February, 2022
Academy Returns Saturday February 5th
The Academy will take place OUTDOORS every Saturday mornings until the end of March as the indoor is unavailable.
Please help us to spread the word among the community and wider afield – all new and existing members are welcome to attend.
DÓMs U17 HL V Ballygiblin – 26/2
First hurling game of the league year and Ballygiblin proved far too good. They played with the very strong breeze straight away and were straight into tehir stride and put up 1-15 to 0-2 by halftime. Straight after the restart they buried the sliotar in the back of the Ui Mhurchú net x2 and that was that. The Ui Mhurchú lads battled on gamely until the end in their first match together as a group.
Panel : D. Herlihy, K. May, N. Kearney O’Sullivan, S. Glossop, S. Buckley, B. O’Mahony, S. Murphy, J. Bartlett, R. Sisk, M. Morrissey, J. Glossop, C. O’Donovan, B. Lucey, R. Barrett, F. Mansfield, S. Foy
U15 FL V Sliabh Rua 1 – 6/3
Shamrocks played their first underage match of the season on Sunday when they travelled to play Sliabh Rua in Riverstick.
Shamrocks played against the strong wind in the first half and found scores hard to come by. Shamrocks had a very young team out with a lot of the U13 team playing. The age difference started to show as Sliabh Rua started to take control. Only for the excellent Donal Herlihy in goal the score line would have been a lot greater than it was.
With the wind at our backs in the second half, Shamrocks kicked over some fine points from play. To their credit, the lads never gave up and kept going to the end.
We would like to thank the parents who travelled with us and especially all the U13s who played and done themselves proud. Without them we wouldn’t be able to field a team at this age
Return of the Indoor Academy – 11/3
On another note – Congrats to Clubman Colin Brady, one of our U7 coaches, who was given a pass on Friday night to attend his own wedding! We wish Colin many years of happy married life!
DÓMs U17 FL V Inniscarra – 13/3
A brave display against a very good Inniscarra team in Camden on Sunday. No further report.
DÓM U17 HL V Whitechurch – 19/3
Whitechurch 7-13, Ó Murchús 1-2
Hard luck to the Diarmuid Ó Murchú minor hurlers who were beaten by Whitechurch in the league in Crosshaven
U13 FL V St Vincents – 26/3
St Vincents 3-8, Shamrocks 2-6
This game was played on the bottom pitch on Saturday and unfortunately we have no report or photos submitted.
DOMs U17 FL1 V Kinsale – 27/3
This was a great game of football between 2 committed teams. Kinsale led at HT but a great second half by the Ó Murchús lads nearly resulted in a victiry for the away team. Despite the result, training and set up has been going well and wins are around the corner
Defibrillator Training – 26/3
U15 HL V Passage and Tracton – 28/3 & 30/3
The lads were well beaten by Passage on Monday night with what was basically an U14 team. This was a refixture from 2 weeks ago.
Tracton 4-11, Shamrocks 1-7
They then played Tracton on Wednesday night in Shanbally and they played much better before going down by 13 points
April 2022
DÓMs HL V Kilavullen – 1/4
They made the long journey to Kilavullen on Friday night. No report available but looks like a good high scoring game but defeat was their lot again.
U13 HL V Ballinhassig – 2/4
Good win for the U13 hurlers in Ballinhassig on Saturday morning to get their hurling season up and running. No report available. They are pictured below
DÓM MFL 2 V Glenville 2 – 5/4
Ó Murchús (2) 6-14, Glenville (2) 0-8
This was the first win of the season for Ó Murchús and was well deserved on the night in Crosshaven. WEll done to all the players and coaches
U15 FL V Aghabullogue – 6/4
Shamrocks 6-14, Aghabullogie 0-5
Team – Aaron Connolly, Billy Hanna, Liam Dorney, Seamus O Mahony, Ryan Barrett, Barry O’Mahony, Calum O’Neill, David Herlihy, Jason O’Driscoll, Luke Jordan, Cian Lynch, Donal Herlihy, Jack O’Sullivan-Kearney, Shane O Flynn, Calum Fitzgerald, James Keane.
U13 FL V Courcey Rovers – 9/4
Courcey Rovers 3-7, Shamrocks 2-8
No report or photos provided
U11 F Blitz v Whitechurch – 9/4
DÓMs FL V Eire Óg – 8/9
Despite defeat, the players played very well against a strong and powerful Eire Og outfit in Ovens on Friday evening.
Michael Brennan, Club President, RIP – 11/4
U15 HL V Owen Gaels – 14/4
Owen Gaels 2-8, Shamrocks 0-7
DÓM MHL V St Colmcilles – Easter Sunday
DÓM MHL V St Colmcilles – 17/4 (Easter Sunday)
St Colmcilles 6-23, Ó Murchús 1-0
U15 FL V Passage – 20/4
Played in Shanbally on Wednesday evening, about as one sided as it gets.
DÓM U17 FL V Aghabullogue – 22/4
Played in Shanbally, the lads tried hard and were competitive but unlike Aghabullogue, they dont really have a player to score on a regular basis. The goals conceded are killing them in most of their matches, hurling and football.
U7/U6 Football Blitz – 23/4
The U7 and U6s combined only had 8 players available on Saturday but they 8 players played great football in what was their first blitz of the year. They played Douglas, Sliabh Rua and Kinsale.
Well done to them all and to the main Shamrocks organiser Colin Brady. Academy training continues every Friday
DÓM U17 FL2 V Kiltha Óg 2 – 23/4
Ó Murchús (2) 2-9, Kiltha Óg (2) 3-3
A good win for the second Ó Murchús team over a Kiltha Óg team who beat them well recently.
Ó Murchús are slowly improving with plenty of games – well done to all for sticking with it.
U13 HL V Sliabh Rua – 26/4
An excellent and impressive performance from the U13s who dominated Sliabh Rua on Tuesday evening, each and every pne of the team put in a erious shift, well done to one and all
U15 HL V Cloughduv – 27/4
Played in Cloch Dhubh on Wednesday evening. No report but the lads played good hurling in a competitive match
Helen Prout RIP – 27/4
Due to the untimely passing of Helen Prout, our esteemed Vice-President, past Treasurer and loyal Shamrock supporter, all playing and training activities are cancelled until Mon 2nd May. The Club extends sincere sympathies to Martin, Deirdre, Michael, Peter and the extended Cusack and Prout families.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam.
John Kerins Tournament Qualifying – 30/4
May 2022
U13 FL V Passage – 2/5
Well done to the U13s who beat Passage in a rearranged fixture on Bank Holiday Monday morning in Passage in the league.
DÓM U17 FL V Ballinora – 2/5
The lads played well in the first half in Ballinora but the home side took over in the second and finished well.
U15 FL V Tracton – 4/5
Tracton 5-13, Shamrocks 3-9
No report or photos
DÓM U17 FL V Donoughmore – 6/5
A great game of football went the way of the home team after a great effort from the Ó Murchús lads
U7/U6 H Blitz – 7/5
U8 H+F Blitz V Passage – 7/5
U11 F Blitz v Kinsale – 7/5
U13 HL V Passage – 8/5
A good game of hurling which Passage won. Shamrocks lads played well but just lacked a bit of scoring power up front.
DÓM U17 FL 2 V Glenville 2 – 9/5
Glenville (2) 7-8, Ó Murchús (2) 2-8
No report
Basic 1st Aid Training – 10/5
U15 HL V Kinsale – 11/5
Well beaten
DÓM U17 HL V Mayfield – 13/5
Well beaten
U8 F Blitz – 14/5
13 under 8 footballers played 2 small sided games each against Crosshaven, Nemo Rangers and Kinsale on Saturday morning in Crosshaven. Some great performances from the Shamrocks lads in the sunshine. There were lots of red faces from the sun!
There was great support from the parents.
Golf Classic – 18/5
The biannual Shamrocks Golf Classic took place on Monday May 16th in Monkstown GC. There was a full turn out of teams with 43 taking part on the day. A wonderful day was had by all and afterwards all the prizes were presented to the winning teams in the Shamrock Bar. Photos HERE
Results of Golf Classic at Monkstown Golf Club on Monday May 16th
Special congratulations to Jonathan Corker playing in the Cork Builders Providers team who scored a hole in one on the 6th.
Sincere thanks to all the participants and sponsors on the day. A special word of appreciation to Alan Geary and his merry band of volunteers for a very well organised, successful and enjoyable outing. Praise also to Monkstown GC for having the course in excellent condition and all the catering staff for the wonderful food and service.
Golf Classic photos May 16th 2022
U11 H Challenge V Cloughduv – 20/5
Well done to the under 11 hurlers who played Cloughduv U11s (under the guidance of former Shamrocks player Donie O’Leary) in Shanbally on Friday night. Some impressive performance from the Shamrocks lads
U11 H V Cloughduv May 20th
U8 Monster Hurling Blitz – 21/5
U7/U6 H + F Challenge Games V Passage – 21/5
JAHL Shamrocks v Kinsale 21/5/2022
Our Junior Hurlers recorded a well deserved win over a fancied Kinsale side in Shanbally on Saturday evening. In the first half, aided by a stiff cross-field breeze, a superbly taken goal by centre forward David Andrews and the ever reliable successful free taking from Andrew O’Grady kept the home side in front throughout the 30 minutes. At the short whistle Shamrocks remained four points ahead on a score line of 1-12 to 0-11.
In the second half against a strong wind, a terrific performance by all six backs and safe goalkeeping by Steven Keane kept the dangerous and hungry Kinsale forward line at bay. A second goal from a five star performance by David Andrews, ending with a tally of 2-04, early in the half also ensured Shamrocks kept a safe margin between the teams. A late close in free for Kinsale reached the back of the net to leave a goal in the difference before Shamrocks ended the game with a further point to extend the final whistle lead to four. Manager Alan Geary and his backroom team were delighted with the win and greatly encouraged with the performance of all 18 players who turned out and especially in the absence of key injured players.
Team : Steven Keane, Coby O’Grady, Sean Kidney, Tom Murphy, Senán Collins, Mark Hitchmough, Jason Browne, Fionn Hurley, Sean Andrews, Fergus O’Neill, David Andrews Andrew O’Grady, Mark Jordan, Harry Andrews and Cillian Hayes. Subs : Dylan O’Flaherty, Joseph O’Keeffe and Shane Downey.
Presentation to U13s (2021) – 26/5
Presentation to Mentors May 2022 (3)
U13 HL V Tracton – 28/5
Shamrocks 4-12, Tracton 2-2
Shamrocks U13 hurlers got the second part of their season off to the perfect start with a strong performance against Tracton at sunsplashed Shanbally on Saturday morning.
U13 V Tracton May 28th 2022
U11 H V Fr O’Neills – 28/5
Michael Brennan Obituary May 2022
LEAVES A RICH LEGACY
……………………………………………………………………………………..
Michael Brennan, late President of The Shamrock Hurling & Football Club was called to his eternal reward recently and his passing severs a mighty link with the Club’s rich past. He had served fifteen unbroken years as President, having been Vice-President four years previously. He was a wonderful person at the helm and provided great leadership and guidance to all who served with him. He commanded huge respect both locally and much further afield. We have lost one of life’s great Christian Gentlemen whose integrity was beyond reproach – life will never be the same.
GREAT SERVICE
Michael has rendered a massive amount to our Club over decades and he was never found wanting when the call went out. He would be first to show and lead the way whether it was in administration, fund-raising, or any other initiative. He was Chairman of the Club during a golden period. He was elected Chairman in 1988 and led the Club to Junior Football championships in successive years. He was a Selector and commanded great respect from the players and the team captains. Declan O’Neill was captain in 1988 and Ciaran Barry led the team in 1989 and went on to captain Carrigdhoun in 1990. He led the team and a huge band of followers to Aughaville in West Cork in 1989 when Shamrocks defeated the mighty champions of Beara, Adrigole. In 1990 we acquired two extra pitches and of course he led the fundraising to meet the debt. His widespread respect commanded huge goodwill and support. This period saw some great successes at Under age with his old friend Joe O’Donovan at the helm there. He was a great fundraiser over the years right up to the time of his death when he would weekly hand in his lotto ticket sales. He was always on time. But of course, he loved the games and wherever the green jerseys were in action he would be sure to be there.
TRADITION
Michael was son of the late Abie Brennan who was the man credited with introducing Shamrocks to the game of football. In 1923, Abie captained the Football team to win the Intermediate County title defeating the West Cork Team Dohoneys. He was later a Referee and Chairman of the South-East Cork Board. The Brennan family were from Coolmlore and over years they gave great Service to their Club and Community. Michael was a fine hurler and a member of The Shamrock Under 16 team of 1948 that won the inaugural championship. They received their medals from Maurice O’Donoghue of the South East Board and a beautiful new silver cup presented by Fr. O’Farrell C.C. Carrigaline. Michael was one of the few surviving members of that historic team. Ger Coveney and Donal Brady are, thankfully, still with us. He later hurled at senior level with Carrigdhoun. The Brennans had some fine singers in the family and that great old South-East Cork Ballad ‘Carrigdhoun’ was among their favourites. Michael was a member of the Church Choir at St. Columbas in Douglas. He was also a life long member of the Pioneer Association.
GOODBYE
Large numbers turned out to say their goodbyes and St. Columbas Church was filled to capacity. There was a wonderful rendition of traditional hymns from the Choir and his coffin draped in the Shamrock colours was carried out of the Church to its resting place to the beautiful refrain of ‘Nearer my God to thee’. Later, as his coffin entered St. Michael’s cemetery , a lone piper from the Carrigaline Pipe Band played a final lament. May his gentle soul rest in peace:
Deepest sympathy is tendered to son Anthony, daughters Catherine and Valerie, his grandchildren, many relatives and friends.
Seán O’Tuama
Helen Prout Obituary May 2022
Shockwaves resonated throughout our Club and wider community on hearing the sad news of Helen Prout’s death. Words were hard to find and it was with great sadness and grief that we began to accept the unpalatable fact. Our dear and wonderful leading lady both in Club and Community was called home too soon indeed.
RINGASKIDDY’S VERY BEST;
Helen was a life long supporter and advocate of the Shamrock Hurling & Football Club having been born into a family rich in Gaelic and local tradition. She truly loved her own place and it meant so much to her throughout her life. The village, her mother’s shop, her uncle’s Post Office were all the great magnets that drew her into the great richness of where she lived. Shamrocks, its teams, its great history were a huge part of her life. She loved it all with great flair and undying enthusiasm.
Her greatest joys, memories and satisfactions came from where she lived and grew up and remained all her life. Her own place gave her all she could ever dream or wish for.
VICE PRESIDENT
At the time of her death she was the leading Lady Vice-President of the Club having been elected in 2011. Helen gave so much of her time and efforts to the Club over a lifetime and she held the onerous task of Treasurer for ten years. A most capable and reliable Officer, she was always at the top of her task leading by example and a motivation for others. In her time in office the Club expended tens of thousands of Euros in land purchase and developments. Helen kept tight strings on the purse and made sure we always got value for money. When it came to raising money she would be to the forefront leading the way. Her family were involved in the Club since its foundation and her father Paddy wore the jersey and her uncle Mick was a star of the Shamrock Senior Hurling team. Her own family would follow suit and her daughter Deirdre helped get camogie back in action and was a football enthusiast too. Son Peter was a dual player with the Club and excelled too on the Carrigdhoun Senior Football team. Her youngest son Michael brought numerous honours to the family, Village and Club. He played Under 17 football for Ireland. Won all Ireland Hurling and Football medals with Cork and in an All Ireland captained Cork to Victory. Surely these family feats and achievements brought herself and husband Martin great joy and satisfaction. Her children were so fortunate to have such a wonderful mother and father. In later years her many grandchildren were taking up the great family tradition swinging camans and kicking footballs. Helen loved every minute.
TRIBUTES
It was with heavy hearts and tearful eyes great numbers came to pay their respect and make their farewells. Saying goodbye was so hard and heart rendering, we never thought Helen would leave us, she always seemed to be ever present and an integral part of what we are and what we stand for. Life can surely be very hard. Shanbally Church was filled to full capacity as Fr. Sean led the prayers and Requiem Mass. Her favourite colours, Shamrocks, bedecked her coffin as she made her final exit and journey. Large Numbers Officers and players of all ages from the men and Ladies teams came out in their true colours of green and white to ensure that final lap was truly a
Shamrock one. Dear Helen, we will all miss you greatly, having known, befriended and worked with you made us all better and when we walk out the Gobby Road facing into the wind and salty Sea Air, surely your indominable rich Spirit will never be far away. Please stay close. May your gentle Soul rest in Heavenly peace;
Deepest and heart felt sympathy is extended to husband Martin, sons Peter and Michael, daughter Deirdre, sister Ann, brother Pat, her many grandchildren, relatives and friends.
June 2022
U13 FL V Tracton – 2/6
Shamrocks 3-13, Tracton 2-5
The u13 footballers continued their good run with a victory over Tracton in Shanbally on Tursday evening. They already beat Tracton in the hurling the previous week. Well done to the team and coaches
Club Chiaráin 2022 update – July 4th to July 8th
Summer sunshine greeted the 93 boys and girls who filled the fields at Pairc Tadgh O’h-Annlaoi, with the sound of excitement and anticipation- Club Ciaran Hurling Week was about to get under way. Senior Club Coaches John Herlihy N.T, Patrick Andrews and Carol Andrews led their colleagues and eager participants to a perfect start. Hurleys, Helmets and slitors big and small were the order of the day with beginners and more experienced participants all keen to ‘get stuck in’. Dee and Mairéad in the kitchen made sure all were fed and taken care of at break times.
Carol Andrews with the U6s
Day 2
The fun continued on Tuesday as we were blessed with fine weather. The club were delighted to welcome Mary and Jenny Hegarty, mother and aunt of the late Kieran, after whom the club is run.
They were especially hapy to see the many fine hurling skills on disply from our young hurlers and camógie players.
We cant wait for Wednesdays action.
Day 3
Another great day of fun at Club Chiaráin on Wednesday. All the young boys and girls had great fun and look forward to more of the same on Thursday.
Day 4
A fantastic moring at Cub Chiaráin. The sun arrived after the mid morning break and what a glorious morning we had with all the yiung boys and girls. Ice cream van tomorrow, its well deserved!!
Day 5
The week finished in style as the sun shine, the players got their hurling and camógis practice in and finally, to cap off a great week, the Ice Cream van arrived to treat everyone. It truly was a wonderful week! Na Seamróga Abú!!!!
U15 FL V Erins Own – 13/7
A great resulf for the lads on Wednesday evening in beautiful sunny Shanbally. Well done to all
New grass cutting equipment – Mid June 2022
The Club recently purchased a tractor and a new mower from Geaney & O’Neill in Glanmire to facilitate the ongoing maintenance of our 12 acres of pitches and spectator viewing areas. The Club wishes to acknowledge the partial financial support received from Cork County Council’s Community Grant Aid Scheme and all you weekly LOTTO members whose unwavering support made this purchase possible. Our Chief Groundsman Pat O’Neill is very pleased with the equipment which will assist him in maintaining the pitches in the top class condition that have been greatly admired by many visiting teams in recent months
U13 FL V Sliabh Rua – 14/7
A point down at halftime. 2-6 to 3-4. A few home truths were mentioned and they played like great stuff to run out winners in the end. Well done to players, parents and management once again on a great performance 
Junior football championship win v Belgooly – 15/7
Our Junior team secured a successful start to the initial Football Championship Round Robin series with a convincing fast and free flowing display over Belgooly in Carrigaline on Friday evening. The team took control of the game from the throw-in and were on the scoreboard early with some fine point scoring from Roy Twomey in the corner and Dylan O’Flaherty operating at centre forward. An excellent high ball fielding performance throughout the game by Championship debutant corner back Fionn Herlihy and tight man-marking by full back Dave Barry kept the Belgooly forward line scoreless for the greater part of the first half. Mark Jordan and Sean Kidney also dominated and controlled much of the centre field activity supplying good quality ball to the forward line. Kick out accuracy by goalie Fergus O’Neill resulted in significant ball winning capability in the middle third of the field. With three goals in the first half from Roy, Dylan and Sean Andrews , Shamrock’s laid down the foundation for what was to be a strong solid second half performance. The score at the short whistle was 3-06 to 0-01.
As expected, Belgooly put in a strong effort early in the second half but the Shamrockmen stood firm and held their lines well. Further goals from Roy, finishing top scorer with 3-03, Dylan with 1-04 and points from wandering centre back Mark Hitchmough, Cillian Hayes & Harry Andrews on the half forward line, Cannice Caffrey twice & veteran stalwart Senán Collins put the game well beyond Belgooly’s reach. The final scorelline of 5-14 to 0-05 illustrates the superiority of this well defined Team performance. Credit must go to the management by Dave O’Neill, John Twomey (Ring) and coach Andrew O’Brien in turning out a fit and skillful panel of 22 players on the night. The next Football Championship outing will be against Valley Rovers on Aug 14th. where a result would almost guarantee progress to the latter stages of the competition. Our hurlers are next to enter the Championship fray v Carrigaline on August 7th.
Team : Fergus O’Neill, Gary Ronayne, Dave Barry, Fionn Herlihy, Jason Brown, Mark Hitchmough, Sean Andrews, Sean Kidney, Mark Jordan, Cillian Hayes, Dylan O’Flaherty, Harry Andrews, Canice Caffrey, Senán Collins and Roy Twomey. Subs : Cathal Kidney, Barry Mulqueen, Derry Howard, Andrew O’Brien, James Lynam, Coby O’Grady and Shane Kelleher.
DÓMs MFC V Grenagh – 18/7
Great performance from the Ó Murchús footballers to grab a draw away to Grenagh, well done to all players and coaches
U15 HC V Cloughduv – 20/7
Shamrocks 1-20, Cloughduv 1-8
Our U15 hurlers travelled to Cloughduv to play the home team in the first round of the u15 hurling championship on what turned out to be a great evening for hurling. We started on the front foot and soon had some fine points on the board both from frees and open play. The home team responded and they answered our early dominance with some fine points of their own. Our backs led by example and turned over a lot of ball. Our midfield pairing then took control of the game and some more fine points from our half forwards had us leading approaching half time. A goal just before the short whistle had us leading on a scoreline of 1-13 to 0-04.
We started the second half with some more fine points from play and when Cloughduv started to take control our backs again led by example. Some excellent saves from Shane O’Flynn in our goal meant that we were comfortable winners at the end of an excellent performance on a final score of 1-20 to 1-08.
DÓMs MHC V Tracton – 22/7
A very excting and entertaining game that deservedly ended in a draw on Friday night last.
U13 HL V Crosshaven – 23/7
A very exciting and close game in Shanbally on Saturday morning and the Shamrocks lads held on for a valuable 2 points in the league table after a great game of hurling.
U15 FC V St Vincents – 27/7
St Vincents 3-13, Shamrocks 1-5
Shamrocks were severly depleted against a very good St Vincents team who ran out comfortable winners
U13 FL V Whitechurch – 30/7
DÓMs MFC V Inniscarra and Ballinora – 29/7 & 1/8
An excellent Inniscarra team proved too strong in the championship.
Ballinora 5-8, Ó Murchús 0-6
Ó Murchús were then beaten by Ballinora in the MFC a few days later on a scoreline of 5-8 to 0-6
August 2022
U15 HC V Ahan Gaels – 3/8
Shamrocks then scored four points without reply to leave them leading at half time Ona score line 0-10 to 0-07.
With the strong breeze at Shamrocks backs in the second half, their long range points put some daylight between the two teams. After a great flowing move and some great passages of play resulted in Shamrocks getting the crucial opening goal that gave them some comfort entering the closing stages.
Ahane Gaels to their credit kept the scoreboard ticking over with some fine points and when they found the net with five minutes to go it was back to a six point game. Some more fine points by the home team and a second goal in injury time left the final score 2-17 to 1-10 in our favour. Once again great credit must go to the players who togged out and those who were on holidays or injured who have stuck together all year even when we found it difficult at times.
DOMs HC V St Vincents – 5/8
Ó Murchús 4-12, St Vincents 2-8
Well done to the Minor Hurlers of Diarmuid Ó Murchús who had a great win in the championship over St Vincents in Shanbally on Friday evening.
U15 FC V Passage – 10/8
The highlight of the evening was a trip to the local beach in Loughbeg where the team chilled out and then enjoyed some snacks provided by the parents. Both the u13 and u15 team have a no games next week but will continue training. The club would like to thank all the players who made themselves available last night to fullfill the fixture. We would also like to wish a speedy to our injured players and for those on holidays to enjoy themselves. Thanks also to the parents who supported the team and for supervising on the beach last night.
Junior Football Championship v Valley Rovers – 14/8
This second Round Robin football championship match was a welcome overdue opportunity for Shamrocks to reverse recent encounters with the Rovers outfit. The very warm sunny conditions made it extremely difficult and energy sapping to sustain a continuous attacking game for over 60 minutes, but the lads dug deep right from the throw in and got on the scoreboard without delay. A second minute excellently executed Harry Andrews goal after a good forward run and passing sequence from Dylan O’Flaherty was the catalyst for Shamrocks to manufacture an early lead that was subsequently never relinquished. Cannice Caffrey was on target for a couple of good points before Dylan struck the back of the net for our second goal midway through the half. Fergus O’Neill was on top form with his very accurate goal kicks continuously finding his own target men in space. He also saved two certain goal opportunities from the Rover’s forwards. Shamrocks were dominating the play throughout the field but squandered some hard won possession and were turned over on several occasions. The tight man marking full back line of Captain Kidney (centre) and Barry and Ronayne kept the Rovers scoring machine to two points from play and a total of five for the half hour. Roy Twomey and Cillian Hayes kept the points flowing with a couple of excellent scores. The centre field pairing of Sean Kidney and Mark Jordan combined well together and curtailed the threat from the ever increasing Rovers incursions into our half. The half time score of 2-04 to 0-05 was fully deserved and reflected the amount of possession and scoring opportunities we created.
As expected, the Rovers started strong in the second half. After another fine O’Neill save they managed, within 3 minutes of the restart to scramble the ball over the goal line to narrow the gap to two points. This was to be the lowest margin the Rovers were able to achieve over the total 70 minutes, including added injury time. The Team quickly settled back into their rhythm and an array of points by Caffrey, Twomey and Hayes still only kept the margin to a maximum of a single score due to some fine point scoring from the Rovers forwards. With approx 20 second half minutes elapsed it was time for some fresh legs to enter the fray. Derry Howard replaced full forward Senán Collins, whose ball distribution during his very active 50 minutes contributed to several scoring chances. Sean Kidney, who gave 110% throughout his mid field shift made way for Coby O’Grady to make his mark. Youthful Howard immediately justified his addition with some very swift attacking runs against the opposition backs. With only minutes remaining in normal time and a single score margin separating the teams, Hayes took off on a daring run and slotted over yet another fine point, increasing the difference to four. When Super Sunday Sub O’Grady increased the margin to five with a splendid point it was game over and mission completed.
Overall, this was a strong solid attacking football performance from all the 17 players competing on the day and a great boost to take forward to the next round. We now sit in pole position in Group 2 having won both games and are guaranteed number 1 qualification spot in the business end of the season. Belgooly and Valley Rovers still have to contest the second runner up spot in a couple of weeks time. All the players/subs from both teams deserve a massive amount of praise and appreciation for serving up a quality, competitive and tough 70 minutes football game in the extreme heat throughout the afternoon.
Thanks to Maor Uisce Bernard Hickey for arranging a plentiful supply of cooled liquid refreshments for the players. The referee Brian Coinry deserves a special word of appreciation in adopting a compassionate attitude in allowing adequate time, during natural breaks in play for players to hydrate.
Next championship day out is on Sunday 28th August when the hurler’s do battle with Ballygarvan to decide number 1 & 2 qualification spot.
Team : Fergus O’Neill, Dave Barry, Cathal Kidney, Gary Ronayne, Jason Browne, Mark Hitchmough, Sean Andrews, Mark Jordan, Sean Kidney, Cillian Hayes (0-03), Dylan O’Flaherty (1-00), Harry Andrews (1-00), Cannice Caffrey (0-04), Senán Collins and Roy Twomey (0-02).
Subs : Derry Howard, Coby O’Grady (0-01), James Lynam and Shane Downey
U13 HL V Sliabh Rua – 22/8
The second half was very exciting with Sliabh Rua maintaining their 3 point lead as the teams entered the last 10 minutes.
After a flurry of points, Shamrocks only moved ahead for the first time inside the last 7 minutes and hung on until the end against a very good Sliabh Rua team.
Of course they have the football final to play this coming Saturday.
Seamus O’Mahony under a poc out
U15 FC V Courcey Rovers – 24/8
The u15 footballers were well beaten by Courcey Rovers in their final championship match on Wednesday evening in Shanbally. Courcey Rovers were strong on the night and were on top throughout. We’d like to thank the players on duty for never giving up and trying their best throughout.
They can now look forward to a shield playoff
U13 FL Final V Courcey Rovers – 27/8
Victory for the U13s in the Rebel Óg D2 FL on a beautiful Saturday morning in Shanbally. Shamrocks were full value for their win – they dominated possession throughout and only for some heroic defending and tackling from the Courcies backs, some wonederful saves from their keeper, 2 crossbar shots and 15 wides, the margin would have been greater. Courcey Rovers battled hard throughout and scored mostly on the break and can be proud of their own efforts. But this belonged to Shamrocks and they only sealed it in the last 10 minutes when they went 7 points up.
Shamrocks were never lead – they played up the field on the first half and led 2-3 to 1-2 at halftime having controlled the ball for most of the 30 minutes. The second half proved more of a slog – Shamrocks found scores hard to come by and 10 minutes in, the score remained the same. However, from there to the end, they tagged on a couple of goals and points to put the game beyond Courcey Rovers.
This group of players, under the management of Dools, Andrew O’Neill, Brendan Barrett and trainer Jason Browne have put in a huge effort over the summer and now they get their reward – well done to them all. They also have a hurling final to look forward to so its all systems go!
Presentation of trophy below with some photos further down-
John Twomey, representing Rebel Óg, presents the trophy to Shane O’Flynn, Shamrocks captain
Jim Dorney with his two sons James and Michael
Calum O’Neill on the attack
Celebration time for Dools, Ollie and Sam
Eanna Boland shoots
Junior Hurling Championship v Ballygarvan – 28/8
This was Shamrock’s second Round Robin Championship outing after defeating Carrigaline in the earlier round. The venue was Riverstick, the opposition Ballygarvan and a quarter or potential semi final place at stake. Shamrocks won the toss and elected to play with the stiff breeze to their backs and down into the bottom goal. The Management Team again had the unenviable task of having to re-configure the starting fifteen due to the absence of John Boylan, Cillian Hayes & Shane Kelleher (all on holidays) and prolonged injuries to Mike O’Neill, Andrew O’Grady, Jonathan Tuohy and Andrew O’Brien. It took just 3 minutes of play for sharpshooter Harry Andrews to register our first point of the afternoon and he followed up with five more to make it 0-06 to 0-02 with fifteen minutes gone on the stopwatch. The six backs kept a tight reign on the “Bally” forwards and limited them to just 3 points at the short whistle. Roy’s long distance puck outs rained plenty of ball into our full forward line throughout the first half but it was unquestionably the brilliance and accuracy of Harry’s free taking and general play that had the absent scoreboard reading 0-11 to 0-03 after 30 minutes. David Andrews and Fergus O’Neill also contributed well taken points.
As expected, Ballygarvan quickly utilised the favourable conditions at the throw-in and slotted over a few points from frees and play. Loose marking at the back left Ballygarvan in for an easily taken goal within fiftheen minutes of the restart which reduced the margin to five. Harry kept plugging over the points and when “Bally” got in for a second goal the margin was down to a single score with eight minutes remaining. During the half Mark Jordan replaced an injured Barry Mulqueen, Tom Murphy came on for “left it all out on the field” Sean Kidney and hard working “birthday boy” Fionn Herlihy made way for Coby O’Grady.
Even though the back six were under constant attacking onslaughts they shored up the defence well and with the aid of good net keeping saves and distribution from Roy they even managed to add to the scoring tally. Excellent points from Captain Hitchmough and the ever reliable Senán Collins, from the half way mark against the breeze, increased the margin to four. For the remaining 5 minutes of normal and a further 5 added on injury time, Ballygarvan battled hard and singled out specific Shamrock players for “special attention”, but they could not make a significant match winning dent in the margin. A spectacular late point from corner back Ronayne sealed a memorable win and a courageous 70 minute display by all 18 players used on the day.
The two wins to date has Shamrocks topping Group 3 with 4 points and a scoring difference of + 15. Ballymartle top Group 1 with 4 points and + 16, whilst in Group 2 Ballinhassig have 4 points and + 10.
The three second placed teams are, Group 1 : Valley Rovers, Group 2 : Belgooly and Group 3 : Ballygarvan. Confirmation details of the qtr finals to be announced in due course.
Team : Roy Twomey, Gary Ronayne (0-01), Cathal Kidney, Dave Barry, Jason Browne, Mark Hitchmough (Capt. 0-01), Senán Collins (0-01), Dylan Flaherty, Sean Kidney, Sean Andrews, David Andrews (0-02), Fiónn Herlihy, Harry Andrews (0-09), Barry Mulqueen and Fergus O’Neill (0-02).
Subs : Steven Keane, Tom Murphy, Mark Jordan, James Lynam, Coby O’Grady. Shane Downey and Alan McCarthy
A minutes silence was observed at the start of the game in memory of the late Tess Geary R.I.P., mother of Team Manager Alan. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam dílis.
U15 HC V Kilbrittain – 31/8
The U15s made it 3 from 3 with this win over Kilbrittain on Wednesday evening in Kilbrittain. This guarantees them at least a semi final in the championship.
They did all the hard work in the first half and turned in a wonderful performance, leading 1-12 to 0-4 at HT. Kilbrittain never lay down and lay seige to the Shamrocks goal in the second half but ran out of time in the end.
Donal Herlihy goes high for the sliotar
September 2022
U11 HL V Crosshaven – 3/9
Some great performances from the U11 hurlers on Friday evening in Shanbally verses Crosshaven. Well done to all the players, parents and coaches
Tess Geary R.I.P. 27/8/2022
THE SAD PASSING OF MONKSTOWN’S CHURCH SACRISTAN TESS GEARY LEAVES A LARGE VOID IN OUR LIVES.
Young and old, they came from far and near to say goodbye and express their sorrow on the passing of Tess Geary, a Mother, a Grandmother, a Neighbour, a Friend and a faithful and devoted servant to the Sacred Heart Church in Monkstown. Tess had spent forty years as Church Sacristan.
TRIBUTE
Her Funeral Mass was concelebrated by Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Chris O’Donovan and former Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Sean O’Sullivan. In a very moving and beautiful ceremony in which her family including her grandchildren participated, her farewell was something to relish and behold. Her son Martin delivered the eulogy and Fr.Sean’s homily reflected on this wonderful Christian lady with whom he worked and befriended during his time in the Parish. People such as Tess Geary come only once in a lifetime and her legacy will always be one of hope, good spirit and doing what is best and right for all.
Earlier in the Summer, the Sacred Heart Church celebrated its 175th anniversary and one of the highlights of the event was a special tribute and presentation to Tess for her devoted service to the Church. It is because of people such as Tess that this Church has lasted and prevailed all those years.
FAMILY
Just like Tess her family have always been active in the Community. Her husband Jimmy gave many years of dedicated service to the Shamrock Under Age Club and teams, with his sons Stephen, Alan and Martin all playing and contributing to achievements and successes. Her daughter-in-law Soprano Louise delivered magnificent renditions of Tess’s favourite hymns throughout the ceremony concluding with ‘ Nearer my God to Thee’.
The Shamrock Club wish to tender their most profound sympathy to husband Jimmy, sons Stephen, Martin and Alan and extended family on their sad loss of a wife, mother and Grandmother.
Suaimhneas Siorai dá nAnam dilis.
Seán O’Tuama
U11 FL V Passage – 7/9
DÓM MHL V Castlelyons – 9/8
Well done to the minor hurlers of Diarmuid Ó Murchús who turned in a great performance away to Castlelyons on Friday evening last. All players played fantastic on the night
This victory guarantees them a semi final next Friday night; opponents to be clarified later but it will be against Passage
U7 Hurling Blitz – 10/9
U17 HC Diarmuid O Murchús v Passage – 16/9
Diarmuid O Murchús overcame previously unbeaten Passage in the D3 HC semi final on Friday evening in Manning Park Passage. This was a moral boosting win for the team who have shown vast improvement all year. On this occasion, 9 Shamrocks players contributed to the win. It was a cracking match, with some very exciting young Shamrocks lads on show.
Well done to all the players and they can now look forward to a final against Tracton
U15 HC V Kinsale – 14/9
Shamrocks lost their final group game of the hurling championship against a very good and accomplished Kinsale team on Wednesday evening. Shamrocks tried very hard throughout the game against a physically stronger Kinsale and can be proud of their efforts – they never gave up and if you take away the 2 goals Kinsale scored within 30 second midway through the second half, things could have been a lot closer.
With both teams qualified for the semi final, the pressure was off somewhat. It is a great accomplishment for this young team to qualify for the semi finals
Shamrocks now go on to play St Vincents on Sunday next in that semi final in Knocknaheeney at 11am
U10 FL V Lee Gaels – 17/9
U15 HC Semi Final V St Vincents – 18/9
The U15 hurlers run in the championship ended on Sunday morning after defeat to St Vincents in Knocknaheeny by a couple of goals in the championship semi final.
However, they’ve had a marvellous run and exceeded all expectations while improving beyond recognition from the years start to years end. Nobody expected them to reach a semi final. This is a young team, a very young team and they will only get better as they progress through the age groups. Keep at it and better days will come.
Our thanks to all the players, parents and a big thanks to John Herlihy and Socket who took the team all year long.
DÓM U17 HC D3 Final V Tracton – 23/9
The minor hurlers of Diarmuid Ó Murchus came up just short in their final against Tracton on Saturday evening. Tracton deserved to win – they lad for the whole match and Ó Murchús, despite pushing hard all through, didnt have the scoring ability to overtake Tracton.
The wind made it difficult for players at times with it blowing hard across the pitch. The Tracton free take was on his game and punished Ó Murchus for any silly fouls they committed. Ó Murchús needed a goal at some point to get right back in it but only created one chance which was defended well in the first half. Tracton had a 5 point cushion coming towards the end and held on after DOM had brought it back to a three point game but time ran out on them.
Dexpite the defeat, it has been a great year especially at hurling for this new group of players who have improved as the season went on, thanks to the coaching and guidance of Hugh, Ronan, John and Conor – our thanks to them for the huge effort they put in along with the players; all of them bar one are underage again next year
U8 F & H Blitz V Passage – 30/9
October 2022
U13 HL Final V Aghabullogue – 1/10
Shamrocks U13 hurlers brought the curtain down on a glorious season with a victory over the home team Aghabullogue in the u13 hurling league final in Coachford on Saturday. This group of players have bonded together for the past few seasons and have proved to be the shinning light for the club over the past two seasons.
Both teams were unbeaten all season so something had to give at the final whistle. We started brightly and soon had some points on the score sheet and when we scored the all important first goal a small bit of day light emerged between the two teams. Back came Aghabullogue before half time and some fine points from their free taker had the teams level at half time on a score line of 1-07 to 0-10
The second half was the same affair with both teams matching each other with some fine points. Shamrocks were awarded a close in free with ten minutes to go and a bullet of a shot found the back of the net to leave us five points to the good. Again back came the home team and brought the score back to three points entering injury time. They were awarded a twenty meter free with the last puck of the game but to our delight the backs did their job and cleared the ball to the delight of the travelling supporters.
Seamus O’Mahony about to clear up in a packed midfield
Goalmouth action
Crowded midfield action Shamrocks v Aghabullogue
U7 F Blitz PUC – 1/10
U8 Monster Football Blitz – 8/10
U11 F V Crosshaven – 8/10
U6 H Blitz V Crosshaven – 9/10
U7 Monster Hurling Blitz – 15/10
Well done to them and to our coaches Colin and Shane who are putting in a big effort each week
U15 Shield Semi Final V Tracton – 16/10
Tracton 6-5, Shamrocks 1-5
The Shamrocks lads played well but were ultimately beaten by a couple of goals in horrendous rainy conditions, well done to all players for their efforts in an bháisteach
U8 Monster Hurling Blitz – 22/10
Donal Brady R.I.P – 16/10
On Sunday 16th last the sad news filtered through that Donal had been taken to his external resting place. A lifelong member of the Club who played hurling at both Junior and Intermediate levels. Donal won a South East Junior Hurling Championship medal in 1963. His valued contributions to the Club and community extended beyond his playing days to being a Junior Team Selector, fundraising activities, the most recent Church of The Immaculate Heart of Mary church renovation project in Shanbally and the annual Christmas Tree/lights provision.
He was conferred as an Honorary Vice-President of the Club in recognition of his many years loyal service. His playful mischievous character along with a friendly happy manner attracted a large friendship cohort across all age groups. His larger-than-life presence and storytelling ability will be sorely missed by all who were lucky to have had the pleasure of his company.
“Think where man’s glory most begins and ends, and say our glory was we had such a friend.”
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam
U8 H Blitz – 25/10
U/Age & Ladies Sponsored Walk – 6/11
The funds raised will be distributed evenly between the Ladies Football and Boys Underage Clubs
Underage AGM
The following officers were elected –
Chairperson – None
Vice Chair – Colm Cosgrave
Rúnaí – Pa Andrews
Treasurer – Peter Crowley
Childrens Officers – Ann Herlihy, Deirdre Twomey
PRO – Pa Andrews
All coaching/mentor positions for 2023 were filled
Intro to Gaelic Games coaching Course – Nov 2022
The Juvenile Club ran an “Intro to Gaelic Games” Coaching Course in the clubhouse last week for our new coaches in the club, in particular those at Academy level.
This new course replaces the old Foundation Course and it incorporates hurling, football, ladies football and camógie.
All our Academy coaches are now coached up to at least Foundation level.
Well done to our participants
Under 13s Awards and Medal Presentation Night – 3/12
It was fitting that a man who knows all about “the double”, Teddy McCarthy, who won both All Irelands with Cork on the field of play in 1990, presented the players with their set of medals.
Adult AGM 2022
The adult club held its AGM on Monday December 5th before a reasonable sized crowd, and it was especially refreshing to see a good number of our playing staff in attendance.
It was a long but productive meeting where many aspects of the club were discussed and debated.
The outgoing Cisteoir Seán Ó Tuama, Rúnaí Liam Ó Seanacháin and Cathaoirleach Pádraig MacCárthaigh presented their comprehensive reports to the AGM. Both the manager of the junior footballers Dave O’Neill and the hurlers Alan Geary presented their reports to the meeting which was incorporated into the Rúnaí’s report.
The election of officers followed and resulted in the election of Mr Ger Coveney as our new President. Ger has been involved with Shamrocks all his life and was a successful coach to our under 14s who won five championships in a row.
The outgoing Chairperson, Secretary and PRO were all stepping down and the election saw a total refresh at Executive level who will bring a new new approache and aidea. Well done to John Twomey (Socket) who steps up after a successful period as juvenile chairperson and we wish him well in his new position, along with the other new officers. The full list is –
Club President – Ger Coveney
Chairperson – John Twomey (Ringaskiddy)
Vice Chairperson – Stephen Hurley
Hon Secretary – Jonathan Tuohy
Treasurer – John Twomey (Shanbally)
PRO – David Andrews
Assistant PRO – Pa Andrews
Registrar – Tony O’Sullivan
Rebel Bounty Draw and Insurance Coordinator – Lorcan Aherne
South East Board Delegate – John Herlihy
Childrens Officer – Ann Herlihy
Designated Liasion Officer – Deirdre Twomey
Oifigeach Gaeilge agus Cultúir – Pádraig MacAindriú
Coaching Officer – Pa Andrews
Groundsman – Pat O’Neill
Members of the Executive – Diarmuid Murphy, Pat McCarthy
Team managments of both our adult hurling and football teams are currently being worked on by the new incoming committee. Two players representatives will also be elected by the players themselves at the start of 2023 as well as a county board delegate who will be appointed in the new year
Christmas Draw 2022 Results
Final Prize – Edward McSweeney c/o L. Aherne
The Club wishes to thank all the people who supported this Draw and contributed to its success. The Club is most grateful to all the Ticket Sellers who have performed magnificently. A special thanks to all the generous sponsors of our prizes.
Robert Andrews RIP
Robert was very proud of his rich Irish and local tradition.
Puc Fada – St Stephens Day
A very successful Poc Fada took place on St Stephens Day between Shanbally and Ringaskiddy to bring the curtain down on a busy 2022.
Thanks to all our organisers, participants and Sarah and her staff in the FBI for a wonderful occasion enjoyed by the big crowd. John Twomey (Socket) was on duty with the prizes in his forst role as our new Club Chairperson.
Pictured below are some of the winners
