.Tralee Food Festival is among the funding recipients.
KERRY County Council has announced the successful recipients under Fáilte Ireland’s Regional Festival & Participative Events Programme 2024.
The Programme aims to support festivals and participate events that will drive domestic tourism and help to improve the visitor experience in Kerry.
Among the recipients are Tralee Food Festival (€1,805), National Circus Festival Of Ireland (€2,482) and Féile Thrá Lí (€3,286). See the full list of recipients below…
KERRY FC make the short journey to the Markets Field in Limerick this Friday to take on Treaty United in Matchday 10 of the SSE Airtricity Men’s First Division, with a kick-off time of 7.45pm.
The season has passed its quarter mark following the conclusion of Matchday 9, with the Kingdom in a strong position heading into the second meeting of the sides in the league in 2024.
On the first occasion where the sides met, Kerry went down by a goal to nil in Mounthawk Park. Ryan Kelliher’s missed spot kick in injury time was the last time this side has faltered, with Kerry FC going unbeaten in the seven games since that night in Tralee.
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In fact, the first of the seven unbeaten games was an impressive 4-1 win against Treaty in Mounthawk just 4 days later to book the Kingdom’s place in a final for the first time in the club’s history.
McCarthy’s group continues to write new chapters in the history books over the last number of weeks.
A seven-game unbeaten run in all competitions, six unbeaten in the league is a record in itself for the club.
And to top it off, a convincing victory on Matchday 9 against Longford Town in the club’s 50th competitive game gave Kerry a very first league victory at home to the delight of the home fans.
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With man-of-the-match contenders from one to eleven, the squad morale has never been higher.
Our hosts on Friday night Treaty United are on a mixed run of form. Having started in impressive form with three straight wins, the Limerick-based side were flying high at the top of the division.
But three straight defeats to Finn Harps, Athlone Town and Wexford FC have the Treaty men sitting 4th overall and just three points ahead of Kerry on the table.
A very much in-form Kerry FC side are sure to challenge Treaty for the three points in the Markets Field, despite a poor record from the venue last term.
Kerry FC landed their first home win in the SSE Airtricity Men’s First Division last time out in their 50th competitive fixture.
Kerry FC and Treaty United have shared several players in the last year. Matt Keane and Martin Coughlan both made the switch from Limerick to Tralee in 2023 while current captain Andy Spain signed from Treaty United during the winter transfer window
Speaking earlier this week, First Team Head Coach Conor McCarthy was happy to report no fresh injury concerns ahead of the game on Friday night. Valerii Dolia is the only man who remains out long-term. Jack Kavanagh is close to a comeback to the matchday 20 but this game might come too soon. Nathan Gleeson remains out of action while the likes of Daire McCarthy and Steven Healy are both back to full fitness.
“It’s going to be a really tough game up there,” said Conor McCarthy. “What Treaty have created up there makes it a very hard place to go to. Every team will tell you that no matter what level they are at, whether it be the Premier Division teams that go there or the First Division sides, everyone finds it hard. So we know exactly what we are going into. They have huge support and we need to be bang at it from the first to the ninety-fifth or sixth minute like we have been for the last number of games. Every week is a bigger challenge but one we are looking forward to”
Ryan Kelliher said; “I’m really looking forward to the game. The last time we played them was obviously a massive disappointment for me especially. But to be totally honest it made me hungrier to try and make up for it. I was fairly disappointed after the game but I’ve gotten 2 goals since then. We know they aren’t in the greatest of form for the last few games so I think it is a massive chance to get 3 points up there and I hope we will.”
MTU invites companies, start-ups, businesses, entrepreneurs, community groups and the general public to visit the campus from 8.30am to 11.00am to ‘Connect with MTU’ on Friday, April 26.
This event is an opportunity for anyone to connect with the university. Whether you are a company looking for research support to bring innovation into your business, interested in upskilling or part-time learning or wondering what the Kerry Sports Academy has to offer; this is the day to find out more.
According to Anne Looney, External Services Manager, Kerry is now in a unique position as a university county.
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“MTU plays a central role in the economic, social, and cultural life of the county. The university feeds the talent pipeline for the growing knowledge economy by being a centre of creativity and learning. We generate real-world research and innovation and support communities, while also being a significant employer in the local economy,” said Anne Looney.
“We want MTU to be the university of choice for the county; whether that’s for study or research. It’s about showcasing the university, making connections, and ultimately ensuring that the county becomes an attractive place to study, live and work”, added Anne.
STEM, Sustainability and Virtual Reality demos and workshops will be available on the day. Academic departments and research centres will be on hand on to answer any questions and the MTU lifelong department will be available to guide you through our part-time programme provision.
For more information and to register your place at this free event visit go.mtu.ie/connect or scan the QR code below.
UNIVERSITY Hospital Kerry (UHK) has extended an invitation to all past and present staff members to a very special celebration this month.
To mark the 40th anniversary of the hospital at the site in Rathass, an invitation is extended to join them for a series of special events throughout the day on Thursday, April 25.
It was opened as Tralee General Hospital in April 1984 by then Minister for Health Barry Desmond and Tánaiste Dick Spring, later evolving into Kerry General Hospital and then to UHK in 2016.
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From 12 noon to 1 pm, celebrations will begin with a symbolic tree planting ceremony. Three trees will be planted by individuals close to the heart of UHK, representing their past, present and future.
These trees will symbolise the growth and evolution of UHK over the years. This will be followed by the raising of a specially commissioned UHK 40th Anniversary flag, by a member of UHK staff who embodies the very essence of UHK’s people.
Afterwards, guests are invited to attend at the cake cutting ceremony and enjoy the atmosphere of this very special occasion.
Staff with 40 years service will be formally acknowledged. Guests will also have the opportunity to enjoy complimentary refreshments and 40th-anniversary cupcakes.
Guests are invited to capture an image with colleagues of old, in the specially designed ‘photoframe’ and also opportunity to sign the giant Anniversary Card which will be preserved for future posterity, on a wall, inside UHK.
Later in the afternoon, a special Mass will be celebrated at the hospital chapel for all current and former UHK staff members.
Following the Mass, attendees are invited to take a ‘Walk Down Memory Lane’, as we showcase a specially commissioned video featuring old images from decades past at the hospital.
Complimentary finger food and refreshments will be served, providing an opportunity for guests to reminisce and reconnect with colleagues.
“We are incredibly grateful to all the staff members who have contributed to the success and legacy of University Hospital Kerry over the past 40 years,” said Mary Fitzgerald, General Manager at UHK.
“This celebration is a tribute to your dedication and commitment to our hospital, and we look forward to welcoming you back to share in this special occasion.”
Members of the public who are in the hospital vicinity on the day are most welcome to attend at the events from 12 – 1pm. For more information on the event, please contact on email UHK.GMSecretary@hse.ie
The most recent fortnightly club lotto draw took place on Tuesday, April 2nd at the club grounds. There was no jackpot or match 3 winner on this occasion. The numbers drawn were 13, 22, 27 and the bonus ball was 21.
Our next club lotto draw is scheduled to take place on Monday, April 15th at 19:30pm in the Clubhouse where the jackpot will be €13,000. Get your draw tickets or renew your yearly tickets online on Clubforce or get your tickets for the next draw from all the usual local outlets. Mile búiochas do gach duine for playing Milltown/Castlemaine Clubs Fortnightly Fundraiser, the money raised is vital to the day to day running of our club and your support is sincerely appreciated.
Gaelic 4 Mothers & Others: Returning for the 2024 Season!
Milltown-Castlemaine Gaelic 4 mothers and others are back again! We are hosting two sample training sessions on April 15th and 22nd from 8:00pm – 9:00pm at the Paddy Burke Memorial Park, Milltown. If you want to play football, get fit, learn new skills & do it all in a fun relaxed environment, then this is the group for you! Please share this update with anyone you think would be interested. For more information message our Club Facebook page or WhatsApp Caitlin at 0872471416.
We look forward to seeing you on the pitch!
Kerry Petroleum Senior Club Football Championship: Group Stage Draw
The draw has been made for the 2024 Kerry Petroleum Senior Club Football Championship.
We have been paired with Dingle, Na Gaeil and Dr Crokes.
Our first fixture will be against Na Gaeil. Dates, times and venues to be confirmed in due course.
Credit Union County Senior Football League: Division 1, Round 3 Result and Match Report
Milltown/Castlemaine 0-4 Laune Rangers 0-7
Venue: Paddy Burke Memorial Park, Milltown
Referee: John Michael Fitzgerald (Abbeydorney)
Rivalries were renewed on Sunday afternoon at the Paddy Burke Memorial Park in Milltown as Milltown/Castlemaine hosted near neighbours Laune Rangers in Round 3 of the Credit Union County Senior Football League.
The hosts were coming into the contest after losing to Glenflesk in Round 1 and drawing with Ballymacelligott in Round 2. Laune Rangers on the other hand were on the back of two victories against Kerins O’Rahillys and Killarney Legion.
In what was a low scoring affair between the two sides in very windy conditions, Laune Rangers played with a strong breeze in their favour for the opening half but it was the home side, Milltown/Castlemaine who registered the games first score as Dylan O’Neil kicked a point from play after breaking through a number of tackles.
Laune Rangers first point of the afternoon came from a John Tyther 21 metre free to leave it 0-1 to 0-1 after 10 minutes.
A long wait ensued until the next score came and when it did from Eanna O’Connor in the 20th minute, it was quickly responded to through a Fiachra Clifford close range free at the other end.
The scores were tied at 0-2 to 0-2 after 23 minutes and only one further score was put on the board before the break as John Tyther put over a long distance free to leave the away side holding a slender lead at 0-3 to 0-2 at half time.
One would be forgiven for thinking that the hosts were content with keeping Laune Rangers to three scores in the opening half and the expectation was that Milltown/Castlemaine would kick on in the second half with the elements in their favour and on home soil but that’s not how it played out as pointed efforts from play in the 32nd and 37th minutes from Daire Cleary and Rory O’Connor extended the lead out to 0-5 to 0-2.
Eanna O’Connor landed one of Milltown/Castlemaine’s two second half points in the 39th minute to reduce the deficit.
Patrick Carey made a long and probing run from centre back in the 49th minute and he cut a line straight through the home side’s rearguard and went for goal but a good save from Cormac Leane diverted it over for a point. This was followed by a pointed free from substitute Patrick Daly in the 52nd minute.
Eanna O’Connor put over a free for Milltown/Castlemaine in the 57th minute to bring it back to a one score game at 0-7 to 0-4 as we headed for the closing stages but the result was never really in doubt at any stage in the second half as the visitors deservedly closed the game out to maintain their 100 percent record in Division 1.
Teams and Scorers
Milltown/Castlemaine:
Cormac Leane, Stephen Roche, Pa Wren, Anthony Kelliher, Kieran O’Carroll, David Roche, Jonathan O’Connor, Gavin Horan, Donal Dennehy, Dylan O’Neil (0-1), Eanna O’Connor (0-3), Dara Hogan, Cathal Moriarty, Sean Hogan, Brendan Casey.
Padraig Ahern, Sean Cleary, Oisin Daly, Rory O’Connor (0-1), Callum Moriarty, Patrick Carey (0-1), Ciaran O’Sullivan, Eoin Clifford, Killian Spillane, Fiachra Clifford (0-1), John Tyther (0-2), Stephen Sealy, Daire Cleary (0-1), Eoin O’Sullivan, Matthew Leslie.
Subs Used:
Patrick Daly (0-1), Stephen Gannon, Oisin Bermingham, Ronan O’Shea
Credit Union County Senior Football League: Division 6B, Round 3 Result and Round 1 (Backgame) Fixture
Milltown/Castlemaine’s Senior ‘B’ side welcomed Kenmare Shamrocks ‘B’ last Saturday evening to the Paddy Burke Memorial Park, Milltown and they picked up their first win of the 2024 season running out four point winners in a low scoring contest, 2-6 to 1-5.
A rescheduled Round 1 fixture will take place on Sunday, April 14th when Milltown/Castlemaine take on Dr. Crokes ‘C’ at 2:00pm in the Paddy Burke Memorial Park, Milltown. All support is welcome for the players and management.
County Senior Football Development League: Division 1, Round 2 Fixture
Milltown/Castlemaine ‘C’ will take on Rathmore ‘C’ on Friday, April 12th at 7:30pm in Rathmore in Round 2 of the County Senior Football Development League. The lads had a good win in their opening contest against Beaufort a few weeks ago and will be looking to build on that this weekend. All support is welcome.
Keane’s Supervalu County Minor Football League: Division 4 Semi-Final Result
Milltown/Castlemaine’s Minors travelled to take on Cordal on Monday evening in the Keane’s Supervalu County Minor Football League Division 4 Semi-Final. This was an enthralling contest between two very evenly matched sides. The bare minimum separated the teams at half time as Cordal led 1-4 to 1-3 and after a epic finale, nothing could keep the sides apart as extra-time was needed with the scores level at 1-7 to 2-4. It was the home side who emerged victorious in the end, however, on a final score of 3-8 to 3-5. Hard luck to our lads who gave a great account of themselves all through in a game that really could have gone either way.
Munster Senior Football Championship: Semi-Final Fixture Confirmation and Ticket Details
Kerry will meet Cork in the Munster Senior Football Championship Semi-Final on Saturday, April 20th at 4:00pm in Fitzgerald Stadium, Killarney following Cork’s Quarter-Final victory against Limerick last weekend.
Match tickets will be on sale from 11:00am on Wednesday, April 10th, 2024 online at the following link:
https://am.ticketmaster.com/gaa/munstersfc
EirGrid GAA Football U20 Munster Championship: Fixture and Ticket Details
Best wishes to the Kerry U20 squad and their management team who take on Clare on Wednesday, April 10th, 2024 (tomorrow) at 7:00pm in Quility, Clare.
Match tickets are available to purchase online at the following link:
https://www.universe.com/users/munster-gaa-TR8ZGN
Milltown/Castlemaine LGFA: Sponsor News
Milltown/Castlemaine’s Senior Ladies Gaelic Football team are absolutely thrilled to announce that they will be sponsored by South West Social for the 2024 season. Massive thanks is due to Keelin & Co for getting involved with the fastest growing club in the county.
Best wishes to our senior ladies as they begin their campaign later in the month. More details to follow
Lee Strand U-15 County Football League: Round 3 Fixture
Milltown/Castlemaine ‘A’ will host Ardfert in the Lee Strand U15 County Football League on Wednesday, April 10th (tomorrow) at the Paddy Burke Memorial Park, Milltown. Throw-in is at 7:00pm and all support would be most welcome for the lads.
U7 Boys:
Milltown/Castlemaine’s U7 Boys are back training at the Paddy Burke Memorial Park, Milltown on a weekly basis. Trainings take place at the moment on Saturday evening’s at 5:00pm. For more information please contact Colin McKenna on 087-0687653.
GAA 4 All:
Milltown/Castlemaine’s GAA 4 All will be returning on Wednesday 17th April at 5:45pm at the Paddy Burke Memorial Park, Milltown. For more information please contact Danny McClure on 087-6536631.
MC Minis:
Training commenced on Saturday 6th April in the Nagle Rice Community Centre at 9:30am and will continue weekly at the same time. This age group would be for boys born in 2019 and 2020 (Parent/Guardian required to be in attendance to assist) and for girls born in 2018, 2019 or 2020 (Parent/Guardian required to be in attendance to assist). For more information please contact Caitlyn Corkery on 087-2471416.
U8 Girls:
Training has already commenced for the 2024 season on Saturday mornings at 9:15am at the Paddy Burke Memorial Park, Milltown. This age group is for girls born in 2016 and 2017. For more information please contact Derry O’Sullivan on 087-7550401.
U9 Boys:
Training has already commenced for the 2024 season on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 6:15pm at the Paddy Burke Memorial Park, Milltown. This age group is for boys born in 2015 and 2016. For more information please contact Garry Murphy on 087-9432746.
U10 Girls:
Training has already commenced and takes place on Monday evening’s at 6:00pm at the Paddy Burke Memorial Park, Milltown. This age group is for girls born in 2014 and 2015. For more information please contact Tommy Cronin on 087-1227099.
U11 Boys:
Training has already commenced for the season and takes place on Monday and Thursday evening’s at 6:10pm at the Paddy Burke Memorial Park, Milltown. This age group is for boys born in 2013 and 2014. For more information please contact Liam Doherty on 086-0413593.
U13 Boys:
Training and matches have commenced for the 2024 season for both the Green and White teams. For more information or if you are new to the area and would like to join please contact Haulie Clifford on 087-6932126.
U13 Boys: County League Round 3 Fixture – Division 1
Milltown/Castlemaine’s U13 Boys Green team will continue their Lee Strand County Football League Phase 1 campaign against Austin Stacks on Monday, April 14th at the Paddy Burke Memorial Park in Milltown. The game will throw-in at 7:00pm. All support as always is most welcome.
Credit Union County Senior Football League: Division 1
Round 1 – Glenflesk (Home on Saturday, March 23rd at 2:00pm)
Round 2 – Ballymacelligott (Neutral on Saturday, March 30th at 5:00pm in Caherslee, Tralee)
Round 3 – Laune Rangers (Home on Sunday, April 7th at 2:00pm in the Paddy Burke Memorial Park, Milltown)
Round 4 – Kerins O’Rahillys (Away)
Round 5 – Killarney Legion (Home)
Round 6 – Kilcummin (Away)
Round 7 – Rathmore (Away)
Round 8 – Spa Killarney (Home)
Round 9 – Dingle (Away)
Round 10 – Dr. Crokes (Home)
Round 11 – An Ghaeltacht (Away)
Credit Union County Senior Football League: Division 6B
Round 1 – Dr. Crokes ‘C’ (Home on Sunday, April 14th at 2:00pm – Rescheduled Fixture This Weekend)
Round 2 – Beaufort ‘B’ (Away on Sunday, March 31st at 2:00pm, Finished a draw)
Round 3 – Kenmare Shamrocks ‘B’ (Home on Saturday, April 6th at 6:30pm, Won the match)
Round 4 – St. Michaels/Foilmore ‘B’ (Away)
Round 5 – John Mitchels ‘B’ (Away)
Round 6 – Spa Killarney ‘B’ (Home)
Round 7 – Ballymacelligott ‘B’ (Away)
County Senior Football Development League:
Group 1:
Austin Stacks ‘C’
Beaufort ‘C’
Fossa ‘C’
Laune Rangers ‘C’
Milltown/Castlemaine ‘C’
Rathmore ‘C’
Round 2 will take place on Friday evening, April 12th at 7:30pm away to Rathmore ‘C’.
Coaches Wanted for 2024 Season:
Milltown/Castlemaine GAA are continuously looking for help within our club and at this time of year we would like to invite more coaches to come on board for the 2024 season. Parents’ involvement in their child’s sport increases the likelihood that they play sport and enjoy involvement for life. Don’t just drop and go, be a part of their journey. You may be able to help coach, hand out bibs or organise a social outing for the team. You may be able to keep track of any information that the coach needs. If you are interested in any voluntary role within the club just send us a message on our social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram or Twitter/X) or text Coaching Officer Ian Twiss on 0872521053.
Milltown Bowling Club:
New Year, New hobby.
Want to try something new and fun then come along to Milltown Nagle Rice community centre and have a go at short mat bowls.
All you need is just a pair of comfortable shoes for two hours of gently rolling bowls along a 1.8 meter wide x 12 meter long mat.
A timber block is placed midway along the mat and the aim of the game is to roll a bowl along the mat, avoiding the block and touching a yellow ball called the “Jack” at the opposite end.
A wooden fender is placed at both ends to keep the bowls from rolling off the mat end.
Nearest bowl to the Jack after 9 ends scores, the more of your bowls closer than your opponent the more you score.
All training and guidance will be provided along with the use of club bowls to get you started.
Once you get going then we have league and cup competitions, friendly individual and group matches along with the opportunity to play other clubs within Kerry.
Sounds simple!!!
Well the only way to find out is to come along and have a go.
First night is free and it’s only a fiver then per night for two hours of fun and learning to play one of the fastest growing indoor sports for all age groups in Ireland.
Milltown bowls club looks forward to seeing you on Tuesday and Friday nights at 8pm.
Milltown Tidy Towns: Volunteers Needed
Join Milltown Tidy Towns – We need your help. Meeting every Thursday at 6.30pm at The Old Milltown Community Hall. This is an opportunity for local businesses, families and anyone with an interest in creating “a sense of place” in Milltown. All welcome, no experience required. Please call Therese on 089-4767279 for further information or log onto Milltown Tidy Towns Facebook page.
Our clothing recycling collection is still happening so we urge you to clean out your wardrobes of all unwanted clothes, sheets, blankets, towels, curtains, shoes etc and drop them to the Paddy Burke Memorial Park in Milltown.
This is a wonderful way of doing your bit for the environment and raising much needed funds for our club at the same time.
Club Merchandise:
Milltown/Castlemaine GAA club gear and merchandise is now available to buy online from the Club Shop.
The Club Shop contains details of the large amount of branded Milltown-Castlemaine & Kerry stock we have available within the club, for immediate delivery, please use the link to check stock levels and sizes.
https://milltowncastlestore.sumupstore.com/
Items for the Club Notes
If you have any items for inclusion in the weekly notes, then please contact the club’s PRO Dara O’Connor on 086 268 8674 before 20:00 on Sundays.
Team Updates
For anyone New to the Area, who would like to get involved with the club, please contact Ian Twiss on 087 252 1053.
Team Enquiries
If you want to join your local club, one of the fastest growing clubs in the county, please contact Ian Twiss on 087 252 1053.
General Enquiries
For any other queries, please send an email to our Secretary or Chairperson at the following addresses:
secretary.milltowncastlemaine.kerry@gaa.ie
or
chairperson.milltowncastlemaine.kerry@gaa.ie
For emergencies, please call 087 409 3530 (Club Mobile Phone).
MUNSTER Technological University (MTU) has achieved its first Athena Swan Bronze Award as a new Technological University.
The Athena Swan Bronze Award showcases MTU’s current and future commitment to enhance Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) at university level and beyond.
Receiving this prestigious accreditation paves the way for future improvements to equality to be made an institutional level, and also allows individual university departments to seek departmental awards.
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MTU made its institutional submission in November 2023, following an eighteen-month long application process.
This process included undertaking an institutional EDI Survey; collating and analysing all evidence required to meet the submission requirements; and compiling and committing to a comprehensive evidence-based, four-year plan to improve equality for all MTU staff and students.
This work was carried out by thirty members of the MTU Athena Swan Self-Assessment Team, made up of staff and student representatives across many campuses and departments, led by the Chair, Professor Margaret Linehan, with the support of the EDI team at MTU including Siobhan Kangataran, EDI Manager and Monica Moisuc, EDI Officer.
MTU President, Professor Maggie Cusack, commented: “This Athena Swan Bronze Award will help us instil equality as a core value across our university in line with the goals set out in our Strategic Plan, Our Shared Vision 2022-27.”
Professor Margaret Linehan, Athena Swan Chair at MTU said: “This award now recognizes work undertaken to address gender equality more broadly, and not just barriers to progression that affect women. As a University, we are prepared to tackle behaviours and cultures that detract from the safety and collegiality of our work and study environments for people of all genders, including not tolerating gender-based violence, discrimination, bullying, and harassment. It has been a privilege to work with colleagues across MTU to achieve this accreditation.”
Siobhan Kangataran, EDI Manager at MTU added: “Athena Swan has evolved over the years, expanding significantly to become increasingly intersectional and inclusive of all staff and students; the achievement of this Bronze Award demonstrates a long-term commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion for all at MTU.”
.Tralee Tidy Towns, Lions Club, Team Bramble members and volunteers gather for a clean-up on Tuesday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
MEMBERS of Tralee Tidy Towns, Tralee Lions Club, Team Bramble and volunteers gathered for a County Clean-Up event on Tuesday evening.
They gathered at the Lidl Car Park on the Castlemaine Road where gloves, high viz vests, litter pickers and bags were provided before they set off cleaning the approach road into Tralee from Killarney.
Well done to all for showing pride in the town. Tralee Tidy Towns continues its weekly clean-ups on Wednesdays at Garvey’s Supervalu Car Park at 7pm.
.Tralee Warriors BIDL Squad that overcame Ongar Chasers in the semi-final. Back Row L to R: Brian O’Leary, Adam O’Keeffe, Daniel Bowler, Aaron Fleming, Steven Bowler, Padraig Fleming, Daire Kennelly Capt., Joshua Osayanrhion. Front Row L to R: Olaf Michalczuk, James Fernane, Zigi Kaletka, John Feely Photo: Alan Cantwell
By Alan Cantwell
THE Warriors BIDL side take on Carrick Cruisers in the final of the inaugural Basketball Ireland Development League (BIDL) final on Sunday next at the National Basketball Arena in Tallaght.
The Warriors have made it to the final with an unbeaten run of five games to take their place in the very first final of the newly introduced competition.
The Warriors booked their ticket for Tallaght with a win over Ongar Chasers in a semi-final meeting in Moyderwell that the Tralee side threatened to dominate after the early exchanges.
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However Ongar came right back into the contest and kept the Warriors honest to the very end before Luke O’Hea’s side finally saw out an 84-73 win.
The Warriors are unbeaten in after their four group matches with wins over Clare Crusaders, Tipp Talons, Fr. Mathews and St. Mary’s Castleisland along with two walkovers over Portlaoise Panthers and Clare Comets.
They topped the table in Conference 1 with the offensive prowess of James Fernane, Joshua Osayanrhion, Olaf Michalczuk, Dan and Steven Bowler and Fleming brothers Padraig and Aaron a huge part of the Warriors success to date.
The Warriors Development side have a number of the U20 players doubling up at the weekend including Joshua Osayanrhion, Olaf Michalczuk, and Eddie Sheehy as well as current Warriors Seniors Steven Bowler and Zigi Kaletka and former players James Fernane, Daire Kennelly and Padraig and Aaron Fleming.
They will take on a Carrick Cruisers from Carrickmacross in Co. Monaghan who sealed their place in the decider with an 85-70 win over St. Mary’s Castleisland in the semi-final.
The Cruisers went through the round robin phase of the competition with 6 wins and a single defeat away to Phoenix Wolves.
They boast former Super League players Martins Provizors who played with DCU St. Vincents along with talent elsewhere on the court including Ramunas Ramunauskas, Vitalijus Kaminkas, Audrius Urbanavicius and Andrew O’Connor.
The BIDL Mens Final tips off at 11.00am on Sunday next the 14th of April at the National Basketball Arena in Tallaght.
.The large crowd at last year’s annual Tony O’Donoghue Memorial Walk. Photo by Dermot Crean
THE annual Tony O’Donoghue Memorial Walk takes place this Saturday, April 13, marking it’s tenth anniversary, and all are invited to take part.
Last year the walk, in memory of the much-loved man from Blennerville who passed away in 2014, raised €5,000 for Donal’s Den at the Palliative Care Unit, adding to the tens of thousands of euro which have been raised over the years for Kerry Hospice.
The walk, organised by his daughter Andrea, will set off at 4pm from Blennerville Windmill and all funds raised will go to the Palliative Care Unit.
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Afterwards it’s back to Skelper Quanes for a great evening of entertainment. Ross Brassil will play from 5pm to 7pm and Inish will play from 7pm to 9pm. DJ Mick will finish off the night with a mix of the 80s, 90s and 00s tunes.
Seamus O’Sullivan Butchers will provide tasty burgers for everyone after the walk. All are welcome to a great day and night so mark the date in your diary. To make a donation click here to go to the idonate page.
THE Kerry County Council Arts Office has announced that Emer Fallon is the new Kerry Writer in Residence.
Emer is a poet and fiction writer living in West Kerry. She has a keen interest in climate and the environment and these topics feature in her creative work.
Emer would like to explore them further during her residency, as she engages with both new and established writers across the county, through her Writers on the Bus project.
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The project will highlight the service provided by Local Link Kerry, while aiding writers living along the bus routes, in reducing their carbon footprint, connecting them with each other and providing them with a platform to share and showcase their work.
From mid-April, Emer will be hopping on the buses, meeting fellow writers and chatting to them about their writing.
She will provide a series of workshops, exploring themes such as ‘A Sense of Place’, ‘Grounding your Words’, and ‘A Deep Dive into the Weather’, with the aim of creating new work for display on eight of the buses.
Emer is also really looking forward to connecting with individuals and groups of all writing levels and experience throughout her residency.
“I have benefitted so much from the advice and input of other writers, including many past Writers in Residence, so I would love to offer that support to anyone who may be seeking writing advice or feedback.”
For further information and to sign up for Writers on the Bus, or for a group, or one-to-one, session with Emer, email her directly at emerwriterinres@gmail.com, or call the Kerry Arts Office on 066 718 3541.
The Kerry Writer in Residence is co-funded by Kerry County Council and The Arts Council of Ireland.
A TRALEE venue will host the debut Irish show for Baltimore avant-garde rock quartet Horse Lords this Friday, April 12.
The Greyhound Bar will host a band with a meticulous sound centred in controlled minimalism, their experimentation with krautrock, post-punk, traditional Appalachian, African polyrhythms, arcane tunings, and use of electronics.
They will be complemented by Kerry’s finest, Ten Past Seven, with the show beginning at 9pm. For tickets click here.
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Horse Lords, formed in 2010, embrace Renaissance counterpoint, covers composer Julius Eastman, play instruments specially fretted for microtonality, and organizes its music through polyrhythmic matrices.
Guitarist Owen Gardner and saxophonist / percussionist Andrew Bernstein met in the ‘00s at Goucher College in suburban Baltimore—the former steeped in global folk musics and experimental music, the latter a budding composer.
As members of the rich Baltimore music scene, notably the band Teeth Mountain, they met bassist Max Eilbacher, who has subsequently blazed a path in electroacoustic music, and drummer Sam Haberman.
From the beginning, the Horse Lords have played music defined by repetition and complexity, often at length, and presented it in ways that telegraph their concern with questioning social and political norms.
Their self-titled 2012 debut album, on Baltimore’s Ehse Records, unveiled the band’s visual aesthetic—geometric art, no photos—and single side-long piece “Wildcat Strike.” Interventions (Northern Spy), from 2016, led off with a track called “Truthers.”
That same year, they championed Eastman, a musical and social radical, at a time when his posthumous fame was only beginning to build. Even their practice of dropping EP-length “mixtapes” between their five full-length albums to date undermines standard music-biz rigueur. They have done their best to democratize their touring experience as well, hitting the road often and playing as wide a range of venues as possible.
Horse Lords emerge from a year of Covid-enforce idleness with Comradely Objects, an album assembled in a more leisurely fashion that nonetheless finds them sounding more focused and urgent. Comradely Objects appeared on many album of the year lists including The Wire.
.Tralee Warriors U20 Squad. Back row from left: David Lucid, Joshua Osayanrhion, Olaf Michalczuk, Brian O’Leary, Phoenix Costello, Donal O’Sullivan, Gary Lynch, Andrew Wallace. Front row from left: Eoin Creedon, Eddie Sheehy, Eli Fitzgerald, Evan Boyle.
By Alan Cantwell
The Tralee Warriors U20s travel to the National Basketball Arena in Tallaght this Saturday in a bid to defend their National title they won with a hard fought victory over Titans of Galway twelve months ago.
This year it is Éanna that stands between the Warriors and back-to-back U20 titles. The Tralee side secured their place in Saturday’s decider after a last gasp win over Limerick Celtics in a thrilling semi-final played at Moyderwell.
The Warriors turned around an early deficit to take control of the contest but had to withstand a final flourish from the Limerick side before securing a 77-76 win in the end.
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It was a brilliant game of basketball from start to finish and the Warriors young guns were given a proper test of their championship defending credentials before prevailing by the minimum to set up a final showdown with Éanna who got the better of Titans who were also looking for back-to-back finals in the underage grade decider.
The Warriors got their campaign off to a flying start with a comprehensive win over local rivals Killorglin and followed that up with a 91-87 hard fought win over Blue Demons from Cork. ]
In a thrilling contest just before Christmas the Warriors were given a reality check with an overtime loss to Limerick Lions after overtime.
They got back to winning ways at home to Neptune and away to Ballincollig to top their Group and progress to a quarter final meeting with Templeogue.
They survived a proper test of their mettle and had to come from behind in the final quarter to secure a 68-63 win to make it through to the last four.
The Tralee side then faced a formidable examination of their championship defence with in a cracking semi-final against Limerick Celtics in Moyderwell.
The game was played at a frantic pace throughout with both teams having their periods of dominance. However it was a solid third quarter display from the Warriors that set up the win despite a late run from Limerick Celtics that threatened to derail the bid for back-to-back titles.
In the end the Warriors just about edged home by 77-76 in what was as entertaining a game of basketball as you could wish to see and saw the defending champions set up a final showdown with Éanna from Dublin in Saturday’s decider.
• The Mens U20 National League Final between Tralee Warriors and Éanna gets underway in the National Basketball Arena in Tallaght next Saturday with tip-off at 3.30pm.
.Joan Hussey will speak at the Padre Pio Devotions tonight (Tuesday) in Castleisland.
By John Reidy
THE monthly Padre Pio Devotions night in Castleisland has been moved to the second Tuesday of each month and the April celebration of the life and works of the Italian saint (1887 – 1968) will be held tonight, Tuesday, April 9, at 7:30pm.
The ‘witness’ is one of the central aspects of each night’s proceedings and tonight Joan Hussey from Kilflynn is the invited guest.
Joan’s powerful, experience-backed message is one of hope from the darkest possible place. She and her husband Pat lost their 11 year old son David in a road traffic accident in 1990.
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Their sense of hope was bolstered by the fact that David’s donated organs gave life and hope to another.
“I’m not a public speaker or anything like it and my message is always that we just have to have hope. Without hope we just could not survive and that’s the message I’m bringing to Castleisland tonight,” said Joan during a telephone chat this morning.
The always brimming petitions box will be brought to the altar for blessings and consideration by celebrant Fr. Mossie Brick and prayers from him and his congregation present and on-line.
The box holds pleas for health and healing dropped in by family members or friends of people who are in need of help and hope at a particular time in their lives. Padre Pio’s Healing Glove will be available for blessings on the night.
.Killarney artist Patricia De Jong who has contributed work to the Incognito art sale event for the Jack and Jill Foundation.
SIXTEEN Kerry artists have generously donated their art for Incognito, Ireland’s biggest online art sale, in aid of the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation.
Among the local artists who have taken up their brushes for a great cause are David Morrison from Ballybunion, William C. Dahm from Bealad East, Tara McCarthy from Kilgarvan, and Patricia de Jong from Killarney as well as renowned fashion designer Don O’Neill.
What’s different about the Incognito art sale is that buyers have absolutely no idea of the artists behind the artworks, until after the sale has closed.
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Now in its eighth year, Incognito 2024 features the work of over 1,200 artists, with more than 3,300 original postcard-size artworks priced at €65, no matter who the artist is, on show at www.incognito.ie.
Buyers can now peruse the collection at www.incognito.ie before the sale goes live on Wednesday, April 24.
Among the stars taking part in 2024 are iconic model and actress, Jerry Hall, comedian Colin Murphy, fashion designers Don O’Neill, Heidi Higgins, Helen Steele and Simone Rocha, milliner Philip Treacy, jewellery designer Chupi Sweetman, radio stars PJ Gallagher and Jim McCabe, singer Brian Kennedy, TV royalty Thelma Mansfield, and award-winning architect Hugh Wallace.
For Deirdre Walsh, CEO of the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation, the support of the Kerry art community and the wider public in raising vital funds for its work is crucial.
“This year once again we are amazed at the high standard of art by Incognito artists and the diverse selection of styles. We are very grateful for the support of those Kerry artists who have joined in the excitement that is Incognito and want to help raise money for Jack and Jill. The Incognito art sale quite literally turns art into a currency for care.”
For further information and to see the Incognito collection, visit www.incognito.ie, and to check out the work of the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation, visit www.jackandjill.ie. Follow all the latest Incognito developments on Facebook at www.facebook.com/2024incognito #Art4Care #Incognito2024
This past weekend was hold to the 51st annual Listowel club Invitational tournament which is held throughout the weekend from Saturday to Sunday.
The play started on Saturday with a grade C,D & E competition and a Masters competition which was open to all players registered in Munster and that are eligible to play in the o50s category!
As always this competition has always had a great reputation with everyone that plays in it, always makes of a great weekend for all involved.
Sunday then is for the grade F,G & H players that are registered in Kerry. It was great to finish out the season with a competition such as this one for everyone to enjoy and to finish the season on a high.
The results from the weekend are the following:
Saturday:
Over50s Masters winners and runners up.
O50 Masters-
Winners: Mike Lyne (Killarney) & Tom Bradley (Kingdom)
R-Up: John O’Brien (Killarney) & James Sheehan (Listowel)
Division 3 winners and runners up with Listowel club represntatives
Division 3
Winners: Josie Gilbert (Ballyheigue) & Oscar McElligot (Listowel)
R-Up: Sinead Kelly (Listowel) & Alvin Rahman (Killarney)
Division 4 winnes and runners up with Listowel club represntatives
Division 4:
Winners: Olena Paiuk (Killarney) & Kevin Thanasegaran (Tralee)
R-Up: Charlotte Quinn (Moyvane) & Antonii Paiuk (Killarney)
Division 5 winners
Division 5:
Winners: Sinead McElligott (Listowel) & Jophy John (Tralee)
A big thank you and well done must be said to all of Listowel club that were involved in the running and organizing of the competition throughout the whole weekend. Cant wait for next year!
Mixed League Finals:
The mixed league county finals are taking place this week in Ballyheigue. Best of luck to all the teams that are involved throughout the 4 different divisions
Monday:
Division 2: Listowel v Kingdom
Division 4: Killarney v Moyvane
Thursday:
Division 3: Killarney v Listowel
Division 5: Killarney v Listowel
Munster Doubles & Mixed Championships
Best of luck to all players from throughout the county that are travelling to MTU Cork on Sunday 14th of April to represent the county in the Munster rounds of the doubles and mixed championships.
Masters Interpros:
Congratulations to Helen Browne (Moyvane) & Trish Herlihy (Listowel) who were selected to play on the Munster o40 Interprovincial team in the Interprovincial competition which took place up the country on Saturday last.
PEIL FAOI 7, 8, 9: Action for our Under 7, Under 8 and Under 9 boys will take place in Caherslee at 11am on Sunday next (14th April). Fáilte roimh chách….new players welcome.
PEIL FAOI 11: (i) Following recent postponed GoGamesfootball v Na Mistéalaigh agus v Cnoc na hEaglaise due to inclement weather…rain, rain and more rain…the U11 season swings into serious action this Thursday (11th) at 6.30pm as our boys head for Killeen to take on Na Gaeil. (ii) And we’re pleased to announce that Football-For-Fun will continue at 10.50am on Sunday next in Caherslee. Aililiú! Let’s pray for fine weather! (Colm Ó Mongáin)
FAOI 13: Our Under 13 teams had two good wins on Wednesday evening in the field of dreams. They took on and defeated the John Mitchel Club U13s. Tús maith, leath na hoibre….a good start to the County League for this very talented bunch. Well done, boys! Training will take place on Tuesday night at the MTU. (Micko Horan)
FAOI 15: Our competition season has finally got underway; both teams were in action on Wednesday of last week (3rd). (i) The U15 boys (Division 1A) did well v Kilcummin at home in Connolly Park. We started the game well and played great football but missed numerous goal opportunities in the first half. Having played with a breeze we lead….0-9 to 0-2….at half-time.
The second half was a keenly contested game and the undoubted star of the show was Noah Reidy who scored 4 David Clifford-like goals. Kilcummin got into the game, fought hard, gave of their best but, i ndeireadh na dála, the better team won. Result…AdeS: 4-11; Cill Chuimín: 3-6.
Well done, boys! Scorers: Noah Reidy (4-0), Harry Murphy (0-4), Danny Lane (0-2), Barry Laide (0-1), Jack Delaney (0-1), Hawlie Cotter (0-1), Darragh Lyons (0-1), Eoin Mangan (0-1). (Pa Laide) (ii) Our other U15 boys played their County League (Division 9A) match in beautiful senic Glenbeigh. These determined boys made a winning start to their County League campaign in a gripping contest i bPáirc na nGael, Gleann Beithe. The hosts made a fast start on their home pitch and dominated the early exchanges and that resulted, ní nach ionadh, in a series of fine points and a well-taken goal. The Rock boys faced a challenge!
The game could easily have run away from our boys but they hung in and, as the half wore on, they opened their own account with a couple of nice well-taken points. The half-time score…GGC B: 1-7; AdeS B: 0-2. Serious!
The second half started with a mini-explosion as the Black‘n’Ambers took control of the game and drove unrelentingly at the home defence with the full intent of clawing back the eight point deficit. In an exhilarating display of attacking football, with a flurry of brilliant points and a couple of cracking goals this objective was achieved within twenty whirlwind minutes. It was a joy to behold!
It was now the Stack Club boys who led as the game entered the closing minutes. Hearts fluttered! The hosts, to their credit, rallied and fought back in an effort to rescue the outcome but, however and to a man, The Rock stood firmly and saw out the game and claimed a memorable victory within a stone’s throw of the Behy River. Toradh…AdeS B: 2-8; Glenbeigh/Glencar/Cromane B: 1-9.
Thanks to the Glenbeigh/Glencar/Cromane team for a great sporting contest and ‘well done’ to the groundsmen on the excellent condition of the Glenbeigh pitch. Thanks to the match referee, Thomas Harold, for his handling of the game.
‘Well done’ to our match captain, Diarmuid Hennessy, and to the other eighteen boys who lined out in the ‘Black‘n’Amber. Certainly, a performance of which to be proud! Laoch an chluiche: Seosamh de Barra. Joe gave a powerful display from start to finish….briseann an dúchas trí shúile an chait! Buachaillí Faoi 15B na Carraige: Conor Murphy; David Ahern (0-1), Dean Courtney (1-0), Diarmuid Hennessy (captain)( 0-1); Eliot Calleja, Fionn Cotter, Jayden O’Dowd; Joe Barry (0-1), Joe O’Halloran; John Riordan, Kyle Yoxhall, Liam Swords (0-1); Mark Foley, Mark Riordan (0-1), Noah Reidy (1-3), Oisín Cotter, Ryan O’Flaherty, Sean McCannon, Tom Dawson. (Dan Ahern) (iii) Training sessions continue. As always, boys, keep a watch out for the group messages with details re games and training.
Schedule for Wednesday 10th: our Division 9A boys at home to Kilcummin.
Schedule for Sunday 14th: our Division 1A lads at home to Laune Rangers. Mouth-watering encounters! Can’t wait! (Ger Hobbert)
GAELTACHT SCHOLARSHIP: Please contact the secretary of Bord Thrá Lí (GAA) to apply for a Gaeltacht Scholarship.
FAOI 17: (i) Our minors challenged Listowel Emmets on Easter Monday in Listowel and they did really really well. Final score…Lios Tuathail: 1-5; AdeS: 1-15. Well done, boys! (ii) Our minor boys continued their County League Division 1A League campaign with a deserved home win in Connolly Park against The Spa (Cill Airne) on Thursday evening last. The weather conditions were very challenging for both sides with constant wind and rain, as well as a heavy pitch, hampering the contestants. Full credit to both clubs for their best efforts in adverse conditions….maith sibh, a leaideanna!
The Rockies started the game strongly with several early attacks and gained some crucial scores to establish a strong lead…4-6 to 0-3…and they held that lead right up to half-time. Our stalwarts began the second half in an even more determined manner and put The Spa kick outs under relentless pressure and maintained that brú for the rest of the game.
This ultimately resulted in our dominance in possession and on the scoreboard. To their credit, our worthy opponents never gave up and kept fighting to the end. However, our Rockies never lost their grip on the game and ran out worthy winners on a final scoreline of 5-7 to 1-5. An Charraig Abú!
Special mention must go to Leon Sweeney, captain on the night, who deputised in goal as our regular keeper, Olivier Lata, was unavailable. Leon gave an excellent display in very trying conditions. Team…foireann bhuacach na Carraige: Leon Sweeney; Gabriel Maszorek, Max Maszorek, Rian Walsh; Ben Litchfield, Fionnán Ryan, Adam Johnston; Alex Touhy, Liam O’Connell; Harry Murphy, Cormac Bastible, Jack Diggin; Tomás O’Connell, Ben Murphy, Rory Lynch; Jack Shanahan, Tadhg Falvey, Darragh Lyons.
(iii) Our next outing, the County League Division 1 semi-final, was scheduled for Connolly Park on Monday last (8th) against Kenmare. And, once again, we witnessed our great team spirit and tireless work rate in every area of the pitch in this encounter. Well done, boys! Beidh scéal an chluiche sin againn an tseachtain seo chugainn, LCD. Management team…an bhainistíocht: Theo Diggin, David Courtney, Ronan Kavanagh, Liam Lynch, Frankie Murphy, Morgan O’Connell. (Morgan O’Connell)
FAOI 18: Our great Rock minor team of 1980: Mike Rohan; Brian Perfect, Mike Crowley, Mike Carroll; Paul Carroll, Richard Prendiville, Mike Counihan (captain); Kieran O’Callaghan, Richard Campbell; Liam Kearns, David Charles, Dermot Sugrue; Damien Dowling, Paul Mullins, Kevin Barry; Pa Carey, Timmy McAuliffe, John Browne, John O’Riordan, Peter Kearns, John O’Shea, Joe McMahon. This outstanding achievement was celebrated on Saturday night last in the clubhouse. Éacht agus mórghaisce!
FEISTEAS CLUB: Club merchandise from O’Neills. Log into www.austinstacks.ie
MÓRBHUÍOCHAS: Thanks to all club lotto supporters and especially to: (i) The Burger Shack, Móin an Bhealaigh; (ii) The Brogue, Sráid na Carraige; (iii) Siopa Chaoimhín de Barra, Ollmhargadh Grósaera na Carraige; (iv) Siopa Leabhar Pháidí Uí Chomáin, (PC Books) Sráid na Carraige; (v) O’Flynn Interiors, Sráid na Carraige; (iv) Hussey’s Deli and Newsagency, Cé an Phrionsa.
KERRY U17/U20 HURLERS: Sympathies to the Kerry U17 and U20 hurlers who were unlucky in Leinster.
KERRY U17/U20 FOOTBALLERS: Good luck to the Kerry U17 and U20 footballers in their preparations for the Munster championship.
KERRY SENIORS: (i) Good wishes to Joe, Dylan, Armin, Joey and Kerry in their championship preparations. (ii) Comhbhrón le Dara, le hAoife agus le Mná na Ríochta v Ard Mhacha!
SCÓR: Best wishes to Tralee’s Helen Uí Shiochrú and to The Spa’s set dancers who’ll be performing in the Munster finals of Senior Scór on Saturday at 5pm in Newport Community Centre, County Tipperary.
.Winners Teams and Thomond Cup Derek O’ Gorman, Cian Holland, Donal Garvey and Pat Quinn.
A report on the Tralee International Bridge Congress event from Tom Hardiman…
The Tralee International Bridge Congress 2024 at the Rose Hotel was held last weekend leaving a positive mark on both the local and national bridge communities.
The event, spanning the entire weekend, showcased the skills of Kerry’s bridge players, particularly in the Congress Pairs and Intermediate Pairs competitions.
John O’Connor and Kelan O’Connor from Tralee won the Congress Pairs, demonstrating great skill. Their win highlights the quality of bridge in the area and offers inspiration to others.
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Anne Maria Mac Sweeney and Phillip Cretch, also from Kerry, came out on top in the Intermediate Pairs, showing the depth of local talent. Their success is a point of pride for the local bridge community.
The congress brought together players from all over Ireland, featuring competitive matches in various categories. The focus was on strategic play and teamwork.
Gala Competition Winners John & Kelan O’ Connor.
Donal Garvey, known for his understanding of bridge and teaching ability as a Grand Master, led a notable session on expert hands. His efforts in sharing knowledge and encouraging players of all levels highlight his significant contribution to bridge.
The 2024 congress has been a key event for the Irish bridge scene, thanks to everyone involved and the support from sponsors Home Instead and The Rose Hotel.
With this year’s event concluded, we’re already preparing for next year. The Tralee International Bridge Congress aims to continue being a highlight for players of all abilities.
RESULTS
Friday, 5th April – Tralee Gala Open Pairs Top 10:
1) John O’Connor & Kelan O’Connor
2) Jim Stokes & Pat O’Mahony
3) Willie Corby & Doreen McInerney
4) Donal Garvey & Pat Quinn
5) Trish Stack & Nicky Fitzgibbon
6) Eugene Gath & Phyllis O’Regan
7) Pat Twomey & Joan McEnery
8 ) Gordon Lessells & Doreen Murphy
9) Ger Macsweeney & Conor Dwyer
10) Tom Hardiman & Pat Fitzgibbon
Best 2nd session teams, Kay Cussen, Denis Sheehan, John & Kelan O’ Connor.
Friday, 5th April – Tralee Inter B & Novice Pairs:
– Winners: Liam Lynch & Elizabeth Lynch
– 2nd Place Anne Condon & Helen Egan
Novice Pairs Winners
Dolores Johnston & Mary Woodcock
Saturday’s Winners:
Congress Pairs Overall:
– Winners: John O’Connor & Kelan O’Connor
– 2nd Place: Rory Boland & Karl Cashen
2nd place in Intermediate B Novice Competition Anne Condon & Helen Egan.
Congress Pairs Session 1
Winners: Tom McCarthy & Joe Higgins
Congress Pairs Session 2:
– Winners: Declan O Brien & Kay Clement
Intermediate Pairs Overall:
– Winners: Anne Maria Mac Sweeney & Phillip Cretch
– 2nd Place: Melissa Brady & Anna Shalvey
-Intermediate B Pairs Winners Mary Keane & Joan McEnery
THE Rose of Tralee International Festival has launched a partnership with Cliona’s Foundation ahead of the Roses and Rose Escorts “Camino for Cliona’s” trip in Portugal / Spain on April 26.
Cliona’s Foundation is a national charity supporting families with seriously sick children all over Ireland. The partnership was launched in Killarney with Rose of Tralee, New York Rose, Róisin Wiley who is currently in Ireland as part of her role with the Festival.
Roisin is now an ambassador for Clionas Foundation and will be joining a cohort of Roses and Rose Escorts in walking the Camino De Santiago to raise funds and awareness this April. All funds raised will go directly to providing financial support to the families that Cliona’s support.
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Cliona’s is a national charity providing financial assistance directly to parents of seriously sick children with life-limiting or chronic complex care needs across Ireland to help with the non-medical expenses related to caring for their child. Since 2008 the foundation has provided financial assistance to over 1300 families.
The foundation was set up by Brendan and Terry Ring, following the death of their daughter Cliona, from an inoperable brain tumour in 2006 aged 15.
Over the years, as Cliona underwent numerous different hospital treatments, Brendan and Terry were struck by the number of families, facing enormous financial hardship, on the brink of financial free-fall, blindsided by non-medical expenses piling up.
They saw at first-hand the enormous toll it took on these families, already struggling to cope with the nightmare of having a seriously ill child.
Joining the Roses from Arizona, Wexford, Boston New England, Toronto, Carlow will be Escorts from Mayo, Limerick, Kilkenny and the USA and co-founder of Cliona’s Foundation, Terry Ring.
Terry walked the Inaugural Camino for Cliona’s with 36 transition year students from all over Munster last June.
This year 101 students have signed up to walk the Camino for Cliona’s from all over Ireland. The route the Roses and Rose Escorts will walk is 120kms, beginning in the Portuguese city of Valenca and finishing in the Spanish city at the Cathedral in Santiago De Compostela.
Speaking of the Festival’s reason for getting involved with Cliona’s, Festival Director Suzan O’Gara said; “The Rose of Tralee Festival is delighted to partner with Cliona’s Foundation. The foundation is a wonderful charity who provide crucial financial support to families who are caring for a child with a serious illness.”
“Roisin and I recently met a family supported by Cliona’s and learned first-hand how much relief the financial support provides. The Rose class of 2023 are so excited to be getting involved and to be able to walk the Camino to raise awareness for Clionas Foundation, and to show solidarity with the many families all over Ireland who need this help.
“Supporting charitable work is very much at the heart of what our Festival does – a Rose really can make a difference. We are thrilled to be able to shine a light on the great work Cliona’s Foundation does, and to support such a worthy and meaningful cause through this new partnership”. To support the Roses and Rose Escorts, please visit this link: https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/CaminoForClionasROTIF
.At the presentation of a cheque to CRITICAL on Saturday were Humphrey ‘Hawk’ O’Keeffe, VP James Roche, Donie Lucey from CRITICAL, Michael Jaz, Tony McNabb, Ian Deery Courtney’s Bar, Tony Hickey and Harry Cunningham.
A CHEQUE was presented to CRITICAL The Emergency Medical Response Charity, on Saturday following a recent Charity Rock Night held in Courtney’s Bar in Killarney.
Omerta Kin Motorcycle Club were delighted with the amout of money raised of €1,254.56 for the vital service.
“We at Omerta Kin Mcc are very proud of our achievement and very grateful for the support from the motorcycle community and all those who donated and attended our free event,” said Ruairi Radar Fry, President Omerta Kin Mcc.
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“We had 600 people attend on the night. People travelled long distances to support our annual Rock Night, travelling from all over Ireland and from Europe. There is a large community of bikers in County Kerry and to have their support is greatly appreciated.”
Music on the night came from Ross Brassil who “rocked the bar and had everyone singing back to him.The atmosphere was electric,” added Radar Fry, who thanked all the sponsors, Ian Deery and all staff of Courtney’s Bar.
Sinn Féin has added a fourth candidate to run in the Tralee Local Electoral Area in the Local Elections which are due to be held on June 7.
Paddy Kevane was ratified by the party’s Ard Chomhairle on Saturday, having been selected by party members in Tralee.
Mr. Kevane will join sitting Councillors Cathal Foley and Deirdre Ferris, as well as Derrylea native and primary school teacher Paul Daly on the Sinn Féin ticket.
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A lecturer at the Munster Technological University in Tralee, Paddy Kevane is well known for his community and charity work around the town and surrounding areas.
With a Law Degree and a Social Care Degree, he is the former President of St. Vincent de Paul in Tralee and West Kerry, Chairman of South Munster MABS, Board member of FoodShare Kerry, Meals on Wheels Tralee, Tralee Community Development Project and EmployAbility Service Kerry.
Commenting on his selection, Mr. Kevane said: “It is a huge honour, first and foremost, to have been selected by my fellow party members to run for the local elections in June. I join a very strong team of Sinn Féin candidates in the Tralee area. There is a huge appetite for change out there and I believe that needs to start at the local level in June.
“We have huge problems to fix across the country and it is no different here in Kerry. I believe I have a proven track record of hard work in my community and I will bring my dedication to improving peoples’ lives into the council, should I have the honour of being elected.
“My priorities will include addressing the chronic shortage of affordable and social housing, supporting our elderly and people with disabilities, supporting local employment opportunities, enhancing community safety and developing vital community services.”
We are pleased to announce that our Dingle Way Challenge is back for another year. This event takes place on Sunday 2nd of June.
Please find details of the two routes below we have available this year for you to choose from.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first timer, looking for a challenge this year’sDingle Way Challenge promises an unforgettable journey through the rugged beauty of the West Kerry peninsula.
The allure of the 2024 Dingle Way Challenge lies in the diverse landscapes of the routes. For the Ultra route (42Km) starting at Coumeenole, through the lovely town of Dingle, onto Lispole and finishing in Annascaul.The Standard Route (30Km) will start at beautiful Ventry beach, through the lovely town of Dingle, onto Lispole and finishing in Annascaul.
Register on-line through eventbrite, registration closes on Friday 31st May at 5pm.
Early Bird option: €70 before the 1st May; €75 from the 1st May.
(transaction charge will be added)
Check in on the morning of 2nd June will be in St Pat’s GAA Club, Blennerville, Tralee and buses will be available to take you to the start points of the Routes. More detailed information on the evenbrite page Dingle Way Challenge 2024 Tickets, Sun 2 Jun 2024 at 05:00 | Eventbrite.
Since our Eventbrite page went live, many have booked their place. There are limited numbers for this event so be quick you don’t want to miss this great day out!
Club Lotto
Eileen Enright Derrymore East was the winner of our club Lotto Jackpot of €6700 on Sunday night last the numbers drawn were 06,11,15 &23. The five €30 euro consolation prizes went to:
1. Ita Greaney Annagh
2. Emer Uí hOgain c/o Gala
3. Joe Costello Online
4. Siobhán Ní Chroinín Baile Bhúirne
5. Annette Roche c/o Rock Inn
Next week’s Lotto will have a Jackpot of €2000 and the draw will take place on Sunday Night 14/04/2024 at 9pm in Skelper Quanes Bar club Lotto can be played online through the club website www.stpatsgaaclub.com online at https://www.locallotto.ie/play.asp?LL_ID=1328&PC=0 from any club officer, or at the following outlets:
O’Shea Shop and Service Station Blennerville
Poff Motors Dingle Road
Seamus O’Sullivan Master Butchers Manor
Noyeks Mile Height
Byrnesworth
Skelper Quanes
Keane’s Of Curraheen
Betty’s Bar The Rock Inn
Many Thanks to all who contribute to our weekly club Lotto. The club cannot emphasize enough the importance of our members promoting the club Lotto among family, friends, and work colleagues. The lotto is now a critical source of funds for the club. We are appealing to all club members to promote our Lotto at this time to ensure our club’s future viability. Please have your Lotto entries in by 7pm, every Sunday night.
Your Area Needs Your Opinion!
Curraheen Community Council, serving the areas of Curragraigue, Ballydunlea, Tonevane, Annagh, Curraheen, Derryquay and Derrymore, will hold a public meeting on Thursday, April 18th at 7.30pm in the Community Room at the rear of Curraheen Church to discuss some issues of concern such as housing/planning permission, road safety and improvement of local amenities. Your area needs your opinions! Everybody welcome.
Tony O’Donoghue 10th Year Anniversary Walk
This year’s walk takes place on Saturday 13th of April, walk begins at 4pm from Skelper Quanes. There is music from Ross Brassil from 5-7pm, burgers sponsored by Seamus O’Sullivan Butchers Chefs for the day are 2Beans In A Box. Unfortunately, Sam Maguire will not be visiting this year for the walk.
There is a raffle with spot prizes, there is Darragh Jive O’Donnell from 7-9pm with a bit of a traditional disco.
The night is finished off by 80’s/90’s disco with DJ Mick from 9pm. There are medals for finishers, but you will have to be quick as there is limited numbers.
There is a idonate page running if you would like to support or take part why not walk in your local area! iDonate.ie | Support Todd’s O Donoghue memorial walk
Remember they are trying to raise enough funds to purchase a jigsaw table, a games table, blue tooth speaker, some Dyson fans for the rooms, diffusers, and some adult Lego, all to make some one’s day a little bit easier.
They are just over €72000 raised for KHF in memory of Tony O’Donoghue’s name let us try to help them hit €75,000 and go out on a high.
Any support in any way for this would be amazing and they can guarantee a good night in Skelper Quane’s.
Blennerville/Ballyard Community Games
Well done to our 5 athletes who represented Blennerville/ Ballyard in very stiff competition in Beaufort today. First up in Under 12s Grace Costello ran a strong race in a very competitive age group and finished well.
Amy Noonan once again showed her running speed & stamina to win the Under 14 girls 700m race. fantastic running Amy! We had 3 boys in under 14 700m, again it was a fiercely competitive race, Stephen Enright ran an excellent race to come 5th closely followed by Tommy Costello & Hugh Costello in 8th and 9th positions. Amy and Stephen will go on to represent Kerry as part of the relay teams at U14 in Gormanstown on Sunday May 26th. Congratulations guys!
Derryquay Table Quiz
Table Quiz in O’Neill’s Bar Camp on Friday April 19th at 8pm for Derryquay National School, All support greatly appreciated.
Juvenile Academy
We are Back, St Pats Football Academy took place last Sunday morning and every Sunday Morning in Kerry Sports Academy, MTU North Campus V92HD4V from 11am-12pm. Open to all boys and girls from Under 5 to Under 13. Contact Michael for further information on 086-3855428. Come along any Sunday, All New Members welcome!
U5
We had a great turnout of Under 5s again in the MTU. We enjoyed our exercise in the warm and dry! Again, we practiced all our fundamental skills with fun and games, great to see the confidence growing in this young group and new faces always welcome. Very well done especially to Jake and Ailbhe today for showing great attention and listening and practice of all the games. Keep up the movement and ball play at home! Well, done boys and girls… Gooo St Pats!!
U7
An excellent session today with great numbers. We went through a few skills before playing 2 games. They seem to enjoy the football games. We might organise a game for next week against one of the local clubs if weather starts getting better. Well, done to Tom who was player of the week this week- put in a big effort.
U8 Girls
We had a great session this morning all the girls showed great enthusiasm and an incredible appetite for hard work and learning the basic skills of our beautiful game they really impressed coaches Norma and Sean. Keep up the practice at home girls and we will see you all next week. Regards, Coaches.
U9 Boys
Our U9’s took a well-deserved break from training on Sunday and are all ready for their first game of the season at home to Lispole this Tuesday 9th at 6:30pm.
U10 Girls
Our U10 girls practiced their soloing, hand passing and kick passing this week, they are improving week on week. It is always great to see new faces so please bring a friend along next week. Keep up the practice girls!
U11 Boys
St Pats U-11’s had a quiet week with our game and training cancelled due to the terrible weather conditions. We have our 1st outing in the U 11 Co league Go Game v An Ghaeltacht away this Thursday 11/4 at 6.30pm so hopefully this will go ahead but, in the meantime, keep practicing the skills at home during the week. Naomh Pádraig Abú!!
U12 Girls
We had no training last Sunday due to the inclement weather. Our first game in the North Kerry U12 Go Games Programme is a home game vs Na Gaeil. It takes place this Thursday in Blennerville at 6:30pm. We ask for club members to come out and support the girls.
U13
St Pats 3-6 Castleisland Desmond 2 -4. A narrow win on paper does little to show how dominant we were throughout this game. Playing with a strong breeze in the first half we totally controlled the game. Our defence tackled ferociously, our midfield moved the ball with pace, and our forwards worked and moved into great scoring positions.
Only our shooting let us down a little and at half time we were only 4 points up 1-5 to 1-1. Any concerns about the final result were quickly settled in the first 10 mins of the 2nd half as we rattled the net twice. Desmonds threw everything at us after that and we’re rewarded with 1-3. Our lads remained composed until the final whistle, giving us a well-deserved win.
Training is on Monday at 6 for 45 mins and Wednesday also at 6 for 1 hour.
Senior
St Pats add another win in a blustery Caherslee against Firies B. Firies were quick to add two points within the first few minutes of the first half.
St Pats accumulated seven scores without answer from a strong Firies defence, scores coming from Fergal O’Brien, Jordan Conway, and Dylan Griffin. Firies trying to keep the gap which was growing to a minimum they scored a point; a Fergal O’Brien point keeping St Pats ahead.
One final score from Firies for the first half with Luke Mulligan putting one final point on the board for us to finish the first half St Pats 0-09 Firies B 0-04
The wind picked up during the beginning of the second half which caused both sides to have to change tactic and keep the ball low. Four scores in quick succession coming with a goal from Brian Murphy which allowed the gap to increase and allowing a safety net.
With other scores coming from Eoin Greaney and Fergal O’Brien, Colin Doody received a well-placed kick to shoot the ball passed the Firies goalkeeper before he knew it. Another point from Firies to reduce the ever-extending lead St Pats had achieved.
Jordan Conway was quick to add a point to keep St Pats momentum going, Firies put one last point on the board with St Pats adding two more points coming from Tommy Nicholson and Adam Hegarty. St Pats 2-14 Firies B 0-06
The club would like to thank Joe Wallace, Head Groundsman in Caherslee pitches for his assistance in hosting our senior team game there last Sunday.
Subs Used: Mike Doody for Cillian Lynch (Injured), Niall McCarthy for Conor Enright, Adam Hegarty for Colin Doody, Martin Savage for Tommy Nicholson, and Shane Foley for Gary Savage.
Senior B’s
Senior Bs are scheduled to play Listowel Emmets B on Saturday 13th of April at 6pm in Blennerville. Please keep an eye on O’Shea’s Gala St Pats Lotto Box, Skelper Quanes, Old Clubhouse window for any changes or updates.
Speedy Recovery
To Cillian Lynch who came off the field injured on Sunday last.
Sympathy
The club would like to extend its sympathy to the families and friends of PJ Herlihy Camp, Kay Edwards St Brendan’s Road, John Mulhall The Kerries, Judy Barry Lismore & Australia, Tony Hennessy Hawley Park, and Maura McMahon Rock Street.
Two gifted goals to the opposition and too many wides cost Ballymacelligott the game played in Rathmore on Sunday.
The game opened with a point from Rathmore. Shortly after Cian Counihan gave an accurate pass to Donal Daly who scored a goal. Ballymac failed to capitalise on this momentum and Rathmore scored the next two points. Vinnie Horan scored a point from a free which was the fifth score of the game.
The next Ballymac score was another point from a free from The Ballymac Captain in the 20th minute of the game. In between Rathmore scored two goals and a point. Rathmore were in the lead by double scores after 21 minutes of play. Rathmore added another point.
Two great saves by the Rathmore goalkeeper in the 23rd and 32nd minute of the half left Ballymacelligott with a lot of work to do in the second half.
Half Time Score: Rathmore 2-05 Ballymacelligott 1-2
Rathmore opened the scoring in the second half with a point. Vinnie Horan scored a point in the 6th minute. The next score- a point- came from Rathmore halfway through the half. Aidan Breen scored a point from a free.
Rathmore scored another point and a great save from their goalkeeper left the score 2-08 to 1-04 with 8 minutes left. Aidan Breen (F) and Vinnie Horan for Ballymac scored the last two points of the game.
This was a hard game with some tough tackling. Rathmore were shown 7 yellow cards and Ballymac 3. Daire Keane, Cathal Dunne, Vinnie Horan, and Tadhg Brick were outstanding for the Ballymac team. They will rue those ten wides (Rathmore 4).
Then it has not been an easy season for our players with our home pitch closed. Training has been sporadic and very little ball played. To their credit, they battle on.
The next game is in two weeks V Spa Killarney.
Half Time Score: Rathmore 2-08 Ballymacelligott 1-6
Team and Scorers:
Christy Leen, Seán Rice, Darragh Sweeney, Daniel O’Shea, Tadhg Brick, Cathal Dunne, Aidan Breen, Brian Lonergan, Cian Counihan, Adam Sheehy, Vinnie Horan (Capt) Daire Keane (0-), Donal Daly and Niall Collins.
We wish Josh O’Keeffe a speedy recovery following an injury in the warm-up to the game on Sunday.
Substitutes Used: Michael Herlihy, Brian Cassidy, and Maurice O’Connell.
The Credit Union SFL Div 6A Round 3
Ballymacelligott 1-4
Dr Crokes 6-11
Venue: Dr Crokes Date: 5th April 24
Ballymac GAA wishes to thank Dr Crokes for facilitating our home game on Friday evening.
This was a tough game in tough weather conditions on Friday night. It has already been a tough season for our players who have had no pitch to play on and have trained in various places with very little ball work since the start of the season.
There is great credit due to all the players who turn up for training week in and week out and also turn up for games at the weekend.
Ballymac started well with three great attacks. Two wides followed by a point from Darragh Regan opened the scoring for Ballymac. Dr Crokes notched up two points but for a great save by Conor Martin in goal -things could have been worse.
After fifteen minutes of play, the score was Dr Crokes 0-4 to Ballymac 0-1. Dr Crokes dominated after scoring a goal in the eighteenth minute and adding two more goals and a point before Ballymac reduced the margin with points from Michael Herlihy, Shane McGillicuddy, and Skye Lynch.
The Half Time score was: Ballymacelligott 0-4 Dr Crokes 3-07
Darragh Regan scored Ballymac’s only goal, and Dr Crokes went on to win the game to add two points to their County League tally of four.
Full-Time score was: Ballymacelligott 1-4 Dr Crokes 6-11
The margin of defeat exceeded the expectation based on the previous form of these two teams.
Coming into this game, the only yardstick we had to gauge how this game would go, was that both teams had played Spa in earlier rounds. Spa defeated Ballymac by a point and Dr Crokes won their game by three points.
Our players battled hard, blocked well, and overall played well.
We wish James Kenny a speedy recovery from his injury in the first half of the game.
Team and scorers: Conor Martin, Ciarán Brosnan, Jonathan Brick, Eoin Culloty, Cathal White, Andy Rogers, Jamie Burke, Skye Lynch (0-1) Brian Cassidy, Maurice O’Connell, Michael Herlihy (0-1), Darragh Regan (1-1), Barry Lyons (Capt), Shane McGillicuddy (0-1), and Micheál Savage
Subs Used: Cathal Culloty, Eoghan Leahy, Conor Brick, Brian Godley and James Kenny.
Congratulations
We salute the TLI Group (Kerry) team who won the All-Ireland Inter-Firm Junior Football Final last night for the first time. Many Congratulations to our two club stalwarts who were involved with the team: -senior Selector/Goalie Padraig Laide and Senior Selector Tony Silles. It was a sweet win after a thrilling victory 1-12 over Alexion 0-14 at UL. TLI’s first ever All Ireland Title!
Minor Ladies
Our Minor Ladies start County League this week
Round One Co League Division One
away to Glenflesk Tuesday evening next 7pm.
Good luck to team and management led by Jimmy Scanlon.
U16 Ladies
North Kerry League Division Four
Finuge/St Senans v Ballymac in Finuge Monday evening 7pm.
Best wishes to manager Liam Sweeney and team in this competition.
Minor Boys
Minor boys are through to the Semi-Final of Division 2 of Keane’s Supervalu Minor County League, congratulations to the players and their management team.
Semi-final: Monday 8th April
Venue: Rathmore at 6.30pm
All support would be welcome, best of luck lads.
Under 15 Boys
Our U15 boys played Churchill in Round 2 of their County League, game was played in Churchill.
Result: Ballymac 1-10 Churchill 1-10
Well done to players and management
Academy
Academy will continue in MTU next Sunday keep an eye on social media for updates
Health and Wellbeing
Kerry County Council & KWD County Clean Up was due to take place this Saturday 6th April but was cancelled due to the storm.
This will continue next weekend.
Please support this valuable effort to keep Ballymacelligott clean. Bags and bibs can be collected from the Half Way
Many thanks to Thomas and staff for organising this.
Lotto
On Monday 1st April, the Lotto draw took place online with Clubforce in the presence of Sheila McCarthy and Oonagh O’Rahilly.
The Numbers drawn were: 11, 16, 23, 29
There was no winner of this week’s Jackpot of €7100. Congratulations to the lucky dip winners this week:
€30.00 – Roland Rogers, Annual Ticket
€20.00 – Muireann Deane, Coolinadeed
€20.00 – Joanne Long, Kielduff
Next Jackpot is €7,200 and the draw will take place on Monday 8th April 2024. Play Ball Lotto Ticket sales close at 6 pm sharp.
Tickets can be purchased by clicking here https://play.clubforce.com/play_newa.asp?ll_id=2258&PC=0&RP=#Anchor
or from our regular sellers Paula Silles and Maureen O Shea . Quick Pick Envelopes are available at The Half Way Shop and O Riadas Bar and Restaurant. The closing time for entries will be 4 pm on Mondays to facilitate the draw. Your continued support is very much appreciated for the day to day running costs of our club.
Check out all the latest news from Ballymac GAA Club by clicking here www.ballymacgaa.ie
.Tralee Parnells U15s who defeated Ballyduff in round 3 of Feile na nGael.
U15 Camogie
Our U15 Feile Camogie team had a busy weekend as they continued their winning ways when they defeated Causeway in round two of the preliminary matches on Friday evening while on Sunday the girls defeated Ballyduff in windy conditions in Ardfert.
It was great to see some of our younger squad members taking some great scores in both matches. Thank you to Causeway and Ballyduff for the competitive matches.
Thank you also to Diarmuid Brennan and Mike Hennessy who refereed the matches and also to Ardfert Community Centre for providing the pitch on both occasions. The girls will now face Cillard in the Division 1 County Feile final on Sunday 14th April.
Tralee Parnells U15s who defeated Abbeydorney in round 2 of Feile na nGael
U15 Hurling
Our under 15 hurlers secured a second win in the Feile group stages against a skillful Abbeydorney side. Conditions in Caherslee were difficult but our lads dug deep to get the win.
The boys now move on to the Division 1 semi final this Friday 12th April against Lixnaw. Throw will be at 6.30pm in Caherlsee.
Kerry Minor Camogie
Congratulations to the Kerry Minors who came away with a comprehensive win against Westmeath at the weekend. The win secures a place in the Minor B semifinals. Well done to Tralee Parnells players Shauna Harris, Lana O Connell, Rachel Sargent, Grainne Diggin, Anna Chute and Orla Leahy.
Tralee Parnells U12s who took part in the Munster Hurling Blitz in Croke Park
U12 Hurling
Our under 12s participated in the Munster GAA blitz in Croke Park last week. The boys played against Clare, Cork and Limerick opposition with some fantastic hurling on display. Everyone had a very enjoyable day out, well done boys and management.
Academy Training
Unfortunately Caherslee was closed last Friday due to recent heavy rain. Weather permitting, academy training will return to Caherslee next Friday 12th April. Mentors will be in touch with the new training times.
Last One Standing
Congratulations to Padraig Kerins on winning our Last One Standing competition. With over two hundred entries initially it was down to nine participants for the league final last Sunday.
Padraig and John McCarthy predicted the correct winning margin for Clare against Kilkenny but as Pádraig had a higher number of points in the competition he was declared the winner. Congratulations Padraig.
Having lost both our opening games, it was vital that, wind assisted, we got off to a good start to dispel any self doubt and build some confidence.
The first few minutes of play were pivotal, each pass, each tackle carrying the potential to either solidify fears or ignite confidence.
Legion won the throw-in and within the first minute had raised a green flag when a fisted effort was cleared off the line but unfortunately for us ended up in the net before players had time to settle.
Conor O’Sullivan fired over our first point but Finbarr Murphy replied in kind before Con Barrett, operating at full forward, was on the end of a good passing movement to raise our second point of the evening on 7 minutes.
Legion were dominating the middle third with their half back line of Darragh Fleming, Jonathan Lyne and Cian Gammell ( all of whom have worn a Kerry jersey) forming a defensive bulwark and breaking forward at every opportunity.
Tom Hoare and Shane McElligott carried the fight to the home side but Legion notched the next two points through Will Shine before Jake Foley added to our tally in the 23rd minute.
Barry John, roaming to good effect kicked over two fine points, the 2nd being a particularly fine effort off his left and when Gearóid Savage pointed a close in free we were only one point adrift at the short whistle, 1-04 to 0-06.
The opening minutes of the 2nd half saw Jake Foley cut through from midfield and kick an equalising score off his left; however, Legion were strengthening their grip around the middle with their physicality and experience to the fore, and they tacked on a goal and a series of points as our resistance faltered.
We had to wait until the 25th minute for our next score, a pointed free from Tom Hoare which was followed by a fine point from Daniel Bowler but Legion, having emptied their bench were to finish in style with a goal and a couple of points to secure a well merited victory.
We have a two week break before we return to Strand Road where our opponents will be Milltown/Castlemaine.
Team: Robert O’Connor, Darragh McElligott, Donagh Buckley, Sam Pituch, Ryan Carroll, Ross O’Callaghan, TJ Heaphy, Tom Hoare, Jake Foley, Barry John Keane, Shane McElligott, Gearóid Dillane, Gearóid Savage, Con Barrett, Conor O’Sullivan.
Subs used: Conor Hayes, TJ McMahon, Daniel Bowler, Sam McCarthy, Padraig Griffin.
Div 6:
Kerins O’Rahillys 5-13
Castleisland Desmonds 0-03
Despite playing into a gale, our Junior team managed to get 4-6 in the first half against CastleIsland Today… we were a bit goal hungry at the start and left 6 attacks without a score but we settled well and tagged on a few points. O
ur defence was very mean conceding only 3 points in the whole game with Ben and Fenton dominating in midfield. A second good performance which will help us as we travel to Fossa on Tuesday night for what will be a very different challenge – throw in in Fossa is at 7 pm .
Congratulations:
We congratulate our U20 players, Ben Hanafin, Tomás Kennedy and Darragh O’Connor on making the county U20 panel for this year’s championship.
Not alone is this a testament to the skill and expertise of these players but a vote of confidence in their coaches who have helped to nurture and empower them to realize their full potential.
Kerry travel to Quilty in West Clare, home to Kilmurry-Ibrickane, this coming Wednesday evening, 10th April to take on Clare in the opening round of the Munster championship.
Masters Challenge:
Our annual Masters Challenge fundraiser is in full swing at the moment with the Masters commencing on Thursday next 11th.
Cards are available from all club members or you can play online by accessing the following link: https://member.clubforce.com/memberships_cart_m.asp?LL_ID=328&intMF_ID=13788#Anchor
Lotto:
This week’s lotto jackpot is €11,700 – you can play by purchasing tickets at Betty’s Bar, Rock St PO, The Klub or Jimmy’s Food Store – online tickets can be purchased up until 4 pm on Monday @: https://clubs.clubforce.com/clubs/gaa-kerins-o-rahillys-gaa-club-kerry/
Academy boys with their trainers Barry John Keand and Shane Enright with Kerry captain Paudie Clifford.
Juvenile Academy:
Training continued in Tralee Sports Complex with great numbers in attendance. All groups trained indoors due to the weather. We had a very special guest at Academy Training Sunday morning, Kerry Captain Paudie Clifford.
We were delighted to welcome him and our juveniles were super excited to see him. Training continues next Sunday in Tralee Sports Complex. Hope to see full attendance and as always new members are more than welcome to join our fantastic club.
Bring a friend: We are running a little initiative where everyone that brings a friend who is a new member to Academy will be entered into a draw for themselves and their friend for a full Kerins O’Rahillys Kit and Football.
Clubzap: It is vital that all members download clubzap and add Kerins O’Rahillys to their account. Clubzap will be used for all communication regarding each age group from U5s upwards. If you are having any difficulty with joining clubzap please ask one of our committee members on Sunday mornings to assist you and we will be happy to help. Or contact us through any of our social media outlets.
Registration: All juveniles need to be registered at this stage if you have not done so can you please register asap. If you need any assistance or have any queries please contact us through any of our social media platforms or ask a coach/committee member at training. We are happy to help.
U13 Boys following their win over Currow
U13 Boys:
Great win for our KOR U13 boys on the road Sunday evening away to Currow GAA.
We started the game on the front foot and clocked up 2-02 before our opponents opened their score. Dominant at midfield, we won our key match ups throughout the 1st half; Currow came at us in the 2nd half with the wind in their backs, but with Man of the Match Caden O Sullivan excellent all day giving a master class performance in the half back line, and Rian Tuohy and Luca Fusco keeping the scoreboard ticking over we went on to win in the end with all 6 forwards contributing to the scoreboard. Training continues this Wednesday evening.
Thank you to all our volunteers from coaches to committee members and everyone that takes time out of their busy lives to ensure the smooth running of our Juvenile Section. Team work makes the dream work.
U12 Girls:
This mighty bunch braved the rain Thursday evening and put in a great session before we kick off the North Kerry League this Tuesday. The girls are very eager to get started and we wish them and management all the best.
U16 Girls
We started the week with big numbers on Tuesday on the CBS astro.
We had a very quick warm up and when we had such good numbers we went straight into a match.
We finished with a happy birthday to one of our stars Chloe O’Sullivan.
Friday night we were back in the gym in KOR with good numbers again; did a full workout with everything and set records for box jumps with our new girl Bridget Steward coming out on top, jumping the highest.
We gave the girls the weekend off as the weather warnings prevented us from doing much.
Massive work and effort put in on both training nights so another good week put down.
Commisserations to Declan Quill, his management team and squad who were defeated by Armagh in the Ladies National Football League final on Sunday.
Lotto results: Lotto Tue 2nd April 2024. Numbers drawn were 18, 20, 24, 27. No winner. Lucky dip winners of €20 were Louis Byrne, Adrian Donaghy, Declan Healy, Gordon Lunn, TJ Nelligan. Our next draw will be tomorrow night and the jackpot will be €1,600. Why not try your luck in our lotto. The links is as follows:https://www.klubfunder.com/Clubs/Na%20Gaeil%20CLG/lotto
Bingo: Na Gaeil Bingo tonight at 8pm sharp. Our Mini Accumulater Jackpot House tonight is €220 in 42 calls. We also have a Raffle and Split the Bucket at half time. Bus available on (087) 2817577. Over 18s only. Hope to see you all there for an excellent night out.
Volunteers: The club are looking for people to help out at bingo on Monday nights. If you can spare 2 hours every 5 or 6 weeks then Niamh (087-9863667) would be delighted to have you on board.
Scór: Congratulations to Helen Sugrue who was successful in the Aithriseoracht in the Munster semi-final of Scór Sínsear last Saturday in Pallasgreen. She will now represent Kerry in the Munster Final in Newport, Co. Tipperary next Saturday. Hard luck to our sketch group who unfortunately didn’t get through on the night despite putting in a great performance.
Scór: Scór is very much a ’niche’ activity within Na Gaeil. Of course we’re first & foremost a football club, but Scór is the cultural arm of the GAA and is a really great thing to be involved in – especially for kids. It gives them confidence & is good fun! If you’re reading this & think you might like your child to be involved, please contact Margaret at 086 0855008. Or better again, if you’re a parent with maybe something to offer to our small but enthusiastic Scór committee, please get in touch….
Lidl Ladies National League: Commiserations to the Kerry Ladies, especially our Na Gaeil girls, who lost to Armagh in the Lidl Ladies National League Division 1 final in Croke Park yesterday.
Kerry U20s: Best wishes to Jack Doyle and the Kerry u20’s next Wednesday night in Round 1 of Phase 2 of the Munster u20 Championship against Clare in Quilty at 7pm.
Return of underage training 2024: Our juveniles are back in training for the 2024 season. Contact details for the various age groups are as follows: U5’s – Denis Sugrue (087) 2808719. U7’s – Shane Moriarty (086) 8380434. U9s – Bryan O’Mahony 087 9585331. New members are always welcome and can contact the relevant team coach above.
U5 Training: Under 5s had their last indoor session yesterday morning….great session and great numbers, with great improvement on kicking and catching.
U7 Training: Our U7’s group held their first outdoor session yesterday morning. Massive improvements within the group this week. The kids played a number of games highlighting their skills. Keep up the great work.
U11 Boys Training: Our under 11 boys had another good session yesterday in the MTU. Great skill on display and plenty of improvements being made. Well done boys.
Minor Co. League: Our u17 boys team lost to St. Michaels Foilmore/Skellig Rangers last Thursday in their final group game and as a result they will play Firies tonight (Monday) in the Co. League Division 4 semifinal. Throw-in is at 6.30pm.
Senior Men: Last Friday night under lights in Listowel our depleted seniors came up against a very strong Listowel Emmets team. Emmets played with the wind in the first half and unfortunately it was one-way traffic as they raced into a 2-9 to 0-1 lead by halftime.
A free from Mark Lynch being our only score of the half. The second half followed a similar pattern with Listowel dominating in most areas and they ran out comfortable winners. Final score: Listowel 4-11, Na Gaeil 0-4.
Team: John Kearney, Enda O’Connor, Ryan O’Neill, Jack Costello, Peter Doyle, Ruairí O’Sullivan, Kieran O’Donovan, Tomás O’hAinifein, Jamesie O’Connor, Kian Sheehan, Cian Devine, Kieran O’Connor, Mark Lynch, Jack Bourke, Jack Sheehan. Subs: Shane Daly, Shane Kelly, Seán O’Connor, Kevin O’Donoghue, Aaron Dewey, Tadhg Reen, Oisín O’Brien, Liam Óg Kingston, Ruairi O’hAiniféin, Oisín O’Sullivan. In Round 4 our lads will be on the road again as they take on Castleisland Desmonds on April 21st.
Girls Training: Na Gaeil Ladies juveniles (u8/u10/u12) are back training for the new season. New members are always welcome. For more information contact Eddie on 087-6791460.
U18 Girls: Our minor girls start their Co. League campaign this Wednesday away to Firies at 6.30pm.
Senior Ladies: Our senior ladies next game in the Credit Union Donal Curtin Cup will be away to Southern Gaels on Sunday April 14th.
Big Screen: All National Football league and championship games will be shown live on the big screen in the bar throughout the season.
Sponsorship Opportunity: If you have a business and would like to promote it with Na Gaeil we have various sponsorship packages available to suit all budgets. Enquiries to Donal (087-2577729) or Terry (086-8293261) or Colm (087-9080465) or Mike (086-2440158) or any member of the club Executive.
Club History: During the year Michael Golden spent many hours putting together a list of notable club results & other information about the club since its foundation in 1978. This can now be found on our website (www.nagaeil.ie). Click on “Club News” then “Weekly notes” and select ”Old results by Michael Golden”.
Kerry (Men) Munster Senior Championship 2024: Semi-final v Cork at 4pm on 20th April 2024, in Fitzgerald Stadium.
Kerry (Men) Munster Minor Championship 2024: Quarter-final v Cork on 30th April 2024 at a Kerry venue.
Hire the Hall: The hall in the clubhouse is available for parties or other events. Please email nagaeilclubhouse@gmail.com if you’d like to make a booking.
Na Gaeil cycle club: Cycle each Saturday at 9.30am from Na Gaeil club. Everyone is welcome to come for a nice friendly cycle.
Cards: The weekly 45 card game is held every Wednesday night starting at 9pm. Everyone is welcome.
Notes: If you’d like anything included in the club’s weekly notes please send it to me at pro.nagaeil.kerry@gaa.ie before 9am on Monday and I’ll do my best to include it.
GARDAI in Tralee are appealing for witnesses to a road traffic collision near a roundabout outside town last week.
On Thursday, April 4 at around 5.50pm at the Castleisland side of John Cronin (Ballymacthomas) roundabout, two vehicles — an Opel Insignia and a Suzuki Splash —were involved in a collision.
Gardaí are appealing for witnesses, especially those with any dashcam footage, to contact Tralee Garda Station on 066-7102300.
SOFT toys used in claw machines in Kerry and Cork businesses have been recalled.
The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) said that the company Munster Leisure Machines is to carry out a recall of the soft toys which do not comply with the Toy Safety Regulations.
The toys in question don’t have the CE mark, which indicates a product meets EU safety requirements. The brand, type, barcode and batch number of the toys are unknown.
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The product was manufactured in 2021 and 2022 and there are around 15,000 affected products in Ireland.
They were stocked in claw machines between June 2022 to May 2023 at Premier Play Ireland Limited (The Playdium), Tralee; Monkey Maze, Glanmire, Cork and Little Rascals, Mallow, Cork.
Customers in possession of the toy should stop using it and keep it out of the reach of children. More information can be found by contacting Munster Leisure Machines.
.Hazel Manning, Karolina Nienczyk, Samantha Clifford and Michaela Nicolai at the Connect Kerry Hair and Beauty Awards at The Rose Hotel on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
THE annual Connect Kerry Hair and Beauty Awards was another glamorous affair on Sunday with 170 attending the event in The Rose Hotel.
Winners from all over Kerry were announced, chosen through an application and submission of images of their work by a panel of judges who are all experienced in the industry.
“We were delighted to welcome a room full of experienced and talented individuals from across the county,” said Margaret Kissane of Connect Publications.
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“It is important to support each other, especially in these times when costs are rising in all businesses and we must work together and encourage our younger generation to choose the path of hair and beauty to keep the industry alive,” added Margaret.
A wonderful day was had by all and the celebrations continued long into the evening. Here’s the list of winners with many photos below…
• Connect Kerry Make-Up Artist of the year in association with That’s Perfect- RACHEL DRISCOLL VOGUE HAIR AND BEAUTY TRALEE
• Connect Kerry Best use of social media- BEAUTZ SALON KILLARNEY
• Connect Kerry Wedding and Occasion Make-up specialist in association with Expose Design- CLIODHNA FOLEY NIKKIS HAIR AND BEAUTY KILORGLIN
• Connect Kerry Best Start up Individual -ELLEN HAND BEAUTY BY ELLIE
• Connect Kerry Nail Technician – in association with Nails by Daniela- JUSTYNA SWITLICKA-PAPROCKA BEAUTZ KILLARNEY
• Connect Kerry Excellence in Customer Service NIKKIS HAIR AND BEAUTY KILORGLIN
• Connect Kerry Facial Specialist in association with Eavanna Breen Skin and Laser Clinic-SHAARON O CONNOR PENINSULA SPA AT DINGLE SKELLIG..
• Connect Kerry Outstanding Contribution to the Industry ANNE FITZGERALD TRALEE HAIR STUDIO
• Connect Kerry Waxing / Threading Specialist – in association with Connect Events LEONA MURPHY THE BEAUTY BASE LISTOWEL
• Connect Kerry Business Development award PATRICIA MCCARTHY LAVANDER HAIR KERRY/CORK
• Connect Kerry Wedding /Occasion Hair in association with John Walsh Photo NOIRIN GOULDING NO 18 HAIR AND BEAUTY LISTOWEL
• Connect Kerry Years of service to the Industry FRANCES, MAUREEN McCarthy BRUSH N BLUSH
• Connect Kerry Brow Specialist– in association with Rashas Beauty. MONIKA BANACH TRANSFORM BY MON
• Connect Kerry Lash Specialist in association with Rashas Beauty- LILLIANA BOJANOWSKA LILLANAS LASHES KILLARNEY
• Connect Kerry Outstanding Knowledge of chosen industry-KAROLYNA NIEMCYK VOGUE HAIR AND BEAUTY
• Connect Kerry Colour Technician – in Association with Listowel Garden Centre- COURTNEY GOGGIN BRUSH N BLUSH
• Connect Kerry One to watch in the industry- EMMA O SULLIVAN EILEENS BEAUTY
• Connect Kerry Best Blow Dry in association with ROCK_IT_KAFTANS- DEMELZA MORIARTY TRALEE HAIR STUDIO
• Connect Kerry Rising Star Award-BRID MASON BEAUTY BY BRID.
• Connect Kerry Aesthetics Specialist in association with Thermage at Susan Crean Dental & Facial Esthetics JOAN MARIE PIERCE AESTHETICS LISTOWEL
• Connect Kerry Team of the Year VOGUE HAIR AND BEAUTY
• Connect Kerry Cutting and Restyling Specialist – in association with K+A Cleaning- JEAN COUNIHAN ALLURE HAIR KILLARNEY.
• Connect Kerry Salon Ambience Award -SKIN BEAUTY AT THE GLENEAGLE
• Connect Kerry Hair Extension specialist of the year – in association with Tracey Grimes hair and extensions.- SAMANTHA CLIFFORD VOGUE HAIR AND BEAUTY
• Connect Kerry Overall Hair Individual ELAINE CASEY PETER MARK TRALEE
• Connect Kerry Male Grooming and barbering in association with Beardsmith- MO SALEH THE TURKISH BARBER KILLARNEY.
• Connect Kerry Counter/ Salon/Spa Manager – In association with Billgenie.- SHAUNA O SHEA EASANNA SPA AT SHEEN FALLS.
• Connect Kerry Peoples Choice NADUR SPA AT BALLYGARRY ESTATE
• Connect Kerry Junior Hair/ beauty in association with Kerry College AMY REIDY NIKKIS HAIR KILORGLIN.
• Connect Kerry Massage Specialist in association Celebration events -KATERINA PETROVA PENINSULA SPA AT DINGLE SKELLIG
• Connect Kerry Hair Salon of the year in association with Hairworks Hair and Beauty-PETER MARK TRALEE
• Connect Kerry Beauty Salon of the year in association with Kenmare Beauty Rooms-MARIONS BEAUTY CASTLEISLAND
• Connect Kerry Spa of the year Dr Grainne Ryan Aesthetics. THE SPA AT KILLARNEY PLAZA.
• Connect Kerry Best Educator to the industry. RACHEL ASLETT
• Connect Kerry Beauty Therapist of the year.- DOREEN ENRIGHT THE BEAUTY SPOT TARBERT.
• LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT RECIPIENT — JOE O’BRIEN THE BARBER.
Geraldine Devane, Christine Ní Chinnéide, Liz O’Connor, Ellen Adam, Teresa Kelliher, Ellen Hand and Mary O’Connor at the Connect Kerry Hair and Beauty Awards at The Rose Hotel on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Pascal Guillermie, Margaret Kissane and Don O’Neill at the Connect Kerry Hair and Beauty Awards at The Rose Hotel on Sunday. Photo by Dermot CreanPatricia McCarthy and Ashton Bingham at the Connect Kerry Hair and Beauty Awards at The Rose Hotel on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Shan McCarthy, Pa Murphy, Marie Murphy, Darragh Murphy, Kornelia Cybul and Mairead Evans at the Connect Kerry Hair and Beauty Awards at The Rose Hotel on Sunday. Photo by Dermot CreanAmy Mason, Bríd Mason, Doreen Culhane Enright and Donnacha Enright at the Connect Kerry Hair and Beauty Awards at The Rose Hotel on Sunday. Photo by Dermot CreanTomasz Avoska and Sandra Stankeviciute at the Connect Kerry Hair and Beauty Awards at The Rose Hotel on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Krzysztof Galus and Angela Sitkowska of K&A Cleaning Services at the Connect Kerry Hair and Beauty Awards at The Rose Hotel on Sunday. Photo by Dermot CreanTherese Breen and Gráinne Ryan at the Connect Kerry Hair and Beauty Awards at The Rose Hotel on Sunday. Photo by Dermot CreanFatima and Mo Saleh at the Connect Kerry Hair and Beauty Awards at The Rose Hotel on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Alina, Mila, Ilma, Jurgita, Victoria and Olga of the Beauty Salon in Killarney at the Connect Kerry Hair and Beauty Awards at The Rose Hotel on Sunday. Photo by Dermot CreanShane Warren, Emma Browne, Marion O’Sullivan and Sean O’Sullivan at the Connect Kerry Hair and Beauty Awards at The Rose Hotel on Sunday. Photo by Dermot CreanRasha Amin, Josephine Dennehy and Youstina Eskander at the Connect Kerry Hair and Beauty Awards at The Rose Hotel on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Clodagh Leahy, Chloe Goulding, Martina Leahy and Darragh Leahy at the Connect Kerry Hair and Beauty Awards at The Rose Hotel on Sunday. Photo by Dermot CreanJudges Eavanna Breen, Tracey Grimes, Matthew Smith and Aisling O’Leary at the Connect Kerry Hair and Beauty Awards at The Rose Hotel on Sunday. Photo by Dermot CreanLisa Connell and Akvile Suvorovaite at the Connect Kerry Hair and Beauty Awards at The Rose Hotel on Sunday. Photo by Dermot CreanEimear McCarthy, Leona Murphy and Aisling McCarthy at the Connect Kerry Hair and Beauty Awards at The Rose Hotel on Sunday. Photo by Dermot CreanSimera Hunt, Sinead Lynch, Yulia Khrystyuk and Eileen Hollywood of Peter Mark at the Connect Kerry Hair and Beauty Awards at The Rose Hotel on Sunday. Photo by Dermot CreanPascal Guillermie, Don O’Neill and Susan Crean at the Connect Kerry Hair and Beauty Awards at The Rose Hotel on Sunday. Photo by Dermot CreanEllen Hand and Ellen Adams at the Connect Kerry Hair and Beauty Awards at The Rose Hotel on Sunday. Photo by Dermot CreanAlex Zdaonwcz and Ania Lamasz at the Connect Kerry Hair and Beauty Awards at The Rose Hotel on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
IT might have been one of the wettest periods on record but it has been a great tree-planting season for Tralee Tidy Towns and they were delighted to partner up with the young energetic interns from JRI America to get the last of the native trees in the ground last Thursday at Clash industrial estate.
With the cooperation of Kerry County Council’s Tralee MD who are managing the area for biodiversity, Tralee Tidy Towns added to the existing Hawthorn hedge with 350 mixed species native trees including Birch, Alder, Hazel and Hawthorn.
The trees which were provided by Trees on the Land will contribute significantly to the biodiversity in this area creating an ecological corridor.
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The JRI-America interns volunteered time from their working day for the cause and added significantly to the 1200 native trees already planted this season by Tralee Tidy Towns and partners.
Ireland Division Head of JRI America, Shane Walsh said: “JRIA’s team were delighted to be able to assist Tralee Tidy Towns with this important environmental initiative that adds to the areas in which we live and work. We are proud to have been able to support such efforts for many years.
JRI America staff who planted trees last week.
JRIA’s team in Tralee have completed dozens of projects in the last 12 months and given hundreds of days in volunteering efforts and look forward to contributing to future projects in our locality. “
Martha Farrell of Tralee Tidy Towns said: “Native hedges provide food, shelter, corridors of movement, nesting and hibernation sites for our wild birds and pollinators.”
“We are so grateful to the JRI-America staff who have yet again, answered the call and given their volunteering hours so generously. Kerry County Council’s commitment to the management of areas in our town for biodiversity is heartening and we look forward to more collaborative projects.
“We are always looking for opportunities to plant native trees in our urban spaces so we invite anyone who has space and wants to use it to take climate and biodiversity action to get in touch and send us an email on tidytownstralee@gmail.com.”
JRI America staff who planted trees last week..JRI America staff who planted trees last week.JRI America staff who planted trees last week.
Daire Walsh on the Lidl National Football League Division 1 Final yesterday in Croke Park…
Armagh 2-12
Kerry 2-9
Hannah O’Donoghue of Kerry takes a shot under pressure from Grace Ferguson of Armagh during the Lidl LGFA National League Division 1 final match between Armagh and Kerry at Croke Park in Dublin. Photo by Stephen Marken/Sportsfile
Aimee Mackin and Kelly Mallon combined for 1-9 at Croke Park on Sunday as Armagh got the better of defending champions Kerry to claim the Lidl National Football League Division 1 title for the very first time.
Having lost out by three points to the Kingdom in a NFL Division 2 decider at the same venue two years ago, this is a sweet victory for an Armagh side that were also appearing in their maiden top tier league showpiece.
A fine point by Aoife McCoy edged Armagh in front for a second time after free-takers Mallon and Louise Ní Mhuircheartaigh had exchanged early frees, but the Kingdom received a massive boost when Lorraine Scanlon fired to the net on 10 minutes after a dead-ball strike from Ní Mhuircheartaigh had dropped short.
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This was only a minor set-back for Armagh, however, as midfielder Niamh Coleman palmed a goal of her own after Kerry netminder Mary Ellen Bolger had knocked down Mackin’s attempt at a point.
Mary O’Connell of Kerry is tackled by Aimee Mackin of Armagh during the Lidl LGFA National League Division 1 final match between Armagh and Kerry at Croke Park in Dublin. Photo by Stephen Marken/Sportsfile
An earlier Mallon score meant Armagh led 1-3 to 1-1 on the first-quarter mark and this cushion was extended when Mallon superbly split the uprights from an acute left-hand angle.
Yet Kerry never allowed panic to creep into their play and three points on the bounce from Ní Mhuircheartaigh had the sides level at 1-4 apiece during the break.
After Mary O’Connell pounced on a defensive mishap by Armagh three minutes into the second half, Niamh Ní Chonchuir comfortably fired home a second Kingdom goal.
Danielle O’Leary of Kerry in action against Lauren McConville of Armagh during the Lidl LGFA National League Division 1 final match between Armagh and Kerry at Croke Park in Dublin. Photo by Stephen Marken/Sportsfile
While this looked like being a major blow for the Orchard County, but they were instead galvanised in the minutes that followed Ní Chonchuir’s major.
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After unanswered points from Mallon, Mackin (two) and Niamh Henderson moved Armagh in front once again, the increasingly-dangerous Mackin rifled an unstoppable shot to the roof of the Kerry net on 39 minutes.
Further points from the Shane O’Neills ace either side of the third-quarter mark suddenly left Armagh six ahead, but much-needed contributions from Ní Mhuircheartaigh (two) and Hannah O’Donoghue offered fresh life to the Kingdom challenge.
Kayleigh Cronin of Kerry in action against Sarah Quigley of Armagh during the Lidl LGFA National League Division 1 final match between Armagh and Kerry at Croke Park in Dublin. Photo by Stephen Marken/Sportsfile
Their deficit remained at three points when centre half-back Ciara Murphy cancelled out a Mallon free with a well-worked score, but even though Ní Mhuircheartaigh added her seventh point for a battling Kerry, substitute Corrina Doyle also found the range to ensure Armagh sealed a breakthrough success.
Scorers – Armagh: A Mackin 1-4 (0-2f), K Mallon 0-5 (3f), N Coleman 1-0, A McCoy, N Henderson, C Doyle 0-1 each.Kerry: L Ní Mhuircheartaigh 0-7 (6f), N Ní Chonchuir, L Scanlon 1-0 each, C Murphy, H O’Donoghue 0-1 each.
Armagh goalkeeper Anna Carr competes for a high ball against Emma Dineen of Kerry during the Lidl LGFA National League Division 1 final match between Armagh and Kerry at Croke Park in Dublin. Photo by Stephen Marken/Sportsfile
ARMAGH: A Carr; G Ferguson, C McCambridge, R Mulligan; C Towe, L McConville, D Coleman; N Coleman, C O’Hanlon; E Druse, A McCoy, L Kenny; A Mackin, N Henderson, K Mallon. Subs: S Quigley for N Coleman (24), C Doyle for Druse (49), M McCambridge for Kenny (57), S Grey for McCoy (58), E Lavery for Mallon (59).
KERRY: ME Bolger; C Lynch, D Kearney, E Lynch; A O’Connell, C Murphy, K Cronin; M O’Connell, A Galvin; N Carmody, N Ní Chonchuir, L Scanlon; H O’Donoghue, E Dineen, L Ní Mhuircheartaigh. Subs: D O’Leary for NíChonchuir, C O’Brien for Kearney (both 39), A Harrington for Scanlon (44), K Brosnan for O’Donoghue (57).
Referee: Gus Chapman (Sligo).
Emma Dineen of Kerry gets away from Grace Ferguson of Armagh during the Lidl LGFA National League Division 1 final match between Armagh and Kerry at Croke Park in Dublin. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/SportsfileNiamh Carmody of Kerry gets away from Niamh Henderson of Armagh during the Lidl LGFA National League Division 1 final match between Armagh and Kerry at Croke Park in Dublin. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/SportsfileLouise Ní Mhuircheartaigh of Kerry during the Lidl LGFA National League Division 1 final match between Armagh and Kerry at Croke Park in Dublin. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile Cáit Lynch of Kerry in action against Clodagh McCambridge of Armagh during the Lidl LGFA National League Division 1 final match between Armagh and Kerry at Croke Park in Dublin. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/SportsfileEmma Dineen of Kerry in action against Dearbhla Coleman and Róisín Mulligan of Armagh during the Lidl LGFA National League Division 1 final match between Armagh and Kerry at Croke Park in Dublin. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile
KERRY FC make the short journey to the Markets Field in Limerick this Friday to take on Treaty United in Matchday 10 of the SSE Airtricity Men’s First Division, with a kick-off time of 7.45pm.
MTU invites companies, start-ups, businesses, entrepreneurs, community groups and the general public to visit the campus from 8.30am to 11.00am to ‘Connect with MTU’ on Friday, April 26.
UNIVERSITY Hospital Kerry (UHK) has extended an invitation to all past and present staff members to a very special celebration this month.
MUNSTER Technological University (MTU) has achieved its first Athena Swan Bronze Award as a new Technological University.
GARDAI in Tralee are appealing for witnesses to a road traffic collision near a roundabout outside town last week.
SOFT toys used in claw machines in Kerry and Cork businesses have been recalled.
