Search the site >

Club Notes Archive - 2019

Notes navigaion

Click on a year to select a month.

Box. MARCH
5 March

Club registration
There will be an open registration session this Saturday from 11am to 12 noon. In the interim, we ask all club members to submit their registration form and fee at their earliest convenience. Membership can be paid to Gerry Ferguson at Ferguson's Jewellers. Players can also download registration forms from aodhruadh.org and submit this along with the relevant fee directly to their manager. It is essential all players are signed up club members. Non members are not covered by the GAA's injury insurance scheme and cannot line out for the club. Adult members will receive first priority for the club's allocation of All-Ireland final tickets in the event of Donegal contesting the decider. Club members can also avail of some great discount offers locally. Brian McGuinness's Progressive Fitness offers a 20 percent discount for playing members and a 10 percent discount for club members. Elsewhere, under 23 playing members can also avail of a discounted monthly membership rate of €25 at Ballyshannon Leisure Centre on production of their GAA membership number at the reception. Coaches are also eligible for a discounted monthly membership rate of €35. Only adult members registered by 31st March may vote at the club AGM.

Aodh Ruadh OsKaRs
The latest landmark in the OsKaRs adventure takes place this Saturday when the launch night takes place in Seán Óg's and we will discover who our OsKaRs actors are, and what films and roles they will be cast in. The big night itself takes place on Saturday, 18th May in the Great Northern. Follow the OsKaRs Facebook page for the latest updates.

Football
With the new club season bearing down rapidly Aodh Ruadh take on Devenish in a challenge game on Sunday at 12 noon in Father Tierney Park.

The under 16s got their league campaign off to the perfect start with a well-worked 3-11 to 1-12 victory over Four Masters. The lads had to field without Kyle Murray who was taken ill overnight prior to the game. The team all wish him all the best for a quick and full recovery. Aaron Neilan slotted into the centre back berth and delivered an excellent display of controlled football with great assistance from Colm McGloin on the wing and full back Ryan Keenaghan. Man of the match spoils were shared between Neilan and Cian Rooney who alternated between attack and midfield in a versatile performance. Matt Gillespie worked hard in the central third while up front Aodh Ruadh, despite being slow to get going, were well served by Marty McGarrigle, Danny Breen Brosnan and Mitch McLaughlin.

Training for under 6s, under 8s and under 10s continues on Friday. The under 8s and under 10s are in the New Hall at Coláiste Cholmcille. Under 8s train from 6pm to 7pm, followed by the under 10s from 7pm to 8pm. The under 6s are in the Mercy Hall from 6pm to 6.45pm.

Well done to Senan Rooney on a starring outing with the Donegal under 17s against Fermanagh in horrible conditions on Saturday afternoon in the Park. He capped a great personal display by caressing home a nicely placed one-on-one goal. Meanwhile Kyle Murray anchored the defence for the Donegal under 16s as they had a similarly dominant outing against Fermanagh in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. Cian Rooney came on as a sub in that game and got himself on the score sheet with a well taken point. Next week the lads face Tyrone in Omagh.

Ladies
Senior ladies training continues on Sunday morning at 9.30am at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.

Under 16 girls continues this Thursday at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh from 4.15pm to 5.30pm. Players are reminded to bring gloves and gum shields.

Under 12 training continues this Wednesday and runs from 7pm to 8pm at the 3G at the Breesy Centre, Cashelard. We will need €2 to help cover the cost of the pitch. We travel to Derrygonnelly on Saturday for our second challenge of the season. Action gets underway at Canon Maguire Park at 1pm and we ask players to be there for 12.20pm. Best wishes to Ava Duncan for a speedy recovery after injuring her wrist at training last week.

Under 10 training commences this Tuesday in the Mercy Hall, Coláiste Cholmcille and runs from 6pm to 7pm. All welcome.

Under 8 girls training continues this Friday at 7pm in the Mercy Hall. Under 6 girls training also continues this Friday and runs from 6pm to 6.45pm in Creevy National School hall.

Hurling
Aodh Ruadh is seeking a new senior hurling team manager for the 2019 season. Interested applicants should apply before 6pm on Monday 11th March to the Hurling Committee Secretary - Conal Gallagher by email to conaltg@gmail.com. The senior hurling team will compete in the county junior league and championship in 2019. Applications by email to conaltg@gmail.com. Senior hurling training continues on Fridays at 8pm sharp in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh.

Minor hurling continues on Thursday at 7.15 pm sharp in the School Field on the Rock.

Underage hurling made a welcome return on Sunday. There were encouraging numbers at all age groups. Training for all teams continues this Sunday at 12 noon all welcome especially beginners. Anyone who would like any further information should contact John Rooney on 086-2587793.

Donegal v Kildare Match Programme
Any business wishing to take an advert in the match programme for the NFL game between Donegal and Kildare at Father Tierney Park on Sunday March 24th is asked to contact Tom Daly at tom.daly.ulster@gaa.ie.

Upcoming fixtures
Official fixtures notified to date for March are as follows. Sunday March 24th: NFL Division 2 - Donegal v Kildare, 2pm. Thursday March 28th: Underage hurling - Fixture TBC. Friday March 29th: Under 12 boys - Aodh Ruadh v Naomh Conaill, 6pm. Father Tierney Park will be venue for these games.

Get your club pass
The Donegal GAA Annual Club Pass is currently on sale. This pass will give admission to all adult club league and championship matches under the control of Donegal GAA for 2019 season. The pass costs €99. Anyone interested in picking up a pass should contact Lisa McTernan on 086-2338636 before Friday March 15th.

Donegal v Fermanagh games
We hosted Donegal v Fermanagh in Ballyshannon on Saturday. The Jim McGuigan Cup meeting between the sides took place in Father Tierney Park and was followed by the corresponding Buncrana Cup meeting in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. Both home teams won comprehensively. Thanks to those club members who came up to assist with arrangements on what was a terrible day weather wise and to our team at the grounds for their preparations.

Club gear
Club gear is now available to purchase from the O'Neill's website. Check out our page on the O'Neill's website to view our range of jerseys, shorts, socks, tops, jackets, skinnies, bags and much more. 15 percent of what you spend goes into a credit account with O'Neill's which the club will be able to redeem against new team jerseys and other such outgoings.

Last one standing
No shocks this week as Tyrone were the popular pick. One competitor who picked Tipperary left the competition leaving us with 60 still standing as we head for week six of the competition.

Any RiverRock drinkers out there?...
The Deep RiverRock #ThirstForBetter campaign is working alongside Community Groups all over Ireland, helping them raise funding so they can continue to follow their pursuits and passions. Anyone who purchases a promotional Deep RiverRock product will find a unique code on the inside of the label. This code can be typed into the #ThirstForBetter website (https://deepriverrock.ie/thirstforbetter), or alternatively be entered into the messenger Chatbot on the Deep RiverRock Facebook page. Once entered, a donation of 10p (or 10 cents in ROI) will be sent Aodh Ruadh. These donations can fund the club and keep us going and growing.

Abbey Centre Bingo
Last week's €400 bingo jackpot was won by Chrissie Roper of Ballyshannon. The stand-up game prize was €120 this week and was won by Aisling McGullion of Belleek, who also won a €100 house. The new snowball is up and running and survived it's first week and so rolls up to €225 this Friday. Bingo returns to its normal venue of the Abbey Centre with the first game at 9pm. Total prize fund will be €1,900. Books priced just €10.

Back to the top Back to top.
12 March

Club registration
There are now fewer than 20 days left to register for Aodh Ruadh club membership in 2019. To facilitate registration we now have an online option on Klubfunder.com available. Click on the link or search for 'Aodh Ruadh Ballyshannon' on the Klubfunder.com site. Membership can also be paid to Gerry Ferguson at Ferguson's Jewellers. Players can also download registration forms from aodhruadh.org and submit this along with the relevant fee directly to their manager. The next open registration session will be on Sunday 24th March. It is essential all players are signed up club members. Non members are not covered by the GAA's injury insurance scheme and cannot line out for the club. Adult members will receive first priority for the club's allocation of All-Ireland final tickets in the event of Donegal contesting the decider. Club members can also avail of some great discount offers locally. Brian McGuinness's Progressive Fitness offers a 20 percent discount for playing members and a 10 percent discount for club members. Elsewhere, under 23 playing members can also avail of a discounted monthly membership rate of €25 at Ballyshannon Leisure Centre on production of their GAA membership number at the reception. Coaches are also eligible for a discounted monthly membership rate of €35. Only adult members registered by 31st March may vote at the club AGM.

OsKaRs actors and films revealed
The launch of the Aodh Ruadh OsKaRs in Seán Óg's last Saturday was a real blast. Loads of craic on the night as we learned the actors and the films being reimagined with a Ballyshannon twist. Among those signed up are Roisin Lee, Cian Dolan, William Doogan, Paul Touhy, Kenneth Monaghan, John Dunt, Gerard Ferguson, Eamonn McGrath, Damian Conlon, Carol Devanney, Aaron Brennan, Danika Doherty, Seamus McHugh, Packie McGrath, Geraldine Killalea, Caroline Freeman, Andrew Brennan, Amanda Mahon, Sarah O'Reilly, Catriona Doogan, Cathy McVeigh, Audrey Hannigan, Aoife McLoone, Cathal Gallagher, Dolores Gillespie, Brian McGuinness, Terry Hughes, Kathy McEniff, Teresina Barrett and Diarmaid McInerney. We are told there's a few more roles still to be filled if people would still like to unleash their inner thespian. The films we are recreating for the OsKaRs are The Field, The Snapper, Bridesmaids, The Hangover, Misery, The Shawshank Redemption and Love / Hate. The big night itself takes place on Saturday, 18th May in the Great Northern. Follow the OsKaRs Facebook page for the latest updates.

Saint Patrick's Day
Aodh Ruadh will once again be taking part in the Saint Patrick's Day parade. Under 10, under 8 and under 6 footballers - boys and girls - are invited to take represent the club this Sunday. Players are to assemble at Gaelscoil Éirne at 1.40pm. Jerseys will be provided. Parents / guardians can collect players at the Market Yard after the parade.

Football
The under 16s had a break last week, but are back in action this Sunday when they travel to take on Naomh Conaill. Throw-in is at 12 noon in Glenties.

Training for under 6s, under 8s and under 10s continues on Friday. The under 8s and under 10s are in the New Hall at Coláiste Cholmcille. Under 8s train from 6pm to 7pm, followed by the under 10s from 7pm to 8pm. The under 6s are in the Mercy Hall from 6pm to 6.45pm.

Well done to Senan Rooney, Kyle Murray and Cian Rooney who were all in action for Donegal against Tyrone last weekend. The under 17s were edged out by the Red Hands, but the under 16s recorded a good win.

Ladies
Senior and minor ladies training continues on Wednesday at 7.30pm.

Under 16 girls training continues this Thursday at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh from 4.15pm to 5.30pm. Players are reminded to bring gloves and gum shields.

Until the end of March the under 14 girls will train on the Holy Family School pitch on Tuesdays from 4.45pm to 6pm, and on Saturdays from 3.30pm to 5pm. The team's first game in the league is away to Naomh Columba and is scheduled for next Monday 18th March. Time to be confirmed.

The under 12s were lucky enough to get a rare window of decent weather for their challenge against Derrygonnelly on Saturday. There was a great turn out of players and the girls gave a great account of themselves. Defensively Louisa McCosker, Niamh McNulty and Katie McCaffrey put in tenacious performances. Around the middle of the pitch Ciara Larkin was in outstanding form with great support from Aine Neilan and Jessica O'Mahoney. Up front Niamh Duffy ran riot with Rebecca Downey bagging a hat-trick. Thanks to Derrygonnelly for the challenge and for the lovely post match refreshsments. Thanks also to parents / guardians for transporting players to the venue. Under 12 training continues this Wednesday and runs from 7pm to 8pm at the 3G at the Breesy Centre, Cashelard. We will need €2 to help cover the cost of the pitch.

Under 10 training continues this Tuesday in the Mercy Hall, Coláiste Cholmcille and runs from 6pm to 7pm. All welcome.

Under 8 girls training continues this Friday at 7pm in the Mercy Hall. Under 6 girls training also continues this Friday and runs from 6pm to 6.45pm in Creevy National School hall.

Hurling
Senior hurling training continues on Fridays at 8pm sharp in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. Minor hurling continues on Thursday at 7.15 pm sharp in the School Field on the Rock. Underage hurling training takes a break this Sunday for Saint Patrick's Day.

Fixture and training scheduling
Most arrangements for training and coaching slots have been sorted out and will be communicated. This week we have received details of most official fixtures and these will be listed in next week's notes for the period up to Easter. Any amendments to be notified in advance to Tom Daly.

Donegal v Kildare Match Programme
Any business wishing to take an advert in the match programme for the NFL game between Donegal and Kildare at Father Tierney Park on Sunday March 24th is asked to contact Tom Daly at tom.daly.ulster@gaa.ie.

Easter Camp
Aodh Ruadh are hosting their annual Easter Camp from Tuesday 16th April to Thursday 18th April. Camp runs from 10am to 2.30pm on each of the three days. The camp costs €30 per child and €50 for two children. For further information and bookings call Brian Roper on 087-6139065.

All-Ireland Colleges match
Oughterard prevailed against St Columb's Derry in their All-Ireland semi-final at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh last Saturday in a game which produced some very good football. Thanks to those who helped with arrangements .

Get your club pass
The Donegal GAA Annual Club Pass is currently on sale. This pass will give admission to all adult club league and championship matches under the control of Donegal GAA for 2019 season. The pass costs €99. Anyone interested in picking up a pass should contact Lisa McTernan on 086-2338636 before Friday March 15th.

Smartphone pub quiz
Keep free Friday, April 5th when the ladies committee will be hosting a smartphone pub quiz in Dicey Reilly's. This is a modern take on the traditional pub quiz. Participants download an app onto their phone on the night to take part. Teams are given a time limit to decide on each answer and input it using the keypad on their device screen. This considerably reduces cheating time! Answers are usually submitted by a single tap on the device screen, for example, the first letter of the answer, or multiple-choice A, B, C or D. Answers are revealed immediately after each question and scoring updates automatically. It promises to be a night of good craic, so make sure to keep that Friday free.

Voices in Spring
Bel Canto, Cór Craobhaigh and friends are staging a concert entitled Voices In Spring on Saturday 23rd March in the Abbey Centre. The event commences at 8pm and tickets priced €10 are available from members of Bel Canto and the Abbey Centre. There will be a raffle in aid of local charities on the night.

National Club Draw
Aodh Ruadh were the horse to be on for the GAA National Draw which took place last week. John Rooney landed a €500 One for All voucher while Hugh Gillespie bagged a €250 shopping voucher at a retailer of his choice in the Croke Park draw. Among the winners in the Donegal draw were three more tickets sold by Aodh Ruadh, James Weedall, Ballintra and Patricia O’Reilly, Sligo both winning €500 and Pat Melly scooping €100.

Club gear
Club gear is now available to purchase from the O'Neill's website. Check out our page on the O'Neill's website to view our range of jerseys, shorts, socks, tops, jackets, skinnies, bags and much more. 15 percent of what you spend goes into a credit account with O'Neill's which the club will be able to redeem against new team jerseys and other such outgoings.

Any RiverRock drinkers out there?...
The Deep RiverRock #ThirstForBetter campaign is working alongside Community Groups all over Ireland, helping them raise funding so they can continue to follow their pursuits and passions. Anyone who purchases a promotional Deep RiverRock product will find a unique code on the inside of the label. This code can be typed into the #ThirstForBetter website (https://deepriverrock.ie/thirstforbetter), or alternatively be entered into the messenger Chatbot on the Deep RiverRock Facebook page. Once entered, a donation of 10p (or 10 cents in ROI) will be sent Aodh Ruadh. These donations can fund the club and keep us going and growing.

Abbey Centre Bingo
Last week's €400 bingo jackpot was won by Patsy Dowd of Pettigo. The stand-up game prize was €110 this week and was won by Margaret McCaffrey of Killeen. The snowball had no claim so rolls over to €250 this week. With the Drama Festival taking place in the Abbey Centre, Bingo this week will be at Colàiste Cholmcille at the usual time of 9pm on Friday night. There will be a full prize fund of €1,900 in play. Books priced just €10.

Back to the top Back to top.
19 March

Donegal v Kildare
This Sunday's NFL Division 2 game between Donegal and Kildare is a critical game with both counties looking for a win as they bid for promotion back to the league's top flight. History is on the hosts' side, as Donegal have an enviable record of chalking up wins in Ballyshannon. Indeed they scored a 1-15 to 3-7 win over the Lilywhites in Father Tierney Park only last season. It is a big day for Aodh Ruadh and our development team have worked hard in poor weather conditions to prepare for Sunday. We need all local stewards present no later than 12 noon. We need a lot of help with shops and catering, and volunteers helping in that capacity are come by 12 noon. As usual we have worked on a good quality souvenir match programme. We need a good turnout of underage players, boys and girls, to sell. Please report to Willie Scott by 12 noon. The half time draw is our annual fund-raiser to purchase equipment for the primary schools coaching programme managed by the Park / Development Committee in our six local schools. Ticket sellers please report for 12 noon. There will be a meeting in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh on Thursday at 8.30pm to discuss arrangements for the game and all involved in preparations are asked to attend.

Traffic and parking
Parking will be restricted in the vicinity of Father Tierney Park on Sunday. Disabled and blue badge holders can be accommodated, but must come early. A map of car parking options throughout the town will go up on both the County Board and Aodh Ruadh websites midweek.

Club registration
There are now just 12 days left to register for Aodh Ruadh club membership in 2019. We have two open registration sessions planned ahead of the deadline. The first will be on Tuesday, 19th March, from 6.30pm to 8pm with the second on Saturday, 30th March, from 10am to 12 noon. Both sessions will be in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. To further facilitate registration we now have an online option on Klubfunder.com available. Click on the link or search for 'Aodh Ruadh Ballyshannon' on the Klubfunder.com site. Membership can also be paid to Gerry Ferguson at Ferguson's Jewellers. Players can also download registration forms from aodhruadh.org and submit this along with the relevant fee directly to their manager. It is essential all players are signed up club members. Non members are not covered by the GAA's injury insurance scheme and cannot line out for the club. Adult members will receive first priority for the club's allocation of All-Ireland final tickets in the event of Donegal contesting the decider. Club members can also avail of some great discount offers locally. Brian McGuinness's Progressive Fitness offers a 20 percent discount for playing members and a 10 percent discount for club members. Elsewhere, under 23 playing members can also avail of a discounted monthly membership rate of €25 at Ballyshannon Leisure Centre on production of their GAA membership number at the reception. Coaches are also eligible for a discounted monthly membership rate of €35. Only adult members registered by 31st March may vote at the club AGM.

OsKaRs actors and films revealed
A big welcome for the two latest OsKaRs recruits, drum roll please, Natasha Gormley and Kenny Vaughan! Things are starting to get up and running now with actors getting to grips with their roles, not to mention putting together fund raisers. Please help them out with a few euro when you can. The big night itself takes place on Saturday, 18th May in the Great Northern. Follow the OsKaRs Facebook page for the latest updates.

Football
The under 16s were in action on Saint Patrick's Day and made it two wins from two outings with a 4-9 to 5-8 away victory over Naomh Conaill. It was a real rollercoaster of a game and the big crowd in attendance got full value for money as the sides served up a thriller. Aodh Ruadh roared out into an early lead, going 2-3 to a point up with ten minutes on the clock. Ballyshannon took the foot off the pedal somewhat and Glenties needed no second invitation as they rattled off a series of points to pull themselves back into the game. By the break Aodh Ruadh still held the lead, 2-5 to 0-6, but it was still very much anyone's game. The Ernesiders held their advantage for much of the second half, but with full time looming the Naomh Conaill midfielder scored two cracking long range goals to go a point ahead. The game continued to tilt back and forth before Cian Rooney took charge of matters, ferrying possession up the field from half back, cutting in along the end-line and feeding an inviting ball across the face of goals to Marty McGarrigle. The Assaroe ace applied a clinical finish to give the visitors a two point win. It was another man of the match performance from Cian Rooney, while further back Matt Gillespie put in a good shift between the sticks as he stood in for Aaron Cullen. Padraig Daly gave everything in defence in a game where both set of backs had their hands full. Up front Aodh Ruadh were well served by Damian Weber's fielding skills and composure. Next up for the under 16s is the return fixture against Four Masters on Sunday. Throw-in at Tir Chonaill Park is to be confirmed so keep an eye on the Aodh Ruadh CLG Facebook page.

The under 12s enjoyed a good work out against Derrygonnelly on Saturday morning. Aodh Ruadh fielded 31 players and two teams who both competed really well, despite the chilly conditions.

Training for under 6s, under 8s and under 10s continues on Friday. The under 8s and under 10s are in the New Hall at Coláiste Cholmcille. Under 8s train from 6pm to 7pm, followed by the under 10s from 7pm to 8pm. The under 6s are in the Mercy Hall from 6pm to 6.45pm.

Ladies
Senior and minor ladies training continues on Wednesday at 7.30pm.

Under 16 girls training continues this Thursday at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh from 4.15pm to 5.30pm. Players are reminded to bring gloves and gum shields.

Aodh Ruadh under 14s travelled to Glencolumcille for their first game of the new season. The team played well against a tough breeze in the first half. The teams were 13-a-side on the full pitch and Ballyshannon went in only few scores down at half time. We found it difficult to get scores in the second half and despite a very committed and gallant effort by the girls, Naomh Columba ran out winners in the end. Annie Keon and Jodie Meade never gave up and continued to work hard to the very end. Niamh McGloin despite picking up an injury in the first half put in a great shift, and Orlaith Toland and Fodhla Sheerin were courageous to the end in defence with some great stops from keeper Mollie Travers. A special mention to the younger girls who worked very hard and showed great promise for the remainder of the season. Thanks to parents who made the long trip up to Glen, your help and commitment was really appreciated. Training for the team continues on Wednesday at 5pm. The next fixture for the girls is another long trip, this time away to Burt on Tuesday April 2nd.

Under 12 training continues this Wednesday and runs from 7pm to 8pm at the 3G at the Breesy Centre, Cashelard. We will need €2 to help cover the cost of the pitch.

Under 10 training continues this Tuesday in the Mercy Hall, Coláiste Cholmcille and runs from 6pm to 7pm. All welcome.

Under 8 girls training continues this Friday at 7pm in the Mercy Hall. Under 6 girls training also continues this Friday and runs from 6pm to 6.45pm in Creevy National School hall.

Congratulations to Megan Kane who made her debut on the Donegal under 14 team in the Ulster championship over the weekend. She was in action at full back against Cavan and Down in Newry on Saturday. Well done also to Caoimhe Hughes-O'Brien, Emer O'Brien and Áine Hill who played with the county under 15 development squad against Antrim in Castlefinn the preceding Saturday.

Training times for teams when the time goes back are as follows. Under 6 - 6pm Fridays. Under 8 - 6pm Wednesdays. Under 10 - TBC. Under 12 - 7pm Wednesdays and 12 noon Saturdays. Under 14 - 7pm Wednesdays and 4pm Saturdays. Under 16s - Tuesdays and Thursdays. Minors and seniors - 7.30pm Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Hurling
Senior hurling training continues on Fridays at 8pm sharp in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. Minor hurling continues on Thursday at 7.15 pm sharp in the School Field on the Rock. Underage hurling is back again on Sunday with training for all teams at 12 noon. All welcome especially beginners. Anyone who would like any further information should contact John Rooney on 086-2587793.

Saint Patrick's Day
Well done to our young footballers who came out in larger numbers than ever for the annual Saint Patrick's Day Parade on Sunday. There was a decided nip in the air, but thankfully the rain held off and we had a great day. Thanks to all those who helped pull together a great display by the club. We have a great gallery of pictures of the club taking part in the parade.

Easter Camp
Aodh Ruadh are hosting their annual Easter Camp from Tuesday 16th April to Thursday 18th April. Camp runs from 10am to 2.30pm on each of the three days. The camp costs €30 per child and €50 for two children. For further information and bookings call Brian Roper on 087-6139065.

Super Sports Quiz
Do you know your sport? Packie McGrath and Gerard Ferguson are hosting a super sports quiz in the Bridgend bar, on Saturday 30th March, at 9pm, as part of their fundraising for the Aodh Ruadh OsKaRs night. Great prizes on offer on what promises to be a fun filled night of sport and banter. Tables of four are only €20.

Smartphone pub quiz
Keep free Friday, April 5th when the ladies committee will be hosting a smartphone pub quiz in Dicey Reilly's. This is a modern take on the traditional pub quiz. Participants download an app onto their phone on the night to take part. Teams are given a time limit to decide on each answer and input it using the keypad on their device screen. This considerably reduces cheating time! Answers are usually submitted by a single tap on the device screen, for example, the first letter of the answer, or multiple-choice A, B, C or D. Answers are revealed immediately after each question and scoring updates automatically. It promises to be a night of good craic, so make sure to keep that Friday free.

Voices in Spring
Bel Canto, Cór Craobhaigh and friends are staging a concert entitled Voices In Spring on Saturday in the Abbey Centre. The event commences at 8pm and tickets priced €10 are available from members of Bel Canto and the Abbey Centre. There will be a raffle in aid of local charities on the night.

Any RiverRock drinkers out there?...
The Deep RiverRock #ThirstForBetter campaign is working alongside Community Groups all over Ireland, helping them raise funding so they can continue to follow their pursuits and passions. Anyone who purchases a promotional Deep RiverRock product will find a unique code on the inside of the label. This code can be typed into the #ThirstForBetter website (https://deepriverrock.ie/thirstforbetter), or alternatively be entered into the messenger Chatbot on the Deep RiverRock Facebook page. Once entered, a donation of 10p (or 10 cents in ROI) will be sent Aodh Ruadh. These donations can fund the club and keep us going and growing.

Last one standing
Monaghan were this week's most popular pick. As we head for week seven there are still 50 entrants left in our competition sponsored by Liam Gallen of Mr G's!

Abbey Centre Bingo
Last week's €400 bingo jackpot was won by James Monaghan of Pettigo. There was one winner of the €120 stand-up game prize. The snowball had no claim so rolls over to €275 this week. We return to the Abbey Centre once more this week at the usual time of 9pm on Friday. Books priced just €10.

Back to the top Back to top.
26 March

Last call for club registration
There are now just FIVE days left to register for Aodh Ruadh club membership in 2019. We have one last open registration session ahead of the deadline. This is on Saturday from 1pm to 3pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. To further facilitate registration we now have an online option on Klubfunder.com available. Click on the link or search for 'Aodh Ruadh Ballyshannon' on the Klubfunder.com site. Membership can also be paid to Gerry Ferguson at Ferguson's Jewellers. It is essential all players are signed up club members. Non members are not covered by the GAA's injury insurance scheme and cannot line out for the club. Adult members will receive first priority for the club's allocation of All-Ireland final tickets in the event of Donegal contesting the decider. Club members can also avail of some great discount offers locally. Brian McGuinness's Progressive Fitness offers a 20 percent discount for playing members and a 10 percent discount for club members. Elsewhere, under 23 playing members can also avail of a discounted monthly membership rate of €25 at Ballyshannon Leisure Centre on production of their GAA membership number at the reception. Coaches are also eligible for a discounted monthly membership rate of €35. Only adult members registered by 31st March may vote at the club AGM.

Executive meeting
The monthly club executive meeting takes place this Thursday at 9pm in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. All committee members are asked to attend.

Football
The under 16s continued their fine run in the league with a third win on the trot on Sunday. They took on Four Masters in Donegal town and after an evenly fought first half the Ernesiders lead 2-3 to 1-4. Ballyshannon were down a number of players and knew they had to raise their game in the second half. The players responded to the challenge really well to run out 5-8 to 2-10 victors. The return of Aaron Cullen between the sticks was a huge boon to the side. Further out the pitch Kyle McCaffrey was very steady while Aaron Neilan had a outstanding match, even by his high standards. Up front Mitch McLaughlin was calm and composed on the ball with Damian Weber really taking the game to homesters. Training continues on Wednesday at 5.45pm and Friday. Next up for the under 16s is the visit of Dungloe on Sunday. Throw-in at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh is 12 noon.

The under 12 league gets under way this Friday when Aodh Ruadh host Naomh Conaill in Father Tierney Park. Throw in is at 6pm so come along and get behind the lads.

Training for under 6s, under 8s and under 10s continues on Friday. The under 8s and under 10s are in the New Hall at Coláiste Cholmcille. Under 8s train from 6pm to 7pm, followed by the under 10s from 7pm to 8pm. The under 6s are in the Mercy Hall from 6pm to 6.45pm.

Ladies
Sunday sees Aodh Ruadh return to the ranks of adult ladies football. We entertain Saint Naul's in Father Tierney Park on Sunday at 11am. We wish the team and management the very best of luck for the season ahead. Senior and minor ladies training continues on Wednesday at 7.30pm.

The under 16s had a good work out against Derrygonnelly on Sunday. Training continues this Thursday at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh from 4.15pm to 5.30pm. Players are reminded to bring gloves and gum shields.

The under 14s have a challenge this Tuesday at 5.30pm against Bundoran in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. All players are to be at the dressing rooms for 4.45pm. The next league fixture for the girls is away to Burt on Tuesday April 2nd.

The under 12s had a very useful run out against Bundoran on Saturday. Orlaith Gallagher put in a starring display in pretty much every corner of the pitch, while captain for the day Megan Murphy was also a ball of energy. Maura O'Sullivan did well out the pitch, and showed her versatility in goals after Grace Dolan injured her hand making a brave block. We send Grace our best wishes for a speedy recovery. Niamh McNulty impressed again in defence as did Molly Begley, while further up the pitch Ellie Brennan and Lucy Byrne worked hard and Aine Neilan had a great last third. Many thanks to Bundoran for the challenge. Under 12 training continues this Wednesday from 7pm to 8pm. This will be our last session in Cashelard. We move to the park for training the following week.

The under 10s took part in their first blitz of the season on Saturday in Ardara. Seven other teams from all over the county participated. The last indoor training session takes place this week Tuesday from 6pm to 7pm. Outdoor training commences next week on Wednesday, 2nd April, from 6pm to 7pm at Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh [Munday's field].

Under 8 girls training continues this Friday at 7pm in the Mercy Hall. Under 6 girls training also continues this Friday and runs from 6pm to 6.45pm in Creevy National School hall.

There will be a meeting of the Ladies committee at 8.30pm on Wednesday in Aras Aoidh Ruaidh. All managers are asked to have report on their age group.

The Donegal under 15s travelled to Clones's Peacelink Centre on Saturday to take on Monaghan. Donegal proved too strong for the hosts and Aodh Ruadh were represented on the team by Áine Hill, Emer O'Brien and Caoimhe Hughes-O'Brien. The team's next game is in Moville on Saturday against Tyrone.

Training times for teams after the time goes back next weekend are as follows. Under 6 - 6pm Fridays. Under 8 - 6pm Wednesdays. Under 10 - TBC. Under 12 - 7pm Wednesdays and 12 noon Saturdays. Under 14 - 7pm Wednesdays and 4pm Saturdays. Under 16s - Tuesdays and Thursdays. Minors and seniors - 7.30pm Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Hurling
Senior hurling training continues on Fridays at 8pm sharp in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. Minor hurling continues on Thursday at 7.15 pm sharp in the School Field on the Rock.

Our under 14s and minors begin their league campaigns this Thursday. The under 14s head to the Cross to take on Setanta, while the minors make the long trip to Annagry to take on what is expected to be a strong Dungloe team.

Underage hurling training continues on Sunday for all teams at 12 noon.

Booked games
Games booked for the forthcoming period are as follows. Tuesday, 26th March, 5.30pm - Under 14 girls challenge v Bundoran in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. Friday, 29th March, 6pm - Under 12 boys league v Naomh Conaill in Father Tierney Park. Sunday, 31st March, 11am - Senior Ladies v Saint Naul's in Father Tierney Park. 12 noon - Under 16 boys league v Dungloe in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. Saturday 6th April, Morning - Donegal under 20 Challenge Game in Páirc Aoidh Ruaidh. Sunday, April 7th, Aodh Ruadh at home in senior and reserve leagues to Buncrana. Pitch bookings and changes to be made with Tom Daly.

Club gear
Chris Kelly will be Aras Aoidh Ruaidh on Tuesday, 26th March, from 6pm to 7pm for collection of club puff jackets. These are very handsome and functional articles with club crest and initials. Chris will also be able to take orders on Tuesday evening.

Easter Camp
Aodh Ruadh are hosting their annual Easter Camp from Tuesday 16th April to Thursday 18th April. Camp runs from 10am to 2.30pm on each of the three days. The camp costs €30 per child and €50 for two children. For further information and bookings call Brian Roper on 087-6139065.

Super Sports Quiz
Do you know your sport? Packie McGrath and Gerard Ferguson are hosting a super sports quiz in the Bridgend bar this Saturday at 9pm, as part of their fundraising for the Aodh Ruadh OsKaRs night. Great prizes on offer on what promises to be a fun filled night of sport and banter. Tables of four are only €20.

Donegal v Kildare
Congratulations to Donegal on their emphatic win against Kildare in Father Tierney Park on Sunday which saw them return to Division 1 of the National Football League. 2019 marks the 65th consecutive year in which Father Tierney Park has played host to our county teams. The tradition of inter-county football in Ballyshannon goes back to the early 1900s when both inter-county hurling and football games took place including in what was then known locally as the ‘enclosure’ , better known nowadays as the school field. Thanks to all who co-operated with arrangements on the day. It was encouraging to see so many of our players , young and old coming along to help. A special word of thanks to the Gardai and Sergeant Stuart Doyle and his team for their help with traffic management and other arrangements. We have a huge gallery of pictures from the days action in a gallery on the Aodh Ruadh CLG Facebook page.

NFL match programme
Thanks to the businesses who took advertisements in the match programme, allowing us to produce a high quality 40 page programme for Sunday’s National League game. Please support those who support us.

Comhghairdeas
Congratulations to our very own Simon Gillespie who was presented with the Damian Meehan Memorial Award at the Donegal Association of New York GAA dinner recently. Simon has been evangelising for Gaelic games in New York for many years now and the award is testament to the work he has been doing in the coaching of young people in the Big Apple.

Last one standing
It was a good day all round for Donegal's Jamie Brennan on Sunday. Along with scoring a great goal he is one of 39 entrants left standing in our competition. 323 entered our fundraiser and as we head for the four finals 39 are left to battle it out. We will be in contact with all during the week to get their picks for the finals.

Abbey Centre Bingo
Last week's €400 bingo jackpot was won by Rosaleen Martin of Belleek. The stand-up game prize of €120 was won by Bridget McDermott. The spring snowball remains unclaimed so rolls up to €300 this week. The March Big Bingo will be this Friday at the Abbey Centre at 9pm. There'll be €3,000 in prizes up for grabs, including the €1,000 super jackpot which must be won. Books priced €15, or get the book and a half special for just €20.

Back to the top Back to top.