court
Ballina GAA Club AGM 29 Nov 2019 Secretary’s Report www.ballina.tipperary.gaa.ie Notice of AGM ...... 2 Agenda ...... 2 Subscription ...... 2 Nominations: ...... 2 Motions: ...... 3 Minutes AGM 30th Nov 2018 ...... 4 Secretary Report 2019 ...... 8 Senior Hurling: ...... 8 Junior B Hurling: ...... 9 Under-21 B Hurling: ...... 10 Minor A Hurling: ...... 11 Junior A Football ...... 11 Under-21 B Football ...... 11 Minor A Football ...... 11 Inter-County: ...... 12 Referee’s: ...... 13 Underage Rules: ...... 13 Financial Report: ...... 13 Field use: ...... 14 Membership: ...... 14 Juvenile Club ...... 15 Schools ...... 15 LGFA ...... 15 Camogie Review ...... 15 Club Children’s Officier Report 2019...... 16 The Healthy Club Project...... 16 Sympathy ...... 16 Thanks ...... 16 Results 2019 ...... 16 Correspondence from Croke Park Re Underage Rules ...... 18 Club Constitution and Rules (Official Guide 2019) ...... 23
1 Ballina GAA Club AGM 29 Nov 2019 Secretary’s Report www.ballina.tipperary.gaa.ie Notice of AGM The Club AGM will be held on 29 Nov 2019 @ 8pm in Club Complex Squash Court
Agenda Club Constitution Rule 8.4: The following business shall be transacted at the Annual General Meeting: (a) Adoption of Standing Orders. a. Indemnify club trustees b. Adopt Club Constitution as per 2019 Official Guide (b) Minutes of previous Annual General Meeting. (c) Consideration of the Annual Report submitted by the Secretary. (d) Consideration of the Financial Statements including the Report of the Accountant(s) or Auditor(s). (e) The Chairperson’s Address. (f) Election of Officers and Members of the Executive Committee. (g) Notices of Motion. (h) Other Business
Subscription Club Constitution Rule 6.1: The Annual Subscription to be paid by members of the Club shall be determined by the Executive Committee and ratified at the Annual General Meeting.
The club executive are recommending a subscription fee of €60 per person, with a maximum of €240 per family. OAP rate will remain at €20. There is also an option of life membership of €1,000 to cover 20 years as passed at AGM 2018.
Nominations: Life Presidents: Tom Ahearne; John Joe Maher; John Joe McKeogh; Patsy Nevin & Jimmy O’Donovan
Vice-Presidents: Sarah Devane; Michael Fenton; Larry Flanagan; Jerry McKeogh; Paddy O’Brien & Michael Sheehy
Chairperson: Diarmaid McKeogh
Vice-Chairperson: Sandra Blaser
Treasurer: Ritchie Ryan
2 Ballina GAA Club AGM 29 Nov 2019 Secretary’s Report www.ballina.tipperary.gaa.ie
Secretary: Gerard McKeogh
Registrar: Des Morgan
Officer for Irish Language and Culture: Michéal Kennedy
Public Relations Officer: Sandra Blaser
Children’s Officer: N/A To be Chosen by Executive Committee
One Players’ Representative: Aidan Hanley
At least Five other Full Members: Eamonn Power 2 Juvenile Club Reps; 2 Camogie Club Reps; 2 LGFA Club Reps; Field Committee Rep;
Assistant Treasurer: Fergus Breen
Assistant Secretary Michéal Kennedy
County Bórd Draw Co-Ordinator: Peter King
North Bórd Representatives: Sarah Devane; John Gleeson
County Bórd Representative: Michael Sheehy Motions: Nil
Ballina have submitted the following motions to county convention:
1. That Tipperary GAA Co Bórd introduce Under-17 / Under-20 hurling & football championships in 2021. This will apply at divisional & county level. It would replace the current Minor / Under-21 Championships. Riall 6.17 T.O. 2019 to apply
3 Ballina GAA Club AGM 29 Nov 2019 Secretary’s Report www.ballina.tipperary.gaa.ie 2. That Riall 6.17 T.O. 2019 be amended as follows:
Under Age Grades:
County shall determine its internal Under Age Grades for competition purposes within the parameter of Under 21 down to Under 11, subject to the following eligibility years’ span:
Under 20/21 - A five years’ span.
Under 19 down to Under 14/13 - A four years’ span
· Change from current rule: Under-20 will be changed to allow a 5-year span, similar to the current Under-21. It also allows 16 year old’s the same opportunities to play 2 age grades as 15 and 17 year old’s
Minutes AGM 30th Nov 2018 Present: Peter King (Chair); Sandra Blaser, Aidan Coyne, Aaron Devane, Michael Fenton, Aidan Hanley, Diarmuid Healy, John Healy, Michéal Kennedy, Diarmaid McKeogh, Gerard McKeogh, Jerry McKeogh, Jimmy McKeogh, John Joe McKeogh, Martin McKeogh, Des Morgan, Paul McKeogh, Gearoid O’Brien, Anne Sheehy, Michael Sheehy & Paudie Sheehy. Apologies: Edel Curley, Sarah Devane, Padraig Hyland & Alan McEvoy
An Cathaoirleach Peter King opened the meeting by welcoming all. 1. Standing Orders o Adopting the up to date club constitution o Indemnify Trustees against any losses incurred by the club Proposed: Diarmaid McKeogh; Seconded: Paudie Sheehy
2. Minutes AGM 07th Dec These minutes had been circulated prior to the AGM and were agreed as a true & accurate reflection of that meeting Proposed: Sandra Blaser; Seconded: Aidan Coyne
3. Secretary Report This had been circulated prior to the meeting. The secretary went through his report & no question was asked Proposed: Jerry McKeogh; Seconded: Michéal Kennedy
4. Treasurer Report The club still had outstanding loans of €150k. €284K paid back to date in loans/interest. Anne Sheehy outlined that €19K paid to the club between November 2017 & October 2018 from the Club/Parish lotto. Paudie Sheehy asked about Investors draw. There was a high of 240 Investors, but it’s 207 at present. John Healy asked will investors draw be repeated? It probably would in June/July. The Treasurer then gave details of upcoming 20K drop. It would take place on 21st February in Lakeside in conjunction with the Juvenile & Camogie clubs. Hoping to earn €40,000 profit.
4 Ballina GAA Club AGM 29 Nov 2019 Secretary’s Report www.ballina.tipperary.gaa.ie The Treasurers report was adopted. Proposed: Paul McKeogh; Seconded: Aaron Devane
5. Chairman’s Address Peter King addressed the meeting. He thanked his fellow officers Gerard, Fergus, Diarmaid & Sandra. They are a great back-up. He also thanked the Executive & said a lot of work was carried out by the committee. He thanked the Field committee of John, Jimmy & Eamonn. He thanked Des (FAS) for his work. He said the Senior Hurling team had a frustrating year. The team management were disappointed with year. Mike, Jim, Diarmaid & Dave gave a great effort. He also thanked the Junior selectors of Paudie & Seamus. They worked closely with the Senior Team & the Junior Team showed an improvement. Thanks to Aaron Devane & his team for their effort with the Minor team. They experienced some difficulties & frustrations around player availability. Despite this they won the Minor Football championship. Congratulations to all. Well done to Paul McKeogh & his team on leading the juvenile club to another successful year. This was highlighted by the Under-16 Hurlers winning the North Tipp A championship. The team showed great character in doing so. Well done to the Camogie club & in particular regarding their huge feat of winning the County Minor A championship. He also referenced the clubs 5-year plan & the need to re-focus on targets. He said that the club had acquired lotto funding for a club gym. Orders will be place shortly for equipment & this was a new departure for the club. He also revealed that Brendan McKeogh have agreed to retake the role of Senior Hurling Manager & he wished him all the best for 2019. There would be a Ladies Football Committee starting in 2019. He wished them well Peter then said that he had served 3 years as chairperson & it was time to step down
Peter was thanked for his work & wished well for the future
6. Election of officers: • Life Presidents: Tom Ahern; John Joe Maher; John Joe McKeogh; Patsy Nevin & Jimmy O’Donovan Proposed: Sandra Blaser; Seconded: Jimmy McKeogh
• Vice-Presidents: Sarah Devane; Michael Fenton; Larry Flanagan; Jerry McKeogh; Paddy O’Brien & Michael Sheehy Proposed: Des Morgan; Seconded: John Healy
• Chairperson: Diarmaid McKeogh Proposed: Sandra Blaser; Seconded: Martin McKeogh
5 Ballina GAA Club AGM 29 Nov 2019 Secretary’s Report www.ballina.tipperary.gaa.ie • Vice-Chairperson: Sandra Blaser Proposed: Peter King; Seconded: Aidan Hanley
• Treasurer: Fergus Breen Proposed: Sandra Blaser; Seconded: Martin McKeogh Fergus Breen said that 2019 would be last year in the role
• Secretary: Gerard McKeogh Proposed: Jimmy McKeogh; Seconded: John Healy
• PRO: TBC
• Children’s Officer: Club Executive to appoint
• Officer for Irish Language & Culture: Michéal Kennedy Proposed: Jerry McKeogh; Seconded: Jimmy McKeogh
• Registrar: Des Morgan Proposed: Aidan Hanley; Seconded: Paudie Sheehy
• Players rep on Executive: Aidan Hanley Proposed: Paul McKeogh; Seconded: Sandra Blaser
• Other reps on Executive Committee: Eamonn Power Proposed: Jimmy McKeogh; Seconded: Sandra Blaser The Camogie club & Juvenile club were entitled to reps on the executive committee & the Ladies Football club would be give the same rights
• Assistant Treasurer: Anne Sheehy Proposed: Paudie Sheehy; Seconded: Des Morgan Anne Sheehy has agreed to stay as Assistant Treasurer, but the club would be looking for someone to take on the role with a view to becoming Treasurer in 2020.
• Assistant Secretary: Gearoid O’Brien Proposed: Peter King; Seconded: Jimmy McKeogh
• Co Bórd Draw Co-Ordinator: Peter King Proposed: Sandra Blaser; Seconded: Michael Fenton
• North Bórd Reps: Sarah Devane & John Gleeson Proposed: Anne Sheehy; Seconded: Michael Sheehy
• County Bórd Rep: Michael Sheehy
6 Ballina GAA Club AGM 29 Nov 2019 Secretary’s Report www.ballina.tipperary.gaa.ie Proposed: John J McKeogh; Seconded: Paudie Sheehy Michael Sheehy said that 2019 would be last year in the role
7. Motions: That the club introduces a life membership of €1000 or €2000 for a couple. This would cover 20 years membership. Peter King proposed the motion saying it was aimed at bringing in money to help reduce the debt on the club. There was some debate about the motion, but no objection was raised. There was also some debate as to whether membership was too low. Proposed: Peter King; Seconded: Jerry McKeogh
8. Any other Business Peter King also outlined a new process where there is a dispute over player availability. The management group would come to the club officers & they would make a decision over player availability. If they were unhappy with that decision, they could appeal to club executive.
9. Votes of sympathy: TImmy Gleeson, Patrick McCormack, Johnny McDonnell & Derry O’Leary
This concluded the business of the meeting & it was followed by the draw No 29 of the Club Investors Draw
7 Ballina GAA Club AGM 29 Nov 2019 Secretary’s Report www.ballina.tipperary.gaa.ie Secretary Report 2019 2019 was very much a mixed year on the playing fields. Our Senior Hurlers made progress this year winning a game in the North Championship for the first time since 2016, but missing out on group qualification in the County championship. Our Junior Hurlers missed out on a Quarter Final spot. We won a game at Under-21 for the first time in a number of years. Our Minor Hurlers were on the verge of a North Final appearance, but suffered late heartbreak. We didn’t play any Junior Football, which is a concern & a disappointing. We fielded at Under-21 level for the first time in a number of years, while our Minor Footballers are North champions. The Juvenile club competed strongly at all levels winning the Under-12 “D” championship and a number of shield competitions. The Camogie club has continued to grow its numbers and continues to compete with the top teams in the County at underage level. Our ladies Football club also played at Under-12, 14 & 16 level this year & enjoyed some memorable moments as they celebrate their first year. Tipperary won the All-Ireland Senior & Under-20 Hurling championship & with it Michael Breen won his second All-Ireland medal. Tipp also won the All-Ireland Intermediate ladies Football championship. We had a great nights entertainment with the 20K drop, while our Investors draw has been relaunched. Major drainage work has been completed on the main field & the playing fields were very busy. Our debt continues to fall & is being well managed.
Senior Hurling: In the Senior Hurling Championship, Ballina's first game was against Mullinahone in The Ragg in the county championship in April. Ballina were under pressure in the first half, but a goal before half-time meant Ballina were in a good position going in at half-time. However in the second-half, Ballina never seemed to get into their rhythm in the second half and Mullinahone recorded a relatively easy win. The following week, Ballina played Portroe in Nenagh in round 1 of the north championship. Unlike the previous week the side attacked the game from the beginning in a positive manner. Ballina were very much on top in nearly section of the field. The team pushed on from a good half-time position to close out the game & advance to the Quarter Finals. The championship broke then until after the All-Ireland. Ballina faced Ballingarry in Littleton in the county championship. Ballingarry had the advantage of two games since the club championship resumption, while we had a very disrupted preparation due to tragic incidents in the parish over the previous couple of weeks. The sides were closely matched through-out, but a Ballina goal with time nearly up seemed to put us in a strong position. However Ballingarry finished with 3-unanswered points to force a draw. This was the 3rd draw between the two sides in championship hurling since 2014, however on this occasion, it knocked Ballina out of the championship and Ballingarry advanced to the Quarter Finals. A week later it was the north championship again & Burgess in the Quarter Finals in Nenagh. Again the team performed well, but unfortunately were never able to get ahead of Burgess. Ballina started poorly, but when Burgess got a goal, we responded straight away with a goal and dominated the next part of the game. Burgess kept in front & got a goal with time
8 Ballina GAA Club AGM 29 Nov 2019 Secretary’s Report www.ballina.tipperary.gaa.ie nearly up, again we responded immediately with a goal, but haven't enough time to get another score.
Ballina Senior Hurling Panel v Ballingarry in Littleton
In the league we were grouped with Ballingarry, Golden, JK Brackens, Lorrha, Mullinahone, Newport & Shannon Rovers. A hard-fought win was recorded against Shannon Rovers in the opening round in Ballina. A hard fought draw was achieved against Lorrha in the next game in Lorrha, the league then broke for championship action. A strong JK Brackens team travelled to Ballina next and the visiting side recorded a big win over Ballina in Round 3. Ballina travelled to Mullinhone next & it was an exciting game, with Ballina getting a deserved draw. It was a short trip to Newport next & either team could have won the game, but the home side hung on for a narrow win. Ballina then welcomed Golden to Ballina for the next game & Ballina recorded a very big win. The last game was in Ballingarry & while there was nothing at stake for Ballina, the side performed well & drew again with the hosts.
Overall the team put in a lot of good performances. In the 11 competitive games played this year, 4 ended in draws, while 2 of the 4 losses were by margins of 4-points or less. This suggests that we need to develop a killer instinct & win some of those tight games. There was a great intensity & will to win shown against Portroe. However on the flip side, the only wins recorded in the league were against Intermediate sides. A number of young players made their championship debuts during the year. There will be 16 sides in the county championship next (4 groups of 4). Only one team will be promoted to Senior hurling Roinn I, but there will also be a team relegated to Intermediate. We should target a Quarter Final slot at least & then see where we go from there. There was a proposal to introduce a "B" championship in North Tipp this year, but this was defeated. Is it something worth considering for 2021? However we were not that far away from reaching a semi-final in 2019 & we can face anyone with confidence.
Junior B Hurling: Ballina began the Junior B championship in Newport against the home side. Newport had played in the Junior A League & were expected to be one of the stronger teams in the group. This proved to be true & Newport were deserving winners on the evening. Ballina
9 Ballina GAA Club AGM 29 Nov 2019 Secretary’s Report www.ballina.tipperary.gaa.ie hosted Lorrha in round 2. Lorrha were seen as another strong side in the group. Lorrha had too much firepower for Ballina on the night. Ballina travelled to Shannon Rovers for round 3, a win was vital to maintain any hope of reaching the Quarter Finals. This win was duly achieved, but not without undergoing some pressure from the hosts. Moneygall visited Ballina next & we looked to be in good position to take both points, only a late Moneygall rally saw them snatch a draw. Results elsewhere meant that neither Ballina or Toomevara could qualify when they met in Round 5 in Ballina. It was a close game through-out, but Toomevara held out for a narrow win.
In the league, Ballina were grouped with Ballinahinch, Burgess, Kiladangan & Moneygall. The opening game against Ballinahinch in Shallee did not go ahead as no referee was present. When the game was refixed, Ballinahinch were unable to field. Ballina travelled to Puckane next, but never really got going & lost to the home side. Ballina followed up with wins over Moneygall & Burgess in Ballina. This 6-points put Ballina into the semi-finals against Silvermines. This was one of our poorer performances during the year & Silvermines recorded an easy victory.
Ballina Junior B Hurlers V Kiladangan in North JBHL
Overall the team is getting stronger, but there is still a bit to go. There will be a county element to the championship in 2020 & hopefully this will give us more opportunities. We are also investigating a possible path for a 3rd team.
Under-21 B Hurling: For the first time in a number of years we won a game in the north Under-21 championship. The team also had played a number of challenge game. Our opening game was against Borrisokane in Ballina. Both sides were equally matched, but Borris were a small bit smarter in front of goal & won by a narrow margin.
10 Ballina GAA Club AGM 29 Nov 2019 Secretary’s Report www.ballina.tipperary.gaa.ie Ballina travelled to Kilcolman for round 2 of the championship. Ballina had to win by at least 5-points to keep our slim chances of qualifying for the semi-final alive. In the end we recorded a slim win over Burgess. This was not enough to reach the semi-finals & this was confirmed when Borrisokane defeated Burgess in the final round.
Minor A Hurling: Ballina were in the same group as Kiladangan, Nenagh, Roscrea & Toomevara. The first game was against Roscrea in Nenagh. The value of persistence was proven here as a late goal proved to be the difference in a narrow win. Next up was a bad day at the office as Kiladangan overwhelmed us in Toomevara. Ballina then played Toomevara in the next game and it was a close game but Toomevara came out on top with a narrow win. In the final game, Ballina were through to the semi-finals regardless of the result, but understrength due to an upcoming Under-16 game. As a result Nenagh recorded a convincing win. Ballina faced Toomevara in the semi-final in Portroe. This turned out to be a fantastic game. Ballina had to stage a late revives to force the game to extra time. Ballina then seemed to have the game won as we led by 5-points with the game nearly over, but Toomevara got 2 late late goals to snatch victory.
The North Bord introduced a Minor Hurling League this year & it proved a very useful competition. We started with wins over Kilruane & Kiladangan. The team then lost out to Nenagh, Roscrea, Toomevara & Borrisokane, before beating Borris-Ileigh in the last game. Most games were played without our County players and so a lot of players got game time over the course of 12 games.
Junior A Football A new County Football Championship was introduced in 2019. Due to probable clashes with hurling, we did not enter the County Championship. As far back as March/April, we were told that there would be a separate North Championship and we were fully intend on partaking. However due to the recent bad weather, the championship will not go ahead this year.
Under-21 B Football We fielded in Under-21 Football for the first time since 2014. In the North semi-final Ballina took on and surprisingly beat Newport. The final against Kilruane was overshadowed by events around age eligibility which were foisted upon both clubs less than 24 hours before the game took place. On the night Kilruane were the stronger side & ran out convincing winners.
Minor A Football Ballina entered the Minor A Football Championship after winning the B Championship in 2018. In round 1, Ballina beat Nenagh & followed up with a home win over Inane Rovers. The next game was scheduled against Kiladangan in Puckane, but didn't take place as the field was unplayable. We offered Ballina as an alternative & the we were subsequently awarded the game. We finished with a relatively easy win over Kilruane in Ballina.
11 Ballina GAA Club AGM 29 Nov 2019 Secretary’s Report www.ballina.tipperary.gaa.ie This put us through to the final against Kiladangan. Venues were scarce on the evening & after a coin toss, we travelled to Puckane. Not only did the teams have to compete with each other, they also had to compete with the imminent Storm Hannah. Ballina had a narrow lead at half-time, and a goal early in the second half proved vital as Ballina held out for a 1-point win.
Ballina then played Grangemockler/Ballyneale in the County semi-final. Grangemockler were recent winners in the South Championship & were far too strong for Ballina on the day.
Inter-County: Pride of the place has to go to Mikey Breen on winning his second All-Ireland Senior Hurling Medal. Mikey played in all 8 of Tipperary's Championship games. It is a source of great pride for everyone associated with the club to see Mikey performing so well on the inter-County scene. Congratulations Mikey, Tipp Senior & Under-20 Hurlers on their success. This year early in May, Tipperary played Senior Hurling, Senior Football, Minor Hurling & Minor Football within 4 days of each other. It was unique for Ballina to have representatives on all 4-panels. Well done & congratulations to Mikey Breen (Senior Hurling); Steven O'Brien (Senior Football); Dara King (Minor Football); Sam Loughran & Matthew Power (Minor Hurling). Josh Egan & James Power were part of the North/Mid Tipp Under-17 Celtic Challenge panel. Carmel Bradshaw & Brian Hurley were part of the Tipperary Senior & Intermediate Camogie backroom team. Both these sides reached All-Ireland semi-finals. Congratulations
12 Ballina GAA Club AGM 29 Nov 2019 Secretary’s Report www.ballina.tipperary.gaa.ie also to Tipperary Ladies Football Team who the All-Ireland Intermediate Football Championship & promotion back to Senior Football for 2020. We also had several representatives on various Tipperary & North Tipp underage panels.
Referee’s: Well done to Sean O’Maolain & Brendan Ryan who are refereeing on a consistent basis in North Tipp. It’s great to see them involved in some high profile games. Hopefully a few more from the club might consider this option. Underage Rules: It looks very much like Under-21 & Minor will change to Under-20 & Under-17 within the next couple of years. This will make fixtures a bit easier and could ultimately lead to more games for some players. However I can not write this report without mentioning the disgraceful note received by all clubs in the County from Croke Park less than 24 hours prior to our Under-21 Football Final V Kilruane. Let us say from the start that we lost heavily to Kilruane on the evening & that this note had no bearing what so ever on the end result. Kilruane were far better on the night. However on the morning of the game, both clubs were united in their disgust over a letter from Croke Park effectively trying to rule out all U17 players (unless you were born on 1st January 2002) with immediate effect. We felt that this was wrong on a lot of grounds & raised our objections immediately. The final & we as a club got a lot of media attention as a result. The club received a lot of support from clubs inside the County & province. It was most unfair that our players had to be put through such an ordeal and that our management team had to deal with this issue whilst also trying to work & prepare for a final. Eventually the final was played including our Under-17 players. I feel we took the correct stance & wish to thank everyone for their support. Full correspondence from/to Croke Park through County Bórd is on page 18
Financial Report: Our Treasurer Fergus Breen has once again put together an excellent financial report for this AGM. Fergus is stepping down after 5 excellent years in the position. The debt on the club has been very tightly managed and controlled. Our main mortgage on the purchase of the second field is now down to just over €100,000. We also took out a Field Development loan & this is now down to just €20,000. This has been done whilst also maintaining the everyday running of the club. There has been some tight cash-flow moments, but he has always been on top of the situation. Thank you to Fergus & thanks to everyone else who has financially supported the club.
Club/Parish Lotto: This year our Club/Parish lotto has celebrated its 25th anniversary. In that time, we would conservatively estimate that there has been up to €1,000,000 worth of tickets bought and close on €500,000 paid out in prizes. It has been a great financial asset to the club and parish. From its inception, four club members have been almost ever present every Monday night, collecting, checking & distributing tickets. Our sincere thanks to Sarah Devane, John Gleeson, Anne & Michael Sheehy for their tireless work. After 25 years & almost endless commitment, they have indicated that they would like to step away and with the time & effort given, who could blame them.
13 Ballina GAA Club AGM 29 Nov 2019 Secretary’s Report www.ballina.tipperary.gaa.ie We now need new blood to run & oversee the lotto. These people might have new ideas on how to revitalise our lotto.
County Draw: We continue to promote the county draw & this year Kevin Gleeson was our major winner. As a result we hosted the county draw in the Roundhill Bar on 2nd August Peter King is our draw co-ordinator and we have a crew of promoters, many of whom who have promoted the draw since day 1. Thanks to everyone.
Investors Draw The first draw of phase 2 of the investors draw will be held of Friday next. Thanks to all those who have supported the draw once again. Thanks also to all those who promoted the draw & worked so hard to make sure that the draw is a success 20K drop The big social event if the year was the 20K drop back in February. Again this involved a huge effort from a lot of people. It was a throughly enjoyable night for all. Look out in October for another big event. Field use: The field was busy as usual all during the year. The facility is getting great use between all groups in the club unit. Once again we hosted the Darkness into Light walk back in May. We also provided our grounds for various community events. Major Drainage works was completed on the Main field. Thanks to all involved in the maintenance & upkeep of the field. Our facilities need an upgrade. We hope to launch plans next year which will provide a blueprint for the future of the ground. Membership: Membership come sharply Into focus around the time of All-Ireland tickets. This year we managed to cover most people who looked for tickets. Our chairperson Diarmaid went to huge rounds to help everyone out. Our rules for tickets are on our website and have not changed for the last number of years. Please read these rules & pay your membership on time. After a lot of debate our executive is proposing to raise membership cost for the first time in a decade. We are looking to increase membership to €60 per person for Camogie &/or GAA membership. Costs such as registration, player injury scheme etc have risen over the last ten years. We will cap this at €240 per family. Our OAP membership will remain at €20 per person, while life membership of €1,000 is also available.
14 Ballina GAA Club AGM 29 Nov 2019 Secretary’s Report www.ballina.tipperary.gaa.ie Juvenile Club The juvenile club had another busy year. Numbers continue to grow & the club continues to provide games for all. The club enjoyed success in the Under-12 D Football championship & a number of shield competition at the end of the year. The club also reached a number of finals & were competitive in all competitions. We done to all involved. Schools We continue to enjoy a good relationship with both primary schools in the parish. The schools enjoyed great success again on the field. Well done also to Saint Anne’s on their year – reaching a Munster Hurling Final. LGFA The club enjoyed a very successful first year. They played at U-12, U-14 & U-16 level. Well done to all involved. Camogie Review (Rachel Kinihan) Numbers year on year remained the same 197 registered players across all age groups with slight fluctuations in groups. U6s had 20 new members and focused on basic skills and playing fun games. U8s attended 2 development blitzes and the Patsy Carroll tournament in Roscrea. Skill levels improved massively over the course of the season. U10s had enough numbers to field 2 teams for all blitzes . They were invited to play halftime in Nowlan Park on June 29th when Tipp senior ladies played Waterford. U12s have massive numbers this year with 56 girls being split into 3 teams. Our Blue team went on to win the Watch Centre Cup final in a titanic battle against a very strong Portoe. Our other 2 teams went on to both contest shield finals in the Ragg in very close games and only losing by small margins. The girls were invited to partake in the Caman to Croker, playing mini blitzes on the hallowed ground of Croke Park. They also took part in the Caman to Munster in the Gaelic grounds. U13s got to league final in the ragg , after hard fought battle , narrowly lost out to Rockwell Rovers 1 goal and 3 points , to 1 goal. Great team effort all round. U14s had a good season all round, taking part in both u14c championship and league. U16s reached the final in the u16b championship against much fancied Silvermines. Sadly it wasnt meant to be on this occasion. Followed up by reaching the u16b league final v Fethard which went to extra time and was level at the end and had to go to a replay. Sadly it wasnt Ballinas day on this occasion. Great season for u16s. Minors had a tough campaign in the Minor A championship and were sadly beaten in group games. Juniors. It was the second year in division A for our junior team. The first competition being the A league, winning 6 games and drawing one. Due to work, study etc , they had to bow out at semi final stage. During the summer the juniors took part in 2, 7-a-side tournaments
15 Ballina GAA Club AGM 29 Nov 2019 Secretary’s Report www.ballina.tipperary.gaa.ie which provided valuable match experience. Ahead of a tough championship A campaign, which unfortunately didn't go their way. Overall a great competitive year for Ballina Camogie. Club Children’s Officier Report 2019. (Margaret O'Sullivan) All new coaches are evetted. An updated vetting list of all coaches received from Nicholas Moroney (Children’s Officier Co. Tipperary GAA). As recently requested, all coaches who had previously been vetted under the ‘old system’ (prior to 2016) are now in the process of evetting. John Lyons held two Child Protection Courses in Ballina GAA Clubhouse on 30/04/2019 and 12/08/2019 in conjunction with Ballina Camogie Club. The Healthy Club Project. (Sarah Devane) Phase 4 of the Healthy Club Project will get up and running in January 2020. We in Ballina have applied to be included in this intake and our application has been acknowledged by Croke Park - acceptances will be offered by December 20th 2019. As a club we already engage with our local communities in many areas. If we are successful in our application for the 2020 intake we would aim to expand our local involvement and aspire to become an even stronger hub for community and health in Ballina & Boher, as we further develop our facilities and club opportunities. Sympathy Our sincere sympathy to all families who lost loved ones during the year. During the year the parish suffered some tragedies and the club has been working with the HSE & Croke Park to provide support for the families & friends. Thanks Thanks to everyone who contributed in any form to the running of the club. A lot of people put in a huge amount of effort. Some of this might appear to go unnoticed, but we are thankful to everyone. I want to pay particular tribute to our chairperson Diarmaid who is always working hard for the club. I have already mentioned Fergus and I also want to welcome Ritchie Ryan on board as Treasurer. Sandra doubled as vice-chair & PRO and again carried out her duties with usual efficiency and friendliness. Thanks also to my own family for their support & help during the year. I look forward with renewed hope to 2020.
Results 2019 Competition Date Fixtures Venue North Senior Hurling Championship Rd 01 13-Apr-19 Ballina [1-21] V [1-14] Portroe MacDonagh Park, Nenagh Qtr Final 14-Sep-19 Ballina [2-12] V [2-14] Burgess MacDonagh Park, Nenagh
16 Ballina GAA Club AGM 29 Nov 2019 Secretary’s Report www.ballina.tipperary.gaa.ie County Senior Hurling Championship Seamus O'Riain Cup Grp 3 Rd 01 07-Apr-19 Ballina [1-12] V [2-19] Mullinahone CJ Kickhams The Ragg Grp 3 Rd 03 08-Sep-19 Ballina [1-19] V [0-22] Ballingarry Littleton County Adult Hurling League Div 2 Grp 2 Rd 01 10-Mar-19 Ballina [0-14] V [1-7] Shannon Rovers Ballina Grp 2 Rd 02 17-Mar-19 Ballina [1-14] V [0-17] Lorrha Dorrha Tony Reddin Park, Lorrha Grp 2 Rd 03 28-Apr-19 Ballina [0-9] V [2-17] JK Brackens Ballina Grp 2 Rd 04 04-May-19 Ballina [0-15] V [0-15] Mullinahone CJ Kickhams Mullinahone Grp 2 Rd 05 26-May-19 Ballina [0-15] V [1-16] Newport Ryan Lacken Park, Newport Grp 2 Rd 06 09-Jun-19 Ballina [9-15] V [1-13] Golden/Kilfeacle Ballina Grp 2 Rd 07 22-Jun-19 Ballina [2-16] V [1-19] Ballingarry O'Sullivan Park, Ballingarry North Junior B Hurling Championship Grp 2 Rd 01 08-Jun-19 Ballina [0-12] V [0-23] Newport Ryan Lacken Park, Newport Grp 2 Rd 02 15-Jun-19 Ballina [0-13] V [1-22] Lorrha Dorrha Ballina Grp 2 Rd 03 29-Jun-19 Ballina [3-13] V [1-11] Shannon Rovers Ballinderry Sportsfield Grp 2 Rd 04 06-Jul-19 Ballina [3-11] V [3-11] Moneygall Ballina Grp 2 Rd 05 17-Jul-19 Ballina [0-21] V [2-16] Toomevara Ballina North Junior B Hurling League Grp 1 Rd 02 14-Apr-19 Ballina [W/O] V [Scr] Ballinahinch Shallee Grp 1 Rd 03 20-Apr-19 Ballina [1-22] V [1-9] Moneygall Ballina Grp 1 Rd 04 27-Apr-19 Ballina [0-5] V [1-16] Kiladangan Puckane Grp 1 Rd 05 05-May-19 Ballina [0-24] V [1-11] Burgess Ballina Semi-final 17-May-19 Ballina [0-8] V [2-18] Silvermines Portroe North Under-21 B Hurling Championship Grp 2 Rd 01 27-Oct-19 Ballina [0-16] V [1-18] Borrisokane Ballina Grp 2 Rd 02 03-Nov-19 Ballina [2-10] V [1-11] Burgess Pairc Na nGael, Kilcolman North Minor A Hurling Championship Grp Phase Rd 01 14-Aug-19 Ballina [2-9] V [2-19] Nenagh Éire Óg Portroe Grp Phase Rd 02 10-Jul-19 Ballina [1-16] V [1-15] Roscrea MacDonagh Park, Nenagh Grp Phase Rd 03 16-Jul-19 Ballina [0-13] V [5-17] Kiladangan St. Michaels Park, Toomevara Grp Phase Rd 05 07-Aug-19 Ballina [3-13] V [4-13] Toomevara MacDonagh Park, Nenagh Semi-final 28-Aug-19 Ballina [3-19] V [3-20] Toomevara Portroe North Minor Hurling League Div 1 MacDonagh Park, Grp Phase Rd 01 04-Apr-19 Ballina [5-19] V [1-10] Kilruane MacDonaghs Cloughjordan Grp Phase Rd 02 11-Apr-19 Ballina [1-12] V [1-10] Kiladangan Puckane Grp Phase Rd 03 17-Apr-19 Ballina [0-15] V [0-22] Nenagh Éire Óg MacDonagh Park, Nenagh Grp Phase Rd 04 13-May-19 Ballina [0-11] V [0-14] Borrisokane Ballina Grp Phase Rd 05 06-May-19 Ballina [0-7] V [2-15] Roscrea St. Cronans Park, Roscrea Grp Phase Rd 06 24-May-19 Ballina [1-20] V [2-12] Borris-Ileigh Ballina Grp Phase Rd 07 16-May-19 Ballina [0-9] V [6-26] Toomevara St. Michaels Park, Toomevara North Junior A Football Championship
17 Ballina GAA Club AGM 29 Nov 2019 Secretary’s Report www.ballina.tipperary.gaa.ie Rd 01 TBC Ballina V TBC TBC North Under-21 B Football Championship Semi-final 14-Feb-19 Ballina [4-11] V [1-13] Newport Puckane FINAL 28-Feb-19 Ballina [0-9] V [6-13] Kilruane MacDonaghs Puckane North Minor A Football Championship Grp Phase Rd 01 24-Feb-19 Ballina [1-12] V [2-4] Nenagh Éire Óg MacDonagh Park, Nenagh Grp Phase Rd 02 03-Mar-19 Ballina [4-4] V [1-4] Inane Rovers Ballina Grp Phase Rd 04 17-Mar-19 Ballina [W/O] V [Scr] Kiladangan Puckane Grp Phase Rd 05 24-Mar-19 Ballina [2-10] V [1-2] Kilruane MacDonaghs Ballina FINAL 26-Apr-19 Ballina [1-8] V [2-4] Kiladangan Puckane County Minor A Football Championship Semi-final 07-Jul-19 Ballina [2-5] V [3-17] Grangemockler/Ballyneale St. Sheelans Park, Templemore
Correspondence from Croke Park Re Underage Rules Original email received by Club on Wed 27th Feb
Secretary Tipperary
Wed 27/02/2019 23:11
Rúnaí a chairde,
Following the ruling as advised below from a meeting of Central Council last Sat Feb 23rd 2019 and confirmed today by Munster Council (see also below), Coiste Chontae Thiobraid Árann wishes to advise all our clubs that from today Feb 27th, a player must be aged 17 (or over) on 1st January 2019 to play in this years remaining 2019 Under 21 Football championship and the 2019 Under 21 Hurling championship.
Coiste Chontae Thiobraid Árann has exhausted all avenues to have this ruling deferred, but to no avail, so unfortunately we are forced to follow the ruling as advised below.
Is mise
Tadhg De Flóid Rúnaí Choiste Chontae Tiobráid Árann 087-2591747 [email protected] From: kieran leddy munster Sent: Wednesday 27 February 2019 17:31 To: Secretary Waterford; Secretary Clare; Secretary Tipperary; Secretary Limerick; Secretary Kerry;
18 Ballina GAA Club AGM 29 Nov 2019 Secretary’s Report www.ballina.tipperary.gaa.ie Secretary Cork Subject: U-21 definition
A chara,
From the inquiries I have made, the decision taken at Central Council last weekend is binding and should be followed. Central Council was asked to provide an clarification on the eligibility for U-21, and did so. This followed discussion on the matter at the Central Council meeting and the interpretation, which has since been circulated, was approved by the delegates.
Regards,
Kieran
Ciarán Ó Lidí,
Rúnaí/Priómh-Oifigeach Feidhmiúcháin,
Comhairle Na Mumhan CLG.
Kieran Leddy,
Secretary/CEO,
Munster GAA Council.
From: Teresa Rehill Sent: Saturday 23 February 2019 20:11 Subject: Interpretation of Rule - Under 21 (Club)
A chara,
Ard Chomhairle at its meeting today, in accordance with Rule 3.43 T.O. 2018, gave an Interpretation of Rule 6.17 T.O. 2018 as follows:
Club: Under 21
A player must be aged 17 (or over) on 1st January of the relevant Championship Year to play U21 Club.
Is mise le fíor mheas,
Treasa
19 Ballina GAA Club AGM 29 Nov 2019 Secretary’s Report www.ballina.tipperary.gaa.ie Teresa Rehill/Treasa Ní Raghaill Operations Manager/Bainisteoir Feidhmiúcháin
Gutháin / Tel : +353 (01) 8658665 CLG, Páirc an Chrócaigh, Baile Átha Cliath 3 / GAA, Croke Park, Dublin 3 Ballina response to email on Thu 28th Feb
secretary.ballina tipperary Thu 28/02/2019 11:59
• Secretary Tipperary; • [email protected]
A Rúnaí; A Chara;
This "Interpretation" is in contravention to Riall 6.17 OG 2018.
Rule 6.17 TO 2018 states a 5-year span. For U-21s this would be players born in 1998; 1999; 2000; 2001 or 2002.
Central Council "Interpretation" is therefor not an "interpretation", but a change in rule. When did this rule change & on what basis. This "Interpretation" changes our entire understanding of age based competition as it allows a player born on 1st Jan 2002 to play U-21 in 2019, but not a player born on 2nd Jan 2002. When did the age cut-off of Dec 31st/Jan 1st change?
Opening lines of Riall 6.17 OG 2018 are below
We have played Under-21 football two weeks ago & are scheduled to play a North Tipperary Final tonight. We have used players born in 2002 already in this competition & will struggle to field without them. We can't stand over any change in eligibility rules with less than 24 hours notice. We will field a team tonight according to the wording of Riall 6.17 OG 2018, which holds credence over any incorrect interpretation of Riall 6.17 OG 2018.
We feel that we are not alone in objecting to this undemocratic change of rule & urge other clubs to voice their disappointment at this unprecedented step by Central Council
Furthermore we will not be objecting to Kilruane MacDonaghs or any subsequent team in the Under-21 Hurling or/or Football Championships who fields in accordance with Riall 6.17 OG 2018.
Riall 6.17 OG 2018
• Age Grades • Club
20 Ballina GAA Club AGM 29 Nov 2019 Secretary’s Report www.ballina.tipperary.gaa.ie o Adult o A player shall have celebrated his 17th birthday prior to January 1st of the Championship Year. o Under Age Grades o A County shall determine its internal Under Age Grades for competition purposes within the parameter of Under 21 down to Under 11, subject to the following eligibility years’ span: ▪ Under 21 - A five years’ span. ▪ Under 20 down to Under 14/13 - A four years’ span. ▪ Under 12/11 - A three years’ span.
Definition of Span - Example Under 16 - A player shall have celebrated his 12th birthday prior to January 1st and his 16th birthday on or after January 1st of the Championship year i.e. a four years’ span of ages of Under 13/14/15/16. Further letter to Croke Park via County Bórd on 4th April: 04ú Aibhreain 2019 To: Tadhg Dé Floid; Rúnaí Coiste Chontae Thiobraid Árann; Lár Na Pairce, Bóthar Sliabh na nBán, Dúrlas, Co. Thiobraid Árann
Re Club Under-21 Championship 2019 & forward.
A Rúnaí, a chara;
Following on from your email of Feb 27th & Mar 1st around the above issue, we wish to thank the Bórd for taking the steps outlined in their various emails & also for “apologise for the inconvenience caused to players and clubs effected by this sequel of events this week.” We don't think Tipperary county Bórd needed to apologise for their actions in the matter.
The deviation granted will have helped ease the pressure in club who were still involved in the Divisional & County Under-21 Football Championship at the time & will also take away uncertainty around the Under-21 Hurling Championships, but we feel there are still a lot of issues around this for 2019 & beyond.
We note that it is mainly Munster Counties that have applied for a deviation, and since we as a club issued our open reply to the original email to the clubs of Tipperary, we have received a lot of calls, texts & emails from clubs within the county & within the province expressing similar concerns & how this caused unnecessary stress within clubs.
Again we would appeal to clubs of the county to raise this issue & discuss the impact it has on them. In the immediate aftermath of our game with Kilruane MacDonaghs, questions were quite rightly asked about a perceived or real disconnect between Croke Park Administrators & the clubs of
21 Ballina GAA Club AGM 29 Nov 2019 Secretary’s Report www.ballina.tipperary.gaa.ie the country. This has been further reflected in various issues around Inter-County teams & club calendar.
In the original email from Croke Park (below), Rule 6.17 was mentioned but never quoted. At the time, in our reply to this email, we quoted Rule 6.17 from Official guide 2018. Subsequent to this email Official guide 2019, has been issued & has not been changed from the 2018 version. We did not issue this letter sooner as we wanted to receive & review T.O. 2019
We as a club would like to know the following:
• Why was an interpretation of Rule 6.17 T.O. 2018 required? • How was the below interpretation arrived at? • Why was an interpretation provided which is contrary to Rule 6.17 T.O. 2018 & 2019 o Rule 6.17 - clearly states eligibility span of 5 years for Under-21; the interpretation provided only allows for 4 years & 1 day. o Rule 6.17 gives a very clear example of a span & its interpretation • Why did the interpretation seek to change our understanding of age graded competitions from a cut-off of Dec 31st/Jan 1st to Jan 1st/Jan 2nd, as the example in Rule 6.17 states "prior to January 1st", while the interpretation states "aged 17 (or over) on 1st January" • If this interpretation, is to come into force on Jan 1st 2020, why was the T.O. 2019 not updated to reflect this • Why was such an interpretation given in mid season for the Cork & Tipperary Under-21 football Championships & the Limerick Under-21 hurling Championships. Clare teams were about to start their Under-21 Hurling Championship & many other clubs around the country had entered Under-21 teams (& paid Player Injury Scheme premiums) on the basis of rule 6.17, not an interpretation of same. • Was a similar interpretation provided for any other each groups at the same meeting.
We are grateful for our club volunteers, our coaches, our officers, our parents & of course our players, but to receive such an email with less than 24hours to go to a game was very disrespectful to all of those volunteers.
Ultimately we lost the North Tipp Under-21 “B” football championship final to a better Kilruane MacDonaghs side. We congratulate them on their success & want to commend that great club for the respect shown to us around that final. They too were in a very unnecessarily awkward position. We also congratulate JK Brackens Og (County Under-21 A Football Champions) & Kilsheelan/Kilcash (County Under-21 B Football Champions) on their great successes. We look forward to an eventful & entertaining games for the coming weeks.
Is mise
Gearoid MacEochaidh (Runai)
22 Ballina GAA Club AGM 29 Nov 2019 Secretary’s Report www.ballina.tipperary.gaa.ie Club Constitution and Rules (Official Guide 2019) Format No. 1 - Applies to all Clubs - without Licensed Bars Incorporating Rules 1 to 17 inclusive Format No. 2(A) - Applies to all Clubs in the 26 Counties which own/operate Licensed Bars. Incorporating Rules 1 to 17 inclusive, and additionally Rule 18 (as applicable to the 26 Counties). Format No. 2(B) - Applicable to all Clubs in the 6 Counties which own/operate Licensed Bars. Incorporating Rules 1 to 17 inclusive with additions to Rules 3 and 5 as specified, and additionally Rule 18 (as applicable to the 6 Counties). Regulations - Regulations issued to Clubs in the Six Counties and Britain by Central Council. APPENDIX 5 CLUB CONSTITUTION AND RULES Format No 1. 1. In these Rules: “The G.A.A.” means the National Governing Organisation for the preservation and promotion of Gaelic Games and pastimes, known as the Gaelic Athletic Association. “The Club” means the Club as set out in Rule 2 hereof. “The Official Guide” means the Official Guide of the G.A.A. “Executive Committee” means Officers and ordinary Committee Members together. “Secretary” means the Secretary for the time being, or any person appointed to perform the duties of the Secretary of the Club. “Real Property” means the property of the Club of an immovable nature, comprising any Playing Pitches, Grounds or Buildings, whether of Leasehold or Freehold tenure, with all Fixtures or Fittings attached thereto and used therewith. “Personal Property” means the property of the Club of a movable nature, comprising all Playing or Sporting equipment of the Club, as well as all Stock in Trade and Money or other Assets of the Club not already classified as fixtures or fittings on “Real Property”, as heretofore defined. Words importing the singular number only, include the plural number and vice verse, and words importing the masculine gender only, also include the feminine and vice verse. 2. The official Name of the Club shall be AN CUMANN LÚTHCHLEAS GAEL Béal An Átha the English version of which shall be Ballina G.A.A. Club. 3. OBJECTS 3.1 The Objects of the Club shall be the promotion of the aims of the G.A.A., as outlined in the Official Guide. 3.2 The Membership, Income and Property of the Club shall be dedicated to and applied solely towards the promotion of these objects. 4. COLOURS The Club Colours shall be Blue with white trim; Alternative Colour: Red with white trim 5. MEMBERSHIP 5.1 There shall be four types of Membership of the Club: 5.1.1 FULL MEMBERSHIP may be granted to persons Over 18 years (i.e. shall have celebrated their 18th birthday prior to January 1st of the Membership Year) who subscribe to and undertake to further the aims and objectives of the Club and the G.A.A. 5.1.2 YOUTH MEMBERSHIP may be granted to persons Under 18 and Over 9 years (i.e. shall celebrate their 18th birthday on January 1st of the Membership Year or on a later date and shall have celebrated their 9th birthday prior to January 1st of the Membership Year) who subscribe to and undertake to further the aims and objectives of the Club and the G.A.A. (Notes - Child Membership of the Association is for children
23 Ballina GAA Club AGM 29 Nov 2019 Secretary’s Report www.ballina.tipperary.gaa.ie Under 9 years (i.e. shall celebrate their 9th birthday on January 1st of the Membership Year or on a later date) On expiration of a Child Membership of the Association, a person may apply for Youth Membership of the Association only through a Club for which he is eligible to play.) 5.1.3 HONORARY MEMBERSHIP may be granted to persons Over 18 years, as defined above, who have rendered exceptional service to the Club or the games or activities of the G.A.A. An Honorary Member shall have the rights of a Full Member, but shall be exempt from paying the Club’s Annual Membership Fee. 5.1.4 SOCIAL MEMBERSHIP may be granted to persons Over 18 years, as defined above, who subscribe to and undertake to further the aims and objectives of the Club and the G.A.A., but who do not seek full voting rights and rights to take part in the administrative affairs of the Club or the G.A.A. 5.2 Full Members (including Honorary Members) and Youth Members of the Club will also become Members of the G.A.A. 5.3 Once granted, Full Membership of the Club and the G.A.A. shall continue for life, unless the member has been expelled or his resignation in writing has been accepted, in accordance with this Constitution and Rules or the Official Guide. 5.4 The rights of any member of the Club shall be conditional upon the member complying with the provisions of this Constitution and Rules and the Official Guide, including payment of any annual membership fee and levies. 5.5 Such rights may be withheld, restricted or suspended in accordance with this Constitution and Rules and the Official Guide. 5.6 Any person seeking admission as a Member of any Class of Membership, other than Honorary, shall complete and sign a prescribed Application Form, which must be returned to the Secretary together with the prescribed fee. 5.7 An Application for Full or Social Membership must be on the prescribed form signed by the Applicant and proposed by one Full Member and seconded by another Full Member who are not suspended or disqualified under this Constitution and Rules or the Official Guide. 5.8 An Application for Youth Membership must be on the Prescribed Form signed by the Applicant and one of his parents or Guardians, as well as being proposed by one Full Member and seconded by another Full Member, who are not suspended or disqualified under this Constitution and Rules or the Official Guide. 5.9 The name and address of a person proposed as a Full Member, together with the names of those proposing and seconding him, shall be displayed in a conspicuous place in the Club Premises for at least one week before election. An interval of not less than two weeks shall elapse between nomination and election of such Members. 5.9.1 Persons shall not be admitted to any of the privileges of Membership until after their election by the procedures stated in this Rule. 5.10 If and when the Application for Membership has been accepted by the Executive Committee, the new Member’s particulars shall be submitted by the Club Registrar to the Central Council, by the process of Electronic Registration, for Registration and allocation of a personal membership number. 5.11
24 Ballina GAA Club AGM 29 Nov 2019 Secretary’s Report www.ballina.tipperary.gaa.ie 5.11.1 The Executive Committee shall have the power to investigate any matter, and to expel, suspend, warn, fine or disqualify Members from Club activities for breach of this Constitution and Rules or the Official Guide or for conduct considered to have discredited or harmed the Club or the G.A.A. 5.11.2 Such persons, if Full Members (including Honorary Members) or Youth Members, shall have the right to appeal to the Hearings Committee of the County Committee of the G.A.A., within seven days of being notified of such decision. 5.11.3 Unless the offence is brought to the notice of the County Committee of the G.A.A. by the Club, and that body, having considered the merits of the case and having regard to the rights of the player or member, confirms the penalty imposed, the member continues to be a legal member of the Association and is suspended from Club activities only. 6 SUBSCRIPTIONS 6.1 The Annual Subscription to be paid by members of the Club shall be determined by the Executive Committee and ratified at the Annual General Meeting. 6.2 The determined Annual Subscription shall be payable on election and thereafter annually, in advance of the date and in the manner decided by the Executive Committee. The date set shall be a date prior to March 31st each year. 6.3 The Executive Committee may from time to time prescribe the payment of an Entrance Fee by new or lapsed members in addition to the Annual Subscription above. 7 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 7.1 The business and affairs of the Club shall be under the management of an Executive Committee, and it shall be the controlling body of the Club. 7.2 The Executive Committee shall be comprised of the Chairperson, Vice- Chairperson, Treasurer, Secretary, Registrar, Officer for Irish Language and Culture, Public Relations Officer, Children’s Officer, one Players’ Representative, and at least five other Full Members. 7.3 Nominations to serve on the Executive Committee shall be by any two Full Members whose membership fees are paid up to date in accordance with Rule 6.2 and who are not suspended or disqualified under this constitution and Rules or the Official Guide. 7.4 The Players’ Representative shall have participated as a player for the Club within the previous 48 weeks. 7.5 The Executive Committee including the Players’ Representative, shall be elected by the Full Members present, entitled to vote and voting at the Annual General Meeting. Exceptions: The Children’s Officer and the Officer for Irish Language and Culture shall be appointed at the Annual General Meeting on the recommendation of the outgoing Executive Committee. 7.6 Only Full Members, whose Membership Fees are paid up to date in accordance with Rule 6.2 and who are not suspended or disqualified under this Constitution or Rules or the Official Guide, shall be eligible for election to the Executive Committee. 7.7 The outgoing Executive Committee shall conduct the Annual General Meeting. 7.8 The Executive Committee shall hold office until the conclusion of the following Annual General Meeting.
25 Ballina GAA Club AGM 29 Nov 2019 Secretary’s Report www.ballina.tipperary.gaa.ie 7.9 The Executive Committee shall meet at least once each quarter, and four members present shall constitute a quorum at a meeting of the Executive Committee. 7.10 The Chairperson, when present, shall preside over all meetings of the Executive Committee; in his absence, the Vice-Chairperson shall preside. 7.11 If both the Chairperson and the Vice-Chairperson are absent, the Committee shall elect a member present to preside at the Meeting. 7.12 The Secretary shall record the Minutes of each Meeting. 7.13 The Minutes shall specify the date of the Meeting, those present, and a brief account of the Meeting, and shall be read to the next Meeting. 7.14 Such Minutes, if agreed as being accurate or having been appropriately amended, shall be signed by the Chairperson and Secretary, having been first proposed, seconded and adopted. 7.15 The Executive Committee shall have the sole right to appoint Sub- Committees, as required. 7.16 The Executive Committee shall define the duties of such Sub-Committees, and retain control in all matters and activities which it considers of importance to the general welfare of the Club, including the disposal of any funds in the hands of such Sub-Committees. 7.17 The Executive Committee shall have power to nominate the Chairperson of such Sub Committees. 7.18 The Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, Secretary and Treasurer of the Executive Committee shall be ex- officio members of all Sub-Committees. 7.19 The Executive Committee shall have power from time to time to make, alter and repeal all such Regulations as they deem necessary, expedient or convenient for the proper conduct and management of the Club, and in particular, but not exclusively, they may by such Regulations set out: (a) The terms and conditions upon which guests, children of members of the Club and visitors shall be permitted to use the premises and property of the Club; (b) The times of opening and closing the Pavilion Grounds and Premises of the Club, or any part thereof; (c) The conduct of members of the Club in relation to one another; (d) The setting aside of the whole or any part or parts of the Club’s premises for any particular time or times, or for any particular purpose or purposes; (e) The imposition of fines for the breach of any of the Club Rules or Regulations. (f) And generally all such matters as are commonly the subject matter of the Club Rules. 7.20 The Executive Committee shall adopt such means as they deem sufficient, to bring to the notice of members of the Club all such Regulations and all alterations and repeals. 7.21 All such Regulations so long as they shall be in force, shall be binding upon all members of the Club, provided nevertheless that no Regulations shall be inconsistent with or shall affect or repeal anything contained in this Constitution and Rules or the Official Guide, and that any Regulations may be set aside by a special resolution of a General Meeting of the Club. 7.22 Each Full Member shall have the right to be heard by the Executive Committee upon any complaint or representation sent by him, in writing, to the Secretary. 7.23 A Special meeting of the Executive Committee may be called: (a) by the Secretary or
26 Ballina GAA Club AGM 29 Nov 2019 Secretary’s Report www.ballina.tipperary.gaa.ie (b) by the Secretary, for a date not more than seven days from the date of the receipt by him of a requisition duly signed by four members of the Executive Committee. (c) Such requisition shall set out the purpose for which the special meeting is required. 7.24 Any Member of the Executive Committee who shall have absented himself from three consecutive meetings, without reasonable explanation, shall be deemed to have resigned from the Executive Committee. 7.25 Should any Member of the Executive Committee resign, be deemed to have resigned, or his position otherwise lapse, the remaining members of the Executive Committee shall, at their discretion, have the power to fill the vacancy, by co- opting a replacement from the body of the Full Membership. 7.26 The service of any Member so co-opted on to the Executive Committee shall not be reckoned in calculating the seniority of such Member, if subsequently elected to serve on the Executive Committee. 8 GENERAL MEETINGS 8.1 The Club shall in each year hold a general meeting as its Annual General Meeting, in addition to any other General Meetings in that year, and shall specify the meeting as such in the notice calling it. 8.2 All General Meetings, other than Annual General Meetings, shall be called Special General Meetings. 8.3 An Annual General Meeting shall be held at such time as shall be decided upon by the Executive Committee, but insofar as is practical shall be held before the end of November each year. 8.4 The following business shall be transacted at the Annual General Meeting: (a) Adoption of Standing Orders. (b) Minutes of previous Annual General Meeting. (c) Consideration of the Annual Report submitted by the Secretary. (d) Consideration of the Financial Statements including the Report of the Accountant(s) or Auditor(s). (e) The Chairperson’s Address. (f) Election of Officers and Members of the Executive Committee. (g) Notices of Motion. (h) Other Business 8.5 The Annual General meeting of the Club shall be called in the following manner: 8.5.1 The Executive Committee shall decide upon a date, time and place for the meeting, allowing adequate time to meet the time limits set out hereunder. 8.5.2 Once the date of the Annual General Meeting has been fixed, the Secretary shall give at least twenty-eight days notice in writing to the members of such date, at the same time inviting nominations for election to the Executive Committee for the following year and motions for consideration at the Annual General meeting, also specifying that such nominations and motions shall be received by him by a date not less than twenty one days prior to the date fixed for the meeting. 8.5.3 The Secretary shall then, on or after the date specified for return to him of such Nominations and Motions, but so as to give the members ten days clear notice before the meeting, circulate to the members the following documentation:
27 Ballina GAA Club AGM 29 Nov 2019 Secretary’s Report www.ballina.tipperary.gaa.ie (a) Copy of the Agenda for the meeting. (b) Copy of the Annual Report of the Secretary. (c) Copy of the Financial Statements, including the Report of the Accountant(s) or Auditor(s) (d) Details of the Nominations for election to the Executive Committee. (e) Copies of any motions for consideration at the meeting. 8.6 In the event of the number of Nominees for any particular Executive Committee position being equal to or less than the number of positions to be filled, such Nominees shall be declared elected, and any positions left unfilled, due to the lack of Nominees or Nominees withdrawing, shall be filled by the new Executive Committee, as soon as practical after the Annual General Meeting. 8.7 A Special General Meeting may be called by the Executive Committee at any time, provided ten days clear notice, in writing, shall be given to the members, specifying the purpose of such Special General Meeting, 8.8 The Executive Committee shall call a Special General Meeting for a date not more than twenty eight days from the receipt by the Executive Committee of a requisition, in writing, signed by twelve members of the Club, and ten clear days notice, in writing, shall be given to the Members. 8.8.1 Such Requisitions by members of the Club shall set out the purpose for which the Special General Meeting is required, and shall be lodged with the Secretary. 8.8.2 If the Special General Meeting is not called for a date within the twenty eight days stipulated, then the Requisitoners may themselves convene a Special General Meeting, if necessary using newspaper advertisements to notify the members of such meeting. 8.9 No other business, outside that specified in the Notice, shall be transacted at a Special General Meeting. 8.10 No business shall be transacted at any General Meeting unless a quorum of members is present at the time when the meeting proceeds to business. Save as herein otherwise provided, twenty per cent of Full Members eligible to vote 174 shall be a quorum at a General Meeting. 8.11 If within half an hour after the time appointed for a General Meeting, a quorum of members is not present, the meeting if convened on the requisition of members shall be dissolved; in any other case it shall stand adjourned to the same day in the following week, at the same time and place; and if at the reconvened meeting a quorum of members is not present within half an hour after the time appointed for the meeting, the members then present shall be a quorum. 8.12 The Chairperson, and failing him the Vice-Chairperson, shall preside as Chairperson at every General Meeting of the Club. 8.13 If there is no such Chairperson, or if at any meeting he is not present within thirty minutes after the time appointed for the holding of the meeting, the members then present shall choose someone of their number who is a member of the Executive Committee to be Chairperson of the meeting, and if there shall be no Member of the Executive Committee present, then the members shall elect any one of their number to be Chairperson of the Meeting. 8.14 The Chairperson may, with the consent of the meeting, adjourn the meeting from time to time and from place to place, but no business shall be transacted at any reconvened meeting other than the business left unfinished at the meeting from which the adjournment took place.
28 Ballina GAA Club AGM 29 Nov 2019 Secretary’s Report www.ballina.tipperary.gaa.ie 8.15 Failure to comply strictly with the time limits set out in this Constitution and Rules or the non receipt of Notice of a Meeting by any persons entitled to receive notice shall not invalidate the proceedings at that meeting, but shall entitle the majority of members present to seek and be granted an adjournment of the meeting to such date by which they would be given an adequate time to be furnished with and consider the contents of any relevant documentation. 9 VOTING 9.1 Only Full Members, whose membership fees are paid up to date in accordance with Rule 6.2, and who are not suspended or disqualified under this Constitution and Rules or the Official Guide, shall be eligible to vote at a General Meeting. 9.2 A Chairperson of a General Meeting, Executive Committee meeting or any Sub- Committee meeting shall, in the event of a tie, whether on a show of hands or on a ballot, have a casting vote in addition to his vote as a member, irrespective of whether or not he had originally voted on the issue, other than for the election to any position, when the outcome in the event of a tie shall be decided by lot. 9.3 At any General Meeting a resolution put to the vote of the meeting shall be decided on a show of hands, unless, before or on the declaration of the result of the show of hands, a ballot is demanded: (a) by the Chairperson (b) by at least five members present and entitled to vote. 9.4 Unless a ballot is so demanded, a declaration by the Chairperson that a resolution has on the show of hands been carried, or carried unanimously, or by a particular majority, or lost, shall be final, and an entry to that effect in the book containing the minutes of proceedings of the Club shall be conclusive evidence of the fact, without proof of the number or proportion of the votes in favour of or against such resolution. 9.5 If a ballot is so demanded, the same shall be taken in such manner as the Chairperson directs, and the result of the ballot shall be deemed to be the decision of the meeting at which the ballot was demanded. 9.6 A Secret Ballot shall be carried out to decide the result of any contest for any elective position. 10 ASSETS AND TRUSTEES 10.1 The Club shall have power to acquire, hold and develop, lease, mortgage charge, exchange or sell Real and Personal Property, and to borrow or raise money in promotion of the objects of the Club, subject to the overall authority of the Central Council of the G.A.A.. 10.2 The Real Property shall not be leased, mortgaged, charged, exchanged, sold, conveyed, transferred or otherwise dealt with without the consent of the Central Council of the G.A.A., or as may be set out in any separate Declaration of Trust. 10.3 The Real Property, including the proceeds of sale thereof until otherwise directed by the Club, shall be vested in either: (i) five Trustees, three of whom shall be appointed for and on behalf of the Club, one of whom shall be appointed for and on behalf of the relevant County Committee, and one of whom shall be appointed for and on behalf of the relevant Provincial Council; or (ii) four Trustees, three of whom shall be appointed for and on behalf of the Club and GCT who shall be appointed for and on behalf of the relevant County Committee and Provincial Council; or (iii) One trustee being GCT. 10.4 10.4 In the case of the appointment of the Trustees of the Real Property the Executive Committee shall select three persons, who shall then be appointed by the Chairperson for the time being as Trustees, and the Chairperson for the time being of the Provincial Council of the G.A.A. and the Chairperson for the time
29 Ballina GAA Club AGM 29 Nov 2019 Secretary’s Report www.ballina.tipperary.gaa.ie being of the County Committee of the G.A.A. shall each, as required, appoint one other Trustee. 10.5 The Trustees shall hold office until their retirement or death, unless replaced in accordance with Rule 5.3, Official Guide. 10.6 By way of acceptance of their appointment the Trustees of the Real Property shall sign a Declaration of Trust, as approved by Central Council of the G.A.A., and which shall contain the provisions for appointment, removal and replacement of Trustees as well as regulating the conduct of the Trustees in performing their duties and exercising their powers under the trust. 10.7 The Trustees of the Real Property, having first obtained the consent of the Central Council of the G.A.A. where necessary, shall exercise their powers and perform their duties as directed by the Club from time to time. 10.8 The Directive of the Club shall be given by a resolution of the full members of the Club, passed by a majority of the members present, entitled to vote and voting at a duly convened General Meeting and when so passed shall be binding upon all members of the Club. 10.9 A Certificate signed by the Secretary shall, in favour of any person relying on same, be conclusive evidence that a Directive, complying in all respect with the provisions of this Rule, was duly given to the Trustees. 10.10 The Personal Property shall be vested in the Chairperson, Treasurer and Secretary who shall hold same in Trust for the Club. 10.11 The Trustees of the Personal Property shall invest and use such property in accordance with the Directives of the Executive Committee, of which an entry in the Minute book shall be conclusive evidence. 10.12 The Club shall indemnify and save harmless its Trustees in respect of any loss or expenses bona fide incurred by them in or about the execution of the Trust 11 BOOKS AND ACCOUNTS 11.1 The Executive Committee shall open a Bank Account or Accounts with an approved Bank on behalf of the Club, and all cheques drawn on the said account shall be signed by the Treasurer and countersigned by one of either the Chairperson or Secretary. 11.2 The Executive Committee shall cause proper Books of Account to be kept in respect of: (a) All sums of money received and expended by the Club, and the matters in respect of which such receipts and expenditures take place; and (b) All Sales and Purchases of goods by the Club; and (c) The Assets and Liabilities of the Club. 11.3 The Books of Account shall be kept at such place or places as the Executive Committee shall think fit, and shall at all reasonable times be open to the inspection of the members of the Executive Committee. 11.4 The Executive Committee shall from time to time determine whether and to what extent and at what times and places, and under what conditions and regulations, the Accounts and Books of the Club, or any of them shall be open to the inspection of Full Members of the Club not being an Executive Committee member, and no member (not being an Executive Committee Member) shall have any right of inspection of any Account or Book or Document of the Club except as authorised by the Executive Committee. 11.5 An independent suitably qualified Person or Persons shall be appointed as Accountant(s) or as Auditor(s) to report on the Accounts/Financial Statements of the Club for presentation at the Annual General Meeting. If deemed appropriate by the Executive Committee of the Club the Accounts/Financial Statements shall be audited. A copy of the Accounts/Financial Statements, as adopted and
30 Ballina GAA Club AGM 29 Nov 2019 Secretary’s Report www.ballina.tipperary.gaa.ie approved, shall be submitted to the County Committee within four weeks of the date of the Annual General Meeting. 11.6 The Books and Accounts of the Club shall be presented to such Accountant(s) or Auditor(s) by the Committee in sufficient time to enable the Report of such Accountant(s) or Auditor(s) to be available and considered at the Annual General Meeting of the Club. 11.7 The Financial Statements shall be approved by the Executive Committee, and signed by two of three Officers – Chairperson, Secretary, Treasurer – on behalf of the Executive Committee. 11.8 The Executive Committee shall cause to be prepared and laid before the Annual General Meeting an Account of Income and Expenditure and a Balance Sheet made up to a date not more than six months before such meeting. 11.9 The Balance Sheet and Accounts of the Club shall be made available to the Revenue Commissioners, on request. 11.10 All Books of Account, including all documents, vouchers, statements and notes, as well as all minute books, notes of meetings, original and copy correspondence and all such documents are the property of the Club, and no person shall have any personal title to or interest in such documents to the exclusion of the Club. 11.11 The end of the Club Financial year shall be October 31st. 12 INCOME AND PROPERTY 12.1 No portion of the Income and Property of the Club shall be paid or transferred directly or indirectly by way of profit, dividend, bonus or otherwise howsoever to the Members of the Club. 12.2 No Officer shall be appointed to any Office within the Club paid by salary or fees, or receive any remuneration or other benefit in money or money’s worth from the Club in respect of such Office, provided however nothing shall prevent any payment in good faith by the Club of: (a) reasonable and proper remuneration to any Member or Officer of the Club for any services rendered to the Club (other than as an Officer); (b) reasonable and proper remuneration to any company of which a Member or Officer of the Club is a director or shareholder, for any services rendered to the Club; (c) interest at a rate not exceeding 5% per annum on money lent by Officers or other Members of the Club to the Club; (d) reasonable and proper rent for premises demised and let by Officers or other Members of the Club (including any Officer) to the Club; (e) reasonable and proper out of pocket expenses incurred by any Officer in connection with their attendance to any matter affecting the Club; (f) fees, remuneration or other benefit in money or money’s worth to any Company of which an 180 Officer may be a member, holding not more than one hundredth part of the issued capital of such Company. 13 WINDING UP 13.1 A resolution to Wind Up a Club shall be passed only at a General Meeting, specially summoned for the purpose of such resolution, if supported by not less than three-fourths of those present, entitled to vote and voting. 13.2 Any decision to Wind Up a Club shall be subject to the approval of the County Committee. 13.3 If upon such Winding Up, there remains, after the satisfaction of all its debts and liabilities, any property whatever, the same shall not be paid or distributed amongst the members, but the Trustees shall continue to hold same in trust for the appropriate County Committee of the G.A.A., to be used or disposed of as such County Committee shall direct, but shall in no instance pay or distribute such property amongst Officers, Members or Employees of the Club.
31 Ballina GAA Club AGM 29 Nov 2019 Secretary’s Report www.ballina.tipperary.gaa.ie 14 ADDITIONS TO AND AMENDMENTS OF RULES 14.1 Additions to and Amendments of this Constitution and Rules may be made at an Annual General Meeting or at a Special General Meeting called for that purpose, providing that the Resolution proposing same is carried by a vote of two- thirds of the members present, entitled to vote and voting, that same do not conflict with the Official Guide, and that approval is given by the County Committee for the change(s). 14.2 Members wishing to propose Additions to or Amendments of this Constitution and Rules must send notice of the proposed Additions or Amendments in writing to the Secretary not later than twenty one days before the Annual General Meeting, or Special General Meeting as provided by Rule 8.5.2 hereof. 14.3 Where appropriate, no Addition or Amendments shall be made to or in the provisions of the Main Object(s) (3), Income and Property (12) and the Winding- Up (13) Clauses in this Constitution and Rules for the time being in force, unless the same shall have been previously approved, in writing, by the Revenue Commissioners. 15 COMPLIANCE WITH PROVISIONS OF OFFICIAL GUIDE: This Constitution and Rules shall be read in conjunction with and subject to the Official Guide. 16 INTERPRETATION OF CLUB CONSTITUTION AND RULES: The Executive Committee shall be the sole authority for the Interpretation of this Club Constitution and Rules (with the exception of Rules 5.11.1, 5.11.2 and 5.11.3) and of any byelaws and regulations made herein; and the decision of the Executive Committee upon any question of interpretation, or upon any matter affecting the Club and not provided for, shall be final and binding on the members, subject to appeal to the Hearings Committee of the County Committee in accordance with the provisions of Rule 5.11.2, and shall not under any circumstances be subject to appeal to any Court of Law. 17 GENERAL 17.1 Notice may be given by the Club to any Member either personally or by sending it by post or electronically to him at his last known address. 17.2 Where a Notice is sent by post, service of this Notice shall be deemed to be effected by properly addressing, prepaying and posting a letter containing the Notice, and shall be deemed to have been effected at the time which the letter would be delivered in the ordinary course of post. 17.3 The failure to give notice of any meeting or the non-receipt of notice of a meeting by any person entitled to receive notice shall not invalidate the proceedings at that meeting. 17.4 This Constitution and Rules shall be taken as an amendment of and in substitution for any existing Constitution and Rules of ______G.A.A. Club as of
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