Club Notes Archive - 2009

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2010

JANUARY

5 January

~ MEETINGS ~
A full meeting of the Park/Development Committee will take place at 7.30pm this Thursday night in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. That will be followed by the monthly club meeting at 8.30pm.

~ DONEGAL V FERMANAGH ~
Donegal play Fermanagh this coming Sunday, January 11th at 2.00pm in the Gaelic Life Dr. McKenna Cup. Stewards and programme sellers are asked to assemble in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh at 12.30pm. Bord na nÓg are running a half time draw and a large turnout of sellers is requested.

~ PARK COMMITTEE AGM ~
The AGM of the Park/Development Committee of the club took place in association with the recent club AGM. Officers elected for the centenary year are Chairman: Tom Daly (out-going), Vice Chairman: Peter Conlon (out-going), Secretary: Conal Gallagher (out-going), Treasurer: Terence McShea (out-going), Assistant Treasurer: Jimmy Gallagher (out-going). Full reports and audited financial statements were presented and adopted on the development of two new playing fields at Munday's Field; the club's involvement in the Abbey Centre; the successful Summer Camp; the employment of personnel with the assistance of a Community Employment Scheme; receipt of full planning permission for floodlighting at Munday's Field; the major initiatives on financing the extensive development work underway and plans for further upgrading and development works at the Fr. Tierney Park. New floodlighting at the 'De La Salle' field will be completed shortly to facilitate teams wishing to prepare on a grass surface.

~ HURLING ~
There is a hurling meeting in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh on Friday, 9th January at 8pm. Anyone interested in the promotion of hurling in Ballyshannon is welcome, especially parents of underage players.

It was great to see the redoubtable Billy Finn back home for Christmas and the new year following his recent health travails. While Billy still has a few weeks of recuperation ahead of him, we hope to see him back around the club in the not-too-distant future.

~ CENTENARY DEVELOPMENT DRAW ~
A full and enthusiastic effort is sought from all Aodh Ruadh members and players promoting our Centenary Development Draw with all of the proceeds required for the completion of the new GAA grounds at Munday's field. Ticket distribution will be completed by this weekend and individual club members and players are asked to take responsibility at an individual level to ensure a successful outcome. Tickets are available from Tom Daly, Conal Gallagher, John Magee and Terence McShea. The first batch of sold tickets and returns should be brought back to any of the above-named by Friday, January 23rd.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Indoor underage training resumes on Friday week, 16th January. The under 8s (i.e. those born on or after 1 January 2001) will be in the Mercy Hall, Colaiste Cholmcille, between 6pm and 7pm, while the under 10s (i.e. those born on or after 1 January 1999) will be in the New Hall, Colaiste Cholmcille, between 6pm and 7pm. The under 12s (i.e. those born on or after 1 January 1997) will be the New Hall between 7pm and 8pm. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners, no other footwear allowed.

~ COACHING CORNER ~
The Dublin GAA development website contains excellent articles, links and videos for coaches of hurling and football.

The Ulster Council is staging a development conference in the Glenavon Hotel, Cookstown on Saturday 24th January entitled, 'Physical Activity - Common Goals, Different Roles'. The conference features workshops on the following themes: What to do with five and six year-olds; What the building blocks are for seven and eight year olds; How to coach the children; Breaking and building kicking and striking skills; and Games appropriate for the age groups. Special guests include Professor Niall Moyna of DCU, Joe Kernan and Paudie Butler, National Hurling Director. Places are open to all coaches at a cost of €25 / £20. Anyone interested in attending should contact Seamus McAnaw on 085-1742434.

~ CLUB HISTORY ~
The Donegal Democrat archive for 1953 is now available to view in the history section of aodhruadh.org.

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12 January

~ HURLING ~
Conal Gallagher has taken over as manager of the Aodh Ruadh senior hurlers. Players meeting and training at the handball alley on Saturday 17th January at 3pm. All players are asked to attend.

~ LADIES ~
A correction to the notes from last week, the quiz night for the Ladies will not be going ahead this Thursday night, but will take place at a later date. Watch this space for more details on the quiz and the other fundraisers by the Ladies team.

The senior ladies began training in the Mercy Hall last weekend to kick off the 2009 season. Training will continue on Saturday at 10.15am in the hall. The cost is €2 per person and the session is open to new members as well as those who want to dust off their boots and get involved with the team once more.

Under 10 girls resume training in the Mercy hall this Wednesday, 14th January, from 6-7pm. The cost is €2 per child and all are welcome to attend.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
There will be Bord na nÓg meeting in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh at 9pm on Tuesday, 13th January. All committee members are asked to attend.

Indoor underage training resumes on Friday, 16th January. The under 8s (i.e. those born on or after 1 January 2001) will be in the Mercy Hall, Colaiste Cholmcille, between 6pm and 7pm, while the under 10s (i.e. those born on or after 1 January 1999) will be in the New Hall, Colaiste Cholmcille, between 6pm and 7pm. The under 12s (i.e. those born on or after 1 January 1997) will be the New Hall between 7pm and 8pm. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners, no other footwear allowed.

~ COACHING CORNER ~
The following coaching workshops are being organised by the county board.
Monday 19th January: Prevention Of Injuries / Good Practices in Glenswilly GAA Centre at 7.00pm with Chris McNicholl.
Thursday 5th February: Health and Wellness in the Abbey Hotel, Donegal Town at 7.00pm with Aileen Tohill.
Thursday 12th February: Club Development and Funding in Jacksons Hotel, Ballybofey with Ryan Feeney.
Monday 23rd February: GAA for All in Buncrana GAA Centre at 7.00 pm.
Monday 2nd March: Forward Play / Developing Scores in McCumhaill Park, Ballybofey at 7.30 pm with Philip Kerr.
Thursday 12th March: Games to Develop Football / under 14 to Senior in McCumhaill Park, Ballybofey at 7.30 pm with Terence McWilliams.
Tuesday 14th April: Adapting Fun Games / under 12 Football in McCumhaill Park, Ballybofey at 7.30 pm with Tony Scullion.
Further details on these workshops are available from the County Coaching Officer, Seamus McAnaw, call 085-1742434

~ CENTENARY DEVELOPMENT DRAW ~
A full and enthusiastic effort is sought from all Aodh Ruadh members and players promoting our Centenary Development Draw with all of the proceeds required for the completion of the new GAA grounds at Munday's field. Tickets are available from Tom Daly, Conal Gallagher, John Magee and Terence McShea. The first batch of sold tickets and returns should be brought back to any of the above-named by Friday, January 23rd.

~ DONEGAL V FERMANAGH ~
Huge thanks are due to all those who turned out to help out at the Donegal v Fermanagh Gaelic Life McKenna Cup fixture last Sunday. Congratulations to Graham Russell of the Mullans, Ballyshannon won who the €100 prize in the half-time draw.

~ CLUB HISTORY ~
The Donegal Democrat archive for 1954 is now available to view in the history section of aodhruadh.org.

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19 January

~ LADIES ~
Ladies Intermediate training will continue on Saturday at 10.30am in the hall. The cost is €2 per person and the session is open to new members as well as those who want to dust off their boots and get involved with the team once more.

The under 10 girls continue training in the Mercy Hall this Wednesday night from 6-7pm. The cost is €2 per child and all are welcome to attend.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Well done to all those who took part in the under 8s training on Friday night. A special congratulations to our players of the week Michael, Senan and Neil. Remember to keep practicing what you worked on last Friday. Any coaches interested in helping out should come along on Friday nights at six. All parents please note that under 8 training will take place this Friday night in the New Hall as the Mercy Hall is being prepared for a concert at the weekend.

Indoor underage training also continues on Friday, 23rd January for the under 10s in the New Hall, Colaiste Cholmcille, between 6pm and 7pm. The under 12s will be the New Hall between 7pm and 8pm. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners, no other footwear allowed.

~ COACHING CORNER ~
There are a number of coaching articles and links available on the club website, www.aodhruadh.org. These will be added to on a regular basis. Many of the articles have the same outlook, in particular the need for more small sided games in training with no more than three or four a side. This will significantly improve players' decision making. Many of the top teams in the country adopt a whole-part-whole approach to training. This means beginning training with a game after warm up proceeding then to focusing on drills and skills and finishing with a more tactical game at the end.

~ CLUB CENTENARY ~
There is a planning meeting for the club's centenary year next Tuesday 27th January in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh at 7.30pm.

A full and enthusiastic effort is sought from all Aodh Ruadh members and players promoting our Centenary Development Draw with all of the proceeds required for the completion of the new GAA grounds at Munday's field. Tickets are available from Tom Daly, Conal Gallagher, John Magee and Terence McShea. The first batch of sold tickets and returns should be brought back to any of the above-named by Friday, January 23rd.

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26 January

~ MEETING ~
The monthly senior club meeting takes place on Thursday 29th January in Aras Aoidh Ruadh 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ PITCH BOOKINGS ~
Bookings for the use of Father Tierney Park and the De La Salle field must be made in advance to Peter Conlon (087-6838024).

~ SENIORS ~
Senior training continues at the Lakeside on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6.15pm to 8pm.

~ LADIES ~
Congratulations to Catherine Gillespie, intermediate ladies team member, who made a welcome return to the shores of the Erne this week with 'The Young Americans'. She is part of the all singing, all dancing troupe who travelled all the way from California to put on a show with students from the town in the Mercy Hall. Keep up the good work Catherine!

Congratulations are also in order for our under 10 coach Marita Maguire who got engaged at the weekend! Best wishes are extended to Marita from all the Ladies teams.

Ladies Intermediate training will continue on Saturday mornings at 10.30am in the Mercy Hall. The cost is €2 per person. Hopefully, weather permitting, we should be moving outside in the next few weeks.

The under 10 girls continue training in the Mercy Hall this Wednesday night from 6-7pm. The cost is €2 per child and all are welcome to attend.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Well done to all those who took part in the under 8s training on Friday night. A special congratulations to our players of the week John, Adam and Caonan. Remember to keep practicing what you worked on last Friday. Any coaches interested in helping out should come along on Friday nights at six. All parents please note that under 8 training will take place this Friday night in the Mercy Hall.

Indoor underage training continues on Friday. The under 8s will be in the Mercy Hall, Colaiste Cholmcille, between 6pm and 7pm, while the under 10s will be in the New Hall, Colaiste Cholmcille, between 6pm and 7pm. The under 12s will be the New Hall between 7pm and 8pm. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners, no other footwear allowed.

Simon Gillespie is taking circuit training in the Mercy Hall between 7pm and 8pm for players on the under 16 panel and minor panels and upwards.

~ COACHING CORNER ~
The Ulster Council coaching conference took place last Saturday in Cookstown. For anyone who didn't make it there will be a complete outline of the conference and some videos of the sessions on the Ulster Council website www.ulster.gaa.ie by the end of the week. Anyone who wishes to borrow a copy of the 'Conditioned games for Gaelic Football' DVD should contact Simon. The articles from last year's coaching conference are now available as a link in the coaching corner section of the website.

There are a number of coaching articles and links available on the club website, the latest addition deal with coaching meaningful sessions from last year's provincial coaching conference.

~ CLUB CENTENARY ~
There is a planning meeting for the club's centenary year this Tuesday 27th January in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh at 7.30pm.

~ CLUB HISTORY ~
The Donegal Democrat archive for 1955 is now available to view in the history section of aodhruadh.org.

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FEBRUARY

2 February

~ CONGRATULATIONS ~
Congratulations to Brian Roper on making his record breaking 148th appearance for Donegal. He was in typically industrious form, scoring three superb second half points as Donegal lost to Kerry. He can be justly proud of his achievement and hopefully he will have a few more days to celebrate in the green and gold yet.

~ SENIORS ~
The seniors have their first competitive outing of the year when they take on Derry side, Ballinascreen. The match throws in at Father Tierney park at 2pm.

~ REGISTRATION ~
Club membership for 2009 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. This year a special commemorative centenary membership card and wallet has been ordered and all members will receive these when they submit their registration.

~ PITCH BOOKINGS ~
Bookings for the use of Father Tierney Park and the De La Salle field must be made in advance to Peter Conlon (087-6838024).

~ HURLING ~
Aodh Ruadh hurling committee have a meeting at 8pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh on Thursday, 5th February, all welcome.

Welcome home to Billy Finn. It is great to see him back home and we look forward to seeing him around the park soon.

A date for your diary. The third annual Hurlathon takes place in the Mercy Hall on Saturday 28th March. Watch out for players and others out selling lines and please support generously.

~ LADIES ~
Congratulations to Dearbhaile McNeill and Anna Rafferty who were selected for the under 16 Donegal ladies panel. We're sure they'll do themselves and the club proud and they have certainly earned their places with stellar club records.

Intermediate Ladies training continues in the Mercy Hall at 10.30am on Saturday mornings with the cost at €2 per head.

Under 10 training continues in the Mercy Hall on Wednesday nights from 6-7pm at a cost of €2 per child. All are welcome.

The annual Ladies quiz will take place in Owen Roe's on Thursday, February 19th. A great night of craic is in store with a raffle and spot prizes on the night, along with the infamous 'Wooden Spoon' prize! We're hoping for a big turnout on the night so your support would be greatly appreciated.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The monthly Bord na nÓg meeting takes place on Tuesday 3rd February in Aras Aoidh Ruadh 9pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

Once again a great turnout for under 8 training last Friday. Well done to all those who took part, especially the newcomers. Remember to practice what you have done in training, on Friday night that's hand passing, the pickup and high catching. A special well done to our players of the week Jake, John and Mark. Under 8 training takes place this Friday night at 6pm in the Mercy hall. Anyone participating in the TY coaching work experience should be up for 5.50p.m thanks.

Circuit training continues this Friday night at 7pm in the Mercy Hall and all are welcome. If you have any kind of gym equipment please bring it along with you. Cost is €2.

~ CLUB CENTENARY DRAW ~
A full and enthusiastic effort is sought from all Aodh Ruadh members and players promoting our Centenary Development Draw with all of the proceeds required for the completion of the new GAA grounds at Munday's field. Tickets are available from Tom Daly, Conal Gallagher, John Magee and Terence McShea. Sold tickets and returns can be brought back to any of the above-named.

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9 February

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
The seniors Ulster Club League match against Ballinascreen fell foul of the weather last Sunday. This Sunday Aodh Ruadh face an away trip to Derrylin in the Ulster League with the throw-in set for 2pm. Training continues for all adult players at the Lakeside every Tuesday and Thursday at 6.15pm.

~ SCÓR SINSEAR ~
The first round of Scór Sinsear in Donegal takes place on Saturday, 28th February in Glenswilly. As this is our centenary year, Aodh Ruadh would like to have representation in as many categories as possible. With that in mind, anyone interested representing the club in solo singing, recitation, ballad group, instrumental, set dance, team dance or novelty act categories should contact Eoin O'Moore on 087-4187655 or Peter Campbell on 086-6031725.

~ PITCH BOOKINGS ~
Bookings for the use of Father Tierney Park and the De La Salle field must be made in advance to Peter Conlon (087-6838024).

~ HURLING ~
A date for your diary. The third annual Hurlathon takes place in the Mercy Hall on Saturday 28th March. Watch out for players and others out selling lines and please support generously.

~ LADIES ~
Intermediate Ladies training continues in the Mercy Hall at 10.30am on Saturday mornings with the cost at €2 per head.

Under 10 training continues in the Mercy Hall on Wednesday nights from 6-7pm at a cost of €2 per child. All are welcome.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Well done to all those who took part in under 8 training on Friday night. Remember to practice what you have done in training on Friday night: That's hand passing and kicking the ball. A special well done to our players of the week Daniel, Philip and Shane. Under 8 training takes place this Friday night at 6pm in the mercy hall. Anyone participating in the TY coaching work experience should be up for 5.50pm.

Indoor underage training continues on Friday. The under 10s will be in the New Hall, Colaiste Cholmcille, between 6pm and 7pm. The under 12s will be the New Hall between 7pm and 8pm. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners, no other footwear allowed.

Circuit training continues this Friday night at 7pm in the Mercy Hall and all are welcome. If you have any kind of gym equipment please bring it along with you. Cost is €2.

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16 February

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh traveled to Derrylin with a weakened side last Sunday, but managed to secure a win 2-6 to 0-8 win against the Fermanagh outfit. It was a good run out with some of the younger players delivering notable performances. Next up in the Ulster Club League is the visit of Truagh of Monaghan to Father Tierney Park this Sunday with the throw-in set for 2pm. Players to be at the park for 1pm sharp.

Training continues for all adult players at the Lakeside every Tuesday and Thursday from 6.15pm to 8pm.

There is a meeting for all senior players: i.e. under 21s, thirds, reserves and seniors, at 8pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh this Saturday.

~ HURLING ~
Underage hurling training for 2009 commences on Sunday 1st March at Father Tierney Park. Training for under 8s, under 10s, under 12s and under 14s. Notes with full details will be distributed to schools next week.

A date for your diary. The third annual Hurlathon takes place in the Mercy Hall on Saturday 28th March. Watch out for players and others out selling lines and please support generously.

~ LADIES ~
Don't forget the annual Ladies quiz will take place in Owen Roe's this coming Thursday February 19th. A great night of craic is in store with a raffle and spot prizes on the night, not to mention the infamous "Wooden Spoon" prize! We're hoping for a big turnout on the night so your support would be greatly appreciated, with all proceeds going to the club's Ladies teams.

Congratulations to Tanya O'Shea who recently became engaged! Heartfelt best wishes are extended from all the ladies teams.

Intermediate Ladies training continues at 10.30am on Saturday morning with the cost at €2 per head.

Training for under 12 and under 14 girls starts on Monday 23rd February. Sessions start at 6pm and run until 7pm in the Lakeside Centre, NOT the park. The cost is €2 per person and these sessions are, of course, open to new members.

Under 10 training continues in the Mercy Hall on Wednesday nights from 6-7pm at a cost of €2 per child and all are welcome.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Aodh Ruadh Bord na nÓg will be hosting a player registration night for boys and girls on the under 8, under 10, under 12 and under 14 teams in Aras Aoidh Ruadh from 6.30pm to 8.00pm on Friday, 27th February. 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.

Training for under 16s at the Lakeside on Monday at 7.45pm. There is also circuit training on Friday 6.45pm in the New hall. All are welcome to the circuit training. If you have any kind of gym equipment please bring it along with you. Cost is €2.

Under 12 training will be going outside on Saturday, 28th February week at Lakeside between 11pm and 12 noon. Please note that training is for under 12 panelists only.

Well done to all those who took part in under 8 training on Friday night. Remember to practice what you have done in training on Friday night that's bouncing, soloing and shooting. A special well done to our players of the week Aaron, Jamie and Ryan. Under 8 training takes place this Friday night at 6pm in the NEW HALL. Anyone participating in the TY coaching work experience should be up for 5.50pm.

~ SCÓR SINSEAR ~
The first round of Scór Sinsear in Donegal takes place on Saturday, 28th February in Glenswilly. As this is our centenary year, Aodh Ruadh would like to have representation in as many categories as possible. With that in mind, anyone interested representing the club should contact Eoin O'Moore on 087-4187655 or Peter Campbell on 086-6031725.

~ CLUB HISTORY ~
The Donegal Democrat archive for 1956 is now available to view in the history section of aodhruadh.org.

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23 February

~ AODH RUADH WELCOMES THE ULSTER CONVENTION ~
Ballyshannon will be welcoming delegates from all over Ulster this Saturday, 28th February as the Ulster Council hosts its annual convention in the town at Dorrian's Hotel. The event, which is a significant part of Aodh Ruadh's centenary celebrations and the GAA's 125 celebration will be addressed by GAA president, Nickey Brennan and Ulster Council President, Tom Daly.

As part of Aodh Ruadh's centenary year, and tying in with the Ulster Convention, both the Sam Maguire and Tommy Markham trophies will be taken on a tour of the national schools in the club area and Colaiste Cholmcille this Friday, 27th February. After that, anyone who would like to have their photo taken with the trophies is welcome to do so on Saturday when they will be on display in the foyer of Dorrian's Hotel.

All Aodh Ruadh members are asked to congregate at the main entrance to Father Tierney park at 9.30am on Saturday morning when a special Aodh Ruadh centenary flag will be hoisted by GAA president Nickey Brennan. Following this ceremony a commemorative plaque will be unveiled in Aras Aoidh Ruadh. All club members are also invited to participate in a commemorative mass for deceased members of the GAA in Ulster at Saint Patrick's church which will commence at 10.30am. This mass will be celebrated as Gaeilge. Mass leaflets, also as Gaeilge, will be available.

In relation to the Club Centenary Draw, members are reminded that tickets should be sold and returned urgently in order to keep the work at new GAA grounds at Munday's field progressing and to the ensure that the grounds can be reopened as soon as possible. A full and enthusiastic effort is sought from all Aodh Ruadh members and players. Sold tickets and returns can be brought back to Tom Daly, Conal Gallagher, John Magee and Terence McShea.

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh hosted Truagh of Monaghan in the Ulster League last Sunday. Once again an experimental Aodh Ruadh side was in action. This time they went down by 1-11 to 0-11, but there were a number of bright notes in the display. A svelte Pauric Buggy gave an exhibition of free taking in tricky wind conditions while Fiachra McIntyre and Kerry Ryan delivered combative performances in the centre of the park. PJ McGee put in a lively hours football as did Johnny Gallagher, both well prepared to rough it when necessary. Next up in the Ulster Club League is a trip of south Derry where Newbridge provide the opposition this Sunday, 1st March. The throw-in is set for 2pm. Players will be notified of travel arrangements nearer the time.

The fixtures for the first five rounds of Aodh Ruadh's division two league campaign have been made. The first match is at home against newly promoted Naomh Mhuire on 22 March. Thereafter the games scheduled for the following four weekends are as follows: Round two, home v MacCumhaill's; Round three a bye; Round four, away to Termon; Round five, at home to Glenfin.

Training continues for all adult players at the Lakeside every Tuesday and Thursday from 6.15pm to 8pm.

The under 21's face a stiff assignment against the preliminary round winners of Sean McCumhaill's or last year's beaten finalists Gaoth Dobhair. Anyone interested in the position of under 21 manager should contact John Hughes.

~ MEETING ~
The monthly senior club meeting takes place on Thursday 26th February in Aras Aoidh Ruadh 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ HURLING ~
Underage hurling training for 2009 commences on Sunday 1st March at 12 noon at Father Tierney Park. Training for under 8s, under 10s, under 12s and under 14s. All welcome, especially beginners. Any enquiries please contact John Rooney on 086-2587793.

A date for your diary. The third annual Hurlathon takes place in the Mercy Hall on Saturday 28th March. Watch out for players and others out selling lines and please support generously.

~ LADIES ~
A massive thank you to all those who attended the annual Ladies quiz in Owen Roe's last Thursday night. The night was a great success and a fabulous night was had by all. Special thanks must be extended to PJ Buggy, quiz master extraordinaire, and those who marked all the answer sheets as well as Grainne McCosker and Claire Flood who were responsible for the organisation of the event and not forgetting all those who sponsored prizes on the night. Hopefully we can repeat this success again next year.

Intermediate Ladies training continues at 10.30am on Saturday morning and has now moved outside to the park, so don't forget your boots as well as a pair of runners!

Under 12 and 14 girls continue training this Monday from 6-7pm in the Lakeside centre. The cost is 2 euro per person and these sessions are, of course, open to new members.

Under 10 training is cancelled this coming Wednesday due to the mock examinations which are taking place in the Mercy Hall. Watch this space for further details.

The underage championship draws were made at last week's Southern Minor Board meeting. The under 14 draw sees Aodh Ruadh take on Killybegs, at under 16 Aodh Ruadh face Ardara, while at minor Aodh Ruadh are pitted against Saint Naul's. Aodh Ruadh gets home advantage for the first leg in all three games.

Training for under 16s at the Lakeside on Monday at 7.45pm. There is also circuit training on Friday 6.45pm in the new hall. All are welcome to the circuit training. If you have any kind of gym equipment please bring it along with you. Cost is €2.

Under 12 training will be going outside this Saturday, 28th February at the Lakeside between 11pm and 12 noon. Please note that training is for under 12 panelists only.

Well done to our under 8 players of the week Sean, Liam and Keelan who was up for his first night. Well done to everyone else who attended players and coaches. There will be no under 8 training this Friday night as registration night takes place up in Aras Aodh Ruadh. Any under 8s who wish to train or play with the club must attend.

~ SCÓR SINSEAR ~
Aodh Ruadh will be compete in the first round of Scór Sinsear which takes place this Saturday, 28th February in Glenswilly. Adh mór to the Ballyshannon contingent taking part.

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MARCH

2 March

~ DONEGAL V DUBLIN ~
Donegal play Dublin this coming Sunday, March 8th at 2.30pm in the National Football League. Stewards and programme sellers are asked to assemble in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh at 12.30pm. Bord na nÓg are running a half time draw and a large turnout of sellers is requested for 1.30.

~ AODH RUADH WELCOMES THE ULSTER CONVENTION ~
There was an excellent turn out last Saturday morning as GAA president, Nickey Brennan arrived at Father Tierney Park to take part in the raising of a special Aodh Ruadh centenary flag and an Ulster GAA 125 flag. Even PJ Buggy made it, but only just! Afterwards the assembled crowd adjourned to Aras Aoidh Ruadh where a special plaque commemorating the hosting of the Ulster Convention in Ballyshannon was unveiled. That was followed by a great spread of tea and scones, while Nickey Brennan made a speech in praise of the clubs and did trojan work posing for photos with club members. The GAA President was in town for a more serious purpose, which was to address the Ulster Convention in Dorrian's Hotel. The event, a significant part of Aodh Ruadh's centenary celebrations, was also addressed by Ulster Council President, our own Tom Daly.

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh travelled to Newbridge in Monaghan in the Ulster League last Sunday. A makeshift Ballyshannon side went down by 2-13 to 1-5 to the Oak Leafers who were assisted by the referee's laissez faire approach to the rather agricultural tackling that went on. Once again Fiachra McIntyre and Kerry Ryan did well in the centre of the park, but other highlights were limited. Next up in the Ulster Club League is another trip, this time to Belleek, where Ardboe of Tyrone will provide the opposition this Saturday, 7th March. The throw-in is set for 2pm. All players to be at Father Tierney Park for 1pm.

Training continues for all adult players at the Lakeside every Tuesday and Thursday from 6.15pm to 8pm.

~ HURLING ~
Training began last Sunday with over 50 young hurlers. It was great to see so many under 8s coming up for the first time.

Training for under 8s, under 10s, under 12s and under 14s continues on Sunday next at 12 noon, it will finish this week at 1pm due to the Donegal v Dublin NFL game in Father Tierney park. The under 12 hurlers will take part in an exhibition game at half time in this game.

Any enquiries about underage training please contact John Rooney on 086-2587793.

A date for your diary. The third annual Hurlathon takes place in the Mercy Hall on Saturday 28th March. Watch out for players and others out selling lines and please support generously.

~ LADIES ~
Good luck to the girls who will play at half time on Sunday in Father Tierney Park as part of the National League fixture between Donegal and Dublin.

Ladies intermediate training continues Saturday on mornings at 10.30am and has now moved outside to the park, so don't forget your boots as well as a pair of runners.

Under 12 and 14 girls continue training this Monday from 6-7pm in The Lakeside centre. The cost is €2 per person and these sessions are open to new members.

Under 10 training is cancelled this coming Wednesday due to the Mock examinations which are taking place in the Mercy Hall. Watch this space for further details.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The monthly Bord na nÓg meeting takes place in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh tomorrow, Tuesday, 3th March at 9pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

Many thanks to everyone who turned out at last Friday's registration night. Nearly 90 players were registered with the club on the night. Registration sessions for the under 14s, 16s and minors will be scheduled over the next few weeks. Players can register with their manager at any time and registration forms can be downloaded from the website. 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. The membership fee is €12.

Commencing from this week, the training schedule for the under 16s will be Tuesdays, 8pm at the Lakeside and Fridays, 7pm again at the Lakeside.

Circuit training continues this Friday 6.45pm in the Mercy Hall. All are welcome to the circuit training. If you have any kind of gym equipment please bring it along with you. Cost is €2.

Under 12 training continues this Saturday, 7th March at the Lakeside between 11pm and 12 noon. Please note that training is for under 12 panelists only.

As part of the club centenary celebrations members of the under 10 panel will be taking part in a exhibition game at half time during this Sunday's Donegal v Dublin match. Participating players are asked to meet at the Rock Hall at 2pm. Training for under 10s resumes in the New Hall in Colaiste Cholmcille at 6pm sharp this Friday.

Under 8 training resumes this Friday night at 6pm in the Mercy Hall. Newcomers are more than welcome.

~ SCÓR SINSEAR ~
There was hard luck for the Aodh Ruadh quiz team as they came second at Scór Sinsear in Glenswilly last Saturday. Paddy Kelly, PJ Buggy and Peter Campbell were ultimately pipped by Letterkenny by two points.

~ PARK COMMITTEE ~
So far the Club Centenary Draw has taken in €14,000. Clearly a lot of selling remains to be done. Members are reminded that tickets should be sold and returned urgently in order to keep the work at new GAA grounds at Munday's field progressing and to the ensure that the grounds can be reopened as soon as possible. A full and enthusiastic effort is essential from all Aodh Ruadh members and players. Sold tickets and returns can be brought back to Tom Daly, Conal Gallagher, John Magee and Terence McShea. Frances Daly and Kerry Ryan were the winners in the promoters draw.

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9 March

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Last Saturday's Ulster Club League match against Ardboe was postponed. This week Derry's Ballinascreen are scheduled to visit Father Tierney Park this Sunday, 15th March. The throw-in time was still to be decided at the time of writing. With Aodh Ruadh opening their Division 2 campaign against Naomh Mhuire the following Sunday, 22nd March, this should prove an interesting encounter.

Training continues for all adult players at the Lakeside every Tuesday and Thursday from 6.15pm to 8pm.

~ DONEGAL V DUBLIN ~
Thanks to everyone who helped out at the Dublin game. Thanks to the ladies for selling the programmes and thanks also to the members of Bord na nÓg who helped out with the half time draw, and congratulations to Tony Harkin an Ardara man adrift in Letterkenny who won €100 in the draw.

~ HURLING ~
Many thanks to Kevin Byrne Coach Hire for his very generous sponsorship of a set of jerseys for the under 12 hurlers.

Well done to all the young hurlers who took part in the half time exhibition game during the Donegal v Dublin match on Sunday last. It was brilliant to see Billy Finn back on the sideline for this game, keeping true to his word that he would be back this year.

Underage hurling training continues on Sunday at 12 noon for under 8s, under 10s, under 12s and under 14s. All are welcome, especially beginners. Any enquiries to John Rooney on 086-2587793.

Our Centenary year Hurlathon takes place in the Mercy Hall on Saturday 28th March. All former hurlers are invited to take part in this fun day with all monies raised going towards the promotion and development of hurling in Aodh Ruadh, especially at underage. Watch out for players and others out selling lines and please support generously.

~ LADIES ~
Congratulations to the under 12 girls who participated in the mini game at half time last Sunday in Father Tierney park. Massive thanks also to those who helped out at the league fixture in any way.

Ladies intermediate training continues Saturday on mornings at 10.30am and has now moved outside to the park, so don't forget your boots as well as a pair of runners.

Under 12 and 14 girls continue training this Monday from 6-7pm in The Lakeside centre. The cost is €2 per person and these sessions are open to new members.

Under 10 training is back this coming Wednesday 11th March in the Mercy Hall and starts at 6pm.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The under 16s are the first Aodh Ruadh underage team in competitive action this year. They take on Bundoran in Father Tierney park this Sunday, 15th March at 12 noon. Players are to be at the park for 11.15am. Training for under 16s continues Tuesdays, 8pm at the Lakeside and Fridays, 7pm again at the Lakeside.

Circuit training continues this Friday 6.45pm in the Mercy Hall. All are welcome to the circuit training. If you have any kind of gym equipment please bring it along with you. Cost is €2.

Under 12 training continues this Saturday, 14th March at the Lakeside between 11pm and 12 noon. Please note that training is for under 12 panelists only.

Training for under 10s continues in the New Hall in Colaiste Cholmcille at 6pm sharp this Friday.

Under 8 training continues this Friday at 6pm in the Mercy Hall. Parents are encouraged to attend and participate in the coaching. Training will remain indoors for the foreseeable future. A special well done to our players of the week Colm, Ryan and Adam who are all showing fantastic skills as footballers. All players are encouraged to attend under 8 hurling training which is on at 12 noon in Father Tierney Park.

~ COACHING CORNER ~
Notice of Ulster Council coaching courses coming up in the next while. 'Games to Develop Football from under 14 to Senior' is a course with Terence McWilliams which takes place in McCumhaill Park, Ballybofey this Thursday, 12th March at 7.30pm.'Adapting Fun Games for under 12 football' is a course with Tony Scullion which takes place in McCumhaill Park, Ballybofey on Tuesday, 14th April at 7.30pm. Further details on all workshops are available from Seamus McAnaw Donegal Coaching Officer on 085-1742434.

New to the website are two presentations from the Ulster Council Coaching conference in Cookstown at the end of January. The first is a presentation on how to make the fitness and skill aspect fun in training and appealing to children. The next presentation from current Leitrim coach and former Donegal coach John Morrison is on how to build up and break down basic skills using the head, hands and feet technique.

~ PARK COMMITTEE ~
Members are reminded that Club Centenary Draw tickets should be sold and returned urgently in order to keep the work at new GAA grounds at Munday's field progressing and to the ensure that the grounds can be reopened as soon as possible. Sold tickets and returns can be brought back to Tom Daly, Conal Gallagher, John Magee and Terence McShea.

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16 March

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh concluded their involvement in the Ulster Club League last Saturday with a 0-5 to 0-12 defeat to Ballinascreen. Now the main show in town is the visit of Naomh Mhuire to Father Tierney park this Sunday, 22nd March to open the Division 2 campaign. The reserve game throws in at 1.30pm and is followed by the senior game at 3pm. All senior players to be at the park for 2pm. There is a preparatory training session on Saturday 21st March at 4.30pm in Father Tierney Park. Apart from that, regular training continues for all adult players at the Lakeside every Tuesday and Thursday from 6.15pm to 8pm.

~ HURLING ~
Underage hurling training continues on Sunday at 12 noon for under 8s, under 10s, under 12s and under 14s. All are welcome, especially beginners. Any enquiries to John Rooney on 086-2587793.

~ LADIES ~
Good luck to the girls representing the club at county level. Tara Khan will line out for the minor panel while Dearbhaile McNeill and Anna Rafferty take their place on the under 16 team. Both teams will face Tyrone this Saturday with the venue yet to be decided.

Ladies intermediate training continues Saturday on mornings at 10.30am and has now moved outside to the park, so don't forget your boots as well as a pair of runners.

Under 12 and 14 girls continue training this Monday from 6-7pm in The Lakeside centre. The cost is €2 per person and these sessions are open to new members.

Under 10 training is back this coming Wednesday 11th March in the Mercy Hall and starts at 6pm.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The minors have a challenge match this Wednesday, 18th March against Kinlough. Players to be up at the Lakeside for 8.30pm.

The under 16s beat Bundoran by 6-8 to 0-10 in Father Tierney Park last Saturday. Up front Niall Murray with 2-2 and Martin Larkin with 4-4 were both in sparkling form taking some fine goals. As a six the defense were extremely solid with Kieran Keown causing plenty of trouble for the Seasiders with his attacks from full back. Once again Martin Gallagher delivered a fine performance between the posts, pulling off an excellent save as Bundoran made a bid for a comeback in the closing stages. The under 16s next assignment is a trip to Mountcharles this Saturday, 21st March to take on Saint Naul's at 1pm. Training continues Tuesdays, 8pm at the Lakeside and Fridays, 7pm again at the Lakeside.

Circuit training continues this Friday 6.45pm in the Mercy Hall. All are welcome to the circuit training. If you have any kind of gym equipment please bring it along with you. Cost is €2.

The under 12s got their season off to a flyer on Monday afternoon with wins over Bundoran in the A and B games. The A team won by 6-11 to 4-2. Kieran Kelly was exceptional throughout at right half back letting very little past the half back line. Also in defence Eugene Drummond gave an excellent display in goals. There was a good spread of scorers in what was an satisfying team display, but Daniel Warnock, Garret Sheerin and Shane McGrath all picked off some nice scores. For the B team Naoise Patton was first class in the nets. Next up for the under 12s is the trip to Pettigo this Saturday, 21st March. The throw-in is set for 12 noon. Under 12 training continues this Wednesday, 18th March at the Lakeside between 7-8 noon. Please note that training is for under 12 panelists only.

Training for under 10s continues in the New Hall in Colaiste Cholmcille at 6pm sharp this Friday.

Under 8 training continues this Friday at 6pm in the Mercy Hall. Parents are encouraged to attend and participate in the coaching. Training will remain indoors for the foreseeable future. A special well done to our players of the week Caonan, Jodie and Kyle who are all showing fantastic skills as footballers. Remember to keep practicing what you were training on Friday night, that's kick passing and soloing.

~ CLUB CENTENARY DRAW ~
Members are reminded that Club Centenary Draw tickets should be sold and returned urgently in order to keep the work at new GAA grounds at Munday's field progressing and to the ensure that the grounds can be reopened as soon as possible. Sold tickets and returns can be brought back to Tom Daly, Conal Gallagher, John Magee and Terence McShea.

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23 March

~ MEETING ~
The monthly senior club meeting takes place on Thursday 26th March in Aras Aoidh Ruadh 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh got their division two campaign off to a winning start with a 2-11 to 0-3 victory over Naomh Mhuire in Father Tierney Park. There was plenty of action in the first half as Ballyshannon played against the breeze. Naomh Mhuire got off to a determined start and Paul Kane made an excellent save at a vital stage in the first half to put Aodh Ruadh on the front foot. A great move by the Ernesiders saw Barry Ward finishing to the net with a diving fist to give Aodh Ruadh a cushion going in at half time of 1-4 to 0-2. Ballyshannon shut up shop in the second half thanks to excellent defensive displays by Kyron Whoriskey and Conor Gurn in the full back line and Michael Gurn at half back. Fiachra McIntyre and Kerry Ryan became increasingly dominant around the middle and provided an ocean of good possession for the forwards. Garret Blake and Anthony Boyle in particular thrived on the good ball up front.

The reserves made it a double for Ballyshannon as they also recorded a win. They had five points to spare, beating Naomh Mhuire on a scoreline of 1-10 to 1-5. There was a significant scattering of minors in the reserve side giving impressive and encouraging performances. David Dolan showed some flashes of brilliance as he partnered Padraig Loughlin in middle of the park. Padraig was also in fine form against the Gaeltacht side. Francis McShea picked off a good point from corner forward and Spanny Goan also caused Naomh Mhuire plenty trouble when he came on. Youth is usually at its best when blended with experience, and so Val Murray roamed the park pulling the strings while his son, Aidan, gave a good display at half forward.

The next business for Aodh Ruadh is the visit of MacCumhaill's to Father Tierney park this Saturday, 28th March. The reserve game throws in at 4.00pm and is followed by the senior game at 5.30pm. Senior training continues for all adult players at the Lakeside every Tuesday and Thursday from 6.15pm to 8pm.

~ HURLING ~
The third annual Hurlathon takes place in the Mercy Hall on Saturday 28th March. Play begins at 10 am with the under 8s taking centre stage. The action continues all day till 10pm. All former hurlers are invited to take part in this fun day with all monies raised going towards the promotion and development of hurling in Aodh Ruadh, especially at underage. All are invited to come and enjoy this fun event. Any enquires contact John Rooney on 086-2587793.

~ LADIES ~
Congratulations to Tara Khan, Dearbhaile McNeill and Anna Rafferty who represented the under 16 and minor county panels respectively at the weekend when they took on Tyrone in the league. The minor panel put in a strong display to come out on top while the under 16s were held to a draw

Good luck to Niamh Gallagher, Annette Lloyd and Catherine Lloyd who will take part in the All Ireland college football finals this weekend in Belfast. Niamh will be representing Saint Mary's College, Annette will take her place in midfield with TCD, while Catherine will line out with a determined RCSI side. Saint Mary's have been drawn against Liverpool Hope, TCD face DCU while RCSI will take on Queen's University.

Ladies intermediate training continues on Saturday morning at 10.30am in Father Tierney park.

Under 12 and 14 girls continue training this Monday from 6-7pm in Father Tierney Park. The cost is €2 per person and these sessions are open to new members.

Under 10 training continues this Wednesday 25th March in the Mercy Hall and starts at 6pm. The cost is €2 per child.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
There will be Bord na nÓg meeting in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh at 9pm on Tuesday, 31st March. All committee members are asked to attend.

The Southern Minor Board will shortly be running referees courses in Killybegs. Anyone interested in taking part is asked to contact John Hughes on 087-6431805. It's worth bearing in mind that referees are entitled to expenses of €25 per match.

Minor training continues on Wednesday's at the Lakeside for 8.30pm.

It was two wins on the bounce for the under 16s when they defeated Saint Naul's in Mountcharles last Saturday. Their 0-4 to 4-14 victory sees them as the early pace setters in the division alongside with Kilcar on four points. Braonán Drummond had a great day at the office in corner forward running up a goal and three points. The defence was particularly strong with Tommy Patton impassable at centre back and Sylvester Maguire delivering a classy exhibition of half back play on the right wing. However the match was very much a solid team performance with players delivering the goods all over the pitch. Next up for the under 16s is a match at home to Glenties. This is currently penciled in for Saturday 4th April, but that could yet be subject to change so watch out for further developments. Training continues Tuesdays, 8pm at the Lakeside and Fridays, 7pm again at the Lakeside.

Circuit training continues this Friday 6.45pm in the Mercy Hall. All are welcome to the circuit training. If you have any kind of gym equipment please bring it along with you. Cost is €2.

Following a number of uneven encounters in the first round of matches in the under 12 league the Southern Minor Board decided to restructure the competition. Unfortunately this means that Aodh Ruadh's loses the points from their opening victory against Bundoran. The under 12's opening game in the restructured competition takes place this Friday 27th March in Father Tierney Park against Ardara with the throw in at 5.30pm. Players are asked to be at the park for 5pm. There is under 12 training on Wednesdays at the Lakeside from 7pm to 8pm.

Indoor training for under 10s has concluded. Outdoor training commences on Saturday 4th April at 11.45am in Father Tierney Park. Children can be collected after training at 1pm sharp.

Under 8 training continues this Friday at 6pm in the Mercy Hall, or possibly the school field, depending on if the weather is fine. A special well done to our players of the week Oisín, Mark and Joe who are all showing real promise. Remember to keep practicing what you were training on Friday night. All new comers will be made most welcome

~ CLUB HISTORY ~
The Donegal Democrat archive for 1957 is now available to view in the history section.

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30 March

~ HURLING ~
Many thanks to Brendan Whoriskey of the Traveller's Rest, Cashelard for his generous sponsorship of a set of helmets.

The third annual Hurlathon took place in the Mercy Hall last Saturday with a group of under 8s getting the show on the road at 10am sharp. The action continued non-stop until 10pm that night with the undoubted highlight being the mothers' game. Sincere thanks to our sponsors: BWG foods, Britvic Ireland, Fred Ormston's Mace, Pearse O'Neill and Gaelic Life. Thanks also to Eleanor McCosker of Maggie's for the catering. A full report and pictures will follow shortly.

The under 12s opened their Fermanagh League campaign with a gutsy 3-2 to 3-2 draw against Lisbellaw. A great team effort saw Ballyshannon emerge with a share of the spoils.

Underage hurling training resumes on Sunday at 12 noon for under 8s, under 10s, under 12s and under 14s. All are welcome, especially beginners. Any enquiries to John Rooney on 086-2587793.

~ LADIES ~
Congratulations to Niamh Gallagher and her pardners at the Ranch on an impressive win last weekend. St Mary's defeated Dublin Institute of Technology to capture the Lynch Cup at Jordanstown last weekend.

Don't forget that our annual Ladies Duck Race will be held on Easter Saturday, April 11th, at McKenna's brook. Ducks can now be bought for €2 each. A great day of family fun is guaranteed with cash prizes and spot prizes of Easter eggs! We're hoping for a great turnout on the day. The Intermediate ladies will have their fundraiser at a later date. It promises to be an even better night than last year's 70s themed bash!!

Well done to the Ladies Intermediate team who secured a win at the weekend in their clash against south Armagh side Silverbridge, in Bundoran. Ladies intermediate training continues on Saturday morning at 10.30am in Father Tierney park.

Congratulations to the county minors and under 16 girls who both sealed victories at the weekend, ensuring their progression into the Ulster semi finals. Particular congrats to the Aodh Ruadh girls who took part.

Next Tuesday will see the under 14 girls in action with their first league match of the season. They face Naomh Chonaill away in Glenties.

Under 14 and under 12 girls continue training on Mondays from 6-7pm in Father Tierney Park.

Under 10 training continues this Wednesday 1st April in the Mercy Hall and starts at 6pm. The cost is €2 per child.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
There is a Bord na nÓg meeting in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh at 9pm on Tuesday, 31st March. All committee members are asked to attend.

Well done to Peter Boyle who impressed as he kept nets for Donegal minors in their 2-10 to 0-8 win over Derry last Saturday. That win is the side's second win on the trot in the Ulster minor league. He showed his class to deny Ciaron Diamond after he had broken through the Donegal defence half way through the second half with the Oak Leafers searching for a way back. Minor training continues on Wednesday's at the Lakeside for 8.30pm.

Under 16 training continues Tuesdays, 8pm at the Lakeside and Fridays, 7pm again at the Lakeside. The next match for the under 16s is against a strong Kilcar side up in Towney on Monday 6th April with the throw in at 6pm.

The under 14s are heading to Galway for a blitz in Salthill this Sunday.

The under 12s lost their first match in the restructured under 12 tournament by 4-1 to 6-6 against Ardara in Father Tierney Park last Friday. The match was played in extremely poor conditions with a stiff breeze proving a significant factor. Aodh Ruadh went in two points to the good at the break, but simply hadn't built up enough of a lead to hold off the Ardara onslaught in the second half. Four goal efforts being blocked on the line by a resolute Ardara defence also helped sabotage Ballyshannon's chances. Nevertheless, there were a number of good displays and plenty of cause for optimism. The next action for the under 12s is this Friday 3rd April against Naomh Chonaill with the throw in at 6pm. Players are asked to be at the park for 4.35pm with the bus leaving for Glenties at 4.45pm. There is under 12 training on Wednesdays in the park from 5.30pm to 7pm.

Outdoor training commences for under 10s this Saturday 4th April at 11.45am in Father Tierney Park. Children can be collected after training at 1pm sharp.

Under 8 training continues this Friday at 6pm in the Mercy Hall. A special well done to our players of the week Colm, Cian and Niall - keep up the good work! Remember to keep practicing what you were training on Friday night. All new comers will be made most welcome

~ PITCH BOOKINGS ~
With increased demand on facilities it is essential that bookings for the use of Father Tierney Park and the De La Salle field are made in advance to Peter Conlon (087-6838024).

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APRIL

6 April

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
The thirds were the only senior team in action over the weekend. They opened their division five campaign with a resounding 2-14 to 1-4 win over MacCumhaill's last Saturday.

~ HURLING ~
The under 14 hurlers had a convincing win against Four Masters in Donegal town last Thursday with a great team performance in the first round of the Donegal league. The next game is against MacCumhaill's in Father Tierney park on 16th April.

The under 12 hurlers played their second game in the Fermanagh league at home to Knocks on Monday night and ran out comfortable winners on a scoreline of 5-3 to 0-0. Another great all round performance by the Ballyshannon hurlers.

Training continues on Easter Sunday at 12 noon for under 8s, under 10s, under 12s and under 14s. Any enquires to John Rooney on 086-2587793.

A report and pictures from the Hurl-A-Thon will be published on the website in the coming days.

~ LADIES ~
The annual Ladies Duck Race takes place this Easter Saturday, April 11th, at McKenna's brook. Ducks can still be bought for €2 each. A great day of family fun is guaranteed with cash prizes and spot prizes of Easter eggs! We're hoping for a great turnout on the day.

Ladies intermediate training continues on Saturday morning at 10.30am in Father Tierney park.

This Tuesday 7th April sees the under 14 girls in action with their first league match of the season. They face Naomh Chonaill away in Glenties.

Under 14 and under 12 girls continue training on Mondays from 6-7pm in Father Tierney Park.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The Southern Minor Board will shortly be running referees courses in Killybegs. Anyone interested in taking part is asked to contact John Hughes on 087-6431805. It's worth bearing in mind that referees are entitled to expenses of €25 per match.

The under 16s showed stacks of character as they eked out a hard earned 1-8 to 0-10 win over Kilcar in Towney on Monday evening. Ballyshannon played against the breeze in the first half and Kilcar took full advantage opening up a five point margin. However Aodh Ruadh's players showed cool heads and reeled them back in, eventually going in two points to the good at half time. Niall Murray put the cap on a fine performance by scoring the all important goal. There were also standout performances by Ronan McGurrin and Conor Patton on a night when every man in the Aodh Ruadh really stood up and was counted. Under 16 training continues Tuesdays, 8pm at the Lakeside and Fridays, 7pm again at the Lakeside. The next match for the under 16s is against a Glenties, players will be notified of details nearer the time.

The under 14s had a enjoyable jaunt to Salthill in Galway last Sunday for a blitz. They won the blitz beating off the challenge of a number slick Connacht outfits. There is more pre-season action this Easter Saturday in form of the under 14 Féile blitz. This takes place in Father Tierney where Aodh Ruadh will be hosting Bundoran and Four Masters. The winners of this blitz will go forward to the regional blitz. Action throws in at 11am.

The under 12s had a bad loss against Glenties, one of those games where the less said about it the better. Aodh Ruadh were poor in the first half, but while things picked up in the second they were second best to a well-drilled Naomh Chonaill side. A much better performance will be needed against Saint Naul's when they visit Father Tierney Park this Wednesday 8th April in round three of the league. Players are to be at the park for 6pm with the match throwing in at 6.30pm

Outdoor training continues for under 10s this Saturday 11th April at 11.45am in Father Tierney Park. Children can be collected after training at 1pm sharp.

There will be no under 8 training this Friday. Training resumes the following Friday 17th April at 6pm, weather permitting, on the school field beside Colaiste Cholmcille. Well done to our players of the week: Rian, Keith and Ciaran. Training finishes at 6.45pm, parents are asked to please collect children promptly. Any parents or coaches wishing to help out in any small way are more than welcome along please call up about ten minutes prior to training.

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13 April

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
A threadbare Aodh Ruadh travelled to the home of last year's beaten county finalists and emerged with a well-earned 3-7 to 2-10 draw. The Ernesiders delivered an excellent first half of football and went in six points up at half time. The first of Ballyshannon's goal came from Donagh McIntyre after great interpassing movement. Michael Lawless was on hand to finish the second goal. Garret Blake was another who a good match, he received a heavy challenge early on, but took three cracking points before finally going off injured. Once again Stephen Ward was magnificent in the middle of the field, while county duo Johnny Gallagher and Kevin 'Wappa' McMenamin had an absorbing tussle. The inevitable Termon fight back came in the second half and two fisted goals from speculative dropping balls saw the game set up for a nervy ending. When the whistle went the draw was probably the fair result. All in all it was a fine team effort from Aodh Ruadh against a strong Termon outfit.

In the curtain raiser to the senior game the reserves were defeated by Termon by 1-11 to 0-5.

Next up is Glenfin at home next weekend. Day and time have yet to be decided.

Aodh Ruadh thirds are the early leaders in division five, sitting atop the table alongside Pettigo on four points after another good win. This time it was a 1-13 to 1-3 victory over Ardara in Father Tierney Park last Saturday. The match was still in the shake-up at half time with Aodh Ruadh only four points ahead, but Ballyshannon showed the greater strength in the second half to close the game out. Evergreen Gary Walsh pulled off a fine save, while Christy Dolan soldiered well at full back alongside David McLoone. Peter Boyle was very effective for Ballyshannon in the forward line and Liam Devanney also showed well, managing to scramble home Aodh Ruadh's only goal. Next action for the thirds is the trip to Muff on Saturday, time yet to be decided

~ HURLING ~
The under 12 hurlers continued their good run in the Fermanagh league with a comprehensive win away against Derrylin. The under 14s play MacCumhaill's in Father Tierney Park on this Thursday 16th April. All players to be up at the park for 6.30pm. Training continues on sunday at noon.

Training continues on Sunday at 12 noon for under 8s, under 10s, under 12s and under 14s. Any enquires to John Rooney on 086-2587793.

Pictures from the Centenary Hurl-A-Thon and the Donegal v Dublin half time game have now been published.

~ LADIES ~
The intermediate ladies will kick off their season on Sunday 19th when they play Glenties away. Training continues in the park at 10.30am every Saturday morning.

Well done to the under 14 girls who managed a draw in their clash with Glenties last Tuesday, April 7th. The girls put in an impressive display to hold off a strong Glenties side. Their season continues next week when they travel to Mountcharles this coming Tuesday, April 14th. Both the under 12 and under 14 sides face Saint Naul's in their league campaign. The under 12 game will get underway at 5.30pm with the under 14 game to follow. The next action for the under 12 girls is against Glenties at home on Saturday 18th in the park at 1pm.

From next Tuesday, April 21st, under 12 and under 14 training will move from Monday night and will now take place in the park from 6-7pm every Tuesday evening.

The underage girls teams would like to extend a massive thank you to everyone who came out and supported the annual Duck Race on Easter Saturday, which was held at McKenna's brook. The event raised over €1,200 and all proceeds will go towards the running and development of our underage girls teams in the club. There was a fantastic turnout on the day and the event was a runaway success. Hopefully we can top our efforts again next year. Congratulations to all the winners: First place: Evelyn Rose Gallagher, Ard Longfield; Second place: Danny Foley, Castlegal, Mullaghmore; Third place: Sean Kilrane, Mohill, Leitrim; Fourth place: Hugh McNeill, Killeen, Ballyshannon; Fifth place: Ethna Gallagher, Coolcholly, Ballyshannon.

The Intermediate ladies will have their annual fundraiser on Sunday May 3rd in the Max Bar. Dig out your board shorts and bikinis because it's a Beach Party theme! It promises to be an even better night than last year's 70s themed bash, with a raffle and spot prizes on the night as well as the possibility of a limbo competition!

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Peter Boyle continues to impress with the Donegal minors in their Ulster league campaign. He kept another clean sheet as Donegal destroyed Antrim last Saturday. Donegal are awaiting results this coming weekend to see who their opposition will be in the next phase of the competition.

The under 16s face another tough contest when they travel to Ardara next Monday 20th April. The match throws in at 7pm and all players are to be at the park for 4.45pm. Under 16 training continues Tuesdays, 8pm at the Lakeside and Fridays, 7pm again at the Lakeside.

Aodh Ruadh under 14s progressed to the next stage of the Donegal Féile competition when they accounted for Bundoran last Saturday in Father Tierney Park. The lads now go forward to the regional final which takes place this Saturday, 18th April. Venue and time yet to be decided.

The under 12s got back to winning ways with a super 4-14 to 1-0 win over Saint Naul's at Father Tierney Park last Wednesday. The victory was a 22 man effort with every Ballyshannon man making a meaningful contribution to the final scoreline. Gavin McDaid did very well in goals, breaking Mountcharles morale with some incredible saves. He was well served by an excellent defence, Kieran Kelly, Paul Cummins and Oisín Kerr all starring. The fulcrum of Aodh Ruadh's efforts were Oisín Roper and Jason Gallagher in the middle of the park. They ruled the roost and ensured a healthy supply of ball into the danger men. Shane McGrath, Ryan Gallagher and Garret Sheerin thrived up front and all figured strongly on the score sheet. The aim will be sustain that progress when they make the trip up the N15 to Four Masters this Friday 18th April in round four of the league. Players are to be at the park for 6pm. Under 12 training takes place on Wednesdays at 5.30pm in the park.

Outdoor training continues for under 10s this Saturday 18th April at 11.45am in Father Tierney Park. Children can be collected after training at 1pm sharp.

Under 8 training resumes this Friday 17th April at 6pm, weather permitting, on the school field beside Colaiste Cholmcille. Training finishes at 6.45pm, parents are asked to please collect children promptly. Any parents or coaches wishing to help out in any small way are more than welcome along please call up about ten minutes prior to training.

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17 April

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh seniors play Glenfin on Sunday, 19th April in Father Tierney Park at 3pm. That game is preceded by the reserve match between the sides which throws in at 1.30pm in the same venue.

The thirds scheduled match against Muff on Saturday, 18th April has been called off as Muff have pulled out of the league.

A full report on the seniors 3-7 to 2-10 draw with Termon last Monday is now available.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The division one finals of the under 14 Féile competition take place in Dunkineely on Saturday 18th. Aodh Ruadh will compete against Kilcar and Dungloe for a place in the county finals on Saturday, 25th April. The action begins at 2pm.

~ CLUB CENTENARY DRAW ~
Work getting the fence up around the main pitch at Munday's field and the laying of surrounding paths is now full swing. Members are reminded that Club Centenary Draw tickets need to be sold and returned urgently in order to keep the work progressing. Sold tickets and returns can be brought back to Tom Daly, Conal Gallagher, John Magee and Terence McShea.

~ LÁ NA gCLUB ~
Planning is underway for the Lá na gClub on Sunday, 10th May. Anyone with any ideas or suggestions for the day's activities should e-mail info@aodhruadh.org.

~ RECESSION RESOURCE ~
The churches of Ballyshannon, Rossnowlagh and Ballintra produced a leaflet in advance of a special night for the unemployed in March 2009. The leaflet featured many helpful contact numbers, addresses and resources that might be useful to those dealing with unemployment. It is reproduced on aodhruadh.org as a public resource.

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20 April

~ CENTENARY BANQUET ~
Advance notice of Aodh Ruadh Centenary Banquet for those traveling from abroad or who are planning to invite friends and family to the event. The banquet, the highlight of the club's centenary year celebrations will take place on Sunday 25th October in Dorrian's Imperial Hotel.

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh maintained their strong start to the season with a 0-12 to 0-7 win over Glenfin in Father Tierney Park last Sunday. Stephen McDermott was Glenfin's biggest threat, but he was well shepherded by Michael Gurn. Pauric Buggy had a fine game, before going off injured, scoring some sublime frees and giving Frank McGlynn a very difficult time of it. Paul Kane capped a great game by making two penalty saves, one using the hands, the second using psychological warfare! He's says to the second penalty taker, 'Here sham, I'll be some hero if I save two penalties in the one game!' The Glenfin man couldn't take the pressure and hammered his shot off the crossbar. Up front Michael 'Sticky' Ward, Garret Blake and Barry Ward all delivered strong performances with Donagh McIntyre linking up well.

The reserves put in a good performance, but lost to their Glenfin counterparts by 0-6 to 3-8.

Seniors and reserves are down to play MacCumhaill's this week, but dates, times and venue were unavailable at the time of writing.

The thirds scheduled match against Muff last Saturday was been called off as Muff have pulled out of the league. No fixture had been set for this week at the time of writing.

~ HURLING ~
The under 12 hurlers continued their rich vein of form with a good win away against Lisnaskea on Monday. The under 14s had a great win at home against MacCumhaill's on Thursday last, while the under 16s lost a very competitive game in the Fermanagh league at home against Lisbellaw.

Training continues on Sunday at 12 noon for under 8s, under 10s, under 12s and under 14s. Any enquires to John Rooney on 086-2587793.

~ LADIES ~
Don't forget the Intermediate ladies will have their annual fundraiser on Sunday May 3rd in Max Bar. Dig out your board shorts and bikinis because it's a Beach Party theme!! It promises to be an even better night than last year's 70s' themed bash, with a raffle and spot prizes on the night as well as the possibility of a limbo competition! Intermediate ladies training continues in the park at 10:30am every Saturday morning.

The under 14s took on a very strong Saint Naul's side last Tuesday in Mountcharles. The Ballyshannon girls, while putting in a spirited display, fell short and it was ultimately a skilled Mountcharles forward line who finished the Aodh Ruadh side off by slotting home an impressive tally of 7-3. Thursday, 23rd April, will see another clash lined up for the under 14s, this time at home in Father Tierney Park where they will play Four Masters as their league campaign continues.

The under 12 girls travelled to Mountcharles last week where they played Saint Naul's. The Aodh Ruadh girls put in a fine display to see them hold off the home side by a slim margin of two points. They continued their winning ways last Saturday when they took on Glenties in the park. The final goal was the difference for the Ernesiders who ran out winners on a scoreline of 4-4 to 3-4. Next week will see the under 12s travel to Donegal Town to take on Four Masters. The progress of this side is tremendous and hopefully they can emerge with some silverware from what has already been a fine league season for them.

Training for the under 12 and under 14 girls continues at 6-7pm in the park every Tuesday evening.

Under 10 girls training resumes in Father Tierney Park this Wednesday, 22nd April at 6pm.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The minors take to the field in their first competitive action of the year against Saint Naul's on Wednesday, 22nd April. The match takes place in Father Tierney park and throws in at 7pm.

The under 16s lost by 1-15 to 2-4 against Ardara last Monday. Aodh Ruadh can take very great credit from the way they handled the game. Ronan McGurrin had a fine game on the 40, as did Conor Patton at midfield. Kieran Keown also gave a gutsy display at full back in the face of a very determined Ardara attack. Niall Murray continued his happy habit of popping up for a goal. The next match sees Ballyshannon play Killybegs in Father Tierney Park next Monday, 27th April at 7pm. Players are to be up at park for 6.15pm. Under 16 training continues Tuesdays, 8pm at the Lakeside and Fridays, 7pm again at the Lakeside.

Best of luck to Colaiste Colmcille's under 14 and half side as they head to Healy Park, Omagh on Wednesday, 22nd April. Colaiste Colmcille will be taking on Edmund Rice College of Newtownabbey for the Mallon cup. The match throws in at 12pm noon.

Aodh Ruadh under 14s won through the Southern regional finals of the Donegal Féile in Dunkineely last Saturday with good wins over Kilcar and Dungloe. They beat Kilcar on a scoreline of 1-12 to 1-3 and Dungloe by 2-10 to no score. All 24 players fielded contributed to two excellent displays by Ballyshannon. David McGurrin scored 1-2 in the Kilcar match, while Dominic Boyle and James Kelly came up with the goals in the Dungloe match, Dominic's goal being a neat fisted effort. Johnny Gettins scored heavily in both matches. Elsewhere Matthew Maguire, Michael McNeilly and Eamon McGrath came up with solid, composed displays in defence, while Daniel Kelly pulled off a couple of top quality saves in nets. The lads now take part in the county final this Saturday 25th April. A venue and time yet to be decided at the time of writing.

The under 12s lost out to Four Masters in Tir Chonaill park tonight by two points in a real end-to-end battle. Aodh Ruadh were five points down at half time, but showed real fighting spirit on the restart, hitting the Donegal town side for three goals. It was tit for tat after that, but the whistle went at the right time for the homesters with the scoreline 5-7 to 5-5 in their favour. Gavin McDaid did well in goals for Ballyshannon, while Eugene Drummond was a tough customer at half back, doing well to counter Four Masters forward momentum. Philip Patton finished the game with a number of well-taken scores and delivered refined performances at both full forward and, later, at half forward. Ballyshannon can be heartened by another gutsy display, all the more so because a few key players were missing on the night. Under 12 training takes place on Wednesdays at 5.30pm in the park.

Outdoor training continues for under 10s this Saturday 25th April at 11.45am in Father Tierney Park. Children can be collected after training at 1pm sharp.

~ BINGO ~
There is a special May Day Bingo in the Abbey Centre, Ballyshannon on Friday May 1st at 9pm sharp. A prize fund of €2,500 must go on the night and books will be available priced as follows: Double book, €15; Double / Double, €25; and Single €8. A night not to be missed.

~ BALLROOM OF ROMANCE ~
You are cordially invited to Ballyshannon's Ballroom of Romance. It's a night of music, dance and drama on Saturday 2nd May at 9pm in Dorrian's Imperial Hotel. The event is a fundraiser in aid of the Aodh Ruadh Centre of Excellence development and members are asked to support generously.

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27 April

~ MEETING ~
The monthly club meeting takes place on Thursday 30th April at 8.30pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ PITCH BOOKINGS ~
There have been a number of incidents of at the park in recent weeks. It is critical during this busy period that ALL bookings AND cancellations for Father Tierney park and the school field go through Peter Conlon to ensure the smooth operation of facilities. Call Peter on 9851386 or 087-6838024.

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh pulled off a great 0-9 to 0-11 win against MacCumhaill's under lights in Ballybofey last Friday night. It was a win founded on a tight defensive performance, growing dominance at midfield and an economic approach to scoring. Darren Drummond was very safe at full back, while Niall McCready had a very effective game, proving a highly disruptive influence on the MacCumhaill's half forward line. Kerry Ryan really had a blinder in the middle, he was everywhere and the Ballybofey pair didn't seem to know how to deal with him. He had excellent support from Fiachra McIntyre and Stephen Ward. Barry Ward also dodged about between full forward and the centre, making some stunning catches in the process. Brian Roper took two really exceptional points in either half, while Garret Blake has developed a real gift for winning and converting frees, knocking over three in the course of the match. Paul Kane saved a penalty late on the second half, his third save in two games. He seems to have taken a bit of a knock in the process though as he was going around after the match asking people who the daddy was. That win leaves Ballyshannon level on points with MacCumhaill's at the top of division two with a game in hand. Read the full match report.

The following night, Saturday, the reserves also managed a great win. They edged out the homesters by 1-7 to 1-8. It was a real coherent team performance by the reserves, offering great hope for the rest of the league campaign.

The seniors and reserves are down to travel to Buncrana this weekend for their next outings in division two. No day or time had been set at the time of writing.

The thirds also won on Saturday, defeating Glenfin by 0-12 to 0-8 in Father Tierney Park. It was a real mix of youth and experience. Christy Dolan and Paddy Kelly proved a formidable pairing in the centre, Paddy even nipping up for a well-taken second half point. Up front Peter Boyle spread panic through the Glenfin defence any time he got the ball. Martin McGlynn took a fine point while Liam Devanney also did a lot of good work in the forwards. A sound defence, combined with some Glenfin profligacy ensured Aodh Ruadh took the two league points. That leaves them a point behind Pettigo with a game in hand in division five. No thirds fixture had been set for this week at the time of writing.

~ HURLING ~
The under 16s were beaten by Knocks in the Fermanagh league. The annual Alan Ryan-Seamus Grimes under 16 tournament takes place on Monday 4th May. Play begins in what is always a great day's hurling at 11am

The under 14s are taking part in the Ulster Féile in Dungannon on Saturday. They are in a group with Castleblayney of Monaghan, Rasharkin of Antrim and Castlewellan of Down with action underway at 10am. The bus leaves the park at 8am.

Training continues on Sunday at 12 noon for under 8s, under 10s, under 12s and under 14s. Any enquires to John Rooney on 086-2587793.

Good luck to Dearbhaile Mc Neill and Anna Rafferty who will represent the club this Saturday when they line out with the under 16 Donegal girls squad in their Ulster Semi Final tie. The action will take place in Convoy, with a time yet to be confirmed and any support would be greatly appreciated. Also good luck to Tara Kahn who will represent the club as she takes her place with the county Minor panel. She will be competing in the Ulster Semi final this Sunday, May 3rd, with a venue yet to be announced.

The under 14 girls faced Four Masters last Thursday as their league season continued. The game went right down to the wire with the Aodh Ruadh girls losing out by an agonising single point. Next up for the under 14 side is Naomh Bríd on Saturday 2nd May, when they will play away from home in a make or break tie. The under 12s continued their unbeaten run with yet another impressive performance against Four Masters in Donegal town last Thursday. The visitors secured their victory on a scoreline of 4-3 to 2-1. This Friday will see them take on Saint Naul's in what looks set to be a close encounter. Throw in is at 6.30pm in the park. Training for the under 12 and under 14 girls continues at 6-7pm in the park every Tuesday evening.

Under 10 girls training continues in Father Tierney Park this Wednesday, 27th April at 6pm.

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

Commiserations to Peter Boyle on the Donegal minor's loss to Armagh in the Ulster minor league final last Saturday. Peter gave another great display between the posts, really coming to the rescue a minute before the half time break when he prevented a certain goal by spectacularly saving a Robbie Tasker fisted effort. Donegal have yet to concede a goal with Peter in nets and that should bode well for him as Donegal prepare for the first round of the championship against Antrim on June 14th.

The minors began their season with an excellent 5-14 to 1-11 win against Saint Naul's last Wednesday. Captain, David Dolan, had a terrific battle at midfield against his Mountcharles counterparts while Ronan Drummond also had a powerful game at centre back. There were a lot of stars up front where the Aodh Ruadh forwards really punished every Saint Naul's error. Peter Boyle was a real terror while Ruairí Drummond and Chris Goan in the corners both proved equally damaging. The next match for the minors is a trip to Donegal town to take on Four Masters on Wednesday, 29th April, at 7pm.

Aodh Ruadh's under 16 had a 7-18 to 0-2 win over a Killybegs side which, while possessing plenty of skilful players, seemed unable to deliver as a unit. Ben McGowan played very well, corning on and scoring 2-4. Ronan McGurrin was dynamite at centre forward, while attacking half back Kieran Keown really made hay, making plenty of strong runs and taking some good scores. The final match of the under 16 league season is against Naomh Conaill in Father Tierney park. The time and date had yet to be confirmed at the time of writing. The permutations are as follows. If Aodh Ruadh win they will be in the Southern Regional final awaiting the result of a play-off between Naomh Conaill and Ardara. If Aodh Ruadh draw then they will be into a play-off with Ardara for a place in the regional final against Naomh Conaill. If Aodh Ruadh lose then the regional final will be between Naomh Conaill and Ardara. Best of luck boys! Under 16 training continues Tuesdays, 8pm at the Lakeside and Fridays, 7pm again at the Lakeside.

Aodh Ruadh are to face Saint Eunan's in the division one final of the under 14 Féile. A venue and time yet to be decided at the time of writing.

The under 12s had an important win against Dungloe last Friday. The A side won by 2-9 to 2-4, with the Bs also recorded a very impressive victory by 1-3 to 0-2. In the A game Aodh Ruadh got off to a great start and went in nine points to the good at half time. In the second half Dungloe came more into it, putting in a determined performance, but Ballyshannon held on for a five point win. Kieran Kelly is emerging as a exceptional talent. He was truly outstanding at centre half back where he displayed true footballing flare. Philip Patton prospered once again in his more withdrawn role on the half forward line. Once again the midfield pairing of Jason Gallagher and Oisín Roper delivered the goods with a strong combative display. Brendan Gillespie had a very good match at the back in a game where Dungloe were pushing strongly to get something from the game. Everyone in the team wishes Gavin McDaid a speedy recovery from his hand injury. Gavin had been having a great game up until he had to come off. In the B game there was a notably good team performance against the Dungloe 11. Naoise Patton was very good in goal as was Cáelán Drummond at the back. In fact it was a very strong defensive display that probably saw Aodh Ruadh home in the match. Up front Ciaran Gettins proved a real thorn in the side for Dungloe. The next match is away to Killybegs on Friday 1st May with the throw in at 7pm. Players are to be at the park for 5.15pm. Under 12 training takes place on Wednesdays at 5.30pm in the park.

Outdoor training continues for under 10s this Saturday 2nd May at 11.45am in Father Tierney Park. Children can be collected after training at 1pm sharp. The first blitz of the year is due to take place in Killybegs on May 9th with Naomh Conaill and Ardara also taking part.

~ CENTENARY BANQUET ~ Advance notice of Aodh Ruadh Centenary Banquet for those traveling from abroad or who are planning to invite friends and family to the event. The banquet, the highlight of the club's centenary year celebrations will take place on Sunday 25th October in Dorrian's Imperial Hotel.

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MAY

4 May

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh maintained their impressive start to the season with a 1-8 to 0-13 away win over Buncrana. The Inishowen outfit were the better side in the first half and went in leading 1-5 to 0-5 at half time. Ballyshannon kicked on in the second half, but still had Paul Kane to thank for the win. He showed great bravery to pull off a wonderful last minute save that ensured Aodh Ruadh took the points, but left him singing soprano on the bus home. Elsewhere Barry Ward had an outstanding game at corner forward, while Donagh McIntyre's surging runs from half forward played a major role in opening up Buncrana. Injury returnee, Michael Lawless, put in a very effective shift as did Packie McGrath who was, once again, excellent in defence. Another in a good vein of form is Kerry Ryan, slotting in a wing back this time out and proving difficult to handle.

The reserves were unlucky to lose out to Buncrana by a single point 1-8 to 1-7. Aodh Ruadh got a great goal from Gerard Ferguson, who had a great match in general play. Ferguson was unlucky not to get a second after a magnificent decoy run by Sean Perry!

The seniors and reserves are down to host to MacCumhaill's this Saturday in division two. The reserve game throws in at 5pm to be followed by the seniors at 6.30pm.

The thirds fell to their first defeat of the season on Saturday when they lost to a very strong Pettigo side by 0-3 to 2-6. Early good weather proved misleading. As soon as the whistle went the heavens opened and the temperature plummeted. Aodh Ruadh's scores came from Dermot Slevin, Paddy Kelly and Diarmuid Keown. There were some positives to be taken from the performances of a number of minors who were getting their first exposure to adult football. Conor Thomas was one who did very well in what were brutal conditions. No thirds fixture had been set for this week at the time of writing.

~ PAIRC AOIDH RUAIDH ~
Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh is to get its official opening on Friday 29th May. Donegal are down to take on Sligo on what will be a very proud day for the club. With a massive push now on to finish the Munday's field site and considerable outgoings to be met it is more important than ever that members sell their Club Centenary Draw tickets and return monies urgently. Sold tickets and returns can be brought back to Tom Daly, Conal Gallagher, John Magee and Terence McShea.

~ LÁ NA gCLUB ~
As part of the nationwide Lá na gClub festivities Aodh Ruadh has planned an action-packed day of fun and games for young and old. The day kicks off with the raising of the GAA 125 flag at 2pm. After that there will be youth blitzes in hurling and football; A long puck competition for the older hurlers; A penalty kick competition; A ladies and gents long kick competition; Novelty competitions including a wheel barrow race, Adult and under 8 child piggy back race and a Mother and Fathers relay. The action concludes with an all-comers one mile race. There will collection on the day which will be split between local charitable causes and the Aodh Ruadh club. It all promises to be great fun and everyone in Ballyshannon, no matter your background, is invited to come and make Father Tierney park their own for the day.

~ SENIOR SPONSORSHIP ~
In this, our centenary year, Aodh Ruadh are issuing an open invitation for a senior team sponsor. This represents an unrepeatable opportunity to secure a unique place in one of the most significant years in the club's history. Anyone who would like to discuss sponsorship can contact Terence McShea on 071-9852512 or 087-2360815.

~ HURLING ~
Aodh Ruadh under 14 hurlers took part in the Ulster Féile on Saturday last. They beat Castleblayney of Monaghan in the first game and lost a very tight second game to eventual division six winners, Rasharkin of Antrim. The boys then travelled to Dungannon where they took part in a very colourful parade with over 90 clubs from all over Ulster taking part.

The annual Alan Ryan / Seamus Grimes tournament took place on Bank Holiday Monday in very difficult conditions. Coolera / Strandhill won the Alan Ryan trophy and Aodh Ruadh retained the Seamus Grimes trophy. A full report on the day's activity will be available in due course.

A busy few days finished with the under 12s beating Lisbellaw in a brilliant display of passion and commitment to go top of the Fermanagh league. Both teams put on a great display of hurling in very difficult conditions.

Training for under 8s, under 10s, under 12s and under 14s is on this Sunday at 1pm due to Lá na gClub. It is hoped that all parents will take part in this fun family day. Any enquires to John Rooney on 086-2587793.

~ LADIES ~
Intermediate ladies training continues in the park at 10:30am every Saturday morning.

Training for the under 12 and under 14 girls continues at 6-7pm in the park every Tuesday evening.

Under 10 girls training continues, weather permitting, in Father Tierney Park this Wednesday, 6th May at 6pm.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The minors trip to Donegal town to take on Four Masters was postponed from last Wednesday to Wednesday coming, 6th May. Throw in is at 7pm.

Aodh Ruadh's under 16s topped the round robin section of the division one league with a 2-6 to 1-8 win over Naomh Conaill last Wednesday. It was a big-hearted display from the Ernesiders against a very accomplished Glenties side. Ballyshannon had the breeze in the first half and went in at the break five points up. It was a war of attrition in the second half as Ballyshannon held off a determined Naomh Conaill fight back. Ronan McGurrin, Ruairí Drummond and Conor Patton all gave simply superb performances in what was a real nail biter of a match while Marcus Harley, who played a stormer at midfield, is developing into a very fine footballer. That result puts Ballyshannon into a final next Monday, 11th May, against Naomh Conaill, who won a play-off against Ardara on Bank Holiday Monday. The venue and time had yet to be decided at the time of writing.

Congratulations to the Colaiste Colmcille under 14 and half side which recently won the Mallon cup. They beat Aquinas of Belfast by 4-17 to 3-7 in what was an exhibition of football in Healy Park.

Aodh Ruadh finally managed to get their under 14 Féile final against Saint Eunan's played on Bank Holiday Monday. The venue was Bundoran and apologies are due to anyone who travelled to Donegal town where the fixture had been initially penciled in for. It was a desperate day for football with rain and a strong crosswind, but Ballyshannon played the more intelligent football to take the county title by 1-4 to 0-3. There was a particularly strong performance from the back line with Eamon McGrath, Matthew Maguire and Paddy Gillespie showing a lot of composure, not only in their tackling, but also in their distribution of the ball out of defence. With the half time score at 1-1 to 0-2 the game was well in the balance coming into the second half, but It was Aodh Ruadh who were better able to take their chances. David McGurrin ended up with 1-2 and Darren Gettins also sniped of a point while Jamie McDonald took the final insurance score with no small amount of class. McDonald's point secured a very satisfying win and Aodh Ruadh's first county silverware in their centenary year. Congratulations lads! That win means players now have two further dates to enter into their diaries. The Ulster Féile takes place in Owenbeg, south Derry on Saturday 16th May. The All-Ireland Féile Peil na nÓg event is hosted in Kildare this year and runs from Friday, July 3rd until Sunday, July 5th.

There was back to back wins for the under 12s last Friday. They travelled to Killybegs and emerged 6-4 to 8-15 winners. Everyone played well in a display where Aodh Ruadh kept their heads against plucky homesters. Kieran Kelly continues to demonstrate outstanding potential with his reading of the game and passing from centre half back really lighting up the match. It was good to see Gavin McDaid back after his injury last week and he showed no ill-effects doing very well at full forward. Ryan Gallagher was another standout player on the forward line where he benefitted from brilliant work by Shane McGrath and Philip Patton at half forward. The next target for Aodh Ruadh is Bundoran this Friday 8th May. That game is down for Father Tierney Park with the throw in at 7pm. Players are to be at the park for 6.15pm. This is Ballyshannon's last game in the round robin section and they need a win in this game to be in with a chance of making the regional semi-finals, so a good show of support would be appreciated. Under 12 training takes place on Wednesdays at 5.30pm in the park.

The first blitz of the year takes place in Killybegs on May 9th with Naomh Conaill and Ardara also taking part. The bus leaves the park at 9.30am sharp and the players are expected to be back in Ballyshannon around 3pm. Children are to be supplied sensible snack and drink and no more than €3 for the shop stop. Any queries call Peter Gallagher on 087-9794280. A note for the diary - Aodh Ruadh host the Community Games on Sunday, May 17th. Further details in due course.

Under 8 football training continues this Friday weather permitting outside on the Colaiste Cholmcille pitch this Friday evening at 6pm. If the weather is not good, it will take place in the Mercy Hall. Well done to last week's players of the week Nathan and John. Training finishes at 6.45pm, please collect your children at that time. Any parents or coaches wishing to help out in any small way are more than welcome. Please call up about ten minutes prior to training. There will be an under 8 game at 2pm this Sunday 10th May at Munday's Field as part of the Lá na gClub and also to celebrate the opening of the new Aodh Ruadh Centre of Excellence. Any players who are 7 or 8 years of age are invited to attend. Players to be at Father Tierney Park for 1.45pm. All players should have club socks and shorts. These are available to buy in Culkin's sports shop (Ballyshannon Shoe Company).

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5 May

~ LADIES ~
A massive thank you is extended to all those who attended and supported the Ladies Beach Party fund raiser in Max Bar on Sunday night. It was a fantastic night of craic and a rip roaring success. Vital funds were raised to keep the Intermediate ladies ticking over for the season. Hopefully we can emulate the success again next year.

A big congratulations to Tara Khan who received the "Woman of the Match" for her part in the county minor victory at the weekend when they took on Cavan in Convoy. The minor panel put in an impressive display to emerge convincing winners. Congratulations to Anna Rafferty and Dearbhaile McNeill who were part of the county under 16 side at the weekend. Donegal came out on top and now progress to the Ulster final. Next up for both the under 16 and the minor girls is Tyrone, with both finals to be played next weekend. Thanks to all those who travelled on the day to support the girls.

Under 12 and Under 14 girls continued their league season this week. The under 14s registered a fantastic victory on Monday night when they played Naomh Bríd. The Ernesiders emerged the victors on a scoreline of 4-8 to 3-5. The under 12s took on the challenge Saint Naul's last Friday evening, but fell foul of a skilled Mountcharles forward line, with the final score wrapping up at 4-1 to 2-3 in favour of Saint Naul's.

All ladies training details correct as noted in yesterday's mailing.

~ FIXTURE UPDATES ~
Still no news on a venue for the under 16 regional final against Naomh Conaill at the time of writing. Likewise no word on a fixture for the thirds this weekend.

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11 May

~ CONDOLENCES ~
Aodh Ruadh extends its sincerest sympathies to our secretary, John Magee, on the death of his sister, Bridie Treacy, who passed away earlier today. She will be buried at 12 noon, Wednesday in Garrison. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal.

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh unbeaten record in division two was maintained in impressive style last Saturday when they beat MacCumhaill's by 0-14 to 0-11. The main stories of the match were the performances of Pauric Buggy and Brian Roper. Buggy bagged 0-8 in frees, some of really outstanding quality, while Roper scored 0-6 from play, again many were from the top drawer. MacCumhaill's started very brightly, but Aodh Ruadh got on top of them as the first half wore on and were good value for a 0-7 to 0-5 half time lead. In the second half Ballybofey again started the stronger, but the Ernesiders gained a midfield stranglehold thanks to the work of Michael Gurn, Michael Lawless, Stephen Ward and Fiachra McIntyre. Garret Blake also did well playing in around the midfield and leaving a two man full forward line of Roper and Buggy to wreak havoc up front. Once again Paul Kane was called on to make a vital save, this time it came just after half time, but by and large the defence was extremely sound. There is a full match report available on aodhruadh.org

The reserves also had an impressive win. They defeated MacCumhaill's by 1-12 to 0-5. The highlight was a bravura performance by the peerless Val Murray, who scored 1-8.

The seniors are to host to Gaoth Dobhair in Father Tierney Park this Sunday at 3pm. With Gaoth Dobhair reserves involved in a championship play-off game against Malin there will be no action for the Aodh Ruadh reserves this weekend.

No thirds fixture had been set for this week at the time of writing.

~ LÁ NA gCLUB ~
Unlikely as it seemed earlier in the week, the sun smiled on Ballyshannon for its Lá na gClub celebrations. Ulster President, Tom Daly, raised the GAA 125 flag to get proceedings under way. One of the early high points was the sight of the young footballers, ladies footballers and hurlers of Aodh Ruadh christening the new facilities at Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh. There were numerous other activities during the day including a tightly fought penalty kick competition which saw senior footballer, Darren Drummond, and club chairman, Terence McShea, going toe to toe for ultimate honours. Rumours that the Chairman is putting it about that he let Darren win are nothing more than scurrilous innuendo. Elsewhere Paul Kane and Tanya O'Shea took the laurels in the ladies and gents long kick after some heated competition notably from Peter Boyle and Katie Flood. There was plenty of novelty races run and one of the highlights was Mark McGlynn making like Tony McCoy and bating the oul fella, Martin McGlynn, to victory in the parents piggy back race. Minor panelist, Ronan Drummond, won the concluding event of a fun packed day, the all-comers mile. The club extends their thanks for everyone who turned up and helped make the day such a success, not forgetting those who put in so much hard work to make the day go so smoothly.

~ HURLING ~
Congratulations to young hurlers Eugene Drummond, Kieran Kelly and Deva Ayres who were part of the victorious Donegal Cumann na mBunscoil team that defeated their Tyrone counterparts in Letterkenny last Saturday during the Ulster championship game between the two counties.

The under 12 hurlers continued on their winning ways on Monday defeating Knocks in Donagh in a Titanic battle by 2-4 to 1-1. The under 16 s play Knocks in Father Tierney park on Thursday, 14th May at 7pm.

Well done to all the young hurlers who took part in the games in Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh to mark Lá na gClub.

Training for under 8s, under 10s, under 12s and under 14s is on this Sunday at 12 noon. Any enquires to John Rooney on 086-2587793.

We offer our sympathies to the McLaughlin and Downey families and the Burt club on their recent tragic loss.

~ LADIES ~
Congratulations to Anna Rafferty, Dearbhaile McNeill and Tara Khan who were part of the county minor panel who seized the Ulster title at the weekend. Tara took her place, once more, at corner back to see off the challenge of Tyrone. They now progress to the All Ireland semi finals with the final prize in sight.

The under 16 county girls will play their Ulster final this Saturday in Convoy, where they too will face Tyrone. All support on the day would be greatly appreciated.

Under 12 girls will travel to Glenties this Friday evening as their league campaign continues. An under 14 fixture for this week has yet to be announced.

Big thanks to all those who represented the Ladies teams at the Lá na gClub.

Intermediate ladies training continues in the park at 10:30am every Saturday morning.

Training for the under 12 and under 14 girls continues at 6-7pm in the park every Tuesday evening.

Under 10 girls training continues, weather permitting, in Father Tierney Park this Wednesday, 6th May at 6pm.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The minors trip take on Bundoran in Father Tierney Park this Wednesday, 13th May. Throw in is at 7pm.

Monday 11th was a wonderful day for Aodh Ruadh's under 16s. They beat Naomh Chonaill by 2-15 to 0-14 in the Southern Regional final at Fintra. It was a top class game of football with Glenties having the better of the opening exchanges. The movement of Conor Patton to centre half back helped to stem the attacking tide and put Aodh Ruadh on the front foot. Good work by Sylvester Maguire set up Niall Murray to palm into the net for a first half goal that left Glenties playing catch up for the remainder of the match. Aodh Ruadh went in at the break leading by 1-8 to 0-4, but Naomh Chonaill fought back gamely and came to within three points at one stage. As always Ruairí Drummond and Ronan McGurrin were powerhouses for Ballyshannon and increasingly dictated the pace of the game. McGurrin ended the game with six points to his credit, five from placed balls The introduction of Fergal Meehan in the second half also reaped significant dividends as he went on to bag himself 1-2, the goal a real peach slotted home after beating two defenders. Stephen Clarke was another who prospered in the Ballyshannon forward line where he was a consistent source of frees. At the back Martin Gallagher had another fine game in nets, making two great saves. One he did well to palm over for a point, while he managed to hold onto a second goal bound shot. Great credit has to go to everyone associated with this team. This was a great result for a bunch of lads who have been there or there about over the years, but who never quite got the results their efforts deserved. The under 16s now face a county league semi final against Saint Eunan's, the date, venue and time for that have yet to be decided.

Aodh Ruadh's under 14s travel to the Ulster Féile in Derry this Saturday 16th May. They will be based in Ballinascreen for the group stages of the competition. The first match is against Monaghan Harps and throws in at 12.45pm. That match is followed by games against Ballinascreen and Bellaghy respectively. Players will be informed of travel details in due course. Parents and players can also expect further detail on plans for the trip to the All-Ireland Féile Peil na nÓg in Kildare at the start of July over the course of the week.

The under 12s final game against Bundoran was postponed to this Tuesday 12th May. That game is down for Father Tierney Park with the throw in at 6.30pm. Players are to be at the park for 5.45pm. This is Ballyshannon's last game in the round robin section and they need a win in this game to be in with a chance of making the regional semi-finals, so a good show of support would be appreciated.

Last week's blitz, which was scheduled for Killybegs was cancelled at short notice on Saturday morning due to a waterlogged pitch. Apologies for any inconvenience caused. Outdoor training continues for under 10s this Saturday 16th May at 11.45am in Father Tierney Park. Children can be collected after training at 1pm sharp. Ballyshannon hosts the Community Games this Sunday, May 17th and Aodh Ruadh are taking part. Please note that for community games purposes your birth date MUST be AFTER 31st July 1999. The under 10 team management need to get a copy of eligible player's birth certificates at training on Saturday, or on Sunday when the Community Games take place. Players who aren't able to supply a copy of their birth certificate will not be able to play. Players should be at the park for 11am on Sunday.

Under 8 football training continues this Friday weather permitting outside on the Colaiste Cholmcille pitch this Friday evening at 6pm. If the weather is not good, it will take place in the Mercy Hall. Well done to last week's players of the week Owen and Cillian. Training finishes at 6.45pm, please collect your children at that time. Any parents or coaches wishing to help out in any small way are more than welcome. Please call up about ten minutes prior to training. There will be an under 8 challenge game against Bundoran on Saturday, 23rd May at 12 noon in Bundoran for all 7 and 8 year olds. All players to be up at the park for 11am. The bus will leave the park at 11.15 am. Any player wishing to play for the club must have club socks and shorts. These are available to buy in Culkin's sports shop (Ballyshannon Shoe Company). As always, any parents wishing to help out on the day would be more than welcome.

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18 May

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh's tie against Gaoth Dobhair was postponed last Saturday. This Saturday, 23rd May, sees the seniors and reserves go into championship battle against Saint Michael's in Father Tierney Park. The reserve game throws in at 6pm with the seniors following on at 7.30pm. A big show of green and white support is asked for at what is a crucial game for the club.

The thirds made the long trip to Malin in division five and got back to winning ways winning by 0-13 to 2-2. No thirds fixture had been set for this week at the time of writing.

~ PITCH BOOKINGS ~
There continue to be clashes over access to pitches. It is critical during that ALL bookings AND cancellations for Father Tierney park, Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh and the school field go through Peter Conlon to ensure the smooth operation of facilities. Call Peter on 9851386 or 087-6838024.

~ LÁ NA gCLUB ~
Brian Drummond took some shots of the Lá na gClub celebrations last Sunday week. We hope to get a selection of these pictures published on www.aodhruadh.org over the coming week.

~ HURLING ~
Congratulations to young Aodh Ruadh hurlers Bryan Ward, Barry Kelly, Patrick Harron, Daire Doyle and Brendan Gillespie who took part in the Cumann na mBunscoil half time game during the Donegal v Armagh Ulster senior hurling championship game in Letterkenny last weekend.

The under 16s lost at home to Knocks on Thursday last in the Fermanagh league.

The under 12 hurlers beat MacCumhaill's in a keenly contested challenge game in the magnificent new Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh on Sunday morning.

Aodh Ruadh are hosting an under 10 blitz this Sunday morning, with play commencing at 11am.

Training for under 8s, under 10s, under 12s and under 14s is on this Sunday at 12 noon. Any enquires to John Rooney on 086-2587793.

~ LADIES ~
Congratulations to Anna Rafferty and Dearbhaile McNeill who represented the club with the Under 16 Donegal ladies at the weekend. The county side secured the Ulster title taking them one step closer to All Ireland glory and following in the footsteps of the county Minor side.

The under 12 girls side continued their league season last Friday when they travelled to Glenties. It proved to be a nail biting game with both sides evenly matched. The affair ended all square on a scoreline of 5-4 apiece.

Intermediate ladies training continues in the park at 10.30am every Saturday morning.

Training for the under 12 and under 14 girls continues at 6-7pm in the park every Tuesday evening.

Under 10 girls training continues, weather permitting, in Father Tierney Park this Wednesday, 20th May at 6pm.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The minors had their second game of the league last Wednesday. They battled hard against Bundoran and a 4-8 to 5-13 victory rather flattered the Gaelic Park outfit. Aodh Ruadh were undone by an under-powered first half where Bundoran were allowed to run up a big lead. Ballyshannon came out a different team in the second half and with ten minutes to go were within a point of the seasiders. However Bundoran to strike a goal and two points in the closing stages to seal their win. Chris Goan was Aodh Ruadh's man of the match, he was absolutely outstanding as he played a roving role from his half forward berth. David Dolan and Peter Boyle were both very good in midfield, never allowing Bundoran to get comfortable in this sector. Conor Patton and Brianán Drummond excelled at half back, while Francis McShea was also very lively and positive throughout. In the final game of their league programme the minors take on Four Masters in Donegal Town, but no fixtures has been made for this game as yet.

Two big games in the space of five days are in prospect for the under 16s. First up will be their county division one league semi-final against Saint Eunan's. That takes place in Convoy, this Wednesday 20th May at 7.30pm. Five days later they are out in the championship when they take on Ardara in their first round, first leg match in Father Tierney park on Monday, 25th May, throw in at 7pm for that one. These are two massive games and this team really deserves a big, big show of support from everyone associated with Aodh Ruadh. Please come along if at all possible.

The under 14s were in south Derry last weekend at the Ulster Féile on what was a wretchedly cold and wet day. They drew with Monaghan Harps in their opening game before beating Bellaghy and Ballinascreen to progress from their section to the semi-final stage. There they came up against the Derry Féile champions, Ballerin who managed to halt the Ernesiders progress. An information pack for players and parents on the trip to the All-Ireland Féile Peil na nÓg in Kildare at the start of July will be distributed after training this Thursday, May 21st.

It's be a week of ups and downs for the under 12s. The up was a 8-9 to 2-8 win over Bundoran last Tuesday. Aodh Ruadh played a very controlled game against the seasiders containing them well in the first half as they played against the breeze. In the second Ballyshannon filled their boots to run out 19 point winners. Philip Patton was immense at centre half back, as was Oisín Roper at midfield. Oisín Kerr's work on the full back line in the first half in particular helped put Aodh Ruadh in good shape at half time. Shane McGrath was a real handful on the full forward, adding handsomely to an already bulging points haul for the year so far. There was a negative note though as Gavin McDaid sustained another injury. This time it was a concussion after an awkward fall. This has ruled him out for two weeks, so we all wish Gavin a full and speedy recovery. That result set Aodh Ruadh up with a play-off against Dungloe in Ardara on Monday, to decide who will play who in the Southern Divisional under 12 semi-finals. Ballyshannon lost out by a single point on a scoreline of 4-11 to 5-7, Aodh Ruadh didn't get out of the blocks in the first half on what was an ideal night for football and found themselves on the wrong side of a 13 point deficit at half time. There was a massive turn around in the second half though as Shane McGrath went into full forward where he plundered four goals to put Aodh Ruadh back in it. Dungloe were clinging on at the end, but they had done just enough to take third place and book a match against their Ardara neighbours. Oisín Rooney was real quality in goals and his bravery helped keep Ballyshannon in contention. Conor Kennedy displayed similar bravery and determination at half back. Kieran Kelly and Ryan Gallagher were two other players who really had stand out games. Up front Shane McGrath got four goals, while Ryan McKenna also got in for a well-taken goal. Aodh Ruadh's loss means they will be pitted against Naomh Conaill in the Divisional semi-final on Friday, 22nd with a venue and time yet to be decided. The lads are now 60 minutes away from a divisional final, a big show of support would be much appreciated on another big night for Aodh Ruadh. There is under 12 training on Wednesday 20th May at 5.30pm at the park.

Aodh Ruadh under 10 boys were winners of the Community Games Football competition in Father Tierney Park last Sunday, beating a gallant Bundoran team in the final. There were sterling performances throughout the field. Aodh Ruadh now go through to represent Donegal in the Ulster Community Games finals in Monaghan. Outdoor training continues for under 10s this Saturday 23th May at 11.45am in Father Tierney Park. Children can be collected after training at 1pm sharp.

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A big support would be appreciated as our under 8s take on Bundoran in a challenge game in Gaelic park, Bundoran this Saturday at 12 noon. All players should be at Father Tierney Park for 11.00am. Any player wishing to play for the club must have club socks and shorts. These are available to buy in Culkin's sports shop (Ballyshannon Shoe Company). As always, any parents wishing to help out on the day would be more than welcome. Well done to last week's players of the week Kyle and Adam. Please note, there will be NO under 8 football training this Friday night.

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25 May

~ PAIRC AOIDH RUAIDH ~
Friday, May 29th, sees Donegal take on Sligo in a championship build-up challenge in Ballyshannon. The occasion for the challenge is the official opening of Ballyshannon's new GAA park, Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh. The culmination of over two years work, the facilities at Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh are a magnificent addition to Ballyshannon's main pitch at Father Tierney Park. Brian Roper will be captain for the day with Johnny Gallagher vice captain. Admission is ten euro, with children admitted free. Funds generated by the challenge will go towards payment of the debt generated by the construction of Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh.

Throw in is at 7pm and everyone is welcome on what will be a great day for Ballyshannon.

The Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh Opening Programme is as follows:
5.00pm: Parade led by marching band from Muldoon's Spar to Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh
5.20pm: Under-age blitzes
6.00pm: Pre-opening reception
6.30pm: Formal addresses, prayer service, cutting of the tape and unveiling of plaque
7.00pm: Donegal v Sligo
8.30pm: Post game reception - open to all

The Club Centenary Draw will be made in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh on Monday night, 1st June. It is vitally important that members get their tickets sold and returned as soon as possible. Sold tickets and returns can be brought back to Tom Daly, Conal Gallagher, John Magee and Terence McShea.

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
The seniors slumped to a 0-13 to 0-15 defeat against Saint Michael's in the first leg, first round of the championship on Saturday evening. It was a game where Aodh Ruadh were oddly out of sorts and not assisted by some pernickety refereeing. Saint Michael's started briskly going into a 0-3 to 0-1 lead in the first ten minutes, but after that Aodh Ruadh took over. Points from Pauric Buggy, Barry Ward leveled it up before Buggy was indecorously hauled down in the area and the referee gave a penalty. Pauric took the penalty and sent it over the bar. Sticky Ward was introduced on 25 minutes and his first action was to drive over a stylish point to make it double scores at 0-6 to 0-3. Moments later Sticky was in action again, this time drawing another foul in the area and Aodh Ruadh's second penalty of the game. This time Buggy struck the crossbar, but Barry Ward was able to fist a point from the rebound. Two quick Saint Michael's points left it 0-7 to 0-5 to Ballyshannon at half time. The Dunfanaghy outfit were level within two minutes after the break and the sides exchanged points before off the ball ructions intervened. Brian Roper had been receiving special attention from the Saint Michael's defence all through the match, and his ultimate reaction ten minutes into the second half saw him getting a straight red card. Garret Blake also got a straight red after the same sequence of play and some felt it was a harsh decision. Down to 13 men, it was just too big an ask for Aodh Ruadh, although they still battled gamely. Saint Michael's made clever use of their extra men and were deserved 0-13 to 0-15 winners. That result leaves Ballyshannon going to Dunfanaghy needing a win to keep their centenary championship aspirations alive. A full match report should be up on aodhruadh.org later in the week.

The reserves were handsome winners against their Saint Michael's counterparts. A late goal by the visitors meant that the game finished 2-11 to 1-11.

The seniors will be looking to get back into a winning groove when they travel to Malin on Sunday in the next round of division two. That game throws in at 3pm and is preceded by the reserve game which throws in at 1.30pm.

The thirds are scheduled to travel to Pettigo this Saturday, 30th May for their latest outing in division five. Throw in at 7.30pm.

~ MEETING ~
The monthly senior club meeting takes place on Thursday 28th May in Aras Aoidh Ruadh 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ HURLING ~
The seniors began the Donegal League with a hard fought win over Saint Eunan's at home last Wednesday coming from five points down with two minutes to go to win by a point on a scoreline of 3-8 to 2-10. A Kieran Kilgannon goal put Aodh Ruadh back in with a shout but the highlight was Anthony Coughlan's effort from 95 yards out, which dropped into the net. The seniors next match is against Strabane Shamrock on Wednesday night in Father Tierney Park at 7pm.

Congratulations to Colm Kelly who won the county under 14 Féile skills competition. He will now go on to represent Donegal at the national Féile in June. Check out aodhruadh.org for a picture of Colm being presented with his award.

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The under 14s went down in a tight tussle against Strabane Shamrocks last Saturday, losing by a goal. They play Burt in the county league semi-final this Thursday evening in the park at 7.30pm.

On Sunday morning we hosted an under 10 blitz, which was attended by Strabane Shamrocks, Letterkenny Gaels, Four Masters and Dungloe. Aodh Ruadh performed very well winning all their games. An interested spectator at this blitz was the legendary Jim Treacy of Kilkenny, who was up in the north west on his holidays. Jim has ten Leinster medals and six All-Irelands in the back pocket, not to mention two All-stars to his credit from his playing days in the late 1960s and early 1970s. He made favourable comment on the level of skill and the enthusiasm on show.

Young hurlers will be taking part in the parade as part of the opening of Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. Players should assemble at the Abbey Centre for 4.45pm.

Training for under 8s, under 10s, under 12s and under 14s is on this Sunday at 12 noon. Any enquires to John Rooney on 086-2587793.

~ LADIES ~
Intermediate ladies training continues in the park at 10.30am every Saturday morning.

Training for the under 12 and under 14 girls continues at 6-7pm in the park every Tuesday evening.

Under 10 girls training continues, weather permitting, in Father Tierney Park this Wednesday, 20th May at 6pm.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
There will be Bord na nÓg meeting in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh at 9pm on Tuesday, 26th May. All committee members are asked to attend.

In light of some incidents all underage players are reminded of the following three provisions from the code of conduct they signed up to at the start of the year. 1: Be polite and respectful to team trainers and team officials at all times. 2: Be polite and respectful to fellow players at all times. 3: Be polite and respectful to referees and match officials at all times. Disciplinary issues are dealt with during monthly committee meetings. Penalties, if deemed necessary, are applied as follows. Yellow Card Offence: Suspension, from three Club events, i.e. events such as training, matches, club discos, etc. Red Card Offence: Suspension, from all club activities for the remainder of the year. Any further incidents that come to the attention of Bord na nÓg will be prosecuted fully under this disciplinary system.

If the under 12s had their ups and downs last week, it was the under 16s turn this week. First the down. That came in the form of a 1-4 to 1-8 defeat against Saint Eunan's in the county league semi final last Wednesday. Aodh Ruadh dominated the first half, but were unable to make that dominance show on the scoreboard and went in trailing by 0-3 to 1-3 at half time. After the break the Ernesiders showed some more incisive form and drew level after Ronan Drummond set Alan Finan up for a well taken goal. However Saint Eunan's were the more economic in front of posts and were able to see out the game securing a four point win and a county league final meeting against Cloughaneely. Among Aodh Ruadh's best performers was Ruairí Drummond who consistently battled hard at midfield. The display by the half back line was another plus with Eoin O'Malley Daly in particular and Sylvester Maguire displaying a never-say-die spirit. Once again Conor Patton gave a refined performance, this time at full back. The up came in the form of first round, first leg championship victory over Ardara on Monday night in Father Tierney park. It was a scrappy affair with plenty of tension evident. Niall Murray continued his goal-scoring habit with a neat effort past the Ardara net minder to help Ballyshannon to a 1-3 to 0-1 half time lead. Ardara came out a reinvigorated side in the second half and battled back to within two points of the Ernesiders. However Fergal Meehan grabbed a timely goal going into the last quarter to take the wind out of the Ardara comeback and Ballyshannon closed the game out in last five minutes. Tommy Patton gave a brilliant performance at half back, really getting stuck in for every ball. Likewise PJ Gillespie gave an exhibition at corner back. Up front James Barron had an indifferent first half, but showed guts in the second period and delivered when the pressure came on.

The beginning of league action is imminent for the under 14s with their first match of the division one campaign being penciled in for Wednesday 3rd June away to Saint Naul's with the throw in at 7pm. An information pack for players and parents / guardians on the trip to the All-Ireland Féile Peil na nÓg in Kildare at the start of July is now available

The under 12s bowed out of the league when the fell to a 4-19 to 2-7 defeat against Naomh Conaill last Friday. Glenties were the larger, better team, but Aodh Ruadh still played well throughout, giving it their all despite the quality of the opposition and can take heart from their performance. Gavin McDaid did well in goals, while Eugene Drummond continues to deliver quality performances in the full back line, as does Philip Patton at half back. In the forwards Shane McGrath was the pick and never dropped the head. There is under 12 training on Wednesday 27th May from 6.00pm to 7.00pm at the park. The final event in the under 12 season is the Willie Rogers tournament. That takes place this Saturday at Father Tierney Park and Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh with action getting under way at 11am. The under 12s are taking part in the parade as part of the opening of Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. Players should assemble at the Abbey Centre for 4.45pm.

Outdoor training continues for under 10s this Saturday 30th May at 11.45am in Father Tierney Park. Children can be collected after training at 1pm sharp. The next under 10 blitz takes place in Mountcharles on Saturday 6th June, where Saint Naul's, Aodh Ruadh, Naomh Ultan, Ardara and Pettigo will all be competing. Club jackets for under 10s can now be ordered from team management for the subsidized price of €15. The team extends its grateful appreciation to Mr. Gs for their kind and generous contribution which made this discounted scheme possible. Any under 10 players wishing to participate in the parade as part of the opening of Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh should assemble at the Abbey Centre for 4.45pm. Blitzes should commence at 5.20pm and wrap up in less than an hour.

Heavy rainfall forced the under 8 game against Bundoran to be played indoors at the new school hall in Ballyshannon. However despite the weather the day was a great success with 20 players getting to play their first game for Aodh Ruadh against a well drilled Bundoran outfit. John Patton and Aaron Darbon starred in what were great performances from the boys. Pictures from this match are available to view. This Friday night the club celebrates the opening of the new Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh with a parade and a series of underage blitzes. Children should be present at the Abbey Centre for 4.45pm to get ready for the parade. It is hoped the blitzes will start at 5.20pm in the new park, formerly known as Munday's field. Children can be collected anytime after 6.15pm.

~ LÁ NA gCLUB ~
Some of Brian Drummond's shots from the recent Lá na gClub celebrations can now be viewed.

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JUNE

1 June

~ OPENING OF PÁIRC AOIDH RUAIDH ~
Last Friday, May 29th, was a historic day for Aodh Ruadh as the club officially opened their new facilities at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh, the venue previously known as Munday's field. The festivities opened with a parade from the Abbey Centre of around two hundred Aodh Ruadh young players led by the Saint Naul's Pipe Band from Ardaghy. The parade received a friendly reception from the revelers in town for the Rory Gallagher festival and enjoying the beautiful weather. Once at the park the players broke up and staged mini-games and blitzes. With the underage games concluded it was time for the formal opening ceremony compered by senior manager, Sylvester Maguire. This began with an interdenominational prayer service and was followed by a formal address by Pat O'Malley, Chairman of Ballyshannon Town Council. Next was Aodh Ruadh Club Chairman Terence McShea who was followed by Peter Quinn who delivered a rousing speech. Speeches from the Tánaiste, Mary Coughlan, and President of the Ulster Council, Tom Daly concluded the formal addresses. Speeches complete Tom Daly and Mary Coughlan cut the tape to officially open Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh and unveiled a plaque specially commissioned to commemorate the occasion. The Donegal team, captained by Aodh Ruadh's Brian Roper, were lead out on to the new pitch by young members of Aodh Ruadh before the match. Johnny Gallagher, another Aodh Ruadh county man, took the captain's arm band in the second half. The match mightn't have gone Donegal's way, the Sligo men prevailing by 2-15 to 1-13, but it was a proud day for Aodh Ruadh and Ballyshannon as they opened this fine new facility. After the match there was an open reception in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. For those who might have missed out on the pageantry the souvenir booklet printed specially for the official opening is now on sale in Pearse O'Neill's priced €5. An excellent and detailed publication which is certain to become a collector's item in years to come it's well worth getting your hands on one while you still can. Brian Drummond was out and about with his camera and really got a wonderful flavour of the day. Check out his pictures.

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Malin made it two losses in a row for the seniors. The Inishowen outfit became the first side to defeat Aodh Ruadh in division two when they ran out 0-15 to 0-8 winners on their home patch. It was a match where Aodh Ruadh simply didn't play well enough to merit a win, spurning a number of goal chances. Best for Aodh Ruadh were Darren Drummond, Barry Travers and Pauric Loughlin.

Pettigo have clearly got the indian sign over the thirds as they recorded their second win over them in the division five league. The thirds traveled to Pettigo a bit light on numbers, but the homesters showed no mercy running out 0-15 to 0-8 winners. The thirds still have their destiny in their own hands though as they sit poised at second place in the division.

There were no senior, reserve or thirds fixtures available at the time of mailing, keep an eye on local press for up-to-date information.

~ HURLING ~
The seniors play MacCumhaill's in the league on Wednesday.

The under 16s lost to Lisbellaw in their last game in the Fermanagh league.

Congratulations to Colm Kelly, Eddie Lynch, Jamie Brennan, Tommy Gillespie and Jamie McDonald who were part of the Donegal under 14 development squad who won their blitz in Derry on Saturday. The under 14s qualified for the county league final on Thursday last by beating Burt in the semi final. The boys put in a great performance to finally pull away from the Burt men and win convincingly in the end. The final is on this Thursday at 7.30 in Killygordon against Buncrana. All support would be gratefully appreciated at this very difficult game for the boys. The under 14s beat Naomh Eoin of Sligo in a challenge game on Monday night by two points in what was a very close game.

Training for under 8s, under 10s, under 12s and under 14s is on this Sunday at 12 noon. Any enquires to John Rooney on 086-2587793.

The hurlers are on Lotto duty this Saturday, 6th June in the Saimer Court.

~ LADIES ~
Intermediate ladies training continues in the park at 10.30am every Saturday morning.

The under 14s play Glenties in park tomorrow at 7pm.

The under 12s played Four Masters last Tuesdays and managed a good win. That victory puts them in with a possible shout for a semi-final place, so things are getting exciting.

Training for the under 12 and under 14 girls continues at 6-7pm in the park every Tuesday evening.

Under 10 girls training continues, weather permitting, in Father Tierney Park this Wednesday at 6pm.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The next action for the under 16s will come in the PJ Roper tournament on Saturday, 13th June. That will be followed by the second leg of their championship clash with Ardara on Monday 22nd June. A draw or win in that game would put Aodh Ruadh through to the next round.

The beginning of league action is imminent for the under 14s with their first match of the division one campaign taking place this Wednesday 3rd June away to Saint Naul's with the throw in at 7pm. An information pack for players and parents / guardians on the trip to the All-Ireland Féile Peil na nÓg in Kildare at the start of July is now available on aodhruadh.org. Parents / Guardians and players are reminded that we need a passport photo of each player and copy of their birth certificate for Féile as soon as possible. There is a fund raising quiz for Féile in Owen Roe's on Thursday 11th June. The emphasis will be on fun and parents / guardians are all asked to gather up a team for the night.

The under 12s wrapped up for 2009 with silverware in the A and B sections of the Willie Rogers tournament last Saturday. It was great weather for the tournament with teams from Bundoran, Fanad Gaels and Erne Gaels taking part. Aodh Ruadh and Fanad Gaels managed to win through to the finals of both the A and B tournaments. The final of the B tournament saw Aodh Ruadh getting off to a great start a dominating for most of the match. Fanad Gaels staged a great comeback, but three late goals by captain Hannah Sheilds weren't enough to pull her side over the line and they lost by 3-5 to 4-1. In the A final the drama was packed into the first half. Shane McGrath got Aodh Ruadh off to the perfect start with a point from the right after a good through ball. Aodh Ruadh registered a second point before Kieran Kelly followed up three minutes later driving over a great point from distance. As the half wore on Fanad came more into the match and their captain Conor Herrity, who had a fine match, notched up points in the eighth and ninth minutes to leave the minimum in the game as half time beckoned. However the northerners were hit with a sucker punch as Shane McGrath nipped in to poach a well struck goal to leave the half time score 1-3 to 0-2. In the third quarter Fanad showed the strain of a long day's football as they were pummeled by a number of swinging Aodh Ruadh attacks. Philip Patton knocked over a point shortly after the restart and that was followed by a Jason Gallagher goal four minutes into the second half. Phillip Patton rifled to the net a minute to finish the game as contest. Fanad battled gamely for the remainder of the match, but to no avail. Bord na nÓg chairman, Paddy Kelly, smoothly compered the prize giving, introducing Willie Roger's wife, Rene to present runners-up and winners medals. The winning Aodh Ruadh B captain was Naoise Patton, while captain of the Aodh Ruadh A side, Gavin McDaid, accepted the Willie Rogers trophy from Rene Rogers. 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 the team and action pictures not to mention some video footage courtesy of Brian Drummond.

There is an under 10 blitz in Mountcharles on Saturday 6th June, with Saint Naul's, Aodh Ruadh, Naomh Ultan, Ardara and Pettigo competing. The bus leaves from the park at 10am and we hope to be back in town around 2.30pm. Aodh Ruadh face an Community Games Ulster championship preliminary round against the Down champions on Saturday, 13th June, throw in at 1pm. The match will take place at the Monaghan Harps' ground in Monaghan town. Club jackets for under 10s can now be ordered from team management for the subsidized price of €15. The team extends its grateful appreciation to Mr. Gs for their kind and generous contribution which made this discounted scheme possible.

Training for the under 8s is back on the school field in Colaiste Cholmcille this Friday evening at 6pm. Well done to all those who took part in the underage blitzes on Friday evening. Any parents or coaches wishing to help out in any small way are more than welcome. Please call up about ten minutes prior to training

~ SUMMER CAMP ~
The 16th annual Aodh Ruadh Summer Camp commences on Monday, 6th July and continues until Friday, 24th 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 6 to 14 years-of-age. The cost per week is €70 per child. Family concessions are as follows: €130 for two children; €180 for three children; and €200 for four children. Children should bring a packed lunch as no one will be allowed to leave the camp during the day. Applications to be returned to Sylvester Maguire at the Mullins Ballyshannon. Enquiries to 071-9858277 or 086-0532495 or check out www.aodhruadh.org.

~ CENTENARY DRAW WINNERS ~ The winners in Club Centenary Draw were drawn on Monday evening in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. The winners were as follows: The €8,000 top prize was won by Seamus O'Donnell junior from Creevy. The second prize of €1,000 was won by John Owens, Ballinode, County Sligo. Third prize of €500 went to Phonsie Travers of Cluain Barron. €100 prizes went to: Dominic Connell from Cootehill; Joe Prunty of Newtownbutler; Joe Roper of Corker; goalkeeper extraordinaire Gary Walsh, Derry city; and coach extraordinaire Simon Gillespie of the Abbey.

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8 June

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
There was no action for the senior footballers last weekend, but the reserves continued their encouraging form with a 1-4 to 1-9 away win over Saint Naul's. The win was all the more impressive given that the side had to field with just the bare 15. The thirds also had to field with the minimum compliment at home against Glenfin, indeed club chairman Terence McShea found himself pressed into action between the posts. The concession of four first half goals mean it was certainly an interesting experience for him. Glen Matthews came up with the goods in the second half though, bagging two well-struck goals to give Ballyshannon a share of the points on a scoreline of 4-3 to 2-9.

~ HURLING ~
Our seniors were beaten at home in the second round of the Donegal league against MacCumhaill's on a scoreline of 0-7 to 0-14.

Congratulations to our under 14 hurlers who won the county A league title on Thursday last in Killygordon and brought home the first county hurling title to the club in centenary year. They beat a very skillful and strong Buncrana team in a tightly contested final winning by 3-1 to 2-3. On a wonderful evening for hurling both sides entertained the big crowd with their whole-hearted play. Aodh Ruadh were one point down at half time but came out with all guns blazing in the second half and scored two quick goals, but Buncrana came back strongly scoring a goal and a couple of points. The Ballyshannon boys were leading by a point with ten minutes to go and their great team work, passion and commitment enabled them to hold out and secure the club's first under 14 A league title. These lads offer great hope for hurling in the club as only four of the team are overage next year and the team included six under 12 players. There were great scenes of celebration at the final whistle with many tears of happiness being shed by the players and their supporters. The loudest cheer of the night was saved for Billy Finn who was called on by Donal McLaughlin, Donegal Hurling Chairman, to present the shield to Aodh Ruadh captain, Jamie Brennan. Later that evening there was a huge cavalcade around the town and the evening finished with refreshments for the players and their supporters in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. Thanks to all the supporters who made the trip to Killygordon and really got behind the team. Thanks also to the Setanta club who hosted this final and had their pitch in great condition. Thanks also to the referee, Dan Hartnett of Letterkenny Gaels. Finally thanks to the boys for their tremendous effort, commitment and work since 2006 which resulted in them lifting this county title.

The under 14s play Four Masters in the championship this Saturday at 2pm in Tir Chonaill park, Donegal town. All players to be at Father Tierney Park at 1pm.

The under 12s beat Coolera/Strandhill on Sunday evening in a keenly contested challenge at Ransboro. The under 12s play Lisbellaw on Thursday evening in Ederney at 7.30pm. All players to be at Father Tierney park at 6pm. These lads have had a great campaign in the Fermanagh league and have remained unbeaten throughout. They face a stiff challenge against Lisbellaw and we would again call on all our supporters to come out and cheer on the boys!

The under 8s are taking part in a county blitz hosted by Four Masters this Sunday all players to be at Father Tierney park at 11am. We wish all the young hurlers the best in this blitz.

Training for under 8s, under 10s, under 12s and under 14s is on this Sunday at 12 noon. Any enquires to John Rooney on 086-2587793.

Creevy National School were beaten in the county semi-final of Cumann na mBunscoil by Tooban national school. The boys put in a great effort for their first time competing in this competition. Tooban go on to play another local school, Holy Family in the county final, date and venue to be confirmed.

~ LADIES ~
Intermediate ladies training continues in the park at 10.30am every Saturday morning.

The under 14s are travelling to Killybegs on Tuesday, 9th June for a 7pm game. The bus leaves the park at 5.30pm. The team are away again on Thursday evening to Four Masters for another 7pm throw in.

The under 12s are patiently awaiting the results of two games in their group before they can know if they finished in first or second place. However they are sure of a semi final place it's just a matter of determining whether it is in the 'A' competition or the 'B'. Training for the under 12 and under 14 girls continues at 6-7pm in the park every Tuesday evening.

Under 10 girls training continues in Father Tierney Park this Wednesday at 6pm. The under 10s will be traveling to Bundoran for a challenge match on Wednesday, 17th June.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The under 16s are out in the PJ Roper tournament this Saturday, 13th June. It promises to be the biggest tournament for a number years with teams coming from far and wide. That will be followed by the second leg of their championship clash with Ardara on Monday 22nd June. A draw or win in that game would put Aodh Ruadh through to the next round.

The under 14s got their league campaign off to an emphatic start with a 1-1 to 9-9 away victory over Saint Naul's. With a half time score of 7-7 to 0-1 in favour of the Ernesiders the game was over a contest early on. Paddy Gillespie did well in defence in the opening exchanges, but the pressure on him eased considerably as the game went on. Johnny Gethins had put in a good shift as did James Kelly who went through a lot of work in the middle. The next action for the under 14s is a home match against Bundoran this Wednesday 10th June with the throw in at 7.30pm. There is a fund raising quiz for Féile in Owen Roe's on Thursday 11th June. The emphasis will be on fun and parents / guardians are all asked to gather up a team for the night. Quiz master Paddy Kelly will be getting proceedings under way at 10pm. An information pack for players and parents / guardians on the trip to the All-Ireland Féile Peil na nÓg in Kildare at the start of July is now available on aodhruadh.org. Parents / Guardians and players are reminded that we need a passport photo of each player and copy of their birth certificate for Féile as soon as possible. This can be returned to any member of team management.

The under 10s took part in an enjoyable blitz in Mountcharles last weekend where both teams gave a very good account of themselves. Aodh Ruadh travel to an Community Games Ulster championship preliminary round against the Down champions this Saturday, 13th June, throw in at 1pm. The match will take place at the Monaghan Harps' ground in Monaghan town and the bus leaves Ballyshannon at 10.30am sharp. There are a limited number of club jackets for under 10s remaining and these can be obtained from team management for the subsidized price of €15. The team extends its grateful appreciation to Mr. Gs for their kind and generous contribution which made this discounted scheme possible. Under 10 training resumes on Saturday, 20th June at 11.45am in Father Tierney Park.

Training for the under 8s is on the school field in Colaiste Cholmcille this Friday evening at 6pm. Well done to our players of the week Adam and Aaron. Any parents or coaches wishing to help out in any small way are more than welcome. Please call up about ten minutes prior to training

~ SUMMER CAMP ~
The 16th annual Aodh Ruadh Summer Camp commences on Monday, 6th July and continues until Friday, 24th 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 6 to 14 years-of-age. The cost per week is €70 per child. Family concessions are as follows: €130 for two children; €180 for three children; and €200 for four children. Children should bring a packed lunch as no one will be allowed to leave the camp during the day. Applications to be returned to Sylvester Maguire at the Mullans Ballyshannon. Enquiries to 071-9858277 or 086-0532495 or check out www.aodhruadh.org.

~ CENTENARY DRAW WINNER ~
The winner of the €8,000 top prize in the Club Centenary Draw was in fact Seamus O'Donnell junior from Ocean View, Bundoran, not Creevy as incorrectly appeared in last week's notes. Many thanks to all those who put their hands in their pockets and bought tickets in the draw. Thanks also to all those who put in the hard work selling the draw.

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15 June

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
The seniors are away to Gaoth Dobhair this Sunday 21st June. The reserve game throws in at 1.30pm followed by the seniors at 3pm.

The thirds are in Junior B championship action this Saturday when they travel to Downings for their first round, first leg match. The throw-in time had not been decided at the time writing.

~ BEST WISHES ~
The club extends their best wishes to Dinny Loughlin for speedy recovery after his recent serious accident. All our thoughts are with this great club stalwart at this time.

~ HURLING ~
The seniors are away to Buncrana on Wednesday night in the senior league. The bus leaves the park at 5.45pm.

In another great week for underage hurling in Aodh Ruadh our under 12 hurlers won the Fermanagh league last Thursday night beating Lisbellaw in the final in Ederney. In doing so they became the first team from Donegal to win an underage county title in Fermanagh. The final was a very close run affair at a sun drenched Saint Joseph's park in Ederney. Aodh Ruadh fell behind to two quick goals from the reigning champions and the Ballyshannon boys were slow to get going and appeared nervous. But slowly but surely they got into their stride and began to get on top of their opponents and at half time trailed by 2-1 to 1-2. Both teams played very well in the second half and provided great entertainment for the large crowd. Scores were at a premium and while the Aodh Ruadh boys were dominating the game that wasn't being reflected on the score board, Lisbellaw were clinging onto a two point lead and were hopeful of recording their first win over Aodh Ruadh in 2009. However the Ballyshannon boys continued battling and showed the never say die attitude which they displayed throughout this league and Oisín Roper grabbed the all important goal as the game entered injury time to leave them leading by a point. There was still time for another Lisbellaw attack, but Aodh Ruadh held out and with their supporters encouraging the referee to blow the full time whistle he eventually did. There were great celebrations and the players were delighted as this was not one of their better performances, but they kept battling away and deservedly won the title. The full time score was Aodh Ruadh 2-3 Lisbellaw 2-2. After the game Davy Bannon, the Fermanagh Hurling Board Chairman presented the Fermanagh Shield to Aodh Ruadh captain and man of the match Conor "the Rock" Kennedy. Conor made a great speech and thanked Lisbellaw who were very worthy opponents. From Ederney it was back to Ballyshannon for a victory cavalcade throughout the town and thanks to Pat Melaniff who opened Aras Aoidh Ruaidh where refreshments were provided for the victorious panel and their parents. Thanks to all the supporters who travelled to Ederney and supported the boys and helped them over the finish line.

Twenty two of our youngest hurlers, the under 8s, took part in a county blitz held in Tir Chonaill park, Donegal town on Sunday morning last. A great days hurling was had by all they played five games in total winning two and losing two and eventually drawing with Four Masters in the final game. All the youngsters enjoyed the games and are looking forward to the next blitz in July. Thanks to the Four Masters club for hosting this blitz and providing refreshments. Thanks to Eddie Lynch, Chris Kelly and Dennis Daly, the mentors who travelled with the team and thanks to all the parents who also travelled down to support them.

Our under 14 hurlers play MacCumhaill's in the championship semi final in MacCumhaill park on Thursday. The bus leaves the park at 6pm.

Our under 12s are taking part in an all-county blitz in Letterkenny on Sunday next. The bus will be leaving the park at 11.30am. Notes will be distributed during the week.

Good luck to Holy Family National School who are playing Tooban National School in the Cumann na mBunscoil county final in Convoy on Wednesday.

Training for under 8s, under 10s, under 12s and under 14s is on this Sunday at 12 noon. Any enquires to John Rooney on 086-2587793.

~ LADIES ~
Intermediate ladies training continues in the park at 7.30am every Tuesday and Thursday.

The under 14s were beaten by a very good Four Masters outfit on Monday night. The girls have three games left in the league and are down to play Naomh Bríd next Tuesday, 23rd June.

The under 12s will be travelling to a blitz in Four Masters next Saturday. Team management will be in contact with travel details.

The under 10s will be Bundoran coming to us for a challenge match on Wednesday, 17th June.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Congratulations to Peter Boyle on another clean sheet as he kept nets for Donegal's 0-14 to 0-11 Ulster Minor Football Championship win over Antrim last Sunday. Younger brother, Nathan Boyle, was also between the posts last Sunday, this time for Donegal in the Cumann na mBunscoil exhibition game during at half time in the senior game.

The minor championship clash against Saint Naul's now looks set to take place on Wednesday, July 15th.

The PJ Roper tournament took place last Saturday, with Naomh Bríd, Erne Gaels, Derrygonnelly Harps, Saint Mary's of Sligo, Shamrock Gaels of Coola and Dromore from Tyrone attending. Aodh Ruadh were in a tough group with Dromore and Naomh Bríd and Shamrock Gaels. They had a hard fought win in their opening game against Naomh Bríd, but went down to a well-drilled Dromore outfit in their second game and finished with a loss to Shamrock Gaels in the last group game. Dromore and Saint Mary's competed in the final. The turning point came in the second half when the Dromore keeper made a fantastic double save from a Saint Mary's penalty. After that Dromore went to see out the game with a 1-1 to 1-4 win. PJ Roper's wife, Mary, and son, Brian, were on hand to present medals to the losers, with Dromore captain Mattie McCaffrey collecting the PJ Roper trophy on behalf of the winners. 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 next challenge facing the under 16s is their second leg championship clash with Ardara on Monday 22nd June. A draw or win in that game would put Aodh Ruadh through to the next round.

The under 14s recorded another heavy win in the league campaign with a 6-15 to 0-3 home win over Bundoran. Next up for the under 14s is a home match against Four Masters this Wednesday 17th June with the throw in at 7.30pm. Many thanks to everyone who attended the pub quiz last Thursday in Owen Roe's. It went well, raising €645 toward the trip to Féile. An information pack for players and parents / guardians on the trip to the All-Ireland Féile Peil na nÓg in Kildare at the start of July is now available on aodhruadh.org. Parents / Guardians and players are reminded that we need a passport photo of each player and copy of their birth certificate for Féile as soon as possible. This can be returned to any member of team management. Brian Drummond took some video and pictures at a recent under 14 training session and these are now available to view on aodhruadh.org.

Under 10 training continues this Saturday, 20th June, at 11.45am in Father Tierney Park.

Training for the under 8s is on the school field in Colaiste Cholmcille this Friday evening at 6pm. Any parents or coaches wishing to help out in any small way are more than welcome. Please call up about ten minutes prior to training

~ SUMMER CAMP ~
The 16th annual Aodh Ruadh Summer Camp commences on Monday, 6th July and continues until Friday, 24th 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 6 to 14 years-of-age. The cost per week is €70 per child. Family concessions are as follows: €130 for two children; €180 for three children; and €200 for four children. Children should bring a packed lunch as no one will be allowed to leave the camp during the day. Applications to be returned to Sylvester Maguire at the Mullans Ballyshannon. Enquiries to 071-9858277 or 086-0532495.

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22 June

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
The seniors lost by 3-15 to 1-6 away to a strong Gaoth Dobhair side last Sunday. They got off to a dream start when Anthony Boyle goaled within 20 seconds, but he sustained a serious injury in a clash with the Gaoth Dobhair goal keeper as he struck the goal and had to be substituted. After that things went downhill for Aodh Ruadh at the Gaeltacht men took a grip on the game. The reserves gave a sterling performance as they inflicted a heavy defeat on their Gaoth Dobhair counterparts emerging 1-12 to 4-13 victors.

There is no senior or reserve game this weekend.

The thirds lost their first round first leg Junior B championship match against Downings by 0-15 to 0-7.

~ MEETING ~
The monthly club meeting takes place in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh this Thursday, 25th June at 8.30. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ HURLING ~
The Senior hurlers were beaten by six points away to Buncrana on Wednesday last in the Donegal league. They play Burt at home this Wednesday.

The under 14 hurlers qualified for the championship final on Thursday last beating MacCumhaill's in Ballybofey. The boys took a long time to get into their stride due in no small part to the terrible condition of the pitch, but eventually pulled away in the second half to win comfortably in the end. They now play Burt or Buncrana in the final on a date yet to be decided. They play Strabane in Father Tierney park on Thursday at 7.30pm.

On Sunday last 28 under 12s travelled to Letterkenny to take part in an all county blitz hosted by Saint Eunan's. We divided both teams evenly, i.e. not on an A and B side basis, and both teams did very well. One side beat all teams in their group (Saint Eunan's, Carndonagh and Burt), while the other team beat Saint Eunan's and lost narrowly to Letterkenny Gaels. It was a great days hurling and was thoroughly enjoyed by all the players. Thanks to Saint Eunan's for hosting this event.

This Friday our under 10s and under 12s have been invited to a blitz in Lisnaskea. Notes will be distributed with arrangements during the week.

Well done to Colm Kelly who represented Donegal in the Féile na Gael All-Ireland skills competition in O'Connor park, Tullamore on Saturday last. He was also part of a group of young hurlers and camogie players who welcomed the Kilkenny and Galway players onto the pitch for the Lenister hurling semi-final.

Commiserations to Holy Family National School who lost out to a strong Tooban team in the county final of Cumann na mBunscoil final in Convoy on Wednesday last.

Training for under 8s, under 10s, under 12s and under 14s is on this Sunday at 12 noon. Any enquires to John Rooney on 086-2587793.

~ LADIES ~
The Ladies intermediate team continue their season and last Friday saw them take on the challenge of Sligo neighbours Cliffoney/Grange. It was a tight affair all the way through, but in the end it was the Ballyshannon girls who came out on top emerging winners by two points. This Sunday will see the start of the championship season for the ladies when they face Glen away from home. Training continues on Tuesday and Thursday in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh at 7.30pm.

The under 14 girls will take on Naomh Bríd at home on Tuesday, 23rd June, at 7pm and all support is greatly appreciated. This week will also see the under 14s face Saint Naul's at home but a date and time has yet to be confirmed.

Saturday morning saw the under 12 girls travel to Donegal town to compete in a 9-a-side blitz. There were four teams in contention with each side playing three matches. Our girls produced a fine display which saw them emerge as victors in all three games and this continues a brilliant season for them. Thank you to Four Masters for their hospitality.

The under 10 girls topped off their season last Wednesday in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh where they played two games against neighbours and long time rivals, Bundoran. There were some cracking performances from all involved and great fun was had by all, in particular by the spectators.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
There are now pictures on aodhruadh.org of the Ballyshannon contingent at the Donegal v Antrim game. Peter Boyle, who was in nets for the minors and Brendan Gillespie and Nathan Boyle who played for Donegal in the Cumann na mBunscoil exhibition game during at half time in the senior game. Good Luck to the Peter as the county minors take on Down on Saturday evening in Clones. There will be a County Supporters' Bus travelling to the match. Contact Liam McElhinney on 086-8611097 for more information.

The minor championship clash against Saint Naul's now looks set to take place on Wednesday, July 15th.

Aodh Ruadh face a play-off against Ardara after falling to a 1-9 to 0-8 away defeat in their first round, second leg championship tie. Ballyshannon were light on numbers, but still were well with Ardara when they conceded a rather dubious penalty which put the homesters four points in front. Ardara went on a scoring surge from then on and shortly after the break went eight points clear of Aodh Ruadh. The second half performance was greatly improved with Aodh Ruadh having the lion's share of possession, but the inability to put away chances meant it wasn't reflected on the score board. Ruairí Drummond was outstanding for Ballyshannon and converted some great pressure frees as they mounted their fight back. Brianán Drummond was also having a fine game at half back until he had to go off injured. James Barron did well in the second half when he operated around midfield and Stephen Clarke had a decent shift at half forward. PJ Gillespie popped up for a few important scores, while Ronan McGurrin was productive from open play. Midfielder Marcus Harley had good first half in a game that provided plenty of encouragement for the play-off. Speaking of which, no date or venue had yet been set for the play-off, but it looks like it will be this Friday. Management will supply full details in due course. Brian Drummond has supplied some additional pictures from the PJ Roper competition and these can on seen on the page with the report of this year PJ Roper.

The under 14s made it three wins on the bounce with a 3-10 to 1-5 home win over Four Masters. Johnny Gethins in particular was in fine scoring form and also did well when moved back out the field. Next up for the under 14s is a trip to Kilcar this Wednesday 24th June with the throw in at 7.30pm. Mick McGrath of the Bridgend Bar Ballyshannon is breaking open a bottle of change this Friday night, 26th June for the Aodh Ruadh under 14s trip to the All-Ireland Féile in Kildare. The count gets under way at 10pm with all invited to come along for the craic. Mick has also kindly donated prizes for a raffle on the night with the proceeds going towards the trip to Féile. An information pack for players and parents / guardians on the trip to the All-Ireland Féile Peil na nÓg in Kildare at the start of July is now available on aodhruadh.org. Parents / Guardians and players are reminded that we need a passport photo of each player and copy of their birth certificate for Féile as soon as possible. This can be returned to any member of team management.

Under 10 training continues this Saturday, 27th June, at 11.45am in Father Tierney Park.

Training for the under 8s is on the school field in Colaiste Cholmcille this Friday evening at 6pm. Well done to our players of the week Martin, Jamie and Brian. Any parents or coaches wishing to help out in any small way are more than welcome. Please call up about ten minutes prior to training

~ WEB SITE ~
There have been a number of items added to the site over the past week. There are match reports of the senior games against Malin in the league and Saint Michael's in the championship. There is also a brief match report on the reserves win against Saint Michael's. There is substantial coverage supplied by Donegal News of the opening of Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. This features a report on the opening festivities, a report on Tom Daly getting tipped for the GAA's top job by Peter Quinn and a match report from the Donegal v Sligo game which opened the park. There are also pictures along with the report on Aodh Ruadh hurlers victory in the Fermanagh Shield.

~ SUMMER CAMP ~
The 16th annual Aodh Ruadh Summer Camp commences on Monday, 6th July and continues until Friday, 24th 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 6 to 14 years-of-age. The cost per week is €70 per child. Family concessions are as follows: €130 for two children; €180 for three children; and €200 for four children. Children should bring a packed lunch as no one will be allowed to leave the camp during the day. Applications to be returned to Sylvester Maguire at the Mullans Ballyshannon. Enquiries to 071-9858277 or 086-0532495 or check out www.aodhruadh.org.

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29 June

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
There is no senior game this weekend. There may be reserve or thirds games, but no details were available at the time of sending.

~ BEST WISHES ~
Congratulations to Terence McShea who will take charge of the Ladies Ulster Senior Final between Monaghan and Tyrone this Sunday in Cavan. We wish Terence all the best.

~ HURLING ~
The senior hurlers suffered a heavy defeat 0-32 to 0-9 against Burt in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh in the Donegal League on Wednesday last.

Congratulations to Tommy Gillespie, Jamie McDonald, Colm Kelly, Eddie Lynch and Jamie Brennan who were all selected for the Donegal under 14 hurling development squad. They will be taking part in an inter county blitz in Croke Park, on Tuesday, 30th June. It is a great honour for the boys and the club to have been selected for this squad and get to play on the hallowed turf.

The under 10 and under 12s took part in a blitz in Lisnaskea on Friday evening, in a very enjoyable blitz the under 12s won three games and drew one while the under 10s won one game, drew one game and lost two games. congratulations to Kieran Kelly who came second in the under 12 boys long puc at this event and to Meabh Rooney who won the under 10 girls long puc. Thanks also to Lisnaskea hurling club for inviting us to this event.

John Crossey Ulster hurling development officer conducted a very enjoyable coaching session with the underage hurlers on Sunday morning. John was very enthusiastic and all the hurlers thoroughly enjoyed the session and we hope to have John back again before the season ends.

Well done to under 12 hurler Patrick Cassidy who won the long puc in the Community Games county final in Milford on Sunday and under 10 hurler Meabh Rooney who came third in the girls event.

Training for under 8s, under 10s, under 12s and under 14s is on this Sunday at 12 noon. Any enquires to John Rooney on 086-2587793.

~ LADIES ~
The Intermediate Ladies got their bid for championship glory under way in cracking form when they took on Naomh Columba in the park on Sunday. It was a one sided affair for most of the game with the Ernesiders taking control from the very beginning. A fine performance from Tanya O'Shea and Sarah Patton in the middle of the field proved unstoppable and the duo fed some excellent ball into the forward line who made every shot count, racking up the scores in quick succession. The formidable Anna Rafferty showcased her speed and skill in the half forward line setting up some fine scores. Donna Martin slotted home two goals and sent the frees awarded to the Aodh Ruadh side sailing over the bar. There were stellar performances all over the field and the final score wrapped up at 3-14 for the home side with the visitors managing to register 0-2. A big thank you to all the supporters who cheered on the girls from the sideline. Another thank you to our sponsors M.V.'s who provided new jerseys for the Ladies team this year. Here are pictures from the game and the new jerseys. Congratulations to Donna Martin who was named as Intermediate captain for the year. No doubt she'll do a great job!

The under 14 girls secured another win when they played Naomh Bríd last week in their league campaign. The next fixture will see them face a strong Saint Naul's side with a date and venue yet to be confirmed.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The monthly Bord na nÓg meeting takes place tomorrow night, Tuesday 30th June. All committee members are asked to attend.

The minor championship clash against Saint Naul's now looks set to take place on Wednesday, July 15th.

Aodh Ruadh under 16's season crashed to a finish last Friday when they were defeated by Ardara in their first round championship play-off in Dunkineely by 1-13 to 2-7. There is now a match report on the second leg loss up in Ardara on aodhruadh.org

The under 14s maintained their superb start to the season with a 3-8 to 6-12 away win over Kilcar. All attention now switches to the trip to Féile in Kildare. The information pack for players and parents / guardians on the trip to the All-Ireland Féile Peil na nÓg on aodhruadh.org has been updated with the Féile Peil na nÓg Charter and the latest information on the schedule of events. The opening of the bottle of change in the Bridgend generated 500 euro and 5 cent for the trip to Féile. Many thanks are due to Mick McGrath for his kind and generous gesture of support in donating the proceeds to this event.

The under 10 Community Games team were defeated in the Ulster final held in Monaghan last Saturday. They were beaten by well-drilled Tyrone champions, Termonmaguirc. Thanks Hugh Gillespie, John Clarke, Pauric Keenaghan and Rory McGloin and everyone else who helped out on the day.Here are a couple of pictures of the team's trip to Monaghan. The under 10 Mick Shannon tournament takes place this Saturday, 4th July, in Father Tierney Park and Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. There are eight teams attending including Aodh Ruadh and the action gets under way at 11am. Aodh Ruadh players are to be at the park for 10.30am. All players must bring a loaf of sandwiches to help with catering for the large number of players and mentors attending.

There will be an under 8 challenge game against Bundoran this Friday, 3rd July in Gaelic Park, Bundoran at 6pm. All under 8 players to meet up at Father Tierney park at 5.15pm. A big support is encouraged for all our boys. There will be no training for under 6 players in the Park that Friday night. Training will resume as normal in the school field at 6pm the following Friday. Well done to our players of the week this week Daniel and Tiernan.

~ SUMMER CAMP ~
The 17th annual Aodh Ruadh Summer Camp commences on Monday, 6th July and continues until Friday, 24th 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 6 to 14 years-of-age. The cost per week is €70 per child. Family concessions are as follows: €130 for two children; €180 for three children; and €200 for four children. Children should bring a packed lunch as no one will be allowed to leave the camp during the day. Applications to be returned to Sylvester Maguire at the Mullans Ballyshannon. Enquiries to 071-9858277 or 086-0532495 or check out www.aodhruadh.org.

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JULY

6 July

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
With Donegal and Clare in championship action there is no senior game this weekend. However the reserves and thirds will both be in action this Sunday, 12th July. The reserves are at home to Saint Naul's with the throw in at 1.30pm, while the third's head to Lifford where the throw-in is also at 1.30pm.

Congratulations to Terence McShea who acquitted himself with distinction when he took charge of Tyrone's win over Monaghan in the Ulster senior ladies final last Sunday in Cavan. He was ably assisted by fellow club men Sylvester Maguire, Gerry McDermott and Francis McShea who served as umpires.

~ HURLING ~
Congratulations and well done to Tommy Gillespie, Jamie McDonald, Eddie Lynch, Colm Kelly and Jamie Brennan who were part of the Donegal under 14 development squad who beat Derry and Tyrone in a blitz in Croke Park last Tuesday. All five lads got to play in Croke Park; A great honour for them and the club. hopefully it will the first of many appearances there for them.

The under 14s lost in a very poor performance at home to Lisbellaw in the first round of the Fermanagh league on Monday night. In a spiritless performance they lost by 7-8 to 5-3. They play Buncrana in the championship final on Friday night in MacCumhaill park at 7.30pm. A big show of Ballyshannon support would be very welcome.

The under 12s and under 16s are due to play Setanta on Thursday night in the Donegal League.

The under 8s are taking part in a blitz in Letterkenny on Sunday. The bus leaves the park at 11.15am.

Training for under 8s, under 10s, under 12s and under 14s is on this Sunday at 12 noon. Any enquires to John Rooney on 086-2587793.

Good luck to the Donegal senior hurlers who play Tyrone in the Lory Meagher cup final in Croke Park this Saturday.

~ LADIES ~
The under 12s travelled to Ballybofey last Friday and put in a fine performance to record a good win against a plucky MacCumhaill's side.

The under 14s have a home game against Killybegs this Thursday, 9th July, at 7pm.

Training continues on Tuesdays for under 12s and 14s at 6pm.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The minors have a game against Four Masters in Donegal town this Wednesday, 8th July at 7.30pm. There's minor training at the park this Friday, 10th July at 8pm and again on Monday 13th July at 8pm. The minor championship clash against Saint Naul's will take place on Wednesday, July 15th.

Aodh Ruadh's under 14s were off to the All-Ireland Féile at the weekend. On the pitch the lads got off to a great start with a 0-1 to 6-10 win over their hosts, Sallins, on Friday afternoon. That continued on Saturday morning when they clocked up a 3-7 to 0-3 win over another Kildare side, Robertstown. That meant it came down to a shootout with Monaleen of Limerick for a place in the semi-final stages. Unfortunately the Treaty men were a bigger, stronger outfit and were able to forge a 2-7 to 0-4 win to end Aodh Ruadh's involvement in the competition. Monaleen reached the section three final, but they went down to Portlaoise. David McGurrin was awarded Aodh Ruadh's player of the competition, while Jamie Campbell represented the club well in the skills event. Off the pitch the team was spoiled by the good people of Sallins and given an extremely warm welcome. Aodh Ruadh were well looked after in every respect and Sallins deserve enormous gratitude for their hospitality. Thanks also should go to everyone who helped out with the team down in Kildare and made sure that everything went smoothly. Well done also to the players for representing their club with pride and poise both on and off the pitch. It's back to domestic action this Wednesday, 8th July for the lads when they take on Naomh Chonaill in Father Tierney park in the next round of the under 14 league. Throw in at 7.30pm.

Aodh Ruadh's annual Mick Shannon blitz took place last Saturday. The competition ran off well, largely escaping the showers. A strong Naomh Chonaill outfit beat Kilcar in 'A' final, while Glenties also took the honours in the 'B' final where they beat a gallant Bundoran side. Many thanks are due to businesses who sponsored food and drink for the lunch time refreshments. Those include O'Donnell's Bakery who supplied buns and fancies, Paul Gillespie at C & C for the range of drinks, Pearse O'Neill and Mace supermarket. Thanks especially to the parents / guardians for their generous contributions which ensured that everyone at the tournament was well looked after. We can't forget the club members who officiated over the course of the day Val Murray, Shane Toolan, Sylvester Maguire, Barry Travers, Terence McShea, Simon Gillespie and Sean Perry. Thanks also to Ronan Matthews who took some great shots of the proceedings. Under 10 training continues this Saturday, 11th July, at 11.45am in Father Tierney Park. The next blitz is down for Bundoran on Saturday 18th July where Aodh Ruadh will be up against teams from Bundoran, Glenties, Pettigo and Dungloe.

Well done to all those under 8s who played in our recent challenge matches against a well-drilled Bundoran outfit. In the 'A' game there were some strong performances from Aaron and John who battled well while in the 'B' game there was a great team performance with Diarmuid and Ruairi really to the fore. Training resumes this Friday night at 6pm in the school field for all U8 players. Any parents or coaches would like to help should call up about ten minutes before hand.

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13 July

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
With Donegal and Derry in qualifier action there is, once again, no senior game this weekend. There were two good wins last weekend though for the reserves and thirds. The reserves continued their good run of form with a 3-13 to 0-10 win over Saint Naul's in Father Tierney Park. A David Finnerty goal helped get Aodh Ruadh on their way, while further goals from Damien Conlon and an exceptional Anthony Boyle made sure Ballyshannon remained in control. David Dolan had a fine game while Diarmuid Slevin also put in a brilliant 60 minutes at centre half forward. That win pushes the reserves to third in the division two reserve table. Meanwhile the thirds had to travel to Lifford last Friday for a clash with Saint Patrick's, a game they won on a scoreline of 0-12 to 3-10.

There were no reserve or thirds fixtures available at the time of sending. However, it does look like the under 21s will be out in the championship on Wednesday, July 22nd in Father Tierney Park against the winners of Gaoth Dobhair and MacCumhaill's.

~ HURLING ~
The seniors are due to play Setanta in the Donegal Hurling League in the Cross on Wednesday night.

Pride of place this week goes to the Aodh Ruadh under 14 hurlers completed the double in Donegal hurling last Friday by beating Buncrana in the championship final, having earlier won the league final against the same opposition. Played in ideal conditions in the immaculate MacCumhaill park, the Aodh Ruadh boys put in a great team performance to win by 2-6 to 0-10. The first half was a very close affair between two evenly matched teams. Buncrana were leading at half time by 0-6 to 0-5. Aodh Ruadh thundered into the second half and began hurling really well, after missing a couple of goal chances they hit the net twice within a minute through team captain Jamie Brennan and Eamon McGrath. The second half was very enjoyable with some great spells of hurling to entertain the large and vocal crowd. Aodh Ruadh put in a tremendous team effort with all the team showing great heart and commitment to run out two point winners. It was a great achievement by this team with all but four of the team underage again next year. Donal McLaughlin, the hurling board chairman, presented the cup to the winning captain, Jamie Brennan, who made a very good acceptance speech. This victory capped a great season in Donegal hurling for the under 14s and winning the double was just reward for the tremendous work and effort by this panel over the last four years and by the management team. The Ballyshannon boys made their way back to the banks of the Erne where a huge cavalcade paraded them through the town. Thanks to all parents and supporters who were a great help to the team in their battle with the Buncrana boys. It was great for all the boys to have Billy Finn at the game and taking part in the celebrations afterwards. The passion and commitment of these lads is a credit to the club and are cause for great celebration in Centenary year.

The under 14s beat Knocks in Donagh on Monday night in round two of the Fermanagh league. The boys put in a good all round team performance in very difficult conditions to record their first victory in this competition on a score line of: Aodh Ruadh 4-5 Knocks 2-4.

On Sunday last we had two teams competing at the under 8 all-county blitz in Letterkenny, the teams did very well and really enjoyed their day, notching up a couple of victories into the bargain.

The under 12s and under 16s play Burt in the Donegal league on Thursday night, with the under 12s being at home. All players to be at Father Tierney park at 6.45 pm. The game throws in at 7.30pm.

Training for under 8s, under 10s, under 12s and under 14s is on this Sunday at 12 noon. Any enquires to John Rooney on 086-2587793.

~ LADIES ~
The senior Ladies are in championship action this weekend with a second leg fixture away to Naomh Columba on Sunday at 12 noon. Training continues on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7.30pm.

The county minors are playing an All-Ireland semi-final against Galway in Tubbercurry, county Sligo this Wednesday, 15th July, throw in at 7pm. Aodh Ruadh is proud to be represented by Anna Rafferty, Dearbhaile McNeill and Tara Khan on the panel and wish the girls the very best of luck.

The under 14s played Killybegs last Thursday in the park and won by a point. They have one game left at home to Saint Naul's, but a date and time have yet to be arranged.

Aodh Ruadh's under 12 girls are through to the 'A' semi-final against Urris. This will be played in Killygordon this Thursday, 16th July, at 6pm. In preparation for this the girls played a good tough work out against a strong Saint Eunan's side on Monday evening.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The minors fulfilled their final fixture in the minor league last Wednesday when they earned a good 1-12 to 2-10 away win over Four Masters. Christopher Goan was excellent all over the pitch for, Ballyshannon, while Ciaran Keown at centre back and Shane Carty at midfield provided a great central platform against a determined Four Masters fight back. The focus now is on the minor championship clash with Saint Naul's on Wednesday, July 15th in Father Tierney Park. The match throws in at 7.30pm and the lads deserve a great show of green and white from the Ballyshannon support, so get along and roar them on.

The under 14s recorded 8-19 to 1-0 win over Naomh Chonaill last Wednesday. Colm Kelly, Matthew Maguire. The lads are in action again this Wednesday, 15th July when they take on Dungloe in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh in the next round of the under 14 league. Throw in at 7.30pm.

The under 10s last blitz of the year takes place in Bundoran on Saturday 18th July where Aodh Ruadh will be up against teams from Bundoran, Glenties, Pettigo and Dungloe. The bus leaves at 10.30am sharp from the park. Players should bring sensible snacks and dress appropriately for the weather. This blitz will be the last action for the under 10s this year.

Training for the under 8s is back on the school field in Colaiste Cholmcille this Friday evening at 6pm. Well done to our players of the week Adam and Aaron. Any parents or coaches wishing to help out in any small way are more than welcome. Please call up about ten minutes prior to training. Please note there will be a under 8 blitz on 25th July in Bundoran.

~ SUMMER CAMP ~
The 17th annual Aodh Ruadh Summer Camp is now in full swing and continues until Friday, 24th 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 6 to 14 years-of-age. The cost per week is €70 per child. Family concessions are as follows: €130 for two children; €180 for three children; and €200 for four children. Children should bring a packed lunch as no one will be allowed to leave the camp during the day. Applications to be returned to Sylvester Maguire at the Mullans Ballyshannon. Enquiries to 071-9858277 or 086-0532495 or check out www.aodhruadh.org. You'll also see some pictures of attendees at this week's camp on the website.

~ BINGO ~
There is a special Summer Bingo in the Abbey Centre, Ballyshannon on Friday July 17th at 9pm sharp. A prize fund of €2,500 must go on the night and books will be available priced as follows: Double book, €15; Double / Double, €25; and Single €8. A night not to be missed.

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20 July

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
With Donegal and Galway in qualifier action there is, once again, no senior game this weekend. Well done to Brian Roper and Johnny Gallagher who both acquitted themselves with distinction in Donegal's morale boosting victory over victory in the qualifiers last Saturday night.

The reserves slipped to a 0-8 to 1-10 home loss against Buncrana last Sunday. There was no reserve fixtures available at the time of sending, but it looks like the thirds will be in first round, second leg championship action against Downings in Father Tierney Park at 12.30pm.

~ DONEGAL V GALWAY ~
The STAND at Markievicz Park will be all ticket for the qualifier game between Donegal and Galway this Saturday. Anyone who wants to book tickets will need to have their order with Terence McShea (087-2360815) by 1pm on Wednesday, 22nd July. The terraces will be pay on the gate.

~ MEETING ~
The monthly club meeting on Wednesday 22nd July at 9pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ HURLING ~
The under 16s were beaten away by Burt last Thursday. The next engagement for the under 16s is at home to Carndonagh on Thursday, 23rd July with the throw in at 7.30pm.

The under 12 hurlers beat Burt in a very competitive game in round two of the Donegal league in Father Tierney Park on Thursday last. The Inishowen boys pushed Aodh Ruadh to the pin of their collar before Ballyshannon ran out winners on a scoreline of 2-4 to 2-0. The under 12s beat MacCumhaill's in a challenge game on Sunday morning. Thanks to MacCumhaill's for coming to this blitz. Yet again, unfortunately, no other teams appeared on the day. Many thanks to M.V. Bar and Restaurant who kindly sponsored the refreshments. The under 12s are away to Carndonagh on Thursday, 23rd July. All boys are to be at Father Tierney Park at 5pm.

The under 10s are taking part in a blitz in Gaoth Dobhair on Sunday, 26th July. All players to be at Father Tierney park at 9am. Notes are currently being distributed.

Training for under 8s, under 10s, under 12s and under 14s is on this Sunday at 12 noon. Any enquires to John Rooney on 086-2587793.

~ LADIES ~
The senior ladies had a good second leg intermediate championship win against Naomh Columba last Sunday. Well done to the team: Lorraine Roper; Catherine Lloyd, Dearbhaile McNeill, Shauna Slevin; Grainne McCosker, Katie Flood, Joanne Patton; Sarah Patton, Tanya O'Shea; Anna Rafferty, Donna Martin, Niamh Gallagher; Shona McGonigle, Emma McPhelim, Donna Mulligan; Annette Lloyd, Karol Foley, Fionnula Gill. There's a full match report on aodhruadh.org. That's puts Ballyshannon into a final where they will face either MacCumhaill's or Ardara. Training continues on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7.30pm.

Congratulations to the Donegal minor team which defeated Galway by 2-9 to 0-14 in the All-Ireland semi-final last Wednesday. Well done especially to the Aodh Ruadh representatives, Anna Rafferty, Dearbhaile McNeill and Tara Khan. The girls are now into the All Ireland final against Clare with date, venue and time yet to be decided.

Anna Rafferty and Dearbhaile McNeill will also be in action for the county under 16s when they take on Galway in the All-Ireland semi-final in Markievicz park on Saturday, 25th July at 2.45pm in the curtain raiser for the senior men's qualifier game between the counties.

Aodh Ruadh's under 12 girls went down to a battling loss against Urris in the county semi-final last Thursday. The girls gave a very good second half performance and can be proud of giving a good account of themselves.

Best wishes to Terence McShea would will be taking charge of the All-Ireland senior ladies championship clash between Sligo and Leitrim this Sunday, 26th July at 3.30pm in Father Tierney Park. That game will be preceded in the park by the meeting of Leitrim and Fermanagh in the All-Ireland under 16 B semi-final at 2pm.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The minors drew against Saint Naul's in their first round, first leg championship clash on a score line of 2-12 to 1-15. That result means it is winner takes all in the next leg and the focus now shifts to the second leg clash with Saint Naul's on Wednesday, July 29th in Mountcharles. The match throws in at 7.30pm and the lads deserve a great show of green and white from the Ballyshannon support, so get along and roar them on.

The under 15 Óg Sport side are in action this Saturday July 25th in Father Tierney Park in the regional blitz. They will be up against Bundoran and Naomh Bríd. The blitz commences at 11am.

The under 14s had a 7-12 to 2-6 win over Dungloe last Wednesday. The lads are in action again this Wednesday, 22nd July when they travel to Ardara in the next round of the under 14 league. Throw in at 7.30pm. Should they win that game then they will most likely fact a Southern Division League final against Kilcar next Monday, 27th July.

Under 10 football has finished for the year. There may be some county blitzes in August, but team members will be notified about them in good time should they arise. The management team would like to thank all the parents for their help and co-operation during the year. We would like to thank all the lads for their efforts during the year and compliment them as a group for their impeccable manners whilst playing under 10. We look forward to see you all back in the Mercy Hall in October.

Training for the under 8s is back on in the school field at Colaiste Cholmcille this Friday evening at 6pm. Well done to our players of the week Ryan and Conal. Any parents or coaches wishing to help out in any small way are more than welcome. Please call up about ten minutes prior to training. There will be an under 8 blitz in Gaelic Park, Bundoran this Saturday 25th July at 11am. Players to be up in Father Tierney Park at 10.15am. Bring club gear please. A big support from all would be appreciated.

~ EVENTS CALENDAR ~
A new feature on www.aodhruadh.org, is the events calendar. This gives a daily view of what's going on around the club.

~ BINGO ~
There is a special Summer Bingo in the Abbey Centre, Ballyshannon on Friday July 24th at 9pm sharp. A prize fund of €2,500 must go on the night and books will be available priced as follows: Double book, €15; Double / Double, €25; and Single €8. A night not to be missed.

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27 July

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
With Donegal and Cork in All-Ireland quarter final action there is no senior game this weekend. Once again, well done to Brian Roper and Johnny Gallagher who both made important contribution to the win over Galway.

Aodh Ruadh needed a win against a strong Downings side to force their first round championship tie to a play-off. They managed to do that last Saturday with a hard-fought four point win in Father Tierney Park. Downings were missing a couple of players and Aodh Ruadh were able to capitalise going into a good lead in the first half thanks in part to a Diarmuid Keown goal. Downings made a fight of it in the second half, but missed some crucial frees when the game was in the melting pot. The Ernesiders were able to kick on, helped by a well-struck goal by Sean Perry. Ronan Drummond was Aodh Ruadh's man of the match giving an outstanding performance from his berth at wing back. Check out aodhruadh.org for Ronan Matthews and Brian Drummond's pictures from the match.

The reserves continued their encouraging form in 2009 with a great away win against Glenfin last Sunday. They won by 0-10 to 2-5, a result that puts them second in the division two reserve table, three points behind Glenfin and a point ahead of Termon, although Termon do have two games in hand.

Aodh Ruadh's under 21s take on Gaoth Dobhair this Friday, 31st July at 7.30pm in Father Tierney Park with Jimmy White refereeing. The team have put in a particularly big effort this year and hope for a big performance on the night. A big show of local support for the boys would be much appreciated.

There were no fixtures available for the reserves or third team at the time of sending.

~ CONDOLENCES ~
Aodh Ruadh extends its sincerest sympathies to Eleanor Rooney on the death of her father, Seamus McNulty, who passed away on Saturday past. He will be buried on Tuesday, 28th July in Warrenpoint, county Down. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal.

~ DONEGAL V CORK ~
Donegal take on Cork in the All-Ireland quarter finals at Croke Park at 2pm on Sunday, 2nd August. Orders for tickets must be with the club by 1pm on Wednesday. Mary Matthews in Shannon's Corner, Terence McShea (087-2360815), or John Magee (086-2263105) are all able to take your orders. Given the considerable queues that can be experienced at the Ticketmaster outlets in Dublin it is advisable that you get your ticket with the club to avoid that particular inconvenience on the day of the match. Tickets will be available for collection in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh on Thursday night at 9pm. Don't forget, you can get your Donegal car flags for trip to Dublin for just €5 from the club shop. It is worth reiterating that 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.

~ HURLING ~
The under 16s lost to Saint Eunan's last Thursday by a point. The under 16s next match is at home to Buncrana this Thursday, 30th July.

The under 12s beat Carndonagh on Thursday last in the Donegal league. This Thursday, 30th July, the under 12s are away to Buncrana. The bus leaves the park at 5.30pm.

The under 10s took part in a blitz in Gaoth Dobhair on Sunday last.

Training for under 8s, under 10s, under 12s and under 14s is on this Sunday at 12 noon. Any enquires to John Rooney on 086-2587793.

~ LADIES ~
The senior club extends their thanks to the Ladies committee for all their help in the running of the inter-county championship fixtures staged in Father Tierney Park last Sunday.

The intermediate ladies final looks set to be against McCumhaill's on 23rd August. Time and venue have yet to be decided. The Ladies county board are fund raising and have sent out 80 €10 tickets to each club. The top prize is €5,000 with a large number of attractive smaller prizes also on offer. Senior players are out and about selling at the moment so if you spot them, be sure to take a few tickets off their hands.

The Donegal minor team, which features the talents of Aodh Ruadh's Dearbhaile McNeill, Tara Khan and Anna Rafferty, will take on Clare in the All-Ireland final in O'Connor Park, Tullamore on Sunday 2nd August at 5pm. The best of luck to Donegal and especially the Ballyshannon girls as they bid for national honours.

A huge well done to Dearbhaile McNeill and Anna Rafferty who were part of the county under 16 side that beat Galway by 5-12 to 4-11 in Markievicz park last Saturday. They are now in line to meet a Meath side that beat Cork by a goal in the other semi-final. Date, time and venue had not been announced at time of sending.

The under 14s played their last game of year last Thursday. They pulled off a great victory over Saint Naul's to finish the year with three wins on the bounce. It's been a year of good progress with this great bunch of girls and there's plenty of promise to build for next year.

With competition now finished up for the under 10s, 12s, and 14s, the next action for these players will be when indoor training resumes in the autumn.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
After drawing the first day, the minors play a winner takes all match in their second leg clash with Saint Naul's this Wednesday, July 29th in Mountcharles. The match throws in at 7.30pm and the lads deserve a great show of green and white from the Ballyshannon support, so get along and roar them on.

Congratulations to the under 15 Óg Sport side which won their blitz last Saturday and now progress on to the next stage of the Óg Sport competition. Details will be supplied when they become available.

The under 14s had a 0-2 to 4-15 win over Ardara last Wednesday, a result that put them through to the regional final against Kilcar on Monday evening. Aodh Ruadh captured regional silverware, but were made to work all the way for it by a resolute Kilcar side. The Towney outfit matched Ballyshannon well in the first half, especially in midfield. In fact David McGurrin's scoring kept Aodh Ruadh in it in the first half. He clocked up a goal and three points while Conor Gilmartin also got on the score board with a neat goal to make the half time score 2-3 to 0-3 in favour of the Ernesiders. Ballyshannon turned the screw in the second half and the decision to bring Johnny Gethins back into midfield helped staunch the effect of Kilcar's danger man. The two man full back line of Paddy Gillespie and Eamon McGrath were very solid all through the game, while Colm Kelly provided excellent cover from half back. Aodh Ruadh played with more freedom in the second half and the more direct play reaped dividends, in particular for Jamie McDonald who thrived on the better ball and rifled off four points. James Kelly, Pauric Patton, David McGurrin, Johnny Gethins and Dominic Boyle all also managed to score a point in the second half. A more incisive attack in the second half coupled with a strong defensive performance throughout helped ensure that Aodh Ruadh ran out 2-12 to 0-7 winners to claim the Southern Regional under 14 league title. The Aodh Ruadh team v Kilcar: Daniel Kelly; Eamon McGrath, Paddy Gillespie; Paddy Dixon, Colm Kelly, Darren Gethins; James Kelly, Pauric Patton; Conor Gilmartin, Matthew Gettins, Jamie McDonald; David McGurrin, Johnny Gethins. Substitutes: Philip Patton for Conor Gilmartin; Jamie Campbell for Darren Gethins; John Ward for Jamie McDonald; Dominic Boyle for Matthew Gettins; Ryan Patton for Paddy Dixon. Congratulations to the lads, their management and everyone associated with looking after the team. There is training for under 14s and under 13s this Thursday at 5.30pm and Saturday at 5.30pm in Father Tierney Park.

Last Saturday was a big day out for our under 8s. The club fielded an under 8 and under 6 team. Our under 6s had games against Bundoran and Killybegs with very little separating the teams. There were great performances from Leon Ward-Foster and Shane Whealen. The team captain, Cian Rooney, really drove the boys on. Our under 8s were beaten in their first game by a very strong Killybegs outfit. Next up was Melvin Gaels who led the game with two minutes to go by four points before a superbly taken point by Cianan Roper and a classic Adam Clarke goal ensured a well earned draw for the Erne men. Next up for the boys were the hosts, Bundoran. A real thriller ensured Ballyshannon raced into an early lead courtesy of the ever reliable boot of John Patton but the Bundoran men spurred on by the energetic Adam McGloin grabbed a goal to ensure a tense finish. A well worked injury time equaliser from young Tiernan Dolan ensured a draw with both teams to fight it out another day. Many thanks to the Bundoran club for hosting a great blitz with every player and supporter well taken care of. Please note there will be NO under 8 training now until September. Players will be notified through the club notes and through notices in the school.

~ WEBSITE ~
A new feature on the website, is the events calendar. This gives a daily view of what's going on around the club. A year by year time line history of the club written by Tom Daly has been added to the history section. Prepared specially for the centenary this piece details some of the main highlights of the club's history over the past one hundred years. Check out also the 'Travellin' Shams' in the Off The Pitch section. If you've any pictures you want to share why not e-mail them to info@aodhruadh.org?

~ BINGO ~
There is a special Summer Bingo in Colaiste Cholmcille, Ballyshannon on Friday July 31st at 9pm sharp. A prize fund of €2,500 must go on the night and books will be available priced as follows: Double book, €15; Double / Double, €25; and Single €8. A night not to be missed.

~ LOTTO ~
The lotto draw has been put back to Tuesday night, 28th July in Pat's Bar. The jackpot is currently €7,800. The results of the Tuesday draw will be published on aodhruadh.org directly after the draw.

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AUGUST

3 August

~ CIARAN KEON ~
It was with enormous sadness that we buried Ciaran Keon last Saturday, 1st August, in the Rock cemetery after funeral mass in St Joseph's. Just 38, Ciaran left behind a loving wife, Paula and two beautiful young children, Caoimhe and Orla. Son of John and Margaret Keon, he was deeply involved with Aodh Ruadh. He played at all ages from under 10s to seniors for the club, lining out at midfield in the 1989 senior county final at the tender age of 18 and later becoming senior captain. He was part of a unique accomplishment when he and his three brothers, Colm, Diarmuid, and Donagh, played on the county championship winning under 21 side of 1988. He also represented his county at minor and under 21 level. A hardy operator on the football pitch he went on to collect senior championship medals with Aodh Ruadh in 1994 and 1997. He co-managed the senior team before taking the reins himself, ably assisted by some of his close friends. No silverware was won but he had a very proud day managing the seven-a-side team to the All-Ireland Final a few years ago. He also enjoyed many outings playing Sigerson Cup football throughout his college years. He was always called 'the Cub' because of his bright temperament and great wit. The shock when the news of his passing was announced last Thursday reverberates yet. The massive turn out at his wake and funeral are but a small token of the esteem and respect Ciaran was held in by the people of Ballyshannon and beyond. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal.

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
The seniors and reserves are at home to Termon this Sunday, 9th August. The reserve game throws in at 1.30pm and is followed by the senior match at 3pm. There is senior training in the park on Tuesday 4th August at 6.45pm, Thursday at 6.45pm and Saturday at 4pm.

There is no third team game this weekend.

Aodh Ruadh's under 21s take on Gaoth Dobhair this Wednesday, 5th August at 7.30pm in Father Tierney Park with Jimmy White refereeing. The team have put in a particularly big effort this year and hope for a big performance on the night. A big show of local support for the boys would be much appreciated.

~ HURLING ~
The under 12s suffered a heavy defeat away to Buncrana on Thursday last. The under 16s beat Buncrana at home on the same evening. The under 12s play Saint Eunan's in Father Tierney park on Thursday. All players to be up for 6.45pm. The under 14s lost away to Woodford Gaels on Monday night in the Fermanagh league.

Only the under 8s are training this Sunday as all other teams are going to Croke park for the all-Ireland semi-final between Waterford and Kilkenny.

~ LADIES ~
The intermediate ladies final looks set to be against McCumhaill's on 23rd August. Time and venue have yet to be decided. The Ladies county board are fund raising and have sent out 80 €10 tickets to each club. The top prize is €5,000 with a large number of attractive smaller prizes also on offer. Senior players are out and about selling at the moment so if you spot them, be sure to take a few tickets off their hands.

Many congratulations to the Donegal minor team, which includes Aodh Ruadh's Dearbhaile McNeill, Tara Khan and Anna Rafferty, on their 5-13 to 5-5 victory over Clare in the All-Ireland final in O'Connor Park, Tullamore last Sunday.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
Minors were unlucky to lose out to Saint Naul's in their second leg first round match last Wednesday. The Mountcharles outfit got off to a flyer and Ballyshannon had to try and play catch up for the remainder of the game, but went down on a score line of 3-14 to 2-4. Aodh Ruadh's best performances on the night came from Chris Goan, Brianán Drummond, Niall Thomas and Ronan Drummond. Thanks to the lads for all their hard work over the year, hopefully we can build on it again next year.

The county final of the U15 Óg Sport will be held on Saturday, 22nd August at a venue in the south board area.

There is training for under 14s this Thursday at 5.30pm and Thursday at 5.30pm in Father Tierney Park.

~ BINGO ~
There is a special Summer Bingo every Friday night in the Abbey Centre, Ballyshannon at 9pm sharp. A prize fund of €2,500 must go on the night and books will be available priced as follows: Double book, €15; Double / Double, €25; and Single €8. A night not to be missed.

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10 August

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh's seniors promotion hopes took a dent with a 0-11 to 2-8 loss at home to Termon. The game turned on Termon's ability to take their chances, while Aodh Ruadh lacked the same clinical edge. The sides were evenly matched in the first half and went in at four points apiece at half time. Ballyshannon began the second half strongly with Turlough McIntyre and Sticky Ward causing Termon trouble and putting the Ernesiders into a two point lead. But Aodh Ruadh were suckered by two Termon goals, which effectively sealed the result, although Ballyshannon did mount a strong late fight back.
Read the full match report

The reserves continued their impressive run of form with an excellent 1-8 to 0-7 over their Termon counterparts. Aodh Ruadh got into the lead early on, which was important in a game that turned out to be a nip and tuck affair. However Ballyshannon displayed a great team ethic and the noticeable development of the younger players in the squad over the year has become an increasing asset. James McIntyre took his goal well and he put in a good shift up front as did David Dolan and Shane McShea up until he was taken off with a broken nose. We wish Shane a speedy recovery from that injury. The influence of Liam Reynolds and Matthew Thompson at midfield was a big factor in ensuring that Aodh Ruadh came out on the right side of the result. Meanwhile in defence, Michael Ward gave his second stand out performance of the week, this time at the corner back

This weekend is championship weekend. This Saturday, 15th August, the seniors and reserves head to Dunfanaghy with very different missions. The seniors need a win over Saint Michael's to keep their Dr Maguire hopes alive after losing in the first leg, while a draw or a win against the same opposition will see the reserves through to the next round of the reserve championship. The senior game throws in at 7pm and that is preceded by the reserve game at 5.30pm. The thirds are also in championship action. Their Junior B play-off against Downings takes place in Convoy on Sunday, 16th August, at 1.30pm. With such an important weekend in prospect for the club, we appeal to everyone who can to pull on some green and white and make the trips down to Dunfanaghy and Convoy to get behind our senior footballers.

The under 21s bowed out of the championship, but not without a fight. Aodh Ruadh faced a tough match in Father Tierney Park last Wednesday against a strong Gaoth Dobhair side that had already tasted championship action. That showed in their first half performance when they ran in a score of 2-7 to the Ernesiders 0-4. However in the second half Aodh Ruadh began to play with a bit self-belief and fluidity and managed to reel the Gaeltacht side back into a three point game, but Aodh Ruadh had left themselves too much to do and went down by 1-11 to 2-12. Michael Ward gave a masterly display at full back for Ballyshannon and never put a foot wrong. Up front when David Dolan hit form he really caused endless trouble to the Gaoth Dobhair rearguard, while PJ McGee was his usually energetic and assertive self at half forward. The lads need to be recognised for the work they have put in, because this is one of the club's best performances at under 21 level in recent years.

~ CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS ~
There is a meeting on Thursday night in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh at 8pm to discuss the plans for the club's gala Centenary Celebration night on Sunday 25th October.

~ HURLING ~
Some 46 young hurlers and their mentors enjoyed a great trip to Croke Park on Sunday last to watch the All-Ireland semi-final between Kilkenny and Waterford. It proved to be a very exciting contest enjoyed by all our group.

The under 12s had a hard fought victory over Saint Eunan's in the Donegal league in Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh on Thursday last. Aodh Ruadh under 12s now play Letterkenny Gaels in Letterkenny this Thursday, 13th August with the bus leaving Father Tierney park at 6pm.

The under 14s lost to Lisbellaw away in the Fermanagh league on Monday night. Ballyshannon put in a great first half performance to go in leading by five points at half time, but the Ernesiders were reduced to 14 men early in the second half as Lisbellaw made a great comeback. Aodh Ruadh battled bravely to the end before losing out on a score line of 3-9 to 3-4.

Training for under 8s, under 10s, under 12s and under 14s is on this Sunday at 12 noon. Any enquires to John Rooney on 086-2587793.

~ LADIES ~
The intermediate ladies final against McCumhaill's will be played on 30th August. Time and venue have yet to be decided. Before that though the Intermediate lades are in league against Naomh Chonaill, this Tuesday, 11th August. They'll be traveling up to Glenties for that game. The Ladies county board are fund raising and have sent out 80 €10 tickets to each club. The top prize is €5,000 with a large number of attractive smaller prizes also on offer. Senior players are out and about selling at the moment so if you spot them, be sure to take a few tickets off their hands.

Aodh Ruadh's All-Ireland minor champions, Anna Rafferty and Dearbhaile McNeill, narrowly failed to add another All Ireland medal to their collection on August 9th when they took on Meath in the under 16 All Ireland final. It was a great game of football, but wasn't to be for the Donegal girls as they suffered an agonising two point defeat on a score line of Donegal 3-9 Meath 4-8. Commiserations to both girls, but congratulations to them also and their team mates who put in a fantastic effort this season.

~ BORD NA NÓG ~
The county final of the U15 Óg Sport will be held on Saturday, 22nd August at a venue in the south board area.

The under 14s are in championship action next Monday, 17th August. They take on Killybegs in the quarter-final first leg at 7pm in Father Tierney Park. There's high hopes that this team will have a good run in the championship so a big show of Ballyshannon support up at the park would be much appreciated.

~ WEBSITE ~
Some additions to aodhruadh.org over the past week. 'For Ciaran, to Ciaran,' the eulogy read at Ciaran Keon's graveside by his brother Donagh after the funeral mass on Saturday, 8th August has been reproduced on the website. The Donegal Democrat Archive for 1958 is now available to view.

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20 August

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
It was a weekend of very mixed fortunes for our adult football teams as the seniors and third team exited their respective championships while the reserve team advance to a quarter-final meeting against Dungloe. The seniors travelled to Dunfanaghy on Saturday night but playing into a very strong wind, trailed by seven points at half-time. The absence of Brian Roper and Garret Blake proved crucial as Sylvester Maguire's men struggled for scores eventually going down by five points. Attention now turns to the league.

Jim Kane's reserve team continued their recent run of excellent form with an away win, two David Dolan goals were decisive in seeing them safely through to the next round without the need to contest a play-off or third game.

The third team bowed out of the Junior "B" championship in a close contest against Downings in Convoy, great credit is due to Ken, Gerard, Colman, David, Paddy and Gerry for the amount of effort and enthusiasm given to managing and organising the third team this year and in years gone by.

The u-14s were due to take on Killybegs in a vital championship fixture in Ballyshannon on Wednesday night (August 19th), result not known at time of going to press.

The lotto draw took place in Owen Roes on Monday night, the jackpot € 8,600 was not won. Lucky dip winners were: € 100 Michael Patton, c/o Mellys Bar. € 20 each Mary McElwaine, Cashelard. Bridie McGowan, Kinlough. Sean & Jim, c/o Bridgend Bar, Lorraine Gallagher, Cluain Barron. M Patton, c/o Mellys Bar. Next weeks draw will take place in Dicey Reillys on Monday night at 10pm sharp, the jackpot is € 8,800.

HURLING
Last Wednesday was a sad day for senior hurling in the Aodh Ruadh club, our senior hurling team put in a spiritless and passionless performance which resulted in losing our championship game against Sean MacCumhaills on a score line of 3-27 to 0-2. A lot of the current panel will have to question their own commitment to the game of hurling and to the club.

On a brighter note, the under 12s continued their good form by defeating Letterkenny Gaels away in the Donegal league, they have now qualified for the county semi-final on Thursday, August 27th. The opposition and venue are to be confirmed. This team has their last game in the league this Thursday at home against MacCumhaills at 7.30pm. All players are requested to be at Fr. Tierney Park at 6.45pm. The boys also took part in an all county blitz in Letterkenny hosted by St Eunans. In a great day of hurling, the lads won all three of their games.

Thomas Davis GAA club from Dublin are visiting Aodh Ruadh this weekend, as part of their visit an under 14 hurling blitz is taking place on Saturday morning. Teams taking part include Thomas Davis, Aodh Ruadh, Lisbellaw and Naomh Eoin. Play begins at 11am and all players to be at Fr Tierney Park at 10.30am.

Our under 16s are away to MacCumhaill's this Thursday night in their last game in the league, a win in this game guarantees them a place in the county semi-final.

Training continues on sunday at 12 noon for u-8's, u-10's, u-12's and u-14's.

LADIES
The Intermediate Ladies travelled to Glenties last Tuesday where they faced stiff opposition from a resurgent home side as part of their league campaign. Aodh Ruadh started well but ultimately failed to make a real impact, letting their concentration slip. The visitors were luck to walk away with two points as the game ended all square. On Tuesday last, the girls were to take on Four Masters in a challenge match in a bid to squeeze in some match practise before the big championship final.

Congratulations to Aoife Buggy who make a come back to competitive football last week after a nasty cruciate injury saw her on the sideline for the past year. Nice to have you back Buggy! We can say with certainty that while Aoife may have missed football, it was football which really missed one of it's brightest stars.

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25 August

25 August 2009

~ SENIOR FOOTBALL ~
Our reserves contest a championship quarter-final this Saturday evening, (August 29th) against Dungloe in Davy Brennan Memorial Park in Glenties. Throw-in is at 5pm, all support would be appreciated for this side who have been stringing together consistent performances this season.

This Sunday 30th August, sees the Intermediate ladies take on MacCumhaill's in Glenties at 1pm in the Intermediate championship final. Aodh Ruadh are looking to bridge a 4 year gap in order to claim the title again and bring some silverware back to the club in it's centenary year. Any support on the day would be much appreciated.

Tickets are now available for sale from any member of the ladies team for the county board draw taking place in the first week of September. The top prize is 5000euro with other prizes including 1000euro and 2 tickets to the All Ireland final in Croker. They are a steal at just 10euro each!

Congratulations and heartfelt best wishes to Donna Mulligan, John Meade and their two children Jodi and Garvey on their recent wedding in Cashelard on 21st August.

Our senior footballers drew with Gaoth Dobhair in the league in Ballyshannon last Sunday.

A club meeting takes place in Aras Aoidh Ruadh on Thursday, August 27th at 8.30pm. All committee members are urged to attend as preparations for the centenary of the club continue, all new ideas, assistance and input are most welcome.

Aodh Ruadh car flags are now available in the club shop, contact Terence McShea in order to show your support for the club in this trendy, green (and white) and practical way.

In hurling circles, the under 12s had a good win at home against MacCumhaills last Thursday, they have now qualified for the county semi-final, which will be played in Fr Tierney Park on Thursday night at 7.30pm against St Eunan's, all players to be at the park at 6.45pm. All support welcome as the boys attempt to qualify for the county final.

On Saturday last, we hosted an under 14 blitz featuring Thomas Davis (Dublin) Lisbellaw (Fermanagh) and Naomh Eoin. (Sligo) It was a great days hurling and all teams got three games. Aodh Ruadh beat Thomas Davis and Naomh Eoin and lost their last game to Lisbellaw by a point. Aodh Ruadh finished on four points alongside Naomh Eoin but due to our better scoring difference we won the blitz. Afterwards presentations and refreshments took place in Aras Aodh Ruaidh, thanks to all who helped on the day with the catering and refereeing and thanks to Chris Kelly who organised the trip for Thomas Davis.

The under 16lost away to MacCumhaills in the Donegal league last Thursday they now play Setanta in a county quarter-final, date and venue to be arranged.

Training continues on Sunday for u 8s, u 10s, u 12s and u 14s.

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31 August

~ FOOTBALL ~
The reserves continue to carry Aodh Ruadh's championship hopes after a 1-8 to 0-11 draw with Dungloe in Glenties. It was a game shaped by a dominant breeze. Dungloe had the run of it for much of the first half and were 0-8 to 0-2 as the break loomed, but a David Dolan goal before half time swung things in Aodh Ruadh's favour. With the wind at their back, the Ernesiders piled on six unanswered points and with the just four minutes of normal time left they lead by a goal. Dungloe fought resolutely though and managed to chip over the necessary points to take the tie to a replay. The Aodh Ruadh team was: Peter Boyle; Mickey Dolan, Barry Travers, Simon Gillespie; Padraig Loughlin, Damien Conlon, Stephen Bradley; Liam Reynolds, Matthew Thompson; David Dolan, James McIntyre, Diarmuid McInerney; Joe Watson, Turlough McIntyre, Val Murray. Substitutes: Eoin McNeill for Stephen Bradley, Barry Mulligan for Joe Watson. The replay takes place this Sunday 6th, September in Letterkenny's O'Donnell park at 4.30pm. If it's anything like the first game, it'll be a cracker. The Ballyshannon faithful are urged to ensure a good showing of green and white. With the match serving as a curtain raiser to the Ardara v Glenties replay you will be getting plenty of value for money.

This weekend the seniors are away to Naomh Mhuire on Saturday. Throw in for that game will be at 6.30pm.

The under 14 county league semi-final between Aodh Ruadh and Buncrana which had been planned for Monday, 31st had to be postponed as MacCumhaill park was deemed unplayable. The game will now be played this Friday 4th September at 6.30pm, but a venue had yet to be decided at time of sending. The winners of that game will face Saint Eunan's in the county league final.

The monthly Bord na nÓg meeting takes place this Thursday, 3rd September in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh at 9pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ LADIES ~
The Intermediate Ladies took on MacCumhaill's on Sunday 30th August, in Glenties in the ultimate showdown of the season, the intermediate championship final. The game was a nail biting affair and it went right to the wire but unfortunately Aodh Ruadh conceded a goal in the dying seconds of injury time when they held a one point lead. It was MacCumhaill's who finished winners by two points on a score line of 6-5 to 5-6. The support on the day was fantastic and we'd like to thank all our very vocal supporters on the sideline who travelled on the day. A massive thank you to our sponsors, MV's, who have given us full support all season. Good luck to MacCumhaill's who will now represent the county in the Ulster Intermediate championship. There are pictures from the final on the website now. A detailed match report will be published in the coming days.

~ HURLING ~
The under 12 hurlers qualified for the county final on Thursday last beating Saint Eunan's 2-1 to 1-3. The game was played in horrendous conditions in Father Tierney park. The wind certainly made it a game of two halves. Aodh Ruadh with the aid of the first half gale led 2-1 to 0-1. Saint Eunan's came to life in the second half scoring a goal and two points within 10 minutes, it was backs to the wall stuff for the Ballyshannon boys from there to the final whistle and they showed buckets of character to hang on for a one point victory. the large and vocal home support played a major role in this victory and they were much appreciated by the team and management. They play Buncrana this Thursday, 3rd September, in the county final. A big show of Ballyshannon support would be very welcome and deserved for these great bunch of lads. Time and venue were unavailable at the time of sending.

The under 16s play Setanta in the county quarter final this Thursday, 3rd September. Time and venue were unavailable at the time of sending.

Well done to Tommy Gillespie, Colm Kelly and Eddie Lynch who were part of the county under 14 development squad which competed in an All-Ireland blitz in Portlaoise. Also well done to Conor McNeely who was part of the under 16 county development squad in a blitz in Monaghan.

There will only be training for the under 8s this Sunday at noon. All other age groups are cancelled due to the All-Ireland hurling finals.

~ WELL DONE ~
Congratulations to Aoife Buggy who beat off some 1,200 other competitors, not to mention close family, to win Gaelic Life's Championship Fantasy Football competition. Good to see someone in the house knows a bit about football!

~ CLUB JACKETS ~
Due to phenomenal demand Barry Ward is putting together another order for club jackets. If you would like to get your hands one of the swish new jackets you might have seen around the town, give Barry a call quick on 087-6443710, because he'll be submitting his order shortly.

~ BINGO ~
There is Bingo every Friday night in the Abbey Centre, Ballyshannon at 9pm sharp. A prize fund of €1,650 must go on the night and books will be available priced as follows: Double book, €15; Double / Double, €25; and Single €8. A night not to be missed.

~ CLUB MEMORABLIA ~
Aodh Ruadh's Centenary Celebration Night takes place in the Abbey Centre and Dorrian's on Sunday, 25th October. As part of the night there will be an exhibition of photographs and memorabilia in the Abbey.Anyone who might have photographs or items that they might like to see included in the display are asked to contact John Hughes by e-mail on info@aodhruadh.org or by mobile at 087-6431805.

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SEPTEMBER

7 September

~ FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh's promotion hopes took a serious dent last Saturday after defeat to Malin in Father Tierney park. Ballyshannon played with the wind in the first half and two well-taken Pauric Buggy goals had them well in control as half-time loomed. However, a hammer blow arrived just before the break when a poorly hit Anthony Kelly free dropped through a forest of flailing hands into the back of the net to leave Aodh Ruadh leading by just a goal. Anthony Boyle played well at the start of the second half and he set up Garreth Blake for a superb goal to restore the six point margin. The Ernesiders conceded a penalty shortly after and Malin once again pulled it back to a one goal game. Thereafter Malin ground the game out as Aodh Ruadh tired playing into the wind and eventually ran out winners by 2-10 to 3-5. See the full match report and pictures. Promotion is still a live possibility, but Aodh Ruadh can't afford any further defeats between now and the end of the season.

The reserves' bid for championship glory ended in O'Donnell park last Sunday when they were defeated by 1-10 to 1-5 by Dungloe in a replay. The sides were relatively evenly matched in the first half with points from David Dolan and Turlough McIntyre and a goal and point from Diarmuid McIntyre sending them in trailing by just two points at half time. But it was Dungloe that kicked on in the second half and only Aodh Ruadh could only add a further two points to their final tally, both from the boot of Barry Mulligan.
More

The thirds had a challenge against Bundoran last Saturday in Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh. It was a good encounter with the game ending level. There are now some pictures from the game available to view.

There were no senior fixtures available at the time of sending.

The under 14s were made to fight all the way by Buncrana in the county league semi-final last Friday. A James Kelly goal in the first half gave Aodh Ruadh some breathing space, putting them in leading by 1-5 to 0-2 at half time, but facing a strong breeze in the second half. Buncrana got two points in the early stages of the first half, but were denied a goal by a spectacular save from Daniel Kelly. Buncrana's fifth point came half way through the second period, but it was to be their last score as Aodh Ruadh upped their game, with Colm Kelly, Pauric Patton and David McGurrin particularly prominent. David McGurrin's pointed free two minutes from time proved to the final score seeing Aodh Ruadh into the final against Saint Eunan's on a score line of 1-7 to 0-5. See the full match report. The county league final takes place this Friday, 11th September in Convoy at 6.30pm. This is a huge game for the club and big attendance is essential, please make an effort to go along and support this talented young team. Before that though, there is the small matter of a championship quarter final against Ardara. That takes place on Tuesday, 8th September in Dunkineely. Again this is a massive game and a big showing of green and white is vital.

Well done to Philip Patton who qualified for the under 12 Ulster Skills finals last Saturday. Philip finished third in the Donegal finals with the top three only separated by five points. If you want to go along and support Philip the finals take place in Cookstown, County Tyrone this Saturday, 12th September at 10.30pm. Best of luck to Philip, one of our most talented young players.

~ LADIES ~
The senior ladies had a good away win over Ardara last Tuesday. There are three more games left in the league, but no fixtures were available at the time of sending.

~ HURLING ~
Our under 16s beat Setanta at home in the quarter final of the championship by 2-6 to 1-6. The boys put in a great performance to beat a fancied Setanta outfit. They now play Burt away in the semi-final on Thursday, 10th September. All support for the boys is welcome and appreciated.

Our under 12s were beaten in the county A final on Thursday last in Letterkenny by a more physical and stronger Buncrana team. The game was evenly matched for the first ten minutes with the Inishowen boys holding a slender 0-2 to 0-0 lead. Injuries in quick succession to Deva Ayres and Eugene Drummond hit the Aodh Ruadh boys hard and Buncrana led by 3-2 to 0-1 at half time. Buncrana grew stronger as the game went on, but our boys never gave up battling before finally going down by 8-5 to 2-1. It was a great achievement by these young lads to reach the A final and they were a credit to their club and families. They put in a great effort all year in training and matches, playing over 20 games in 2009 and only lost twice, both to Buncrana. thanks to all the parents and supporters who travelled to Letterkenny and made their presence felt. Best wishes to Deva Ayres for a speedy recovery, he broke his wrist in this game.

Training for under 8s, under 10s, under 12s and under 14s resumes this Sunday at 12 noon. Any enquires to John Rooney on 086-2587793.

~ CLUB MEMORABLIA ~
Aodh Ruadh's Centenary Celebration Night takes place in the Abbey Centre and Dorrian's on Sunday, 25th October. As part of the night there will be an exhibition of photographs and memorabilia in the Abbey. Anyone who might have photographs or items that they might like to see included in the display are asked to contact John Hughes by e-mail on info@aodhruadh.org or by mobile at 087-6431805.

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14 September

~ FOOTBALL ~
The seniors received a considerable thumping in Pairc Ghleann Fhinne last Saturday. The Ernesiders were minus seven players and had no answer as Glenfin went on the rampage for the duration. Aodh Ruadh managed only four points in the first half and three in the second as Glenfin ran out 5-13 to 0-7 victors. A second league defeat on the trot means there is no further room for error if Aodh Ruadh are to be in with a chance of making the promotion play-off.

With the All-Ireland final on there are no senior or reserve fixtures this weekend, but the thirds are expected to be in action against Malin in Father Tierney Park this Saturday, 19th September at 6pm. Keep an eye on local press for details nearer the time.

The under 14s beat Saint Eunan's by 0-12 to 1-7 in the county league final at Convoy last Friday. Aodh Ruadh were the better side, but were made to battle for the title by a dogged Saint Eunan's outfit. Letterkenny got the opening two scores of the game, but Ballyshannon took command from there on taking a 0-6 to 0-3 lead in at half time. A penalty miss just before the break meant Aodh Ruadh could have been ahead by even more. The Ernesiders were punished for a number of further goal misses when Conor Tourish goaled for Eunan's five minutes from time to give them the lead. Aodh Ruadh showed great guile and composure to see the game out. David McGurrin leveled the game and Jamie McDonald put Aodh Ruadh back in the lead before David McGurrin fisted over the clincher. Colm Kelly was man of the match at centre back while David McGurrin, Jamie McDonald, Johnny Gethins and Pauric Patton also put in big performances. There is a match report on aodhruadh.org.

The under 14s were in action again on Monday, 14th September, when they took on Ardara for a place in the Southern Regional Championship semi-final. They booked their place in the final against Dungloe with a 5-17 to 0-3 win at Dunkineely. Many of the most eye-catching performances were necessarily in the forward division with David McGurrin and Jamie McDonald playing significant leadership roles. The regional final against Dungloe takes place in Glenties next Monday, 21st September

The under 13s had a fine 9-15 to 2-0 win over Bundoran in their first match of the year. Fresh from their county league winning exploits Colm Kelly at centre back and Niall Harley in midfield gave great displays while up front John Ward was in fine scoring form. An excellent all-round team performance. They are in action again this Saturday, 19th September against Four Masters in Donegal town at 11am

Well done to Philip Patton who gave a good display at the under 12 Ulster Skills finals in Cookstown last Saturday. He overcame some early nerves to perform strongly, but just missed out on the placings.

Boys under 8 football training will commence on Friday 18th September at 6pm in the Mercy Hall at Colaiste Cholmcille, Ballyshannon. Any boys aged 5-8 are welcome to join come along. Cost is €2 per session. Any boys who have not attended training before are welcome to come along and join in. Training finishes at 7pm promptly, please collect the boys then.

~ LADIES ~
The intermediate Ladies continued their winning ways when they recorded an emphatic victory 5-10 to 2-2 over the Glencolmcille on Sunday, 13th September in Fr. Tierney Park. The home side were convincing winners and now continue their hunt for silverware in their league campaign.

~ HURLING ~
A busy weekend for underage hurling began last Thursday with the under 16 hurlers being comprehensively beaten by Burt in the county semi-final in Burt. The only consolation for this team is the fact the majority of the boys are underage again next year.

The under 10 hurlers took part in a blitz hosted by Lisbellaw on Saturday, this young team won all their three games in a very enjoyable event.

Aodh Ruadh hosted an under 8 county hurling blitz on Sunday morning four clubs were represented: Saint Eunan's, Letterkenny Gaels, Four Masters and Aodh Ruadh. Nine seven-a-side teams competed with 73 hurlers in all taking part in the blitz. Well done to Eddie Lynch and all his helpers especially the ladies who did a great job with the catering.

The final action of the weekend was an under 12 challenge game in the park against Coolera/Strandhill, the boys lost by a point, 2-2 to 1-4, in a very poor performance. The lack of effort by some of the team was very disappointing.

The local skills competition for all age groups under 8s, under 10s, under 12s and under 14s takes place this Sunday at 12 noon. We would ask for a good showing of parents to help with this fun event. Contact to John Rooney on 086-2587793 if you can help out.

~ CLUB MEMORABLIA ~
Anyone who might have photographs or memorabilia they might like to see included in the Centenary Celebration exhibition in the Abbey is invited to bring them to Aras Aoidh Ruaidh on Tuesday 15th September between 9pm and 10pm. Items will be scanned and returned there and then. The Aodh Ruadh Centenary Celebration Night takes place in the Abbey Centre and Dorrian's on Sunday, 25th October. If you would like to e-mail on your photos, send them along to info@aodhruadh.org.

On a related note, why not have a glimpse at what Aodh Ruadh was like 50 years ago by browsing the Donegal Democrat archive for 1959 on aodhruadh.org.

~ BINGO ~
There is Bingo every Friday night in the Abbey Centre, Ballyshannon at 9pm sharp. A prize fund of €1,650 must go on the night and double books are priced €10, half books €5.

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21 September

~ FOOTBALL ~
The senior footballers are back in division two action this Saturday when they host Saint Naul's in Father Tierney park at 6pm. There is no reserve game this weekend.

Aodh Ruadh thirds had their first league game in over two months last Saturday when they entertained Malin in Father Tierney park. It was the Inishowen side who emerged with the points, winning by 3-5 to 1-2. Defeat against Malin is not the end of the world though, as Aodh Ruadh can still level with Pettigo at the top of the group if they win their remaining games in hand. There was no third team fixture available at time of sending.

The under 14s maintained their fine run of form with a 1-5 to 5-8 win over Dungloe at Glenties in the divisional championship final on Monday evening. Aodh Ruadh opened the scoring with a point, but Dungloe struck back quickly and a penalty goal meant they took an early 1-1 to 0-1 lead. The rest of the first half was a tight battle between the sides and Aodh Ruadh went in leading by 3-1 to 1-3 at half time. The Ernesiders found their groove in the second half with Jamie McDonald, David McGurrin and Johnny Gethins in the forwards proving very difficult for the Dungloe defence to handle. McGurrin in particular picked off some great points from distance. Dungloe presented a lively threat throughout and Eamon McGrath gave an exceptional display at full back. Paddy Gillespie also did a fine job in the corner, damping down the influence of Dungloe's key danger man. Colm Kelly also stood out, with yet another quality defensive performance. Victory over Dungloe means that Aodh Ruadh once again renew acquaintances with the Saint Eunan's side they recently defeated in the county league final. This time it's a place in the county championship final at stake. The game takes place this Saturday, 26th September, in MacCumhaill Park at 12 noon. This is another huge game for this fine group of players and the club. We appeal for Ballyshannon people to get behind them as they bid to book their place in the county final. Aodh Ruadh car flags are now available in the club shop, contact Terence McShea in order to show your support for the club in this trendy, green (and white) and practical way.

The under 13s chalked up a second win on the bounce when they beat a resilient Four Masters side by 1-12 to 1-7 in Tir Chonaill park last Saturday. The sides were well matched in the first half and went in level at half time. However Ballyshannon took charge of the second half to secure the win, helped by a second half goal. Colm Kelly had a fine game both defensive and in the scoring stakes. Philip Patton was another who gave a notable performance, weighing in with a good number of Aodh Ruadh's scores. Niall Harley continues to impress in the centre of the park, but a lot of the best work in this win was done in defence. Matthew Maguire was outstanding as was Conor Kennedy and Eddie Lynch at half back. That win puts Aodh Ruadh joint top of the table with Killybegs on four points. This means the meeting of the pair at Fintra in Killybegs this Sunday, 27th September will be a decider to see who tops the group. The game throws it at 11am.

Well done to all those who attended under 8 training last Friday. A massive total of 64 boys turned up for under 8 training, which was a great boost with many new faces in attendance. With such large numbers however it is vital that more coaches come on board to assist with training. Anybody who is willing to lend a hand is asked to come to training this Friday 25th September, about five minutes prior to training this at 6pm in the Mercy Hall/School Field. Big thanks to all those who helped on the day and a big mention to our players of the week Mark, Conor, Oisín and Jamie. This Saturday there is a challenge match for ALL players against Dromore of Tyrone. All players are asked to be up at the Father Tierney Park at 12 noon. Weather permitting the game will take place at the park, however if the weather is not good it the matches will take place in either the Mercy Hall or the new school hall.

~ LADIES ~
The intermediate ladies recorded a good win on Sunday, 20th September when they overcame the challenge of a feisty Saint Michael's side in Father Tierney park. The home side secured their victory on a scoreline of 3-10 to 1-8. The return leg of the league campaign will be played in Dunfanaghy in two weeks time.

~ HURLING ~
Our annual underage skills day took place on Sunday morning last. Again it was a great success with over 60 young hurlers taking part. Results in each category were as follows:
Under 8. First: Conor Monahan; Second: Ryan McDonald; Third: Jack Monahan; Fourth: Matthew McDonald; Fifth: Naoise McHenry; Sixth: Peader McHenry.
Under 10. First: Barry Kelly; Second: Stephen Anderson; Third: Ryan Ayres; Fourth: Meabh Rooney; Fifth: Liam O'Sullivan; Sixth: Brian McHenry.
Under 12. First: Oisín Rooney; Second: Kieran Kelly; Third: Shane McGrath; Fourth: Conor Kennedy; Fifth: Brian Ward; Sixth: Deva Ayres.
Under 14. First: Eddie Lynch; Second: Colm Kelly; Third: James Kelly; Fourth: Eamonn McGrath; Fifth: Shane Mulhern; Sixth: Jamie McDonald.
There will be images from the skills competition published on aodhruadh.org during this week. Thanks to all parents who helped in the running of this event. Thanks also to BWG foods and in particular Gerry Lally for sponsoring all the goodie bags for all the competitors. This is the end of underage hurling training for the year. Thanks to all the parents for their support during the year and thanks to all the young hurlers who trained each week in all kinds of weather. Look forward to seeing you all again in March 2010.

The final action of our underage hurling season takes place this Sunday with our annual under 12 Aodh O Dalaigh tournament, with a number of visiting teams taking part. Play begins at 11am. All players are to be up at the park for 10.30am. This has always been a great days hurling and a big show of support would be very welcome for the last tournament of what has been a very successful year for underage hurling in the club.

~ COACHING CORNER ~
There will be a coaching seminar run by the Ulster Council in Glenswilly GAA ground on Saturday, 10th October. The seminar will demonstrate various drills and games appropriate to all age groups from under six to minor. Anyone with an interest in coaching would be advised to attend. The seminar will spend an hour on each age group and should provide current and prospective coaches with many new ideas. The seminar starts at 9am.

~ CLUB MEETING ~
The monthly club meeting takes place this Thursday 24th September at 8.30pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ MEMORABLIA ~
Anyone who might have photographs or memorabilia they might like to see included in the Centenary Celebration exhibition in the Abbey is invited to bring them to Aras Aoidh Ruaidh on Tuesday 22nd September between 9pm and 10pm. Items will be scanned and returned there and then. The Aodh Ruadh Centenary Celebration Night takes place in the Abbey Centre and Dorrian's on Sunday, 25th October. If you would like to e-mail on your photos, send them along to info@aodhruadh.org.

~ BINGO ~ There is Bingo every Friday night in the Abbey Centre, Ballyshannon at 9pm sharp. A prize fund of €1,650 must go on the night. Double books are priced €10, half books €5.

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28 September

~ FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh drew 2-15 to 3-12 with Saint Naul's last Saturday in Father Tierney park, but they could regard it as one point lost after they conceded a 12 point margin to Saint Naul's with ten minutes left on the clock. Ballyshannon were dominant for much of the game and generally made good use of their possession, but two debatable goals in the closing stages of the game gave Saint Naul's a lifeline. The back line was very secure with Darren Drummond, Conor Gurn and Packie McGrath dealing well with most that came their way. Kerry Ryan had a good outing in centre field. Up front Pauric Buggy was excellent from placed ball, while Garreth Blake emptied the tank and proved a very creative force. Sticky Ward and Barry Ward made hay against a Mountcharles back line that found them very difficult to handle. The pair racked up 1-5 and 1-1 respectively. The turning point came ten minutes from time when Saint Naul's netted with what looked like a square ball. That was quickly followed by what could best be described as a soft penalty. After that Mountcharles had their tails up and they battered a shell-shocked Aodh Ruadh and managed to secure what had seemed a very unlikely draw just moments earlier. There is a full match report on aodhruadh.org. The seniors are back in action this Saturday, 3rd October, when they travel to Annagry to take on Naomh Mhuire. Throw for that game is at 5.30pm.

Aodh Ruadh thirds also drew. This time the Ernesiders were away to Ardara and managed a 1-11 to 2-8 tie in Pearse Park. Aodh Ruadh are still in contention for a place in the Division five league final, but they are now hoping for Glenties and Malin to slip-up.

The under 14s booked their place in the county championship final with a magnificent 4-4 to 0-13 win over Saint Eunan's in MacCumhaill park. Johnny Gethins gave Aodh Ruadh a dream start when he flicked the ball to the net from a James Kelly pass straight from the throw-in. However Saint Eunan's then rattled off eight points before Ballyshannon next troubled the scoreboard. That was a point from David McGurrin and that was followed by a classic Pauric Patton jinking run and drive to the net to leave Aodh Ruadh just a point down at the break. McGurrin leveled after the break and that was followed by the second of Johnny Gethins fisted efforts to put Aodh Ruadh a goal ahead. Eunan's pulled back a point but McGurrin fed Pauric Patton for his second goal and James Kelly put five points between them after that. Saint Eunan's battled hard, but a Paddy Dixon point sealed a great win for the Ernesiders. There will be a full match report on aodhruadh.org later in the week. The team details were Aodh Ruadh: Daniel Kelly; Matthew Maguire, Eamon McGrath, Paddy Gillespie; Darren Gethins, Colm Kelly, Niall Harley; James Kelly (0-1), Pauric Patton (0-2); Jamie McDonald, David McGurrin (0-2, 1f), Matthew Gettins; Conor Gilmartin, Johnny Gethins (2-0), Paddy Dixon (0-1). Sub: Philip Patton for Gilmartin (37 mins). St Eunan's: Jordan McBride; Brian Hannigan, Conor O'Donnell, Conor O'Boyle; David Tyrell (0-1), Oisín Carr, Thomas Grant; Sean Hume (0-9, 8f), Christopher Flanagan; Owen Barrett, Barry McGeehin, Evan O'Sullivan; Kevin O'Donnell, Conor McEniff (0-2), Daniel Gillespie. Subs: Conor Morrison for Gillespie (half-time); Michael Miller (0-1) for K. O'Donnell (41 mins); John Russell for Flanagan (54 mins).

And now attention turns to the county final against Buncrana. The game takes place this Saturday, October 3rd, with throw-in scheduled for 1.30pm, but a venue had not been announced at time of mailing. The word is that Convoy is the most likely candidate, but keep an eye on the local press for the definitive word. This is the pinnacle of the year for a bunch of players who have brought enormous credit to themselves and Aodh Ruadh. We appeal for Ballyshannon people to really get behind them as they bid to bring back major county silverware and give the club a massive boost in its centenary year. Make sure and show your colours on the way down to the match with an Aodh Ruadh car flag. These flags are now available in the club shop, contact Terence McShea in order to show your support for the club in this trendy, green (and white) and practical way.

The under 13s went down by 6-9 to 2-6 against Killybegs in Fintra on Sunday evening. The result put Aodh Ruadh second in their group, but it will be Killybegs who progress to the next stage of the competition. That defeat concludes what has been an encouraging season for the under 13's.

Well done to all those players and coaches of our under 8s who took part in training last Friday night. Special praise must go to our players of the week Aaron, Harry, Calum and Joshua. Last Saturday was another big day for our under 8s as we welcomed Dromore of Tyrone to Father Tierney Park. Our five teams played exceptionally well with huge performances from Daniel Byrne, Ryan McDonald and Keith Greene. In all 56 players from both teams participated in the games which was great to see. Photos will be up on aodhruadh.org soon.

PLEASE NOTE: To accommodate such large numbers training will be divided between under 6s and under 8s. Under 6 training will take place on a Friday evening from 6-7pm in Mercy Hall or School Field. Under 8 training, i.e. any players aged seven or eight, will now take place on a Saturday morning from 11-12 pm in Father Tierney park.

Aodh Ruadh and Dromore under 8s who played recently in Father Tierney park. Click to see a larger version of this image.

~ LADIES ~
The Intermediate Ladies will face the challenge of St Michael's in Dunfanaghy this Saturday evening in a bid for league glory. This is a big game for the girls and as much traveling support as possible would be much appreciated.

Under 8 and under 10 girls commence indoor training in the Mercy Hall this Wednesday 30th September at 6pm. Runners only. A charge of €2 ahead will apply to cover the cost of the hall.

~ HURLING ~
The curtain came down on a very successful and busy season of underage hurling on Sunday last with the hosting of the Aodh O Dalaigh under 12 tournament. Five teams took part in this tournament: Naomh Eoin and Coolera/Strandhill, both from Sligo, Letterkenny Gaels and host club Aodh Ruadh fielding two teams. The tournament was played off on a round robin basis with each team getting four games. After these games Aodh Ruadh's 2009 team finished on top with Naomh Eoin ensuring that they played off in the Aodh O Dalaigh final. Coolera/Strandhill and Aodh Ruadh's 2010 team finished third and fourth ensuring they played off in the primary league final. The large crowd was looking forward to both finals with great interest in the Naomh Eoin v Aodh Ruadh clash as they had drawn their round robin encounter. Both teams were evenly matched in the first half but the physically stronger and more skillful Naomh Eoin team won comfortably in the end by seven points. Coolera/Strandhill easily beat the younger Aodh Ruadh team in the primary league final but the 2010 Aodh Ruadh youngsters never gave up and kept battling to the end offering good hope for this age group again next year.

Afterwards presentations took place in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh and refreshments were served. John Rooney, Aodh Ruadh hurling chairman, welcomed all clubs to the tournament he spoke of the late Hugh Daly, in whose honour the tournament is held, and the great GAA legacy he left which is being carried on by all his family. He welcomed all the guests and remarked how glad he was to see Billy Finn back at this year's event. Conor Carney principal of the Holy Family National School on behalf of the local national schools presented the shield to the Coolera/Strandhill captain. Special guest on the day John Crossey, former Antrim and Ulster hurler and hurling development officer for Donegal spoke of the high level of skill and commitment displayed in the tournament. Tom Daly, Ulster Council President on behalf of the Daly family thanked everyone involved with the running of the tournament. He spoke of the long history of hurling in the club and recalled, as the club celebrates its centenary in October 2009, that the first competitive game the club played was a hurling match against Manorhamilton. He presented the Aodh O Dalaigh shield to the winning Naomh Eoin captain. John Rooney finished off by thanking referees on the day Jonathon Browne, Michael Ayres, and Kevin McDermott. He thanked Peter Horan for all his help with coaching the under 12s and he especially commended the wonderful display of catering put on by the mothers of the Aodh Ruadh players. He thanked all the young hurlers and looked forwarded to seeing everyone back in 2010!

There will be images from the Aodh O Dalaigh tournament and the skills competition published on aodhruadh.org during this week.

~ COACHING CORNER ~
There will be a coaching seminar run by the Ulster Council in Glenswilly GAA ground on Saturday, 10th October. The seminar will demonstrate various football drills and games appropriate to all age groups from under six to minor. Anyone with an interest in coaching would be advised to attend. The seminar will spend an hour on each age group and should provide current and prospective coaches with many new ideas. The seminar starts at 10am and finishes at 4pm.

~ CENTENARY CELEBRATION NIGHT ~
Tickets are now available for Aodh Ruadh's Centenary Celebration Night, a very special event to celebrate 100 years of Gaelic Games in Ballyshannon. The event begins with an multi-media exhibition and awards presentation ceremony in the Abbey Centre, which is followed by a Gala Banquet in Dorrian's Imperial Hotel. The night finishes up with music from The Mucky Ducks. Admission will be by ticket only and third party security will be in place to ensure no exceptions. Capacity is limited and with interest very high in this centenary event it is important to secure your ticket early. Tickets, priced €40, are available from Shannon's Corner or Mojo's or you can also contact Terence McShea 087-2360815 or John Magee 086-2263105. The Underage presentations take place on 26th October, Bank Holiday Monday afternoon in the Abbey Centre, admission to this event will be free.

Anyone who might have photographs or memorabilia they might like to see included in the Centenary Celebration exhibition in the Abbey is invited to bring them to Aras Aoidh Ruaidh on Thursday 1st October between 9pm and 10pm. Items will be scanned and returned there and then. If you would like to e-mail on your photos, send them along to info@aodhruadh.org.

~ CARNIVAL ~
Anyone who might be available to do some stewarding at the Carnival on Saturday, 3rd October is asked to assemble at the Abbey centre for 6pm.

~ MEETING ~
The monthly club Bord na nÓg meeting takes place this Tuesday 29th September at 9pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. All committee members are asked to attend.

~ CONGRATULATIONS ~
Congratulations to Aodh Ruadh and Saint Joseph's legend, Josie Boyle, now officially over the hill and getting about on the bus pass having recently celebrated his 65th birthday.

~ BINGO ~
There is Bingo every Friday night in the Abbey Centre, Ballyshannon at 9pm sharp. A prize fund of €1,650 must go on the night. Double books are priced €10, half books €5.

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OCTOBER

5 October

~ FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh suffered a 1-10 to 0-5 defeat in Annagry against a hungrier Naomh Mhuire outfit. It was a very disappointing performance by the Ernesiders, but more importantly it now leaves Aodh Ruadh flirting dangerously with relegation. The next two games against Saint Naul's and Buncrana are of vital importance. The Saint Naul's game takes place in Mountcharles this Saturday, 9th October at 5.30pm.

The clash with the carnival made it very difficult to pull a third team together so their match against Glenties went unplayed last Saturday. This Saturday they play MacCumhaill's away with the time yet to be decided at time of sending.

The biggest news in the club over the weekend was the victory of our under 14s over Buncrana in the county championship final at Convoy last Saturday. The Championship and League double was secured thanks to a powerful second half display where the Ernesiders brought their dominance to bear on proceedings. However, the spade work was done in the first half when Aodh Ruadh delivered a fantastic defensive performance in the face of a very significant wind. In that respect this was very much a team performance. There are two match reports on aodhruadh.org along with nearly 30 pictures from the final, not to mention the semi-final match report from the Saint Eunan's game promised in last week's notes.

Under 8 training, i.e. all players in first and second class, has moved to a Saturday morning at 11 and will now take place in the Mercy Hall or, weather permitting, on the school field at Colaiste Cholmcille. Well done to our player of the week this week Owen Doherty. Pictures of blitz with Dromore which took place on Saturday 26th September can now be viewed on aodhruadh.org.

Well done to all those who participated in the first under 6 FUNdamentals evening last Friday night. FUNdamentals training involves teaching our youngest children the basic skills of agility, balance and coordination and so on through fun station based games. Any child in junior or senior infants is welcome to attend. Well done to our stars of the week, Mitchell and Jack. Training takes place every Friday evening from 6pm to 7pm in the Mercy Hall. Newcomers are encouraged to join. As always any coaches willing to give a hand are welcome to join in.

~ LADIES ~
The Intermediate ladies travelled to Dunfanaghy on Sunday, 4th October, to take on the challenge of the home side, Saint Michael's. From the throw in it was clear to everyone that this was going to be a close one. Ballyshannon were on the score board first with a great point and kept in the scoring mood when, early in the first half, they sent a goal sailing into the net. However, Michael's never lost their cool and instead responded with a string of fine scores which remained unanswered by the visitors for some time. With a strong wind sending some of the home side's efforts wide of the mark, the Aodh Ruadh girls were lucky not to be trailing by a substantial margin at half time. Tensions rose as the Aodh Ruadh players became frustrated and with only a minute left to go in the first half, Dearbhaile McNeill saw yellow and was consigned to the side line. At half time the score line read: Aodh Ruadh: 1-4, Saint Michael's: 0-8.

Both sides ran out onto the pitch after half time with a renewed sense of purpose and, already a man down, the Ernesiders needed to dig deep and produce something special. And dig deep they did. The visitors made the most of the wind and sent the points sailing over while a fantastic goal was swiftly buried in the net by Frances Hoey. The Ernesiders saw their tally creep up and with this, they took the lead for the second time. Leading by four, Aodh Ruadh desperately needed to keep a firm grasp on their lead but despite the re-introduction of McNeill, this wasn't to be. A scuffle in the square saw the ref award the home side a penalty, mid way through the second half. It was sweetly stuck and nestled itself in the corner of the Aodh Ruadh goal. The visitors were just leading by one, but this wasn't enough as the home side, boosted by the penalty took their chances and found the back of the net for a second time. Aodh Ruadh surged on, looking for the final score that would assure them the league title but it was too late. Saint Michael's ran out winners on a score line of 2-8 to 2-6.

~ HURLING ~
Several tranches of hurling related images have been published to aodhruadh.org over the past week. There is a report on the Aodh O Dalaigh tournament plus pictures. Pictures from the skills competition are also available for viewing. There are some belated images of the underage hurlers trip to Croke Park. Finally there are some pictures taken at under 10 hurling blitzes earlier this year. Many thanks to John Rooney and Brian Drummond for these images.

~ CENTENARY CELEBRATION NIGHT ~ Tickets are now available for Aodh Ruadh's Centenary Celebration Night, a very special event to celebrate 100 years of Gaelic Games in Ballyshannon. The event begins with an multi-media exhibition and awards presentation ceremony in the Abbey Centre, which is followed by a Gala Banquet in Dorrian's Imperial Hotel. The night finishes up with music from The Mucky Ducks. Admission will be by ticket only and third party security will be in place to ensure no exceptions. Capacity is limited and with interest very high in this once-in-a-lifetime event it is important to secure your ticket early. Tickets, priced €40, are available from Shannon's Corner or Mojo's or you can also contact Terence McShea 087-2360815 or John Magee 086-2263105. The underage presentations take place on 26th October, Bank Holiday Monday afternoon in the Abbey Centre, admission to this event will be free. Anyone who might have photographs or memorabilia they might like to see included in the Centenary Celebration exhibition in the Abbey is invited to bring them to Aras Aoidh Ruaidh on Thursday 8th October between 9pm and 10pm. Items will be scanned and returned there and then. If you would like to e-mail on your photos, send them along to info@aodhruadh.org.

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12 October

~ CONDOLENCES ~
Aodh Ruadh extends its sincerest sympathies to our senior player, Niall McCready, on the passing of his sister, Brigid McCready, last Saturday in New York. Her remains are expected back in the country for Wednesday and full burial details will arranged later in the week. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal.

~ FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh postponed their match against Saint Naul's last Saturday because of the passing of Niall McCready's sister. The game will now take place this Saturday in Mountcharles at 5.30pm.

The third team traveled to Ballybofey last Saturday to take on MacCumhaill's. They lost by 1-14 to 2-8, but the main damage was done in the first half when they conceded 1-10 and only notched four points. There was a great comeback in the second half, but the clock just ran out at the end. There was a great performance from Ronan Drummond at centre half back. Ramie Granaghan started in forwards, but ended up doing a fine marking job in the backs. Up front Sean Perry had a good outing while Myles Dougan and Gerard Ferguson also starred.

Well done to all those who participated in the first under 6 FUNdamentals evening last Friday night. Fundamentals training involves teaching our youngest children the basic skills of agility, balance and co-ordination, etc., through fun station based games. Any child in junior or senior infants is welcome to attend. Well done to our stars of the week Tiernan and Neo. Training takes place every Friday evening at the new time of 6.30-7.30pm in the Mercy Hall. New comers encouraged to join. As always, any coaches willing to give a hand are welcome to join in.

Under 8 training, i.e. training for all players in first and second class, has moved to a Saturday morning from 11.15am to 12.15pm and will now take place in the Mercy Hall or, weather permitting, on the school field in Colaiste Cholmcille. Players and coaches are asked to come for 11am.

~ HURLING ~
Aodh Ruadh Hurling Committee would like to offer many thanks to councilor Barry O'Neill who again this year has allocated €500 from his development fund towards the promotion and development of underage hurling in Aodh Ruadh. In these tough financial times this grant is much appreciated.

~ LADIES ~
There is under 10 training on Wednesdays from 6pm to 7pm in the Mercy Hall. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners, no other footwear allowed. There is also training for under 14s and under 16s from 7pm to 8pm in the Mercy Hall.

~ CENTENARY CELEBRATION NIGHT ~
Tickets are now available for Aodh Ruadh's Centenary Celebration Night on Sunday 25th October. We are pleased and honoured to announce that Christy Cooney, President of the GAA, will be guest of honour on the night. This is a very special event to celebrate 100 years of Gaelic Games in Ballyshannon. The night begins with an multi-media exhibition and awards presentation ceremony in the Abbey Centre, which is followed by a Gala Banquet in Dorrian's Imperial Hotel. The night finishes up with music from The Mucky Ducks. Admission will be by ticket only and third party security will be in place to ensure no exceptions. Capacity is limited and with interest very high in this once-in-a-lifetime event it is important to secure your ticket early. Tickets, priced €40, are available from Shannon's Corner or Mojo's or you can also contact Terence McShea 087-2360815 or John Magee 086-2263105.

The underage presentations take place on 26th October, Bank Holiday Monday afternoon in the Abbey Centre, admission to this event will be free.

Anyone who might have photographs or memorabilia they might like to see included in the Centenary Celebration exhibition in the Abbey is invited to bring them to Aras Aoidh Ruaidh on Thursday 15th October between 9pm and 10pm. Please note, this is the last opportunity to have your items will be scanned for inclusion in the multimedia presentation. If you would like to e-mail on your photos, send them along to info@aodhruadh.org.

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19 October

~ CENTENARY CELEBRATION NIGHT ~
The night of the century is almost upon us and the final few tickets for Aodh Ruadh's Centenary Celebration Night on Sunday 25th October are rapidly running out. We are pleased and honoured to announce that Christy Cooney, President of the GAA, will be guest of honour on this special occasion for the club. This is a very select event to celebrate 100 years of Gaelic Games in Ballyshannon. The night begins with an multi-media exhibition and awards presentation ceremony in the Abbey Centre commencing at 7.30pm. That is followed by a Gala Banquet in Dorrian's Imperial Hotel. The night finishes up with music from the legendary Mucky Ducks. Admission will be by ticket only and third party security will be in place to ensure no exceptions. Capacity is limited and with interest very high in this once-in-a-lifetime event you will be lucky to get a ticket at this late stage, although some may still be available. Tickets, priced €40, are available from Shannon's Corner or Mojo's or you can also contact Terence McShea 087-2360815 or John Magee 086-2263105.

The underage presentations take place on 26th October, Bank Holiday Monday afternoon in the Abbey Centre, admission to this event will be free.

~ FOOTBALL ~
It was a bad day at the office for the seniors as they went down by 0-12 to 0-9 in Mountcharles against a hungrier Saint Naul's outfit. That result makes things decidedly uncomfortable as Aodh Ruadh enter the last round of games in division two for 2009. Ballyshannon are on 13 points with MacCumhaill's and both sides are just above Naomh Mhuire on nine points and Saint Naul's on eight points. MacCumhaill's play Naomh Mhuire in their last match, while Aodh Ruadh face Buncrana at home. The Inishowen men are on 14 points so they aren't exactly out of the woods yet either. Aodh Ruadh's match against Buncrana throw's in at 4.45pm in Father Tierney Park. Needless to say this is a vital game for Aodh Ruadh and big showing of Ballyshannon support is essential.

The thirds lost by 1-9 to 1-13 against Naomh Chonaill last Saturday in Father Tierney Park. They were blitzed by Glenties in the first half, but fought back well in the second half and the clock just ran away from them as they battled to close the gap.

Under 10 and under 12 training boys football training commences in the new hall at Colaiste Cholmcille this Friday, 23rd October. Training for under 10s will take place between 6pm and 6.45pm. Training for under 12s will take place between 6.45pm and 7.30pm. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners as no other footwear allowed. Parents/Guardians are asked to please collect children promptly after their session is finished.

Under 8 training continues this Saturday morning. Players are asked to be on the Colaiste Cholmcille school field or in the Mercy Hall ready to go at 11am. Well done to our players of the week David, Shane and Jack. Remember to keep working on all things practiced in training.

Please note there will be NO under 6 fundamentals this Friday night. Training resumes the following Friday, October 30th from 6.30pm to 7.30pm inside in the Mercy Hall. Well done to our stars of the week - Shane and Gavin.

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26 October

~ CENTENARY CELEBRATION NIGHT ~
Aodh Ruadh celebrated their centenary last Sunday with a night will linger long and fondly in the memory. The festivities commenced with a special bi-lingual mass in Saint Patrick's which was concelebrated by Father O Fearraigh, Father McManus, Father Burke, Father Daly, Father Bromley and 93-year-old Father Ambrose O'Gorman, a former playing member of club. The ceremony was opened with some tokens representative of the GAA being brought to the altar. Niamh Gallagher and Patricia Slevin read the lessons while Father O Fearraigh and Father McManus spoke of the central role played by the GAA and Aodh Ruadh in Ballyshannon. After mass it was on to the Abbey Centre for the awards presentation ceremony which was preceded by a wine and cheese reception. There was an extensive exhibition of club history throughout the Abbey Centre with pictures, medal displays and newspaper clippings providing plenty of talking points. A presentation of photographs from right across the club's 100 year history in all codes was projected onto the screen in theatre two, while in the main theatre there was a pictorial review of the year. It was 8.30pm before the 300 seats in the main auditorium were filled and Sean Perry was able to get proceedings under way. Chris 'Spanny' Goan won the first award of the evening, the young player of the year. Next up was the hurler of the year which went to Kevin McDermott. Ladies player of the year went to Niamh Gallagher, while Ronan Drummond collected the third team player of the year award. Reserve team player of the year went to David Dolan. In a most fitting gesture, the senior team player of the year award has been named the Ciaran Keon award in memory of the a club man whose recent loss is still so keenly felt. Tigerish half back Philip O'Reilly was the thoroughly deserving winner. Next up was a special award for our representatives on the Donegal All-Ireland winning minor team: Anna Rafferty, Dearbhaile McNeill and Tara Khan. John Travers got a pleasant surprise when he was presented with a special appreciation award. It was then time to salute the 2002 All-Ireland Scor na nÓg winners: Turlough McIntyre, Naomi Campbell and Pauric Buggy. They were followed by 1991 champion Pat Sweeny. After receiving her award she spoke and exhorted the audience to enjoy things three times over, advice they were to take to heart in Dorrian's later on! The next part of the ceremony paid tribute to Aodh Ruadh's past championship winning hurling teams. Jim Daly, the 1929 championship winning captain, was represented by his son, Father Gerard Daly, Josie Boyle captained the 1975 champions and Seamus Grimes captained the 1977 champions - he was represented by his sister Mary McSharry. Then it was the turn of Ballyshannon's captains on the legendary Saint Joseph's side. 1975 captain Alan Kane was still recuperating in hospital but, happily, well on the mend so his award was collected by his daughter Fiona Feeney. The 1973 captain, Teddy Kane, was present to receive his award. Next up was Pauric McShea who was celebrated for his role in captaining the 1974 Ulster champions. Brian Roper's achievement in becoming the Donegal player with most appearances, currently at 159, was recognised. The Ballyshannon members of the 1992 All-Ireland championship winning team. Brian Murray, Gary Walsh and Sylvester Maguire were next onto the stage and they were followed by Frances Hoy, captain of the 1995 championship winning team. That lead on to the Aodh Ruadh football championship captains. The 1929 captain Aidan Sweeny was represented by his grand-nephew, Alan Sweeny; the 1932 captain Terry McDermott was represented by his daughter Eileen Kennedy; the 1937 captain, John McDermott was represented by his son Jackie McDermott; The 1939, 1942 and 1943 captain, Mick Slevin, was represented by his cousin Barney Drummond; the 1951 captain was Jim 'The Natch' Gallagher, Tommy McDermott captained the 1986 champions, Brian Touhy captained the 1987 champions, Sylvester Maguire captained the 1994 champions, Charlie O'Donnell captained the 1997 champions and 1998 captain, Val Murray, concluded this section of the ceremony, walking up to the strains of 'You'll never walk alone' and saluting the crowd with peace signs, presumably as a gesture of reconciliation to the Man United fans. In another fitting gesture it was decided that the Club Person of the Year should henceforth be known as the Sean Slevin award in memory of a true club stalwart who passed to his eternal reward in the last days of 2008 after decades of tireless service to Aodh Ruadh. An utterly stunned and humbled John Hughes was then presented with the Club Person of the Year award. Tom Daly collected a richly deserved Hall of Fame award to conclude the presentations. The ceremonials in the Abbey Centre concluded with speeches from President of the GAA, Christy Cooney, President of the Ulster Council, Tom Daly, and club chairman, Terence McShea. The magnificent Sean Perry drew the curtain down on yet another suave and polished performance and then it was on to Dorrian's. In Dorrian's there was a little food and a lot of drink and bonhomie. There was fine entertainment from the Mucky Ducks while the non-dancers were able to view some vintage images from Aodh Ruadh history on the plasma screen in the small function room, while in the foyer a video of the 1984 GAA centenary dinner dance revived many happy memories. The revelry continued long into the night, a night that will surely endure long in the memory. Tremendous thanks has to go to the large team of volunteers that put in so many hours to make the evening such an outstanding success. The result of their work was a celebration of everything that is great about the GAA, about Ballyshannon and about our club. You can be rightly proud of efforts. A DVD of events in the Abbey Centre is already in the works, expect further news on its availability for purchase in future club notes. Pictures and more extensive coverage of the night will appear on aodhruadh.org over the course of the coming week.

After the high of Sunday there was a second triumph on Monday afternoon when the underage award presentation ceremony took place in the Abbey. Again, this was a wonderful event, although rather different in tone. Bord na nÓg chairman Paddy Kelly and Hurling chairman John Rooney co-presented in front of another full house in the Abbey Centre's main theatre. Once again, David O'Donnell's rattling soundtrack gave the event a real injection of razzamatazz. We were privileged to have Ulster Council President, Tom Daly, on hand to present medals. The all-conquering under 14 footballers collected no fewer than six medals apiece, the spoils of divisional and county victories in the Féile, league and championship competitions. The under 14 hurlers made it a double double for the club as Aodh Ruadh became the first team in Donegal to enjoy championship and league success in both football and hurling at the one age grade and at the top level. John Rooney pointed out there were a number of dual players involved and added that this was the future for the club. The under 16 footballers collected their hard-won Southern Divisional league medals and there was a special presentation for water carrier extraordinaire Dara Gallagher. The successful under 8 and under 10 hurlers who took part in county blitzes and the under 12 Fermanagh league hurling champions were also saluted in fine fashion. With such youth, verve, vibrancy and enthusiasm on show it was a really heartening occasion and a sign that the long term future of the club is very promising indeed. Once again deep thanks has to go to everyone who contributed to making the event such an impressive and uplifting experience.

~ FOOTBALL ~
There was a collective sigh of relief as the final whistle went at Father Tierney Park to bring the curtain down on the senior footballers season. A 2-6 to 0-7 victory over Buncrana in a game played in dreadful conditions ensured division two safety. The work rate of Brian Roper was one of the main differences between the side, along with an outstandingly committed defensive performance marshaled splendidly by Niall McCready. Barry Mulligan capped an intelligent and perceptive performance with a well taken goal, while Paul Kane maintained his habit of keeping Aodh Ruadh in games with one particularly stupendous save. With the game level at four points apiece at half time the game was there to be won or lost in the second half. Thankfully it was Ballyshannon who pushed on for the win, a Sticky Ward fisted goal as full-time loomed helping ease Aodh Ruadh nerves in the final moments.

Under 10 and under 12 training boys football training continues in the new hall at Colaiste Cholmcille this Friday, 30th October. Training for under 10s will take place between 6pm and 6.45pm. Training for under 12s will take place between 6.45pm and 7.30pm. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners as no other footwear allowed. Parents/Guardians are asked to please collect children promptly after their session is finished.

Under 8 football training continues this Saturday at 11am. Well done to all those who braved the elements last Saturday including our players of the week Nathan, Donagh and Cian.

Under 6 Fundamental training resumes this Friday night at 6.30 in the Mercy Hall. Fundamental training involves learning the basic skills of both hurling and football through a series of station based activities. Training finishes at 7.30pm and players may be collected then.

The annual Bord na nÓg quiz will take place in Owen Roe's on Thursday, October 29th. A great night of craic is in store with a raffle and spot prizes on the night. We're hoping for a big turnout on the night, particularly from parents so your support would be greatly appreciated.

~ LADIES ~
There is under 10 training on Wednesdays from 6pm to 7pm in the Mercy Hall. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners, no other footwear allowed.

~ MEETING ~
The monthly senior club meeting takes place on Thursday 29th October in Aras Aoidh Ruadh 8.30pm. All committee members are asked to attend.

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NOVEMBER

2 November

~ AGM ~
The club's annual general meeting will take place on Saturday 5th December.

~ FOOTBALL ~
Under 10 and under 12 training boys football training continues in the new hall at Colaiste Cholmcille this Friday, 6th October. Training for under 10s will take place between 6pm and 6.45pm. Training for under 12s will take place between 6.45pm and 7.30pm. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners as no other footwear allowed. Parents/Guardians are asked to please collect children promptly after their session is finished.

Under 8 football training continues this Saturday at 11am. Well done to all those who attended last Saturday including our players of the week Owen and Joe. Parents are reminded that any children aged 8, i.e. those born in the year 2001, are encouraged to attend under 10 training on a Friday evening at 6pm in the New Hall at Colaiste Cholmcille.

Under 6 Fundamental training continues this Friday night at 6.30pm in the Mercy Hall. Fundamental training involves learning the basic skills of both hurling and football through a series of station based activities. Training finishes at 7.30pm and players may be collected then. Well done to our stars of the week Cian and Jack.

Thanks to everyone who turned out at last Thursday's Bord na nÓg quiz in Owen Roe's. We raised €435 for underage football in the club.

~ HURLING ~
The underage hurling awards presentation takes place this Friday at 7.30pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh with Kilkenny's All-Ireland winning captain Michael Fennelly doing the honours. Michael will also be do a special training session on Saturday morning about 11.30am. Notes on the event will be sent out to the schools.

~ LADIES ~
The Ladies AGM takes place this Saturday, November 7 at 7pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh; Everyone welcome.

There is under 10 and under 12 training on Wednesdays from 6pm to 7pm in the Mercy Hall. There is also under 14 and under 16 training from 7pm to 8pm on Wednesdays in the Mercy Hall. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners, no other footwear allowed.

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9 November

~ HURLING ~
Friday the 6th November 2009 is a date that will live long in the memory of Aodh Ruadh for it was on that date that the Kilkenny four-in-a-row captain Michael Fennelly visited the club for the underage hurling presentation night. Michael made the 160 mile trip from Kilkenny to Ballyshannon to present the young hurlers with their medals and in doing so kept a promise he made to Aodh Ruadh hurling chairman John Rooney. Here is a detailed report and 20 pictures on this very special day in our club's history.

~ FOOTBALL ~
The Bord na nÓg AGM takes place this Friday at 8.30pm. We invite everyone in the club and the wider Ballyshannon community with an interest in underage football in the area to come along. We will be reviewing last year's activity and planning for 2010 and the widest possible input would be appreciated.

Under 10 and under 12 training boys football training continues in the new hall at Colaiste Cholmcille this Friday, 13th October. Training for under 10s will take place between 6pm and 6.45pm. Training for under 12s will take place between 6.45pm and 7.30pm. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners as no other footwear allowed. Parents/Guardians are asked to please collect children promptly after their session is finished.

With the poor weather it looks like under 8 football will be indoors in the Mercy Hall, training continues this Saturday at 11am. Well done to all those who attended last Saturday including our players of the week Neil and John. Parents are reminded that any children aged 8, i.e. those born in the year 2001, are encouraged to attend under 10 training on a Friday evening at 6pm in the New Hall at Colaiste Cholmcille.

~ LADIES ~
The Ladies club AGM was held in Áras Aoidh Ruaidh on Saturday evening. The officers elected for the following year are as follows: Chairperson, Teddy Kane; Assistant Chairperson, Niamh Gallagher; Treasurer, Karol Foley; Assistant Treasurer, Katie Flood; PRO, Fionnuala Gill; Assistant PRO, Tanya O'Shea. The position of secretary has yet to be filled.

In his address Chairperson Teddy Kane thanked all who helped out with the club in any way over the past year, club officials and officers, coaches and mentors, the players and parents. After a disappointing defeat in the county final this year the girls are hoping to regroup in early 2010 and bring back some much deserved silverware. In the coming year the club is hoping to field teams at under 8, under 10, under 12, under 14, under 16, and senior levels.

The country might have been washed out last weekend, but Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh was able to play host to an All-Ireland semi-final. The ladies All-Ireland junior semi-final between Drumcliffe/ Rosses of Sligo and Saint James of Wexford took place on Saturday. The match attracted a big crowd and the Sligonians triumphed on a score line of 3-7 to 1-12 to book their place in the final against Clonakilty of Cork. Brian Drummond got a few shots of the action, plus some fine local match officials!

~ CENTENARY CELEBRATION NIGHT ~
The long promised images and text from the Centenary Celebration Night are now available to view. Featuring the Sean Perry script from the night and over 70 images taken by Brian McDaid, Seamus O'Donnell and Brian Drummond this is one to sit down to with a cup of tea and a couple of chocolate biscuits.

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16 November

~ FOOTBALL ~
The Bord na nÓg AGM took place last Friday. The following posts were filled: Chairman, Paddy Kelly; Secretary, John Hughes; Southern Divisional Board Delegates: Paddy Kelly and John Hughes; Under 8 manager, Simon Gillespie; Under 12 manager, Colman Kerr; Under 16 manager, Shane Ward; Under 18 manager, Barry Ward. The positions of under 10 manager, under 14 manager and Finance Officer were left over to the next monthly Bord na nÓg meeting.

Aodh Ruadh hosted Omagh Saint Enda's, Lisnaskea Emmett's and Erne Gael's at the Sean Slevin memorial tournament last Sunday. Given the atrocious weather we've had off late we were blessed with a wonderful, clear day and the pitches were in great shape. Aodh Ruadh qualified for the final with a 3-4 to 1-2 victory over Lisnaskea and a 3-1 to 2-1 win over Erne Gaels. Omagh gave assured performances against the same opposition to book their passage into the decider. Aodh Ruadh were dominant in the first half and they made their chances count during that period, Jamie McDonald taking an excellent goal at the 'keeper's near post. Niall Harley, James Kelly and Pauric Patton gave Ballyshannon a stranglehold at midfield. That combined with the relentless tackling of the Aodh Ruadh forwards made it very difficult for Omagh to get the ball cleared. Things improved for Omagh in the second half when they strengthened up their defensive lines, but Aodh Ruadh were convincing winners in the end. Johnny Gethins added another goal to give the Ernesiders a 2-11 to 1-2 victory at the final whistle.
Presentations took place in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh after an introduction from Chairman of Aodh Ruadh Bord na nÓg Paddy Kelly. The first award going to Sean Keenan of Lisnaskea Emmett's. The rangy midfielder was at the heart of the Fermanagh side's best work. He was very comfortable on the ball and his dead ball striking off the ground with the left boot was crisp and unerring, definitely a name to watch out for. After thatS Patricia Slevin presented runners-up medals to a fine Omagh side before presenting Aodh Ruadh captain, Eamon McGrath, with the Sean Slevin trophy.
Aodh Ruadh would like to extend their sincere thanks to the participating teams, to Sylvester Maguire and Simon Gillespie 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.
View the images and match report.

Under 10 and under 12 training boys football training continues in the new hall at Colaiste Cholmcille this Friday, 20th October. Training for under 10s will take place between 6pm and 6.45pm. Training for under 12s will take place between 6.45pm and 7.30pm. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners as no other footwear allowed. Parents/Guardians are asked to please collect children promptly after their session is finished.

With the poor weather it looks like under 8 football will be indoors in the Mercy Hall, training continues this Saturday at 11am. Parents are reminded that any children aged 8, i.e. those born in the year 2001, are encouraged to attend under 10 training on a Friday evening at 6pm in the New Hall at Colaiste Cholmcille.

~ HURLING ~
The AGM of the Aodh Ruadh hurling committee takes place this Friday, 20th November at 8pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. Anyone interested in the promotion and development of hurling in Aodh Ruadh is asked to attended, new faces very welcome.

~ LADIES ~
There is under 10 and under 12 training on Wednesdays from 6pm to 7pm in the Mercy Hall. There is also under 14 and under 16 training from 7pm to 8pm on Wednesdays in the Mercy Hall. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners, no other footwear allowed.

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23 November

~ BEST WISHES ~
Best wishes to Conal Gallagher who is currently in hospital from all in Aodh Ruadh. We wish him a speedy recovery and hope to see him back in action again soon.

In his Conal's absence all requests for use of our facilities by teams other than Aodh Ruadh and the local schools are to go directly to the Chairman of the Park/Development Committee as repair and maintenance work is planned for all three playing fields .Local bookings, as always, should be made directly with Peter Conlon.

~ FOOTBALL ~
The Armagh Cuchulainns team, made up on a cross-community basis of boys from the four second level schools in Armagh city will play a challenge game against Aodh Ruadh's under 16 footballers at 12 noon this Saturday in Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh. Club panel requested to assemble at changing rooms for 11.15am. The Armagh team has been brought together and coached on behalf of the Ulster Council by former Armagh star Diarmuid Marsden who will accompany the team. This is part of an active project in Ulster to welcome into the GAA people from communities who have not been traditionally involved. For many of the players 2009 has been their first experience of playing gaelic football and their trip to Ballyshannon, during the club's Centenary, will wrap up what has been an exciting year for them. Aodh Ruadh players not available on Saturday are to let the team management know by noon on Friday.

Under 10 and under 12 training boys football training continues in the new hall at Colaiste Cholmcille this Friday, 27th October. Training for under 10s will take place between 6pm and 6.45pm. Training for under 12s will take place between 6.45pm and 7.30pm. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners as no other footwear allowed. Parents/Guardians are asked to please collect children promptly after their session is finished.

Under 8 training will continue in the new school hall at Colaiste Cholmcille this Saturday at 11am. Well done to our players of the week Aaron Darbon and Daniel Dolan. Parents are reminded that any children aged 8, i.e. those born in the year 2001, are encouraged to attend under 10 training on a Friday evening at 6pm in the new hall at Colaiste Cholmcille.

With the Mercy hall in use for the school play under 6 training has concluded for the year. Training will resume again on January 15th at 6.30pm in the Mercy hall. Many thanks to all those coaches and players who have attended over the last couple of months. Any children born in 2004 are encouraged to attend under 8 training Saturday morning at 11am in the new school hall in Colaiste Cholmcille.

~ HURLING ~
A good crowd attended the AGM of the hurling committee on Friday last. The following management teams were put in place: Under 8: Eddie Lynch, Dennis Daly and Chris Kelly. Under 10: Michael Ayres and Kevin McDermott. Under 12: John Rooney Under 14: Peter Horan Under 16: Kevin Loughlin and Stephen Sheerin. The meeting will reconvene on Friday 27th November at 7.30pm to discuss the following matters: senior manager and the senior hurling committee.

~ LADIES ~
This Wednesday 25th November and Wednesday 4th December all underage training will take place in the new school hall at Colaiste Cholmcille. That's from 6pm to 7pm for under 10s and under 12s. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners as no other footwear will be allowed.

~ COACHING CORNER ~
A Coaching Day for all Clubs in the Southern Region will take place on Saturday 28th November in Glenties beginning at 9.30am. Clubs are asked to inform their underage managers of this day as it will be beneficial to all with top quality coaches present. This day is for anyone involved with Teams from under 8s to under 14s. Any further information can be had by contacting the Southern Chairman, Sean Connaughton, at 087-2541769.

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30 November

~ BEST WISHES ~
Best wishes to club stalwart Jimmy Gallagher who is currently in Sligo General Hospital. We wish Jimmy a full and speedy recovery and hope to see him out and about again soon.

~ AGM ~
The Aodh Ruadh club Annual General Meeting will take place on Sunday 3rd January in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh at 5pm. All relevant officers are asked to return their reports for the year to John Magee, preferably via e-mail to secretary.aodhruadh.donegal@gaa.ie or info@aodhruadh.org, at their earliest possible convenience.

~ FOOTBALL ~
Aodh Ruadh played host to Armagh Cuchulainns in Pairc Aoidh Ruaidh on Saturday, 28th November. The Armagh Cuchulainns team is made up on a cross-community basis of boys from the four second level schools in Armagh city. The team were brought to Ballyshannon by Tom Daly who travelled to San Francisco with the team earlier in the year. There was a good crowd in attendance for the match which was played very much in the 'friendly' spirit. Neither team had been in action since August so there was a certain amount of ring-rustiness evident and exhibited primarily in the form of wayward shooting. The appearance of Cuchulainns manager and former Armagh great, the wildly overage Diarmuid Marsden, in the second half did little to improve matters, especially after he was flattened by Breanainn Drummond! Aodh Ruadh prevailed on the scoreboard, but it was a day where sport was very much the victor.
Pictures from the match.

The Saturday morning under 8 training session will be the last of the year. It takes place at 11am in the new hall in Colaiste Cholmcille. Well done to our players of the week Senan and Jack. Parents are reminded that any children aged 7 and 8, i.e. those born in the years 2001 and 2002, are encouraged to attend under 10 training on a Friday evening at 6pm in the new hall at Colaiste Cholmcille.

With the Mercy hall in use for the school play, under 6 training has concluded for the year. Training will resume again on January 15th at 6.30pm in the Mercy hall. Many thanks to all those coaches and players who have attended over the last couple of months. Any children born in 2003 or 2004 are encouraged to attend under 8 training Saturday morning at 11am in the new school hall in Colaiste Cholmcille.

~ LADIES ~
Well done to Terence McShea who took charge of the All-Ireland Ladies Junior Club Championship final between Clonakilty and Drumcliffe / Rosses Point on Sunday past.
Terence McShea referees the junior All-Ireland club final.

This Wednesday 2nd December all underage training will take place in the new school hall at Colaiste Cholmcille. That's from 6pm to 7pm for under 10s and under 12s. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners as no other footwear will be allowed.

~ SUPPORT AODH RUADH ~
The GAA have teamed up with Vodafone Ireland as an official 'Give Back Partner'. This alliance with Vodafone Ireland provides clubs with an opportunity to raise funds. Any club member using a Vodafone mobile can sign up at www.supportyourgaaclub.ie and 5 percent of their monthly bill will be donated to the club. Along with Gaelic Telecom's promotion whereby club members can nominate the club and 15 percent of your monthly bill will also be donated to the club. These are two effective and cost free methods of generating funds for the club.

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DECEMBER

7 December

~ FOOTBALL ~
This Saturday 12th December, a mini blitz will take place for under 10s and under 12s at 12 noon in Munday's field. Players are asked to be there for 11.45am.

Under 8 training has now concluded for the year. Training will resume again in the new hall at Colaiste Cholmcille at 11am on Saturday, 15th January 2010. Well done to our Skills Champion for the year Matthew McDonald who won the Aodh Ruadh under 8 Skills competition. Many thanks to all the coaches and parents who have helped out in any way over the year. We hope to see you all again in the new year.

~ HURLING ~
A date for your diary, Aodh Ruadh hurling committee are holding a fundraising quiz in Owen Roe's bar on Thursday, 17th December 2009 beginning at 9.30pm. This is our final event of centenary year and promises to be a fun-filled night. All monies raised will go towards the promotion and development of underage hurling in Aodh Ruadh. We ask all to support this event, especially parents of underage hurlers.

~ LADIES ~
This week Wednesday, 9th December, will be the last under 12 training before Christmas. That's from 6pm to 7pm for under 10s and under 12s. There is a charge of €2 per head. Please bring runners as no other footwear will be allowed. It will take place in the new hall at Colaiste Cholmcille. This Saturday 12th December, a mini blitz will take place at 11am in Munday's field. Players are asked to be there for 10.45am. Training will resume in the new year.

~ CHRIMBO BINGO ~
A prize fund of €2,800 is up for grabs in Abbey Centre, Ballyshannon this Friday, 11th December, in a Special Christmas Bingo. The final house of the evening is a whopping €1,000 with numerous smaller prizes also up for grabs. The balls start rolling at 9pm sharp. Double books are priced €15, double books €25 and single books €8.

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14 December

~ HURLING ~
A wee reminder, there's a fun table organised by Aodh Ruadh hurling committee in aid of underage hurling in the club on Thursday 17th December in Owen Roes beginning at 9.30pm. There'll be lots of raffle prizes and a great night's fun and craic in store. Please come out and show your support.

~ CONGRATULATIONS ~
Hearty congratulations to Mick McGrath on his election as an Ulster Council Delegate.

~ COACHING CORNER ~
The Armagh GAA website contains a huge video resource of information on drills and training techniques for hurling and football. You can find it at www.youtube.com/profile?user=armaghgaa#g/u. The site also contains a full session on strength and conditioning coached by Tommy Stevenson who is regarded as the top GAA conditioning coach in the country.

~ CHRIMBO BINGO ~
A prize fund of €2,800 is up for grabs in Abbey Centre, Ballyshannon this Friday, 11th December, in a Special Christmas Bingo. The final house of the evening is a whopping €1,000 with numerous smaller prizes also up for grabs. There will also be a special free Christmas bonus raffle. The balls start rolling at 9pm sharp. Double books are priced €15, double books €25 and single books €8.

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21 December

~ HURLING ~
A great crowd attended the quiz organised by the Aodh Ruadh Hurling Committee last Thursday in Owen Roes. 17 tables took part raising over €900 for underage hurling in the club. Thanks to all who took part and supported this event. Liam Flaherty's team came out on top and they won the beautiful picture frames sponsored by Belleek Pottery. Thanks to all the sponsors who donated great raffle prizes. From Ballyshannon: Maggie's Restaurant, Fin McCool's, Sean Rooney Butchers, Abbey Garage, Novel Idea, O'Neill's Sports, Mace, Tricia's Hair Salon, and Max Bar. From Belleek: Belleek Pottery, Carlton Hotel, Sean O'Connor Electrical, Grainne's Beauty Salon, Gilmartin's Gift Shop, McGraths Gift Shop, Rooney's Centra, and Straddle Filling Station. Thanks also to the Pantry Restaurant in Laghey and All Sports in Donegal Town. In the run up to Christmas please support all these businesses who generously supported this event and brought the curtain down on a great year for underage hurling in Aodh Ruadh.

~ YEAR BOOKS ~
Donegal GAA year books priced at €15 each are currently on sale. Contact Terence McShea (087-2360815), John Magee (086-2263105) or any club officers to book your copy.

~ 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.

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