Club Notes Archive - 2007

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JANUARY

8th January

Congratulations are in order for Peter Gallagher who has been appointed Senior club manager. Joining Peter's backroom team are John Duffy as Assistant Manager, Jim Kane as Bag Man and Moya Ferguson as Physio. All in the club wish Peter and his team the very best of luck in all their in endeavors in 2007.

The senior panel had their first session of the year last Monday night. The training regime going forward is outdoor training on Monday nights at 7pm and Saturdays at 4pm, with indoor training in Ballyshannon Leisure Centre on Thursdays at 7.15pm. All adult players are welcome to attend these sessions.

Huge thanks to all those who helped out at the Dr. McKenna cup fixture against University of Ulster, Jordanstown in what were atrocious conditions. Congratulations to Joe Gallagher of Kinlough who won €100 in the half-time draw organised by Bord na nÓg.

There will be a meeting of the Hurling committee and players in Aras Aoidh Ruadh tonight, Thursday at 8pm. All players are requested to attend

There is a meeting of the minor team tomorrow, Friday in Aras Aoidh Ruadh at 7pm sharp.

There is a meeting of the Bord na nÓg committee in Aras Aoidh Ruadh on Wednesday, 17th January at 9pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

Club membership for 2007 is now due and all club members are asked to submit their registration details and fee at their earliest convenience. A few points to note. Only fully registered players are allowed to take the field for the club. NO exceptions are permitted. Registration is an important component in meeting the running costs of the club. Only fully paid up members will be eligible for the draw for tickets to the football and hurling All Ireland finals. Membership rates are as follows: Adult, €25; Adult Player (Includes insurance cover for the year), €45; Underage (Under 18 years-of-age) €12. Registration can be paid to Mary Matthews at Shannon's Corner, Ballyshannon. Team managers can also take registrations, as can members of the club executive.

Congratulations to Ciaran Ferguson of the Mall, Ballyshannon and Eugene McLaughlin of Station Road who recently shared a win the Lotto Jackpot. Ciaran's father, Sean, was presented with a cheque for €3,600 last Saturday on behalf of the winning duo. The Friends of Saint Luke's Hospital Dublin were also presented with a cheque. Every December the club donates half the proceeds of the Lotto to Saint Luke's. This year Aodh Ruadh were delighted to present a cheque for €850 to this very worthy cause.

Aodh Ruadh has submitted an application for funding under the 2006 Sports Capital programme. The club is in the process of embarking on a major redevelopment programme which is set to cost several hundred thousand euro. This will see a much needed new playing surface and substantial leveling works carried out at Munday's field at the Rock. To that end, we are calling on all club members, and those in the wider community, to exert any influence possible, to ensure our application is favourably looked upon. Contact John Hughes on info@aodhruadh.org for further information on a letter-writing campaign the club is undertaking to ensure we are in with a fighting chance when funding is being disbursed.

An important date for your diary. The club Dinner Dance is scheduled to take place in Dorrian's Hotel on 10th February 2007. Tickets are available now, priced €30, from Mary Matthews in Shannon's Corner, Terrence McShea or Jimmy Gallagher. In order to ensure proceedings move briskly attendees are asked to arrive before 8.30pm to allow the dinner to be served at 9.00pm sharp.

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15th January

Underage training recommences on Thursday 18th January, with the Minors in the Mercy Hall from 8pm - 9pm. There is training on Friday night in the Mercy Hall from 7pm - 8pm for the under 8s; from 8pm - 9pm for the under 10s and from 9pm - 10pm for the under 12s

Outdoor training continues for the senior panel on Monday nights at 7pm and Saturdays at 4pm, with indoor training in the Leisure Centre on Thursdays at 7.15pm. All adult players are welcome to attend these sessions.

With activity starting to build up again in the club it is important that ALL pitch bookings are directed through Peter Conlon. Peter can be contacted on 087-6838024 or 071-9851386.

The club Dinner Dance will take place in Dorrian's Hotel on 10th February 2007. Tickets are available now, priced €30, from Mary Matthews in Shannon's Corner and from David O'Donnell in Mojo's in the Saimer Court Shopping Centre. Terrence McShea and Jimmy Gallagher also have tickets for sale. In order to ensure proceedings move briskly attendees are asked to arrive before 8.30pm to allow the dinner to be served at 9.00pm sharp.

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22nd January

Huge thanks are due to all those who turned out to help out at the Donegal v Down Dr. McKenna cup fixture last Sunday at such short notice. Congratulations to Seamus McGuigan of Newry who won €100 in the half-time draw organised by Bord na nÓg.

Underage training continues on Thursday 25th January, with the Minors in the Mercy Hall from 8pm - 9pm. There is training on Friday night in the Mercy Hall from 7pm - 8pm for the under 8s; from 8pm - 9pm for the under 10s and from 9pm - 10pm for the under 12s.

The girls have also commenced training in the Mercy Hall. The under 10 girls are in the Hall from 6pm - 7pm from Tuesday, 23rd January onward. The under 12 girls are in the Hall from 6pm - 7pm on Fridays.

With activity starting to build up again in the club it is important that ALL pitch bookings are directed through Peter Conlon. Peter can be contacted on 087-6838024 or 071-9851386.

There is a meeting of the Bord na nÓg committee in Aras Aoidh Ruadh on Wednesday, 31st January at 9pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

Parents of children intending to play at under 10 level this year (i.e. children born on or after the 1st January 1997) are invited to Aras Aoidh Ruadh on Thursday, 1st February at 8.30pm to discuss the co-ordination of the playing group for the 2007 season. The logistics involved in running the under 10 squad are quite considerable and the aim of this meeting is to discuss in what manner parents might be able to help out in terms of coaching, supervision on buses, back-up and general assistance. Refreshments will be available on the night.

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29th January

Congratulations go to Colaiste Colmcille's under 19 girls team who won the vocational schools county title last week, comprehensively beating Falcarragh in the final. Aodh Ruadh wishes the girls the best of luck as they commence their Ulster campaign against Fermanagh College, Enniskillen next Tuesday, 6 February in Father Tierney Park. That game kicks off at 11.30am.

The monthly Club committee meeting takes place on Wednesday, 7th February at 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

The club Dinner Dance will take place in Dorrian's Hotel on 10th February. Tickets are available now, priced €30, from Mary Matthews in Shannon's Corner and from David O'Donnell in Mojo's in the Saimer Court Shopping Centre. Terrence McShea and Jimmy Gallagher also have tickets for sale. In order to ensure proceedings move briskly attendees are asked to arrive before 8.30pm to allow the dinner to be served at 9.00pm sharp.

Underage training continues on Thursday 1st February, with the Minors in the Mercy Hall from 8pm - 9pm. There is training on Friday night in the Mercy Hall from 7pm - 8pm for the under 8s; from 8pm - 9pm for the under 10s and from 9pm - 10pm for the under 12s. Girls training also continues in the Mercy Hall. The under 10 girls are in the Hall from 6pm - 7pm on Tuesdays. The under 12 girls are in the Hall from 6pm - 7pm on Fridays.

With activity starting to build up again in the club it is important that ALL pitch bookings are directed through Peter Conlon. Peter can be contacted on 087-6838024 or 071-9851386.

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FEBRUARY

5th February

The club Dinner Dance will take place in Dorrian's Hotel on Saturday, 10th February. There are still tickets available, priced €30, from Mary Matthews in Shannon's Corner and from David O'Donnell in Mojo's in the Saimer Court Shopping Centre. Terrence McShea and Jimmy Gallagher also have tickets for sale. In order to ensure proceedings move briskly attendees are asked to arrive before 8.30pm to allow the dinner to be served at 9.00pm sharp.

Parents of children intending to play at under 12 level this year (i.e. children born on or after the 1st January 1995 and before the 31st December) are invited to Aras Aoidh Ruadh on Thursday, 8th February at 8.30pm to discuss the co-ordination of the playing group for the 2007 season. The logistics involved in running the under 12 squad are quite considerable and the aim of this meeting is to discuss in what manner parents might be able to help out in terms of coaching, supervision on buses, back-up and general assistance. Refreshments will be available on the night.

The hurlers of Ardoyne Kickhams are in Ballyshannon to play an under 16 challenge game against Aodh Ruadh this Saturday at 2pm.

Underage training continues on Thursday 8th February, with the Minors in the Mercy Hall from 8pm - 9pm. There is training on Friday night in the Mercy Hall from 7pm - 8pm for the under 8s; from 8pm - 9pm for the under 10s and from 9pm - 10pm for the under 12s. Girls training also continues in the Mercy Hall. The under 10 girls are in the Hall from 6pm - 7pm on Tuesdays. The under 14 girls commence training in the Hall this Thursday from 6pm - 7pm. The under 12 girls are in the Hall from 6pm - 7pm on Fridays.

With activity starting to build up again in the club it is important that ALL pitch bookings are directed through Peter Conlon. Peter can be contacted on 087-6838024 or 071-9851386.

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12th February

The club Dinner Dance took place in Dorrian's Hotel last Saturday with a big turn out present. After a fine meal, Sean Perry took to the podium as master of ceremonies, superintending the distribution of a slew of trophies, medals and awards. The main presentation of the night was to the under 16 and minor hurlers. The guest of honour, County Chairman, Sean Kelly, was called upon to present county championship medals to the teams. This was followed by a presentation to the four Aodh Ruadh hurlers who were part of the Donegal panel that contested the Nicky Rackard Cup final, Aiden Begley, Johnny Dolan, Anthony Coughlan and Peter Horan. There were also tokens of appreciation presented to hurling medical officer, Emma Gaughan, and outgoing hurling board officers Billy Finn and John Larkin.

The Hall of Fame went to Josie Boyle, an award that was greeted warmly on the night by the assembled crowd. His presentation was followed by a thoughtful and moving oration from the 2005 Hall of Fame recipient Michael McLoone. After that, underage stalwart Enda McGurrin received a beautiful crystal bowl as Clubman of the Year.

The 'Players of the Year' section of proceedings saw Chris Kilgannon recognised as Hurler of the year. Matthew Thompson received the award for underage footballer of the year. Louise Foy was the ladies player of the year, whilst Michael Bowering picked up hurler of the year. The dynamic Paul Connolly took the third player of the year gong. Simon Gillespie took the accolade in the reserve team whilst the coveted senior team player of the year went to Jonathan Gallagher. With the silverware presented Paddy Kelly took to the stage and proved that all you need to get a room going is few keyboards and a guitar.

Huge thanks must go to everyone involved in making event such an enjoyable and wonderful occasion

The senior team has an appetizing draw against the Ardara in the preliminary round of the Raidio na Gaeltachta Senior Football Championship. The reserve team will also face Ardara in the preliminary round. Aodh Ruadh will enjoy home advantage in the first leg of those ties. The third team will face their adversaries from the 2006 Junior B final in the opening round of the 2007 championship. The winner of that match will strongly fancy their chances to go all the way. Glenfin will also be the opponents for Aodh Ruadh in the opening round of the Under 21 championship.

A forum has been added to the Aodh Ruadh website www.aodhruadh.org. The forum is an excellent facility for people interested in club matters to discuss them on line, day and night. A link to the forum labeled “Team Talk Forum” can be found on the left navigation column of the website. Or you can go to the forum directly at http://aodhruadh.org/teamtalk/. The forum is provided on a probationary basis. The expectation is that debate will be civil and courteous at all times. Should maintaining an acceptable level of order and respect present a problem in any way, shape or form, the forum will be removed.

The under 16s have commenced outdoor training. They are training on Tuesdays and Fridays at 4.15pm in Munday's field. With the start of the season not far away all players are asked to attend.

Congratulations to Jim Kane Paddy Kelly, Paddy Gillespie, Adrian Keown, Niamh Gallagher, Shauna Slevin and Lorna Gillespie who took part in the Foundation Level Coaching Course in Donegal Town last weekend. The course concludes this Friday with the Child Protection module, again in Donegal town.

With activity starting to build up again in the club it is important that ALL pitch bookings are directed through Peter Conlon. Peter can be contacted on 087-6838024 or 071-9851386.

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19th February

A technical hiccup meant that last week's club notes were not sent. Please accept my apologies for that. The main points from last week's notes are also included with this mailing.

Donegal play Dublin this coming Sunday at 2.00pm in round three of the Allianz National Football League. Stewards are asked to assemble in Aras Aoidh Ruadh at 12 noon. The ladies will be taking care of programme sales on the day. Bord na nÓg are running a half time draw and a large turnout of sellers is requested. The club asks that as many stewards as possible make themselves available for what is likely to be a significant crowd. Help is needed in every aspect of the day, particularly in helping people get parked in and around the town.

Aodh Ruadh is undertaking a major draw to fund the redevelopment of Munday's Field as a top class training facility. The redevelopment plans will include two Prunty playing pitches and a running track. The first prize in the draw is a Nissan Almera from Jim Owen. There will be a host of other eye-catching prizes unveiled at the official launch of the draw in March. Tickets priced €30 each or €50 for two will be available shortly. The club is currently assembling teams to sell the draw tickets. If you would like to help out with ticket sales, please call 087-6431805, e-mail info@aodhruadh.org or contact any committee member. This is a private members draw.

There is a registration night for both boys and girls planning to play under 10, under 12 and/or under 14 football this year on Friday 23rd February in Aras Aoidh Ruadh. Under 10 registration commences at 7.30pm; under 12 registration commences at 8.00pm; and under 14 registration commences at 8.30pm. Families with more than one child to register can register all children at any of these sessions. All players are required to attend. Those who have previously paid membership will be issued with their membership cards on night. Please note: only registered players can play for Aodh Ruadh. Please bring your membership fee of €12.00.

The inaugural Sean Slevin minor tournament is to take place between Aodh Ruadh and Erne Gaels in Munday's field this Saturday at 12 noon.

In a novel fundraising twist the Hurlers are running a Hurl-A-Thon in the Mercy Hall on 24th March. This will consist of a solid 12 hours of continuous hurling! The event is being held to help raise funding for hurling right through the club, from under 10 to senior. The hurlers will be out and about with their sponsorship cards over the coming weeks, so please, give generously to this great cause.

On a more serious note Aodh Ruadh hurling star Aiden Begley injured his shoulder badly in a county challenge match recently. The club offers Aidan its commiserations and best wishes for a speedy recovery.

The club Dinner Dance took place in Dorrian's Hotel on Saturday, 10th February with a big turn out present. After a fine meal, Sean Perry took to the podium as master of ceremonies, superintending the distribution of a slew of trophies, medals and awards. The main presentation of the night was to the under 16 and minor hurlers. The guest of honour, County Chairman, Sean Kelly, was called upon to present county championship medals to the teams. This was followed by a presentation to the four Aodh Ruadh hurlers who were part of the Donegal panel that contested the Nicky Rackard Cup final, Aiden Begley, Johnny Dolan, Anthony Coughlan and Peter Horan. There were also tokens of appreciation presented to hurling medical officer, Emma Gaughan, and outgoing hurling board officers Billy Finn and John Larkin.

Huge thanks must go to everyone involved in making event such an enjoyable and wonderful occasion.

Congratulations to Creevy school who triumphed in the final of the Cumann na mBunscoil Southern Division Quiz in the Abbey Hotel, Donegal town recently. The winning team was Daniel Gallagher, Eoin O'Malley Daly, David McGurrin and Conan McIntyre.

Best wishes and good luck go the under 19 girls team of Colaiste Colmcille as they head into the Ulster Vocational Schools semi final against Donaghmore of Tyrone this Sunday. At the time of writing the venue and time for the game had yet to be confirmed.

Congratulations to Aoife Buggy who made her senior county debut against Cork last Sunday. Aoife could be proud of herself as she gave a great display on what was an otherwise disappointing day for the Tir Conaill ladies.

This is the last week of training for the girls, before a hiatus of two weeks while mocks take place in the Mercy Hall. The under 10 girls are in the Hall on Tuesday from 6pm - 7pm and the under 14 girls are in the Hall on Thursday from 6pm - 7pm. Training resumes again in the week commencing Monday 12th March. Check club notes nearer the time for the latest information.

A forum has been added to the Aodh Ruadh website www.aodhruadh.org. The forum is an excellent facility for people interested in debating club matters to discuss them on line, day and night. A link to the forum labeled “Team Talk Forum” can be found on the left navigation column of the website. Or you can go to the forum directly at http://aodhruadh.org/teamtalk/. The forum is provided on a probationary basis. The expectation is that debate will be civil and courteous at all times. Should maintaining an acceptable level of order and respect present a problem in any way, shape or form, the forum will be removed.

The under 16s have commenced outdoor training. They are training on Tuesdays and Fridays at 4.15pm in Munday's field. With the start of the season not far away all players are asked to attend.

A referee's course takes place in the VEC centre, Stranorlar on 3rd March at 10am. Contact Frankie Doherty, the Referees Administrator for further information on 087-6775403. The club encourages people to get involved in refereeing, especially at underage level where the club lacks referees for the under 10, under 12 and under 14 grades.

Congratulations to Jim Kane, Paddy Kelly, Paddy Gillespie, Adrian Keown, Niamh Gallagher, Shauna Slevin and Lorna Gillespie who took part in the Foundation Level Coaching Course in Donegal Town over the past weekends. It is good to see the level of coaching expertise constantly rising within the club. We would ask that people who have done the coaching courses in the past to put their skills to good use, helping out around the club.

With activity starting to build up again in the club it is important that ALL pitch bookings are directed through Peter Conlon. Peter can be contacted on 087-6838024 or 071-9851386.

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26th February

Huge thanks are due to all those who turned out to help out at the Donegal v Dublin Allianz National League 1A fixture last Sunday. Congratulations to John Martin Coyle of Glassagh, Gaoth Dobhair who won €100 in the half-time draw organised by Bord na nÓg. The second prize of €100 went unclaimed on the day. The winning ticket number was 0366. Should this be your ticket, you can claim your prize by posting the winning stub to John Hughes, The Mullans, Ballyshannon and your winnings will be sent on to you by return of post.

Aodh Ruadh seniors host a challenge against Portglenone of Antrim this Saturday in Father Tierney Park. The game kicks off at 2pm. Players should be at the Park for 1.15pm. Outdoor training continues for the senior panel on Monday nights at 7pm with indoor training in the Leisure Centre on Thursdays at 7.15pm.

The minor hurlers are playing a challenge match against Kevin Lynches of Derry on Sunday 4th March. The bus leaves Father Tierney Park at 10.45am. Minor and under 16 hurling training will take place in Father Tierney Park on Friday 2nd March at 4.45pm.

The Hurl-A-Thon, 12 hours of continuous hurling, will take place on Saturday, 24th March in the Mercy hall, Ballyshannon. All juvenile (under 10's to minors), and senior hurlers will take part with a start time of 10am. Sponsorship cards will be distributed to all players this coming week. The event is being held to help raise funding for hurling right through the club, from under 10 to senior. The hurlers will be out and about with their sponsorship cards over the coming weeks, so please, give generously to this great cause.

Underage hurling will start this Sunday at 12 noon at the park. All players from 6/7years to under 14's are asked to attend. All new players are very welcome.

Senior Ladies training starts in the De La Salle field on Wednesday 28th February at 7pm and continues on Saturday at 6.30pm.

Under 16 training continues on Tuesdays and Fridays at 4.15pm in Munday's field.

As you may be aware Aodh Ruadh is undertaking a major draw to fund the redevelopment of Munday's Field as a top class training facility. The full listing of prizes is now available and the line-up is impressive with something there for everyone. First prize is a four door 1.4 Nissan Almera; second prize is €3,000 in cash; third prize is a two week sunshine holiday for two valued at €1,500; fourth prize is a 32 inch LCD Television and DVD player; fifth prize is a golf weekend for two at the Slieve Russell Hotel; sixth prize is a weekend for two in the Camden Court Hotel, Dublin with two All Ireland Football OR hurling tickets; seventh prize is a weekend for two with the White Group; eighth prize is €250 worth of household goods from Slevin's Department Store, Ballyshannon; ninth prize is a €250 shopping voucher sponsored by Mace in Ballyshannon; the tenth prize is €200 in cash. Quite a glittering selection there I think you'll agree. Tickets priced €30/£20 each or €50/£35 for two are out now. The club is currently assembling teams to sell the draw tickets. If you would like to help out with ticket sales, please call 087-6431805, e-mail info@aodhruadh.org or contact any committee member. This is a private members draw.

The club held a very successful Registration night last Friday with over 80 players being registered. Apologies are due for the confusion over the start time, thanks for the patience and understanding of those who arrived early on the night.

The inaugural Sean Slevin Tournament took place last Saturday with a game between the 2006 minor teams of Aodh Ruadh and Erne Gaels in Munday's field. A downpour in the opening minutes of the match made underfoot conditions very tricky, but, happily, the rain held off after that and a large crowd was treated to as good a game of football as you will see anywhere this February. Erne Gaels made the most of playing down the hill in the first half going into the half-time break four points to the good. Aodh Ruadh piled on the pressure in the second half, but a staunch Erne Gaels defence was yielding few clear cut opportunities. The game turned on a goal mid-way through the second half. A move down the centre saw the ball come to Jason Kane who neatly popped the ball up for Diarmuid McInerney. Still some distance out and a point looking the more likely, Diarmuid shot for goal and the ball rifled past a stunned Erne Gaels 'keeper. That score put Aodh Ruadh into a one point lead, but Belleek were in no mood to lie down. A hard won point brought the Fermanagh side level. With time slipping away the next score was likely to win the day, and that fell to Aodh Ruadh with David Dolan pointing to clinch in the inaugural Sean Slevin Shield on a score line of 1-09 to 1-08. The presentations afterwards were an emotional occasion. There were speeches from Bord na nÓg Chairman, Jim Kane, Aodh Ruadh Chairman, Terrence McShea, and Sean Slevin's widow, Patricia all making reference to the huge contribution Sean made to the club at every level, a contribution now sadly missed. It was agreed the quality, passion and spirit of the game did honour to Sean's memory. Afterwards Patricia made the presentation her son Ciaran who captained the victorious Aodh Ruadh team. Many thanks go to everyone who helped out on the day. Go to the club website (aodhruadh.org) to see some pictures from a great day of football.

There is a meeting of the Bord na nÓg committee in Aras Aoidh Ruadh on Wednesday, 7th March at 9.00pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

The monthly Club committee meeting takes place on Thursday, 8th March at 9.00pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

A forum has been added to the Aodh Ruadh website, www.aodhruadh.org. The forum is an excellent facility for people interested in debating club matters to discuss them on line, day and night. A link to the forum labeled “Team Talk Forum” can be found on the left navigation column of the website.

A referee's course takes place in the VEC centre, Stranorlar on Saturday, 3rd March at 10am. Contact Frankie Doherty, the Referees Administrator for further information on 087-6775403. The club encourages people to get involved in refereeing, especially at underage level where the club lacks referees for the under 10, under 12 and under 14 grades.

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MARCH

5th March

~ FUNDRAISING ~
Dorrian's Hotel played host to Aodh Ruadh as they launched a major prize draw in support of their ambitious plans to build a Centre of Excellence on the Munday's Field site in Ballyshannon. There was a substantial attendance present to hear details of the development be outlined by the new President of the Ulster Council, Tom Daly. Club Chairman, Terrence McShea, congratulated Tom on behalf of the club on his elevation to the Presidency before passing on to the Club Treasurer, Patsy Kilgannon, who talked through logistics of the draw. It is clear the draw will be a huge effort, calling for input from every member of the club. The full listing of prizes was unveiled on the night with something featured for every taste. First prize is a four door 1.5 Nissan Almera; second prize is €3,000 in cash; third prize is a two week sunshine holiday for two valued at €1,500; fourth prize is a 32 inch LCD Television and DVD player; fifth prize is a golf weekend for two at the Slieve Russell Hotel; sixth prize is a weekend for two in the Camden Court Hotel, Dublin with two All Ireland Football OR hurling tickets; seventh prize is a weekend for two with the White Group; eighth prize is €250 worth of household goods from Slevin's Department Store, Ballyshannon; ninth prize is a €250 shopping voucher sponsored by Mace in Ballyshannon; the tenth prize is €200 in cash. Tickets priced €30/£20 each or €50/£35 for two are out now. The club is currently assembling teams to sell the draw tickets. If you would like to help out with ticket sales, please call 087-6431805, e-mail info@aodhruadh.org or contact any committee member. This is a private members draw. Rules pertaining to the draw are available from the Club Executive.

The Hurl-A-Thon, 12 hours of continuous hurling, will take place on Saturday 24th March in the Mercy hall, Ballyshannon. All juvenile (under 10's to minors), and senior hurlers will take part with a start time of 10am. Sponsorship cards will be distributed to all players this coming week. The event is being held to help raise funding for hurling right through the club, from under 10 to senior. The hurlers will be out and about with their sponsorship cards over the coming weeks, so please, give generously to this great cause.

Early notice of the highlight of the racing calendar! The annual Ladies Duck race takes place on Easter Saturday, 7th April. Watch this space for more details nearer the time.

~ RESULTS ~
The seniors had their first win of the season when the beat Antrim's Portglenone in a challenge last Saturday.

~ TRAINING ~
Outdoor training continues for the senior panel on Monday nights at 7pm and Saturdays at 4pm, with indoor training in the Leisure Centre on Thursdays at 7.15pm. All adult players are welcome to attend these sessions.

The third team commences training this Tuesday at 6.30pm and continues on Saturday at 5.30pm. Everyone is welcome to attend.

The Senior Hurlers are now training on Wednesday nights at 7.00pm. Underage hurling continues on Sundays at 12 noon in Munday's Field. All players from ages six to thirteen are asked to attend. All new players are very welcome.

Senior Ladies training continues in the De La Salle field on Saturday at 6.30pm.

Under 12 football training is at 12 noon on Saturday in Munday's Field. Under 16 football training continues on Tuesdays and Fridays at 4.15pm in Munday's field.

~ MEETINGS ~
There is a meeting of the Bord na nÓg committee in Aras Aoidh Ruadh on Wednesday, 7th March at 9.00pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

The monthly Club committee meeting takes place on Thursday, 8th March at 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ NEW ON THE SITE ~
A recent article profiling Aodh Ruadh club man, Tom Daly, in anticipation of his election as President of the Ulster Council has been republished on the site, courtesy of the Donegal Democrat.

~ COACHING COURSE ~
The rescheduled Level One Coaching Course takes place in the Community Centre, Ardara this Friday, 9th March commencing at 7.30 p.m. and continues on Saturday morning at 9.30 am. Call James McHugh on 087-2222277 with any enquiries.

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12th March

~ FUNDRAISING ~
Club members are now busy selling tickets for the Centre of Excellence draw. If you would like to help out with ticket sales, please call 087-6431805, e-mail info@aodhruadh.org or contact any committee member. This is a private members draw. Rules pertaining to the draw are available from the Club Executive.

Early notice of one the highlights of the racing calendar! The annual Ladies Duck race takes place on Easter Saturday, 7th April. Watch this space for more details nearer the time. In other racing news, the senior footballers host a Night at the Races on Friday 18th May in Seán Ógs. First Race to post at 9pm sharp. The Clerk of the Course is Ocean FM's Sean Perry. Come along and have a flutter with the lads in their fundraising efforts. Horses available from any Senior Player only €10. Loads of Great prizes are guaranteed. Graphics will provided by Brendan “Mannix” Gallagher on three giant plasma Screens.

~ FIXTURES ~
Bord na nÓg has scheduled its tournaments for 2007. The Sean Slevin minor tournament is on 21st April; The Willie Rogers under 12 tournament is on 28th April; The Mick Shannon under 10 tournament is on 5th May; and finally the PJ Roper Tournament is on the 12th May.

~ TRAINING ~
Senior training is at 11am on Saint Patrick's Day morning in Munday's with training as usual on Monday night at 7pm and in the Leisure Centre on Thursday at 7.15pm. Third team training continues this Tuesday at 6.30pm and on Saturday at 5.30pm. Everyone is welcome to attend.

There is Senior Hurling training on Wednesday nights at 7.00pm. Underage hurling continues on Sundays at 12 noon in Munday's Field. All players from ages six to thirteen are asked to attend. All new players are very welcome. Minor and under 16 hurling training will take place on Thursday at 5.15pm.

Under 12 football training is at 12 noon on Saturday in Munday's field. Under 16 football training continues on Tuesdays at 4.15pm and Fridays at 6.30pm in Munday's field.

Girls training resumes in the Mercy Hall. The under 10 girls are in the Hall from 6pm - 7pm on Tuesdays. The under 14 girls commence training in the Hall this Thursday from 6pm - 7pm. The under 12 girls are in the Hall from 6pm - 7pm on Fridays. Senior training this week Friday 6pm.

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19th March

~ FUNDRAISING ~
The Hurl-A-Thon, 12 hours of continuous hurling, will take place this Saturday 24th March in the Mercy hall, Ballyshannon. The under 10s get the show on the road at 10am hurling until 12 noon when under 12s take over until 2pm. The under 14s are on from 2pm to 4pm with the under 16s and minors taking over from 4pm to 7pm. The senior conclude the marathon hurling session, going from 7pm to 10pm. The event is being held to help raise funding for hurling right through the club, from under 10 to senior. The hurlers will be out and about with their sponsorship cards, so please, give generously to this great cause.

The annual Ladies Duck race takes place on Easter Saturday, 7th April. Watch this space for more details nearer the time.

Club members are now busy selling tickets for the Centre of Excellence draw. If you would like to help out with ticket sales, please call 087-6431805, e-mail info@aodhruadh.org or contact any committee member. This is a private members draw. Rules pertaining to the draw are available from the Club Executive.

~ FIXTURES ~ The under 12 football league gets under way this Saturday when Aodh Ruadh take on Ardara in Father Tierney Park at 11.30am.

Aodh Ruadh under 16s also go into league action when they take on Killybegs in Ballyshannon on Sunday at 12 noon.

The full schedule of under 16 and minor fixtures for 2007 are now available on the club website. Aodh Ruadh. Under 12, and 14 fixtures will also be published on the site this week.

~ TRAINING ~ Outdoor training continues for the senior panel on Monday nights at 7pm and Saturdays at 4pm, with circuit training in Aras Aoidh Ruadh on Thursdays at 6.45pm. Everyone is welcome to attend.

There is Senior Hurling training on Wednesday nights at 7.00pm. Underage hurling continues on Sundays at 12 noon in Munday's Field. All new players are very welcome. Minor training will take place on Friday at 5.30pm.

Under 16 football training continues on Tuesdays at 4.15pm and Fridays at 6.30pm in Munday's field.

Girls training continues in the Mercy Hall. The under 10 girls are in the Hall from 6pm - 7pm on Tuesdays. The under 14 girls commence training in the Hall this Thursday from 6pm - 7pm. The under 12 girls are in the Hall from 6pm - 7pm on Fridays. Senior training this week Wednesday and Friday at 6pm. There will be challenge match for the senior ladies against an Armagh team challenge this Saturday at 1pm.

A new season begins for the clubs senior camogs this week with the first camogie training session of the year on Thursday from 6pm to 7pm. New members will be made most welcome.

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26th March

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
The senior footballers had a good workout against Buninnadden last Saturday. An excellent second half performance carried Aodh Ruadh on to a good win at the end. The club's thanks go to Ballyshannon native, Brian Touhy for bringing his team up from south Sligo for the challenge. Championship dates have now been set for the preliminary round of the RTE Raidio na Gaeltachta senior football championship. Aodh Ruadh travel to Ardara on Sunday, 29th April, with the return leg in Father Tierney Park on Saturday, 12th May. The first league action takes place on Easter Monday with a trip to Dungloe.

Congratulations to Michael 'Sticky' Ward who has now been appointed Senior club captain.

Outdoor training continues for the senior panel on Monday nights at 7pm and Saturdays at 4pm, with circuit training in Aras Aoidh Ruadh on Thursdays at 6.45pm. Everyone is welcome to attend.

The third team goes into Division 4 South league action when they take on Four Masters on Saturday 31st March at 6:30pm in Ballyshannon.

There is a meeting of the senior committee in Aras Aoidh Ruadh on Thursday, 5th April at 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend. With activity starting to build up again in the club it is important that ALL pitch bookings are directed through Peter Conlon. Peter can be contacted on 087-6838024 or 071-9851386.

~ HURLING ~
A successful 12 hours of hurling (Hurl-A-Thon) was completed in the Mercy Hall, Ballyshannon involving all juvenile levels (under 10's upwards), during various sessions on Sunday last. Many thanks to the main sponsors Pearse O'Neill, BWG (Johnny Dolan) and C & C. Thanks also to Maggie's Bar (McCoskers) for provision of refreshments. It is hoped to make this an annual event since it was so successful with over 80 players participating. The proceeds will be used for underage hurling development within the club. All outstanding cards should be returned to John Rooney as soon as possible.

There is Senior Hurling training on Wednesday nights at 7.00pm. Minor training will take place on Friday at 5.30pm. Underage hurling continues on Sundays at 12 noon in Munday's Field for under 10's, 12's and 14's. All new players are very welcome.

~ LADIES ~
The annual Ladies Duck race takes place on Easter Saturday, 7th April at 4.00pm on the now legendary McKenna's Brook course. As usual, a large turn out is expected with cash and novelty prizes galore on offer. All lady footballers are out and about now selling lines for ducks so make sure you buy yours and get along to McKenna's Brook. You'd be quackers to miss it!

Senior ladies' training continues this week on Wednesday 6pm with a game on Friday against Erne Gaels at 6.30pm in Father Tierney Park. Underage girls' training continues in the Mercy Hall. The under 10 girls are in the Hall from 6pm - 7pm on Tuesdays. The under 14 girls commence training in the Hall this Thursday from 6pm - 7pm. The under 12 girls are in the Hall from 6pm - 7pm on Fridays.

~ CAMOGIE ~
Camogie training continues on Thursday from 6pm to 7pm. New members will be made most welcome.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The under 10s are now training on Tuesdays from 6pm to 7pm and Saturdays from 11am to 12 noon. Any parents who have the hour to spare are most welcome to come along and help out.

The under 12 footballers got their league season off to an outstanding start with a resounding 7-11 to 2-05 win over Ardara in Father Tierney Park last Saturday. The lads go on their travels this Friday with a trip to Four Masters where the game kicks off at 6.30pm.

Under 14 training continues this Thursday from 8.30pm to 9.30pm in the Mercy Hall.

Aodh Ruadh failed to turn up for the first half of their under 16 fixture against Killybegs last Sunday. A half time score of 3-10 to no score left Ballyshannon playing catch-up for the remainder of the game. A second half display of rather more conviction saw Aodh Ruadh go down on final scoreline of 4-14 to 3-07, and but for a few missed goal opportunities the result would have been considerably closer. Best on the day were Ronan Drummond, David Dolan and Anthony McCann with JJ Cassidy and Declan Anderson also making an impact with two well taken goals. The under 16s are back in action on Sunday, 1st April at 12 noon when they travel north to take on Ardara. Under 16 football training continues on Tuesdays at 4.15pm and Fridays at 6.30pm in Munday's field.

There is a meeting of the Bord na nÓg committee in Aras Aoidh Ruadh on Wednesday, 4th April at 9.00pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

The Southern Minor Board have issued a notice making it clear that fixture changes made without notifying Marianne Comack (087-7636881) or Michelle Bennett (087-9813508) will result in both teams being deducted points.

~ WEBSITE ~
All underage boys' fixtures and senior hurling fixtures will be on the club website (aodhruadh.org) by this Friday. A document giving information on cardiac risk in the young and screening for those potentially in danger has also been published on the site. Check on the 'What's New’ section.

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APRIL

2nd April

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
The senior footballers played a challenge against Melvin Gaels last Saturday. With both teams being depleted the play was quite scrappy fare. Aodh Ruadh came from behind to earn a draw thanks to a Gareth Blake goal. The venues for the preliminary round championship games against Ardara were switched at Monday night's County Board meeting. This means the first leg on Sunday, 29th April will now take place in Father Tierney Park, with the return leg taking place in Ardara on Saturday, 12th May. Before that however, Aodh Ruadh goes into senior league action on Easter Monday with a trip to Dungloe. As from Tuesday 10th April, senior training goes to 7pm on Tuesday nights with training continuing as usual on Saturdays at 4pm and in Aras Aoidh Ruadh on Thursdays at 6.45pm.

The third team recorded a comprehensive victory over their Donegal town neighbours last Saturday with a 2-14 to 1-05 win in Father Tierney Park.

With activity starting to build up again in the club it is important that ALL pitch bookings are directed through Peter Conlon. Peter can be contacted on 087-6838024 or 071-9851386.

~ HURLING ~
The Aodh Ruadh Hurling committee would like to thank all the young hurlers and their parents for their great efforts for the recent Hurl-A-Thon which was an unqualified success. To date €3,500 has been raised. This money will be used for the purchase of equipment and to promote of hurling within the club. Any queries please contact John Rooney on 9851250 or Billy Finn on 9851289.

The Senior Hurlers begin their Ulster League campaign this Saturday at home to Mullahoran of Cavan at 6.30pm.

There is Senior Hurling training on Wednesday nights at 7.00pm. Minor training will take place on Friday at 5.30pm. There will be no underage training on Easter Sunday, 8th April. Training will resume again on Sunday 15th April.

Senior ladies' training continues on Wednesdays and Fridays at 7pm. The team enjoyed a good, robust encounter against the ladies of Belleek last Friday.

Under 10 girls training has finished until Tuesday 17th April when it will resume outdoors in the Park from 6pm. The under 12 girls are now outside every Friday at 4.30pm in Munday's field.

~ CAMOGIE ~
Camogie training continues on Thursday from 6pm to 7pm. New members will be made most welcome.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The under 10s are now training on Tuesdays from 6pm to 7pm and Saturdays from 11am to 12 noon. Any parents who have the hour to spare are most welcome to come along and help out.

The under 12 footballers maintained their excellent start to their league campaign with a one point away win over Four Masters last Friday. The final score was 2-12 to 1-16. The lads go on their travels once again this Friday when they attempt to maintain their 100 percent record in Glenties', Davy Brennan Memorial Park where the game kicks off at 6.30pm. That game is swiftly followed by a game against Bundoran on Wednesday 11th April in Ballyshannon at 6.30pm.

Under 14 training goes outside this Saturday and takes place at 5.30pm in Munday's Field, please note the change of venue.

The under 16s continued their difficult start to 2007 with a defeat in Ardara. With a lot of players missing from the regular team Aodh Ruadh were fire-fighting from the start. Tellingly, Sean Boyle in goals was the best for Ballyshannon on a day when they went down on a scoreline of 4-15 to 1-04. The lads will be looking to alter their fortunes for the better when they travel to Dungloe this Wednesday, 4th April where there is a 7pm throw in. They will be back on home turf on Monday 9th April when they face local rivals Bundoran in Father Tierney Park at 6.30pm. Under 16 football training continues on Tuesdays at 4.15pm and Fridays at 6.30pm in Munday's field.

~ WEBSITE ~
Information on blood borne infections has been published on the club website (aodhruadh.org). This is of particular relevance to sports people because of the risk of passing infections via this method on the sports field. All players are advised to familiarise themselves with this information. Check out the 'What's New’ section.

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9th April

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Dungloe made the most of home advantage to overcome Aodh Ruadh 2-07 to 0-09 in the opening round of fixtures in the Division 1A of the senior league. Aodh Ruadh went in winning by a point at the halftime break, but failure to put away the goal opportunities that presented themselves proved the difference between the side. County stalwart Niall McCready put in a typically effective display on the day as did Barry Ward and Jonathan Gallagher. With Donegal in National League semi-final action against Kildare next Sunday it is unclear when the senior's next game will be played. Killybegs are slated to be the opposition in the next round of the league in Father Tierney park, although if Donegal reach the National League final the next competitive action for Aodh Ruadh might be against Ardara on 29th April in the preliminary round of the Championship in Ballyshannon.

The reserves fared no better than their senior counterparts going down by 1-04 to 0-04. It was a game they should have won. They went in at half time a point in arrears at 1-01 to 0-03. However Dungloe were more economical with their scoring chances in the second half and that was the decisive factor. On a day for defences Patrick McGrath, Brian Gettins, James O'Donnell and Stephen McGrath all distinguished themselves in thwarting Dungloe's attacking threat. Up front Eoin MacNeill posed the greatest danger to the Dungloe backs.

Senior training continues on Tuesdays at 7pm, Saturdays at 4pm and in Aras Aoidh Ruadh on Thursdays at 6.45pm.

Another good win for the third team last Saturday with a 0-11 to 2-15 win over Naomh Conaill in Glenties.

With activity starting to build up again in the club it is important that ALL pitch bookings are directed through Peter Conlon. Peter can be contacted on 087-6838024 or 071-9851386.

~ HURLING ~
The Senior Hurlers lost in their opening Ulster League fixture against Mullahoran, losing out by five points at the final whistle on a scoreline of 1-09 to 0-17. Anthony Bowering had a great game, preventing a number of good attempts to breach the Aodh Ruadh goal line. The team continues their Ulster League campaign this Saturday against Farney opposition when they travel to Carrickmacross. The throw for that game is 6.30pm.

The under 16 hurlers have a match against MacCumhaill's this Friday. The bus to Ballybofey leaves the park at 6pm.

There is Senior Hurling training on Wednesday nights at 7.00pm. Minor training will take place on Friday at 5.30pm. Training resumes for the under 10s, 12s and 14s at 12 noon this Sunday.

~ LADIES ~
Wonderful weather blessed the annual Duck Race at McKenna's Brook in Ballyshannon last Easter Saturday as a large crowd gathered to enjoy the afternoon's entertainment organised by the Aodh Ruadh Ladies Committee. There were seven races run in total with Teddy Kane having the ducks under starter's orders and Colman Kerr on hand to scoop the winning ducks out of the brook. A raffle was held for Easter eggs after each race. The final race decided the winners of the cash prizes on offer. First duck home belonged to Gussie McGonigle from Belleek, winning him €100. Second was Brendan Maguire of the Knather who won €50. They were followed by John Gallagher of Inver, Caroline Gillespie of Belcoo and Rachel Connolly, Dunmuckrim who each won prizes of €30. Many thanks to all who attended the event, as well as everyone who helped out on the day and made it such a success.

Senior ladies' training continues on Wednesdays and Fridays at 7pm.

Under 10 girls training has finished until Tuesday 17th April when it will resume outdoors in the Park from 6pm. The under 12 girls are now outside every Friday at 4.30pm in Munday's field.

~ CAMOGIE ~
Camogie training continues on Thursday from 6pm to 7pm. New members will be made most welcome.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The under 10s are training on Tuesdays from 6pm to 7pm and Saturdays from 11am to 12 noon. Any parents who have the hour to spare are most welcome to come along and help out.

It was a third win on the bounce for the under 12 footballers in the league when they recorded an emphatic 0-05 to 5-12 win against Naomh Conaill in Glenties on Friday night. The team play host to Bundoran on Wednesday 11th April in Ballyshannon at 6.30pm. The next fixture is a trip to Killybegs on Friday, 20th April with the throw in at 7pm.

Under 14 training continues at 5.30pm in Munday's Field.

Aodh Ruadh under 16s had a bad day at the office against Dungloe last Wednesday where they were routed 8-15 to 3-7 by the homesters. Despite Ballyshannon struggling for much of the game David Dolan, Anthony McCann, Sean Boyle and Ronan Drummond all gave decent accounts of themselves. There was mixed news from Monday night's game against Bundoran. Aodh Ruadh was unable to field a team and conceded the points to the seasiders. However Aodh Ruadh did perform well in a game played afterwards with a few Bundoran lads making up the quota on the Ballyshannon team, winning quite comfortably in the end as it turned out. Under 16 football training continues on Fridays at 5pm in Munday's field. There will be a team meeting at this session and all panelists are asked to attend.

The minors have a challenge against Garrison on 11th April in Father Tierney Park at 7pm.

~ WEBSITE ~
There are some pictures from the Easter Saturday Duck Race on the website www.aodhruadh.org.

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16th April

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Donegal's win against Kildare has thrown over a question mark over the coming weekend of fixtures. At time of writing it was not known whether the seniors, reserves or third team would be in action over the weekend, with the county's participation in the National League final decider against Mayo likely to see an exodus from the hills down to Dublin. In any event Aodh Ruadh Seniors and Reserves will certainly be in action is against Ardara on Sunday 29th April in the preliminary round of the Championship in Ballyshannon.

Senior training continues on Tuesdays at 7pm, Saturdays at 4pm and in Aras Aoidh Ruadh on Thursdays at 6.45pm.

The third team continued their unbeaten start to the season last Saturday with a well-earned 0-14 to 2-04 win over Ardara in the Park.

Peter Conlon is unavailable for the next two weeks. In the interim all the pitch bookings should be directed through Pat Melaniff on 086-1217403 or Terry McShea on 087-2360815.

~ HURLING ~
Aodh Ruadh lost their second Ulster League game away to Carrickmacross on a final scoreline of 1-12 to 1-14. Aodh Ruadh trailed on a scoreline of 1-10 to 0-06 after a poor first half. It was a much better performance in the second half as Aodh Ruadh were well on top only to be caught short by the clock. The next Ulster League match is an away game on Saturday next against St. Enda's of North Belfast in the Mid Ulster S.A., Coalisland, Co. Tyrone. The throw for that game is 6.30pm.

Senior hurling training continues on Mondays and Wednesdays at 7pm.

There is minor league match on Monday 23th April at 7.30pm. All players should be at the park by 7pm. Minor training continues at 4.45pm on Friday.

Underage training for under 10s, 12s and 14s continues at 12 noon on Sunday next. All new players welcome.

~ LADIES ~
The ladies make the step up to Senior League action this Friday when they take on Glenfin at 7pm in the Park. An exciting contest is assured and all are encouraged to go along and show their support for the ladies. Training continues on Wednesdays and Fridays at 7pm.

Under 10 girls are training on Tuesdays from 6pm. The under 12 girls are training every Friday at 4.30pm in Munday's field.

~ CAMOGIE ~
Aodh Ruadh's senior camógs were in Letterkenny last Saturday for The Pan-Celtic Tournament. The Ernesiders were in a group with teams from Donegal, Derry and Galway. Despite failing to reach the knock out stages there were many causes for optimism with the ladies giving promising performances throughout the tournament. Great craic was had by all!

Camogie training continues on Thursday from 6pm to 7pm. New members will be made most welcome.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The under 10s are training on Tuesdays from 6pm to 7pm and Saturdays from 11am to 12 noon. Any parents who have the hour to spare are most welcome to come along and help out.

The under 12 footballers continued their impressive start to the season with a resounding 4-16 to 2-04 victory over their neighbours from Bundoran. Bundoran were stronger than the scoreline would suggest, but it was Aodh Ruadh who were better able to take advantage of the chances that came their way. Eamon McGrath offered a massive presence in defence, setting off a number of attacking moves. Pauric Patton sparkled in the middle of the park and was at the heart of much of Aodh Ruadh's best work. David McGurrin ended the day with a haul of 2-10. Jonathan Gethins also prospered, scoring 2-2. Colm Kelly, Dominic Boyle, Colin Keown and Darren Gettins all chipped in with a point a piece.

The team travels to Killybegs on Friday 20th April to take on one of their main rivals at the top of the table in what is guaranteed to be an intriguing tussle. The throw in for the A game will be at 7pm.

Under 14 training continues on Saturdays at 5.30pm in Munday's Field.

Another night to forget for the Aodh Ruadh under 16s match on Monday night. Glenties outplayed the Ballyshannon side to win by 3-24 to 0-02. Among Aodh Ruadh's better performers were Ronan Drummond at centre half back , Gerard Kelly in midfield and JJ Cassidy who had a busy night at centre half back. The next action for the under 16s is on Monday 23rd April against Four Masters in Father Tierney Park at 7.30pm. Under 16 football training continues on Fridays at 5pm in Munday's field.

The minors have a match against Naomh Conaill on Wednesday 18th April at 7pm in Father Tierney Park. They have a break until their next fixture against Dungloe in Father Tierney Park on Wednesday, 2nd May at 7.00pm. More pressing business takes place this Saturday 21st April when the Sean Slevin minor memorial tournament takes place. Action gets under way at 11am. Anyone who wants to lend a hand is more than welcome along to what promises to be a superb day of football

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24th April

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh Seniors and Reserves are in championship action this Sunday against Ardara in the preliminary round of the Championship in Ballyshannon. The reserves throw in at 1.30pm and the seniors at 3.00pm. Everyone in the town is urged to travel to Father Tierney Park and get behind their team. The support will be much appreciated.

The seniors lost in the second round of the League in the Park last Friday. It was a tentative first half with Aodh Ruadh enjoying a lot of possession, but running into a crowded Killybegs defence which offered up few clear cut scoring chances. Killybegs were more economical with their possession, hitting on the break to go in 0-5 to 0-3 up at half time. The pattern continued in the second half and Killybegs won by 0-12 to 0-07 at the finish up. Thomas McPhelim at half back shaded it for Aodh Ruadh's man of the match with an effective performance in the left channel.

It was better news for the reserves last Saturday against Killybegs. The 2-10 to 1-10 scoreline rather flattered the visitors as Aodh Ruadh lead by seven points going into the closing minutes of the game. A point followed by a converted penalty served to give the scoreboard a more favourable complexion for Killybegs. Pauric Buggy was man of the match, being instrumental in much that was good about the Aodh Ruadh performance.

Peter Conlon is unavailable next week. In the interim all the pitch bookings should be directed through Pat Melaniff on 086-1217403 or Terry McShea on 087-2360815.

~ HURLING ~
The senior hurlers were in Cookstown last Saturday in round three of the Ulster hurling league against Belfast outfit Saint Enda's. Both teams were well matched in the opening half with Saint Enda's just edging it at half time by 0-5 to 0-4. The Antrim side imposed themselves on the game more in the second half and won by 1-13 to 0-06 at the final whistle. Peter Horan at left half forward was Aodh Ruadh's man of the match, battling hard against a determined Saint Enda's backline. The next Ulster League match is another away game this Saturday next against Sean Treacy's in Youth Sport, Omagh. The throw for that game is 6.30pm.

Senior hurling training continues on Mondays and Wednesdays at 7pm.

Minor training continues at 4.45pm on Friday.

Underage training for under 10s, 12s and 14s continues at 12 noon on Sunday next. All new players welcome.

~ LADIES ~
Under 10 girls are training on Tuesdays from 6pm. The under 12 girls are training every Friday at 4.30pm in Munday's field.

~ CAMOGIE ~
Camogie training continues on Thursday from 6pm to 7pm. New members will be made most welcome.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
There is no under 10 training this Saturday. Tuesday training continues as normal from 6pm to 7pm. Any parents who have the hour to spare are most welcome to come along and help out.

The under 12 footballers had fruitful trip to Fintra last Friday, recording an important win against Killybegs in the battle for pole position in Division 1A. With the scores evenly matched at half time the Ballyshannon lads turned on the style in the second half to earn a well deserved 1-07 to 2-10 win. Wednesday night sees another key match at the top of the table when Aodh Ruadh host Dungloe at 7pm. On Saturday there is the annual Willie Rogers Under 12 Tournament. Also participating will be Erne Gaels, Devenish, Glencar / Manorhamilton, Grange and MacCumhaill's. Action gets under way at 11am. Anyone who wants to lend a hand is more than welcome along to what promises to be a superb day of football

The Under 14s take part in the Southern Division Feile this Saturday 28th competing against Bundoran and Saint Naul's. Team management will supply full details to the players in due course. The regional final will be on 5th May.

The under 16's woes continued on Monday night as they took a heavy beating from Four Masters in the Park. Ronan Drummond at centre half back fought to the end and Christopher Goan also gave decent account of himself in the middle of the park on what was an otherwise disappointing night. The next outing is against Saint Naul's on Friday 4th May in Mountcharles at 7.30pm. Under 16 football training continues on Fridays at 5pm in Munday's field.

The minors came unstuck against a strong Glenties side last Wednesday night. Ciaran Slevin and Paul Hughes put in Trojan work in defence in what were difficult circumstances. Diarmuid McInerney and PJ Magee were the pick of the forwards. A great penalty save by Peter Boyle was probably one of the best moments for Aodh Ruadh in a match that saw Naomh Conaill win out by 3-13 to 0-07. The minors are in action again this Wednesday 25th April with a trip to take on Dungloe. The team then has a rest week next week before they take on Kilcar on Wednesday 9th May. Some unavoidable late withdrawals meant that the Sean Slevin tournament did not take place as planned last Saturday. The tournament will be rescheduled for a later date.

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MAY

1st May

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh turned in a masterful performance on Sunday to overwhelm Ardara in the first leg, preliminary round of the Senior Championship. The first half was marred by an injury to Damien Diver. Diver went into a challenge with his county comrade of years past, Brian Roper, and sustained a broken shin in the clash. The injury necessitated a lengthy delay and after the restart Ardara took the match to Aodh Ruadh with the aid of a steady breeze into the turnstile end of the ground. However Aodh Ruadh began to take a grip on the game and a brilliant Niall McCready goal swung the tie definitively in the Ernesiders favour. With the half-time score at 1-5 to 0-6 and the benefit of the breeze to come Aodh Ruadh held the upper hand. They duly delivered with a superb second half of football. Intelligent use of the wind, with outstanding support and interlink play reduced Ardara to chasing shadows for much of the second half. There were few wides as Aodh Ruadh shot over a series of well-worked points. Ardara found it very difficult to make any headway against a tigerish Ballyshannon defence, as testified by their solitary one point tally in the second half. The 1-15 to 0-07 victory gives Aodh Ruadh the advantage as they go into the second leg against Ardara on Sunday 13th May. Our sincere best wishes go to Damien Diver for a smooth and speedy recovery.

The reserves went down against Ardara by 0-8 to 1-12 and will be looking to force the tie to a play-off when they play again on Sunday 13th May.

The third team continued their blistering start to the year with a 6-17 to 3-5 demolition of Saint Naul's at Father Tierney Park.

There is a special meeting of the Park Committee on Wednesday 2nd May at 9.30pm all club members are asked to attend. The Bord na nÓg monthly meeting takes place in Aras Aoidh Ruadh on Thursday 3rd May at 9pm, all committee members are asked to attend. The senior board meeting takes place on Tuesday 8th at 8.30pm. All club members are asked to attend.

Peter Conlon is back so contact him on 087-6838024 or 071-9851386 with your pitch bookings.

~ HURLING ~
The senior hurlers were in Tattyreagh in the wilds of Tyrone somewhere near Omagh last Saturday in round four of the Ulster hurling league against Armagh hurlers, Sean Tracey's. Three soft goals proved the undoing of the Ballyshannon men as the Lurgan team won by two points. Once again Peter Horan at left half forward was Aodh Ruadh's standout performer. The next action for the team is in the Division One Hurling League against Setanta in the Park this Wednesday 2nd May at 7.30pm. The next Ulster League match is an away game this Saturday against Saint Brigid's in the Mid Ulster Sports Arena, near Cookstown. The throw for that game is 6.30pm.

The under 14 hurlers have a match this Thursday, 3rd May, against MacCumhaill's. The bus for Ballybofey leaves the park at 6.15pm.

The annual Alan Ryan / Seamus Grimes Under 16 hurling tournament takes place this Bank Holiday Monday 7th May. The under 16s are asked to be in the park for 11am.

Senior hurling training continues on Mondays and Wednesdays at 7pm.

Minor training continues at 4.45pm on Friday.

Underage training for under 10s, 12s and 14s continues at 12 noon on Sunday next. All new players welcome.

~ LADIES ~
Congratulations go to Aodh Ruadh's Dearbhla McNeill who played for Donegal under 14s against Cavan last Saturday. Dearbhla played full back in what was a good win for Donegal over the Breffni county.

Under 10 girls are training on Tuesdays from 6pm. The under 12 girls are training every Friday at 4.30pm in Munday's field.

Wednesday and Friday training at 7pm for Senior Ladies. League game this

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
This Saturday the under 10s will go into their first competition action of the year in the club's annual Mick Shannon Tournament. Also participating will be Bundoran, Killybegs, Melvin Gaels and Naomh Bríd. Action gets under way at 11am. Anyone who wants to lend a hand is more than welcome along to what promises to be a superb day of football.

The under 12 footballers continued their rich vein of form over the past week. First up they scored a vital win against Dungloe in the League. The winning margin of 5-9 to 3-9 was deceptive. This was a very competitive game with each team playing to their utmost. Aodh Ruadh were only ahead by 2 points going into the last five minutes of the match, but a goal and a point put a rosy complexion on the scoreline for the Ballyshannon team. This victory leaves Aodh Ruadh four points clear at the top of the table from Dungloe and Four Masters in second place going into the second half of the league season.

There was more success last Saturday as Aodh Ruadh clinched the Willie Rogers under 12 Tournament Trophy. The 'A' final was between Aodh Ruadh and Erne Gaels. Aodh Ruadh, with the benefit of the breeze in the first half, began the final meaning business with two goals in quick succession. Erne Gaels were shell-shocked, but began to work themselves back into things. A well worked opportunity should have ended with a goal, but the Ballyshannon outfit scrambled it away from danger. Aodh Ruadh came back with renewed vigour, but had to be content with a point after two goal shots had been blocked by the Belleek backs. Moments later Ballyshannon did have the ball in the back of the net and that score seemed to mute the Erne Gaels challenge somewhat. A series of Aodh Ruadh points finished the half. Belleek put the shoulder to the wheel in the second half, but terrific work by the Ballyshannon 'keeper kept them at bay on all but one occasion. Pauric Patton went through a power of work for Aodh Ruadh, snuffing out attacks and setting up forward moves. When the final whistle had gone Aodh Ruadh had secured the Willie Rogers trophy on a scoreline of 3-6 to 1-1.

John Ward starred with four goals as Aodh Ruadh won the 'B' Final against Erne Gaels.

Willie Rogers' son Gavin was on hand to present runners up medals to a gallant Erne Gaels side. Renee Rogers, Willie's wife presented the Willie Rogers trophy to the winning captain, Pauric Patton of Aodh Ruadh. Aodh Ruadh would like to extend their sincere thanks to the participating teams, to those who officiated the matches, those who provided the refreshments, the stewards and to all those who gave of their time and effort to make the event such a success. There is a full report with pictures on the club website, www.aodhruadh.org.

The next action for the under 12s is another vital league clash against Four Masters.

The under 14s failed to progress at the Feile in Bundoran last Saturday. They competed well against Bundoran, but were well beat by Saint Naul's. Under 14 training continues on Wednesdays

The under 16's take on Saint Naul's on Friday 4th May in Mountcharles at 7.30pm. Under 16 football training continues on Fridays at 5pm in Munday's field.

The-minors came away from Dungloe with a well earned draw last Wednesday. A tough game, the final score was 0-8 to 1-5. The minor's next game is a trip to Kilcar on Wednesday 9th May. Throw in at 7pm.

Back to the top

7th May

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Another good performance by the senior footballers saw them secure a share of the points in Letterkenny last Saturday. Aodh Ruadh were down a number of players for this Division 1A clash with Saint Eunan's, but they set about their work with gusto and were unlucky not to come away with a victory. The final score was Saint Eunan's 1-12, Aodh Ruadh 2-9. The performance was marred by a bad injury to Stephen McGrath. Stephen had to be admitted to Letterkenny General Hospital with a dislocated shoulder. All in the club send Stephen their best wishes for a smooth and speedy recovery.

Next Saturday is a huge day for the club as Aodh Ruadh take on Ardara in the second leg of the preliminary round of the senior championship. Aodh Ruadh have the advantage of an impressive win in the first leg in Ballyshannon, however Ardara are sure to be an altogether more formidable prospect in Pearse Memorial Park with a large home support guaranteed. Everyone in the town is strongly urged to travel to Ardara and get behind their team. Not only will the support be much appreciated, but it could well be a factor in deciding the outcome of the game.

The reserves also take on Ardara next Sunday. They will be hoping to overturn a first leg loss a force the tie to a play-off game.

Senior and reserve training continues on Tuesdays at 7pm and Thursdays at 6.45pm.

The senior footballers will be staging 'A Night at the Races' on Friday 18th May in Seán Óg's. Clerk of the Course is Ocean FM's Sean Perry. Come along and have a flutter with the lads in their fundraising efforts. Horses are available from any senior player for only €10. Loads of great prizes guaranteed. The visuals are provided by Brendan “Mannix” Gallagher on three giant plasma Screens. The first race goes to post at 9.00pm sharp.

The third team's fixture against Kilcar last Saturday was postponed.

A meeting of the park committee took place last Tuesday and it was announced that work will commence on the Munday's field development in the next week or two. The redevelopment will see Munday's Field transformed into a top class training facility. The club is undertaking a major draw to fund this development and tickets priced €30/£20 each or €50/£35 for two are out now and available from any club member. See the club website for more details on the draw, www.aodhruadh.org.

The senior club meeting takes place on Tuesday 8th May at 8.30pm. All club members are asked to attend.

Remember: call Peter Conlon on 087-6838024 or 071-9851386 with your pitch bookings.

~ HURLING ~
Aodh Ruadh were outgunned by Setanta in their opening fixture of the Division One Hurling League last Wednesday. The Killygordon side ran up a score of 4-14 to Aodh Ruadh's 2-5. Probably the poorest game of hurling Aodh Ruadh have played in a number of years, there was consolation in the performance of 17 year-old Chris Kilgannon. The next league action for the team is the long trip to Carndonagh this Wednesday 9th May. The bus leaves the park at 5.45pm.

The senior hurlers were in Cookstown last Saturday to take on Saint Brigid's of Cloughmills in the Glens of Antrim in round five of the Ulster Hurling League. Aodh Ruadh gave a much better account of themselves at the Tyrone venue, giving the Glensmen their fill of it for much of the game. David Downey was Ballyshannon's man of the match, but Saint Brigid's took the points winning by 2-19 to 4-8.

There is a break in the Ulster League until Saturday 26th May when the opposition is Naomh Columcille in Father Tierney Park. Throw in at 6.30pm.

Senior hurling training continues on Monday at 7pm.

On a blustery day in Father Tierney Park and Munday's field the under 16 Alan Ryan and Seamus Grimes tournament was played with Ballinamore from County Leitrim, Setanta from Killygordon and McCumhaill's or Ballybofey taking part along with Aodh Ruadh. It was to be a very competitive final after Aodh Ruadh played McCumhaill's and Ballinamore. After winning the tournament for the past two years Aodh Ruadh again succeeded in reaching their third 'A' Alan Ryan final. However, Ballyshannon lost the Alan Ryan to McCumhaill's on a final scoreline of 2-3 to 1-1. With the advantage of the strong breeze, Aodh Ruadh should have been well in front but for some unfortunate wides and missed goal chances. At half-time, the scores were level at one point apiece and Aodh Ruadh looked most likely winners after getting a great goal from David Dolan four minutes after the restart. However two minutes later McCumhaills responded with a goal of their own and when they scored another three minutes later it effectively sealed the win for McCumhaill's. Best for Aodh Ruadh were captain Kieran Kilgannon, Ashley Mulherne, Gavin Croghan and David Dolan. The player of the tournament was awarded to Adam Gallinagh of McCumhaill's.

In the Seamus Grimes final, Setanta and Ballinamore played another very competitive match before Setanta eventually got on top on a final scoreline of 2-3 to 3-1. Best for Ballinamore was Morgan Quinn whilst Richard Kee excelled for Setanta.

The under 14 hurlers match against MacCumhaill's last Thursday was postponed. There is training for the under 14s and 16s on Thursday at 6.30pm.

Minor training continues at 4.45pm on Friday.

Training for under 10s, 12s and 14s continues at 12 noon on Sunday. All new players welcome.

~ LADIES ~
The senior ladies should have their first League game of the season away to Ardara on Sunday. Wednesday and Friday training at 7pm for Senior Ladies.

Under 10 girls are training on Tuesdays from 6pm. The under 12 girls are training every Friday at 4.30pm in Munday's field.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Aodh Ruadh's As and Bs had a brilliant day last Saturday reclaiming the Michael Shannon trophy and plaque for Ballyshannon. The Bs beat Bundoran in a very competitive 'B' final. The 'A' final saw the south Donegal neighbours matched up once again. Ballyshannon got off to a dream start with Philip Patton shooting to the back of the Bundoran net with a long range effort. Bundoran weren't fazed though and soon restored parity with a well worked goal from Cian McEniff. Kevin Mulhern quickly tagged on another point as Bundoran entered their best phase of the game. A number of Aodh Ruadh attacks had come to nought with one shot coming back of the cross bar and a second going just narrowly wide. Bundoran took full advantage of these misses with Cian McEniff popping up to crash the ball to the back of the Aodh Ruadh net after a good move up the field. Things were starting to look ominous for Aodh Ruadh, but the defence was putting in great work to thwart promising Bundoran moves, Donal Sweeny and Enda Drummond in particular going through an ocean of work. Philip Patton was able to take charge of matters and work a great goal just on the stroke of halftime that saw Ballyshannon going in only a point down. Bundoran got the best possible start to the second half as Timmy Govorov finished off a well worked goal. Aodh Ruadh didn't let this upset their rhythm though and they patiently moved the ball back up the pitch and Dan Warnock rifled the ball to the net. Aodh Ruadh began to pile on the pressure and there was some fantastic defending by the seasiders. However Shane McGrath was in great form and took two fantastic points, one to level the game and one to put Aodh Ruadh into the lead. These points were followed by another Dan Warnock goal that put Aodh Ruadh into a four point lead with time ebbing away. Bundoran's Paul Murphy worked hard in this period trying to pull his team back into the game, and he was central in a move that saw Timmy Govorov chipping over a lovely point. Time had run out for Bundoran though and there were scenes of delight and euphoria as final whistle went and Aodh Ruadh realised they had reclaimed the Mick Shannon trophy. Michael Shannon's wife Noreen was on hand to present runners up medals to Bundoran's 'A’ and 'B' teams. Noreen then presented the 'B' Shield to 'B' team captain Patrick Herron. That was followed by the presentation of the Michael Shannon trophy to the winning captain, Eugene Drummond of Aodh Ruadh. Aodh Ruadh would like to extend their sincere thanks to the participating teams: Bundoran, Killybegs, Melvin Gaels and Naomh Bríd. We would also like to thank those who officiated the matches, those who provided the refreshments, the stewards and to all those who gave of their time and effort to make the event such a success. Pictures and a match by match report are available on the website: www.aodhruadh.org. The under 10s are training on Tuesdays from 6pm to 7pm and Saturdays from 11am to 12 noon. Any parents who have the hour to spare are most welcome to come along and help out. Aodh Ruadh footballers will be taking part in the Community Games in Dunfanaghy on 26th May. Only players born on or after 31 July 1998 are eligible to compete in this tournament. There is strict monitoring of this stipulation by the Community Games Committee. All players participating in the Community Games are required to supply the under 10 management with their birth certificates. These will be photocopied and promptly returned.

The under 12s have a busy schedule of three games coming up following a brief hiatus after their victorious Willie Rogers tournament. The first match is a challenge against Sligo side, Saint John's on Wednesday 9th May. After that it's back to league action as they entertain Four Masters in Father Tierney park on Friday 11th May. The 'B' game starts at 6.30pm the 'A' game at 7pm. The following Monday, 14th May it is another league fixture with a trip to Ardara. Once again, the 'B' game starts at 6.30pm the 'A' game at 7pm.

Under 14 training continues on Wednesday at 7pm and Saturday 5.30pm.

The under 16s didn't have sufficient numbers to field against Saint Naul's last Friday, so the game was conceded. The annual PJ Roper under 16 tournament takes place this Saturday with teams attending from Garrison, Grange, and Kinlough. Action gets under way at 11am. Anyone who wants to lend a hand is more than welcome along to what promises to be a superb day of football.

The minor's next game is a trip to Kilcar on Wednesday 9th May. Throw in at 7pm.

Best of luck to Creevy National School when they take on Kilmacrennan National School in the semi-final of the Cumman na mBunscoil competition on Wednesday 9th May.

Back to the top

14th May

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
The predicted battle of attrition in Ardara came to pass as Aodh Ruadh went down by 2-7 to 0-11 in the Senior Championship second leg. The tone was set early with a melee breaking out in the seventh minute. Barry Ward and Ardara's Peter McHugh saw the line. Ward's dismissal had a big impact on the Ballyshannon challenge and meant Eamon O'Donnell had to take up the unaccustomed role of midfielder. O'Donnell gave a great performance and ensured Aodh Ruadh held their own in that sector throughout the remainder of the game. Ardara meant business though and two goals either side of half time effectively decided the game in their favour. Watch the website this week for the full match report. Sunday, June 3rd in Donegal town currently looks like the date and venue for the play-off game, although that remains to be decided finally by the county board.

The reserves participation in the championship ended in Ardara last Saturday with the team in green and gold running out 2-14 to 1-9 winners. Ardara got off to great start, racing into a 0-8 to 0-2 lead, but Ballyshannon showed grit to pull themselves back to parity by the break. A point midway through the second half put Aodh Ruadh just ahead, but Ardara managed to overhaul that lead. Two late goals put a rather more favourable sheen on the scoreline for Ardara than perhaps the balance of play deserved. Aodh Ruadh's forwards gave good accounts of themselves with Damien Conlon at wing forward and the evergreen Val Murray proving troublesome for the Ardara defence. James O'Donnell and Gerard Ferguson held the back unit together in the face of determined Ardara attacking.

Senior and reserve training continues at 6.45pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

The third's suffered their first defeat of the season losing by a solitary point to Four Master in Donegal Town. That 0-7 to 0-6 victory puts Four Masters top of the Division 4 South table by a point. However Aodh Ruadh have a game in hand over their Eskeside rivals and will have high hopes of regaining their position at the top of the table.

Minister Mary Coughlan will be present at the turning of the sod in Munday's Field on Tuesday 15th May at 7pm. All the local TDs, County Councilors and Town Commissioners have been invited and there will be refreshments in Aras Aoidh Ruadh Afterwards. The diggers are already on site to commence a redevelopment that will see Munday's Field transformed into a top class training facility. The club is undertaking a major draw to fund this development and tickets priced €30/£20 each or €50/£35 for two are out now and available from any club member. See the club website for more details on the draw, www.aodhruadh.org.

Remember: call Peter Conlon on 087-6838024 or 071-9851386 with your pitch bookings.

~ HURLING ~
Missing some stronger players, the senior hurlers had an impressive win against Carndonagh on a final scoreline of 3-10 to 2-09. After conceding two goals in the first 10 minutes of the second half and under pressure, Aodh Ruadh took control, with a man of the match performance by John Rooney, and tagged on some vital points to eventually control the game. Peter Horan played well in the second half after a nervous start as did Thomas Gallagher. There also was another fine performance by David Downey with some fine fielding in centrefield. The next senior Donegal League match is against McCumhaill's at 7.30pm in Fr. Tierney Park. Senior hurling training continues on Mondays at 7pm.

The under 10 hurlers performed well with an overall team effort but lost to the Manorhamilton youngsters in the Bee Park. The under 12s played very well and had a great win against Four Masters on Thursday evening in the 'Go Games' format. There was a great display of skill from Colm Kelly, Oisín Roper, Tommy Gillespie and Jamie Brennan who scored a lovely point. The under 14 hurlers lost in an away game to Setanta on the same night but were missing some players. Best for the under 14s were James Kelly, who was excellent in goal, and Donal O'Keefe at centre back. The next under 14 hurlers match is this Thursday, 17th May, against Four Masters. The bus for Donegal Town leaves the park at 6.15pm. Underage training for under 10s, 12s and 14s continues at 12 noon on Sunday next. All new players welcome.

Minor training continues at 4.45pm on Friday.

Pictures from the under 16 Alan Ryan / Seamus Grimes hurling tournament run on May Bank Holiday Monday have been posted on the website (www.aodhruadh.org).

~ LADIES ~
The senior ladies went into league action against Glenswilly last Sunday. The homesters were on top in the first half going in seven or eight points up at the half time break. Ballyshannon rose to the challenge in the second half and clawed back the deficit to tie the game up at 2-6 to 2-6 when the final whistle sounded. This was an occasion when a real team performance pulled Aodh Ruadh through. Termon are the opponents next Sunday, 20th May in Father Tierney Park at 12 noon. Wednesday and Friday training at 7pm continues for the Senior Ladies.

Under 10 girls are training on Tuesdays from 6pm. The under 12 girls are training every Friday at 4.30pm. Meet in the park.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Aodh Ruadh's under 8s travel to Bundoran for a game on Tuesday 15th May. The bus leaves the park at 5.30pm.

With Munday's Field shut for redevelopment, under 10 training has been moved to the pitch at Colaiste Colmcille, which has kindly been made available by the school's board of management. Training continues at the normal times: Tuesday from 6-7pm and Saturday from 11am to 12 noon. Changing facilities have yet to be sorted out so players are asked to come already changed for the session. Any parents who have the hour to spare are most welcome to come along and help out. The Southern Minor Board has made some amendments to the playing rules for blitzes this season. These are 1. Each team plays eleven-a-side; 2. Where a player is fouled they then take the resulting free, and; 3. The player nearest to where the ball goes out takes the free or sideline ball.

Aodh Ruadh footballers will be taking part in the Community Games in Dunfanaghy on 26th May. Only players born on or after 31 July 1997 are eligible to compete in this tournament. Please note the amended date from last weeks notes. There is strict monitoring of this stipulation by the Community Games Committee. All players participating in the Community Games are required to supply the under 10 management with their birth certificates. These will be photocopied and promptly returned.

The under 12s have had a quite amazing week recording three victories in six days. They overcame Saint John's of Sligo in a challenge last Wednesday, then beat Four Masters by 0-10 to 2-3 in the park and finally they trumped Ardara in Pairc na Phiarsaigh by 2-14 to 1-3. Whew! David McGurrin led the scoring against Four Masters, bagging five points. Jonathan Gethins with three points and Colm Kelly with two completed the tally for Aodh Ruadh. Pauric Patton was once again in fantastic form directing matters in the middle of the pitch and Eamon McGrath was staunch in the face of a dogged Donegal attack. In Ardara, Jonathan Gethins took over the mantle of top scorer with no less than eight points. David McGurrin also chipped in with three points, while Dominic Boyle and Michael McNeely popped up for a goal apiece. Matthew Gettins with two points and Colin Keown with a point completed the scoring for Aodh Ruadh. In defence, Paddy Gillespie gave an outstanding display.

The lads now have a full week before they face Naomh Conaill in Father Tierney park on Monday 21st May. The 'B' game starts at 6.30pm the 'A' game at 7pm. Under 12 training now moves to the pitch at Colaiste Colmcille on Wednesdays at 7pm. Changing facilities have yet to be sorted out so players are asked to come already changed for the session.

Aodh Ruadh ran the 2007 PJ Roper u-16 Tournament on Saturday, 12 May. Participating in the tournament along with Aodh Ruadh were Devenish of Garrison, Melvin Gaels of Kinlough and Saint Molaise Gaels of Grange. For the third weekend in a row Ballyshannon was favoured with wonderful warm weather, if rather close and humid. The final was contested between Aodh Ruadh and Saint Molaise Gaels. Grange were first on the board with a beautiful effort from the cultured left boot of Keelan Watters. Aodh Ruadh responded quickly with David Dolan chipping over a good point. Grange were beginning to impose themselves on the game though and Peter Boyle was kept busy thwarting attempts on goal. A Keelan Watters free edged the Sligo team in front after a number of Grange wides and a Mark O'Hare attempt came back of the post for John Gilsennan to slot over the bar. Grange now entered their most fruitful phase of the match with a goal pushing them five points ahead. A great full-stretch Peter Boyle save was claimed by James Brennan who off-loaded to Mark O'Hare. O'Hare instantly blasted the ball to the net. That goal was followed by a lovely lofted point by Keelan Watters. The half ended disastrously for Ballyshannon when Chris 'Spanny' Goan was sent to the line for backchat after Terrence McShea had awarded Grange a penalty. Peter Boyle was equal to the task though and pulled off an outstanding Premiership-style save to deny Grange from the spot.

Grange opened the second half with a quick fire point. This was followed shortly by an excellent point by Eamon Burns. The game began to slack off at this stage with wide expanses of space opening up all over the park. John Gilsennan concluded the Grange scoring midway through the second half with a point from a poor kick-out. With Grange playing more lax football, Aodh Ruadh found the space to work a move up the pitch and David Dolan was rewarded for his tireless contribution throughout the competition with a great goal. The action concluded with Sean and Peter Boyle combining well to foil a goal attempt by Grange. When Terrence McShea blew for time Saint Molaise were able to celebrate retaining the PJ Roper trophy on a scoreline of 2-7 to 1-1.

Aodh Ruadh Bord na nÓg Chairman, Jim Kane, gave a speech praising the efforts of all involved and then handed over to PJ Roper's wife, Mary Roper, and his son, county star Brian Roper, to make the presentations. After the presentations the Grange manager James Watters spoke to congratulate Aodh Ruadh on the running of the tournament and comment on the amount of effort that had been invested in the Grange team to take them to this achievement. Aodh Ruadh would like to extend their sincere thanks to the participating teams, to those who officiated the matches, those who provided the refreshments, the stewards and to all those who gave of their time and effort to make the event such a success. There is a game by game report and pictures on the website, www.aodhruadh.org.

The under 16 Championship clash with Naomh Conaill has been rescheduled for Monday 21st May, 7.30pm from this Friday. Aodh Ruadh travel to Glenties for this first leg fixture with Naomh Conaill down to come to Ballyshannon for the second leg on Friday 25th May. Everyone who can should try to make it to Glenties to support the lads in this championship opener. Not only will the support be much appreciated, but it could well be a factor in deciding the outcome of the game.

The minors recorded an excellent win on their travels to Kilcar. It was a great display by Ballyshannon on a very windy night. Aodh Ruadh had the benefit of the breeze and took full advantage running up a score of 0-10 to 1-1 by half time. The game was effectively won by a great start to second half where the Ernesiders put in a massive effort to close out the game. Peter Boyle was fantastic in goal as was Maurice Kane at corner back and Ciaran Slevin at centre full back. Turkey and Ham at midfield a.k.a. Donagh McIntyre and Matthew Thompson gave an outstanding display of fielding in very tricky conditions. That was complimented by some lethal finishing from Magee, Murray and McInerney on the full forward line. The final score at Pairc Tamnaigh was 4-7 to 4-14. Next up in the league is a home game against Ardara on Wednesday 16th May. Throw in at 6.30pm.

Aodh Ruadh sends best wishes to Creevy School in the final of Cumman na mBunscoil this Saturday, 19th May. The time and venue are yet to be confirmed.

Back to the top

21st May

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Distribution of tickets for the Donegal v Armagh game in Ballybofey on Sunday takes place in Aras Aoidh Ruadh this Wednesday night 23rd May at 10pm.

Exams and various other commitments stripped the reserves to the bare 15 against Kilcar in their Division 1A Reserve clash at Pairc Tamnaigh last Saturday. Kilcar took full advantage with a 1-15 to 1-5 win against the understrength Ballyshannon outfit. Best for Aodh Ruadh in what was a disappointing defeat were Pauric Loughlin, Gerard Ferguson and Fiachra McIntyre.

Senior and reserve training continues at 6.45pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

The senior footballers staged a great night's craic last Friday night with 'A Night at the Races' in Seán Óg's. Clerk of the Course, Sean Perry, was on top form giving the low down on the runners and riders. The highlight of the night was the auction race, which was rather appropriately based on a political theme. James O'Donnell topped the bidding to claim ownership of the horse jockeyed by Sinn Fein election hopeful Pearse Doherty, whilst the distinguished Chairman of Ballyshannon Town Council, John Meehan, pushed the bidding past €200 to secure the services of Enda Kenny on his mount. It was James O'Donnell who was to reap the rewards though, as Pearse Doherty's horse romped home first, securing the Creevyman his second windfall in less than a month. The senior team thanks all sponsors who supported the event and everyone who turned out on the night. Thanks also to Sean Og's for their help in staging the race night and Brendan “Mannix” Gallagher for taking care of the visuals.

The third's returned to winning ways last Friday with a 2-11 to 0-8 victory over Glenties in the Park. That victory took Aodh Ruadh back to the top of the Division 4 South table briefly, but Four Master beat Saint Naul's on Sunday to reclaim pole position. Ballyshannon still have a game in hand over their Donegal town rivals.

With Munday's Field now closed for redevelopment it is more important than ever that pitch bookings are directed through Peter Conlon. Contact Peter on 087-6838024 or 071-9851386.

~ HURLING ~
Missing three of their stronger players, the senior hurlers lost against McCumhaill's on a final scoreline of 1-12 to 1-03. Playing with the advantage of the strong wind Aodh Ruadh finished the half being two points adrift of McCumhaill's after conceding a soft goal. Missing five frees and hitting six wides from play proved to be costly. The signs looked to be ominous at the start of the second half, but McCumhaill's never looked likely to score any further goals and were restricted to taking points. David Downey again had a 'man of the match' performance in midfield with other good displays by the young Kilgannon brothers Chris and Kieran, Johnny Dolan, Peter Horan and Paul Cassidy in the full forward berth. See the website (www.aodhruadh.org) for a full match report. The next senior Donegal League match is against Na Maghe of Derry on Wednesday 23rd May at 7.30pm in Fr. Tierney Park. Next up is Ulster League action on Saturday 26th May when the opposition is Naomh Columcille in Father Tierney Park. Throw in at 6.30pm. Senior hurling training continues on Monday evenings at 7pm.

The under 12 hurlers played very well and had a great win again against Four Masters last Thursday evening. The match was in the Donegal Town venue and played in the 'Go Games' format. After conceding three goals there was a great display of skill and determination from the team who were well on top at the end. There were good displays from Oisín Rooney, Tommy Gillespie and Eddie Lynch. The next under 12 match is this Thursday, 24th May, against Setanta in Fr. Tierney Park. The under 14 hurlers also won their game to Four Masters on the same night and venue. Best for the under 14s were the rapidly improving McDonagh brothers Joey and Kieran, as were Ruairí Drummond and the small but nippy Ruairí Cullen. The next under 14 hurling match is this Thursday, 24th May, at home against Setanta. Players should be in Father Tierney Park at 7pm.

Training for under 10s, 12s and 14s continues at 12 noon on Sunday next. All new players welcome.

Minor training continues at 4.45pm on Friday.

~ LADIES ~
Congratulations to Aoife Buggy who made her senior intercounty debut in the championship last Sunday against Tyrone in Omagh. Starting at wing half back Aoife gave a great account of herself, although ultimately Donegal didn't have enough for the Red Hand ladies.

Senior Ladies training continues on Wednesday and Friday training at 7pm.

The under 12 girls are taking part in the Community Games in Dunfanaghy this Saturday 26th May. The Bus leaves the park at 9am on Saturday morning.

Under 10 girls are training on Tuesdays from 6pm. The under 12 girls are training every Friday at 4.30pm. Under 16 training on Friday 6pm in the park.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
A squad of 22 under 8s traveled to Bundoran last Tuesday. An 'A' and 'B' team were fielded and two sporting games were had, cheered on by a large gathering of parents and supporters. There will be no under 10 training for the next two Saturdays. This Saturday, 26th May, the club is taking part in the Community Games in Dunfanaghy. The Bus leaves the park at 9am on Saturday morning. The first blitz of the year takes place on the following Saturday, 2nd June at Naomh Bríd where Pettigo and Naomh Mhuire will also be taking part. Training continues on Tuesdays at 6-7pm at Colaiste Colmcille.

The under 12s unbeaten run continued on Monday night with a comprehensive 3-15 to 1-1 victory over Naomh Conaill in Father Tierney Park. The next fixture is the short trip to take on Bundoran on Monday 28th May. The 'B' game starts at 6.30pm the 'A' game at 7pm.

The under 14s go into league action with a trip to Gaelic Park to take on Bundoran on Wednesday 30th May.

Congratulations to Peter Boyle and Ronan Drummond who were selected to represent the club on the Southern division under 15 panel. Both players traveled to Cookstown last weekend, where they played in games against Armagh, Antrim, Derry and Fermanagh. The team had a good work out, recording two wins and two losses.

The under 16s gave their best display of the year to run Naomh Conaill to within a point at Davy Brennan Park in the first leg Donegal Adventure Centre under 16 Championship. The return of Brian Patton to the team proved a big bonus. Ballyshannon went in leading at half time, but Glenties came out all guns blazing in the second half. An Aodh Ruadh goal shortly before the final whistle reduced to margin to the minimum, but time ran out for the Ernesiders. There is now real optimism that Ballyshannon can beat Glenties when they meet in the Park this Friday 25th May and force the tie to a play-off game. Everyone who can, should try to make it to the park to support the lads, it could well be the factor that sways the game in Ballyshannon's favour.

Aodh Ruadh minors copper-fastened their credentials as a team to watch with a 2-8 to 1-5 victory over Ardara in Father Tierney Park last Wednesday night. There was staunch work done in defence by Damien Cleary and Gary Loughlin, whilst Matthew Thompson proved that Turkeys can fly with an acrobatic performance at midfield. Diarmuid McInerney, PJ Magee and Aidan 'The Bomber' Murray again proved to hot to handle for the opposition defenders. There is a break now until the minors go into championship action on Monday 4th July against Naomh Columba. Ballyshannon will be traveling to Glencolmcille for this preliminary round first leg fixture. Training for Minors takes place on Mondays and Fridays at 4.30pm in the park.

Well done to Creevy School who achieved a notable triumph in the final of Cumann na mBunscoil last Saturday. The Rossnowlagh Road side took on a team from Whitecastle of Quigley's Point. The game was played in poor conditions. Creevy played against a strong breeze in the first half and sneaked a goal just before the half time break to go in two points to the good. The Ballyshannon outfit piled on the pressure in the second half to prevail by 5-5 to 3-4, limiting Whitecastle to a solitary point. Congratulations to the Creevy players and PJ Buggy who managed the side.

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28th May

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh face a crucial senior championship play-off against Ardara this Saturday in Donegal Town. After an impressive Ballyshannon win in Father Tierney park, Ardara fought their way back into the tie with a gritty victory in Pairc na Phiarsaigh. It now comes down to this Saturday to decide who will progress to the first round proper of Raidio na Gaeltachta Senior Football Championship. Throwing in at 4.30pm with extra time if required, a big showing of Ballyshannon support is absolutely essential in what is a make or break game for the club's season.

The reserves dismal run of form continued with a 0-15 to 0-4 loss to Saint Eunan's in Letterkenny in the Division 1A Reserve League.

Senior and reserve training continues at 6.45pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

The thirds maintained their challenge at the top of the Division 4 South table last Saturday when they chalked up a good away win against Ardara. The Ernesiders won by the odd point on a scoreline of 2-8 to 1-13.

With Munday's Field now closed for redevelopment it is more important than ever that pitch bookings are directed through Peter Conlon. Contact Peter on 087-6838024 or 071-9851386.

~ HURLING ~
In the Ulster league, the senior hurlers lost by a two point margin against St. Colmcille's of Coalisland, County Tyrone, on a final scoreline of 3-13 to 2-14. It was a great performance by both teams with a high level of skill and determination shown by both sides. The game began slowly and the concession of a goal after 10 minutes of play due to a goal-keeping error was unfortunate for Aodh Ruadh. Another goal was conceded five minutes later which should have been called as a square ball by the Derry referee! This came after some fine points being scored by Aodh Ruadh with good teamwork. However, despite this setback the Aodh Ruadh full forward, Paul Cassidy caught a high dropping ball, turned, took the direct route to goal and kicked it in fine style to the back of the net. At half -time the scores were 2-08 to 1-07 in favour of St. Colmcille's.

In the second half, despite dominating the centre of the field, Aodh Ruadh missed some vital scores from frees and should have been ahead. At this stage both sides were very committed with Aodh Ruadh midfield restricting the supply of ball to the St. Colmcille's forward line. With two minutes to go the young Kieran Kilgannon in the corner forward berth, scored a great goal with a first time ground pull and it looked as if Aodh Ruadh could score again only for time to run out. However, despite having some chances the Aodh Ruadh forwards were overall not as sharp in getting their scores. In the final analysis, it was the greater efficiency of the Tyrone inside forward line who were more economical with the ball and who got their scores with greater ease that was the difference between the sides. Man of the match was David Downey who again excelled in the middle of the park but there were also good performances by the Anthony Coughlin, the three Loughlin bothers (Kevin, Mark and Gary), along with the young Kieran Kilgannon and the aforementioned Paul Cassidy.

The final Ulster League match is an away game to be played in the Mid Ulster Sports Arena, outside Cookstown next weekend against Castlewellan of County Down. The next Donegal league match is an away game against Four Masters on Wednesday, 30th May.

The under 10 hurlers play in the Community Games. This was scheduled for Donegal Town at the time of writing. The club's best wished go with them! The under 12 hurlers fielded two teams on Saturday last and both won against the McCumhaill's under 12's. There was a great display of skill from the Kelly bothers (James and Michael), Eddie Lynch and Jamie Brennan. The under 14 hurlers played a good match but lost against McCumhaill's despite missing some key players in the Park on Thursday evening. After conceding three goals in the first half, Aodh Ruadh played very well and dominated the second half. Best for Aodh Ruadh were Ruairí Drummond, Jack Matthews, Patrick Faherty and Conor Gallagher. Also catching the eye were the McDonagh brothers Joey and Kieran. The next under 14 hurling match is this Thursday, 31st May, at home against Setanta. Players should be at the park at 7pm.

Training for under 10s, 12s and 14s continues at 12 noon on Sunday next. All new players welcome.

~ LADIES ~
The senior ladies had a game last Saturday, but lost. There are another two games this week with Glenfin on Wednesday 30th May and Termon Friday 1st June both making the trip to Ballyshannon to take on Aodh Ruadh's senior ladies.

The under 12 girls took the gold Community Games in Dunfanaghy last Saturday. Unfortunately none of the other girls teams slated to participate turned up so Aodh Ruadh won on walk over and will progress to Clones for the next phase of the Community Games. Of more immediate interest is a game away to Killybegs this Thursday, 31st May, players should contact the team management for further details.

Under 10 girls are training on Tuesdays from 6pm. The under 12 girls are training every Friday at 4.30pm. Under 16 training on Friday 6pm in the park.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
There is a Bord na nÓg meeting in Aras Aoidh Ruadh on Wednesday 30th May at 9pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

An Aodh Ruadh under 9 and half team attended the Community Games in Dunfanaghy last Saturday. It was a good work out for the team with 22 players traveling and everyone getting a game. They won their first match against a good Milford outfit, but lost in the final to the home team. Many thanks to Saint Michael's for their excellent running of the competition on the day.

There will be no under 10 or under 8 training this Saturday as the first blitz of the year takes place on Saturday, 2nd June at Naomh Bríd where Pettigo will also be taking part. Only players aged 8, 9 or 10 will be taking part in this blitz. The bus leaves from the Park for Ballintra at 11.00 am sharp on Saturday morning. Training continues on Tuesdays at 6-7pm.

The under 12s made it ten league victories out of ten on Monday night with a 1-11 to 2-04 victory over Bundoran in Gaelic Park. The team has a break before their next fixture, a trip to Dungloe on Monday 11th June. The 'B' game starts at 6.30pm the 'A' game at 7pm. Training continues as usual on Wednesdays at 6pm.

The under 14s go into league action with a trip to Gaelic Park to take on Bundoran on Wednesday 30th May. Following that Killybegs travel to Ballyshannon on Wednesday 6th June. Throw in for both games is 7.30pm

The under 16s second leg preliminary round game against Naomh Conaill was postponed until Friday June 22nd.

The minors go into championship action on Monday 4th July against Naomh Columba. Throw in is at 7.30pm. Ballyshannon will be traveling to Glencolmcille for this preliminary round first leg fixture. Everyone who can should try to make the trip to support the lads. Training for Minors takes place on Mondays and Fridays at 4.30pm in the park.

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JUNE

5th June

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh progressed to the first round championship after seeing of Ardara by 1-10 to 0-6 in Tir Chonaill Park last Saturday. The game was one of the best team performances delivered by the seniors for some time. A superb Seamus Kane goal saw Aodh Ruadh going in the happier side at half time with a 1-5 to 0-2 lead. The key phase of the game came just after half time when the Ernesiders weathered a determined Ardara challenge and then pressed on to seal an impressive victory. Next up in the championship is a match-up with Cloughaneely. Check out the website over the course of the week for a full game report (www.aodhruadh.org).

Senior and reserve training continues at 6.45pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

The Ulster Senior Football Championship Semi-final between Donegal and Tyrone will take place on Sunday 17th June 2007 in Clones. Throw in is at 2.15pm. The curtain raiser will be the Minor semi-final between Armagh and Tyrone which will start at 12.30pm. Admission to the Gerry Arthur Stand is by ticket only. Covered tickets are priced €27 and uncovered tickets €25. Please let club officials know as soon as possible should you want to book tickets for the Gerry Arthur Stand.

With Munday's Field now closed for redevelopment it is more important than ever that pitch bookings are directed through Peter Conlon. Contact Peter on 087-6838024 or 071-9851386.

~ HURLING ~
The senior hurlers go into championship action on Sunday, 10th June when they make the trip to Donegal town to take on Four Masters. Throw in for this first round game is at 1pm. Please turn out and show your support for the club.

Training for under 10s, 12s and 14s continues at 12 noon on Sunday next. All new players welcome.

~ LADIES ~
The senior ladies had a series of three games last week against Four Masters, Glenfin and Termon. Unfortunately Aodh Ruadh lost all three games. On the upside the games were a valuable learning experience for a very young, developing side.

The under 12s also finished second best in their game against Killybegs last Thursday.

Under 10 girls are training on Tuesdays from 6pm. The under 12 girls are training every Friday at 4.30pm. Under 16 training on Friday, 6pm in the park.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The under 10s were in Ballintra last Saturday for a blitz. Aodh Ruadh fielded an A and a B team with a panel of 29 players seeing competitive action. The 'B' recorded a draw and a loss whilst the A team chalked up a draw, two defeats and one victory. On what was a very wet day for football Naomh Bríd organised a very efficient, well run tournament. The under 10 training schedule is now Tuesdays at 6-7pm at Colaiste Colmcille and Saturdays 11am - 12 noon in the Park.

The under 12s have a challenge against Enniskillen Gaels this Wednesday 6th May. That will be followed by a top of the table clash with Dungloe on Monday 11th June. The 'B' game starts at 6.30pm the 'A' game at 7pm. Training continues next week as usual on Wednesday at 6pm.

Aodh Ruadh lost by the narrowest margin in their opening outing of the under 14 league campaign. Bundoran edged out the Ernesiders by 2-7 to 2-6 in their meeting last Wednesday. This was a good display by Aodh Ruadh against considerable obstacles. The full back line had an outstanding game with Stephen Clarke and Conor Patton in particular doing Trojan work. Kieran Keown at half back gave a fabulous display at half back, whilst further up the pitch Fergal Meehan impressed at corner forward. Next up are Killybegs in Ballyshannon this Friday 8th June. That will be followed by a trip to Dungloe on Wednesday, 13th June. Throw in for both games is 7.30pm

Training for Minors takes place on Mondays and Fridays at 4.30pm in the park.

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11th June

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh put in a composed performance to see off the challenge of Kilcar in Father Tierney Park on a sunny afternoon last Sunday, 10th June. The good weather saw a healthy turnout of support to watch the homesters seal their first league win of the season. The Ballyshannon outfit went in up by double scores at half time with the scoreboard reading 0-8 to 0-4. Kilcar were misfiring and finding it difficult to put many good passages of play together. Kilcar registered the first score of the second half with a point directly after the break, but Donagh McIntyre quickly restored the four point margin between the sides with a well drilled effort. Kilcar made a quick reply with a point through Mark Sweeney, but failed to make much impression on the match thereafter. Aodh Ruadh were afforded a lot of freedom around the centre of the park where Barry Ward was very effective and made intelligent use of the ball. A Glen McBrearty free midway through the second half was the last score from Kilcar whilst Aodh Ruadh responded with two great points from the boot of Seamus Kane and an elegant left footed effort from Barry Mulligan. As the game entered the final phase John Duffy was able to capitalise on a defensive blunder by Kilcar that saw two backs clashing as they went up for the same ball. The ball flew between the pair of them into the grateful hands of Duffy who showed his predatory instinct to slot the ball low to the right hand of a stranded Kenneth Kennedy. Duffy's goal effectively finished the match. PJ Magee concluded the scoring for Aodh Ruadh with a good strike from the left flank. Check out the website over the course of the week for a full game report (www.aodhruadh.org).

The reserves were unable to match the senior's performance and lost to a good Kilcar team by 1-6 to 1-12 in Sunday's opener. Val Murray continued to show his class though and was Aodh Ruadh's man of the match.

The dates have been announced for the first round, first leg games in the R.T.E. Raidio na Gaeltachta Senior Football Championship. Aodh Ruadh will travel up past Errigal to take on Cloughaneely on Saturday 23rd June. Throw in is at 7.30pm.

The third team trounced Kilcar last Saturday 9th June to reclaim their position at the top of Division 4 South. A 4-06 to 0-06 victory saw Ballyshannon go level on points with Four Masters with a game in hand on the Donegal town outfit. Glenties did Aodh Ruadh a favour by sneaking a one goal win against Four Masters on Saturday night.

Senior and reserve training continues at 6.45pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Best wishes to Aodh Ruadh clubmen Brian Roper, Niall McCready and the rest of the Donegal squad as they take on Tyrone for a place in the Ulster final in Clones this Sunday 17th June. The throw in at Clones is at 2.15pm. The curtain raiser will be the Minor semi-final between Armagh and Tyrone which will start at 12.30pm.

With Munday's Field now closed for redevelopment it is more important than ever that pitch bookings are directed through Peter Conlon. Contact Peter on 087-6838024 or 071-9851386.

~ HURLING ~
In their final Ulster League match, the senior hurlers won by a five point margin against Warrenpoint, Co. Down, by 3-11 to 2-19. It was a great performance by Aodh Ruadh who effectively won the game in the second half. At half-time, the hamstring hampered David Downey switched from his midfield position to the full forward, where he scored 2-3 from play. This switch was important as Downey's ability to catch high ball, together with his physique and finishing ability was hard to curb. Another man of the match display from Downey. There were also some good scores by Chris Kilgannon, Peter Horan, Thomas Gallagher and Kevin Loughlin.

The senior hurlers also had a great Donegal League win against St. Eunan's on Wednesday night last winning by a one point margin on a scoreline of 3-13 to 3-14. In the first half, Aodh Ruadh played poorly and missed some vital scores from frees. The half-time score was 3-08 to 1-04. In the second half, with the addition of the previously injured Johnny Dolan into the half forward line, Aodh Ruadh were well on top. Chris Kilgannon took over the free taking duties (scoring them all), and the midfield duo of Chris Kilgannon and Thomas Gallagher were well on top. Similar to previous matches, the influence of David Downey at full forward was obvious, either breaking the ball or getting scores direct from play. With two minutes to go, St. Eunan's had a free and opted to go for goal, but the shot was saved by John Rooney. Another free in the last minute was put over the bar when a goal was needed for St. Eunan's. Despite winning the match the high tally of wides was worrying for Aodh Ruadh.

Aodh Ruadh lost their first championship match against Four Masters on a final scoreline of 4-14 to 3-09. It was to be a disappointing display and the injury to David Downey, who did well in previous matches, was a major blow to the Aodh Ruadh hopes. However, Aidan Begley playing his first club game of the year as Downey's replacement, did well scoring a great goal. The concession of two goals in the first few minutes meant that Aodh Ruadh were chasing this game from the start. The Four Masters full forward line were dominant with two nippy corner forwards who were hard to mark and took their scores with ease. Despite being behind, Aodh Ruadh fought back in the second half, courtesy of a goal by Tayto Coughlan and two points by Schillachi Gallagher, who played well, to reduce the margin to three points. However, Four Masters finished the match with a goal and two points to make the winning margin 8 points. The next Championship match is against Setanta with the next league match an away game against Burt.

The under 12 hurler's fielded two teams on Saturday last at a blitz held in Letterkenny. The first team won all their games beating Burt well in the first game, followed by victories over McCumhaill's, St. Eunan's and Letterkenny Gaels. The second team won one game, lost one and drew another. There were good performances from Paul Cummins, Eugene Drummond, Brian Ward, Niall Cullen and Conor Kennedy.

Underage training for under 10s, 12s and 14s continues at 12 noon on Sunday next. All new players welcome.

~ LADIES ~
The senior ladies are in league action at 7pm in Ardara this Friday 15th June. The bus leaves the park at 5.30pm.

Under 10 girls are training on Tuesdays from 6pm. The under 12 girls are training every Friday at 4.30pm. Under 16 training on Friday, 6pm in the park.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The under 10s head to a blitz in Pettigo this Saturday 16th June. Also competing in the blitz are Saint Naul's, Naomh Ultan and Dungloe. The bus leaves park on Saturday at 10.45pm sharp. There will be no under 8 training this Saturday. Training continues on Tuesdays at 6-7pm in Colaiste Colmcille.

The under 12s tasted defeat for the first time this season on Monday 11th June. Dungloe made full use of home advantage to scrape a one point victory over the Ernesiders. 1-10 to 1-9 was the final score. The final game of the league phase of the under 12 competition takes place next Monday 18th June when Aodh Ruadh host Killybegs in Father Tierney Park. Throw in is at 7pm. Training continues as usual on Wednesday at 6pm.

Aodh Ruadh under 14s grabbed their first win of the season with a comprehensive 7-8 to 0-1 victory over Killybegs in searing sunshine in the Park last Saturday. Next is the arduous trip to Dungloe on Wednesday, 13th June, followed by Naomh Conaill in the Park on Wednesday 20th June. Throw in for both games is at 7.30pm.

Training for Minors takes place on Fridays at 4.30pm in the park.

~ HAVE YOUR SPAKE ~
With the club in full swing on all fronts you might have a few things to get off your chest. Why not share your opinion with other Aodh Ruadh fanatics on the Team Talk Forum on the club website, www.aodhruadh.org. Click on the “Team Talk Forum” link in the left column to register and get started.

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18th June

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh travel to take on Cloughaneely on Saturday 23rd June in the first round, first leg game in the R.T.E. Raidio na Gaeltachta Senior Football Championship. Throw in is at 7.30pm and a large Ballyshannon following is called for. Aodh Ruadh's Packie McGrath will be 'indisposed' as he will be tying the knot with Kate Travers on Saturday. The club extends their best wishes to the couple on their big day.

The third team beat Glenfin by 2-11 to 0-6 in Donegal town last Saturday to secure a place in the Division 4 League final where they will take on local rivals, Four Masters. The final takes place at Naomh Bríd's pitch in Ballintra on Friday at 8pm. Once again the club calls for as many as possible to make the short trip up the N15 to show their support.

Senior and reserve training continues at 6.45pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

With Munday's Field now closed for redevelopment it is more important than ever that pitch bookings are directed through Peter Conlon. Contact Peter on 087-6838024 or 071-9851386.

~ HURLING ~
Underage training for under 10s, 12s and 14s continues at 12 noon on Sunday next. All new players welcome.

~ LADIES ~
Congratulations go to Dearbhile McNeil and the under 14 county team on winning the Ulster final last Saturday in a rousing contest against Monaghan.

The under 10 girls enjoyed a great trip to Donegal last Wednesday. There were 39 who traveled and played altogether. Our thanks to Four Masters for their organisation and hospitality, not to mention all the mums and helpers and the big crowd of supporters.

The senior ladies traveled to Ardara last Friday night and played a game in what were very poor conditions. The Ardara outfit had too much on the night though and were able to secure a comfortable victory.

Under 10 girls are training on Tuesdays from 6pm. The under 12 girls are training every Friday at 4.30pm. Under 16 training on Friday, 6pm in the park.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The under 10s had great blitz in Pettigo last Saturday 16th June. Many thanks to Pettigo for a very efficient, well run tournament. There is another blitz this Saturday, this time Mountcharles are the hosts. Check with team management for full travel details. Training continues on Tuesdays at 6-7pm in Colaiste Colmcille.

Ardara's 3-9 to 3-7 defeat of Dungloe on Monday, 18th June means that Aodh Ruadh go into the knock-out stages on pole position in the under 12 League Division 1. Training continues as usual on Wednesday at 6pm.

Aodh Ruadh under 14s made it two wins on the trot when they defeated Dungloe by 1-3 to 1-9 last Wednesday night. Next is Naomh Conaill in the Park on Wednesday 20th June, followed by a break until Wednesday 4th July when the opposition will be Ardara, again in the park. Throw in for both games is at 7.30pm.

Training for Minors takes place on Fridays at 4.30pm in the park.

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26th June

A great week for Aodh Ruadh as the club claimed its first two pieces of silverware of the year and gained a valuable first leg away win in the first round of the Senior Championship.

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh were too much for last year's intermediate champions, Cloughaneely as they overwhelmed them by 0-13 to 0-7 in Falcarragh last Saturday. The Ernesiders lead by 0-6 to 0-4 at the break in this first leg, first round game of the Raidio na Gaeltachta Senior Football Championship. After a nip and tuck first half, Aodh Ruadh pressed home their advantage in the second. The Wards were very good in the middle of park and a great performance by the whole back division was a huge plus for Ballyshannon. Meanwhile, the absence of John Paul Gallagher proved a big loss for Cloughaneely. Aodh Ruadh's scores came from Barry Mulligan (0-4), Seamus Kane (0-4), Brian Roper (0-3), Stephen Ward (0-1) and Niall McCready (0-1). The return leg takes place this Saturday 30th June in Father Tierney Park. The throw should be at 7.30pm, but keep an eye on the local press for further details. Once more we call for a big showing of Ballyshannon support as the club continues its quest for Championship glory.

Congratulations go Aodh Ruadh's Packie McGrath who had a great result himself last Saturday, marrying Kate Travers in Cashelard. The club extends their best wishes to the happy couple.

Ballyshannon Town Council honoured club and county star, Brian Roper, with a presentation in recognition of his sporting achievements in a ceremony at the Town Council Offices on Monday night.

Senior and reserve training continues at 6.45pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

There is a Senior Club Committee meeting in Aras Aoidh Ruadh on Thursday 5th July at 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

The third team picked up the club's first trophy of the year last Friday 22nd June when they beat Four Masters in the Division Four league final in Ballintra. Two characteristically magnificent saves by Gary Walsh in each half were key to frustrating the attacking threat of Donegal town side. Mickey Dolan was immense at centre half back throughout the game. Dermot McInerney goaled in the first half, whilst Diarmuid Keown took two well executed goals midway through the second half to effectively secure the league title for Ballyshannon. The victorious Aodh Ruadh side were: Gary Walsh; Brian Dorrian, Christy Dolan, David O'Donnell; Mickey Dolan, Ken Monaghan, David Dorrian; Matthew Thompson, Damien Cleary; Pauric Loughlin, Diarmuid Slevin, Alan Dorrian; Nicky Sheerin, Dermot Keown, Dermot McInerney. Substitutions who also saw action were Johnny Dolan, David McLoone, Raymie Granaghan and Gerry McManus.

~ HURLING ~
The senior season came to a close last Wednesday when the team lost to Setanta by 1-14 to 3-26 in Section A of the Championship. There were only three points in the game at half time, but Setanta pulled away in the second half.

The under 10s travel to Knocks, Lisnaskea, County Fermanagh this Friday, 29th June for a challenge game. The bus leaves the park at 5.30pm sharp and should be back by 9.30pm.

The Under 12s took part in an all county blitz last Saturday. The 'A' team put in a series of great performances to beat Burt, MacCumhaill's and Letterkenny Gaels. The 'B' team won one, drew one and lost one. Check out the club website (www.aodhruadh.org) over the course of the week for pictures and a report from the blitz.

The under 14s were in action last Thursday against Buncrana. The team played some great hurling, but were unlucky to lose narrowly.

Underage training for under 10s, 12s and 14s continues at 12 noon on Sunday.

~ LADIES ~
The under 12s had narrow defeat against Saint Naul's in the park on Monday night. The girls are out again on Thursday 28th June when they travel on Donegal town to take on Killybegs at 6pm. Players are asked to be at Father Tierney park for 4.45pm.

The Under 10s finish up their training on Tuesday night, 26th June. They will be back training in September. The under 12 girls are training every Friday at 4.30pm. Under 16 training is on Friday at 6pm in the park. Senior training continues at 7pm on Wednesdays and Fridays.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
There is a Bord na nÓg meeting in Aras Aoidh Ruadh on Wednesday 4th July at 9pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

Aodh Ruadh took two Under 8 teams to Bundoran last Saturday with a good day out being had by all concerned. Our thanks go to Bundoran for hosting a well-run event. The under 10s head to a blitz in Ballintra this Saturday, 30th June. The bus to Ballintra leaves Father Tierney Park at 11.00am sharp. This means there will be no under 8 training this Saturday. Next training for all players will be on Saturday 7th July. Please note that there will be no Tuesday training for the duration of July.

Aodh Ruadh's second piece of silverware this week was claimed with an epic second half performance against Dungloe in Killybegs on Monday night. A nervy first period saw the sides going in at parity with a goal and a point a piece at half time. However Aodh Ruadh blitzed Dungloe over a ten minute period in the second half to claim the Southern Board Under 12 Division 1 title on a scoreline of 4-6 to 1-4. David McGurrin led the scoring with 1-4, followed by Johnny Gethins who wrought havoc in the second half claiming two goals. James Kelly scored a vital first half goal, whilst Colm Kelly and Ryan Gillen finished the game with a point each. Now it is onto the county stage with a semi final against Saint Eunan's from the Northern Board on Friday, 6th July. The triumphant Aodh Ruadh team were: Conor Gilmartin; Matthew Maguire, Eamon McGrath, Paddy Gillespie; Colin Keown, Darren Gethins, Jamie McDonald; Pauric Patton, James Kelly; David McGurrin, Johnny Gethins, Colm Kelly; Ryan Gillen, Michael McNeely, Patrick Dixon. Substitutions: John Ward for J. McDonald, Jack Dolan for P. Dixon, Dominic Boyle for M. McNeely, Conor McShea for C. Kelly. Congratulations go also to Jim Kane and his backroom team on steering this talented group of players to victory.

The under 14s chalked up an impressive victory over Naomh Conaill last Wednesday. They overcame the Glenties side by 3-04 to 0-11. Conor Patton was truly outstanding at full back while Ruairí Drummond had a great game at midfield. Up front Ronan McGurrin, Sylvester Maguire and Stephen Clarke made sure Naomh Conaill paid dearly for their mistakes. The next game is on Wednesday 4th July when the opposition will be Ardara in Father Tierney Park with the throw in at 7.30pm.

Both the under 16 and minor teams are both down for Championship action over the next few weeks. The minors will be traveling to Glencolmcille for a preliminary round first leg fixture against Naomh Columba, whilst the under 16s have a preliminary round, second leg game against Naomh Conaill in the Park to look forward to. Details of dates and times for these games have yet to be fixed and the management of the respective teams will keep the panels informed of any developments.

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JULY

2nd July

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh secured their passage into the quarter finals of the Senior Football Championship with a one point win over Cloughaneely in Father Tierney Park last Saturday. Two points up at half time, Aodh Ruadh hit a purple patch midway through the second half when points from Michael Ward, Seamus Kane and Barry Mulligan put five between the team. Cloughaneely tried manfully to reel the Ballyshannon side in, but time ran out for them with the scores at 0-9 to 0-8. It is Aodh Ruadh who progress to the quarter finals of the championship with Naomh Conaill or Saint Eunan's the opponents. See the club website (www.aodhruadh.org) for a full match report and picture of the Aodh Ruadh team for the game.

Senior and reserve training continues at 6.45pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

The Under 21s preliminary round, first leg championship match against Glenfin has been moved to Tuesday, 10th July. The match throws in at Glenfin at 7.30pm.

The stand for Saturday's clash between Leitrim and Donegal is all ticket with tickets priced at €20. All other areas are non-ticket, admission on the turnstiles, with under 16s free onto terrace.

~ HURLING ~
The Under 10 hurlers won a very enjoyable game in Knocks, Co. Fermanagh with a fantastic team performance. The highlight of the game was a great goal by Stephen Anderson, aged 7.

The under 16s and minor hurlers are training at 6.45pm in the Park on Mondays and Wednesdays.

Underage training for under 10s, 12s and 14s continues at 12 noon on Sunday.

~ LADIES ~
The under 12s continued their improving trajectory with a good run out against Killybegs in Donegal town last Thursday. There was a point between the sides with a minute or two to go, but a goal for Killybegs put a rather more favourable gloss on the final score for the seasiders than the balance of play might have merited. Grainne Gillespie put in a great performance at midfield for Aodh Ruadh and Leanne also had a fine game in the nets doing well to keep the Killybegs forwards at bay. The under 12 girls are training every Friday at 4.30pm.

Under 16 training is on Friday at 6pm in the park. Senior training continues at 7pm on Wednesdays and Fridays.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Underage players have been out and about selling lines for guesses as to the cash value of the contents of a bottle of change donated to Bord na nÓg by Mick McGrath of the Bridgend bar. Lines are available at a cost only €2 or three for €5. The nearest guess will win €100. The next two nearest guesses after that will win €50 each and the next two nearest guesses after that again will each win one ticket in the Aodh Ruadh Centre of Excellence Draw worth €30. The final answer will be revealed when the bottle is burst open and the contents counted at a social night on Saturday in the Bridgend bar. The proceeds are in aid of the Centre of Excellence Development currently underway at Munday's Field in Ballyshannon. With Donegal's encounter against Leitrim at 7pm the bottle bursting will take place at 11.30pm to allow county followers time to get back and take part in proceedings. There will be a number of Bord na nÓg members who will be happy to take your guesses, before they have to get down the serious business of counting the coppers. All players should return their completed cards to their team manager or a member of the Bord na nÓg committee by Friday evening. Completed cards can also be left into the Bridgend Bar before Saturday evening.

Aodh Ruadh under 10s traveled to a blitz in Ballintra last Saturday where teams from Naomh Bríd, Pettigo, Four Masters and Kilcar were in competition. The 'A' team put in a number of good performances, recording a win, a draw and two losses. Shane McGrath and Philip Patton in the forward sector were Aodh Ruadh's main danger men. The 'B' team won all three of their games with Barry Kelly doing great work in the back line and Ryan Gallagher proving a great attacking threat at half forward.

Aodh Ruadh offer their sincerest condolences to the manager of the under 10 team, Colman Kerr on the loss of his father, John, who passed away peacefully on Sunday in Letterkenny Regional Hospital. He was buried on Tuesday afternoon in Portsalon. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal.

Aodh Ruadh's annual Summer Camp is up and running with over 80 youngsters taking part in the first week of the camp. The camp runs from 10am to 3pm from Monday to Friday. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday feature Gaelic skills plus fun and games. Thursday is swimming with fun and games. Friday is the sports day. To sign up for the second and third weeks of the camp contact Sylvester Maguire on 086-0532495.

The under 12s odyssey continues this Friday, 6th July when they meet Saint Eunan's in the county semi-final in Donegal town at 7.00pm. The club calls for a big Ballyshannon following to travel down to the game and show the lads their support.

The next game for the under 14s is on Wednesday 4th July when the opposition will be Ardara in Father Tierney Park with the throw in at 7.30pm. That will be followed by the final game of the round robin section of the league on Wednesday 11th July when the team travels to Mountcharles to take on Saint Naul's at 7.30pm.

The under 16s were forced to concede their preliminary round, second leg game against Glenties last Friday, a decision that sees Naomh Conaill go through to the first round proper of the championship. This ends under 16 action for the year.

The Sean Slevin Minor Tournament took place last Saturday with a game between Aodh Ruadh and Bunninadden of Sligo in Father Tierney park. On what was forecast to be a poor day, luck held and there was the blessing of a relatively clear spell to play the game. Aodh Ruadh were hampered by the loss of a number of players, in particular midfielder, Matthew Thompson, out through suspension, and Donagh McIntyre who was on senior championship duty later in the day. Bunninadden showed no ill-effects from the long trip up the road from south Sligo and finished the first half with 1-7 to Aodh Ruadh's 0-4. The second half commenced with more of the same as Bunninadden notched up five unanswered points before Aodh Ruadh could make a pointed reply in the 41st minute. Vincent Frizzell was starring for the Sligonians, showing deadly accuracy in front of the posts. It was only with 10 minutes left of the match that Aodh Ruadh found their groove scoring 2-3 in the final phase with Hugh McNeill and Conor Thomas popping up for goals. Time had run out for Aodh Ruadh though, and, in truth, it would have been an injustice to Bunninadden had they lost the match after making the running for so long in the game. The final score was 1-14 to 2-08. Sean Slevin's widow, Patricia presented runners up medals to the disappointed Ballyshannon side. She then presented the victor's plaque to Vincent Frizzell, the Bunninadden captain. Many thanks to Bunninadden for attending and to everyone who helped out in whatever capacity on the day. See the club website (www.aodhruadh.org) for pictures from the day's action.

The next match on the horizon for the minors is a preliminary round, first leg match against Naomh Columba in Glencolmcille on Friday 6th July at 7.30pm. Minor training is at 8pm on Mondays and Wednesdays.

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9th July

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
The seniors are out in the league this Sunday with a trip to Kilcar. The throw in time was not available at time of writing. Senior and reserve training continues at 6.45pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

The Under 21 preliminary round, first leg championship match against Glenfin has been moved once again, this time to Tuesday, 17th July. The match throws in at Glenfin at 7.30pm.

As you will be aware Aodh Ruadh is undertaking a major draw to fund the redevelopment of Munday's Field as a top class training facility. There is an impressive line-up of prizes with something there for everyone. First prize is a four door 1.4 Nissan Almera; second prize is €3,000 in cash; third prize is a two week sunshine holiday for two valued at €1,500; fourth prize is a 32 inch LCD Television and DVD player; fifth prize is a golf weekend for two at the Slieve Russell Hotel; sixth prize is a weekend for two in the Camden Court Hotel, Dublin with two All Ireland Football OR hurling tickets; seventh prize is a weekend for two with the White Group; eighth prize is €250 worth of household goods from Slevin's Department Store, Ballyshannon; ninth prize is a €250 shopping voucher sponsored by Mace in Ballyshannon; the tenth prize is €200 in cash. Tickets priced €30/£20 each or €50/£35 for two are out now, ask any club member. With the draw taking place in the last week of August all sellers are asked to redouble their sales efforts to ensure the maximum possible revenue from the draw.

Fashionistas might be interested to know that Aodh Ruadh club jackets are now available in Ballyshannon Shoe Company.

~ HURLING ~
The under 12s are traveling to a blitz in Donegal this Saturday 14th July. The bus leaves the park at 1.30pm.

Underage training for under 12s and 14s continues at 12 noon on Sunday. The under 16s and minor hurlers are training at 6.45pm in the Park on Mondays and Wednesdays.

~ LADIES ~
The under 12 girls are training every Friday at 4.30pm. Under 16 training is on Fridays at 6pm in the park. Senior training continues at 7pm on Wednesdays and Fridays.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The bottle of change was cracked open on Saturday night and after a meticulous count the bottle was found to contain the grand total of €478.70. There were two winners with Larry Dolan and Alan Jordan both guessing €480 and winning €75 each. The next closest guess was by Alison Dolan at €480.95 who won €50. Alison was followed by Ann Ward, who went for €475.32 and John Meehan who guessed €475. Ann and John each won a ticket in the Aodh Ruadh Centre of Excellence prize draw worth €30. This was a very successful draw with over €1,800 being raised by Bord na nÓg for the Centre of Excellence draw. Many thanks to everyone who contributed and all those who collected lines, not to mention those who helped out on the night.

Aodh Ruadh under 10s have a blitz this Saturday in Bundoran. The Bus leaves the park at 11pm sharp.

Aodh Ruadh's annual Summer Camp continues with over 90 youngsters taking part in the second week of the camp. The camp runs from 10am to 3pm from Monday to Friday. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday feature Gaelic Skills plus fun and games. Thursday is swimming with fun and games. Friday is the sports day. To sign up for the final week of the camp contact Sylvester Maguire on 086-0532495.

The under 12s secured their place in the county final last Friday with a gutsy display against Saint Eunan's. Despite the indifferent weather recently, the sun shone at Donegal town's Tir Chonaill park for most of the duration and conditions were ideal for football. Aodh Ruadh played into the Donegal bay end with the benefit of a steady breeze for the first half. After an early exchange of points Eunan's goaled in the 6th minute. After that shock Aodh Ruadh made short work of getting back into the game with two points followed by a goal from David McGurrin in the 9th minute. The ball was lofted high into the Letterkenny square and the 'keeper misjudged the flight, allowing the ball to drop into the back of the net. Buoyed up by that goal Aodh Ruadh picked off another three points before the tide began to turn in Saint Eunan's favour. The change was augured when Conor Gilmartin was forced into fantastic save to put the ball over the end line for a 45 in the 18th minute. Eunan's worked a goal from that 45 and three minutes later they had the ball in the net for a third time. The Ballyshannon lads had to show their mettle once again to peg the Letterkenny side back with two fine points. However, it was Saint Eunan's who finished the half the stronger slotting over two points of their own to go in at the break leading by 3-3 to 1-8. The second half must go down as one of the best halves of football played by any Aodh Ruadh team at any grade in some time. The omens weren't good when a Saint Eunan's shot came back of the post in the first minute. Shrugging off that near miss, the Ernesiders composed themselves and put in a phenomenal defensive effort combined with precision work in the forwards to steadily manufacture a stranglehold on the game. The second half was marked by a number of great performances. Eamon McGrath was a transformed player in the second period and his decisive play thwarted a number of Letterkenny attacks. Matthew Maguire and Paddy Gillespie both marked tigerishly and made intelligent use of the ball as they cleared their lines. Pauric Patton caused constant danger with his creative running and crisp passing, whilst Colin Keown was also a thorn in Saint Eunan's side. Up front David McGurrin punished the Letterkenny side relentlessly. The first score of the second half didn't come until the 10th minute when Aodh Ruadh grabbed the equalising point. After that there were only three further scores in the game and all these fell to Aodh Ruadh players. The final insurance point was put over in the 30th minute and a nail-biting five minutes of injury time followed before the large Aodh Ruadh support could celebrate securing their spot in the county final. The final score was 1-12 to 3-3 in favour of the Ernesiders. David McGurrin finished with 1-8 to his name, whilst James Kelly, Johnny Gethins, Jamie McDonald and Pauric Patton also chipped in with points. With so many outstanding displays it would be perhaps unfair to pick out a man of the match, but Conor Gilmartin's display between the posts was one he will remember for a long time to come. With a number of 'certain' goals picked from just below the crossbar throughout the game, his performance proved a truly match-winning contribution. The under 12 county final is slated for this Friday 13th July. The time and venue have yet to be decided, but a large turnout from Ballyshannon is asked to attend this hugely important match.

The under 14s took a bit of a drubbing at the hands of Ardara in the league last Wednesday when they lost by 0-6 to 3-14 in Father Tierney Park. Aodh Ruadh had a somewhat depleted squad and a strong central spine for Ardara did a lot of damage. The scorers for Aodh Ruadh were Ronan McGurrin with four points along with Charlie Patton and Martin Gallagher with a point a piece. The next game for the under 14s is on Wednesday 11th July when the team travels to Mountcharles to take on Saint Naul's at 7.30pm. There is the possibility that Aodh Ruadh could qualify for the semi-final stages should Naomh Conaill manage to beat Bundoran, so this is still an important game.

In wintry conditions in Glencolmcille Aodh Ruadh's minors were defeated by a more determined Naomh Columba side last Wednesday. The final scoreline was 2-9 to 2-6. The Ballyshannon side were stung by a late goal when the prospect of a well-earned draw was just within grasp. Damien Cleary gave a good performance full back, whilst Donagh McIntyre did well in the middle of the park. Up front, PJ McGee and Diarmuid McInerney were a constant threat to the Naomh Columba rearguard. The second leg fixture against Naomh Columba takes place this Wednesday 11th July at 7.30pm in Father Tierney Park. A large Ballyshannon support would be much appreciated.

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16th July

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh blew hot and cold at Towney last Sunday where failure to close out the game saw the Ernesiders going down on a scoreline of 0-14 to 2-06. Missing a number of regulars, Ballyshannon romped into a six point lead in the first half, only to be reeled in and passed out by a gritty Kilcar fight back. League debutants PJ McGee and Diarmuid McInerney were the two liveliest forwards on show with McInerney clocking up two goals and McGee two well executed points. Their contribution should provide good options up front for Aodh Ruadh as the season progresses. The next action for the seniors is a trip to Glenfin this Sunday for the next round of the League. The match throws in at Pairc Ghleann Fhinne at 3.00pm and will be preceded by the reserve game, which gets underway at 1.30pm.

Senior and reserve training continues at 6.45pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Kilcar's thirds were overrun by Aodh Ruadh by 0-05 to 2-10 in a dead rubber left over from the 2007 Division 3 South League campaign on Sunday. The thirds are likely to be out in Championship action this Saturday against Glenfin. Precise dates, times and venues have yet to be confirmed so watch the local media for further details.

See pigs fly!!! Pig racing comes to Ballyshannon on Saturday August 18th when Aodh Ruadh runs a seven race card in the Bridgend / East Port area of the town starting at 9pm. Races can be sponsored at €250 with pigs available at €100. In addition there are also advertising slots on offer in the race card. Contact Eunan Doyle on 087-2973295 for more information. Off-track there will be a signed county jersey raffled on the night and plenty of craic guaranteed as Ballyshannon welcomes the country to the town.

Fashionistas might be interested to know that Aodh Ruadh club jackets are now available in Ballyshannon Shoe Company.

~ HURLING ~
Underage training for under 12s and 14s continues at 12 noon on Sunday. The under 16s and minor hurlers are training at 6.45pm in the Park on Mondays and Wednesdays.

~ LADIES ~
The club sends their best wishes to Aoife Buggy who will be part of the Donegal panel taking on Sligo in the Senior Championship in Tubbercurry on Sunday 22nd July at 2pm.

The under 12s concluded their season with a game against Saint Naul's last Tuesday. The girls concluded a full programme of fixtures and made considerable progress along the way, not to mention having a great deal of fun in the process. Many thanks to the players and all those who helped out with the team over the course of the season.

Senior training continues at 7pm on Wednesdays and Fridays.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The under 10s had a great outing to the Bundoran blitz last Saturday. The 'A' team had games against Naomh Bríd, Kinlough and Bundoran and won them all. Paul Cummins put in a number of fine displays in goals whilst Donal Sweeny went through an ocean of work in the backs. Oisín Roper was class at midfield and showed brilliant attitude. Meanwhile, up front Nathan Boyle took a number of fine scores. The 'B' team won one and lost one with Caelan Drummond giving an outstanding performance in the backs. Under 10 training continues this Saturday at 11am. This will be the last training session for the under 8s for the foreseeable future. There will be a blitz in Saint Naul's on Saturday, July 28th. The bus leaves for Mountcharles at 10.45am sharp from Father Tierney park. This blitz will be the last competitive action for the under 10s until the start of the new school year.

Aodh Ruadh's annual Summer Camp continues with over 60 youngsters taking part in the final week of the camp. The camp runs from 10am to 3pm from Monday to Friday. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday feature Gaelic Skills plus fun and games. Thursday is swimming with fun and games. Friday is the sports day. To sign up for the final week of the camp contact Sylvester Maguire on 086-0532495.

The highlight of the club's year so far took place in Convoy last Friday when Aodh Ruadh's under 12 claimed the county title in a fiercely fought contest with Termon. In whirlwind weather conditions Termon got off to a whirlwind start with two goals in first five minutes. This Aodh Ruadh outfit have showed buckets of fighting character this year however and they showed it once again as they clawed their way back into contention. A superb individual goal by midfielder Pauric Patton was the key score as the first half ended level at 2-3 to 1-6. With Patton more tightly marshaled in the second half; James Kelly gave a great display at midfield to help dictate the pattern of play in Aodh Ruadh's favour. There was a point in it with five minutes to go when Johnny Gettins popped up to score the goal that sealed it for Ballyshannon. David McGurrin shot over two further insurance points before the referee blew the whistle to confirm Aodh Ruadh as under 12 champions of Donegal for 2007 on a scoreline of 2-11 to 2-05. David McGurrin got six points in total, with Matthew Gettins shooting over three points and Colm Kelly another two. Commiserations to a gallant Termon team who gave their all in what was a great game of football. Special recognition goes to their centre full back who had an exceptional game. Check out the club website (www.aodhruadh.org) over the course of the week for a full report and pictures.

The under 14s suffered a 3-11 to 1-5 loss to Saint Naul's last Wednesday. The scoreline is not an accurate reflection of the game as Aodh Ruadh owned the ball for much of the game with Ruairí Drummond and Ronan McGurrin ruling the roost at midfield in very difficult weather conditions. The main problem was the inability to convert scoring chances. Ben McGowan led the scoring for Ballyshannon with a goal and a point. He was followed by Martin Larkin who added another two points. Martin Gallagher and Ronan McGurrin also chipped in with a point apiece. This loss brings the under 14s league season to an end. The next competitive action is a trip to Ardara in the first round of the championship on 13th August. Training continues on Wednesdays at 8pm in the park.

Aodh Ruadh emphatically overturned a first leg loss to Naomh Columba last Wednesday when they ran out 2-16 to 2-05 winners in Father Tierney Park. This strong performance was anchored by a good showing at midfield by David Dolan and Donagh McIntyre. Peter Boyle had another fine game between the posts with Jason McMenamin, Ciaran Slevin and Damien Cleary giving great cover in the back sector. Up front Diarmuid McIntyre, PJ McGee and Aidan Murray all starred in what was a great team performance. Aodh Ruadh and Naomh Columba now go forward to a play-off game to decide this preliminary round match-up. The game takes place on Wednesday 18th July at 6.30pm in Dunkineely. The bus leaves from the park at 5.15pm sharp. The winners of that match will then go forward to play the winners of Dungloe and Four Masters, who also play a decider this Wednesday. The first round fixture is down for Friday 20th July with full details to be confirmed once the competing teams have been sorted out.

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23rd July

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
A very young Aodh Ruadh side came out on the wrong end of a 2-8 to 1-6 scoreline against Naomh Conaill in Davy Brennan Park last Saturday. The Ernesiders were minus 11 senior players, notably team Captain Michael 'Sticky' Ward who sustained a serious injury in training and looks like being out of action for at least three weeks. The depleted squad meant a start for minor stars Donagh McIntyre, Diarmuid McInerney and Matthew Thompson, with David Dolan also coming on off the bench. The minors all gave extremely good performances, particularly in the context of having played a tough Championship game against Four Masters the night previous. Unfortunately Aodh Ruadh leaked two early goals and were chasing the game from the 15th minute on. Despite John Duffy coming on to give a vintage performance, Glenties were successfully able to keep Ballyshannon at arms length for the remainder of the game to maintain their unbeaten run in Division 1A. Go to www.aodhruadh.org to see the full match report.

The reserves were in action against Naomh Conaill on Sunday and went down by 3-15 to 1-6. Paul Kane had a good game in nets as did Barry Travers in the back division and at midfield. Up front a lively Barry Gallagher caused Glenties a few headaches.

Senior and reserve training continues at 6.45pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Keep an eye on the local press for the latest on upcoming senior fixtures.

The third's Championship opener against Glenfin last Saturday was postponed and has been rescheduled for this Friday, 27th July, with throw in at Pairc Ghleann Fhinne at 8.00pm.

See pigs fly!!! Pig racing comes to Ballyshannon on Saturday August 18th when Aodh Ruadh runs a seven race card in the East Port area of the town starting at 9pm. Pigs are available at €100. Get together with your mates and sponsor a squealer. In addition there are also advertising slots on offer in the race card. Contact Eunan Doyle on 087-2973295 for more information. Off-track there will be a signed county jersey raffled on the night and plenty of craic guaranteed as Ballyshannon welcomes the country to the town on harvest fair weekend.

Aodh Ruadh is undertaking a major draw to fund the redevelopment of Munday's Field as a top class training facility. There is an impressive line-up of prizes with something there for everyone. Tickets priced €30/£20 each or €50/£35 for two are out now, ask any club member. With the draw taking place in the last week of August all sellers are asked to redouble their sales efforts to ensure the maximum possible revenue from the draw.

Senior club meeting on Thursday, 9th August at 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ HURLING ~
There will be no underage hurling training on Sunday 29th August as all players will be in Croke Park for the All-Ireland quarter finals on a trip organised by the hurling committee. The bus leaves the park at 8.45am on Sunday. There are a small number of seats left on the bus for anyone interested. Please contact John Rooney on 9851250. Training for under 10s, 12s and 14s will resume on Sunday, 5th August.

~ LADIES ~
Senior training continues at 7pm on Wednesdays and Fridays.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
There is a meeting of the Bord na nÓg committee on Wednesday, 1st August at 9pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

The club's summer camp came to a close last Friday. With 20 people employed and well over 200 attending over the three weeks the camp was a great success. Once again, thanks to McDevitt and McGlynn Accountants for their kind sponsorship.

There is an under 10 blitz in Saint Naul's this Saturday, July 28th. The bus leaves for Mountcharles at 10.45am sharp from Father Tierney park. This blitz will be the last action for the under 10s until the start of the new school year.

The report and pictures from the club's under 12 county final triumph will be up on the club website (www.aodhruadh.org) later in the week.

Under 14 training continues on Wednesdays at 8pm in the park in anticipation of the squad's first round championship match against Ardara on 13th August.

A busy week for the minors. They secured a 1-18 to 0-9 play-off victory over Naomh Columba in Dunkineely last Wednesday and were promptly pressed into action on the following Friday against Four Masters. The Donegal town side edged that game 3-8 to 2-9 in Father Tierney Park. The Naomh Columba game was played in atrocious conditions and was well refereed by Jimmy White. The victory was built around a strong midfield performance by David Dolan and Donagh McIntyre. Brian McGrath, Jason McMenamin and Ciaran Slevin were miserly in allowing Naomh Columba scoring opportunities, whilst up from Diarmuid McInerney, PJ McGee and Paul Hughes all gave an exhibition of shooting in very poor weather conditions. The Four Masters game saw David Dolan move to centre back where he gave a brilliant performance and, along with Damien Cleary and Peter Boyle in nets, ensured that Donegal town earned their scores the hard way. Again there was a good performance at midfield with Turkey and Ham a.k.a. Matthew Thompson and Donagh McIntyre winning plenty of primary possession. Starring in the forwards were Jason Kane, JJ Cassidy, Christopher Goan and Diarmuid McInerney who were up against a well drilled Four Masters defence. The first round, second leg Championship game against Four Masters is scheduled for Tuesday 24th July at 7pm in Tir Chonaill Park.

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31st July

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
There is a meeting of the senior club on Thursday, 2nd August at 8.30pm. This is a particularly important meeting and all committee members are asked to attend.

The reserve's woes continued on Sunday night when they lost by 1-03 to 2-12 against Glenfin in Father Tierney Park. Jason Kane registered a goal on his reserve team debut, but apart from that Aodh Ruadh were dogged by an inability to take their scoring chances. Senior and reserve training continues at 6.45pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

The third's got their Championship campaign off to an ebullient start against Glenfin last Friday when they clocked up a 0-14 to 1-08 over the Finnsiders. Freetaker Dermot Slevin led the way with seven points. There were also good performances from Diarmuid McInerney and Pauric Loughlin. Sunday's second leg match in the Park against Glenfin was afflicted by the awful weather conditions that have tormented the country of late. The game was a scrappy encounter, but Aodh Ruadh managed to win out by 1-8 to 0-04. Once again Dermot Slevin headed the scoring stakes and Gary Anderson scored a great goal with a masterful finish. Third team training continues on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6pm.

The Under 21s go into championship action when they take on Glenfin at 7.30pm on Tuesday, 31st July in Pairc Ghleann Fhinne.

~ HURLING ~
Aodh Ruadh underage hurlers enjoyed a great trip to Croke Park on Sunday last to watch the All-Ireland hurling quarter finals. The boys were treated to two very exciting games and even got their photograph taken on the hallowed turf after the action had finished. Thanks to all the adults who traveled with the young lads. Training resumes on Sunday, 5th August for under 10s, 12s and 14s at 12 noon.

~ LADIES ~
Senior training continues at 7pm on Wednesdays and Fridays.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
There is a meeting of the Bord na nÓg committee on Wednesday, 1st August at 9pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

The under 10s had a trip to Mountcharles last week where they took on Naomh Columba, Saint Naul's and Pettigo in a divisional blitz. The 'A' team were unlucky to lose all their games, but the 'B' team played well to win their tournament. Ciaran Kelly excelled for the 'A' team in the back division. Meanwhile Ryan McKenna was a key driver in the B's triumph. This blitz will be the last action for the under 10s until the start of the new school year.

Under 14 training continues on Wednesdays at 8pm in the park.

The minor's season came to an end with a 4-13 to 1-07 loss against Four Masters in Tir Chonaill park last Tuesday. There were battling performances from Peter Boyle in goals and Maurice Kane and David Dolan in defence. There was another set of strong performances Turkey and Ham a.k.a. Matthew Thompson and Donagh McIntyre in midfield, Ham capping his performance with a goal. Diarmuid McInerney played a captain's roll in the forwards.

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AUGUST

6th August

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
There is a club meeting on Tuesday, 7th August at 9pm regarding the Centre of Excellence Draw. With just three weeks to go it is essential that all sold stubs are presented at the meeting so a clear idea can be formed as to the progress of the draw. Everyone involved in the draw is asked to be present on the night.

The seniors had a good work out in a challenge against Bundoran on Bank Holiday Monday. The team recorded a win, a timely fillip for the visit of Dungloe to Ballyshannon next Sunday, 12th August. The senior game throws in at 3pm and the reserve game at 1.30pm.

The thirds play Ardara in the quarter final of the Junior B championship at Saint Naul's pitch in Mountcharles on Friday 10th August in 7pm.

The Under 21s came off second best in their Championship game against Glenfin last Tuesday. The Finnsiders ran out 4-16 to 3-6 winners. There were good defensive displays from Eoin McNeill, Darren Drummond and Paul Connolly who also managed to get up the pitch for a goal. Matthew Thompson was a creative presence at wing half forward and substitute Rian Trainor proved a handful when he came on, claiming a well taken goal.

~ HURLING ~
The under 10s take part in an Ulster Blitz on Saturday outside Enniskillen. The bus is leaving the park at 9.30am and will be back at approximately 3pm. Call John Rooney with any enquiries on 9851250. Training continues on Sunday for under 10s, 12s and 14s at 12 noon.

~ LADIES ~
The senior ladies have a challenge against Devenish this Wednesday, 8th August at 7pm in Garrison. Apart from that, senior training continues at 7pm on Wednesdays and Fridays.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Under 14 training continues on Wednesdays at 8pm in the park in anticipation of the squad's first round championship match against Ardara on 13th August.

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13th August

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh failed to make their scoring chances count against Dungloe on Sunday afternoon. The Ernesiders went down by 1-06 to 0-11 and remain rooted to the foot of Division 1A. The reserve's fared no better losing by 1-06 to 0-13 against Dungloe. There were promising displays from younger members of the squad however; Liam Reynolds and Michael Dolan at wing back and Eoin McNeill at centre forward all showed up well.

The seniors will be looking to put their league form behind them when they take on Saint Eunan's in the quarter finals of the championship. The clash is set for Sunday 19th at 6.30pm in Tir Chonaill Park, Donegal. With a semi-final berth at stake, it is vital that the club brings the largest possible crowd to Donegal to get behind the team. Please make an extra special effort to show your support for YOUR club.

The thirds crashed out of the Championship last Friday in a shock defeat to Ardara. The Division 4 league champions lost by 2-04 to 2-07. Aodh Ruadh never quite found their groove and were beaten by a hungrier Ardara side.

The Under 21s also went out of the championship last Tuesday. A weakened side was overwhelmed by Glenfin 4-16 to 3-06.

With foot and mouth slipping off the radar, Ballyshannon welcomes Pig Racing to the East Port on Saturday, 18th August. Ocean FM's Sean Perry will be master of ceremonies as Aodh Ruadh runs a seven race card in the Port with the first squealers going under starters orders at 9pm. Off-track there will be lots of prizes and a signed county jersey raffled on the night. There's plenty of craic guaranteed as Ballyshannon welcomes the country to the town on Harvest Fair weekend.

~ HURLING ~
The under 10s took part in an Ulster blitz in Irvinestown on Saturday with two Aodh Ruadh teams taking part. Despite atrocious weather conditions the first team won their blitz. They beat Tyrone sides Dromore and Dungannon and recorded a win against Saint Eunan's and a draw with Lisbellaw. The second team also played very well losing their two games narrowly to teams from Fermanagh and Tyrone. It was a great team performance by all the squad and all the hard work in training paid off for the boys. John Rooney, Peter Horan and Dennis Daly traveled with the squad. Our under 12s are taking part in a blitz in Buncrana on Saturday 18th August. The bus leaves the park 9.15am sharp. Training continues on Sunday for under 10s, 12s and 14s at 12 noon.

~ LADIES ~
Aodh Ruadh's senior ladies chalked up a good win in a challenge against Devenish last Wednesday. That result will be heartening as the team go into championship action against Glenfin this weekend.

Senior training continues at 7pm on Wednesdays and Fridays.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The under 12s have a trip to Derryloughan, near Coalisland in Tyrone to look forward to on Saturday 25th August. They will be taking part in an Ulster council blitz and competing against teams from across the province. Lunch will be provided on the day, but parents are asked to supply children with £20 sterling pocket money for the trip. Any parents interested in coming along to the blitz should call Jim Kane on 086-2849425.

Under 14 training continues on Wednesdays at 8pm in the park. The dates for their championship outings have now been reset for Tuesday 21st and Thursday 23rd August. The Tuesday night game will be in Ardara with the Thursday night game being in Ballyshannon.

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20th August

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh go into a replay against Saint Eunan's after drawing in Donegal Town on Sunday evening. Ballyshannon were rampant in the first half and went in seven points to the good at half time. However the Ernesiders committed the cardinal error of attempting to defend a lead. The deeper defensive line allowed Saint Eunan's the opportunity to claw their way back into the game. They achieved that primarily through Brendan Devaney and his accuracy from placed balls. The final score was 1-11 to 0-14. The replay promises to be one of the ties of the Championship to date and is slated for Sunday 26th August at 7.30pm in Ballybofey. With a tough game in prospect and a semi-final berth at stake, it is vital that the club brings the largest possible crowd to McCumhaill Park to get behind the team. Please make an extra special effort to show your support for YOUR club.

There was a great night's craic in Ballyshannon last Saturday night as the rain held off for a few hours to allow the Pig Races to go off. There was a super crowd to support the Centre of Excellence fund raiser. Many thanks to everyone who helped out on the night, the sponsors and everyone who came along and made the event such a triumph.

There is an important meeting regarding the Centre of Excellence draw on Tuesday 21st August at 10pm in Aras Aoidh Ruadh. All sold stubs and cash should be returned for this meeting as a decision will be taken as to the draw date and sales strategy at the meeting.

~ HURLING ~
The underage hurlers had a very busy week. On Wednesday last the under 10s traveled to Sligo to take on Coolera / Strandhill. The 'A' team lost in a very competitive game by two points on what was a terrible evening. The 'B' team drew their game. It is hoped Coolera / Strandhill will make it up to Father Tierney Park before the end of the season for a return game. John Rooney, Billy Finn and Eddie Lynch traveled with the team.

On Saturday last the under 12s made the trip north to Buncrana to take part in an Ulster Council Blitz. The team was very understrength due to holidays and fielded seven under 10s in the 12 man squad. In the first game they lost narrowly to Na Magha of Derry City. They drew with Carndonagh in the second game and lost narrowly to Burt in their third game. They were well beaten in their final game by a strong Slaughtneil side from Derry. The standard of hurling was very high throughout the blitz. Peter Horan, John Rooney, Billy Finn and Eddie Lynch traveled with the team.

Training continues on Sunday for under 10s, 12s and 14s at 12 noon.

~ LADIES ~
Aodh Ruadh's senior ladies played Glenfin last weekend in their championship opener, but were unable to turn over the fancied Finnsiders. The performance was very encouraging though, and testament to the consistent progress being made by the senior team. The ladies will entertain Glenfin in the return leg of this championship encounter on Sunday 26th at 12 noon.

The club's county star, Aoife Buggy, gave a good account of herself once again at half back as Donegal demolished Roscommon to ensure senior football for the county in 2008. Congratulations also to Dearbhla McNeill who is part of the Donegal under 16 team set to contest an All Ireland after winning their semi final over the weekend.

Senior training continues at 7pm on Wednesdays and Fridays.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The under 12s have a trip to Derryloughan, near Coalisland in Tyrone to look forward to this Saturday 25th August. They will be taking part in an Ulster council blitz and competing against teams from across the province. Lunch will be provided on the day, but parents are asked to supply children with £20 sterling pocket money for the trip. Any parents interested in coming along to the blitz should call Jim Kane on 086-2849425.

Aodh Ruadh take on Four Masters in the first round of the under 13 tournament at 11.30am on 1st September in Father Tierney Park.

Under 14s have championship action this week when they take on Ardara over two legs. The first match is on Tuesday in Ardara with the return night on Thursday in Father Tierney Park. Throw in for both games is at 7pm.

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27th August

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh's participation in the Senior Football championship was emphatically terminated by Saint Eunan's on Sunday evening. Playing under lights in Ballybofey, the Ernesiders were a shadow of the side that should have dispatched the Letterkenny outfit the week previous. They lost by 2-10 to 0-09. See the website, www.aodhruadh.org, for the full match report.

Two dates for your diary. The first is a very important general meeting of the club at 8pm on Tuesday 4th September in Aras Aoidh Ruadh. This meeting concerns the Centre of Excellence draw and everyone in any way concerned with the club is asked to attend. The second date is the monthly senior committee meeting, which takes place on Thursday 6th September at 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

The date for the Centre of Excellence draw has been slated for Sunday 28th October. Tickets for the draw, which is to fund the redevelopment of Munday's Field as a top class training facility, are currently on sale. There is an impressive line-up of prizes with something for everyone. Tickets priced €30/£20 each or €50/£35 for two are out now, ask any club member.

~ HURLING ~
There will be no underage hurling training on Sunday 2nd September due to the clash of Kilkenny and Limerick in the All-Ireland hurling final. Training resumes as usual on Sunday 9th September.

Check out the club website for pictures of the underage hurlers' trips to a blitz in county Fermanagh and to the hurling quarter finals in Croke Park.

~ LADIES ~
There was something of a coup for the Aodh Ruadh's senior ladies when they beat a weakened Glenfin side in Father Tierney Park on Sunday afternoon. Ballyshannon recorded a four point win over Glenfin in what might conventionally have been viewed as a gimme for the Finnsiders by many observers. Despite that win however, Aodh Ruadh are out of the championship as their aggregate score over the two legs wasn't sufficient to take them through to the next round. However, Sunday's victory combined with a very positive display the first day out in Glenfin are signs that the ladies may be set for an exciting 2008.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
There is a meeting of the Bord na nÓg committee on Wednesday 5th September in Aras Aoidh Ruadh at 9pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

Aodh Ruadh's under 12s collected more silverware last Saturday as they took the top honours at an Ulster Council blitz staged at Derryloughan in Tyrone. In the group stage Aodh Ruadh recorded victories over Strabane Sigerson's, Derryloughan, Gaoth Dobhair and Armagh Harps. They lost their final group game to Scotstown of Monaghan. The blitz final was a rematch with Scotstown. A rejuvenated Aodh Ruadh team really showed their style as they saw off the Farney side on a scoreline of 0-11 to 1-2. Aodh Ruadh Captain, James Kelly, was called upon to receive the trophy, adding yet further gloss another to an already dazzling 2007 for the under 12s.

Aodh Ruadh take on Four Masters in the first round of the under 13 tournament at 11.30am on Saturday 1st September in Father Tierney Park. There is training at 7.30pm this Wednesday 29th August in anticipation of this game.

The Under 14's season finished as they went out of the Championship against a strongly fancied Ardara side last week. The first leg was played on Tuesday in Ardara with only 18 players making the trip. Cousins Conor and Pauric Patton were solid in defence as was Paul McElwaine, who was a model of consistency. Ronan McGurn and James Barron played well in midfield but Aodh Ruadh were hampered by a lack of scoring power up front. Despite that Ballyshannon were in contention for much of the game with Sylvester Maguire and Ben McGowan causing tremendous headaches for the Ardara defence. It was only after Ardara goaled with the gap at two points that the game really started to slip away from the Ernesiders. The final score was 2-13 to 2-4 in favour of Ardara. Aodh Ruadh's scorers were Ronan McGurn with 1-1, Fergal Meehan with a well-taken goal, Conor Patton who shot two points and Ruairí Drummond who picked off a good point.

The return leg was played on Thursday with eight members of under 14 panel missing. To compound matters goalkeeper Donagh McInerney was injured in the warm up and Charlie Patton was called upon to mind the nets. Three stars from the under 12 team, David McGurn, Pauric Patton and Eamon McGrath also had to be called up to bolster the squad. Aodh Ruadh had a bad first half, but settled much better in the second and gave Ardara a torrid time. However the damage had been done in the first half and Ballyshannon were unable to make good the deficit. Ardara sealed their progress through to the next round of the championship with a 4-6 to 3-5 win. Charlie Patton gave an excellent performance in his unaccustomed role as goalie whilst Pauric Patton was also outstanding in the backline. Tommy Patton at centre half back got through a lot of work during the game. Ruairí Drummond was exceptional at midfield, scoring 2-1 into the bargain. Fergal Meehan clocked up 1-1 in a fine display. There was also a good performance from Martin Gallagher who took a well executed point and won a penalty. The McGurn brothers, Ronan and David, both chipped in with a point apiece.

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SEPTEMBER

3rd September

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh's poor league form continued last Sunday with a 2-17 to 3-05 loss against a hungrier Glenfin side in Pairc Ghleann Fhinne. See the website, www.aodhruadh.org, for the full match report.

~ HURLING ~
Training resumes this Sunday for under 10s and 12s at 12 noon and continues throughout September until Sunday 23rd September. The under 10s and 12's season will conclude when Aodh Ruadh host the Aodh O Dalaigh under 12 blitz on Sunday 30th September.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
There is a meeting of the Bord na nÓg committee on Wednesday 5th September in Aras Aoidh Ruadh at 9pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

Aodh Ruadh chalked up a fine 1-20 to 1-04 win against Four Masters in the first round of the under 13 Championship last Saturday in Father Tierney Park. This was a great 15 man display. Aodh Ruadh's dominance was reflected in the half time lead of 1-09 to no score. The next match in this competition is on Saturday 15th September at 11.30pm when Aodh Ruadh take on Kilcar. The venue has yet to be confirmed. Under 13 training continues on Wednesdays at 7pm.

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10th September

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
There was no respite for Aodh Ruadh's seniors as they sustained yet another loss in their League campaign. Things had looked good with Aodh Ruadh leading at the end of normal time. However, Ardara were able to make the most of a generous injury time allocation to chip over the scores that brought them a 0-11 to 0-10 victory and two precious league points.

~ HURLING ~
Training continues this Sunday for under 10s and 12s at 12 noon and continues throughout September until Sunday 23rd September. The under 10s and 12's season will conclude when Aodh Ruadh host the Aodh O Dalaigh under 12 blitz on Sunday 30th September.

~ LADIES ~
Training resumes for the Under 10 girls on Tuesday, 18th September from 6pm to 7pm in Father Tierney Park. There is also training in the park for the under 16 girls on Wednesdays at 7pm. Any girls interested in playing minor football this year are asked to attend a meeting at the park on Saturday evening at 6pm.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
There is a meeting of the Bord na nÓg committee on Wednesday 12th September in Aras Aoidh Ruadh at 9.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

Aodh Ruadh crashed out at the semi final stage of the under 13 Championship last Saturday in Tir Chonaill Park. Kilcar ran out winners by 6-11 to 2-8, but this is a one of those instances where the scoreline gives a rather skewed impression of the play. Aodh Ruadh were leading by 2 points shortly after half time, but midway through the second half Kilcar went on a scoring blitz that effectively killed the game. Pauric Patton played his heart out when moved to midfield. He also contributed 1-1 to Aodh Ruadh's final tally. David McGurn did well with a limited supply of ball to chalk up 1-3. Alan Finan had a good match at centre half back and also registered a point. Up front Johnny Gettins performed solidly and took a good point. Also on the scoreboard for Aodh Ruadh were Conor Gilmartin and Fergal Meehan with a point a piece.

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17th September

~ CLUB DRAW ~
The date for the Centre of Excellence draw has been slated for Sunday 28th October. Tickets for the draw, which is to fund the redevelopment of Munday's Field as a top class training facility, are currently on sale. There is an impressive line-up of prizes with something for everyone. Tickets priced €30/£20 each or €50/£35 for two are out now, ask any club member.

~ HURLING ~
Aodh Ruadh under 12 hurlers are taking part in a blitz in Donegal town on Saturday 22nd September. The bus leaves the park at 1pm. On Sunday 23rd September at 12 noon there will be a skills competition to finish off the season for the under 8s, under 10s and under 12s.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The O'Donnell league concluded on Saturday 8th September. James Kelly's team won in the final beating Eamon McGrath's side by 4-6 to 2-5. Darren Gethins' team beat Paddy Gillespie's outfit on a scoreline of 4-5 to 2-5 in the runners up final. Both matches proved to be excellent games of football.

2007 marks the fiftieth anniversary of the Bakery Cup. The cup was first contested in 1957, providing a much needed competitive outlet for underage footballers in Ballyshannon. The trophy was presented to the Rock's De La Salle school for underage football by the Mall Bakery. The first winning captain was Pauric McGarrigle. He led a team also featuring the talents of Alan Kane who went on play in goals for Donegal and Matt McNulty a future Chief Executive of Bord Failte. Bord na nÓg would like to commemorate this anniversary in a fitting manner and anyone who has ideas or who would like to get involved is asked to contact Jim Kane on 086-2849425.

Captains in this year's Bakery Cup are Ronan McGurn, Ruairi Drummond, Martin Larkin and Sylvester Maguire. The first round of games took place on Saturday 15th September with Ronan McGurn's side edging out Sylvester Maguire's team in the first match and Ruairi Drummond's team taking the honours over Martin Larkin's side in the second. On Monday night Ronan McGurn's team beat Ruairi Drummond to put Ronan in the driving seat. Sylvester Maguire and Martin Larkin's team play on Tuesday night 18th September.

Aodh Ruadh's under 12s travel to Belfast on Saturday to take part in a blitz at Saint Theresa's in Belfast. Travel details will be supplied nearer to the time.

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24th September

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh's seniors slipped to another league defeat last Saturday, losing to Gaoth Dobhair by 1-08 to 0-12. See the website, www.aodhruadh.org, for a full match report. The reserve's fixture against Saint Eunan's was called off.

There will be a senior club meeting on Thursday, 4th October at 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ HURLING ~
The under 12s took part in a blitz in Donegal town on Saturday hosted by Four Masters. The team played well winning two games and losing one. Seventeen boys traveled to the blitz, 13 of whom were under 10. Peter Horan, John Rooney, Denis Daly, and Eddie Lynch traveled with the team. On Sunday we held a skills competition in Father Tierney Park with 24 hurlers taking part. At under 8 the winners were 1st. Conal Sweeny; 2nd. Ryan Ayres; 3rd Stephen Anderson. At under 10 the winners were 1st. Deva Ayres; 2nd. Oisín Roper; 3rd Niall Cullen. At under 12 the winners were 1st. Jamie Brennan; joint 2nd. Eddie Lynch and Tommy Gillespie; 3rd Colm Kelly. It was very enjoyable a very enjoyable event and thanks go to all the parents who attended. Our season ends this Sunday when we host the Aodh O Dalaigh under 12 blitz. All support, in whatever form, will be gratefully received.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Aodh Ruadh's under 12s collected their fifth trophy of 2006 when the captured the Jim McLaughlin Memorial cup at a nine-a-side blitz organised by Saint Theresa's of Ardoyne in Belfast. Aodh Ruadh recorded wins over Saint Theresa's, Saint Paul's of Belfast and An Riocht from Down in the pool stages before disposing of Sean Dolan's of Derry in the quarter finals and Saint Patrick's from Donagh, County Fermanagh in the semi final. It was local rivals Erne Gaels of Belleek who faced Ballyshannon in the final. Aodh Ruadh were in irresistible form and despite a gutsy battle by the Gaels it was the Donegal Ernesiders who won the final on a scoreline of 1-7 to 0-1. The under 12s will be on their travels once again when they go to a blitz in Scotstown on Saturday 6th October in what should be their last competitive action of the year.

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OCTOBER

1st October

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh bought themselves a Division 1A lifeline when they beat Killybegs in a real relegation 'four pointer' in Fintra last Saturday. Ballyshannon held the initiative for much of the match and went in four points up at half time. Killybegs managed to level the match with time nearly up, but Aodh Ruadh battled back and were awarded a 13 metre free which Pauric Buggy coolly converted to make sure of the win on a scoreline of 0-11 to 0-12.

The reserve's fixture against Killybegs was called off.

There will be a senior club meeting on Thursday, 4th October at 8.30pm. With the draw date drawing ever closer a full attendance is essential at this meeting.

~ HURLING ~
Aodh Ruadh hosted a very successful under 12 blitz last Sunday. Despite the terrible weather, eight teams took part with 104 youngsters showing off their skills, with no less than 31 players from Aodh Ruadh taking part. Breege Daly Scott presented the Primary League Shield on behalf of the local national schools to Letterkenny Gaels. The runners up in the Shield were a south Donegal team made up of Aodh Ruadh and Four Masters players. The Ulster Council President, Tom Daly, presented the Aodh O Dalaigh shield in memory of his late father, Hugh, to the winning captain from Knocks, County Fermanagh. The runners up were Coolera / Strandhill of county Sligo. Local players Conor Kennedy and Brendan Gillespie received medals for outstanding performances on the day for our two teams. Thanks go to all who helped to make the blitz a great success. This ends a very enjoyable and busy season for the under 10s and 12s. The club thanks the hurlers and their parents for their commitment throughout the year.

~ LADIES ~
The under 10 girls host Four Masters in the Park at 11am on Saturday, 6th October. Under 10 training is underway on Tuesdays from 6pm to 7pm in the Park.

The minors had good win in Dunfanaghy when they overcame the challenge of Saint Michael's to progress to the first round proper of the championship where they take on Saint Naul's. That game will be in Father Tierney park this weekend, but the precise date and time have yet to be confirmed. Minor training at 6.30pm on Wednesdays.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
There will be a meeting of the Bord na nÓg committee on Wednesday, 10th October at 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

The under 12s had a good win over The Loup of Derry in a challenge match last Saturday. The under 12s will be on their travels this Saturday 6th October when they go to a blitz in Scotstown, County Monaghan in what should be their last competitive action of the year. The tournament starts at 10.00am. Players are asked to assemble at the park for 7.30am and to bring a packed lunch. The bus leaves the park at 7.45am sharp.

The quarter finals of the Bakery Cup are scheduled for Saturday, 13th October with the semi-finals on Saturday, 20th October and the finals on Sunday, 28th October, coinciding with the Centre of Excellence Draw. As this is the fiftieth anniversary of the Bakery Cup Aodh Ruadh are inviting everyone who played in the competition since 1957 to come along to the fiftieth final on Sunday 28th October at 2pm in Father Tierney Park. We expect to have the first winning captain there to get the ball rolling. Presentations will take place afterwards in Aras Aoidh Ruadh along with the unveiling of a plaque with the winning captains names. The ceremonials will be followed by light refreshments in the Aras. On Sunday evening there will be a trip down memory lane in Dorrian's Hotel. If you are in touch with any team player let him know what's happening and pass the word about. Any queries about who played on your team or what team you played on, you can contact me jimckane@eircom.net.

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8th October

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
It was back to back wins for Aodh Ruadh in Father Tierney Park last Sunday when the Ernesiders beat Naomh Conaill by 2-10 to 0-11. Two spectacular goals were the difference between the sides with the first coming from Brian Roper midway through second half. Roper latched onto a long ball from Stephen Ward and crashed it into the Glenties net with some aplomb. The second came with only a couple of minutes remaining when Pauric Buggy drilled a placed finish past the Naomh Conaill keeper after some skilful and intricate approach play.

The reserve's were beaten by Glenties by 2-05 to 0-13 despite a much improved all-round performance from the Ballyshannon outfit. Goals from Gary Anderson and Barry Gallagher kept the pressure on Naomh Conaill. Disappointingly, withdrawals meant Aodh Ruadh could only field the bare fifteen and that took its toll as Glenties forged on for the win.

The Centre of Excellence draw will take place on Sunday 28th October. Tickets for the draw, which is to fund the redevelopment of Munday's Field as a top class training facility, are currently on sale. There is an impressive line-up of prizes with something for everyone. Tickets priced €30/£20 each or €50/£35 for two are out now, ask any club member.

The club is preparing its submission for the annual county yearbook, anyone with pictures they would like to see included are asked to forward them to info@aodhruadh.org.

Aodh Ruadh's annual general meeting takes place on Saturday 1st December in Aras Aoidh Ruadh. All club subcommittee's should have held their own AGMs before that date with reports submitted to John Magee at aodh-ruadh@donegal.gaa.ie on or before 24th November.

~ LADIES ~
The under 10 girls hosted Four Masters last Saturday, 6th October for an entertaining day's football with over 50 girls taking part. Under 10 training is on Tuesdays from 6pm to 7pm in the Park.

The minors had a good win against an understrength Saint Naul's side in the first round proper of the championship last Sunday. The win puts Aodh Ruadh through to a second round match-up with Termon. That game will be at a neutral venue this weekend, but the precise place, date and time have yet to be confirmed. Minor training continues at 6.30pm on Wednesdays.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
There will be a meeting of the Bord na nÓg committee on Wednesday, 10th October at 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

Aodh Ruadh under 12s concluded their season with a trip to Scotstown, County Monaghan for an Ulster Under 12 Blitz. The As recorded wins against Errigal Ciaran of Tyrone and Truagh from Monaghan, but lost to Laragh of Cavan who went through to the semi-finals on points difference. The Bs also did well only to be pipped by Laragh.

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15th October

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
It was a shadow of the championship winning Saint Eunan's side that visited Father Tierney Park last Sunday. Nevertheless a Letterkenny outfit minus many marquee names and liberally scattered with reserves battled manfully in the first half against an Aodh Ruadh side looking for its third win on the bounce. The sides were level at four points apiece at half time, but a scoring blitz by Aodh Ruadh directly after the break rocked Saint Eunan's back on their heels and left them playing catch-up for the rest of the match. Aodh Ruadh's first goal came shortly after half time. It was a good move with Pauric Buggy popping up a precision pass for Niall McCready to run on to and drill emphatically to the net. The second goal came from Brian Roper midway through the second half. The county star cut in from the end line and managed to rifle a shot past the keeper. Roper has been enjoying good form in his recent return to Aodh Ruadh colours and he capped it with a second goal near the death. The final score was 3-10 to 0-07 to Aodh Ruadh. The reserve match was called off as Saint Eunan's fielded a weakened senior side with one eye on their Ulster Club championship outing next Sunday.

Once again Father Tierney Park will be the venue on Sunday 21st October when Aodh Ruadh will be looking to make it four wins in a row. Ardara will provide the opposition and they will have revenge on their minds after Aodh Ruadh ended their Championship campaign earlier in the year. Throw in is at 3pm. The senior match is preceded by Aodh Ruadh against Ardara in a Division 1A Reserve match at 1.30pm.

How would you like to be doing your tricking and treating in a brand new Nissan Almera this Halloween? Well you could be doing just that if you happen to scoop top prize in the Aodh Ruadh Centre of Excellence draw which takes place in Dorrian's Hotel, Ballyshannon on Sunday, October 28th at 9pm. Club members are out and about now selling tickets priced €30/£20 each or €50/£35 for two so be sure to nab them if you see them around. Also, Terry McShea will be happy to sort you out for tickets if you give him a call on 087-2360815. Make sure you come along to the draw night where the final few tickets will be sold before the lucky winners are drawn. One way or another there's sure to be quite a party afterwards! The action kicks off at Dorrian's Hotel at 9pm. Don't miss it.

The club is preparing its submission for the annual county yearbook, anyone with pictures they would like to see included are asked to forward them to info@aodhruadh.org.

~ LADIES ~
The under 10 girls have their last day of outdoor training this Tuesday, 16th October at 6pm in the Park. After that there will be a break until indoor training begins in the Mercy Hall on 6th November at 6pm.

The minor ladies lost to Termon in a tough semi-final Championship encounter last Sunday in Father Tierney Park. Aodh Ruadh were outgunned by a strong Termon outfit, but never stopped fighting and indeed had the better of things in the second half. The final score was 3-8 to 2-4 in favour of the northerners.

~ HURLING ~
The hurling committee's Annual General Meeting takes place on Friday 19th October at 8.30pm in Aras Aoidh Ruadh. Everyone with an interest in hurling in Ballyshannon is invited to attend.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Bord na nÓg host a quiz night in Owen Roe's on Thursday, 25th October. The questions start flying at 9.30pm. Be sure to come along for a great night's craic.

The Bakery Cup finals semi-finals are on Saturday, 20th October with the finals on Sunday, 28th October, coinciding with the Centre of Excellence Draw. As this is the fiftieth anniversary of the Bakery Cup Aodh Ruadh are inviting everyone who played in the competition since 1957 to come along to the fiftieth final on Sunday 28th October at 2pm in Father Tierney Park. We expect to have the first winning captain there to get the ball rolling. Presentations will take place afterwards in Aras Aoidh Ruadh along with the unveiling of a plaque with the winning captain's names. The ceremonials will be followed by light refreshments in the Aras. On Sunday evening there will be a trip down memory lane in Dorrian's Hotel. If you are in touch with any team player let him know what's happening and pass the word about. Any queries about who played on your team or what team you played on, you can contact jimckane@eircom.net.

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22nd October

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh edged past Ardara last Sunday to notch up their fourth league win on the bounce. The final score was 0-11 to 0-10 as Father Tierney Park continues to prove a happy hunting ground for the Ernesiders. The game was a tight encounter and Aodh Ruadh were a point down at half time. Ardara had the better of the third quarter and were two points to the good heading into the closing stages. Aodh Ruadh, who were without Barry Ward through illness, held their cool and worked their way back. Sticky Ward got the final two scores of the match from frees to take the points for Aodh Ruadh. Once again Brian Roper made a big contribution with five points to his credit.

A battling display saw the reserves lose to Ardara by 0-9 to 2-7. Aodh Ruadh held the lead at half time and were motoring well. However, midway through the second half, goal keeper Paul Kane upended an Ardara attacker in the area. Paul saw the line and Ardara slotted away the resultant penalty. A goal just as time elapsed served to put a somewhat deceptive gloss on the result for Ardara. James McIntyre had a great game with four points at corner forward. His brother John and cousin Turlough McIntyre also caused problems in the Ardara defence; whilst John Gillespie gave a staunch performance in the backs.

The club is preparing its submission for the annual county yearbook, anyone with pictures they would like to see included are asked to forward them to info@aodhruadh.org.

~ LADIES ~
There is a break in under 10 girls training until indoor training begins in the Mercy Hall on 6th November at 6pm.

~ HURLING ~
Aodh Ruadh's minor hurlers claimed their second county championship title in succession last Sunday in Donegal town's Tir Chonaill Park. Things had looked ominous at half time when Ballyshannon went in on the wrong end of a 0-1 to 0-6 scoreline and contemplating the prospect of playing into a strong wind. However the Ernesiders came out a transformed outfit in the second half. Chris Kilgannon and Paul Hughes lead the way at midfield and were well supported by Peader O'Keefe and David Dolan on the half back line. Gary O'Brien, Gary Loughlin and Liam Cullen did the main damage scoring four second half goals between them to put Aodh Ruadh in the driving seat. Ciaran Kilgannon was also impressive at centre forward and Gerard Kelly made a great impact at half forward when he came on in the second half. Ashley Mulhern had a great match at full back, thwarting many Letterkenny attacks. However, it was Ballyshannon's superior threat in front of goals that proved the difference in the end and a final score of 4-07 to 2-10 meant that it was Aodh Ruadh's Stephen Ryan who held the minor county championship trophy aloft. Congratulations to all the players, as well as the mentors on the day: Peter O'Keefe and Dennis Doherty as well as Emma Gaughan with first aid. There are pictures on aodhruadh.org.

The under 12 hurlers enjoyed a great trip to McCumhaill park last Saturday for the M. Donnelly interprovincial games in Ballybofey. The highlight of the night was the presentation of the under 12 county blitz medals to the panel by Galway and Connacht star Alan Kerins. Alan gave the boys a talk about hurling and wrapped up with a question and answer session. He presented the medals individually to Tommy Gillespie, captain, and his squad. Go to aodhruadh.org for pictures from the night.

The Hurling Committee held their AGM last Friday and there was a good, healthy attendance present. Officers appointed on the night were: Dennis Doherty, Chairman; Emma Gaughan, Secretary; David Downey, Finance Officer; Joint Senior Managers, Johnny Dolan and Aidan Begley; Minor Manager, Thomas 'Schillaci' Gallagher; Under 12 Manager Peter Horan; and Under 10 Manager John Rooney.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Bord na nÓg host a quiz night in Owen Roe's on Thursday, 25th October. The questions start flying at 9.30pm. Be sure to come along for a great night's craic.

The final of the Bakery Cup takes place on Sunday, 28th October. The action commences with a match between Ruairí Drummond and Martin Larkin's teams at 1pm. That game is followed by the final between the teams of Ronan McGurn v Sylvester Maguire at 2pm. As this is the fiftieth anniversary of the Bakery Cup Aodh Ruadh are inviting everyone who played in the competition since 1957 to come along to the fiftieth final on Sunday 28th October at 2pm in Father Tierney Park. We expect to have the first winning captain there to get the ball rolling. Presentations will take place afterwards in Aras Aoidh Ruadh along with the unveiling of a plaque with the winning captain's names. The ceremonials will be followed by light refreshments in the Aras. On Sunday evening there will be a trip down memory lane in Dorrian's Hotel. If you are in touch with any team player let him know what's happening and pass the word about. Any queries about who played on your team or what team you played on, you can contact jimckane@eircom.net.

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29th October

~ CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE DRAW ~
Paudie Murphy scooped first prize in Aodh Ruadh's Centre of Excellence draw. Paudie will have a long trip up from Ballydesmond in County Cork to collect the keys for his new runabout, but enjoying the trip back to the Rebel County in the comfort of a brand new Nissan Almera should make it all worth while. The winners of the other prizes were: Second prize of €3,000 went to Donal Buggy, Kilanerin, County Wexford; Third prize of a two week sunshine holiday for two valued at €1,500 went to Ann Gilfeather, Davog Drive, Belleek; Fourth prize of a 32 inch LCD Television and DVD player went to Cahal Sheridan, C/M Embroidery, Letterkenny; Fifth prize of a golf weekend for two at the Slieve Russell Hotel went to Sean O'Mahoney, Moy Road, Ballyshannon; Sixth prize of a weekend for two in the Camden Court Hotel, Dublin with two All Ireland tickets went to Chris O'Donnell, Creevy; Seventh prize of a weekend for two with the White Group went to Ciaran Slevin, Abbeylands; Eighth prize of €250 worth of household goods from Slevin's went to Stephen Ward, Woodlands; Ninth prize of a €250 shopping voucher sponsored by Mace went to Joe Winston, Letterkenny and Tenth prize of €200 in cash went to Annie McHugh, Roscor, Belleek. The draw raised in the region of €45,000 which will go to the Centre of Excellence Development at Munday's field in Ballyshannon. The completed facilities will feature a regulation sized GAA pitch with two junior cross fields and a floodlit training field encircled by a running track. The pitches have been seeded out in the past couple of weeks and the grass is showing already. It is expected the facility will be ready for use in September 2008. Huge thanks are due to the many ticket sellers who tramped the highways and byways with tickets, a very tough job. A note of appreciation also to Dorrian's Hotel who hosted the draw function. Thanks also to Jim Owen of Donegal Town who provided the first prize of a 1.5, four door, Nissan Almera.

~ LADIES ~
There is a break in under 10 girls training until indoor training begins in the Mercy Hall on 6th November at 6pm.

~ HURLING ~
Senior hurling training begins on Thursday 1st November at 7.30pm in Saint Anne's Hall on Church Avenue beside the Church of Ireland. New comers welcome.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Fifty years after its inception Ronan McGurn's team won the Bakery cup in Father Tierney Park last Sunday. His side overcame Sylvester Maguire's team to take the Cup on a scoreline of 3-8 to 2-7. A full match report is available on aodhruadh.org. The presentation took place in Aras Aoidh Ruadh with Club Chairman Terence McShea opening proceedings before the winning Bakery Cup captain of 1957, Padraig McGarrigle, presented to the trophy to the winner of 2007, Ronan McGurn. After the presentation Bord na nÓg Chairman, Jim Kane, presented certificates to players who had taken part in the Bakery cup since its inauguration in 1957. The function concluded with a few words from the Chairman of Ballyshannon Town Council, Eunan Doyle and pictures. Many of those present were able to continue their reminiscences at the culmination of the Centre of Excellence in Dorrian's Hotel later in the evening, where, no doubt a few fine yarns were spun. Many thanks are due to all who attended and to Jim Kane and Gerry McIntyre who did so much to make the day happen.

Six weeks of indoor training gets under way on Friday 9th November in the new hall at Colaiste Colmcille. The under 8s and under 10s will be in between 7pm and 8pm. The under 12s will be in between 8pm and 9pm. There is a charge of €2 per head. Further information will be circulated to the national schools in due course.

Bord na nÓg hosted a quiz night in Owen Roe's last Thursday with eight teams pitting their wits against the combined brains of Sylvester Maguire and Eunan Doyle. The music rounds were hard on everyone's ears, but scores were still impressively high. Despite the disappointing turnout there was a great night's craic had by all and €400 raised for Bord na nÓg.

The Bord na nÓg AGM takes place on Wednesday, 14th November at 8.30pm in Aras Aoidh Ruadh. Managers are reminded to submit their reports for the year to John Hughes. Everyone interested in the development of underage football in Ballyshannon is invited to attend.

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NOVEMBER

5th November

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh coasted to a fifth consecutive win against a strangely off-form Glenfin side. Two goals from Brian Roper as well as a goal a piece from Donagh McIntyre and Sticky Ward helped Aodh Ruadh to a 4-11 to 0-04 win in Father Tierney Park. The Finnsiders were trailing by 2-3 to 0-2 at half time and never really recovered from the two first half goals. Aodh Ruadh acquitted themselves well in what was a great team performance. The final match of Aodh Ruadh's league programme is against Gaoth Dobhair. With all Division 1A teams playing their final league games on the same day that means a lay-off for Ballyshannon of a couple of weeks as other teams complete their programmes.

~ LADIES ~
Under 10 girls indoor training continues in the Mercy Hall on Tuesday at 6pm.

~ HURLING ~
Senior hurling training continues on Thursday at 7.30pm in Saint Anne's Hall on Church Avenue beside the Church of Ireland. New comers welcome.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Indoor training for the 2008 season gets under way on Friday 9th November in the new hall at Colaiste Colmcille. The under 8s and under 10s (i.e. aged nine or under in 2008) will be in between 7pm and 8pm. The under 12s (i.e. aged eleven or under in 2008) will be in between 8pm and 9pm. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners, no other footwear allowed.

There is a Level One coaching course in Ballybofey on Friday night.

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12th November

~ LADIES ~
The ladies host a quiz in Owen Roe's on Thursday night, 15th November at 10pm. Parents of younger players in particular are invited to come along and enjoy the night's craic. Under 10 girls indoor training continues in the Mercy Hall on Tuesday at 6pm.

~ HURLING ~
Senior hurling training continues on Thursday at 7.30pm in Saint Anne's Hall on Church Avenue beside the Church of Ireland. New comers welcome.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The Bord na nÓg AGM takes place on Wednesday, 14th November at 8.30pm in Aras Aoidh Ruadh. Everyone interested in the development of underage football in Ballyshannon is invited to attend.

Indoor underage training continues this Friday, 16th November in the new hall at Colaiste Colmcille. The under 8s and under 10s (i.e. aged nine or under in 2008) will be in between 7pm and 8pm. The under 12s (i.e. aged eleven or under in 2008) will be in between 8pm and 9pm. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners, no other footwear allowed.

Bord na nÓg host a presentation night in Aras Aoidh Ruadh for their under 12 county champions on Saturday, 17th November, starting promptly at 6.30pm. The presentation of southern divisional board and county championship medals will be preceded by a showing of the DVD of the final against Termon in a rain soaked Convoy. The showing of the DVD starts at 6.45pm sharp and players are asked to arrive for 6.30pm as there will be refreshments served. There will also be a presentation to Bord na nÓg sponsors to acknowledge the valuable support they have given to help the development of underage football in Ballyshannon over recent years.

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19th November

~ PJ FERGUSON ~
It was with great sadness that Aodh Ruadh learned of the passing of PJ Ferguson on the afternoon of Monday 19th November. PJ played for Aodh Ruadh and Saint Joseph's and was a classy forward in his day. He also managed a number of Aodh Ruadh teams including the senior side. In recent years PJ was prominent as one of the club's most loyal and staunch supporters. Affectionately known as Elvis, PJ was very much a larger than life character and his ebullient presence will be sorely missed around the club. Aodh Ruadh offer their sincerest condolences to PJ's wife Ann, son Gerard, daughters, Moya and Carla and his brothers and sisters. The Funeral Mass takes place on Thursday, 22nd November at 11am in Saint Joseph's Church on the Rock, Ballyshannon. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal.

~ LADIES ~
Under 10 girls indoor training continues in the Mercy Hall on Tuesday at 6pm.

~ HURLING ~
Senior hurling training continues on Tuesday and Thursday at 7.30pm in Saint Anne's Hall on Church Avenue beside the Church of Ireland. New comers welcome.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Bord na nÓg host their final fundraiser of the year in the Bridgend bar this Saturday night, 24th November. There is a breathtaking and bewildering bazaar of prizes being raffled off, all to the accompaniment of music from the legend that is John Meehan. Here is a quick taster of some of the prizes on offer: A five hundred euro voucher for windows with Profile Joinery; A Philips DVD player; A radio controlled rally car; two hundred weight of coal from Eugene Dolan; A fifty euro voucher for Brian Campbell Butchers; not to mention polo shirts, kit bags, sports coats and much, much more. There will be three draws on the night with John Meehan providing music and Eunan Doyle the slagging. Parents of underage players in particular are invited to come along and enjoy what should be a rip-roaring night's craic.

Aras Aoidh Ruadh played host to the Bord na nÓg Presentation Night last Saturday. The under 12 Southern Board and County Champions were guests of honour and were treated to a DVD of the County Final in Convoy against Termon on 13th July. Needless to say Johnny Gethins' goal midway through the second half lifted the roof! Many thanks to Termon who kindly gave us a copy of the County Final DVD, which really was an excellent production. The viewing, accompanied by well-received food from Maggie's and drinks from C&C, was followed by the presentation of Southern Board and County winners' medals. The presentations were made by the club's county stars Brian Roper and Niall McCready. It was great to have Brian and Niall available for the occasion and many people took the opportunity to get their pictures taken with the pair. After the presentation of medals there were presentations of certificates to the four Bakery cup captains: Ronan McGurrin, Sylvester Maguire, Martin Larkin and Ruairí Drummond. The next presentation was to recognise and acknowledge sponsorship provided to Aodh Ruadh Bord na nÓg. Jim Kane, Chairman of Bord na nÓg gave a speech emphasizing the crucial role that sponsors played in making things happen in Bord na nÓg and thanked them for their continuing support of underage football in Ballyshannon. Jim then presented framed certificates to James Likely of James Likely Limited, Edmund McIntyre of Centra, Ballyshannon, Charlie O'Donnell of O'Donnell's Bakery, Joe Drummond of ESB Ballyshannon, Brian Drummond of Ballyshannon Credit Union and Brian Roper for Joe Roper. Joe Drummond of the ESB made a presentation of a cheque for €600 to Aodh Ruadh Chairman, Terrence McShea, and Jim Kane of Bord na nÓg, recognising the great achievements of the under 12 team in 2007 as they wore their ESB sponsored jerseys with distinction. Other sponsors who were acknowledged on the night but who unable to attend were Keown Carpets and Flooring, Decorworld, James Cummins, Noel Hoey Wholesale Distribution, Gerry Ferguson, Pearse O'Neill and The Abbey Garage. Many thanks Pat Melaniff, Enda McGurrin, Sylvester Maguire and everyone else who helped out on what was a very enjoyable and memorable night.

Bord na nÓg had their AGM took last Wednesday in Aras Aoidh Ruadh. There was a good attendance and lots of constructive work done. The following positions were filled for 2008: Jim Kane, Chairman; Vice Chairman, Sylvester Maguire; John Hughes, Secretary and PRO; Finance Officer, Eunan Doyle; Under 10 Manager, Colman Kerr; Under 12 Manager; Terrence McShea with Adrian Keown, Barry Travers and John Larkin junior; Under 14, Jim Kane; Under 16, Barry Gallagher. The only positions not filled were those of Minor Manager and Southern Board delegate, but there is optimism these should be filled by the end of the year.

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26th November

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
The seniors concluded their league programme with a loss away to Gaoth Dobhair. The Gaeltacht side got off to a blinding start going into a 1-3 to no score lead in the first ten minutes, but Aodh Ruadh steadied the ship to go in only a goal down at half time with the scores at 1-5 to 0-5. Ballyshannon enjoyed the better of the second half, but couldn't quite find the key to unlock the win. Gaoth Dobhair won on scoreline of 1-11 to 0-12. Aodh Ruadh's scorers were: Val Murray 0-5, Barry Mulligan 0-2, Seamus Kane 0-1, Brian Roper 0-1, Stephen Ward 0-1, Niall McCready 0-1 and John Duffy 0-1. The defeat sees Aodh Ruadh facing a relegation playoff with Glenfin, Kilcar or Naomh Conaill as potential opponents. The opposition will only become clear after the final round of league games.

Aodh Ruadh's annual general meeting takes place on Saturday 1st December in Aras Aoidh Ruadh at 5pm. Everyone with an interest in Gaelic games and culture in Ballyshannon is invited to attend.

~ LADIES ~
Under 10 girls indoor training continues in the Mercy Hall on Tuesday at 6pm.

~ HURLING ~
Many congratulations to Emma Gaughan on her appointment as Donegal County Hurling Secretary!

Senior hurling training continues on Tuesday and Thursday at 7.30pm in Saint Anne's Hall on Church Avenue beside the Church of Ireland. New comers welcome.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
John Meehan was in typically tuneful form on Saturday night as he set the beat at the Aodh Ruadh Bord na nÓg bazaar in Bridgend bar, Ballyshannon. The bazaar was held to mark the end of a busy year of fundraising for Bord na nÓg. With a number of functions on in the town, the crowd was late into the Bridgend, but the craic was ninety as the ticket sellers went round the patrons. With the late start there was only one draw on the night with a wide variety of prizes on offer. Finbar Gettins, Thomas Gallagher, Alice Bowring, Anne Marie Dolan and Danny Brennan were among the lucky winners on the night. After the draw for prizes Mick McGrath, proprietor of the Bridgend pub, made a presentation of a cheque for €8,700 to Bord na nÓg committee members. The cheque included the proceeds of the bottle draw and the hugely successful pig race from earlier in the year and the bazaar on the night. Along with Ballyshannon Town Council Chairman, Eunan Doyle, Mick took a leading role in conceiving and organising these fund raisers. They have helped make a significant contribution to the club at a time when it is in the midst of a programme of works set to upgrade its playing facilities to top class standards. That process is most visible at the moment at the Centre of Excellence development in Munday's Field. After the presentation of the cheque the Chairman of Bord na nÓg, Jim Kane, presented a framed certificate in acknowledgement of sponsorship and fundraising work to Mick McGrath. Presentations concluded, John Meehan took to the stage to rock the rest of the night away. A great night had by all. Many, many thanks to everyone who contributed and helped out on the night and to every one who helped at our fundraisers throughout year. Without the unstinting help of those who turned out time and again, our fundraisers would not be have had been anywhere near so successful.

Indoor underage training continues this Friday, 30th November at Colaiste Cholmcille. The under 8s will train in the Mercy Hall and under 10s will be in the New Hall (i.e. aged nine or under in 2008), both between 7pm and 8pm. The under 12s (i.e. aged eleven or under in 2008) will be the New Hall between 8pm and 9pm. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners, no other footwear allowed.

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DECEMBER

3rd December

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
The most important game of the year for Aodh Ruadh takes place this Sunday at 2pm in Convoy. Ballyshannon take on Kilcar in the relegation playoff to decide which of the pair will play Division 1A football in 2008. Kilcar will also be playing in the reserve semi-final beforehand so it is essential that as many people from Ballyshannon as possible make the effort to get to Convoy to cheer on the team.

The Reserves lost by 1-2 to 4-12 against a strong Gaoth Dobhair side in Father Tierney park on Sunday.

Aodh Ruadh held their annual general meeting last Saturday in Aras Aoidh Ruadh. There was a big attendance present to discuss 2007 and make plans for 2008. The following officers were appointed: Patrons: Father O Fearrai and Father McManus; President, Sean Slevin; Vice-President, Peter Conlon; Chairman, Terrence McShea; Vice-Chairman, Mick McGrath; Secretary, John Magee; Assistant Secretary, Mary Matthews; Treasurer, Mary Grimes; Assistant Treasurer, Jimmy Gallagher; PRO, John Hughes; Oifigeach na Geailge / Scor, Eoin O'Moore; County Board Delegate, John Travers; Director of Coaching, Sylvester Maguire. The appointment of team managers was deferred to the first meeting after the relegation play-off.

Father Tierney Park is now closed for maintenance until the New Year.

~ LADIES ~
The Ladies had their AGM last Friday with the following posts being filled: Chairman, Teddy Kane; Secretary, Louise Foy; Treasurer, Clare Flood. The PRO is yet to be confirmed. Under 10 girls indoor training continues in the Mercy Hall on Tuesday at 6pm.

~ HURLING ~
Senior hurling training continues on Tuesday and Thursday at 7.30pm in Saint Anne's Hall on Church Avenue beside the Church of Ireland. New comers welcome.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Indoor underage training continues this Friday, 30th November at Colaiste Cholmcille. The under 8s will train in the Mercy Hall and under 10s will be in the New Hall (i.e. aged nine or under in 2008), both between 7pm and 8pm. The under 12s (i.e. aged eleven or under in 2008) will be the New Hall between 8pm and 9pm. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners, no other footwear allowed.

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10th December

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh will be playing their football in Division 1B in 2008 after losing their relegation play-off against Kilcar on a scoreline of 0-11 to 2-10 in Convoy last Sunday. Ballyshannon played into a strong breeze in the first half and never really got out of the blocks. Kilcar took points with impunity whilst Aodh Ruadh only managed to register their first point in the 29th minute. Kilcar lead by 1-8 to 0-2 at half time. Three quick fire points by Aodh Ruadh directly after the break seemed to signal a turn in fortunes, but Kilcar raided a goal to snuff out the revival.

Father Tierney Park is now closed for maintenance until the New Year.

~ LADIES ~
Congratulations to Dearbhaile McNeill and Aoife Buggy who both picked up awards at the county underage ladies presentation night. Under 10 girls indoor training continues in the Mercy Hall on Tuesday at 6pm and concludes for 2007 on Tuesday 18th December. Indoor training resumes again on 8th January 2008.

~ HURLING ~
Senior hurling training continues on Tuesday and Thursday at 7.30pm in Saint Anne's Hall on Church Avenue beside the Church of Ireland. New comers welcome.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Congratulations to the quiz team of Eamon Maguire, Ronan Drummond and Oisín O'Malley Daly and Solo Singer Fionnuala McCosker who made it through to the Ulster final of Scor na nÓg in Galbally, County Tyrone on 19th January 2008

The last night of indoor underage training for 2008 takes place this Friday, 14th December at Colaiste Cholmcille. The under 8s will train in the Mercy Hall and under 10s will be in the New Hall (i.e. aged nine or under in 2008), both between 7pm and 8pm. The under 12s (i.e. aged eleven or under in 2008) will be the New Hall between 8pm and 9pm. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners, no other footwear allowed.

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30th December

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Many congratulations to Sylvester Maguire who has been appointed senior team manager. The club wishes you and your team all the very best in 2008.

~ DIARY DATES ~
An important hurling meeting will take place in Aras Aodh Ruadh at 8pm on Friday, 4th January. Everyone interested in hurling in Ballyshannon is asked to attend.

There will be a senior club meeting at 8.30pm in Aras Aoidh Ruadh on Thursday, 10th January. One of the main items on the agenda will be preparations for the meeting of Donegal and Tyrone in Father Tierney Park on Sunday, 13th January when they clash in Section B of the Gaelic Life Dr McKenna Cup.

The highlight of Ballyshannon's social calendar, the annual club Dinner Dance, has been scheduled for Saturday, 9th February.

The club is running a major fundraiser on Thursday 27th March in the Great Northern Hotel, Bundoran. 'Who Wants To Be A Thousandaire?' will see contestants battling it out for big cash prizes. Anyone interested in helping out with this event is asked to contact Terrence McShea on 087-2360815 or e-mail info@aodhruadh.org.

~ LADIES ~
Under 10 girls indoor training resumes in the Mercy Hall on Tuesday 8th January at 6pm.

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