The seniors suffer a cruel heartbreaking county final defeat, Jake Morris receives his Bord Gáis Energy under-21 team of the year award and the minor camogs qualify for the county semi-final.

Senior Hurling

We extend our commiserations to our senior hurlers who were unfortunately beaten by a superb Clonoulty Rossmore side today in the Tipperary Water county final on a scoreline of 2-13 to 0-23. To say the panel, management and club left no stone unturned in their efforts to win today is an understatement but it simply wasn’t to be. To Clonoulty Rossmore we extend our congratulations and wish them the very best as they embark on their Munster campaign.

We wish to thank the people of Nenagh for their amazing support both this afternoon and in the weeks leading up to the game. The town has been decked out in blue and navy while the roars from the Blues’ fans today was deafening. All of your support has been gratefully received by everyone involved with the team. 

We also wish to thank all the local sporting clubs and businesses for their wishes of support over the last few days. It was fantastic to see the parish united in sport as Nenagh Celtic, Nenagh Ormond RFC, Nenagh Neptune Swimming Club, Nenagh AFC among others send their best. The businesses excelled themselves in their efforts to fly the Éire Óg flag high and we encourage all our of supporters to continue to shop local. 

The schools also pulled out all the stops and once again we thank you all for your continued support and promotion of Gaelic games amongst the youth of our town. 

To all of our sponsors and to everyone who purchased signs this year and contributed to our training fund we thank you most sincerely. We could not possibly function without your kindness.

While everyone is very down at the moment there is no doubt that this panel will be back and will continue to do their upmost to bring Dan Breen back to the town. The entire panel and management have conducted themselves in a very professional manner throughout 2018, never failing to give less than 100% in training and matches and have been fantastic ambassadors of our town. Thank you once again to everyone for your unwavering commitment. 

 

The full Éire Óg management and panel are as follows:

Jake Morris Receives his Award for Making the Bord Gáis Energy Under-21 Team of the Year

Congratulations to Jake Morris who, on Wednesday last, received his award for making the Bord Gáis Energy under-21 team of the year following his sterling performances with Tipperary in 2018. Jake was joined by four of his team mates in this prestigious selection, namely Killian O’Dwyer, Brian McGrath, Robert Byrne and Ger Browne. 

In further great news Jake and Ger Browne were nominated for the Bord Gáis Energy player of the year award. Also in the reckoning are Fintan Burke (Galway), Mark Coleman (Cork). The winner will be announced at an event which takes place at Dublin’s City Hall on Friday, October 19th.

The full team is as follows: Ger Collins (Cork), Killian O’Dwyer (Tipperary), Brian McGrath (Tipperary), Niall O’Leary (Cork), Fintan Burke (Galway), Robert Byrne (Tipperary), Billy Hennessy (Cork), Mark Coleman (Cork), Ger Browne (Tipperary), Robbie O’Flynn (Cork), Rory O’Connor (Wexford), Cianan Fahy (Galway), Jake Morris (Tipperary), Tim O’Mahony (Cork), Seamus Casey (Wexford). 

Camogie News

Minor

Our minor camogs continued their great form this year by qualifying for the county semi-final after defeating Fethard today, 2-5 to 0-6.

Fethard were the better team in the first half leading at half time 0-4 to 0-2 with Nenagh’s points coming from Michelle Barry and Lucy Spain. The game turned when a Fethard player was given a straight red card in an incident which resulted in Katie Morris, who was having an outstanding game, going off injured. Nenagh responded with a goal from Sarah Hallinan and a point from Rachel O Connor. To be fair to Fethard they kept up their pressure game and responded with two points to draw the game going into the final quarter. A goal from senior star Rachel O’Connor and a point from a ’45 from Lucy Spain closed out the game for Nenagh who will have to up their game if they are to progress further in this competition. Fethard can be proud of their efforts in the game.

Team: Niamh Sheridan, Abbie Sheedy, Katie Morris, Ella Carey, Caoimhe Connolly, Megan Grace, Rachel O’Connor, Michelle Barry, Lucy Spain, Meaghan Morris, Ellie Spain, Siobhan Collins, Sarah Hallinan, Ciara Sherlock.

“By Order of the Peaky Blinders”

Fantastic news broke during the week about one of our former players, Daryl McCormack. Daryl was a talented hurler and won numerous titles in the blue jersey. Daryl has since moved on and is making waves in the acting world and this week it was revealed that he had secured a role in the hugely popular show Peaky Blinders where he will act alongside stars such as Cillian Murphy. Congratulations Daryl from everyone in the club.

The senior hurlers gear up for the county final, the under-15s reach the plate final while the Camogie club hosted a massive blitz on Saturday morning. Once again this week’s notes are congested, with news on the Blues

Senior Hurling

Our senior hurlers travel to Semple Stadium on Sunday next to play West side Clonoulty Rossmore in the Tipperary Water county final. The sides last met on August 12th in The Ragg in the group stages of the county senior championship with The Blues fortunate to come away with a two-point victory, 1-20 to 1-18. John Fitzgerald and his men will have it all to do if they are to repeat that feat. This game throws in at 15:30 and we would love to see you all there decked out in your sky blue and navy. 

Training Fund

This year our players and management have been putting in a monumental effort to try and capture the county senior hurling title. Once again, no stone has been left unturned to ensure that our players are prepared as best as they possibly can be however, with such efforts comes serious financial strains and to help ease the burden a Players’ Training Fund has been set up and if you would like to contribute please contact John (087 950 0912) or Enda (086 174 2530)

The senior hurlers advance to the county semi-final, visits from Buff Egan and Seán Kelly to MacDonagh Park, Seán Phelan is honoured in Croke Park and much, much more. Once again this week’s notes are swarming, with news on the Blues……and you can, believe that!!!

 

Seán Phelen Honoured in Croke Park

Congratulations to Seán Phelan who was honoured in Croke Park on Saturday for his exploits with the Tipperary minor hurlers, picking up an Electric Ireland Minor Star award, as he was named at wing-back on the team of the year. Anyone who saw him in the blue & gold in 2018 were not surprised when the news broke last week as he was instrumental in ensuring that Tipperary won the Munster minor championship. Keep up the great work Seán! 

Seniors Advance to County Semi-Final

John Fitzgerald’s senior hurling team advanced to the Tipperary Water semi-final following a 2-17 to 0-18 win over Loughmore Castleiney in Dolla. First-half goals from Philip Hickey and Tommy Heffernan gave the Blues a vital cushion over their opponents and Loughmore, try as the might, were unable to close the gap. The draw for the semi-finals took place afterwards and we now play Thurles Sarsfields in Semple Stadium next Sunday with Toomevara meeting Clonoulty Rossmore, who defeated Kiladangan 1-19 to 1-15, in the other match. The times of both these games have yet to be confirmed. 

County Quarter-Finals in MacDonagh Park

On Saturday afternoon last, two of the Tipperary Water county senior hurling quarter-finals were held in MacDonagh Park with Toomevara overcoming the challenge of Drom & Inch while Thurles Sarsfields snatched a dramatic injury time winning goal to break the hearts of Kilruane MacDonaghs.

Once again our army of volunteers excelled themselves to ensure that the occasion ran smoothly and passed off without any hitch. The club would like to thank everyone that helped out including those who sold lotto tickets, parked cars, looked after the shop and worked in the complex.

In attendance amongst the large crowd were Snapchat sensation Buff Egan, who kept his legion of followers updated on proceedings in the two games, and former Uachtarán Cumann Lúthchleas Gael, Seán Kelly. 

Buff happily stood in for selfies with his many fans on the day, greeted everyone he encountered with a smile and mesmerised the crowd at half-time with a “tantalizing” exhibition of sideline cuts…..and you can believe that! We can’t wait for Buff to visit MacDonagh Park again.

The full-time scores in the two games were:

Kilruane MacDonaghs 1-16 Thurles Sarsfields 2-14

Toomevara 3-15 Drom & Inch 1-20

If you would like to see highlights from these two fantastic matches tune into TG4 on Monday evening at 8pm.

Juvenile News

Camogie News

Under-10

There was great craic (not to mention goodie bags!) to end the year for the under-10 Camogie girls on Thursday evening. Many thanks to all for coming to the training, matches and on road trips throughout the year. The best of luck to those who will move onto under-12, they are well prepared for it. Coaches are hoping to organise a weekly slot at the ball wall in Nenagh College and will be in touch. They would also recommend that all girls consider joining the athletics club for the winter. The track is indoor and it’s a great way to keep the girls active during the cold nights of winter. The parents would like to thank mentors Tom Boland, Barry Grace and David Peters for their hard work, dedication and most of all the love of Camogie that they have instilled in their players this year.

Under-12

Our under- 12s travelled to the Camogie Grounds, The Ragg on Saturday 22nd to face Mullinahone in the league final.

This team have been working hard under the guidance of James O’ Dwyer, Noel Nagle, Martin Kelly and Rose Sheridan and their hard work really paid off on Saturday with a fine win against a fancied Mullinahone side. The final score was 2-0 to 1-2 with the goals coming from Ella O’ Brien and a long range free from centre-back Clodagh Spain. The work rate, hooking and blocking defined the team in this fine win from a dedicated bunch of young ladies. Captain fantastic and full back Samantha Howard was happy to receive the trophy on behalf of her team who celebrated their win as if it was an All-Ireland.

Panel: Isabel O’ Farrell, Faye Sheridan, Samantha Howard, Naoimh Boland, Aishling Colleran, Clodagh Spain (1.0), Laura Nagle, Eimer Brislane, Grace Cleary, Ella O’ Brien (1.0), Anna O Dwyer, Mairead O’ Brien, Cliodhna Morris, Laura Corish, Katie Ryan, Oriana O’ Brien, Elenor Boland, Holly Tucker.

Minors

Our minor team travelled to Carrick on Suir last Saturday week to play the first round of the championship and despite many of the girls taking time off work and parents and management having to make the long trip the game was called off due to the non-appearance of the referee much to the disappointed of the players from both Carrick Swan and Nenagh Éire Óg.

On Sunday, the minors played Moyle Rovers in what was a very disappointing encounter. The Monroe side were put in the unenviable position of being asked to play Nenagh Éire Óg in the under-18 Camogie championship while at the same time playing a ladies under-19 football match with the result that they visited MacDonagh Park with a severely weakened team. Both clubs are doing their best to promote women’s sports and this situation completely defied any sort of logic with the result that we had a game that was of absolutely no use to either side. Those that were able to make the trip to Nenagh are to be commended for their efforts as they battled all the way through and never let their heads drop. One player in particular who caught the attention of the spectators was Rover’s Makayala O’ Donnell who gave an exhibition of goalkeeping, making a number of miraculous saves. There’s no doubt that we will be hearing more about her in the future.

Juvenile Club Clothes Collection

Nenagh Éire Óg Juvenile Club will host a clothes collection on Saturday morning, October 6th.

Unwanted clothes can be dropped to the complex in a black bag between 10am and 11am on the day.

We can accept: Men’s Clothing, Women’s Clothing, Children’s Clothing, Shoes, Handbags, Belts and Household Textiles i.e. Curtains, Towels.

 
Unfortunately we cannot accept: Dirty/Wet Clothing, Mats, Carpets, Duvets/Pillows, Books, Laptops or Mobile Phones.

If you need assistance or have any query, please contact Shane on 087 6373830. 

Handball

Congratulations to Emmet Jones who won the Ballydesmond Invitational under-12 plate on Saturday. Emmet is a great clubman and recently helped out with our flag day and, as well as being an exceptional handballer, is a talented hurler and Gaelic footballer. Keep up the great work, Emmet!

Tipperary

Congratulations to Portroe man Liam Sheedy who was appointed manager of the Tipperary senior hurlers for 2018. In his previous stint in the role, Liam led the county to All-Ireland glory in 2010.

One of Liam’s first matches will be on Saturday, November 3rd in Bishop Quinlan Park, Borrisoleigh as the Premier legends face their old nemesis from Kilkenny in a fundraising event for Amanda Stapleton who was recently diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour. Greats like Eoin Kelly and Henry Shefflin will dust off the helmets and hurleys to tog out and it will be a fantastic opportunity to see real heroes of the past one more time in their county colours.

As well as the match that throws in at 6pm, there will be a 5KM club colours fun run at 11am the same day and it would be fantastic to see lots of Éire Óg tops participate for what is a worthy cause. Already Mark Long can be regularly seen pounding the pavements of Nenagh in preparation for the run in his determination to be the first Éire Óg man across the finish line. 

Tipperary Website

Recently the Tipperary County Board launched their rebranded website http://tipperary.gaa.ie

 The website is a lot more user friendly than its previous incarnation and the results/fixtures section is a dramatic improvement on its predecessor. We would encourage all Nenagh Éire Óg supporters to visit it and familiarise yourself with all it has to offer. 

 

Seán Phelan receives an Electric Ireland Minor Star Award, the senior hurlers prepare for the quarter-final of the championship, Killian Gleeson seeks your help and much, much more. Once again this week’s notes are thronged, with news on the Blues

Congratulations Seán

Everyone in the club was thrilled, but not surprised, when on Wednesday last, news broke that Seán Phelan has been selected on the Electric Ireland 2018 Minor Hurling Team of the Year. Seán, who gave stellar performances all year in the blue and gold, was selected at wing-back and he was joined by James Devaney (Borris-Ileigh) at wing-forward and Conor Whelan (CJ Kickhams Mullinahone) at corner-back. 

The team will celebrate their achievement and receive their awards on Saturday next, September 29th, at a ceremony in Croke Park. We hope Seán and his family have a wonderful day out.

The full team is as follows:

1.Patrick Rabbitte – Galway, (St. Mary’s)

2.Conor Whelan – Tipperary, (CJ Kickhams Mullinahone)

3.Shane Jennings – Galway, (Ballinasloe)

4.Jamie Young – Kilkenny, (O’Loughlin Gaels)

5.Darragh Maher – Kilkenny, (St. Lachtain’s)

6.Seán Neary – Galway, (Castlegar)

7.Seán Phelan – Tipperary, (Nenagh Éire Óg)

8.Conor Kelly – Kilkenny, (O’Loughlin Gaels)

9.Donal Leavy – Dublin, (Naomh Olaf)

10.James Devaney – Tipperary, (Borris-Ileigh)

11.Cathal O’Neill – Limerick, (Crecora-Manister)

12.Ciarán Brennan – Kilkenny, (Bennettsbridge)

13.Luke Swan – Dublin, (Castleknock)

14.Donal O’Shea – Galway, (Salthill/Knocknacarra)

15.Dean Reilly – Galway, (Pádraig Pearses)

Senior Hurling

John Fitzgerald and his management team have been busy preparing the senior hurlers ahead of their Tipperary Water quarter-final clash against either Loughmore Castleiney or Killenaule who meet on Tuesday evening in Borrisoleigh. This game will take place in Dolla on Sunday next at 15:30 and your support would be appreciated by everyone involved.

With two of the quarter-final matches taking place in MacDonagh Park, Nenagh the club are calling on as many members as possible to volunteer on the day to ensure everything runs smoothly. If you would like to help out please be at the club grounds from 13:00pm.

The full quarter-final draw is as follows:

Saturday, 29th September

Toomevara V Drom & Inch

MacDonagh Park, Nenagh at 14:30

Thurles Sarsfields V Kilruane MacDonaghs

MacDonagh Park, Nenagh at 16:00pm

Sunday 30th September

Kiladangan V Clonoulty Rossmore

Dolla, 14:00pm

Nenagh Éire Óg V Loughmore Castleiney or Killenaule

Dolla, 15:30pm

Killian Gleeson Seeks Your Help

Senior hurler, Killian Gleeson, has announced that he is heading to South Africa next Summer to work with a volunteer organisation called GVI in Cape Town on women’s empowerment projects though education and healthcare. 

The majority of people living below the poverty line in South Africa are women. Many girls around the world are still denied a basic education and women continue to dominate the world’s illiterate population.
By supporting women in South African societies and giving them access to equal opportunities such as an education, jobs and healthcare, everyone benefits. Infant mortality rates go down, more children stay in school, incomes increase and the cycle of poverty can be broken. By volunteering on this programme with the GVI group, Killian will be joining a dedicated team of international volunteers assisting on sustainable and invaluable women’s empowerment initiatives.

If you would like to donate to this worthy cause and help Killian help others please click the following link, all support is greatly appreciated: https://www.gofundme.com/gvi-womans-empowerment-in-ghana

Juvenile News

Sympathy

The club like to express its sympathy to the McDonnell family, Gralla, following the recent death of Michael. Michael’s nephew Brian is a member of our senior hurling management team and was the club’s PRO in the past while his other nephew Rory played underage hurling for the club. 

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.

 

The senior camogs exit the championship, we have another All-Ireland winner while a club stalwart breaks numerous ladies’ hearts by tying the knot and much much more. Once again this week’s notes are teeming with news on the Blues

Camogie News

Senior Camogie

Our senior camogie team’s interest in this year’s championship ended in MacDonagh Park on Saturday evening following a 1-11 to 5-16 loss to Clonoulty Rossmore. This year has seen the panel build on the great work of 2017 and beating Borris-Ileigh before losing to Éire Óg Annacarthy and Clonoulty Rossmore in the championship following determined efforts by all the team. The side also reached the league final against Drom & Inch but unfortunately the game was never played. The club wish to thank the entire panel and their management team for all their hard work and we are already looking forward to next year’s competitions.

Under-14

The under-14 side travelled to Fethard on Sunday evening and recorded a great win. Well done ladies. This was the first time we had a full panel all year and the great work is really paying off. 

Under-8

Our under-8s played a County Camogie Blitz in Doctor Morris Park in Thurles on Sunday morning. Nenagh Éire Óg had two teams playing Fethard, Thurles, Borris-Ileigh, Cahir and Slieve Feilim. When all games were complete the girls had an opportunity to meet with Tipperary dual star Orla O’Dwyer. Earlier this summer Orla played two inter-county matches in the one day. The Camogie captain played in a football championship match against Kerry in MacDonagh Park, watched by a number of our young girls and just four hours later played a Camogie championship match in The Ragg against Offaly. She set up our own Grace O’Brien for the winning goal late on in the game. Someone for our girls to aspire to! The morning was rounded off with a presentation of certificates by the county board. Well done to all involved and a very special thank you to Orla for taking the time to meet with all our young players.

All-Ireland Inter-Provincial Champion

Congratulations to Megan Grace who played for the Munster under-17 Camogie side in the inter-provincials in DCU recently, winning an All-Ireland medal. Well done Megan and keep up the great work. 

Working at the car wash (oh oh, yeah yeah)
At the car wash, yeah (ooh, yeah yeah)

The Camogie club will be hosting a car wash fundraiser at Keith Deane’s Car Wash on the Limerick Road on September 30th and the club are looking for the club’s dirtiest cars to get a well deserved and long overdue clean. The wash will cost a very reasonable €10 or €15 for two cars.

Juvenile News

Under 6:

Under 8:

Under 13:

Clothes Collection

Upcoming Club Fixtures

The Hibernian Inn North Tipperary Final

We wish to thank all our volunteers who helped make the staging of this year’s North Tipperary senior hurling final in MacDonagh Park such a huge success. Without their selfless work ethic, these major games could not take place in Nenagh. One particular man went above and beyond the call of duty today and that was Noel Coonan who took care of the dressing rooms, fed the Tulla Pipe Band during the first-half, the VIPs, the referee and his match officials at half-time and cleaned up afterwards. Who says men can’t multitask? Congratulations go to Kilruane MacDonaghs who, for the first time since 1990, claimed their 19th Frank McGrath Cup following a 0-19 to 0-12 win over Kiladangan. Best of luck to both sides in the upcoming county championship.

Wedding Bells

Congratulations to Derek Lillis and Auven Melia who tied the knot over the weekend in a beautiful ceremony. As news of the wedding spread reports of devastated young ladies from around Nenagh and beyond were pouring in but Auven was the lucky girl who ended up capturing this strapping young heartbreaker. The Lillis family regularly put their shoulder to the wheel when there’s work to be done in the club and today was no different with Matt acting as a steward at the North Final. Derek himself arrived to help out while his new bride leapt from the car before it had stopped moving to go and watch her beloved Kilruane MacDonaghs win the title for the first time since 1990. There are many people wondering if her wedding yesterday or Kilruane’s victory today was the highlight of her weekend! Everyone in the club wishes Auven and Derek many years of happiness together. 

Club Flag Day

The club held its annual flag day on Saturday with volunteers kindly giving up their free time to collect vital funds. The club wishes to thank all who helped out on the day, the understanding business owners and all the generous people who kindly donated. Without your help the club would not be in the position it is today. 

Both senior teams were in action this week, while our footballers make a welcome return to championship action while details of a goalkeeping course are revealed and much, much more. Once again this weeks notes are overflowing with news on the Blues

Senior Hurling

Our senior hurlers completed the round robin stage of the county championship on Saturday last with a 2-22 to 1-15 win over South side, Mullinahone. Nenagh were already guaranteed top spot in the group heading into the game and the win keeps the momentum moving forward ahead of next weekend’s Hibernian Inn North Tipperary semi-final replay against Kiladangan. Special mention must go to Niall Madden, Adam Carey, Killian Malone and Adam Healy, all of which made their senior championship debuts for the club. It was a particular satisfying evening for Adam Healy who scored two goals. Well done to all involved.

For a full match report by Jeddy Walsh in The Nationalist please click here.

Junior-A Football

The junior-A footballers play their re-fixed quarter-final clash against Inane Rovers this Friday evening in Borrisoleigh at 7.30pm. Best of luck to all concerned.

Senior Camogie

Our senior camogs travelled to Éire Óg Annacarty on Tuesday evening and despite growing confidence within the squad following their win over Borris-Ileigh last week they came away from the West suffering a two-point defeat, 3-6 to 2-11. The loss now means they must defeat Clonoulty Rossmore to reach the knock-out stages of the county championship. This game takes place on Saturday 15th September in MacDonagh Park, Nenagh at 5pm. 

Respect the Club

Over the decades the GAA has relied on the hard work of volunteers to make it the organisation it is today and no doubt that spirit is going to continue into the future judging by the amazing juveniles we have in the club who readily put their own shoulders to the wheel to ensure that the clubhouse is left just as they found it and they don’t expect someone else to clean up after them. Well done boys and girls. 

Juvenile News

Under-6:  Our under-6 boys hosted Toomevara, Silvermines, Portroe and Burgess on Saturday morning in MacDonagh Park. We had great numbers with all children playing three games. It was a very enjoyable morning and great improvement in the boys is being noted each week. Thanks to our visiting teams and the parents for providing refreshments after the blitz. Training continues this Tuesday at 6pm (this will be the last Tuesday evening training of the year) and Saturday morning at 10am.

Under-8: Under-8 midweek training changes to Wednesday evening only this
week with hurling and Gaelic football alternating every week. Training
continues as normal every Saturday morning.

Under-9 & Under-10:  Our under-9 and under-10 hurlers travelled to Ballinasloe on Saturday morning to play in the host club’s annual tournament. Both teams played four games each with excellent hurling on show from the Nenagh boys! Many thanks to Ballinasloe for their invitation and refreshments
afterwards. Please keep up the excellent attendance at training and be sure to practice at home every day. Training continues on Wednesday evening and Saturday morning.

Under-11: The under-11 plate competitions continue with our group D team hosting Newport on Tuesday at 6.30pm. Both A and D panels will then play Toomevara in Nenagh on Friday evening. First match begins at 6.30pm.

Under-13: The under-13 plate competition starts Wednesday, September 5th when we will play Silvermines in Dolla at 6:30pm.

Under-16: The best of luck to our under-16 A hurlers who take on Roscrea on Monday evening, September 3rd at 6.30pm in the North quarter final. Please make a special effort to travel to support the boys.

Primary Game

Congratulations to Seán McNamara who got to represent Tyrone at half-time of the All-Ireland senior football semi-final in Croke Park recently. Seán is one of our most talented hurlers and footballers and we are confident that this will not be the last time we see him in action in GAA headquarters. 

Camogie News

Under-6 & Under-8: We made the trip to Toomevara Saturday morning for games involving all of our players. We had large numbers involved in both our under-6 and under-8 teams, with 34 girls togging out. Toomevara were gracious hosts providing a wonderful spread for the hungry players and parents alike after all matches were complete. Training for everyone continues on Thursday at 6pm. Well done to all involved and many thanks for the fantastic parental support.

Under-10: We welcomed Burgess to MacDonagh Park on Thursday evening last. It was great to have a big turn out again with 24 girls togging out and they all played their part. Thanks to all parents for providing food for the visitors and especially to Catherine Kennedy for helping out. As schools are back and evenings get busy we will no longer have training on Mondays. Next training Thursday evening at 6pm.

Under-12: The under-12s played Clonoulty Rossmore in their second game of the Autumn League having played Slieve Felim last week. Their next match is away to Cashel Camogie Club on Thursday 30th August at 7pm. Training will continue this Tuesday evening.

Goalkeeper and Coaching Skills Workshop

Any of our goalkeepers or coaches that are interested in improving their knowledge and skills about one of the most important positions on the field please see details of a workshop being hosted by Cahir GAA which features the National Hurling Development Manager, Martin Fogarty.

 

Volunteers Always Required

We here in MacDonagh Park are in the fortunate position of having some of the most dedicated and diligent volunteers in the GAA and their enthusiasm and hardwork ensures that all games in the club run smoothly. If you would like to join this fantastic army of volunteers please contact us on any of our social media channels or get in touch with any committee member. 

Kilkenny Captain with Éire Óg connections

At the Arrabawn tournament last weekend Kilkenny were captained by Seán Maher of the Dicksboro club. Seán’s father Eoin, originally from the Limerick Road in Nenagh, played underage for The Blues while his mother, Sinead O’ Sullivan, is from Gortlandroe. Seán himself is a regular attendee at Nenagh’s matches and is always decked out in his Éire Óg jersey at club and inter-county training. 

Jake Morris and Shane Hennessy capture an All-Ireland under-21 medal, handball heroes return home, the senior camogs defeat Borris-Ileigh and much much more. Once again this week’s notes are bursting at the seams with news on the Blues

Tipperary

Congratulations to Jake Morris, Shane Hennessy and the Tipperary under-21 team who rose from the dead following their Munster final defeat to Cork to win the big one against The Rebels and snatch a dramatic late winning goal through super sub Conor Stakaelum four minutes into injury time in Sunday’s Bord Gais Energy All-Ireland under-21 final in The Gaelic Grounds, Limerick. 

Of course Jake was his usual brilliant self crashing home a first-half penalty to send the Premier on their way and finished the game with 1-4 (3f) to his name. This was a historic final as it is the last ever to be played at under-21 level and with Tipperary winning the very first in 1964 it was appropriate that they won the last on Sunday. From next year onwards it will revert to under-20. Congratulations to all involved, the spirit of Knocknagow is alive and well. 

Handball

On Tuesday evening last The Hibernian Inn was packed to the rafters as family, friends and supporters gathered to welcome home the local handball heroes who captured numerous medals at the World Handball Championships in Minneapolis recently. Present were Brian O’ Brien (Silvermines) who coaches GAA and handball with our juveniles in MacDonagh Park. Also there was Sinead Meagher of Nenagh Handball Club who won a gold and silver medal as well as Rory Grace (Lahorna). Rory’s father Michael was a member of the Nenagh Éire Óg panel that won the Dan Breen Cup in 1995. Tipperary under-21 hurling star Jerome Cahill, who also won in Minneapolis was also there while Brian’s doubles partner John Kennedy unfortunately was unable to attend. We extend our congratulations to participants and winners.

One special man who deserves huge credit is Eamon Spillane who helped revive handball in the club over ten years ago and his coaching efforts are really paying off with all of this success. If you would like to hear an interview with Sinead, Brian, Rory and Eamon with Fran Curry of Tipp FM please click here.

Camogie News

Senior

The senior camogie side opened their championship campaign on Tuesday evening in MacDonagh Park with a 3-15 to 0-12 win over Borris-Ileigh. The team started nervously and within eight minutes Borris-Ileigh had opened a 0-4 to 0-0 lead however the switch of Maeve Coffey out to the half-forward had instant benefits and before long Caroline Browne rattled home two goals. With Nenagh playing clever intelligent hurling they ran out deserved twelve point winners. Maeve herself was rewarded for her efforts with a well-taken goal in the second half. The team travel to Éire Óg Annacarty on Tuesday evening for their next game of the championship.

Under-6 & under-8

Training continues on Thursday evenings for the September from 6pm to 7pm. With a lot of Saturday morning games on the horizon we have a lot of hurling to look forward to. On Saturday, 1st September we travel to Toomevara for a blitz and the following week we have a county under-8 blitz. Mentors will be in touch with parents and guardians with all the details.

Under-12

The under-12 panel played Clonoulty Rossmore in their second game of the Autumn league having played Slieve Felim last week. Their next match is a trip to the West to face Cashel on Thursday August 30th at 7pm. Training will continue this Tuesday evening.

Juvenile News

Under-14

Our under-14 hurlers ended their interest in this year’s championship on Wednesday evening in St. Cronan’s Park when they were beaten by Roscrea, 2-6 to 1-5. The players skillset have improved immensely under the watchful eyes of Con Morris and Greg Browne and there’s no doubt that, with continued hard work, they will be a force to be reckoned with in the near future. The year isn’t over yet however, as there are plate competitions to be played for ensuring that all players have plenty of hurling to look forward to. 

All-Ireland Referee

One man who has made a massive contribution to camogie in the club is Mike Ryan having coached number players over the years. In recent times he has turned to the whistle and over the weekend he had the honour to being the man in the middle for the All-Ireland under-16 final as Galway overcame Cork, 3-14 to 1-7. He was ably assisted by his brother and Éire Óg camogie mentor Martin who umpired along with Christy McLoughlin. Here is Mike and his team of officials with camogie president Kathleen Woods. Well done Mike and keep up the great work. 

1998 Reunion

1998 was a proud year for the club as four Nenagh Éire Óg men were part of the Tipperary team that won the county’s first All-Ireland football title in 75 years as The Premier captured the junior title following a win over Offaly in Portlaoise. Chris Bonar, Jim McAuliffe and captain Kevin Coonan were all part of the panel while Martin Healy was a selector. On Saturday evening the team celebrated the twentieth anniversary of that fantastic success with a reunion in The Hibernian Inn, Nenagh which coincided with the Tipperary Football Committee launching their three-year strategic plan for Gaelic football in the county. Nenagh Éire Óg chairman Enda Costello spoke at the event and said he was looking forward to the club promoting football vigorously into the future. 

Blues Abroad

Commiserations to Kevin Flynn who played in goals for Fr. Tom Burkes against Tipperary in the Boston county final on Sunday but were beaten 3-19 to 0-16. Kevin is pictured here with the referee Philip Kelly of Ballinahinch.

 

An All-Ireland title won, three World Championship medals, a hurler of the ’90s and much much more. Once again this week’s club notes are bulging with news on the Blues

 

Community Games

What a year it has been for this team. Capturing the county and Munster finals before travelling to the University of Limerick on Saturday last to face Connacht champions Clarenbridge and Leinster winners Dicksboro in the All-Ireland finals. 

First up were the Kilkenny men and in a match that belied their tender years both sides produced a game of skill, passion and composure that many senior sides have yet to produce. The Cats managed to open up a six-point lead but credit to our lads, they never panicked and kept tacking over the points before the goals arrived in the second half. In the end Nenagh held out for a dramatic one-point win which was greeted with hugs, cheers and a few fist pumps as the parents and mentors invaded the pitch to congratulate the young men.

They had a three hour wait for their second match against the Galway men and once again this was fine performance from the Blues. Heading into the game they knew a win would secure the title and started tetchy enough but once they opened their shoulders and started to hurl the Connacht side had no answer and for the very first time, the All-Ireland Community Games title was making its way back to Nenagh after a 6-6 to 2-5 win.

Huge credit must go to the team’s mentors who put in countless hours developing the players skills and talents. Seán McTiernan, Willie O’ Brien, Kevin Connolly and Kevin Tucker left no stone unturned when preparing this team. The panel themselves have been a credit to the club, training hard and always turning up with a smile on their faces. It was a particularly sweet win for Kevin Tucker who himself, lost this final back in 1988 when Clarenbridge beat Nenagh by one point. Two players in particular demonstrated the commitment of this group, Valters Janitena and Conor Hodgins, who both cut short family holidays to be there on the day. 

There is an old saying that form is temporary but class is permanent and these lads oozed class when they travelled to visit Tommy Mulcahy, their very first coach at under-6 level to show him their medals. Unfortunately Tommy could not make it to the games but was thrilled with his unexpected visitors. Well done to all involved for such a thoughtful gesture.

 

Hurler of the ’90s

Congratulations to Michael Cleary who was recently named on the GAA hurling team of the 1990s at corner forward, the only Tipperary man bestowed with the honour. This team were honoured today in Croke Park at the All-Ireland hurling final between Galway and Limerick. Michael won an All-Ireland medal in 1991 when he famously put a side spin on the sliothar from a free that ended up in the Kilkenny net for the decisive goal of the game! 

At senior inter-county level Michael won two All-Irelands titles, four Munster titles, two National Hurling Leagues and four All-Star awards. 

The full team is as follows:

1) Damien Fitzhenry (Wexford)
2) Brian Corcoran (Cork)
3) Brian Lohan (Clare)
4) Martin Hanamy (Offaly)
5) Brian Whelahan (Offaly)
6) Seánie McMahon (Clare)
7) Liam Dunne (Wexford)
8) Ciarán Carey (Limerick)
9) Michael Coleman (Galway)
10) Martin Storey (Wexford)
11) Gary Kirby (Limerick)
12) Jamesie O’Connor (Clare)
13) Michael Cleary (Tipperary)
14) DJ Carey (Kilkenny)
15) Johnny Dooley (Offaly)

Handball

It has been an amazing week at the World Handball Championships in Minneapolis, Minnesota with two players winning gold medals. 

Firstly, Sinead Meagher and her partner Catriona Mullane won silver in the one wall under-19 doubles on Wednesday. This was a remarkable result for the ladies as their focus had been on the four wall championship. Then on Sunday, Sinead followed this up by winning gold medal in the under-19 singles. 

Secondly, we congratulate underage mentor Brian O’ Brien (Silvermines Handball Club) on winning the masters doubles with partner John Kennedy of Bawn. Brian is a popular figure among the juveniles and has given countless hours honing their skills.

Every voluntary organisation has members who quietly go about their business, seeking no glory in their efforts to work for the wider good. We here in Nenagh have one such hero, namely Eamon Spillane. There is no question that without Eamon’s hard work, Sinead would not be the athlete she is today. His dedication to her and to the overall promotion of handball in the town deserves huge credit and we would especially like to congratulate Eamon for his huge role in Sinead’s success. 

Tipperary

We extend our best wishes to Shane Hennessy, Jake Morris and the Tipperary under-21 hurling side who will face Cork in the Bord Gáis Energy, All-Ireland final on Sunday evening next in The Gaelic Grounds, Limerick with a 17:30 throw-in time. The lads will be hoping to join Roger Coffey (1979 & 1980), Brian Heffernan (1979, 1980 & 1981), Michael Kennedy (1980), Philip Kennedy (1980 & 1981), PJ Maxwell (1980), Jim O’Sullivan (1981), John Flannery (1985), Declan O’Meara (1995), Kevin Tucker (1995), Robbie Tomlinson (1995), Paddy Murphy (2010), Michael Heffernan (2010) as previous Nenagh Éire Óg All-Ireland under-21 winners. 

It was a disappointing day for the Tipperary adult camogie teams who both fell at the semi-final stage of the Liberty Insurance All-Ireland championships. In the senior game Grace O’ Brien fired over a 29th minute point but unfortunately it wasn’t enough to inspire her side with The Rebels winning out 0-21 to 0-9. In the intermediate semi-final Down sucker punched Tipperary with a late goal to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat 2-8 to 1-13. Hard luck to all involved.

Junior-A Hurling

Commiserations to our junior-A hurlers who were defeated on Saturday evening in the North Tipperary semi-final by Toomevara in MacDonagh Park, 1-18 to 2-8. Toomevara now await the winners of Burgess and Roscrea in the other semi-final. We wish to thank the management and panel of players for all their efforts this year.

Junior-A Football

Our North Tipperary quarter-final against Inane Rovers last Tuesday evening was postponed and as yet, there are no details of the re-fixture. 

Minor Hurling

Our minors defeated Ballina during the week 0-14 to 0-10 however that game was our last of the year and we wish to thank all the management and panel of players for their hard work this year.

Juvenile Club Notes

Senior Camogie

Camogie Semi-Finals

MacDonagh Park hosted two camogie All-Ireland semi-finals on Saturday afternoon with Galway and Cork playing in the Liberty Insurance All-Ireland intermediate semi-final with Cork winning 0-14 to 0-9. In the Liberty Insurance Premier Junior semi-final Kerry defeated Roscommon 1-15 to 1-5. We wish to thank all of our volunteers for kindly giving up their free time to help make the day such a success. 

The Caribbean is Discovered on Top of the World

There are very few of us who haven’t dreamt of simply dropping everything, quitting our job and heading off to explore the world but one Nenagh Éire Óg man, Willie Bolger, did just that a few years ago and has seen more than most of our planet having visited countries including Canada, Australia and Trinidad and Tobago. Affectionately known as “Caribbean Willie”, only this week he achieved one of his lifetime goals by climbing to the base camp of Mount Everest. Fighting heavy fog, steep climbs and altitude sickness the former goalkeeper proudly displayed a Tipperary flag upon reaching his target and thankfully, Mount Everest, came out of its hiding place behind the clouds as he began his hectic decent to make it down in time to watch the All-Ireland senior hurling final between Galway and Limerick. Congratulations Willie on this latest adventure and we can’t wait to see what else you have planned next.

Luimneach Abú

Our senior hurlers will be thrilled with news that Limerick’s famous win today in the All-Ireland final will surely mean that senior coaches John Fitzgerald and Darragh Droog will be in particular good form this week and training should be much easier than normal. We here in the club wish to congratulate the Shannonsiders on capturing the Liam McCarthy Cup and especially we hope that Darragh, John and other Limerick people who make a significant contribution to Nenagh Éire Óg like Tom McAuliffe and Dr.Paul O’ Farrell enjoy the well deserved celebrations. 

The senior hurlers advance in the county championship, the community games panel prepare for the All-Ireland finals while the junior-A footballers begin their championship campaign and much more. Once again this week’s notes are wedged with news on the Blues

Tipperary

Congratulations to Jake Morris, Shane Hennessy and the Tipperary under-21 side who overcame the challenge of Galway in the All-Ireland semi-final on Wednesday last on a 3-17 to 1-17 scoreline. Jake was in fine form knocking over 1-9. Tipperary now have a chance to avenge the Munster final defeat as they face Cork in the All-Ireland decider.

Best of luck also to Grace O’ Brien, Sarah Quigley and the Tipperary senior camogie team who play Cork in the Liberty Insurance All-Ireland semi-final on Saturday evening in Semple Stadium at 19:15. This game will be preceded by the other semi-final involving Kilkenny and Galway (17:30). On the same day in Coralstown, Kinnegad the county intermediate camogs will face Down in the semi-final and we send our best wishes to Hazel McAuliffe, Ruth Hassett, Sarah Quigley and Caroline Browne. 

Race Night

Great racing, music and craic again this year at our annual race day at Tipperary Racecourse. Thanks to all who travelled down, organised busses and shared tips. Well done to Eddie Sheary and the crew for their hard work in organising the day and to Tipperary Racecourse and manager, Andrew Hogan,for their help and support. As ever, the last word of thanks must go to our sponsors. Your generosity is much appreciated. We would remind all of our members to support our sponsors and always ‘Shop Local’.

Senior Hurling

Our senior hurlers recorded a two-point win in the county championship on Sunday in The Ragg over Clonoulty Rossmore on a scoreline of 1-20 to 1-18 and this guarantees our place in the knock-out stages. The Nenagh goal was scored by Philip Hickey after a great pass from Paddy Murphy. Having already beaten Roscrea, our final match will be against Mullinahone and no date for this game has been fixed yet. Well done to all involved. 

For a full match report please click here.

Team – Shane Hennessy, Conor Ryan, Noel Maloney, Conor McCarthy, Daire Quinn, Hugh Maloney, Barry Heffernan, Andrew Coffey (0-2), Killian Gleeson, Philip Hickey (1-0), Michael Heffernan (0-13, 9f), Jake Morris (0-2), Tommy Heffernan (0-1), Paddy Murphy, James Mackey (0-2)

Substitutions – John Brennan for B Heffernan (12 minutes), Mark Flannery for N Maloney (32 minutes)

Junior-A Hurling

The junior-A hurlers face Toomevara on Sunday evening next at 18:30 in Dolla in the North Tipperary semi-final and we wish them the very best of luck. 

Minor Hurling

Our minor hurlers were defeated by Roscrea, 4-20 to 0-15 on Thursday evening last and they now face Ballina in the final game of the round robin series on Thursday next in Portroe at 7pm. Best of luck to all concerned. 

Junior-A Football

Our junior-A footballers open their campaign this Tuesday evening in Roscrea where they face Inane Rovers in the North Tipperary quarter-final. This game throws-in at 7pm and extra time will be played in the event of a draw. Best of luck to all involved. 

Community Games

Best wishes to our community games team to travel to the University of Limerick on Saturday to play Dicksboro (Kilkenny) at 12pm and Clarenbridge (Galway) at 3pm in the All-Ireland finals. All three teams play each other with the top two going forward to the final. 

Camogie

Our under-8 girls travelled in big numbers to the county camogie blitz in Portroe. Three teams took to the field in the Éire Óg colours. Indeed, we were the only team in the county to have three teams taking part. 24 girls were there, all playing three games and some of the girls playing extra games in between the official games against Toomevara, such was their enthusiasm. We played teams from Burgess Duharra, Boherlahan, Portroe, Moneygall, Newport, Kiladangan, Ballina and Shannon Rovers. Our thanks to Portroe and the county board for running the blitz and the young whistlers for officiating at the games. Training continues as usual this week. New players are always welcome to come along and make new friends and learn a new sport.

Fixtures

Under-16 A Hurling

Nenagh Éire Óg V Kilruane MacDonaghs

Monday 13th August 7pm

Venue: MacDonagh Park, Nenagh

Junior-A Football

Nenagh Éire Óg V Inane Rovers

Tuesday 14th August 7pm

Venue: St. Cronan’s Park, Roscrea

Minor A Hurling

Nenagh Éire Óg V Ballina

Thursday 16th August 7pm

Venue: Portroe

Junior-A Hurling

Nenagh Éire Óg V Toomevara

Sunday 19th August 18:30pm

Venue: Dolla

Under-14 A Hurling

Nenagh Éire Óg V Roscrea

Wednesday 22nd August

Venue: St. Cronan’s Park, Roscrea

Handball