GAELIC ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION North American County Board, INC. (FOUNDED AND AFFILIATED WITH CENTRAL COUNCIL SINCE 1959) www.nagaa.org
OIFIGEACH 2002 (2002 Officers)
UACHTARÁN OINIGH Bórd Contae Meiriceá Thuaidh (Honorary President) JOHN HEIGHER 41 N Crescent An Chomhdháil Bhliantúil 2002 Brighton, MA 02135 617-254-8753
CATHAOIRLEACH (Chair) JOHN MCDEVITT 3 Country Lane Winchester, MA 01890 781-729-8948 617-738-7458 F [email protected]
LEAS-CHATHAOIRLEACH (Vice-Chair) TOMMY DOLAN 10659 Highland Worth, IL 60482 708-448-5496 NORTH AMERICAN COUNTY 708-448-2148 F [email protected] BOARD CISTEOIR (Treasurer) MICKEY COYNE ANNUAL CONVENTION 2002 18 Radcliffe Rd Arlington, MA 02474 781-648-5707 781-643-7095 F [email protected]
CLÁRAITHEOIR (Registrar) CHRIS KNIGHTLY 620 Howard Ave Burlingame, CA 94010 650-685-8055 CHICAGO 650-685-8051 F [email protected]
CAIDRIMH PHOIBLÍ (Public Relations) EAMONN KELLY November 15-17, 2002 1509 S Fairview Park Ridge, IL 60068 847-825-6037 847-825-7742 F [email protected]
OIFIGEACH ÓIGE (Youth Development Officer) TIM FLANAGAN Chicago Gaelic Park 5787 West Lane Lake View, NY 14085 6119 West 147th Street 716-627-9373 [email protected] Oak Forest, Il 60452
RÚNAÍ (Secretary) SEÁN Ó CATHÁIN (John Keane) 5819 St Andrews Drive Mukilteo, WA 98275 425-290-7839 425-977-0244 F [email protected]
Bórd Contae Meiriceá Thuaidh, Chomhdháil Bhliantúil - NACB Annual Convention, November 16, 2002 2
CONTENTS
Convention Agenda Page 3
Convention Standing Orders Page 4
NACB Division & Club Votes Page 5
2001 Convention Minutes – Part 1 Page 6
2001 Convention Minutes – Part 2 Page 9
2002 Pre-Playoff Meeting Minutes Page 12
2002 Secretary’s Report Page 14
2002 Treasurer’s Report Page 17
2002 Registrar’s Report Page 18
2002 P.R.O.’s Report Page 22
2002 Youth Officer’s Report Page 23
Minutes from the October 25 Meeting w/ the NACB, Sean Kelly & Pat Daly Page 26
2002 International Tour Report Page 28
GAA Special Congress Report Page 29
Central Council Meeting Report Page 30
2002 NACB Nominations Page 31
2002 Motions Page 32
Bórd Contae Meiriceá Thuaidh, Chomhdháil Bhliantúil - NACB Annual Convention, November 16, 2002 3
CONVENTION AGENDA
Friday, November 15, Tara Room
9:00 PM NACB Meeting w/ Philadelphia Divisional Representatives 9:30 PM NACB Meeting w/ Western Divisional Representatives 10:00 PM NACB Meeting w/ NACB Youth Divisional Representatives
Saturday, November 16, Tara Room
8:30 AM Delegate Registration Complimentary Coffee and Rolls 9:00 AM Call to Order and Invocation 9:10 AM Welcome by Host Division 9:15 AM Adoption of Standing Orders 9:30 AM Adoption of Minutes of 2001 Convention 9:45 AM Adoption of Minutes of 2002 Pre-Playoff Meeting 10:00 AM Adoption of Secretary’s Report 10:15 AM Adoption of Treasurer’s Report 10:30 AM Adoption of Registrar’s Report 10:45 AM Adoption of P.R.O.’s Report 11:00 AM Adoption of Youth Officer’s Report 11:15 AM Other Reports and Any Other Business 11:45 AM Chair’s closing remarks for 2002 12:00 PM Conclusion of NACB business for 2002
Adjourn for lunch, provided compliments of The Chicago Central Divisional Board
1:30 PM Election of Convention Chair and Secretary 1:45 PM Roll call of Delegates 2:00 PM Election of NACB Officers for 2003 2:30 PM Convention Motions 5:00 PM Any Other Business 5:30 PM Convention Adjourns
6:00 PM Mass in the Tara Room 7:00 PM Dinner in the Tara Room
Sunday, November 17, Tara Room
8:30 AM Resumption of Convention (if necessary)
Bórd Contae Meiriceá Thuaidh, Chomhdháil Bhliantúil - NACB Annual Convention, November 16, 2002 4
STANDING ORDERS
In order that the proceedings of the Convention may be carried out without delay, the following Standing Orders will be observed:
1. The Proposer of a Motion, or of an Amendment thereto, may speak for 2 minutes, but not more than 2 minutes.
2. A delegate speaking to a Motion or an Amendment must not exceed 1 minute. A maximum of two delegates from any one club shall speak on any one motion.
3. The Proposer of a Motion or Amendment may speak a second time for 1 minute before a vote is taken, but no other Delegate may speak a second time to the same Motion or Amendment.
4. The Chair may at any time s/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 Chair, move "that the question be now put", after which, when the Proposer has spoken, a vote must be taken.
6. A speaker to any Report or to any other general discussion shall not exceed 1 minute on any one topic.
7. Any motion seeking to amend a rule in the By-Laws or Official Guide 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 Chair of each Divisional Board shall have one vote.
10. Each affiliated club shall be entitled to 2 votes even if only represented by one delegate.
11. The Chair may change the order of items on the agenda with the support of a simple majority of those present, entitled to vote, and voting at Convention.
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NACB DELEGATE VOTES
..7. . NACB OFFICERS - CHAIR, VICE-CHAIR, SECRETARY, TREASURER, REGISTRAR, P.R.O., YOUTH OFFICER ATLANTA (SOUTHERN) DIVISIONAL BOARD ..1. FLORIDA DIVISIONAL BOARD ..1. ATLANTA CLAN NA GAEL WOMEN'S FOOTBALL ..2. FLORIDA ST. PAT'S MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. ATLANTA CLAN NA GAEL MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. MIDWEST DIVISIONAL BOARD ..1. CHARLOTTE JAMES CONNOLLY ..2. PITTSBURGH CELTICS MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. BOSTON NORTHEAST DIVISIONAL BOARD ..1. BUFFALO CU CHULAINNS MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. BOSTON AIDEN McANESPIES MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. DETROIT DETROIT ST. ANNE'S WOMEN'S FOOTBALL ..2. BOSTON CHRISTOPHER'S MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. DETROIT PADRAIG PEARSE MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. BOSTON CONNEMARA GAELS MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. CLEVELAND ST. JARLATH'S MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. BOSTON CORK HURLING ..2. CLEVELAND ST. PATS WOMEN'S FOOTBALL ..2. BOSTON CORK MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. CLEVELAND ST. PATS MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. BOSTON DONEGAL MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. DETROIT WOLFE TONES MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. BOSTON EIRE OG CAMOGIE ..2. MIDWEST YOUTH BOARD ..2. BOSTON EMERALD ISLE CAMOGIE ..2. NORTHWEST DIVISIONAL BOARD ..1. BOSTON FR. TOM BURKE'S HURLING ..2. SEATTLE GAELS WOMEN'S FOOTBALL ..2. BOSTON GALWAY HURLING ..2. SEATTLE GAELS MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. BOSTON GALWAY MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. PHILADELPHIA DIVISIONAL BOARD ..1. BOSTON KERRY MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. WASHINGTON D.C. GAELS WOMEN'S FOOTBALL ..2. BOSTON LIMERICK HURLING ..2. WASHINGTON D.C. GAELS MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. BOSTON MAYO MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. PHILADELPHIA DONEGAL MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. BOSTON NEW ENGLAND CELTICS ..2. PHILADELPHIA EMERALD EAGLE WOMEN'S ..2. BOSTON NOTRE DAME MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. PHILADELPHIA KEVIN BARRY'S / DERRY MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. BOSTON ROSCOMMON WOMEN'S FOOTBALL ..2. PHILADELPHIA NOTRE DAME WOMEN'S FOOTBALL ..2. BOSTON SHAMROCKS WOMEN'S FOOTBALL ..2. PHILADELPHIA TYRONE MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. BOSTON SHANNON BLUES MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. PHILADELPHIA YOUNG IRELANDERS MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. BOSTON ST. COLUMBKILLES MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. PHILADELPHIA YOUTH BOARD ..2. BOSTON ST. PATRICK'S MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. SOUTHERN CAL DIVISIONAL BOARD ..1. BOSTON TIPPERARY HURLING ..2. SAN DIEGO CLAN NA GAEL MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. BOSTON TIR NA nOG WOMEN'S FOOTBALL ..2. SAN DIEGO NA FIANNA WOMEN'S FOOTBALL ..2. BOSTON WATERFORD WOMEN'S FOOTBALL ..2. ORANGE COUNTY ROISIN ..2. BOSTON WEXFORD HURLERS ..2. SAN DIEGO SETANTA MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. BOSTON WOLFE TONES MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. LOS ANGELES WILD GEESE MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. BOSTON YOUTH BOARD ..2. WESTERN DIVISIONAL BOARD ..1. CHICAGO CENTRAL DIVISIONAL BOARD ..1. SAN FRANCISCO CAILINI SAOIRSE WOMEN'S FOOTBALL ..2. CHICAGO CU CHULLAINNS HURLING ..2. SAN FRANCISCO CLAN NA GAEL WOMEN'S FOOTBALL ..2. CHICAGO ERIN'S OWN HURLING ..2. SAN FRANCISCO FOG CITY HARPS WOMEN'S FOOTBALL ..2. CHICAGO ERIN'S ROVERS WOMEN'S FOOTBALL ..2. SAN FRANCISCO MICHAEL CUSACK'S MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. CHICAGO HARRY BOLAND'S HURLING ..2. SAN FRANCISCO NA FIANNA HURLING ..2. CHICAGO LIMERICK HURLING & CAMOGIE ..2. BURLINGAME NAOMH PADRAIG HURLING ..2. CHICAGO PADRAIG PEARSE MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. BURLINGAME NAOMH PADRAIG MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. CHICAGO PARNELLS MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. SAN FRANCISCO ROBERT EMMETT'S HURLING ..2. CHICAGO SEAN McBRIDE'S MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. SAN FRANCISCO SEAN TREACYS MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. CHICAGO ST. BRENDAN'S MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. SAN FRANCISCO SHAMROCK'S CAMOGIE ..2. CHICAGO ST. BRIDGETS WOMEN'S FOOTBALL ..2. SAN FRANCISCO SHANNON RANGERS MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. CHICAGO ST. MARY'S CAMOGIE ..2. SAN FRANCISCO SONS OF BORU MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. CHICAGO WOLFE TONES MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. OAKLAND ST. BRENDAN'S MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. CHICAGO YOUTH BOARD ..2. SAN JOSE ST. JOSEPH MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. DENVER DIVISIONAL BOARD ..1. SAN FRANCISCO ULSTER GAELIC MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. DENVER GAELS WOMEN'S FOOTBALL ..2. SAN FRANCISCO YOUNG IRELANDER'S MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. DENVER GAELS MEN’S FOOTBALL ..2. SAN FRANCISCO YOUTH BOARD ..2.
TOTALS: 7 NACB OFFICERS, 83 AFFILIATED ADULT CLUBS, 5 YOUTH BOARDS, 10 DIVISIONS = 193 POSSIBLE VOTES 47 MEN'S FOOTBALL TEAMS, 19 WOMEN'S FOOTBALL TEAMS, 13 HURLING TEAMS, 4 CAMOGIE TEAMS
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NOVEMBER 2001, NACB CONVENTION MINUTES, Part 1
From The 2001 N.A.C.B. Convention Held In Boston November 9th & 10th
• Chairman Sean Gannon held an informal meeting on Friday at 10:00 p.m. which was attended by all the Board Officers and some Delegates • The Convention Agenda was distributed th • Buses would leave the Hotel at 8 a.m. Saturday November 10 • Convention to start at 8:30 a.m. at the Irish Cultural Center • Lunch would be served at noon • Dinner served after Convention • Followed by Mass • Everyone was happy with hotel rooms at the Marriott • Inter-City Championship Medals were handed out to Chicago, San Francisco and Philadelphia • John McDevitt stated that names were missing from Nomination forms and also a lot of Motions • Chairman, Sean Gannon said, “this will be taken care of tomorrow” • Tea, coffee & light refreshments were served • The board meeting started at 11:45 p.m. • Chairman, Sean Gannon asked what do we do about the Tyrone Case • After some discussion it was decided to appoint a 3 man committee to hear the case • Appointed were: Joe Begley, John Flynn & John Keane • The Board also looked over the motions that were submitted for Convention • Chairman, Sean Gannon stated that he was abused and threatened by delegates from Philadelphia at the hotel • He stated that the Board had made their decision based on the information available to them on the objection lodged by Donegal, Philadelphia and he was not going to be bullied for following the rules
th Saturday November 10 , 2001 Convention Held at I.C.C.
• Convention got off to a late start at 9:40 a.m. • John McDevitt welcomed all the delegates on behalf of the N.E.B. • Mike O’Connor welcomed everyone to the I.C.C. • Roll call was taken, there would be a total of 99 votes • Adoption of standing orders was called for • John McDevitt asked about the Nomination Forms st • He was informed by the N.A.C.B. Secretary that the deadline was October 31 • Chairman, Sean Gannon responded by stating that the Nominations were not signed by a Club Secretary and there were 2 sets of Nomination Forms sent to the N.A.C.B. Secretary which had totally different names st • Tom Pervis stated they got their Nomination Papers with October 31 deadline • N.A.C.B. Secretary agree and stated why this happened, “a typo was made by my daughter” • John McDevitt asked who was the Secretary Connie Kelly or his daughter • Sean Gannon said, “People have to be respected on this board and there may have been mistakes and the Nominations are mute in any case. They did not come from Clubs and if we accept this kind of stuff, we might as well close up shop” • Chairman, Sean Gannon also stated that the N.E.B. went to the playoffs in San Francisco, Clubs refused to send in Team Lists, Clubs also refused to hand in Team Sheets, it was a total contempt of Rules and Regulations and he stated fines would be imposed • John McDevitt stood up and asked Chairman, Sean Gannon why he can’t be a man and not tell lies • Sean Gannon made a statement on his record as a G.A.A. man and he would not be like other people going to New York kissing arse and trying to break up the N.A.C.B. New York was also back at Congress trying to take our vote but they were asked to withdraw their motion. Monty Maloney was running to the press every week running down the North American Board, with statements like, shove it when the N.A.C.B. extended the hand of friendship and if the N.A.C.B. was a race horse, it would be shot and Boston was trying to get Philadelphia to join with them • John McDevitt said you are only a mouthpiece and you refused to play N.Y. End of discussion • All were in favor of retaining standing orders
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• The Delegate from San Diego explained why the Playoffs were not held in that city • At this point the Secretary’s Report was accepted and seconded • Chairman, stated appeals have to pay for Part of Conference Calls
Treasurer’s Report
• Q. By John O’Brien, who authorized the cost of Inter-City Games? A. The Board did • Chairman, Sean Gannon said the Board agreed to help out with traveling expenses • Q. What kind of income came out of the venture and will there be a report coming to explain the expenses? A. Sean Gannon: The Treasurer is better off now that when we started. The N.A.C.B. wanted to start something new and the games held in Boston proved to be successful in spite of all those people who tried their best to destroy the weekend • Johnny Guirke, Aiden McAnespies Delegate said it would be good if the winners would go forward to the All-Ireland Club Championships • Chairman Sean Gannon spoke about the success by the N.A.C.B. in the International Competition. We won 3 out of the 5 finals so far. What we are doing is trying to promote the Gaelic Games. The Winner’s Trophy was worth $60,000.00 and it was an honor for the N.A.C.B. to bring it back here • Another question was asked from the floor, what was the income from the Inter City Games? • Sean Gannon stated we had sponsorship from Guinness and Setanta Sports. We had no figures on gate receipts but if we got some local support, we could have broke even • Q. On All Ireland Tickets. A. Danny O’Donnell said he had a few spare tickets on All Ireland Day and he gave them away, no one had a problem with that
Registrar’s Report
• Q. Why has Florida two Junior Clubs? A. No answer • Q. Can you form a new club with a junior team? A. You can, as long as you don’t take players from another club • Report accepted and seconded
Public Relations Officer’s Report
• Q. By Owen Tracy: Do we attend every Central Council meeting? He suggested we should attend every meeting and keep making our case. Croke Park is paying for part of expenses, we have to push Croke Park for Sanctions • A. Motion was moved and seconded
Minor Board’s Report
• Q. By Joe Begley: Why did teams not participate in more games, more has to be done in American cities • A. Mike Moxley said the Youth Officer did a good job • Q. On expenses on Board trying to accommodate Minors. A. None given • Q. On Playoffs: Kevin Barry’s traveled to San Francisco and only played one game in Intermediate Football • A. N.A.C.B. has a major problem at Playoffs, there are only 3 Intermediate Football teams. It was suggested to up grade the Playoffs, there are too many games of poor standard. There are not enough Senior teams competing at the Playoffs. It was suggested to have 2 Senior teams from Big divisions, Johnny Guirke said it would be very hard to go to the Playoffs as losers • Q. Has the Club in San Francisco been fined for not fielding a team? A. No, not yet • Q. Why was there two Junior teams in San Francisco? A. So one team did not get a bye • Q. Is there going to be a mercy hearing on Philadelphia case? A. Yes, a committee will hear the case during lunch
Chairman’s Closing Remarks
• The Board had a lot of things to clean up with san Diego but we got through the difficult times • The G.A.A. is all about the games. When a Board takes office, politics should have no place in the G.A.A. • I’m looking for unity. We should not be in defiance of N.A.C.B.
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• It calls for unity and loyalty. This Board did a good job and we started something new in the Inter-City games and hope they improve and continue • The N.A.C.B. is growing all the time and Divisional Boards should do things for the right reason • I’m very proud of all the Board Officers and I ask you for your full support of all elected Officers • Meeting adjourned at noon for lunch • Convention continued at 1:30 p.m. with roll call, voting cards were handed out. Danny Stuart from Gaelic Gear addressed the crowd as did Ger Logan from Belfast who makes hurleys • Result of hearing: The committee lifted the suspension on Colm Cambridge • John Hehir was elected Convention Chairman, Connie Kelly as Secretary and teller, Mike Connor, Ann Maria Joyce and Kieran Conway • There was a request to remove standing orders. Convention Chairman said it must have a 2/3 majority st • John McDevitt said he got a letter from Connie Kelly stating October 31 was closing date for Nominations and Motions nd • John McDevitt made a motion to suspend standing orders. 2 by Tom Fergus • John McDevitt made reference to Connie Kelly’s e-mail • Chris Knightly made a request for a secret ballot. It would need 2/3 majority to pass needing 79 votes • Q. The Chairman had ruled this morning. A. If it passes there will be a discussion on it, if not, there will be no more about it • The vote was taken and defeated the motion on a count of Yes, 67 and No, 50. Standing orders would not be changed • Sean Gannon after listening to 10 minutes of heated debate asked the Chairman to move on with the Convention. He did not. • Mike Sweeney, St. Columbkilles Delegate asked if he was been deprived of his vote here today • Sean Gannon replied stating the N.E.B. Nominations were not signed by a Club Secretary • Owen Tracy said they should allow the N.E.B. to cast their votes • Kathleen, the San Diego Delegate said Rule 51 of the N.A.C.B. states: Nominations should be in on time • Tommy Dolan said we have a problem here we have to stop this carryon right now and we all pull together for the good of the G.A.A. • Sean Gannon said a vote was taken and the Convention should continue • Convention Chairman, John Hehir would not continue as requested • After 15 minutes of insults and innuendoes, Sean Gannon made a statement on the proceedings, he said in conclusion that for the sake of unity he would let it go to a vote and allow democracy to take it’s place • Chris Knightly made it clear that one letter had no signature and should not be allowed if a candidate winds up in a tie and with that voting began with results as follows:
Chairman John McDevitt 68 Sean Gannon 49 Vice-Chairman Tommy Dolan 62 Johnny Guirke 55 Secretary John Keane 60 Ann O’Dea 35 Connie Kelly 22 st Treasurer 1 Danny O’Donnell 39 Mickey Coyne 37 Jim Carmody 25 Bridie Joyce 16 nd Treasurer 2 Danny O’Donnell 50 Mickey Coyne 42 Jim Carmody 24 rd Treasurer 3 Mickey Coyne 63 Danny O’Donnell 54 Registrar Chris Knightly N/A P.R.O. Eamonn Kelly N/A Youth Tim Flanagan N/A Honorary John Hehir N/A President
Submitted by
Connie Kelly NACB Secretary, 2001
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NOVEMBER 2001, NACB CONVENTION MINUTES, Part 2
At 4:35 PM, following the election of Officers, the Elections Chair, John Hehir, turned the meeting over to the new NACB Chair, John McDevitt. The Chair welcomed the new NACB officers, complimented the outgoing NACB officers and the Northeast Divisional officers and wished them the best. The other officers in turn, thanked the outgoing officers for their hard work, and thanked the delegates for their confidence in them.
The first item on the Agenda under New Business was dealing with convention motions.
1. MOTION: That for all future NACB Conventions, the NACB shall adhere to Rule 51 Official Guide (1997) which states: The County Secretary shall send an Agenda, which shall include his Report and the Audited Accounts for the year, with the nominations and motions, to each Club Secretary and to the outgoing County Committee at least one week before the Convention. Submitted By: Northwest Division, Seattle Gaels Men & Women. Following a brief discussion, the motion passed unanimously.
2. MOTION: That the NACB Playoff Regulations, Rule 17. General Rules (1) be changed to read: The NACB fee for all playoff finals shall be $20,000.00 payable to the NACB Treasurer at the Annual Convention prior to the playoffs. Of that amount, $10,000.00 will be refunded to the Host Division one month after the Playoffs, providing a majority of the NACB Officers agree that the Playoffs were organized and run in accordance with the promises made by the Host Division. Submitted By: Northwest Division, Seattle Gaels Men & Women. This motion was combined for discussion purposes with Motions 4, 7, 8, 15, & 23 and was ultimately referred to a Playoffs Restructuring Committee established under Motion 15.
3. MOTION: That the NACB By-Laws # 12, Annual Convention, (d) have the following added: A motion defeated at the most recent annual convention will not be eligible for consideration at the following Annual Convention unless there are substantial changes to the wording and intent of the motion. Submitted By: Northwest Division, Seattle Gaels Men & Women Following discussion, the motion was passed with the Yes votes of more than a two-thirds majority of those present and voting.
4. MOTION: That the NACB Playoffs be held in a city with proper facilities such as showers, dressing rooms, proper toilets, running water and outlets on the grounds. Submitted By: Central Division, Cu Chulainn Hurling Club This motion was combined for discussion purposes with Motions 2, 7, 8, 15, & 23 and was ultimately referred to a Playoffs Restructuring Committee established under Motion 14.
5. MOTION: That the deadline for home based registration be extended from April 30th to May 30th. Submitted By: Central Division, Cu Chulainn Hurling Club This motion was combined for discussion purposes with Motions 11, 12, 18, & 22 and was ultimately defeated under a vote taken on Motion 22.
6. MOTION: Add motion under R7, Summer Visitor Players: Definite number of out of town players allowed in Camogie. Submitted By: Central Division, St. Mary's Camogie Following discussion, the motion was amended to read: “That 7 out-of-town players will be allowed in Camogie”. The motion as amended was passed with the Yes votes of more than a two-thirds majority of those present and voting.
7. MOTION: Add motions under R9 NACB Playoff Games: a. Fields marked/lined out properly. b. A medic available during all matches. c. Nets between fields to protect players and stop the ball from other fields interrupting play. d. Fields must be sanitary - i.e. running water, showers and proper changing rooms. Submitted By: Central Division, St. Mary's Camogie This motion was combined for discussion purposes with Motions 2, 4, 8, 15, & 23 and was ultimately referred to a Playoffs Restructuring Committee established under Motion 14.
8. MOTION: Change to Motion R9 (M): Linesmen should be dressed in distinguishing garb. Submitted By: Central Division, St. Mary's Camogie This motion was combined for discussion purposes with Motions 2, 4, 7, 15, & 23 and was ultimately referred to a Playoffs Restructuring Committee established under Motion 14.
9. MOTION: Regulation R7 - Summer Visitor Players 7(d) change: "No more than 3 Summer Visitor Players" to "No more than 5 Summer Visitor Players." Submitted By: Central Division, St. Brigids L.G.F.C. This motion was combined for discussion purposes with Motion 10. Following discussion, the motion was passed with the Yes votes of more than a two-thirds majority of those present and voting. (This means that 5 Summer Visitor players are now permitted on Senior and Junior Ladies Football teams)
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10. MOTION: Regulation R7 - Summer Visitor Players 7(d) changes: "In both Ladies Senior and Junior Football, each team shall be limited to no more than 3 Summer Visitor Players on the field at one time" to "In Ladies Senior, each team shall limited to no more than 5 Summer Visitor Players and Ladies Junior Football shall be limited to no more than 3 Summer Visitor Players on the field at any one time." Submitted By: Central Division, St. Brigids L.G.F.C. This motion was combined with Motion 9, which was ultimately passed.
11. MOTION: Registration deadline for Base Players be extended to May 31st of the current year. Submitted By: Philadelphia Divisional Board This motion was combined for discussion purposes with Motions 5, 12, 18, & 22 and was ultimately defeated under a vote taken on Motion 22.
12. MOTION: Registration deadline for Base Players be extended to June 15th of the current year. Submitted By: Philadelphia Divisional Board This motion was combined for discussion purposes with Motions 5, 11, 18, & 22 and was ultimately defeated under a vote taken on Motion 22.
13. MOTION: That By-Law # 11(b) of the NACB 2000 By-Laws and Regulations be changed to read as follows: "A sanction shall not be granted later than June 20th in any given year." **Tyrone GFC requests that this motion be give a trial period of 2 years. Submitted By: Philadelphia Division, Tyrone G.F.C. Following discussion, the motion was defeated when it obtained substantially less than the required Yes votes of two-thirds of those present and voting.
14. MOTION: The Regulation # 7(b) of the NACB 2000 By-Laws and Regulations be changed to read as follows: "In Senior and Intermediate Football each team shall have no more than 5 Summer Visitor Players on the field at any one time." **Tyrone GFC requests that this motion be give a trial period of 2 years. Submitted By: Philadelphia Division, Tyrone G.F.C. This motion was combined for discussion purposes with Motions 17 & 26. Following discussion, the motion was defeated when it obtained less than the required Yes votes of two-thirds of those present and voting.
15. MOTION: That a Special Committee be formed to look into the possibility of restructuring the playoff format. That Senior Football, Intermediate Football, Senior Hurling and Minor Football would take place at one venue and all other competitions take place at another venue. **Tyrone GFC requests that this motion be give a trial period of 2 years. Submitted By: Philadelphia Division, Tyrone G.F.C. This motion was combined for discussion purposes with Motions 2, 4, 7, 8, & 23. Following discussion the latter half of the motion was withdrawn by Tyrone G.F.C. and the amended motion (“That a Special Committee be formed to look into the possibility of restructuring the playoff format”) was passed unanimously.
16. MOTION: That By-Law # 11(d) of the NACB By-Laws and Regulations be changed to read as follows: "A player on a sanction, once he returns to Ireland (except in the case of the death of an immediate family member or a legitimate student who must return to University to re-sit an exam) cannot afterwards in the year return to the NACB area to play in NACB competition." **Tyrone GFC requests that this motion be give a trial period of 2 years. Submitted By: Philadelphia Division, Tyrone G.F.C. This motion was combined for discussion purposes with Motions 21. Following discussion, the motion was defeated when it obtained substantially less than the required Yes votes of two-thirds of those present and voting.
17. MOTION: All Senior Grades are allowed 5 out-of-town players. Change Regulation R7 (A), (B), (C) & (D). Submitted By: Central Division, Wolfe Tones This motion was combined with Motions 14 & 26. Motion 14 was defeated when it obtained substantially less than the required Yes votes of two-thirds of those present and voting.
18. MOTION: Change By-Law 9 to read: Deadline for home-base players to be extended to May 31st. Submitted By: Central Division, Wolfe Tones This motion was combined for discussion purposes with Motions 5, 11, 12, & 22 and was ultimately defeated under a vote taken on Motion 22.
19. MOTION: All Minor Board Officers should vote only on Minor Board affairs. Submitted By: Central Division, Wolfe Tones Following discussion, the motion was declared Out of Order by the Chairman.
20. MOTION: That the name "Central Divisional Board" be changed to "Chicago Divisional Board." Submitted By: Central Division Following discussion, the motion was referred back to the Divisional Board for decision.
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21. MOTION: ByLaw 11D to also include students having to retake exams. (See # 16 above). Submitted by: Northeast Division, Tir na nOg LGFC. This motion was combined with Motion 16, which was defeated when it obtained substantially less than the required Yes votes of two-thirds of those present and voting.
th th 22. MOTION: To change the date for home base players from April 30 to May 20 . Submitted by: Northeast Division, St. Pat’s This motion was combined for discussion purposes with Motions 5, 11, 12, & 18 and was amended th th to read “To change the date for home base players from April 30 to May 30 ,” but the amended motion was defeated when it obtained a less than two-thirds majority of the votes of those present and voting (58 Yes, 35 No).
23. MOTION: To eliminate penalty to clubs in regards to being present at the banquet after the NACB finals. Submitted by: Northeast Division, Connemara Gaels This motion was combined for discussion purposes with Motions 2, 4, 7, 8, & 15 and was ultimately referred to a Playoffs Restructuring Committee established under Motion 14.
24. MOTION: That the Boston Northeast Division host the 2003 NACB Playoffs. Submitted by: Northeast Division, Tir na nOg LGFC. Following discussion, in the light of San Francisco hosting the 2001 Playoffs on the withdrawal of San Diego, a motion was accepted, and the delegates unanimously voted to suspend Standing Orders to permit the Convention to deal with the awarding of the Playoffs for the next several years. A motion was made and passed unanimously “That we revoke last year’s decision to award the Playoffs in 2002 to Philadelphia, in 2003 to San Francisco, and in 2004 to Boston”. A motion was made and passed unanimously “That we award the Playoffs in 2002 to Philadelphia”. A motion was made “That the convention vote to award the 2003 Playoffs to the city receiving the most votes”. That motion was passed when it received substantially more than the required Yes votes of two-thirds of those present and voting. A vote was taken between the three cities proposed: Boston, Chicago and Washington, DC. Boston was declared the winner on a vote taken by a show of hands. A motion was made: “That the Playoffs should not be awarded to any city more than two years in advance of the date of the Playoffs.” That motion was passed when it received substantially more than the required Yes votes of two-thirds of those present and voting.
Standing Orders were now restored and the convention resumed discussing motions that had been submitted in advance.
25. MOTION: If Philly cannot accommodate the 2002 NACB Playoffs that the Boston Northeast Division be considered to host them. Submitted by: Northeast Division, Tir na nOg LGFC. Following discussion and an assurance from Philadelphia delegates that they were able to accommodate the 2002 Playoffs, this motion was withdrawn.
26. MOTION: To decrease the amount of homebase players to eight. Submitted by: Northeast Division, St. Pat’s. This motion was combined with Motions 14 & 17. Motion 14 was defeated when it obtained substantially less than the required Yes votes of two-thirds of those present and voting.
27. MOTION: Notre Dame GFC moves that the North American Board alter its By-Laws to state that it shall not overturn any decision made by any Divisional Board, unless the Divisional Board’s decision in question has violated the North American Board’s By-Laws. Submitted by: Northeast Division, Notre Dame. Following discussion, the motion was declared Out of Order.
28. MOTION: That the winners of the Inter-City Competition be eligible to play in Quarter-Final or Semi-Final of the All-Ireland Club. That North American Board push this with Croke Park. Submitted By: Boston Northeast, Aidan McAnespies. Following discussion, the motion was withdrawn with the understanding that the NACB will discuss with Croke Park the possibility of NACB Men’s and Women’s teams and Hurling teams competing in All-Ireland competitions.
29. In the absence of a motion in advance, the Chair invited a MOTION from the floor to determine the site of the 2002 Convention: That the location of the 2002 NACB convention be decided on a show of hands between San Diego and Chicago. Following discussion, Chicago was declared the winner on a vote taken by a show of hands.
30. The Chair accepted a MOTION from the floor: That this convention recommend that the NACB delegates at Congress support the candidacy of Sean Kelly for President of the GAA. Without discussion, the motion was declared passed.
Under other business, the Chairman invited delegates to submit the names of Gaels who had passed away in the past year. Among the names submitted were Imelda Tracey, Owen Roe O’Neill, Anne Cole, Peggy McCartan,
Bórd Contae Meiriceá Thuaidh, Chomhdháil Bhliantúil - NACB Annual Convention, November 16, 2002 12
Patricia Coyle, Gerry McGettigan, Alex Griffin, Martin O’Connell, Sean Canavan (killed in the WTC attacks), Chris Flaherty, Tom Bohan, Gene Mahon, Colm Fagen, Liam Foley and Kerry Cooper. Delegates were also asked to remember Gaels Geoff Butler, Mike Hines and Sean Gannon who were suffering serious illness. All of those were remembered by name during a Mass celebrated by Fr. Parker in the convention room after the convention ended at 5:35 PM.
Le fíor-mheas,
Seán Ó Catháin, Rúnaí, 2002
PRE-PLAYOFF MEETING MINUTES, CHICAGO GAELIC PARK, MAY 18, 2002
The Pre-Playoff meeting was called to order in the meeting room at Chicago Gaelic Park at 10:20 AM. The Chair, John McDevitt, asked for a minute’s silence and a prayer in memory of Geoff Butler and Sean Gannon, former Chairs of the NACB, and of Batt Knightly, father of NACB Registrar Chris Knightly.
Joe Begley, Chair of the Chicago Central Divisional Board, welcomed the delegates to Chicago.
The Roll Call of delegates from the 11 Divisions & 7 NACB Officers was as follows: NACB Chairman: John McDevitt NACB Vice-Chairman: Tommy Dolan NACB Treasurer: Mickey Coyne NACB Registrar: Chris Knightly NACB Public Relations: Eamonn Kelly NACB Youth Development Officer: Absent NACB Secretary: John Keane Arizona (Phoenix) Division: John Challoner Boston Northeast Division: James Grealish Chicago Central Division: Joe Begley Denver Division: Absent Florida Division: Noel Walsh Midwest Division: Eileen Maloney Northwest (Seattle) Division: Absent Philadelphia Division: Eamonn Tohill Southern (Atlanta) Division: Paul McQuaid Southern California Division: Kathleen Gardiner Western (San Francisco) Division: Malachy Higgins Total: 16 Votes
Sharon Jarbeau, Chair of the Northeast Camogie Association, asked that she be given a vote, but the consensus of delegates was that only Divisions were entitled to a vote. It was also agreed that while only delegates could vote, the many others present would be entitled to speak on any issue raised.
The Chair explained that as a result of a review of the Finances, a Revised 2001 NACB Financial Report was being submitted which showed that the end of 2001, the balance should have been reported as approximately $15,000 rather than the $32,000 that was reported. It was stressed that no NACB money was missing or misused in 2001, but the discrepancy came about because of a serious accounting error and unpaid bills from 2001.
The Report of the Playoff Restructuring Committee and the Trial Playoff Restructuring Proposals were submitted for discussion and for a vote. After considerable discussion and argument, with many delegates wanting the Report addressed at the meeting as promised, and several others insisting that the Pre-Playoff delegates did not have the authority to adopt any of the Report’s Proposals, the Chair ruled that the Report’s recommendations could only be adopted at an NACB Convention. Consideration of the Report and its Proposals was therefore postponed until November’s Convention.
A report was given on how the Playoffs were moved from Philadelphia to Chicago, with discussion of the fact that Denver was considered as a replacement when Philadelphia withdrew. The issue of potential problems for some players traveling to the Playoffs was discussed.
The Chicago Central Division turned over a check for $10,000 to the Treasurer as the Host Fee for the 2002 Playoffs. The NACB was asked to keep the $10,000 already deposited by the Philadelphia Divisional Board as a deposit for a future Philadelphia Playoff.
Harry Costelloe of the Chicago Playoff Committee addressed in detail the Playoff Host List of Minimum Requirements and a commitment was made to provide the items listed.
The issue of Referees for the Youth Board Playoffs was discussed with emphasis on getting Referees from the Junior Divisions to referee Minor Games.
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On the issue of buses for players and spectators, Harry said that all travelers by air should plan on using Midway Airport as the hotels would provide free transportation to and from Midway, but adults who require the Host Playoff Committee to provide bus transportation from Midway or O’Hare airports will be charged $20 each r/t. He outlined arrangements for the hotels and the numbers of rooms reserved for the various Divisions as well as the field layouts, etc., and handouts were provided to the delegates listing the hotels, showing the field layouts, etc. 14 buses have been tentatively booked to transfer people for free from the hotels to Gaelic Park and back. All players and spectators will be charged the full admission fee to the games - $10 Friday, $15 Saturday, $20 Sunday, $35 weekend pass. On the Banquet, the Host Committee proposed that only the winning teams be required to purchase a table of tickets and the delegates accepted that proposal. Both Finalists in every competition will give a check to the Host Committee on Saturday evening, and the losing finalist will receive their check back after the final on Sunday. Banquet tickets are $60 each – open bar, etc.
On the Camogie competition, questions were raised about rules, etc. It was agreed that a meeting would be held after June 1 via conference call to iron out any issues.
A tour of the grounds was arranged for all the delegates to check out the fields, dressing rooms, etc.
The 2002 Playoffs Draw took place. For each competition, agreement was reached and a commitment was made regarding which Divisions would send teams to compete. It was agreed that Chicago would provide two teams for the Men’s Senior Hurling; that San Francisco would enter their Intermediate Football winner in the NACB Senior Football competition with their Intermediate runner-up in the NACB Intermediate competition; that the Midwest and rd Chicago would not be permitted to enter two teams in the Junior “A” Football Competition; that the 3 place team in the Midwest would be that Division’s representative in the Men’s Junior “B” competition (later changed by the NACB nd to the 2 place team); that Washington DC would be permitted to enter the Junior “B” Football Competition; and that the Chicago Camogie runner-up would be the fourth team in the NACB Camogie competition as Philadelphia would not have a Senior Camogie team. Washington DC asked for a Junior Camogie competition but as there were no Junior Camogie teams affiliated, that wasn’t possible. On a majority vote, it was agreed that there would not be seeding of teams in the draw.
See attached copy of the completed draws for: Men - Senior Hurling, Senior Football, Intermediate Football, Junior Hurling, Junior “A” Football, Junior “B” Football, Ladies - Senior Football, Junior Football, Camogie.
A written report on the GAA Congress and the International Dimension Committee meeting in Dublin was distributed. It was announced that, effective May 18, the NACB had a permanent representative on Central Council and the Chair stated that Eamonn Kelly was our Central Council delegate until the NACB Convention in November when the delegates there would elect the NACB Central Council delegate for the coming year.
Féile Peil na nÓg was discussed and Minor Board delegates present complained that only San Francisco had been given the option of sending an underage team to Ireland (This was later clarified by Tim Flanagan who was able to demonstrate that in February all the Minor Divisions had been made aware of the opportunity to send teams to Ireland).
The International Competition was discussed and the issues surrounding which players qualify, transfers, etc. were explained. Tommy Dolan is the NACB Tour Manager. Trevor Kane of Chicago is the Men’s Team Manager, with selectors Kevin McGuinness of San Francisco, Martin Kerr of Boston & Sean Breen of Philadelphia. Bertie Penny of San Francisco is the Women’s Team Manager, with selectors Breda Hanley of Chicago, Kieran Cox of Boston & Sean Breen of Philadelphia. All Divisions were invited to submit names of individuals who should be considered for selection.
Copies of Rule Books for Men’s Football and Hurling, for Ladies Football, and for Camogie, were distributed free to all Divisions, and copies of the Official Guide were made available at a fee of $6. Coaching CD-ROMs for Hurling and Football were also distributed free to all Divisions. Copies of the rule regarding the “Blood Substitutions” were also distributed - see attached.
The Chair addressed the issues surrounding the handling of the 2001 NACB Finances and the agreement that was reached with the former NACB Treasurer to settle the matter. Danny O’Donnell had been suspended since March 18 and the suspension was lifted on May 17 under an agreement whereby he simultaneously resigned as Chair of the Chicago Central Division. The NACB Officers affirmed that there was no evidence of any deliberate misreporting or misuse of NACB funds during his term as Treasurer in 2001. All Divisions were notified that in future any NACB bills must be submitted to the NACB Treasurer for payment no later than October 15 in the current year.
The meeting adjourned at 3:15 PM and the Divisional Board hosted lunch in Gaelic Park for all delegates.
Le fíor-mheas,
Seán Ó Catháin Rúnaí, 2002
Bórd Contae Meiriceá Thuaidh, Chomhdháil Bhliantúil - NACB Annual Convention, November 16, 2002 14
2002 NACB SECRETARY’S REPORT
November 10, 2002
A Cháirde,
It gives me great pleasure to look back on 2002 and be able to report that the NACB had a very successful year. We saw some wonderful games of Gaelic Football, Hurling and Camogie, especially at the Playoffs, all of them games played in a most sporting manner with great skill and passion. Our Divisional Championships and our national NACB Playoffs are a credit to the hard work, dedication and commitment of the GAA members who are involved in the 83 affiliated NACB clubs in 21 different cities across the US. Not all of those clubs were winners on the field of play in 2002, but all Division and club organizers and supporters deserve great credit for the enthusiasm, time, and effort they annually contribute to keeping Gaelic games alive and well in the US. Their love of the game and their sense of fair play made 2002 in the NACB a year of which to be proud.
THE 2002 PLAYOFFS The 2002 NACB Playoffs, the culmination and highlight of our season, were a particular success. I especially want to highlight the part played by the Chicago Central Divisional Board, along with Chicago Gaelic Park and its volunteers, in making the 2002 Playoffs the most successful Playoffs ever. Chicago’s wonderful facilities and tremendous atmosphere were second to none, the cooperation and friendliness of everyone involved was unmatched, and we owe them our sincere thanks for being such wonderful hosts. I personally thank Joe Begley, Harry Costelloe, and indeed all the Chicago Playoff committee members, for their cooperation and assistance over the months of preparation for the Playoffs, as well as on the weekend itself. The record shows that while a few of our Playoff games in 2002 were one-sided, most were very competitive affairs with the results in doubt until the last few minutes. Of the total of 34 adult games that were played over the Playoffs weekend, 17 games were decided by 5 points or less, and 10 of them by 3 points or less. One game was decided only after extra time was played.
Therefore, congratulations to our 2002 NACB Champions whose trophies were deservedly earned on the field-of-play: Senior Hurling - Boston Tipperary; Junior Hurling - Boston Tipperary Men's Senior Football - Chicago Wolfe Tones Men's Intermediate Football - Philadelphia Kevin Barry's/Derry Men's Junior "A" Football - San Francisco Sons Of Boru Men's Junior "B" Football - Detroit WolfeTones Ladies Senior Football - Chicago Erin's Rovers Ladies Junior Football - San Francisco Saoirse Camogie - San Francisco Shamrocks Youth U-18 Football - Chicago Youth U-16 Football - Chicago Youth U-14 Football - San Francisco Youth U-12 Football - Chicago Youth U-10 Football - San Francisco
INTERNATIONAL COMPETITIONS We also had successes on the International field of play in 2002. Two underage teams from San Francisco traveled to Ireland and returned victorious. The U-14 team won the Féile Peil na nÓg while the Minor Team won the Minor International Competition. That was the first time an NACB team ever won the Minor International Competition. Sincere congratulations to the players and to all the people involved in the Youth Program in San Francisco. In September, the NACB Men’s and Women’s teams traveled to Dublin to compete in the Senior Football International Competitions. The NACB men were worthy winners when defeating the London County team in a great Men’s final. However, luck deserted the NACB Women’s team and allowed the London team to narrowly defeat them in the Women’s Semi-final. Overall, the International Competition
Bórd Contae Meiriceá Thuaidh, Chomhdháil Bhliantúil - NACB Annual Convention, November 16, 2002 15
this year was a tremendous event with NACB players who were obviously proud to represent their county and who were indeed worthy representatives. Congratulations to the players, and to the team managers and selectors, for the unqualified success of both teams. Despite the usual problems with players being unavailable for selection or unable to travel, our team managers and selectors did a tremendous job. Kudos also to Tour Manager, Tommy Dolan, who got all the right people involved and who had overall responsibility for the unqualified success of the International Senior Tour in 2002.
GAMES DEVELOPMENT In an effort to help the smaller Divisions, the NACB arranged a Junior Division conference call last May to discuss the problems that exist where every game requires one of the teams to travel out-of-town. It was a worthwhile call that produced some great ideas and suggestions that should be pursued further. There were no opportunities for the NACB to follow-up on the suggestions this year, but the new NACB Board should try again early in the new year to explore ways of promoting the game outside the four major cities of Boston, Chicago, Philadelphia and San Francisco. After all, two out of every three Football teams that competed at the 2002 NACB Playoffs were Junior Football teams. Our Youth Board has not received the support and attention it deserves. Our Youth Officer, Tim Flanagan, did a sterling job in 2002 with the resources he had at his disposal, but much more needs to be done. The fact is that the Youth Finals get scant attention during the Playoffs as all our attention appears directed towards the adult games. The Youth Program deserves better. More attention must also be paid to the promotion of Hurling and Camogie. Grants in the form of hurleys and sliothars are available and there are possible new Camogie or Hurling teams in Milwaukee and Atlanta. The issue of NACB Camogie teams competing in competitions involving New York also needs to be regularized. Plans to do that in 2002 were postponed because of other problems.
2002 PROBLEMS The biggest problem the NACB had this year was with Sanctions and the issue of illegal payments to players. Our relations with Croke Park were severely strained when, without notice, a hold was put on the approval of Sanctions late in July. Although the hold only lasted two weeks, it caused huge problems for some clubs in our major cities and probably altered the outcome of several Divisional championships. We believe we have now reestablished cordial relations with Croke Park, as can be seen from the minutes of an October 26 meeting between the NACB and GAA President-elect Sean Kelly and GAA Games Development Chair Pat Daly. On the issue of illegal payments to players, it must be pointed out that the problem appears to involve just a small number of NACB clubs whose actions are causing problems for all the NACB clubs. The fact is that GAA rules do not permit payments to players and Croke Park is adamant that it occurs in the NACB. They are equally adamant that the practice will be stopped, either by them or by the NACB. I can only urge the clubs involved to show restraint in this regard. Another problem that consumed huge amounts of NACB officer time and energy in 2002 revolved around straightening out the NACB finances from 2001. Unnoticed mistakes that had been made in accounting for 2001 income and expenses carried over into 2002, and it was May before all the 2001 bills were paid and the 2001 accounts properly detailed. While it must be stated that the NACB found no evidence of any deliberate misreporting or misuse of NACB funds in 2001, the fact is that the accounts were not reported properly. The NACB should require some kind of oversight committee to periodically verify the status of the NACB accounts. Because we usually elect a Treasurer with no accounting experience, we may not always be as lucky as we are today with a Treasurer as competent and conscientious as Mickey Coyne.
COACHING In 2003, as you will see in the minutes of the NACB/Sean Kelly meeting, the GAA in Ireland is prepared to provide Coaches to travel to the US, for months at a time if necessary, if the NACB clubs or Divisions will organize the coaching clinics. The only cost to the host club or Division is the individual’s room and board. This professional coach can be used in schools, colleges or for Youth teams, club teams, etc. Football and/or Hurling coaches will be provided. The only requirement is that there be proper preparation for the clinics. I would urge Divisions and clubs to immediately investigate the possibilities and to start the planning.
WORKLOAD In 2002, NACB officers spent countless hours administering the NACB. We spent a combined 100 hours on conference calls alone in addition to our normal officer duties, but the big problem often was a lack of cooperation from individuals in the Divisions and clubs.
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Our NACB Registrar literally spent days doing the Registration work that should have been done in the first place by the club Registrars and by the Divisional Board Registrars. Some clubs and Divisions submitted registration cards without pictures, pictures without registration cards, names listed on the team registration sheets without any cards, cards submitted without the names listed on the team registration sheets, as well as new names listed without either a Transfer or Sanction attached. It is not the NACB Registrar’s job to clear up someone else’s mess! Our Public Relations Officer spends countless hours tracking down game reports from Divisions that appear reluctant to provide the information. He submits numerous reports to the Irish Echo, the Hogan Stand website, and our own NACB website, etc., but if Divisions will not cooperate, then the PRO job becomes impossible. The County Board Secretary should not be wasting time trying to track down information that is automatically available upon club registration in April. I am still missing any contact information for some clubs in some divisions, despite numerous repeated requests for the information. I realize we’re all volunteers, but we can make things so much easier for each other with better cooperation. An NACB officer’s job is time-consuming enough without unnecessary aggravation.
GAA CONGRESS / CENTRAL COUNCIL In 2002, the GAA Congress voted to give the NACB a permanent delegate position on the GAA’s Central Council. It is terribly important for the NACB, whenever possible, to use the opportunity to attend these meetings and also to attend Congress. These meetings provide opportunities to build relationships that will ensure that the NACB is not ignored or forgotten. The Central Council delegate must be someone with an intimate and up-to-date knowledge of our problems and concerns who can present our case when the occasion warrants it. The only problem is the issue of the time and money required to attend. NACB officers in the past have been expected to pay towards their trips to Congress, this year costing each officer about $400. No NACB officer should have to pay their travel expenses when they are representing the NACB at an authorized meeting or event. Please don’t think that traveling to Ireland on NACB business is a boondoggle. Each time I travel to Ireland requires that I spend an average of 17-18 hours on the road before I reach my destination. That’s a pain, not a perk! In addition to the travel time involved, in 2002 I spent 9 days in meetings or on other NACB business in Ireland, as did many of the other NACB officers. That’s a big commitment to expect from anyone, and if it’s GAA business, the NACB should cover the travel expense involved.
SPONSORSHIP In 2002, for the Senior International Competition, the NACB received sponsorships totaling $12,500 in cash from various businesses, in addition to other in-kind contributions valued at $3,800. We sincerely thank those sponsors - Chicago Gaelic Park; Kells Bar, Boston; the Boston Irish Cultural Center; the Blarney Stone Pub, San Diego; the Abbey Tavern Inn, San Francisco; Martin Macks Bar & Restaurant, San Francisco; John McDevitt Realty, Boston; Joe Waters, Boston; the Green Briar and Ed Devine’s Pub, Boston; Beamish Stout, and Gaelic-Gear. We ask you to also express your appreciation, especially if it is to a business or individual in your Division. Since September we have also conducted discussions with the Beamish & Crawford representative in Ireland with a view towards possibly establishing a long-term NACB Sponsorship arrangement. We’ll keep you informed as to what develops.
THANKS Finally, I want to thank my fellow NACB officers for their courtesies, cooperation and help during 2002, especially the Chair, John McDevitt. Very often, we may not even agree on the best way forward, but not for one minute do I underestimate my fellow officers’ commitment and dedication to the promotion of Gaelic Games. Without a doubt, the NACB was very lucky to have each of them as an Officer in 2002. I also want to pay tribute to those GAA Division and club officials around the US who helped me during the year. They were a pleasure to deal with and I thank them. To the new NACB officers, I offer congratulations and best wishes, and I promise every cooperation in 2003.
Le fíor-mheas,
Seán Ó Catháin Rúnaí, 2002
Bórd Contae Meiriceá Thuaidh, Chomhdháil Bhliantúil - NACB Annual Convention, November 16, 2002 17
2002 NACB TREASURER’S REPORT
A copy of the detailed 2002 NACB Treasurer’s Report will be distributed separately at the NACB Convention. This is a copy of the Balance sheet.
NORTH AMERICAN COUNTY BOARD 2002 ANNUAL TREASURER'S REPORT TO BE PRESENTED AT THE NACB ANNUAL CONVENTION November 16, 2002, CHICAGO, IL
2002 BALANCE SHEET AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT
Starting Balance from 2001 $26,206.48
INCOME 2002 Affiliations $33,200.00 2002 Playoff Deposit $10,000.00 Future Playoff Deposit $10,000.00 Other Income $62,776.68 Interest Earned $165.73 Total Income $116,142.41
Available Assets $142,348.89 Expenses ($103,097.82) Balance in Account as of 11/9/2002 $39,251.07
Summary of Assets Balance in Account $39,251.07
Operating Account $20,651.07 Escrow Account for future Minor Program $8,600.00 Future Playoff Deposit $10,000.00
Total Assets $39,251.07
Mickey Coyne
2002 NACB Treasurer
Bórd Contae Meiriceá Thuaidh, Chomhdháil Bhliantúil - NACB Annual Convention, November 16, 2002 18
2002 NACB REGISTRAR’S REPORT
November 13, 2002
A Cháirde, Fellow Board Officers and Delegates,
It is my pleasure to present the NACB Registrar’s Report for 2002.
I am honored and grateful to have been given the opportunity to serve as Registrar in 2002. I especially want to offer thanks and pay tribute to my fellow Board Officers, as well as to the Divisional Board and Club Registrars across the US. I very much appreciate the commitment and dedication required on the part of all Registrars in the NACB.
We have just completed organizing our 44th year of NACB Gaelic games competitions in the United States and have every right to be proud of our accomplishments. From the NACB’s initial start in 1959, we can look back with pride at what has been achieved, and with thanks to all those who have contributed to the success of this organization over the years, including in 2002.
This past year, we had 83 affiliated NACB clubs in 21 different cities. A total of 619 Men’s Sanctions were approved by Croke Park, but I show only 512 of those Sanction players actually registered with a club in the NACB. There were 333 Inter-County Transfers and 59 Club-to-Club Transfers. The numbers of Sanctions and Transfers for Ladies Football and Camogie are not completely reliable as Football Transfers and Sanctions were, in many cases, used as Sanctions for Camogie players. There was also confusion as to whether Sanctions or Transfers were required in Ladies Football.
Attached is a more detailed breakdown of the statistics available for the various Divisions and Clubs. If there are any questions, please let me know.
Is mise le meas,
Chris Knightly Cláraitheoir - Registrar, 2002
Bórd Contae Meiriceá Thuaidh, Chomhdháil Bhliantúil - NACB Annual Convention, November 16, 2002 19
REGISTRATION 2002 - BOSTON NORTHEAST & CHICAGO CENTRAL
REGISTERED SANCTIONS INTER-COUNTY CLUB TO CLUB AMERICAN
MEMBERS APPROVED TRANSFERS TRANSFERS BORN BOSTON NORTHEAST BOSTON ARMAGH/NOTRE DAME MEN 32 22 6 3 BOSTON CHRISTOPHER'S MEN 36 7 7 BOSTON CONNEMARA GAELS MEN 65 22 9 4 BOSTON CORK MEN 79 22 14 BOSTON DONEGAL MEN 65 33 6 1 BOSTON GALWAY MEN 69 39 14 10 BOSTON KERRY MEN 68 16 6 2 BOSTON MAYO MEN 57 17 6 3 BOSTON McANESPIES MEN 78 21 21 BOSTON SHANNON BLUES MEN 73 16 12 1 BOSTON ST. COLUMBKILLES MEN 78 29 10 BOSTON ST. PATRICK'S MEN 85 19 6 BOSTON WOLFE TONES MEN 73 18 2 3 NEW ENGLAND CELTICS MEN 23 10 TOTAL MEN'S FOOTBALL 881 281 119 26 11 BOSTON CORK HURLING 35 12 5 BOSTON FR. TOMS BURKES HURLING 70 21 BOSTON GALWAY HURLING 20 7 BOSTON TIPPERARY HURLING 53 14 10 BOSTON WEXFORD HURLING 40 14 8 7 BOSTON LIMERICK HURLING 23 2 3 2 1 TOTAL HURLING 241 70 26 9 1 BOSTON SHAMROCKS LADIES 65 9 5 BOSTON TIR NA Nog LADIES 49 5 11 6 BOSTON ROSCOMMON LADIES 44 9 19 2 BOSTON WATERFORD LADIES 28 3 7 TOTAL LADIES FOOTBALL 186 26 30 2 18 BOSTON EMERALD ISLE CAMOGIE17 BOSTON EIRE OG CAMOGIE27 9 1 TOTAL CAMOGIE 44 9 1
CHICAGO CENTRAL CHICAGO JOHN McBRIDES MEN 57 5 6 5 CHICAGO PARNELL'S MEN 43 20 1 1 CHICAGO PADRAIG PEARSE MEN 42 9 12 1 CHICAGO ST. BRENDAN'S MEN 66 31 11 CHICAGO WOLFE TONES MEN 67 32 10 1 TOTAL MEN'S FOOTBALL 275 97 40 2 6 CHICAGO CU CHULLAINN HURLING 26 10 4 1 CHICAGO ERIN'S OWN HURLING 24 11 5 CHICAGO HARRY BOLAND'S HURLING 31 17 3 CHICAGO LIMERICK HURLING 22 9 6 TOTAL HURLING 103 47 18 1 CHICAGO ERIN'S ROVERS LADIES 61 18 CHICAGO ST. BRIGID'S LADIES 52 21 2 TOTAL LADIES FOOTBALL 113 39 2 CHICAGO ST. MARY'S CAMOGIE31 CHICAGO LIMERICK CAMOGIE18 TOTAL CAMOGIE 49
Bórd Contae Meiriceá Thuaidh, Chomhdháil Bhliantúil - NACB Annual Convention, November 16, 2002 20
REGISTRATION 2002 - MIDWEST, PHILADELPHIA & WESTERN
REGISTERED SANCTIONS INTER-COUNTY CLUB TO CLUB AMERICAN
MEMBERS APPROVED TRANSFERS TRANSFERS BORN MIDWEST CLEVELAND ST. JARLATH'S MEN 30 CLEVELAND ST. PATRICK'S MEN 23 20 DETROIT PADRAIG PEARSE MEN 33 4 1 27 DETROIT WOLFE TONES MEN 48 3 3 24 PITTSBURGH CELTICS MEN 43 2 11 20 BUFFALO CU CHULLAINN MEN 23 TOTAL MEN'S FOOTBALL 200 5 18 1 91 CLEVELAND ST. PATRICK'S LADIES 34 6 28 DETROIT ST. ANNE'S LADIES 25 25 TOTAL LADIES FOOTBALL 59 6 53
PHILADELPHIA PHILADELPHIA DONEGAL MEN 49 17 1 PHILADELPHIA K BARRY'S/DERRY MEN 111 6 5 PHILADELPHIA YOUNG MEN 58 4 12 IRELANDERS PHILADELPHIA TYRONE MEN 30 15 9 1 2 WASHINGTON DC GAELS MEN 48 6 18 TOTAL MEN'S FOOTBALL 296 42 33 1 20 PHILADELPHIA EMERALD EAGLES LADIES 24 5 3 PHILADELPHIA NOTRE DAME LADIES 30 3 13 WASHINGTON DC GAELS LADIES 28 2 12 TOTAL LADIES FOOTBALL 82 10 28
WESTERN SAN FRAN ST. BRENDAN'S MEN 35 2 4 SAN FRAN KERRY SONS OF BORU MEN 52 6 3 SAN FRAN MICHAEL CUSACK'S MEN 48 8 9 1 BURLINGAME NAOMH PADRAIG MEN 47 3 7 SAN FRAN SEAN TRACEY'S MEN 42 2 16 2 1 SAN FRAN SHANNON RANGERS MEN 33 7 8 2 SAN JOSE ST. JOSEPH'S MEN 65 11 7 2 SAN FRAN ULSTER MEN 82 15 21 4 SAN FRAN YOUNG IRELANDERS MEN 40 13 3 8 2 TOTAL MEN'S FOOTBALL 444 67 74 19 7 SAN FRAN NA FIANNA HURLING 33 4 BURLINGAME NAOMH PADRAIG HURLING 22 SAN JOSE ST. JOSEPH HURLING 44 11 5 SAN FRAN ROBERT EMMETT'S HURLING 90 20 13 67 TOTAL HURLING 189 31 22 67 SAN FRAN FOG CITY HARPS LADIES 72 10 2 SAN FRAN CAILINI SAOIRSE LADIES 45 17 4 SAN FRAN CLAN NA GAEL LADIES 48 1 6 TOTAL LADIES FOOTBALL 165 10 18 12 SAN FRAN SHAMROCKS CAMOGIE35 TOTAL CAMOGIE 35
Bórd Contae Meiriceá Thuaidh, Chomhdháil Bhliantúil - NACB Annual Convention, November 16, 2002 21
REGISTRATION 2002 SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, ATLANTA, DENVER, FLORIDA, & SEATTLE
REGISTERED SANCTIONS INTER-COUNTY CLUB TO CLUB AMERICAN
MEMBERS APPROVED TRANSFERS TRANSFERS BORN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA L A WILD GEESE MEN 46 2 3 8 SAN DIEGO CLAN NA GAEL MEN 55 8 10 1 SAN DIEGO SETANTA MEN 37 3 8 1 6 TOTAL MEN'S FOOTBALL 138 13 21 10 6 ORANGE COUNTY ROISIN LADIES 27 27 SAN DIEGO NA FIANNA LADIES 52 2 37 TOTAL LADIES FOOTBALL 79 2 64
SOUTHERN (ATLANTA) ATLANTA CLAN NA GAEL MEN 49 1 3 CHARLOTTE JAMES CONNOLLY'S MEN 41 33 TOTAL MEN'S FOOTBALL 90 1 3 33 ATLANTA CLAN NA GAEL L LADIES 29 4 25
DENVER DENVER GAELS MEN 33 2 6 DENVER GAELS LADIES 18 6
FLORIDA FLORIDA ST. PATRICK'S MEN 34 2 6
NORTHWEST SEATTLE GAELS MEN 65 2 13 21 SEATTLE GAELS LADIES 51 2 35
TOTAL MEN'S
FOOTBALL 2456 512 333 59 195
TOTAL HURLING 533 148 66 77 1
TOTAL LADIES 782 46 81 24 241 FOOTBALL
TOTAL CAMOGIE 128 9 1 0 0
TOTAL ALL CODES 3899 715 481 169 437
Bórd Contae Meiriceá Thuaidh, Chomhdháil Bhliantúil - NACB Annual Convention, November 16, 2002 22
2002 NACB P.R.O.’s REPORT
November 12, 2002
A Cháirde,
As your Public Relations officer, I welcome this opportunity to reflect on a most successful 2002 season. I hope the following report will provide the delegates and their clubs around the country with fond memories of the board's activity, particularly on the playing fields.
The success of public relations work at a county board level depends on good internal communications between the clubs and the divisions, and shared with the board. It was a disappointing year with regard to receiving information from most divisional boards. America's premier Irish newspaper, the "Irish Echo" and other media outlets such as the "Hogan Stand" website and magazine, provided a window of opportunity for our board to report on games from around the country, but a scarcity of information from most of the divisions curtailed this effort. As a result there has been an unbalanced representation of our board's activity in the media. Though not intended by the writer, the reports in the "Irish Echo" and in the "Hogan Stand" highlighted mainly activity in the Central division with little or no coverage of games played in other divisions. A more balanced report, reflecting not just match scores but a summary of activity from our major divisional boards, particularly during the months of July and August, was my goal at the beginning of the year. Certainly, that goal was attainable had all divisional PRO's provided more information. In fact, most information that I received during the year did not come from elected PRO' s but from other divisional officers, to whom I'm very grateful.
Given the emphasis on promoting our games through youth programs around the county, I encourage the various youth boards to publicize their activities in the local media, and also to forward reports to the NACB PRO for inclusion in national and international media coverage.
While expressing disappointment in not being able to generate a more balanced national weekly PRO report, I do appreciate the efforts made by the following media contributors: Howard Elbert (Midwest division), Linda Ryan (Western division), Martin Conway (Southern division), Lisa Krueger (Central division) and Peter McDermott (Philadelphia division). I also salute the Boston based "Irish Emigrant" weekly publication for a magnificent job reporting our games in the Northeast division and for coverage of our playoffs in Chicago over the Labor Day weekend. Appreciation also to the "Emigrant's" reporter, Rory O'Donnell, for his contribution to our NACB PRO website Internet column with a weekly summary of games played in Boston.
The most encouraging aspect of my job has been the huge growth in activity on our NACB website. Since December 2001, our website at www.nagaa.org has generated 302,869 Hits and 28,507 individual Visits from around the world. I'm indebted to Michael Dermody (Atlanta) for his technical expertise in managing the site since its formation four years ago. On behalf of the board I thank him for all his hard work and continued support to the project.
In conclusion, I want to express my appreciation to all my fellow officers for their excellent support throughout the past year.
Is mise le meas,
Eamonn Kelly
2002 Public Relations Officer Bórd Contae Meiriceá Thuaidh, Chomhdháil Bhliantúil - NACB Annual Convention, November 16, 2002 23
2002 NACB YOUTH OFFICER’S REPORT
November 15, 2002
A Cháirde,
Yet again we have come upon the conclusion of another great year of Gaelic games in North America and in particular an outstanding year of youth GAA. The year started out with the official addition of the Detroit Youth Board to the NACB competition. Detroit had an outstanding year in player development and performed well for their first year in the competition with strong showings from their under-12 and imder-14 teams. Also, the NACB youth program saw great success overseas in both the Féile Peil Na nÓg club competition and the Minor International competition. The San Francisco Youth Board sent teams to Ireland to compete in both competitions and proved to be the best of the competition as they won both the Féile Peil and Minor International competitions. Congratulations are extended to all the players, parents, coaches, and sponsors involved in this great endeavor, which has truly placed the North American youth programs in the spotlight in Ireland and around the GAA world.
Our own competitions also had great results this year. The 2002 NACB Youth Playoffs were one of the biggest and best youth playoffs yet. Much of this success was due to the hard work and endless efforts of the Chicago Divisional Board, Chicago Youth Board, Harry Costelloe and his colleagues at Gaelic Park, Joe Begley, Mary Ruane, Maureen Gill, Connie Cullen, Lisa O’Flaherty and countless others who volunteered their time to make this year's youth playoffs a great success. The officers of the NACB and those that helped officiate the youth games are also owed much gratitude for their assistance.
As the youth boards continue to grow and develop more young Gaelic athletes, we must ensure that we have a clear course ahead of us. As we approach what can best be defined as a turning point in the youth GAA in North America, all of us in the NACB must take the opportunity to consider what path the youth programs are to now follow. Since the youth playoffs have grown rapidly over the past two years and the increase in the importance of youth GAA is and will continue to cause more youth programs to develop throughout the country, we can no longer view the youth GAA as an appendage of the NACB, but rather a separate body of its own. The various youth boards must now come together to better define not
Bórd Contae Meiriceá Thuaidh, Chomhdháil Bhliantúil - NACB Annual Convention, November 16, 2002 24
only local, but national goals that can be achieved by all the youth boards and develop clear guidelines that can be agreed to and followed. The youth programs are now too big to just get by on verbal agreements; clear and direct rules and regulations, as well as written plans on how to better develop, run, and promote youth GAA in all the cities must be designed and put into action. Before this year's youth playoffs can even be discussed, the various youth boards of North America must come together as one group with one objective to achieve; and that is to develop and implement a clear and precise initiative for all youth boards and future youth boards to follow, that will ensure the present and future success of the youth GAA and therefore the adult GAA in North America. When this has been done, then and only then can we look to plan our national playoffs, various youth tournaments, and overseas competitions.
In closing, I would like to take the opportunity to thank all the youth officers, NACB officers, and the various divisional officers, club officers, and other members of the GAA that I have worked with during my time on the North American County Board. It has been my honor and privilege to have worked with and for you over these past couple of years. All of us should be proud of the fact that we have an organization like the GAA that brings us all together under the unity of the Gaelic games and our Gaelic heritage. There is no greater way to show our patriotism and love for our culture and heritage than to participate in and promote the Gaelic Games. Again, thank you for allowing me to be a member of this board and for all your support over the past couple of years and I would like to wish my successor all the best in their endeavors as they lead the North American youth GAA to even greater achievements.
Is mise le meas,
Tadhg Ó Flannagáin Oifigeach na nÓg Bórd Meiriceá Thuaidh
Bórd Contae Meiriceá Thuaidh, Chomhdháil Bhliantúil - NACB Annual Convention, November 16, 2002 25
Congratulations to our 2002 North American Youth County Board Champions!
UNDER-10: SAN FRANCISCO
UNDER-12: CHICAGO
UNDER-14: SAN FRANCISCO
UNDER-16: CHICAGO
MINOR: CHICAGO
Bórd Contae Meiriceá Thuaidh, Chomhdháil Bhliantúil - NACB Annual Convention, November 16, 2002 26
MEETING MINUTES Meeting held in Dublin on October 26, 2002 involving NACB Officers John McDevitt, Tommy Dolan, Eamonn Kelly & John Keane, with Sean Kelly, GAA President-elect, and Pat Daly, GAA Chair of Development
Overseas Meeting - Burlington Hotel Meeting 27-10-02 4.30 p.m. - 6.30p.m.
In Attendance: Sean Ceallaigh Uachtaran tofa, John Fitzpatrick New York, Mike Keane New York, John Keane NAB, Eamonn Kelly NAB, John McDevitt NAB, Tommy Dolan NAB, Pádraig Ó Dálaigh agus Aine Uí Ghibné Páirc an Chrocaigh.
It was noted questionnaires had not been received from the following units Canada, New York Senior Board. S. Ó Ceallaigh reviewed the questionnaire received from NAB and New York Minor Board.
Juvenile Level: S. Ó Ceallaigh requested an update regarding the status of the Junvenile level in NAB. E. Kelly said there had been very little progress in areas such as Detroit, Chicago and Philadelphia. He said San Francisco had quite a strong Juvenile section which has been running successfully for seven years.
The need for Coaching in New York was emphasised. J.Keane asked if a qualified coach could travel to the USA to coach for a term. P. Ó Dálaigh informed the meeting a coach recently traveled to Ottawa in conjunction with the Bishop Challoner initiative for a period of three months, a schedule/programme had been provided by the relevant people and an excellent relationship had been initiated. John Fitzpatrick said it would be very difficult to implement the same in New York due to the amount of travel involved.
It was decided to provide the Canadian Report to the representatives from NAB and New York. It was also decided to send a coach out to the various units when a schedule/programme had been implemented. It was decided the Overseas Unit would provide accommodation for the Coach and GAA to cover cost of travel and remuneration. It was also agreed the Coaching plan would be reviewed after five years.
Sponsorship: It was decided to request assistance from GAA Marketing Section.
Public Relations: E.Kelly emphasised the importance of PR within NAB. E. Kelly takes responsibility for after match reports for the various games and distributes them by email to the 21 Cities involved. P. Ó Dálaigh informed the meeting 2 videos have been produced – what is Hurling and what is Football - and proposes to distribute them to the units abroad for promotional purposes.
Bórd Contae Meiriceá Thuaidh, Chomhdháil Bhliantúil - NACB Annual Convention, November 16, 2002 27
Referees: John Keane emphasised the amount of money which is continually spent on travel - sending Referees to New York and Boston. S. Ó Ceallaigh stated it would be more feasible to train a Referee abroad who in turn could teach other Referees. P.Ó Dálaigh asked the units to identify their requirements and forward a structure/plan. The International Dimension Work Group could then consider sending two Referees abroad to assist with training.
Purchasing GAA Equipment: John Keane enquired about new Clubs starting up and if they could acquire gear etc. He asked that a start-up grant be viewed in terms of equipment gear etc. S. Ó Ceallaigh stated this would be a once-off grant only. P. Ó Dálaigh stated Milwaukee has received hurleys on various occasions. It was suggested units coordinate through the relevant boards.
Insurance: It was stated there is no cross County Insurance available. USA require personal Insurance.
Communication: It was decided email was the most efficient way of communication regarding minutes, notices etc.
Full-time Officer: John Keane suggested the employment of a full-time officer for NAB similar to the position of a GAA Provincial Officer. P. Ó Dálaigh stated too much travel was involved. It was pointed out that Conference calls could be utilised more frequently for meetings etc. It was decided a presentation from overseas would be made to Congress 2003 with a view to informing delegates what is happening within the units abroad. It was also suggested to have a meeting with the overseas units the evening prior to Congress 2003.
Senior and Minor Competitions: P.Ó Dálaigh stated a lot of money had been spent on the Senior and Minor Competition this year. He said Management had questioned the cost of the tournaments and their value for money. John Keane agreed and pointed out the Senior Competition was excellent this year. P.Ó Dálaigh suggested bringing teams from abroad to play St.Judes or Kilmacuds seven-a-side and to participate in hurling also. S. Ó Ceallaigh pointed out Australasia were interested in retaining the Senior Competition and emphasized the importance of traveling to Ireland. It was suggested to publicise the international element on the website. It was also suggested that Provincial Councils improve their link with the overseas units.
Eligibility/Transfers: It was decided to change the date to April 30th. No sanction players after June 20th It was decided to implement this at the NAB convention.
Mise le meas,
Aine Uí Ghibne, Rannóg na gCluichí Bórd Contae Meiriceá Thuaidh, Chomhdháil Bhliantúil - NACB Annual Convention, November 16, 2002 28
2002 INTERNATIONAL TOUR REPORT
November 16, 2002
A Cháirde,
It was my pleasure to have been Tour Manager for the NACB Teams that traveled to Ireland for the Senior International Competition in 2002.
This was undoubtedly the best-organized International Competition yet and our players and team officials all agree that it was a tremendous experience. While there were many one-sided games over the five days, some great football was also played and the games were played in a great GAA atmosphere. Special congratulations to the NACB Men’s team that stormed from 8 points behind to win the International Trophy by two points over London. And congratulations also to the NACB Women’s team that never gave up in a losing cause against London. With a few breaks, we could also have been celebrating a victory.
I have no hesitation is saying that the men and women who represented the NACB in 2002 performed with grace and class on and off the field and I am proud to have been associated with them. Their commitment and dedication was unmatched, and they certainly did us proud.
Special thanks are due to the team managers and selectors. Trevor Kane was the men’s team manager, along with selectors Kevin McGuinness, Martin Kerr and Sean Breen. Bertie Penny was the women’s team manager along with selectors Breeda Hanley and Sean Breen. They were the ones who selected and organized the players in the various cities and whose faith in their selections was not misplaced.
Please take careful note of the International Team Sponsors who helped in a very tangible way to make the Tour a success - Chicago Gaelic Park; the Kells, Boston; the Irish Cultural Center, Boston; the Blarney Stone Pub, San Diego; the Abbey Tavern Inn, San Francisco; Martin Macks Bar & Restaurant, San Francisco; McDevitt Realty, Boston; Joe Waters, Boston; and the Briar Group (the Green Briar and Ed Devine’s), Boston. In addition, sizable in-kind donations were received from Beamish Stout and from Gaelic-Gear. They all deserve our thanks.
I also sincerely thank my fellow NACB officers who spent numerous hours soliciting those sponsors. They helped me organize the Tour, arranged conference calls, the team kits, tracksuits, challenge games, hotels, buses, etc. It was a huge job organizing things, and it could not have been done without them. I think they’ll also agree that in the end it was well worth it.
Whatever about the future of the International Tournament, and it may well be scaled back in future years, I’m happy to report that the 2002 Tour was an unqualified success from an NACB perspective.
Is mise le meas,
Tommy Dolan Vice-Chair, 2002
Bórd Contae Meiriceá Thuaidh, Chomhdháil Bhliantúil - NACB Annual Convention, November 16, 2002 29
GAA SPECIAL CONGRESS The Burlington Hotel, Dublin, October 25-26, 2002
MOTIONS PASSED • Starting from now, a limit of five consecutive years in any one office is imposed on all club and county officers, but after a three-year break, that same person may be re-elected to the same office for another five years. • The existing rule in the Official Guide (Rule 94) permitting the use of email and faxes for official correspondence was expanded upon to add: “It shall be an accepted form of communication for notification of fixtures, notices of meetings, circulation of minutes of meetings and communication of disciplinary findings”. • More authority was granted to umpires and linesmen to highlight incidents of foul or dangerous play, with slight modifications to ensure the referee retains ultimate authority. • The feigning of injuries and/or fouls is made a cautionable offence. • All players under age 16 are prohibited from competing at more than one grade above their own age level. • All underage club competitions, up to and including minor, will be played to a conclusion by using mandatory extra-time, but county finals are excluded from this rule. • The two-month closed season at the end of each year was officially sanctioned. • A motion requiring the adoption of a code of conduct for members in relation to child protection was passed. • Senior inter-county team panels were officially increased in size from 24 to 30. • Approval was given to the establishment of a sub-committee to examine numerous other recommendations made by the SRC.
MOTIONS DEFEATED • Motion to permit six substitutes per team with the constant interchange of substitutes during a game, as in the Compromise Rules games, was defeated. • A proposal to have play in senior inter-county games continue while substitutions are being made, was defeated. • A motion to allow the revision of playing rules every six years was defeated, which means there will be no more playing rule changes until 2010. • A proposal to reduce Gaelic football teams to 13 players on a trial basis for the National Leagues in 2003 and 2004, was defeated. • A motion requiring that each club be represented by its chair or secretary at County Board meetings, was defeated. • A motion that would require all coaching, Irish language and development posts be filled by appointment based on skill levels rather than by election, was defeated. • And a Motion that provincial council representatives must include either the county chair or secretary, was defeated.
MOTIONS WITHDRAWN • All the SRC motions relating to Dublin were withdrawn, including the one proposing formation of two Dublin county football teams. It was withdrawn in favor of the ongoing discussions taking place between the SRC and the Dublin County Board, which may yet see major changes in the Dublin County Board setup. • A motion that would have counties represented on Central Council by county chairs was withdrawn. • A motion that would have prohibited anyone over 65 from running for any office was also withdrawn.
All motions required a two-thirds majority yes vote in order to be passed. In all, only 17 motions were passed out of 55 motions submitted.
Submitted by
Seán Ó Catháin 2002 NACB Rúnaí
Bórd Contae Meiriceá Thuaidh, Chomhdháil Bhliantúil - NACB Annual Convention, November 16, 2002 30
CENTRAL COUNCIL Meeting held at Croke Park, October 12, 2002
Only two items discussed at this session of Central Council pertained to overseas units.
1. A suggestion by Australia that players up to the age of 18 be allowed to play in the under age football competition between Australia and Ireland was rejected with the age limit remaining at 17.
2. A special request was made by the Britain Provincial Board to allow university students in Britain to transfer and play with a club in Britain and also come home and play with their club in Ireland. The president indicated this would not be allowed under the present rules and suggested that the board submit a separate motion to next year’s congress.
Following is a general summary of other topics discussed:
- The President briefed the members on a meeting that took place between the GAA and the Government with regard to funding promised to Croke Park and other sporting facilities but now put on hold after public funding for a new National Stadium was rejected. He indicated that to date 30 million pounds have been received from the government with 30 million still outstanding. More meetings between the two bodies are pending.
- A special subcommittee to be established to examine why revenues from this years championship qualifiers was way behind revenues of 2001. Following this years championship it was calculated that 38,000 Euros would be available to all football qualifying football counties while 20,000 Euros would be available to the qualifying hurling counties.
- A progress report was presented on the Special Olympics scheduled to be staged at Croke Park next summer. The council granted approval for the demolition of the Nally Stand in order to allow sufficient room for the athletes to get in and out of the stadium. Approval was also granted for the running of a concert in early May to aid the Special Olympics committee. Requests from other promoters to stage at least three concerts at Croke Park were rejected by the council. The staging of these concerts, which had the potential of generating one million Euros to the GAA, was rejected by the management committee following advice from the Hewitt Company which manages the maintenance of the new Croke Park field.
- The Council was made aware of a potential change in the dates of next years All-Ireland finals. The President indicated that while it is not desirable to move the finals to October the staging of the Special Olympics at Croke Park might delay the completion of the Leinster championships. The decision on finalizing the all-Ireland dates will be made by the Management Committee.
- A few delegates complained about the invasion of the Croke Park pitch after the All-Ireland football final. The President indicated that to avoid a potential tragedy gates, to the field had to be opened near Hill-16 and that the Gardai made this decision. He further stated that the new guidelines to present cups on the field will stay in place and that every effort will be made to prevent any other pitch invasion after games.
- The Secretary General reported that the Management Committee expressed concern about several counties not using Irish manufactured gear during the year. A list of GAA-approved companies will be distributed to all counties.
- The Council approved a ruling by the Management Committee that where a referee issues a red card without a previous card being shown, and subsequently reports a lesser offence, that the offence must be treated as an immediate ordering off offence and dealt with accordingly at a subsequent hearing.
Submitted by
Eamonn Kelly 2002 NACB Central Council Delegate
Bórd Contae Meiriceá Thuaidh, Chomhdháil Bhliantúil - NACB Annual Convention, November 16, 2002 31
2002 NACB NOMINATIONS
CATHAOIRLEACH - CHAIR John McDevitt, Boston Chris Knightly, Burlingame Tommy Dolan, Chicago John Keane, Seattle
LEAS-CHATHAOIRLEACH - VICE-CHAIR Tommy Dolan, Chicago Paul Keane, San Jose
RÚNAÍ - SECRETARY John Keane, Seattle
CISTEOIR - TREASURER Mickey Coyne, Boston Pat Mulvihill, Boston Danny O’Donnell, Chicago
CLÁRAITHEOIR - REGISTRAR Chris Knightly, Burlingame Eddie Walsh, Boston Mary T McGuirk, Chicago Peter McDermott, Philadelphia
CAIDRIMH PHOIBLÍ - PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER Eamonn Kelly, Chicago Connie Kelly, Boston Paul Keane, San Jose
OIFIGEACH ÓIGE - YOUTH DEVELOPMENT OFFICER Tim Flanagan, Buffalo Mick O’Connor, Boston Michael Murray, Detroit Connie Cullen, Chicago Joe Begley, Chicago Sean Trainor, Philadelphia
TEACHTA ARD-CHOMHAIRLE - CENTRAL COUNCIL DELEGATE Eamonn Kelly, Chicago John Keane, Seattle Owen Treacy, Philadelphia Joe Lydon, Boston Chair NACB 2003 Secretary NACB 2003
UACHTARÁN OINIGH - HONORARY PRESIDENT John Hehir, Boston Bridie Joyce, Boston Liam O’Brien, Chicago
Bórd Contae Meiriceá Thuaidh, Chomhdháil Bhliantúil - NACB Annual Convention, November 16, 2002 32
2002 NACB CONVENTION MOTIONS
1. (PROPOSED BY NACB County Committee) That the following rule changes be adopted regarding NACB Sanction Players from Ireland: a) That the distinction between Green-Card and White-Card players be eliminated so that all NACB players are registered as Green-Card players. b) That the player registration deadline of July 20 be moved to June 20 for all players except US-born players who have never previously registered with an adult GAA club. c) That no Sanction Authorizations can be approved by Croke Park after June 20. d) That US-born players who have never previously registered with an adult GAA club may register with any NACB club up until August 15. e) That the number of simultaneous Sanction players on the field at any one time be increased to 8 for Men's & Ladies Senior Football, to 8 for Men's Intermediate Football, and to 10 for Senior Hurling, while remaining at the existing numbers for all other grades of competition (3 for Junior Hurling, 3 for Men's Junior "A" and "B" Football, 5 for Ladies Junior Football, 7 for Camogie). f) That the club registration deadline be moved up to April 1 from April 30. g) That the Inter-County and Club-to-Club Transfer deadline shall be April 30 (unchanged ). h) That the minimum Sanction period as specified in the rules be changed from 60 days to 42 days for NACB Sanction players. i) That a motion be submitted to 2003 GAA Congress to make the necessary changes to Official Guide Rule 41 (c) and (e). j) That all affected NACB By-Laws and regulations be updated accordingly [e.g., NACB By-Laws # 9 (a), (c); 10 (b), (d), (e); 11 (a), (b), (c); R4 (b), (c); R7 (b), (c), (d); and R8 (c)].
2. (PROPOSED BY Tír na nÓg, Boston) th th To change date of By-Law R4(b) (Registration Cards) from April 30 to June 5 . REASON: To meet the requirement of the Visa waiver program which only permits an individual to stay in the US for 90 days. This would enable the player to participate in the NACB finals without jeopardizing their visa requirements.
3. (PROPOSED BY Wexford Hurling Club, Boston) th th That the date for Home Base players be changed from April 30 to June 15 .
4. (PROPOSED BY Éire Óg Camogie Club, Boston) th st To change the deadline date for registrations, transfers and sanctions from April 30 to July 1 .
5. (PROPOSED BY Western Youth Board) st That any American-born Youth player, with proof of American birth and US residency as of January 1 of competing year, may register in the adult league at any time.
6. (PROPOSED BY Seattle Gaels) That NACB By-Law R7 (d) be changed to read: Ladies Football: In Ladies Senior football, each team shall be limited to no more than 5 Summer Visitor Players on the field at any one time. In Ladies Junior football, each team shall be limited to no more than 3 Summer Visitor Players on the field at any one time.
7. (PROPOSED BY O.C. Róisín) Rescind R7 Summer Visitor Players 7(d) limited to 3 summer players on the field at one time – change from 5 to 3 visitors on field. Given that the basic aim of the NACB 2002 NACB By-Laws “is to preserve and promote Gaelic Games and pastimes in North America” and with the tightening of immigration regulations which causes restrictions on internal travel for some players, it is highly recommended that native born (American) players are recruited and nurtured, and to this end, less of a reliance on visiting players.
8. (PROPOSED BY Éire Óg Camogie Club, Boston) Five (5) Home base players entered into the By-Laws [or ten (10) summer visitors for Camogie].
9. (PROPOSED BY Naomh Pádraig, Burlingame) That the NACB By-Laws be changed to require that club registrations be submitted to the registrar by March 31.
Bórd Contae Meiriceá Thuaidh, Chomhdháil Bhliantúil - NACB Annual Convention, November 16, 2002 33
10. (PROPOSED BY Seattle Gaels) That the recommendations of the Playoff Restructuring Committee be individually presented as motions for discussion and votes. Following are the recommendations: a) That all divisions be given the opportunity to host the NACB Playoffs if it can be ensured that the minimum facility and other requirements set by the NACB can be provided. b) That Playoff Host Divisions be required to have a team of four substitute games officials (Umpires & Linesmen) available on NACB call for the entire day on Saturday. c) That no later than the Monday prior to the Playoffs, all participating teams must have submitted the names of a team panel of no more than 25 players to the NACB registrar. Only those listed on the panel will be eligible to play at the Playoffs. d) That all players at all Playoff games be required to line up and show a government-issued picture ID, e.g., Irish or US Driver’s License or Passport, etc., in addition to a player registration card. e) That on Passport inspections, only NACB officers be allowed handle Passports. f) That the NACB awards banquet be permitted to be much smaller, possibly 250-300 people. Only the Sunday winning teams will be obliged to purchase tickets, 15 tickets per winning team, but at a maximum cost of $60 per ticket. Both finalists must hand over a check for the cost of the tickets to the Host Division on Saturday evening, with the losing finalists getting their check returned after the final. g) That if a club lines up an illegal player on the field with the intent to play him or her, the NACB should impose a fine of $1,000 on the club for each such illegal player. h) Weekend passes to all games for a flat fee of $20 each for 20 players on each participating team will be made available to teams who pay in advance. If not paid in advance, regular admission charges will apply to all players. i) That for a flat fee of $20 per person, the Host Division will provide bus transportation round-trip to the hotel from the airport. Free transportation to and from the GAA fields from the hotels is required for all teams. j) That all participating clubs be required to be ready to provide umpires and linesmen for Playoff games, and clubs be fined $100 if their assigned officials do not fulfill an officiating assignment. k) That the two strongest teams be seeded prior to the Playoffs draw in all competitions. l) That effective in 2003, the annual Playoffs host fee will be $15,000 to be paid in advance, with an additional bond of $5,000 also to be paid in advance, thus making it a $20,000 check that must be paid to the NACB at the convention prior to the Playoffs. The $5,000 bond will be refunded if the Playoffs are organized and run as promised. m) That if the required team lists and other team documentation are not provided to the NACB by the Monday prior to the Playoffs, the present by-laws requiring a team be eliminated from the Playoffs should be enforced. n) That the Playoffs become a four-day tournament, with quarter-final games starting on Thursday afternoon for Junior “B” men, Ladies Junior Football and Camogie (if necessary). That the semi-final games for those competitions be played on Friday and the finals on Saturday afternoon. o) That the Western Division winner be required to compete in the NACB senior competition, with the Western runner-up compelled to compete in the Intermediate competition. p) To Host the Labor Day weekend Playoffs, no Host Division should be required to provide more than 4 co- located fields. With the above proposed changes, the Adult Playoffs can be organized on two fields if necessary, permitting the Minor Playoffs to also be organized on two fields. If the Minor Playoffs cannot be organized on two fields, then the Minor Playoffs should be organized separate from the Adult Playoffs. A Host Division may voluntarily provide extra fields but they should not be required to provide more than 4. q) At least one of the fields provided must be no less than 150 X 80 and all the fields must have adequate separation between them. Any deviations from the list of Playoff Host Requirements must be approved in advance at the pre-Playoff meeting.
11. (PROPOSED BY Éire Óg Camogie Club, Boston) Eliminate the requirement to attend the NACB Banquet and pay a fee of $600 per club (Playoff Reg # 11A & 11B).
12. (PROPOSED BY O.C. Róisín) R9 (c) that the Divisional Board must forward 7 days in advance of the Playoffs a panel of players list for both Junior & Senior players in that Division if there is a Junior and Senior team, and have available at Playoff games.
13. (PROPOSED BY O.C. Róisín) In reference to motion 15 which was passed last year, “A special committee to look into restructuring of the Playoff format“, That the findings of this committee be presented at the AGM and fully discussed, and motions put forward by this committee be presented for adoption or denial.
Bórd Contae Meiriceá Thuaidh, Chomhdháil Bhliantúil - NACB Annual Convention, November 16, 2002 34
14. (PROPOSED BY Wexford Hurling Club, Boston) That first time Home Base players be allowed to go to Ireland without losing their eligibility to play when they return. Must not play Gaelic Games when at home.
15. (PROPOSED BY Wexford Hurling Club, Boston) That students be allowed to go home to take exams without losing their eligibility to play when they return. Must offer proof about repeating exam. Cannot play Gaelic Games while at home.
16. (PROPOSED BY Kerry FC, Boston) Make amendments to By-Law # 10 (d) HOME-BASED PLAYERS. All home-based players residing in the NACB when registered with the same club for a period of 2 years or less, that wish to join another club the following year, either home-based or away-based (sanctioned), must notify an th officer at their club and the Divisional Secretary no later than January 15 of their intention to join another club. (Note: this applies to players transferring to Ireland from the NACB area returning to play for a new club the following year, home-based or away-based). This By-Law would eliminate players owing a club money while home-based and coming out to another club the following year between April and July. The By-Law as it stands does not protect the clubs from such players.
17. (PROPOSED BY Naomh Pádraig, Burlingame) That the NACB’s By-Laws be changed to require the NACB Central Council Delegate to be either the NACB Chair or Secretary.
18. (PROPOSED BY Seattle Gaels) That the NACB Central Council Delegate must be an NACB Officer.
19. (PROPOSED BY Western Youth Board) That U-21 players competing in the Junior “B” competition also be allowed to register for teams of a higher grade.
20. (PROPOSED BY Seattle Gaels) That the NACB is authorized to establish a committee to recommend changes to the NACB Junior Championships with any recommendations taking effect in 2003 if approved at the 2003 Pre-Playoff meeting.
21. (PROPOSED BY Atlanta Gaels) That teams that play in Divisional level Junior championships during the year shall be prohibited from playing Junior “B” in the NACB finals.
22. (PROPOSED BY Atlanta Gaels) That a team that wins Junior “B” one year shall be promoted to Junior “A” the following year.
23. (PROPOSED BY Atlanta Gaels) That Junior ladies teams that are defeated in their first NACB game will play in a “B” Championship game during the course of the NACB tournament.
24. (PROPOSED BY O.C. Róisín) NACB player Registrar position should have 2 assistants (Eastern & Western) to ensure greater accuracy of player registration, and to assist during the North American Finals.
25. (PROPOSED BY O.C. Róisín) Motion to have a Women’s rep on the North American Board to handle all matters pertaining to Women’s football. Perhaps on a trial basis.
26. (PROPOSED BY O.C. Róisín) That a specific set of guidelines for regrading teams is set up and made available to the teams.
Bórd Contae Meiriceá Thuaidh, Chomhdháil Bhliantúil - NACB Annual Convention, November 16, 2002 35
27. (PROPOSED BY Seattle Gaels) That NACB By-Law R3 (f) be changed to read: Ladies Football: Ladies football players shall register on white or green ID cards in accordance with NACB Regulation 4 (Inter-County Transfers and/or sanctions are required).
28. (PROPOSED BY St. Mary’s Camogie Club, Chicago) That all out-of-town players will have a sanction and home-base players will sign an inter-county transfer.
29. (PROPOSED BY Éire Óg Camogie Club, Boston) Separate Sanctions for Camogie and Ladies Gaelic Football.
30. (PROPOSED BY Éire Óg Camogie Club, Boston) That away based Camogie Sanctions be approved by Cumann Camógaoíchta na nGael (in Ireland).
31. (PROPOSED BY Éire Óg Camogie Club, Boston) Home Base (Camogie) Transfers signed by the US Secretary.
32. (PROPOSED BY Éire Óg Camogie Club, Boston) To inform of team colors, minimum one week prior to finals (Playoff Regulation # 9).
33. (PROPOSED BY Éire Óg Camogie Club, Boston) That (at the Playoffs) Ladies Gaelic Football and Camogie be scheduled 3 hours apart from the end of the last game (whichever one was played last).
34. (PROPOSED BY St. Mary’s Camogie Club, Chicago) That Camogie clubs will be composed of 13 players per side.
35. (PROPOSED BY Éire Óg Camogie Club, Boston) To be entered into the By-Laws, 15 players for any NACB (Camogie) Final.
36. (PROPOSED BY St. Mary’s Camogie Club, Chicago) That a Camogie match will consist of two 30-minute halves.
37. (PROPOSED BY Éire Óg Camogie Club, Boston) For NACB (Camogie) finals, have 30-minute halves entered into the By-Laws.
38. (PROPOSED BY Éire Óg Camogie Club, Boston) Five (5) (Camogie) subs entered into the By-Laws, if currently not in.
39. (PROPOSED BY Éire Óg Camogie Club, Boston) 45 yard frees (in Camogie) – entered into By-Laws.
40. (PROPOSED BY Éire Óg Camogie Club, Boston) That two (2) trained (in course) Camogie Referees be available (for the Playoffs).
41. (PROPOSED BY Éire Óg Camogie Club, Boston) That Boston Camogie teams be allowed to play in the NE Division with New York (or at a minimum, update By- Law 9 (f) to include “unless previous permission is obtained”).
Bórd Contae Meiriceá Thuaidh, Chomhdháil Bhliantúil - NACB Annual Convention, November 16, 2002 36
42. (PROPOSED BY Erins Rovers, Chicago) That draws made at Pre-Playoff meetings shall stand. In the event of a club pulling out and another entering, there will be no re-draw of schedule. The new team shall fill the void.
43. (PROPOSED BY Erins Rovers, Chicago) That draws made at the Pre-Playoff meeting shall stand. In the event that a team pulls out, the draw stays as is with one team getting a bye for that scheduled game.
44. (PROPOSED BY Erins Rovers, Chicago) If a team pulls out of the NACB Playoffs after the schedule is drawn, that team will be fined and not let compete at any level.
45. (PROPOSED BY Tír na nÓg, Boston) To eliminate the By-Law R9 (h) General Rules, Non-Participation Penalty. REASON: The existing immigration laws may put Divisions, clubs and individuals who travel to the NACB finals in jeopardy and therefore they should not be financially punished.
46. (PROPOSED BY Saoirse LGFC) That white-card players should not be selected to represent the North American County Board in the International Championship.
47. (PROPOSED BY O.C. Róisín) That Robert’s Rules of Order apply at all meetings and that all NACB committee members be aware of the rules and follow the proper procedures.
48. (PROPOSED BY Western Youth Board) That the annual convention be changed to the second weekend in October when football is fresher in people’s minds and doesn’t interfere with holiday plans.
49. (REQUEST SUBMITTED BY Western Divisional Board) The Western Divisional Board seeks to host the 2003 NACB Convention.
50. (REQUEST SUBMITTED BY the Denver Gaels) That the 2004 Playoffs be held in Denver, Colorado - See package of information.