.Cast members Keira Nolan, Jane Lynch, Lily Pozzi, Queensly Uzama and Salma Saeed at the Presentation Secondary School production ‘Showtime’ at Siamsa Tíre on Thursday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
A STANDING ovation hailed an amazing performance from the students of Presentation Secondary School on Thursday night.
After months of rehearsals, it was time for them to put on ‘Showtime – A Musical Extravaganza’ at Siamsa Tíre and with a mix of old favourites and modern classics, the show went down a treat.
Primary school children from around the town enjoyed a matinee show early on Thursday while families gathered in the evening for the sold-out show.
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Musical numbers from Legally Blonde, The Sound of Music, Oklahoma, Miss Saigon, Footloose, West Side Story and Waitress were belted out by the talented troupe while there were also songs from School of Rock and The Greatest Showman.
Well done to director Oliver Hurley, musical director Laura Crowley and choreographer Honor Hurley for their hard work while the students did themselves and their school proud. There’s about 10 tickets left for Friday’s show so to book online, click here.
Principal Mairead Finucane, Deputy Principal Sheila O’Connell and teacher Joanna Flynn Keane at the Presentation Secondary School production ‘Showtime’ at Siamsa Tíre on Thursday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean.Mary Duggan, Irene Commane and Laura Commane at the Presentation Secondary School production ‘Showtime’ at Siamsa Tíre on Thursday evening. Photo by Dermot CreanDeirdre Walsh and Mary Twomey at the Presentation Secondary School production ‘Showtime’ at Siamsa Tíre on Thursday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean.Deirdre Guiney and Noreen Guiney Casey at the Presentation Secondary School production ‘Showtime’ at Siamsa Tíre on Thursday evening. Photo by Dermot CreanCast members Olivia Crean, Kayla Kirwan and Brooke Falvey Colbert at the Presentation Secondary School production ‘Showtime’ at Siamsa Tíre on Thursday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean.Cast members, in front, Robyn Sheridan, Wiktoria Szlaga and Deina Kontauntiate and at back Nicole Fitzmaurice, Nadya Rivas McHugh, Jane O’Callaghan, Andrea Greer and Daisy O’Sullivan at the Presentation Secondary School production ‘Showtime’ at Siamsa Tíre on Thursday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
.Amanda Lally with husband Ray and daughter Indie next to the ornate Christmas lights at Ballygarry Estate. Photo by Dermot Crean
WHILE the Christmas lights will be switched on in town this weekend, anyone arriving into Tralee from the east will already be in no doubt that the festivities have begun in the county capital.
The huge 40ft Christmas tree at Ballygarry Estate was illuminated yesterday evening at a special family event which has become a tradition at the hotel.
Proprietor Padraig McGillicuddy welcomed the families of staff members as well as those of valued clients, to the hotel for refreshments in The Pavilion with Santa Claus in attendance to meet the little ones.
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The denouement to the evening was a switching on ceremony and Padraig had no shortage of volunteers to press the button to turn on the lights around the Estate, which is always such a welcome sight to people visiting the hotel over the coming season.
Padraig McGillicuddy gets some help in pressing the button to light up Ballygarry Estate for Christmas. Photo by Dermot CreanPadraig McGillicuddy (right) with Santa Claus and staff members Sarah Barrett, Owen Keely and April O’Connor with the spectacular Christmas tree at Ballygarry Estate on Thursday. Photo by Dermot CreanThe Brasserie is lit up for Christmas at Ballygarry Estate. Photo by Dermot Crean
.Nancy Keane, Frances Dennis and Anna McCarthy at The Rose Hotel Thanksgiving Dinner on Thursday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
IT’S now become a tradition enjoyed by ex-pats and locals alike, as The Rose Hotel hosted its annual Thanksgiving event.
The hotel’s owners, Dick and Eibhlín Henggeler, started hosting the event seven years ago, but it had to take a break for a couple of years during the pandemic.
The guests were welcomed with a traditional beverage in the foyer and later made their way to the Lee Suite where they enjoyed a four-course feast.
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The meal, which of course was influenced by American cuisine, featured a salad of poached pear or roast squash and apple soup for starters.
This was followed by roast crown of turkey and turkey leg with all the trimmings including maple glazed carrots, creamed mash potatoes, sweet potatoes, brussels sprouts with bacon, cauliflower mac and cheese and corn bake.
Thanksgiving desserts included pumpkin layer cake and pecan pie with tea or coffee. A feast to savour on a special night. Scroll down for photos…
Debbie Walker, Mary O’Connor, Jane and Eugene Lomasney at The Rose Hotel Thanksgiving Dinner on Thursday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean.Tomás and Denise O’Sullivan at The Rose Hotel Thanksgiving Dinner on Thursday evening. Photo by Dermot CreanEileen Lyons and Tomasina Lyons at The Rose Hotel Thanksgiving Dinner on Thursday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean.Donal O’Neill, Don O’Neill, Anne O’Shea, Maura Fitzgerald and Pascal Guillermie at The Rose Hotel Thanksgiving Dinner on Thursday evening. Photo by Dermot CreanBernard and Clem O’Keeffe at The Rose Hotel Thanksgiving Dinner on Thursday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean.Geraldine Hurley, Tadhg Moriarty and Valerie Kerins at The Rose Hotel Thanksgiving Dinner on Thursday evening. Photo by Dermot CreanAlexandra Huynh and Maxine Swayze at The Rose Hotel Thanksgiving Dinner on Thursday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean.Leah Horan, Michael Canty, Margaret Canty and Eddie Canty at The Rose Hotel Thanksgiving Dinner on Thursday evening. Photo by Dermot CreanChris Moloney, John Herrick, Amanda Herrick and Leah Herrick at The Rose Hotel Thanksgiving Dinner on Thursday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean.Ed Falvey, Richard Hurley, Noreen Falvey, Maria Hurley, Barbara McGovern, Vera Sugrue and Dan McGovern at The Rose Hotel Thanksgiving Dinner on Thursday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
CARA Credit Union are advising customers that all Cara Credit Union Branches and phone lines will be closed on Monday, November 27.
This closure is to facilitate their merger with Comhar Chreidmheasa Chorca Dhuibhne Teoranta.
Their online banking and current account Mastercard debit card facilities will operate as normal. If you need to report your current account debit card lost or stolen please call the Customer Services Team, who are available for fraud support 24/7 on +353 (1) 693 3333.
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If you need to apply for a loan or apply for a current account, please apply online via our website or on your online banking.
The branches in Tralee, Castleisland, Killorglin, Ballyduff, Causeway and Corca Dhuibhne along with their phone lines will re-open as normal on Tuesday 28th November. Cara Credit Union apologises for any inconvenience caused.
KERRY County Council has announced details of concessions in parking charges over the Christmas period in Tralee.
Each year, the Council provides limited free parking in Tralee, Killarney and Listowel in an effort to encourage people to shop locally and support local businesses in the run up to Christmas.
The parking charge concessions apply in Tralee, Listowel, and Killarney from December 4th to December 31st inclusive with varying arrangements in each of the towns.
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In Tralee, there will be free parking in all Council-owned car parks subject to a two-hour limit between 9.30am and 2.00pm each day.
In Listowel, there will be free on-street parking subject to a two-hour limit all day every day with free unlimited parking continuing in all off-street car parks throughout the period.
In Killarney, free parking, subject to a two-hour limit, will be available between 9.30am and 2pm in the Glebe Car Park, Fair Hill Car Park, and the Upper and Lower New Street Car Parks.
A parking charge of €2 per day will apply in the Rock Road Car Park, High Street Car Park and Lewis Road Car Park.
.A festive scene in Denny Street last year. Photo by Dermot Crean
GET set for a super Saturday as the Christmas season officially kicks off in town this weekend.
Santa Claus is coming to town and he’s bringing his friends Frosty the Snowman, Fairy Twinkle, Ernie Elf and lots more along with him this Saturday with a show at 2.30pm and at 4.30pm in The Square.
Head to town to enjoy a spectacular interactive festive stage production with a show jam-packed with Christmas fun, stories, songs, and dances to engage children and adults of all ages guaranteed to get everyone into the festive spirit.
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The show which will feature many of our Christmas musical favourites and lots of surprises so be sure to bring the little ones.
Then, from 5pm, the crowds will gather for the traditional switching on of the Christmas light and there’s sure to be a fantastic atmosphere. Get to town to enjoy the fun!
THE Phoenix Women’s Shed is holding an event to support and encourage the sharing of pre-loved clothing and to support women in the Arts and Crafts industry.
Taking place on Thursday, November 30, from 10.30am to 2.30pm at the Pipe Band Hall off Matt Talbot Road, the group are encouraging sustainability as well as showing women that they do not need to spend a fortune to look and feel good.
We have 70 members at the Phoenix Women’s Shed with the majority of the women retired. The committee is run by five volunteers who are also retired.
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“We recognise the financial burden on women especially at this time of year with the cost of heating and the pressure at Christmas to buy gifts, new outfits for Christmas events and social gatherings,” said a spokesperson for the group.
“Our preloved fashion show aims to give the message that good quality classic clothing is an investment. When worn with different accessories, dressed up or down, it can look like a completely different outfit,” they added.
The Christmas Fair will feature vintage clothes, jewellery, arts and crafts, festive food, chocolates, cakes, Christmas wreathes and more. All are welcome to attend and all proceeds raised will go the Phoenix Women’s Shed.
OAKVIEW Early Years Services has won the Best Innovation in Customer Experience award at the Irish CX Impact Awards.
The Tralee company won the award for developing AcornCloud, a SaaS specific software app developed by Early Years Professionals for the Early Years sector.
Launched in 2018, the Irish CX Impact Awards recognise achievements in measuring and managing Customer Experience excellence that delivers better outcomes for customers.
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On Thursday, November 16, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Santry, Dublin, the winners of the 2023 The Irish CX Impact Awards were announced.
Along with national and multinational organisations Oakview were absolutely thrilled to have their recently launched Early Years software app recognised and to receive national recognition.
Oakview currently operates Services in Tralee, Technological University Dublin, Tallaght Campus, South Dublin County Council, Tallaght & Clondalkin, Cork City Hall, European Commission at Dunsany, Co. Meath and the Oireachtas in Dublin City.
Since the beginning of 2023, AcornCloud, a custom designed SaaS Early Years Management software has led the way across all Oakview Services, fulfilling its role to make working life in the Early Years Sector less dependent on completing multiple written records.
This is allowing additional time for educators to have meaningful interactions with the Children in their care, and to build positive and fulfilling and engaging relationships with parents/guardians.
.Shauna Daly Morgan, Terhas Gleeson, Vincent Pierse, Latina Massey MTU Students at Drag Me Upstairs event.
THE MTU Event Management students hosted an evening of drag comedy in support of Novas Homeless Services on Tuesday night in The Blasket.
‘Drag Me Upstairs’, was a fun evening of drag show comedy upstairs at the bar, as part of the final year of their degree.
Drag queen Ivanna took to the stage for a memorable performance featuring lip-sync battles, interactive games, and comedy, with support from Cork based DJ BMG Sound.
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The event was designed, planned, and run by final year Event Management students at MTU and raised valuable funds for Novas, a charity who work with those affected by homelessness in Tralee and around Ireland.
Speaking about the event, final year BA Event Management student Katie Farrell said; “We’re thrilled with the success of Drag Me Upstairs. We organised this event to boost student engagement with Tralee town centre and raise money for charity. We are especially grateful to our main sponsors Meadowlands Hotel, The Blasket Bar and MTU Kerry Students Union for their support and to all the local businesses who donated prizes on the night.”
Over 150 students danced the night away, with Ivanna inviting the class group onstage for a final rousing rendition of ‘All I Want for Christmas is You’. The event forms a component of the students Event Operations Management module.
Hannah, Clodagh, Maria, Drag Queen Ivanna, Holly, Maeve, Tiffany, Millie, Katie – Final Year Event Management students..MTU students Alysha Alcorn, Niamh Regan, Aime Kerins and Hadley James at Drag Me Upstairs.Charlotte Bagshaw (left) and Vikki McCarthy (Right) MTU students at Drag Me Upstairs event..
GARDAI seized approximately €87,500 of suspected cocaine in Listowel on Tuesday, November 21.
Members attached to Kerry Divisional Drugs Unit and Listowel Detective Unit conducted a stop and search of a vehicle in the Gortacrissane area.
During the course of this search suspected cocaine with an estimated value of €87,500 was recovered. The drugs will be sent to Forensic Science Ireland for further analysis.
A man aged in his 30s has been arrested in connection with this seizure. He is currently detained under Section 2 of the Criminal Justice (Drug Trafficking) Act, 1996 at a Garda Station in the Kerry Division. Investigations are ongoing.
R.I.P: Mass of Remembrance for deceased club members will be celebrated at 6.30pm in the Church Our Lady and St. Brendan at The Top of The Rock this Saturday evening (25ú Samhain). Requiescant in pace. Traditional musicians from The Rock area will play at the Mass.
MOUNTHAWK – College Football: (i) The Mercy Mounthawk senior team (U19) defeated Coachford College last week in Group 1 of the Corn Uí Mhuirí (Munster Colleges) competition….1-12 to 1-4. A good victory with the following Rockmen on board: Michael Tansley, Pádraig Ó hAllmharáin, Jack Ó Murchú, Ben Ó Murchú, Daniel Ó Ciarba, James Fisher, Paidí Ó Laighin, Noah Townsend.
The game took place at the John Mitchel Club grounds. They’ll play against Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne this Friday in their next round.
(ii) Next week’s challenge for the Mounthawk boys will be the final of the Corn Uí Shúilleabháin (Kerry Colleges) senior football competition v Coláiste Bréanainn. Guímid gach rath orthu.
(iii) The Mounthawk U16½ lads playedThe Sem in the Dunloe Cup competition and were very very unlucky to lose by a single point….1-5 to 0-9. They now look forward to challenging for The Shield. Our Rock players on the panel: Ben Litchfield, Harry Murphy, Ben Murphy, Alex Touhy, Cormac Bastible, Eoin Murphy, Liam Sweeney-O’Connor, Jay Sweeney-O’Connor, Jayden Moriarty, Jack Shanahan, Jack Diggin. (P.Ó hAllmharáin/B.Litchfield)
AN GAELCHOLÁISTE – College Hurling: The Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí hurlers have qualified for the Munster semi-final for the first time since 2006 and have done so in style! An exceptional win last week for the gaelcholáiste’s iománaithe! Tá lúcháir orthu! Thug iománaithe sinsearacha na scoile taispeántas croíúil in aghaidh Carrigaline ar ghort álainn Banteer. Bua ollmhór a bhí ann….2-11 do 0-9. Ba iad Darren Ó Briain agus Gavin Ó Caoimh, na gaiscígh mhóra a scóráil breis is 9 bpointe eatarthu, a spreag buachaillí na scoile.
Gavin Ó Cathasaigh was The Rock representative as they took on a talented Carrigaline squad that featured Cork minor stars. Bua stairiúil é seo, gan aon agó. Now the hurlers have huge momentum and support approaching an cluiche stairiúil leathcheannais which is expected to be played in Tralee! GCC Abú! (D.Ó Loinsigh)
THE GREEN – College Football: (i) The Green CBS U19s took on Pobalscoil an Sciobairín in Banteer in the Corn Uí Mhuirí competition (Group 4) and won by a whopping 0-7…..1-17 to 1-9. Well done, The Green! The Rockmen on the team: Thomas Deregee; Fionnán Ryan; Ronan Carroll; Olivier Lata; Ryan O’Driscoll, Donnacha Horgan; Seán Óg Ó Brosnacháin. They have been scheduled to challenge Coláiste an Spioraid Naoimh (Bishopstown) this Wednesday (22nd). They’re scheduled to take on Bandon High on Tuesday 28th.
(ii) The Green team U16½ were unlucky v The Sem in their quest for the Dunloe Cup (Kerry)….2-14 to 2-9. The Rock connectionson the panel: Fionnán Ryan (4)(0-1), Seán Óg Brosnan (5), Ronan Carroll (10)(1-2), Máirtín McKivergan (12)(0-1), Ryan O’Driscoll (13)(1-0), Oliver Lata, Aodhán Horgan.
CAID FAOI 17: Saturday 2nd December is the big celebration day for our minor footballers. They’ll be presented with their Minor County League (Division 1) WINNERS medals and their Minor Club Championship WINNERS medals at 7pm on in the clubhouse. Everybody is invited to come along to this very special night….parents, family, friends and club members. An historic occasion agus beidh maithe agus móruaisle na Carraige i láthair!
MENTORING: Would you like to be an Austin Stack Club coach/mentor/helper in 2024? If seo, please contact Tim McMahon on 083 1190323 as soon as you can. The Austin Stack Club coaching committee would welcome people (male and female) of all ages who’d like to help as managers, coaches, administrators, etc). Ná cuir do leas ar cairde….join The Rock ‘team’!
CLUB LOTTO: Thanks to everybody who supports our club lotto: (i) Hussey’s Deli and Newsagency, Prince’s Quay; (ii) The Burger Shack, Monavalley; (iii) Kirby’s Brogue Inn, The Rock; (iv) Siopa de Barra, An Charraig; (v) Commane’s Bookshop (PC Books), The Rock; (iv) O’Flynn Interiors, The Rock.
AN CHLANN IS ACLAÍ! Fingers crossed for the O’Regan family, Dáithí, Oisín, Daibhéid and Tara, who’ll be participating in the ‘Ireland’s Fittest Family’ competition on tv. Ciarraí Abú!
SCÓR: What an afternoon of entertainment was had in Killarney’s Gleneagle Hotel in the All-Ireland Finals of Senior Scór! Na buaiteoirí: rince foirne: Birr, Offaly; amhránaíocht aonair: Sorcha Ní Chatháin, Elphin, Roscommon; aithriseoireacht: Mairéad Ní Ghráinne, Monagea, Limerick; bailéadghrúpa: Abbeyknockmoy, Galway; tráth na gceist: Millstreet, Cork; nuachleas (sketch): Carnew Emmets, Wicklow; ceol uirlise: Abbeyknockmoy, Galway; rince seit: An Spá, Kerry.
SIOPA AN CHLUB: For club gear go to www.oneills.com
.Amateur moth enthusiast Stephen Cotter in Killarney National Park. Photo: Valerie O’Sullivan
A NEW moth, not previously recorded in Ireland, was confirmed this week from Killarney National Park by amateur moth enthusiast Stephen Cotter.
The moth is named Scoparia Ancipitella or “Northern Grey”. It is very small and is a light grey mottled colour: perfect for camouflaging against tree trunks during the day.
Stephen roams the quieter parts of the National Park in the early hours of the morning and at night to catch a glimpse of these rare species.
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Speaking about his new recording, Stephen remarked; “People may not appreciate the incredible moth diversity we have in Ireland. We have over 1500 different species and new species are being recorded every year by a small but dedicated network of so called moth-ers!
“Some of the new species recorded are related to weather and winds, some due to transportation of plants and foodstuffs, some like this moth are probably always present but in low numbers and simply not recognised.”
The caterpillars of this moth feed on Lichens and mosses. “People think that caterpillars only eat leaves but in reality, they feed on a huge range of items including plants, mosses, fungi, rotting leaves and wood; even the hides and feathers of dead creatures!
“Moths are in this way incredibly important in the recycling of nutrients. And, of course, everything wants to eat them, they can be thought of as the “plankton of the forest”, and in this way support a huge diversity of creatures.”
Earlier this year, Stephen recorded a rare ‘White Prominent Leucodonta’ – thought to be extinct in Ireland. Stephen has recorded over 400 different species in Killarney National Park and Kerry County.
.Cast members from ‘Showtime — A Musical Extravaganza’ looking forward to the show this week at Siamsa Tire. Photo by Dermot Crean
IT’S almost time for students at Presentation Secondary School to take to the stage for their annual show this Thursday and Friday.
‘Showtime – A Musical Extravaganza’ will be presented at Siamsa Tíre at 7pm on both nights and there’s just a handful of tickets left for the performances.
The musical tradition at the school was revived in 2022 with ‘Magic of the Musicals’ and again with the ‘Best Of Broadway’ in May of this year, showcasing the amazing artistic talent of the students.
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Oliver Hurley is once again on board as director, working with the cast since early September so they’re now ready to dazzle audiences with scenes from Legally Blonde, The Sound of Music, Oklahoma, Miss Saigon, Footloose, West Side Story, Waitress and much more.
Cast members from ‘Showtime — A Musical Extravaganza’ looking forward to the show this week at Siamsa Tire. Photo by Dermot Crean
With Musical Direction from Laura Crowley and Honor Hurley on choreography duties, you can expect a top class production to entertain all ages. The show runs from 7pm to 9pm (it’ll be over in plenty time for the Toy Show!) and tickets cost €15 (Concession €12), Family of 4 €50 + booking fees. To book online, click here.
Cast members from ‘Showtime — A Musical Extravaganza’ looking forward to the show this week at Siamsa Tire. Photo by Dermot Crean
.Assembling before the GOAL Mile event at Kerry Sports Academy at last year’s event. Photo by Dermot Crean
STUDENTS and staff at MTU will be out in force to raise funds for GOAL this Christmas with a special event next week.
A GOAL Mile will take place on Wednesday, November 29 at 1pm. The walk will start from the entrance of the Kerry Sports Academy at the MTU North Campus and organisers are asking for everyone to join them and get involved.
There will be a wonderful atmosphere at the Goal Mile event with everyone dressed up in their festive jumpers, Santa hats and costumes. Wear your best Christmas jumper and be in with a chance to win “best dressed” prizes.
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The GOAL Mile is a renowned and long-standing event that helps raise funds to transform the lives of the world’s most vulnerable people.
Weather permitting the walk will take place on the grounds on the North Campus, alternatively if the weather is poor the event will take place in the sports hall area.
Dogs are welcome once on a lead at all times for the outdoor route. Refreshments and Christmas treats will be available after the event.
You don’t need to register in advance but simply show up to the event, walk a mile and contribute whatever you can afford to GOAL on the day. There will be a donation bucket on the morning for voluntary donations.
Alan Cantwell reports on St Brendan’s Basketball Club’s win in the Mens U20 National Cup competition at the weekend…
St. Brendan’s 82
Éanna 69
St. Brendan’s Mens U20 Squad. Back row: Donal O’Sullivan, Joseph Sullivan, Andrew Wallace, Phoenix Costello, Eddie Sheehy, Gary Lynch, Olaf Michalczuk. Front row; Coren Hughes, Aaron Nolan, Evan Boyle, Eoin Creedon, Eli Fitzgerald.
St. Brendan’s negotiated their way past Éanna with an 82-69 win in Moyderwell on Sunday afternoon. The win sets up a home quarter-final with Belfast Star in December and a shot at securing a Cup semi-final berth in Cork in early January.
It was Éanna that started the contest better with Sammy Shah, Cathal O’Sullivan and Nathan Comerford combining to see them lead 9-2 early on. Olaf Michalczuk hit a three to spark Brendan’s response and when Eoin Creedon and Donal O’Sullivan found their range in quick succession the sides were level at 13-13.
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Shah gave Éanna the lead again from distance but when Michalczuk did likewise and O’Sullivan and Eddie Sheehy added Brendan’s led 22-18 at quarter time.
The sides settled into the contest in earnest in the second with Éanna again getting the upper hand through O’Sullivan and Caeden Ash to lead 25-24 but Eoin Creedon’s second three allied to a nine point volley from Michalczuk pushed Brendan’s ahead despite a three from Kiernan and an inside effort from Comerford.
Donal O’Sullivan and Michalczuk combined to edge Brendan’s back in front but a strong finish to the quarter saw Éanna hit threes from Mark Keogh and Kiernan to leave the half time score 43-42 to the hosts.
Éanna went on a run early in the third and quickly established an eight point lead through O’Sullivan, Comerford and Lovic but Creedon again found nothing but net from beyond the arc and when Evan Boyle followed his lead and Donal O’Sullivan was on the mark from close range the sides were level. Victor Lovic had the last word of the quarter to see Éanna 59-58 up at three quarter time.
St. Brendan’s grasped the initiative early in the fourth and shot their way into a double digit lead by the mid-way point of the quarter.
Evan Boyle set the tone with back to back threes and a hat trick of driving scores from Creedon had the hosts ten points up 73-63.
Éanna’s resistance came from Cathal O’Sullivan with back to back baskets but Brendan’s continued their dominant display with Sheehy and Donal O’Sullivan adding before Boyle hit his fourth three of the game.
Comerford hit a couple of late baskets for the visitors but Olaf Michalczuk capped an impressive individual performance with two late free throws to seal the 82-69 win in the end.
Scorers:
St. Brendan’s: Olaf Michalczuk 24, Eoin Creedon 20, Donal O’Sullivan 15
Éanna: Cathal O’Sullivan 17, Nathan Comerford 15, Dean Kiernan 11
Next up for St. Brendan’s is a quarter final date in December with Belfast Star at Moyderwell.
MARIA Maye has been announced as the 2023 Irish Hotels Federation Kerry Branch ‘Employee of the Year’ at a lunch in The Rose Hotel, Tralee.
Over 60 guests attended the event to celebrate and recognise the 15 nominees from hotels and guesthouses across Kerry who have made an outstanding contribution to their workplace.
Congratulating Maria on their award, Geraldine Rosney, said the judges highlighted Maria Maye’s “kind and caring approach with a great sense of humour and that Maria brings out the best in colleagues and guests alike”, when selecting her as the winner.
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Maria Maye has worked in the Avenue on three different tenures over the last three decades.
Working as part the restaurant team she is described as the epitome of warm and genuine hospitality and goes above and beyond to ensure that all guests experience the best that the Killarney Avenue hotel has to offer.
At the event, Branch Chairperson, Bernadette Randles, spoke about the importance of recognising excellence, and ‘shaping brighter futures’ for people in the sector by supporting future leaders and keeping teams motivated with opportunities for career progression and development.
George White, Parknasilla Resort was selected for a life time contribution to the industry award by the Irish Hotel Federation with almost 50 years of service.
IHF Kerry Branch extended its gratitude to the expert judging panel comprised of Michael Vaughan (Vaughan Lodge Hotel and IHF Past President), Mary Rose Stafford (MTU Tralee) and Geraldine Rosney (formerly of Killeen House Hotel and Rozzers Restaurant), who had the difficult job of selecting a winner from the nominees.
The members of the IHF Kerry Branch now wish Maria Maye the very best of luck as she goes on to represent them at the upcoming National IHF Employee of the Year Awards which will be held during the IHF’s Annual Conference in February 2024.
.Members of The Castlemaine Events Committee pictured with a cheque for €15,859.69 for The Kerry Hospice Foundation. The amount was raised with the holding of The Castlemaine Fair Day in memory of John O’Donoghue (who passed away in 2019 in the care of Palliative Care Unit at UHK) which was held on the October 15th last.
CASTLEMAINE Events Committee have announced that the money raised from the Castlemaine Fair Day in Memory of John O’Donoghue which was held in October, has amounted to €15,859,69.
The revival of the Castlemaine Fair Day started in 2021 in John’s memory and to date over the three years, the charity event has raised a combined total of €75,541.46 for the Kerry Hospice Foundation.
On Friday evening last, November 17th in Griffin’s Bar and Restaurant Castlemaine, the proceeds of the 2023 Fair Day were unveiled and presented to Kerry Hospice Foundation by family members, close friends and the Castlemaine Events Committee to the very deserving Kerry Hospice Foundation who provided exemplary care and support to John and his family following a shock diagnosis of terminal bowel cancer in May 2019.
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John O’Donoghue who was known all over resided in the heart of Castlemaine Village and was born on January 21st, 1965 which ironically happened to coincide with a staging of the old Castlemaine Fair Day so it felt appropriate to mark John’s lifetime love of attending fairs and being an integral part of the farming community by bringing back the old fair day in his honour and with it celebrate old traditions, customs and beliefs in the locality.
Castlemaine Events Committee were delighted to be able to assist in the organisation of the event and all proceeds raised were given to Kerry Hospice Foundation.
All the committee wish to sincerely thank the public for their generosity in supporting the event in John’s memory.
Special mention also to everyone who helped in any way towards the safe running of the event. There is too many to name but without a doubt the community spirit was there to be seen in abundance in preparing for the Fair and for the clean-up operation after. Castlemaine Events Committee are so very grateful for all the efforts involved.
MUNSTER Technological University will welcome hundreds of children and their families to the North Campus in Tralee for its Teddy Bear Hospital on Saturday, December 2.
The special event is being organised by students and staff from MTU and RCSI (Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland).
This year, MTU is partnering with University Hospital Kerry and funds raised on the day will be used to supply equipment for play therapy in the hospital’s paediatric ward.
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The aim of the Teddy Bear Hospital is to ease the stress and tension that a child feels when attending a hospital or when seeing a doctor, as well as finding out more about what doctors, nurses and healthcare specialists and professionals do as part of their jobs.
RCSI, MTU and Castel Education (Cambridge Education Group – CEG) deliver the International Medical/Pharmacy Commencement Programme (IMCP/IPCP) at the North Campus in Tralee, an academic pathway programme to further studies in medicine, nursing, occupational therapy, pharmacy, podiatry and speech and language therapy.
Students from other MTU programmes such as Nursing, Pharmacy Technician, Health, Sport & Exercise Sciences and Early Childhood Education and Care will also contribute to the event by managing some of the 14 stations.
The experience will start by admitting the sick teddy to hospital, then explaining stations such as triage, blood analysis, x-ray/MRI, bandaging, and surgery. There will also be a pharmacy station, story-telling corner, exercise area and nutrition stand.
Using the cuddly teddy bears, students will show children what happens in a hospital, who works there and how the ‘Teddy Doctor’ helps the sick teddy to feel better.
They will also explain the whole process of being in a hospital from start to finish using the teddy bears. Students will also offer advice on how to improve nutrition and the benefits of exercise.
Commenting on the upcoming event, Fiona O’Flynn, Head of Department, International Medical/Pharmacy Commencement Programmes at MTU said: “Once again, we are delighted to host this fun and interactive event. Our aim is to help children feel comfortable when interacting with healthcare professionals. It’s a particularly meaningful day for children who have regular hospital appointments. The event will also introduce children to what healthcare professionals do and may spark an interest as a future career.”
There will be two sessions. A morning session from 10am to 12 noon and an afternoon session from 2pm to 4pm.
The cost of entry to the event is €5 per child (parents and guardians are free). All funds collected will be used to purchase toys and equipment for play therapy at University Hospital Kerry’s paediatric ward.
For more information and to book your tickets for the Teddy Bear Hospital at MTU click here.
Tralee Senior District Championship Semi-Final: Our Senior Team will play Ardfert in the semi-final on Sunday, 26th November at 1 pm in Ardfert.
November Mass: The Mass for Deceased Members of the Austin Stacks GAA & LGFA Clubs will be celebrated on Saturday, November 25th @ 6.30 pm in Our Lady & St Brendan’s Church. All Welcome. The Annual Church Gate Collection will also take place this weekend.
50th Anniversary: Join our 1973 Senior County Champions heroes for what promises to be the social event of our club year on Saturday, 9th December, at 7:30 pm in the Clubhouse as we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of a landmark county championship victory.
An evening of great stories, reminiscing and craic is guaranteed as we look back on a famous championship win that ended a 37-year famine and launched a glorious Black & Amber era. So, save the date for kickstarting the Christmas festivities in style with a night that is sure to be talked about for the next 50 years!
Club Cards: Austin Stacks GAA and all our card players send sincere condolences to the family of Sheila Healy (nee O’Connell) Ardfert, who sadly passed away last week. Sheila attended our card sessions each week for over 30 years. Ar dheis de go raibh a hanam dilis.
Our card sessions continue in the Clubhouse on Mondays and Thursdays with the starting time of 9 pm sharp.
CLUB LOTTO: This week’s (20th November) Jackpot worth €2150 was not won. The numbers drawn were 01,04,08,19. The €20 winners were Liz Kelliher c/o The Club, Noreen Power c/o The Club, Mandy Furey c/o Online, Patrick Cleary c/o Online, Jim Gannon c/o The Club. Next Week’s Jackpot will be worth €2200
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. Michelle Healy, Jim Griffin Carrigeendaniel (former Committee member and father of our Childrens Officer Orlaith), Paul Griffin Spa Road, Mary Quinlan (nee O’Connell) Stacks Villas, Mary O’Carroll Hoffman Terrace, Maria Slattery(nee Kelliher) Leith, Siobhan Griffin (nee Lucey) St.Brendans Park, Mary Fenton (nee Tansley) Straffan Co. Kildare (sister of Tom and aunt of our senior goalkeeper Michael), Eddie Barry Ballymullen (Father of Club hurlers Eddie and Mikey).
This past weekend was host to the November Handicap competition which was held in Tralee Sports and Leisure Centre.
It was great to see such a big entry in the competition especially in the lower divisions, great to see that there is such an interest in the sport.
The competition was a doubles competition with a round robin format and then a mixed final so the ladies doubles winners and mens doubles winners would be split and paired with each other for a mixed final.
It was a long day for all those involved in organising and running the competition and for the players also.
A big thank you must be said to all the organisers on the day fir running off the competition successfully with such a big entry. The results from the weekend are as follows:
DIV 5 WINNERS JACK QUINN, MOYVANE & SONYA KERINS, CASTLEISLAND. PHOTO; THOMAS BRADLEY
Division 5:
Winners: Jack Quinn (Moyvane) and Sonya Kerin (Kingdom)
R-Up: Jophy John (Tralee) and Ailbhe O’Connor (Killarney)
Division 4:
Winners: Antoi Paiuk (Killarney) and Kathleen Gilbride (Ballyheigue)
R-Up: Brian Horgan (Ballybunion) and Olena Paiuk (Killarney)
DIV 3 WINNERS, JESSICA LOUGHLIN CASTLEISLAND &ALVIN RAHMAN,KILLARNEY. PHOTO; THOMAS BRADLEY
Division 3:
Winners: Alvin Rahman (Killarney) and Jessica O’Loughlin (Kingdom)
R-Up: Florence Griffin (Listowel) and Siobhan O’Donoghue (Killarney)
DIV 1&2 COMBINED WINNERS, MIKEY BELOVFLANAGAN, LISTOWEL, & EDEL KENNY CASTLEISLAND & PHOTO; THOMAS BRADLEY
Well done to all players on the day and congratulations to the winners. Next weekend is the Paddy Drummond mixed tournament. It will take place next Sunday the 26th of November once again in the Tralee Sports and Leisure Centre.
If you wish to play, please make sure to get your entries into your club before Thursday the 23rd as this is the deadline for entries.
We look forward to seeing you all in Tralee next weekend. Even if you are not playing be sure to come along and support and watch some of the badminton if you wish.
A report on the Basketball Ireland Development League – Round 2 game at Mercy Mounthawk gym on Sunday…
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Tralee Warriors 72
Tipp Talons 68
Tralee Warriors made it two from two in the Basketball Ireland Development League with a come from behind win over Tipp Talons in Mercy Mounthawk Gym on Sunday evening.
The Warriors led early in the contest but a second quarter blitz from the Talons saw the hosts having to chase the game and only led again in the final minute of the game in what was an extraordinary comeback.
The Warriors got off to a great start and threes from Jack Tobin and Daire Kennelly allied to a double from inside from Dan Bowler helped them lead 13-4.
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Tipp Talons response was kickstarted with Sammy Bah hitting a three either side of major scores from Arthur Geronimo that saw the visitors back on terms but Aaron Fleming and a three from Brian O’Leary gave the Warriors an 18-17 lead at the end of the first quarter.
In an extraordinary second quarter the Talons hit the Warriors with a barrage of scores that threatened to put the contest beyond the hosts by half time.
Adam Parker and a double from Niall Walsh started the blitz and though the Warriors punctuated the Talons run with scores from Kennelly, O’Leary, Josh Osayanrhion and Olaf Michalczuk the Tipperary outfit ran riot.
The scores rained down with Graceson Burke posting 7, Walsh scoring 13 for the quarter, and Adam Parker registering 10 and by half time the Talons were 20 points to the good.
The Warriors got themselves right back into the contest in the third by turning the tables on the Tipperary side by keeping them to 5 points for the quarter.
Steven Bowler was on the mark with four and a hat trick of scores from Josh Osayanrhion and a major from James Fernane helped the Warriors cut the half-time deficit from 20 to 9 at three quarter time and trailed by 48-57.
The Warriors continued to cut the Talons advantage early in the final quarter after James Fernane and Arthur Geronimo exchanged scores, it was Aaron Fleming who stepped up the mark with back to back threes that left a single score between the sides.
Fernane fired in another three and captain Daire Kennelly was in range to maintain the Warriors momentum but Parker and Walsh combined for 8 points to keep the Talons 68-62 up with three minutes on the clock.
However that would be the Tipperary side’s final tally as Aaron Fleming was again on the mark from distance and when Bowler added the sides were level.
Not surprisingly it was Aaron Fleming, who top scored with 17, that hit the clutch two point score that put the Warriors in front for the first time since the end of the first quarter.
Olaf Michalczuk obliged with two from two to complete the comeback and give the Warriors a hard fought but deserved win.
Scorers:
Tralee Warriors: Aaron Fleming 17, Daire Kennelly 10, James Fernane 9.
Tipp Talons: Adam Parker 18, Niall Walsh 18, Sammy Bah 11.
Next up for the Warriors is a home date against Fr. Mathews at the Tralee Sports Complex on Sunday 9th December with tip off at 5.15pm.
.MTU students and staff taking part in the biodiversity walk last Wednesday.
MUNSTER Technological University’s commitment to sustainability took centre stage during a student engagement event held on campus on Wednesday last.
The event, organised by MTU’s Green Campus community, highlighted the importance of sustainability and provided staff and students with the necessary knowledge to lead environmentally conscious lives.
Dr. Lynda Weekes, Wildlife Biology Lecturer at MTU, led an outdoor biodiversity walk at the Dromtacker campus.
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Participants explored the diverse ecosystems while discussing the need to preserve these ecosystems for the benefit of future generations. The walk also featured a visit to the apiary, where Chris Dury from Kingdom Beekeepers shed light on the significance of bee pollination within ecosystems.
Anne Marie Fuller from Tralee Tidy Towns delivered a talk on Living Plastic Free, offering practical tips and guidance on making conscious, sustainable choices in everyday purchases.
Garrett Dillon, General Manager of Dillon Waste and Recycling highlighted the importance of recycling practices. He provided valuable insights on correct waste bin usage and emphasised the significance of recycling in sustainability efforts.
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Students also engaged with Green Campus staff at their stand and participated in an interactive, bespoke online quiz to test their knowledge on recycling practices within and beyond the University, further encouraging active participation and learning.
Commenting on the sustainability-focused event, Martha Farrell, Chairperson of MTU’s Green Campus, said “The success of this event signifies our commitment to nurturing a culture of sustainability within MTU. Through collaborative efforts and educational initiatives like these, we aim to empower our students with the requisite knowledge to create a more sustainable future”.
ARDFERT National School has received a special Judges Award in the Marine STEAM category of the Explorers Ocean Champion Awards 2023.
Presenting the award, Cushla Dromgool-Regan, Explorers Education Programme Manager, congratulated the children, teachers, and outreach team for their innovative ideas and research about the ocean and marine animals.
“The project, which focused on Saint Brendan ‘Sailing the Seas’, was very innovative, involving planning, engagement and learning across all the children’s age groups,” she said.
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School Principal Betty Stack said the school was delighted to receive the award: “Living close to the seashore and to one of the most beautiful coastlines in Ireland, and including marine themes on the curriculum, was the perfect topic to use as our all-school project.
“The children got to develop their competencies and skills by sharing an understanding of the impact the ocean has on our lives, as well as the impact we have on the ocean,” she said.
The healthy ocean school project and Ocean Champion Awards, organised through the Explorers Education Programme and funded by the Marine Institute, is the only ocean-themed award for primary schools in Ireland.
The competition recognises the effort, commitment and collaboration of the school management, teachers, children and the Explorer outreach officers.
“It was wonderful to see the contributions from the different class levels along with the children’s interest in the deep-sea species found in different parts of the world,” Ms Dromgool-Regan added.
“Hearing the children speak about their projects – from making boats from recycled items to learning about giant crabs in the deep sea, the blob fish and the legendary whale that Saint Bredan thought was an island – showed the incredible amount of work they did. Their enthusiasm to learn about their local community and the wider oceans sets a wonderful example for other schools to follow,” she said.
Twenty-eight coastal county schools took part in this year’s healthy ocean school projects covering Marine STEAM, Ocean Literacy, SDGs and the Ocean, Marine Outdoor.
Marine STEAM projects aim to inspire children with a range of interests by employing a cross-curricular approach to learning about the ocean, including STEM and the humanities. The goal is for students to develop their investigative and problem-solving skills and to combine these with language and creativity to share their STEM exploration and discoveries.
.Tralee Tidy Towns members at a workshop in The Rose Hotel last month.
TRALEE Tidy Towns – with support from MTU Business students, Transition Kerry, Kerry County Council and Irish Wildlife Trust (Kerry branch) are inviting the public to feed in to the Community Biodiversity Action Plan (CBAP) for the Tralee to Fenit Greenway by completing a short five-minute survey.
The survey follows, and was informed by, a highly successful public engagement workshop at The Rose Hotel, Tralee, on Monday, October 9.
Tralee Tidy Towns members were delighted to get a diverse range of views and ideas from the local community on initiatives to help promote and enhance biodiversity along the Tralee to Fenit Greenway and these ideas along with those collected at a summer event at Fenit formed the basis for this online survey which aims to have a wider reach.
Tralee Tidy Towns has received funding from the Community Foundation of Ireland to create a Community Biodiversity Action Plan (CBAP) for the Tralee to Fenit Greenway.
This CBAP will help Tralee Tidy Towns to attract more funding to implement the plan and empower other community groups and individuals to help enhance biodiversity along the greenway.
The main objectives of this CBAP are to empower local voices and encourage the contribution of existing knowledge of biodiversity along the Greenway route and also to raise awareness of the importance and implications of biodiversity in our communities.
Ger Scollard of Irish Wildlife Trust (Kerry Branch) and Tralee Tidy Towns said: “We are delighted with the feedback on the CBAP so far and this survey will now facilitate all those who couldn’t come to one of the workshops we’ve held already. We’re very heartened to have the MTU Bachelor of Business students helping on the project – it’s great to have their insights and they are applying the skills they’re learning in the lectures to a real-life project.”
A LOCAL councillor believes there is no doubt that HSE recruitment ban is going to have a serious and detrimental impact on the provision of health services in Kerry.
In the wake of the continuance of the recruitment embargo announced by HSE CEO Bernard Gloucester, Sinn Fein Cllr Deirdre Ferris has expressed concerns for the provision of the services and patient safety in University Hospital Kerry and in the community sector.
As a clerical officer in University Hospital Kerry, Cllr Ferris said she can see the initial embargo on Clerical and Administrative grades already impacting the provision of services.
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Cllr Ferris said: “The embargo is having a direct negative impact on the provision of health services for the people of Kerry. Services already struggling to cope with increased demand and staff shortages, are now facing even greater problems, due to the prevention of recruiting staff to fill vacant posts.”
“Inpatient Acute Care, Outpatient follow-up care, Mental Health Services, Community Care and Home Care are all going to be affected by this decision,” she added.
Cllr Ferris is calling on the HSE to lift the embargo and for the government to ensure that funding and resources for the health service matches the demand on those services.
“The government need to reverse this decision and lift the embargo as these measures will have a severe impact on the safety of care and will press staff into unsafe conditions and into an extreme level of burnout. This will result in even more staff wanting to leave the health service, which is the last thing we need,” said Cllr Ferris.
.Launching the fundraising campaign at The Europe Hotel & Resort last Friday were, front row: Siobhan Looney, Down Syndrome Kerry Member, Anthony O’Connor, Down Syndrome Kerry Member, Joe Burkett, Employment Support Specialist Down Syndrome Kerry. Back row: Michael Brennan, Managing Director of Killarney Hotels Collection, Siobhan Walsh, Operations Manager of Down Syndrome Kerry, Michelle Diggins, Sales & Marketing Executive & Adrian Stehr, Managing Director of Killarney Hotels Collection.
THE Europe Hotel & Resort has teamed up with Down Syndrome Kerry this Christmas as the hotel welcomes back Bertie Bear and his cousin, Charlie Bear who always come to stay at the five-star hotel for the festive season.
As well as the families getting together, the two cousins like to do something to help others and this year, they have chosen to support Down Syndrome Kerry as the hotel’s annual Christmas charity.
“The debate was a short one as everyone quickly agreed, what Down Syndrome Ireland is doing is very important indeed!” commented Charlie Bear. “The world’s home to all kinds of people, everyone of us has our own gift, and we hope that your little donation, will help to give someone a lift.”
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Charlie Bear makes for the perfect house guest this Christmas and can be purchased for €25 with all proceeds going to Down Syndrome Kerry.
Keep Charlie Bear for yourself or why not give the gift of the cute cuddly teddy bear to a loved one, family member or friend. Those who purchase a Charlie Bear will also be entered to win an Overnight Stay at The Europe Hotel & Resort for two people sharing.
Down Syndrome Kerry is a parent-led voluntary organisation, supporting over 230 families throughout County Kerry and into parts of Cork and Limerick. Your donation will help this organisation provide members with vital therapies and services to supplement state provision.
The senior club AGM will take place on Friday 1st December in the Healy Room commencing at 8 pm.
Nominations for executive roles and motions have now closed as of Friday 17th last.
We would hope to see a good turnout on the night.
Church Gate Collection:
The church gate collection took place last weekend and the organisers would like to thank everyone who helped out, some at such short notice. The collection was once again a big success.
NÓTAÍ NA mBAN:
2023 has probably been the best year to date that the ladies have had in Kerins O’ Rahillys Club.
The ladies side of our “One Club” has overseen a huge and fantastic increase in our playing numbers over the past few years. We have had a hectic year with plenty of football but it’s a great complaint.
We would like to take the opportunity to thank all of our coaches and volunteers who contributed so much to the fast growing ladies side of our club in 2023. This year was a groundbreaking one for us that saw us field teams from U12s to seniors and who were competitive in all age groups.
We have many stars for the future in our club! Sport brings people together on and off the pitch. Gaelic football encourages camaraderie and teamwork….
This week we especially remember Marie Nix who passed away on November 20th, 2020. Marie would be so proud of “her girls”.
TRIALS
Messages will be sent out during the week about trials for all ages.
CONGRATS
Congrats to the five Kerry ladies who were awarded with 2023 TG4 All Stars and to Louise Ní Mhuircheartaigh who was also awarded player of the year.
U16 LADIES
Our U16s had a hard fought win in Pat Healy Park, Ballyrickard last Sunday morning versus Na Gaeil in the North Kerry league, division 2 shield final.
We settled in better and the half time score was 6-05 to 3-05 in favour of the home team.
In the second half our scoring rate dropped off. Na Gaeil started to work hard and came back to leave the full time score 7-09 to 5-15.
We were now into extra time. Conditions weren’t great and both teams seemed exhausted.
The Strand Road ladies decided that they were going to die with their boots on and gave it their best in extra time with Taylor closing out the Strand Road scoring to seal victory and complete a great year for our wonderful U16s.
Final Score:
Kerins O’ Rahillys 8-10
Na Gaeil 5-18
Many thanks to Na Gaeil for an exciting game and who kept our ladies on their toes!
Well done to our captain Millie Hayes who was presented with the shield by George O’ Donnell and to the team and management.
A lovely way to wrap up the year..
A special mention for our supporters from all age groups who came out on a miserable cold, wet afternoon to cheer on the team.
Thank you to all of the parents who have been so supportive and are chauffeuring their daughters around the countryside. It’s because of your support that we have this wonderful team.
Well done to Mike , Dan and Rory for their hard work throughout 2023.
Best wishes to the girls for 2024 who are moving up to minors and to the U14s and U16s.
CONDOLENCES
Our condolences to the families and friends of Maria Slattery, Paul Griffin, Siobhán Griffin ( née Lucey), Michael O’ Leary, Johanna O’ Connor ( née Leen), Matthew Healy, Mary Quinlan ( née O’ Connell) , Jim Griffin , Kevin Quilligan and Mary Fenton ( née Tansley.)
Lotto results: Lotto Tue 14th November 2023. No winner. Numbers drawn were 7, 21, 26, 27. Lucky dip winners of €20 were Fr. Amos Ruto, Tony Lyons, Cáit Griffin, Moire Godley, Mary O’Mahony. Tomorrow night’s jackpot will be €4,200. Why not try your luck in our lotto. The links is as follows: https://www.klubfunder.com/Clubs/Na%20Gaeil%20CLG/lotto
RIP: Our sincere sympathy to the family of Sheila Healy, Ardfert who passed away recently. Sheila was a regular card player at our Wednesday night card game. Also our sincere sympathy to JP Fletton on the death of his mother Margaret recently. Our sincere sympathy too to the family of Maria Slattery, Leith who passed away last Friday. May they all rest in peace.
Club Mass: Our annual mass for deceased club members will be held in the clubhouse next Wednesday 22nd at 7.30pm. Everyone welcome.
Rory Reen and Jimmy Ó Suilleabháin at the Na Gaeil GAA Race Night on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Race Night: Our Annual Race Night was held last Friday night in the clubhouse and was also streamed live on Facebook. This event is a very important one for the club as it is the centerpiece of our fundraising activity for the year.
Our fundraising activities provide the resources to maintain our facilities at Killeen, to pay for equipment, to look after our players, to keep our gym up to standard, to keep our pitch in top condition and to keep our teams on the road at all grades.
The financial support provided by our sponsors is critical for the successful running of the club, so I would like to thank each and every one of you on behalf of all of our members, officers and players for your generous support.
Many of our sponsors are local businesses, and over the next number of weeks you will see advertising signage being erected around our pitch and car park. I would encourage all of our members to take note of these signs and to support these businesses whenever you can.
The life blood of our club is the effort put in by all the volunteers who work tirelessly on and off the pitch to make our club successful.
Our fundraising committee chaired by Terry McEneaney put in a massive effort leading the Partnership initiative with our sponsors, so a big thank you to Terry, Donal, Cathy, Michael, Colm, the two Johns, the two Tim’s and to Eddie for playing their part in raising the funds that will sustain our club through 2024.
A big thank you also to the team that runs the Race Night. To Denis Sugrue for acting as Master of Ceremonies, to Denis, James, Brian and Ciara who looked after the technical side of putting the races on screen and managing the Facebook feed, and to Mary Maunsell who managed the Tote with the help of Joe & John and computed the odds on the races.
Thanks also to Lisa for her help in putting the race program together, and to Mary and the bar staff for their assistance in hosting the event.
Last but not least, thanks to all of our club members and friends and families who sold and purchased horses and to all those who attended on the night to experience a fantastic fun night. Well done everyone. Na Gaeil Abú!
County Final: Congratulations to Mark Bourke who guided Milltown/Castlemaine to victory in the Kerry Intermediate football final yesterday in Austin Stack Park.
Scór: We’ll shortly be starting on our annual Scór journey, and are looking for secondary school kids – up to u/17 – who’d be interested in taking part in drama, recitation, music, singing etc. We’d also be interested in hearing from adults who might like to take part in any of the above too. Please contact Margaret at (086) 0855008 or Mary at (086) 080 6665 if you’d like more information.
Bingo: Our mini jackpot house wasn’t won last Monday night so tonight it will be worth €240 if won in 44 calls. Lots of other cash prizes to be won on the night too. Make sure you are there by 8pm sharp. Strictly over 18s. Valid proof is required where necessary.
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.
U16 Girls: Our girls played Kerins O’Rahillys yesterday in the North Kerry Shield final and were so unlucky to lose by just a single point after extra time.
It was an excellent performance from all our girls in tough conditions. They trailed by 9 points at halftime but fought back brilliantly in the second half and were ahead by 1 point in the 5th minute of injury time.
That was the last u16 game of the year. Many thanks to Eddie, Mike & Meagan for all the time they put into training the girls.
Ladies AGM: Na Gaeil Ladies will hold their AGM next Sunday at 6pm in Na Gaeil. All welcome.
U17 Boys: Our minor lads season ended yesterday too when they lost to Ballymac in the Town Board final in Ardfert.
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 and 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’s Allianz National Football League Fixtures 2024: Round 1 (w/e January 27th/28th) Kerry v Derry; Round 2 (w/e February 3rd/4th) Monaghan v Kerry; Round 3 (w/e February 17th/18th) Kerry v Mayo; Round 4 (w/e February 24th/25th) Dublin v Kerry; Round 5 (w/e March 2nd/3rd) Kerry v Tyrone; Round 6 (w/e March 16th/17th) Roscommon v Kerry; Round 7 (w/e March 23rd/24th) Kerry v Galway.
Kerry Men’s Allianz National Hurling League Fixtures 2024: Round 1 (w/e February 3rd/4th) Kerry v Carlow; Round 2 (w/e February 10th/11th) Down v Kerry; Round 3 (w/e February 24th/25th) Kerry v Meath; Round 4 (w/e March 9th/10th) Kildare v Kerry; Round 5 (w/e March 16th/17th) Laois v Kerry.
Hire the Hall: The hall in the clubhouse is available for parties or other events. Please emailnagaeilclubhouse@gmail.com if you’d like to make a booking.
Na Gaeil cycle club: Cycle each Saturday at 9am from Na Gaeil club. Everyone is welcome to come for a nice friendly cycle. Please note change of time.
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.
Ballymac Ladies will hold their AGM on Tuesday 28th November at 8pm in the clubrooms.
Ballymac Coiste nOg will hold their AGM on Tuesday 5th December at 8pm in the clubrooms.
Ballymac Gaa will hold their AGM on Tuesday the 12th December at 8pm in the clubrooms.
Fundraiser
We are delighted to share some news with you.
Fundraising has begun to provide the best facilities for our members, community and future generations. All funds raised will be used for
⭐ The resurfacing and draining of our main pitch
⭐ The levelling, resurfacing and draining of our training pitch.
If you can help us out over the next few weeks, get in touch.
Club members will be travelling the parish with tickets in the coming weeks.
We appreciate your support.
Minor Boys
Ballymacelligott GAA v Na Gaeil GAA – Minor – Div 2 – Final – Tralee/St Brendans
Ballymacelligott GAA 5-05 (20)
Na Gaeil GAA 0-7
On a windy, showery day in Ardfert, our Ballymac minors played Na Gaeil GAA in the final of the Division 2 Tralee/St Brendans Minor Final on Sunday, November 19th. As this was our last game of the year, there was a great sense of focus amongst the playing group to end the year with more silverware.
In the first half, in windy conditions, Ballymac were facing into a very stiff breeze where scores were few and far between for us. 2 Goals from Eoin Moriarty & Shane Gilroy kept the scoreboard ticking over. At Half Time it was all square with Ballymac 2-01 & Na Gaeil 0-7.
In the second half and with the wind at our backs.. Ballymac played the conditions perfectly with some great scores from distance. The introduction of Eoghan Joy and Maurice Harrington 10 minutes into the half gave some needed fresh impetus to our efforts.
Ballymac really took control of the game from here with another goal for the ever industrious Eoin Moriarty, with another for the lively Ciaran O’Connell & a special effort into the top left corner from substitute Eoghan Joy.
Also a special mention must go to our Goalkeeper/Defence who kept a clean sheet which was was a great collective effort. In the finish, Ballymac ran out well deserved winners.
Our captain Jamie Burke accepted the trophy on behalf of the team and management. Thanks to Na Gaeil for playing the game in an open, competitive & respectful manner.
Great credit must go to all the lads not alone for their effort in this game but throughout the year, they have been nothing but a credit to themselves, our club and their families.
Our year was overall a successful one with a central region title, a final of the minor version of the intermediate championship & Tralee/St Brendans trophy now also. Thanks to all who supported us throughout the year & based on this group of young men, the future of our club is very bright. Ballymac ABU!!
Under 11 Boys
U11 End of season medal presentation was held this evening. Glenduff Manor hosted and provided food. Senior player Tadhg Brick presented the boys with their Castleisland district medals. The boys were delighted with their new tops. A great evening was had by all. Thanks to Glenduff Manor, our u11 coaches, Tadhg Brick and Coiste na nOg. Also thanks to parents for all your support during the year.
Health and Wellbeing
Social basketball 🏀 now back. Runs every Tuesday night at 8pm in O’Brennan National School. This is a fun workout with friends. No previous basketball experience required. If you want to know more, contact Christina at 0871811249.
Lotto
On Monday 13th November, the Lotto draw took place live from The Halfway Bar, Ballymac. Brendan O’Connor and Thady Bailey drew the numbers with James Flaherty on camera.
The Numbers drawn were : 22, 24, 26, 28
There was no winner of this week’s Jackpot of €5,300. Congratulations to the lucky dip winners this week:
Next week’s Jackpot is €5,400 and the draw will take place on Monday 20th November. 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 and €2 cards are available at The Half Way Shop, O Riadas Bar and C.A Galvin Ltd. The closing time for entries will be 4 pm on Mondays to facilitate the draw.
The club appreciates every ticket that is bought in support of our Lotto. The funds go straight back into our club to cover expenses from Academy up to Senior Level.
Check out all the latest news from Ballymac GAA Club by clicking here www.ballymacgaa.ie
CARA Credit Union are advising customers that all Cara Credit Union Branches and phone lines will be closed on Monday, November 27.
KERRY County Council has announced details of concessions in parking charges over the Christmas period in Tralee.
THE Phoenix Women’s Shed is holding an event to support and encourage the sharing of pre-loved clothing and to support women in the Arts and Crafts industry.
GARDAI seized approximately €87,500 of suspected cocaine in Listowel on Tuesday, November 21.
