Scór na nÓg Leinster Final
The Leinster final of Scór na nÓg will be held in Ballymore community hall on Sunday January 11th at 3pm. Ballycomoyle are represented by Cian Farrelly, Hilary Gaffney and John Coyle in the instrumental group category. The event is all-ticket and anyone wishing to attend should contact Catherine Daly (087) 9185962  to book their tickets as soon as possible

Dinner Dance
As I have mentioned before our Dinner Dance will be held on Friday January 30th in The Bloomfield House hotel. Tickets are now available so get a hold of yours early to beat the rush. The night will take the same format as last year with presentations on this occasion to our Scór competitors who won County medals during the past year. A number of other  club awards will also be presented on the night.

Texas Hold’em
Ballycomoyle invite all poker fans to the Hotel Castlepollard on Tuesday 30th of December for an evening of Texas Hold’em. The event is being organised  to raise funds for the club going into the new season. Your support would be greatly appreciated. Further details available from Marius on 087 2709639 or Seamus on 087 6855808

Nollaig Shona
Ballycomoyle GAA Club wishes a happy and Holy Christmas and a healthy new year to all our members and supporters. We would like to thank everybody who helped in any way to make 2008 such a great year for the club and we look forward to seeing you all in 2009. 

Monday December 15th 2008

Christmas Lotto
Our monster Christmas lotto draw with a jackpot of €8,600 and loads of bonus prizes will be held in the Seven Wonders Bar, Fore on Friday night next, 19th December. Make sure you have your tickets and why not come along to Ita’s on the night for a great evening’s fun.

Texas Hold’em
Ballycomoyle invite all poker fans to the Hotel Castlepollard on Tuesday 30th of December for an evening of Texas Hold’em. The event is being organised  to raise funds for the club going into the new season. Your support would be greatly appreciated. Further details available from Marius on 087 2709639 or Seamus on 087 6855808

Men’s junior management change.
A well attended meeting of players from the men’s junior panel and representatives from the club executive took place on Friday Dec.12th. This meeting was held to discuss a strategy for the coming season. The outcome of the deliberations are that a new management team consisting of John Smyth, Pauric Cullen and Martin Murphy are to take charge of the men’s team for the coming year. We wish them the best of luck. We would also like to pay tribute to the outgoing manager Pat Shryane and his selectors, Paul McCrossan, Ray Farrelly and Seamus Fay.

Monday December 8th 2008

Lotto
We held our fortnightly Lotto draw in the Town & Country, Castlepollard on Tuesday December 2nd. The jackpot stood at €8,400 and wasn’t won on the night. The €30 consolation prize winners were Johnny Coleman, Michael Lynch, John Carter, Damien Peppard and Jeffrey Nea. The next draw with a jackpot of €8,600 will be our Monster Christmas Draw. It will be held in the Seven Wonders Bar, Fore on Friday 19th December with loads of prizes. Make sure you have your tickets and why not come along to Ita’s on the night.

Scór na nÓg
Saturday evening last Dec 6th saw a great evening’s entertainment in the Downs GAA hall where the Leinster semi-final of Scór na nÓg was held. Ballycomoyle were represented in the quiz by Killian Daly, Peter McKenna and Andrew Leahy. We were represented in the instrumental group category by Hilary Gaffney, Cian Farrelly and John Coyle. On the evening our Instrumental group got the approval of the judges and now go forward to the Leinster final in Ballymore Hall on Sunday evening January 11th. Unfortunately our quiz team were pipped at the post and didn’t make it through.
Congratulations to all six for flying the Bal’ colours into Leinster on behalf of us all. We are very proud of you. To Andrew, Peter and Killian who we know are disappointed remember that winning wouldn’t be such fun if losing wasn’t so heart breaking. You are still the County champions lads and we have no doubt that you will be back next year to reach even further heights.

Sympathy
Ballycomoyle GAA Club would like to extend it’s sympathy to the family of Bridget Daly of Ballycomoyle who died during the week.

Players meeting
All players from the men’s junior team are invited to attend a player’s meeting in Fore School on Friday Dec 12th at 8pm. This meting is to discuss a strategy for the coming season and we hope as many as possible will attend and have their voices heard.

Ballycomoyle Ladies Poker Classic.
Ita Halpin and friends of the Seven Wonders bar, Fore are holding a poker classic this coming Friday night Dec. 12th in aid of Ballycomoyle Ladies football. If you want to take part tickets are available from Ita, Gerry Doyle or Dermot McKenna. If you don’t play poker but want to come along for a great night’s fun you will always  be welcome in Fore. Food will be served on the night.

Monday December 1st 2008

Apologies
The Ballycomoyle notes for last week got lost somewhere in cyberspace and didn’t arrive at the newspapers. But it’s an ill wind as they say and it means that I have very little work to do in adapting them for this week.

Scór na nÓg
The County Final of Scór na nÓg took place in Ballymore on Sunday afternoon  November 23rd. Ballycomoyle were well represented in the final having come through the first round and semi-final in three categories as follows. Instrumental group: John Coyle, Cian Farrelly and Hilary Gaffney. Two quiz teams: 1. Killian Daly, Andrew Leahy and Peter McKenna. 2. Cian Farrelly, Mairéad O’Rourke and John Coyle. Novelty Act: Killian Daly, Kelly Coyle, Saoirse Farrelly, Peter McKenna, Katie Egan, Cliodhna Daly, Ciara Walsh and Caoimhe McCrossan. All our county finalists gave their all in Ballymore as they had in the previous two rounds. On the night we emerged victorious in two categories. Firstly of our two quiz teams the three junior members (Killian Daly, Peter McKenna and Andrew Leahy) were declared to be our first County Champions in Scór na nÓg. When the results of the remaining categories were announced later in the evening our instrumental group consisting of Cian Farrelly Hilary Gaffney and John Coyle were declared County Champions.
The Leinster semi-final with these two teams takes place in the Downs GAA Hall on Saturday December 6th at 4pm. Note that the event has been moved to the earlier time of 4pm from 6pm as advertised elsewhere. Great credit must go to all our competitors but two in particular deserve special mention. Caoimhe McCrossan who had her appendix removed earlier in the week and fought through the pain to appear in the Novelty Act. Peter McKenna who got a half dozen stitches in his knee on the day before the final yet still hobbled onto the stage in his two categories of quiz and novelty act. A particular thank you must be said to Marie Egan who worked hard during the week learning lines in case she was needed to replace Caoimhe McCrossan whose participation was in doubt for a few days. Thanks Marie.

Once again we have to mention Doreen Farrelly and Catherine Daly who have given a lot of their time to get these competitors to this stage in the competition.  They can both feel proud of their contribution to Ballycomoyle club history. Four short years ago we took part in Scór for the first time. Between them in those four years they have built our profile at county level and now our reputation goes further afield into Leinster. They have given the club a whole new dimension and we all appreciate it.  

Lotto
We held our fortnightly Lotto draw in the Abbey House, Fore on Tuesday November 18th. The jackpot stood at €8,200 and wasn’t won on the night. The €30 consolation prize winners were Ted Fagan, Emma Walsh, John Lynch, Malachy Gibney and Deirdre Cogan. The next draw with a jackpot of €8,400 will be held in the Town & Country, Castlepollard on Tuesday December 2nd. Tickets available from your usual supplier.

Get well wishes.
We would like to wish a speedy recovery to Caoimhe McCrossan, Nikki Fox and Peter McKenna all of whom had hospital visits in the past week. Two of them Caoimhe McCrossan and Peter McKenna braved it on to the stage at the weekend to represent Ballycomoyle in Scór na nÓg. With this level of commitment at underage level we can rest assured that the future of Ballycomoyle is in safe hands.

Sympathy
The Ballycomoyle club would like to add it’s voice to that of the entire community in sympathising with the husband and four children of Caroline Cox who died in such tragic circumstances on Tuesday morning November 25th. We pray that Seán, Shauna, Courtney and J.J. make a full and speedy recovery from their injuries and with their father somehow find the strength to begin to cope with their loss.

Contact Details.
If you have anything you would like to include in our weekly notes you can contact me as follows. E-mail seamuscoyle@yahoo.com. Phone or text (087)6855808.  Remember that these notes and all our club notes for the last number of years can be read on our website www.ballycomoyle.com

Monday November 24th 2008

Scór na nÓg
The County Final of Scór na nÓg took place in Ballymore on Sunday afternoon last November 23rd. Ballycomoyle were well represented in the final having come through the first round and semi-final in three categories as follows. Instrumental group: John Coyle, Cian Farrelly and Hilary Gaffney. Two quiz teams: 1. Killian Daly, Andrew Leahy and Peter McKenna. 2. Cian Farrelly, Mairéad O’Rourke and John Coyle.  Novelty Act: Killian Daly, Kelly Coyle, Saoirse Farrelly, Peter McKenna, Katie Egan, Cliodhna Daly, Ciara Walsh and Caoimhe McCrossan. All our county finalists gave their all in Ballymore as they had in the previous two rounds. On the night we emerged victorious in two categories. Firstly of our two quiz teams the three junior members (Killian Daly, Peter McKenna and Andrew Leahy) were declared to be our first County Champions in Scór na nÓg. When the results of the remaining categories were announced later in the evening our instrumental group consisting of Cian Farrelly Hilary Gaffney and John Coyle were declared County Champions.
The Leinster semi-final with these two teams takes place in the Downs GAA Hall on Saturday December 6th at 6pm. Great credit must go to all our competitors but two in particular deserve special mention. Caoimhe McCrossan who had her appendix removed earlier in the week and fought through the pain to appear in the Novelty Act. Peter McKenna who got a half dozen stitches in his knee on the day before the final yet still hobbled onto the stage in his two categories of quiz and novelty act. A particular thank you must be said to Marie Egan who worked hard during the week learning lines in case she was needed to replace Caoimhe McCrossan whose participation was in doubt for a few days. Thanks Marie.

Once again we have to mention Doreen Farrelly and Catherine Daly who have given a lot of their time to get these competitors to this stage in the competition.  They can both feel proud of their contribution to Ballycomoyle club history. Four short years ago we took part in Scór for the first time. Between them in those four years they have built our profile at county level and now our reputation goes further afield into Leinster. They have given the club a whole new dimension and we all appreciate it.  

Lotto
We held our fortnightly Lotto draw in the Abbey House, Fore on Tuesday November 18th. The jackpot stood at €8,200 and wasn’t won on the night. The €30 consolation prize winners were Ted Fagan, Emma Walsh, John Lynch, Malachy Gibney and Deirdre Cogan. The next draw with a jackpot of €8,400 will be held in the Town & Country, Castlepollard on Tuesday December 2nd. Tickets available from your usual supplier.

Get well wishes.
We would like to wish a speedy recovery to Caoimhe McCrossan, Nikki Fox and Peter McKenna all of whom had hospital visits in the past week. Two of them Caoimhe McCrossan and Peter McKenna braved it on to the stage at the weekend to represent Ballycomoyle in Scór na nÓg. With this level of commitment at underage level we can rest assured that the future of Ballycomoyle is in safe hands.

Contact Details.
If you have anything you would like to include in our weekly notes you can contact me as follows. E-mail seamuscoyle@yahoo.com. Phone or text (087)6855808.  Remember that these notes and all our club notes for the last number of years can be read on our website www.ballycomoyle.com

Monday November 17th 2008

Scór na nÓg
The County semi-final of Scór na nÓg took place in The Downs GAA hall on Saturday night November 15th. Ballycomoyle were represented in 5 categories: Figure Dancing, 2 teams in the Instrumental music, 2 teams in the Ballad group, 2 quiz teams, Novelty act and Set dancing. We qualified for the County final in four categories. Instrumental music (John Coyle, Hillary Gaffney and Cian Farrelly), both quiz teams (Ballycomoyle GFC: John Coyle, Mairéad O’Rourke and Cian Farrelly. Ballycomoyle Ladies: Killian Daly, Peter McKenna and Andrew Leahy) and our Novelty act (Killian Daly, Kelly Coyle, Saoirse Farrelly, Peter McKenna, Katie Egan, Cliodhna Daly, Ciara Walsh, Caoimhe McCrossan). The County final takes place next Sunday the 23rd of November in Ballymore hall at 3pm. All support will be greatly appreciated. Congratulations to all our competitors both those who got through and those who didn’t make it on this occasion. While we will always have disappointing results in some categories it is important to remember that this is only our fourth year taking part in Scór and overall we have gone from strength to strength. This year a total of 27 young people represented our club with a record number getting through the qualifying stages to compete in the County Final.  Thank you to Doreen Farrelly, Catherine Daly and Gráinne Healy for their tireless work in preparing all our teams, to Ms Fanning and the Board of management for the use of   St. Feichin’s National School for practise, and to all the parents for their help and support at the various stages so far.

Men’s Junior Cup Semi-final.
Sunday morning of November 14th saw the Junior Cup semi-final taking place in Clonmellon against old rivals St. Pauls. Ballycomoyle while playing relatively well conceded a number of scores in the first half which eventually dictated the result. For long stretches of the game we put some good passing movements together only to be denied the reward when we got close to goal. On the whole our lads never gave up although beaten by a better team on the day. A number of late scores and some very encouraging individual performances from the younger players coming through proved that there could be a Ballycomoyle Junior Championship win on the horizon.

Team: Marius Reilly, Brendan Halpin, James McHugh, Maurice Gavigan, Brian Caffrey, Paul Dermody, Joey Williams, Roanie Fagan, Billy Ryan, Jamie Ward, Tossy Brady, Kevin Gavigan, Ian Kennedy, Colin McCormack, Seamus Farrelly. Subs used: Paddy Smith, Barry Smith, Noel Morgan Ray Farrelly.

Congratulations
Congratulations on their recent engagement to James McHugh and Sheila O’Reilly. Both are Bal’ players and very valued members of the club.

Winter Activities
Both our Men’s and Ladies junior panels have organised some indoor winter training in preparation for next year and to fill the void in their lives left after the season finished. Details can be had from Ray 087 2264205 for the men’s and Marius 087 2709639 for the ladies.

Dinner Dance
After the success of our dinner dance held last January we are now embarking on preparations for next year. It will be held on Friday January 30th in The Bloomfield Hotel. Book your babysitters early as there will be considerable demand for them on the night. 

Contact Details.
If you have anything you would like to include in our weekly notes you can contact me as follows. E-mail seamuscoyle@yahoo.com. Phone (087)6855808 and remember that these notes and all our club notes for the last number of years can be read on our website www.ballycomoyle.com

Monday November 10th 2008

Scór na nÓg
Ballycomoyle came of age in Scór na nÓg  over the past weekend. We hosted one of the first round events in Coole Hall on Friday night and our own team representing Ballycomoyle Ladies qualified for the County semi-finals in six categories as follows.

Figure Dancing: Alice Murphy, Yesim Fitzpatrick, Bibi O’Reilly, Katie Egan, Shauna Coughlan, Amy McNicholas, Saoirse Farrelly, Laura Coyle.  Instrumental Music: Kelly Coyle, Ciara Walsh, Alice Murphy, Amy McNicholas.

Ballad Group: Cliodhna Daly, Marie Egan, Saoirse Farrelly, Amy McNicholas, Shauna Coughlan.

Question Time: Peter McKenna, Andrew Leahy, Killian Daly.

Novelty Act: Kelly Coyle, Peter McKenna, Katie Egan, Ciara Walsh, Killian Daly, Caoimhe McCrossan, Cliodhna Daly, Saoirse Farrelly. 

Set Dancing: Cliodhna Daly, Katie Egan, Yesim Fitzpatrick, Shauna Coughlan, Bibi O’Reilly, Amy McNicholas, Saoirse Farrelly, Marie Egan,

Despite great individual performances from Yesim Fitzpatrick in the solo-singing and Ciara Walsh in the recitation neither got through on the night.

On Saturday night in Rochfortbridge our team representing Ballycomoyle GFC qualified for the County semi-finals in the following three categories.

Instrumental Music: John Coyle, Cian Farrelly, and Hillary Gaffney

Ballad Group: John Coyle, Jane Coyle,  Alisha Fitzpatrick, Jenny O’Rourke, Mairead O’Rourke

Question Time: John Coyle, Mairead O’Rourke and Cian Farrelly.

Our solo singer Mairead O’Rourke and our Novelty Act with Mairead and Jenny O’Rourke, Max Charles, Michael McKenna, Kerry Lambert, Cealon McLaverty, Reuben Byrnes and John Coyle unfortunately were not selected by the judges on this occasion.

The Club would like to thank Doreen Farrelly Catherine Daly and Gráinne Healy for their work in preparing all our participants. Congratulations on their efforts to all our entrants both those who qualified and those who didn’t. You all did us proud.

Thanks also to the people involved with Coole Hall for the use of their facilities, to the Fás team for preparing the hall, to our own stewards, caterers and carpark men for a great job on the night and last but not least to our Fear an Ti  Seamus McDermott for conducting  the event in his usual professional manner.

Lotto
We held our fortnightly Lotto draw in Farrelly’s Bar, Castlepollard on Tuesday November 4th. The jackpot stood at €8,000 and wasn’t won on the night. The €30 consolation prize winners were Declan Butler, Joe Nea, Pat Hughes, Liam McKenna and Brendan O’Neill. The next draw with a jackpot of €8,200 will be held in the Abbey House, Fore on Tuesday November 18th. Tickets available from your usual supplier.

Annual Underage Trip
On the Monday of the October Bank Holiday weekend close to 120 people left Castlepollard on our annual underage trip. This year our first stop was Navan swimming pool where we had the entire pool and facilities hired for the hour of our stay. We travelled from here to the Halloween experience at Causey near Athboy. Here everybody enjoyed a picnic before being treated to a host of Halloween related activities for over 2 hours. The buses returned to Castlepollard with all the occupants tired and spooked after the day.

St. Michael’s Under 14s Trip to Manchester.
On Friday October 31st the Under 14 St. Michael’s panel with Mentors and parents left Castlepollard by bus at an ungodly hour to catch the ferry to Holyhead and travel onwards to Manchester. The trip was at the invitation of the Manchester based Naomh Oisins GAA Club who visited Ballycomoyle pitch in the Summer of 2007 to play a couple of games against Ballycomoyle and CFCW at underage level. The trip which was organised by Dermot McKenna and Ned Flynn was a huge success and the itinerary was loosely as follows. Friday Castlepollard to Manchester (with a couple of comfort stops enroute) arriving at our hotel at about 4pm. Friday evening we visited  Stockport Aquatic centre for a couple of hours in the pool and on the water slides in the mistaken belief that it would tire the lads out. Never going to happen. On Saturday we divided our panel of 31 into two teams and played a couple of games against selections from our hosts and a number of other Gaelic football teams in the Lancashire area. In the evening we went to The Trafford Centre with a choice of shopping or Cinema at our disposal. On Sunday we headed home arriving in Castlepollard at about 7.30pm.

AGM.
Our AGM took place on Sunday November 9th in the parish hall, Church St. Castlepollard. The meeting was well attended and lively. The executive for the coming year are as follows. Chairman: Ray Farrelly. Secretary: Helen Coyle. Treasurer: Anne Dermody. Vice Chairman: Gerry Farrelly. Assistant Secretary: Ciarán Ring PRO: Seamus Coyle. Underage Secretary: Dermot McKenna. Club Registrar: Niall McKenna. Ladies Chairperson: Claire Coyle. Ladies Secretary: Libby Hannon. Youth Officer: Doreen Farrelly. Development Officers: Johnny Corrigan, Michael McCormack, Seamus Leahy, Larry Masterson, Ray Farrelly. Schools Co-ordinator: Bernie Leahy. Culture & Language Officers: Catherine Daly and Doreen Farrelly. Players Representatives: Mens: James McHugh. Ladies: Clodagh O’Neill. Health & Safety Officer and Alcohol & Substance abuse officer: David O’Rourke. Delegates to County Board: Mens: Gerry Farrelly, Ciarán Ring, Paul McCrossan. Ladies: Marius Reilly, Claire Coyle, Celeste Dermody, Sinead Gallagher and Louise Farrelly. To our outgoing Chairman, Seamus McDermott and Secretary, Doreen Farrelly we owe a great vote of thanks. You both did tremendous work in the club during your respective tenures. We all hope that your work with Ballycomoyle will continue well into the future.

Monday November 2nd 2008

BUSY BUSY WEEKEND AHEAD
Just when we thought that the football season was at an end, suddenly we have one of the busiest weekends that we have had for a long time. The weekend kicks of in Coole Hall on Friday night, where at 7pm(sharp), Ballycomoyle Football Club are hosting one of the first rounds of Scór na nÓg 2008, where our group representing Ballycomoyle Ladies, will take to the stage. On Saturday night it will be the turn of our group representing Ballycomoyle GFC to take to the stage in Rochfortbridge, again at 7pm. Finally on Sunday 9th November we are holding our A.G.M. in The Parish Centre, Church Street, Castlepollard at 3pm-sharp.

SCÓR na nÓG
As mentioned above we are hosting one of the first rounds of this competition again this year and we have a change of venue in Coole Hall and currently we are re-cruiting more stewards and attendants and if you would like to volunteer any assistance please contact our Club Secretary @087-9268049. On Friday night representing Ballycomoyle Ladies are as follows; Figure Dancing-Saoirse Farrelly,Laura Coyle, Amy Mc Niochlas,Shauna Cloughan,Katie Egan,Bibi O' Reilly,Yesim Fitzpatrick, Alice Murphy, Sub; Marie Egan. Solo Singing-Yesim Fitzpatrick. Instrumental Music-Alice Murphy, Ciara Walsh, Amy Mc Niochlas, Saoirse Farrelly, Kelly Coyle. Recitation-Ciara Walsh. Question Time- Peter Mc Kenna, Killian Daly, Andrew Leahy. Novelty Act-Caoimhe Mc Crossan,Kelly Coyle, Killian Daly, Saoirse Farrelly,Ciara Walsh, Katie Egan, Peter Mc Kenna. Ballad Group- Clionadh Daly, Amy Mc Nicholas, Saoirse Farrelly, Marie Egan, Shauna Cloughan. Set Dancing-Amy Mc Niochlas,Marie Egan, Katie Egan,Bibi O'Reilly,Laura Coyle, Shauna Cloughan,Clionadh Daly,Yesim Fitzpatrick, Sub; Saoirse Farrelly. On Saturday night Ballycomoyle GFC will be represented by the following in Rochfordbridge: Solo Singing-Mairead O' Rourke. Instrumental Music-John Coyle, Hillary Gaffney, Cián Farrelly. Question Time- Cián Farrelly, John Coyle, Mairead O'Rourke. Novelty Act-Kerry Lambert, Ruben Burns,Caoileann Mc Laverty, Michael Mc Kenna,Cián Farrelly,Jenny O’Rourke, John Coyle. Ballad Group-Alisha Fitzpatrick, Jane Coyle, Jenny O’Rourke, John Coyle, Mairead O'Rourke. As everybody can see we have almost thirty young people competing this weekend and we would like to wish each and every one of them the very best of luck in their respective categories. We would also like to thank our Scór Secretaries Doreen Farrelly and Catherine Daly for their time, dedication and effort over the past number of weeks in preparing these young people for this weekend. We hope that we will have huge support, both on Friday and Saturday night and as stated last year, a brilliant night's entertainment is in store for those that are fortunate enough to make either venue.

A.G.M.
One would have to wonder at how time has passed so quickly since we held our last A.G.M. just twelve months ago and on Sunday next we again hold one of the most important meetings of the year. The A.G.M.(as described in the Club Manual) gives everyone the opportunity to evaluate our Club position and puts in place structures and plans for the challenging year ahead. We are inviting as many people as possible to please attend this meeting and help where possible to improve our small rural club for the future, we would like to encourage as many senior players (mens and ladies) and parents of our underage section to attend. There are a number of very important positions within the Committee vacated this year and we wish the new Committee the best of luck for the year ahead. See you all in The Parish Centre at 3pm on Sunday.

STEAK FESTIVAL
The entire Ballycomoyle Football Club would like to thank Ita Halpin of "The Seven Wonders Bar", Fore for her very generous donation which she gave to our Club, following the fundraiser/steak festival which Ita hosted recently. The fundraiser was run by Ita on behalf of Ballycomoyle and Fore N.S. was a huge success and was very financially rewarding to both. Thanks again Ita.

SNIPPETS
Who should I start with...word has it that the "wrapping" season went on longer this year than usual with a jeep and car being the items to be wrapped this year.....the terrible twins and co. are reported to be at the back of this....one of the said twins needs to go back for driving lessons following his unusual approach to a Yield sign recently.....report has it that bigger karts will be needed in Pollard.....

P.R.O.
As the current year comes to an end, so does my reign as P.R.O. and after five very enjoyable years at the notes this pen has run dry and I personally would like to wish the new P.R.O. the best of luck for the coming years. I hope that everybody got as much enjoyment out of reading these notes as I had writing them but unfortunately due to work commitments, I have no option except to take a break for a while anyway. See you at A.G.M.....Thanks..Ray.

Monday October 6th 2008

LADIES JUNIOR SHIELD FINAL
Our Junior Ladies are really up against it on Sunday next, 12th October, when they take on old rivals Loughnavalley in the Junior Ladies Shield Final. Our Ladies have played Loughnavalley on a number of occasions already this year and they have had several tough battles and victory has gone "to and fro". Therefore this game is set to go down to the wire and for anyone that is intending to travel, we can assure you that the game will not be lacking in excitement or commitment. We must congratulate Marius and the girls for their great efforts all year and we hope that they will be justly rewarded on Sunday. At time of going to press we had not a venue confirmed but for more information please contact either Marius @ 087-2709639 or Libby@ 087-7791163. The entire Ballycomoyle Football Club would like to wish our Ladies, the very best of luck on Sunday and we hope that they will return the Shield back "Home".

BIT'S "n" BOB'S
Preparations for Scór na nÓg are now in full swing and first round competitions will be announced shortly. Please note that our A.G.M. will be coming up in early November and we request a huge turnout for this very important meeting. Date, time and venue will be announced next week. Our Lotto still runs on a fortnightly basis and remember "if you're not in you can't win".

SNIPPETS
Rumour has it that Noel S and Jimmy R are getting in to horse's in a big way with the purchase another fine mare recently.....Joe and Anna G were seen in an electrical store recently and word has it that Joe brought a trailer with him........Ringo and Aishling B are reported to have got quite close recently...bump...!!!...Louise F celebrates her birthday on Sunday next....a win in the final would be a nice pressie......Hazel W will be hoping that the final does not end up in a draw as she will be celebrating her birthday in Greece next week......

Monday September 30th 2008

"WINNER TAKES IT ALL"
With the soundtrack of the recent hit musical "Mama Mia" still ringing in our ears, it is no surprise that eventually our No. 1 jackpot of E 10,000 was claimed last week and the claimant was none other than our own very popular club-man Mr. Seamus Leahy. This E 10,000 jackpot has eluded everyone for months and months at this stage, but on Tuesday night last 23rd September in "The Lough Lene Inn" Collinstown, the four lucky numbers of  7, 16, 17 and 25 were drawn and when all tickets were checked, Seamus Leahy was the sole winner. We would like to congratulate Seamus on his good fortune and already we hear that Bernie has a sun break up her sleeve. Seamus is a very deserving winner as he has put in tremendous work for us in Ballycomoyle, both on and of the field during the past 20+ years. Well done Seamus. Our second draw on the night was for E 7,400 and the numbers drawn were -3, 5, 11 and 12 and there was no winner. Our next lotto draw will be in "The Anchor Bar", Castlepollard on Tuesday night 7th October and our jackpot now stands at E 7,400. As always your support is greatly appreciated and remember "if you're not in, you can’t win", tickets are available locally.

CONGRATULATIONS
Congratulations this week are extended to Mike and Helen Ginnell, Ballymanus, on the birth of their first child, a baby boy, Sean. We wish them all the best for the future and we have no doubt, but that Sean will fly "The Bal" colours in years to come and he may even try a spot of "tug-o-war".

BIT'S "n" BOBS
Well done to everyone involved in the final night of training for our underage recently. The huge crowd that assembled were treated to a bar-b-que with burgers and hot dogs available and also teas and sandwiches. Well done again. We are still awaiting details from the U 14 and U 16 girls finals and we will fill you in on the details in due course. Our Junior Ladies enjoyed a good win over Mountnugent in a challenge match last weekend and we welcome Carmel Reynolds back onto the field of play following an injury but she managed to play for the full match last week. The Ladies are now preparing for the Final of the Shield which takes place on Sunday 12th October and a time or venue has not been decided for this fixture. Our Junior Men are also preparing for their Junior Cup semi-final vs. St. Paul's and this game is due shortly, more details next week regarding all these fixtures.

SNIPPETS
Jimmy R is turning very much towards the environment recently as he was seen on the push-bike in the locality......good man Jimmy keep an eye on the carbon emissions.....word has it that Crock was unable to complete his run in Mullaghmeen Forestry recently, citing calf muscle problems.....I myself will have to bring him to show him how it is done....!!!!!.....Figgy has now got the car and all that he is missing now is the front seat passenger.......!!!!!!.....nice wheels Figgy

Monday September 15th 2008

PÁDRAIG MAC AN MHAISTIR.(1968-2008)

Is le croí trom a chaithfidh mé a chur i ndúl daoibh go bhfuair Pádraig Mac an Mhaistir, cara dhílis do cumann Peil Baile Uí Chumaoil, bás. Cailleadh Padraig i dtimpiste tubaisteach, go moch maidin Luan seo caite, gar do Abbeylara agus é ar a bhealach abhaile i ndiadh óiche oibre. Dúinn a raibh an t-ádh againn aithne a bheith againn air, ní dheanfaimid dearmad go deo ar an bhfear iontach seo agus an grá a bhí aige do gach rud Gaelach.

It is with a very heavy heart that this week, I have to try and report to you, of the passing of a very loyal and true friend of Ballycomoyle G.F.C., Padraig Mac an Mhaistir (Paddy Masterson). We lost Paddy in a tragic accident in the early hours of Monday morning last, close to Abbeylara where he was on his way home from his nights work. Paddy was, and forever will be, a legend and for those of us that had the pleasure of knowing him and his love for everything Irish, he will never be forgotten. Paddy played his underage hurling with Castlepollard and it was through this that I myself, first met with him. We happened to be on opposite teams and we got quite "close" to one another at one stage during the match and we often re-lived this encounter in recent times. We here in Ballycomoyle had the pleasure of having him on our Junior team for a number of years but unfortunately due to a knee injury, he was forced to retire at a young age. He had shown huge potential as a defender and often made life difficult for any forward that he was marking. Paddy also was a very talented singer and an accomplished Bodhrán player and he really enjoyed the odd "seisún" at various times throughout the year. Paddy or "Pa Ma" as he was affectionately known truly reflected a true Irish person, his welcome, his laughter and sense of humour, his willingness to help others out and his love of life were all attributes  of a wonderful person.  Paddy is survived by his heartbroken wife Siobhán, children Heather and Eleanor his mother Ena, sisters Christine, Kathleen, Mary and Aileen, his very good friend Paddy Smyth (Buggy), brothers in-law, uncles, aunts, relatives and a huge circle of friends. The entire Ballycomoyle Football Club would like to extend its deepest sympathies to all that are grieving the huge loss of this great man, whose life was so cruelly cut short when he was only in his prime. Ar Dheis Dé go raibh a hAnam Dilís.

MENS JUNIOR TEAM
Our Championship hopes were well and truly put to rest by yet another 2nd team from a Senior Club, Bunbrosna in Kinnegad on Tuesday 26 August last. This was a crucial game for us and indeed the pressure showed a few flaws in our system and the lively Bunbrosna side took full advantage. We must congratulate our lads for the effort that they put in throughout the year and remind them that we are still in the semi-final of the Junior Cup. We were scheduled to play St. Paul’s in the final game of the Championship recently, but due to various reasons we had no other option but to give them the two points.

CONGRATULATIONS
Congratulations to our Club Secretary Doreen Farrelly who celebrated the 19th anniversary of her 21st recently with a surprise party for family and friends at her home.Congrats Doreen and best of luck for another 40 at least. Congrats also to Paul Dermody and Andrew Dodwall who both celebrated their joint 18th birthday's with a party for family and friends in Hotel Castlepollard recently. We must extend deepest commiserations to the Senior Camogie players from Lough Lene Gaels who were defeated in the Senior Final recently. Hard luck girls and hopefully you will get the chance again next year and bring home the silverware then. Best wishes to Edward and Frankie Rooney who headed down under last week, we wish them well in their travels. Congratulations to both our U 14 and U16 girls on winning both their respective Championship Finals recently and we will have a full report on both these games in due course.

UNDERAGE TRAINING
Yes folks, believe it or not but yet again it is that time of year again where we finish off our underage training. This Friday evening 19th September sees us wrap up for another year and we will be going with the same format as other years, (ie.refreshments served after training), we would like to invite everyone to our final session and we hope to see you all there. For more information regarding this please contact our underage secretary, Dermot McKenna @(044)-9661805. Our underage section of the Club has progressed steadily over the past number of years and the future looks very bright indeed, fair dues to all concerned.

SCÓR NA NÓG
With the underage coming to a close it signifies the start of preparations for Scór na nÓg and notice will be in all schools in the locality this week. Further information can be obtained by contacting either Doreen Farrelly@ (087)-9372361 or Catherine Daly@ (087)-9185962. We have had a steady progression in this competition over the past few years and we will be striving for County Honours in many grades this year. Watch this space...!

SYMPATHY
We would like to express our deepest sympathies to the family, relatives and friends of Patrick Kenny, Baltrasna who died following a freak accident, early on Saturday morning last. Ar Dheis Dé go raibh a hAnam Dilís.

SNIPPETS
Our good friend Paddy Ma enjoyed the snippets so we will finish with the regular banter......Paul F is reported to be getting in to the demolition business.....that is fencing posts on a poor man's dairy farm.....!!!!!...must be learning from Noel G.....Robert Mc is reported to be getting a phone kit for the jeep.....more points.....!!!..see Jimmy and Mary sporting a flashy '05....nice one Jimmy....speaking of flashy.....best of luck to Sean and Anne with the new wheels.....word has it that Tossy B lost two bolts in the new slurry pit....better get the diving gear ready T.......Figgy is reported to be looking a flashy A4 with the body kit.....girls will like that Figgy.....Ringo is reported to have got stuck while mowing a lawn in Longford recently.....better purchase a John Deere lawnmower.....!!!!!!!..word has it that Dessie C was off target with the pitch and putt recently and a digger was very much in the line of fire....the terrible twins have switched from playing cards to playing snooker in "The Corbally Snooker Hall".....

FOOTNOTE
A special word of thanks to Catherine D for lending a hand with the "cupla focal" this week, very much appreciated.

Monday September 8th 2008

MASSIVE SPORTS DAY
How the time really flies by, Sunday 14th September seemed so far away two months ago when we started to plan for this day, but now it is almost upon us and with it comes Ballycomoyle's first ever sports day. Not only will this be a sports day, but if weather conditions allow it will be an absolutely massive one. For anyone in Mullingar and surrounding areas they can clearly see our signs advertising our day and what a line up we have. Firstly a sports day would not be a sports day without races and we are starting with Tiny Tots,U 6,U 8, U 10,U 12, U 14,U 16, U 18 and these races are both for boys and girls. We will then have our Tug O' War, which will see many local men's and ladies teams, battling it out for "The Seven Wonders Bar Perpetual Shield" and "The Abbey House Perpetual Shield", respectfully. This Tug O War competition promise's to be one of the highlights of the day. Following on from this we will round of our races with a Three Legged Race, an Egg and Spoon Race, Fathers Race, Mothers Race and then the Senior Men’s and Ladies Race. There are numerous side shows on the day with something for everyone. Our Sports gets underway at 1.30pm sharp and we hope to see you all there, admission is only E 10 per car. For those people who may not know where we are located, our grounds will be sign-posted from Castlepollard, or if you require any information regarding our event please contact our Club Secretary, Doreen @ (087)-9268049. We will have a full list of winners in next week’s notes.

U 14 GIRLS REACH FINAL
The under 14 girls travelled to Springfield on Tuesday 26th August to take on Ballinagore in the championship semi-final.  An earlier encounter saw Ballycomoyle defeated by this team and without the services of Jane Coyle through injury, this seemed like a huge task.   However, playing with the wind in the first half we defended well and took our scores against a very difficult defence.  We led at half time with a score of 1-7 to no score.  The second half against the wind saw Ballinagore coming more into the game and Ballycomoyle found it difficult to find the target.  With 20 minutes gone in the second half and despite having a high percentage of the play, we found ourselves only 3 points ahead.  Then after all the pressure that Ballycomoyle put on the Ballinagore net, came a goal and a point in quick succession to leave us 2-8 to 2-1 ahead at the final whistle. Team: Maria Henry, Alanna Clogher, Rebekah Flood, Shannon Farrelly, Alice Murphy, Claire Cheevers, Aoife Flynn, Nicola Fagan, Avril Fagan, Caoimhe McCrossan, Aoife Gallagher, Niamh Clogher, Emma Sullivan, Sinead Connell, Anne Marie Kennedy, Kelly Coyle, Ciara Walsh, Sarah Fagan. The Final is scheduled to take place in Multy on this Friday evening 12th September at 6pm and we would like to wish them the very best of luck, they take on Rochfortbridge in this Final. Support on the evening would be greatly appreciated. We would also like to say well done to our U16 Girls who won their Championship Final on Saturday last, unfortunatley we do not yet have the report from this game but we will have it for next week.

MENS JUNIOR TEAM
Our Championship hopes were well and truly put to rest by yet another 2nd team from a Senior Club, Bunbrosna in Kinnegad on Tuesday 26 August last. This was a crucial game for us and indeed the pressure showed a few flaws in our system and the lively Bunbrosna side took full advantage. We must congratulate our lads for the effort that they put in throughout the year and remind them that we are still in the semi-final of the Junior Cup. We were scheduled to play St. Paul’s in the final game of the Championship on Friday evening last but due to various reasons we had no other option but to give them the two points. We would also like to remind all the lads that we will require lots of help at our Sports Day on Sunday next.

CONGRATULATIONS
Congratulations to our Club Secretary Doreen Farrelly who celebrated the 19th anniversary of her 21st recently with a surprise party for family and friends at her home.Congrats Doreen and best of luck for another 40 at least. Congrats also to Paul Dermody and Andrew Dodwall who both celebrated their joint 18th birthday's with a party for family and friends in Hotel Castlepollard recently. We must extend deepest commiserations to the Senior Camogie players from Lough Lene Gaels who were defeated in the Senior final on Friday evening last. Hard luck girls and hopefully you will get the chance again next year and bring home the silverware then. Best wishes to Edward and Frankie Rooney who headed down under last week, we wish them well in their travels.

SNIPPETS
Word has it that Paddy Buggy will have the black pig at the sports on Sunday......Paul F is reported to be getting in to the demolition business.....that is fencing posts on a poor man's dairy farm.....!!!!!...must be learning from Noel G.....Robert Mc is reported to be getting a phone kit for the jeep.....more points.....!!!...the terrible twins are entering a team in the tug o' war....thank god for that...it might keep them quiet for a while....see Jimmy and Mary sporting a flashy '05....nice one Jimmy....speaking of flashy.....best of luck to Sean and Anne with the new wheels.....

Monday September 1st 2008

GETTING SET FOR SPORTS DAY
Preparations are now at an advanced stage for our first ever sports day which will be held in Ballycomoyle on Sunday 14th September and at the moment it is promising to be a wonderful event. On the day we will numerous side shows including Bouncing Castles, Wellie Throwing Competition, Aunt Sally, Crazy Bicycle, Pitch and Putt, Bottle Stall etc, A sports day would not be a sports day without races and we are starting at Tiny Tots (U.4), U 6, U 8, U 10 right the whole way up to Senior. We will also have a three legged race, egg and spoon race, mother’s race and father’s race. As you can see it will be an "eventful" day and to round matters off we are having a "Tug O' War" competition which will see many teams from various areas in our locality. For more information regarding entry for the Tug O War, please contact Ray @ 087-2264205. The sports will be commencing at 1.30pm and we are expecting quite a large number of people to attend. More details next week.

NORTH WESTMEATH UNDER 10 LEAGUE
Pride of place this week must go to our U 10 boys, who on Saturday last, won the "B" section of The North Westmeath U 10 League. Our boys overcame a strong Delvin side and finished, Ballycomoyle 4.08 - Delvin 1.02. This was a brilliant display from the lads and right from the start they were on top in every position. Joe Higgins was in fine form, taking some great scores to put "Bal" into a commanding lead early on in the game. Dan Reilly and Eoin Fagan put in a towering display in defence, whilst in midfield Dan Higgins and Charles Flynn were always in control. Up-front Joe Higgins was well supported by Conor McCrossan and Shane O' Donnell. Although we completely changed our team we could rely on all players to continue our winning way and a well taken point by Darren Fitzpatrick showed that this team has real strength. Well done lads and just to remind everyone that training continues on Friday evening at 7pm where you will be presented with your North Westmeath G.A.A. Polo Shirts. The Under 10 squad for 2008 was; Marcus Kennedy, Daniel Higgins, Joe Higgins, Conor McCrossan, Paul Murtagh, Ciaran Lynch, Darren Fitzpatrick, Eric Fitzpatrick, James Bardon, Jack Mills, Conor Lynch, Dylan Smyth, Eoin Fagan, Ryan McLoughlin, Sean Doran, Barry Dowdall, Jordan Williams, Michael McKenna, Óisín Sheil, Shane Lynch, Nathan Aughey, Killan McLaverty, Shane O'Donnell, Jeoff Gordon, Stephen Wheatly, Joe Gilsenan, Jason McClean, Mark Leahy, Charles Flynn, Aaron Walsh, Eoin Daly and Ben Doyle. We would like to thank Ned Flynn and C/F/C/W for their hospitality and for ensuring that all the finals were ran smoothly. We would also like to thank Jimmy Weldon and Kenny lord for refereeing the games in such a professional manner.

LADIES NEWS
Our U.16 girls gave a very impressive team display in the semi-final of their Championship and ran out easy winners over Shandonagh last week. This leaves the girls in the final on this Saturday and a time and venue has yet to be decided upon. Team that defeated Shandonagh: M. O'Rourke, R. Flood, C.Cheevers. A.Murphy, M.Henry, K.Coyle, A. Flynn, N.Fagan. A.Fagan, S.Connell,  R.Daniels, N.Clougher, L.Nea, A.Gallagher, S.Boyne, J.O'Rourke, Alana Clougher. We would like to wish these very talented young girls the very best of luck in their final on Saturday. Our U.14 girls also booked their place in the final of their Championship on Tuesday evening of last week. I am still awaiting a match report for this game and I will give you details of this next week.

Monday August 18th 2008

LADIES JUNIOR TEAM
Our Ladies made a heat-breaking exit to their 2008 Championship in Bunbrosna on Tuesday evening of last week, suffering a single point defeat at the hands of Loughnavalley. We were very slow out of the blocks in the first half and when we actually did get going we went in at half time in arrears by 2 points. We needed a good start to the second half but unfortunately we conceded a goal at the re-start. We then lost Louise Farrelly through injury and we had a huge battle right up to the final whistle. We can now rue our goal chances leading up to the end but luck did not favour us on the day, we fought gallantly to the end and we are very proud of our Ladies display. Ballycomoyle Ladies would like to wish both teams the very best of luck in the finals which take place on August 24th. Training for the ladies continues every Wednesday at 7pm and every Friday at 8.15pm, we still have Cup and Shield games left to play.

MENS JUNIOR TEAM
All roads lead to Kinnegad on Tuesday evening next 26th August, where at 7pm we take on Bunbrosna in the Junior Championship and we know that we will need to be at full strength if we are to keep our 2008 Championship alive. Support on the evening would be very much appreciated and we are demanding that all players and management be at the venue at 6.15pm. Preparations for the final two games in the preliminary stages have been going according to plan and we recently played Oldcastle in a very worthwhile challenge match. Oldcastle ran out winners at the final whistle but on the evening some of our younger players really got to grips with the junior grade football, which is very encouraging. Training continues on Monday and Wednesday evenings at 8pm sharp and at this stage of the year, Pat requires a full squad at all training.

STEAK FESTIVAL
On Saturday night, August 9th, Ita Halpin of "The Seven Wonders Bar", Fore, hosted a Steak Festival and Bar-B-Que and all funds raised on the night is presently being equally divided between Fore N.S. Fund and Ballycomoyle Underage GAA. Despite very inclement weather conditions leading up to the night, (Ita must have had The Child of Prague out), the weather held out and an unforgettable night was had by all that was luck enough to be in attendance. Lucia and Noel got the night of to a rousing start with brilliant music and this was followed by the eagerly awaited Chest and Leg Wax. Seamus McDermott was the M.C. for the night and kept the large audience very well briefed on proceedings. We must give a special mention to our five brave men, Matt Fagan, Michael Halpin, Tommy Bardon, Willow Masterson and Lorcan Daly who volunteered to be the ones to endure the painful experience of the waxing. We must not forget Eoin McLaverty who, following an unbelievable pledge, went up on stage and also got his legs waxed and in doing so, ensured that €500 more went into the kitty. Following on from the waxing Seamus got the auction underway and with numerous items up for grabs, Seamus secured the best price possible for all items. Our well supported raffle then followed and we may have a list of prize-winners in the near future. Noel and Lucia then rounded off the night with more superb music. Ita must be congratulated on the successful hosting of this huge event and we can report that it was very financially rewarding for both Fore N.S.Fund and our Underage section. Persons are reminded that there is still some money out-standing and we would appreciate it if people could settle accounts as soon as possible, please contact Ita at "The Seven Wonders". Ita would like to acknowledge the assistance of the following people who all contributed in various ways on the night, Matt Fagan, Michael Halpin, Tommy Bardon, Lorcan Daly, Willow Masterson, Eoin McLaverty, Tanya Kenny, Olivia Kenny, Louise Farrelly, Andrea Farrelly, Frank May and Matthew Gilsenan, Ned Nolan, Gerry Doyle, Seamus and Helen Coyle, Eugene Gallagher, Simon Taylor, Daragh Gallagher, Fore Motor Cycle Club, Mick Kiernan, Pat Kenny, Collinstown Hall Committee, Jackie Nolan, Dermot McLoughlin, Larry Masterson, Kevin and Majella Walsh, David Nolan, Michael Farrelly, Tommy Gallagher, Fore N.S. Parents Association, Ballycomoyle G.F.C., Joe Gilsnean, Abbey Ennis, Meave Kane, James L. Murtagh, Davitt and Davitt, Oliver Gilsnean, Value Centre Cash and Carry, Christy Kelly, Galligan Motors, John Tuite, Joe Fagan, A.I.B. Mullingar, Weirs Pharmacy, Clarkes Quarry, Tornedo Lovely (sound equip.), Sín-Ara Shoes, Michael Byrne, Sinead Gallagher, Gerry Farrelly, Mary Fagan, Sheelin Meats, Floods Butchers, Lucia and Noel, Seamus McDermott, Michael Caffrey, Marita Coyle, Coffee Dock, Tara Bottlers, Eugene O' Neill, B.D. Flood, Boolies Restaurant, Thomas Carroll, Oldcastle Co-Op, D+P Murphy, Gerry McDermott, Ray and Doreen Farrelly, White Lake Angling Club, Andy Boyhan, Ted Fagan, Norbert Moynagh, Joe Nea, Colm Grimes, John Farrelly Haulage Ltd, Drumcree Angling Club, John Gilsenan, Gleneagle Woodcrafts Ltd, O’Hara’s Bakery, John Joe Fitzsimons, Sean and Anne Dermody and finally to all the large number who supported the night. We apologise if we have excluded anyone but please let us know and we will rectify this at a later stage. Well done to all concerned yet again.

SPORTS DAY
Sunday 14th September will see Ballycomoyle GFC hold a huge sports day in their grounds and so far preparations are at an advanced stage. Events for the day include races for U. 6, U.8, U10, U12, U14, U16, U18, 3 legged race, sack race, mothers race, fathers race, senior men's race and senior ladies race. Amongst the numerous side-shows there will be Bouncing Castles, Welly Throwing, Penalty Shoot Out, Pitch and Putt, Pony Rides, Aunt Sally, etc. We will give a full list of items in the near future. We also hope to have the final of our mixed football league which we hope we will have finished in time for the sports day. We have sent out invitations to several local groups and establishments for Tug-O-War teams and so far there is a lot of interest in this competition. For more information regarding this event please contact Ray @087-2264205. More details soon.

CONGRATULATIONS
Congrats this week to Margaret Cooney who celebrated a "big" birthday at the weekend. We are not allowed disclose what birthday it was but we can report that it was the 29th anniversary of her 21st. Best wishes for another 50 Margaret. Congrats also to all those that gave up their time and helped out in our Bag-Pack in Dunne’s Stores last weekend. We will give full details of this Bag-Pack in next weeks notes. We must say a big "hello" to Gerard and Sharon Halpin who are in Perth, Australia and we are informed that Sharon is one of the first to read the weekly notes off our web-site www.ballycomoyle.com each week. Sharon sometimes knows more over there than some of the locals here is what we are told. Good stuff Sharon, it’s great to know that you are checking in on us. 

Monday August 4th 2008

STEAK FESTIVAL
For the past number of years now, Ita Halpin of "The Seven Wonders Bar" in  Fore has been host to a Steak Festival in aid of various different local charities and has proved to be very rewarding financially for these charities.  This year, the proceeds of the Festival will be equally divided between St.Feichin's N.S. Fund and Ballycomoyle Underage. The event takes place on this Saturday evening August 9th from 8 till late and quite a number of novelty events have been organised. Without a doubt the highlight of the night (well for some anyway) will be the Sponsored Chest and Leg waxing. Five brave men have volunteered their services for this event and they are Matt Fagan, Willow Masterson, Tommy Bardon, Michael Halpin and Lorcan Daly. All the above mentioned have sponsorship card at present and we would like people to lend their support to these men. On the night we will also have a raffle and monster auction with some very good items up for grabs to the highest bidder. The night is open to everyone and we hope to see you all there, and who knows perhaps we might even get our hands on the D.V.D of the tug-o-war that took place in Collinstown recently.

LADIES CLINCH VICTORY
As part of the Mountnugent Festival last weekend our Ladies Junior team were invited to take part in the Mary Reilly Memorial Shield. We were short quite a number of our normal starting fifteen and after suffering a defeat last  year in the same match we set about the task of making amends for last years disappointment. After an enjoyable hours football we emerged victorious by quite a large margin, much to the delight of our large support. We must welcome Jenny Cooney back onto the field of play and she managed to keep a clean sheet between the uprights (look out Sinead). While we are delighted with this victory we must remain focussed on the semi-final of the Championship vs. Loughnavalley on August 12th and the venue has yet to be decided upon. We suffered a defeat to Lougnavalley in Ballycomoyle on Monday of last week and we face a mammoth task if we are to book our spot in this years final. 

MENS CHALLENGE
On Friday evening of last week we played near neighbours Moylough, who hail from the Royal County, in a very worthwhile challenge match which took place in Castlepollard Community College. Throughout the game we were very evenly matched but in the final quarter Moylough wore down our defence and emerged victors at the final whistle. Ballycomoyle were well served on the evening by Damien Fagan, Ian Kennedy and Paddy Smyth to name but a few. Training for the juniors continues each Wednesday evening at 8pm sharp and new-comers are always welcome. Our next crucial Championship game cannot be too far away and we must knuckle down to the task in front of us to keep the 2008 Championship alive. We would like to thank Jim Whyte and the staff of Castlepollard Community College for the use of their excellent grounds and facilities.

UNDERAGE NEWS
Our U 12 boys also took part in the Festival in Mountnugent, but unfortunately, despite a huge effort, they were pipped at the winning post by the home side. Our U 14 amalgamation side of Ballycomoyle and C/F/C/W were also in action and they did just enough to win the Tony Murray Memorial Cup, again as part of the Festival weekend. Our U 10 boys were in action in Ballycomoyle on Friday night last vs. Ballinacarrigy and after a titanic battle, they were narrowly defeated as part of The North Westmeath U 10 League. The finals of this League take place this year in Castletown on August 30th and the final placings have not yet been sorted out.

BAG PACK
Our annual bag pack takes place in Dunne’s Stores Mullingar on Thursday 14th, Friday 15th and Saturday 16th August from 9.30am until 7.30pm. There are five different "shifts" in operation on each day and we are urging as many people as possible to donate some of their time to this very worthwhile fundraiser. We had a total of 72 people on board last year and we hope that we will be able to at least equal if not better that this year. For more information regarding this venture please contact any of the following people, Doreen Farrelly@ 087-9268049, Gerry Farrelly@ 087-0527782, Helen Coyle@ 087-2207374, Anne Dermody@ 086-8264803, Libby Hannon@ 087-7791163 or you can contact any committee member.

CONGRATULATIONS
Congratulations this week to Sabrina Dermody who celebrated her 21st on Saturday night last, with a party for family and friends in Hotel Castlepollard. A great night was had by all and we hear that Sean and Anne pulled out all the stops and ensured that Sabrina arrived in style...a "Hummer" was the carriage for the night, well done to all concerned.

HARD LUCK
Hard luck to the gallant Westmeath team who were defeated by Carlow in the Christy Ring Cup Final in Tullamore on Sunday last. It was a heroic performance and they can be very proud of their display, well done to all concerned.

SNIPPETS
Liam L was laughing at his brother Seamus turning 50 recently...but a little bird informed me that Liam celebrated his 49th on July 16th and is now knocking on the door of his own 50th......we hear that Christy B will have to re-adjust his GPS system as some grass was not mowed in Coole recently.....Hazel W ensured a clean sweep in Mountnugent when her dog won the Dog Show as part of the festival......

Monday July 28th 2008

LADIES JUNIOR TEAM
Marius has informed me that the semi-final of the Ladies Junior Championship 2008 is scheduled to take place on 12th August and time, venue and opponents will be announced next week in these notes. Training has been progressing quite well over the past number of weeks and at this stage will have to be stepped up if the girls are going to book their place in the final. The training continues on Wednesday evenings at 7pm and on Friday evenings at 8pm, Marius will accept nothing more than a full turnout at this stage. The Ladies have been invited to play in the Mountnugent Shield again this year as part of the Mountnugent Festival which takes place on Sunday, for more info please contact Marius. (I hope that Libby and Co. will not do the Karaoke afterwards as they did last year....!!!!).

BOYS UNDER 10'S
Our U 10 Boys have continued with their impressive run in the 2008 North Westmeath League, with a win in Ballycomoyle on Saturday morning last against a lively Multy side. The boys have two games remaining in this League before the placings are made for the Finals. Training continues on Friday evenings at 7pm and again we require a full turn out at this stage. We will have a more detailed account of the U 10 panel and the games that they have played already in the coming weeks.

CONGRATULATIONS
The entire Club would like to congratulate Paddy and Kathryn Cooney on the Celebration of their 25th Weeding Anniversary last weekend with a party for family and friends in The Lough lene Inn. We have been informed that all retired to "Paddy's Nite Club" and treaded the boards till wee hours. Well done to all concerned. Congrats also this week to Noreen Egan who threw away the"L" plates last week. Finally....heartiest congrats to former secretary and also former highly distinguished player Seamus Leahy who celebrated the 29th anniversary of his 21st on July 12th. Seamus must have been counting his lucky stars thinking that he got away with the celebration unknown to anyone but Seamus word always slips out. We wish Seamus the very best of health, happiness and wealth for another 50 at least.

STEAK FESTIVAL
For the past number of years now, Ita Halpin of "The Seven Wonders Bar" in  Fore has been host to a Steak Festival in aid of various different local charities and has proved to be very rewarding financially for these charities.  This year, the proceeds of the Festival will be equally divided between St.Feichin's N.S. Fund and Ballycomoyle Underage. The event takes place on Saturday evening August 9th from 8 till late and quite a number of novelty events have been organised. Without a doubt the highlight of the night (well for some anyway) will be the Sponsored Chest and Leg waxing. Five brave men have volunteered their services for this event and they are Matt Fagan, Willow Masterson, Tommy Bardon, Michael Halpin and Lorcan Daly. All the above mentioned have sponsorship card at present and we would like people to lend their support to these men. On the night we will also have a raffle and monster auction with some very good items up for grabs to the highest bidder. The night is open to everyone and we hope to see you all there.

SNIPPETS
Jimmy R looks very flush with the new J. Deere baler behind his J.Deere tractor.....Paul E's jeep had its own reserved parking area in Pollard on Saturday compliments of the lads heading to the stag.....word has it that Farlo suffered an injury running after the sheep at the weekend.....we hear that Ringo brought Barbara to Kilkenny to celebrate her birthday.....Seamus and Lesley were spotted coming out the cinema on Sunday night last....Kung Fu Panda we hear...!!!..

Monday July 21st 2008

IMPROVED PERFORMANCE BY JUNIOR MEN
On Tuesday evening of last week, July15th, our Junior men’s team took to the field of play in Springfield, where they faced the challenge of Milltown in the 2nd round of the Junior Championship. This game was a very lively affair throughout and very little separated the sides for the hour. We did suffer a defeat by 5 points but we can take solace in the fact that this was a huge team performance for us and we know that our Championship hopes are still alive. Training has now switched to Wednesday nights at 8pm and we hope that we will see a big increase in attendance from now on. Team: M.Reilly, P.Dermody, J.Mc Hugh, B.Halpin, P. Smyth, M.Gavigan, D.Fagan, R.Fagan, A.Smith(0.01), B.Caffery, B.Ryan(capt.)(0.01f), K.Gavigan(0.01), C.McCormack, D.Cheevers, S.Bardon(0.04), Subs;T.Brady for C.McCormack, J.Corrigan for P.Smyth, C.Smyth for B.Halpin, D.Nolan for D.Cheevers,J.Ward for D.Fagan, I.Coyle, N.Morgan, R.Cooney, D.Peppard, E.Boylan. On the following Thursday evening 17th July, our Junior "B" footballers travelled to Ballinagore to take on the home side in the first round of the "B" Championship. Despite been short almost half of the team we gave Ballinagore a good game and again we were defeated by 5 points. Damien Fagan, James McHugh and D, Cheevers were outstanding in this game as were the two super-subs....!! Team:D.Peppard, C.Smyth, J. Mc Hugh, M.Halpin, R.Cooney, B.Halpin, C.Farrelly, D.Cheevers(0.01), J.Corrigan(0.01), B,Caffery(1.00), I.Coyle, D.Fagan(0.02), N.Morgan, D.Nolan(0.01), E.Boylan, Subs: R.Farrelly(0.01) for N.Morgan, P.Mc Crossan(1.00) for E.Boylan.

Junior Ladies Championship
Ballycomoyle 5-5 Clann Gaels 3-11.On Tuesday the 8th of July Ballycomoyle Junior ladies travelled to Bunbrosna to play Clann Gaels in the 3rd round of the Championship. From the word go both teams were on the mark. They challenged each other in everyway. Clann Gaels were looking very strong but Ballycomoyle were all over them winning balls right left and centre. Clann Gaels put up a good fight but Bal just got out in front. The score at half time was Ballycomoyle 10pts Clann Gaels 8pts. In the 2nd half Bal were going to be playing against the wind so they knew they had to keep out in front. Clann Gaels scored 1st in the 2nd half which left Ballycomoyle very weary on the ball. But they soon steadied themselves up and came back to score. The 2nd half was an extraordinary half with Clann Gaels going ahead then Ballycomoyle coming back to even up the score. Both teams were in it to win, but the end result showed a good game end with a draw. (J.C)

TUG-O-WAR
Well done to the team from "The Seven Wonders Bar", Fore who won the Tug-o-War in Collinstown last weekend which was part of a very successful sports day as Lough Lene Gales officially opened their new Clubhouse. There was quite a strong Ballycomoyle connection with the team and it was no surprise when they sported the Ballycomoyle jerseys. The victorious team was Donal Kane, John Farrelly,Lawerence Briody,Seamus Farrelly, Mike Ginnell, Lawerence Halpin, Ray Farrelly, Kevin Walsh and the two coaches were John Murphy and Ita Halpin(Ita also looked after refreshments and Gerry Farrelly also helped out on the day). The team and supporters were treated to a superb meal in The Seven Wonders, compliments of Ita, also Andrea and Aishling ensured that everyone was well catered for. Well done to all concerned.

SNIPPETS
Word has it that a fishing expedition went "splash" last week when Majella R and co. embarked on a trip.....firstly one oar went which was followed by a mobile phone(communicate with the fish...??), and then to round off matters Majella decided that she would sit in the water....one could say that the trip was a "wash-out".....!!!!....String still has trouble identifying the twins...Matt or Chris....!!!...See Marius gave away his boots and jersey at the weekend.....Michael H had to pay big money for a fleece when he woke up freezing in the tent at the bike racing in Kells last weekend...Ollie D and Derek C looked well in the Gaels jerseys at the tug-o-war.....

Monday July 14th 2008

BITS "n" BOBS
Our men's Junior team played their second round Championship game on Tuesday evening last.....report next week. Our Junior Ladies were forced to share the points in their latest Championship game last week against Clan Gael. We will also have a report on this next week. Just a reminder that there is still limited tickets available for Friday night in The Greyhound Stadium, in aid of the Westmeath Training Fund, please contact Doreen. Our Junior "B" lads head to Ballinagore on Thursday evening next where they take on the home side in the first round of the "B" Championship. Best of luck to the Tug-o-War team from "The Seven Wonders" who take part in the celebrations for the opening of the new clubhouse in Collinstown on Sunday next. We wish The Lough Lene Gaels Club the very best of luck with their fine new facility.

SNIPPETS
Marius....what more need I say....word has it that Marius decided to cycle the bike home from Fore Village after the bike ride and we hear that he nearly made it home......!!!!!!....all that I can reveal is that at least he had a soft landing.....???...Rumour has it that Ita will be the coach for the team on Sunday.....

Monday July 7th 2008

SPONSORED CYCLE MAJOR SUCCESS
Despite the very adverse weather conditions on Sunday morning last, over forty people assembled (which included two ladies, Angela McNicholas and Doreen Farrelly) at Fore Abbey car park and set off on our gruelling 50km cycle.  We departed at 12 noon in the middle of a heavy shower but luckily enough the rain eased off by the time we hit Hounslow, from Hounslow it was an almost constant pull up until we reached the summit at Loughcrew and then we had the quick descent into Dromone. We had a short break in Dromone for water and oranges and unfortunately as we took to the road the rain bucketed down again. We landed at Skerries Cross and took a left turn and headed towards Kells. When we reached Baile-Fomhar we took a right turn and went for Glenidan where we had our next scheduled pit-stop. Mary Doyne had sandwiches laid on for us and they were much appreciated. After watching the first half of the Munster Final we took to the road again and headed to Drumcree and onwards to Collinstown. This section of the journey proved the most challenging with a serious pull until we reached the Hill of Collinstown. We took the last of our scheduled stops in with Kathryn in The Lough Lene Inn and Kathryn also had sandwiches and cocktail sausages laid on, which again were greatly appreciated. It is amazing how hungry and thirsty a person can get when they are taking part in such a cycle.!!. After watching the first half of the Leinster Final we set of on the final leg of our journey which brought us to "Weldons Cross", from where we took a left and back down into Fore Village. We were greeted back in Fore Village by a large number of people who cheered us home. The rain came down again but that did not dampen the spirits at this stage as we had two Bar-b-Ques at full steam. Overall this was a very enjoyable outing and credit must go to all involved. We would must thank all those who took part in the cycle which included Cathal Morgan, Noel Morgan, Damien Fagan, Cían Farrelly, Brendan Halpin, Ray Farrelly, Michael Halpin, Robbie Cooney, Colm Dermody, Paul Molloy, Derek Cheevers, Seamus Farrelly, Ronan Fagan, Tom Fitzpatrick, Clodagh O'Neill, Doreen Farrelly, Angela McNicholas, Anne Dermody, Eddie Boylan, Raymond Halpin, Pat Shryanne, Marius Reilly, John Corrigan, Seamus Fay, Sean Dermody. We also must thank our support crews which included Seamus McDermott and Gerry Farrelly, Maureen Fay, Maureen Masterson, Aishling Brady and Michael McCormack. We also thank our two great cooks Seamus Coyle and Doreen Farrelly and finally we thank Mary Doyne, Kathryn Cooney and Ita Halpin who looked after us so well. Our prize winners were Sinead Fitzpatrick, Mickey Crone, Tossy Brady and Sharon Blacoe. Finally to all our sponsors, we have to say thank you very much and we are happy to report that quite a nice sum of money was raised for this event.

BITS "n" BOBS
Our Ladies Junior team earned a draw in their 2nd round Championship game vs Athlone on Tuesday evening of last week. They were scheduled to play their 3rd round on last Tuesday and we will have a full report from these two games in next week’s notes. On Tuesday evening next our Men's Junior team are due to play Milltown in their Championship in Springfield at 7.45pm, again we will a report in due course.

SNIPPETS
Word has it that Larry M forgot where he parked his bike.....Davy N could not make it to cycle because he had to fly the "tent" for O'Leary......Seamey Mac found out that it is easier to reverse close to wall's if the back door of your van is closed beforehand...

Monday June 30th 2008

ON "YER" BIKE
Yes folks, Sunday is fast approaching and with it comes the eagerly awaited 50KM Sponsored Cycle. The wheels have been in motion for the past few weeks now and we can now say that we are fully prepared for a fun day out, over a very challenging route. We start from the Fore Abbey Car Park at 11.30, from where we will head to Millbrook, Lough crew, Ballinamona, Daimer, Baille-Fomhar, Skeries, Glenidian, Drumcree, Collinstown and back to Fore Village from 6pm (approx.), onwards. For those that might know the area, they will agree that this is a very tough route and participants will earn whatever sponsorship that they receive. Sponsorship is always at the sponsor’s discretion but we are advising E 5 as a nominal sum as this equates to 10c per KM. All sponsors will be entered into a draw at the conclusion of the event which ends with a Bar-b-que and refreshments at 6pm (approx). All that remains to be stated at this stage is to wish everyone involved on Sunday the very best of luck and to thank everybody for their kind sponsorship. For any further details regarding this event please contact Ray @087-2264205, all are welcome and even if you have not got a card please come and make a donation, however large or small. At the moment we have almost 50 cyclists taking part and all are "mad for tar.....!!!!".

JUNIOR LADIES CHAMPIONSHIP 
Our Ladies travelled to Clonmellon to play the first round of the Championship on Monday 23rd of June. The opposition was  St. Paul ’s, whom we had played and beaten earlier in the Junior/Intermediate Shield/Cup 2008  From the blow of the whistle St. Paul’s had look quite strong scoring the first point and dominating the game. But Ballycomoyle came back and took over the game dropping in the short balls into the centre and they soon evened the score. Ballycomoyle came back in the 2nd half showing St. Paul’s what they were made of defending right left and centre and scoring all around them. The weather conditions were wet and windy, not a nice evening for a match but Bal showed no weakness. The Game ended Ballycomoyle 5-10 v St Paul’s 3-2. Ref: Jimmy Weldon. On Tuesday evening last 1st July we were due to play Athlone in the second round of the Championship, we will have a detailed report next week (J.C).

MENS JUNIOR
Our woes continue in the men's section this year and we suffered a defeat at the hands of a poor St. Josephs outfit on Tuesday night last. We had a very depleted side on duty on the evening and I have no doubt that we could have grabbed two league points if we had all ten of our first team players on the evening. However well done to the lads that did take to the field. On Saturday evening last 28th June, we entertained Multy in a Div.8 game and after a close affair our visitors came out on top. Congratulations to Brian Caffery, Cian Farrelly and Robbie Cooney who all made their debut on the adult scene on the evening.

CONGRATULATIONS
Congratulations are extended to Maurice and Gemma Gavigan on the birth of their first child, a baby girl, Ciara. We wish all the best of luck for the future. We also extend birthday wishes to Karen Coyle, who celebrated her 16th recently. Well done to all those involved with bringing the boys underage section to Croke Park on Sunday, it was a huge undertaking and  all went according to plan apart from the final result.

SNIPPETS
Word has it that Farlo's lamb is on a special "shrub" only diet.....Mary K is reported to be delighted ......!!!!!.....Mousey N felt sore on the pocket even though The Dubs won....Libby had to get a bit of help when stripes died on Monday eve in Clonmellon ........lucky there was some Jump leads!....Ringo was getting lessons in urban motoring from yours truly on Sunday on both the way in and out.....word has it that goosey parked beside Blanchardstown for match.....Tomas Ó F is reported to be looking to sign noodles after his second point of the year last week.......

Monday June 23rd 2008

ST. MICHAELS U.14
Our U.14 amalgamation team have made steady progress throughout the league so far this year and here is a brief outline of some results. In our first game we beat St. Paul’s and in the next three games we recorded wins over Milltownpass, Garycastle and Tubberclair. We then lost to Mullingar Shamrocks and draws followed against Caulry and St. Mary’s. As you can see we fared very well in our matches and we await the final fixtures in this league. In the 2008 Feile we beat The Downs in the first round and Athlone in the second round. We lost to St.Lomans in the Quarter-final after a thrilling encounter which required extra time to decide the result. We would like to remind everyone involved that training continues every Wednesday evening at 7pm in Ballycomoyle. The selectors Larry Masterson, Ned Flynn and Dermot Mc Kenna would like to thank all the people who coached our players on different evenings, ie.Gerry Coyne, Pat Shyranne, Tom Keague, Michael Lynch and Colin Farrell, their help was very much appreciated. We look forward to the remainder of the year. (L.M)

Westmeath v Dublin   Croke Park Sunday 29th June 2008.
We are organising a trip to Croke Park for our Under 10, 12 and 14 boys teams, the bus will leave from Castlepollard at 11 o’clock and the tickets will be for the Davin Stand. Could the parents of children interested in travelling please contact the relevant team officials as soon as possible. U 10 Marius Reilly, Paul McCrossan, U 12 Seamus Leahy, Dermot McKenna, U 14 Larry Masterson, Dermot McKenna.

Delvin Summer Camp
Monday 14th July to Friday 18th 10am to 2.30 am.Ballycomoyle have organised a bus to bring its players both boys and girls to this year’s football summer camp in Delvin. The Bus will leave Castlepollard at 9am and travel on to Fore, Collinstown and on to Delvin. As places are limited those interested should contact Dermot McKenna A.S.A.P.

Under 12 boys v Multyfarnham
We play our last game in the first section of the under 12 League when we play Streete Multy in Ballycomoyle this Wednesday 25th at 7.00.All players to be in Ballycomoyle at 6.30

SPONSORED CYCLE
Preparations are at an advanced stage for our sponsored cycle which takes place on Sunday 6th July, which starts from Fore Abbey car park at 11.30am. We are encouraging as many adults as possible to take part in this challenging 50km cycle. Sponsorship cards are in circulation at the moment but if you have not yet received one please contact Ray @ 087-2264205, Marius @087-2709639 or Dermot @044-9661805. This cycle promises to be a fun social event which concludes with a Bar-B-Que and refreshments in Fore Village at 6pm (approx.)

 
Monday June 16th 2008

WHEELS IN MOTION
The "wheels" are in motion for our forthcoming sponsored cycle which takes place on Sunday 6th July. This sponsored cycle will be a very tough challenge for even the very fit people amongst us, as it is almost an endurance event. The route is over 50 km and will start from the car park at Fore Abbey and make its way into the Royal County, taking in some steep inclines towards Loughcrew. From here we will be taking minor roads through the countryside, emerging at Glenidan, where after a short stay we will head towards Drumcree and on towards Collinstown. After another short rest, we will track back to the finale in Fore Village where a bar-b-cue is scheduled to take place and also we will have a draw for all those that sponsored the participants. This cycle is for everybody and you even if you are not a member of the club, you are still very welcome to take part, we are encouraging all participants to wear the appropriate safety gear and we hope that everyone will have a safe fun day out. The only stipulation that we have put on this event is that participants should be at least 16 years of age. Sponsorship cards are available from team mentors or contact Ray @ 087-2264205. We hope that people can be as generous as possible and E 5 per line equates to 10 cent per km. Proceeds from this cycle will go towards the general running of our club and the purchase of a defibrillator, which as everybody would agree, is a very necessary piece of equipment at all GAA grounds in the country. More details next week.

Final: Under 12 girls v Ballinagore
Our under 12 girls travelled to Multyfarnham to play the championship final on Saturday last.  The opposition was Ballinagore, who had beaten us earlier in the championship. From the word go the Ballycomoyle girls gave their all to this game with superb performances from all players.  For the first ten minutes Ballycomoyle dominated the game however no score resulted from the pressure. Eventually the scores came.    Ballycomoyle went into the break leading 2-1 to Ballinagore 0-1.The Ballycomoyle girls started the second half as they did the first putting immense pressure on the Ballinagore defence.  Ballinagore finding it difficult to progress the ball past the midfield mark.  The final score Ballycomoyle 3-3 Ballinagore 0-2.

Afterwards the Under 12D Perpetual shield was presented to joint captains Ruth Mulligan and Kelly Coyle. We extend our thanks to Seán Kelly in Multyfarnham for having the pitch in order for the game and also to Rob Cornally who refereed it.

Team: Marie Egan, Bibi O’Reilly, Shannon Farrelly, Ciara Walsh, Shauna Coughlan, Amy McNicholas, Anna Henry, Laura Coyle, Anne-Marie Kennedy1-0, Caoimhe McCrossan 0-1, Ruth Mulligan1-0, Katie Egan 0-2, Kelly Coyle, Kia Swinburn1-0, Sarah Fagan, Rachel Connell, Alex Farrelly, Roisín Gilsenan, Orla Nea, Meave Charles, Ríon Magan, Gemma Faherty, Cliodhna Daly.

MENS JUNIOR
Our woes continue in the men's junior football section, when on Friday evening last we were well beaten by Rosemount in A.C.L.F. Div. 3. Despite having been defeated we can take solace from the fact that this was a much better performance from our lads and we got some very nice scores. Team: N.Mc Kenna, P.Smyth, J.Mc Hugh, D.Fagan, P.Dermody, M.Gavigan, J.Ward, B.Ryan(capt.),  R.Fagan, G.Farrelly, D.Cheevers(1.01), S.Bardon(0.03), D.Nolan(0.01), C.Mc Cormack(1.00), K.Gavigan(1.01), Subs: C.Smyth for D.Fagan, J.Corrigan for P.Smyth, N.Morgan for D.Nolan, D.Peppard for C.Mc Cormack, C.Farrelly, N.Salmon. Our next fixture is on Sunday morning next in Ballycomoyle at 11.30 where we take on St. Josephs in A.C.L.F. Div 3. Then on Saturday evening 28th June we take on Multy in Ballycomoyle at 6.30 in A.C.L.F. Div. 8. All players are requested to be in the park at least half an hour prior to throw in. We would like to wish Gary Farrelly a speedy recovery following a fracture of his collarbone at the weekend.

CLUB WEAR
Just a quick reminder that the final order for club wear will be made this coming week and if anyone would like to order some items please contact Ray @ 087-2264205. We have jackets, polo shirts, tee-shirts, hoodies and kit bags etc,.

SNIPPETS
`Word has it that Noel G will not only knock meadows but he will also knock fence posts or anything else that is in the line of fire... Noodles is rumoured to be back firing on all cylinders following a mix up by a "bull"(Paul).....mark the plug leads from now on eddie.....The jury is still out on whether Ita has a natural tan or if it is a spray on fake tan....we have to wait for the next rain shower to find out....word has it that Niall Mc K celebrated a big one last week......

Monday June 9th 2008

UNDER 12 GIRLS BOOK FINAL SPOT
Our under 12 girls travelled to Multyfarnham to play the championship semi final on Saturday last. The opposition was St. Lomans, who had beaten us earlier in the championship. With all players available for selection we set about the task of securing a place in the D Final. From the word go the Ballycomoyle girls gave their all to this game with superb performances from all players. We went into the break with a comfortable lead. The second half saw St. Lomans come out strong but the determination of all the Bal girls did not falter and extended the lead of the first half to finish winners. Well done girls. We extend our thanks to Seán Kelly in Multyfarnham for having the pitch in order for the game and also to Terry O’Dowd who refereed it. Team: Marie Egan, Bibi O’Reilly, Shannon Farrelly, Ciara Walsh, Shauna Coughlan, Amy McNicholas, Anna Henry, Laura Coyle, Anne-Marie Kennedy, Caoimhe McCrossan, Ruth Mulligan, Katie Egan, Kelly Coyle, Kia Swinburn, Saoirse Farrelly, Rachel Connell, Sarah Fagan, Jessica Tierney, Orla Nea, Alex Farrelly, Aoife Fitzsimons, Roisín Gilsenan, Lorna Hilliard, Shaunagh Maher, Meave Charles, Ríon McGann, Jemma Faherty. We now play Ballinagore in the final on Saturday 14th at a time and venue to be confirmed. All support for this team is greatly appreciated.


LOTTO
Our most recent lotto draw took place on Tuesday night last, June 3rd in "The Seven Wonders", Fore. This was a well supported draw and the results were as follows; Draw No.1- E 10,000- 6,11,21,28. Draw no.2 -E 6,000- 16,18,26,28. There was no jackpot winner for either draw and the E 30 winners were, Ronnie Nally, Valerie Mc Dermott, Mick Comiskey, Terry O'Neill and Beatrice Coffey. Our next draw takes place in “Hotel Castlepollard" on Tuesday night next 17th June, again we will have two draws, No.1 for E 10,000 and No. 2 is for E 6,200 and remember "if you're not in, you can't win". Tickets are on sale from the usual outlets and as always your support is greatly appreciated.

JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIP
Our Junior team suffered a heavy defeat at the hands of a strong St.Marys side in Cusack Park on Sunday evening last. We were very disappointed with the result but we must try and learn from this and look forward to the remaining games in this Championship. Fate was not very kind to us in the build up to this game as we lost three of our best players through injury last week, Joey Williams, Adrian Smith and Michael Mc Cormack. To make matters even worse, we were reduced to 14 men early in the first half and it was an uphill battle from there to the end. Despite the heavy defeat we were well served by Billy Ryan, Roaney Fagan, Paul Dermody and the ageless Tossy Brady. Team; N.Mc Kenna, M.Gavigan, D.Cheevers, S.Carroll, G.Farrelly, J.Mc. Hugh, P.Dermody, B.Ryan(capt.), R.Fagan, K.Gavigan, T.Brady, J.Ward, S.Bardon,S.Farrelly,D.Cunningham, Subs; P.Smyth for M.Gavigan, C.Mc Cormack, D.O'Rourke, D.Nolan, M.Reilly, E.Boylan, N.Morgan, D.Peppard, J.Williams. Our next fixture is on Friday evening 13th June in Ballycomoyle at 7pm where we take on Rosemount in A.C.L.F. Div.3. Everyone is requested to be in the park no later than 6.30.

CONGRATULATIONS
Congratulations are extended this week to David O'Rourke and Caroline on the birth of their baby son, Brian. We wish them the best of luck and we look forward to seeing Brian in the "Bal" colours in a few years time.

SNIPPETS
Gerry F is reported to be training at the moment.....word has it that he was seen running at top speed after dogs that escaped recently.....Damien H and Angie is reported to have locked Paul G out of his own house last weekend......Damien F is said to be very much into Macra at the moment.....there must be an added attraction......

Monday June 2nd 2008

CHAMPIONSHIP
All roads lead to Cusack Park on Sunday evening next, June 8th, when at 7.30pm, we kick of our 2008 men's Junior Football Championship campaign. Preparations has not always gone according to plan but we know that our lads will put their shoulder to the wheel on Sunday evening and we could spring a surprise victory, we go into this game as complete underdogs and who knows what might ensue. Our junior "B" team were heavily defeated by a very strong Ballynacargy side in Ballycomoyle on Tuesday evening 27th May. This game provided us with the opportunity to give some of our fringe players the chance to perform ahead of the Championship and indeed there were some fine displays. We must welcome Seamus Fay back onto the playing field and Seamus put in a fine performance at corner back, well done Seamus. This week we also must welcome James Mc Hugh to our Club, James transferred from Maynooth and is a welcome addition to our squad.


BITS "n" BOBS
Our Ladies section are still hard at work training on Wednesday and Friday evenings and attendance has been very good so far. The Ladies are due to play their next game in The Shield in Ballycomoyle on Sunday 15th June vs. The Downs and we will bring more details of this next week. Our U.10 boys had a great win on Wednesday evening last 28th May and unfortunately Jason Mc Clean got injured during this encounter and we wish Jason a speedy recovery. We are holding a sponsored 25k cycle on Sunday 29th June (this date is only provisional) in the locality and sponsorship cards will be available from Ray Farrelly from next week. It should be noted that persons taking part should be over 16 years of age. More details next week. Congrats to Caoimhe Mc Crossan who celebrated her birthday last week. Underage training continues every Friday evening in Ballcomoyle from 7-8pm and newcomers are always welcome, we cater for all age groups from U.12 right down to the U.6's and younger. Dermot Mc Kenna is our underage secretary and he can be contacted @ 044-9661805 for further details.

UNDER 12 GIRLS
Our under 12 girls travelled to Rochfortbridge on Tuesday 27 May for the final game in the league. Ballycomoyle started poorly and saw ourselves trailing early in the game, but settled in to close the gap to 3 points before Rochfortbridge scored a goal just on the stroke of half time. The second half however saw the top of the league bridge team consolidate their earlier lead to end comprehensive winners. We now see ourselves take on St. Loman’s in the championship final on Saturday 7th at a time and venue to be confirmed. All support is greatly appreciated for this team who have worked hard in every game and improvements being shown all round the pitch. Team: Shannon Farrelly, Anna Henry, Amy McNicholas, Ciara Walsh, Shauna Coughlan, Laura Coyle, Bibi O’Reilly, Ruth Mulligan, Anne Marie Kennedy, Katie Egan, Caoimhe McCrossan, Sarah Fagan, Kelly Coyle, Saoirse Farrelly, Gemma Faherty, Rachel Connell, Alex Farrelly, Aoife Fitzsimons, Orla Nea, Roisin Gilsenan, Keri Lambert, Marie Egan, Shaunagh Maher, Lorna Hilliard. Training continues every Friday night in Ballycomoyle 7-8pm for all under 12s.The under 14s play Ballinagore in Ballycomoyle on Thursday evening @ 7pm. Players are requested to be at the pitch for 6.30pm.

SNIPPETS
Word has it that Seamus F has to buy a sat-nav for Lesley following her recent trip to Donegal.......he did not need one for Westlife on Sunday night last......J Farlo celebrated his birthday on June 4th.....heading nearer to the big one......Rob Mc was seen swimming in Bettystown on Sunday last....Eileen F is reported to have donated her outdoor lights to charity.....Elaine L is contract growing cabbage in her glass-house.....

Monday May 12th May 2008

LADIES CONTINUE DEFENCE OF SHIELD.
Our junior Ladies footballers got off to a great start in defence of their Westmeath Shield crown with a wonderful win over Loughnavalley recently and their next challenge was against St. Paul’s on Friday evening 25 April. As an undefeated team Ballycomoyle went out to win. The game got of to a great start with Celeste Dermody scoring a tremendous goal a few minuets into the first half which gave Ballycomoyle a nice lead that soon lead into 7 point lead as Keri Flynn, Joanne Walsh, Sabrina Dermody and Ciara Clogher all scored points. The game was picking up momentum as St. Paul’s were putting up a great defence, but Ballycomoyle had the stronger team on the day. As the first half carried on, the wind pick up across the field and this worked to the advantage of the Ballycomoyle players as they carried on to score a further 3 goals and 7 points.
The second half showed more great football and the Ballycomoyle team showed everyone what teamwork was and as the winds pick up again, St Paul’s did all they could and eventually got into our front line and scored a point but then Ballycomoyle came back to score a further 5 points and a goal leaving the final score at Ballycomoyle 5-17 St. Paul’s 0-1.
Ballycomoyle team: Sinead Gallagher, Clodagh O’Neill, Elizabeth Hannon, Jane Coyle, Karen Coyle, Louise Farrelly, Tracey Weldon, Therese O’Keeffe, Joanne Walsh, Ciara Clogher, Keri Flynn, Ruth Daniels, Sabrina Dermody, Alma Hayden, Celest Dermody. Subs used: Hazel White, Tracey Tierney, Sinead Kilmurray, Aisling Farrelly, Sarah Jenson, Olivia Kenny, Carmel Coyle, Sabrina Scally. Marius would also like to remind all the Ladies that football training is on Wed @ 7 and Friday @ 8.15 and everyone is always welcome.

MENS JUNIOR TEAM
Our men’s junior "B" squad travelled to Sreamstown on Monday 5th May where they took on the home side in the Div.8 League. After a very shaky first half our lads put in a great effort in the second half and were unfortunate to come out with a defeat.Team; D.Peppard, M.Halpin, N.McKenna(capt.), S.Carroll, P.Dermody, J.Mc Hugh, D.Cloger, G.Farrelly, D.Cheevers, N.Morgan, S.Farrelly, D.Fagan, J.Ward, C.Mc Cormack, D.Nolan, Subs; D.O Rourke, E.Boylan, P.Mc Crossan. Our next outing in this competition is scheduled for a home fixture vs. Ballynacargy on 22nd May, we will have more details closer to the game.
 

Monday April 28th 2008

MIXED FORTUNES FOR JUNIOR MEN
We are well and truly in the middle of the playing season at the moment and games are coming on a very frequent basis. One of our most recent games seen us pitted against near neighbours C/F/C/W in Div. 8 of the league. This was quite a close affair until the last ten minutes when our opponents found an extra gear and ran out comfortable winners. On the evening we were well served by James Mc Hugh and Derek Cheevers.Team; D.Peppard, P.Smyth, N.Mc Kenna(capt.),N.Morgan, D.O'Rourke, J.Mc Hugh, E.Boylan, S.Farrelly, G.Farrelly, S.Og Doyne, D.Cheevers, D.Fagan, C.Mc Cormack, D.Nolan, P.Mc Crossan: Subs: M.Halpin for P.Mc Crossan, R.Farrelly for D.O'Rourke(inj.). Our next outing took place in Delvin on Saturday evening 19th April, where we took on the home side in the quarter-final of the Junior Cup. Delvin have been hit hard by emigration of late and this was a major factor in the outcome of this result. We ran out easy winners in the end but we must pay tribute to Delvin who put in a gallant effort, despite being short some of their best players. Team that defeated Delvin: N.Mc Kenna,M.Gavigan, D.Cheevers(capt.), S.Carroll, P.Dermody,J.Mc.Hugh,G.Farrelly,S.Smith, R.Fagan, K.Gavigan, M.Mc Cormack, J.Ward,S.Bardon, T.Brady,D.Cunningham: Subs; E.Kiernan, N.Morgan, C.Mc Cormack, D.Nolan, S.Farrelly,D.Clougher. Our final report from the men's section, relates to another Div. 8 game which took place in Moate on Tuesday evening of last week 22nd April, where we took on the home side. The home side stamped their authority on this game early on and we were left with an uphill battle the whole way through. We did however lift our game in the second half but unfortunately it was too little too late and we had to give way to a better side on the night. We were well served by Seamus Farrelly and Derek Cheevers. Team: D.Peppard, P.Smyth, N.Mc Kenna(capt.), S.Carroll, M.Halpin, J.Mc Hugh, S.Og Doyne, G.Farrelly, S.Farrelly, E.Boylan,D.Cheevers, D.Fagan, C.Mc Cormack, D.Nolan, N.Morgan, Subs:R.Masterson for N.Morgan(inj.), M.Gavigan for S.Og Doyne(inj.), G.Nea for E.Boylan, R.Farrelly for G.Farrelly(inj.). Our next fixture is for next Tuesday evening in Streamstown where we take on St.Josephs in Div.8 of the league at 7pm, please contact the team management if you are unable to attend.

SYMPATHY
The Club would like to express its deepest sympathies to the family, relatives and friends of Mrs. Maura Blacoe, Killtoom. Maura was very widely respected in the Community and the large crowd that attended at both the removal and funeral bore testament to this. Ar dheis Dé go raibh an anam Dilis.


SNIPPETS
Word has it that the players are making a collection for Pat S so as he can purchase a "sat-nav" which might aid him in finding GAA pitches following his tour of Moate last week....Joe F is reported to have sent a loving text message to his neighbour in mistake, thinking that it was going to a ladyfriend....nice one Joe...don’t worry I wont tell anyone....!!!!!....Crock is reported to have been seen taking an outdoor bath late at night outside "The Lough Lene Inn", courtesy of some of his mates....very thoughtful of them....!!!!...Ringo is another client who is in the running for a "sat-nav" after he also completed a few laps around Moate on Sunday last...!!!!...Figgy is soon to be re-christened "The Rock"...for more info contact Tossy.
 

Monday April 14th 2008

Monday April 7th 2008

SCÓR SINSEAR
"De-flated" would most likely be the best word to use following the recent Leinster Scór Finals which were held in Ballymore on Sunday 30th April. Despite our Novelty Act crew putting in a sterling performance they were denied the laurels of victory in a shock result from the judges. On the night, our near neighbours Offaly, also put in a huge performance and it seemed like a two horse race, but however, when the results were announced, it was Dublin that were declared Leinster Champions. We would like to wish Dublin well in the All Ireland. At this stage, all that we can say to our wonderful group of Grainne Healy, Dermot McKenna, Catherine Daly, Neville Jessop, Doreen Farrelly, Neill Salmon, Anna Marie McKenna and Seamus McDermott is thank you all so very much for representing our small Club with such pride and I have no doubt that everyone will be back again next year with the same enthusiasm as they had this year. We must also pay a huge tribute to both our Scór Secretaries Doreen Farrelly and Catherine Daly, who put in an unbelievable amount of time and effort into both Scór na nÓg and Scór Sinsear and again we hope that Catherine and Doreen will be back at the helm next year and bring Ballycomoyle to the next level. Finally we would like to thank all our supporters that followed us from round to round and to everyone who helped us in any way throughout the year.

UNDERAGE TRAINING
Much to the delight of a huge number of children, our underage training has re-commenced on Friday evening last and will continue every Friday evening from now on. The format remains the same as last year and the bus run that proved so successful last year continues the same as last year. We must apologise to a small number of children who were not informed about training last week especially Jason Mc Clean who personally contacted me on Saturday. For any enquires regarding any aspect of underage training please contact our underage secretary Dermot McKenna @ 044-9661805. Some of our underage teams have already played some games and following is a report from some of these games.

Under 12 girls v St Lomans 
Our under 12 girls played their first game of the season on Tuesday night last in Ballycomoyle.  We had a number of girls making their debut at this level and with some players missing, this game was always going to be tough.  After a shaky first half, the second half saw a much more spirited performance with some great displays of football.  However, it was not to be our day and St. Lomans ran out winners in the end. Team: Marie Egan, Shaunagh Maher, Saoirse Farrelly, Lorna Hilliard, Bibi O’Reilly, Shannon Farrelly, Ciara Walsh, Ruth Mulligan, Amy McNicholas, Kia Swinburn, Sarah Fagan, Katie Egan, Alex Farrelly, Kelly Coyle, Aoife Fitzsimons.

Under 14 Girls v Milltown.
The under 14 girls played their first game in Ballycomoyle on Thursday night against Milltown.  This was an outstanding team performance from this bunch of talented young ladies.  They started well and took an early lead, despite being well in control of the game the scores did not come freely. Milltown came back into the game with a goal following a lapse in concentration by our defence.  But the Bal girls quickly responded with a goal to keep the lead.  Milltown started the second half very well bringing the margin back to 1 point.  But that was as close as they got as Ballycomoyle regained their composure and ran out easy winners in the end. Team: Anne Marie Boylan, Emma Sullivan, Shannon Farrelly, Sarah Fagan, Aoife Flynn, Alice Murphy, Alanna Clogher, Jane Coyle, Laura Fogarty, Niamh Clogher, Sinead Connell, Rebecca Flood, Kelly Coyle, Aoife Gallagher, Mamie O’Reilly, Claire Cheevers, Ciara Walsh. The under 14 girls are away to Killucan on Thursday evening, bus leaving Castlepollard at 5.30pm going via Fore and Collinstown at 5.45pm.The under 14 girls are out again in the Feile competition in Athlone next Saturday – details will be available at the match on Thursday evening.

FUNDAMENTALS COACHING COURSE
There is a ‘Fundamentals Coaching Course’ taking place on Saturday 19th April from 10am to 4pm at a venue to be decided.  This course is given by the Ladies football association and is aimed at anyone 16 years and over who will be assisting or taking charge of any of the underage teams in the club where girls are involved for 2008/09.  All existing coaches who have not completed this course are encouraged to do it. Also a 3 day Referees course will be held on April 19th and April 26th with a follow up date some 6-8 weeks later.  This course will qualify you to referee Ladies football club games up to Under 14 level.  Currently there are very few ladies refereeing games in Westmeath and the Westmeath Ladies Football Association are trying to establish a panel of referees specific to the ladies association as part of their development of the game in the county.  Having said that this course is open to both male and female participants. For further information or if you are interested in taking part in either of these courses please contact Helen Coyle 087 2207374 or 044 9661096 immediately

LADIES JUNIOR SQUAD
Our ladies junior squad are preparing very well for the oncoming season and Marius informs me that he has a large turnout at all training sessions, which merits well for the future. On Sunday last the ladies had a very worthwhile challenge game against Mountnugent in Ballycomoyle and after a very evenly matched affair, the visitors ran out winners on a scoreline of 2.08 to 1.06. Ballycomoyle were short quite a number of key players and this gave the management team a great opportunity to try various different options. Our ladies first outing of the season will be on Sunday evening next in Ballycomoyle at 4pm where they take on Loughnavalley in the first round of The Westmeath Shield. We hope that we will have lots of support on the evening as this promises to be a very exciting game.  Joanne Walsh has been selected as captain of the team this year and Louise Farrelly is vice-captain, we would like to wish them both the very best of luck in their roles for the year ahead. All of the ladies and indeed all of Ballycomoyle Football Club would like to wish Jenny "Killer" Cooney a speedy recovery and we hope that she will be back on the field of play in the very near future. We would also like to welcome Seamus Farrelly on to the management of the U14 girls, Claire Coyle to the U16 girls and Anne and Sean Dermody to the Minor girls teams and we also wish them the best of luck for the year ahead.

MENS JUNIOR SQUAD
Our men’s junior squad are also preparing quite well for the forthcoming Championship, which is only around the corner. Our men’s "A" team are scheduled to play Loughnavalley in Loughnavalley on Sunday evening next at 6pm in A.C.F.L Div.3. Our Junior "B" team are scheduled to play C/F/C/W in Ballycomoyle on Tuesday evening next 15th April at 7pm. Finally our "A" team will be in action again on Saturday evening 19th April, in Delvin vs. Delvin in the first round of the Junior Cup and this is scheduled for 6pm. We hope to have full match reports on all games in the coming weeks.   

SYMPATHY
The Ballycomoyle Football Club would like to convey its deepest sympathies to the family, relatives and friends of the late Jimmy Drumm, Kilpatrick, Collinstown. Jimmy was very well known in farming circles and was very highly respected by all those that had the pleasure of knowing him. Ar dheis Dé go raibh ananam Dilís.

CONGRATULATIONS
Congratulations are extended this week to Club Chairman, Seamus McDermott who celebrated his birthday with a party for family and friends in the Bloomfield House Hotel. Congrats Seamus and I believe that he was celebrating the 29th anniversary of his 21st. Congrats also to Heather Dolan, Ankerland who celebrated her birthday quite recently.

SNIPPETS
Word has it that the vice-chairman and assistant secretary have taken up fishing......word has it that they wouldn’t catch a cold...!!!!....One of the terrible twins was caught out on April fools day....your secret is safe with me Seamus....???....Gary N is reported to have bought a top of the range pair of football boots.....pity that he seems to have forgot where the pitch is....

Monday March 3rd 2008

Monday February 25th 2008

SCÓR SINSEÁR
Once again on this Saturday night, 1st March we hit the road to The Downs GAA Centre, where at 7.30pm, the County Finals of Westmeath Scór 2008 are taking place and this year we are taking part in three sections. On Saturday night last the semi-finals took place and following a very stiff competition our Recitation, Ballad Group and Novelty Act were chosen to go forward to the finals. We must say hard luck to Siobhán Murphy who failed to the approval of the adjudicators in the Solo Singing and also to our Question Time team who also failed to make the Finals. We would like to wish all our participants the very best of luck for Saturday night next and these include: Recitation- Catherine Daly: Ballad Group- Grainne Healy, Michaél Fagan, Doreen Farrelly, Siobhán Murphy and Catherine Daly: Novelty Act- Neville Jessop, Anna-Marie McKenna, Neil Salmon, Seamus McDermott, Dermot McKenna, Catherine Daly, Doreen Farrelly and Gráinne Healy. Proceedings get underway at 7.30 and people are advised to come early as a huge crowd is expected, we hope that you will be there to lend your continued support and as always it is very much appreciated. The Novelty Act crew would like to thank Ita in "The Seven Wonders Bar", Fore for supplying the tables for their sketch and who knows, maybe we might have a "Speed Dating" night in Fore in the near future.

A.C.L.F. Div. 3
Our league campaign kicked of on Sunday last in Castletown vs the home side C/F/C/W and our opponents ran out easy winners. We are back training in the park each Tuesday and Thursday evening at 8pm sharp and we expect everyone to be in attendance. We have not put much emphasis on the league this year as The Championship is of upmost importance but following last Sundays display we know that we have a lot of work to do between now and then.

CLUB WEAR
Club wear can be obtained by contacting Ray @ 087-2264205 and includes jackets, polo shirts, tee-shirts, hoodies, hats and kit bags, please contact Ray before Sunday 9th March to place your order. Copies of the D.V.D. from the Dinner Dance are also available by contacting Ray or directly contacting Pat Feery @ 087-2708047.

Monday February 18th 2008

SCÓR SINSEAR
All roads lead to The Downs on Saturday night next 23rd February, for the semi-final of Senior Scór 2008. We are very well represented this year and following is a list of our participants: Solo Singing- Siobhan Murphy, Recitation- Catherine Daly, Ballad Group- Grainne McManus, Michael Fagan, Doreen Farrelly, Siobhan Murphy, and Catherine Daly. Question Time: Ciarán Ring, Niall McKenna, Ray Farrelly. Novelty Act: Dermott McKenna, Niall McKenna, Neill Salmon, Seamus McDermott, Neville Jessop, Catherine Daly, Doreen Farrelly, Grainne McManus, Anna-Marie McKenna. We are hopeful that we will have lots of support on the night and we can promise you that as usual with Scór, a great night’s entertainment is on the cards. Proceedings get underway at 7.30pm sharp, so come early to book your place as a large crowd is expected.

A.C.F.L. DIV.3
On Sunday next, 24th February, we are scheduled to make the short trip to Castletown to take on C/F/C/W in the opening round of the league. C/F/C/W were our first opponents in last years league and they ran out easy winners in this encounter, however, this year we would hope that we will give a better account of ourselves. The match kicks off at 2.30pm and all players are expected to be in Castletown, no later than 1.45pm.

SNIPPETS
Paddy S(buggy) is reported to be getting into PIG farming following his little encounter last week......Ita H is reported to be still having physio on her knee following our Dinner Dance......too much dancing Ita.....!!!!!!....Lesley F was seen touching up her driving skills last week.....that is on the tractor.....

Monday February 11th 2008

SENIOR SCÓR
Preparations are now in full swing for the upcoming Senior Scór semi-finals which takes place in The Downs GAA Centre on Saturday night 23rd February. We will be well represented on the night as we are taking part in Solo Singing, Ballad Group, Recitation, Question Time and last but not least, for the very first time we will be represented in the Novelty Act. We got through to the County Final last year with our Ballad Group and our Recitation, but however we failed to lift the laurels in the Final. The entire Club would like to wish all our participants the very best of luck on the night and we would like to thank everyone involved for taking time out to prepare for the semi-finals. A full list of all our personnel will appear next week and we are urging everyone to lend their support on the night and it is indeed a very enjoyable night’s entertainment.

TRAINING
Training has kicked of for both the Men’s and the Ladies Junior teams respectively. The men’s junior team are presently training on the track in Ringtown on a Tuesday and Friday night at 8pm and on Sunday mornings in the Park at 11am. We are deeply indebted to Ringtown Hurling Club for allowing us to use their wonderful facility. Our junior ladies kicked of on Friday night last in the Park and continues every Friday night at 8pm. Marius was delighted with the turnout on the evening and has stated that all newcomers are very welcome. The first round of Div.3 of the Men’s Junior League is scheduled to commence on the weekend of 23/24 February.

SYMPATHY
The Club would like to express its deepest sympathy to the family, relatives and friends of Rosie Egan, Mooretown. Rosie will be sadly missed by everyone that was fortunate enough to have known her. The Club would also like to extend its sympathies to the family, relatives and friends of Mrs. Shelia Doolin, Shelia will also be sadly missed by all those who knew her, "Ar Dheis Dé go raibh a n-anam-nacha".

CONGRATULATIONS
Where should we begin.....Firstly we congratulate Aisling Farrelly, Hilltown who celebrated her 18th Birthday on Saturday night last, also on Saturday night last Ciarán Smyth, Hilltown celebrated his 21st. Majella Walsh was next up to celebrate her birthday with a party for family and friends in "The Lough Lene Inn", Collinstown......word has it that "String" was a big hit with his cowboy hat. Lastly on the birthday scene was John McManus, Fore who celebrated his birthday with a party in "The Basement". As I am not allowed disclose what age Majella and John are, all that I can say is that they both celebrated the 19th Anniversary of their 21st.  Congratulations to Lawerence and Olive Briody, Martinstown on the birth of their son, Jack-Joseph. Gerry informs me that he has the No. 3 jersey at the ready for Jack. Congratulations also to Davy Nolan and Sirata on the birth of their daughter Keela.

CLONKILL
Well done to all involved in Clonkill Hurling Club on their brilliant achievement on Saturday night last in Croke Park. They did the whole of Westmeath proud and they must be saluted. Well done.

SNIPPETS
Word has it that Paddy Ma found the keys of the van eventually, just hours before a new set arrived.......rumour has it that three lads are heading to The Big Apple for a taste in March....Farlo,Noel B and Ted F....three musketeers or maybe three stoogies.....I think they are leaving Suzie(camper-van) at home......word has it that Rob Mc has been offered a slot on The Late Late Show following his appearance on the Joe Finnegan Show on Shannonside last week.....Pat Kenny was 60  a number of weeks ago......not the local Pat Kenny...!!!!....thanks Mary... 

Monday January 21st 2008 

MEMORABLE DINNER DANCE
Friday night last 18th January, will probably be always remembered as been one of the Clubs best functions so far in our history. Over 270 people made the journey to the fabulous "Crover House Hotel", in Mountnugent, Co. Cavan, where they were treated to a wonderful night's entertainment. We are deeply indebted to all our dignitaries which included Fr. Moore, Fr. Walsh, Geraldine Giles(President of Ladies Association),Tom Farrell (County Board Chairman), Pat Lynagh (County Board Secretary),Andy Boyhan Vice-Chairman Ladies County Board), Angela Boyhan (Secretary Ladies County Board) and Shelia Lyster (Treasurer Ladies County Board). We were delighted that all our dignitaries attended and helped to make our night such a memorable one. In Tom Farrell's impressive speech, Tom announced that the County Board are in the process of setting up an Integration Officer which will be in liaison with the Ladies County Board, which in effect will help to strengthen the role of Ladies Football in Westmeath. An equally impressive speech followed by Geraldine Giles and Geraldine was delighted with Tom's announcement and who knows where this could lead for Ladies Football in the future. There were several presentations on the night which started with the Ballycomoyle lads who were part of the St. Michaels panel that won the U.16 Division 3 Championship. This was followed by the presentation of medals to our wonderful Junior Ladies who captured the 2007 Shield and Marius gave a light-hearted description of all the panel. The eagerly awaited player of the year awards followed and the Junior Men's Player of the Year was Tossy Brady, the Junior Men's Young Player was Stephen Bardon. Our Ladies Young Player of the Year was Ruth Daniels and the Ladies Player of the Year was Tracey Weldon. We would like to congratulate everybody involved in their success in 2007 and we hope that we will have more silverware in the near future to celebrate. Following on from our presentations, we were treated to an excellent night's entertainment by the very highly talented Noel Briody and Eddie Quinn, both are brilliant as solo artists but when you join them together they are just awesome. The Ballycomoyle Football Club would most sincerely like to everybody who helped us in making our night such a memorable one and the list would include, The Crover House Hotel especially Function Manager Aileen Barkey, Pat Seery, Kevin Matthews, Alan and Christy Salmon Bus Hire, Edel Mc Donnell, Danny Boyce, Noël Briody, Eddie Quinn, Brophy Trophies, Topic Print, Genesis, Our Dignitaries and all the people who made the effort to attend, Thank You All so much.

SNIPPETS
I know that I said that I would be of duty at the Dance but guess what.....I lied...sorry.....Majella W is reported to have had a Marilyn Monroe moment outside when she felt the effects of the strong wind.......Beardy Micsin was seen teaching Dermot C how to dance....word has it that Ringo and Michael C ended up doing the Tango......!!!!....Michael H got his birthday kiss on the bus on the way home......Andy D, Paul D and Jamie W were all in top form......!!!!....Noel S got a lesson in shots......never to go near them again....much.....!!!!!....Ringo celebrated his birthday at the dance.....big one next year....Gerry F demonstrated how to drink water.....from a jug....!!!!!!.....the terrible twins got a good one at yours truly.......Eugene G found a new use for his tie....use it as a headband.....!!!!!!....Freddy got tripped up on the way to bar.....!!!....

Monday January 14th 2008

DINNER DANCE
All roads lead to "The Crover House Hotel", Mountnugent, Co.Cavan on this Friday night 18th January, where we are holding our very first Dinner Dance. People could argue that we actually held a Presentation Dinner Dance some years ago but however we will label this one as our first. Tickets for the night have been selling like "hot buns" and we are expecting a capacity crowd. Admission is by ticket only and at time of going to press, there was only a handful of tickets left and if anyone decides late that they would like to be part of the night please check with a Committee member or Ray Farrelly with regards to availability. As stated last week, it is promising to be a very enjoyable night and we will have a full run down on proceedings in next week’s notes (that’s if, yours truly has recovered sufficiently...!!). For those intending to use the bus service it is advisable to check with Christy Salmon personally or contact Ray @087-9268049. Word has it that the suits have all been aired during the week and the cobwebs were knocked of the tie's and as for the Ladies, word has it that all the major fashion shops thought that it was Christmas all over again. Looking forward to seeing everyone there on the night and we hope that everyone enjoys themselves.

CONGRATULATIONS
Congratulations to Paul Ginnell and Helen Dobson who got engaged over the festive period, we wish them all the best for the future.

SCÓR
Beware everyone.......Catherine and Doreen are back in Scór mode once again and they are recruiting people at the moment for Senior Scór, so if you have any hidden talents, please do not fear and contact either Doreen or Catherine. The two rounds of Scór take place on the weekend of 22-23 February and again we hope to enter two teams in almost every section. More details in the weeks ahead.

SYMPATHY
The Ballycomoyle Football Club would like to extend its deepest sympathy to the family, relatives and friends of Micheál Healy, Collinstown. Micheál was a renowned sportsman and a very well respected person and he will be sadly missed by all those who had the pleasure of knowing him. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.

Monday January 7th 2008

CLUB DINNER DANCE
As we welcome in the New Year, what better way could we do it, than starting with a good night out to wash away all the Christmas blues. Yes folks, on Friday night of next week, January 18th, we are holding our Club Dinner Dance in The Crover House Hotel, Mountnugent, Co. Cavan and what a night it is promising to be. This unique night is intended for the whole community and we are very hopeful that we will have a very good cross section of our entire area represented on the evening. One of the main functions on the night will be the Presentation of Medals to our wonderful Junior Ladies who captured the 2007 Shield in an unforgettable match, late on last season. Tickets are available at a number of local establishments and also from any Committee Member or you can contact Ray at 087-9268049, there will be a bus service available from the usual collection points, Castlepollard, Collinstown, Fore and Glenidan and you can also contact Ray concerning this. Following on from our superb four course dinner and presentations, we will be treated to music by the dynamic duo of Noel Briody and Eddie Quinn and if you still have energy left for dancing after this duo, we have a disco till the “wee" hours. So folks, you have been warned, miss this night at your peril, get your tickets early and avoid the rush and just to finish off, I myself will be off duty on the night ie., no snippets for a week after.....!!!!!!.. Looking forward to seeing you all there on the night.

BUMPER CHRISTMAS LOTTO
On Friday night 21 December 2007 we held our Bumper Christmas Draw in "The Seven Wonders”, Fore and the results are as follows: Draw No.1 -E 10,000 -3,4,8,12 and Draw No.2- E 4,000- 13,16,23,28. There was no winner for either jackpot and the five E 100 winners were Norbert Tucker, Larry Dalton, Mick Owens, Martina Casserly and David O'Keefe. The winners of our special Christmas draw were; Christmas Hamper- Belinda Dunne, Turkey Voucher and Brandy- Tess Kennedy, Ham Voucher and Whiskey-  Laura Owens, Roast Voucher and Gin- Jimmy Smyth, Christmas Cake -Shane Higan, Brandy and Biscuits- Elaine Doyle, Brandy and Chocolates- Anthony Rehill, Whiskey and Biscuits-Brendan Ryan, Whiskey and Chocolates- Joe Joe Mc Loughlin, Baileys and Biscuits- Malachy Gibney, Baileys and Chocolates- Pat Egan, Hardware Voucher- Gerard and Sharon Halpin, Wine-Emma O Hara, Biscuits- Tommy Gallagher,Choclates- Andrew Dowdall. Sellers Prize's: Wine- John Lynch, Chocolates- Marius Reilly, Chocolates- Michael Dermody. The entire Ballycomoyle Football Club would like to thank everyone for their support of our lotto in 2007 and we look forward to your continued support in 2008. We would also like to thank all of the publican's who allow us in at different times during the year to hold our draws and finally we would like to thank all our sellers and our lotto committee who ensure the smooth running of our lotto on a fortnightly basis.

CONGRATULATIONS
Congratulations are extended to Robert Mc Clean, Lickblay, who got engaged to Irma during the festive period and we wish them the best of luck for the future.

SNIPPETS
Word has it that Club Chairman was seen demonstrating his disco moves in The Tunnel recently.......Joe F was caught in an uncomprising position on C.C.T.V over the holidays......word has it that Joe will be spending a lot of time cutting hedges in the Clonmellon area from now on.......!!!!!!... Paul D is reported to have had a close "call" with a telephone pole recently......Roaney F has ambitions of competing in the "Tour de France" with his new addition......

Club Contacts:  

 
Last modified: February 07, 2010