APRIL 2016

NUACHTLITIRAIBREÁN 2016

FOR NEWS, VIDEOS AND FIXTURES www.gaa.ie Football Hurling Club General

LAOCHRA - IT’S FINALLY HERE!

fter months of planning and It is also, however, the exact Centenary to 82,300 capacity and add to the sense of preparation, the countdown is the day that the first shots were fired in the occasion with audience participation set to really on to April 24 at Croke Rising of 1916 in Dublin. be a key element of the festivities. Park and the LAOCHRA show Awhich will follow the Allianz Division 1 And the events at Croke Park on April 24 A limited number of 1,916 tickets went and 2 football league finals and will mark will mark the GAA’s main contribution to up for sale at a discounted price and were the GAA’s official commemoration of the the national calendar of events to mark the snapped up and everything is on course for 1916 Easter Rising. Rising. a special day. Tickets cost €35 for adults and €5 for It’s already shaping up to be a very special Such is the scale and impact of the show Under16s and are available from tickets.ie day with Tyrone and Cavan meeting in an that a decision was taken not to try and eagerly anticipated Division 2 final as new cram it into the interval between the generations of Red Hand and Breffni stars Division 2 and Division 1 finals. showcase their considerable talents. It will now take place after the Division 1 Then we have the magnificent prospect of trophy has been presented and will feature a repeat of the All-Ireland final when Dublin all four teams who play in Croke Park that take on Kerry with Jim Gavin’s men looking day along with a sizeable cast of performers to win a staggering fourth straight league and musicians from here and abroad. crown and Eamonn Fitzmaurice’s Kingdom eager to halt Dublin’s run of big match This is one of those occasions when being victories over them. there will be a special moment for those lucky enough to get their hands on a ticket. And then there is LAOCHRA. Hopes are high that it will be an occasion to remember and rank alongside great This is a specially commissioned 35 minute events in the stadium’s recent past like the show put together by the world-renowned 2003 Special Olympics opening ceremony, Tyrone Productions company and is being the first floodlit match of 2007 or the billed as one of Croke Park’s ‘unmissable Dublin-Tyrone 125 celebration match of events.’ 2009 when the stadium was packed to the rafters. Sunday, April 24 is already a big day in the GAA calendar as it will be when the Allianz A rallying call is to be made for GAA fans Niall Kelly, left, Athy GAA Club, Co. Kildare, and Tony Kelly, Ballyhea GAA Club, Co. Clare, football league Division 1 and 2 finals are from every club in the country to be there with Irish Wolfhounds Aoife and Meabh at Croke Park for the launch of the Laochra show which saw the staged. on the day and help fill Croke Park to its GAA issue a rallying call to every club in the country to make an effort to be present on April 24 Football Hurling Club General

ARMAGH HERO RECALLS HIS STRUGGLE WITH GAMBLING AND WARNS GAA MEMBERS TO EDUCATE THEMSELVES TO ITS DANGERS by Cian Murphy

isín McConville was 14 years old was, for me, just like a drug addict getting a when he was in the bookies for heroin shot. To put a bet on would give me a the first time to put a bet on a sense of relief. But that relief would only last horse in the Grand National. He for the length of time that the race lasted. Ocan’t remember now whether the horse If it was a two minute race it only lasted two won or lost – but he knows from that minutes and then I had the urge to bet again.” moment on he was hooked on gambling. Defeat brought denial. The next one was It was a different world. There was none of always going to be the winner. the mod cons of today’s bookmaker shops with their banks of flat screen TVs, shining Looking back now McConville knows that surfaces, comfy sofas and coffee machines. he actually wasn’t a good gambler and that Back then it was dark and secretive, the air he lost more than he won. But long before thick with smoke and carrying more than a the end it wasn’t about winning or losing whiff of danger. because he had lost control and was serving an addiction. Yet, for McConville, that was where he felt at home. He added: “By the time I finished gambling my debts were £100,000. I reckon I must have Oisín told the Club Newsletter: “There were gambled at least treble that amount if not three guys in the bookies. Two of them more in the years before. Every penny I ever were putting on 50p and there was one guy had, and there was a time in my life when I was putting on cash and that’s who I wanted to holding a half decent job and earning decent be. money, I was gambling it.”

“By the time I was 17 or 18 I was gambling Of course, during this time McConville was every penny I had and if I wasn’t gambling winning Armagh, Ulster and All-Ireland club I was thinking about it every minute of the championship medals with Crossmaglen day. Rangers and was the key man kicking the frees. In 2002 he was a goal scoring hero in “I was a compulsive gambler. their breakthrough All-Ireland final triumph over Kerry. “For people who don’t suffer from it, it can be hard to understand, but I’m not being However, behind the façade he Oisín McConville, one of the greatest forwards of his generation, fought a private battle with a gambling addiction, but has turned his life around and is now determined to help others do the same dramatic when I say that putting a bet on was suffering. Football Hurling Club General

He says: “When Armagh won the All-Ireland it was great. But through the celebrations afterwards I was thinking ‘I’d love to get away from here and put a bet on’. It’s a sad reflection on the hold that gambling had on me that I just wanted to get away.

“I’d say for the last five years I was gambling I didn’t want to gamble, but it had a hold on me.

“Football was great because I’d go to training and I’d have to leave the phone in the car for two hours to go out and play and that was a break away from it when I couldn’t bet and I was free from it.

“Football saved my life. I had suicidal thoughts asking myself what was I at and what was I doing to my family. I’m not being dramatic, unless I went for help I don’t think I’d be around now.”

The breaking point for Oisín was October 12, 2005. The day before he turned 30. He recalled: “On my last day of gambling I had got a business man to go guarantor on a huge bet of €10,000 on a horse and the horse was beaten. I went out to the car and found six or seven euro and went back in and had another bet because I felt I could get my money back.

“Then I took out my phone and went down through the names in my phone looking for another ‘victim’ that I might be able to call to get money and then I realised I couldn’t because I had gone through family and friends already.

“Over the next couple of days I broke down and things started to come out. I was in treatment a week later and was in treatment Oisín battles with Tomás Ó Sé in an epic battle in the great 2002 All-Ireland final triumph for the Orchard County for 13 weeks. Football Hurling Club General

“I hadn’t cried in 16 years but I started to cry and to show emotions that I had locked up for so long.”

From those dark depths Oisín has rebuilt his life. Today he has a successful career as an Addiction Counsellor working with Smarmore Castle, which is a private clinic based in Louth.

He is on the road, very often the first point of contact for gamblers or more likely their friends and family who ring seeking help and seeking an intervention.

He will always have a gambling addiction, but the odds are that nowadays he will win big at helping and indeed saving lives.

He is passionate about ensuring that Irish society and the GAA is aware of the dangers of gambling – especially on young people.

The nightmare scenario of a betting scandal in Gaelic games is not something our Association has faced and Oisín does not believe it is a threat – but he knows enough to know that we cannot afford to be complacent.

He says: “There is a serious issue in society with gambling, there is a serious issue with it in sport and the GAA is not immune to that.

“I’ve seen no hard evidence that there is a problem with it in the GAA on match results but we need to work hard at educating young people about the dangers of gambling.

“The GPA are doing work on highlighting the danger of gambling but they only cater for inter county squads and that is only a group of 2,000 people in an Association the size of the GAA so we need to think about all the other people in the GAA.

“We need to keep educating people and also let family and friends know that the one thing you don’t do to someone with a gambling problem is continue to give them money.”

The GAA is heavily involved in lobbying for changes to the gambling legislation that will make it illegal to offer and take bets on sporting games involving Under 18s – something that McConville supports.

The fact he is busy meeting people through his new role convinces him we still have In January 2014, Oisin McConville attended the launch of the GAA/GPA Gambling Guidelines a long road to travel but he feels if a focus on education programmes and support systems is in place this is a race that we have a chance of winning. Football Hurling Club General

THE GAA’S EFFORTS IN GAMBLING AWARENESS by Colin Regan

hatever issues are commercial relationships between impacting on Irish gambling and sporting entities, while society across the 32 gambling parlance has entered the counties will also impact wider sporting lexicon (listen to any Won the lives of GAA members. radio sports show and count just how many times the odds are mentioned). Recognising the growing prevalence of problem gambling in Ireland, the GAA Add to this the evidence that habits and GPA, in January 2014, jointly issued within team sports especially (team Gambling Guidelines and information bonding, killing time on journeys to packs for their members. The basic away matches, macho group dynamics) points of the guidelines are simple: can foster a culture that encourages and supports betting circles. All this 1. Never bet on competitions you or means persons involved in sport, your team are directly involved in including GAA players, officers, and members, may be at increased danger 2. Educate yourself about the of exposure to risk factors that may dangers and symptoms of contribute to problem gambling. problem gambling This is one of the reasons why a GAA 3. Seek help early if you feel submission to the Gambling Control gambling is impacting negatively Bill requests that the new Bill ‘include on your life provisions to prohibit any bookmarker subject to its law from opening a book The increasing prevalence of on a sporting event involving minors gambling in society is closely (persons under 18-years of age).’ linked to the ubiquitous access and availability offered by smartphones If you or someone you know has been and computers in the modern affected by problem gambling please communications age. call the National Problem Gambling Helpline on 1800-753-753 (ROI) or Gambling and sport have long gone 0808-8020-133 (NI) or visit www. hand in hand for many people. gamblingaware.ie for more details. You can also access the full GAA Gambling Offaly’s Niall McNamee at the launch of the GAA/GPA Gambling Guidelines in 2014 There is significant increase in Guidelines at www.gaa.ie/community Football Hurling Club General

GAA’S NEW NATIONAL GAMES DEVELOPMENT CENTRE OPENS AT THE NATIONAL SPORTS CAMPUS

he GAA has officially opened its new National Games Development Centre (NGDC) at Abbotstown on the site of the TNational Sports Campus.

Uachtarán Aogán Ó Fearghail and Ard Stiúrthóir Páraic Duffy, along with members of the GAA’s Management Committee, Central Council and County Committees, joined a number of invited guests to mark the occasion. The facility will come into use with immediate effect.

The recently completed project includes a total of five playing pitches - four of them full size and all of them floodlit - a 3G pitch, a hurling wall and a pavilion which houses 10 dressing-rooms, a reception area and gymnasium, and associated facilities for physiotherapy, referees, meeting rooms and dining facilities.

A covered seated spectator area adjoining the pavilion can cater for 400 people.

The Centre will seek to increase participation and to improve the performance of individuals (players, coaches, administrators, personnel etc.) within the GAA for the benefit of both the Association and the individuals.

The primary focus will be on delivering 2 April 2016; At the official opening of the GAA National Games Development Centre, from left, Michael Hasson, President, Ulster Council, John Horan, Chairman, Leinster Council, Uachtarán Chumann Lúthchleas Gael Aogán Ó Fearghail, Ard Stiúrthóir Páraic Duffy, Jerry O’Sullivan, Chairman, Munster Council and Mick Rock, President, Connacht Council. Games Development activities but the Football Hurling Club General

centre will also be used to deliver “The GAA would like to inputs in areas such as Child acknowledge our partners in this Protection Health & Well-Being; project including SSA Architects, Officer Development. Prunty Contracts Ltd., S&K Carey Ltd., and Tobin Consulting In all €12m has been invested Engineers. Together we have in the 25 acre facility which is delivered a facility to be proud situated adjacent to the National of and I have no doubt that the Aquatic Centre and close to the new Centre will serve the GAA main entrance of the campus. well for many years to come in the all-important area of games Uachtarán Chumann Lúthchleas development.” Gael Aogán Ó Fearghail said: “It gives us great pleasure to unveil The National Games this fantastic new facility and it is Development Centre will cater right and proper that the GAA and for units across the countrywide our native games have a presence and international GAA family in a prime location within the from club to county, from National Sports Campus. second level schools to third level activity. It will also be used “The facilities on offer to the wider by the Ladies Gaelic Football GAA family here rank alongside the and Camogie Associations and best anywhere and great credit is there has been a full take up of due to all who have been involved slots for the first full month of from the inception of the project operation. right through to its delivery. Kieran Mulvey, Chairperson Sport “The real benefits of this Ireland commented: “This new development will come to be seen Centre will be a fantastic facility in the months and years ahead as and one which no doubt will be the Centre caters for teams of all a great asset in the provision types fostering a sharing of best of a range of development practice that will enhance our programmes by the GAA and its games and the experience of those affiliates. who play and coach them.” “The National Sports Campus Ard Stiúrthóir Páraic Duffy with all the ancillary services added: “It’s impossible not to and facilities it provides, will no be impressed by the completed doubt prove the ideal location facility and we are hugely enthused for training, coaching and High Hopes: Ard Stiúrthóir Páraic Ó Dufaigh and Uachtarán Aogán Ó Fearghail survey the glorious view by the enthusiastic response from development programmes to all from the top of the new GAA campus at Abbotstown in West Dublin. our various units regarding its use. levels in the Association”. Football Hurling Club General

ABBOTSTOWN OPEN FOR USE AND OPEN FOR ALL

The GAA National Games Development Centre in Abbotstown is open and ready to be used by all.

This is a state of the art facility and all units of the GAA at national, provincial, county or club level are welcome to use the facility which includes:

FOUR FULL LENGTH PLAYING PITCHES, THREE OF WHICH ARE FLOODLIT, INCLUDING A 3G PITCH

A TRAINING PITCH

TEN DRESSING ROOMS

A GYMNASIUM

MEETING ROOMS.

A FLOODLIT HURLING WALL AREA

The facility is suitable for matches, coaching sessions, courses or presentations and it is located off the M50 at Exit 6 on the National Sports Campus.

At present bookings can be made by emailing Derry Enright, Operations Manager at [email protected]

The phone number is 01-8610045.

Within a few weeks we will be in a position to take bookings online. The facility will be available seven days a week and timings are available from mid- morning. Football Hurling Club General

LÁ NA gCLUBANNA

In 2016 the GAA plans to celebrate the importance of your club in your community. Lá na gClubanna will take place on Sunday, 8th May, 2016.

Every member of the GAA should mark this special day of celebration by participating at events in their Club… the real driver and engine of the GAA.

For details on how to get involved and for ideas see here Football Hurling Club General

ASH DIEBACK AND THE FINE ART OF HURLEY MAKING by Peter Sweeney

he GAA is at the forefront of the required in Ireland every year. That’s a lot of fight against ash dieback disease ash. — the scourge that is threatening to wipe out up to 90 per cent of Croke Park has thrown its weight behind Tthe ash tree population on the island of research into ash dieback and alternatives to Ireland. all-wooden hurlers should the supply run dry.

Ash has been used to make hurleys for “We were to be self-sufficient in ash around thousands of years — far longer than the 2018 or 2019 – there was enough ash country of Ireland or the GAA have been in planted 20 years ago for that to happen. existence. Everyone was working to that scenario,” Other woods aren’t suitable for the job explained GAA Director of Games as they aren’t as supple so without ash Development and Research Pat Daly, who is the game of hurling could be changed deeply involved in the process. irrevocably. “As it happens, 75 per cent of the ash used It’s reckoned that Chalara Fraxinea, to for hurleys is imported. You can continue to give the disease it’s latin name, existed for import, but the thinking was to have self- centuries in eastern Russia and parts of sufficiency.” China. However, he warned: “The disease is Trees imported from those regions into spreading; there is no ash being planted. If Europe brought the problem to these shores it’s not imported, it’s not going to be here in and since 2012 it has spread through the this country.” country’s ash plantations like wildfire. Ash dieback disease, a fungal infection, came It’s thought that 90 per cent of the ash to this country in infected saplings that were population in Denmark, one of the worst imported to boost Irish stocks. affected countries, was wiped out by dieback disease and there are fears that Ireland could “The wind can carry it a long way so it can go the same way. spread from one plantation to the other - it’s highly contagious,” said former Cork This is, of course, a cause for concern for the footballer Noel O’Leary, who works for the GAA given upwards of 350,000 new hurls are family tree surgery and sawmill business. Football Hurling Club General

“The wood essentially rots from the inside the hurley making business going. Teagasc and the Irish Guild of Ash Hurley “There are about 300 full-time jobs out. Ash bark is light in colour, but once Makers. attached to this business. If there were it’s infected you notice it turn darker and The primary use of ash in Ireland is the 300 jobs in a factory under threat in a brown and the leaves die. manufacture of hurleys, the rest going for Coillte are the state sponsored body that town in his country everyone would be firewood as it burns well without having manages much of the forests in Ireland and falling over themselves to save them. “The policy at the moment is to take out to be dried out. they are heavily invested in saving Irish ash - all the trees in a population if one infected and by extension the hurley making industry. “This is our culture, our heritage and tree is found. It’s terrible because it The problem with making hurleys is that our national game that we are talking changes landscapes. This is very serious.” only the bottom part of the tree is used, The experience of other countries struck by about. This is what we are. with the turn in the grain where the roots ash dieback is that around ten per cent of There are currently 15,000 acres of ash begin to spread out naturally forming the native trees are resistant to the disease. “This is arguably Ireland’s last being grown in Ireland, which doesn’t take bas, or head, of the hurl. remaining indigenous cottage into account trees that grow wild or outside They are waiting to find those Irish trees industry,” said Power, who is a member of plantations and forestry projects. Much of the GAA’s research is around that are immune and when they do they’ll of the John Locke’s club in Kilkenny and trying to use the whole of the tree to start breeding from them. It’s a long process, a brother of Cats’ All-Ireland winner It’s this country’s most successful broadleaf make camáns while fibreglass and hybrid though one which may ultimately work. John Power. tree, growing quickly all over the island, hurls have also been considered and with the main centres for cultivation based tested. “There are between 250 and 300 hurley “There is a lot happening in the in Tipperary, Kilkenny, Cork, Limerick, manufacturers, either full or part-time,” background on this and the GAA are Clare, Laois, Carlow and Wicklow. Around Croke Park are represented on the Ash explained Michael Power, Coillte’s National very invested in the process. They are 50,000 trees per year are needed to keep Society alongside the likes of Coillte, Estate Risk Manager. trying whatever they can.” Football Hurling Club General

MICHAEL FITZSIMONS: MY CLUB & I by John Harrington

Can you remember the first time you places as a team. We would got to Offaly or walked through the gates of Cuala? Wexford to play hurling, or up to Cavan to play in football tournaments. A: I went down and was in the nursery at a young enough age until around the age We’d stay a night and get a National seven. Then I went away and played soccer League game in. It was just class. There for a bit and got dragged back when I was was a great mix of lads from the different 13 or 14 by a friend in my class, Ciaran parts of the club’s catchment area. Lads McAdam. He got me back, I stuck with it, from Sallynoggin, Blackrock, and Dalkey. and made friends for life. There was a bit Just a great mix of lads going to all different more of a bond there than you would have schools. It just really broadened my circle of gotten in some of the soccer clubs. friends and circle of interests, so that was very good. Q: Did you take soccer quite seriously from the age of seven to 13? Q: For people who may not know, can you explain just how big Cuala’s catchment A: Ah no, not too seriously. I played with area is. Cabinteely who are now in the First Division. I enjoyed the soccer, but I really got the A: It’s huge. We would draw lads as far bug for playing Gaelic and hurling. Our two down as Shankill and Bray and as far up as mentors when I went back were just very Glenageary and Sandycove. charismatic – Mikey Sheanon and John Bailey, who’s a politician from the area. We Q: With such a large catchment area, were going for early morning sessions and and with strong competition from rugby runs before that sort of thing got famous. and soccer in that part of Dublin, how Just doing all sorts that created a great easy has it been for the club to form a bond amongst that group of lads. presence in the community? Have you seen that develop a lot in recent years? There’s around 10 to 15 lads who are still playing from that age-group. We stuck A: Yeah, there has been huge work done. together, and it’s because we trained so When I went down first it was the first year hard together and went on trips away. They of the nursery, and after that they set up put a huge amount of effort into it, and it an Academy. They have gotten so many was just something I hadn’t experienced parents involved from around the area with the soccer in terms of going away to that it’s just huge now. I can’t remember Football Hurling Club General

the stats, but in terms of the numbers at current set-up) might keep people closer won the U13 League and got to an All- because they’re our nearest rivals and underage we’re one of the biggest clubs in to the club. Every time we play in Dalkey Ireland Feile in the hurling. Everyone played would have been heavy favourites. Ireland. we get a great crowd. But when we play both hurling and Gaelic then. in Shankill we don’t get as good a crowd Q: How happily do hurling and football In terms of creating an identity, there because it’s a little bit more away from the We had lost the Dublin Féile Hurling coexist together at senior level in the has been an awful lot of work done in the actual hub. Final, so we entered the Division 2 All- club? schools around the area. One thing that Ireland Féile and got to a semi-final in stands out when you’re going around with Q: You went to Johnstown Boys National that and lost up in Belfast. Travelling up A: At underage it was seamless. There was trophies and stuff like that is the great work School. Was there much of a GAA there together really developed our bond. never any hassle and the system worked the Games Promotion Officers are doing in presence there? Then we won U16 Leagues and the U16 perfectly. At overage, there were one or the schools. I think the other sports are a bit hurling championship and eventually two years when both teams were getting behind us in that regard. A: It felt like there was at the time. They went on to win the Dublin Minor football to Finals. We got to an intermediate final have not been as strong in recent years, but championship. which was big for the footballers, and the You’re helping the teachers out, getting it was the main sport when I was there. hurlers got to the senior final. the kids out playing GAA, they enjoy it and Q: Was that the same group that also won then join the club. Damien Byrne set up the Q: Then you went to Secondary School in the Dublin U21 ‘A’ hurling and football That was 2012 and things got a little bit Academy and along with Denis Monaghan CBC Monkstown which is a famous rugby double in 2009? difficult and messy because both teams sat down and came up with a strategy to nursery. Did you play much rugby? wanted the same players. But for the last get people into the club and really coach A: Yeah, that was our final year together, few years it’s been run fairly well. The the kids in a good manner. You can really A: I played for the ‘B’ and ‘C’ teams, nothing and it was a great way to finish up. We beat number of dual players has dropped a notice the difference, because all of our major. I was probably a bit too light and I Kilmacud Crokes in the football final and bit, and that obviously makes it easier. underage teams are just producing kids wasn’t that good! wouldn’t have had anyone anywhere near There’s definitely no tensions there. All who are smarter on the ball and more the Dublin senior football team at the time the footballers support the hurlers and committed because that’s how they’ve Q: Any Gaelic Football there? whereas they had Rory O’Carroll, Kevin vice-versa. Socially-wise, we all get on well been brought up. Nolan, and Cian O’Sullivan. It was massive, together, there’s no divide. We’d like to A: There was a private schools tournament It’s a proper community club and it’s set up towards the end of my time there. So really well run. But we don’t own any of we played the likes of Castleknock College our pitches (they’re owned by the Dublin and someone from Cuala came up to help County Council), so that’s why there was an out. But it wasn’t big at all in the school. initiative to get to Stradbrook, because we You might play two or three games a year wanted to own our own pitches. (Fitzsimons and that would be about it. And on a rugby is referring to the proposed ground-sharing pitch as well. deal with Blackrock RFC at Stradbrook Road that collapsed) Q: Did you have much success at underage level in Cuala with that group Q: Does the club need a home like that? of guys you grew up with?

A: I think it would be nice, because we still A: I’m not sure how it was in the bigger have to train in Bray and stuff like that. So picture of Cuala, but I think we were one of if we had our own facilities like that we’d the first teams from the club that was quite Celebrating silverware with Cuala be able to save a lot of money. But it (the successful. In my first year back there we Football Hurling Club General

see Mark Schutte, Cian O’Callaghan, Colm Q: Cuala won the Dublin Minor ‘A’ Dave in his office when I was in first-year. were very close to beating Ballyboden and Cronin and Oisin Gough all play football Football Championship in 2013, so has I didn’t think that Dave would care about getting to a Final. So, yeah, if we got a bit of at some stage. It would boost our football there been an influx of talented young someone like me from Cuala because he a run and built up a bit of confidence in the team massively. players onto the senior team that can had so many good players in UCD at that group, then I think it’s a possibility. help that push? stage. Q: Do you play any hurling anymore? Q: So you’ve lost your first-round A: Yeah, Con O’Callaghan and Martin I ended up playing an intermediate game Championship match every year since A: I went back once or twice but it was hard Cahalane are Dublin U21s. Mick Spillane’s and Dave was at all of those matches and going Senior in 2012? getting the touch back right. I actually young lad, Daragh, didn’t play minor for got to know me and called me up to the played a Junior Championship game Dublin but is on the Dublin U21 team in his seniors. He straight away saw that Cuala A: Yeah. We lost to Vincent’s the year they two years ago against St. Marks. I only first year in the grade now. were an intermediate club so I could play went on to win it (2013, St. Vincent’s went played because I wanted to mark Dotsy senior Dublin Championship with UCD. on to win the All-Ireland title). We were (O’Callaghan). I’d know Dotsy because I Q: Someone like Con O’Callaghan has three points down with five minutes to played with him in UCD. He didn’t even been touted from a very young age. Your I wasn’t playing Sigerson, but I was playing go and I went on two runs and lost the notice it was me marking him until five own progression through the ranks was Senior Championship, and I didn’t feel out ball twice and we lost by five. We were minutes into the game and asked me what not as predestined, was it? For instance, of my depth, so that was good. After that, struggling to score and I just felt we needed I was doing there! I just told him I fancied a you didn’t play minor for Dublin. Dave called me into the Sigerson team, to do something towards the end, but it handy game of hurling. I got a point off him and that helped me as well. Cuala won didn’t work! We lost to Na Fianna by a good that day and held him scoreless, so I was A: It’s all a bit strange. I think I was good the Dublin U21 Championship around the bit in 2014, and then we lost to Ballinteer happy enough! enough at a young age. When I came in at same time and Dublin were looking for last year when they scored a goal in the last U13 it went well for me. But then I think I new players in the full-back line after 2009 few minutes. We have St. Judes in the first- Q: Cuala lost two Intermediate football maybe got a bit tall and lost coordination and when I was given a chance I surprised round this year, so we’ll see how it goes. titles in a row in 2010 and 2011 before and that’s why I fell out of favour around myself really and maybe a few other people. finally winning it in 2012. That must have U16 level. I was on the Minor ‘B’ team in my felt like a big moment? first year in the grade. By my second year at Q: Did seeing what last year’s County minor I was still only a sub until they tried Championship success by the hurlers A: Yeah, that was huge. We had expected to me corner-back. meant to the club make everyone win it for a while with that group of players, involved with the football team even but we were a bit slow at getting up to the They were struggling then to find a full- more determined to achieve something required level. It was a bit disappointing back so then they tried me there and I sort big too? that it took that long, but it was a huge of took to it well enough. When I got a relief to finally get up to the senior grade. chance with the senior team I got straight A: It definitely did. You could see they had We still haven’t pushed on yet. I hope we into it more or less after a game or two and some seriously good times after it, they will, but it’s just been very slow each year. it just sort of went from there. I found it enjoyed it, and it was a great journey. I don’t quite enjoyable, the challenge of marking think anyone expects the footballers to do It took us so long to get promoted to someone and trying to improve each game. that as well soon, but within the panel we’d Division 1. I felt we should have done it a hope that we can do it. while back, but it’s just been little gains I played Dublin Junior under Mick Deegan every year. If we continue this way, then the and that was my first step away from Cuala. We still haven’t even won a Senior lads my age are running out of time if we Playing with UCD helped as well. Tony Championship game but anything is want to win a Senior Championship. We’re Fayne, who’s from our area and would have possible if you get some momentum. We Michael Fitsimons lifts the Sam Maguire in 2013 hoping to up it in the next year or two. known David Billings, told me to go visit all saw what Clontarf did last year. They Football Hurling Club General

NEW RTE SWIPE TV AND GAA GO GAMES SKILL CHALLENGES

ew GAA Go Games Skill Challenges have been developed. They are a set of hurling/camogie and Gaelic football challenges for children aged approx. N7-12. They are designed so that children can organise and carry them out, individually or in pairs. See: www.learning.gaa.ie/gogamesskillchallenges

We have joined forces with RTE Swipe TV to promote the initiative. Two videos of inter- county stars doing the challenges will be released every Wednesday at 16.30 on RTE 2 Swipe TV until May 4.

Children are encouraged to download the SwipeTV app and upload videos of themselves doing the challenges.

Participants will be randomly selected to play with GAA Superstars in a Go Games Blitz in Parnell Park, Dublin in mid-May. Football Hurling Club General

UACHTARAN’S BLOG – AOGÁN Ó FEARGHAIL WE ARE FOCUSED ON IMPROVING THE LOT OF THE CLUB PLAYER

t has been a hectic few months, acknowledging that there is an issue but so much significant with the fixtures calendar. We have to work is being carried out address it. with the Championships fast Iapproaching. We have already made changes to improve the lot of the club player. One of the main items recently That is what we are focused on. We was Congress which is a very busy are trying to make sure all of our weekend. Our world units come decisions at Congress, at Central in first, Management and World Council, Management, and Provincial GAA meet on the Thursday. Then level are improving the fixtures on Friday we have Central Council calendar. Congress has made a meetings. Of course we have tremendous start - it will continue. Congress itself, then you have the outflow afterwards. There was some disappointment with certain motions didn’t receive We have to make sure to see how the required two thirds majority, we can best implement what has but that doesn’t mean it is finished. been passed and what has been We’ve almost 2,000 GAA clubs. On decided. Congress also gives us an the island of Ireland we have four opportunity to check the pulse of Provincial Councils, we have a Central the Association. Even if a motion Council, we have 32 County Boards. isn’t passed, it is important that we That is a lot of fixture making, a lot assess everything. Principally I mean of issues have to be addressed. We the Ard Stiurthoir, Páraic Duffy, and have two major field games in Gaelic myself. We sit down to assess where Football and hurling, but we share the mood of the Association is on a our facilities with Ladies Football and whole range of things. Camogie. Very few sports would have that complex nature. Overall I was pleased with Congress. I would have preferred if certain We have a huge Schools Association, motions were passed, but I’m happy particularly at second and third level. that everybody, even those who There are a lot of competitions and were for and those who were against fixtures. It won’t all happen simply, certain motions, that they are all now but there has been substantial Football Hurling Club General

progress, and we will continue to 1916 being carried live by TG4, and ticket keep streamlining it as best we can. sales, I’m told, are booming. The This year has been special. We have GAA family will gather on that date. Remember it is a challenge rather been very much involved in many than a problem. Some people are events at national level with the ETIHAD WORLD GAMES describing it as a crisis, it isn’t a Government’s 1916 Committee. crisis. Fixtures are always an issue Everything so far has gone well. We’ve I’m very fond of what I see for any sport, but it is simply a fact had a great lecture series with packed happening internationally. I always that we have more games and out houses every night running through knew the strength of the GAA teams than ever. The Association the winter and spring period. We outside Ireland, but I didn’t realise is growing so it is a wonderful launched our book on the GAA’s link that the standard was as high. The challenge to have. It is a challenge with 1916, but our main event, and it is quality of play is incredible. At this we are happy and pleased to try to the showcase for the GAA is the April stage I’ve visited all County Boards deal with it. 24 event. internationally in the seven units around the world. We had a World LÁ NA gCLUBANNA It is fortuitous the way it falls, on the Games in Abu Dhabi and during exact calendar date of the rebellion that competition I announced that So many things are happening that just happens to be our Allianz we would bring it back to Ireland presently, but Lá na gClubanna is a Football League finals day. for 2016. It is happening now. We great place for clubs to showcase have a great line up, we have more their strength. We are having our We’ve always said that the best way than 80 teams. club day on May 8, I hope every club to commemorate is to play our Gaelic really embraces it to showcase the Games. The Division One and Two It is important that people coming enthusiasm I see in the clubs. The finals will be at Croke Park on April 24 from elsewhere that they know schools and clubs should all come followed by a spectacular show called that if they get to a final it will be together to showcase what is best, Laochra. I think people will in years to at Croke Park. People at home will to invite the community in. It is a come say that ‘I was there on that day’. love it, they will realise how strong big event, I am very much looking There is a cast of almost 3,000, it will the GAA is internationally. It will forward to it. I hope clubs embrace involve Irish song, music, dance. It will also give them a chance to meet it. be a lovely and spectacular event. It is with their friends and loved ones.

Aogán Ó Fearghail Uachtarán Cumann Lúthchleas Gael Football Hurling Club General

INSPIRATIONAL GAA MEMBERS HONOURED AT PRESIDENT’S AWARDS

he GAA is pleased to “A club family as wide and diverse as confirm the recipients for ours would not be possible without Gradaim an Uachtaráin the enthusiasm of so many people 2016 which were who take great pride and satisfaction Tpresented at a special banquet in in being involved in what is a Croke Park. movement of like-minded people.

The awards, organised with the “Our recipients serve as an example support of club championship to the legions of volunteer members sponsors AIB and broadcast by TG4, who power the GAA. These people are staged annually by the GAA and follow in the footsteps of those provide the GAA President with who did this before them and who an opportunity to acknowledge influence the generation that will outstanding commitment and long come after them. I laud each and service across the club, and county every one of them. network from people whose highly valued contribution may not be “I would like to acknowledge AIB recognised on the national stage. and Denis O’Callaghan, Head of Branch Banking AIB, for their ongoing The awards are made on a province support of these awards. and code basis and there are also Gaeilge and International Awards in “Their involvement this evening is addition to the presentation of the another tangible example of their Annual Dermot Earley Family Award. support of both our club and county activity and this relationship will be Uachtarán Chumann Lúthchleas the fore in the coming weeks and Gael Aogán Ó Fearghail, said: “I’m months with our club and inter- delighted to present these awards county championships commanding this evening to incredible members our attention. of the GAA, members whose tireless dedication and commitment help “Míle buíochas also to TG4 and to make the GAA what it is, the length Pól Ó Gallchóir for their assistance in and breadth of the country and helping us to bring these awards to The recipients of the GAA President’s Award for 2016 with Uachtarán Chumann Lúthchleas Aogán Ó Fearghail, front centre indeed around the world. the widest audience possible.” Football Hurling Club General

Buaiteoirí Gradaim an chairmanship role in 1965 and held the son’s team, despite the heartache. She has Paddy McMahon has worked with tireless position until 1977. Over this period, he been an inspirational figure in the club and dedication for the GAA at club, county, Uachtaráin 2016: was central to the club’s success in a very in the community. provincial and national level. He was always fruitful period which delivered a Junior a central figure on the field and showed a MUNSTER Championship in 1966, a first U16 title in ULSTER leadership which he continued to display Anne Ryan, Brickey Rangers GAA, Co. 1973 and a second minor championship Seán McGourty, Naomh Gall CLG, Antrim off the field where he was involved in so Waterford in 1975, as well as a Senior Championship many crucial projects that put O’Mahony’s final appearance in 1972. Towards the end of his playing career Seán on a secure footing. His expertise and A founding member of the Waterford focused his attention to the development passion from football to poc fada, from Supporters Club in Dublin in 1992. She CONNACHT aspect of the club both on and off the social initiatives to child protection and became secretary of the club in 1995 and Liam Bracken, Kilbride GAA, Co. field. He introduced a juvenile section health and safety, speak volumes about this held that position until 2012 when she Roscommon that produced many fine teams, littered man’s contribution. retired Anne Ryan has been a staunch with dual players. As a result St Gall’s won supporter of the Brickey Rangers club for Liam Bracken and the Bracken family have 13 county Senior Football Championships CAMOGIE many years. On her return to Waterford played a huge role in the running of the in 14 years, and hurling championship Mary Connor, St. Annes Camogie Club, after her retirement Anne focused her club for many years. Having held a number title at intermediate. It was no accident Co. Louth focus and dedication to Club Déise. Her of executive positions within the club Liam that in 2010 St Gall’s contested the All- valiant efforts also saw her claim the Jack also put great effort into the coaching of Ireland club finals in senior football and Mary has been a loyal and committed Furlong Award in 2013. underage teams in the club. Along with this intermediate hurling, winning the football. member of St. Anne’s Camogie Club for Liam also successfully started up a camogie There were nine dual players on the teams. 51 years. She was inducted into the club’s MUNSTER club which went from strength to strength. first “Hall of Fame” award at the club’s Denis Hurley, Sarsfields Hurling Club, Co. His sons Mike, Timmy and James all played LEINSTER 50th Anniversary in 2014. She has served Cork and coached at various levels within the Ned Flynn, Castletown/Finea/Coole/ the club in an exemplary fashion over club and have given life-long service to it Whitehall GAA Club, Westmeath the years as player, coach, referee and in Denis Hurley, a two-time senior county and his grandchildren are now playing at administration. To add to her impressive champion with Sarsfields, has devoted underage level for Kilbride. Secretary of his club at the age of 18, CV she has also been Chair of Leinster his life to the club and county. Having followed by roles as Chairperson, County Council and Vice President of the Camogie served as a selector on All-Ireland-winning ULSTER Board delegate and Secretary of the Association. senior hurling teams in four different Sharon McGrath, Belcoo O’Rahilly’s, Co. Westmeath Minor/Juvenile board, Ned decades at county level (66, ’76, ’84 and Fermanagh Flynn has experienced a busy 40 years in HANDBALL ’90), Denis also proved a huge addition the world of GAA. He was renowned for Vincent Brennan, Ballaghaderreen to administration at club level and he has Sharon has been involved with Belcoo his work with the youth – not least in the Handball Club, Mayo served in every officer position in Sarsfields O’Rahilly’s all her life and was instrumental transportation of underage players from for over 65 years. in setting up Belcoo’s first Youth Committee venue to venue – and his encouragement Vincent Brennan from the Ballaghaderreen to give everyone an equal opportunity. ensuring game time for so many children Club in Mayo has dedicated his life to the CONNACHT She has held roles within the club such down through the years. game of Handball, in particular the code Joe McManus, Enniscrone/Kilglass GAA as Youth Secretary, Secretary, Assistant of Hardball - the most ancient form of Club, Co. Sligo Secretary, Assistant Youth Secretary and LEINSTER Handball. Vincent currently hand makes Development Officer, while continuing to Paddy McMahon, Sean O’Mahony’s GAA, the Hardballs which is a skilled and time Upon his arrival in Enniscrone Joe coach and mentor Youth teams. Despite the Louth consuming process each year for the All- immediately became involved in the tragic loss of her 13 year old son Oisín, she Ireland Championships and has done so for running of the GAA club. He took up the has continued to show her support for her For more than 50 years of sterling service over 20 years. He is widely credited as the Football Hurling Club General

main reason that the game of Hardball in the division has more than doubled nursery level upwards. John and Anne’s is still played in Ireland today. from when he first arrived, leaving three sons are also extremely active in Boston GAA as one of the leading the GAA. Mark, Paul and Eoin have all LADIES FOOTBALL divisions in North America in both adult played both hurling and football for the Liam Shinnick, Cahir, Co Tipperary and underage levels. In 1967 he was club as well as representing Dublin at elected chairman of Boston GAA and various levels and codes. Liam founded the Cahir Ladies Football since then he has been involved with Club in 1997 and has been involved in the local and North American board in GAEILGE AWARD many volunteer capacities throughout many different capacities. Paddy Beag Gillespie, Naomh the years from coaching through to Columba GAA Club fundraising. To celebrate his 60th EDUCATION AWARD birthday last year he organised a Tom Fitzpatrick, St. Pats College, Ó 1970 ar aghaidh, d’athraigh baint weekend of fundraising in Cahir with all Drumondra Paddy le Naomh Columba CLG go dtí proceeds going to the local hospice and rudaí ar siúl as an bpáirc. Idir 1970 agus Climb4Clare, a fundraising initiative After a long career as a primary teacher 1996, ghlac Paddy ról an-ghníomhach close to hearts of all members in LGFA. Tom Fitzpatrick joined the staff of St ar Choiste an Chumainn cosúil le ról an Patrick’s College as the GAA officer in Chathaoirligh (seacht n-uaire) agus ról ROUNDERS 2001. He has helped to establish and/ an rúnaí (ceithre huaire) a dhéanamh. Bernie Healy, Limekiln, Dublin or oversee the development of 11 D’oibrigh sé mar leas rúnaí an Chontae College teams, involving 300+ players freisin i 1988. Deirtear go raibh grá Bernie Healy has been involved with each year across the four codes of Paddy don teanga an-soiléir an t-am the game of Rounders for the past 35 hurling, football, camogie and ladies ar fad sa Chumann, agus bhain sé years. From the beginning she has football. Over the past 15 years Tom dioplóma amach sa Ghaeilge in Ollscoil helped support all teams involved, has been the face, heart and soul of the na hÉireann, Gaillimh i 2006. Is stairí providing words of encouragement GAA in the College for thousands of aitiúla é Paddy faoi láthair, agus tá sé to every single player no matter what students. cáilithe mar thuras treoiraithe freisin. has happened on the pitch. She plays From 1970 onwards Paddy’s a very special part in the community FAMILY AWARD association with Naomh Columba by lending a hand, giving advice and The O’ Dea Family, Na Fianna CLG, also turned to off the field activities. general support. When it comes to the Dublin Between 1970 and 1996 Paddy was an sport of Rounders she is a caring and active member of the club executive passionate person and a natural team The O’Dea family have made a huge including serving as Chairman on leader contribution to Na Fianna GAA over seven occasions and secretary on the last 20 years. Anne has been on four occasions, while also serving as INTERNATIONAL AWARD the Club Executive Committee, GPO assistant secretary on the Donegal Bernie O’Reilly Steering committee and also has County Board in 1988. Paddy’s passion served as Club Registrar. At County for the Irish language has always been A native Cavan man, Bernie O’Reilly Level she is currently Cathaoirleach of evident within the club. He received has given almost 60 years of service to Dublin Go Games Fixtures while also a Diploma in Gaeilge from Ollscoil the administration and development serving on the County Bord na nÓg na hÉireann, Gaillimh in 2006 and is of GAA games in the Boston area and Committee. Her husband John has a local historian and a qualified tour North America. The number of clubs coached many juvenile teams from guide. Football Hurling Club General

GAA OFFICIAL GUIDES

Following GAA Congress in February, updated versions of the GAA Official Guides are available to download.

Click on the Guides to view online. Football Hurling Club General Football Hurling Club General

DAVID GOUGH: A YOUNG REFEREE MAKING A BIG IMPRESSION

his year’s Hogan Cup final a lot to the family obviously. The Hogan the well-known Games Development referee David Gough commands Cup is such a brilliant competition. A Administrator at Drumcondra and upon huge respect in the sport - he great breeding ground. You can see the leaving college began a refereeing course still plays football with Slane stars of the future coming through like in Meath before starting to officiate in Tand is himself the proud holder of a trains sometime and then other times, for late 2007. Hogan Cup medal with St Pat’s of Navan. guys who don’t make intercounty teams down the line, the Hogan Cup gives them His first competitive inter-county fixture Gough won the post-primary ‘A’ medal tremendous memories for the rest of their was a 2011 O’Byrne Cup match between in 2001, to compliment a county U21 ‘C’ lives. Offaly and UCD on a wet Wednesday night title with his club. The Slane man also in Rhode but he received a high 95 per holds a Trench Cup medal and a Division “The quality of the football is unreal cent from referee assessor Joe Moynagh 2 League title with St Patrick’s College in and games are played at a serious pace. that night and hasn’t looked back. Gough Drumcondra. We consider it a serious honour to be refereed the 2013 All-Ireland Under-21 officiating at the Hogan Cup final and Football Championship final between

The year before he won at post primary again, for Stephen and I, it holds serious Galway and Cork, the 2014 Allianz FL David Gough with his team of umpires – level, his brother Stephen was on the meaning. The fact that we were both here Division 2 final between Donegal and a real family affair of all Goughs from Slane Hogan Cup winners’ podium. years ago ourselves is very poignant.” Monaghan, the final of the 2015 O’Byrne Cup between Dublin and Kildare and the “Yes, Stephen played corner back in 2000 A primary school teacher, Gough has 2015 All-Ireland minor football final. for St Pat’s when they won the Hogan progressed through the refereeing ranks Cup,” David says. “They beat St Mels in quickly but throughout he has always He’s also a keen tennis player at class two the Leinster final, St Jarlaths in the All- kept his backroom team tight and level in Dublin; a member of Stackallen in Ireland semi-final, and St Pats Armagh familiar. Meath and Glasnevin tennis club in the in the final so no one can say they didn’t “It’s a family mafia business,” he laughs. capital. deserve it. “All Goughs from Slane.” “I play quite a high level of tennis. You “I was on the panel myself a year later in Along with Stephen, his other three need to keep yourself as fit as you 2001 when again we beat St Mels, then umpires are father Eugene, Uncle Terry possibly can because the higher up you Colaiste Na Sceilige and eventually St and cousin Dean, who have assisted him go, the tougher the games and the more Jarlaths in the final. It was a great feeling with every game since he started. fit you have to be,” he says. to win. Gough has played football in his county He’s been an ace in the refereeing “Colm O’Rourke managed both teams. I since the age of seven but is also by now a department for a while and we expect to David Gough is presented with his Allianz Football League D2 2014 referees’ have great memories of that time and so very experienced as a top referee. He was see more of him in the years to come as a medal by Pat McEnaney, Chairman of National Referee Committee, left, and Frank Burke, Vice-President of the GAA does Stephen. It meant and still means introduced to the art by Tom Fitzpatrick, top GAA match official. Football Hurling Club General

2016 NATIONAL CLUB DRAW PRIZES & WINNERS

he GAA’S National Club Draw 6. ALL-IRELAND HURLING & FOOTBALL CLUB SPECIFIC DRAW 2016 has been hailed as a major FINAL CORPORATE PACKAGE 2016 success with more than €1.67 John Keogan - Kilmainhamwood (Meath) €5,000 overall prize winners million raised through the draw 1. Clonmore (Carlow) Tand with all funds retained by clubs who 7. ALL-IRELAND HURLING & FOOTBALL 2. Baileborough (Cavan) took part. FINAL CORPORATE PACKAGE 2016 3. Cloughbawn (Wexford) Callum Mairs - Ardmore St. Mary’s (Derry) Congratulations to all the individual €1,000 PRIZE WINNERS winners and the clubs themselves who 8. ALL-IRELAND HURLING & FOOTBALL Renvyle (Galway), St. Osnat’s (Leitrim), picked up additional prizes in the newly FINAL CORPORATE PACKAGE 2016 Belmullet (Mayo), Elphin (Roscommon), introduced club specific draw - view Joe Chambers - St. Michael’s (Galway) Western Gaels (Sligo), Ruairi Óg Cushendall the full list below of winners, with more (Antrim), Corrinshego Thomas Davis information available on the National Club 9. SHOPPING VOUCHER TO THE VALUE OF (Armagh), Baileborough (Cavan), Coleraine

Draw page here €1,000 Owen Roes (Derry), Naomh Brid (Donegal), GAA Vice President and Chairman of Leinster Council John Horan presents Tom Geoghegan - Eire Óg (Carlow) Teconnaught (Down), Devenish St. Mary’s Jennifer Connaughton, a niece of the winner Joe Chambers, St. Michael’s, National Club Draw Prizes and Winners (Fermanagh), Drumhowan (Monaghan), Galway, during the presentation of prizes to the winners of the GAA National Club Draw. Joe won an All-Ireland Hurling & Football Final Package 2016 1. A NEW OPEL CORSA 10. SHOPPING VOUCHER TO THE VALUE Beragh Red Knights (Tyrone), Newmarket Joanne McKenna - Derrygonnelly Harps OF €1,000 on Fergus (Clare), Nemo Rangers (Fermanagh) John Egan - Ballycumber (Offaly) (Cork), Ballyheigue (Kerry), Fr. Casey’s (Limerick), Newport (Tipperary), Roanmore 2. TRIP WITH THE 2016 ALL-STARS 11. ALL-IRELAND HURLING FINAL (Waterford), Clonmore (Carlow), Naomh Mary Dowd - Emmet Óg (Longford) CORPORATE PACKAGE 2016 Barróg (Dubin), Round Towers (Kildare), Marie O’Neill - St. Mary’s Ahoghill (Antrim) Rower Inistioge (Kilkenny), Clonguish 3. TRAVEL VOUCHER TO THE VALUE OF (Longford), Seán O’Mahony’s (Louth), €1,500 12. ALL-IRELAND FOOTBALL FINAL Dunshaughlin (Meath), Camross (Laois), Don Reynolds - Eslin (Leitrim) CORPORATE PACKAGE 2016 Birr (Offaly), Milltown (Westmeath), Deirdre Smith - Ballygunner (Waterford) Cloughbawn (Wexford), Dunlavin (Wicklow) 4. ALL-IRELAND HURLING & FOOTBALL €1,000 prize winners for the highest ticket FINAL CORPORATE PACKAGE 2016 13. ALL-IRELAND HURLING FINAL sales in each Province Andy Moore - Round Towers Lusk (Dubin) PACKAGE 2016 Connacht: Davitts (Mayo) Margaret Fleming - Robert Emmets (Dublin) Ulster: Shamrocks Loughgiel (Antrim), GAA Vice President and Chairman of Leinster Council John Horan, 5. ALL-IRELAND HURLING & FOOTBALL Munster: Mungret St. Paul’s (Limerick) 3rd from left, makes a presentation to Davitts GAA Club, Ballindine, FINAL CORPORATE PACKAGE 2016 14. ALL-IRELAND FOOTBALL FINAL Leinster: Na Fianna (Dublin) Irishtown, County Mayo, members, left to right, Mick Roche, Frank Hyland, Danny McCloskey - Beragh Red Knights PACKAGE 2016 For more details on the draw, visit gaa.ie/ Michael Waldron, Tom Carey and Laurence Daly, during the presentation of prizes to the winners of the GAA National Club Draw (Tyrone) Killian O’Reilly - Mountnugent (Cavan) news/national-club-draw/ Football Hurling Club General

GAA ANNOUNCES LIST OF OFFICIAL CHARITIES

ive charities from around the the GAA can be a positive influence”. country and representing a range of different causes were selected “As people, the generosity of the Irish Uachtarán Chumann Lúthchleas Gael Aogán Ó Fearghail with Colin Bell, from left, The Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, Bendan McAnallen, The Cormac Trust, Brendan and Terry Ring, Cliona Foundation, Rita Sha, Shabra Charity Foundation by the Association to be charity in helping others in times of need is well and Brian J. Higgins, CEO of Pieta House, at the announcement that five charities from around the country and Fpartners for this year. known. In the GAA we are an Association representing a range of different causes were selected by the Association to be charity partners for this year with a big membership and a big heart”. The quintet were unveiled at a special of young people; To provide automated To date they have donated over €600,000 photo call at Croke Park earlier today. The “The charities selected for 2016, like those external defibrillators (AEDs) for sports to these needy causes. charities are The Cormac Trust; The Kevin that have gone before them, are all in clubs in the local region, for the use of the Bell Repatriation Trust; Shabra Charity their own unique way doing work that is entire local community, and to train people Pieta House Foundation; Pieta House and Cliona’s as phenomenal as it is inspirational in its in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Pieta House is a centre for the prevention Foundation. effort to make an extraordinary difference and the use of defibrillators. of self-harm or suicide and opened its to the lives of ordinary people”. doors a decade ago in Lucan in County Each of the designated charities will receive The Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust Dublin the centre of operations. In the a €20,000 donation from the GAA. “We hope that through their link to the The trust aims to alleviate the financial intervening years they have helped over GAA as one of our official charities in 2016 hardship of bereaved families repatriating 20,000 people in suicidal distress or This is part of an on-going GAA initiative that their work gains more deserving the body (or bodies) of a loved one (or loved engaging in self-harm, and established stretching back to 2010 that has seen the recognition and that their fundraising ones) who have died abroad in sudden or eight subsequent centres, three in the GAA select a number of specific charitable efforts are also enhanced.” tragic circumstances back to Ireland. It is greater Dublin area - Ballyfermot, Tallaght organisations and foundations each year dedicated to the memory of Kevin Bell who and Finglas and five further centres to cater in a bid to assist them in raising awareness The Cormac Trust was a talented Gaelic footballer and Irish for the rest of the country in Limerick, Cork, about their work and also champion them Established by the family of the late Tyrone dancing champion from Newry who was Tipperary, Galway and Kerry. in their fund-raising efforts throughout the All-Ireland winning senior footballer killed in a hit and run incident in New York coming year. Cormac McAnallen, who died from sudden in June, 2013. Cliona’s Foundation cardiac arrest at his home in March of In 2007, Terry and Brendan Ring created Aogán Ó Fearghail, Uachtarán CLG, said: 2004 at the age of just 24. Since then Shabra Charity Foundation Cliona’s Foundation following the death “We are immensely proud of the position the Cormac Trust have done pioneering Based in Monaghan, Shabra Charity was of their daughter Cliona in 2006, who died that the GAA holds within Irish society and work: To raise awareness of sudden founded by Rita Shah and the late Oliver in from an inoperable brain tumour. Terry and of the work that we do at enriching the lives cardiac deaths in young people, and its Castleblaney in 1989. Their fund-raising Brendan founded Cliona’s Foundation as a of our members and the communities in causes; To promote cardiac screening efforts go towards donating equipment for non-profit Irish charity to help keep Cliona’s which they live”. for young people, especially for athletes; heart and cancer research in Ireland while memory alive by helping families with To provide education and information to they also support the children who are a child suffering from a life threatening “We take our role and responsibility in the raise awareness at government level and orphaned by parents who died due to HIV illness. To date Cliona’s Foundation has community seriously and a part of that among other authorities as to the value and Aids by building a suitable orphanage helped over 280 families throughout responsibility is in areas such as this where of providing facilities for the screening and school facilities in Kenya and Nigeria. Ireland, raising over €1,000,000. Football Hurling Club General

ETIHAD AIRWAYS GAA WORLD GAMES LAUNCHED

ore than 1,700 Gaelic footballers, success of last year’s Etihad Airways GAA hurlers and camogie players World Games in Abu Dhabi is still fresh in the from 10 regions around the memory and everyone involved in the GAA is globe are bringing Gaelic games very eager to see that we continue to develop Mhome to Ireland for the 2016 Etihad Airways this exciting initiative. Uachtarán Chumann Lúthchleas Aogán Ó Fearghail with Joan Flynn, Ard Stiúrthóir, Cumann Camogaíochta na nGael, left, GAA World Games in Dublin this August. Beatrice Cosgrove, right, General Manager Ireland, Etihad Airways, with Colm Cavanagh, left, Tyrone, Colin Fennelly, right, Kilkenny, and Bo Zhang, UCD student and member of the China Ladies Gaelic football team at the Etihad Airways “In the years immediately after the formation GAA World Games 2016 launch A total of 87 teams from 20 countries will of the GAA in 1884, Michael Cusack described travel to Dublin for a week-long festival of the growth and expansion of Gaelic games Gaelic games activity between August 7 and activity as “being like a prairie fire.” This and Gaelic Games play in the lives of the Irish are played in every corner of Ireland are now 14 at UCD’s Belfield campus, with the finals event will showcase the extent to which the communities overseas. being played in every corner of the world. being played at Croke Park. passion and participation for Gaelic games It means that the GAA now has an active has now spread far beyond our shores and will “Just as our sponsorship of the GAA Hurling world-wide club presence from Montreal to Teams from as far away as Australia, South acknowledge the keepers of this flame. All-Ireland championship is a chance for us to Madrid, Mullingar to Moscow and Melbourne. Africa, and Argentina will be present, as be part of something special, we are excited well as teams from China, Canada, the “It is an event that simply would not that the GAA World Games is a competition A key feature of the 2016 World Games Middle East, the US, Europe, and Britain. It is be possible without the support and that will grow and has the potential to be an event will be that the growing number of expected that as many as 7,000 people will commitment of Etihad Airways which has integral part of the GAA calendar.” new GAA clubs made up of non-native Irish be involved in the Etihad Airways GAA World played an integral part in making the dream people who have discovered Gaelic games Games festival in Dublin between players, of a GAA World Games become a reality. The scale of the 2016 Etihad Airways GAA and have made it their sport of choice. team officials, administrators, families and World Games represents a tripling in size of supporters. GAA President Aogan O Fearghail pictured the inaugural GAA World Games which was Among others, this diversity will be evidence with Tyrone footballer Colm Cavanagh and hosted by Etihad Airways and successfully by a native Chinese ladies football team and The GAA will host the visiting teams in a Kilkenny hurler Colin Fennelly. staged in Abu Dhabi last summer. a native South African men’s football team grand opening ceremony at Croke Park before who have confirmed that they will travel to the All Ireland senior hurling semi-final on “It is also important to recognise the support It is planned to twin each of the visiting take part. August 7, an event that will have a massive TV of Tony Towell and all in O’Neill’s for ensuring teams with a host club from Dublin, Kildare, audience through RTE, Sky, and GAAGo. that every team that competes here in August and Meath which will enable them to forge The GAA will support the event with a major will really look the part.” new links with Ireland and also gain expert publicity campaign, as well as providing an More than 500 games will be played over the coaching while they are here. It will also army of volunteers who will help run the course of the week-long festival. Beatrice Cosgrove, General Manager for increase their support base. event over 10 pitches out in Belfield. Ireland at Etihad Airways, said: “Etihad The visiting teams will also take part in a Airways is delighted to be a part of the This event is being held in Dublin this August The finals will then be played at Croke Park major cultural heritage night and concert at continuing success story that is the GAA to highlight the phenomenal global expansion on August 11 in football, ladies football, the Helix Theatre in DCU and a dedicated World Games. Through the Etihad Partners’ of GAA clubs overseas with more than 400 hurling, and camogie with eight finals coaching forum before a closing ceremony at expansive network of routes we are constantly GAA clubs now in existence outside of Ireland. covering the four codes and with a decider Croke Park at the end of the week. reminded of the global reach of the Irish dias- for Irish born and also non-Irish competing Aogán Ó Fearghail, Uachtarán CLG, said: “The pora and of the integral part that the GAA From Abu Dhabi to Zambia, the games that teams. Football Hurling Club General

VETTING FOR UNDERAGE COACHES NOW COMPULSORY

he Dept of Justice and Equality Minister for Justice the National Vetting GAA policy is that we will only vet people Apart from those covered by ‘retrospective has announced that the National Bureau, formerly known as the Garda over 16 yrs. of age. vetting’ any other person who has not Vetting Bureau (Children and Central Vetting Bureau, will come into been vetted seek on our behalf to work Vulnerable Persons) Acts will being. The immediate issues that require While certain leeway has been agreed so as with children and or vulnerable adults after Tcommence on April 29, 2016. our attention in the GAA are: to enable us retrospectively vet those who, the Act commences they will be in breach for whatever reason, are currently working of the law. Should we employ or recruit a The introduction of this legal requirement 1. The immediate vetting of any person with children in the GAA and have not been person to do this work who has not been means that any person who fulfils a role of currently working with children vetted to date, no such leeway exists for vetted we will also be in breach of the law. responsibility or as the Act states works in a and who has not been vetted by the new entrants i.e. people who seek to work regulated position with children must be GAA to date. This process is called for the first time with children in the GAA What does the Act state in relation vetted, prior to taking up this role. The ‘retrospective vetting’ after that date. to vetting personnel e.g. coaches of requirements of the Act also apply to those 2. Commencement of E Vetting by the underage teams who work with vulnerable adults. GAA on 1 May 2016 thus replacing the Almost 75,000 people have been vetted by In accordance with the Act it is an offence if ‘paper’ vetting applications used since the GAA since we first commenced Garda we fail to vet a GAA nominated person who This measure will bring us in line with 2009 Vetting in late 2009 and as we embark subsequently works with children on our current practices in the Six Counties and 3. Vetting of any ‘new applicants’ i.e. on these three immediate tasks we will behalf. Section 12 of the Act prohibits the with other European Countries. people who were not previously gradually engage in the re-vetting of those engagement of persons to do relevant work vetted and are new to the role of who were previously vetted by the GAA or activities relating to children or other When the Acts are commenced by the working with children prior to the commencement of the Act. vulnerable persons, unless that person has The provisions of the Act provide for all been subject to the vetting procedures persons that have been vetted prior to the under the Act. commencement of the Act to carry over their vetting status under the new Act and Any person currently vetted by the GAA it shall be at the discretion of their own is covered under the Act as their vetting Association e.g. the GAA to decide when acceptance in essence transfers over and how often they require to be re-vetted. under the new Act. For the purpose of clarification the National Vetting Bureau Given that vetting of those who work with Act in GAA terms applies to any person who children in the six counties is already a carries out a role of responsibility with an legal requirement what this effectively underage player i.e. a person who is under means is that the GAA practice of vetting 18 yrs. of age. This also applies to any personnel who work with children as part of coach, manager, selector of a senior squad our voluntary good practice procedures will if that squad includes a person under 18 now became a mandatory requirement on yrs. of age. The Act also covers those who the island of Ireland both North and South. work with vulnerable adults. Football Hurling Club General

E-Vetting replacing paper vetting verification of a person applying for vetting • May 1 2016: The GAA shall commence require to be vetted due to their roles with applications will be required at local level before the E-Vetting and shall as a matter of underage teams or personnel. On the commencement of the Act the applicant can access the vetting form and priority concentrate on retrospective National Vetting Bureau will introduce submit it on to Croke Park for processing vetting and on the e-vetting of new Briefing on E-Vetting for County E-Vetting or a system of applying on line with the National Vetting Bureau. applicants. Childrens Officers for vetting. The E-Vetting system will be As part of our series of Child Welfare limited to four organisations in the first Ending paper vetting in the GAA Re-vetting of current GAA personnel who Information Seminars, organised by the instance, one of whom is the GAA. The As ‘paper vetting applications ‘ come to have been previously vetted National Child Welfare and Protection GAA is pleased to have been one of the an end the GAA will be required to wind To date the GAA has vetted almost 75,000 Committee, the next Information Seminar four chosen organisations along with the down that process in preparation for the people through the Garda Central Vetting on 23 April in Croke Park, 10.30 am to 1.30 Teachers Council, Volunteering Ireland introduction of E Vetting as quickly as Bureau. pm, will receive a detailed presentation on and the DAA. The piloting of E-Vetting possible after 29 April 2016. Once the the new E-Vetting system and how it will by the National Vetting Bureau indicates Association commences E Vetting we We will not commence the E-Vetting of operate in the GAA. Each County Children’s that we can get turnaround times for will not be permitted to revert to ‘paper persons previously vetted until later this Officer has been invited to this Information the processing of vetting forms down to applications’ by the National Vetting year as it is not an immediate requirement Seminar and should they be unable to a few days rather than many weeks as Bureau. of the Act. When the new E-Vetting attend please ensure that a substitute experienced in the past. All interaction structures have been fully tested and delegate attends in their place. County with the vetting applicant will, following To enable us prepare for commencement when necessary training at County level Children’s Officers from LGFA and Camogie completion of an initial identity verification of this new service the following dates in has taken place we will then announce the have also been invited to attend. form, be done via email. relation to vetting shall apply in the GAA: re-vetting of personnel in the GAA which http://www.gaa.ie/the-gaa/child- will take place on a County by County welfare-and-protection/ What this means is that the GAA must • End of paper vetting: From 7 April basis. Each County will receive sufficient make itself ready and be in a position 2016 the GAA ceased accepting any notice and an agreed timescale in which to to deliver on E-Vetting following the paper vetting applications from complete the e-vetting of those who work commencement of the Act on 29 April members and units of the Association. with children in the GAA. 2016. This will be a challenge but as Further information on the we have proven in relation to player • April 15 2016: The Garda Central To facilitate each Club in identifying new vetting procedures registration in the past working on-line Vetting Bureau shall cease accepting who has been issued with a GAA vetting is not an insurmountable task for our vetting forms from GAA in advance acceptance letter to date we shall issue, may be obtained by contacting Association. of the commencement of E Vetting via the County Secretary, a list of all the GAA National Childrens Office on 15 April 2016. Any forms that have personnel vetted on a Club by Club basis in Croke Park or by emailing As we move towards E-Vetting we will been accepted by the Garda Central (as registered by them in their vetting [email protected] utilise the services of both our Club and Vetting Bureau up to and including application form) in early May. This will County Children’s Officers to enable that date shall be processed. assist Clubs in each County to identify this happen. For example identification who amongst their membership may still Football Hurling Club General

CLUB HEALTH AND WELLBEING OFFICER TRAINING

ver the last number of years significant developments have occurred within the Health & Wellbeing Section of the GAA. OIn the initial months, the establishment of the National Health & Wellbeing Committee was the first major milestone, followed then by County Health & Wellbeing Committees which created a structure similar to other sections of the Association.

In order to fully emulate parallel sections however, and to achieve the ultimate goal of the National Health & Wellbeing Committee - make the Association a healthier place for everyone to enjoy - the next and perhaps most important component of the Health & Wellbeing structure is being developed.

As of this year, all clubs should have appointed a Club Health & Wellbeing Officer who will be tasked to help ensure Colin Regan is the head of the GAA’s Community Health and Wellbeing section, based at Croke Park their club is a healthier place for everyone to enjoy. This position, which has evolved from the former ASAP Officer Role will be of over 50 specifically trained Tutors, from With training delivery period coming to County Health & Wellbeing Committee at: supported by their Club Executive and their 25 different counties, who received their an end soon, we are encouraging all new chair.hwc.[county name]@gaa.ie County Health & Wellbeing Committee, the training at the beginning of 2016. The Club Health & Wellbeing Officers to avail latter of which has been offering training entire Training package, including the Tutor of training either in their own county More general information relating to to all Club HWO’s throughout February and training, has been developed by a working or a neighbouring county as may be the role of Club Health & Wellbeing March and concluding now in April of this group involving members of the National necessary. If you would like to find out more Officer and the development and year. Health & Wellbeing Committee as well as information about Club Health & Wellbeing provision of training may also be found interested members from our clubs who Officer Training in your county, or when and at gaa.ie/community or by emailing: This training is being delivered by a network were invited to become involved. where it is taking place, please contact your [email protected] Football Hurling Club General

DERMOT EARLEY YOUTH LEADERSHIP INITIATIVE CONTINUES TO INSPIRE NEXT GENERATION

n the same week as thousands centred on the topics of Mental Health, of secondary school pupils Homelessness and Equality. The young were presented with copies people from North Dublin gave fantastic, of the national flag and the thought provoking presentations on their OProclamation at a special event in Croke findings in front of a large audience which Park in advance of the Easter Rising included parents, siblings, members of the centenary commemorations, 12 young GAA and Foróige, the Dublin GAA Health GAA members aged 15 – 18 years from and Wellbeing Committee and members of North Dublin clubs Craobh Chiaraín, St. the Earley family including Dermot Earley Vincent’s, Simonstown, Fingal Ravens, Snr’ wife Mary and their two daughters Raheny, Lucan Sarsfields, Whitehall Anne Marie and Paula Earley. Colmcille and Erín go Bragh presented findings of their team research projects One group in particular developed an conducted as part of the Dermot Earley online equality awareness campaign called Youth Leadership Initiative. #TogetherWeAreOne to get a particular message across “Gender equality is not a The Dermot Earley Youth Leadership woman’s issue, it is a human issue. It affects Initiative, brought together by the GAA, us all”. They hope it will have a domino Foróige and National University of Ireland effect to get as many people as possible Galway, commenced in September 2015. aware of the issue. This unique initiative evokes and honours the values Dermot Earley Snr. epitomised Anne Marie Earley who sits on the National and aims to foster them in a new Steering Committee said “My father would generation of young Irish leaders. have been very proud tonight. He had a great belief in education and it is fantastic Those who successfully complete all three to see you are educating yourselves Dublin North Group at the DEYLI modules between September 2015 and and others about these topics. He was May 2016 – which involves 30 instructional also a great advocate for teamwork and hours and 20 hours of community action teamwork is certainly something that came Marc Gallagher who have facilitated Galway this October with a FETAC level 6 in total – will be eligible to receive a FETAC across very strongly in your presentations.” the programme with the group since Foundation Certificate in Youth Leadership level 6 Foundation Certificate in Youth September. The young people have shown and Community Action. Leadership and Community Action from The night finished with a huge round fantastic leadership skills and are role NUIG. of applause for all the hard work and models for the other young people in the For more information on the Dermot commitment by the young people and GAA clubs. All participants along with 80 Earley Youth Leadership Initiative visit Research projects presented on the night the adult tutors Stephen Maguire and other GAA members will graduate from NUI www.gaa.ie/community Football Hurling Club General

INVESTING IN LEADERS, INVESTING IN YOU!

major new and exciting training Since its launch, 83 modules have been programme for club officers delivered in 16 counties with over 850 has now been delivered in 16 different officers taking part. As all counties with over 850 different officers participant in several modules, Aclub officers participating in training it can be noted that there have been since it was launched back in January. over 1,500 participants in the various modules. Officers have learned from vastly The Club Leadership Development experienced Leadership Associates who Programme (CLDP) aims to provide the have completed extensive training last year principal officers in each Club - namely in Croke Park for delivery of training. Each the Chairperson, Secretary, Treasurer and module ran for two hours and contained a PRO - with an opportunity to gain the key lot of learning activities to encourage idea knowledge and skills to fulfil their roles in a sharing, problem solving and networking confident and competent manner. Sixteen among club officers. County Committees in conjunction with their Provincial Councils have organised Continuous support for club officers is a the programme after their applications to strategic priority for the Association at receive it were successful. present and while the CLDP represents a major milestone in this regard, there is a lot Uachtarán CLG, Aogán Ó Fearghail more coming in the near future. launched the programme back in January To keep up-to-date with the latest and remarked that ‘this much needed happenings, visit learning.gaa.ie/ initiative which will significantly help club administrator officers who require training, education and continuous support to carry out their roles ONLINE RESOURCES FOR CLUBS • Role of the Club Chairman • Coaching and Games Development in effectively.’ Páraic Duffy, Ard-Stiúrthóir • Role of the Club Secretary the Club CLG, sees the provision of continuous Club Advice Manual • Role of the Club Treasurer • Communication in the Club support for club officers as one of the most The Club Advice Manual is a resource for • Role of the Public Relations Officer • Membership and Registration important priorities for the Association all Club officers. It contains information • Other Club Officer Roles • Financial Matters in the Club over the next few years and he noted in on many aspects of Club activity and • Property Ownership – Vesting of • Insurance and the GAA Injury Benefit his Annual Report to Congress that ‘the administration, such as: Property and the Appointment of Fund programme represents a milestone in • Mission, Vision and Values of the GAA Trustees • Culture and Heritage in the GAA Club the training and development of club • Introduction to the Club Manual • Effective Club Meetings • The Inclusive GAA Club officers, one that promises to strengthen • Club Activity Checklist • The Club Annual General Meeting – • Volunteer Recruitment Toolkit considerably the management of clubs.’ • Club Committee Structure AGM • GAA Fundraising Toolkit Football Hurling Club General

To access it, visit - www.learning.gaa.ie/ E-mail and Telephone Support clubmanagement Each Club will have access to the system either through their Secretary or Registrar. For any queries on access to the system, or IT Resources on the system functionality, please e-mail or call the Servasport A central library of supports and resources for the GAA’s IT Helpdesk on: systems is available online. Resources are available for: Email: [email protected] • Office365 Phone: ROI: 04890 313 845 • GAA Management System NI: 02890 313 845 • Yendo – The official GAA Club Accountancy Software International: +44 2890 313 845 • Injury Benefit Fund Claims System Support hours until 31 March are as follows: To access these resources, visit - www.learning.gaa.ie/ Monday to Friday – 9am to 10pm itresources Saturday to Saturday – 10am to 6pm

MEMBER AND PLAYER REGISTRATION User Forums The GAA Management System provides Clubs with functionality to: Membership Cards • Add, view and register members and players Membership cards will not be available for Clubs to request • Set-up teams, groups, committees and families for reporting in 2016. As part of the GAA Strategic Plan 2015-17, and communication purposes the possibility of establishing a membership benefits • Communicate with these groups via bulk text message and programme for all registered members is being explored e-mail and good progress is being made on the initiative. It is • Generate team sheets in Irish and English hoped that the Association will be in a position to update • Generate registration reports Clubs further on developments in the autumn of 2016. • Pay and record fees • Affiliate teams and pay Injury Fund subscriptions Annual €2 Membership Fees • Request membership cards In accordance with Rule 2.2 of the Official Guide, each Club • Create amalgamations must submit, through its County Secretary, an annual fee • Access resources and supports of €2 for every registered Full and Honorary Member who has paid his/her Club Membership Fee for the year. A number of helpful online forums are available where you will find User Guides and FAQs for these sections. Please note that only after 11 April will Clubs be able to generate an invoice to calculate how much is owed for Please visit - https://servasport.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/ every Full and Honorary Member. Only an invoice has been categories/200193026-GAA-Management-System or google generated, please make a cheque payable to the GAA and ‘GAA Help Desk.’ forward the cheque to your County Board. The County Board will collect from all Clubs and forward to Central Online Training Documents Council. The GAA Learning and Development Portal contains a GAA Membership Training Manual and videos explaining the system. Step-by-step guidance on generating an invoice can be found here - servasport.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/ To access this information, visit - http://learning.gaa.ie/ articles/203575948-Annual-2-Fees gaamanagementsystem Football Hurling Club General

Robbie McCarthy of Westmeath CORK’S CATRIONA CASEY IN FINE FORM is the toast of Irish Handball after winning his third consecutive Senior Singles title, whilst Cork’s Catriona Casey defied the form book to defeat reigning Irish & World Champion Aisling Reilly in the Ladies Final.

See more - www.gaahandball.ie/news/ mccarthy-seals-treble-as-casey- takes-ladies-in-the-third Football Hurling Club General

THE GAA MUSEUM WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN

he GAA Museum offers an Hall of Fame, match footage, and a WIN A FREE TOUR OF THE STADIUM unrivalled state-of-the-art magnificent new trophy display. visitor experience! The museum AND MUSEUM AT CROKE PARK celebrates Ireland’s unique Visitors of all ages can also test out Tnational games of hurling and Gaelic their own hurling and football skills football and features collections and in the interactive games zone – see Many thanks to those of you who entered our competition last month for a free tour of the exhibits which illustrate the rich history how fast they can react, check GAA Museum. of these national games, highlighting out their passing skills, practice a The winner was Clair Hurley from Clonakilty, Co Cork who correctly answered that the the significant contribution the GAA fingertip save or the art of the high GAA Museum is located in the Cusack Stand at Croke Park. Send this month’s answer has made - and continues to make - to catch! marked ‘Competition’ to [email protected] before April 30. Ireland’s cultural, social and sporting heritage. As well as its permanent exhibitions, the GAA Museum hosts a range of The museum includes exhibition galleries, a temporary exhibitions. Q: ON WHAT DATE WERE THE FIRST SHOTS OF THE 1916 RISING FIRED IN DUBLIN? Football Hurling Club General

FOIRNE AR AN MBEALACH AR AIS

Le Cian O’Connell

g tús mí na Nollag, 2013 sheas Colm Collins i lár Páirc na nGael, Luimneach. Bhí An Chreatlach tar éis taispeánteas bríomhar a thabhairt in aghaidh laochra móra Crócaigh, Chill Airne. Chaill fir Chondae an Chláir i gCluiche Ceannais AClubanna na Mumhan, ach d’fhág siad le rud éigin tabhachtach. Bhí misneach acu arís.

Dhà bhliain go leith ina dhiadh an choimhlint sin beidh Condae an Chláir ar ais i bPáirc an Chròcaigh. Tá áit bainte amach acu i Roinn 2 don Sraith Allianz i 2017, ar bhealach tá sé cosúil le tús na nóchaidí arís nuair a bhí John Maughan ar an taobhlíne. Ag an am sin, d’éirigh go maith le Condae an Chláir, ar ndóigh bhuaigh siad Craobh na Mumhan.

Níl duine ag rá go bhfuil siad chun é sin a dhèanamh go luath, ach tá feabhas ollmhór taghta orthu. Taithníonn an stíl ciúin agus éifeachtach atá ag Collins le himreoirí an Chláir, agus tá éacht mór déanta acu an séasur seo.

Anois tá deis acu i gcoinne foireann eile atá ag teacht ar aghaidh freisin. Tá neart déanta ag an traenalaí Cian O’Neill le hiománaithe Thiobraid Arainn, agus peiledóirí Mhaigh Eo agus Ciarraí. Faoi láthair tá Cill Dara ag iarraidh céimeanna a thógáil iad féin. Rinne siad go maith i Roinn 3 agus tabharfaidh an ócáid seo seans eile do na leaids óga atá sa phainéil cluiche a imirt i gCeannarás CLG.

Níl aon dabht go bhfuil painéil lán le himreoirí scilúil agus aclaí ag Cill Dara, ach caithfidh siad samhradh maith a bheith acu. Sin atá uathu agus déanfaidh O’Neill a mhíle dhícheall.

‘Sé an spreagadh atá ag Cill Dara ná a bheith ar ais ag an staid sin i mí Iúil agus Lúnasa. Cinnte, tá Cill Dara ar an mbóthar arís, Condae an Chláir freisin.

Dul chun cinn déanta ag an mbeirt acu, tá siad ag taisteal go dóchasach. Cian O’Neill, bainisteoir Cill Dara Football Hurling Club General

KELLOGG’S GAA CÚL CAMPS 2016 LAUNCHED AT CROKE PARK

ith over 100,000 children camp at €55 per child, all young participants taking part last year, Kellogg’s will receive a complimentary GAA zipped GAA Cúl Camps is Ireland training top, jersey and backpack. biggest summer camp and the W2016 programme was launched by David In addition, one camp in each province will Rawle, star of the TV hit series Moone Boy. receive a surprise visit from one of the four David joined an all-star GAA panel of Aidan Kellogg’s Cúl Camps’ GAA ambassadors; O’Shea, Ashling Thompson, TJ Reid and Ashling Thompson, (Cork, camogie), Aidan Aimee Mackin for an impromptu training O’Shea, (Mayo, football), TJ Reid (Kilkenny, session at Croke Park. hurling) or Aimee Mackin (Armagh, ladies TV star Moone Boy, David Rawle, joined a host of GAA stars today at Croke Park to launch Kellogg’s GAA Cúl Camps 2016. Football). Pictured are Cork camogie player Aisling Thompson, Mayo footballer Aidan O’Shea, Kilkenny hurler TJ Reid and Armagh Kellogg’s GAA Cúl Camps are for children ladies footballer Aimee Mackin, with children from Gaelscoil Choláiste Mhuire aged 6-13 and involve an action-packed Each of the Cúl Camp’s ambassadors will join week that focuses on acquiring new in with the training and coach the children the importance of nutrition in fuelling physical McNeill said: “With over 500,000 members, skills, improving well-being, forging new fundamental skills of the GAA games, making activity. All participating children will receive GAA is incredibly influential in Ireland and has friendships and, ultimately, having fun whilst sure they are put through their paces in a packs with nutritional information to help a particular relevance to local communities, participating in Gaelic games. The camps, fun and engaging way that may one day have promote greater awareness for the food appealing to both adults and children. which started nine years ago, run from July them playing at an All-Ireland Championship choices they should be making to help power Last year, Kellogg’s Cúl Camps attracted through to August and this is Kellogg’s fifth at Croke Park. their play, both on and off the pitch. more than 100,000 participants and we year of sponsorship. are incredibly proud of our association with Powering Play through nutrition Speaking at the launch of the 2016 Kellogg’s this programme and the way in which it has Moone Boy’s David Rawle is a Cúl Camps GAA Cúl Camps, GAA President, Aogán Ó grown, year-on-year. Our ambition and hope enthusiast, having attended his local Co. The benefits of Kellogg’s GAA Cúl Camps Fearghail said: “The Kellogg’s GAA Cúl Camps are that even more children will join us this Leitrim camp in 2008, and according to David, extend beyond active play and research are a huge part of community life in Ireland, year and experience the fun and benefits of whilst his skills were somewhat questionable amongst children attending last year’s camps teaching children fundamental skills not only Cúl Camps. The programme for this year’s Cúl his commitment and effort were legendary. showed that 100% responded that they now in GAA but with a strong focus on improving Camps really emphasises the link between know that eating healthy food gives them physical wellbeing and empowering them making healthy food choices to benefit The camps offer training in all four disciplines, energy and helps them to grow. All children with information on nutrition. Ultimately, the physical performance both on and off the hurling, camogie, football and ladies’ football surveyed also confirmed that they now camps are about encouraging friendships and pitch.” as well as rounders and in some camps, understood the importance of drinking water fun, which is what being a child is all about. handball. Not only do they take place in and keeping hydrated when playing sport. With more than 100,000 children attending This year, Kellogg’s is giving families the Ireland but such is the popularity of the the camps in 2015, its popularity is increasing opportunity to win €5,000 worth of training camps they are now also organised in the UK, A key component of Cúl Camps is a nutrition- year on year, and this year it’s going to be gear for their local club, plus a €500 family Australia, Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia, the US, based programme, Kellogg’s Powering even better with an action packed schedule voucher by purchasing special packs of Canada and across Europe. Play, which was launched last year and planned for all the youngsters.” Kellogg’s cereal and snacks in-store. For more helps children understand the importance information parents can log on to Recognised as Ireland’s best-value summer of healthy eating and in particular, the Kellogg’s Managing Director for Ireland Jim www.kelloggsculcamps.gaa.ie Football Hurling Club General

MÍLE BUÍOCHAS

Our thanks to all of those who have played a part in the production of the GAA Club Newsletter.

Produced by the GAA Communications Department at Croke Park and edited by Cian Ó Murchadha, and designed by DBA, Blackrock Co Dublin.

Feedback welcome to [email protected]