SAFEGUARDING 1 WORKSHOP.

The GAA is committed to creating and maintaining the safest possible environment for all children who wish to take part in its games and activities.  As part of that commitment the Club hosted a Safeguarding 1 training event in the Clubhouse in Connolly Park on the 9th May last.  This training is a legal requirement for any individual who wishes to be involved in the coaching of children.  The training was organised by Dr Órlaith Griffin, the Club’s Children’s Officer, and was facilitated by Colette Murphy, GAA Safeguarding Tutor.  A number of coaches across various age groups actively participated in the training which was excellently received.

SENIOR FOOTBALL

Our Seniors travel to Dingle on this coming Sunday (21st May)for a 2pm start in round 7 of the Co. League. With a game on hand Dingle are currently 7th on the League table while we are in 9th position.

B FOOTBALL. Ballylongford 0-5; Austin Stacks 2-16.

In a very breezy but dry Ballylongford on last Sunday afternoon (14th May) our B team notched up their first Co. League points of the season with a good win over the home side. It was 1-8 to no score at half time with the elements in our favour during that first half.  However, our score was exactly the same in the second half (1-8) to 0-5 for the opposition. With three defeats and a draw in our opening four rounds the result had no effect on our position on the League Table which stands second from bottom. And the result in our final game of the League (at home to Duagh on this coming Sunday at 2pm) will not change that position. It was good however to see a far better display by our boys on this occasion which augers well for the forthcoming Championship.

Team: Ben Quilter, Ruairí O’Connell, John Murphy (Capt), Luke Casey, Joe Reidy, Dean Rusk, Evan Foley (0-1), Ciarán O’Connell, Cillian Litchfield, Gearóid Sheehan (0-1), Jordan Kissane, Pa McCarthy (0-1), Conor Myers (0-2 – one free), Calvin Foley (0-4 – one free), Damien Hogan (1-4 – one free).

Subs used: Greg Scanlon (ht), Andrew Morrissey (ht), Donnacha Sayers (42m) (0-2), Noah Townsend (42m) (1-1), Dean Scanlon (42m).

U21 FOOTBALL: Connolly Park is the venue on this Wednesday evening (17th May) for our meeting against South Kerry in the opening round of this knock-out Co. Championship. Throw-in is at 7pm with a result on the night. Best of luck to our whole squad.

THE C TEAM: We have two more round to play in the Co. League – away to O’Rahillys on the week-end after next and at home to Laune Rangers on w/e 18th June.

THE D TEAM: With just one round played so far (a brilliant win against Scartaglin (5-14 to 1-1) our D team have still two back games to play both away against Duagh and Beaufort with two more rounds after that – at home to Tarbert on the weekend after next and away to Clounmacon on w/e 18th June.

CLUB CARDS: Our Card sessions continue in the Clubhouse on Mondays and Thursdays with the starting time of 9pm sharp.

CLUB LOTTO: This week’s (15th May) Jackpot worth €3,900 was not won. The winning numbers were 1, 10, 14, 15. The €20 winners were Tom Quilter, TJ & Mary Sheehan, Paudie Barrett and Colm Mangan, all c/o The Club; and Orla Foley, c/o OnLine.

Next week’s Jackpot will be worth €3,950.

Continued thanks to the following businesses for selling our Lotto tickets on a weekly basis – Kevin Barry’s Shop, Commanes Bookshop (PC Books), O’Flynns Interiors, Hussey’s, Princes St., The Burger Shack, Monavalley and Kirby’s Brogue Inn. And continued thanks to everyone who purchase tickets week-in week-out.

SYMPATHY: Sincere sympathy is offered to the families of the following who died recently; Patsy Gleeson (nee Lambe), Killarney and late of Ballymullen; Werner Heinrich, Connolly Park (father of former Club Footballer, Armin and grandfather of current Club Footballer, Armin); Tommy O’Toole, Racecourse Road and formerly Connemara; Helen Foley (nee Kissane), Blennerville and formerly Cahill’s Park and Spa Road; and Pauline Keane (nee Finn), Fels Point.

SENIOR FOOTBALL: Yesterday’s  SF result in Killarney looks like putting the Co. Champion fixtures back indefinitely, so rather than playing Dr. Crokes on Sunday next it now looks that our next game will be in round 8 of the Co. League at home to Killarney Legion on the weekend of the 26th July.

We have drawn Ballymac in the semi final of the Town Championship with John Mitchels and Kerins O’Rahillys in the other semi. Dates have yet to be fixed but the venue for this year’s Final will be Ballymacelligott.

WELL DONE: to the Kerry Junior and Minor Footballers on their Munster Final victories over Cork and Tipperary respectively in recent days. And congratulations to Jack Morgan who had a splendid game in that Minor Final victory, scoring a superb 18th minute point in the process.  Congratulations also to Ferdia O’Brien, Michael O’Donnell and Colin Griffin who are on the extended Minor panel and apologies for getting that wrong in last week’s Notes. This was the Minors 44th title and their 3rd in row (Cork are next in line with 29 titles).

The Juniors were winning their 42nd title and, amazingly Cork are next in line with 29 titles, exactly like their Minors.

Well done also to the Seniors who got out of jail with that last minute equalizer which, let’s add, came about with that brilliant catch by Kieran in his own goal line and his clearance which eventually ended up with Fionn Fitzgerald who landed that brilliant equalizer.

JUNIOR B FOOTBALL: Our B team are due to play Na Gaeil in round 1 of the Town League on this Friday evening (10th July). The game, in Connolly Park, throws in at 7.30pm.

Then some 40 hours later (at 2pm on Sunday, 12th July) they are out again down in Reenard – playing the home side in a round 5 back game of the Co. League.

SENIOR HURLING: Austin Stacks 1-10; Duagh 2-7.

This 4th round Co. League game played at an overcast and wet Duagh on last Friday evening (3rd July) ended all square after an entertaining hours hurling with some excellent passages of play by both sides.

Five minutes had elapsed before the home side opened the scoring with two points inside a minute. Immediately from the puck-out Michael O’Leary won possession, crossed to Jason Poole who guided the ball to the net even though still not fully recovered from the nasty hand injury he picked up in the South Kerry League Final at the end of May.

Just another example of the commitment that this  squad of players give to the cause of Hurling in the Club.

In the next ten minutes both sides scored two points each – both of ours coming from Ronan Gilsenan. This left us ahead by one (1-2 to 0-4) after 20 minutes.

But Duagh confirmed that they meant business when they scored two goals in those closing minutes of the half. However we responded well with one of the points of the game by Kevin O’Leary and an equally good effort by Ronan Gilsenan after receiving from a Paul Daly free. At half time Duagh led by a goal (2-4 to 1-4).

We had a very good start to the second half  and by the 17th minute had scored five points without reply, with three coming from play by Michael O’Leary and two by Ronan Gilsenan (one free).

Some brilliant defending by our lads, especially by Peter O’Regan and Andrew Morrissey and some superb saves by team captain Danny Maguire contributed to this.

But then Duagh seemed to find their rhythm again and fired over three good points in as many minutes  (53rd to 56th) to put them ahead by one again. Six minutes then elapsed without a score before Michael O’Leary became the hero of the hour with the equalising point deep in added time.

It was good to see Eddie Barry making his season’s debut and also, as we said earlier,  good to see Jason Poole back again after that injury.

Team: Danny Maguire (Capt), Paudie Bradley, Peter O’Regan, Eddie Barry, Ciarán Breen, Paul Daly, Andrew Morrissey, Andrew Foley, Breandán Caball, Jason Poole (1-0), Ronan Gilsenan (0-4 – one free), Michael O’Leary (0-5), Kevin O’Leary (0-1), Terry Desmond, Tadhg Meehan.

Sub used: Ross Long (34m)

The 5th and final round, away to Causeway, is fixed for this Wednesday (8th July) at 7.30pm. Check Website in case of any change.

U21 FOOTBAL: Seventeen teams (8 Clubs and 9 Divisional sides) entered this season’s Co. Championship. At  the Quarter Final stage 6 Clubs and just 2 Divisional sides were in contention.  Three of the quarter final ties have now been played with the 4th and final game between Mitchels and ourselves fixed for Thursday, 16th July at 7pm at the Mitchels pitch at Caherleheen.

MINOR FOOTBALL; The 1st round proper of the Co. Championship gets underway on this Wednesday evening (8thJuly) with a home game for us against Feale Rangers at 7pm with extra time if required. Then on the following Tuesday (14th July) round 2 (four games involving the eight first round losers) is scheduled and round 3 is fixed for the following Friday (17th July). That then should make way for the quarter finals which are fixed for the 6th August.

BINGO: continues on this and every Saturday night commencing at 8.30pm.

CLUBHOUSE: As always the Clubhouse is available for all types of Parties. For Bookings phone 066 7126942  after 7pm any evening.

CARDS: The 45 Card Sessions continue in the Clubhouse every Monday and Thursday Nights, commencing at 9.30pm each night.

LOTTO: Last Monday’s (29th June) Jackpot worth €5,000 was not won. The numbers drawn were 6, 13, 18 and 20.

The €20 Prizes went to Ger Scollard, c/o Club Rockies; Denis Foley, c/o The Club; Laura O’Regan, c/o Brendan O’Regan; and Mary Lyons and Catherine Foley, both c/o The Bingo.

Missing from that night’s draw was a man who has rarely if ever missed a draw since our Lotto began away back in January 1993.

Charlie Healy has been indisposed recently but we are glad to learn he is well on the mend again. We all wish you a full and speedy recovery Chalie and look forward to you joining us again as soon as possible.

SYMPATHY: Sincere sympathy is offered to the families of the following who died recently – Terry Keane (nee Hassett), Derrymore and late of Caherslee; and Margaret (Madge) Ryan (nee Colgan), St. John’s Park (three generations of Madge’s family were former Club Players – her late husband Joe; her late brothers, Jerome, Seán and Pat Colgan; her sons Paudie and Dermot; her nephew, Tommy King; her grandsons David and Stephen Conway; and her grandnephew, current Club footballer Eoin Colgan).

BRENDA MCMAHON: All in the Club and the local community were saddened to learn of the death at the weekend of Brenda McMahon (nee Foley), The Glebe, Cloonalour and late of Basin View.

Brenda’s family association with the Club goes back to the very beginning when her father (John Foley) was one of the founding members of the Club in 1917 – ninety eight years ago.

Then her late husband (Timmy) was one the great players of the fifties, and he continued his involvement thereafter as Mentor of many teams,  included the Co. Championship winning side of 1973. After that, sons Charles and Martin played for many years with the Club.

We extend sincere sympathy to Brenda’s immediate family, Helena, Margaret, Charles and Martin, her brother John and sisters Maureen and Ina and to all her grand children and great grand children and all her extended family and friends.

SYMPATHY: Sincere sympathy is also offered to the families of the following who died recently – Neilus O’Sullivan, Shanakill and late of O’Rahillys Villas; James Campbell, Woodlee, Monavalley and late of Templeogue (Dublin), Charlestown (Mayo) and London; Davy Finn, Shanakill and late of Mitchels Crescent; and William Flanagan, Clahane, Ballyard.

SENIOR HURLING: St. Pats (East Kerry) 2-9; Austin Stacks 5-14.

At Fossa on last Wednesday (17th June) both sides played some good open Hurling in this 2nd round of the Co. Senior Hurling League (Div. 3). A hat trick of first half goals by Colm Ó Giollagáin (for good measure Colm added a fourth in the second half) left us with a commanding lead at the break (4-6 to 0-6).

The second half was a lot closer with we just shading it on the score board (1-8 to 2-3).

In all eight different players got on the score sheet but their job was made that much easier by the quality of ball coming in from our defenders and mid field, notably, Ciarán Breen, Andrew Morrissey, Paul Daly (when playing centre back in the first half) and Peter O’Regan in the second half when he switched with Paul.

Our other first half goal-scorer was Andrew Foley and apart from Andrew and Colm there was also some beautiful point scoring from Shane Fitzgerald, Paul Daly, Breandán Caball, Ronan Gilsenan, Michael O’Leary and Seán Hartnett.

Team captain, Danny Maguire was soundness personified in goals, with some good defending also by Kevin O’Leary and Paudie Bradley. Both sides had just six wides each during the whole game and all our 19 scores came from play.

Team: Danny Maguire (Capt), Kevin O’Leary, No Full Back, Ciarán Breen, Paudie Bradley ,Paul Daly (0-1), Andrew Morrissey, Shane Fitzgerald (0-1), Andrew Foley (1-1), Breandán Caball (0-3), Peter O’Regan, Ronan Gilsenan (0-4), Colm Ó Giollagáin (4-2), No Full Forward, Michael O’Leary (0-1).

Subs used: Seán Hartnett (37m) (0-1), Tadgh Meehan (39m), Terry Desmond (48m), Ross Long (51m), John Bradley (53m).

As we have a bye in round 3 we are not in action again until next Wednesday week (1st July) when we are due to have a home game against Duagh in round 4, although Duagh have yet to turn up (literally) for this competition. The 5th and final round is away to Causeway on Wednesday 8th July.

SENIOR FOOTBALL: We have drawn Dr. Crokes away in round 3 (last 15) of the Co. Championship (to be played on the weekend of 12th July) but before that we have an outing in round 7 of the Co. League, away to Kerins O’Rahilly, on next Saturday evening (27th June). Please note that the starting time has now been brought forward to 5pm.

CO. LEAGUE DIV 5: Our B Team travel to Lauragh to play Tuosist in round 7 of the Co. League (Div 5) on Sunday next (28th June) with a 2pm start..

THE LAST TUOSIST GAME: It’s just over 13 years since we last made the journey to Lauragh (9th June 2002). That day we had to give way to a good Tuosist side – defeating us by double scores (2-14 to 1-7).

Our line-out that day  makes some  interesting reading:- Jonathan Conway, John Slattery, Nessan Crean, Paudie McQuinn, Brian Phelan, David Leonard, Brian Shanahan, Kieran Donaghy (0-1), David Conway, Donal McEvoy (0-1), Timmy Lynch (1-0), Martin Courtney (0-1 free), Alan Barrett, John Barry (0-3 – 2 frees), Alan Sheehan (0-1). Sub: Gene O’Donnell (44m).

U21 FOOTBALL Our U21s make the short trip to Blennerville on this Wednesday evening (24th June) to play St. Brendans in the first round of the County Championship, Throw in at 7pm with extra time if required.

MINOR FOOTBALL; Our Minors were due to travel to Gallarus on this Monday evening to play An Ghaeltacht, in round 1 of the Central League but the game has now been rescheduled for next Friday evening (26th June). Throw in 7pm. Round 2 is due to go ahead next Monday (29th June) with another away game against Kerins O’Rahillys. Throw in also at 7pm.

Then the week after that we have a home game against Feale Rangers in the 1st round of the County Championship (Wednesday, 8th July).

CONGRATULATIONS: to Niamh O’Shea and her partner Barry McEvilly on the recent birth (9th June) of a baby girl named Willow Ryn – thus making our good friend Kerry O’Shea (Niamh’s brother) an uncle for the 9th time.

BINGO: continues on this and every Saturday night commencing at 8.30pm.

CLUBHOUSE: As always the Clubhouse is available for all types of Parties. For Bookings phone 066 7126942  after 7pm any evening.

CARDS: The 45 Card Sessions continue in the Clubhouse every Monday and Thursday Nights, commencing at 9.30pm each night.

LOTTO: Last Monday’s (15th June) Jackpot worth €5,000 was not won. The numbers drawn were 1, 17, 30 and 32.

The €20 Prizes went to Pádraig Healy, c/o Charlie Healy; Tom Leen, c/o The Cards; Laura O’Regan, c/o Brendan O’Regan; Tim O’Rourke, c/o Club Rockies; and Claire Connolly, c/o The Ladies.

HURLING: Austin Stacks 3-17; St. Pats (East Kerry) 1-9.

The final score might suggest an easy win but, certainly in the first half, that was far from the case in the final of the South Kerry JH League played at a cold, breezy and dry Connolly Park on last Wednesday evening (27th May).

We got off to a good start with Ronan Gilsenan pointing after just 30 seconds. By the 8th minute we led by 1-5 to 0-2 with Ronan on target again from a sixty five and further points from play by new man Seán Hartnett and Colm Ó Giollagáin (2) and it was Colm again who set up Shane  Fitzgerald for our first goal.

But in the space of two minutes Pats were back in the game with a goal and a point, and between then and half time it was almost score for score with our lads just shading it by four points to three. Colm was again on target for us with two more from play and one each from frees by Paul Daly and Ronan Gilsenan.

This left us three clear at the break (1-9 to 1-6) and it was all to play for in the second half.

A pointed free by the visitors just after the resumption narrowed the gap even further. However when we scored our second goal in the 35th minute we pressed on from there. That goal came when Kevin O’Leary’s clearance from his own defence found Ronan Gilsenan who passed to Seán Hartentt, who had moved to midfield at that stage, and his brilliant shot found the impressive Colm Ó Giollagáin who netted beautifully.

By the 51st minute we had added  a further five points – all from play – with Colm adding two (to bring his total for the evening to 1-6, after scoring 2-2 last week in his debut game) and one each from Michael O’Leary, Danny Maguire and Joe Brennan, who was not long on the pitch as a second half substitute.

We were now well in command (2-14 to 1-9) and when Pal Daly’s perfectly placed 65 landed in the goalmouth it was Seán Harnett who finished it to the net for our third goal. Three more points followed from Ronan (2) and Danny to leave us with a comprehensive win in the end.

Pat Delaney, Secretary of the South Kerry Hurling Board presented the JH Cup to team captain Danny Maguire – a trophy we have now won for the second time in three seasons.

It was good to see Seán Hartnett and Ciarán Breen making their debuts for the team and they looked very impressive all through.

Team: John McCarthy, Kevin O’Leary, Peter O’Regan, Seán King, Ciarán Breen, Paul Daly (0-1 – free), Andrew Morrissey, Shane Fitzgerald (1-0), Jason Poole, Michael O’Leary (0-1), Danny Maguire (0-2), Colm Ó Giollagáin (1-6), Ronan Gilsenan (0-5 – one sixty five; one free), Seán Hartnett (1-1), Terry Desmond.

Subs: Tadgh Meehan (23m), Joe Brennan (46m) (0-1).

CO. SH LEAGUE: While yet to be confirmed the following are our fixtures for the Co. SH League (Div 3) as published in the Co. Board’s Eolaire. We have four games in the group stage, all on Wednesday evenings. Round 1 .v. Kenmare (home) 10th June; Round 2 .v. St. Pats (away) 17th June; Round 3 we have a bye 24th June; Round 4 .v. Duagh (home) 1st July; and Round 5 .v. Causeway (away) 8th July.

Hopefully, the schedule will proceed as above but we have seen, in the past, Clubs withdrawing at the last minute. So we await final confirmation from the Co. Board on this.

SENIOR FOOTBALL: Rounds 5 and 6 of the Co. League away to Milltown and at home to Dingle are fixed for this weekend and the weekend after.

The Milltown game goes ahead on Sunday next, 7th June at 2pm while our home game against Dingle is likely to be fixed for Saturday week (13th June) due to Kerry’s Munster SF semi final game against Tipperary which is fixed for the following day in Thurles.

CO. LEAGUE (DIV 5); Our B team were due to travel to South Kerry this weekend for a round 5 Co. League tie against Reenard but have agreed to facilitate Reenard’s request for a postponement. The game has been rescheduled for the weekend of the 11th/12th July. We are due to have a home game against Asdee in round 6 on the weekend after next (13th/14th June).

NIGHT AT THE DOGS: The following were the winners in our recent Nominator Draw – 1st (€1,000) Lily Stack; 2nd Dillon Waste; 3rd Michael Stack; 4th Brian Tagney; 5th Murphy – Sheehy, Insurance: and 6th Jenny O’Sullivan. The €500 Buster Prize was won by Betty Lynch, Caherslee.

Thanks once again to everyone who contributed to our Fundraiser.

BINGO: continues on this and every Saturday night commencing at 8.30pm.

CLUBHOUSE: As always the Clubhouse is available for all types of Parties. Phone Ian from 7pm at 066 7126942 for bookings.

CARDS: The 45 Card Sessions continue in the Clubhouse every Monday and Thursday Nights, commencing at 9.30pm each night.

LOTTO: Last Monday’s (25th May) Jackpot worth €5,000 was not won. The numbers drawn were 7, 20, 23 and 26.

The €20 Prizes went to Jack McKivergan, c/o John Breen; Jennifer Fox, The Liston Family and Michael Kenny, all c/o Club Rockies; and Noreen Ashe, c/o The Bingo.

SYMPATHY: Sincere sympathy is offered to the families of the following who died recently – Mary O’Connor (nee O’Connor), Tullig, Killorglin and late of Castle Street; Harold Blennerhassett, Ballinorig and late of Glanageenty, Ballymacelligott; Tony Kelliher, Ballymullen; and Paddy Hawkins, Marian Park and late of Annsborough (Co. Down).

SENIOR FOOTBALL: Dingle 3-10; Austin Stacks 0-11.

Last year Dingle was the only team to defeat us – back in their home patch – in the quarter final of the Club Championship.

Yesterday (17th May) in Austin Stack Park they performed a similar feat – this time at the semi final stage of the same competition – and on a very similar scoreline (last year it was 4-7 to 1-10).

We played with the aid of the strong wind in the first half and after a rather shaky start (Dingle led by 0-2 to no score after 7 minutes) we began to dominate and between the 8th and 29th minutes had put over seven points without reply. David Mannix was on fire, scoring five (three super ones from play) with Fiachna Mangan and Kieran Donaghy scoring one each.

But in added time (referee, Seamus Mulvihill played three additional minutes) Dingle scored 1-1 to leave us ahead by just one at half time (0-7 to 1-3) and facing into that strong breeze.

Five minutes after the resumption Dingle had added a further 1-3. Both sides then had two points each (ours coming from two frees by Shane Carroll and David Mannix) but a 3rd Dingle goal in the 50th minute left no doubt as to who would be facing Crokes in the Club Final.

In the remaining ten minutes Dingle added three more points while our contribution was two from play with Fearghal MacNamara and Brían Mangan on target.

Jack Morgan was making his first Senior appearance of the season (his 2nd Senior game in total) and we congratulate Jack on a fine performance by him in Kerry’s one point win over Cork in last Wednesday’s Munster MF semi final.

Team: Jonathan Conway, Ronan Shanahan, Fearghal MacNamara (Capt) (0-1), Denis McElligott, Ciarán  O’Connell, Seán Ryan Barry Walsh, Barry Shanahan, Conor Jordan, Michael Collins, Shane Carroll (0-1 – free), Fiachna Mangan (0-1), David Mannix (0-6 – 3 free), Kieran Donaghy (0-1), Shane O’Callaghan.

Subs used: William Kirby (ht), Pa McCarthy (ht), Jack Morgan (38m), Darragh Long (51m), Colin Griffin (58m), Brían Mangan (59m) (0-1).

We now face St. Michaels/Foilmore in the 1st round of the Co. Championship and this will also be a double header in Austin Stack Park on`this Saturday evening (23rd May) at 5.15 with the Kerins O’Rahillys .v. Rathmore game to follow at 7pm.

CONGRATULATIONS: to Kieran Donaghy and his wife Hillary on the birth of a baby girl last Saturday.

Also congratulations to super Rockies John O’Callaghan and Mary Lacey who got engaged at the weekend.

COUNCIL RECEPTION: The Council Chambers at County Buildings was packed on last Monday (11th May) for a Reception hosted by Mayor, Jim Finucane and Members of the Tralee Municipal District for our all-conquering 2014 Senior Football Team. Players, Mentors, Club Officials and Club Members were among the attendance.

Councillor Finucane welcomed everyone and referred to the impact all the success during 2014 had on the local community, culminating in the winning of the 2014 League Final on Saturday evening. Other speakers included Timmy Sheehan, who outlined the many trophies, titles and medals won by the Club and its many players; Team Manager, Stephen Stacks, Daniel Bohan on behalf of the team and Chairman, Aidan O’Connor.

Special presentations were made by Mayor Finucane to Stephen to honour the achievements of the past year and to Mary O’Mahony, wife of the late Seamus who, in his lifetime, represented everything what the Rock was all about.

HURLING: Austin Stacks 1-10; St. Pats (East Kerry) 1-7

Our new Management Team of Mike O’Halloran and Michael O’Leary (brother of current player, Kevin) will be well pleased with our first competitive outing of the season which ended in a three points win in round 1 of the South Kerry JH League played at a dry but breezy Connolly Park on last Wednesday evening (13th May).

The strong wind was blowing cross-field for most of the game, so didn’t really favour any particular side.

The honour of scoring the first point of the season went to Ronan Gilsenan who sent over a brilliant 65 in the 4th minute. This was followed in quick succession by two from play by Joe Brennan and Danny Maguire.

Pats now began to settle and by the 14th minute had added two (one from a free). But with our defence and centrefield playing superbly and launching attack after attack our men up front took full advantage and in a ten minute spell (15th to 25th) had put over four brilliant points (all from play) with Danny on target twice and one each from Michael O’Leary and Joe Brennan.

Another pointed free by the visitors left us with a 0-7 to 0-3 lead at half time.

We were unfortunate to lose the services of Danny Maguire who took a heavy knock on the stroke of half time and didn’t resume for the second half. We wish Danny a full and speedy recovery.

That had an unsettling effect on our lads for a while after the resumption. Pats had the ball in the net after just 27 seconds but we responded immediately when a good run by corner back, Seán King found Ger Scollard (playing his first game since 15thJune 2011) who found Jason Poole and Jason placed his shot to the top corner of the net to restore our half time lead.

In the 38th minute Michael O’Leary extended that to five points with a good effort from play. But two more points by the visitors by the 41st minute left just three between the sides again.

And then half way through the half Pats were awarded a penalty and, under the new rules, Keeper, John Connolly had to face the shot all on his own on the goal-line, but the Kilkenny native and long-time Stacks man made a splendid save – it certainly is the first save we have seen under the new rule and is it the first save anywhere under the new rule ? – the jury is out on that one.

Five minutes later Pats reduced the deficit to two with a pointed free. But again our lads responded well and in the space of two minutes Michael O’Leary with apoint from a free and Joe Brennan with one from play had restored our lead again to four.

As full time approached Pats did get one back with a pointed free after which Paddy White blew the final whistle to leave us with a well deserved three points victory.

As well as welcoming our two new Mentors – Mike O’Halloran and Michael O’Leary – it was also good to see two new men making their playing debuts – Terry Smith and Stephen Pierce – and they showed that they will be an asset to the panel during the coming season.

Team: John Connolly, John McCarthy, Paudie Bradley, Seán King, Kevin O’Leary, Paul Daly, Andrew Morrissey, Michael O’Leary (0-3 – one free), Joe Brennan (0-3), Ronan Gilsenan (0-1 – a sixty five), Danny Maguire (0-3), Jason Poole (1-0), Ger Scollard, Terry Smith, Stephen Pierce.

Subs: Tadhg Meehan (ht), Shane Fitzgerald (33m).

We now travel to Fossa on this Wednesday evening (20th May) to face the same opposition in round 2 of the competition with a 7.30pm throw-in. The final of the competition is down for decision next Wednesday (27th May) at avenue to be confirmed.

ROCKIE NIGHT AT THE DOGS: There is just one place to be on next Friday night (22nd May) and that’s at the Tralee Greyhound Stadium for our ‘Night at the Dogs’ Fundraiser, the proceeds of which will go towards our new pitch development which in ongoing at present.

Thanks to the many Volunteers who have sold Nominator Tickets and to everyone who have supported the event with their generous contributions. And a special thanks to Liam Lynch and his Committee who have worked day and night in organizing the event. Racing gets underway at 8pm.

BINGO: continues on this and every Saturday night commencing at 8.30pm.

CLUBHOUSE: As always the Clubhouse is available for all types of Parties. Phone Ian from 7pm at 066 7126942 for bookings.

CARDS: The 45 Card Sessions continue in the Clubhouse every Monday and Thursday Nights, commencing at 9.30pm each night.

LOTTO: Last Monday’s (11th May) Jackpot worth €5,000 was not won. The numbers drawn were 8, 10, 11 and 29.

The €20 Prizes went to Jamie Diggins and Kerry O’Shea, both c/o The Club; and Eddie O’Brien, Tim Moriarty and Samantha Spillane, all c/o Carmel O’Neill.

SYMPATHY: Sincere sympathy is offered to the families of the following who died recently – Eileen O’Connor (nee Barrett), London, Ballylongford and Tralee; Noreen Slattery (nee O’Donoghue), Ross Cottage, Caherslee and late of The Farmyard, Killarney; Nora Walsh (nee Mulvihill), Moyvane (mother of Seán, former Chairman of the Kerry Co. Board and the Munster Council of the GAA) and David (The Badger) Roche, Tralee and late of Listowel.

SENIOR FOOTBALL:

Result of 2015 Co. League Round 4 – Austin Stacks 1-7; Dr. Crokes 0-10.

Result of 2014 Co. League Final – Austin Stacks 2-9; Dr. Crokes 0-13.

This Co. League game, played at a breezy and dampish Connolly Park last Saturday evening (9th May), doubled up as this season’s round 4 game which ended all square, which secured a point on the League table for both sides, but more important was also the Final of last season’s competition which we won, with two points to spare, after extra time.

We had the perfect start. Barry Shanahan, who was fouled at the throw in, launched a quick free high into the square and Kieran Donaghy, rising highest, flicked to the net for the quickest goal in the Senior team’s history – after just 12 seconds.

Crokes got on the mark, with a pointed free in the 4th minute which was followed, a minute later, by a Shane Carroll one from play after good work by Shane O’Callaghan and David Mannix,

By the 17th minute Crokes had drawn level with two pointed frees and one from play. But we finished the half strongly with David Mannix converting a free after a foul on Shane O’Callaghan in the 18th minute and Conor Jordan putting over, a minute from the break, after being put through by Kieran Donaghy. We led at half time by 1-3 to 0-4.

By contrast we had a poor start to the second  half . By the end of the 3rd quarter Crokes had added six points (all but one from frees) while our only contribution during this period was a lone point in the 42nd  minute from a Shane Carroll free after Sean Ryan was fouled.

But our lads dug deep and in a three minute spell Shane Carroll put over three super points (two from play) to level matters again and take the game into extra time. (1-7 to 0-10)

Two minutes after the restart Fiachna Mangan put us back in the lead again but Crokes responded with two more late in the half and as half time in extra time approached Shane Guthrie send in a long high ball goalwards which was too much for the Crokes defence to handle and ended in the net to give us a two points lead at half time (2-8 to 0-12).

With both sides scoring one each in the 2nd period of extra time – ours coming from another free by Man of the Match, Shane Carroll, that was still the margin at the end of a pulsating encounter.

2014 team captain, Barry Shanahan, accepted the Co. League Shield to the cheers of one of the biggest crowds ever seen in Connolly Park.

It was the Club’s 10th Co. League title, putting us back on top of the Roll of Honours which we had shared for the past three seasons with Laune Rangers. Crokes, incidentally, are third on the list with six titles followed by Kerins O’Rahillys on five.

Everyone in the Club wish Daniel Bohan a full and speedy recovery from the shoulder injury which he picked up 40 minutes into the game.

Team: Jonathan Conway, Ronan Shanahan, Fearghal MacNamara, Denis McElligott, Barry Walsh, Conor Jordan (0-1) Ciarán  O’Connell, Shane Guthrie (1-0), Barry Shanahan (Capt), Daniel Bohan, Michael Collins, Shane Carroll (0-6 – 3 frees), David Mannix (0-1 free), Kieran Donaghy (1-0), Shane O’Callaghan.

Subs used: Seán Ryan (36m), Fiachna Mangan (38m) (0-1), Darragh O’Brien (40m), William Kirby (49m).

Subs used in extra time: Colin Griffin (65m), Darragh Long (69m).

FORTHCOMING FIXTURES: Depending on positive results our Seniors could be on the road for the next five consecutive weekends. Next Sunday (17th May) the Club Championship semi finals take place as a double header in Austin Stack Park. We play Dingle at 1.45pm with Crokes and Rathmore in the second semi at 3.30pm.

Then, six days later (Saturday, 23rd May) there is another double header in Austin Stack Park, this time in the first round of the County Championship. We play St. Michaels/Foilmore at 5.15pm with Kerins O’Rahillys playing Rathmore at 7pm.

Depending on results,  the Club Championship Final in provisionally fixed for Saturday, 30th May.  It’s back to Co. League duty then for the following weekend with our round 5 game away to Milltown (w/e 6th June) and round 6 at home to Dingle (w/e 13th June).

SF CO. LEAGUE (DIV 5): Austin Stacks 1-14; Knocknagoshel 0-11

It was a credit to both sides for putting on such a wholehearted display in dreadful weather conditions at Caherslee yesterday afternoon (10th May) in round 4 of the Co. League.

Knocknagoshel played with the rain and strong wind behind them in the first half and went in at the break leading by 0-8 to 0-6. Darragh Long scored all our six points in the opening half – five from frees.

It was Darragh again, thirty two seconds after the resumption, who added to our tally. But two quickly pointed frees from the visitors put them three points clear again.

Now the elements favoured us and with William Kirby and Brían Mangan in control in the centre we took full advantage. Darragh Long, again, with two pointed frees reduced the deficit but it was our next score in the 41stminute which put us on the road to victory. Ciarán Flanagan, just on the pitch for three minutes, won possession out on the wing.

He dribbled goalwards, where Darragh Long took over and his pass across goal was gathered by Seamus Bastible and Seamus picked his spot for a great goal. We went on to add a further five points (Darragh Long 4; Dylan Harnett1) while Knocknagoshel’s only contribution was from another free late in the half.

A great performance from our lads with the young and the not so young contributing handsomely. Darragh Long  was unerring from both play and frees – scoring a total of 13 points – many from difficult angles in difficult conditions. In fact we had not one single wide in the whole 60 minutes.

Team: Paddy Fitzgibbon, Paul Galvin, Eoghan McKivergan, Nicholas Gogarty, Seamus Bastible (1-0), John Dennis, Denis O’Neill. William Kirby, Brían Mangan , Eoin Colgan, David O’Sullivan, Dale Counihan (Capt), Seán Dukes, Darragh Long (0-13 – eleven frees), Danny Carroll.

Subs: Cathal O’Reilly (36m), Ciarán Flanagan (38m), Seán Fitzmaurice (41m), Dylan Harnett (50m) (0-1), John Murphy (52m), Nessan Crean (54m).

HURLING: Our Hurlers are due to get their season under way in Connolly Park on this Wednesday evening (13th May) at 7.15pm when they play  St. Pats (East Kerry) in the 1st round of the South Kerry JH League. In round 2 we are away against the same opposition on the following Wednesday (20th May).

ROCKIE NIGHT AT THE DOGS: Just over a week to go now to Our ‘Night at the Dogs’ event at Tralee Greyhound Stadium on Friday, 22nd May. Many Club Volunteers are out and about at present selling Nominator Tickets, the proceeds of which will go towards our pitch development which in ongoing at present.

THE SUNDAY GAME: There was a great atmosphere in the Clubhouse last Sunday afternoon for the launch of RTE’s Sunday Game Programme for 2015which was broadcast live of the Sunday Sports Show on Radio Eireann.

Host, Marty Morrissey was joined by regular Sunday Game Analysists Tomás Ó Sé, Kevin McStay and Pádraig Joyce and they were joined later by our own William Kirby and Stephen Stack with William, who had just come off a rain-soaked pitch when winning with the B Team, telling a surprised Marty that his playing days  could go on adinfinitum. Great news indeed.

And mention of William let us thank his sister Fiona and her husband Kevin Cotter of Kirby’s Brogue Inn who provided complimentary meals for our RTE visitors following the radio broadcast.

GAA CYCLE CHALLENGE: The Kerry GAA cycle challenge will take place on this Saturday (16th May) beginning and finishing at Fitzgerald Stadium, Killarney. Entry €30 per person.

Route 1: Killarney, Rathmore, Gneeveguilla, Scartaglin, Castleisland, Tralee, Milltown and Killarney.
Route 2: Killarney, Farranfore, Milltown and Killarney.

BINGO: continues on this and every Saturday night commencing at 8.30pm.

CLUBHOUSE: As always the Clubhouse is available for all types of Parties. Phone Ian from 7pm at 066 7126942 for bookings.

CARDS: The 45 Card Sessions continue in the Clubhouse every Monday and Thursday Nights, commencing at 9.30pm each night.

LOTTO: Last Monday’s (4th May) Jackpot worth €5,000 was not won. The numbers drawn were 2, 11, 16 and 29.

The €20 Prizes went to Laura O’Regan, c/o Brendan O’Regan; Jim O’Connor and Denis O’Regan, both c/o Club Rockies; Werner Heinrich, c/o Denis O’Connor; and Brian McKivergan, c/o John Breen .

SYMPATHY: Sincere sympathy is offered to the families of the following who died recently – Kitty Murphy, Houston, Texas and late of Clonmore Villas; Lilly Curtin (nee Curtin), London, Highfield Grove and Railway Terrace; and Dr. Arthur Spring, Ash Court, Ashleigh Downs and late of Strand Street (former Stacks Minor Hurler and Kerins O’Rahillys footballer).

SENIOR FOOTBALL: Austin Stacks 3-15; Waterville 0-4.

We has a good win in this Co. League round 1 back game played in heavy rain in Connolly Park last Saturday evening (2ndMay) with a 20 points winning margin at the end.

Missing nine first choice players for a variety of reasons Waterville were always likely to struggle in such circumstances. Allied to that we had one eye on this Saturday’s 2014 Co. League Final against Crokes and were in preparation mode for that encounter.

Two first half goals by Kieran Donaghy and David Mannix left us ahead at half time by 2-6 to 0-3.

Emptying the bench during the second half, we went on to add a further 1-9 – our goal coming in the 49th minute when Shane O’Callaghan punched Star’s cross to the net.

Again, a very tight defence kept that Waterville scoreline in check. Both Barry Shanahan and Shane Guthrie lorded the centre and up front seven players got on the score sheet with Shane Carroll putting over some great points.

Michael O’Donnell, coming on as a second half sub, was playing his first Senior game of the season (just back after injury) and it was also good to see another Minor, Colin Griffin, making his Senior debut.

Team: Jonathan Conway, Ronan Shanahan, John Dennis, Denis McElligott, Ciarán O’Connell, Fearghal MacNamara, Barry Walsh, Barry Shanahan, Shane Guthrie, Daniel Bohan (Capt), Michael Collins (0-1), Shane Carroll (0-7 one free, one 45), David Mannix (1-3 – 2 frees), Kieran Donaghy (1-0), Shane O’Callaghan (1-0).

Subs used: Fiachna Mangan (38m) (0-2), David O’Dullivan (38m), Brían Mangan (41m), Michael O’Donnell (41m) (0-2), Darragh Long (47m), Colin Griffin (50m).

The 2014 Co. League final, which is also this season’s round 4 game, against Dr. Crokes goes ahead in Connolly Park on this Saturday evening (9th May) at 7pm.

SF CO. LEAGUE (DIV 5): Our B team  welcome Knocknagoshel to Connolly Park on this Sunday afternoon (10th May) for a round 4 tie of the Co. League. Throw in 2pm.

HURLING: Our Hurlers have been quietly training for the past few weeks and now we are about to get the competitive season under way, albeit, in a limited fashion this year – limited because only two teams, ourselves and St. Pats (East Kerry), have entered the South Kerry JH League. So we are scheduled to play one another at home (Wed 13th May at 7.15pm) and away (Wed 20th May at 7.30pm) with the Final a week later (27th May)

ROCKIE NIGHT AT THE DOGS: Our ‘Night at the Dogs’ Committee, under the stewardship of Liam Lynch, are hard at work in preparation for one of our major fundraisers which takes place at Tralee Greyhound Stadium on Friday, 22nd May.

Many Club Volunteers are out and about at present selling Nominator Tickets, the proceeds of which will go towards our pitch development which in ongoing at present.

THE SUNDAY GAME: Club Secretary, Elma Nix informs us that the Club will be rolling out the red carpet and welcoming Marty Morrissey & the RTÉ Radio 1 Sunday Sports team to the “Street of Champions” on next Sunday (10th May) to launch the stations Sunday Game coverage for 2015.

The programme will include live broadcasts with an all star line up of GAA analysts & presenters from both the Austin Stacks Club & from Ballyhale Shamrocks, Kilkenny between 4pm – 5.30pm. Guests at the Austin Stacks Club will include Marty Morrissey, Tomás Ó Sé, Joe Brolly, Pádraig Joyce, Pat Spillane and others as they discuss the upcoming Football Championship season.

The Club welcomes one and all to Connolly Park for the launch – it’s a proud boast in ‘the Rock’ that Austin Stacks GAA club has the unique distinction of having more Senior All Ireland medals (89 at the last count) than any other GAA Club in Ireland. A most appropriate venue indeed.

BINGO: continues on this and every Saturday night commencing at 8.30pm.

CLUBHOUSE: As always the Clubhouse is available for all types of Parties. Phone Ian from 7pm at 066 7126942 for bookings.

GREETINGS: And mention of Ian Carroll reminds us to wish him, from everyone in the Club and all frequenters of the Bar, a very happy 30th birthday which he celebrated in style last Sunday (3rd May).

CARDS: The 45 Card Sessions continue in the Clubhouse every Monday and Thursday Nights, commencing at 9.30pm each night.

LOTTO: Last Monday’s (27th April) Jackpot worth €5,000 was not won. The numbers drawn were 15, 17, 22 and 27.

The €20 Prizes went to Noreen Power, c/o The Ladies; Mary O’Dowd, c/o Carmel O’Neill; Derry Sugrue, c/o Denis O’Connor; Jack McKivergan, c/o John Breen; and Fionn O’Regan, c/o Brendan O’Regan.

SYMPATHY: Sincere sympathy is offered to the families of the following who died recently – Pat Reynolds, Ballyvelly (former Kerins O’Rahilly’s Footballer); Fr. Mattie Murphy, Kimmage Manor (Dublin) and late of Bandon and Tralee; Anne Fleming, Old Golf Links and late of Los Angeles; John P. O’Connor, Clogherbrien and late of Ballyheigue; Michael Sweeney, St. Martin’s Park; Johnny O’Connor, Connolly Park and late of Blennerville; and Kitty Leen (nee Reidy), Kilquane, Ballymacelligott (mother of former Kerry Footballer and current Ballymac GAA Official, Bridget Leen).

CLUB SOCIAL: Ballyroe Heights Hotel will be packed to the rafters on next Easter Sunday night (5th April) for our Annual Club Social which takes on an added significance this year with the presentation of a multitude of medals won during the 2014 season.

Our Senior Footballers, of course, take pride of place – winners of the Town, County and Mumster Championships as well as the Town League. Our B Team and Minors also won their respective Town Leagues and our Hurlers won both the Novice and Junior Championships in the South Kerry District Board. And of course the SF squad have yet to play the 2014 Co. League Final (fixed for the 10th May).

For anyone still wishing to attend the event there may still be the odd ticket available for Sunday night. If required contact the Club without delay.

SENIOR FOOTBALL: Kilcummin 1-6; Austin Stacks 0-6.

The elements really didn’t favour good football  in Kilcummin on Saturday evening (28th March) for our first Co. League outing of the season (a round 2 game) with a howling gale which aided us in the first half.

We were still unlucky, however, to come away empty-handed as the post intervened on at least three occasions which, on another day, could have yielded two goals and a point.

But we did not capitalize on the first conditions and went in at half time with just a 0-3 to 0-1lead. Shane O’Callaghan was the only scorer from play in this half with David Mannix scoring his two from frees,  while Kilcummin’s solitary point came from a10th minute free.

Conor Jordan was most unlucky to see his 19th minute rasper come off the butt of the post and go to the wrong side.

We were also unlucky to lose the services of Darragh O’Brien in the 13th minute to a shoulder injury and we wish Darragh a speedy and full recovery from this injury as we do to his namesake, goalkeeper Darragh, who picked up an ankle injury while training last Thursday evening.

Kilcummin did take advantage of the elements in the second half when they scored 1-5 to our 3 points in that period.

One of our points came from a 35th minute penalty by Pa McCarthy which clipped the crossbar and went over. Barry Shanahan scored the second one in the 39th minute and the only forward to score in this half was a late effort (59thminute) from a David Mannix free.

Team: Jonathan Conway, Ronan Shanahan, Shane Guthrie, Conor Jordan, Pa McCarthy (0-1 penalty), Barry Shanahan (Capt) (0-1), Fearghal MacNamara, William Kirby, Shane Carroll, Sean Ryan, Fiachna Mangan, Denis McElligott, David Mannix (0-3 frees), Shane O’Callaghan (0-1), Darragh O’Brien.

Subs used: Darragh Long (13m), Wayne Guthrie (ht), Barry Walsh (47m), John Dennis (52m).

Our next outing will be in Austin Stack Park on next Saturday evening (4th April) when we take on Kerins O’Rahillys in the Town League final at 6.30pm.

SF CO. LEAGUE DIV 5: Austin Stacks B 2-9; Ballyduff 1-8.

After going down to Sneem/Derrynane in the first round a week ago our B team bounced back with a good win over Ballyduff  in Connolly Park on last Saturday in this round 2 encounter.

We led by 1-4 to 0-5 at half time after playing into the strong wind. Our goal came in the 25th minute after a great team move, clinically finished by David O’Sullivan.

A brilliant second half goal by Dale Counihan saw off a spirited challenge by the visitors to leave us with four points to spare at the end.

In addition to David and Dale there were some great displays also from Jack O’Shea (following an equally brilliant display with the Minors the previous evening), and our three full backs.

Team: Sean Purcell, Paul Galvin, Alan Crean, Nicholas Gogarty, Dylan Harnett, Denis O’Neill, Joseph O’Kelly, Jack O’Shea, Darren Bastible, Dale Counihan, Theo Diggin, Kyle Fitzgibbon, David O’Sullivan, Sean Dukes, Danny Carroll..

Subs used: Ciaran Flanagan, Cathal O’Reilly, Niall Carroll-Cane, Sean Fitzmaurice and John Murphy.

Our thanks to Adrienne McLoughlin and Colm Mangan for the above report.

Round 3 is next up and this is fixed for Sunday week (12th April) involving a trip to Duagh.

MINOR FOOTBALL: Austin Stacks 7-12; Na Gaeil 0-10.

We qualified for the final of the Town League after this win, in the last round of the competition, played at Killeen on last Friday evening (27th March).

From the time Calvin Foley opened the scoring after just 48 seconds, to the final score of the game by Louis Ryle, a minute from time, this high-scoring game produced some fine displays by both sides. It’s one of the many clichés in football   – that goals win matches – and we scored all the seven goals in this one – three in the first half, including one from the penalty spot by Calvin. The two from play were by Calvin and Sean Fitzmaurice, which left us ahead at the interval by 3-7 to 0-3.

We went on to score a further 4-5 in the second half to 0-7 for the home side, with our four goals coming from four different players – Jason Roche in the 38th minute when just a minute on the pitch, Michael Linnane (46th m), Cathal O’Reilly (47th m) and Louis Ryle (53rd m). But all 19 who lined out played vital roles throughout the game and the performance by the boys will have pleased the team management in equal measure to the result.

It was good to see under 16 player, Michael Linnane, making his Minor debut, and he looked very impressive during his 52 minutes on the pitch, scoring one of those second half goals in the process.

Team: Danny Kinsella, Dylan Hennebery, Darragh Scanlon, Shane Walsh, Brandon Patterson, Cathal O’Reilly (1-0), Ciaran O’Reilly, Philip Quilter, Jack O’Shea (Capt), Louis Ryle (1-1), Calvin Foley (2-4 – 1 penalty goal), Michael Linnane (1-0), Cian Liston, Darren Bastible (0-2 frees), Sean Fitzmaurice (1-2).

Subs: Fergal Ryan (14m) (0-3), Jason Roche (37m) (1-0), Sean Tansley (46m), Michael Kenny (52m).

It’s back to Co. League duty on next Good Friday evening (3rd April) when we play Kerins O’Rahillys in Connolly Park at 6.30pm. The 5th and final round will also be at home and this game, against Dr. Crokes, is fixed for Friday, 17th April at 6.45pm, that’s just two days after the Kerry Minors’ first round tie in the Munster Championship against Clare in Austin Stack Park.

BINGO: continues on this and every Saturday night commencing at 8.30pm.

CLUBHOUSE: As always the Clubhouse is available for all types of Parties. Phone Ian from 7pm at 066 7126942 for bookings.

CARDS: The 45 Card Sessions continue in the Clubhouse every Monday and Thursday Nights, commencing at 9.30pm each night.

LOTTO: Last Monday’s (23rd March) Jackpot worth €5,000 was not won. The numbers drawn were 15, 22, 29 and 31.

The €20 Prizes went to John Flynn, c/o Club Rockies: Deirdre Donaghy, c/o The Club; Tara & Graham Foran and John Carmody, both c/o Carmel O’Neill; and Noreen Power, c/o The Ladies.

SYMPATHY: Sincere sympathy is offered to the families of the following who died during the past week – Liam Hennessy, Cahill’s Park; Annie Galvin (nee Breen), Keelties, Firies (sister of Club Administrator, John Breen, Cahermoneen and aunt of Club Footballer, Padraig); and Timothy O’Riordan, Ballyrickard Court and late of Templeglantine.

ST. PATICK’S DAY PARADE: Club Secretary, Elma Nix and John Collins of our Supporters’Club advise us that we are marching in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Tuesday next.

We meet in the clubhouse at 11:00am and then march to our dedicated slot for the start of the Parade. Full Black & Amber Colours, fancy dress, drums, flags please. Players and Trophies on show also.

Returning to the Clubhouse afterwards for complimentary food which will include bacon and cabbage,  stew and drinks promotion. Kiddie’s cinema in the hall with free popcorn and finger food.

There will be a re-showing of Rory Kirby’s award-winning Rockumentary followed by Supporter’s party with spot prizes galore. Music by DJ Francie Breen. The All Ireland Senior Club Hurling and Football Finals will be shown on the Big Screen also. Everyone welcome.

SENIOR FOOTBALL: Austin Stacks 3-10; John Mitchels 0-7.

Our Seniors had another good win in this 3rd round game of the Town League, away to Mitchels, on last Sunday (8th March).

Playing with the aid of a strong wind we were five points to one up after 20m with Darragh O’Brien on target four times (one from a free) and Shane Carroll scoring the fifth.

The first of our three goals came in the 24th minute when a perfect ball from Barry Shanahan found Seán Ryan and Seán burst his way through f or a great goal. Shane Carroll added another point before the break to leave us ahead at half time by 1-6 to 0-3.

Four minutes after the resumption Mitchels, with two good points, had reduced the deficit to four.

But, with midfielders Barry and Brían doing well in the centre and Wayne Guthrie fetching some great ball also, we stepped up the pace again, and in a ten minute spell (35th to the 45thminutes)  had put the game out of reach of the home side as we scored a further 2-2 without reply.

Our two goals came from the aforementioned Wayne and Darragh O’Brien with Darragh also pointing, as well as Seán Ryan.

The final quarter yielded two points to each side – our two coming from Brían Mangan and, almost inevitably, from wing back, Pa McCarthy.

One player who is catching the eye a lot since his long-awaited return a few weeks ago is Shane Guthrie and he gave another Man of the Match performance last Sunday.

Team: Pa Fitzgibbon, Ronan Shanahan, Shane Guthrie, John Dennis, Pa McCarthy (0-1), Fearghal MacNamara, Seamus Bastible, Barry Shanahan, Brían Mangan (0-1), Wayne Guthrie (Capt) (1-0), Seán Ryan (1-1), Eoin Colgan, Dale Counihan, Shane Carroll (0-2), Darragh O’Brien (1-5 – 2 frees).

Subs: Denis McElligott (ht), Ciarán O’Connell (38m), Eoghan McKivergan (40m), Alan Duggan (42m), Barry Walsh (48m), Paul Galvin (53m).

The 4th and final round – at home to O’Rahillys – is fixed for next Sunday (15th March) and, depending on other results, this could possibly double up as the League Final also.

BEST WISHES: All in the Club extend best wishes to Club Footballer, Paul Barrett who underwent a shoulder operation in Dublin last weekend. We all wish you a full and speedy recovery Paul and look forward to your return to the squad as soon as possible.

MINOR FOOTBALL: Spa 2-10; Austin Stacks 1-12.

We can consider ourselves most unlucky not to have won this 2nd round of the Co. League played in Connolly Park on last Saturday afternoon (7thMarch).  After playing brilliant football all through we found ourselves ahead by two points as the game went into added time with Spa on the attack.

First Daniel Kinsella brought off a point bank save and in one final attack, a minute later, by the East Kerry boys, Daniel made another splendid save only for the ball to break in the square and somehow creep over the line to give them a one point win as Referee, Tom O’Sullivan (Clounmacon) blew the final whistle immediately after the kick-out.

A very strong wind blowing down the pitch had a significant effect on this game. In the first half Spa could only manage 2 points when playing against it (we scored 1-8), while in the second half we only managed 4 points playing into the wind (with the visitors scoring 2-8 in this half)

Ferdia O’Brien put over some great scores during the hour – eight in all, three from play. Cian Liston scored our goal in the 9th minute Both Jack Morgan and Calvin Foley dominated midfield with both also getting on the score sheet.

Our defence also played well, especially in that first half with our half back line making attacking runs up-field on numerous occasions.

So while we are disappointed with the result team mentors Gene O’Donnell, Eamon O’Reilly, Brian Morgan and John O’Sullivan will be reasonably happy with our overall display, with some key players still to return from injury – Michael O’Donnell, Seán Fitzmaurice and Cathal O’Reilly among them.

Team: Daniel Kinsella, Dylan Hennebery, Colin Griffin (Capt), Pádraig Looney, Ciarán O’Reilly, Jack O’Shea, Darragh Scanlon, Jack Morgan (0-1), Calvin Foley (0-2), Louis Ryle, Seán Dukes, Philip Quilter, Cian Liston (1-0), Ferdia O’Brien (0-8 – 5 frees), Darren Bastible (0-1).

Subs used: Fergal Ryan (28m), Brandon Patterson (35m), Shane Walsh (44m), Seán Tansley (blood sub 35m-39m).

Round 3 goes ahead on next Saturday (14th March) when we travel to Dingle. Throw in 4pm.

ANNIVERSARIES: We commemorate the anniversaries of two Club greats next Saturday (14th March). Twenty five years ago on that date (1990) Rory McSweeney died in a tragic work-related accident at Tralee Railway Station.

And 10 years ago (2005) the one and only Martin Bracker O’Regan passed away at the great age of 95 – a Kerry and Austin Stacks great.

BINGO: continues on this and every Saturday night commencing at 8.30pm.

CLUBHOUSE: As always the Clubhouse is available for all types of Parties. Phone Ian from 7pm at 066 7126942 for bookings.

CARDS: The 45 Card Sessions continue in the Clubhouse every Monday and Thursday Nights, commencing at 9.30pm each night.

All at the Cards extend sincere sympathy to Lynn Curtin on the death of her father, Pádraig O’Leary (see sympathy).

LOTTO: Last Monday’s (2nd March) Jackpot worth €5,000 was not won. The numbers drawn were 8, 17, 21, 24.

The €20 Prizes went to John O’Connor and Anne & Sonny Roche, c/o Charlie Healy; Gander Sullivan and Barbara Liston, both c/o Carmel O’Neill; and Siobhán Power, c/o The Ladies..

SYMPATHY: Sincere sympathy is offered to the families of the following who died recently – Pádraig O’Leary, Knocknahila, Kilflynn Cross (father of Lyn Curtin and grandfather of former Club Footballers,  Cathal, Damien and Billy Curtin Jnr,); Stephen O’Flaherty, Dromthacker and late of Booleenshare; Sandra O’Shea, Riverside, Oakpark; John Kirby, Caherslee and late of Causeway and the USA; Patrick Parnell Foley, Woodlee, Monavally and late of Ardcarraig and Ballyconry, Lisselton (father of former Club Treasurer, Dan); and Paddy Stocky O’Mahony, Kilfenora, Fenit (Uncle of Club Footballers, Ashling and Carolyn O’Mahony).

SEASON’S GREETINGS: We wish all our members, supporters, and all readers of these Notes all the best for 2015.

REVIEW OF THE 2014 SEASON: After covering Hurling, Junior Football, Minor Football and U21F over the past two weeks, we finally, in this issue, deal with Senior Football.

SENIOR FOOTBALL: By any standards 2014 has been a roller-coaster year for our Senior Football squad with highs and lows – all the highs on-field and some lows and sadness off-field.

Of the 25 games played we received a walk-over in game one, won 19, drew 4 and lost just one (the Club Championship quarter final against Dingle). So far we have won the Town League, the Co. Championship and the Munster Club Championship and are in the finals of the Co. League and the Town Championship, which have yet to be played.

Shane Carroll was the overall scorer in chief with 2-91 while David Mannix was the top scorer from play (1-36).

David is also among the three players with the most appearances during the year (23 in competitive games), together with Fiachna Mangan and, incredibly, William Kirby who was playing in his 20th season with the Club (made his debut on the 5th March 1995). And of course Darren Tiernan’s recent hat trick of goals (in the Town Championship semi final against Ballymac) has to be mentioned.

Some of our players also had success with the County teams. Greg Horan and Conor Jordan did well on the U21 team while Jack Morgan and Seán Ryan were on Kerry’s All Ireland  Minor winning squad .

But what a year-end it turned out to be for Kieran Donaghy. Having played peripheral roles in the two games in Munster and no role at all in the All Ireland quarter final his season really started when he was introduced with 11 minutes remaining in the drawn semi final on 24th August.

He was hardly eight minutes on the pitch when he fed that ball to James O’Donoghue whose goal earned Kerry a replay against Mayo.

Then in the replay and in the final Star himself scored a significant goal in each game to ensure Kerry’s 38th title and his own 4th All Ireland medal and later his 3rd All Star Award. Well done also to Fearghal MacNamara and Shane O’Callaghan who were part of the Kerry Senior Team’s extended squad.

And as the calendar year comes to an end the season continues with those two domestic finals yet to be played and of course an All Ireland Club Championship semi final spot in mid February.

Off the pitch no team in living memory has had to endure such sadness in the space of a few months. In April everyone was shocked, first with Trevor Barrett’s sudden illness and later in the month his untimely death at just 29.

Then in July Team Manager Stephen Stack’s father, Maurice passed away. In September Club Vice Chairman, Liam Lynch’s father, John (himself a former player and Vice Chairman of the Club) died and later that month Ciarán McCabe (the team’s Selector and Fitness Coach) lost his brother, Cormac in a tragic road accident.

In early October Club Chairman, Aidan O’Connor’s mother, Hanna passed away and later that month current footballer, Darragh Long’s baby daughter died. Again our sincere sympathy to all their families and to the families of all who passed away during 2014.

SPECIAL THANKS: Over the past few weeks we have conveyed our thanks to many associated with our successful season.

We continue this week to thank all our local neighbouring Clubs – John Mitchels, Na Gaeil and Kerins O’Rahillys for the provision of their facilities for training sessions, warm-ups etc; Terry Healy and Lorraine Scanlon for the long hours spent selling Club Merchandise coming up to all the matches; to John Collins, Kevin O’Carroll and everyone else who helped with street decorations etc and of course to John O’Callaghan and his colourful bus.

To Ian, Tara, Darren and all the staff who have served on the very busy nights in the Bar after our return from all the victories. And lately to the many senior players and all others who have helped with the Bar Packing over the Christmas period.

Finally thanks to three special people who continue to promote the Club. Brian Caball who does more than just the Juvenile Notes, agus go mion minic as Gaeilge, Adrienne McLoughlin who will be there to photograph everything that moves and doesn’t move on and off the pitch and Elma Nix who is the administrator of the best and most up to-date GAA Website around.

And of course there are others who do a lot of seen and unseen work during the year, like our Field Committee (Noel O’Connell, John Breen and Denis O’Connor) and all those who look after and sell tickets for our weekly Lotto, and all the other fundraising events spearheaded by people like Liam Lynch, Morgan O’Connell, Michael Kenny, Bernie Mannix, Siobhán Naughton and Mary McQuinn. To all those and to the many more who have helped in any way thank you so much.

BINGO: continues on this and every Saturday night commencing at 8.30pm.

CLUBHOUSE: As always the Clubhouse is available for all types of Parties. Phone Ian from 7pm at 066 7126942 for bookings.

CARDS: The 45 Card Sessions continue in the Clubhouse every Monday and Thursday nights commencing at 9.30pm.

All at the Cards offer sincere sympathy to Mary O’Mahony on the death of her husband, Seamus (see Sympathy),

LOTTO: Last Monday’s (22nd Dec) Jackpot worth €5,000 was not won. The numbers drawn were 8, 23, 24, 25.

The €20 Prizes went to Kitty Healy, c/o Charlie Healy; Fionn O’Regan, c/o Brendan O’Regan; and Gráinne Herbert, Mary Egan and Denny Long, all c/o The Club..

SYMPATHY: Sincere sympathy is offered to the families of the following who died recently – Bryan Barrett, Philadelphia and late of Tralee (former Club footballer of the late fifties/early sixties and eldest brother of current Club Committee member and former Chairman, Eddie); Bebe O’Mara (nee Barry), Woodlee and late of Clounalour (sister of former Club Chairman – the late Jimmy Barry); Seamus O’Mahony, Monavalley, (former Club PRO and Radio Kerry’s first Head of Sport, now continued by his son, Joe); Jimmy Hogan, Clogher and late of Coolruane, Lixnaw (one of the great Hurling fullbacks of his day and captain of Lixnaw’s Co. Championship winning team in 1954 – uncle of Damien and grand uncle of former Club players, Michael and TJ); Loretto Moriarty (nee Kiely), Cahills Park and late of Sligo and London; Maura Byrne (nee Niland), Derrymore East and late of The Square and Tuam.

CLUB AGM: Yesterday’s (14th Dec) AGM was conducted in double-quick time. Members present observed a moment of silence at the start in memory of all those associated with the Club who died during the year.

With the Bishop Moynihan and Munster Cups on display the meeting was excellently conducted by Vice Chairman, Liam Lynch in just 50 minutes (12.40 to 1.30pm ).

Chairman, Aidan O’Connor’s concise address to the meeting covered all aspects of Club activity during the year culminating in the outstanding success by the Senior Footballers at the beginning and end of November. He thanked everyone – Teams, Mentors, Club Officials & Workers, Fundraisers, Sponsors and Supporters for their input and wished everyone continued success in 2015.

Club Secretary, Elma Nix went through her excellently produced Report which gave detail to every item of Club Activity during 2014 and Treasurer, Michael Kenny did likewise with his Financial Report, thanking his Co-Treasurer, Bernie Mannix for her contribution in bringing the Club Finances to such a healthy state at year’s end. Michael also paid tribute to Liam Lynch for his outstanding contribution to the Club during the season , including his spearheading of the Field development.

Finally Elma Nix, who is also the Administrator of the Club’s Website, was complimented for having one of the best GAA Websites in the country always up to date with Reports and relevant information.

Almost all the outgoing members of the Executive were returned unopposed. A vacancy for Assistant Secretary was filled by the welcome return of former Runaí, Catherine Ryan and the Club Registrar’s position filled by Bernie Mannix who also retains her Treasurer post.

BRIAN CODY VISIT: There was a large gathering at Connolly Park on Friday evening for Brian Cody’s visit to Tralee.  The Kilkenny manager was accompanied by Dr. Tadhg Crowley (son of former Club Treasurer, Secterary of the Kerry Co. Board and Treasurer of the Munster Council, the late Tadhg) Team Doctor for the Kilkenny Hurling team.

Club Chairman, Aidan O’Connor, welcomed Brian and presented him with honorary life membership of the Austin Stacks Hurling and Football Club.  Both Brian and Tadgh were also presented with club jumpers.

Brian was very gracious in giving his time for autographs and photos before he adjourned to the club function room, where he gave an excellent motivational speech to the senior football team and mentors.

Thanks to Adrienne McLoughlin for the above report. For photos click here…

REVIEW OF THE 2014 SEASON: Over the course of the next 3 weeks we will do a short summary in relation to the 5 teams covered in the Adult Notes. This week we cover Hurling and Junior Football. The Notes of 22nd Dec will deal with U21 and Minor Football while on the 29th Dec will cover Senior Football.

SENIOR HURLING: Our Hurlers got their season off to a competitive start on Monday, 28th April but before that they suffered real trauma with the death of their playing colleague, Trevor Barrett. Trevor had taken suddenly ill at the beginning of April and unfortunately died on Easter Sunday, 20th April at the young age of 29.

Everything the Hurlers did during the year had Trevor in mind, culminating in the very successful Trevor Barrett Tournament which took place on Saturday, 2nd August. The Cup Section of the Tournament was, appropriately, won by Causeway (Trevor’s family connections are in Causeway) with the Shield Section won by Lismire. In all, five teams participated with Laochra Óg and St. Pats (East Kerry) also taking part.

At competitive level we took part in six competitions – 2 at County level, 1 in the North Kerry Board and three in the South Kerry Board. In County we took part in League (Div 3) and in the Intermediate Championship. In North Kerry we were in the Intermediate League and in South Kerry we took part in the JH League, the JH Championship and the Novice Championship, winning the latter two.

Of the 12 competitive games played we won 4, drew 4 and lost 4. In all 31 players lined out during the year with Shane Fitzgerald, Seán King, Andrew Morrissey and Peter O’Regan playing in all 12 games.

Paul Daly was scorer-in-chief, both from placed balls (0-42) and from play (5-10) with the following next in line from play, John McCarthy (2-14), Peter Doyle (3-9), Joe Brennan (2-11), Ronan Gilsenan (1-13) and Danny Maguire (1-11).

Special thanks to team mentors, Mark Power and Ger Scollard for their time and commitment, ably assisted on occasions during the year by Brian Shanahan.

JUNIOR B FOOTBALL: Our B team, under the guidance of Tim McMahon, Colm Mangan and John O’Sullivan, had a reasonably successful season. They took part in three competitions, winning one (The Tralee Town League), reaching the final of another (Co. League) and bowing out at the semi final stage of the third (Co. Championship – The Molyneaux Cup).

In all they played 18 games, scoring a whopping 38 goals and 215 points – winning 10 drawing 4 and loosing 4. Darren Tiernan was by far the scorer-in-chief with at least 12-30 to his credit (Scoring stats not available for two games due to a clash of fixtures) And that figure excludes the hat-trick he scored for the Seniors in their last game of the season just over a week ago. Second in line was Eamon McAllen (5-13) with Darragh Long in 3rd spot with 4-10.

Forty nine lined out with the Bs during the season and it provided some very valuable game time for a number of players who later went on to contribute much to the Senior team’s success in the latter part of the year.

2014 – A ROCKUMENTARY: Our thanks to Club Secretary, Elma Nix who sent the following Report -Lights, Camera, Action . . . ‘A Rockumentary’ – Rory Kirby’s brilliant documentary of how Austin Stacks regained the Co. Championship and Munster championship and much much more was premiered on the big screen at Siamsa Tire last Wednesday night in front of a sell-out audience.  This was the first event of it’s kind by the club and it was everyone agreed a wonderful success.

The evening opened with a welcome address from Club Chairman Aidan O’Connor and then the lights dimmed and the audience was treated to an epic 90 minutes of film.  This Rockumentary – covers all aspects of the Austin Stacks year – detailing the personal commitment of the players, an insight into the management philosophy, messages of support from past players and supporters, an opportunity to share in the banter between the players & an attempt to explain the mindset of a Super Rockie Supporter.

One common denominator runs through the documentary and that is the startling love of “The Rock” shared by one and all.  There was some teary moments thrown in for good measure but the overall emotion was one of absolute joy for the achievements of this wonderful team.  Rory fittingly received a standing ovation for his excellent production at the end of the screening.

Copies of the double DVD also featuring Co. Championship Final Replay Win V Mid Kerry are now on sale for €20 from the Clubhouse, Garvey’s Supervalu, Barry’s Rock St., Terry’s Butchers & O’Connell’s Pharmacy.  It’s sure to be a collector’s item so get your copy while they last.

CONGRATULATIONS: Just over 130 years after the establishment of the GAA (in November 1884), the first woman has been elected Chairwoman of a County Committee with Róisín Jordan assuming the post in Co. Tyrone. And in Cork Tracey Kennedy becomes the first woman to assume the Vice Chair position of the Cork Co. Board. Congratulations to Róisín and Tracey.

BINGO: continues on this and every Saturday night commencing at 8.30pm.

CLUBHOUSE: As always the Clubhouse is available for all types of Parties. Phone Ian from 7pm at 066 7126942 for bookings.

CARDS: The 45 Card Sessions continue in the Clubhouse every Monday and Thursday nights at 9.30pm.

All at the Cards were saddened to learn of the death last week of Christy Hurley who was a regular card player every Monday and Thursday until ill health in recent times prevented him from attending (see sympathy).

LOTTO: Last Monday’s (8th Dec) Jackpot worth €5,000 was not won. The numbers drawn were 11, 15, 17, 20.

The €20 Prizes went to Tom Leonard and Kevin Lynch, both c/o The Club; Tom Healy and Neil O’Shea, both c/o Charlie Healy; and Anne Hutchinson, c/o The Bingo.

SYMPATHY: Sincere sympathy is offered to the families of the following who died recently – Christy Hurley, St. Brendan’s Park (see Cards); Noreen Bentley (nee Doran), Balloonagh Estate; Michael O’Connor, St. Anne’s Bungalows and late of Connolly Park; Dermot Quinn, Oakview; Laura Hussey (nee O’Brien, Listellick North and late of The Spa (daughter of John and Martina and first cousin of current Club Footballer, Darragh O’Brien); Irene Hobbert (nee Reidy), Mountain Close, Balloonagh Estate; and Michael Madden, Railway Terrace and late of Dundrum (Co. Dublin).

SEAIMPÍNÍ NA MUMHAN: ‘Well done’ to our seniors v The Nire! What a battle! What spirit and courage was shown by our players! What role models on the field of play for our juveniles!

Great credit to Stephen, Paul, John Joe and Ciarán. (And we mustn’t forget Wayne Quillinan’s years of hard work!) Wasn’t it nice to see Barry Shanahan climbing the steps for the same cup that Johnno collected in ’76!

And ‘well done’ to the ‘16th Man’…the support, the enthusiasm, the colour and the encouragement given….and those drums were worth a few points!

Agus an bhratach i nGaeilge: ‘An Réalt – An Charraig – Na Seaimpíní’! The Robert Emmet Club of Slaughtneil, Co. Derry, will be our next opposition on 14th February…Lá ‘le Vailintín. The romance continues!! And the ‘black’n’amber’ will continue to wave outside our church at the Top of The Rock.

SÁSTACHT: The joy shown on the sod of Páirc Uí Chaoimh was wonderful to experience! Smiles, handshakes and hugs…the line-dancing by Kevin and co. and the Billy Sheehan ‘haka’! Sástacht, a dhuine! Agus bhí peileadóirí ’76/’77 an-shásta, leis! And among the most satisfied were the many smiling mentors/trainers/coaches from the juvenile section of our club…those who had trained, cajoled, encouraged and inspired our present heroes as they took their earlier steps on their journey to Munster glory! Fáilte roimh Chorn Ui Chonchúir.

MUINTIR NA hUIDHRE: Our sympathies to the lads from The Nire. Ní foláir nó go bhfuil siad croíbhriste inniu.…beidh lá eile ag an bPaorach!

LAOCH AN CHLUICHE: Comhghairdeachas le Shane Ó Ceallacháin a bhuaigh Gradam TG4 v An Uidhir….bhí an gradam tuillte go maith aige!

SCÓR NA SINSEAR: Senior Scór will take place in January. Now’s the time to begin the preparations…anois an t-am! Full information on competitions on Kerry GAA website. Only definite item as of now is solo singing. Is leor nod don eolach!

SCÓR NA nÓG: (i) Tomás Mac a’tSíthigh, Mícheál Ó Cionaoith, Eoin Ó Loinsigh and Ciarán Ó Raghailligh represented us in the recent Kerry Scór na nÓg county final i gCill Orglin. We hope that they will represent us again at this time next year. You could be of great assistance to them by e-mailing us questions (and answers) on the various topics between now and then! How about it? (ii) Full county finals’ results for Scór na nÓg on www.kerrygaa.ie (see Cultúr).

SENIOR FOOTBALL: Austin Stacks 3-5; The Nire 2-4.

Away back in September 2001 when the English Soccer team scored their 5th goal in their 5-1 trouncing of Germany in a World Cup Qualifier in Munich the legendry John Motson said in his TV commentary – ‘it’s getting betta and betta and betta’.

And after Sunday’s Munster Final performance in Páirc Uí Chaoimh one could say the same thing about this Rock team who have now gone where only one other Rock team have gone before – into an All-Ireland semi final.

After eight minutes of the semi final, a fortnight ago we found ourselves 1-2 down. In Sunday’s final, played in summer-like conditions, we found ourselves 1-3 down after eight minutes.

But we responded well when a Pa McCarthy ball into the forwards was gathered by Shane O’Callaghan and, under severe pressure, he scored a great goal while still on the ground. By the 13th minute The Nire pointed again, but that was to be their last score of the half.

We had to wait until the 19th minute for our next score, but it was worth waiting for. Shane O’Callaghan, who was absolutely brilliant, intercepted the Nire kick-out, passed quickly to David Mannix, who netted.

A minute later David was on target again with a pointed free after Greg Horan was fouled and from being six points down after 8 minutes we were now on level terms in the space of twelve minutes. And that’s how the half ended – all square (2-1 to 1-4).

Kieran Donaghy won the throw-in and placed Shane O’Callaghan who put the Rock in the lead for the first time after just 22 seconds. By the 33rd minute we were two clear when Mikey Collins latched on to Greg Horan pass and pointed.

Then in the 38th minute The Nire were back in front when they got through, against the run of play, for their second goal.

The goal came as a result of a bizarre decision by the first official who failed to call a free when Kieran Donaghy was taken out with a blow to the face and while he lay on the ground the opposition took full advantage and raced up field to goal. That happened to be their only score of the second half.

Then in the 42nd minute came our 3rd goal when Pa McCarthy brilliantly converted a penalty after Greg Horan was fouled. A minute later another David Mannix point from a free saw us three clear for the first time in the game.

The final quarter produced only one other score while we repelled attack after attack,  and when the opposition did get a shot on goal they were off target with five wides in that quarter as a result of close policing by our backs.

The score that finally clinched the victory came in the 58th minute when, Man of the Match, Shane O’Callaghan’s quickly-taken free found Kieran Donaghy who placed Fiachna Mangan and he slotted over under pressure to leave us with four points to spare at the end.

Another brilliant win, fashioned by another great come-back and a never-say-die spirit by a fantastic squad of players and all that after playing with 14 men for 50 of the 64 minutes played.

Congratulations again to all involved – including Stephen, John Joe, Paul and Ciarán, all the backroom team, all our generous sponsors and of course all our brilliant supporters who travelled in numbers to the Southern Capital and whose colour and chanting  seems to be increasing with every game.

A special word for two men who were on the line on Sunday and who were part of the playing squad in our last Munster Final victory in December 1976 – Club Chairman, Aidan O’Connor and current team selector, Paul Lucey.

Team: Darragh O’Brien, Fearghal MacNamara, Barry Shanahan (Capt),  Ciarán O’Connell, Pa McCarthy (1-0 pen), Conor Jordan, Denis McElligott, Wayne Guthrie, Greg Horan, Michael Collins (0-1), Shane Carroll, Daniel Bohan, David Mannix (1-2 – 2 frees), Kieran Donaghy, Shane O’Callaghan (1-1).

Subs used: John Dennis (ht), Fiachna Mangan (42m), William Kirby (47m), Darragh Long (55m), Michael O’Donnell (59m).

So now it’s on to our 2nd ever All Ireland semi final appearance and we will be facing a side from Co. Derry (Slaughtneil) who will be making their 1st appearance at this level. This semi final is fixed for 15th February next.

SENIOR HURLING: Kenmare 1-11; Austin Stacks 0-11.

After a good first half, after which we led by a point (0-8 to 1-4), we seemed to lose our shape and intensity somewhat in the second half and eventually lost by three points in the semi of the Co. League (Div 3) played in Caherslee on last Saturday afternoon (29th Nov).

And that goal difference resulted from the very first score of the game in the 5th minute – a dropping shot from distance which deceived everyone and landed under the crossbar. We recovered well from that setback and two quick points from corner forwards Ronan Gilsenan and Peter Doyle got us back in the game.

A converted 65 after eight minutes for the visitors was followed by three on the trot for us – one each from Paul Daly (free), Peter Doyle and Shane Fitzgerald to put us in the lead for the first time after 14m.

Both sides scored three each in the second quarter with all our three coming from play by Shane Fitzgerald (putting his football skills to use with a kicked effort), Paul Daly and Michael O’Leary.

By the 10th minute of the second half Kenmare had restored their early lead when they put over four (1-8 to 0-8).

Our only point from play in the second period came from Pádraig Lynch with our remaining two coming from frees with Paul Daly and Peter Doyle on target.

With three more points for Kenmare that was still the difference as the game went into added time and try as we did in those closing minutes we could not penetrate a very solid opposition defence with the only goal of the game the difference in the end.

Team: Danny Maguire, Andrew Morrissey, Seán King, Kevin O’Leary, Paudie Bradley, Peter O’Regan, Eddie Barry, Jim McCarthy, Joe Brennan, Michael O’Leary (0-1), Paul Daly (0-3 – 2 frees), Shane Fitzgerald (0-2), Peter Doyle (0-3 – 1 free), Pádraig Lynch (0-1), Ronan Gilsenan (0-1).

Sub used: Breandán Caball (46m).

Later we will do a summary of the season as a whole. But in the meantime thanks to the whole squad for their dedication to training and playing during an unnatural year which no young men should have had to experience. A special thanks to Mark Power and Ger Scollard, a super management team, for their dedication also.

2014 – A ROCKUMENTARY

:Many of you will have seen the short video clip Rory Kirby put together before the County Final to wish the team luck, following on from that Rory has put together a fantastic documentary telling the story of how Austin Stacks won the 2014 county football championship.

The DVD will be launched in Siamsa Tíre on Wednesday 10th December where fans young and old will have an opportunity to watch the documentary on the “big screen”.

The Rocumentary will feature never before seen footage and document the excitement, commitment and love every player and fan has for our club.

Tickets for this special event are priced at €10 with copies of the DVD on sale after the screening for €20 (Might be a good Christmas present for the Rockie in your life!).

This promises to be a special night with an opportunity to mix with fellow fans and exchange memories of a wonderful sporting year. Tickets will be available from Siamsa Tíre, from the Austin Stacks Clubhouse.

THE CLUB AGM  takes place this year on Friday week (12th Dec) at 7.30pm at the Clubrooms.  Nomination & Motion forms have now been emailed to all members.  Any member who has not received their form and would like to request one is asked to contact Club Secretary Elma Nix 086 1053300.  Closing date for receipt of nominations/motions is Tuesday Dec 2nd at 5pm.

BEST WISHES: to Damien McLoughlin (husband of Adrienne and father of current footballer, Tom) who is well on the mend after a recent short spell in hospital.

FOOTBALLER/GREYHOUND OWNER: Well done to former Club Footballer, Liam Liddy and his wife Noreen, owners of a very good Greyhound named Simtam, who won the Cup at Lixnaw Coursing on Sunday last and who now goes on to compete in Clonmel at a later date.

BINGO: continues on this and every Saturday night commencing at 8.30pm.

CLUBHOUSE: As always the Clubhouse is available for all types of Parties. Phone Ian from 7pm at 066 7126942 for bookings.

CARDS: The 45 Card Sessions continue in the Clubhouse every Monday and Thursday nights at 9.30pm

LOTTO: Last Monday week’s (24th Nov) Jackpot worth €5,000 was not won. The numbers drawn were 10, 13, 30, 31.

The €20 Prizes went to Ryan & Taylor Houlihan and Mike Kenny, both c/o The Club; Gerald Teahon and Pat Joe McQuinn, both c/o Club Rockies; and Teresa Ashe, c/o Brendan O’Regan.

SENIOR FOOTBALL

Austin Stacks 0-15; Ballincollig 1-9.

After a hard fought game in Austin Stack Park on Sunday afternoon (16th Nov), which had to go to extra time, we qualified for our 4th Munster Club Final in total and our first since December 1976 with three points to spare after an energy-sapping encounter.

We had two half chances early on but it was the Cork boys who settled best and led by 1-2 to no score after eight minutes. Our first score came in the 14th minute when Shane Carroll converted a free after a foul on Kieran Donaghy. By the 20th minute we found ourselves six points down (1-4 to 0-1).

But we then took the game by the scruff of the neck and in a five minute spell (21st to 26th) had put over five brilliant points, all from play, one each from Greg Horan, Pa McCarthy and Shane O’Callaghan and two from David Mannix, to leave us one adrift at half time (1-4 to 0-6).

Two minutes into the second half we suffered a blow when Ronan Shanahan, who had a very good first half,  had to be replaced following an injury, but John Dennis did well when introduced.

Two more pointed frees by Shane Carroll after five minutes of the restart put us in the lead for the first time, but a point by the visitors two minutes later saw the sides level again.

Then we went two up again after 48 minutes with Greg Horan and Denis McElligott on target. Ballincollig got one back again two minutes later and then they brought the game to extra time when they leveled deep in added time. (0-10 to 1-7).

Not for the first time this season out greater commitment and level of fitness paid dividends in extra time. By half time we had kept the opposition scoreless while we added three points ourselves – a Darragh Long free and two from play by Pa McCarthy and David Mannix.

In the second half of extra time both sides scored two each  – our two coming from a punched effort by Star and another pointed free by Darragh Long.

Greg Horan won the TG4 Man of the Match Award.

Team: Darragh O’Brien. Conor Jordan, Ronan Shanahan, Barry Shanahan (Capt), Pa McCarthy (0-2), Fearghal MacNamara, Denis McElligott (0-1), Wayne Guthrie, Greg Horan (0-2), Mikey Collins, Shane Carroll (0-3 frees), Daniel Bohan, David Mannix (0-3), Kieran Donaghy (0-1), Shane O’Callaghan (0-1).

Subs used: Fiachna Mangan (ht), John Dennis (32m), Darragh Long (52m) (0-2 – 1 free), Ciarán O’Connell (53m), William Kirby (59m).

The Final against The Nire is fixed for Sunday week (30th Nov) at Pairc Ui Rinn in Cork city.

JUNIOR B FOOTBALL: Legion 3-12; Austin Stacks 0-7.

Legion were deserving winners of the Co. League Trophy after this Co. Final replay at Caherslee on last Saturday afternoon (15th Nov).

We began well and after 20 minutes both sides shared the spoils on three points each. Then a minute later we gifted the opposition an easy turn-over and they took full advantage by bursting through to score the first of their three goals. We never really recovered from that and Legion added a further three points, to one for us, before half time to leave the Killarney boys five up at the break (1-6 to 0-4). Darren Tiernan, with two from frees, and Seán Purcell and Calvin Foley with one each from play were our scorers in this half.

All our three second half points came from the boot of Darren (two frees) while the visitors scored a further 2-6 to give them a comprehensive 14 points victory at the end.

We had to play without our strongest starting 15 for a variety of reasons and it didn’t help when wing back, Paul Barrett had to retire with a shoulder injury after just 8 minutes. Likewise we lost goalkeeper, Paddy Fitzgibbon and Seán Purcell late in the game to injury also. We wish all three a speedy recovery. Neither did it help to have a gap of nine weeks between the drawn game and the replay.

However, Team Mentors Tim McMahon, Colm Mangan and John O’Sullivan can feel pleased with their progress with the team reaching a League final and the semi final of the Co. Championship and in the process making a significant contribution to the success of our Senior team this season – eight of the 26 players who have played Senior Championship football all this season played at one stage or another with the B team during the year.

Team: Patrick Fitzgibbon, Paul Galvin, Eoghan McKivergan, Nicholas Gogarty, Seamus Bastible, Jack O’Shea, Paul Barrett, Alan Duggan, Seán Purcell (0-1), Dale Counihan, Eoin Colgan (Capt), Calvin Foley (0-1), David O’Sullivan, Darren Tiernan (0-5 – 4 frees), Eamon McAllen.

Subs: Tom McLoughlin (8m), Shane Crowley (22m), Niall Carroll-Cane (39m), Seán Dukes (42m), Ciarán Flanagan (50m), Breandán Caball (53m).

We now have one more game to play and that’s the final of the Town League against Na Gaeil which is due to be played in Killeen on next Sunday (23rd Nov) at 12 noon.

ANNUAL MASS

A reminder that our annual November Mass for Deceased Members will take place at Our Lady & St. Brendan’s Church on next Saturday November 22nd at 6.30pm.  All are welcome to attend including we hope many of our juvenile members.  Please wear your club colours for this very special service of remembrance.

CHURCH GATE COLLECTION

The annual church gate collection will be taken up at all masses on this weekend (Nov 22/23).

BINGO

continues on this and every Saturday night commencing at 8.30pm.

CLUBHOUSE

As always the Clubhouse is available for all types of Parties. Phone Ian from 7pm at 066 7126942 for bookings.

CARDS: The 45 Card Sessions continue in the Clubhouse every Monday and Thursday nights at 9.30pm.

LOTTO: Last Monday’s (10th Nov) Jackpot worth €5,000 was not won. The numbers drawn were 2, 23, 24, 27.

The €20 Prizes went to Brian Tess, c/o Charlie Healy; Pat Costelloe and Peggy King, both c/o The Club; and Paudie McQuinn and John Collins both c/o Club Rockies.

SYMPATHY

Sincere sympathy is offered to the families of the following who died recently – Seamus Murphy (who died in England and late of Tralee – brother of JJ – current Club Vice President); Patrick Kirby, Racecourse Lawn and late of Chicago and Ballyduff; Willie Ryle, The Spa and late of Racecourse Road and Castle Street (grandfather of current Club Footballer, Louis); Thomas Woods, Ashgrove; Agatha Scannell (nee McGovern), St. Brendan’s Park and late of Dowra (Co. Cavan); and Mary O’Connor, Laurel Court and late of Kilmaniheen.