Club Notes Archive - 2008

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JANUARY

7th January

~ DONEGAL v TYRONE ~
Donegal play Tyrone this coming Sunday, January 13th at 2.00pm in the Gaelic Life Dr. McKenna Cup. Stewards are asked to assemble in Aras Aoidh Ruadh at 12 noon. Bord na nÓg are running a tuck shop and 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.

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 New Hall on Tuesday, 8th January at 6pm and continues for the next six weeks.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Indoor underage training resumes this Friday, 11th January. With the Mercy Hall currently out of bounds, training will take place in the New Hall at Colaiste Cholmcille. The under 8s and under 10s (i.e. aged nine or under in 2008) will be in the New Hall 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.

There will be Bord na nÓg meeting in Aras Aodh Ruadh at 9pm on Wednesday, 9th January. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ WEBSITE ~
There has been some work on the history section of the club website (www.aodhruadh.org) over the holiday period. In 1984 a considerable amount of work was done trawling through the Donegal Democrat archive for references to Aodh Ruadh. These references were typed up in hard copy and begin in 1940. They are progressively being made available on aodhruadh.org and are archived by year in the history section. A club notes archive has been added commencing from January 2007. Finally a table listing Aodh Ruadh Chairs, Secretaries and Treasurers down the years has also been added. Anyone with material they would like to see in the history section of the club website should contact John Hughes on 087-6431805 or e-mail info@aodhruadh.org.

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14th January

~ DONEGAL v TYRONE ~
Huge thanks are due to all those who turned out to help out at the Donegal v Tyrone Gaelic Life McKenna Cup fixture last Sunday. The €100 prize in the half-time draw organised by Bord na nÓg went unclaimed on the day. The winning ticket number was 0490. 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.

~ REGISTRATION ~
Club membership for 2008 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.

~ DINNER DANCE ~
The annual club Dinner Dance will take place in Dorrian's Hotel on Saturday, 9th February 2008. Tickets are now available from Mary Matthews in Shannon's Corner. Jimmy Gallagher and Terrence McShea also have tickets for sale.

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

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Following the completion of work in the New Hall indoor underage training resumes this Friday, 11th January. With the Mercy Hall currently out of bounds, training will take place in the New Hall at Colaiste Cholmcille. The under 8s and under 10s (i.e. aged nine or under in 2008) will be in the New Hall 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.

~ WEBSITE ~
Thanks to the numerous people who have been in contact regarding the updates to the history section of aodhruadh.org. Your amendments and suggestions are gratefully received. Anyone with material they would like to see in the history section of the club website should contact John Hughes on 087-6431805 or e-mail info@aodhruadh.org.

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21st January

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Senior training commences this Friday, 25th January in the New Hall at Colaiste Cholmcille from 9-10pm. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners, no other footwear allowed.

~ MEETINGS ~
There is a meeting in Aras Aoidh Ruadh at 8pm on Tuesday 22nd January. The meeting will address organisation for the 'Who Wants To Be A Thousandaire' and drawing up a schedule of events for the club's centenary celebrations in 2009.

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

~ SCOR NA NÓG ~
Congratulations to the Aodh Ruadh quiz team of Ronan Drummond, Eamon Maguire, Oisín O'Malley-Daly and sub Liam Devaney who captured the Ulster Title in Galbally last Saturday night. Ably coached by mentors PJ Buggy and Peter Campbell the team only missed one question in the whole night. Commiserations to Fionnuala McCosker who narrowly missed out in the singing. The All-Ireland final is scheduled for Athlone in mid-February, further details nearer the time. The club offers the team their best wishes as they bid for All-Ireland glory.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Congratulations to Shane Ward who has been appointed minor manager for 2008.

Underage training continues this Friday, 18th January. With the Mercy Hall currently out of bounds, training will take place in the New Hall at Colaiste Cholmcille. The under 8s and under 10s (i.e. aged nine or under in 2008) will be in the New Hall 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.

~ CLUB HISTORY ~
Planning and preparation is now underway for the writing of a centenary history of Aodh Ruadh. Anyone who has any material of interest: rare press cuttings, pictures, club records, correspondence, video footage, etc., is asked to contact John Hughes on 087-6431805 or e-mail info@aodhruadh.org with details so that it can be incorporated. The 'Democrat Archive' for 1946 has been added to the History section of aodhruadh.org. On a slightly related matter, the search facility on the website is now fully up-to-date, so searches should now provide much more accurate results.

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28th January

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh play Derrygonnelly in the Ulster League on Sunday, 3rd February in Father Tierney Park; time to be confirmed. The next game in the Ulster League is on Sunday 10th February away Maghery in north Armagh. Senior training for all adult players continues this Friday in the New Hall at Colaiste Cholmcille from 9-10pm. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners, no other footwear allowed.

The monthly senior club meeting takes place on Thursday 7th February in Aras Aoidh Ruadh 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ WHO WANTS TO BE A THOUSANDAIRE ~
Aodh Ruadh is running a 'Who Wants To Be A Thousandaire' night in the Great Northern, Bundoran on Thursday 27th March. This is a slick professional show and is expected to generate huge interest, with a great night's craic guaranteed. Teams will be selling advertising for the night over the next four weeks. Companies interested in advertising at the event are asked to contact Terrence McShea on 087-2360815 for details.

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

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
There monthly Bord na nÓg committee meeting takes place in Aras Aoidh Ruadh on Thursday, 31st January at 9pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

Underage training continues this Friday in the New Hall at Colaiste Cholmcille. The under 8s and under 10s will be in the New Hall between 7pm and 8pm. The under 12s 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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FEBRUARY

4th February

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh opened their Ulster League campaign with a good 0-7 to 0-4 win over Derrygonnelly. There were a lot of new faces on display with Simon Gillespie Ronan Matthews, Eoin McNeill and Paul Hughes in the back division all showing up well. Meanwhile up front Pauric Buggy and Diarmuid McInerney looked sharp in what were typical winter conditions. The next Ulster League outing is a trip to Maghery in north Armagh this Saturday 9th February with the throw in at 2pm

Senior training for all adult players continues this Friday in the New Hall at Colaiste Cholmcille from 9-10pm. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners, no other footwear allowed.

The monthly senior club meeting takes place on Thursday 7th February in Aras Aoidh Ruadh 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ DINNER DANCE ~
The annual club Dinner Dance takes place in Dorrian's Hotel on Saturday, 9th February. The Mucky Ducks will be providing entertainment on the night. A limited number of tickets are still available from Mary Matthews in Shannon's Corner. Jimmy Gallagher and Terrence McShea also have tickets for sale. Doors are at 8pm with dinner served at 8.30pm sharp. Patrons are advised to arrive promptly.

~ HURLING ~
The club extends their sincere condolences to Billy Finn whose father passed away recently. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal.

Senior hurling training continues on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7pm in Saint Anne's Hall on Church Avenue beside the Church of Ireland. New comers welcome.

~ LADIES ~
Under 10 girls indoor training continues in the Mercy Hall on Tuesday night from 6pm to 7pm. The under 12s have also begun training on Tuesdays in the Mercy Hall from 7pm to 8pm.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
There is a meeting of this year's under 16 panel this Friday, 8th February in Aras Aoidh Ruadh at 6pm. All under 14s from 2007 who are over-age for this year's under 14s as well as all under 16s are asked to attend to meet with the new management team. We make a special request to all players who may have dropped out of football in the past few years to attend. Anyone who can't make the meeting but is interested in playing this year please contact Barry on 087-0518728 or Packie on 087-9794696.

~ QUESTION TIME ~
Best of luck to Aodh Ruadh's Quiz Team who are in action on Saturday night in Eglish, County Tyrone in the Ulster final. The team taking part are: Paddy Kelly, Sylvester Maguire, PJ Buggy and Peter Campbell. The top three teams on the night go forward to the All-Ireland final in Croke Park on 17th March.

The club's Scor na nÓg team will compete for All-Ireland honours on Saturday, 16th February in Athlone.

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11 February

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh fared badly on their trip to north Armagh when they were well beaten by Maghery. The next Ulster League outing is a trip to Glenullin in County Derry this Sunday, 17th February with the throw in at 2pm.

Senior training for all adult players continues this Friday in the New Hall at Colaiste Cholmcille from 9-10pm. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners, no other footwear allowed. Training has now also commenced on the all-weather pitch at the Lakeside. This takes place every Monday and Wednesday from 9pm to 10pm.

~ DINNER DANCE ~
The annual club Dinner Dance took place last Saturday night in Dorrian's with a large attendance present for the social highlight of the club's year. After a fine meal Club Chairman Terrence McShea officially opened proceedings before handing over to Sean Perry who was compere for the night.

The first award was Young Hurler of the year which the Hurling Secretary, Emma Gaughan, presented Kieran Kilgannon who played on the minor championship winning side. Next up was Young Footballer of the year which Bord na nÓg Chairman, Jim Kane, presented to the promising minor P. J. McGee.

Club Treasurer, Mary Grimes, presented the Ladies Player of the Year to an unsuspecting Seana Slevin. Hurling Chairman and that was followed by Dennis Doherty presentation of Hurler of the Year to David Donnelly.

Outgoing Club Treasurer, Patsy Kilgannon received a special appreciation award from Mary Matthews in acknowledgement of the fantastic work he had done in his time with the club, which has seen a number of significant developments take place.

In the absence of the team sponsor Dicey Reilly's, Ken Monaghan presented the Third Team Player of the Year to Diarmuid McInerney which was followed by the presentation of Reserve Team player of the year to Paul Kane by Val Murray of team sponsors, Max Bar. Paul Kane was then called upon to present a token of appreciation to the reserve team manager Barry Travers who had put in a tough year with the side in 2007. Rossa McCosker's daughter Grainne presented the Senior Player of the Year award to goalkeeper David Greene. Senior team captain Michael 'Sticky' Ward then presented a token of appreciation to Peter Gallagher and John Duffy for their work with the team in the past year.

Tom Daly made a presentation to Brian Roper to acknowledge his pivotal role in bringing the National League trophy to Donegal for the first time in the county's history. Club Secretary, John Magee, followed with the Club Man of the Year award which went to Jim Kane.

Terrence McShea was then called upon to announce the induction into the Aodh Ruadh Hall of Fame of Pauric McShea. Pauric spoke of how much the award meant to him personally and, noting the presence of Moya Ferguson, dedicated it to the recently deceased P. J. Ferguson; a gesture which was warmly received. There was a presentation to the attending members of the 1982 All-Ireland winning Donegal under-21 squad from Aodh Ruadh. Brian Tuohy, who captained the team, was present, whilst Jackie McDermott picked up his award in the absence of his son Tommy who is currently in London; Sylvester Maguire was on Quiz duty for the club.

The County Secretary, Cróna Regan presented a token of appreciation to Terrence McShea for refereeing the county reserve final between Gaoth Dobhair and Saint Eunan's. Gary Walsh of the Third Team was presented with the Division 4 League trophy by Cróna who then went on to present championship winners medals to the minor hurlers.

Tom Daly was called upon to present medals to the Ulster Champions Scor na nÓg team of Oisín O'Malley-Daly, Ronan Drummond, Eamon Maguire, and Liam Devaney. Niamh Gallagher presented a token of appreciation to the Ladies senior team management Teddy Kane and Barry Ward. The presentations were concluded with a bouquet of flowers for Cróna Regan and Tom Daly's wife Frances. With the presentations wrapped up shortly before midnight the Mucky Ducks took to the stage and did a first class job of entertaining the assembled crowd into the small hours.

~ HURLING ~
The club extends sincere condolences to Billy Finn whose father passed away recently. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal. The funeral arrangements are as follows. The remains will repose at Tom Smyth's funeral home in Roscommon Town on Wednesday, 13th February from 4pm to 5pm. The remains will then be brought to the church in the town for 6pm. Funeral mass is on Thursday 14th February at 11.30am.

Senior hurling training continues on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7pm in Saint Anne's Hall on Church Avenue beside the Church of Ireland. New comers welcome.

~ LADIES ~
Under 10 girls indoor training continues in the Mercy Hall on Tuesday night from 6pm to 7pm. Under 12 training continues on Tuesdays in the Mercy Hall from 7pm to 8pm.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Underage training continues this Friday in the New Hall at Colaiste Cholmcille. The under 8s and under 10s will be in the New Hall between 7pm and 8pm. The under 12s will be the New Hall between 8pm and 9pm. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners, no other footwear allowed.

The under 16s are training in the Lakeside this Thursday 14th February from 8pm-9pm and again on Monday 18th February in the New Hall at Colaiste Cholmcille from 7pm-8pm

The minors are training in the New Hall at Colaiste Cholmcille this Thursday, 14th February from 7pm-8pm

~ QUESTION TIME ~
Aodh Ruadh's Quiz Team failed to progress to the All-Ireland stage in Eglish last Saturday night. A very esoteric selection of questions made for a difficult night for all teams involved and Aodh Ruadh's team of Paddy Kelly, Sylvester Maguire, PJ Buggy and Peter Campbell bowed out of the competition at the Ulster final stage.

The focus now switches to the club's Scor na nÓg team who will compete for All-Ireland honours on Saturday, 16th February at 3pm in Athlone IT.

CLUB BOUNDARIES ~
Donegal County Board has made available a definitive club boundary map for each club in Donegal. The map for Aodh Ruadh can be viewed on aodhruadh.org. Check under What's New or in the Administration section

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18 February

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
A good work out for Aodh Ruadh in South Derry last Sunday in the Ulster League. Although they lost by 0-13 to 0-10 Ballyshannon were with Glenullin all the way and gave an encouraging performance. Given that the Derry county champions featured Paddy Bradley and Aodh Ruadh are continuing in experimental vein the result has positive indications for the future. In the back division Paul Hughes continued with his promising performances, whilst Kerry Ryan did well in the middle of the park. Barry Ward proved troublesome for Glenullin with his work in the forward department. The next Ulster League match is in Father Tierney Park against Ballinascreen, another Derry side, this Sunday, 24th February with the throw in at 1pm.

In the Championship draws the Seniors and Reserves are lined up to take on Dungloe in the first round. The third team drew Red Hughs in the preliminary round whilst the under 21s have a tasty first round clash with Saint Eunan’s.

Senior training continues this Friday in the New Hall at Colaiste Cholmcille from 9-10pm. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners, no other footwear allowed. Training has now also commenced on the all-weather pitch at the Lakeside. This takes place every Monday and Wednesday from 9pm to 10pm.

Third team training has now commenced on the all-weather pitch at the Lakeside every Wednesday from 5.45pm to 7pm. New members welcome.

~ WHO WANTS TO BE A THOUSANDAIRE ~
Who Want’s To Be A Thousandaire gets its official launch in Dorrian’s on Wednesday, 27th February at 8.30pm. Media will be in attendance and all advertisers are invited to come along. Who Want’s To Be A Thousandaire is a slick, professional show which will be staged in the Great Northern, Bundoran on Thursday 27th March. The night is a fundraiser for Aodh Ruadh’s Centre of Excellence and is expected to generate huge interest, with a great night’s craic guaranteed. Teams are now into the last week of selling advertising for the night so be sure to get in quick. Companies interested in advertising at the event are asked to contact Terrence McShea on 087-2360815 for details.

~ HURLING ~
The second annual Aodh Ruadh Hurlathon will take place in the Mercy Hall on Saturday, 29th March. All hurlers from under 10 to seniors will be taking part in this special event. A new feature this year sees ‘The Legends’ making their debut. This outfit will be made up of the junior team who won the championship in 1994 and other former hurling greats. Anyone wanting to take part as a Legend should contact John Rooney (086-2587793). Last year’s event was a great success and players will be out with sponsorship cards shortly and we ask everyone to support them.

Senior hurling training continues on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7pm in Saint Anne's Hall on Church Avenue beside the Church of Ireland. New comers welcome.

~ LADIES ~
Congratulation to Dearbhaile McNeil and Tara Khan who have made it onto the county under 16 panel after trials last weekend.

Under 10 girls indoor training continues in the Mercy Hall on Tuesday night from 6pm to 7pm. Under 12 training continues on Tuesdays in the Mercy Hall from 7pm to 8pm.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The monthly Bord na nÓg committee meeting takes place on Thursday 28th February at 9pm in Aras Aoidh Ruadh. All committee members are asked to attend.

The under 16s are training in the Lakeside this Thursday 21st February from 8pm-9pm and in Father Tierney Park at 2pm on Saturday 23rd February at 2pm.

The minors are training in the New Hall at Colaiste Cholmcille this Thursday, 21st February from 7pm-8pm.

Aodh Ruadh’s Scor na nÓg Quiz Team lost out in the All-Ireland final’s in Athlone IT last weekend. The team were in the lead after the individual rounds, but lost out to Roscommon in the team questions. Commiserations to the Oisín O’Malley-Daly, Ronan Drummond, Eamon Maguire, and Liam Devaney.

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25 February

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh welcomed Derry's Ballinascreen to Father Tierney Park last Sunday in the Ulster League. Although homesters lost by a point, the new members of the panel continue to perform impressively. Eoin McNeill was very strong in defence whilst Pauric Buggy did well on the 40. PJ McGee, David Dolan and Diarmuid McInerney did a good job of creating problems for the Ballinascreen back line. The next Ulster League match is in Father Tierney Park against Aghyaran of Tyrone, this Saturday, 1st March with the throw in at 3pm.

Senior training concludes this Friday in the New Hall at Colaiste Cholmcille with a final 9-10pm session. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners, no other footwear allowed. Training will recommence in the park shortly and players will be notified of the details in due course. Training continues on the all-weather pitch at the Lakeside every Monday and Wednesday from 9pm to 10pm.

Third team training continues on the all-weather pitch at the Lakeside every Wednesday from 5.45pm to 7pm. New members welcome.

~ WHO WANTS TO BE A THOUSANDAIRE ~
Who Want's To Be A Thousandaire gets its official launch in Dorrian's on Wednesday, 27th February at 8.30pm. Media will be in attendance and all advertisers are invited to come along. Refreshments will be provided. Who Want's To Be A Thousandaire is a slick, professional show which will be staged in the Great Northern, Bundoran on Thursday 27th March. The night is a fundraiser for Aodh Ruadh's Centre of Excellence and is expected to generate huge interest, with a great night's craic guaranteed. Teams are now into the last week of selling advertising for the night so be sure to get in quick. Companies interested in advertising at the event are asked to contact Terrence McShea on 087-2360815 for details.

~ HURLING ~
Underage hurling training begins in Father Tierney Park on Sunday 9th March at 12 noon for under 10s, 12s and 14s. Notes will be distributed at local national schools next week. For any enquiries contact John Rooney (086-2587793) or Billy Finn (9851289).

The second annual Aodh Ruadh Hurlathon will take place in the Mercy Hall on Saturday, 29th March. All hurlers from under 10 to seniors will be taking part in this special event. A new feature this year sees 'The Legends' making their debut. This outfit will be made up of the junior team who won the championship in 1994 and other former hurling greats. Anyone wanting to take part as a Legend should contact John Rooney (086-2587793). Last year's event was a great success and players will be out with sponsorship cards shortly and we ask everyone to support them.

Senior hurling training continues on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7pm in Saint Anne's Hall on Church Avenue beside the Church of Ireland. New comers welcome.

~ LADIES ~
The Senior Ladies had a good run out against Walterstown of county Meath last weekend, recording a win over the Royals.

Under 10 girls indoor training continues in the Mercy Hall on Tuesday night from 6pm to 7pm. Under 12 training continues on Tuesdays in the Mercy Hall from 7pm to 8pm.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The monthly Bord na nÓg committee meeting takes place on Thursday 28th February at 9pm in Aras Aoidh Ruadh. All committee members are asked to attend.

Underage training concludes this Friday in the New Hall at Colaiste Cholmcille. Training will recommence out doors shortly and players will be notified with the details in advance. This Friday the under 8s and under 10s will be in the New Hall between 7pm and 8pm. The under 12s will be the New Hall between 8pm and 9pm. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners, no other footwear allowed.

The under 16s are training in the Lakeside this Thursday 28th February from 8pm-9pm.

The minors are training in the New Hall at Colaiste Cholmcille this Thursday, 28th February from 7pm-8pm.

~ CLUB HISTORY ~
The Donegal Democrat archive for 1947 is now available to view in the history section of aodhruadh.org. Active work has now begun on the history of Aodh Ruadh. The book is due for publication at the end of 2009, in the club's centenary year. Anyone with photos, news clippings or reminiscences they would like included in the book should contact John Hughes at info@aodhruadh.org or 087-6431805.

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MARCH

3 March

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
There is a meeting of the Aodh Ruadh Senior Club Committee in Aras Aoidh Ruadh on Thursday 6th March at 9pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

Aghyaran were the visitors to Father Tierney Park last Sunday in the Ulster League. Aodh Ruadh lost out, but put in an industrious performance. Eamon O'Donnell did very well when moved to full back whilst Ronan Matthews also put in a good performance in defence. Eoin McNeill was typically tenacious against a well-drilled Tyrone outfit. David Dolan had another good game in the forwards, while Ciron Whoriskey took the score of the match with a point driven over into the teeth of a difficult breeze.

Senior training continues on the all-weather pitch at the Lakeside every Monday and Wednesday from 9pm to 10pm. There will also be senior training at the Lakeside on Fridays from 6pm - 7pm commencing on 7th March.

Third team training continues on the all-weather pitch at the Lakeside every Wednesday from 5.45pm to 7pm. New members welcome.

~ WHO WANTS TO BE A THOUSANDAIRE ~
Tickets are now available for a night not to be missed: Who Want's To Be A Thousandaire? This is a slick, professional show which will be staged in the Great Northern, Bundoran on Thursday 27th March. The night is a fundraiser for Aodh Ruadh's Centre of Excellence and is expected to generate huge interest, with a great night's craic guaranteed. Contact Terrence McShea on 087-2360815 for ticket details.

~ HURLING ~
Underage hurling training continues in Father Tierney Park on Sunday at 12 noon for under 10s, 12s and 14s. For any enquiries contact John Rooney (086-2587793) or Billy Finn (9851289).

~ LADIES ~
There is an underage player registration night in Aras Aoidh Ruadh from 6.30pm to 8.00pm this Thursday 6th March. See Bord na nÓg notes for full details

Under 10 girls indoor training continues in the Mercy Hall on Tuesday night from 6pm to 7pm. Under 12 training continues on Tuesdays in the Mercy Hall from 7pm to 8pm.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Aodh Ruadh Bord na nÓg will be hosting a player registration night for boys and girls playing on the under 10, under 12 and under 14 teams in Aras Aoidh Ruadh from 6.30pm to 8.00pm this Thursday 6th March. All players are required to attend. Please note the following: only registered players can play for Aodh Ruadh; also, only registered players are covered by the Aodh Ruadh Injury Insurance Scheme. Please bring your membership fee of 12 euro.

The under 16s have a challenge against Erne Gaels at the Lakeside this Thursday 6th March. Players should be at the Lakeside by 7.15pm sharp. The under 16s will be the first underage team into competitive action when they take on Dungloe this Sunday 9th March in Father Tierney Park at 12 noon.

The minors commence outdoor training at the Lakeside this Tuesday 4th March from 7-8pm; continuing every Tuesday until further notice. The last night of minor indoor training takes place in the New Hall at Colaiste Cholmcille this Thursday, 6th March from 7pm-8pm.

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10 March

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh are due to play their first game league game of the year at home against Killybegs on Easter Sunday. Senior training continues on the all-weather pitch at the Lakeside every Monday and Wednesday from 9pm to 10pm and on Fridays from 6pm to 7pm.

Third team training continues on the all-weather pitch at the Lakeside every Wednesday from 5.45pm to 7pm. New members welcome.

~ WHO WANTS TO BE A THOUSANDAIRE ~
The build up to Who Want's To Be A Thousandaire is well under way. This is a fun event which will be staged in the Great Northern, Bundoran on Thursday 27th March. The night is a fundraiser for Aodh Ruadh's Centre of Excellence and is generating huge interest, with a great night's craic guaranteed. Contact Terrence McShea on 087-2360815 for ticket details.

There is a meeting in Aras Aoidh Ruadh on Tuesday 11th March at 8pm for those involved in selling adverts for Who Wants To Be A Thousandaire. Adverts need to be confirmed and payment received so that receipts and complimentary tickets can be issued.

The second annual Aodh Ruadh Hurlathon will take place in the Mercy Hall on Saturday, 29th March. This is the hurling committee's major fund raiser for the year and money raised will be used for the promotion and development of hurling in Aodh Ruadh. A great day's fun in guaranteed with this unique event involving hurlers aged from seven right up to the veteran level! Players are now out and about with their sponsorship cards and we ask everyone to support them generously.

~ LADIES ~
Under 10 girls indoor training continues in the Mercy Hall on Tuesday night from 6pm to 7pm. Under 12 training continues on Tuesdays in the Mercy Hall from 7pm to 8pm.

The annual Ladies Duck race takes place on Easter Saturday, 22nd March 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!

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Many thanks to the players and parents who turned up to the registration night last Thursday. Great numbers were brought in for under 10, 12 and 14.

For those who failed to make it along it is not too late. Registration forms can be downloaded from www.aodhruadh.org or obtained from your team manager. Please note the following: only registered players can play for Aodh Ruadh, UNREGISTERED PLAYERS WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO FIELD; also, only registered players are covered by the Aodh Ruadh Injury Insurance Scheme. Please return your completed form and membership fee of 12 euro to your team manager as soon as possible.

Under 16 training continues at the Lakeside this Thursday from 8pm to 9pm. The under 16s will be the first underage team into competitive action when they travel to Killybegs in the League. Date and time have yet to be arranged, but the match will take place before Easter.

Minor training continues at the Lakeside this Tuesday from 7-8pm. The minors are scheduled to take on Naomh Bríd this Saturday 15th March at 11am, although this may change depending on circumstances. Please check with the management nearer the time for the latest details.

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17 March

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh are due to play their first game league game of the year at home against Killybegs on Easter Sunday. The throw in is at 3pm in Father Tierney Park. The reserve team will open the action on Sunday in the park at 1.30pm when they take on Killybegs reserves. Senior training continues on the all-weather pitch at the Lakeside every Monday and Wednesday from 9pm to 10pm and on Fridays from 6pm to 7pm.

Third team training continues on the all-weather pitch at the Lakeside every Wednesday from 5.45pm to 7pm. New members welcome.

~ WHO WANTS TO BE A THOUSANDAIRE ~
The build up to Who Want’s To Be A Thousandaire is well under way. This is a fun event which will be staged in the Great Northern, Bundoran on Thursday 27th March. The night is a fundraiser for Aodh Ruadh’s Centre of Excellence and is generating huge interest, with a great night’s craic guaranteed. Contact Terrence McShea on 087-2360815 for ticket details or any other club member.

The second annual Aodh Ruadh Hurlathon will take place in the Mercy Hall on Saturday, 29th March. This is the hurling committee’s major fund raiser for the year and money raised will be used for the promotion and development of hurling in Aodh Ruadh. A great day’s fun in guaranteed with this unique event involving hurlers aged from seven right up to the veteran level! Some of the legends taking part include Ulster Council President, Tom Daly, former Donegal hurlers Mickey Dolan and Liam Bromley. Other former county hurlers taking part are Gerry and Maurice McLaughlin, Patsy Kilgannon and Father Frank McManus. Players are now out and about with their sponsorship cards and we ask everyone to support them generously.

~ LADIES ~
The annual Ladies Duck race takes place on Easter Saturday, 22nd March 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!

Under 10 girls indoor training continues in the Mercy Hall on Tuesday night from 6pm to 7pm. Under 12 training continues on Tuesdays in the Mercy Hall from 7pm to 8pm.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Under 14 training commences this Saturday 22nd March at 2.30pm in the Lakeside.

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24 March

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh drew 0-7 to 0-7 with Killybegs in their Division 1B opener with Killybegs on Easter Monday. Aodh Ruadh gave a strong all round team performance in a very competitive and evenly balanced match. In the backline, Ronan Mathews and Eoin McNeill performed well on their senior debuts and young David Dolan showed some neat touches at corner forward. Brian Roper brought his county form to the club jersey and showed great leadership in his role as captain in the absence of Niall McCready. The next fixture for Ballyshannon is against Fanad Gaels on Sunday 30th March. The throw in is at 3pm in Father Tierney Park. The reserve team will open the action on Sunday in the park at 1.30pm when they take on Fanad Gaels reserves.

Aodh Ruadh reserves, showing all the signs of a team that had wintered well, were defeated by Killybegs by 1-5 to 2-9. As this was their first get together of the year we look forward to seeing improved performances from this outfit

Senior and reserve training continues on the all-weather pitch at the Lakeside every Monday and Wednesday from 8.30pm to 10pm.

Third team training continues on the all-weather pitch at the Lakeside every Wednesday with a new time from 5.45pm to 8pm. As always new members are most welcome.

~ WHO WANTS TO BE A THOUSANDAIRE ~
Who Want's To Be A Thousandaire is almost upon us. Taking place in the Great Northern, Bundoran on Thursday 27th March this is a night not to be missed. Not only will it be a great night's craic but, you could make it an Easter to remember by winning yourself a eggs-traordinary €1,000! Tickets are available at the door on the night or can bought in advance from any club member. Contact Terrence McShea on 087-2360815 for further ticket details. The night is a fundraiser for Aodh Ruadh's Centre of Excellence.

~ PARK COMMITTEE ~
Bookings for the use of Father Tierney Park for competitive games must be made in advance to Peter Conlon (087-6838024). This is critical in the absence of Munday's field. Training must be undertaken in the Lakeside or the school field on the Rock.

A meeting of the Park Development Committee will take place in Aras Aoidh Ruadh at 9pm on Monday 31st March. A full attendance is requested. Principal agenda items are arrangements for the Donegal v Laois NFL match and funding arrangements for the final phase of work to complete the new Aodh Ruadh Centre of Excellence at Munday's field.

A new, secure trophy display cabinet is being provided in Aras Aoidh Ruadh to display old Aodh Ruadh and GAA artifacts in the run up to the club's centenary year, 2009. AS a first step the return of old cups and trophies is a priority. Those who know the location of the following trophies are asked to contact Tom Daly at 071-9852595: The Frank O'Neill Cup, The Gold Flake Cup, The James Daly Memorial Cup for hurling and the Agnes O'Neill Cup for camogie.

A new supply of Aodh Ruadh senior and junior club kit bags are now available from the club shop, contact Jimmy Gallagher (086-1581152).

~ HURLING ~
The second annual Aodh Ruadh Hurlathon will take place in the Mercy Hall this Saturday, 29th March. This is the hurling committee's major fund raiser for the year and money raised will be used for the promotion and development of hurling in Aodh Ruadh. A great day's fun in guaranteed with this unique event involving hurlers aged from seven right up to the veteran level! Some of the legends taking part include Ulster Council President, Tom Daly, former Donegal hurlers Mickey Dolan and Liam Bromley. Other former county hurlers taking part are Gerry and Maurice McLaughlin, Patsy Kilgannon and Father Frank McManus. Players are now out and about with their sponsorship cards and we ask everyone to support them generously.

Underage hurling training continues in Father Tierney Park on Sunday at 12 noon for under 10s, 12s and 14s. For any enquiries contact John Rooney (086-2587793) or Billy Finn (9851289).

~ LADIES ~
A fantastic crowd braved the cold on Easter Saturday to turn out at McKenna's Brook for the annual duck race. There was six heats followed by the grand final. First prize of €100 went to Darragh Dolan of Higginstown. The second prize of €60 was won by Ted O'Donnell, Cavangarden. Three prizes of €30 were shared between Mark O'Hanlon, c/o Ciara O'Hanlon, The Rock; Ronan McGonigle, Creevy; and Eunan McGrath of Ernedale Heights. There were Easter eggs a plenty awarded as spot prizes and everyone went home happy, just in time to get in out of the rain. Many thanks to everyone who bought lines and made the event such a success. Also big thanks to those who sold lines and everyone who helped make sure everything went so smoothly on the day.

There is a meeting of the Senior Ladies team on Wednesday 26th March at 8.30pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. All panel members are asked to attend.

Under 10 girls indoor training continues in the Mercy Hall on Tuesday night from 6pm to 7pm. Under 12 training continues on Tuesdays in the Mercy Hall from 7pm to 8pm.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The under 12s had their first competitive match of the year on Easter Monday when they travelled to Ardara. They were very unlucky to lose by 3-7 to 1-10. The half time score was 1-4 to 1-7 in favour of the homesters, but Aodh Ruadh put in a barn-storming display in the second half to bring the match back to a draw with two minutes to go. Unfortunately Ardara found the net and Aodh Ruadh ran out of time to make up the loss. Two goals disallowed for square ball did not help Ballyshannon's cause. Adam Irwin was exceptional in goals, blocking out a number of dangerous shots. Conor Kennedy starred in the centre of what was a very strong backline, which also featured Thomas Watters and Conor McShea. Colm Kelly and Matthew Maguire did well in midfield, Kelly capping his performance with two well taken pointed frees. Other scorers were Garreth Ferguson, Michael Kelly, Oisín Roper and John Ward who all chipped in with a point a piece. Philip Patton did well throughout and claimed three points. Although still under 10 Shane McGrath top scored with a goal and a point. There is under 12 training at 6pm on Wednesday 26th March in the School Field on the Rock. The next match for the under 12s is this Friday 28th March at 5pm against Naomh Conaill in Father Tierney Park.

The under 14s have a challenge match against Erne Gaels this Wednesday 26th March at the Lakeside at 6pm. Under 14 training continues this Saturday at 2.30pm in the Lakeside.

The under 16s got their league programme off to a fantastic start when they beat Killybegs 1-7 to 8-5 on their home patch last Tuesday 18th March. The first half was a tight enough affair with Aodh Ruadh going in with a six point cushion at the break. Ballyshannon really pushed on after half time though, and a couple of early goals ended the match as contest. Conor Patton really shone as did Peter Boyle who bagged four goals. Niall Thomas also took an excellent goal in what was a very gratifying all round performance.

Team morale was on a high for the trip to Bundoran on Easter Monday, but Aodh Ruadh beaten by 3-11 to 2-6. Bundoran fielded a very strong, tall, physical side and played with the benefit of the breeze in the first half. They made the most of it to score two early goals and went in at the break leading by 3-5 to 0-2. It took Ballyshannon a while to find their groove in the second half, but they were well on top in the final quarter and the eight point winning margin flattered the seasiders in the end. Once again Peter Boyle had a good game, scoring two goals. Ruairí Drummond started at half back and moved to half forward and gave it his all for the duration. Conor Patton did well at half back as did Ronan McGurn who gave a very complete and accomplished performance. Paddy Meehan at corner back performed with a great deal of tenacity and determination.

The next match for the under 16s will be on Monday 31st March when Aodh Ruadh play host to Ardara in Father Tierney Park at 6.30pm. Under 16 training continues at the Lakeside this Thursday from 8pm to 9pm.

The minors go into competitive action on Wednesday 2nd April when they travel to Bundoran. The game throws in Gaelic Park at 7pm. Minor training continues as usual at the Lakeside this Tuesday 25th March from 7-8pm and in the New Hall at Colaiste Colmcille on Thursday 27th March from 7-8pm.

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31 March

~ DONEGAL V LAOIS ~
Donegal play Laois this coming Sunday, April 6th at 2.30pm in the Allianz NFL Division 1. Stewards are asked to assemble in Aras Aoidh Ruadh at 12.45pm. 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 assisting people to get parked in and around the town.

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
With the Tyrone v Donegal game in Omagh postponed to Sunday the planned league programme did not go ahead. This meant that the Aodh Ruadh v Fanad Gaels game was postponed. The next fixture for Ballyshannon is a trip to Termon on Saturday 5th April. The throw in is at 3pm. The reserve team will open the action on Saturday at 1.30pm when they take on Termon reserves. Senior and reserve training will take place at the Lakeside on Monday 31st April and Wednesday 2nd May at 8.30pm

Third team training continues on the all-weather pitch at the Lakeside every Wednesday with a new time from 6.45pm to 8pm. As always new members are most welcome.

~ SENIOR BOARD ~
There will be a meeting of the senior club committee on Thursday, 3rd April at 8.30pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ WHO WANTS TO BE A THOUSANDAIRE ~
There was a great night's craic in the Great Northern Hotel in Bundoran last Thursday when 'Who Want's To Be A Thousandaire' came to town. There was a good crowd in attendance on the night, all with a chance of getting up on stage to win €1,000. The Donegal Democrat editor Michael Daly got proceedings under way in the first round of the night. Michael played for the Sheil Hospital Comfort Fund, winning €150 for his worthy cause. There was plenty of fun over the following rounds with Colman Kerr doing best on the night, winning €500 when he played on behalf of Deirdre Donagher. The night was closed with an auction round. John Patton stumped up the winning bid and elected to put Mary Matthews in to play. Many thanks to the main sponsors: Profile Windows; the round sponsors: Sopranos Sports Bar, Castle Interiors, Decorworld, Duffy's Fitted Furniture and Electrical, HGD Plant Hire, Jim Owen Car Sales, Heitons, Prunty Pitches; and all our other sponsors for helping make the night such a success. Thanks also to everyone who helped with the organisation of the night in any capacity and, of course, everyone who attended and created such a great atmosphere.

~ PARK COMMITTEE ~
Bookings for the use of Father Tierney Park for competitive games must be made in advance to Peter Conlon (087-6838024).

~ HURLING ~
The second annual Aodh Ruadh Hurlathon took place on Saturday last. It proved a great success with over 50 underage hurlers and 40 adults taking part in the event. Thanks to everyone who took part and those who put their hands in the pocket. All monies are not in yet, but it is expected to exceed last year's haul of €5,000. Check out aodhruadh.org over the next week for a full report and pictures.

The under 14s are in league action against Buncrana at the Lakeside on Thursday 3rd April at 6pm.

Underage hurling training continues in Father Tierney Park on Sunday at 12 noon for under 10s, 12s and 14s. For any enquiries contact John Rooney (086-2587793) or Billy Finn (9851289).

~ LADIES ~
The Senior Ladies team are training at the Lakeside on Saturday 5th April at 6.45pm. There is a charge of €2.

Donegal play in the Division 2 semi-final against Waterford this Sunday. Aodh Ruadh players Aoife Buggy and Katy Flood are part of the panel and the club would like to wish them and the team the best of luck against the Deise. A time and venue for the match has yet to be confirmed. Keep an eye on local media for information.

The under 10 girls commence outdoor training in Father Tierney Park this Tuesday 1st April from 6pm to 7pm.

The under 12 training also goes outdoors this Tuesday from 7pm to 8pm.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Under 10 and under 8 training recommences this Saturday 5th April in the Lakeside from 11pm to 12 noon. The first under 10 blitz will take place on Saturday 3rd May in Ballintra.

Aodh Ruadh lost out to Glenties in the second round of the league last Friday. Naomh Conaill won on a scoreline of 1-6 to 4-4. There was a stiff gale in the first half which heavily influenced proceedings with Glenties bagging three goals in that period. The wind promptly dropped away in the second half. Unassisted by the elements, Aodh Ruadh continued put up a good fight, but they weren't helped by the loss of midfielder Colm Kelly to injury. Kelly had been having a great game up until he had to go off and his performance was capped with a couple of pointed frees. The highlight of the second half was a well-worked team goal which was decisively finished by John Ward who drilled it to the net. There is under 12 training at 6pm on Wednesday 2nd April in the School Field on the Rock. The next match for the under 12s is this Friday 4th April at 6.15pm away to Dungloe.

Under 14 training continues this Saturday at 2.30pm in the Lakeside.

The under 16s recorded their second win of the league campaign against Ardara. They notched up a handsome 3-12 to 3-3 victory over Ardara. Once again Conor Patton gave a good display at half back, whilst Tommy Patton made short work of everything that came his way in the back line. Luke Toland took a while to get into the game at midfield, but once he found his rhythm he gave a fine performance that he will be well pleased with. Peter Boyle continues to impress up front and his play is improving with every game. The next match for the under 16s will be on Monday 7th April when Aodh Ruadh play host to Naomh Conaill in Father Tierney Park at 6.30pm. The result of this game will have a significant impact on the final complexion of the league and a big show of support would be much appreciated. Under 16 training continues at the Lakeside this Thursday from 8pm to 9pm.

The minors go into competitive action on Wednesday 2nd April when they travel to Bundoran. The game throws in Gaelic Park at 6.15pm. Their next match following that will be at home to Killybegs on Monday 9th April, with the throw in again at 6.15pm.

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APRIL

7 April

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh have only the second game of their league campaign this Saturday 12th April when they travel to Mountcharles to take on Saint Naul's. The reserves will open the action at 4.45pm when they take on the Naul's reserves, whilst the throw in for the senior game is 6.15pm. The new senior and reserve training schedule is as follows: Tuesdays at the Lakeside from 6.30pm to 8pm and Thursdays in the De La Salle field from 6.30pm to 8pm

Third team training continues on the all-weather pitch at the Lakeside every Wednesday with a new time from 6.45pm to 8pm. As always new members are most welcome.

~ DONEGAL V LAOIS ~
Thanks to everyone who helped out at the Laois game. Thanks to the ladies for selling the programmes and the hurlers for doing the siopa. Thanks also to the members of Bord na nÓg who helped out with the half time draw, and congratulations to Eileen Harkin from Convoy who won €100 in the draw.

~ HURLING ~
The under 14s will play their rescheduled league match against Setanta this Thursday 10th April. Contact team management for further details.

Underage hurling training continues in Father Tierney Park on Sunday at 12 noon for under 10s, 12s and 14s. All welcome, especially beginners. For enquiries contact John Rooney (086-2587793) or Billy Finn (9851289).

There is now a full report and pictures from the Hurlathon on aodhruadh.org

~ LADIES ~
The Senior Ladies team are training at the Lakeside on Saturday 12th April at 6.45pm. There is a charge of €2.

A last minute point saw Donegal's seniors clinch a one point win over Waterford in Athlone last Sunday in the Division 2 semi-final. Aodh Ruadh's Aoife Buggy played the game at corner back and had a great match in what was a very tight encounter. Club-mate Katy Flood is also on the panel. The result puts Donegal into a Division 2 showdown with Clare on Sunday 4th May. Watch the local press for details of time and venue. The club wishes their girls the best of luck against the Banner in their bid for league silverware.

Aoife and Katy will be in action at Father Tierney park with the Donegal minors this Saturday 12th April at 1pm when they take on Cavan.

Aodh Ruadh's Dearbhaile McNeill and Tara Khan made up two thirds of the county under 16s back line against Monaghan in last weekend. Donegal came away with a great win against the Farney. Tara is really shining in her first year of county football and is making the full back berth her own. Dearbhaile is an oul hand with the county at this stage and gave her usual accomplished performance at corner back. The next game for the Donegal under 16s is at home against Tyrone on 29th April. Watch the press for time and venue details.

The under 10 girls continue outdoor training in Father Tierney Park this Tuesday 8th April from 6pm to 7pm.

The under 12s travel to Belleek for a challenge match against Erne Gaels this Friday 11th April at 6pm. Travel details will be supplied at under 12 training. Under 12 training continues in the usual venue this Tuesday from 7pm to 8pm.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
There will be a meeting of the Bord na nÓg committee on Thursday, 10th April at 9pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. All committee members are asked to attend.

Under 10 and under 8 training continues this Saturday 12th April in the Lakeside from 12 noon to 1pm. The first under 10 blitz will take place on Saturday 3rd May in Ballintra.

The under 12s travelled to Grange for a challenge last Saturday and recorded a good win against the Sligo outfit. The team travel to Dungloe this Wednesday 9th April for their next match in the league. Players are asked to meet at park for 4.10pm. The match throws in at Dungloe at 6.15pm. That match is quickly followed by another league fixture, this time at home against Killybegs on Friday 11th April. Team management will notify the panel of the time for the game. Under 12 training this week is at the Lakeside this Saturday from 12noon-1pm.

The under 14s are away to Bundoran this Saturday to take part in the Feile competition. Also taking part are Bundoran, Saint Naul's and Four Masters. The competition starts at 11am. Contact team management for travel arrangements.

A scoreline of 1-11 to 0-9 saw the under 16s take the points against very good Naomh Conaill outfit at Father Tierney Park on Monday evening. Peter Boyle put in another great 60 minutes. He started at full forward but had to drop back into midfield when Gerard Kelly got injured 15 minutes in and went on to dominate proceedings. Ruairi and Ronan Drummond got through an ocean of work in the back division. Conor Patton was very effective throughout and was instrumental in extinguishing the threat from the Glenties full forward line when they looked like making a comeback. Tommy Patton's natural athleticism at wing back is proving very difficult for wing forwards to deal with and his rapidly developing ball skills are turning him into a potent footballer. Ronan McGurn's place kicking was exemplary throughout, the Aodh Ruadh goal coming from a ball he had dropped in at the edge of the square which was brilliantly fielded by Peter Boyle and rifled to the back of the net. Next up for the under 16s is a trip to Donegal town to take on Four Masters on Monday 14th April. The game throws in at 6.15pm. Under 16 training continues at the Lakeside this Thursday from 8pm to 9pm and on Saturday from 2pm to 3pm.

The minors were well beaten by a stronger Bundoran side last Wednesday, losing by 3-15 to 0-7. Three goals in the last ten minutes put a very favourable complexion on the final result for the seasiders, but Aodh Ruadh fought manfully throughout the contest. David Dolan in particular was exceptional at midfield and finished the match with four points to his credit. Brian Patton put in a good stint at centre full back while Hugh McNeill performed well throughout on the 40. Despite the late goals Peter Boyle continues to show his considerable talent between the posts. The minors next match is at home to Killybegs on Wednesday 9th April, with the throw in at 6.15pm. After that the minors host Four Masters in Father Tierney Park on Wednesday 16th April at 7pm. Minor training continues at the Lakeside on Mondays between 9pm-10pm and Fridays from 4.30pm-6pm.

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14 April

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
The seniors crashed to heavy defeat at the hands of a well-drilled Saint Naul's side last Saturday, losing on a scoreline of 4-14 to 0-4. It was a bad trip to Mountcharles for the reserves too, as they were also well beaten by 3-13 to 1-7. Aodh Ruadh will be looking to make amends against Saint Michael's in Father Tierney Park on Saturday. The reserve game is at 5.30pm and is followed by the senior game at 7.00pm. Senior and reserve training continues at Tuesdays at the Lakeside from 6.30pm to 8pm and Thursdays in the De La Salle field from 6.30pm to 8pm.

The third team are out in league action this weekend. They host Kilcar in the Park on Sunday, 20th April at 1.30pm. Third team training continues at the Lakeside on Wednesdays from 6.45pm to 8pm.

~ PARK COMMITTEE ~
Work has started on completing the ground works at Centre of Excellence at Munday's field. The works will include the laying of a running / training track around the two new Prunty playing fields and associated works. The Park Development Committee is undertaking this work with the assistance of both the Community Employment and Rural Social Schemes which it runs. The target, weather permitting is to have all ground works completed by September of this year.

There was a very positive meeting of the Park committee last week. The meeting made a number of important decisions designed to push forward with the development and modernisation of the club's facilities.

In the quest to collect important trophies from the club's past both the AIB and Gold Flake cups have been located. The Park Committee would be interested on any information regarding the whereabouts of the O'Neill cup and the James Daly cup. If anyone can help could they give Tom Daly a call on 071-9852595.

With Peter Conlon on holiday for the next two weeks bookings and cancellations for Father Tierney Park should be notified to Pat Melaniff at 086-1217403 or 071-9851494. No exceptions allowed. This is in order to ensure the smooth running of games in absence of Munday's field over the summer.

~ HURLING ~
The Seniors beat Monaghan Harps in their first match of the Ulster League Division 4 on Sunday evening past. It was a good 3-8 to 2-6 away win against a robust Farney outfit. Stephen Ryan was Aodh Ruadh's man of the match. The corner back got through a stack of work and showed a lot of class in his play.

The under 14s were at home against Buncrana on Sunday. Aodh Ruadh lost against a very competitive north Donegal side. Next up for the under 14s is a trip to Setanta on Tuesday 15th. Contact team management for time and travel details.

The final figure is not yet in, but the Hurlathon looks like topping the €7,000 mark. A fantastic return. Once again, many thanks to everyone involved in the fund raiser.

~ LADIES ~
The Senior Ladies team are training at the Lakeside on Saturdays at 6.45pm. There is a charge of €2. Last Sunday's game against McCumhaill's was called off, but the girls are due to play Saint Michael's at home next Sunday at 12 noon.

Well done to Katie Flood and Aoife Buggy who performed so well for the county minor team on Saturday in Father Tierney Park last Saturday. Donegal beat Cavan and are now due to meet Monaghan away on Saturday April 26th. Watch the press for time and venue details.

The under 12 girls went to Belleek for a challenge last Friday evening. There were 31 players on the bus and everyone got some match time. There were a number of eye-catching performances and everyone went home happy. Under 12 training continues in the usual venue this Tuesday from 7pm to 8.10pm.

The under 10 girls training continues this Tuesday from 6pm to 7pm.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Under 10 and under 8 training continues this Saturday 19th April in the Lakeside from 12 noon to 1pm. Please note, because of insurance requirements, children cannot train or play with the club unless they are registered. Registration forms available are available from the team management or aodhruadh.org. The registration fee is €12. The first under 10 blitz will take place on Saturday 3rd May in Ballintra.

A frustrating couple of games for the under 12s in the past week. The team travelled to Dungloe last Wednesday and lost by 1-7 to 2-3, however it is a game Aodh Ruadh really should have won. Various elements conspired against the Ballyshannon side. In terms of the playing action, Matthew Maguire was excellent at centre half back where he prevented a lot of Dungloe attacks and used the ball economically. Up front there were two well-taken goals, one from the seasoned goal-getter John Ward, and a second from one of the panel's promising younger members, Philip Patton. There was another loss against last Friday night, this time at home to Killybegs. Killybegs were a very good outfit and Aodh Ruadh never really recovered from a goal blitz early in the first half. Philip Patton capped another bright display with a goal whilst Matthew Maguire again shone in the middle of the half back line. Conor Kennedy gave a manful display at half back under tremendous pressure. Colm Kelly gave a battling performance at midfield. At the final whistle the Fintra-based side claimed a 1-9 to 4-8 victory. The next outing for the under 12s is away to Four Masters on Friday, 18th April. The bus leaves the park at 5.45pm Under 12 training this week is at the Lakeside this Tuesday from 6pm to 7pm and on Saturday from 12 noon to 1pm, again at the Lakeside.

Aodh Ruadh progressed from their section of the regional blitz for the under 14 Féile with good victories over Bundoran and Four Masters. They are back in Féile action this Saturday, 19th April when the Southern Regional Division 1 Féile Finals take place in Dunkineely at 1.00 pm. Ballyshannon will face teams from Kilcar and Ardara.

The under 16s maintained their momentum in the league with a four point win away against Four Masters. The Donegal town side put up a formidable display in the first half and the sides went in level at half time. After the half-time break Ballyshannon shot three unanswered points to go into a lead they never relinquished, despite the best efforts of Four Masters. There were good displays from Ronan Drummond and Conor Patton in a strong performance from the backs. Luke Toland did well in the centre of the park and finished the game strongly. In front of the post there were two well taken goals. The first was a punch to the net by Peter Boyle, the second was a superb effort. The ball was worked up the field from the half back line and Niall Murray was on hand to deliver a classy finish to the back of the net. The next match is against Saint Naul's next Monday 21st April. The throw in is at 6.30pm in Father Tierney Park. Under 16 training continues at the Lakeside this Thursday from 8pm to 9pm and on Saturday from 2pm to 3pm.

The minors slipped to a loss against Killybegs last Wednesday in Father Tierney Park. They went down by 2-12 to 2-6. Despite that there were a number of grounds for optimism. The side is showing plenty of quality in their play and that was exemplified by two fine goals by David Dolan and Hugh McNeill. The back line is strong with Brian Patton in the centre and Maurice Kane in the corner both putting in fighting displays. Conor Thomas also gave a good account of himself at wing back against Killybegs. The minors next match is at home to Four Masters on Wednesday 16th April, with the throw in at 6.30pm. Players are asked to be up at the park for 5.45pm. Minor training continues at the Lakeside on Mondays between 8.30pm-10pm and Thursdays in the De La Salle field from 6.30pm to 8pm.

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21 April

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh suffered their second defeat of the league campaign last Sunday. Saint Michael's ran out 0-8 to 0-18 winners in Father Tierney park against a Ballyshannon team still struggling to find its groove. Although the sides were level at half time Dunfanaghy were able to push on with the help of the breeze to record a good win. Eamon O'Donnell had a good match at full back for Aodh Ruadh. Thomas McPhelim and Philip O'Reilly both did well at half back, while Stephen Ward battled hard in the middle of the park. Up front Pauric Buggy showed a few good touches. Donagh McIntyre and Diarmuid McInerney both scored from play and continue to show promise for the future.

The reserves made a little bit of history as they recorded the first competitive win by Aodh Ruadh reserves in well over a year. They beat Saint Michael's by 1-9 to 1-5 with Simon Gillespie starring for the Ernesiders.

Aodh Ruadh will be on their travels next weekend as they take on Malin in the fourth round of the league. The day and time is yet to be confirmed.

The third team are out in league action this weekend. They are set to travel to Pairc na Phiarsaigh in Ardara on Saturday, 26th April, throw in at 7.00pm. Third team training continues at the Lakeside on Wednesdays from 6.45pm to 8pm.

Aodh Ruadh extends best wishes to Ronan Matthews who is heading off to Chad with the Irish Peace Keeping Force this week.

~ PARK COMMITTEE ~
In the quest to collect important trophies from the club's past both the AIB and Gold Flake cups have been located. The Park Committee would be interested on any information regarding the whereabouts of the O'Neill cup and the James Daly cup. If anyone can help could they give Tom Daly a call on 071-9852595.

With the restricted availability of facilities priority is being given to official fixtures, all codes and age groups, in Father Tierney Park. Training and other such activities should be scheduled for alternative locations. As Peter Conlon on holiday next week bookings and cancellations for Father Tierney Park should be notified to Pat Melaniff at 086-1217403 or 071-9851494. No exceptions allowed. This is in order to ensure the smooth running of games in absence of Munday's field over the summer.

~ HURLING ~
The Seniors are back in Ulster Hurling League Division 4 action this Saturday when they travel to Cavan to take on Mullahoran. The throw in is at 6.30pm.

The u-14 team had enjoyable trip to Killygordan last Saturday when they took part in the Donegal Feile Blitz.

~ LADIES ~
The Ladies intermediate team got their league campaign off to a successful start on Sunday last, playing host to Saint Michael's in the Park. The girls will feel very fortunate to have scored a goal in the dying seconds of the game to win by a point. However, it's always good to win and hopefully Aodh Ruadh will be able to build on the result. Training continues at the Lakeside on Saturday evening at 6.45pm. Please bring €2 to cover the cost of the facilities.

The under 10 girls continue to train on Tuesday evening from 6-7pm at Father Tierney Park.

The under 12 girls are off to Donegal town on Saturday at 2pm to play Four Masters in a challenge match. Good luck girls and we hope everyone enjoys themselves. Under 12 training continues on Tuesdays from 7pm to 8.15pm.

The U16 county team are in championship action next Tuesday at home to Tyrone. The venue is still to be decided, watch the local press for details. Best wishes to the Aodh Ruadh representatives, Dearbhaile McNeill and Tara Khan. The county minor team are away to Monaghan on Saturday and Aodh Ruadh have two of our girls playing there too. Best of luck to Aoife Buggy and Katie Flood

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Under 10 and under 8 training continues this Saturday 26th April in the Lakeside from 12 noon to 1pm. Please note, because of insurance requirements, children cannot train or play with the club unless they are registered. Registration forms available are available from the team management or aodhruadh.org. The registration fee is €12. The first under 10 blitz will take place on Saturday 3rd May in Ballintra.

The under 12s picked up their first win of the league with a victory over Four Masters in Tir Chonaill park last Friday. It was good team display by Ballyshannon with a 2-5 to 6-3 win reflecting a lot of hard work over the course of the game. Conor Kennedy had a good game at centre full back where he dealt with the Four Masters attacking threat very capably. In midfield Stephen Thompson and Colm Kelly won a lot of ball, Kelly also popping up for a goal. Gavin McDaid and Conor McShea shared the top scorer accolade with 2-0 apiece. Oisín Roper and Shane McGrath both caused the Four Masters defence a lot of problems and finished with 1-1 apiece. Philip Patton rounded off a good performance with two well-taken points. The next outing for the under 12s is against Ardara in Father Tierney Park on Friday, 25th April at 6.30pm. That fixture is quickly followed by a trip to Glenties to take on Naomh Chonaill on Monday 28th April at 7.00pm.

The under 14s lost out in the regional blitz in Dunkineely last Saturday. They lost in their first game against a very strong Ardara side, which went to win the blitz outright.

The under 16s continued their strong league showing with a victory against Saint Naul's on Monday evening. They beat the Mountcharles outfit by 3-14 to 0-4 in Father Tierney Park. Martin Gallagher had a quiet game in nets, but made an outstanding full stretch save in the first half. Luke Toland continues to evolve as a player and gave a very accomplished display at midfield and even bagged a goal to cap the performance. Ruairí Drummond and Niall Thomas also had excellent games. Peter Boyle continues to cause opposition defences trouble and picked off two goals in another good day at the office. The next match for the under 16s is against Dungloe on Monday 28th April, time yet to be confirmed. Under 16 training continues at the Lakeside this Thursday from 8pm to 9pm and on Saturday from 2pm to 3pm.

Father Tierney Park was the scene of another disheartening loss for the minors last Wednesday. Four Masters overpowered Aodh Ruadh by 0-4 to 2-9. Chris Goan saw the line late in the game to compound the disappointment. Paul Hughes soldiered well at centre forward while David Dolan had a good match at midfield. In the back line Brian Patton and Maurice Kane continue to give their all and show considerable skill in the process. The minors final league match is away to Saint Naul's on Wednesday 30th April, with the throw in at 7.00pm. Minor training continues with the seniors at the Lakeside on Tuesdays between 6.30pm to 8pm and Thursdays in the De La Salle field from 6.30pm to 8pm.

Back to the top

28 April

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh made the long trip to Inishowen last weekend to take on Malin missing a large number of players. There was disappointment for both seniors and reserves. The seniors lost by 1-11 to 1-8, whilst the reserves went down by 2-17 to 2-11. In the senior game Hugh McNeill and Simon Gillespie both did well in their respective back row corners. Brian McCafferty had an excellent game at half back and really put his body on the line. Stephen Ward did well overall at midfield. In the forwards the best news was that Michael 'Sticky' Ward came through a full match at centre forward without any ill-effects. Both sides are back in Inishowen this weekend when they travel to Buncrana on Saturday 3rd May. The reserve game throws in at 5.30pm followed by the seniors at 7pm. Training continues at 6.30pm in Lakeside on Tuesday and 6.30pm on Thursday in the De La Salle field.

The thirds are defending their league title this year, but they had a tough start to the season when they travelled to Ardara for their opening fixture. Ardara were fielding with ex-County star Damien Diver in his first game back from injury in last year's championship. They were strong all over the pitch and ran out 1-14 to 1-7 winners. For Aodh Ruadh, Michael Ward had a good game at the back whilst captain, Christy Dolan, provided a robust and effective presence in the middle of the park. Up front young Francis McShea played well in his first game for the thirds. Meanwhile at the other end of the age spectrum Colman Kerr showed that class is permanent as he bagged 1-1. Third team training continues on Wednesdays at the Lakeside from 6.45pm to 8pm.

There is a meeting of the Senior Club next Thursday, 8th May, in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ PARK COMMITTEE ~
Junior and senior kit bags are now available in the club shop priced €27 and €30 respectively.

With the restricted availability of facilities priority is being given to official fixtures, all codes and age groups, in Father Tierney Park. Training and other such activities should be scheduled for alternative locations. Bookings and cancellations for Father Tierney Park should be notified to Peter Conlon at 9851386 or 087-6838024. No exceptions allowed. This is in order to ensure the smooth running of games in absence of Munday's field over the summer.

~ CLUB HISTORY ~
The Donegal Democrat archive for 1948 is now available to view in the history section of aodhruadh.org.

~ HURLING ~
The Senior hurlers where narrowly defeated by Mullahoran in Cavan on Saturday evening last. The final score was: Aodh Ruadh 0-11, Mullahoran 2-12. The club extends its best wishes to Thomas Gallagher who got injured at start of the second half and wishes him a speedy recovery.

The annual Alan Ryan / Seamus Grimes under 16 Memorial Tournament takes place this Bank holiday Monday in Father Tierney Park and commences at 11.00am.

The under 14 Donegal League starts this Thursday evening and Aodh Ruadh are at home to Burt for their opener. All players are asked to be to be at Father Tierney Park for 6pm. On Saturday the under 14s will be off to Tyrone to take part in the Ulster Feile. All players should be at the park at 7.45am. Everyone should bring a packed lunch. Anyone who has any enquires can call Kevin Loughlin on 086-3062209

~ LADIES ~
The under 10 girls continue to train on Tuesday evenings from 6-7pm.

The under 12s travelled to Donegal town last Saturday to take on Four Masters in a challenge. There was 32 on the bus for the short trip down the N15. Two full games were played with Aodh Ruadh winning one and losing one. Everyone got a game and a good day's fun was had by all. Under 12 training continues on Tuesdays from 7pm to 8.15pm in Father Tierney Park.

The under 16 county team are in championship action on Tuesday 29th April at home to Tyrone. Best wishes to the Aodh Ruadh representatives, Dearbhaile McNeill and Tara Khan.

Aoife Buggy and Katie Flood were on the county minor team that took on Monaghan last Saturday. Unfortunately they lost out against a very determined Farney outfit. The girls will be looking to erase the memory of that loss when they take on Clare in the Division 2 final on Sunday at 2.30pm. Bizarrely the game has been fixed for Ennis, but Aodh Ruadh wishes the girls the best of luck as they attempt to bring back some silverware to the county.

Senior training continues at the Lakeside on Saturday evening at 6.45pm. Please bring €2 to cover the cost of the facilities.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
There is a meeting of the Bord na nÓg next Tuesday, 6th May, in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. All committee members are asked to attend.

The first under 10 blitz of the year takes place this Saturday 3rd May in Ballintra. Team management will notify players of travel details during the week. Please note that all players need to be registered before they can take to the field for Aodh Ruadh. Registration forms available are available from the team management or aodhruadh.org. The registration fee is €12.

The under 12s chalked up their second win on the bounce with a victory over Ardara in Father Tierney park last Friday. It was a high scoring encounter for both sides with the final score of 5-8 to 4-5 giving Ballyshannon a six point winning margin. It was a classic, good all-round performance from Ballyshannon. Matthew Maguire had a stormer at centre half back. Once again the midfield axis of Stephen Thompson and Colm Kelly had a great game. Kelly capped his performance with a goal and a point. Conor McShea top scored with 2-1, whilst Philip Patton was next with his haul of four points, along with Colm Kelly. Also on the score board were Gareth Ferguson, who impressed with two well-taken points, and Gavin McDaid and Shane McGrath who both bagged a goal apiece. The next outing for the under 12s is a trip to Glenties to take on Naomh Chonaill on Wednesday 30th April. The bus leaves Father Tierney Park promptly at 5pm. Throw in at Glenties for the 'B' game is at 6.30pm with the 'A' game starting at 7.00pm. Under 12 training continues at the Lakeside on Tuesdays from 6pm to 7pm and Saturdays from 12 noon to 1pm.

The under 14s are training in the Lakeside on Wednesdays at 6.30pm and Saturdays at 3pm

The under 16s concluded their league programme with a home victory against Dungloe on Monday evening. They beat the Gaeltacht side by 3-12 to 3-6. It was a confident display by Aodh Ruadh. Niall Thomas was very effective coming out of defence and did a lot of work relieving pressure on the back division. There were also notable displays in the backs from Ronan Drummond and Paddy Meehan, both of whom did a lot to keep Dungloe's scoring opportunities to a minimum. Martin Gallagher had a solid display in the nets. Up front Martin Larkin sealed a good day's work with an excellent goal. The result puts Aodh Ruadh second in the final table with 12 points behind Bundoran on 13 points. The sides will now go head to head in the Divisional final on Friday 2nd May. The likely venue is Donegal town, but at the time of writing the venue and time had yet to be confirmed. Please check the Southern Minor Board notes for full details. Under 16 training continues at the Lakeside this Thursday from 8pm to 9pm and on Saturday from 2pm to 3pm.

The minor's final league match is away to Saint Naul's on Wednesday 30th April, with the throw in at 7.00pm. Minor training continues with the seniors at the Lakeside on Tuesdays between 6.30pm to 8pm and Thursdays in the De La Salle field from 6.30pm to 8pm.

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MAY

5 May

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh were on their travels again last Saturday, this time the hosts were Division 1B table-toppers Buncrana. The match saw a welcome return to action for long-term injury absentees Michael Lawless, Anthony Boyle and Johnny Gallagher. It was a great evening for football and Aodh Ruadh duly delivered running in handsome winners by 1-8 to 3-15. There were fine displays all over the pitch with Simon Gillespie continuing to show good form in corner back and Michael 'Sticky' Ward in only his second game back from injury capping a fine performance up front with a well-taken penalty strike. The reserve game was postponed. Ballyshannon are back on the road next week with a slightly less punishing trip to Killybegs on Saturday 10th May. Aodh Ruadh drew with Killybegs in the park and this match has the air of a four-pointer about it with both sides currently in the wrong half of the table. An exciting tussle is guaranteed. The reserve game throws in at 5.30pm followed by the seniors at 7pm. Training continues at 6.30pm in Lakeside on Tuesday and 6.30pm on Thursday in the De La Salle field.

There is a meeting of the Senior Club this Thursday, 8th May at 8.30pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ PARK COMMITTEE ~
Junior and senior kit bags are now available in the club shop priced €27 and €30 respectively.

With the restricted availability of facilities priority bookings and cancellations for Father Tierney Park should be notified to Peter Conlon at 9851386 or 087-6838024.

~ AODHRUADH.ORG ~
Join the debate on the Team Talk section of aodhruadh.org. Take part in our poll and tell us if Aodh Ruadh can beat Bundoran in the Under 16 Divisional Final this Wednesday.

~ HURLING ~
Aodh Ruadh's senior hurlers were defeated by Naomh Colmcille in the Ulster League on Saturday evening last on a scoreline of Aodh Ruadh 2-6, Naomh Colmcille 0-11. This Weekend the seniors are at home to Derry city outfit Na Maghe in the first round of game in the Donegal League.

The under 14s had a busy weekend, taking part in both the Ulster Feile last Saturday in Tyrone and in the Alan Ryan / Seamus Grimes Tournament in Father Tierney park on Bank Holiday Monday. This Thursday 8th May they are away to Saint Eunan's in the Donegal League.

The Alan Ryan / Seamus Grimes Tournament was a great success with five teams participating from Sligo, Fermanagh and Donegal. Aodh Ruadh won the Seamus Grimes Memorial Trophy, while Setanta won the Alan Ryan Cup. Many thanks to everyone who helped make sure the day went off so well.

This Saturday, 10th May the U-12 hurlers are playing in an all county blitz in Ballybofey. The team will be leaving Father Tierney park at 12.30pm.

Last week Peter Horan, Billy Finn and John Rooney accompanied Paudie Butler, the GAA's National Director of Hurling, to Creevy National School where they carried out first class coaching sessions with the kids.

~ LADIES ~
Hard luck to Aoife Buggy and Katie Flood were on the county minor team that lost to Clare in the NFL Division 2 final last Sunday. Donegal lost on a scoreline of 2-10 to 0-15 and Clare were forced to hang on in the end to claim the title.

The under 10 girls continue to train on Tuesday evenings from 6-7pm.

Under 12 training continues on Tuesdays from 7pm to 8.15pm in Father Tierney Park.

Senior training continues at the Lakeside on Saturday evening at 6.45pm. Please bring €2 to cover the cost of the facilities.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
There is a meeting of the Bord na nÓg on Tuesday, 6th May at 9pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. All committee members are asked to attend.

The first under 10 blitz of the year took place in Ballintra last Saturday. Ballyshannon travelled down with 38 players to take on Four Masters, Pettigo and Naomh Bríd. There was great weather for football and Aodh Ruadh did well, winning the 'A' section with a clean sweep of three victories, whilst the 'B's' broke even, winning a game and losing one. The players had plenty of fun and enjoyed the day with everyone getting a run out. There is training for under 10s only in Father Tierney Park on Wednesday nights from 7pm to 8pm. We are getting great numbers to training and blitzes and the management team would really appreciate anyone who had an hour to spare coming along and giving a hand out whenever they had the chance. The next blitz will be in Bundoran on Saturday May 31st.

The under 12s made it three wins in a row when they defeated Naomh Conaill last Wednesday. It was an excellent team performance. Goal keeper Adam Irwin had an excellent game between the posts, as did Conor Kennedy at centre full back. Further out the pitch Matthew Maguire gave a wonderful performance at centre half back as did Stephen and Colm Kelly who dominated at midfield. Up front Philip Patton, Shane McGrath and Conor McShea continue to form a very effective attacking unit. Aodh Ruadh finished the game minus a man sent off for a straight red card making the final score of 1-2 to 0-8 in favour of Ballyshannon all the more noteworthy. The winning run was ended by Dungloe in the Park on Bank Holiday Monday. Aodh Ruadh were fielding with a somewhat depleted squad, but were still ahead at half time by 1-4 to 1-3. Unfortunately a soft goal in the second half set Ballyshannon back on their heels in a game they could have won. There was another fine performance from Matthew Maguire. Up front John Ward top-scored with a goal whilst Philip Patton, Conor McShea and Shane McGrath all finished the game with 0-2 apiece. The next outing for the under 12s is a trip to Fintra to take on Killybegs on Monday 12th May. The bus leaves Father Tierney Park promptly at 5pm. Throw in at Fintra for the 'B' game is at 6.30pm with the 'A' game starting at 7.00pm. Under 12 training continues at the Lakeside on Tuesdays from 6pm to 7pm and Saturdays from 12 noon to 1pm.

The under 14s are training in the Lakeside on Wednesdays at 6.30pm and Saturdays at 3pm

The under 16s divisional takes place on Wednesday 7th May. In Ballintra. The first silverware of the under 16 season is up for grabs so a good show of Ballyshannon support would be much appreciated at Naomh Bríd's grounds.

The minor's couldn't field for their final league match away to Saint Naul's so the game had to be conceded. The next action for the minors will be when they host Bundoran in the first leg, first round of the Championship on Wednesday 30th July. Minor training continues with the seniors at the Lakeside on Tuesdays between 6.30pm to 8pm and Thursdays in the De La Salle field from 6.30pm to 8pm.

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12 May

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
A fruitless trip to Killybegs on Saturday as Aodh Ruadh lost by 0-14 to 0-9. The failure to convert early chances told in the end. Johnny Gallagher and Brian McCafferty put in a good shift in defence whist Brian Roper and Sticky Ward were industrious in attack. In the end, however, Ballyshannon were beaten by a stronger, slicker and fitter Killybegs outfit. The reserves delivered a much improved performance, but didn't get the points their efforts deserved and they lost on a scoreline of 1-9 to 0-10 in favour of Killybegs. Senior training continues at the Lakeside on Tuesdays between 7pm to 8.30pm and Thursdays in the De La Salle field from 7pm to 8.30pm.

The thirds were defeated by Red Hugh's in Father Tierney park in the first leg of the first round of the Junior B Championship. The final score was 1-5 to 1-6 in favour of Killygordon.

~ DONEGAL TICKETS ~
The first round Ulster Senior Football Championship match between Donegal and Derry in Ballybofey will be all ticket. There will be a limited number of tickets available for this match and these are being distributed via the clubs. Members of Aodh Ruadh will be giving priority to club members in the distribution of tickets. Club membership can be obtained from Mary Matthews in Shannon's corner. Non-playing adult membership is priced at €25.

~ NOTE OF SYMPATHY ~
Aodh Ruadh extends its sincerest sympathies to the family and friends of Ciaran McCready who died in Dublin on Monday morning. A great Aodh Ruadh stalwart and unrepentant Donegal man, Ciaran was a true servant to his club and county. He was member of the great 1951 Aodh Ruadh side which defeated Saint Eunan's by a point in the county final to take the Maguire cup back to Ballyshannon. He was Donegal's Liaison Officer in Dublin and his home was always open to anyone from the O'Donnell county, especially if they hailed from the banks of the Erne. A keen boxer and athlete, Ciaran served as Donegal's physio for the county's Ulster Championship wins in 1972, 1974 and 1983. He served a long and distinguished career with An Garda Síochána and was retired from the force. He will be buried in Dublin on Wednesday. Our thoughts are with Ciaran's brother Cormac and nephew Niall at this sad time. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal

~ HURLING ~
The under 12 hurlers played a very competitive game against Saint Eunan's in Ballyshannon on Saturday last. It took a strong second half performance from the Ballyshannon boys to win out in the end. On Sunday the under 11 boys played in the county finals of the Community Games held in Father Tierney Park. A young Ballyshannon team played very well in all three games, winning bronze medals in the end with a great all round team performance. The team and management would like to thank the local Community Games committee for organising the day and special thanks to Tommy Mannion, the chief organiser.

Pictures and a short report from The Alan Ryan / Seamus Grimes Tournament are now available on aodhruadh.org.

~ LADIES ~
The under 10 girls continue to train on Tuesday evenings from 6-7pm in Father Tierney Park

This Wednesday, 14th May, the under 12s travel to Killybegs for their first league match, good luck to everyone involved. On Sunday the girls are in Community Games action when they make the trip to Dunfanaghy on Sunday, 18th May, for the Community Games county final. For more information call Claire, Jo or Colman. Under 12 training continues on Tuesdays from 7pm to 8.15pm in Father Tierney Park.

The Ladies intermediate team played host to Naomh Columba on Sunday morning last and the Aodh Ruadh girls will be happy with their win. The team performed well and will be in optimistic form as they prepare for a visit to Kilcar on Sunday, 18th May.

Best wishes to Dearbhaile McNeill and Tara Kahn who will travel to Down with the county under 16 team on Friday, 16th May to play Down in the Ulster final. Good luck to you both.

Congratulations to the Holy Family girls team who have qualified for the schools county final in the 9-a-side competition, well done girls. Date and venue is still to be decided.

Senior training continues at the Lakeside on Saturday evening at 6.45pm. Please bring €2 to cover the cost of the facilities.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Creevy National School is in the Cumann na mBunscoil final for the second year in a row in Lifford this Saturday. The time is yet to be confirmed. Aodh Ruadh wishes the school good luck in their hunt for county honours.

Training for under 8s and under 10s continues in Father Tierney Park on Saturdays from 11am to 12 noon. There is training for under 10s only in Father Tierney Park on Wednesday nights from 7pm to 8pm. We are getting great numbers to training and blitzes and the management team would really appreciate anyone who had an hour to spare coming along and giving a hand out whenever they had the chance. The next blitz will be in Bundoran on Saturday May 24th.

The under 12s travel to Fintra to take on Killybegs on Friday 16th May. The bus leaves Father Tierney Park promptly at 5pm. Throw in at Fintra for the 'B' game is at 6.30pm with the 'A' game starting at 7.00pm. Under 12 training continues at the Lakeside on Tuesdays from 6pm to 7pm and Saturdays from 12 noon to 1pm.

The under 14s are training in the Lakeside on Wednesdays at 6.30pm and Saturdays at 11am.

The under 16s lost to Bundoran in the Divisional Final last Wednesday on a scoreline of 1-10 to 1-3. Aodh Ruadh rattled the woodwork on no less than three occasions, but failed to find the scores that would up pressure on the seasiders. Conor Patton was absolutely outstanding at full back. He had his hands full throughout the match, but he dealt calmly with any danger that came his way. The next engagement for the under 16s will be away to Saint Naul's on Friday, 16th May, with a first round, first leg Championship clash. The throw in is at 7.30pm. A good show of Ballyshannon support would be greatly appreciated. There is under 16 training at 8pm on Thursday in the Lakeside.

Minor training continues with the seniors at the Lakeside on Tuesdays between 7pm to 8.30pm and Thursdays in the De La Salle field from 7pm to 8.30pm.

Back to the top

19 May

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh travel to Dunfanaghy on Saturday to take on Saint Michael's. The reserve match is at 6pm, followed by the senior match at 7.30pm. The senior bus will leave the park at 5pm sharp.

The thirds picked up a 3-8 to 2-5 win against Pettigo in Father Tierney Park last Sunday. The win gives the side their first points in Division 4 south. They will be looking to add a couple more when they take on Naomh Conaill on Saturday at 7pm in the Park.

~ DONEGAL TICKETS ~
The first round Ulster Senior Football Championship match between Donegal and Derry in Ballybofey will be all ticket. Orders for tickets should be made to Mary Matthews in Shannon's or to Jimmy Gallagher. There will be a limited number of tickets available for this match and these are being distributed via the clubs. Members of Aodh Ruadh will be giving priority to club members in the distribution of tickets. Club membership can be obtained from Mary Matthews. Non-playing adult membership is priced at €25.

~ HURLING ~
Underage hurling training continues in Father Tierney Park on Sunday at 12 noon for under 10s, 12s and 14s. All welcome, especially beginners. For enquiries contact John Rooney (086-2587793) or Billy Finn (9851289).

~ LADIES ~
The under 10 girls continue to train on Tuesday evenings from 6-7pm in Father Tierney Park

The under 12 girls went to Killybegs last Wednesday, 14th May, for their first league game of the season. The team performed very well and came home with a good win, their next outing is at home to Four Masters next Tuesday, 27th May. We hope to play two games to ensure a game for the whole panel. The first game should throw in at 6.30pm and the second at 7pm. It would be great to see parents and family out to support the girls.

The under 14s get their season off the ground this Tuesday, 20th May, with an away fixture to Naomh Bríd. Good luck to everyone involved there.

A big congrats to Tara Khan and Dearbhaile Mc Neill who travelled to county Down with the county under 16 team last Friday night and came home as Ulster champions. They will face Kerry in the All-Ireland quarter final on Saturday July 12th.

Training for the ladies intermediate team will be in the park on Saturday evenings. Players should be on the field for 7pm.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Commiserations to Creevy National School on losing the Cumann na mBunscoil final last Saturday, going down by two late points in the end. Well done though on reaching the final for the second year in succession.

The under 8s have game against Saint Naul's this Saturday, 24th May at 11pm. The bus to Mountcharles leaves from the park at 10.30am sharp. Whether the normal under 10 training takes place on Saturday in the Park at 11am will be dictated by the availability or otherwise of coaches. More information nearer the time, anyone able to help out should contact Colman. There is training for under 10s only in Father Tierney Park on Wednesday nights from 7pm to 8pm. The next under 10 blitz will be in Bundoran on Saturday May 31th.

The under 12s were obliterated by Killybegs last Friday, losing by 10-9 to 1-1. The lads started well, but heads dropped after Aodh Ruadh conceded an own goal. Matthew Maguire was the only player who really continued to give his all throughout the game. There was a better result on Monday night when Ballyshannon beat Four Masters in Father Tierney park by 1-8 to five points. Kevin Warnock made the move from netminder to full forward and was rewarded with a goal and a point. Philip Patton joint top-scored with four points, three from frees. The remaining scores were chipped in by Stephen Thompson, Shane McGrath and Colm Kelly. Aodh Ruadh did the main damage in the first half and went in 1-5 to 0-2 up at the break. The Willie Rogers tournament takes place this Saturday at Father Tierney Park. The first game starts at 11pm with Aodh Ruadh taking on Melvin Gaels. Also participating will be Bundoran and Erne Gaels. Aodh Ruadh players are asked to bring a loaf of sandwiches for the lunch-time refreshments. Anyone who wants to lend a hand is more than welcome along to what promises to be a superb day of football. There is training for the under 12s this Thursday at 6pm in the De La Salle field.

The under 14s are training in the Lakeside on Wednesdays at 6.30pm and Saturdays at 11am.

The under 16s secured a 2-6 to 4-9 first leg away win over Saint Naul's last Friday. The scoreline is deceptive enough. Mountcharles were only a point down with a minute to half time when Pauric Patton pounced for a goal and Aodh Ruadh added another quickfire point to go in five points to the good at the break. Pauric Patton had a great game at wing half forward as did Stephen Clarke. Martin Larkin had a fine game and capped it with a well-taken goal. Once again Ronan Drummond gave a masterful display in the backs. The next engagement for the under 16s will be at home against Saint Naul's on Friday, 23th May, at 7.30pm. They will be attempting to seal their progress through to the second round of the championship with a second victory over Saint Naul's. A good show of Ballyshannon support would be greatly appreciated. There is under 16 training at 8pm on Thursday in the Lakeside.

Congratulations to Ronan Drummond and Peter Boyle who have made the county Under 16 team. Both recently played in Monaghan in a preliminary round of the Buncrana Cup. Donegal were in a pool with Armagh, Antrim and Monaghan. They came through having won all their games and are now through to the semi-final stages of the competition.

Minor training continues with the seniors at the Lakeside on Tuesdays between 7pm to 8.30pm and Thursdays in the De La Salle field from 7pm to 8.30pm.

~ BINGO ~
The principle winners at the Aodh Ruadh Bingo in the Abbey Centre last Friday were: Mary Butler of Ernedale Heights who won €350; Mrs. Chapman of Bundoran who won €140; Nuala McGowan of Grange who won €100; Kieran Reynolds who won €100; and Mrs. Horan who won €100.

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26 May

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh traveled to Dunfanaghy to take on Saint Michael's last Saturday. There was a strong breeze across the pitch which had a pronounced effect on play. Aodh Ruadh were two up at half time playing with the wind, however Saint Michael's blitzed Ballyshannon in the third quarter to decisively take control of the game. Aodh Ruadh got the gap back to within four points when a Michael 'Sticky' Ward shot shaved the post. After having rode their luck Saint Michael's went on to finish 0-17 to 0-13 winners. Barry Ward, Stephen Ward and Sticky Ward all gave their all. There was a great return to action from Shane Ward who kicked three points. Michael Lawless battled well in the second half. There is no game this weekend. Senior training on Tuesday, 27th May, at 7pm in the Lakeside and Thursday 29th May at 7.30pm in the De La Salle field. Best of luck to Thomas McPhelim who is away down under this week and to Kerry Ryan who is off on peace-keeping duties in Chad.

The thirds were comfortable 3-15 to 0-7 winners against Glenties in Father Tierney Park last Saturday. It's the side's second win in Division 4 south and puts them second in the table behind Kilcar's unbeaten thirds.

~ DONEGAL V DERRY ~
Tickets for the Donegal v Derry match will be distributed in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh from 9pm on Thursday night, 29th May. All tickets MUST be collected and paid for on the night. Uncollected ticket will be returned to the county board.

Donegal car flags are now available in the club shop for €5 apiece. All profits go to charity.

~ CLUB HISTORY ~
The Donegal Democrat archive for 1949 is now available to view in the history section of aodhruadh.org.

~ HURLING ~
The seniors had a good away win over Lisnaskea on Saturday evening last when they prevailed on a 5-06 to 1-16 scoreline. The team are in action again on Saturday 1st June when they play Ballymena at 6.30pm in the park. A victory would secure Aodh Ruadh a place in the quarter finals in the Ulster League.

The under 14s play Buncrana on Thursday evening, 30th May, in the League A semi final. The final is down for Friday, 31st May in Donegal Town at 3.30pm.

Well done to Gary Kelly, Conor Mc Neely, PJ Gillespie and Rory Cullen who were part of the Donegal under 14 squad which won the Ulster Blitz.

Aodh Ruadh players who play on the Donegal under 14 hurling team: Conor McNeely, Rory Cullen, PJ Gillespie and Gary Kelly.
[Click for larger image]

~ LADIES ~
The under 10 girls continue to train on Tuesday evenings from 6-7pm in Father Tierney Park

The under 12 girls are training on Tuesdays from 7pm to 8.15pm, except this Tuesday, May 27th when they play host to Four Masters in their first home league game of the season. Good luck to all involved. We hope to play two games to ensure a game for the whole panel. The first game should throw in at 6.30pm and the second at 7pm. It would be great to see parents and family out to support the girls.

The under 14 girls went to Ballintra last Tuesday for the first game of the 2008 season and won by three points. Well done girls. This Thursday, 29th May, they entertain Killybegs at home at 6.30pm . It would be great to see parents and family out to support the girls. Under 14 training is on Fridays at 5.30pm in the park.

Good luck to the girls from the Holy Family National School who play in the Cumann na mBunscoil final next Tuesday, 3rd June, time and venue are not yet known.

Training for the ladies intermediate team will be in the park on Saturday evenings. Players should be on the field for 7pm.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
There is a Bord na nÓg committee meeting in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh on Tuesday 3rd June at 9pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

Aodh Ruadh had 21 under 8s down to Mountcharles last Saturday. They played two games against Saint Naul's with some players pulling on the Aodh Ruadh jersey for the first time ever. It was a very enjoyable day out for all concerned with a some very good players coming through. There is no training for the under 8s this Saturday morning.

There is an under 10 blitz in Bundoran on Saturday, May 31th at 11am. The bus leaves from Father Tierney Park at 10.45am. There is training for under 10s only in Father Tierney Park on Wednesday nights from 7pm to 8pm.

A day of warm and pleasant sunshine saw Father Tierney Park play host to the under 12s of Aodh Ruadh, Bundoran, Melvin Gaels and Erne Gaels as they competed in the annual Willie Rogers tournament.

After a tight and competitive round robin section Erne Gaels topped the table with Aodh Ruadh second, putting the pair through to the 'A' final. Aodh Ruadh, with the benefit of the breeze in the first half, began the final briskly with a quick fire goal. Goal-keeper turned full forward, Kevin Warnock, collected a long pass and had the ball in the net on the 30 second mark. Erne Gaels rallied well though and took the game to Ballyshannon and the game ebbed and flowed for a period. A certain amount of apprehension seeped through Aodh Ruadh ranks as the first half wore on, as the benefit of substantial backing wind was not being made to count. A well-taken Philip Patton point on seven minutes helped steady nerves. Having weathered a sustained bout of Ballyshannon pressure Erne Gaels were suckered badly just before the end of the half when once again Kevin Warnock collected a long ball and goaled. That was compounded when Oisín Roper collected the ball from the kick out and swept over an excellent point. Leading by 2-2 to no score at half time Aodh Ruadh still had a considerable amount to do before they could reclaim the Willie Rogers trophy. Erne Gaels began the second half well and after two minutes Brian Shaw delivered Belleek's first score of the final. A couple of minutes later Conor Murphy concluded a fine Erne Gaels move with a second point. It was to be Belleek's last score of the final. Aodh Ruadh captain Matthew Maguire marshaled a superb Ballyshannon rearguard action in the second half and Erne Gaels lacked the necessary penetration to circumvent it. With two minutes of time left Aodh Ruadh got the score of the match. A neat series of interchange passes was finished by Shane McGrath who took an excellent point. When the final whistle went moments later Aodh Ruadh had secured the Willie Rogers trophy on a scoreline of 2-3 to 0-2.

Willie Rogers son Gavin was on hand to present runners up medals to a gallant Erne Gaels side. Rene Rogers, Willie's wife, presented the Willie Rogers trophy to the winning captain, Matthew Maguire 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. See aodhruadh.org for full results and team pictures.

The under 14s go into competitive action for the first time this season when they take on Saint Naul's in Father Tierney Park on Wednesday, 28th May, at 7.30pm. Under 14 training continues at the Lakeside on Saturdays at 11.00am.

The under 16s first round, second leg championship match against Saint Naul's was postponed last Friday and will take place on Monday 9th June. Of more immediate concern is the county league semi final against Milford which is down is for this Friday, 30th May at 7.30pm. The venue was not decided at the time of writing.

Minor training continues with the seniors on Tuesday, 27th May, at 7pm in the Lakeside and Thursday 29th May at 7.30pm in the De La Salle field.

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JUNE

2 June

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh host Dungloe in the first round, first leg of the Raidio na Gaeltachta Senior Football Championship this Saturday, 7th June, throwing in at 7.30pm. The reserves are also in championship action against Dungloe in the Park on Saturday. The throw in for their game is at 6pm. Aodh Ruadh would ask people to please make an extra special effort to show your support for the club on Saturday. The sixteenth man can make all the difference.

Senior training this week is on Tuesday, 3rd June, at 7.00pm in the Park; Thursday, 5th June, at 7.30pm in the Park; and Friday, 6th June, at 8.00pm in the Park

~ SENIOR BOARD ~
There will be a meeting of the senior club committee on Thursday, 5th June at 8.30pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. All committee members are asked to attend.

Donegal car flags are now available in the club shop for €5 apiece. All profits go to charity.

~ CLUB HISTORY ~
The Donegal Democrat archives for 1950 and the championship winning year of 1951 are now available to view in the history section of aodhruadh.org.

~ HURLING ~
The senior hurlers are out this weekend in the first round of the Donegal Senior championship against Saint Eunan's. The seniors have also made it through to the quarter finals of the Ulster League on Saturday 14th June.

The under 14s are in action in the first round of the championship this Thursday evening when they travel to Ballybofey to take on MacCumhaills at 6.45pm.

~ LADIES ~
The under 10 girls continue to train on Tuesday evenings from 6-7pm in Father Tierney Park

The under 12s played Four Masters on Tuesday last and came out with a 1-6 to 0-5 in. Everyone played well and enjoyed their football. The under 12s travel to Mountcharles this Thursday 5th June. The bus leaves the park at 5.20pm.

The under 14s played Killybegs last Thursday and suffered a heavy defeat to a very strong Killybegs side. There were some great performances, but Killybegs were just too strong. Training continues on Fridays at 5.30pm in the park.

The Donegal ladies will be in championship action against Armagh this Sunday, 8th June, in Donegal Town at 2.00pm. We have two representatives on the panel in Aoife Buggy and Katie Flood. Best of luck to everyone involved.

Best wishes to all in the Holy Family National School who play in the Cumann na mBunscoil finals this Tuesday, 3rd June, in Ballybofey at 4.30pm.

Best wishes also to all the girls and indeed club members who are doing exams at the moment.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Aodh Ruadh Bord na nÓg are organising a Céilí Mór in the Friary Hall, Rossnowlagh on Sunday, 8th June at 9pm. All funds raised go to the Aodh Ruadh Centre of Excellence. Music will be by the Assaroe Céilí Band and admission is €8 with supper served. Tickets are on sale now from any Aodh Ruadh committee member. There will be a door prize for non-attenders who purchase tickets.

There is a Bord na nÓg committee meeting in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh on Tuesday 3rd June at 9pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

Aodh Ruadh under 10s traveled to Bundoran last Saturday. The 'A' Team won played four games and won three with Bundoran running out winners in the 'A' section. The 'B's' did very well and won their section with two played and two wins. Cian McGloin was the proud captain of the victorious 'B' team. There is training for under 8s and under 10s on Saturday, 7th June, from 11am to 12 noon in the park. There is training for under 10s only in Father Tierney Park on Wednesday nights from 7pm to 8pm.

The under 14s got their league campaign off to a fantastic start with a 4-15 to 2-3 win over Saint Naul's in Father Tierney Park. Kieran Keown and James Barron did very well at midfield, while James Kelly, Pauric Patton, David McGurrin and Jonny Gethins all got on the scoresheet with a goal apiece. The team makes the long trip to Dungloe on Friday, 6th June. The match throws in at 7.30pm.

Aodh Ruadh lost their county league semi final against a very accomplished Milford outfit last Friday. Although Ballyshannon eventually lost by 4-21 to 1-5, they were only four points down at half time. Two quick goals after the half-time break by Milford had a big impact on course of the game. The next action for the under 16s is their postponed first round, second leg championship match against Saint Naul's. It takes place on Monday 9th June at 7.30pm at Father Tierney Park.

Minor training continues with the seniors, see the senior notes for days and times.

Back to the top

9 June

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh had a great victory over Dungloe in the first round, first leg of the Senior Championship last Sunday. Dungloe started the game the brighter, but Aodh Ruadh gradually took control and were rewarded with a counter-attack goal from Pauric Buggy about half way through the first half. Ballyshannon missed a penalty with seven minutes to the break, but still went in 1-5 to 0-2 to the good. There was a second penalty for Aodh Ruadh after the break which Buggy opted to point, but the second goal finally arrived eight minutes in when Michael Lawless shot to the net. Following that Dungloe had a spirited fight back, but it was Aodh Ruadh who had the final say with Brian Roper and Pauric Buggy concluding the scoring to give Ballyshannon the victory by 2-11 to 1-7. Aodh Ruadh's scorers were Pauric Buggy (1-5), Michael Lawless (1-0), Michael 'Sticky' Ward (0-2), Shane Ward (0-2) and Brian Roper (0-2).

The reserves gave a good all-round display, but lost out to Dungloe by 1-10 to 2-6 and will need an away victory to keep their championship hopes alive. Senior training this week is on Tuesday, 10th June, at 7.00pm in the Lakeside; Thursday, 12th June, at 7.30pm in the De La Salle field; and Friday, 13th June, at 9.00pm in the Park.

Aodh Ruadh have a Division 1B league game this Sunday, 15th June, against Cloughaneely in Father Tierney Park at 3pm. The reserves get proceedings under way when they also take on the same opposition at 1.30pm.

~ HURLING ~
Aodh Ruadh clinched a victory in the first round of the Donegal senior hurling Championship against Saint Eunan's on Sunday evening in Donegal town. They edged home by 2-17 to 3-13. This seniors are in action again this Saturday evening, 14th June, when they play Strabane Shamrocks in McCumhaill Park at 7.30pm in the quarter finals of the Ulster League.

The under 14 went down in unlucky loss against MacCumhaill's in the first round of the championship. They will have a chance to get back to winning ways when they take on Carndonagh in Father Tierney Park this Thursday, 12th June.

On Saturday, 14th June, the under 12s travel to Carndonagh for a blitz. Aodh Ruadh host an all county under 10 blitz this Sunday morning, 15th June. Notes will be distributed through the schools with all the details for both these blitzes.

~ LADIES ~
The intermediate ladies team continue to train on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 7pm in the park. The ladies will be playing MacCumhaill's away this Sunday. Final arrangements have yet to be made, but panel members will be notified in due course.

Well done to the Donegal Senior ladies team who beat Armagh in the first round of the Ulster championship. Aodh Ruadh was represented by Aoife Buggy, who played at corner back, and Katie Flood who was also a panelist.

The under 14s are travelling to Mountcharles on Thursday evening for a 6.30pm game, the bus is leaving the park at 5.30pm. Training for the under 14 girls is on Fridays at 5.30pm in the park.

The under 12s travelled to Mountcharles on Thursday evening last and recorded their third win from three in a closely contested game. Well done girls and keep up the good work. Under 12 training continues on Tuesday evenings from 7pm to 8.15pm in the park.

The under 10 girls continue to train on Tuesday evenings from 6-7pm in Father Tierney Park

The Cumann na mBunscoil county final in which the girls from the Holy Family national school were due to play was called off at the eleventh hour has been refixed for Tuesday, June 10th. Best wishes to all involved.

~ SUMMER CAMP ~
Aodh Ruadh Summer Camp commences on Monday, 30th June and continues until Friday, 18th July. There's loads to do with football, hurling, swimming, rounders, obstacle courses and plenty of other fun and games. Each week of the camp concludes with a sports day on Friday. The camp runs from 10am to 3pm and is open to all children from 5 to 14 years-of-age. The cost per week is €70 per child with family concessions available. Children should bring a packed lunch. There is a tuck shop available.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Minor training continues with the seniors, see the senior notes for days and times.

There is training for the under 16s on Saturday; time and venue yet to be finalized, but the panel will be notified.

There were back to back wins for the under 14s when they overcame the jetlag to beat Dungloe by 3-5 to 3-9. The next engagement for the under 14s is in Father Tierney Park against Glenties on Friday, 13th June. The match throws in at 7.30pm.

The under 10 Mick Shannon tournament takes place this Saturday, 14 June, at Father Tierney Park. The first game starts at 11pm with Aodh Ruadh taking on Melvin Gaels. Also participating will be Bundoran and Erne Gaels. Aodh Ruadh players are asked to bring a loaf of sandwiches for the lunch-time refreshments. 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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16 June

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Buoyed by an win over Dungloe in the Championship, Aodh Ruadh hosted Cloughaneely in the park last Sunday. It was something of a curate's egg performance from the Ernesiders with good spells interspersed with lapses in concentration. Aodh Ruadh were three up at half time, but failed to utilise the substantial breeze behind them in the second half. However, Ballyshannon did enough to earn a 0-14 to 1-9 win. Shane Ward did well up front when he was introduced and it was good to see Brian Roper come on and motor rightly in the last 20 minutes. There was another welcome returnee in the form of Niall McCready, back from an injury that had him out for the past two months. There was another pair of fine performances from Stephen and Barry Ward in centre field. In the back division Johnny Gallagher was excellent in subduing the scoring threat of Denis Boyle, whilst Philip O'Reilly gave a fine display at half back.

The reserves slipped to a defeat against Cloughaneely, losing by 1-9 to 2-14.

The seniors and reserves are down to take on Malin at home this weekend, but at the time of writing there was no day or time confirmed. Watch local press for details.

On Saturday evening Aodh Ruadh thirds had a profitable Division 4 South trip to Towney to take on Kilcar. They won by 3-17 to 1-7, a result that sees them top the table and in with a good shout of retaining their league crown. It will be their challenge for championship honours that will be foremost in their minds come Saturday though. The team will head to Killygordon on Saturday evening to try and overturn a first leg defeat against Red Hugh's and force the tie to a play-off game with victory in Pairc an Domhnaigh. Throw in is at 7.00pm for what promises to be an absorbing encounter.

Bookings for the use of Father Tierney Park must be made in advance to Peter Conlon (087-6838024). This is critical to the smooth running of the park, particularly in the light of a number of recent clashes that have taken place over access. The help and understanding of all concerned would be much appreciated.

~ HURLING ~
This seniors' Ulster League campaign was concluded with a loss against Strabane Shamrocks last Saturday. The seniors are back in domestic league this Saturday when they are down for a trip to take on Four Masters in Tir Chonaill Park at 7pm.

Aodh Ruadh underage hurlers have just had a very busy weekend. On Saturday last the under 12s traveled to Carndonagh to take part in a blitz. They played three very competitive games, losing the first game to a strong Buncrana team by two goals. That was followed by a loss to Carndonagh by two points and in the final game they lost in a very tight match to Burt by a solitary point. The lads put in very hard-working performances all day and never gave up in any game. Their effort and discipline all day were a credit to them. Pictures from this blitz will be made available on aodhruadh.org across the course of the week.

On Sunday morning Aodh Ruadh hosted an under 10 blitz. There were over 90 young hurlers from six different clubs involved. In the first game Aodh Ruadh beat Letterkenny Gaels, the second was a defeat to Burt and the round robin section concluded with a draw against Setanta. Thanks to the referees, Peter Horan and Eddie Lynch; to Pat Melaniff for all his help and Eleanor Rooney, Joan Kelly and Kathleen O'Neill for their catering talents.

~ LADIES ~
Our ladies team travelled to Ballybofey to take on MacCumhaill's on Sunday last. They finished two points short of a win and everyone will realise that they need to knuckle down to training in earnest in preparation for the championship which starts in mid July. Training times have changed to Tuesdays at 7pm and Fridays at 8pm.

The ladies county team takes on Monaghan in the Ulster semi-final this Saturday. The game is the curtain raiser for the Derry Fermanagh championship match. The ladies game throws in at 4.15 in Healy Park, Omagh. Good Luck to everyone involved, especially Aoife Buggy and Katie Flood.

The under 14 played well in a very competitive game in Mountcharles last Thursday. Unfortunately Saint Naul's just finished the stronger, but our girls can be proud of their performance. Training continues on Friday evenings at 5.30pm.

There is training for the under 12 on Tuesdays in the park from 7pm to 8.45pm. Details for this weekend's game have not yet been finalised. Team management will be in touch as soon as there is confirmation of a venue for the match.

The under 10 have their last session of the season this Tuesday, 17th June. Well done girls, have a great summer and we will see you all again in the autumn.

The girls of the Holy Family National School were beaten in the Cumann na mBunscoil final last Thursday, however they can be very proud of a wonderful year. Well done girls and everyone in the school.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Minor training continues with the seniors.

The under 16s will play their postponed first round, second leg championship match against Saint Naul's this Friday 20th June at 7.30pm at Father Tierney Park. A big show of Ballyshannon support is requested. Training on Thursday 8pm in the Lakeside.

Aodh Ruadh's under 14s have been in action twice since last Monday and recorded substantial victories to put them well clear at the top of the table. Last Friday Glenties were beaten by 4-15 to 1-0 in Father Tierney Park, while on Monday evening Bundoran went down by 5-15 to 3-0 in the Park. Across the two games Kieran Keown and James Barron have been exceptional in midfield. Pauric Patton has continued to have a quite wonderful season. Up front David McGurrin and Johnny Gethins are weighing in with heavy scoring tallies. At the time of printing fixtures for the next week had yet to be decided. Team management will be in contact when fixtures become available.

Plaques and name plates are available for those members of the under 12 winning Willie Rogers side who did not receive them, or received blank plaques. Please contact Terrence McShea 087-2360815 to arrange collection.

Last Saturday saw Father Tierney Park play host to the under 10s of Aodh Ruadh, Bundoran, Melvin Gaels and Erne Gaels as they competed in the annual Mick Shannon tournament. Aodh Ruadh, Bundoran and Melvin Gaels competed in the 'B' tournament with Ballyshannon and Kinlough contesting the final. Aodh Ruadh did well to eke out a win by 1-2 to no score. Mick Shannon's wife Noreen was on hand to present runners up medals to a gallant Kinlough contingent while Aodh Ruadh 'B' captain, Garbhán McCloskey, was the happy recipient of the Mick Shannon plaque.

After a tight and competitive round robin section in the 'A' tournament Aodh Ruadh topped the table with Bundoran second, putting the pair through to the 'A' final. The final was a titanic struggle between the sides, but Ballyshannon clinched the honours with a late point from Gareth Sheerin. The final score was Aodh Ruadh 2-7, Bundoran 3-3. Once again Noreen Shannon did the honours and presented runner up medals to Bundoran, before presenting the Mick Shannon trophy to the winning captain, Shane McGrath of Aodh Ruadh.

Aodh Ruadh would like to extend their sincere thanks to Noreen Shannon for making the medal presentations, 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.

Pictures and a full match report on the 'A' Final are now available on www.aodhruadh.org.

Training for under 8s and under 10s continues in Father Tierney Park on Saturday from 11am to 12 noon. There is training for under 10s only in Father Tierney Park on Wednesday nights from 7pm to 8pm. Some advance notice of upcoming blitzes. There is an under 8 blitz in Bundoran on Saturday 28th June. The next under 10 blitz is in Pettigo on Saturday 5th July.

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23 June

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Malin's recent hoo doo over Ballyshannon continued last Sunday. There was a strong breeze which had a pronounced effect on play in Father Tierney. Malin used it to the utmost in the first half and went in leading by 3-3 to 0-3 at half time. A depleted Aodh Ruadh side had chances to get a result, but 2-6 to 3-7 was the final score leaving Ballyshannon rooted to the bottom of Division 1B along with Cloughaneely and Malin. The reserves got a draw from Malin, but merited the win on their overall performance. A late goal awarded to Malin was the subject of some contention. The final score was 2-8 to 3-5.

The reserves are in championship action this Saturday, 28th June at 7.30pm when they travel to take on Dungloe. The seniors championship clash against Dungloe will take place on Friday, 4th July at 7.30pm. This match takes place in Dungloe and a big travelling support from Ballyshannon would be a massive boost to the side's chances of completing the work begun with their first leg win.

The thirds drew with Red Hugh's in Killygordon last Saturday, but the second leg result wasn't enough to save their championship ambitions after a loss in the first leg in Father Tierney park. In an encounter that saw both sides finishing with 13 players aside Aodh Ruadh were well on top. Unfortunately composure in front of the posts was lacking and a number scoring opportunities went a begging. Ballyshannon battled hard, but Red Hugh's held on for a 2-4 to 0-10 draw.

The under 21s are in championship action against Saint Eunan's this Wednesday, 25th June in Father Tierney Park. The throw in is at 8pm. A good showing of Ballyshannon support would be much appreciated.

~ HURLING ~
Aodh Ruadh slipped to defeat in the second round of the Donegal senior hurling Championship against Four Masters on Saturday evening in Donegal town. They were beat by 1-10 to 1-8.

An historic event took place in Father Tierney park on Wednesday last when a series of hurling games between Creevy National School and Saint Joseph's, The Rock took place. John Rooney has been coaching in the schools one day a week since February in preparation for the games. Forty kids took part in the event with Creevy winning two games, The Rock one game and the honours shared in one game. John Rooney would like to thank Tony Ryan, Conor Carney and all their staff for all their help. Thanks to David Downey and Michael Ayres who reffed on the day and to Billy Finn for his help.

~ LADIES ~
A busy week for the under 14s as they play Naomh Bríd on Tuesday 24th July at home and Four Masters on Thursday 26th July. Both games throw in at 7pm.

The under 12s are due to play Four Masters next week. The date time and venue are yet to be decided, but will be notified to the panel in due course.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Minor training continues with the seniors.

The under 16s booked their place in the regional semi-final of the championship with a 2-6 to 0-6 win over Saint Naul's in Father Tierney Park last Friday. Ryan Hoey had a good game half forward, while Paddy Meehan got through a power of work at half back. Once again Conor Patton gave another accomplished performance and was outstanding at full back and left Martin Gallagher with a quiet game in goals. There is training for the under 16s on Thursday, 26th June at 8pm in the Lakeside. The side will take on Glenties in the regional semi final on Friday, 4th July. The time and venue have yet to be decided.

The O'Donnell league is underway at the moment. The captains are Matthew Maguire, Colm Kelly, Stephen Thompson and Conor McShea. Matches start at 5.45pm in the park on Monday's. Conor McShea and Matthew Maguire got their league campaign's off to a winning start last Monday night.

There is an under 8 blitz in Bundoran on Saturday 28th June. The bus leaves park at 10.45am. We would like to see as many parents come out and show their support as possible. The blitz starts at 11.00am. There is training for under 10s only in Father Tierney Park on Wednesday nights from 7pm. The next under 10 blitz is in Pettigo on Saturday 5th July.

Back to the top

30 June

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
The reserves championship ambitions were extinguished with a 3-12 to 1-8 loss away to Dungloe. A full match report will be available on the aodhruadh.org over the coming week.

The seniors championship clash against Dungloe takes place on Friday, 4th July at 7.30pm. Aodh Ruadh have a first leg win under their belts and will be hoping to progress to the next round with a win. The match takes place in Dungloe and a big travelling support from Ballyshannon would be a massive boost to the side's chances of completing the work begun in the first leg. There is senior training on Wednesday at 7pm in Father Tierney Park. The bus to the game on Friday leaves the Park at 5pm.

A 0-13 to 0-10 win over Ardara in Father Tierney Park last Sunday helped the thirds ease the pain after going out of the Junior B championship last week. The side were missing six players who started in the championship match, but the replacements came in and showed their mettle against and Ardara outfit featuring Damien Diver. The win puts the thirds top of Division 4 South with only matches against Pettigo and Glenties remaining. A place in the league final is tantalizingly close.

It was a lacklustre 0-5 to 1-15 loss for the under 21s against Saint Eunan's in the championship last Wednesday. The latest in a series of disappointments at this grade.

There is a senior club committee meeting in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh on Thursday 3rd July at 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ HURLING ~
Senior training continues on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7pm.

The under 14s take on Carndonagh in the 'B'' county final this Saturday 6pm at MacCumhaill Park, Ballybofey

Underage hurling training continues in Father Tierney Park on Sunday at 12 noon for under 10s and 12s. All welcome, especially beginners. For enquiries contact Billy Finn (9851289).

~ LADIES ~
The senior made the long trek to Glencolmcille last week and recorded a good win over Naomh Columba. Senior training continues on Tuesdays at 7pm and Friday's at 8pm in the Park.

The under 14s were unlucky to lose out by a point against Naomh Bríd last Tuesday. They will be hoping for a better outcome when they take on Four Masters in Tir Chonaill Park on Tuesday 1st July at 7pm.

The under 12s travel to Donegal town to take on Four Masters this Wednesday 2nd July at 6.30pm. They will be in action again on Saturday at 1pm when they are in Father Tierney Park to face the challenge of Saint Naul's

~ SUMMER CAMP ~
Aodh Ruadh Summer Camp is underway with a good attendance for the first week. The camp continues next week. There's loads to do with football, hurling, swimming, rounders, obstacle courses and plenty of other fun and games. Each week of the camp concludes with a sports day on Friday. The camp runs from 10am to 3pm and is open to all children from 5 to 14 years-of-age. The cost per week is €70 per child with family concessions available. Children should bring a packed lunch. There is a tuck shop available. Registration forms are available on www.aodhruadh.org, you will need to have Adobe Acrobat Reader on your machine to view/download the form. Contact Sylvester Maguire on 086-0532495 or 071-9858277 for more information.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
There is a meeting of the Bord na nÓg committee in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh on Tuesday 8th July at 9pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

Minor training continues with the seniors.

The under 16s will take on Glenties in the regional semi final on Friday, 4th July. The time and venue had yet to be decided at the time of writing. There is training on Thursday, 3rd July at 8pm in the Lakeside.

The under 14s travel to Ardara to take on the only other remaining undefeated team in the league this Wednesday, 2nd July. That match will be quickly followed by another away trip, this time to Killybegs on Monday, 7th July. Both games throw in at 7.30pm.

In last Monday night's round of the O'Donnell league Matthew Maguire's team recorded a win over Conor McShea's, whilst Colm Kelly's side edged out Stephen Thompson's. With two rounds played Matthew Maguire has two wins while Conor McShea and Colm Kelly have a win apiece. The next round of matches take place next Monday at 5.45pm in the Park.

There is an under 10 blitz in Pettigo on Saturday 5th July. The bus leaves park at 10.45am. We would like to see as many parents come out and show their support as possible. The blitz starts at 11.00am. There is training for under 10s only in Father Tierney Park on Wednesday nights from 7pm.

The under 8s had a short trip to the blitz in Bundoran last Saturday. There was a panel of 17 players with everyone getting football in the mixed teams of As and Bs. Aodh Ruadh won three games, drew one and lost one. Kinlough, Ardara and Bundoran also took part in the what was a very enjoyable day's football. It was also pleasing to see a good turnout of parents. All under 8s should have received a training schedule for the next few weeks. Anyone who hasn't received one should contact the team management. Training for the under 8s will conclude on Saturday, 26th July.

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JULY

7 July

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
A battling performance from Aodh Ruadh wasn't enough against Dungloe in their RTE Raidio na Gaeltachta Senior Football Championship second leg match. With three minutes to go Aodh Ruadh needed only a point for a draw which would have sealed a quarter final place. However, Dungloe finished with a goal and point to force a play-off to see which side will progress. The final score was Dungloe 1-17, Aodh Ruadh 1-12. There is a full match report available on www.aodhruadh.org.

The reserves have a match this Sunday, 13th July, in Father Tierney park against Termon at 1.30pm.

~ HURLING ~
Senior training continues on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7pm.

There was silverware on offer in MacCumhaill Park last Saturday when the under 14s took on Carndonagh in the 'B' county final. It was a tightly fought match, with Aodh Ruadh taking the honours by 8-7 to 4-5. The scoreline doesn't do justice to Carndonagh who were stung by a couple of early Ballyshannon goals and had to play catch-up for the rest of the match. Blaine Bogle had his hands full in goals and he pulled off a number of excellent saves. Conor Kennedy and Aaron Fannon both gave a strong defensive performances, whilst Donal O'Keefe also played a real captain's role in the back division. Thomas Anderson was very influential in the middle of the park and did much to facilitate good showings by Rory Cullen, Jamie Brennan and Colin Kelly who tortured the Carndonagh backs. Gary Kelly will also be pleased with his display, not to mention his handsome goal-haul. After the match County Hurling Board Chairman, Rory McGonigle, presented the under 14 'B' championship trophy to a delighted Donal O'Keefe and then it was back to Ballyshannon for a spin round the town to show off the prize. Congratulations to Kevin Loughlin, manager, Eddie Lynch, selector, and everyone involved with the team.

The under 12s take on Setanta in the league this Thursday, 10th July at 7pm in Father Tierney park. The side will be in Killygordon for a blitz this Saturday. Travel details will be supplied on Thursday.

A great morning of underage hurling took place in Father Tierney Park on Sunday. A little bit of history was created when we fielded an under 8 hurling team for the first time. We played a fun and competitive game against Letterkenny Gaels which ended in a draw. Thanks to all the parents who supported this enthusiastic team. This was followed by an under 12 game between the same clubs. The game was very enjoyable with the home team finishing the stronger to take the spoils. Many thanks to all who helped on the day.

Underage hurling training continues in Father Tierney park on Sunday at 12 noon for under 10s and 12s. All welcome, especially beginners. For enquiries contact Billy Finn (9851289).

~ LADIES ~
The seniors make the trip to Towney to take on Kilcar this Wednesday, 9th July, at 7.30pm. Senior training continues on Tuesdays at 7pm and Friday's at 8pm in the Park.

The under 14s suffered a narrow two point loss last Tuesday against Four Masters. Despite the loss there were many encouraging signs of progress from Aodh Ruadh in what was a very enjoyable game. Under 14 training continues on Fridays at 5.30pm.

The under 12s beat Four Masters last Wednesday. Their four point victory saw them through to the semi-final stages where is likely they will be facing Fanad Gaels. The picture on that front will become clearer over the course of the next two weeks. Having secured their semi-final berth the team lost to Saint Naul's in a dead rubber in Father Tierney Park. That loss may yet prove useful as it highlighted a few areas that will require work in training. Overall though, management are delighted with the team's position.

~ SUMMER CAMP ~
Aodh Ruadh Summer Camp is underway with well over 100 attending the second week. The camp continues for the third and final week next week. There's loads to do with football, hurling, swimming, rounders, obstacle courses and plenty of other fun and games. Each week of the camp concludes with a sports day on Friday. The camp runs from 10am to 3pm and is open to all children from 5 to 14 years-of-age. The cost per week is €70 per child with family concessions available. Children should bring a packed lunch. There is a tuck shop available. Registration forms are available on www.aodhruadh.org, you will need to have Adobe Acrobat Reader on your machine to view/download the form. Contact Sylvester Maguire on 086-0532495 or 071-9858277 for more information.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Minor training continues with the seniors.

There was disappointment for the under 16s as they went out of the championship against Glenties by 2-13 to 0-7 last Friday in Dunkineely. Despite early Aodh Ruadh dominance two first half goals took the wind out of Ballyshannon's sails, leaving side eight points down at half time. Ronan Drummond, Conor Patton and Ronan McGurn deserve special praise for not letting their heads drop and keeping the fight up to the very end.

Training takes place in preparation for the Under 15 Óg Sport competition in the Lakeside on Thursday, 10th July at 8pm.

The under 14s suffered the first loss of their league campaign against Ardara last Wednesday. They went down by 4-10 to 0-11. They bounced back well though with a magnificent, gutsy 1-9 to 2-10 win against Killybegs in Fintra. Aodh Ruadh traveled with a very depleted panel, but the situation worsened ten minutes into the match when the goal keeper, Conor McNeely, had to go off with a broken finger after bravely intercepting a shot on goal. Ballyshannon continued to fight though and were only two points down with two minutes to go. Goals in the closing moments from Charlie Patton and Kieran Keown swung the match decisively in Ballyshannon's favour. The club wishes Conor McNeely a speedy recovery from his injury. The win against Killybegs leaves things very finely balanced for Ballyshannon. They are in a good position, but will need wins in their last two remaining games against Four Masters on Monday, 14th July, and Kilcar on Monday, 21st July, to guarantee their place in the divisional final, most likely against Ardara. The throw in for those last two games is 7.30pm. The club would appeal for family and friends to come out and show their support for the under 14s, particularly given the fact they are in the chase for honours.

In last Monday night's round of the O'Donnell league Colm Kelly's team recorded a win over Conor McShea's, whilst Matthew Maguire's side edged out Stephen Thompson's. With the round robin section complete the finals will take place next Monday at 5.45pm in the Park. Matthew Maguire will take on Colm Kelly in the 'A' final while Conor McShea will take on Stephen Thompson in the 'B' final.

The under 10 blitz scheduled for Pettigo last Saturday had to moved to Killybegs. In the event 28 boys travelled down and had a great day out with both the 'A's' and the 'B's' giving great performances. The 'A's' beat Kilcar, drew with Killybegs and lost to the eventual winners, Ardara. The 'B's' did better again with wins over Kilcar and Killybegs, but losing to Ardara who also went on to win the 'B' section. Many thanks to Killybegs looked after us very well and even had grub for the boys on the way home. There is training for under 10s only in Father Tierney Park on Wednesday nights from 7pm to 8pm. There is training for under 8s and 10s in the Park on Saturday from to 11am to 12 noon. Training for the under 8s will conclude on Saturday, 26th July.

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14 July

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
The reserves with the bare compliment of 15 lost to Termon in Father Tierney park by five points last weekend. The team's next assignment will be a home game against Fanad Gaels on Sunday, 20th July with the throw in at 3pm.

The thirds recorded a 4-9 to 2-9 win away against Pettigo last Saturday. The win puts the team well clear on top of Division 4 South with 12 points from seven played. Their nearest rivals Ardara are on six points from five played, so a place in the league final seems almost secure for Ballyshannon.

~ SEE PIGS FLY!!! ~
Pig racing returns to Ballyshannon on Saturday August 16th when Aodh Ruadh run a seven race card in the Bridgend / East Port area of the town starting at 7.30pm. Pigs are now available at €50 for full ownership, but there are also get €10 shares available. The winning pig will scoop it's owner(s) €100 so you stand a one in six chance of doubling your money! Races can be sponsored at €250 and there are also advertising slots on offer in the race card. Contact John Hughes on 087-6431805 or Eunan Doyle on 087-2973295 for more information. Off-track there will be betting, spot prizes and plenty of craic guaranteed as Ballyshannon welcomes the country to the town. If you're wondering what all the fuss is about, you can see some of the video clips of the highlight's from last year's event on www.aodhruadh.org. Well worth it for Sean Perry's patter alone!!
I want to See pigs fly!!!

~ HURLING ~
The hurlers have a home league game against Buncrana this Sunday at 5pm. Senior training continues on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7pm.

A great day's underage hurling took place in Father Tierney park on Saturday last. Aodh Ruadh hosted an under 12 hurling blitz with Saint Eunan's and Lisbellaw from Fermanagh visiting us for this event. Over 50 under 12s took part on the day. Ballyshannon beat Saint Eunan's and then played Lisbellaw in a full 15-a-side game. It was a very competitive game with spells of great hurling, passion and commitment shown by both teams. At the end of a ding dong affair the Fermanagh county champions came out on top by a goal. Thanks to referees Michael Ayres and Kevin McDermott, not forgetting everyone else who helped out on the day. There are pictures available to view on the www.aodhruadh.org of this fabulous day of action.

The under 12 hurlers are away to Carndonagh on Thursday, 17th July in the League. The bus leaves the park at 5pm.

Underage hurling training continues in Father Tierney park on Sunday at 12 noon for under 8s, 10s and 12s. All welcome, especially beginners. For enquiries contact Billy Finn (9851289).

~ LADIES ~
The ladies seniors are in intermediate championship action this Sunday at home against Saint Michael's. Aodh Ruadh face MacCumhaill's away in the second game and the top two teams will then play in the final so good luck girls, hopefully we can make home advantage count. Senior training continues on Tuesdays at 7pm and Friday's at 8pm in the Park.

The minor girls are due to get their season underway next Wednesday 23rd July with a home fixture against Ardara.

Well done to the county under 16 girls who defeated Kerry in the All Ireland quarter finals on Sunday last in Tuam. They will now meet Cork in the semi finals on Sunday, 27th July. Tara Kahn represented the club in last Sunday's game and Dearbhaile McNeil will be back from holidays for the semi final.

The under 14s play Four Masters in the park this Tuesday, 15th July, at 6.30pm and with just one fixture left after this a big effort from our girls is guaranteed.

Training for the under 12 girls continues on Tuesday evenings in Father Tierney park from 7pm to 8.15pm. A date for the semi finals was not available but we hope to have information regarding this fixture this week.

~ SUMMER CAMP ~
Aodh Ruadh Summer Camp is in its final week. Around 250 children attended over the three weeks of a very successful camp. The camp organisers would like to thank to the sponsors McGlynn and McDevitt Accountants. Thanks also to all the children who participated, the coaches who helped out, the Park Committee and especially Pat Melaniff.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Minor training continues with the seniors.

Under 15 Óg Sport training takes in the Park on Wednesday, 16th July at 7pm. The Óg Sport blitz takes place in Bundoran on Saturday at 11am. Competing will be Bundoran, Aodh Ruadh, Naomh Bríd, Saint Naul's and Four Masters taking part. Squad to meet at the park for 10.15am.

The under 14s registered a big win in their penultimate game of the league campaign. They defeated Four Masters by 7-19 to 0-7 in Tir Chonaill park. Johnny Gethins was back in blistering form up front, bagging a number of goals, while one of the newer additions to the side, Padraig Storey, had a fine game at centre half back. With one game left Aodh Ruadh are locked with Kilcar on 12 points in second place in the league. Ballyshannon now play Kilcar on Monday, 21st July, in what will be a knock-out game for a place in the divisional final against Ardara. The throw in is at 7.30pm in Father Tierney park. The club would appeal for family, friends and everyone interested in the club to come out and show their support for the under 14s, particularly given the fact they are in the chase for honours. It will make a difference in what is sure to be a tight and keenly fought game.

Matthew Maguire's side won the 'A' final of the O'Donnell Shield after a close fought battle with Colm Kelly's team. The sides matched each other point for point in the second half, but Matthew Maguire's outfit just managed to get their nose in front when the final whistle went to win by a single point. In the 'B' final Conor McShea took the honours over Stephen Thompson's side. There is training for the under 12s at 5.45pm in the park next Monday.

There is an under 10 blitz this Saturday in Father Tierney park with Aodh Ruadh hosting Pettigo and Glenties. The action gets underway at 11am. Players are asked to bring a loaf of sandwiches to help with the lunch time refreshments. There is training for under 10s only in Father Tierney Park on Wednesday nights from 7pm to 8pm. There will be no training for the under 8s this week and their training will conclude with a final session on Saturday, 26th July.

~ CONDOLENCES ~
Aodh Ruadh extends their sympathies to Gary Walsh on the death of his grandmother Mrs. Margaret Gallagher of Boyney, Ballyshannon. The funeral mass takes place on Tuesday, 15th July, at 12 noon in the Church of the Immaculate Conception in Bundoran, burial afterwards in Finner cemetery.

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21 July

~ NEXT WEEK'S NOTES ~
Submission's for next week's notes should be sent to Sean Perry at sean.perry@oceanfm.ie. Next week's notes will not be published on the website or circulated to e-mail subscribers, however they will appear in the local press. Apologies for any inconvenience.

~ HURLING ~
The under 12 hurlers made the long trip to Carndonagh on Thursday last for a league match and came home with a convincing win. It was a great team performance on a very difficult evening for hurling. Peter Horan was able to give every one of his 20 man squad a run. The boys are at home this Thursday against Letterkenny Gaels with the throw in at 7pm. All the squad should be at the park for 6.30pm.

On Sunday morning last our under 10 hurlers were on the road early for a blitz in Carndonagh. The boys played very well in their three games. They drew the first match with Saint Eunan's, lost the second match against Buncrana, before finishing off with a great victory over Burt after a tight struggle throughout.

Underage hurling training continues in Father Tierney park on Sunday at 12 noon for under 8s, 10s and 12s. All welcome, especially beginners. For enquiries contact Billy Finn (9851289).

~ LADIES ~
Well done to the seniors who had a good win in the championship against Saint Michael's in the park on Sunday last. Aodh Ruadh are back in championship action this Sunday again when they travel to Ballybofey to take on McCumhaill's at 12 noon. Senior training continues on Tuesdays at 7pm and Friday's at 8pm in the Park.

The minor fixtures have been put off for the moment due to the success of the county under 16 team and the games have not yet been re-scheduled.

The under 16 county ladies team play in the All-Ireland semi-final this Saturday, 26th July in Ballinasloe at 3.30pm. Our club will be represented by Tara Khan and Dearbhaile McNeill good luck to the two girls and the Donegal team and management.

The under 14 girls had a great win over Four Masters in the park last Tuesday evening. With one league game remaining we hope the girls can continue this good form and finish the season in style. Under 14 training continues on Friday evenings at 5.30pm.

Training for the under 12 girls continues on Tuesday evenings in Father Tierney park from 7pm to 8.15pm. A date for the semi finals was not available. however as soon as this becomes available management will be in touch with the team.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Minor training continues with the seniors.

Congratulations to Ronan Drummond and Peter Boyle were in Croke Park recently with the under 16 development squad. They took part in a series of challenge games, playing matches against Derry and Tyrone and recording one win and one lost.

Aodh Ruadh had an excellent outing at the Óg Sport blitz in Bundoran last Saturday. The team won all three of their games and are through to this Saturday's Óg Sport Regional Finals. The Finals takes place in Dunkineely on Saturday at 11am. Competing will be Bundoran, Aodh Ruadh, Dungloe, Naomh Chonaill, Naomh Ultan and Naomh Columba. The bus to the blitz leaves the park at 9.30am. Under 15 Óg Sport training takes in the Park on Wednesday, 23rd July at 7pm.

The Under 14s bid for a place in the divisional league final with Ardara was ended with a 3-7 to 4-10 defeat to Kilcar. The first half was nip and tuck with the teams going in level at half time. As the second half wore on Ballyshannon midfielder Kieran Keown became increasingly hampered by an injury sustained in last Saturday's Óg Sport blitz. He had to be taken off and his loss was keenly felt, as was the absence of forward David McGurrin on holidays. Those twin losses made it very difficult for Aodh Ruadh to break down a well drilled Kilcar side. Pauric Patton, who put away a penalty in the first half, gave it his all. So did James Kelly who deputised well when moved back to midfield. Johnny Gethins and Charlie Patton each marked good displays with a goal, while James Barron was also on hand to point a couple of well-taken efforts. The under 14s attentions now turn to the championship where their next outing is against Killybegs on Monday 11th August. There is under 14 training on Wednesday, 20th July in the park at 6.30pm.

There is training for the under 12s at 5.45pm in the park next Monday.

There is training for under 10s only in Father Tierney Park on Wednesday nights from 7pm to 8pm. Under 8s training concludes this week with a final session on Saturday, 26th July.

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28 July

~ DONEGAL v MONAGHAN ~
Commiserations to club trio, Brian Roper, Niall McCready and Johnny Gallagher who were part of the Donegal set-up defeated by Monaghan in the qualifiers on Saturday evening. It was nonetheless a proud evening for Johnny who made his debut at corner back and fared well given the difficult job of marking Ciaran Hanratty. Brian showed class is permanent with two well taken points continuing the marvellous record of service he has given the county since 1995 when he made his debut. We congratulate all three for representing the club with distinction.

~ CONGRATULATIONS ~
Furthermore, well done to club referee and chairman, the hard-working Terence McShea who refereed the Fermanagh v Kilkenney ladies championship clash played as a curtain-raiser to the Ulster Final replay between Fermanagh and Armagh. Terence kept a firm handle on the game and further enhanced his reputation on the inter-county circuit.

~ HURLING ~
The Aodh Ruadh u-12 hurlers continued their good start to the league with a convincing win over Letterkenny Gaels last week. This Thursday, the boys face Burt away from home. The bus will leave the Park at 5.30pm.

Underage hurling training continues as normal on Sunday for under 8s, under 10s and under 12s.

~ LADIES ~
The intermediate ladies played a very exciting championship game away to MacCumhaill's on Sunday last which ended in a draw. With only three teams in the intermediate championship, this means our girls have already qualified for the final having beaten Saint Michael's and drawn with MacCumhaill's. We await the outcome of the game between those two teams to see who we meet in the final.

Best wishes and a speedy recovery to Aoife Buggy who sustained a serious injury on Sunday.

Training for the ladies is on Tuesday at 7pm and Saturday at 8pm.

Best of luck to the Donegal senior ladies team who play Kildare in the qualifiers on Bank Holiday Monday in Breffni park the game will be televised live on TG4. Our club will be represented by Aoife Buggy and Katie Flood.

The u-16 county team were beaten in the All-Ireland semi-final on Saturday last by a very fancied Cork team, well done to everyone involved and especially to Tara Khan and Dearbhaile McNeil on what has been a great year for them. Hopefully the spare time you will now have to enjoy the last month of the summer holidays will help ease the pain of missing out on an All-Ireland final.

The under 14s have their last game of the season next Tuesday at home against Saint Nauls, training is on Friday evening at 5.30pm.

Under 12 girls training continues on Tuesday evenings from 7-8.15pm.

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AUGUST

4 August

4 August 2008

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh take on Dungloe in McCumhaill park, Ballybofey at 2pm this Sunday in their senior championship first round play-off game. This eagerly awaited contest is a winner takes all affair so a large and vocal showing of support from the green and white army is absolutely essential.

~ MEETING ~
The monthly senior club meeting takes place on Thursday 7th August in Aras Aoidh Ruadh 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ SEE PIGS FLY!!! ~
After the massive success of last year's event, pig racing returns to Ballyshannon on Saturday August 16th when Aodh Ruadh run a seven race card in the Bridgend / East Port area of the town starting at 7.30pm. Off-track there will be betting, spot prizes and plenty of craic guaranteed as Ballyshannon welcomes the country to the town. If you're wondering what all the fuss is about, you can see some of the video clips of the highlight's from last year's event on www.aodhruadh.org. Well worth it for Sean Perry's patter alone!!

~ HURLING ~
The under 12 hurlers made the long trip to Burt on Thursday last. On a terrible evening for hurling the boys showed tremendous heart to come from seven points down midway through the second half to claim a great draw at the finish. This Thursday, 7th August, the boys are playing McCumhaill's in Father Tierney Park. All players are asked to be up at the park at 6.30pm.

The underage hurlers are travelling to Croke park on Sunday, 17th August to wathc the All Ireland semi final between Tipperary and Waterford. Any enquiries about the trip contact John Rooney.

Underage hurling training continues in Father Tierney park on Sunday at 12 noon for under 8s, 10s and 12s. All welcome, especially beginners. For enquiries contact Billy Finn (9851289).

~ LADIES ~
The ladies are hosting a 'Groovy 70s Night' in Max Bar on Sunday, 10th August. Tickets are €5 and available from all team members there will also be a raffle on the night with some great prizes on offer so come along and support the girls in their fundraising efforts.

Training for senior girls is on Tuesday evenings at 7pm and Friday at 8pm.

The ladies county team lost to Kildare in the qualifiers by two points on Monday 4th August in Breffni Park. The 2008 season was a mixed one for the ladies as they reached the division two league final and lost by a point and in the first round of the championship they beat a very experienced Armagh side who had won the last two Ulster titles. However after that they played poorly and lost out by a point to Monaghan. Having drawn Kildare in the qualifiers the team would have been looking forward to winning ways but Kildare were just too strong for Donegal on the day and the season ended for the Donegal ladies in Cavan. Well done to everyone for an exciting season and especially to Aoife Buggy and Katie Flood who represented the club so well for the year.

The under 14 girls are playing their last game of the 2008 season on Tuesday 5th August at home against Saint Naul's.

Training for the under 12 girls continues on Tuesday evenings in Father Tierney park from 7pm to 8.15pm.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The minors comprehensively lost their opening championship tie against Bundoran 0-3 to 2-15 last Wednesday in Father Tierney Park. An opening 20 minutes scoring blitz for the Seasiders did the damage and with the half time score at 0-1 to 1-12 in favour of Bundoran it was a long way back for Ballyshannon. It was a day when Aodh Ruadh's rearguard saw most of the ball. Peter Boyle got through a lot of work in nets, while Maurice Kane at corner back and Ronan Drummond at centre half back soldiered well in the face of unremitting pressure. The second leg takes place in Bundoran on Wednesday, 13th August at 7.30pm. We would appeal for a good showing of support from Ballyshannon at this match as Aodh Ruadh try to turn the tie around.

Aodh Ruadh went out of Óg Sport at the Regional Finals held in Dunkineely last Saturday. After beginning with a win against Glenties, Ballyshannon lost out to the eventual winners Naomh Ultan and Bundoran.

The under 14s are in championship action against Killybegs on Monday 11th August. The match throws in at Father Tierney park throw at 7.30pm, a big attendance from parents and supporters would be a great help as Aodh Ruadh begin their charge for championship honours. There is under 14 training on Saturday 9th August at 6pm in the park. Before that though the Bakery Cup commences in Father Tierney Park on Wednesday 6th August at 6pm. Teams captained by Alan Finan, Kieran Keown, Ryan Granaghan and James Barron will be fighting it out for the title this year..

There is training for the under 12s at 5.45pm in the park next Monday.

There is training for under 10s only in Father Tierney Park on Saturday from 11am to 12 noon. The last blitz of the year will take place on Saturday 16th in Bundoran. That will conclude action for the under 10s under training resumes in the New Hall at Colaiste Colmcille in November.

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11 August

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh had a very disappointing loss to Dungloe in the championship play-off last Sunday. The final score was 0-9 to 0-10, but controversy surrounds a late Anthony Boyle goal which was disallowed by the referee for square ball in the closing stages of the game when Aodh Ruadh lead by a point. A goal at that stage would certainly have sealed the tie for Ballyshannon, but it was not to be. It's back to Division 1B action this Sunday when the seniors and reserves take on Saint Naul's in Father Tierney Park. The reserve game throws in at 1.30pm with the seniors at 3pm.

~ HURLING ~
The under 12 hurlers continued their rich vein of form of late by beating McCumhaill's in Father Tierney Park on Thursday last. This Thursday, 14th August the boys are playing Saint Eunan's in the park. All players are be up at the park for 6.15pm. There is no underage hurling on this Sunday as the underage hurlers are going to Croke Park to the mouth-watering clash of Waterford and Tipperary in the All-Ireland Hurling semi-final. The bus leaves the park at 8.30am sharp. Any enquiries about the trip contact John Rooney.

~ LADIES ~
Training for senior ladies continues on Tuesday evenings at 7pm and Friday at 8pm. The ladies team held a very successful 70s Nite in the Max Bar on Sunday night last. A big thank you to everyone who supported the fundraiser and all the sponsors of the many raffle prizes. The fund-raising continues this Saturday night with the Pig Races and Peter Gallagher is looking for volunteers to sell programmes and half time draw tickets. Call Peter on 087-9794280 if you are able to give a hand.

The under 14 season finished last week with a home game against Saint Naul's. Our girls lost the game but will be happy with how they played in the first half. The team enjoyed some very good games during the league and deserves congratulations for their efforts. Well done girls!

We are still awaiting a date for the under 12 semi-final which our girls qualified for some five weeks ago. The delay is being caused by some of the games in one of the other groups not yet being played. Unfortunately we can't do anything about this, but train hard and make sure we're well prepared despite the delay. Training for the under 12 girls continues on Tuesday evenings in Father Tierney park from 7pm to 8.15pm.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Congratulations to our participants on Donegal's under 16 Buncrana Cup winning squad, Peter Boyle and Ronan Drummond. Peter Boyle starred in goal in both the semi-final and final. Donegal held off a stiff Monaghan challenge in the semi-final before taking on a strong Tyrone outfit in the final. Donegal won out by 1-7 to 1-5 with Conor Gibbons kicking an insurance point in injury time. Ronan Drummond did a Sylvester Maguire and was going through his warm up as they final whistle went! Well done to all concerned.

Aodh Ruadh suffered a 1-3 to 4-8 defeat in the first leg, first round of the championship against Killybegs on Monday 11th August. There were victories for Ryan Granaghan and James Barron in the first round of games in the Bakery Cup last week. The next round of games is scheduled for Father Tierney Park on Wednesday 20th August at 6pm

The under 13s travel to Sligo on Saturday morning to compete in a tournament hosted by Calry Saint Joseph's.

There is training for the under 12s at 5.45pm in the Park on Monday.

The last under 10 blitz of the year will take place on Saturday 16th in Bundoran. The bus leaves the park at 10.45am with the blitz starting 11am. Also participating in the blitz are Bundoran, Naomh Conaill and Ardara. That will conclude action for the under 10s until training resumes in the New Hall at Colaiste Colmcille in November.

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18 August

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh gained a valuable Division 1B win when they beat Saint Naul's in Father Tierney Park last Sunday by 0-8 to 0-7. A Buddy Greene penalty save in the first half was crucial in seeing Ballyshannon home. There were also encouraging signs in a superb return to form by Michael Gurn at half back and great midfield performance by Barry Ward and Niall McCready. The reserves fared less well losing to their Saint Naul's counterparts by 0-7 to 0-15. It's back to Division 1B action this Saturday when the seniors and reserves take on Fanad Gaels in Father Tierney Park. The reserve game throws in at 6.00pm with the seniors at 7.30pm.

~ PIGS FLEW!!! ~
The second annual Ballyshannon pig races went off last Saturday and were a massive success. As always with such events there are numerous people who help bring thing together and who should be applauded. Thanks to the residents and businesses of the port who gave us access to the streets. Thanks to Billy Grimes who did a marvelous job as compere. Next thanks to the race sponsors and all the great local companies who took adverts in the race programme. Thanks also to Drummond bookmakers and Doherty bookmakers for supplying the betting slips. Sean Cassidy did a first class job taking care of all the sound and piping the races into the pubs, while Billy Finn did a great job on the camera. Thanks to Trisha's hairdressers who supplied the power. Big thanks to Thomas McGeary who kindly gave us access to the building used as the Pig Race HQ. Thanks to Watson Hire of Donegal town who provided the barriers and lighting and Owen Roe O'Neill for the use of his car park for storing the barriers and the light. Thanks also to Austin Short for supplying the pigs who gave us such great entertainment on the night. Of course it is important not to forget the programme sellers, the raffle sellers, the bet sellers, the runners and the bookies and everyone else who helped make the event happen. Finally, the most important thanks go out to everyone who attended and made the night such a success. We hope to some of the video clips up on www.aodhruadh.org in the near future. The event raised in the region of €8,500 for the Centre of Excellence development at Munday's field.

~ HURLING ~
The senior hurlers had a good victory in the senior hurling league over Buncrana in the park on Saturday, winning by 2-17 to 0-7.

There is a farewell hurling match for Hurling Chairman, Dennis Doherty, in Father Tierney park on Tuesday, 19th August with Old Timers (over 30s) taking on the Young Guns (Under 30s) at 7pm. There will be a presentation and pints in the Max Bar afterwards.

The under 12s had a busy couple of days over the past week. On Thursday past they beat Saint Eunan's at home and on Friday the travelled to Lisbellaw and played a very competitive game against the home team. On a dreadful evening for hurling The boys put on a great display and were unlucky to lose by eight points. On Sunday a bus load of underage hurlers and adults travelled to Croke Park and were treated to the spectacular scene of Waterford overcoming Tipperary to book their first Senior Hurling final appearance since 1963. Pictures of the trip will be on aodhruadh.org over the course of the week. The next action for the under 12s is a trip to Tir Chonaill park on Thursday to take on Four Masters. All players are to be at park for 6pm. This Thursday also the under 10s have a challenge match against Knocks, County Fermanagh in Father Tierney Park. All players to be at the park by 3.30pm

~ LADIES ~
The ladies have qualified for county intermediate final. The game will take place on Sunday with either Sean MacCumhaill's or Saint Michael's providing the opposition. The time and venue of the game will depend on the opponents. Full details for the final will be published on aodhruadh.org when they become available, so keep an eye on the website.

Training for the under 12 girls continues on Tuesday evenings in Father Tierney park from 7pm to 8.15pm.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The minors take on Bundoran in their first round, second leg championship match on Wednesday, 20th August, in Bundoran at 7pm.

Aodh Ruadh under 14s were unable to field against Killybegs last Friday and so were forced to concede the tie, ending Ballyshannon's involvement in the championship. The next round of games in the Bakery cup takes place at 6pm on Friday.

There is training for the under 12s at 6pm in the Park on Monday.

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25 August

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh got their second win on the bounce against a lively Buncrana side on Saturday last. There was poor shooting from both sides as Aodh Ruadh hung on to claim a 0-10 to 0-9 win. Buddy Greene was in great form in nets and his steady presence was a large factor in Buncrana's low score. Darren Drummond at full back gave a solid performance too. Niall McCready and Barry Ward were on top at midfield pretty much throughout the encounter, while Michael 'Sticky' Ward's efficiency in front of the posts was probably the main difference between the sides. His three points, all from play, helped give Aodh Ruadh the platform to beat off a late Buncrana challenge. The win lifts Aodh Ruadh out of the bottom two for first time in some considerable period. The reserve game against Buncrana did not go ahead. The seniors will be hoping to make it three Division 1B wins in a row this Saturday when they travel to Cloughaneely. The reserve game throws in at 5.30pm with the seniors at 7.00pm. The senior bus leaves the Abbey Garage at 4.15pm sharp.

The thirds concluded their Division 4 South league campaign with a 2-16 to 5-7 draw away against Glenties. That puts the team in a league semi final, details to be confirmed at a later date.

~ HURLING ~
Last Tuesday, 19th August, a very exciting game took place in Father Tierney park between the Old Timers (Aodh Ruadh over 30s) and the Young Guns (Aodh Ruadh under 30s). This game took place to mark the departure of the Hurling Chairman, Dennis Doherty, who is moving to Cork. The first half was an evenly fought contest, but the younger legs of the Young Guns pulled away and won convincingly in the end. Afterwards a very enjoyable presentation function took place in Max Bar and a great night was enjoyed by all. Club Chairman Terrence McShea spoke behalf of the club. Billy Finn, Emma Gaughan and John Rooney also spoke of Dennis' contribution to the hurling in Ballyshannon. The night's formalities concluded with presentations to Dennis and his wife, Ethel, and farewell drinks.
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On Thursday last, 21st August, the under 12s played Four Masters in their penultimate league game. In a very evenly contested game the Aodh Ruadh boys pulled away in the end and won the game. The match was Niall Cullen's last appearance for the Aodh Ruadh hurlers as he is emigrating to Australia with his family. After the game team manager, Peter Horan, presented a signed hurl and jersey to Niall on behalf of the under 12 panel and management. Best wishes from all in the club to Niall and his family.
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This Thursday, 28th August the boys play their last game in the league against Buncrana. The match throws in at Father Tierney Park at 7pm. All boys to be up at 6.15pm. Supporters will be made very welcome.

On a busy day last Thursday 21st August, the Aodh Ruadh under 10 hurlers hosted Knocks for an afternoon of hurling. Two games were played between the two clubs with each club winning one game. Next Friday, 29th August, the under 8 and under 10 hurlers will host Lisbellaw for a couple of games all players to be at the park for 6pm.

Best wishes to David and Claire Downey on their new arrivals from all in the Aodh Ruadh Hurling Committee.

~ LADIES ~
The Intermediate ladies failed narrowly in their attempt to become county champions on Sunday evening last in MacCumhaill Park. They stayed with their opposition, Saint Michael's, right from start to finish with the game level at halftime. However the final whistle saw our girls go down by two points. Nevertheless, they can be very pleased with a super team effort and some outstanding individual displays.

The under 12 girls will play in the county 'A' semi final on Saturday, 30th August against either Saint Eunan's or Milford who play-off this Thursday. The game will be played in Convoy at 12 noon and all supporters would be warmly welcomed. Players bus leaving the park at 10.00am with 2.30pm being the estimated time of return. Any queries call Claire on 087-6229351.

Good luck to club referee Terence McShea who is off to Boston for the weekend to referee the North American Championships.

Lastly well done to club full back Niamh Gallagher who has been selected on the final panel of 30 for the years Underdogs. Training commences for that in two weeks time with televised coverage starting in mid October.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
There will be Bord na nÓg meeting in Aras Aodh Ruadh at 9pm on Thursday, 28th August. All committee members are asked to attend.

The minors caused a major upset against a highly fancied Bundoran in their first round, second leg championship match last Wednesday, 20th August, in Bundoran at 7pm. It all looked very ominous when Bundoran started with a goal and a point, but Ballyshannon played with composure and had faith in their own game. Damien Cleary gave an exhibition at midfield and was ably assisted by Hugh McNeill. David Dolan was in imperious form at full forward rattling in no fewer than four goals as Aodh Ruadh beat the seasiders by 2-9 to 4-7 in Gaelic Park. Aodh Ruadh lost the toss for the play-off venue and so will have to repeat their performance to progress to the second round. The match takes place on Wednesday, 27th August, in Bundoran at 6.45pm. It goes without saying that this squad deserves a serious show of support from Ballyshannon as they aim to take the scalp of one of the favourites for the minor county championship.

The second round of games in the Bakery cup takes place at 11am on Saturday, 30th August.

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SEPTEMBER

1 September

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Three in a row for Aodh Ruadh last Saturday as they travelled to Cloughaneely and emerged 1-11 to 0-9 winners. It was one of those days when the younger members of the panel showed very well. David Dolan and Fiachra McIntyre did super work up front, with Donagh McIntyre sparking into life in the second half to bag himself a well-taken goal and three points. Damien Cleary was another young star to attract notice with his stint at wing back. It wasn't all left to the youngsters though as Philip O'Reilly had a Trojan game while there was a great return to the playing field from Eamon O'Donnell. The reserves game did not take place. The seniors head north once again this Saturday when they take on Fanad Gaels. The reserve game is at 5pm with the senior match throwing in at 6.30pm.

~ CLUB MEETING ~
The September monthly meeting of the senior club takes place in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh on Thursday, 4th September at 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ HURLING ~
Aodh Ruadh went down by 4-28 to six points against Setanta in the second round of the Senior Hurling Championship in MacCumhaill park last Saturday.

The under 12s suffered their first defeat in the league last Thursday in Father Tierney Park against a strong Buncrana team. The boys have qualified for the county semi final with the date and opposition yet to be decided. This Thursday the boys are going to Lisbellaw for a challenge match. The boys should be at the park for 4.45pm. On Friday last we hosted Lisbellaw for challenge games at under 8 and under 10. A great evening's fun was had by all with the visitors winning the under 8 game and the Aodh Ruadh boys coming out on top in the under 10 game. Thanks to all the parents who attended the games. There is no underage hurling training this Sunday due to the All-Ireland hurling final. Training resumes on Sunday, 14th September.

~ LADIES ~
Last Friday the ladies got over their loss in the Intermediate final with a comprehensive win over Kilcar. It was a fine team display by the girls. There are two games left in the league. These are against at home to MacCumhaills and away to Saint Michael's. A win against MacCumhaill's would leave Aodh Ruadh still in with a shout of taking the intermediate league title.

The minor girls started their season on Monday, 1st September with an excellent win in Mountcharles. They beat Saint Naul's by 5-11 to 2-4 and hope to have another game against Four Masters later this week. Time and date to be confirmed.

The under 12 girls tasted championship disappointment last Saturday in Convoy when they lost their county 'A' semi final against a very accomplished Milford outfit. The Aodh Ruadh players can be proud of their performance though, as they battled well and never gave up. This marks the end of the under 12 season.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The minors battled bravely in their championship play-off, but Bundoran's happy knack of scoring goals carried them through on a scoreline of 5-5 to 0-13. There was only a point in the tie at half time, but a run of three goals after the break saw the wheels fall of the Aodh challenge. That isn't to say that Ballyshannon heads dropped though, as they fought back to within six points of the seasiders. However Bundoran were able to see out the remainder of the game just picking off enough scores to keep Ballyshannon at arm's length. Ronan Drummond and Brian Patton were very staunch at the back while Paul Hughes put in a heavy shift at midfield, as well as chipping in with a couple of points. Up front Hugh McNeil, Chris Goan, Damien Cleary and David Dolan all had outstanding games with Francis McShea and Shane Carthy also popping up to get their names on the scoresheet. That defeat ends the 2008 season for the minors.

The third round of games in the Bakery cup takes place this Wednesday at 6.30pm.

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8 September

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh made the long trip north to Portsalon last Saturday missing a slew of players. Fanad Gaels took full advantage of the situation and pummeled Ballyshannon with a 1-16 to 0-9 beating. On what was a tough day at the office for the Ernesiders there were a few chinks of light. There was a very impressive return to play for Martin Gallagher who lined out in the green and white for the first time this year. There were also impressive displays from David Dolan and Johnny Gallagher who marshaled Seamie Friel well. There is no game this weekend and the next action for the club will be at the Kilmacud Sevens on All-Ireland weekend.

~ GOLF CLASSIC ~
Aodh Ruadh and Erne Gaels are running their annual Golf Classic on Wednesday 17th September in Bundoran Golf Club. Anybody interested in taking part please contact the Pro Shop at Bundoran Golf Club on 071-9841302 or Terence McShea on 087-2360815. Anyone who has free time and feels like helping out is asked to get in contact. Lack of golf experience is no barrier as all hands will be put to good use on the day.

~ HURLING ~
The under 12s had a very competitive match away against Lisbellaw on Thursday last, winning a great game by four points. Underage hurling resumes on Sunday, 14th September at 12 noon for under 8s, 10s and 12s.

Aodh Ruadh hurling committee would like to congratulate Billy Finn on his recent retirement from teaching. We wish him many years of health and happiness and have no doubt that teachings loss is hurling's gain!

~ LADIES ~
The senior Ladies are away to Saint Michael's on Sunday. The minors lost to Four Masters last Thursday. There is training for the minors and seniors on Tuesday and Fridays at 7pm.

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15 September

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
No action for the seniors last weekend, but they will be looking forward to the Kilmacud Sevens this Saturday. Aodh Ruadh are in group six with Kilcoo from Down, Emo of Laois and Senchalstown from Meath.

~ BEST WISHES ~
Best wishes to Billy Finn who is in Sligo Hospital at the moment recuperating from a minor stroke. Everyone in the club wishes Billy a full and speedy recovery.

~ HURLING ~
The seniors play Burt in the senior championship semi final on Sunday 12 noon in MacCumhaill Park. A big showing of Ballyshannon support would be very much appreciated.

The under 12 hurlers suffered a heartbreaking defeat in the county semi-final against Burt in Burt on Thursday last. The boys were 10 points down at half time, but they fought back to get on level terms with four minutes to go. But unfortunately a bad mistake led to Burt getting a goal with a couple of minutes to go and followed up with a point. The final score was Burt 3-4, Aodh Ruadh 3-1. The boys did very well to get to this stage of the championship and offer us much needed hope for the future. On Friday last we travelled to Lisbellaw where we played challenge games against the home club. Our under 8s lost, while our under 10s won. To finish a very busy week under 10s took part in an Ulster blitz in Strabane on Saturday. We won two games against Strabane and Saint Eunan's 'B' and lost two games against Dungannon and Saint Eunan's 'A'. It was a very competitive blitz and the boys will have learned much from the experience.

Our annual skills competition takes place this Sunday at 6pm in Father Tierney Park.

~ LADIES ~
The senior ladies traveled to Dunfanaghy last Sunday where they drew with Saint Michaels. They have one more game remaining in their league campaign against MacCumhaill's

There is training for the minors and seniors on Tuesday and Fridays at 7pm.

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22 September

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
The seniors had good craic down at the Kilmacud Sevens. They got off to a flyer with victory over Senschalstown, but a narrow loss against Emo and defeat to ultimate semi-finalists Kilcoo ended their involvement. It's back to a diet of league action this Saturday when Father Tierney Park hosts the senior clash of Aodh Ruadh and Termon at 5.45pm. That game is preceded by the reserve game at 4.15pm.

~ GOOD LUCK ~
A busy weekend coming up for club chairman Terence McShea. On Saturday he will be down in Malahide refereeing at the Ladies sevens, then on Sunday he will don the white coat to umpire at the intermediate Ladies final between Clare and Tipperary. Best wishes to Terence from everyone in the club.

~ GOLF CLASSIC ~
There was a great turn out for Aodh Ruadh and Erne Gaels' annual Golf Classic last Wednesday and the teams were blessed with a rare spell of good weather for the day's action. Many thanks to all the teams that took part, the event sponsors and to Bundoran golf club for hosting the event.

~ ALCOHOL AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE ~
Senior inter-county players have been lending their support to the Alcohol and Substance Abuse Prevention programme. There is a link to Donegal's contribution at the aodhruadh.org on the left hand side of the home page.

~ HURLING ~
The seniors were badly beaten by Burt in the senior championship final in Ballybofey last Sunday. Burt won by 3-25 to 0-9. Ballyshannon got the first score, but thereafter the northerners just took control and eased out comfortable winners in the end.

The annual Aodh O Dalaigh under 12 tournament takes place in Father Tierney park on Sunday 28th. Play begins at 11 am and all supporters are welcome. The under 12 management and players would like to thank Packy McGrath of McGrath's Bouncy Castles for his very generous sponsorship of a set of track suits for the boys it is much appreciated.

On Sunday our second annual skills competition took place in Father Tierney park and 37 young hurlers took part in the event. The winners in each section were - Under 8: first, Liam O'Sullivan; second, Stephen Lee; and third, Padraig Keenaghan. Under 10: first Stephen Anderson; second, Oisín Rooney; and third, Patrick Cassidy. Under 12: first, Eddie Lynch; second, Jamie Brennan; and third Colm Kelly. It was a great evenings fun and entertainment for everyone. John Rooney would like to thank Peter Horan, Michael Ayres and Eddie Lynch for all their help on the day and a special thanks to all the parents who helped on the evening and made it such an enjoyable event. Thanks also to Paul Gillespie at C&C and Gerry Lally at BWG Foods for their help with the refreshments.

Our under 8 team played Letterkenny Gaels in their final game of the season in Letterkenny on Friday last. The lads finished off the season with a great win, these young hurlers put a great effort in all year.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
This Wednesday night, 24th September sees Kieran Keown's team take on Ryan Granaghan's side in the 51st Bakery cup final. The final throws in at Father Tierney park at 6.30pm with Terence McShea officiating.

This Saturday 27th September the Sean Slevin under 14 tournament will take place in Father Tierney Park and the Lakeside. There are eight teams taking part including Termon, The Loup, Glencar / Manorhamilton, Grange, Erne Gaels, Melvin Gaels, Bundoran and Aodh Ruadh. The first matches throw in at 11.00am sharp. Parents are each asked to provide a loaf of sandwiches as there will be a substantial number of hungry players to be fed come lunchtime. Anyone who can give a hand out with the catering, officiating at the games or in any other capacity is asked to contact Jim Kane on 086-2849425 or come along on the day.

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29 September

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh got two valuable division 1B points with a win against a scratch Termon side. Michael 'Sticky' Ward was in particularly good form scoring five points from play, while Pauric Buggy was accurate from frees, pointing four in the 0-12 to 0-8 over the northerners. There is a full match report on aodhruadh.org
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~ MEETING ~
The monthly senior club meeting takes place on Thursday 2nd October in Aras Aoidh Ruadh at 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ HURLING ~
Aodh Ruadh Hurling committee hosted the Annual Aodh O Dalaigh under 12 Hurling Tournament in ideal conditions in Father Tierney Park on Sunday last. Eight teams took part in this tournament namely:- Four Masters, Saint Eunan's, Coolera/Strandhill of Sligo, Knocks of Fermanagh, Lisbellaw A and B of Fermanagh and Aodh Ruadh A and B. Aodh Ruadh won the main honours, defeating Lisbellaw by 7-7 to 3-2 in the final. There is a full report on the day with loads of pictures on aodhruadh.org.
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There are images on aodhruadh.org showing the presentation new tracksuits to the under 12 team from of Packy McGrath of McGrath's Bouncy Castles. In addition there are also images from the recent skills competition held in Father Tierney Park.

Underage hurling has concluded for the year and will resume in March 2009. Thanks to everyone who helped out throughout the year.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The under 14s won the Sean Slevin memorial tournament last Saturday with victory over the Loup from Derry.

The under 13s travel to Donegal town this Saturday to take on Four Masters. The match throws in at Tir Chonaill park at 11pm. The bus leaves Father Tierney Park at 10pm.

Ryan Granaghan's side won the 51st Bakery Cup final with victory over Kieran Keown's team last Wednesday. Check out the pictures from the final on aodhruadh.org.
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OCTOBER

6 October

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Back to league action for the senior footballers this week when they host Fanad Gaels in Father Tierney Park on Sunday at 3.00pm. The reserve game against the same opposition throws in at 1.30pm.

~ IMPORTANT DATES ~
Some dates for your diary. The club dinner dance has been set for Sunday 29th November 2008 with music by John Meehan followed by DJ Mojo. The club AGM is scheduled for Sunday 14th December 2008. And finally some advance notice on the club's centenary function. This will take place on Sunday 24th October 2009, one hundred years to the very date of the club's foundation. By happy coincidence it's also a bank holiday weekend.

~ HURLING ~
Underage hurling has concluded for the year and will resume in March 2009. Thanks to everyone who helped out throughout the year.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The under 16 PJ Roper Tournament takes place this Saturday in Father Tierney Park. Aodh Ruadh players are asked to bring a loaf of sandwiches for the lunch-time refreshments. Anyone who wants to lend a hand is more than welcome along to what promises to be a superb day of football.

The under 13s take on Bundoran this Saturday. The game is down for Father Tierney Park, but the time is yet to be decided. Players will be notified at Wednesday training.

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13 October

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Survival in a massively competitive Division 1B is in touching distance for Aodh Ruadh after 1-17 to 0-13 in Father Tierney park last Sunday. The first half saw Ballyshannon give one of the their most complete performances of the year to date. This was one of the few occasions that Sylvester Maguire has been able to deal from a full deck this year and it showed as Aodh Ruadh romped into an 11 point lead at one stage. Stephen Ward was majestic at midfield and there was an accurate and intelligent display from Pauric Buggy. The pair delivered precise, quick ball into Michael 'Sticky' Ward and Barry Ward who were in top form in front of the posts, Sticky clocking up six points from play. There was also a welcome return for Ronan Matthews, recently back from Chad. He was subbed on for Philip O'Reilly and performed well in a roving commission. A draw against Termon on Saturday would secure Division 1B football for Ballyshannon in 2009. Should Aodh Ruadh lose and Fanad Gaels win their final game against Saint Michael's, Ballyshannon will find themselves in a relegation play-off with Malin. The game against Termon takes place this Saturday, 18th October in Glenswilly at 5.30pm. It is preceded by the reserve game at 4pm.

~ CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE ~
A new panorama picture showing the latest progress at Munday's field can be viewed on aodhruadh.org. The picture shows the base laid down for a running track right around the ground and the recently erected stanchions for the ball catches. The work is coming on well, with Park Committee Chairman, Tom Daly, suggesting that the facility will be open to use at some point in March 2009.
View the latest panorama picture of the progress in Munday's Field.

The last meeting of the Club Committee saw some debate about the naming of the Centre of Excellence. The Park Committee put forward the name Pairc Aodh Ruadh. This was met with a counter proposal that the facility should commemorate a clubman, with the name Pairc Aodh O Dalaigh being put forward. It was agreed to put the issue out for further debate. Anyone who might have views on the matter is asked to contact a committee member so that their opinion may be reflected when the issue is debated at the next Club Committee meeting.

~ GAELIC TELECOM CHEQUE ~
Aodh Ruadh has received its latest cheque from Gaelic Telecom. The Club would like to sincerely thank all members who joined Gaelic Telecom and supported the Club. We would ask all existing and new members to consider joining Gaelic Telecom as this scheme generates an ongoing source of revenue for the Club at a time when funding is becoming increasingly constrained

~ HURLING ~
Underage hurling has concluded for the year and will resume in March 2009. Thanks to everyone who helped out throughout the year.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The PJ Roper under 16 Tournament ran off last Saturday in Father Tierney Park. Teams from Grange and Melvin Gaels joined Aodh Ruadh on a superb day for football. The final was between Aodh Ruadh and Melvin Gaels. Ballyshannon prevailed by 1-8 to 0-1, a scoreline that by no means reflects the battling display put in by Kinlough.
Read the full results and a report on the final plus team pictures.

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.

The under 14s' had a good win over the Loup of Derry on Saturday, 27th September, to bring the Sean Slevin Trophy back to Ballyshannon by a scoreline of 5-16 to 2-8
Read the full report

The under 13s recorded a heavy 7-18 to 0-5 victory over Bundoran last Saturday. Aodh Ruadh were simply in a different class to the seasiders. Pauric Patton was pulling strings freely at midfield while David McGurrin led the scoring up front. A win over Four Masters this weekend would see Ballyshannon progress to the Regional final.

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20 October

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
A two point win over Termon secured Division 1B football for Aodh Ruadh in 2009. Fanad Gaels put 14 points on a shadow Saint Michael's side earlier on Sunday meaning Aodh Ruadh knew they had to get a victory against the county finalists. Playing with a driving wind in the first half Ballyshannon struggled to make an impression, spurning a number of good scoring chances and went in at half time only two points up. In the second half Aodh Ruadh really upped the work rate and showed a greater desire to win. Buddy Greene was good in goals and Martin Gallagher was one of the stand out performers in the back line. Stephen Ward was colossal in the middle of the park, his contribution being the main difference between the sides. Niall McCready had great game too, driving on the team from start to finish. After he got the eye in Val Murray caused havoc and registered a match winning haul of four points. It says something for the cut throat nature of football in Division 1B that had Aodh Ruadh secured another win and two more league points they would have in line for promotion rather than battling relegation. There is a full match report on aodhruadh.org.

~ LADIES ~
The Ladies AGM takes place this Sunday 26th October at 6pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. Everyone from parents, players to anyone with even a passing interest in Ladies football in Ballyshannon is invited to attend.

Watch out for Niamh Gallagher when she makes her long awaited small screen debut in the new series of Underdogs. Tune into TG4 this Thursday at 9.30pm, or you can also catch the repeat on Saturday night at 11.15pm.

The minor girls have a game in Glenties against Naomh Conaill this Saturday with the throw in at 4pm. This is the last game of the season for the minors. Travel details will be supplied during the week.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The Bord na nÓg AGM has been set for Saturday 22nd November at 5pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. Managers are asked to compile and submit their reports for the year and return them to John Hughes at info@aodhruadh.org.

The under 13s qualified for the divisional final against Dungloe with a 5-17 to 1-6 victory over the Four Masters in Donegal Town last Saturday. Ballyshannon delivered a team performance of the highest calibre where every player, including the subs played their part. Special mention must be made of Matthew Maguire, one of the youngest members of the team, for his man-to-man marking job on the Four Masters danger man. Along with Eamon McGrath he marshaled the back line with considerable authority. Pauric Patton and captain James Kelly controlled the mid-field throughout while David McGurrin and Jamie McDonald were masterful up front with Jamie bagging a hat-trick of goals. The divisional final against Dungloe is penciled in for Monday 27th October. However that date is not definitive and the venue and throw in time had yet to be decided. Players and supporters are asked to stay in touch with the team management for the latest details. Wherever the game is played everyone in the town is strongly urged to travel 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.

Training in the New Hall at Colaiste Cholmcille will commence once again on Friday 7th November. Under 8s and 10s will be in between 6pm and 7pm with under 12s training from 7pm to 8pm.

~ CLUB HISTORY ~
The Donegal Democrat archive for 1952 is now available to view in the history section of aodhruadh.org.

~ IMPORTANT DATES ~
Some dates for your diary. The club dinner dance has been set for Sunday 29th November 2008 with music by John Meehan followed by DJ Mojo. The club AGM is scheduled for Sunday 14th December 2008. And finally some advance notice on the club's centenary function. This will take place on Saturday 24th October 2009, one hundred years to the very date of the club's foundation. By happy coincidence it's also a bank holiday weekend.

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27 October

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
The Thirds play their long-awaited league semi-final against Malin next weekend. At the time of writing there was no firm day, time or venue, so watch local press for full details.

~ LADIES ~
There was a good turnout at the Ladies AGM last Sunday, especially encouraging was the presence of a larger number of players than usual. Teddy Kane retained his position as chairman, while Karol Foley came in as treasurer and Catherine Lloyd takes up the reins as PRO. The position of secretary remains unfilled.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The monthly Bord na nÓg meeting takes place on Thursday, 30th October in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh at 9pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

The under 13 divisional final against Dungloe down for Bank Holiday Monday, was postponed. No date for the rescheduled match has been announced at the time of writing.

Training in the New Hall at Colaiste Cholmcille will commence once again on Friday 7th November. Under 8s and 10s will be in between 6pm and 7pm with under 12s training from 7pm to 8pm.

The Bord na nÓg AGM has been set for Saturday 22nd November at 5pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. Managers are asked to compile and submit their reports for the year and return them to John Hughes at info@aodhruadh.org.

~ IMPORTANT DATES ~
Some dates for your diary. The club dinner dance has been set for Sunday 29th November 2008 with music by John Meehan followed by DJ Mojo. The club AGM is scheduled for Sunday 14th December 2008. And finally some advance notice on the club's centenary function. This will take place on Saturday 24th October 2009, one hundred years to the very date of the club's foundation. By happy coincidence it's also a bank holiday weekend.

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NOVEMBER

3 November

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
The Thirds earned a 2-7 to 0-7 win against Glenfin in Mountcharles last Saturday to book their place in the division four league final. There was a man of the match display from David Dolan in midfield which he capped with a super goal. He was run close by Ronan Matthews who put in a tremendous effort across the 60 minutes. Also on the scoresheet with a green flag was David Downey. It was a great performance by the team as a whole, especially considering their last competitive action was in August. Initial indications are that the final, which will be against Saint Eunan's, is down for next weekend. Keep an eye on the local press for the final updates. With the thirds bidding to make it back-to-back league titles they deserve a massive show of support from the green and white. Please come out and get behind the team.

~ MEETING ~
The monthly Club Committee meeting takes place on Thursday, 6th November in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh at 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ LADIES ~
The ladies held their annual AGM in Aras Aodh Ruadh on 26th October with a small crowd attending. An excellent year of progress was rounded up across all age levels and hopes are high that one, if not a few, of our ladies teams will bring back some silverware to the club in 2009, our centenary year. A big thank you to all those who were involved with the ladies in any way in the past year especially our outgoing officers: Teddy Kane, Chairman; Louise Foy, Secretary; Gabby McGloin, Registrar; Claire Flood, PRO and Katie Flood Treasurer. Positions for 2009 were filled on the night. The officers for 2009 are: Teddy Kane, Chairman; Gabby McGloin, Registrar; Karol Foley, Treasurer and Catherine Lloyd, PRO. The position of secretary will be filled at a later date. A big thank you to all our managers this year: Teddy Kane, PJ Patton, Claire Flood, Louise Foy, Coleman Kerr, Niamh Gallagher, Bernie Gillespie, Marita Maguire and Eleanor Rooney.

The under 10s will commence training in the Mercy Hall on Wednesday, November 12th under Bernie Gillespie, Marita Maguire and Eleanor Rooney for the winter months before moving outside in the early spring. The cost is two euro per child and all are welcome.

The new series of 'Underdogs' has started on TG4 with the formidable Niamh Gallagher taking part. Catch up with her progress every Thursday on TG4 at 9.30pm.

~ HURLING ~
Aodh Ruadh underage hurling management would like to thank councilor Barry O'Neill for his generous grant of €500 from his County Councilors Development Fund for the promotion of underage hurling in the club.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The under 13 divisional final against Dungloe has been fixed for Saturday, 8th November in Glenties. The throw in is at 1.15pm and a big show of support from Ballyshannon would be much appreciated as the lads attempt to bring some silverware back to the club.

Training in the New Hall at Colaiste Cholmcille will commences this Friday 7th November. Under 8s and 10s will be in between 6pm and 7pm with under 12s training from 7pm to 8pm.

The Bord na nÓg AGM has been set for Saturday 22nd November at 5pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. Everyone with an interest in underage football in Ballyshannon is asked to attend.

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10 November

~ CONDOLENCES ~
Aodh Ruadh would like to extend its sincerest sympathies to the families and loved ones of all those who died in the terrible tragedy that took place on the Donegal Road last Sunday. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a h-anamacha uaisle.

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
The thirds Division 4 league final clash with Saint Eunan's fell victim to the weather. No date has yet been fixed for the game, but it will definitely NOT take place this weekend.

~ LADIES ~
The under 10s will commence training in the Mercy Hall on Wednesday, November 12th from 6pm to 7pm under Bernie Gillespie, Marita Maguire and Eleanor Rooney. We hope to see the same enthusiastic response as we had for the same team last year. The cost is two euro per child and all are welcome.

The new series of "Underdogs" continues on TG4. Niamh Gallagher is competing in the current series with great success so far. Follow all the action on Thursdays at 9.30pm.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The under 13s played Dungloe in the Southern Regional final at Glenties last Sunday. Aodh Ruadh delivered an excellent performance and dominated the game throughout. The Ernesiders lead by 3-4 to no score at half time. Dungloe launched a valiant fight back in the second half, but Aodh Ruadh prevailed on a scoreline of 5-5 to 0-2. Jamie McDonald topped the scoring for Ballyshannon with 2-1, but was run close by David McGurrin with 1-3, David was also unlucky to have a goal disallowed. Matthew Gettins and Patrick Dixon both weighed in with a goal apiece, while Johnny Gethins rounded off the scoring with a well taken point. Aodh Ruadh now face Termon in the county semi final. The game is a rematch between last year's under 12 county finalists and is sure to be a tightly fought contest. The two sides will meet this Saturday with the time and venue yet to be fixed at the time of writing. Keep and eye on local press for details. Finally the team and management send their best wishes to Ryan Gillen who had to go to hospital with a knee injury after the match. Get well soon Ryan.

Training in the New Hall at Colaiste Cholmcille will continues this Friday, 14th November. Under 8s and 10s will be in between 6pm and 7pm with under 12s training from 7pm to 8pm.

The Bord na nÓg AGM has been set for Saturday 22nd November at 5pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. Everyone with an interest in underage football in Ballyshannon is asked to attend.

~ IMPORTANT DATES ~
Some dates for your diary. The club dinner dance has been set for Saturday 29th November 2008 with music by John Meehan followed by DJ Mojo. Tickets are available now from usual sources. The club AGM is scheduled for Sunday 14th December 2008.

~ LOTTO ~
The Lotto draw was postponed until Wednesday night as a mark of respect to those who lost their lives in the tragedy on the Donegal Road last Sunday.

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17 November

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
The Thirds will take on Saint Eunan's for the division four league title at 2.00pm on Sunday, 23rd November at Tir Chonaill park, Donegal town. The game is preceded by the under 13 county final at 12.30pm which also pairs Aodh Ruadh and Saint Eunan's. With the thirds bidding to make it back-to-back league titles they deserve a massive show of support from the town. Please come out and get behind the team.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The under 13s needed to call on all their reserves of guts and skill to overcome a determined Termon outfit in the county semi-final at Tir Chonaill park last Saturday. Ballyshannon got off to an awful start as Termon raced into a nine point lead early in the first half. Nevertheless Aodh Ruadh held their nerve and pulled back to within a point of the north Donegal outfit by the break with the scores at 2-8 to 4-3. The fight back was primarily attributable to the driving runs and scoring of Pauric Patton which hauled Aodh Ruadh back into the game. David McGurrin and Jamie McDonald were also instrumental in keeping Ballyshannon in touch with their economical shooting. Michael McNeely played some great football throughout the match and his terrier like tackling did much to disrupt Termon's attacking momentum. Johnny Gethins also excelled when he was pulled from his usual half forward berth to half back. Eamon McGrath played with considerable confidence and showed great relish as the game entered its decisive last ten minutes. Paddy Gillespie was unstinting and energetic throughout and gave a great performance in a game where the back line faced many periods of sustained Termon pressure. That pressure was greatest as the game entered its closing stages, but Aodh Ruadh were the side that was able to work the closing scores to win the game on a scoreline of 4-17 to 6-6.

AODH RUADH: Conor Gilmartin; Matthew Maguire, Eamon McGrath, Paddy Gillespie; Matthew Gettins, Darren Gethins, Michael McNeely; Niall Harley, James Kelly (0-1); Johnny Gethins (0-2), Colm Kelly (0-1), Patrick Dixon; Jamie McDonald (1-2), David McGurrin (1-7), Pauric Patton (2-4).
TERMON: Keelan Doherty; Joe McCosker, Kevin Murray, Killian McConaghey; Alan Dugra, Keelan Mellett, Damian Kearns; Aidan Sweeney (1-2), Michael Kelly (1-0); Ricky Gallagher (1-0), Shane Callaghan (1-0), Fintan O'Flynn (0-1); Keelan McDaid (0-1), Dara McDaid (0-2), Joe Callaghan (2-0).

The final against Saint Eunan's takes place at 12.30pm on Sunday, 23rd November at Tir Chonaill park, Donegal town. It is the opening game in double header with the Division 4 league final which also features Aodh Ruadh and Saint Eunan's. Needless to say this is a very big day for Ballyshannon Gaels so a massive show of green and white support from Ballyshannon is requested as our footballers bid to bring some silverware back to the club.

Training in the New Hall at Colaiste Cholmcille will continues this Friday, 21st November. Under 8s and 10s will be in between 6pm and 7pm with under 12s training from 7pm to 8pm.

Bord na nÓg host a quiz night in Owen Roe's on Thursday, 20th November. The questions start flying at 9.30pm with Sylvester Maguire in the quiz master's chair. Be sure to come along for a great night's craic and some fantastic prizes.

The Bord na nÓg AGM takes place this Saturday, 22nd November at 5pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. Everyone with an interest in underage football in Ballyshannon is asked to attend.

~ LADIES ~
Under 10 girls continue training in the Mercy Hall on Wednesday nights. The session runs from 6-7pm and the cost is €2 per child. All are welcome.

Big congratulations are in order for Tara Khan who was presented with an award for her outstanding contribution to the under 16 ladies at county level this year. The award was presented to Tara on November 8th and is truly well-deserved.

The new series of Underdogs continues on TG4 with our own Niamh Gallagher getting all the best lines. Catch all the drama and highlights on Thursdays at 9.30pm.

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24 November

~ DINNER DANCE ~
The club dinner dance takes place this Saturday 29th November 2008 with music by John Meehan followed by DJ Mojo. It promises to be a great night's fun and entertainment so make sure you don't miss out. Tickets are available now from usual sources.

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
The thirds made it back-to-back division 4 league titles last Sunday as the defeated Saint Eunan's in Tir Chonaill park. It was a desperate day to be playing football with hail showers making for difficult playing conditions. Aodh Ruadh played into the teeth of the gale in the first half and did well to only be going in 0-6 to 0-2 down. The Letterkenny outfit stretched their lead to eight points at the start of the second half before the introduction of Joe Watson with 12 minutes left brought Aodh Ruadh back into the game. A point from Damien Conlon was followed by a point and goal from David Downey to leave a goal between the teams with ten minutes left. Watson then weighed in with a goal and two points in the closing stages while Padraig Loughlin scored the insurance point to make it a second league title in a row for Ballyshannon on a scoreline of 2-11 to 1-11.
Read the full match report

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
It was disappointment for the under 13s last Sunday as Saint Eunan's made the better use of the breeze in Tir Chonaill park to win the county championship. The match opened with a flurry of scores. It was 2-1 to 1-2 in favour of Aodh Ruadh after 15 minutes thanks to a goal by David McGurrin and a goal and a point from Jamie McDonald. Aodh Ruadh besieged the Letterkenny goals for the rest of the half, but could only tag on another point, a David McGurrin free, in first half injury time. Saint Eunan's had the breeze in the second half and, although Aodh Ruadh opened brightly with a point from Johnny Gethins and a David McGurrin goal. From the 43rd minute on though, Saint Eunan's took control and Ballyshannon wilted under the force of the wind assisted onslaught. Matthew Gettins got a late score for Aodh Ruadh, but it was Saint Eunan's that took the spoils. The final score was 5-05 to 3-04.
Read the full match report

Under 12 training continues this Friday night from 7pm to 8pm in the hall. A special word of thanks must go to the young coaches who got involved last week and helped the smooth running of the session. It's great to see young players taking an interest in the future of the club. Players are reminded to practice their core strength work every day so they can grow up strong and avoid injuries and also their kick passing for next week. Remember head down, foot up!

Training for under 8s continues this Friday from 6-7pm. It was great to see an increase in numbers and potential players are reminded that the more the merrier! Congratulations to young Tiernan Dolan who showed fantastic hand passing skills and was this week's player of the week. All players are reminded that they are to practice their catching everyday this week, at least ten times daily! Many thanks also to the young coaches Conor Kennedy, Philip Patton, Conor McShea, Matthew Gettins, Jason Gallagher, Barry Leonard and everyone else who got involved and helped out. All new coaches are welcome and there is always something to do! Parents who wish to involved are especially welcome and reminded that they are the most important coach in their future stars lives.

The Bord na nÓg AGM took place last weekend with a super crowd attending. The following officers were appointed. Chairman, Paddy Kelly; Secretary and PRO, John Hughes; Finance Officer, to be filled; under 8 manager, Simon Gillespie; under 10 manager, to be filled; under 12 manager, Colman Kerr; under 14 manager, Niall McCready; under 16 manager, Barry Gallagher; minor manager, to be filled. Congratulations to everyone appointed on the night and best wishes for a successful centenary year in 2009. Anyone interested in the posts yet to be filled should contact John Hughes on 087-6431805 or info@aodhruadh.org.

There was a great night's craic at the Bord na nÓg quiz last Thursday. Thanks to everyone who turned up and supported the club.

~ LADIES ~
Under 10 girls continue training in the Mercy Hall on Wednesday nights. The session runs from 6-7pm and the cost is €2 per child. All are welcome.

The new series of Underdogs continues on TG4 with our own Niamh Gallagher getting all the best lines. Catch all the drama and highlights on Thursdays at 9.30pm.

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DECEMBER

1 December

~ BINGO ~
There is a pre-Christmas Special Bingo in the Abbey Centre Ballyshannon this Friday 5th December at 9pm sharp. A prize fund of €2,500 must go on the night. House in the final game of the night will see you going home with a cool €700, which would sort out a few presents! There are 11 games in all and prices for books are as follows: A double book is €15, a double double book is €25 and a single book is €8.

~ DINNER DANCE ~
The club dinner dance took place last Saturday, 29th November, in Dorrian's Hotel. There was a good crowd in attendance and a very convivial atmosphere prevailed. After a fine meal promptly served by the staff in Dorrian's the awards ceremony got under way. The recipients were: PJ Buggy, who was inaugurated into the Aodh Ruadh Hall of Fame; Club person of the year, Hurling stalwart John Rooney; Senior player of the year, Stephen Ward; Reserve team player of the year, Barry Travers; Third team player of the year, Brian Dorrian, with the third team were also receiving their medals for winning the Division Four title on the night. There was a Special hurling award for Billy Finn who continues to recuperate at St John's hospital in Sligo, all visitors welcome; Ladies player of the year, Sarah Patton; Special Appreciation Award, out-going Bord na nÓg chairman, Jim Kane; and finally Young footballer of the year, Barry Leonard; Young hurler of the year, Stephen Ryan. There were also presentations made to managers of the senior team, Sylvester Maguire and Benjy Drummond, reserve team, Paul Kane and the Ladies team, Teddy Kane and PJ Patton. With the gongs handed out the night was topped off with music by John Meehan followed by DJ Mojo. An extended report and pictures from the night should be available on aodhruadh.org shortly.

~ HURLERS ~
The hurlers held their AGM last Tuesday with a good attendance. The following positions were filled: Chairman John Rooney; Assistant Chairman, Mark Sheerin; Secretary, Emma Gaughan; Assistant Secretary, Stephen Sheerin. The following managers were appointed: under 8, Eddie Lynch and Dennis Daly; under 10, Michael Ayres and Kevin McDermott; under 12, John Rooney; under 14, Peter Horan; under 16, Kevin Loughlin. The position of senior manager wasn't filled on the night. If anyone is interested please contact any committee member.

There is an underage hurling presentation on this Saturday. Notes will be distributed during the week and it is hoped that all parents will attend this event and meet our very special guest any enquiries to John Rooney.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
A useful resource for anyone looking to attend coaching development courses in locations throughout Ireland is www.education.gaa.ie. The site is also an invaluable tool for coaches, parents and players looking for ideas. Access is free following a brief registration.

Under 12 training continues this Friday night from 7pm to 8pm in the hall. Well done to all those who took part and remember to keep practicing your kick pass and core strength work. A special word of thanks to all the coaches who took part in helping the players. We all hope that this great work continues on throughout the year.

Training for under 8s continues this Friday from 6-7pm. Well done to all who participated in last week's training, in particular congratulations to our players of the week: Cian for the under 5s; Donagh for the under 7s and Tiernan who scooped the award for the second week in a row for the under 8's. It was great to see so many new boys turn up and hopefully we can encourage even more young players to come up and train on a Friday night. Remember to practice kick passing this week! Once again many thanks to all the young coaches who turned up on the night and gave a hand with coaching young players. Anyone interested in coaching fundamental stage sport, not just football, is invited to attend and give a hand. Also remember this Friday is 'Bring a Friend' night, so if you have any friends who would like to start playing football get them up and spread the word!

~ LADIES ~
Congratulations to Sarah Patton who received Ladies Player of the Year at the annual club dinner dance last Saturday. She made an outstanding contribution to the team this year and the award was truly deserved.

Under 10 girls continue training in the Mercy Hall on Wednesday nights. The session runs from 6-7pm and the cost is €2 per child. All are welcome.

The new series of Underdogs continues on TG4 with our own Niamh Gallagher getting all the best lines. Catch all the drama and highlights on Thursdays at 9.30pm.

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8 December

~AGM ~
The Aodh Ruadh AGM takes place this Sunday, 14th December at 5pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. This meeting is a review of 2008 in the club and looks forward to our centenary year in 2009. Anyone with an interest in the development of Gaelic games in Ballyshannon is welcome to attend.

~ HURLERS ~
Saturday, 6th December 2008 was an historic day for hurling in the Aodh Ruadh Club. Vodafone young player of the year 2008, current Vodafone All-star and Galway hurler, Joe Canning, visited the club.
See the full report and pictures

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Under 8 training continues this Friday from 6-7pm. Congratulations to all those who took part and especially to our players of the week Ben, Matthew and Jack. Special word of thanks to all the coaches who participated. A reminder to all players to practice at home what you were training on Friday; so that's kicking for under 5s, pick-ups for under 7s and soloing for under 8s. Remember to practice even harder with your weaker foot as well! A reminder that anyone interested in coaching is welcome to come along and join in.

Under 12 training continues this Friday night from 7-8pm. Well done to all those who attended last week and in particular those players who helped out with the coaching of under 8s. Keep up the core strength work and kick passing. Many thanks to those coaches also who helped out with the coaching of under 12s and once again a reminder that anyone who is interested in coaching and helping out with under 12s is more than welcome to attend.

A useful resource for anyone looking to attend coaching development courses in locations throughout Ireland is www.education.gaa.ie. The site is also an invaluable tool for coaches, parents and players looking for ideas. Access is free following a brief registration.

~ LADIES ~ Under 10 girls continue training in the Mercy Hall on Wednesday nights. The session runs from 6-7pm and the cost is €2 per child. All are welcome.

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15 December

~ CLUB AGM ~
The Aodh Ruadh AGM took place last Sunday, 14th December in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh with a healthy attendance of over 40. Outgoing officers read their reports and there was plenty of debate on the night. The secretary's report is now available to read in the administration section of the site, for those unable to attend on the night. Appointments made on the night were as follows: Patrons, Fr. Cathal O'Fearrai (Kilbarron) and Fr. Frank McManus (The Rock); President, Sean Slevin; Vice President, Peter Conlon; Chairman, Terence McShea; Vice Chairman, Mick McGrath; Secretary, John Magee; Assistant Secretary, TBC; Treasurer, Mary Grimes; Assistant Treasurer, Jimmy Gallagher; P.R.O., John Hughes; Oifigeach na Gaeilge/Scor, Eoin O'Moore; County Board Delegate, Terence McShea; Substitute Delegate, Mick McGrath; Alcohol and Substance Abuse Officer, TBC; Child Protection Officer, John Travers; and Director of Coaching, Simon Gillespie.

~ SCOR ~
Congratulations to Fionnuala McCosker who made it through to the Ulster final of Scor na nÓg after winning through the Ulster semi-final in Aghyaran last Saturday

~ DINNER DANCE ~
Some mightn't have been able to attend, while others will have hazy memories of the night! No matter you can relive the Aodh Ruadh Dinner Dance, complete with Sean Perry witticisms.
Read More

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Under 8 training has concluded for the year and will resume again in mid-January consult the club notes for details. Many thanks to all those players, parents and coaches who participated in the activities and supervised children. Anyone wishing to become involved in coaching this age group or is interested in giving a hand in any way should contact Simon Gillespie. An special congratulations to the players of the week for the final week Dermot, Neil and Stephen and to all the players who took part in our final session of the year. Next year we hope even more under 8s attend our training so get out and spread the word about training times. A reminder to all players to keep practicing what they have learned in the last weeks session so that's the pick-up for 5s soloing for 6s and 7s and the roll for 8s and all that they have learned in the last number of weeks. Once again special thanks to all the young coaches who helped out on Friday night without their help training certainly could not go ahead.

Well done also to all under 12s who participated in last Friday's training, our last of the year. Training will resume again in mid January. Remember it is very important that you practice your core strength exercises and kick passing over the next month on your own or all our hard work over the last number of weeks will be gone! Many thanks to all the players who trained and played over the past year they have been a privilege to work with and we all hope they continue to represent our club with pride in our centenary year next year.

~ COACHING CORNER ~
A reminder to all coaches who have attained or are seeking to attain their own coaching awards within the GAA. The old grading system of Foundation, Level one and Level two has been replaced by a new system designed to develop coaches at three levels: juvenile, youth and adult at five levels each. So that's juvenile (under 6 to under 10) stages 1 - 5, youth (under 12 to minor) stages 1-5 and adult (under 21 - senior) stages 1-5. Information about when and where these programmes are being offered is available online at www.education.gaa.ie. Any person who has an interest in becoming a coach should complete their child protection course and attain a certificate in one of the stages prior to taking a team. Excellent courses are also being offered at county level which tend to be more specific and with further information available online at www.donegalgaa.ie, www.derrygaa.ie and www.sligogaa.ie, while John Morrison is currently writing a series of excellent coaching articles which are available at the Leitrim GAA website.

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22 December

~ SEASON'S GREETINGS ~
Aodh Ruadh wishes all associated with the club and everyone in the wider Ballyshannon community a happy, peaceful Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

~ COACHING CORNER ~
There is a workshop on coaching the goalkeeper in Cloone, county Leitrim on 28th December at 11.30pm. Anyone interested in attending this event should contact Simon on 086-1082554.

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28 December

~ GREAT LOSS ~
It was with great sorrow and sadness that we learned that Sean Slevin, President of Aodh Ruadh, passed away on Monday. Sean was a true pillar of the club. He wore the Aodh Ruadh colours with distinction throughout the 1930s, '40s and '50s, winning county championship medals in 1939, 1942, 1943 and 1951. He served the club as secretary between 1944 and 1950 and as Chairman in 1954 and 1969. A indefatigable worker for Aodh Ruadh, he seldom missed a match, until illness finally curtailed his attendance. Remains repose at the family home from 7pm, Monday with removal on Tuesday evening at 6.45pm to St Patrick's Church, Ballyshannon. Funeral mass on Wednesday at 11am followed by interment in St Patrick's Cemetery, Belleek. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal.

~ LADIES ~
A brief players meeting was held on Saturday 27th for the Ladies team in Aras Aodh Ruadh where plans for the forthcoming year were discussed among players and coaches. We are delighted to have Terence McShea on board this year along with our coaches from last year, Teddy Kane and PJ Patton. We have no doubt that his great experience will stand us in good stead for 2009. Fundraisers and plans for training were discussed so watch this space for further news and updates.

Finally, a massive congratulations to Niamh Gallagher who took part in this year's series of Underdogs on TG4. The team travelled to London for their final and toughest challenge to date. Unfortunately, they were defeated, but Niamh put in a great effort throughout. Her gaeilge liofa meant that she got her fair share of time on camera too! It was a great achievement not only for Niamh herself but the ladies team and the club as a whole.

~ GET WELL SOON ~
Best wishes to our committee member 'the Blue Rooster' Sean O'Mahoney who is currently in hospital. Get well soon, Sean

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