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

Sinead Meagher seeks world domination, the seniors capture the county league title while Grace O’ Brien inspires Tipperary to an All-Ireland quarter-final win over Waterford. Once again this week’s notes are crammed with news on the Blues. 

Sinead Meagher

We extend our best wishes to Nenagh Handball Club’s Sinead Meagher and her handball partner Catriona Mullane from Tuamgraney who head Stateside this week to participate in the World Handball Championships in Minnesota. They will compete in the one wall and four wall championships in the under-19 competitions. The girls have been preparing extremely hard for these games under the tutelage of their coach Eamon Spillane. Sinead captured the world under-17 championship back in 2015 and if you’d like to read more about that achievement please click here. 

Race Night in Tipperary Race Course with Little Green Cars

Tickets are now available for our annual race day, on Friday August 10th, which takes place in Tipperary Race Course and features music from the excellent Little Green Cars. 

Last year’s event was a fantastic success with great craic had by all, some money made on the racing and of course dancing long into the evening.

With the amazing Little Green Cars performing on the night there is guaranteed entertainment for the music fans out there while a full race card means a packed day of horse racing for punters. 

If you would like to purchase tickets to this exciting event please click here or contact any committee member.

Tipperary

Congratulations to Sarah Quigley, Grace O’ Brien and the Tipperary senior camogie team on their 1-14 to 1-7 win over Waterford in the Liberty Insurance All-Ireland championship in Páirc Uí Chaoimh. Grace was in scintillating form scoring two first-half points, the first of which was the opening score of the game which helped settle any Premier nerves. She was also very unfortunate to see a bullet of a goal called back by the referee for a free out to Waterford. They now face Cork in the All-Ireland semi-final in Semple Stadium in two weeks time while Galway face Kilkenny on the other side of the draw. For a full match report please click here.

Congratulations must also go to the Tipperary intermediate side who had a comprehensive win over Kildare 7-26 to 2-4 in Hawkfield, Newbridge. This means that, not only have they qualified for the All-Ireland semi-finals, but have also topped their group. Nenagh Éire Óg are represented by Hazel McAuliffe, Caroline Browne, Sarah Quigley and Ruth Hassett. Nenagh Handball Club star and Kiladangan player Sinead Meagher is also a member of this panel. 

We wish Jake Morris, Shane Hennessy and the Tipperary under-21 side the very best of luck in their Bord Gais Energy All-Ireland semi-final clash with Leinster champions Galway in Limerick on Wednesday evening, throw-in 19:30pm. Shane, following his assured performances between the posts for the Nenagh senior hurling team, was recently called into the panel. For those who can’t make it, the game is live on TG4. The winners of this fixture will play Munster champions Cork in the All-Ireland decider. 

Adult Club News

Senior

Congratulations to our senior hurlers who captured the Johnny Ryan Cup following a 1-18 to 0-25 win over Borris-Ileigh in MacDonagh Park last Tuesday evening. With the previous Friday night’s clash against Kiladangan having gone to extra-time, the last thing John Fitzgerald’s men needed was another draw but that is just what they got and in the extra-time periods they showed their metal and fitness to pull away from their opponents and win by four. Congratulations to all involved. For a full match report by Brian McDonnell in the Tipperary Star please click here.

The lads will play Clonoulty Rossmore in the next round of the county championship on Sunday, August 12th, at 15:30pm in The Ragg. This game will be preceded by the clash of Toomevara and Éire Óg Annacarty at 2pm. 

Junior-A Football

Our junior-A footballers have been training away in recent weeks under the watchful eyes of Padraig O Leary, Joe Hanrahan and Niall Cahill as they prepare for their North Tipperary quarter-final clash with Inane Rovers on Tuesday 14th August in Roscrea. If you are interested in joining the panel please contact any of our social media accounts by sending a private message. 

Junior-A Hurling

Our junior-A hurlers finally got to play Knockshegowna in their final round robin match and recorded a 2-17 to 1-14 win which has ensured their passage to the knock out stages of the championship. Well done to all involved. 

Gaelic Sunday

This week the GAA celebrates the 100th anniversary of Gaelic Sunday, a day when the association openly defied the British authorities in Ireland by staging numerous matches across the country without seeking permission through permits. Nenagh took on Ballymackey in Kilruane and the game finished a draw, 3-2 to 2-5. The local RIC sergeant did arrive but was refused entry to the game by a diligent gate checker as he had not paid his entrance fee. Please see the Guardian’s report (10 August 1918) on the day below. 

You can read more about Gaelic Sunday by clicking on the link in the Tweet from @OfficialGAA below.

One Big Gaelic Family

Recently our senior team travelled to Portaferry to participate in a tournament hosted by Ballygalget GAA Club and this week two young Gaels were pleasantly surprised when they received a package with two Éire Óg tops from their guests Michael and Noel. This was a lovely gesture lads and reflects extremely well on our club. Well done. 

Juvenile News

Upcoming Fixtures

Under-14 A Hurling
Ballina V Nenagh Éire Óg
Wednesday, August 8th @ 7pm
Venue: Ballina

Under 12 D Hurling Semi-Final Replay
Nenagh Éire Óg V Toomevara
Thursday, August 8th @ 6.30pm
Venue: Toomevara

Minor hurling championship

Nenagh Éire Óg V Roscrea

Thursday, 7pm

Venue: Toomevara

County Senior Hurling Championship

Nenagh Éire Óg V Clonoulty Rossmore

Sunday, August 12th, 15:30pm.

Venue: The Ragg

Junior-A Football Quarter Final

Nenagh Éire Óg V Inane Rovers

Tuesday 14th August, 19:00pm

Venue: Roscrea

Minor Hurling Championship

Ballina V Nenagh Éire Óg

Thursday 16th August, 19:00pm

Venue TBC

Fantasy Premier League

If you would like to join our club Fantasy Premier League competition for 2018/19 the code is 2008401-462765. Everyone is welcome to join and there are no prizes, it is purely for fun.