SECRETARY'S REPORT 2012 FOR A.G.M. 27 September ...clgnafianna.ie/Files/Tuarascail an Runai 2012.pdfCLG Na Fianna AGM 27 September 2012 6 Delegates Our Delegates are our link with

SECRETARY'S REPORT 2012

FOR A.G.M.

27 September 2012.

Cumann Lúthchleas Gael Na Fianna

Cómdháil Bhliantúil 2012

Áras Na Fianna.

CLG Na Fianna AGM 27 September 2012 2

Cumann Lúthchleas Gael Na Fianna

Comdháil Bliantúil 2012

Áras Na Fianna

Clár

(a) Adoption of Standing Orders. (b) President's Address. (c) Chairman's Address. (d) Minutes of AGM 29 September 2011. (e) Secretary's Report. (f) Treasurer's Report. (g) Appointment of Tellers. (h) Motion and Election of Officers

(a) Uachtarán (b) Leas-Uachtarán (c) Cathaoirleach (d) Leas-Cathaoirleach (e) Rúnaí (f) Leas-Rúnaí (g) Cisteoir (h) Leas-Cisteoir (i) Cathaoirleach Cluichí na nÓg (j) Cathaoirleach Cluichí Shinsearacha (k) Oifigeach Caidreamh Poiblí (l) Oifigeach Teanga agus Cultúr (m) Ionadaí na nImreoirí (n) Ball den Choiste (2) (o) Oifigeach Tiomsú Airgid

(i) Motions and Recommendations. (j) Appointments of Auditors. (k) Any Other Business.

CLG Na Fianna AGM 27 September 2012


Standing Orders for Annual General Meeting

• The proposer of the motion or an amendment thereto, may speak for five

minutes but no longer.

• A person speaking to a motion or amendment shall not exceed three minutes.

• The proposer of a motion or amendment may speak a second time for five

minutes before a vote is taken, but no other person may speak a second time to

any motion or amendment.

• The Chairman shall, at any time he considers that a matter has been

sufficiently discussed, call on a proposer to reply, after which a vote must be

taken.

• A person may, with the consent of the Chairman, move ‘that the question now

be put’ after which, when the proposer has spoken a vote must be taken.


Secretary’s Report for 2012 AGM

This year we celebrated the magnificent achievements of the athletes who achieved such outstanding performances in the Olympic and Paralympic games. We were enthralled by the performances of the hurlers and footballers as they strove to win provincial and All-Ireland medals throughout the Spring and Summer. Alongside all this headline grabbing activity thousands of energetic and enthusiastic individuals spent hour after hour planning, training and coaching the young players, a tiny percentage of whom will, in turn, grab the newspaper headlines as they represent their counties in the future. All of these boys and girls are given the opportunity to ‘dream the dream’ and to see themselves as capable of competing with the best thanks to the work of dedicated mentors. These mentors inspire thoughts of greatness and immeasurably contribute towards developing self-esteem and confidence in their charges.

In Na Fianna we are blessed with several hundred men and women who fulfil these roles as they look after teams in hurling, football, camogie and handball at all ages and at all levels. All of us are indebted to them for their efforts. A glance through the team reports gives some idea of the extraordinary number of hugely committed and competent individuals who, all year round, look after our club teams from the Nursery to the senior teams in all codes. A sincere thank you to each and every one of you and please keep up the good work and never under-estimate the value of that work on many different levels.

There are many other roles to be filled within a club such as Na Fianna. Crucially, we need people to look after the finances, people to manage the facilities, to cut the grass, to maintain the clubhouse, to decide policies, to plan for the future. The list is endless. Again, thanks to all of you.

One of the main items on the agenda for every Executive Committee is finance. In the current financial climate it is vital to keep close control of expenditure and to create as much income as possible. As you will see from the Treasurer’s report, Brendan Roddy and Karen Fox have done a magnificent job in this regard. Our main sources of income are subscriptions and bar receipts. I would appeal to all members to pay their subscriptions sooner rather than later. The bad news is that they become due immediately after the AGM! My other suggestion is that groups of mentors or players, and their friends, would occasionally choose the Na Fianna bar for a night out. In addition to supporting the bar this would help people to get to know each other better and to enrich their experience of Na Fianna.

Mobhi Rd and its environs are filled with a huge amount of activity each week ranging from the smallest children to adults, from training to inter-county games and a whole range of social events from birthday parties to funerals. The recent Glasnevin Expo showed the club at the centre of the community. A highlight of the year was our Ladies Senior Football team reaching the All-Ireland. Will anyone who witnessed the Gaelic Global Challenge forget the excitement engendered by the huge crowd present and the thrill of entering the Guinness Book of Records. The spectacle of hundreds of people removing water from the pitch in order to host a Féile na nGael semi-final also remains vivid.

Finally, a sincere thank you to each member of the Executive Committee who have served during the past year. Each person has made their own unique contribution. Thanks again to all who contribute in any way to the community that is Na Fianna. I wish you all continued success for the coming year both on and off the field.



Committee Reports

Executive Committee Sincere thanks to every member of the Executive Committee for their commitment and hard work during the year. At time of writing, the Committee has met on 18 occasions.

Facilities Committee

Chaired by Brian O’Sullivan, this committee is responsible for the upkeep of the club’s pitches and premises. Its members include : Dermot Moran, Fintan Brennan, Phil Kelly, Oliver Casserly, Pat Clinton, Pat O’Shea, John Bridgeman, Frank Gray, Brian (Gow) O’Sullivan, Charlie O’Reilly, Gerry Donohoe, Fergus McNally, Martin Quilty, Jim Heffernan, Martin O’Leary, Seán Ó Laoire, Dave Buckley, John Campbell, Tom Ryan and Jim Aughney. These and others are always on call whenever work needs to be done. Special mention must be made of Dermot Moran for the condition of our main pitch.

Bar Committee Our Bar and Function Rooms remain vital elements in maintaining our financial stability. Ciara May continues her good work as manager while Aidan Irwin looks after the catering. These are overseen by a committee chaired by Eoin Ó Ceallacháin and including : Tom Gilligan, Charlie O’Reilly , Domo Weir, Joe Walsh, Pádraigín Breathnach and Ronan Nolan.

Saturday Morning Teas Many thanks to Mary Doolan, Essie 0’Hara, Mary Donohoe, Marie Campbell, Patricia O’Sullivan, Patricia Lowry, Marie Kirwan, Fionnuala Neville and Mary Behan for providing a lovely service for those who come down to the club on a Saturday morning.

Céilí Committee The Club Céilí continues on the second Friday of each month. It continues to be held in the Scoil Chaitríona hall agus táimid buíoch do mhúinteoirí agus Bord Bainistíocht na scoile. Thanks to Ann Ryan, Mary Murphy, Teresa O’Sullivan, Kathleen Taffe and Michael Cooney. We were all sadded during the year by the passing of John Hallanan. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a Anam.

Lotto Committee This committee meet every Monday night and comprises Bob Courtney, Seán Behan, Ann Ryan, Seán Lohan, Paddy Hughes and Brian (Gow) O’Sullivan. Well done to Vinny Caffrey for his immense contribution each week.


Delegates Our Delegates are our link with the various County Boards. Many thanks to Charlie O’Reilly, Kieran Redmond, Dave Fenton, T.J. Gleeson, Rachel Quinn, Ann Ryan, Fiona Greene, Richard Dunne and Eugene McHugh.

Club Shop Special thanks to Sean Behan, Sheila Quinn and their helpers for their ongoing work in the Club Shop. Seosamh Breathnach is now providing a great service as he repairs and sells hurleys and helmets in his workshop at the back of the building.

Administration Roisín O’Sullivan continues to do a marvellous job in her role as part-time administrator. She is available in the office from 9am to 1pm Mon to Fri.

School Pitches Without access to the pitches at Scoil Chaitríona and St Vincent’s School, Na Fianna simply could not function. These facilities are absolutely vital to the future of the club and we have a duty to treat them and their surrounds with respect. We are grateful to the authorities in both schools for their continued co-operation and good will.

Tomás Ó Riain Rúnaí



2012 Juvenile Team Reports It has been a busy year at juvenile level. There have been many memorable occasions on and off the pitch and in the handball alley. It was a great privilege for the club to host the National Feile in July. Well done to Brian O Sullivan and his team for superb organistion of this most memorable event. I would like to acknowledge the commitment and hard work of our coordinators, Pat Brennan, Lesley Jamieson, Richard Dunne, Billy McLaughlin, our County Board Delegates, Dave Fenton, Eugene McHugh, Richard Dunne, Fiona Greene and Anne Ryan, and also our referee coordinators Anne O Dea and Ann Ryan. Many thanks to Colm Crowley for promoting gaeilic games in our local schools, in coordinating the nursery on Saturday mornings, providing support to our juvenile mentors and for organising the Summer Camp in July and Cul Camps in August. A special thanks to Anne O Dea for her dedication and commitment to the Saturday morning nursery. Congratulations to Paul McCarville, Anne O’Dea and Colm Crowley on yet again providing our younger players with a great month of Camogie, Football and Hurling during the mini leagues in June. I also wish to pay tribute to Clíona Ní Dhálaigh and Frank Daly for their continued dedication to the development of Na Fianna’s juvenile handball section. Many thanks to Róisín for all her support in the club office and to Anne Foley for her help re the vetting of juvenile mentors

Best wishes to our former GPO James Mangan in his new career. James was always a great support to all of our juvenile mentors and a very active member of the juvenile committee.

2012 was also a time for some reflection regarding the structure of our Juvenile Games. Many thanks to Bernie Caffrey for facilitating the sessions and to all participants for helping to identify the following areas in need of further development; Appointment of a nursery coordinator Further development of our juvenile mentors handbook to incorporate all policies and procedures relevant to juvenile games. Structured coaching support for mentors. Development of communication through the club website.

The juvenile committee will focus on the above in the 2013 season.

Finally I wish to thank and pay tribute to all of our juvenile mentors and helpers, all of whom give a considerable amount of time on a weekly basis to provide all of our young players in CLG Na Fianna the opportunity to develop their skills in our national games. On behalf of the club and all of our young players I say, Go raibh míle, míle maith agaibh go léir!!


Juvenile Chairman - Pairic Clerkin Juvenile Secretary - Pat Brennan GPO - Colm Crowley Girls1 coordinated by Lesley Jamieson. (Girls’ football and camogie up to and including under 12). Girls 2 coordinated by Billy McLaughlin (under 13, 14, 15, 16 camogie and ladies football). CCC1 coordinated by Pat Brennan (under 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 boys). CCC2 coordinated by Richard Dunne (under 13, 14, 15 and 16 boys). Eugene McHugh - CCC1 Delegate. Richard Dunne - CCC2 Delegate. Dave Fenton- Ladies Football Delegate Fiona Greene - Minor Board Camogie Delegate Pairic Clerkin



CCC1 It has been a busy and exciting year at CCC1 level - Na Fianna entered a record numbers of teams in all CCC1 competitions across both football and hurling. In 2012 Na Fianna entered at CCC1 level ( 25 Football Teams and 21 Hurling Teams ) covering age groups from Under 8 to Under 12 in both Hurling and Football U8 ( 7 a-side ) : 7 Football / 7 Hurling U9 ( 9 a-side ) : 5 Football / 5 Hurling U10 ( 9 a-side) : 5 Football / 4 Hurling U11 ( 11 a-side) : 5 Football / 3 Hurling U12 ( 13 a-side) : 3 Football / 2 Hurling A special Thanks to both Eugene McHugh for his sterling work as CCC1 Delegate. NURSERY The Na Fianna nursery continued to flourish this year – both boys and girls sections. This is in no small part due to the enthusiasm and commitment of the mentors who turn up every Saturday in all weathers to coach the young children. Our Saturday attendance is the envy of many clubs around Dublin. However, there is no room for complacency and the enthusiasm and dedication of the mentors will not allow this to happen. There was also sad news and good news for the nursery this year! James Mangan – aka Mango – left us to take up a new position away from the GAA. Mango was a very popular GPO and everyone was sad to see him leave – both from Saturday mornings and also from the local schools. He has not forgotten us though and can often be seen on Saturday morning dropping in to check up on his successor! The good news was the appointment of our new GPO – Colm Crowley. Colm came to us from St. Maurs and we are delighted to welcome him. In the few months he has been with us, he has already made a very positive impact at the nursery, mini leagues and summer camps. Continued success to him! The club is also very happy to welcome on board the involvement of VHI Swift Clinic and look forward to a successful partnership which will benefit the boys and girls in the nursery. The Mini Leagues attracted large numbers again this year and introduced many new children to Na Fianna. Many thanks to Lisneys for their continued support. A recent development is the appointment of Cormac Ó Donnchu as Nursery Co-ordinator. This is a very positive step for the nursery and Cormac is the ideal person to promote its development. Cormac is hoping to develop a team around him to support him in his post as Co-ordinator. A big thank you to all the juveniles – mostly boys and girls from the U16 age groups - who came down regularly on Saturday mornings to assist the nursery mentors. It’s great to see older boys and girls return to help out at the nursery where they began their Na Fianna careers. We look forward to their continued support in the coming year. Finally, not forgetting the “Saturday morning ladies” who provide much needed refreshments for parents and mentors each week and particularly on those cold Saturday mornings.


ACTIVITY REPORTS – Adult Field Games

ADULT FOOTBALL 2012 has seen the continuation of progress of football development within Na Fianna. All our adult teams, Senior, Intermediate and Junior as can be seen from the following reports, are continuing to improve their positions year on year. We fielded four teams this year and all have had successful seasons. The Football Development process put in place 3 years ago to ensure that all the time spent in developing players at juvenile level is capitalised on at adult level, in terms of success for the club and enjoyment for players who have spent the last 12 to 15 years coming through from nursery. Football is in good health at the moment and the commitment of a whole raft of mentors is ensuring that every player who has come through the nursery/juvenile/minor system will have a place on a team that suits his level of ability and commitment. Senior (AFL1) The Seniors team ended 2011 with a defeat in a league play-off, which while disappointing, represented a major step forward for our Senior team, since we are now again contesting for honours. Stephen McGlinchey stepped down as Manager having given massive commitment to this squad for the preceeding three years. Mick Downes, who was already involved with Stephen in 2011, took the helm and with Sean Forde and James Mangan have continued the progress of this group of players The lads followed up 2011 progress with a top four place already secured with two matches still to play and will again contest the play-offs for the league in 2012. We have also gotten through first two rounds of Championship and will be playing in third round on the week ending October 6th. Each year has seen a couple of lads come straight through from Minor level and are all making progress into Senior ranks. Intermediate Football The intermediate football team has continued in the same vein in 2012 after such a successful 2011 campaign where the team gained promotion from Division 4 without dropping a point, won the Joy Cup and were unfortunate to fall to St. Jude’s in the Intermediate Championship. Larry Norton has continued as Manager along with Pat Boylan. Lar Maguire who had trained the team so successfully during 2011 stepped down due to business commitments and Kevin Stritch took over as Fitness Coach and Selector. Ger Fleming continued in his role as “Nuts and Bolts” man making sure all the little things that are so important for training and match day are in place. There were a few changes to the squad due to retirements, injuries and players being promoted to the Senior Team. The nucleus though has remained with the experienced players Ronan O’Hagan, Danny and Ian McGowan, Mark Bennett, John Kearns, Richie Kinsella, Mark Cooper, Darragh Kearney, Shay Cloherty, Barry Newman and Fionn Coughlan continuing to set a great example for the younger players. Goalkeeper Cian Kelleher and Danny Murphy were promoted to the Senior Team and Kevin Reilly who was brought in from the junior team joined them a few months later. The team was strengthened by the arrival of Barry Boland from the Junior team and the four Dublin Minor squad members that had been unlucky to have been beaten in the All Ireland final, Mark O’Dea, Tim (T) Foran, Neil Flannery and Ciaran McKane all have had starting roles in their first season. They were joined by new arrivals to the Club Sean Harran and Emmett Flood from Sligo and Fionnan Ó Duibhir from Donegal who have turned out to be incredible assets to the team.



The new season began with a home game against St. Bridgid’s in the Loving Cup on 12 February 2012; the team soon realised the improvement in class and earned a deserved draw 1 - 7 to 0 – 10. The new adventure had begun. The team followed up this draw with four successive victories in the competition before losing their final game to St. Patrick's, Donabate 0 – 11 to 0 13 but qualified for the semi-final of the competition as runner-up in the group where they are due to play Kilmacud Crokes. The league campaign started with a big win over St. Margaret’s 0-17 to 0-8, this was followed up with good win over Naomh Olaf before the team lost its first league game in two seasons - a two point defeat to Naomh Fionnbarra. Clontarf got the better of the team in their next game 0 – 11 to 0 – 12 but rather than being rocked by the defeats the team buckled down and went on a winning run which saw them win their next seven games before being undone by Whitehall Colmcille 0 – 13 to 0 – 17. The team currently lies second in the league and in prime position for home advantage in the play-offs for promotion. The team drew St. Jude’s in the first round of the championship. Having been beaten twice by the same opposition in the championship the previous year, there was an old score to settle and the players rose to the occasion winning a fantastic game 0 – 13 to 0 – 09. The team followed this victory up with an outstanding display against St. Margaret’s winning 0 – 19 to 0 – 06 and are due to play the Garda in the last sixteen. The squad’s ambition from the outset was to succeed in each of the competitions, the standards set in the previous year continued to be raised. The team continues to train four times a week, a gym session on Mondays, followed by pitch sessions Tuesdays and Thursdays and a game at the weekend. The squad now has only one dual player, Stephen Behan, Stephen is one of the stalwarts of the team and should be commended for his dedication to both codes. Eoin Butler replaced Cian Kelleher as goalkeeper having been his understudy for the previous year and Conor McCarthy joined the team as the reserve goalkeeper. The younger players now have gained valuable experience James Higgins, Eoin Neville, Jackie Dolan, Stephen Dunne, Jack Caffrey, Kieran Holohan and Hugh Gallagher have begun to realise the great potential from their under-age days. The management wishes to thank Colum Cronin, Pillar Caffrey and Gerry Donohoe for all their assistance over the past two years. A big thank you to McGowan’s in Phibsborough and Access Oil for the sponsorship of the team. The continued support of the parents and other family and friends is appreciated. The management also wish to acknowledge the dedication, huge commitment and spirit within the team of players and each player should be proud of the role that they have played in the success of the team. Everything won has been earned through hard work and they continue to set a very high standard for this team and for other teams in the club to match. Junior ‘A’ Football Following promotion for the second successive season this team is now playing in AFL5 (Junior 1).We didn’t qualify for the semi finals in the Cup competition. The League began well but a few points dropped in mid season will mean that the team will finish in the Top 6 with great potential for next season as this is a very young team. The team were beaten in first round of the Championship after extra time by St Monica’s who play in AFL3. Ciaran Gray


Junior ‘C’ Football The previous season had ended with both the AFL9 team and AFL 11N teams finishing in mid-table. Unfortunately as the season started we had to withdraw the AFL 11N team as the squad was not big enough to accommodate two teams. The squad of players that started out was mainly the same panel as last year with a few experienced players dropping down from the AFL 5 team and a few new players to adult football up from minor level joining. Training resumed in January and an offer from Pillar Caffrey to take a training session on the Tuesday night for the AFL 9 and AFL 5 teams was accepted and well attended. Pillar obviously enjoyed it as the six week offer has turned into the majority of the season, so a big thank you to him for that. The season kicked off with some decent enough cup performances. But we settled straight in to the league with our mixture of youth and experience and have been challenging at the top of the table since. As we now stand we have one league game left which we need to win to be in with a good chance of promotion We played in the Junior 'C' championship and had good wins away to Clann Na Gael and Liffey Gaels but our championship run came to an end at the quarter final stage against Lucan Sarsfields when we lost by two points. The season as a whole is going well with a great effort being put in by all the players, hopefully this effort will be rewarded by promotion. A big thank you to Ciaran Gray and the AFL 5 panel for the training sessions that we have shared over the season. Mentors: Colin O Reilly, Pat O Connell, Aidan Collins, Brendan Mc Guinne Under 21 ‘A’ Football 2011 was a year of achievement and growth for the two Na Fianna Under 21 football squads. The U 21 ‘A’ championship was captured in Parnell Park with a performance memorable for the blistering start, clinical finishing, dogged resistance to a determined Kilmacud Crokes and a Na Fianna team resolute and able to stamp their authority in the closing minutes. The Under 21 ‘B’ squad were equally ambitious, organised and focussed and dominated their opponents to win the honours in Mobhi Road just a fortnight earlier. Success was built on the players’ ability, work and raw ambition, diligent preparation and critically, close integration of all adult squads’ mentors and players. The Under 21 mentors would like to acknowledge the support and contribution of all who helped to achieve the breakthrough, go raibh maith agaibh. Pat Naughton. Under 21 ‘B’ Football The club entered a second Under 21 team in the ‘D’ championship. The first round opponents were Cuala ‘B’ and a comprehensive victory was achieved. We met St Brigid’s away in the second round and won a tight encounter. The semi final was away to St Sylvester’s and the lads put in a tremendous performance to win. The final was eventually played at the end of January in Mobhi Rd against Kilmacud Croke’s ‘B’ team. The Na Fianna team were magnificent keeping Kilmacud scoreless until near the end of the game winning by a substantial margin in the end. It was a very successful campaign with a young team. Ciaran Gray.



Minor Football 2011 Season: The Minor football 2011 season was an eventful one stretching from February 2011 to November 2011. With over sixty players in the ranks, we were able to field three league and championship teams. All teams acquitted themselves well in their respective league divisions. In the Championship the 'A' team was narrowly beaten at the semi-final stage, the 'B' team won the 'D' championship and the 'C' team narrowly failed to qualify for their championship final. The mentors would like to commend the players for their dedication, application and commitment through the year in what was a long and challenging season. Minor Football 2012 The 2012 season started with a new minor management team led by Jimmy Ward, taking over from Philip McElwee & Pat Naughton and their support team. Special thanks to both Pat and Philip for their invaluable assistance and continuing advice in the changeover after their eleven years of sterling service at this grade. Joint training for the new Minor Football season began in early December 2011 and with our very large numbers Na Fianna successfully fielded three minor football league teams in Divisions 1, 3 and 5. The league campaign has progressed satisfactorily with players given opportunities to develop and show their skills across the teams. The 'A' team finished second in Division 1 – losing only one game to Kilmacud Crokes by two points to qualify for the Division 1 league final. The 'B' team was up in Division 3 for the first time along with the first teams of other clubs – they played twelve matches, won nine and finished joint second in the table, hopefully qualifying for a league final play-off. The 'C' team played in Division 4c and played nine matches winning five and lost only in matches involving other clubs' first teams. During the summer, training continued along with challenge games for a blend of panel players. At the time of writing, the championship now beckons with Na Fianna entering four teams across the 'A'/'B'/'C'/'D' Championships. The Championship format for 2012 will require each of our four teams across the different grades to play at least four championship games in league format before progressing to the semi-final and final stages. We would like to thank the many parents and supporters for their encouragement and for consistently providing transport, patient line/umpire and detailed stats, endless jersey care and generous catering for visiting teams. We would also like to thank our sponsors who quietly helped us provide the players with the care they deserve. 2012 Minor Management personnel - Jimmy Ward, Dave Buckley, Pat Brennan, Fearghal Scanlon, Tommy McKane, Frank Mc Grath, Michael Griffin, Des Ó Dubhlainn, Jackie Dolan, Austin Kilcommins, B Reid, Dave Williams, Brendan Roddy ADULT HURLING AHL Senior 2012 has been a year of progress thus far for the Senior hurling team and at the time of print, all is still to play for. With three games to go in the league we are well positioned to gain promotion but all three games must be won including a key game against fellow promotion hopefuls Raheny. In the championship we are into the quarter finals and have been drawn against Crumlin in the quarter finals which by the evening of the AGM will have taken place last weekend. The 2012 season began in the Aviva Stadium in late 2011 where more than fifty players were present to discuss and plan the coming year; the panel was opened to anyone who had the required


commitment, desire and skill. Collective training resumed on January 16th. While our first competitive game of the year was a disappointing loss to St. Brigids in the AHL1 play off from 2011, there were aspects of the performance that night that gave us plenty to work on as we looked forward. Players have put in a significant commitment all year and they are a credit to themselves, their parents and the club. From January 16th to the end of May, the team met collectively four times per week and players worked on their own individual programmes outside of these collective sessions. June and July were "down" months in many ways and the season began in earnest with the players back in full training to prepare for the huge quarter final in September. The onset of youth has once again been a huge positive and long may it continue. Danny Flaherty and Denis Forde made the step up from last year’s minor team and have contributed handsomely to the year so far. In addition players from the second team were closely monitored and as a result of some impressive performances Mikey Brennan, John Sharpson and Marcus O’Brien received call ups to the panel. They have been a breath of fresh air to the squad and along with the return of Kieran and Diarmuid Murphy, gave the squad a new and fresh feel to it. The championship group pitted us against Faughs, Naomh Fionnbarra and O’Toole’s. We managed to win our first two games which guaranteed us safe passage into the Quarter Finals and we were beaten by O'Toole’s in our final game in the group. It leaves us in the Quarter Finals and we are all looking forward a titanic battle with Crumlin in September. This is a huge game for the club and all support would be appreciated for this game. We were very well represented at inter county level again this year and we are very proud of the lads’ achievements. Joey Boland, Tomás Brady and Máirtín Quilty were all key components of the Dubs Senior Hurling team and Odhran O Maoileidigh and Sean Burke were selected for the Dublin Under 21s this year. We wish Máirtín well in his continuing recovery from the serious knee injury he suffered during the year. It's also been wonderful to see Shane Barrett and Conor McHugh doing so well with the Dublin Minors and also very pleasing that Na Fianna is so well represented with AJ Murphy, Eoghan McHugh and Sean Ryan also on the panel. We look forward to their progression over the coming years. Special thanks to the management team of Fran Larkin, Sean Ó Laoire, Liam Burke, Robbie Bourke, Pat Fanning and Colm Ó Ceallacháin. Thanks also to Colm Burtchaell, Colum Cronin, Mick Loftus, Mick Downes, Finbar Gaffney, Richie Grimes, Aoife Burke & Exwell, Donal Buggy, John Campbell, Aidan Irwin, Eamonn Rainsford & Ebano, Fionán O Connell and Cormac Ó Donnchú who contributed to the group during the year. It is really appreciated. Finally, the team and the club lost a very special friend and huge supporter in Louis Davis during the year. Louis in more recent times was a selector with the team and loved the banter with the younger lads. A true gentleman, he will be sorely missed by everyone involved with the team, and our thoughts and prayers remain with Mary and the family. Ar dheis dé go raibh a anam.



Junior ‘A’ Hurling This year saw the appointment of a new management team of Finbar Gaffney, Frank Foley, James Jesson, Colum Meleady and Dick Shanahan. Training started in January with joint sessions with the seniors which worked very well. The senior and junior teams separated for training in March and this proved very challenging for the juniors due to lack of numbers (only 19 on the panel). Training was subsequently curtailed to one night per week due to lack of availability of players. Training with the seniors resumed in July which has again proved most beneficial. The panel grew to 24 over the season with additional players recruited from their early retirement and some players departing. During the summer months numbers were very tight and two minors were successfully integrated into the panel. The league started with a home match to Thomas Davis who had just come down from intermediate and resulted in a loss – they since went on to win the league. A number of good league wins brought us into contention however the absence of several players for two league matches resulted in bad losses. At the time of writing, there are two league matches left and the team are in with an outside chance of promotion. The championship format was two groups of six with four teams qualifying from each group for knockout. Having lost our first two matches we beat Cuala and then faced a strongly fancied Castleknock team in Mobhi Road. We were outhurled in the first half and put in a sterling performance in the second half to deservedly win. A final group stage victory saw us qualify in fourth place where we faced a strong Ballyboden side, who had won their group, in the quarter final. The game was played in typical “summer” conditions in Pairc Uí Mhurchú and the team put in their best sixty minutes performance to win by two points having being behind at half time. Next up was the Clanna Gael senior team (!) who play two leagues above us in Division 2 (same as our senior side). It is fair to say that outside of our dressing room there were very few who gave us any chance of competing with them. This semi final was played in O’Toole Park (the graveyard of hurling) and having played against the wind & hill in the first half we found ourselves three points down. This was a game where no quarter was asked or given and was not a place for the faint hearted. Led by captain Fanno the team came out in the second half with fire in their bellies and won 3-10 to 1-10 in front of a proud Na Fianna crowd and a stunned Clanna Gael. Remarkably we now find ourselves in the final of the Junior ‘A’ championship against Faughs who also play in a higher division than us. We have used a total of thirty-eight players in competitive matches this year which is a measure of the challenge faced by all team managers. Players need to look at themselves and fully commit to their team by attending training and matches. Finally, we would like to thank Colum Cronin and Dermot Moran for their support. Finbar Gaffney Junior ‘D’ Hurling Starting off the year saw John Maloney (fitness Instructor) put the lads through fitness regimes which the Army would be proud of. Red faces and buckets of sweat saw the team take shape. However if takes more than fitness to win games and with the absence of a hurling trainer training sessions saw us short on numbers on a regular basis with the exception of the training sessions that Declan Feeney obliged us with. This was very disheartening for the real hurling enthusiasts in the team. We soon welcomed a few new players on board which were a real boost to the team and with them on board we went into our games with some real talent and spirit but alas not too much success.


Eoin Behan was appointed Captain and what a good Captain he makes! These are a great bunch of guys, with great ability and skills abundant!!! They desperately need someone to take them in charge and I’ve no doubt they will be on a winning streak for next season. I am not available to Mentor for the coming year and I would love to see someone take on these guys and help put the ‘mojo’ back into the team. We have a lovely new set of Jerseys that Neil Loftus (Loffo) helped buy, bringing them into 2013 looking the part. They just need a little help from someone willing to train and manage them. It’s been an honour guys, thanks. Dee Kernan Minor Hurling To be honest, minor hurling did not get off to a good start this year. Firstly, the club struggled to put a management team in place and it was not assembled until end of January, with four of the U16 mentors staying on to help out. We lost our main trainer Jack Nicholas as he had to move to Limerick for work reasons and we wish him the best of luck. After lots of phone calls, texts and some convincing we had a panel (on paper at least) of 37 players. This gave us some confidence that we could enter two minor hurling teams and would make sure every player was getting game time. However, as it turned out fielding two teams in the league would not have been possible without the support of our U16s. From looking at the calibre of players available we would have had hopes that our first team would have a good run at the Division 1 league and finish in the top half, however we had mixed performances and were unable to put a consistent team out each match day. We did win two games but lost five which placed us in the bottom half of the table. Our second team competed in Division 4. Between walkovers (3), concessions (1), and the effects of the weather, we only managed to play three league matches, all of which we lost. This was discouraging for the players but at least several of them got to turn out regularly for the first team. As the league progressed it was proving difficult to field one team, never mind two. Particular credit is due to those players from the second team squad who consistently turned out for the either team whenever they were asked. Looking forward to next year, serious consideration should be given to separate set ups for the two minor hurling teams as this would help to build a team identity and might aid in the retention of players. To reiterate the message from last year’s minor hurling report; the fall-off in numbers between juvenile grade and minor grade and between first year minor and second year minor is alarming. Some interesting stats…

- Started out with 37 players on the panel at the end of January 2012 - Currently only 28 ‘active’ minor hurlers - Only 8 of which are second year minors - 9 hurlers from last year’s Under 16s opted not to play minor hurling in 2012 - Average attendance at training 12

Communication… We chose to send the text messages directly to the players as have other teams at this grade, however due to poor responses and suggestions from parents I would recommend that texts still go out to parents at minor grade.



At the time of writing, we are working through a series of challenge matches to keep players hurling and to see what options we have for the championship. Due to the fantastic success of both Dublin minor hurlers and footballers the championship is delayed, and will most likely run well into December. Training for the championship will begin shortly, and although there have been many setbacks this year, this panel of players have great potential and with the addition of some outstanding U16 players can make a strong push in the championship. Finally thanks… Firstly, thanks to the core group of players who turn up week in, week out. Thanks also to Colm Burtchaell, Niall Ó Ceallacháin and the Under 16s for support during the year. Thanks to the Under 16, Junior and Senior hurling management teams for the various combined training sessions during the summer months when player numbers were low. Mentors: Tom Ryan, Martin Rabbitte, Neil Loftus, Oliver Power, Dave Williams, Joe Murphy


ADULT CAMOGIE Senior 1 Camogie (Senior) In 2012 we welcomed new members to the panel: Lucy Collins, Ciara Berkley and Ellen Keatley and Julianne Cooper who returned from travelling who added hugely to the strength and depth of this team. During the year we welcomed back, with open arms, former members of the panel: Nicola Gavin, Sarah Quinn and Orlagh Egan. We started back training in the second week in January, with league matches commencing the start of March 2012. We had an unusual start to the league under lights in St. Margaret’s against Naomh Mhearnog but that did not put our team off and we had our first win of the season. Currently we are the only unbeaten team in the league with one more game to play and the Top 4 play-offs to come. One major highlight of the league was beating our local rivals St.Vincent’s for the first time in twenty-one years!! It was a fantastic performance coming from five points down to win by seven points (scoring twelve unanswered points!). Throughout the year we were strongly represented on the Dublin Senior and Junior Panels. We were very proud when our own Elaine O’Meara was announced as the Dublin Senior Camogie Captain. Elaine is a fantastic leader on and off the pitch and the honour was well deserved. We also had a number of players on the senior panel during the year: Muireann O’Gorman, Arlene Cushen (who was awarded Player of the Match for the Quarter-final play-off, scoring the winning point for Dublin), Ciara Berkley and Hannah McInerney. Unfortunately the results did not go Dublin’s way and the senior team left the championship after a narrow defeat in the Quarter-final to Offaly. We were also represented on the Dublin Junior Panel by: Gráinne Ryan, Ellen Keatley and Eve O’Brien. The junior team won their league and had great success in reaching the All-Ireland Final but were beaten on the day by Westmeath. As a team we are delighted to support the county team and hope for greater success in the 2013 season. Particular congratulations to Muireann O’Gorman who was voted Senior Player of the Year 2011 for county Dublin by the Dublin clubs. This was a great honour for Muireann and richly deserved. With the end of the inter-county season our championship commenced. Despite a bumpy start to the group stage, we are back on track after winning our last two matches well and face Naomh Mearnóg in a playoff for a Quarter-final spot on Sunday September 16th. At the time of writing we are still active in all major competitions, League and Championship and we are optimistic we can challenge in both. We have had a lot of support during the year from numerous people who we would like to thank. Firstly the mangers of the Senior 3 camogie team: Sandra Tarr, Brendan Cooper and Colm King have helped us in everyway possible from facilitating training with us during the summer to allowing players to play-up for us when needed. I know they want success for the Senior 1 team as much as we do and we are very grateful for their support. Furthermore, we thank the management of the Ladies football team for working together to support all the dual players and allowing them to play successfully for both teams. Secondly, we would like to thank Colum Cronin who has supported us all year long, with pitches for training and matches and training equipment, without either of which the team could not function. We would also like to thank all the members of the club who keep the pitches in such fantastic condition all year round despite the crazy weather we have had.



We would also like to thank Aoife Burke, our ATT, for always getting the girls onto the pitch when we need them most. We also want to thank our new sponsors ‘The Grafton Lounge’ and look forward to developing the relationship over the coming year. Finally we want to thank this fantastic bunch of girls who have given such wonderful commitment to this team and truly deserve the success they have achieved so far. The work ethic on the pitch is second to none and it is an honour to be manager of such a talented team. We are very much looking forward to the final stages of this season and hopefully more victories!!!! Ciara O'Reilly

Senior 3 Camogie (Intermediate) With a new management team in place, at the start of the season there was a number of internal matches played to familiarise ourselves with the adult players available to us. From these games a panel of twenty-seven was formed. This was a very difficult task because there were so many good players to choose from. Once the panels were established, the players were set two goals. 1. Win the Senior 3 league. 2. Win the Senior 3 championship. It is great to report that at the time of writing, which is a critical point of the season, both targets are still within reach. The team has played ten league games with a narrow defeat to St. Finbarr's being the only points dropped. The team now faces a league semi-final for first place. We also played our first championship match, which was a tremendous victory over St. Jude's. There is a lot of talent on this team with quite a number of 'experienced heads' such as Karen Fox, Yvonne Duggan, Paula Lohan, Naoise Webb, Clodagh Burke, Mairéad Walsh and Brid Ní Laoire who played at this level over the past few years, We also have quite a number of youngsters who have just came out of the minor grade at the end of 2011 - Brigitte Walsh, Lisa McKenna, Khloe Dillon-Coote, Katie King, Lauren Coulihan(Vice Captain) and Susan Clinton. We also welcomed the following girls who are still eligible to pay Minor Championship later this year - Eleanor Buggy, Isabelle Kelly, Clíona McCollough, Lisa Kelly, Róisin Baker, Claire Murray and Emer Ni Eafa (who transferred to Na Fianna at the end of 2011). Sinéad O Donnell, Sarah Kelly, Christina Kelly (Captain) who moved up from our Junior team (Senior 6) have really added to the quality of this team. We welcomed back Emma Cloherty who had not played for a year or two and welcomed to the club Muireann Kelleher from Clare and Carmel Flannery from Galway who are working in Dublin and now play camogie for Na Fianna. Lucy Collins who helped us get to the League semi-final has now moved up to our senior team for the Championship and we thank Lucy for her contribution during the Top 4 league play-offs. Management Team - Brendan Cooper, Sandra Tarr, Colum King, Anne McInerney


Senior 6 Camogie (Junior) This year, one Junior team competed, with an amalgamation of the Junior 'A' and 'B' teams at competitive level. The team took part in the Senior 6 league with Naomh Bríd 'B', Setanta, Naomh Mearnóg 'B', Erin's Isle 'B', Whitehall Colmcille, St Pats/Round Towers and Good Counsel. Five wins and two defeats saw Na Fianna qualify for the Top Four play-offs. The summer months saw the team numbers hit hard by holidays with the result; an early exit from the Summer Cup, despite defeating Naomh Barróg, defeats to Setanta and Craobh Chiaráin ended Na Fianna's involvement in the Cup. The League play-offs were also a major disappointment as they were played over the holiday months and despite good showings we were defeated in all three games, but are still in the play-off (knockout) section of the league. The Championship saw Na Fianna paired with Erin's Isle 'B', St Pats/Round Towers and Naomh Bríd 'B'. Two big wins over Erin's Isle and St Pats/Round Towers put Na Fianna into the knockout stages and we were unlucky not to defeat Naomh Bríd 'B'; which would have put Na Fianna into the penultimate stage of the championship. Na Fianna are now in a quarter-final versus Whitehall Colmcille (week ending September 16th) for a place in the last four against Setanta. As this is Na Fianna's third team it is encouraging to see us compete with first and second outfits from other clubs. The team was trained this year by Sean Ó Cinnéide and Brian 'Gow' O’Sullivan. We would like to thanks all players for committing to playing Camogie for the year and wish Mairéad Cassidy well on her recent engagement. LADIES FOOTBALL (ADULT) Senior Ladies’ Football Last October the senior ladies team were involved in the Ladies Senior Leinster competition. They played Killoe (Longford), and Leixlip (Kildare) and were crowned Leinster Champions for the first time ever after beating Mountmellick (Laois) 23rd October on a very wet day in Newbridge.

The girls went on to play Donoghmore (Cork) in The All-Ireland semi-final played in Mobhi Road. The club put on a fantastic show on the day and all of Mobhi Road looked fantastic. The girls won and went on to play Carnacon (Mayo) in Ballymahon (Longford) in the All-Ireland final but were unfortunately beaten. The 2011 season was the most successful season of the Ladies Senior team to date.

The 2012 season senior ladies squad is made up of 27 players and 4 backroom staff. The senior ladies have played 7 games in the league, have won all of them and have won the league division 1 competition. We have also won the cup competition with playing 7 games and winning all 7. The senior team were also in the county final after qualifying top of their side in the qualifiers. Unfortunately this year they were not successful.

This year we were fortunate to have a championship training weekend in Aspire (Clara Offaly), where we had team building sessions, training sessions and a challenge game against Westmeath. The team, have also entered the All-Ireland 7’s competition taking place Saturday 6th October in Naomh Mearnog/Sylvestors.

We would like to thank the club, especially Colum Cronin for his time and patience with us. And also Tom Gillian, The Duke and Dtwo Harcourt Street.



Junior Ladies’ Football This year has been a difficult one for our squad. Having achieved promotion in league and championship previously, we faced into our league and cup campaign against first team club opponents with a depleted panel and no club management structure or club coaching support. Despite this, thanks to the outstanding loyalty and perseverance of the panel we completed our league and cup schedule during spring and early summer. We would like to thank those who gave guest sessions, to external coaches who gave us training during that time and to family and friends who helped us. In June, we began our championship preparation with a temporary club management structure in place. The players responded, and during the summer put in over 50 hours of work at challenges and sessions in field and gym with consistent attendances of 20 players. Our championship campaign began with a win over favourites Craobh Chiaráin, followed by a defeat by a talented O’Toole’s side and a single point loss in our final game, just narrowly missing qualifying by score difference. We would like to acknowledge the contribution of the Na Fianna minor and other panellists who stepped in to fill key positions during that campaign. Post championship, we have already begun game based activity to better our skills and consolidate our improving fitness. The panel has shown our loyalty to the club and our determination and willingness to learn and improve. We need consistent management and coaching support. There is clear potential for the growth of ladies’ football in Na Fianna with the success of recruitment and developments in the juvenile section. That potential is at serious risk and unlikely to be realised if the backup is not in place.


ACTIVITY REPORTS – Juvenile Games

JUVENILE GAMES - Football

Under 8 Football & Hurling The "2004 Na Fianna Boys Football and Hurling Teams" had a very successful year. This was our first half year participating in the "Go Games". It was a huge learning experience for all concerned, both Mentors and Players. Most of the mentors are first timers. From the Mentors side it was very rewarding. We have approximately 75 boys in the group, with 7 teams participating in both codes. To ensure a full complement of players for every game we are reducing the teams to 6 for both codes from September 1 for the rest of the year. We were scheduled to play approx 112 games with the 7 teams from February to June and only had to cancel 2 games due to a one off where all mentors in one of the three groups were unavailable. On a few occasions, when other teams had difficulty with their own pitches and weather, we re-organised the fixtures in Na Fianna grounds, with the agreement of the Fixtures Committee and the Opposition. We were very successful in collecting club subscriptions. We assisted the club in running a very successful Mini League. From this we have a few new players. This time last year we had no finances in the name of "2004 Na Fianna Boys Football and Hurling Team", Today we have approx €730 held by the club in our name for the financing of our teams. Finally and most importantly, it is clearly visible the improvement of the boys ability and skill over the last year. The boys easily won more "Go Games" than we lost in both codes, even if this is not a requirement for participation, it keeps the players keen to continue.

Under 9 Football The 2003 Boys made the jump to under 9 back in February and the big question was whether to play balanced or streamed teams. We started out with balanced teams and after a few heavy defeats we rearranged the teams on a streamed basis. Numbers increased slightly and we have 57 on our panel. They are a dedicated bunch and are very well motivated by their parents. We continued to train once a week, alternating between hurling and football depending on the nature of the fixture on a given weekend. This has served its purpose in keeping the boys playing both codes in the same team every week but perhaps at the expense working on hurling skills. Our focus for the remainder of the year is to develop the team ethic amongst the boys and to continue improving their basic skills.



We continued with football training during the summer and the boys and the parents jumped at the chance to have a bit of fun during the long summer nights. For the remainder of 2012 we are going to train two nights per week and we expect to see a big improvement in their hurling skills. Sincere thanks to Sean Cody who vacated the lead hurling seat and a big welcome to Mary O’Connell, who takes his place. Thanks also to Niall Cooper for his advice and assistance and for despatching two able under 16 deputies to help out at our training sessions. Finally we wish Fionn Jaffrey all the best as he relocates to Australia.

Under 10 Football 2012 sees the 2002 boys continue to develop their football and team skills. We currently have close to 70 boys on the books. It’s fantastic to have maintained this number since the nursery days and to see the friendships that have been made along the way. We get great numbers turning up each Monday night for training in St Vincents. We are currently fielding 5 teams in the fortnightly Go Games which the boys love and which have brought us the length and breadth of the Northside. . Our ethos continues to focus on ensuring the lads have fun, while learning the skills of the game in a healthy respectful environment. We use games-based drills as much as possible during our training sessions. This year we have been emphasising the importance of Team Play with the boys, it’s an ongoing project! A milestone was reached as the boys took place in their last Mini-leagues during the year. Thanks to Dermot for ensuring all ran smoothly. The team also took part in the Kilmacud Crokes annual invitational blitz and made it all the way to the final, playing fantastic football. The international experience of the boys was bolstered when we hosted Dunedin Connollys GAA club from Edinburgh in July and talks are underway for a return match. Finally we want to thank all the parents and guardians who give their time every week to support us, the mentors in particular for their dedication and hard work week in and week out, but most especially the boys themselves. They turn up every week with a love and enthusiasm for the game that drives us all forward whilst reminding us of what it’s all about. Mentors: Andy Matthews, Dara McGowan, Dave Kerins, Dermot Conroy, Dermot Kane, Fergus McCabe, Mark Brabazon, Paul Carroll, Paul Flynn, Philip Mongey, Shane Coleman, Shay McHugh, TJ Gleeson.

Under 11 Football We are progressing steadily at Under 11 Football and big improvements are visible in all players. Working from a panel of 50 boys we have 4 Go Games teams competing in county board fixtures. Our emphasis has been on skills development and we will continue with this policy for the foreseeable future. Many thanks to all the boys and their parents for their help and co-operation during the last 12 months. Mentors: Kieran Brennan, Ciaran Burke, Aidan Farrington, Cian Ferriter, Tom Flaherty, Noel O’Reilly, Ricky O’Sullivan, Joe Smyth and Paul Smith


Under 12 Football

U12 boys football has continued to thrive and develop this year. Panel numbers have increased from 55 to 59, which has allowed us comfortably to field three 13-a-side teams – playing in Dublin Northside League Divisions 1, 3 and 5 respectively. We have also played a number of challenge matches during the year, notably against Nemo Rangers from Cork at Easter to whom we will hopefully make a return visit before the year-end. We also participated in the excellent Kilmacud Tournament in May.

The three teams are all performing strongly and are competing well at all levels. The numbers attending training have been excellent right through, which can be attributed to the ‘hard-working but fun’ atmosphere which permeates training.

Emphasis in training continues to be on skills development, support play and good decision-making.

Many thanks to all the boys, their parents/guardians, mentors, Juvenile Committee, groundstaff and referee coordinators for their help and cooperation during the year.

Mentors: Conor Buckley, Bernie Caffrey, Mike Farrell, Ian Foley, Michael O’Leary, Stephen O’Neill, Paul Nolan, Sean Potts, Jim Ratcliffe, Brian Skelly.

Under 13 Football

Overall while numbers were stable we saw a small but significant decline. We currently have a regular attendance of mid 40’s at training although the number registered is higher.

League performance by our A group has been excellent all through 2012 however the performance of the B and C team is a concern.

Our numbers are such that we have 2.5 squads and have really only been able to maintain a C team by the support of Sean Potts form the u12 and some luck with fixtures.

The introduction of the non parent to the group has been very beneficial for our A group but in my view has not been helpful to the other teams. We have effected some changes to the management of the Band C teams which will hopefully improve the situation with these boys.

In summary I would describe the year as a partial success A team came second in its league at the u12 twelve grade and are currently top in U13A div. B and C team are struggling



Under 14A Football

Under 14 A footballers continue to remain competitive in the top league thanks in large to the great effort they put in at training every week and their willingness to listen and adapt to new coaching methods. Numbers remain consistent despite the challenge of competing with other sports, most notably rugby. The boys were unlucky to lose in the semi final of the Dublin Feile, losing out to the eventual Feile national winners. 5 of the boys have been selected to train with the Dublin North U /14 Development squad with no doubt more to follow in the near future. The future looks bright for the U/14 A footballers.

Under 14B Football

Attendance for training and matches was excellent considering the losses the B team had this year.

The B team is feeder team for the A and C teams. We have used 42 players out of a panel of 56 through this year.

I feel that has had its effect on results, as we have not had a stable team at any one match up to the feile.

What had happened at the feile was distressing for some children that have been training and playing with this group since five years of age and got very little game time in this competition. I really hope that the club will implement a decision on this.

We decided as a group of mentors that we would put in place after the feile movement between teams only when needed.

Example: Injuries, Absentees.

This has shown positive results and feel it would benefit teams in the future and keep children interested.

I know it’s not all about winning, but it is difficult to keep children interested if they are been beaten every match.


Under 14C Football

Attendance at matches and training has been excellent all year. We rarely struggled to field a team. Thank you to all the players for their ongoing commitment.

The team has improved a lot, but unfortunately the results overall have not been great. This was caused in part by some overly strong teams in division 9.

A “bottom- Top” league similar to what has been organised for the hurling group would benefit us in this regard.

There was huge support from the C-team group for the Feile fund raising activities. A big thank you to all those who took part and helped with the organisation and donated their time and other resources so freely.

To assist in team bonding in preparation for the Feile, we had a group hike in Wicklow for the B and C –teams and all who went on this thoroughly enjoyed themselves,

The Football Feile results were disappointing and we never recovered from losing our first game, but the lads showed great resolve and battled hard during every game. Matches were relived and war stories were exchanged in the post- tournament party at Mc Donald’s.

The plans for the rest of the season are to continue to build on fitness levels and core skills with hopefully the assistance of some guest coaches.

John Owens, Kevin Breen

Under 15 Football

Following from a successful and enjoyable 2011 at U14 level, the U15 boys continue to field three teams at U15 in divisions 1, 4 and 6. We are only the club in Dublin fielding three teams at U15 level.

Under 15A This bunch of lads continue to progress this year, building on their efforts and that of their mentors since nursery time. Working with a panel of 21 boys, with occasional mixed training sessions and challenge matches using As, Bs and Cs. The lads have trained away during the Summer and with three league matches left to go are three points clear of nearest rivals. This performance reflects the work these lads have been putting in all year. Championship will be commencing mid September and we’re looking forward to continuing our progress. Mentors Gerry Donohoe, Karl Higgins, Neil Mulhern, Ian McGowan.



Under 15B

We currently have a panel of 22 players after having some of the lads from the C team moved up. After being relegated to division 4 last season the lads have shown great spirit throughout the 2012 season so far. While we had a couple of disappointing matches earlier on in the year we have finally settled down and are currently joint second in the league, having played some outstanding matches and got the results they deserved. Overall the team has improved immensely compared to last year, with a more mature attitude amongst a number of players. Hopefully this will continue on into next season which will help develop the lads as they prepare to go into their final season as a team before they move up to minor level. With the championship due up in a couple of weeks, the lads are starting to put in the hard work in training combined with a great effort from the A and C panels as well. Here’s to a great championship for the lads, and a healthy future overall. Mentors: Padraig Deeley, Jimmy Flannery

Under 15C

Our U15C team enjoyed a tremendous campaign in a very competitive Division 6 league predominantly made of up of Clubs with 2nd teams. After 6 matches the team was second in the table, which ensured a Top4 league play off spot on 2nd Sept. During the year, Divisions 5 and 6 were merged which resulted in much stiffer challenges for the team in latter months. The team looks forward to the U15 championship. During the year we have had a panel of up to 21 players which is a tremendous achievement for a third team. Great credit is due to AJ and Tiarnan for making the weekly training sessions challenging and enjoyable. Mentors : Richard Dunne, Tiaran Ó Dubhlainn, AJ McElwee, Seosamh Ó Maolalaí.

Special mention must go to Gerry Donohoe and Karl Higgins for the tremendous development work done to benefit all 3 panels, particularly during the summer months. All our U15 boys have benefited from this experience.

Finally a huge thanks to the parents and guardians of the boys who support us in so many ways by attending matches, organising lifts, putting up nets and flags, washing the jersies, acting as umpires and linesman etc.


Under 16A Football 2012 is the final year of underage football for the 1996 group. Hard to believe that the journey through the Nursery, Go-Games; 15-a-side games; Féile; underage championships etc. is nearing an end – time flies when you’re having so much fun! During 2012, the 1996 group continued to field three teams at Under 16 in divisions 1, 4 and 7. U16A. Our Division 1 team has throughout 2012 worked hard and maintained a very high attendance level at training. The team currently tops the League and is unbeaten, despite some players doing Junior Certificate examinations and some being unavailable for games during the year due to injuries, school trips, holidays and the involvement of three players with the Dublin Minor hurling squad. The team, having already qualified for the Top-4 semi final playoffs, will make a big effort to round off the season with the league title. Earlier in the year, this team won the U16A Championship, in a thrilling game that showed the skills, commitment, depth and mental resolve of the players. A number of the players are on the Dublin U16 Development Squad, which reflects well on the team’s high standard and commitment. Mentors: Tom Gray, John Murchan, Niall Cooper and Pat McCarthy. Under 16B Football This team has gone well in Division 4 and, with four games remaining, is in second place. The top 4 teams will go into a knockout to decide the league. Attendance at training has generally been good and it’s been heartening to see strong competition for places as players on the B and C panels work hard and improve. In the B Championship the team put up a great effort in the first round and it was only in the dying minutes that a good Naomh Mearnóg side got the winning scores. The team went on to reach the Shield Final and played very well despite losing out to Skerries Harps. Mentors: Paul Newman, Dennis Keeley, Cian Quinn and John Lynch.

Under 16C Football Our 16C team has again been very competitive in Division 7 of the league and are currently in mid-table. Earlier in the year, this team had an extended run in the championship, finally losing at the semi-final stage to the eventual impressive winners - Kilmacud Crokes B. Mentors: John O’Dea and Cormac O’Donnchú. All of the 1996 mentors acknowledge the commitment and enthusiasm of the players and all of the help received with jerseys, nets, umpiring etc. from a fabulous group of parents. We’re also grateful to the under 15 players and mentors who have been very generous in helping out during the season and indeed in previous years. It is hoped that most of the 1996 boys will continue to play gaelic games at minor and adult level and, no doubt, a number will play at the highest levels for club and county.



JUVENILE GAMES - Hurling

Under 8 Hurling The "2004 Na Fianna Boys Football and Hurling Teams" had a very successful year. This was our first half year participating in the "Go Games". It was a huge learning experience for all concerned, both Mentors and Players. Most of the mentors are first timers. From the Mentors side it was very rewarding. We have approximately 75 boys in the group, with 7 teams participating in both codes. To ensure a full complement of players for every game we are reducing the teams to 6 for both codes from September 1 for the rest of the year. We were scheduled to play approx 112 games with the 7 teams from February to June and only had to cancel 2 games due to a one off where all mentors in one of the three groups were unavailable. On a few occasions, when other teams had difficulty with their own pitches and weather, we re-organised the fixtures in Na Fianna grounds, with the agreement of the Fixtures Committee and the Opposition. We were very successful in collecting club subscriptions. We assisted the club in running a very successful Mini League. From this we have a few new players. This time last year we had no finances in the name of "2004 Na Fianna Boys Football and Hurling Team", Today we have approx €730 held by the club in our name for the financing of our teams. Finally and most importantly, it is clearly visible the improvement of the boys ability and skill over the last year. The boys easily won more "Go Games" than we lost in both codes, even if this is not a requirement for participation, it keeps the players keen to continue.

Under 9 Hurling The 2003 Boys made the jump to under 9 back in February and the big question was whether to play balanced or streamed teams. We started out with balanced teams and after a few heavy defeats we rearranged the teams on a streamed basis. Numbers increased slightly and we have 57 on our panel. They are a dedicated bunch and are very well motivated by their parents. We continued to train once a week, alternating between hurling and football depending on the nature of the fixture on a given weekend. This has served its purpose in keeping the boys playing both codes in the same team every week but perhaps at the expense working on hurling skills. Our focus for the remainder of the year is to develop the team ethic amongst the boys and to continue improving their basic skills.


We continued with football training during the summer and the boys and the parents jumped at the chance to have a bit of fun during the long summer nights. For the remainder of 2012 we are going to train two nights per week and we expect to see a big improvement in their hurling skills. Sincere thanks to Sean Cody who vacated the lead hurling seat and a big welcome to Mary O’Connell, who takes his place. Thanks also to Niall Cooper for his advice and assistance and for despatching two able under 16 deputies to help out at our training sessions. Finally we wish Fionn Jaffrey all the best as he relocates to Australia.

Under 10 Hurling The boys continue to make big improvements in their hurling skills. We have maintained the numbers close to the 50 mark but new boys are always welcome as are those who are currently taking a “break” from the game. Our goal is to develop and enhance the hurling skills of the entire group in an inclusive and happy environment. We have entered 4 teams for the go-games leagues and most of the games have been very competitive so we are happy with the progress being made. The boys (and the mentors – most of the time!) are enjoying their hurling which is the main purpose of the exercise. The highlights of the year to date have been our trips to the country to play Burren Rangers in Carlow and Drum and Inch in Tipperary. We were shown great hospitality in both venues. We hope to maintain the links and there is an open invitation to these teams to play us at any time on our home territory. We also had a great training session in July before the summer break taken by our own Martin Quilty (many thanks, Martin – much appreciated). This was followed by a barbeque. If the boys show the same enthusiasm going for the sliotar as they did for the burgers and hotdogs, we’ll certainly be contenders! Many thanks to James, Eric and the glamorous chefs on the day! As always, we would like to thanks the boys for their continued dedication and the parents for their ongoing support which is much appreciated. Training is at 6pm in Vincent’s School on Wednesdays. Parents are notified of matches via text message (please respond promptly re availability) and the u10 (2002) hurlers page on the Na Fianna Website (www.clgnafianna.ie) is updated with any relevant information. The focus remains on developing the basic hurling skills and promoting a love of the greatest game on earth! We also have a good bit of craic! The key message for the boys and parents is to keep practicing! Mentors – Jim Deane, TJ Gleeson, James Jesson, Dermot Conroy, John Kelly, Philip Mongey, Andy Matthews, Eric Halligan.

Under 11 Hurling The Under 11 hurlers currently field three 11-a-side teams and it’s fair to say that it’s been a challenge to get sufficient numbers out many weekends. On several occasions we’ve had to ask players to “double up” when the game times allow this option. We investigated the option of reducing the number of teams to 2 but this option wasn’t available to us as the county board insisted on sticking to the fixtures schedule. In order to be able to fulfil our obligations we have had to rely on the cooperation of other clubs switching fixtures to avoid clashes. This has been



reasonably successful and the teams have been doing very well, but there are many players who have to play several games most weekends.

We are currently working off a panel of 36 players and field an A team in Div 2a, a B team in Div 2b and a second B team in Div7. To date the positions in the leagues are as follows: 3rd in Div 2a, 6th in Div 2b and joint 1st in Div 7.

We have been endeavouring to get additional expertise on the coaching side. While this search is ongoing, with the assistance of the club we believe that we have now successfully filled the vacancy. We feel that this was an important issue, if only for to provide a new perspective as well as a new voice for the players to listen to.

Sunday 6th of May was a big occasion for the U11s when we hosted the 6th annual Dermot McNulty hurling tournament. We welcomed teams from Dicksboro, Eire Og, Craanford, Skerries, Kilmacud Crokes, Bray Emmets and Castleknock to Mobhi Rd and a great days hurling was had by all. The final of the Cup competition was between Kilmacud Crokes "A" and Eire Og and Crokes emerged victorious after a close game. In the shield final, Castleknock defeated Kilmacud Crokes "B". Many thanks to all our sponsors and to the McNulty Family for their continued support. Particular thanks as well to John Greene, who did Trojan work raising vital sponsorship for the event.

We have fielded teams in the U11 camaint this summer and have found it a very rewarding experience. We qualified for the Division 1 shield semi-finals which we played in Parnell Park on Aug 18. Unfortunately many of our players were unavailable on the day due to holidays and we were beaten by a strong Round Towers team.

We hosted Nenagh Eire Og on the occasion of the All-Ireland hurling semi final and played two competitive games at U11 and U12. Many thanks to everybody who helped organise pitch setup, catering and hospitality on the day.

Several of our parents took part in the foundation level hurling course, hosted by Colm Crowley and we look forward to them taking a more active role in the teams in the upcoming season.

Many thanks to all the mentors, parents and helpers for all the support during the season, especially for the hard work during the McNulty tournament.

Mentors: Mary O’Connell, Tom Flaherty, John O’Grady, Declan Murtagh, John Greene


Under 12 Hurling The U12s currently have 36 active players. 2012 training started back on 26th of January. As of end of August there have been 22 training sessions with an average attendance of 26 players. This year we are playing U12 Go-Games and entered two teams of 13-a-side. The Go-Games season started off with five rounds of “blitz” games, the A team won 4 out of 5 with the B team winning 1. The results of the blitz were used to position teams in the league. The ‘A’ team is in Division 1, competing well and currently in second place. The ‘B’ team is in Division 4, the players are putting in huge effort but the team is struggling as it is the only club ‘second’ team in that division. So far a total of 42 games have been played between the two teams, which includes blitz, league, camaint, challenges, Alan Cregan Feile and the P.J Troy tournament. We’ve had visits from Turloughmore of Galway, and Eire Og and St. Patricks from Tipp and have received return invites from these and several other clubs around the country. We hope to take part in a tournament in Newry at the end of September. The Camaint finals take place on Saturday September 15th and we will have two U12 teams competing. Recently we joined forces with the U13s and took part in the P.J. Troy tournament; the lads put in huge effort on full size pitches and won two out of three games. Many thanks to the fixtures and pitch committees, to Ann O’Dea our referee coordinator and the young referees. Thanks also to all the mentors, parents and helpers for all the support during the season. Mentors: Joe Murphy, Cormac O’Sullivan, Christy Donnelly, Eoin McCabe, Neil Loftus

Under 13 Hurling This has been a year of consolidation at U/13 level; at the time of writing, with four games remaining in a very competitive Division One, our first team looks set to finish first, second or third in its league - precisely where will be decided by how the last games pan out and may even be decided on score difference. Our second team will finish in a very respectable mid-table position. At the start of the year it seemed as if we had more than enough numbers for two teams but at times during the season we have really struggled to field both sides; thanks to the players, parents and mentors of the U/12 team for ensuring we could field. Both sides can look forward with confidence to a great year at U/14. Sincere thanks to all those who have helped out during the year, from lining pitches to putting up nets to transporting our players all over the city. Ar aghaidh linn le chéile! Jim Deane Pádraig Ó Fainín



Under 14A Hurling

Mary O’Connell, Dermot Moran, Tomás Brady, Andy Flaherty, Phil Kelly This was the biggest year yet for the 1998 Boys with 2 x Féile’s & the league

Féile B.Á.C. The Dublin Féile was on in May and our group stages were on in Fingallians on the Saturday. We were unbeaten on the Saturday against Ballyboden A, Fingallians A & Brigids A. On the Sunday, we met Kilmacud Crokes A in the semi-final which after a lot of hard work, managed to get ahead late in the 2nd half to win this. The boys looked very tired after this game. On to Parnell Park for the finals against Brigids A, unfortunately, we let in an early goal in the 1st half & in the 2nd half which we were constantly battling back against but we just could not catch up and ended up losing by a point, 2-01 to 0-06. We played a magnificent final and had a great weekend but the players themselves were very disappointed not be have won it.

Féile Náisiúnta We got the group of death here, with Sarsfields from Cork, Kilruane McDonaghs from Tipperary & Clontarf - the 1st game of the Féile was played in Mobhi Road against Sarsfields in lovely weather. The club, the clubhouse & the pitches were in great condition. The match ended up a draw which was unfortunate as we really should have won it but then again, we nearly threw it away and had to come back to draw it. The following day, in atrocious conditions in St. Anne’s Park, we beat Kilruane McDonaghs & Clontarf and ended up in a 5 minute a side play off vs Sarsfields which we lost by a point. Again, the boys were disappointed but they certainly did the club proud as I reckon they were the best team in the competition. League At present, we are top of the Under 14 Division 1 league with 4 games left to play. THANKS; We would like to thank all those parents who gave so much of their time to help out the club for both Féile’s. To all those who hosted, who made sandwich’s, helped getting the pitch’s ready and who generally you could rely on to help out when required. A special mention to Declan & Bernie Feeney for sorting out all the hosting, to Ruth Mongey and her team of caterers Maura Killarney, Phil Kelly, Mary Watson, Noreen McHugh, Marina McKenna, Aileen Treacy, Áine Clerkin, Regina Bregazzi, Catherine Ronayne, & Colette O’Brien. A big thanks to the groundsmen, Dermot Moran, Tom Ryan, Phil Kelly, Bob Courtney for the amount of time & effort they put into getting both front & back pitch’s in great condition and of course to the Saturday tea-ladies who helped out serving teas & coffees. More thanks to those who came along for the club clean-up and to the Under 15’s & 16’s, and Pat O’Shea for all their support & help with stewarding and umpiring over the féile weekend. Many thanks also to all those who came to Fingallians, Mobhi Road & St. Anne’s Park to support us. Thanks to Sandra Tarr and ‘Avery Dennison’ for sponsoring a new set of jerseys for us this year. Many thanks to Richard Dunne, Páiric Clerkin & Des O Dubhlainn for all their support during this year as it was a very stressful and exciting year to be involved in. Many thanks to Philip Mongey, Tony Kelly & Greg Ronayne who can always be relied on to do the nets & flags and thanks also to Mary Watson who looks after the team jerseys. A big thank you to Eoin Behan the club physio who gave up both Féile weekends to help out with the teams, his help & hard work was greatly appreciated. Great work was also done by our fundraising team which was led by Martin Quilty, Gerry Corcoran and John Owens


Under 14B Hurling 2012 was a busy year for the panel of 20 U14 B players,mentors, parents and guardians. The National Féile, hosted in Dublin (and Mobhi Road), meant an intense fund raising drive started early on in the year. Many thanks to all who got involved in the bagpacking,quiz/concert and cake sale, especially John Owens and Debbie Murray. Rody Fanning and Martin Quilty joined as mentors and their vast knowledge and experience enthused the team to achieve some notable performances. The players are most grateful for their input and support. The best performance was probably in the Dublin Féile where they topped a five team group and won their semi final in St.Peregrines to qualify for the final in Parnell Park. The grueling, hard fought matches took their toll and they finished runners up to Setanta in the Division 5 final. It was a memorable weekend for the players, mentors, parents and guardians and demonstrated the potential all the players can achieve. Despite being moved into a higher division for the National Féile the Na Fianna U14 B Hurlers battled gallantly with the champions of Roscommon (Padraig Pearses), Donegal (Buncrana) and Kilmacud Crokes B. While not qualifying from their group they had the pleasure of supporting their guests Padraig Pearses who went on to win the Division 4 Final and the Dr. Birch Trophy in Croke Park. The lads enjoyed the whole Féile experience from the pageantry, the parade and hosting the guest players (whose captain praised the culinary delights of the Na Fianna host families during his acceptance speech in Croke Park!).The players and their mentors would like to thank the Club (and Féile Committees) for the privilege of playing in the Féile, the organisation of facilities etc and their enthusiastic support for the team. Currently the team are involved in the “Top 5 play off”of Division 5 having finished 3rd in a 10 team league. The team hope to finish in the top two by the end of the season. Mentors:Eugene Barry,Gerry Corcoran,Rody Fanning,Martin Quilty.

Under 15A Hurling This group of hurlers have continued to improve and this season to date was no exception. Training commenced early in 2012 in preparation for the league and their first match was won against the then newcomers to Division 1 Naomh Mearnog. At the time of writing our hurlers are league leaders and have but 2 matches left to play in October. There is now a panel of 20 in this group and includes 2 new talented hurlers who joined the club earlier this year. Much can be learned about the skills and tactics of other counties by playing against their hurlers and to this end the team have played against John Locke's of Callan Co. Kilkenny who were mentored well by the former and famous Kilkenny hurler John Power and also against Cuchulainn of Armagh. Early preparations were made for the teams first experience of Championship Hurling by training in August for players who were not on holidays at the time.At the time of writing the team



the team have taken to the intensity of Championship hurling by winning their first match in the series. 6 hurlers of the group are proud to don the Blue of Dublin and represent their county with the Dublin U15 Hurling Development Squad and have been involved in several Inter County Blitzes at this level. At Team Mentor level there have been a number of changes, with the founder mentor Donal Buggy stepping down from his mentor role but stepping up to assist the Dublin Senior Football Team in his capacity as Team Doctor. Donal has given immeasurable service to the Na Fianna juvenile hurlers and for this both hurlers and mentors are very grateful. Finbar Gaffney and Peter Pringle have also stood down as mentors and they too have given so much of their time to improve the skills and tactics of this team.Their work is very much appreciated. The assistance given by parents in helping with lifts and catering should not go without mention and for this the team and mentors are also very grateful. Mentors for 2012 are Declan Feeney, Billy Fenlon and Paddy Oliver

Iomáint Faoi 15b Under 15B Hurling Ag dul i bhfeabhas i gcónaí atá grúpa iomána 1997b. Tá seachtar buachaill d’éag ar an bpainéal againn faoi láthair. Fáilte i gcónaí roimh imreoirí nua. Is iad baill an ghrúpa bainistíochta ná Micheál Ó Flannagáin, Criostóir Ó Gairbhith, Seosamh Ó Maolalaí, Proinsias Ó Tuama, tuismitheoirí, agus Diarmuid Ó Conchubhair, iománaí Ciarraíoch. Tá éacht á dhéanamh ag Diarmuid chun scileanna iomána na mbuachaillí a fheabhsú. Faoi láthair táimid ar bharr an tábla i Roinn a Ceathair den Sraith. Aon chluiche eile amháin le himirt againn i mí Dheireadh Fomhair, i gcoinne Naomh Finín Sord. Agus má bhuann muid beidh an sraith buaite againn. Beimid ag imirt sa i Roinn C den chraobh de bharr ár bhfeabhas sa sraith. Beidh sé deacair orainn ach tabharfaimid faoi, lán dóchas is grá. Ar scáth a chéile a mhairimid i gcónaí lenár gcairde faoi 15a iomáint agus leis na grúpaí faoi 14 agus faoi 16b. An-pháirtíocht agus tacaíocht ónár dtuismitheoirí chomh maith. The 1997b hurling group is improving all the time. We currently have seventeen boys on the panel. New players always welcome. The management group is made up of parents Mick Flanagan, Chris Garvey, Seosamh Ó Maolalaí, Frank Twomey and Kerry hurler, Diarmuid O’ Connor. Diarmuid is doing a great job in improving the boys’ hurling skills. Currently we are top of Division 4 of the League. We have one more game to play in October against St Finians Swords. If we win, we win the league. We will be playing in the C Championship because of our success in the league. It will be difficult for us but we will give it a go, full of hope and love.


Good co-operation and mutual support continues with our colleagues in u15a hurling and with the u14 and u16b groups. Great involvement and support too from our parents. Under 16A Hurling Our A team successfully completed the 2011 season by winning the U15 Division 1 Championship and League. Our success in the League continues at U16 level with our A team currently at the top of Division 1. Our Championship campaign begins on Saturday 22 September v St Vincents. We continue to represent the Club well at County level. Three of our players have been on the Dublin Minor Hurling panel since the start of the year – Shane Barrett, Eoghan McHugh and Sean Ryan. They also play on the Dublin U16 development squad along with Paul O’Dea, Jonathan Treacy, Alasdar Fitzgerald, Aaron Byrne and Kevin McDonnell. Thanks to all the parents for their ongoing support and assistance this year and over all the years the boys have been in the Juvenile section of the Club. We hope to see them all representing the Club as minors and beyond over the coming years. Mentors: Colm Burtchaell, NiallO’Ceallachain, Andy Flaherty

Under 16B Hurling

As the only B team in our division, it was always going to be a hard year for the team. However the year started off promisingly with some good performances against teams that had beaten us well the year before. Despite ongoing support from a number of stalwarts from the U15’s, we struggled for numbers on a couple of occasions and had to give a few walkovers. As at the end of August, the team only has one league match and the championship left to play. Hopefully they will all continue playing hurling into the minor ranks. Indeed a number have already helped the Minor B team out on a few occasions this year. As this is the last year in the juvenile ranks for this team, Kieran and I would like to thank players from the current U15 and U14 squads who have helped us out over the past 3 years, the parents for their support and the players for sticking at it when times have been tough.

Mentors: Paul Stacey, Kieran Lowry



JUVENILE GAMES – Ladies’ Football

Under 8 We have a fantastic group of U8 girls who have developed their love of the game since they started playing in the nursery 4 years ago. We have 46 registered girls with an average attendance of 35 girls who attend training on a Saturday morning. . Our key objectives last year was to create a fun environment where the girls could improve their kicking, catching and hand passing skills. Highlights of the year Last September we graduated from the Nursery to the large astro-turf pitch. The extra space and the better facilities have contributed greatly to the Girls skill levels. These facilities are a great investment in the girls at such an early stage of their sporting lives Last May the girls played their first football match against Clontarf. It was a great encounter and hopefully the start of a great rivalry with our northside neighbours. There was great excitement on the day and our girls performed very well against a team that is solely dedicated to football. The Mini-Leagues in June attracted 48 girls that as always included a number of new recruits. A huge thanks to all the girls for the efforts and enthusiasm and to the parents for their support and encouragement throughout the year Finally, none of this would happen without our great team of mentors (and we are always on the look out for more!) – Ian Thornton, Joan Mangan, Patricia Garland, Edwina Diver, Dave Barrett, Kevin Kelly, Noel Mallon, Bernie Barrett and Gareth Taylor

Under 9 We have a large, loud (!) and enthusiastic group of players. With over 60 registered players and often 55+ attending training regularly. Training is held each Saturday morning at the back pitch with the Girls due to go to midweek training from September onwards. Even though the weather and other minor events (Communions etc!) have disrupted a number of training sessions during the year, the Girls have continued to develop and improve their football skills in a fun environment. The focus is on kicking from both feet, catching, footpassing, handpassing, competing for the ball, tackling in a safe way, positional sense and playing with others on a team. This is the first year in which the Girls have played in Football Blitzes. We have 4 teams, which second to Ballyboden, is the largest number of teams fielded by any club. While it took the Girls a little while to get up to speed to the greater physicality of the Football Blitzes, they were quicker learners. Highlights have included a tough initial Blitz against local rivals Clontarf to strong showings against a good Skerries team and Kilmacud with dark mutterings from the latter about Na Fianna’s aggressive tackling style! The Girls also continually demonstrate excellent traits such as never giving up, never criticising team members and excellent sportsmanship. Overall the Girls have had a very good year. They continue to develop and learn new skills. They have really enjoyed and learnt from their training and Blitzes. They have all the traits we like to see in our juvenile players and are a credit to our Club.


Lastly, we would like to thank and acknowledge all the mentors and parents for their continued support and encouragement, in particular, Ivan, Damien, Karen, Fran, Mairead, Ciaran, Brian, John, Gareth, Shane, Gary for all their coaching, mentoring and shouting (!) during the year. 60 enthusiastic, chatty and opinionated girls is a lot to handle so all new mentors, volunteers or members will be gratefully received! 2003 Girls Mentors Under 10 Ladies’Football

The Under 10 girls football group is divided into three unstreamed groups of approximately twenty girls per group. Each group comprises two teams so we field six teams in the Dublin Under 10 Go Games which is comfortably the most of any club in Dublin. The emphasis is on participation and turnout at training on Thursday evenings is always very strong. The girls had a very busy year with a Cake Sale in November, the Christmas party in Sportslink and bag-packing in May. The support given to the Global Gaelic Challenge in May was truly astounding with the Under 10 girls winning the prize for the group which raised most funds for the club through sponsorship. Special congratulations to Tara Conlon who will be a mascot with the Dublin team for a future match. All of the girls are looking forward to their training session with Bernard Brogan and other Dublin senior players. The highlight of the year was the trip to Cork on June 16th. Almost fifty girls made the coach trip. First stop was Fermoy where the girls played two matches against the local club. These matches were almost cancelled as the town of Fermoy is situated in a flood plain and all of the June rain had caused pitch playability problems. In the end thankfully the girls got to play and acquitted themselves very well in their first experience of non-Dublin opposition winning both matches well. Onwards to Fota Wildlife Park where the residents did not seem unduly perturbed at the arrival of the Glasnevin girls. The weather was favourable and a great day was had by all. The trip to Fota and the Mini Leagues Finals Day marked the end of the involvement of Jennifer Dunne with the group. Jennifer whose family has moved to County Wexford will be a huge loss to the Under 10s but Dublin's loss is Wexford's gain. She is an outstanding dual performer and no doubt she will go on to wear the Purple and Gold. A special word of thanks to Ciaran Rogers and the Under 9 girls’ mentors for all of their help during the year in providing players to enable us to field six teams at Under 10. It is greatly appreciated. Mentors: Brendan O'Connor, Paula White, Sandra Tarr, Lesley Jamieson, Tommy Burke, Brian Skelly, Pat Rogan, Karl Wall, Louise Rainford, Georgina Caraher, Aine Galvin, Colum Cronin.



Under 11 Ladies’ football We have over 50 girls registered and are organised into 3 balanced squads. While the fixtures are non-competitive the girls have been holding their own,enjoying themselves and improving. They are a pleasure to work with (especially when they stop talking !) Special thanks to Deirdre who looks after the administration and communication and to Terry who gets out a training plan each week.

Under 12 Ladies’ football The Under 12 girls football panel has had a busy year. Three teams were entered into the league. Once again our objective was to maintain numbers (currently 55 registered) whilst endeavouring to improve the girls' skills so that they are able to compete with other clubs. League form has been mixed: It was a tough year for our Div.5 team including one or two difficult fixtures against single team clubs. However, the team's enthusiasm is most encouraging & we hope to see more of this as the girls skills continue to improve. Our Div.4 team performed strongly playing well as a unit & is well set up for Autumn championship. Our Div.1 team had a competitive time in the league & was successful in retaining its title at the Ger Canavan tournament held in O'Toole's in July. We're looking forward to the Autumn matches & we'll continue the good work as we head towards Under 13 football in 2013. Thanks must go to Ber Buckley & Karen Fox for their tireless background work & also to the other parents for their continued support.

Mentors: Karen Fox, John Mc Donagh, Fran Claxton, Michael Rynne, Billy Mc Laughlin, Paul Fitzgerald, Barney Malone & Manus Mc Aleer

Under 13 Ladies’ Football We are fortunate to have an enthusiastic bunch of girls at the U13 age group. Despite demands on the girls and parents at weekends and during the week, the training sessions and matches are well attended and we thank the parents for showing such great commitment to the girls and the club. Our year began with a very successful table quiz which raised over €1000. It was a terrific evening and we are very grateful to all parents who gave so generously and enabled us to buy a set of jerseys for the girls.

This season we have 34 girls registered to play football and we fielded two teams in Division 1 and Division 5. Our aim is to maintain our numbers but also to raise the skill level of the squad as a whole. In dividing our squad into the two panels we recognise that skill levels vary within the squad. Our aim is that both panels will compete well in their matches and thereby improve the skills of the squad as a whole. During the league campaign the girls had a challenging time however the character they showed during difficult matches was very heartening for mentors and parents alike.

As we head into Championship this September both teams are now in a Division that we believe matches their skill set. We have seen improved performances in our girls in training so we anticipate great performances and great days ahead for our U13 girls. The focus into for the 2012/13 season will be to develop the squad as a whole and to raise the overall skill levels to enable both teams compete in the U14 leagues which will start in March 2012, as well as Feile. Mentors: Dave Fenton, TJ Gleeson, Conor Buckley, Brendan Roddy, Gerry Alcock, Barry Conway.


Under 14 Ladies' football U14A What a year this group of footballers had for Féile year. They made history by being the first Na Fianna ladies team to win the Dublin Féile (Div.2). The Cup can be seen on display in the club display cabinet. The team went on to represent Dublin in the National Féile, held in Ballyroan, Co. Laois. They had a good start here winning their first two games well. They were all level in the third game at half time but the opposition pulled away in the second half, denying Na Fianna a place in the semi-final. They really did themselves proud in Ballyroan. John Freir came on board for Féile preparations & special thanks is due to him for his invaluable contribution.

Guest coaches were a feature again this year to bring a freshness to our training sessions. Sincere thanks to all those who helped out during the season from both Ladies’ Adult teams. Players that helped out were Bernie Finlay & Sorcha Turnbull from the Senior Ladies & Miriam Colleran, Aisling Deignan, Ciara Dolan, Maeve Farrell, Aisling Lyons & Antoinette Rock from the Junior Ladies. Special thanks to Aisling Lyons & Antoinette Rock who made a huge effort to get to Maurs in Rush for a Championship match on a Friday evening. Thank you to Niall Cooper & Colm Crowley for their help with sessions & a big thank you to Fionnuala Sexton who gave her time on a number of occasions. The time & expertise given by all these guest coaches was very much appreciated.

At the time of writing this report, the team had just qualified for a Championship semi-final away to Cuala’s Division 1 team.

The girls had a fantastic trip to Carlingford Adventure Centre in March. A thoroughly enjoyable overnight stay resulted in the group bonding well & friendships developing. As a team building exercise, it was well worthwhile. Great memories for the entire 1998 girls’ squad from both A & B Panel & all the football mentors.

Our sponsors Brady’s Butchers were there yet again for us when needed. Thanks to their very generous sponsorship, we were able to afford a new set of jerseys for the U-14s. This is the third time we have received sponsorship from Brady’s & without them, we could not have afforded the new jerseys which were badly needed. We really appreciate their continued support for the 1998 girls, especially in such difficult financial times. Mentors A Panel: Liam Connolly, Ricky O’Sullivan, Róisín O’Sullivan, Jim Aughney U14B Ladies’ Football The U14 girls football B team has had great success since last year's AGM. Having won their championship in November last year, they were pushed up a division for the Feile. Against the odds they got to the final where they lost out to St Margarets at Parnell Park. That success has bred great confidence in the team which has just finished joint top of its league with Kilmacud Crokes and will be engaged in a play off for the league title shortly. Two wins in the round robin of the championship has assured the team of a semi final place with a game to spare. Its been a memorable 12 months for this group of players, many of whom have been playing for the club since nursery level. Mentors B Panel: John McDaid, Gabriel Travers, Seamus Gill



Under 15 Ladies’Football Training began early January with a few weeks of fitness training in which the camogie and football panels trained together. Friendlies were arranged with our regular friends in Celbridge, Co. Kildare and Upperchurch, Co. Tipperary.

The fitness training certainly worked as our second half displays in the league were fantastic. Indeed, in a great show of team spirit and fitness with 10 minutes to go against Ballyboden, we turned around a 6 pt deficit to win by 2 points. However, we kept our best performance for the league decider V O’Dwyers. In a display of passing football at high speed they won with ease to become U15 Division League Champions.

Big Thanks

1. Tesco and Stacks Pharmacy for their support.

2. Aeilin Ni Mhorain and Mary Nevin for their great help and support.

3. U15 camogie for their cooperation especially allowing us to play our league decider on their training night.

4. U14 and U16 teams for helping us with players when we were short numbers.

5. To our partners for looking after the homes and so facilitating us to work with the team.

6. To Máirtín for arranging great evenings for us in cathal brugha street

Mentors: Billy McLaughlin, Tony Lynch, Paul Nolan, Geariod Managan, Liam Halloran, Donal O’ Donoghue, Pauline O’Neill, Brian Murphy,Dermot Kelly Aeilin Ni Mhorain Mary Nevin

Under 16 Ladies' football Having had some players play with the 1995 girls in 2011, this year saw the 1996 girls re-unite to play as one team under new management. The team competed in Division 1 of the League which was a big step up from last year's Under 15 Division 3. After a slow enough start, the team gradually improved and enjoyed wins against St Judes, O'Toole's and most memorably Castleknock. Thanks to Bernie Finlay, Roisin Gallagher, Alma and Bronagh O'Donnell of the ladies' senior football team for all of their help in coaching the team during the Spring and early Summer. Thanks also to the parents and guardians for their support and especially to John O'Rourke who organised the cycle to Howth Head and back in May. Congratulations to Fiona Tuite who won a Leinster title playing at midfield for Dublin. At the time of writing the girls are preparing for the 'A' championship where they have received a challenging draw with Templeogue, St Brigid's and Ballyboden also in the group. Mentors: Fionnuala Sexton, Susan Kelly, Colum Cronin


JUVENILE GAMES - Camogie

Under 8 Camogie We have a fantastic group of U8 girls who have developed their love of the game since they started playing in the nursery 4 years ago. We have 46 registered girls with an average attendance of 35 girls who attend training on a Saturday morning. . Our key objectives last year was to create a fun environment where the girls could improve their camogie skills. A key focus for last year was to improve the girls ball striking ability. Highlights of the year Last September we graduated from the Nursery to the large astro turf pitch. The extra space and the better facilities have contributed greatly to the Girls skill levels. These facilities are a great investment in the girls at such an early stage of their sporting lives Last Spring the girls started playing go-games. We split the girls into 4 teams, the reds, oranges, greens and yellows. On the 1st April our Green & Yellow teams hosted Oliver Plunketts for their first ever camogie games while our Red & Orange teams travelled to Erins Isle in Finglas. All of the girls & parents enjoyed the big day and the girls showed lots of skill and character on the day. Since then we have had 4 weekends of go games before we finished for summer break. The Mini-Leagues attracted 48 girls that included 6 new recruits. A huge thanks to all the girls for the efforts and enthusiasm and to the parents for their support and encouragement throughout the year Finally, none of this would happen without our great team of mentors (and we are always on the look out for more!) – Ian Thornton, Joan Mangan, Patricia Garland, Edwina Diver, Dave Barrett, Kevin Kelly, Noel Mallon, Bernie Barrett and Gareth taylor.

Under 9 Camogie We have a large, loud (!) and enthusiastic group of players. With over 60 registered players and often 55+ attending training regularly. Training is held each Saturday morning at the back pitch with the Girls due to go to midweek training from September onwards. Even though the weather and other minor events (Communions etc!) have disrupted a number of training sessions during the year, the Girls have continued to develop and improve their hurling skills in a fun environment. The focus is on ground hurling, striking the sliotar well on both sides, controlling the sliotar, tackling in a safe way, positional sense and playing with others on a team. The Girls have played in a number of very well organised Camogie Blitzes during the year against teams from all across Dublin. We have 4 teams, which together with Lucan Sarsfields, is the largest number of teams fielded by any club. Despite Communions etc, we have been able to field full teams for all the Blitzes. The Girls love their Blitzes! At times we have had to encourage them to rein in their competitive instincts a little bit! All 4 teams have performed very well and have been very competitive against Camogie powerhouses like Lucan and Vincents. They also continually demonstrate excellent traits such as never giving up, never criticising team members and excellent sportsmanship.



Overall the Girls have had a very good year. They continue to develop and learn new skills. They have really enjoyed their Blitzes – sometimes nearly too much! They have all the traits we like to see in our juvenile players and are a credit to our Club. Lastly, we would like to thank and acknowledge all the mentors and parents for their continued support and encouragement, in particular, Karen, Fran, Ivan, Damien, Mairead, Ciaran, Brian, John, Shane and Gary for all their coaching, mentoring and shouting (!) during the year. 60 enthusiastic, chatty and opinionated girls is a lot to handle so all new mentors, volunteers or members will be gratefully received!

Under 10 Camogie We have a remarkably healthy Camogie section of 62 girls at the present time. Training recommenced after the summer break on 4th September, and we play on the back pitch from 6.00pm to 7.15pm on a Tuesday evening.

Our focus at this level is to create a cohesive group, have fun, develop skills, and to learn and enjoy match play. Teams are ungraded at this level. There are 3 groups for training purposes and matches, and each group gets split into 2 different teams each week. We mix the girls around as much as possible, creating different teams for the mini leagues, and different teams for occasional blitzes in lieu of training sessions.

We have 6 teams playing in the Dublin Camogie Under 10 Quick Touch Go-Games, with a schedule of 9 blitzes for each team.

A total of 77 girls participated in the Mini Leagues over 3 weeks in June. We were incredibly unlucky with the weather. Due to torrential downpours we had to postpone our matches on three separate nights, and also had to relocate to Johnstown Park. Nevertheless, we played both a Football match and a Camogie match each evening, and thoroughly enjoyed the Finals/Family Day on 24th June. The girls were sad that it is their last year of Mini Leagues, but delighted that medals returned this year!

Cake Sale – 12 November 2011 – We had a very successful cake sale which raised €892 for 2002 Girls. Very many thanks to the girls, their parents, and all who supported us.

Christmas Party – 10 December 2011 – Swim Party in Sportslink, Santry followed by party goodies and a selection of healthy snacks! Global Gaelic Challenge – World Record Attempt – 7 May 2012 – Huge congratulations to the 2002 girls who raised over €3,500 for the club! We are looking forward to our prize of a training session with some Dublin footballers and hurlers! Our own Tara Conlon raised the most at CCC1 level earning her the pride of being a Dubs mascot for a day!

Bag Packing – 26/27 May 2012 – Our Girls work very hard and raised €650 for 2002 Girls.

Challenge Match – 16 September 2012 – Scheduled to play a team from Wexford on the morning of the All Ireland Camogie Finals.

Sadly we have lost one of our star players Jennifer Dunne, who has moved to Wexford. (See U-10 Football notes). We miss Jenny, and wish her the best of luck for the future.

“Nurse” Barbara Cole became our resident first-aider, and kept many tears at bay!

Memberships – Sincere thanks to parents for paying memberships so promptly. It made the job so much easier!


We have a terrific team of dedicated Mentors in Áine Galvin, Sandra Tarr, Paula White, Brendan O’Connor, Louise Rainford, Georgina Carraher, Maighréad McNulty, Karl Wall, Cormac Ó Donnchú, Colum Cronin, and Tommy Burke. We were also joined by Tino (Christine Kelly) from Sandra Tarr’s Camogie team. Maybe it was the lesser age difference, or maybe that Tino isn’t a mam or dad! but the girls loved her. It was quite amazing how Tino could set up drills and put the girls through their paces without a peep out of them! Well done Tino!

Many more parents have helped us with training, blitzes and managing mini-league teams.

To you all: “Thank You”.

Lesley Jamieson

Under 11 Camogie Forty 2001 girls are active in this age group, despite a few premature retirements, whom we hope may reverse their decision soon! This healthy number enabled us to field 3 teams in the 9-11 a side Go Games league format. Supported by our non-parent coach Áine Ni Laoire and her son Peadar, who generously give their time at the Wednesday evening training session, the girls’ skills have been gradually improving. With attendance at training regularly reaching 70%, we could do with higher turnout for matches, although we have been excellently supported by the 2002 group when short, which is much appreciated. In general, we have held our own in blitzes against all the other larger clubs, although standard-bearers Lucan still have an edge on us. We are looking forward to building on our progress in the busy autumn of this 2012 season. Many thanks to our parent mentors, Donal Buggy, Martín Mac An Iomaire, Deirdre Lambe, Gráinne O’Connell, Marian Loftus, , Niall Healy, Terry McDonnell &, in addition to Áine & Peadar.

Under 12 Camogie 2000 Girls Camogie Lead Mentors Fran Cullen and Karen Fox Once again we have been blessed with 55 girls this year. Our average number at training is approx 42 to 44. We cannot thank the current trainers and coaches enough. The 55 are broken into a two team group and a single team group. We are the only club who can boast holding three teams at this age group and this is testament to the involvement of current Camogie players. Orla Behan has been a constant over the last number of years and this year she was joined by Katie King and Paula Lohan who currently train and manage our single team. The two team group are subdivided into a red team and a blue team league Red Team: The perseverance and dedication of this bunch of girls is now being rewarded as their Camogie skills rapidly progress. We are steadily closing the gap on teams who had previously beaten us comprehensively. They are now very tight and competitive games when we play and at times if a little luck was on our side we would be coming out with more wins. The team are currently mid table with three games remaining. Mentors Fran Cullen Paul Fitzgerald Blue Team: This group are also competing at a fantastic rate. Teams that had previously beaten us comprehensively are now feeling the bite of the dedication and application these girls are putting into training. When asked to go the extra mile in training and in a match it is taken as a given that the girls will provide the muster to bring us over the line. This team through hard work and a belief in themselves have been unbeaten in this part of the league with three games remaining. Mentors Karen Fox and Orla Behan Single Team. This team have gone from strength to strength this year and while the results didn’t necessarily follow they remain a dedicated bunch at training and in matches. New mentors came on



board this year and the girls have been revitalised. They finished their season with friendly game vs Rathoath to which the single team beat them soundly. Great work by their mentors showing the rewards at last. Best of luck in their final number of games and now the winning feeling has appeared long may it continue. Mentors Katie King and Paula

Under 13 Camogie

The U13's have now moved to bigger pitches, larger sized games and all-in-rules. These changes have presented the mentors and players with new challenges. It has been an extremely enjoyable year so far even with the added intensity to the girls games. Training is still all about raising the player’s skill levels, but with an increased emphasis now on the fitness side of the game. There are two Camogie teams at U13, our A Team plays in Division 1, currently lying fourth and playing in the Top 4 Play-offs. This team can hold its own in an extremely tight division. They are among a group of six teams which have all beaten each other. They now look forward to the championship. Our B team plays in Division 3, they are playing at a wrong level and need to be playing in Division 4 as they have struggled in Division 3. But they are a great bunch of girls, they have never let their heads drop. Both training and matches are well attended by this group of players. The B team is graded to play in the Division 4 groups in the championship. Summer Blitzes: The U13s and U12s entered two 7-a-side teams of mixed ability in a summer series of non-competitive Blitzes which was hugely successful. Emphasis was on skills and enjoyment. Dublin Development Squad: A good group of our girls play on the various panels of the Dublin U13 Development squad. Other girls have participated in the various training camps organised by the County Board for girls not on these panels. Coaching: We currently have six mentors, and get on average 26+ at every training session. About 22 of our girls play Camogie in schools which is a great indicator of their commitment to the game. The U13 girls have earned a very good reputation among their opponents as one of the most difficult teams to play against. The girls are one of the strongest and most skilful teams in Dublin at this age group. The U13’s are lucky to have highly committed players and with the great continuing support of their parents we can all look ahead to 2013 which is their Feile year. All our girls are now in second level, we sincerely hope Camogie will remain an important and integral part of their lives. We will encourage the girls to continue to participate in Camogie in school as much as possible. I would also like to thank the Mentors and girls of the 2000 girls. They have always provided us with cover and support if required. Mentors: Ann Purtill-Kalk, Austin Rock, Dermot Conroy, Joseph Devins, TJ Gleeson, Conor Buckley


Under 14 Camogie

2012 was Feile year and involvement in this has been a fantastic experience. Feile is everything that is good about the GAA, it exemplifies the generosity & neighbourliness which draws us to support the work of the Association. Our efforts were co-ordinated by Kay O’Sullivan to whom we all owe a huge debt. As always our parents and girls shared the burden of hosting, cleaning, landscaping, baking, umpiring and all the myriad tasks that went into making Feile such a success. The games were memorable especially our last game, a heroic win against local rivals St Vincent’s. Special thanks to Brian O’Sullivan the club’s Feile co-ordinator, Martin Quilty for his work in preparing the grounds for Feile and Anne Murphy who co-ordinated our hosting.

We fielded two U-14 camogie teams this year. The team in the first division have found the going tough after winning the division 2 championship in 2011 and being promoted. However all games have been close and although the results have gone against us, division 1 is where we belong. Our second team are strong contenders to win their division. They have won all their games and are top of the league. As mentors we rely on our parents who never fail to deliver. We never want for help and support. A special thanks to Ruth Carty our A & E Consultant.

Adrian, Gabriel, Maria, John, Brian

Under 15 Camogie The last year has been a great year for the U15 Camogie team in Division 2 following last year’s Division 1 experience. We have won eight of the last nine league games and have outscored our nearest rivals by 120 points. Two more wins will secure us the league title – our goal for the year. We have had a good start to the Championship with a win over Olafs – if we manage to play to our potential we could do the double!!! The good news is that we have only lost two girls this year and have had one new girl join, which means we have 23 girls registered to play with us. We have seen a big improvement in the skill level across the team and a few of our girls have been involved in the Dublin development squad, playing up for the U16s and some have also played with the U14s during the Championship win last year and in the Féile. We also had a number of U14 players play with us over the year for which we are very grateful. Special thanks particularly to Ciara Tierney who has become our regular goalkeeper. There has been great co-operation between the U14 and U15 teams this year culminating in a joint team game in Croke Park following the Cork – Donegal Semi-Final against Achadh Bolg from Cork. We would like to thank Emma Clohessy who took some training sessions for us, something we hope she will continue to do in the forthcoming year. We have visited Buffers Alley in Wexford and Upperchurch / Drumbane in Tipperary this year for challenge matches and have also played Vincents, Celbridge, Cuala, and Faughs in friendly games. The Halloween trip to Causey Farm was a great team bonding / scaring event and we’d like to thank Georgina Carraher for organising it. The mentors would like to thank all the parents for their support and lifts to matches, and particularly to the parents who have facilitated away trips for the girls that help cement the bond of friendship between the team. Mentors: Máirtín Mac Con Iomaire, Billy Mc Laughlin, Anthony Lynch, Brian Murphy, Cormac Ó Donchú, Pauline O’ Neill, Áine Clerkin, Liam Halloran, Dónal O’Donohoe



Under 16 Camogie This group of girls have been in Division 1 again this year, which has been a huge achievement despite our small numbers. We have been greatly supported by the U15's and many thanks to Mairtin and all the girls who have helped us out. This year we have 4 girls representing us at Dublin U16 level, Blaithin Mc Quillan, Laura Mulvey, Vanessa Boland and Aoife mcKenna well done to you all and good luck in the championships. We have been training/playing with the Senior 6 and sometimes senior 3 over the summer, this has been a great experience for the girls as it prepares them for the season ahead, thanks to all involved for making them feel so welcome. A special word of thanks to all mentors especially to Fran Gray for coming on board this year to help us out, a big big Thank You. Finally, to all parents who help out with nets, flags ,umpiring , and supporting the team, it is greatly appreciated. Hopefully this group of girls will continue to play camogie and we wish them all the best in the 2013 season

Handball Another successful year for handball in Na Fianna included many titles at County, Provincial and National level making their way to our club. These are too numerous to include but some highlights deserve a special mention. Niamh Gleeson and Niamh Rock were beaten in the Under 13A 40x20 Leinster final earlier this year. However, they met the same pair in the 60x30 Leinster final. This time, “The Niamhs” , looking more confident as they gain experience, won their first Leinster title. Mick O’Brien won the all-Ireland this year: a fantastic achievement, Mick won the over 70A singles title. Frank Daly & Egin Jensen won the over 45A all-Ireland doubles in both 40x20 and 60x30. Christy Donnelly & Adrian Benson won the over 40B doubles 60x30 All-Ireland title. Other titles won this year include the Senior County League in both 40x20 & 60x30, Senior 60x30 Singles and Doubles, Senior 40x20 singles. Cian Ó Dálaigh and Corey Fay reached the Leinster Minor Doubles final. Niall McKenna reached the Leinster U17A final. A highlight in the diary of the club this year was the effort put in by everyone to host Féile na nGael in Dublin. Na Fianna hosted the 60x30 section of the handball competition, and all participants in the event were made very welcome in Mobhi Road. Two Na Fianna teams competed in the 40x20 event. The girls’ team (Laoise Ní Dhonnchú, Niamh Gleeson, Niamh Rock and Megan Rafter), performed well in a high standard competition. The boys’ team (Peter Feeney, Ruadhán Clerkin, Cathal Caverly, Adam Breen, Kevin McKenna) were beaten by the narrowest of margins within their group. They were very unlucky not to qualify for the final. This year sees the handball World Championships being hosted in Dublin. About twenty of our club members will participate in this event which will take place between 11 and 22 October in a


purpose built facility in City West. It promises to be a spectacular event and all support will be welcome. The challenge ahead for the coming year is to continue to provide training for the increasing demand from the juveniles who are discovering handball, to put a more formal structure in place around the running of handball in the club, and to put a plan in place to finish the construction of the 40x20 court, recently acquired. Finally, a word of thanks to all mentors and parents who helped throughout the year. Scór Success 2012 This year has been a great year for the club in the Scór talent competitions. We competed in Scór Sínsir, Scór na n-Óg, and Scór na bpáistí. In Scór Sinsir we were represented in five of the seven categories (solo singing, aithriseoracht, ballad group, trad group, quiz) with the aithriseoracht (Máirtín Mac Con Iomaire) winning Dublin and south Leinster only to miss out on a place in the All Ireland at the Leinster finals in Westmeath. In Scór na nÓg, all our acts (solo singing, dancing, aithiseoracht, ballad group, trad group, quiz team, and novelty act) made it through the North Dublin heat and performed again in Parnell Park winning the overall Club of the Year Trophy. The dancers, coached by Aidín Ní Mhaoiléadaigh, won Dublin and Leinster and were narrowly beaten for the All Ireland title in Castlebar. Scór na bpáistí is held for primary school children and Na Fianna narrowly missed out on Club of the year. We were represented in solo singing, dancing, aithiseoracht, ballad group, trad group, quiz team, and novelty act. The dancers won gold medals, the novelty act won silver and the quiz team won silver in a tight nail biting extra time round of questions. It is planned to hold a talent competition / show later this year to flush out new talent among our juvenile members and we hope to hold on to the Club of the year trophy and win a few more in Scór 2013. Special thanks to Anne Ryan, Ger Flannagan, Aedín Ní Mhaoiléadaigh, Máirtín Mac Con Iomaire and Brian Gow O’Sullivan for their hard work organising Scór this year. A special thanks also to the competitors (both young and not so young) and their families for the hard work and support!!!



NOMINATIONS

Position Nominees Uachtarán President Noel Clerkin

Leas Uachtarán Vice President

Cathaoirleach Chairman Des Ó Dubhlainn

Leas Cathaoirleach Vice-Chairman Kevin Nicholl

Runaí Secretary Tomás Ó Riain

Leas Runaí Assistant Secretary Leo Fay

Cisteoir Treasurer Brendan Roddy

Leas Cisteoir Assistant Treasurer Karen Fox

Cathaoirleach Cluichí na nÓg

Chairman – Juvenile Games

Lesley Jamieson

Cathaoirleach Cluichí Shinsir

Chairman – Adult Games

Colum Cronin

Oifigeach Caidreamh Poiblí

Public Relations Officer

Cormac O’Sullivan

Ionadaí na nImreoirí Player Rep Stephen Behan

Cultúr & Teanga Cultural & Language Máire Uí Uighlínn Máirtín Mac an Iomaire

Ball den Comhar (x 2) Member of Executive

(x 2)

Seosamh Breathnach Eoin Ó Ceallacháin

Oifigeach Tiomsú Airgid Fundraising Officer

Documents

SECRETARY'S REPORT 2012 FOR A.G.M. 27 September ...clgnafianna.ie/Files/Tuarascail an Runai 2012.pdfCLG Na Fianna AGM 27 September 2012 6 Delegates Our Delegates are our link with