Bun Órduithe. In order that the proceedings of the Convention be carried out without delay, the following standing orders shall apply.

Transcription

1 Bun Órduithe In order that the proceedings of the Convention be carried out without delay, the following standing orders shall apply. 1. The proposer of a Resolution or an Amendment thereto may speak for five minutes but not more than five minutes. 2. A delegate speaking to a Resolution or an Amendment must not exceed three minutes 3. The proposer of a Resolution or an Amendment may speak a second time for three minutes before a vote is taken, but no other delegate can speak a second time on the same Resolution or Amendment 4. The Cathaoirleach may, at any time he considers a matter has been sufficiently discussed, call on the proposer for a reply, and when that has been given, a vote must be taken. 5. Delegates may, with the consent of the Cathaoirleach, move: That the question or motion be now put, after which, when a proposer has spoken, a vote must be taken. 6. Standing Orders shall not be suspended for the purpose of considering any matter not on the agenda, except by the consent of a majority present and entitled to vote. 1

2 Coiste Chontae Phort Láirge Tionólfar Comhdháil Bliantuil Phort Láirge C.L.G. sa Ostáin Lawlors Dun Garbhán Dé Deardaoin 16ú lá Nollag 2010, ar a 7 a chlog direach. Is dheacht do gach Cumann a ghlach pairt i gcraobh chomortaisí 2010 beith i lathair 3 theachtaí an Cumann. Clár 1. Comhdháil Bhliantúil ag tosnu ar 7 a clog i.u. direach 2. Miontuairisci An Chomhdáil dheiridh 3. Glacadh le Bun-Orduithe 4. Tráchtais Cuntas Cothromaóichta 5. Tuarascáil An Runaí 6. Glacadh le Tuaraisci Coisti An Iarthair agus An Oithir 7. Óráid An Cathaoirleach 8. Toghadh na noifigeach 9. Ceapach Inniuchtoir Na Rúin 11. Aon Ghno Eile Ainmniúcháin Uachtarán Óinigh: Seamus O Briain (Dún Na Mainistreach/Baile Na Cuirte) Cathaoirleach: Tomas O Cuinneagain (An tsraidbhaile) Leas Cathaoirleach: Sean O Laoire (Baile Úí Dhuibh) Cisteoir: Seosamh O Chleirigh (Dún Na Mainistreach/Baile Na Cuirte) Ofigeach Forbatha: Breandain O Toibin (Sliabh gcua /Naomh Mhuire) Oifgeach Oige: Padraig O Mordha (Dun Na Mainstreach/Baile Na Cuirte) Oifigeach Forbatha Na gcluichi: Padraig MacGrainne (Caislean Cuanach) Oifigeach Caidrimh Poibli: Eimear de Barra (Lios Mhór) Tomas O Cadhla (Dún Na Mainistreach/Baile Na Cuirte) Seosamh O Chleirigh (Dún Na Mainistreach/Baile Na Cuirte) Oifigeach Gaeilge: Tomas O Cadhla (Dún Na Mainistreach/Baile Na Cuirte) Comhairle Na Mumhan: Antoin Breathneach (Coilleagain/Na hemmetigh) Padraig O Floinn (An Pasaiste) Ard Comhairle: Padraig S. O Riain (Caislean Cuanach) 2

3 Tuairisc An Runaí Secretary s Convention Report 2010 A Mhuintir Chumainn Lúthchleas Gael Port Láirge, Is cúis mór áthas domsa Tuairisc an Runaí a chuir os bhur comhair anocht. Is fior le ráth go raibh blian maith againn i Port Láirge in 2010 le foireann sinsir Iomáint ag buachaint Croabh na Mumhan arís and foireann sinsir Peil ag imirt í Pairc an Chrocaigh í cluiche ceannais na sraithe. Freisin bhí blian gnóthach againn sa contae leis an clár iomlán cluichí criochnaithe seachas cluiche ceannais Corn O Faoláin. Moladh mór do gach club sa contae go bhfuil na cluichí go leir criochnaithe riomh deireadh na bliana. Ag tús an tuairisc seo ba mhaith liom buíochas a gabháil le gach éinne a bhí pairteach i GAA sa contae in mbliana. Bhí an Coiste Gnótha agus na Boird Oirthear agus Iarthair ag obair go dian i rith na mbliana chun a cinntiú go raibh gach rud ag dul go maith. Buíochas freisin le Bord na nóg, Cumann na mbunscol, Coiste Meanscoileanna agus Coiste Oiliúna agus Forbartha na gcluichí don clár cluichí a chuir siad i bhfeidhm do na buachaillí agus cailiní óga ag imirt ár gcluichí. Táim sár bhuíoch den tacaíocht a fhaighim gach lá os na gclubanna go leir sa conate pe rud atá á iarraí agam. Tá ard moladh tuillte ag gach club i Port Láirge agus tá súil agam go bhfuil sibh brodúil as an obair atá ar siúl agaibh ar fud na gcontae. I rith na mbliana chuaigh roinnt sár Ghaeil ar slí na fírinne agus is cúis mór bhróin duinn go leir. Go h-airithe ba mhaith cuinneamh ar Padraig Ó Fainín, Iar Uachtarán Cumann Lúthchleas Gael a fuair bás i rith na bliana. Ar Dheis Dé go raibh siad go leir. It is my great pleasure to present to Convention for adoption, my second Secretaries report on the happenings in Cumann Lirhcleas Gael, Phort Lairge in First of all I would like to thank all the Clubs and their officers for all the help they afforded me throughout the year in the running of the Championships & Leagues. I would also like to thank my fellow officers and the officers of the Divisional Boards and Board na nog for their help throughout the year. In general terms 2010 was a good year for the GAA in Waterford. Our Senior Hurlers overcame Cork in the Munster Hurling Final. Our Senior Footballers gained promotion in the Allianz National Football League. Our Minor Hurlers overcame Cork in the Munster Minor Hurling Championship and All our domestic Hurling & Football Championships and Leagues were completed within the calendar year. INTER COUNTY: Hurling: Senior On the Inter County scene, Waterford had a mixed year. Pride of place must go to our Senior Hurlers who won the Munster Championship for only the 9th time with a fine win over Cork in the Munster Final replay in Thurles on 17th July. Waterford s season got off to a good start in Tralee, with an expected win over Tralee I.T. in Austin Stack Park on 17th January. A comprehensive win over Clare in the next round in Ballyduff Upper the following week saw Waterford take on U.C.C.. in the final in Fraher Field on Feb 7th. Waterford overcame the Cork students in a close and dour final in Fraher Field to start the season on a winning note. Waterford 1 9 U.C.C In the opening game of the Allianz National Hurling League, Waterford took on Dublin in Walsh Park on 21st 3

4 Tuairisc An Rúnaí Secretary s Convention Report 2010 Continued February. Before a good home crowd, Waterford proved too far too strong for Dublin and ran out winners 4 13 to 0-12 The following weekend away to Galway, Waterford started well but leaked a few soft goals to go down on a score line of 4 15 to The game was to prove costly to Waterford as we lost the services of Michael Walsh to a broken arm for the rest of the League. Next up were a very weakened Limerick fifteen who were without many of their regular stars due to internal strife. On the 14th March in Fraher Field, Waterford were rocked by early goals but steadied to overcome the treaty boys 2 20 to 2-10 The following weekend Cork were the visitors to Walsh Park and in a trilling encounter the sides finished level. Waterford 2 20 to 3 17 for the Rebels. They were overwhelming favourites to succeed and manager Davy Fitzgerald was facing his own county. Early in the game, the Deise boys struggled to impose their will on a stubborn Banner fifteen. However as the game progressed, Waterford found their rhythm and proved two strong in the final quarter. Final score 0 22 to 1 15 Into the final then. Back in Thurles on July 11th to face the Rebels yet again. The Square was buzzing as the fans mingled and warmed up for the game. The atmosphere on Munster Final Day in Thurles is found nowhere else in Irish sport. The game itself proved to be another epic encounter between Waterford and Cork. Fine scores, hard tackling, bodies on the line. Thrills and spills. Waterford looked good. Cork looked to have it won and then that final leveller by Tony Browne apiece. We had to do it all over again. The following weekend we were involved in yet another draw in Thurles as Waterford & Tipperary finished level. Waterford 2 16 Tipperary 1-19 Offaly were the visitors on Easter Sunday (April 4th). On League form Waterford were again the favourites but Offaly roved stubborn opponents. While Waterford won on a score line of 1-19 to 1 16, it was by no means an easy victory. Our final game in the League was a non event. Waterford could not qualify for the final and the trip to Nolan Park was really nothing more than fulfilling a fixture. On the day Kilkenny proved too strong with a fine first half display. Waterford improved in the second half but lost out in the end 2 12 to And so we were on to the Munster Championship. First up were Clare in Thurles on Bank Holiday Monday, June 7th. From a crowd point of view, Munster Council gambled on a Bank Holiday Monday. However the gambled did not pay off as a very small crowd turned up in Thurles on the day. Back in Thurles the following Saturday evening. Another thriller. Level at full time. The Floodlights on as we went into extra time in the fading light. And then that strike from Dan the Man and Cork were finally beaten. Final score Waterford 1 16 Cork On Sunday 8th August, Waterford travelled to Croke Park to take on Tipperary in the All Ireland Semi Final. Hopes were high that the Deise could make it to the final on this occasion. Tipperary had gone through the back door having been heavily defeated by Cork in the Munster Championship. Tipp though were improving with every game and were in a very determined mood to make it to the final to avenge the defeat by Kilkenny in the 2009 Final. Tipperary were out of the blocks right from the throw in and Waterford were struggling all over the field. We had some heroic performers on the day. Noel Connors and John Mullane in particular stood out but in truth Tipperary were superior in nearly every position. When the final whistle blew Tipp were through to the final on a score of Tipperary 3 19 Waterford This was a difficult game for Waterford on two fronts. So all in all a reasonably successful year for the Waterford 4

5 Senior Hurling panel. On the field of play were at all times competitive, while off the field we achieved the honour of receiving three All Stars. Congratulations to John Mullane, Noel Connors and Michael Walsh. Intermediate Hurling Waterford opened their account with a good win over Clare in the opening round to The Munster Final was played in Dungarvan s Fraher Field on 22nd July, and despite leading for a long time Waterford left it slip in the closing minutes to lose out to Cork on a score of 15 points to 13. Under 21 Our Under 21 team had a disappointing outing in Cork on 2nd June. With so many of the 2009 Munster Final panel still underage, hopes for the team were high. However as often happens in sport, prior year success is no guarantee of current form. On the night in Pairc Ui Caoimh we were comprehensively beaten by a better Cork side. Final score: Cork 1 16 Waterford 1 3 Minor The Deise minors opened their campaign in style against Clare in Walsh Park on 28th April. Winning on a score line of 1 21 to 0-16 it was to prove to be a result that would come back to bite us. Next up were two epic games with Cork. First to Parc Ui Caoimh on 26th June, where even after extra time the sides could not be separated. Waterford 2 18(24) Cork Then to Walsh Park on 7th July where Waterford gave one of their best Minor Hurling displays in decades to overcome the Rebels 2 17 to With only three days to recover to the Munster Final, the Waterford minors were at a severe disadvantage. Clare were waiting to avenge that defeat in Walsh Park in April and a tired Waterford team were put to the sword to That meant that Waterford were now in the Quarter Final (25th July) against Galway but in truth the exertions against Clare & Cork seemed to have knocked the heart out of the team. We never really got going against Galway. A very serious leg injury to full forward Cormack Heffernan in the first half further dented our chances and in the end we exited the Minor Championship on a score of Galway 1 15 (18) Waterford 2 8 (14) Development Squads Our Development Squad system continues to produce young and exciting hurlers which no doubt will be the stars of the future. Pride of place this year must go to the Under 14 Tony Forristal squad who not only reached the final but won the competition outright beating Kilkenny on a score line of 2 8 to 2-6. INTER COUNTY: Football: Senior Waterford can be very happy with the performance of the Senior Football team in Promotion in the League was followed by a Munster Championship win over Clare in Fraher Field before losing narrowly to Limerick in the semi-final. Waterford exited the qualifiers in Tullamore, losing to the home side Offaly. Waterford s league got off to the best possible start in Ballinamore in County Leitrim on 7th February when the Deise came from behind to put in a storming final ten minutes to win by three points on a score line of 13 points to 10. London were next up in Fraher Field and there was to be no repeat of the 2009 slip up in London. Waterford were on top throughout. Final score Waterford London 0 8. Draws with Carlow 1 11 each in Dr Cullen Park and with Longford in Fraher Field (Waterford 10 points Longford 1 7) and one could sense a momentum building within 5

6 Tuairisc An Rúnaí Secretary s Convention Report 2010 Continued the squad. Probably the most significant result of the campaign was to come under the lights in the Gaelic Ground in Limerick on cold Saturday night in March (lucky 13th!) when Waterford fought fiercely for every ball and came out on top by a single point. Waterford 1 12 Limerick By now promotion was very much in the squad s own hands. Wicklow were despatched in some style 2 17 to 1 11 at the Fraher Field. Kilkenny suffered a similar fate, 1 24 to 1 2 and in the final game in Fraher Field Waterford kicked 20 points to ensure that not only were we promoted but the Deise finished in top place in the Division. One point ahead of Limerick. And so Waterford Footballers made the historic trip to Croke Park to take on Limerick in the Division 4 Final. The final was a great game of football. Both teams played open attacking football with very little fouling and negative play. The game was very even throughout but in the end Limerick shaded it by two points. Final score Limerick 1 16 Waterford After the players were back with their clubs for a short period, it was back to the Fraher Field for the opening round of the Munster Championship on 23rd May. Having beaten the Banner so convincingly at the same venue in the League, the pressure was now on Waterford to repeat the feat in the Championship. After a slow start Waterford got to grips with the game and saw off the Banner 1 10 to 0 9. to set up a semi-final clash with Limerick. That game with Limerick was to prove controversial. Kilrossanty s Tommy Prendergast was dismissed very very harshly early in the first half. This decision was to have a major effect on the game. Having to play with 14 men for almost an hour the Waterford players began to tire badly in the final ten minutes and Limerick took total control to run out winners 1 17 to 1 9. Waterford s final game of the season was the first round Qualifier against Offaly in Tullamore. By now the tough League campaign was beginning to show on a number of players. Waterford were not able to up their game enough and had to concede defeat. Offaly 0 15 Waterford So at senior level, 2010 was a successful year for Waterford Football. At the start of the year the team and management set out their primary goal of gaining promotion. This goal was achieved and playing the League Final in Croke Park was an added bonus. A first round win in the Munster Championship added to that sense of achievement. Under 21 Of all our Inter County teams our Under 21 Footballers probably got the shortest straw of all our county teams. Because of our dual Hurling & Football status and small playing population there is huge pressures on the Under 21 Football Management when trying to prepare teams for the Munster Championship. Counties like Kerry have virtually no dual player problem at Under 21 Football level and so start the season with a huge advantage. So with little preparation our Under 21 Footballers took on one of the kingpins of the grade in Dungarvan on 20th March. There was only going to be one outcome and Kerry ran out winners 1 18 to 0 3. One would genuinely have to ask what was achieved by this result. Kerry learned nothing. Waterford even less. The whole exercise was a waste of time and money. Is it not time that we looked at the way that underage intercounty football is structured. Minor Our Minor Footballers fared little better than their Under 21 counterparts. First up was Limerick in KIlmallock on 14th April and a nine point beating on a score line of 3 10 to 2 4 tells its own story. In the losers section five days later against Clare the outcome was even worse. The Banner were 13 points to the good, 4 10 to

7 Clearly there is a major problem with the standard of underage football in the county and urgent steps need to be taken to improve the situation before it gets any worse. An interesting observation in relation to underage football is the lack of concern and ambition being expressed by the so called big football clubs. Development Squads All county championships were finished on time to allow our clubs compete in the Munster Club Championship. While this was satisfactory we must strive to have all our competitions complete by 31st October each year at the latest. HURLING Senior Like the Minor & Under 21 teams as outlined above, the Football Development Squads struggle to attract both players and mentors to participate. Without a much improved commitment from both, our standards will continue to lag far behind all the other counties in Munster. The Post Primary Football project offers some hope for improving the standard of Gaelic Football in the county. However this will take a number of years to bear fruit but it has potential. This year over 200 boys 1st & 2nd Year from Tramore CBS, St Declan s Kilmacthomas and Friary College are getting weekly coaching sessions. The continued support of the clubs will also be important in developing this project in the coming years. Club Championships Once again our domestic competitions for the most part produced a large number of fine games. The Senior & Minor Hurling competitions in particular were of the highest standard. The Senior Football championship was more notable for the emergence of Ballinameela & Gaultier as possible contenders to challenge the established order. I am glad to be able to report that all Minor, Under 21 and Adult Championships, Leagues and Cups with the exception of one game, the Phelan Cup Final were played before 30th November. Unfortunately the Phelan Cup Final which was scheduled for Friday 19th November had to be called off due to bereavement in Kilrossanty. Due to the very inclement weather it is unlikely that the game will be played until the New Year. Again played on a league basis with two groups of six, this format seems to have captured the hearts & minds of the Senior Clubs. In Division One, the big guns Ballygunner, Ballyduff Upper & De La Salle made the early running with Abbeyside failing to live up to pre championship hopes. When all five games were played, Ballyduff Upper topped the Group. Ballygunner were second and eventual champions De La Salle in third place. Fourmilewater piped Abbeyside for the fourth qualifying spot. In Division Two, the surprise leaders were a youthful Passage side who impressed many with their skill and pace. They were followed by Tallow and Lismore with Mount Sion just making the final playoff place. The unlucky team here were Dungarvan who but for their inexperience could have beaten both Tallow & Lismore. At the bottom Stradbally and Ballyduff Lower were left to battle it out in the relegation playoff. Ballyduff Lower, who had conceded a walk-over in the league section, were the eventual losers and so drop down to the Intermediate grade for In the quarter finals Ballygunner kept up their quest for two in a row with a win over Mt Sion. De La Salle had a facile 2 19 to 0 4 win over Tallow, Lismore overcame arch rivals Ballyduff Upper while surprise package Passage advanced at the expense of Fourmilewater. The draw for the semi-finals saw last year s finalists Ballygunner and Lismore meet at the penultimate stage this year and eastern rivals De La Salle face Passage. 7

8 Tuairisc An Rúnaí Secretary s Convention Report 2010 Continued Ballygunner and Lismore, just like last year needed a replay to separate them with Ballygunner getting the upper hand on the second outing. Passage s inexperience at this stage of the competition was very much in evidence in their game with De La Salle and were somewhat overwhelmed by the occasion. In the County Final, De La Salle played their best hurling of the season and saw off a very determined Ballygunner on a score line of De La Salle Ballygunner staging of the event. Intermediate: Roanmore clawed their way back to senior ranks with a fine win over Ardmore in the Intermediate final to cap a great year for the club. Roanmore had to pull out all the stops to overcome Clonea by a point in the Eastern Final (14 points to 13) while Ardmore accounted for Modeligo 2 10 to 0 9 in the Western final. Since then De La Salle have shown their credentials by beating Sarsfields of Cork in the Munster Club semi-final and star studded Thurles Sarsfields in the Munster Final. We wish them all the best in the All Ireland series. County Hurling League Played in two groups of six the Park Hotel County Hurling League provides valuable games for all senior clubs throughout the season particularly when county players are tied up with the County. A bonus point system for scoring three goals or more (whether winning or losing) adds to the excitement. Ballygunner s three goals against Stradbally gave them the bonus point to get them into the semi final where they were joined by Ballyduff Upper, Lismore and Mount Sion. Lismore overcame Ballyduff, and Mount Sion got over Ballygunner to qualify for the final. On August bank holiday weekend Lismore overcame Mount Sion 3 10 to 3 9 in a splendid contest in Fraher Field to take the Park Hotel sponsored County Hurling League title for the second year in a row. So Saturday 23rd October will be one to remember in Roanmore as they made their way back to senior ranks on a score line of 0 16 to Junior Newtown / Ballydurn created their own bit of history by winning the Junior Hurling title against a gallant Ballysaggart in Fraher Field. Played as the curtain raiser to the Senior Football County final, this game attracted a huge crowd and really captured the spirit of what the GAA is all about. After a splendid contest where every player gave his all, Newtown / Ballydurn came out on top, winning 1 9 to 0 7 Junior Attached Roanmore showed that they have a fine panel of young players when they had too much in hand for Fourmilewater in the attached Junior Hurling County final. Final score Roanmore 1 12 Fourmilewater 0 9 Minor Sargent Cup De La Salle and Lismore qualified for the Sargent Cup final and on a beautiful sunny Sunday evening on 30th May they served up a real cracker of a game at the Cappoquin grounds. The game looked to be headed for extra time when De La Salle grabbed the winner in injury time. Final score De La Salle Lismore The Sargent Cup is in memory of the late Willie Sargent of Cappoquin and the club certainly honoured his memory with the whole The changeover of the Minor Hurling Championship to an all county basis a number of years ago has really revitalised the Minor Hurling scene in Waterford. 28 teams took part in the minor hurling championship divided into four Divisions. Divisions one & two contain eight teams each with Divisions 3 & 4 with six. Division 4 is played as a 12 a side competition to allow clubs with small playing numbers compete. 8

9 Played weekly from late June to the end of September the regular games really bring on the standard of play in all Divisions. early in the season and topped Group Three winning three out of three. Including a very impressive 2 8 to 1 8 win over Ballinacourty. The results of all the games are in the results section of the back of the booklet but for the record, the county champions were: Division 1 Ballygunner, Division 2 Roanmore, Division 3 Clashmore, Division 4 Ballyduff Upper. Under 21 The Under 21 Hurling championship while difficult to schedule due to its impact on both minor & adult competition is nonetheless very popular with players and supporters alike. The A grade saw Ballygunner qualify in the East and Dungarvan in the Western Division. The County final took place on 28th August and produced a fine game of hurling. While Ballygunner won on a score line of 2-18 to 1 11, Dungarvan are a rapidly improving hurling club and a breakthrough cannot be far away. In the B final, Portlaw overcame Ballyduff Upper 3 16 to 2 6. In truth Portlaw had a big advantage in this one as the game was delayed on a number of occasions due to replays in the East and Ballyduff had to wait months for the game. However it is heartening to see Portlaw going in the right direction. FOOTBALL Senior Played on a league system on the basis of three groups of four teams as in 2009, the Lawlor s Hotel sponsored Senior Football Championship threw up a few surprises along the way. An Rinn topped Group One beating Stradbally into second place by virtue of a 1 10 to 0 11 win over the Reds along the way. As expected The Nire topped Group Two but the main talking point in this group was the fine form of Ballinameela who had impressive victories over both Ardmore & Rathgormack. Kilrossanty were flying Gaultier overcame Brickey Rangers in the quarter final playoff and then accounted for Kilrossanty in the Quarter Final proper. In the other quarter finals, Ballinacourty were much superior to Ardmore, Stradbally had to pull out all the stops to overcome Nire after extra time and Ballinameela kept the fairytale alive by overcoming An Rinn by a single point. In the semi-finals Stradbally need a replay to get past Ballinameela while Ballinacourty accounted for Gaultier. So the stage was set for a classic final. Stradbally versus Ballinacourty. Before the biggest crowd at a football final in a number of years, Stradbally who trailed all through the game called on all their experience to snatch victory in added time at the end. Final score Stradbally 0 9 Ballinacourty 1 5. County Football League Played in two groups of six the Park Hotel County Football League provides valuable games for all senior clubs throughout the season particularly when county players are tied up with the County. A bonus point system for scoring three goals or more (whether winning or losing) adds to the excitement. Ballinacourty, An Rinn, Stradbally and The Nire qualified for the semi finals with Ballinacourty overcoming Nire and Stradbally overcoming An Rinn. In the final Ballinacourty overcame Stradbally 1 7 to 0 7 Phelan Cup Regretfully the 2010 Phelan Cup final is the one outstanding game not played yet in within the year. Kilrossanty and Saint Saviours have qualified for the final. Unfortunately bereavement in Kilrossanty delayed the final as scheduled and further delays occurred due to the footballer s trip to Prague and the inclement weather. 9

10 Tuairisc An Rúnaí Secretary s Convention Report 2010 Continued Intermediate Under 21 Clashmore, relegated in 2009, bounced back to senior ranks thanks to a hard fought win over John Mitchels in Walsh Park. Clashmore had an easy enough run through the Western Division clocking up big scores along the way. John Mitchels had a tougher campaign in the East where there were nine teams in the Group. In the county final John Mitchels led for 50 minutes but Clashmore finished strongly and won on a score line of 1 13 to 1 7 Junior The Junior football county final threw up the unusual pairing of Mount Sion and Tallow. More noted for their hurling powers both clubs were none the less in the final on merit. Mount Sion overcame Ferrybank in the Eastern Final while Tallow accounted for Lismore in the West. On county final day it was the Bridesiders who were superior. An early goal rush for Tallow looked to have them in a safe position but a spirited fight back in the second half by Mt. Sion and Tallow were hanging on at the end. Final score. Tallow 3-10 Mount Sion 3 8. Junior Attached In front of a very big crowd in Kilmacthomas local rivals Kilrossanty and Rathgormack battled it out for the Junior Attached County Football final. With both clubs out of the senior championship the stakes were high. Bragging rights and silverware up for grabs! It was Kilrossanty who prevailed in the end. 1 8 to 0-8 Minor The early rounds of the Under 21 football championship were played under lights in late February and early March in both Divisions and seemed to work well. In the A Dungarvan were impressive in winning the West and Rathgormack likewise in the East. In the County Final on 10th April in Walsh Park, Dungarvan were worthy winners 1 17 to In the B Kilmacthomas prevailed in the East while multi club group team Comeragh Gael won the West. The County final on 10th April ended in a draw, Kilmacthomas 2 8 Comeragh Gael With four clubs involved in Comeragh Gael the replay did not take place until 31st October. Even then the sides could not be separated. Kilmacthomas 2 10 Comeragh Gael 1 13 after extra time. And so to another replay the following Saturday. Again the game was close with Comeragh Gael edging it 1 10 to 1 9 Referees, Conduct & Dicipline I am glad to be able to report that player conduct throughout the year was of the highest standard must have had the fewest number of player dismissals (red cards) in many years. Abuse of referees at adult games is thankfully on the decline but some mentors and players still need to learn. There were a number of instances of abuse of referees by mentors at juvenile games and this reprehensible behaviour must stop. There is an onus on all clubs to ensure that all mentors in charge of juvenile teams are suitable for the task. Abusing match officials in front of children is unacceptable. Like its hurling counterpart, the Minor Football Championship is also played on an all county basis in four Divisions. For the record the winners of each Division were: (All results at the back of the booklet) Division 1 De La Salle, Division 2 Clashmore, Division 3 Brickey Rangers, Division 4 - Ballyduff Lower. I would like to thank every referee in the county who took charge of any game throughout the year. I would also like to thank referee co-ordinator Eddie Cunningham (Tallow) for his help in the appointment of referees throughout the season. We still have too many people along the sideline during championship games and this is an area that we need to address in

11 Schools Our Primary and Secondary schools and Waterford Institute of Technology continue to do Trojan work in the promotion of Gaelic Games throughout the county. Cumann na Bunscholl in both the East & West play a major role in the introduction of boys and girls to Gaelic Games and in coaching the skills of the games. The primary schools hurling and football competitions are one of the major highlights of most schools year. Our Secondary schools continue to promote hurling and football throughout the county. Competing at the highest level in the Harty Cup and other competitions, the secondary schools in Phort Lairge are now a match for any school in the Provence. Waterford Institute of Technology is a fantastic asset to the GAA in Waterford. It continues to have a strong association with the GAA and will host the Fitzgibbon finals weekend on February26th / 27th 2011 at the fantastic new training centre in Carriganore. Coaching And Games Elsewhere in this booklet there is a comprehensive report on the activities of Coaching & Games from Padraig MacGrainne throughout It would be remiss of me not to acknowledge the huge contribution being made by all in Coaching and Games throughout the city and county. Under the direction of Pat Grant, Eoin Breathneach, John Quinn, Michelle Power and David Robinson work tirelessly with clubs, schools and the developments squads to promote our games and to improve standards. More and more the fruits of their work is being seen with all our underage teams now competing to the highest standards. Nowhere was this more evident than in the 2010 Tony Forrestal tournament. Sponsorship With costs ever rising and income ever harder to raise, we owe a great debt of gratitude to all our sponsors saw the introduction of a new flagship sponsor for all our inter county teams in both hurling and football. 3 mobile. We have found 3 to be an excellent sponsor and we have worked with them throughout the year to maximise their exposure and our income. We gained a new sponsor for our Senior and Minor Hurling Championships, Snowcream. While Glanbia were our flagship sponsor for over a decade we very much appreciate their continued involvement through the Snowcream brand. We would also like to thank most sincerely Lawlor s Hotel for their continued sponsorship of the Senior Football Championship. A word of thanks too to the Park Hotel for their continued sponsorship of the County Hurling and Football Leagues. Club Deise and the Dublin Supporters Club continue to raise funds for team training through the running of events throughout the year and for that we thank you greatly. A special word of thanks to Michael Ryan of Al Eile Stud Farm for his open day to raise funds and to Bob O Brien who organised the WLRfm / Pub quiz fundraiser. I would also like to thank Azzurri and Lucozade Sport for their continued involvement with our inter county teams. Carriganore The magnificent new Centre of Excellence at the Waterford Institute of Technology site at Carriganore opened early in 2010 and is being used by all our inter county teams for training. Long term we must make maximum use of this facility as a base for training all our best hurling and football talent. The Coaching & Games organised monthly bringing together of children of the same ages from different clubs is an imitative well worth persisting with. It gives children from ages ten to fourteen an opportunity to play with kids of their own age and offers children from smaller clubs the chance to train and play with those from the bigger urban clubs. While there is some travelling involved exposing our young players to a higher standard will greatly improve their skills. 11

12 Tuairisc An Rúnaí Secretary s Convention Report 2010 Continued Development Clubs throughout the county continue to do great work in improving facilities at their club grounds. Improvements to pitches, pavilions and the installation of floodlights have been carried out by many clubs in the county in Grant applications on expenditure of in excess of half a million Euros have been lodged with the Munster Council for In these very difficult financial times it is heartening to see so much work being carried out on a completely voluntary basis. The Board expect to have full floodlights installed at Dungarvan s Fraher Field by early March 2011 and are hoping that they may be ready in time for our Munster Under 21 Football Championship versus Tipperary on Wednesday 9th March. Strategic Plan In common with the other Counties in Munster, Waterford commenced the production of a five year Strategic Plan for the county. Waterford City Manager, Michael Walsh, agreed to oversee and manage the production of the plan and much work has been done to date. Michael has met with many of the stakeholders in the GAA in the county and has recently presented a draft outline of the plan to the County Board Executive. The next step will be to meet the Clubs shortly to further refine the Plan with a view to presenting a final draft Plan to the clubs and the County Board for adoption in the first half of In preparing the Plan, Michael Walsh has placed much emphases on the Administrative and Competition (Games) structures in the County. From my own point of view I would question why we need six different Boards to administer the activities of just 50 clubs. Three juvenile (East, West & County Board na nog) and three adult boards. With the Minor, Under 16 and Under 14 hurling & football now run on an all county basis one has to wonder what purpose the Eastern & Western Board Na nog s serve. Without doubt the Minor, Under 16 and Under 14 Hurling on an all county basis has been an outstanding success. It has raised standards and given exposure to many more players in all divisions from one to four throughout the county. In Football, the Minor and under 14 needs some tweaking to achieve the same improvements as the hurling, mainly on the scheduling of games. At adult level too, changes need to be made to our administrative and competition structures. With three different Boards administering the activities of our Senior, Intermediate, Junior and Under21 competitions the streamlining and smooth running of competitions is very difficult. Let me give one example. Take a senior Hurling League game between say Dungarvan (West) versus De La Salle (East). Before that game can be scheduled, consideration must be given as to whether Dungarvan could be playing Western Intermediate or Junior Football, or Junior Hurling Championship and also whether De La Salle are playing in the Eastern Championship. Having three Boards directly or indirectly involved in the scheduling of one Senior Hurling League game does not appear to make sense. Furthermore that fact that the Eastern Intermediate Hurling teams never play their Western counterparts in any championship or league competitions, other than the two who make the county final, does not appear to make much sense either. What this means is, that in 2011, when we will have eleven Intermediate Hurling teams in both the West and East Divisions, there will be ten teams in each Division that will not get a chance to play their counterpart in the other Division in any competition. Finance For the past six years the finances of the Board have been in the very capable hands of our esteemed Cisteoir, Michael Hogan. As Michael retires tonight I would like to take this 12

13 opportunity to thank him for his fantastic contribution to this Board and to the wider GAA in Waterford not just over the past six years but from his playing day s right up to the present. I have no doubt that this Boards loss will be Sean Pobal s gain. In these times of financial turmoil in the country, we in this Board will have to be extra vigilant in the way we spend our money. All expenditure needs to be tightly controlled and every effort needs to be made to find new streams of income. Currently Waterford plays all of its Munster Senior Hurling Championship games at neutral venues, usually Thurles or Cork, as we do not have a stadium capable of holding large crowds. This prevents us from entering into home and away arrangements with the four other Hurling counties in the Provence. This is a significant loss of income to the Board. We lose out on field rent and the sale of programmes as well as a host of other spin off commercial income such as catering and advertising. Building a new stadium capable of holding thirty to thirty five thousand people in Waterford would be foolish in the extreme. Apart from the prohibitive building and running costs involved, such a project would be a white elephant rarely full and a permanent millstone around our neck. However we most certainly could enter into a home and away arrangement with all the other counties if we were to nominate Nowlan Park in Kilkenny as our home venue and play our home Munster Senior Hurling Championship games there. Nowlan Park has a capacity of approximately 30,000 and now with the new motorway from Kilmeaden it is located within 30 minutes drive of 70% of the population of the county. From a distance point of view Waterford City to Kilkenny is only 31 miles. Waterford City to Thurles is 63 miles. From the West of the county, say Lismore. Kilkenny & Thurles are almost exactly the same distance (66 miles) away. The concept of playing major provincial games outside the Provence is not new. The Ulster Football Final was played in Croke Park a few years ago. If we are to remain in the top four or five Hurling counties as we have been for the past decade we must continue to raise additional revenues to support team training to the highest possible level. The current high standards can only be maintained by well structured coaching and competition structures at every age group. While I am unable to say here exactly how much such an arrangement would be worth to the Board, I think that this is an opportunity that should be explored. Conclusion In conclusion I would like to take this opportunity to thank every person who helped the GAA in any way in Phort Lairge in Without the countless hours put in by every member, the GAA could not survive and flourish as it does in the county. I would like to thank the local media both print and radio for their continued support. The match reports, analysis and photographs in the newspapers allow us all to keep right up to date with all GAA happenings throughout the county. WLRfm s live broadcasts bring our games into the homes of our loyal followers who cannot make the games for whatever reason. Their regular sports bulletins keep supporters up to date with fixtures, results and news. To my fellow officers I would like to express my sincere thanks for all the help that they have given me throughout the year. A special word of thanks for Michael Hogan. No words of mine could adequately express how much Michael has done for the county over the past six years. A word of thanks too for the Divisional Board officers stepping down from their positions this year. And finally to every GAA family in Phort Lairge who suffered bereavements in 2010 we send our condolences. Is Mise Tadhg O Caoimh Runai 13

14 Tuarascáil Rúnaí An Iarthar 2010 A Chairde Is mor an sásamh domhsa Tuarascáil ar imeachtaí na bliana atá thart a chur os bhur gcomhair uair amháin eile. Táimíd taréis bliain rathúil spesialta a bheith againn sna comórtaísí iomána agus peil. Beidh cuimhne againn go deo ar cuid de na cluichí sár iontach a chonaiceamar i rith na bliana. Gabhaim buíochas do na himreóiri go leir as ucht an taithneamh a thugadar dúinn idir Idirmheanach, Soisear agus Mionúir. Is miste dom freisin mo buiochas a gabhail le gach aoine a chabharig liom i rith na bliana. Buiochas o chroi do na reiteoiri, na maoir agus na daoine i mbun na pairceanna. Ta focal molta speisialta tuillte arís i mbliana ag an staisiún WLR de thoradh caighdeán ard craolachán ár gcluichí. Leanann na páipéiri aitiúla ár n-imeachtaí go rialta agus gabhaim buíochas leo ar fad as ucht a bhfuil deánta acu chun ár gcluichi a chur os chomhair an phobail. At the culmination of another years work, on behalf of Cumann Luthchleas Gael Phortláirge Thiar, it affords me considerate pleasure to present for your adoption and consideration a report of the activities and events proper to the Convention. It was a satisfactory period with solid and constructive progress made within the Division. Convention involves in addition to the election of officers a time to review, appraisal and planning for the future. It also offers an opportunity for each of us to look back over the past year in order to highlight its successes, not overlooking its defects in order that we can be reasonably optimistic about the future. Clubs through their accredited delegates are afforded the opportunity to make their views known on all aspects of the policies of the Association and its Division in particular, and to have their views heard at this important forum and decision-making time. The key question for the assembled delegates assembled at Convention must be Is the Association within this Division stronger that when we assembled for the same purpose twelve months ago? If the answer is in the affirmative then we have reason to be satisfied, however, if it is otherwise then there is real reason for concern as we face in to another season for our Clubs, Division, County and Association. Is the Club scene controlled by outside forces within the Association. Hugh amount of colum inches have been devoted to this subject. The current structures of the inter county championships together with player involvement in examinations makes it nigh impossible to promote properly structured games for all our players. While I appreciate the high personal demands and commitments of all concerned with inter county teams, there is a major tendency in the height of all this intense activity that we could well be doing some irreparable damage to our club structures as evidenced by the fact that Clubs are denied the services of their top players for considerable periods of time during the peak part of the playing season. There must be always a greater appreciation of what the Club is all about and while there is always tremendous satisfaction when a player is selected to represent the County in any grade, his duty to his Club should not be diminished as a result. It would surely be a major advancement if the top players were more readily available to their clubs than at present. Increased cooperation between team managers, the Divisional Board and Clubs resulted in all adult championships within the Division being completed at a early stage. However, there is room for continued improvement. The Club must remain the basic unit of the Assocation!! 14

15 An Teanga The preservation and greater use of the Irish Language should concern our members much more than it does along with our games this represents the major traits of our national identity. We cannot promote one and ignore the other and we are certainly failing in our duty if we continue to pay little more that lip service to the lanuage. It is a time for renewal and that is precisely why one feels there is a necessity to take stock of the current position and see is there any way we can improve the situation and utilize each and every occasion in order to keep the subject foremost in our aspirations. Of late one observed a major deterioration in even the basic use of An Gaeilge in our normal day-to-day working even to the extend that adherence to the use of the language is not being maintained in the presentation of official documents. Documents are also revealing that expediency outweighs all other considerations when it comes to compliance with general rule. I believe there is a a need for simple and basic courses in the Irish language. It was disappointing to note that despite the best efforts of Tomás O Cadhla Oifigeach Cultúra, classes as proposed failed to materilase. I am to be convinced that the current Gaeltacht Scholarship Sheme is serving its true purpose and one wonders how many of the successful candidates come back and contribute to the promotions of the language in their clubs. There is a high font of goodwill existing throughout the county and the Division for the Nations first language. Surely, there is a greater need that ever to hold fast the frequent use of our native tongue secure in the knowledge that Tír gan teanga, Tír gan anam. Conduct And Discipline The subject of conduct and discipline of our members both on and off the field must always be a source of major concern for us all. Thankfully, incidents depicting breaches of the code proved few and far between during the year under review, but the fact that misnomers of some kind of other did occur must be highlighted in order that such will not happen again. Vigilance must continue to remain the watch word, it should be also high on every Club Agenda at General Meetings and prior to matches, best practices cannot be overstated. In my reports to many previous Conventions I have referred to the unsightly appearance of mentors and others tramping up the sidelines during the course of games. This unsavory practice is in need of eradication. Apart from the distress caused for onlookers this is providing a cagulated nuisance for referees, linesmen and players and what, such people, hope to gain by this hindrance attitude never ceases to amaze me. Perhaps we should continue to follow the initiative of the Senior Board in accommodation substitutes and officials in the stands on all match days. However, it must be truthfully recorded that the exemplary presentation of most of our games remain of the highest order and is a credit to all concerned. Uniformity in attire is something the vast majority of clubs and players continue to take pride in with most Clubs procuring different sets of their respective jerseys. I am increasingly concerned with the continuing constant misuse of lanuage unbecoming our games and this must be ruthlessly stamped out. I am pleased to record that some referees penalized this conduct and I commend them for their actions. Referees Having made reference on a regular basis on the shortage of Referees, it is pleasing to note that as s result of the genuine recruitment effort put in place during the past number of years and while the numbers involved may not appear to be significant, the fact that people offered their services and have undergone various assessment 15

16 Tuarascáil Rúnaí An Iarthar 2010 Continued processes and giving assistance to Bord na nóg and schools is to be commended. There is, of course, many more needed and with the volume of games growing substantially on an annual basis we can never have enough of the knights of the whistle. Clubs must realize that a crisis situation still exists and must take immediate steps to remedy the situation, otherwise, our high programme of games will become meaningless, simply because there will be nobody available to take charge. Every Club possesses an obligation towards rendering every encouragement to people showing any signs of willingness to help in this vital task. Adequate training is always readily available and it is particularly encouraging to see more of our experienced referees help out with recruitment drives. I would as in previous reports exhort players who may be on the verge of retiring to turn their attention to acting as referees and in doing so put something tangible back into the Association. To those who have officiated at our games during the year, a sincere vote of thanks fall due and to those who had to distinction of refereeing at Intercounty level congratulations are also extended. Social And Playing Activities As we face the Year 2011, a further call goes out for more meaningful support for Scor. This major social outlet promotes in a very special way other important strands of our Irish Culture and should concern us far more than it does. The efficient manner of those who work behind the scenes for its continued success once more deserve the Boards commendation. Those clubs still hesitant about participation should put Scor as one of their priorities during the coming year and in doing so fully play their role in this vital area of National identify. The encouraging growth in expansion and development clearly indicates that most of our clubs remain fully equipped to meet the challenges of the future. The strides made by many units of the Association in providing Club Centres of considerable excellence are to be found in this Division and this is indeed to be welcomed. This development will be of enormous benefit to our ever increasing membership both young and old alike in the years ahead. The continued provision of fully floodlit playing pitches is the way forward and I commend and congratulate those clubs who have moved in this direction. The Utilisation of floodlit pitches contributed to the completion of all Adult Championships in Sponsorship The continued inroads of sponsorship dealings into all sporting spheres has now become a way of life. It was inevitable once CLG inscribed into this field that it would continue to grow and expand. We, here, in Portlairge Thiar are indeed indebted to a variety of sponsors, without which continued financial support we would be surely looking at a major financial loss. During the year under review sponsorship monies of exceptional proportions again accrued to the Board.. Careful perusal of our Accounts shows that without this major financial input it would be extremely difficult in any given year to show income in excess of expenditure. To all those who have helped in any way through tangible and worthwhile support to the Board, my gratitude falls due and I would again exhort all of our members to give all concerned the utmost support at all times. Championships In my previous reports to Convention I stated and I reiterate that the roots of the Association go deep and the real strength of the GAA as it is now called is founded in the Club. The Intercounty scene is a reflection of a strength that is spread throughout virtually every parish within the County. Whilst in previous years, most championships were relegated to a back seat situation during the long days of summer, 2010 showed a vast improvement with all championships being completed 16

17 in early October. Having already seen sigh of the Draft Championship Plan for 2011 increased co-operation will be paramount between all sides to implement the plan in its totality. Regulations are required and it would be my proposal to the incoming Board that all championship knock out games up to and including semi-finals include extra time as is now provided for in General Rule. Promotion of our games was again paramount and the continued service of providing programmes for Divisional Finals played in Fraher Field was greatly appreciated by the participating clubs and our loyal supporters. Prior to my customary review of the achievements of clubs in the 2010 championship in this my 25th and final report to convention, I wish to sound a word of warning in relation to the contents of the draft Strategic Review Document and in particular paragraphs denoted to what is in my view the first steps in the abolition of the Divisional Boards. To witness the excitement generated by victorious clubs following Divisional Finals at all levels and grades allows no doubt as to value of the Divisional Championships. During my term of office these celebrations have left a lasting impression and it would be my strong recommendation that each and every club support the Motions to County Convention setting out the proposed re-organisation of the Boards to include an Assistant Treasurer and Public Relations Officer to replace the Delegates to County Board. This in my view indicates a pro active view and I would like to commend Pat Grant, Brendan Tobin and Seamus O Brian for their vision and forward planning in the promotion of the Divisional Boards. I am further concerned with the proposal to adopt an all County Intermediate Hurling Premier Championship while retaining the Divisional Championship. While the Minor Hurling & Football Championship are an outstanding success, the Divisional Championships have lost their original appeal. The Finals in Minor Hurling generated excitement and still however, one must not lose sight of the fact that a great number of clubs conceded walkovers having already completed the County Championship. On perusal of the Accoutns it is obvious that the Intermediate Championships are a real source of income because of the support of our patrons. Such were the achievements of clubs during the championship year under review that my greatest difficulty in where to begin my reports covering the last 25 Championship years referred to the passion and excitement associated with games within the Division and in particular Divisional Finals. A real appreciation of what the club is all about memories I will always cherish. As already refered to Iomaint and Peil Idirmhenahc continue to attract the imagination of the public a truly outstanding football game between Clashmore and Dungarvan the amazing continued improvements in the hurling skills of Madh Dhelige when reaching its first Iomaint Idirmhenach Final the extraordinary display of commitment displayed by Deuglan Naofa to win the Iomaint Idirmheanach, Baile na Sagairt in winning the Iomaint Soisear Premier, Caislean Cuanach to overcome Tulach an Iarainn by one point for the second year in succession, outstanding games in Iomaint Fe21 A & B, however pride of place has to be for the extraordinary Iomaint Soisear attached Idirmheanach final between Deuglan Naofa and Dun na Mainstreach it was a memorable Sunday evening in Fraher Field witnessed by a large passionate crowd. I have already referred to the Peil Idirmheach Final and congratulate Claishmhór in annexing the County Title the achievement of Tulach an Iarainn in overcoming Liosmhór in the Peil Soisear Premier clubs more associated with Iomaint Tualach an Iarainn have now reached the Munster Club Semi- Final(as I pen this report), playing a brand of football more associated with higher grades Cill Rosanta last gasp win over rivals and neighbours An t-sraidbhaile under lights in Leamybrien, Gearaltaigh overcoming Dungarbhan by a solitary point in a very competitive Peil Soisear attach Intermediate Final exciting games in Peil Fe 21 A & B resulting in county titles for Comeragh Gaels after replays, and Dungarbhan, just some of the memories of the years activities within the Division that deserve special mention. 17

18 Tuarascáil Rúnaí An Iarthar 2010 Continued Iomáint Idirmheanach (Comeragh Oil) Deuglan Naofa 2-10 Madh Dheilge 0-9 Reiteóir: S O Conduin Iomáint Soisear A (Premier) (The Local) Baile Na Sagairt 1-10 Baile Na Miolach 1-5 Reiteóir: S M O Ceallaigh Iomáint Soisear (2nd Strings Sinsear) (The Local) Caislean Cuanach 1-12 Tulach An Iarann 1-11 Reiteóir: T O Suilleabhan Iomáint Soisear (2nd Strings Idirmheanach) (The Local) Deuglan Naofa 2-6 Dun Na Mainstreach 0-10 Reiteóir: P O Conaire Iomáint Fe 21 A (Sean Byrne Photography) Dungarbhan 0-18 Liosmhor 1-12 Reiteóir: P O Cathasaigh Iomáint Fe 21 B (Tony Morrissey Family) An Baile Dubh 2-14 Rod Na Brici 2-12 Reiteóir: S O Rodaigh Peil Idirmheanach (Radley Engineering) Claismhór 1-20 Dungarbhan 3-11 Reiteóir: D O Murchadha Peil Soisear (Premier) (Lawlors Hotel) Tulach An Iarainn 2-6 Liosmhor 0-9 Reiteóir: T O Suilleabhan Peil Soisear (2nd Strings Sinsear) (Lawlors Hotel) Cill Rosanta 1-6 Stradbhaile 0-8 Reiteóir: M O Conduin Peil Soisear (2nd Strings Idirmheanach) (Lawlors Hotel) Na Gearaltaigh 2-5 Dungarbhan 0-10 Reiteóir: P Breathnach Peil Fe-21 A (Bridie Dees) Dungarbhan 1-10 Cill Rosanta 0-06 Reiteóir: P O Cathasaigh Peil Fe-21 B (Albert Mcgrath (Newsagent) Gael Na Chomeraigh 3-13 Cois Brid 0-09 Reiteóir: T O Suillabhain Iomaint Mionuir A (Park Hotel) Dungarbhan 2-08 Lios Mhor 0-12 Reiteóir: P Breathnach Iomaint Mionuir B (Park Hotel) Caislean Cuanach 1-13 An Baile Dubh 0-14 Reiteóir: S O Rodaigh I am mindful of the fact that some omission or another may inadvertently occur or be overlooked for which I sincerely apologise. It has been my intention to be accurate and in reporting ensure that due recognition is afforded to all. May I avail of this opportunity to congratulate all championship winners and a special word of congratulations to those clubs who succeeded in winning county titles. The Press In the area of communications it is again pleasing to report that we here in Portlairge Thiar are particularly well served. The tremendous all year round coverage of our games and other events by the local press continues to be of the highest order and great credit is due to all concerned. The local radio WLR has too played its part in the promotion and reporting on local championship games within the Division. A particular word of thanks to Joe Cleary who co-ordinates fixtures and results for the benefit of the public, without his help and co-operation, a difficult task would prove impossible. Club Grounds Our increasing programme of games could not have been sustained without the continued availability of our club grounds in which to play these games. Dungarbhan, Dun na Mainstreach, Na Gearaltaigh, Claismhor, An tsraidbhaile, Cill Rosanta have developed their club 18

19 grounds to include full lighting and I commend all those in this initiative. It is the way forward and with generous financial assistance available I would urge more clubs to follow this example. It is encouraging to note that my proposal in previous reports to provide lighting at Pairc Ui Fhearchair is now at an advanced stage. Presentation at all grounds has been first class and the hard work which such entailed has always been undertaken with no little sense of pride. I acknowledge the part played by such Clubs and on behalf of the Board assure them of its deep appreciation of their efforts. Officer Board The workload associated with committments both at Club and Divisional level is getting heavier each passing year. Despite all the difficulties it is pleasing to place on record the tremendous work rate of the current board. Few realise or recognize the demands constantly made on those in serving the Association and this allied to the many other calls made on their time makes one realise how fortunate we are in Portlairge Thiar to have so many dedicated people at the helm. It has been my privelage over the past 17 years to work closely with my Cathaoirleach and Club Colleague, Padraig Breathnach who unfortunately because of General Rule has to retire from Cumann Luthcleas Gael as Cathaoirleach. I have received sincere and genuine help and assistance in all matters relating to C.L.G. and he has presided with total impartiality; the position of Clarathoir held by outstanding administrator at all levels within the CLG Local and National, Seamus O Briain been abolished an I wish to convey my sincere appreciation to seamus for his outstanding help and cooperation over the past 25 years Ni bheidh a leitheid ann aris! An Cisteoir Eamonn O Cuinneagain while retiring his expertise is not lost to the Board as he has been promoted to Cathaoirleach to the incoming Board, by his attention to detail and organisation he has ensured that the finances of the Board are in a very healthy state and his efforts are to be commended to Convention, Padraig Mac Grainne, as Assistant Secretary has to vacate his position but his name is on the Clar to contest the position of Runaí. Padraig has carried out his duties with a high degree of efficiency and dedication and has sustained me on numerous occasions in matters relating to ticket allocation and distributions, fixtures and all matters relating to CLG ove the period of the 15 years as Assistant Secretary Mile Buiochas Brendan O Toibin continues as Leas Cathaoirleach and has proved when required to act with total impartiality in the best interest of clubs I thank you for your assistance and contribution. In the proposed reorganization of the Divisional Boards and in according with motions submitted to Convention the position of Delegate to County Board is be abolished commencing The contribution of Tomas O Cashla, Sean O Liathan and Antoin O Cofaigh am not to be underestimated and were always made in the best interest of the clubs. Friendships gained as Runai CLG Phortlairge Thiar never to be forgotten. Finally I would like to thank you the clubs for your understanding and cooperation over my terms as Runai. Conclusion In bringing this my Final Annual Report to a conclusion I am mindful of the contributions of my family in sustaining me through their patience, support, advise and dedication given freely in often difficult times, I sincerely thank you and advise that the support of the family should never be underestimated and taken for granted. Sympathy Since last Convention several prominent and dedicated members of the Association within the Division have passed to their eternal reward and we mourn their passing and loss. Indeed, to all other members who suffered family bereavements during the year past condolences are extended to all. Go ndeanna Dia Trocaire ar a n-anamacha agus ar anamnachá ar ngael go leir. Mise le Meas Antóin Breathnach Rúnaí 19

20 Tuarascáil Rúnaí An Thoir 2010 Tá deireadh bliain eile sroichte againn agus is mór an phríobhléid agam mo thuarascáil bliaintiúil a chur os bhur gcómhair anocht. Is doigh liom gur féidir linn féachaint siar ar imeachtaí na bliana seo caite le bród. D éirigh linn gach comórtas a thosnaíomar a chríochnú idir peli agus iomáint. Tá dul chun chin déanta again agus traoslaím ó mo chroí leis na foirne go léir a bhuaigh na craobhanna éagsúla. Molaím comh maith na foirne eile a sheas ar fud na bpáirceanna cé nár éirigh leo an bua a bheith acu. Ba mhaith liom, buíochas a ghabháil le gach éinne a chabhraigh liom go h-áirithe an Choiste. Is mian liom freisin buíochas a ghabháil leis na réiteóiri, na maor, agus na daoine a bhí I mbun na páirceanna go léir. Mo fíor bhuíochas freisin do na nuachtóirí, na nuachtáin uilig agus an radio a chabhraigh linn máidir leis na gcluichí. Sa bhliain atá thart, d imigh roinnt baill de C.L.G. ar slí na fírinne go h-áirithe Padráig O Fainnín Iar Uachtarán C.L.G., Cáit Bean Uí Chiardubháin,beanchéile ár gcisteóir. Is brón linn a n-imeachtaí Ar dheis Dé go raibh a n-anamacha dhilís go léir. It is with pleasure that I set out to record for this our 85th Annual Convention a report to clubs of Port Láirge Thoir of the varied happenings of C.L.G. during the past twelve months. Convention is a time of review where we can look back and analyse, plan for the future and appraise what we have achieved. Convention is also important because it is here we elect our Officers and look at the various Motions. It is also important because clubs are afforded the opportunity to make their views known. As we review 2010, we can be happy that Gaelic Games are strong in the Division and are in good shape to face the years ahead. Of course we have problem areas.some of our clubs continue to experience difficulty in securing people to fill officer-ships at adult and underage level. Difficulties arise, because of lack of numbers, immigration, shift work and the need to work outside of the county. The current structures of Inter-County Championships together with Junior Cert, Leaving Cert, Third-Level Examinations and College games makes it impossible at times to promote a calendar of structured games for our players. It is another reason why clubs who we are constantly being told are the back bone of our association are suffering. Players want games, but in some instances the gap between games is far too- wide. How many times have club delegates called for Leagues and Championships to be played during a set period of time? In most cases it is not possible.another major problem we face is the number of dual clubs we have and in particular clubs who are not prepared to play matches midweek For the most part of our year 90% of our games were played on Friday s or Saturday s.up to lately most of our games were played Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Now we have clubs requesting that their games are not played on Sunday. I can only guess this is so because players want to socialise Saturday night and Sunday. However despite all our problems, the Eastern Board like our Western counterparts have continued to provide regular games when possible for all our players.we recognise that continuous activity at club level is very relevant towards ensuring good club structures. The club must remain the basic unit of our Association. The growth and development of our games at National Level is very welcome, but Croke Park must ensure that club games are not squeezed into times between a busy Inter- County Schedule and live television coverage of so many games Inter County Scene It was a source of great pride to us all when Waterford beat Cork in the Replayed Munster Final, under lights in Thurles having already won the Waterford Crystal Cup. However it was disappointing to see the Munster Final replay being played on a Saturday night and this was very much reflected in the attendance. We can only hope that 20

21 lessons have been learned. We send our congratulations to Michael Brick Walsh who was named Munster Senior Hurler of the year, a great honour for his club and the County. No report would be complete without a special mention of our three wonderful All-Stars Michael Walsh, John Mullane and Noel Connors who gave some wonderful displays during the year, we are truly proud of their achievements. During the year Dan the Man Shanahan announced his retirement from the intercounty scene. We wish him the best and thank him for all the wonderful entertainment he gave during those years he so proudly wore the Waterford jersey. Congratulations also to the Waterford Under14 Hurlers who beat a very skilful Kilkenny team in the Tony Forristal Tournament Final. Great credit is due to the team management for their time and effort they put in with this group of players. One must not forget our Waterford Senior Footballers who gave some very fine displays and achieved their goal when they were promoted to Division 3 of the National Football League.In the League Final played in Croke Park they were unlucky to lose to Limerick. The Waterford Ladies Junior Camogie Players were unlucky to lose to Antrim in the Replay of the All-Ireland Final, while the same can be said of the Ladies Footballers who were beaten by Donegal in their All-Ireland Final. We salute all the players who wore the Waterford Jersey, we are very proud of their achievements. Last but not least we congratulate Michael Wadding and his team of umpires. Michael did an outstanding job in refereeing the Senior All-Ireland Hurling Final between Kilkenny and Tipperary. Before finishing on the Inter-County Scene, I feel that Croke Park has made a very serious error in judgement in not having Semi-Finals in the National Leagues. The last round of the League this year, meant nothing as both Galway and Cork were already qualified for the Final. Surely this must be rectified as a team having lost both of their opening games can be out of the League with nothing to play for except relegation. It seems a very unfair system considering the amount of training and money being spent on teams. Also with the improvement of our pitches, in particular, the playing surface, maybe Croke Park should look again at playing two rounds of the National League before Christmas. Playing two rounds before Christmas would provide invaluable leeway re the- internal scene, giving Boards an opportunity to commence championship earlier and thus help alleviate the friction that is there at times between Boards, Inter- County Players and the ordinary Club Player. C.L.G. continues to play a critical role in the development of our County through the development of our communities. We sincerely place on record our thanks and appreciation for all the voluntary effort that has taken place within our clubs to provide access to our games, to generations of young children. It is this voluntary effort that keeps us strong. We will continue to promote our games so that Gaelic Games are the games of choice for our children and our youth. The beginning of the year saw the usual activity re Transfers and Regrades. The amount of Transfers taking place has very much diminished over the last number of years. The Structure of the Championships meeting held on the 3rd of February was the best attended meeting of the year. Here the format of the championships and the various draws and groupings were decided. One of the main decisions taken was to change the format of the Intermediate Football Championship and the delegates decided on a nine round Championship. The Board Officers were very apprehensive re this decision, but the clubs had spoken. Thanks to the clubs, their officials and their players, we were able to run this championship, all because of the wonderful co-operation we received. The Board is truly grateful to the clubs and we say a sincere thanks. Other major decisions taken were [A] to play extra time in all play-off games up to and including semi-finals. [B] to commence the Intermediate Football Championship the weekend after St. Patrick s Day. [C] to have an A and B group in the Junior Hurling and Football Attached Championship thus separating the strong and the weak teams. [D] to commence the under 21 Football earlier and play games under lights. 21

22 Tuarascáil Rúnaí An Thoir 2010 Continued Many other decisions were made re our Championships at this meeting that led to better games and it is because of this and the wonderful co-0peration between the Clubs and the Board that we managed to complete all our competitions. So again well done to the clubs. Pádraig Ó Fáinnín [Cnoc Síon] Iar Uachtaráin C. L. G I was delighted to receive an invitation to represent The Eastern Board in early June to attend the unveiling of the granite plaque renaming the Mount Sion Ground Páirc Pádraig Ó Fáinnín in memory of Iar Uachtaráin C.L.G. Pádraig Ó Fáinnín. The ceremony coincided with the opening of the clubs new facilities which include the juvenile all- weather pitch and what one can only describe as a state of the art all- weather hurling ball alley. It is generally acknowledged that Pádraig Ó Fáinnín was a great Waterford man and an outstanding Mount Sion man. His contribution to C. L. G. both within and outside the County down through the years was an inspiration. His leadership qualities were outstanding and it is only fitting that the club that he loved and dedicated his life too should honour Him by renaming their field Páirc Pádraig Ó Fáinnín His time as President of C.L.G. is remembered for the 1970 repealing of the ban on being associated with foreign games. Even though Pat himself opposed the move, he did not object to the outcome of the vote. While President he also oversaw the introduction of the Senior Club All- Ireland Series. His achievements with his club Mount Sion and at National Level are many. During his life time He showed great leadership and vision and I know that just the mere mention of Pat Fanning name will inspire todays youth and future generations of Mount Sion people to keep alive the proud traditions of their beloved club Mount Sion. Eastern Board Championships Paul Foley U 21 A Football Championship Semi-Finals Rathgormack 3-08 Tramore 0-10 Gaultier 6-08 St. Saviours 0-08 [Replay ] Final Rathgormack 4-04 Gaultier 1-08 Paul Foley U 21 B Football Championship Semi-Finals Portlaw 2-06 St Marys 1-08 Kilmacthomas 5-12 Erins Own 1-04 Final Kilmacthomas 1-15 Portlaw 2-03 Under 21 A Hurling [ Sponsor Morris Oil ] Semi-Finals Mount Sion 0-14 Passage 0-13 Ballygunner 0-14 De La Salle I-07 Final Ballygunner 3-16 Mount Sion 0-14 Under 21 B Hurling [ Sponsor Morris Oil ] Semi-Finals Portlaw 1-11 Roanmore 0-12 Clonea 2-15 St Saviours 1-07 Final Clonea Portlaw [ Replay ] Intermediate Hurling Championship [Sponsor Pat Mc Carthy Car Sales] The Quarter-Final Pairings Were Dunhill 2-16 Erins Own 1-08 Clonea 3-13 St Mollerans 0-13 De La Salle 1-14 Mount Sion 3-07 Roanmore 1-18 Portlaw 1-12 Semi-Finals Clonea 2-21 De La Salle 1-15 Roanmore 0-17 Dunhill 1-10 Final Roanmore 1-14 Clonea 0-13 Intermediate Football Championship [Sponsor Pat Mc Carthy Car Sales] 22

23 Quarter-Finals Bonmahon 0-12 Kill 0-09 De La Salle 1-09 St Mollerans 0-10 Semi-Finals Portlaw 2-07 De La Salle 0-07 John Mitchels 2-14 Bonmahon 1-16 Final John Mitchels 1-09 Portlaw 1-05 Junior Hurling Unattached Championship [Sponsor Gerry Kennedy Crash Repairs] Semi-Finals Kill 2-18 Fenor 1-08 Ballydurn 2-14 Butlerstown 2-06 Final Ballydurn 4-12 Kill 2-04 Junior Hurling Attached Championship [Sponsor Gerry Kennedy Crash Repairs] Semi-Finals Roanmore 2-10 St Mollerans 2-05 De La Salle 3-14 Mount Sion 2-11 Final Roanmore 1-08 De La Salle 1-06 Junior Football Unattached Championship [Sponsor John Murphy] Final Rathgormack 2-14 Gaultier 0-08 Conduct And Discipline The way we conduct ourselves both on and off the field should always be of serious concern to us all. Other years gone by I was glad to report that very few breaches of discipline took place. However this year the same can not be said. We had 22 suspensions, some of them of a serious nature. There is the need for constant vigilance and attention to detail. We as an Association have a responsibility to foster an approach to our games that is based on goodwill and respect.everyone who takes an interest or plays a role in our games has a part to play this includes players, coaches, mentors referees as well as parents and spectators. GIVE RESPECT and GET RESPECT. Referees Over the last number of years I have made reference to our referees. The success of the Young Whistlers Course can be seen with some new referees officiating at our games. It is disappointing that the latest Referees course had to be postponed due to lack of interest. It is the responsibility of each club to encourage people and by now every club should have at least one referee. Training is always available and I glad to report that some of our senior referees are available to mentor new recruits. On behalf of the Board, sincere thanks to our present pool of referees, in fact where would we be without the help and assistance of this small select group of people. Semi-Finals Ferrybank 2-14 Naomh Pol 0-08 Mount Sion 3-10 Kilmacthomas 2-08 Final Mount Sion 1-05 Ferrybank 1-03 Junior Football Attached Championship [Sponsor John Murphy] Semi- Finals Rathgormack 2-21 Kill 0-02 Gaultier 0-12 De La Salle 0-09 Sponsorship Here in East Waterford we are very fortunate to have such fine sponsors. The financial assistance to the Board is very much appreciated. I again call on all clubs to support our generous sponsors. I ask that all clubs include the sponsors name in their weekly notes when they are writing about a championship. 23

24 Tuarascáil Rúnaí An Thoir 2010 Continued For the record the following are our Sponsors: Intermediate Hurling: Pat Mc Carthy Car Sales Intermediate Football: Pat Mc Carthy Car Sales Junior Hurling: Gerry Kennedy Crash Repairs Junior Football: John Murphy Under 21 Hurling: Morris Oil Under 21 Football: Paul Foley Club Grounds Our increasing programme of games could not have taken place without the continuing availability of the many club grounds throughout the division in which to play those games. As I have stated on numerous occasions, it is wonderful to travel around the Eastern Division and see the tremendous work being done in many of our club grounds to improve facilities. Presentation is first class and the hard work that this entails is undertaken with no little sense of pride. I commend and pay tribute to clubs for all the voluntary effort, and I also acknowledge with gratitude the part played by all clubs. Finally on behalf of the Board our deep appreciation to you,in making 2010 a very successful year for the Eastern Board. An Teanga Agus Scór The Eastern Division has seen the biggest decline in the promotion of Scór. Each club should have elected an Oifigeach Gaeilge and I urge all clubs to look at the area of Scór and see if it is possible to at least enter one item. There is a lot of talent in all our clubs,it only needs to be nurtured, so please make the effort. We must not be content just in fostering the national games.i am certain that the Irish Language and Scór would gain a new impetus if we showed a more positive willingness to play our part in the revival of both. Cumann Na Mbunscol, Sraith Na Cathrach, Bórd Na Nóg There is no more important work for our Association than to look after the welfare of our young people. In last years report I spoke about continually making Gaelic Games the games of choice for our youth. We must make our youth fully conscious that sport is so important for their physical well being as well as their preparation for adult life. Our youth will be attracted to our games if we provide proper facilities, coaching and most of all if they can get enjoyment from playing. We are indeed very lucky that solid structures are firmly in place and also that we have so many dedicated and honourable people looking after this important work. May I congratulate Cumann na mbunscol, Sraith na Cathrach, The Urban Development Committee and Board na nog for their tremendous work, in creating such solid structures from which our clubs cannot but prosper in the years ahead. I would also like to pay tribute to The County Coaching and Games Committee in particular Pat Grant and Eoin Breathnach for all their work, whether it was organising such things as Cúl Camps, Teen Hurling Camps, Development Squads, Club Blitzes, School Coaching, Poc Fada/Hurling Skills, Coach Education, Post Primary Projects etc., they have done a wonderful job along with our Primary coaches John Quinn and David Robinson and our Schools Promotional Officer Ann Hogan The results of all the above work can be seen in the magnificent achievement of winning the Tony Forristal Tournament this year. Conclusion It is my great pleasure to serve this Board as Rúnaí. At times the work is very time consuming and demanding, but I must confess that my job was made much easier by the backing of a most dedicated Officer Board. My profound thanks especially to the Cathaoireach Seán Uasal Ó Briain who gave sincere and genuine help in matters relating to the smooth running of the Board and I can honestly say that he presided with total impartiality. My thanks to our Leas-Cathaoirleach Seán O Reagáin for all his help. He is a man who never spares himself in pursuit of his duties. This Board was blessed to have a Treasurer of the calibre of David Kirwan. I say was because under the rule where an officer can only serve for five years in the one position, David must step down and relinquish his position. David is an honourable man, a joy to work with, because he takes his work serious. One only has to take stock of the huge volume of work every week that is associated with 24

25 being Treasurer and the preparation and presentation of the Eastern Board accounts, to fully appreciate and understand what an asset David has been to this Board. We wish David well and hope that his expertise will still be available to us. To our P.R.O. Reamonn Ó Murchú our thanks. This is a very - specialised role and he has done a great job for this his first year on the Board. Our Registrar Seán O Murchú has made this job his own and he has done trojan work for this Board. Unfortunately the position no longer exists and John finds himself out of a position as affiliation and registration from now on will be done electronically by club secretaries. May I also say a heartfelt thanks to the three County Board Officers Pádraig Mac Carthaigh, Martín Mac Namara agus Séamus de Cléir who were available at all times to assist when needed.you will forgive me if I single Pat Mc Carthy out for special mention. Again under the five year rule Pat must step down from his position. He has been on the Board for along number of years and was always available at a minutes notice to serve in any capacity he was called on. His contributions to meetings have always been made with the interest of clubs at heart. I will sincerely miss Pat Mc Carthy and David Kirwan from the Board as I consider both of them as personal friends. Press Sincere thanks to the local media for the generous and constant coverage of all our games. Again it gives me great pleasure to thank in particular Phil Fanning [ Waterford News and Star], Eddie Kirwan [Munster Express]. My sincere thanks also to Adrian Flanagan. Local Radio too plays a vital role in the promotion of hurling and football and one would like to pay tribute to W.L.R s. sports team for their dedication and continued excellent coverage of our games. I would like to thank our County P.R.O. Joe Cleary for his help, also our County Secretary Tim O Keeffe for all his assistance re-fixtures. I also acknowledge the help and assistance of our own P.R.O. Ray Murphy re- the Sports Manager programme in having all our Fixtures and Results where possible updated and on the Waterford Web site. We are very well served and the general public well informed through the extensive coverage and comments. All results should be available on the night of a game and can be had at the touch of a button. To Pat Carroll our groundsman and the Walsh Park Committee a special thanks for all the times we used the field. To the gate people throughout the Division who help collect at all the matches my sincere thanks. To ÁINE Grant again a very big thanks. Her help was invaluable when it came to dealing with tickets for Munster and All Ireland Championship games.i can not leave this Convention pass without acknowledging in particular two men from the Western Division Paddy Walsh chairman and Anthony Walsh secretary.both must step down under the five year rule. It was my pleasure to work with these two great servants of C. L. G. They are two very honourable men and represented their Division with dignity and pride. Also to Michael Hogan who we owe our deepest gratitude to for all his painstaking work as County Treasurer.We were blessed to have had a Treasurer of Michael calibre. Michael was a joy to work with and one can only describe him as a total gentleman. I can only hope that we do not fully lose his expertise and that his help and advice will be available to the County Board when required. The financial outlook appears very bleak. While our revenues are declining, the cost of training our inter-county teams is increasing and we will have to cut the cloth to measure if we are to survive. Maybe it is time that Croke Park put a cap on how much counties are allowed spend on training county teams, because I fear that unless we take action to reduce our spending, we could crash like the economy. However I sincerely wish the new County Treasurer the best. Sympathy Since our last Convention several dedicated members, supporters and friends of our Association within the Division have passed to their eternal reward. We mourn their passing and loss to their families and friends. On behalf of the Eastern Board and on my own behalf, I extend deepest sympathy to all. Go ndéana Dia Trocaire ar a n-anamacha go léir. Finally, as I bring this report to a close I sincerely thank everyone, in particular the officers the clubs and 25

26 Tuarascáil Rúnaí An Thoir 2010 Continued anyone who helped me in any way during the year. I congratulate all our championship winners and a special word of congratulations to those clubs who succeeded in winning County Titles. Eastern Board Nominations Cathaoirleach: Seán Ó Briain (Portlaw Outgoing) Seán Ó Reagáin (Kill) Leas Cathaoirleach: Seán Ó Reagáin (Kill Outgoing) Runaí: Tadhg Ó Broin (Erin s Own Outgoing) Cisteóir: Reamonn Ó Murchú (St. Mollerans) Oifigeach Cadhrimh Poiblí: Reamonn Ó Murchú (St. Mollerans Outgoing) Trí Teachtaí Don Choiste Condae: Séamus De Chléir (Mount Sion Outgoing) Seán Ó Murchú (Gaultier) Mairtín Mac Namára (Newtown/ Ballydurn Outgoing) Representative, Two Munster Representatives, One Representative from Coiste Peil, Three Divisional Representatives Chairperson, Secretary, Treasurer, [3 Eastern and 3 Western]. One Representative from Primary, Secondary, and Vocational Schools, One Representative from Coiste na n-og, and one Representative from each affiliated adult club. ALL THE ABOVE SHALL HAVE FULL VOTING RIGHTS. [A] The County Committee shall meet on the second Monday of each month, commencing in February each year. [B] Additional meetings may be held on the direction of the County Chairperson. [C] The agenda for such meetings shall include reports on: [I] Progress of all championships and Leagues [II] Performance of all County Teams in the preceding month [III] Financial update [D] The agenda for the March, June and September meetings shall contain reports from all Sub- Committees. Rúin 1. That bye-law 2.01 Fo Dhlithe 1992 be deleted and be replaced by the following bye-law and to be effected immediately following County Convention 2011 bye- law to be constituted as follows: Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, Secretary, Assistant Secretary, Treasurer, Assistant Treasurer, and Public Relations Officer. 2. That bye-law Fo Dhlithe 1992 be amended and re-worded as follows The County Committee shall consist of the following: THE ABOVE TWO MOTIONS ARE SPONSORED BY ALL CLUBS IN THE EASTERN DIVISION OF CUMANN LUITH CHLEAS GAEL PORT LÁIRGE. Signed, Tadhg Ó Broin, Runaí, C. L. G. Port Láirge Thoir. 10th November Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Secretary, [without voting rights ], Treasurer, Development Officer, Officer for the Irish Language and Culture, Coaching Officer, Youth Officer, Public Relations Officer, Central Council 26

27 Coaching & Games A chairde, It is with great pleasure that I present this short report on the activities of the Coaching and Games for the last twelve months. We are fortunate in Waterford to have some excellent full time personnel in place and the GDA s, Games Manager & Post Primary Officer who work tirelessly each week to ensure GAA in Waterford is continuously being developed. As well as the full time personnel we have a very active C&GD committee with members from Cumann na mbunscol, Bord na nóg, Camogie & Ladies Football where we have worked together on a number of initiatives in the last 12 months. Thanks to all who were involved in the C&GD committee and who gave such great support to C&GD in 2010 Tony Forristal Success Highlight for Hurling Development Squads After waiting 25 years for a 1st success in the Tony Forristal tournament Waterford won it for the 2nd time in 3 years in August. A fantastic all round performance by the entire panel and management ensured a great success for Waterford. Excellent wins over Wexford, Limerick and Cork qualified Waterford for the final against Kilkenny. After a fantastic final in Walsh Park Waterford captain Patrick Curran lifted the trophy as Waterford won by 2-8 to 2-6. The team and management were granted a Mayoral Reception by Waterford City Mayor Mary Roche in recognition of their achievements. Football Dev Squads Report In the Gaelic Football the U14 team reached the Jim Power Semi Finals and were beaten eventual by plate Champions Cork County. The U15 and U16 teams competed well in their tournaments without reaching the knockout stages. The U17 Footballers played in the Munster tournament in October and after a bright start in the tournament were eventually beaten by Clare in the Plate Final in Fraher Field. Coaching and Games would like to thank everyone who was involved in the management of all Dev Squads in Great work is being done at all age groups and hopefully Waterford can continue to compete in the coming years. Thanks also to all clubs who gave facilities for training sessions and matches during the year. POST PRIMARY PROJECT The post primary project has been expanded to take in 1st and 2nd year students in kilmac, friary and tramore I would like to afford a special word of thanks to the three schools for there co-operation, With this project, and also our coachs john phelan Michael phelan, tony Corcoran and aidan ahearne who our doing outstanding work for us. Fixtures Planning On the Hurling Development Squads side of things all Waterford teams competed well in their various tournaments without much success. However this does not detract from the excellent work done by all players and mentors of all teams in developing the future Waterford players. In 2010 C&GD have been working closely with the various fixtures making bodies in Waterford to improve and better coordinate the Game Programme for all players in Waterford. Cumann na mbunscol, Bord na nóg, Post Primary & C&GD have now got a coordinated fixtures plan in place for This will be sent to all clubs and 27

28 Coaching & Games Continued fixtures bodies in early 2011 and will ensure our young players will have a regular programme of games spread throughout the whole year. Waterford All Star Eoin Kelly, Waterford Manager Davy Fitzgerald, Cork star Sean Óg O hailpin and former All Star Joe Deane. VHI GAA Cúl Camps Conclusion Once again the VHI GAA Cul Camps were the major activity in July and August. All Juvenile clubs held a camp this year with 35 camps taking place over the 8 weeks. Almost 2500 children took part in 2010 with each child receiving a kit and bag along with medals at the end of the week. Each camp was visited by a county star and for many children this was the highlight of the week. A number of children from Waterford won a place at the Cúl Day Out in Croke Park where they played blitzes and met many current Inter County stars. A huge gratitude is owed to all clubs and club coordinators for their assistance in making the camps the success they are each year. Planning is already under way for the 2011 camps. New Look Teen Hurling Camps a great success After the GAA 4 Teens in recent years it was decided to change the format for 2010 and run Teen Hurling Camps. Each club was allocated a number of places on the camps. In both Walsh Park and Fraher Field the camps were oversubscribed. The Urban Hurling Camp that took place in July in Walsh Park was a great success with 40 teenagers from all clubs taking part. A different guest coach took the players through their paces each day with All Star players Ken McGrath, Shane McGrath, Tommy Walsh & Ronan Curran visiting the camp. The players greatly enjoyed being coached by top inter county stars and the skill development over the week was good. After the success of the Walsh Park camp an additional camp was held in Fraher Field at the end of August. Over 50 teenagers were in Fraher Field from Tuesday 24th Thur 26th Aug developing their skills and being coached by Hurling greats. Among the guest coaches were As ever the most important people in all GAA matters are the players of Waterford and we hope they will continue to benefit from the work being done by all involved in GAA. Waterford C&GD would like to thank sincerely the clubs, schools and all people involved for all their support and help to us as we carried out our programme in Without the countless number of volunteers in clubs we would not be able to complete our work and we are hugely grateful to you all. Thanks to Coiste Gnótha for their continued support, also to bord na nog, for there co-operation and help in implementing the go games model,also we as a county owe a great debt of gratitude to our full time staff, eoin breatnach as games manager, our GDAs john quinn, michelle power, david robinson, and ann Hogan our post primary officer for the huge contribution they make to the gaa in Waterford also to liam Cheasty for minding the purse strings as treasurer. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank outgoing Treasurer Michael Hogan for all his support for C&GD in his 5 years as Treasurer. Michael has done huge work for the GAA in Waterford and has been thoroughly professional and courteous in all his dealings with C&GD. A gentleman to his fingertips on behalf of cg&d we wish him all the best in the future and I am sure he will still be involved in some capacity thanks Michael. Finally I wish everyone well in the coming year and hope 2011 will be a successful GAA year for all involved. Is Mise Padraig MacGráinne Oifigeach Forbatha na gcluichí 28

29 Coiste na Poblaíochta agus na Foillsitheoireachta A Chairde, 2010 has been another busy year for the Waterford County Publications and Communications committee. The year began with the organising and hosting of the annual G AA Awards night which was once again held in Lawlors Hotel in Dungarvan. Throughout 2010, the committee published programmes and handouts for every game in the Senior Hurling and Football championships, for all the County Finals and all Inter-county games played in Waterford during the year. We also assisted the Munster Council in providing material for their programmes when ever required. I would like to thank the Clubs, Team Secretaries and Team Managers in the county for their help and assistance. In 2010, the committee published weekend programmes for all the Senior Hurling and Football games played at different venues over the course of a weekend rather than to do individual programmes for each venue. These programmes proved to be very popular around the county. Where it was not possible to publish a programme, the committee provided a hand-out for patrons attending the games. Producing and selling programmes is not an easy task, and I sincerely thank all those who helped in compiling and selling them, committee and non committee members. The County Communications and Publications committee were requested to organise the medal presentations to the victorious Waterford Munster Minor Hurling team of 2009 and I am glad to report that this was a very pleasant function enjoyed by all present.. This year we are publishing a 2010 Year Book. A great deal of work goes into this now annual publication and we hope to have it in the shops for your Christmas stocking.. This is the fourth year that the present committee has published a year book. I would like to thank all those who helped with our publications during the year, Print Master in Dungarvan and Sean Byrne. Photographer. My thanks also to the reporters and the local media, W.L.R.fm, The Munster Express, The Dungarvan Leader, Waterford Today, The Dungarvan Observer and Waterford News & Star for the publicity. To conclude I would like to thank the Publications and Communications committee Jim O Keeffe, Angela Costello, Francis Barry, Thomas Keane, Grainne Flynn, Seamus O Brien, Pat Moore, Mac Dara Mac Donnacha, Jim Dee, Emer barry & Siobhan Keane. in 2010 for their help and assistance over the course of the year. Is Mise Seosamh Ó Cleirigh O.C.P. 29

30 County Bórd na nóg The year under review was a very good year for under age games. The playing season commenced with the under 14 football and the winners were De La Salle, St Olivers and Roanmore following a replay. The replay of this game also set a record for the number of underage finals we played on the one day. We had four hurling finals and the under 14 football giving us 5 games played. Inter County Under age Competitions Pride of place must go to the Tony Forristal team for winning the competition this year. This was a great day for under age hurling in Waterford and it gave the County a great boost. We also took part in the Tipperary Supporters Club under 16 All Ireland. The under twelve hurling took place at divisional level between April and June and the county finals were held in the middle of June. The winners were Ballygunner, Portlaw and Naomh Brid. The next competition played was the under 16 hurling. The winners were Ballygunner, Mount Sion, St Olivers and Ardmore. The under 14 hurling was played next and the winners were Dungarvan, Cappoquin, Ferrybank and Ardmore. The under twelve football took place between July and September and the winners were: Dungarvan, Clashmore and Kilrossanty. We sent our under 16 footballers to Limerick to participate in the Under 16 Munster football. We had two teams from Waterford competing in the Jim Power Tournament this year. This tournament is run by Bord Na nog Waterford in conjunction with Munster Council. We look forward to a good year for The John O Regan took place in Kill and was won by East Waterford. The Gleeson cup took place in Fraher Field and was won by West Waterford. 30

31 Tuarascáil an Choiste Chultúrtha agus Teangan Is mór an phribhléid dom mar Oifigeach Gaelainne agus Cultúrtha an tuairisc bhliantúil seo a chur i bhúr láthair. Bliain ana-ghnóthach a bhí ann i mbliana agus d éirigh go maith leis na himeachtaí ar fad a bhí idir lámha. Oifigeach Gaelainne agus Cultúrtha sa Chlub Tá sé mar dhualgas anois ar gach club sa tír Oifigeach Gaelainne agus Cultúrtha a bheith tofa. Tá sé i gcoinne rialacha an CLG gan an t-oifigeach seo a bheith ag an gclub. Faoi láthair, áfach, níl mórán clubanna sa chontae tar éis an dualgas seo a chomhlíonadh. Tá sé ríthábhachtach go mbeadh an Ghaelainn agus an cultúr curtha chun cinn i ngach aon chlub sa chontae seo agus iarraim go láidir ar aon chlub nár cheap Oifigeach Gaelainne agus Cultúrtha go dtí seo chun a chinntiú go ndéanfar é go luath. Tuigim go mbaineann deachrachtaí áirithe le daoine a fháil chun a leithéid a dhéanamh go deonach ach ceapaim go bhfuil daoine sna clubanna a bheadh sásta cabhrú sa ghné seo den Chumann, ach amháin ceist a chur orthu é a dhéanamh. Tráth na gceist Seachtain na Gaeilge Imeacht ana-thaitneamhach a eagraíonn Bord an Chontae le haghaidh Seachtaine na Gaeilge is ea an Tráth na gceist agus d éirigh thar barr leis i mbliana. Bhí dhá fhoireann déag páirteach, an slua ba mhó in aon chontae i gcúige Mumhan. Dhein Bord an Chontae urraíocht ar na duaiseann don oíche, ina measc geansaithe nua Phort Láirge don bhfoireann a tháinig sa chéad áit. Chuaigh na buaiteoirí ar aghaidh ansin go Craobh na Mumhan. Táimid buíoch do Dhonnchadha agus Helena Gough, an Local, as cead a thabhairt dúinn an áit a úsáid agus as na sóláistí a chuireadar ar fáil do gach éinne ar an oíche. Tá súil agam go mbeidh slua níos fearr ann arís an bhliain seo chugainn. Scór Is cuid ana-thábhachtach den CLG na comórtais seo agus tá stair iontach ag Port Láirge sa Chúige agus i gcraobhacha Uile Éireann ag dul siar thar na blianta. Tá an t-ádh linn anseo sna Déise go bhfuil cultúr chomh saibhir agus ársa againn, idir ceoil, amhránaíocht, damhsa agus aithriseoireacht, gan trácht ar an teanga féin. Cuireann sé ana-dhíomá orm, áfach, nach bhfuil go leor déanta ar fud an chontae chun Scór a chur chun cinn agus nach bhfuil níos mó daoine ag glacadh páirt. Táim cinnte de go bhfuil páistí, déagóirí agus daoine fásta i ngach club sa chontae seo a bheadh lán cumasach dul chun stáitse sna rannóga ar fad a thagann faoi Scór. Faraor, ní mar sin atá cúrsaí faoi láthair agus is in Iarthar an Chontae amháin atá Scór beo. Rinne mé gach iarracht páistí a mhealladh ó gach club agus ó gach scoil sa chontae a bheith páirteach i Scór na bpáistí i mbliana. Chuaigh mé i dteagmháil leis na rúnaithe ar fad sna clubanna maraon le gach scoil ag míniú dóibh faoi Scór na bpáistí agus thug mé cuireadh dóibh bheith páirteach. Bhí ós cionn dhá chéad páiste páirteach i Scór na bpáistí ó Iarthar an Chonate ach gan oiread agus páiste amháin páirteach ón Oirthear. Maidir le Scór na nóg agus Scór Sinnsir, tá ana-chuid clubanna a ghlacann páirt bliain i ndiaidh bliana ach ba bhreá liom i bhfad níos mó clubanna a fheiceáil sna comórtais seo an bhliain seo chugainn. Scoláireachtaí Cuireann Bord an Chontae, taobh le Comhairle na Mumhan, scoláireachtaí ar fáil do bhuachaillí agus do chailíní ó chlubanna i bport Láirge chun freastal ar chúrsa samhraidh i gcoláiste na Rinne i ngaeltacht na ndéise. 31

32 Deis iontach é seo dos na scoláirí bheith i dtimpeallacht ina bhfuil an Ghaelainn á labhairt go nádúrtha agus tugann sé deis dóibh saol na Gaeltachta a bhlaiseadh. Is cabhair iontach do na scoláirí a fhaigheann na scoláireachtaí seo mar go bhfaigheann siad ísliú ar na táillí chun freastal ar an gcúrsa. Cuireann sé díomá orm nár chuir ach beirt isteach ar na scoláireachtaí ó Oirthear an Chontae. Chuir suas le scór duine iarratas isteach ó Iarthar an Chontae. Tugann Coiste Chultúrtha Comhairle na Mumhan anachabhair dúinn chun an scéim seo a reachtáil agus iad ana-mholtach as Coláiste na Rinne agus an méid a dhéanann siad ar son na scoláirí agus ar son cur chun cinn na Gaelainne. thaobh na teanga de. Bhí ócáid mhór ag deireadh an chúrsa nuair a d fhill an tuachtarán, Críostóir Ó Cuana, chun teastas a bhronnadh ar na scoláirí ar fad a ghlac páirt sa chúrsa Gaelainne le béim ar chluichí CLG. Bhí deis ag na scoláirí ceisteanna faoin gcumann a chur air agus ba mhór an sásamh a bhain gach éinne as an tráthnóna sin. Toisc gur éirigh thar barr leis an scéim phíolótach seo i mbliana, tá sé i gceist againn é a leathnú amach agus beidh sé ar fáil ar thrí chúrsa Gaelainne na bliana seo chugainn i gcoláiste na Rinne. Cúrsa Nua CLG le Coláiste na Rinne Eagraíodh cúrsa nua i gcoláiste na Rinne an samhradh seo i dtaobh leis an gcoiste Oiliúna agus Forbartha na gcluichí i bport Láirge. Seo an chéad chúrsa in Éirinn do scoláirí a dhéanann freastal ar Choláiste Gaeilge ina bhfuil dlúthbhaint ag cluichí CLG leis an gcúrsa. Tháinig Uachtarán CLG, Críostóir Ó Cuana, go dtí Coláiste na Rinne chun an scéim seo a sheoladh. Gabhaim buíochas ó chroí le gach éinne a chabhraigh in aon slí chun an cúrsa nua seo a bhunnú. Táim buíoch do Eoghan Breathnach agus Michelle Power as an sárobair a dheineadar chunn an cúrsa a chur ar bun agus do Phádraig Ó Mórdha as an oiliúint a chuir sé ar fáil do na traenálaithe. Mo bhuíochas freisin do na traenálaithe ar fad. Balla na gclub Bhí traenáil den scoth curtha ar fáil do na scoláirí sna cluichí a leanas: iománaíocht/camógaíocht, peil, corr agus liathróid láimhe. Bhí scileanna na gcluichí múinte dóibh, cluichí eagraithe agus gach rud déanta ag traenálaithe cumasacha tré mheán na Gaelainne. Bhí an t-ádh linn peileadóir an chontae, Liam Ó Lonáin, a bheith mar dhuine de na traenálaithe. D fhreastail scoláirí ón gcontae seo agus ó chuid mhaith áiteanna eile in Éirinn ar an gcúrsa agus bhí an-éileamh air. Mar chuid den scéim nua seo bhí lá ar leith eagraithe do na scoláirí agus tógadh formhór des na coirn go dtí an Coláiste maraon le slua d imreoirí idirchontae chun bualadh leis na scoláirí. Bhí Corn Mhic Chárthaigh, Corn Mhic Uidhir, na coirn don Chamógaíocht agus Peil na mban, Corn na Mumhan don Íománaíocht, agus Corn na Mumhan do Pheil na mban ann ar an lá. Bhí deis ag na scoláirí pictiúrí a ghlacadh leis na coirn agus dar ndóigh leis na himreoirí. Chuaigh an lá seo i bhfeidhm go mór orthu agus deis iontach ba ea é don CLG teagmháil a dhéanamh le daoine óga agus níos tábhachtaí arís ó Cuireadh Balla na gclub in airde i bpáirc Uí Fhearachair agus i bpáirc an Bhreathnaigh i mbliana. Scéim nua a bhí anseo a bhí faoi chúram Brendan Tobin, Oifigeacha Forbartha. Tá suaitheantas ag gach club sa chontae anois agus é le feiscint in aon áit amháin ar an mballa seo. Tá ainm an chlub, as Gaelainn agus as Béarla, fé bhun gach suaitheantais. Táim cinnte go mbeidh daoine bródúil as an mballa seo. Ranganna Gaeilge Rinne mé iarracht le cúpla mí anuas ranganna Gaeilge a chur ar bun. Tar éis bualadh le roinnt daoine a bhí sásta teacht isteach sa chóras mar mhúinteoirí, ní bhfuair mé ach freagra dearfa ó dhá chlub sa chontae á rá go mbeidís sásta bheith páirteach sa scéim nua seo. Smaoineamh nua a bhí anseo chun daoine a mhealladh chun na Gaelainne i slí neamhfhoirmiúil ach bhí díomá orm nach raibh níos mó clubanna sásta tacú leis. In aineoinn sin, leanfaidh mé ar aghaidh ag obair air seo agus tá súil agam toradh a bhaint amach go luath sa bhliain nua. 32

33 Scoileanna Gaeltachta agus Gaelscoileanna. Tá an t-ádh linn anseo i bport Láirge Scoileanna Gaeltachta agus Gaelscoileanna a bheith againn. A bhuíochas siúd go bhfuil páistí óga d ard chaighdeán Gaelainne sa chontae. D éirigh liom tosnú ar chaidhreamh a chothú idir Bord an Chontae agus na scoileanna seo i mbliana agus bhí deis ag scoláirí ó Scoil Gharbháin míreanna a scríobh do chlár an chluiche sraithe idir Luimneach agus Port Láirge. Bheadh sé i gceist agam go mbeadh níos mó déanta ag Bord an Chontae chun tacú leis na scoileanna seo agus tá súil agam tosnú air seo anois. Tacaíocht ó Pháirc an Chrócaigh Ceann des na haidhmeanna atá ag an gcumann Lúth- Chleas Gael ná an Ghaelainn a chur chun tosaigh san eagraíocht. Ní dóigh liom go bhfuil go leor á dhéanamh ag bainistíocht an Chumainn agus ag Páirc an Chrócaigh chun an teanga a úsáid ó lá go lá. Níl an Ghaelainn le feiscint anois ar chártaí ballraíochta an chumainn, tá an suaitheantas GAA glactha go hoifigiúil ach an Ghaelainn fágtha ar lár anseo agus Comhairle na Mumhan anois aitheanta mar Munster GAA. Caithfimid brú a chur ar lucht bainistíochta an Chumainn chun é seo a athrú agus an leagan Gaeilge, CLG nó Cumann Lúth-Chleas Gael a bheith úsáidte. Ag dul ar aghaidh agus go mbeadh an teanga úsáidte níos minicí i ngach gné den Chumann, go háirithe ar na cártaí ballraíochta agus ar na suaitheantais do na rannóga ar fad. Tá sé rí-thábhachtach anois do gach club Oifigeach Gaelainne agus Cultúrtha a thoghadh chomh luath agus gur féidir. Bheadh duine ar leith ann ansin domsa chun eolas a scaipeadh faoin na scéimeanna a bhíonn idir lámha agam. Go mbeadh níos mó daoine páirteach i Scór ó gach áit sa chontae agus iarracht níos fearr déanta daoine a mhealladh chun páirt a ghlacadh. Go mbeadh an t-eolas faoi Scoláireachtaí CLG scaipthe do pháistí i ngach club chun deis a thabhairt dóibh freastal ar chúrsa Gaeltachta. Go mbeadh cuid den suíomh idirlín atá ag CLG Phort Láirge as Gaelainn. Mar fhocal scoir, ba mhaith liom Nollaig shona agus athbhliain faoi sheán is faoi mhaise a ghuí oraibh go léir. Le gach dea-ghuí, Tomás Rua Ó Cadhla Oifigeach Gaelainne agus Cultúrtha Go mbeadh áit lárnach ag an ngaelainn sa Chumann 33

34 Report from County Development Officer It is my great privilege to report the affairs of the County Development Committee for 2010 to our annual Convention was a very busy year for our committee and for me personally. I attended a Development Officer training day in Croke Park in February and attended six meetings in Munster. Club Grants Payout In January we organized the payout of Club grants at a function in Lawlor s Hotel which was attended by the then Munster Council Chairman, Jimmy O Gorman and County Board Chairman, Tom Cunningham. Due to the inclement weather at the time all clubs were not present. The cheques were presented to the clubs on the night by Jimmy O Gorman. Launch of Club Plan In February we launched four clubs Five Year Plans in Lawlor s Hotel with our special guest Tim Ryan, Chairman of the Munster Development Committee. This was a great night and many thanks to the four Clubs who put their Five Year Plan on display in booklet and PowerPoint presentation form. We were the first County in Munster to roll out the Club Plans and the four clubs were Mount Sion, Kill, Clashmore and The Brickeys. Congratulations to all four clubs. successful night and many thanks to the large crowd who attended and to John O Leary who gave the presentation on the night. Crest Wall Our next project was the erection of a Crest Wall in both County grounds. This took a lot of hard work and the involvement of a lot of people. All the Clubs in the County paid 65 each which covered the cost of the project. The Crest Wall was unveiled by the County Board Chairman, Tom Cunningham, also present was Chairman of the Munster Council, Sean Walsh. This was a hugely successful project and other counties have contacted us with a view to doing similar walls. Many thanks to all those who helped out and to the clubs who contacted me congratulating our committee on this project. Club Grants This year a total of twelve Clubs applied for Development Grants and one Club for a Dressing room Grant. Pat Flynn and I visited all the Clubs to sign off the grants. I would like to thank all the clubs for their courteous welcome and wish them the best of luck in their developments. The twelve clubs spent in total 516,366 and approx. 70,000 will be received in grants which will be paid out in the near future. Officer Training Night Club Plan Phase 2 In March we held our Officer Training Night in Lawlor s Hotel. All Club main officers were invited as well as Camogie and Lady Football Clubs. We had a very In October we launched the second phase of the Five Year Club Plan. Eleven clubs are now well on their way in completing their plans. The club plans for the western 34

35 clubs will be launched in Tourin on January 12th. The Western Clubs are Sliabh gcua/naomh Mhuire, Stradbally, An Rinn, Tourin, Dungarvan, and Abbeyside/Ballinacourty. The Eastern Clubs will launch their plans in Dunhill on January 17th. The Eastern Clubs are Ballyduff Lower, Dunhill, Clonea, St. Mollerans and Ballydurn/Newtown. Facilitators Facilitator training took place in Portlaois and Croke Park I would like to congratulate and thank the five people who are now trained facilitators for our county namely, Anne Hogan, Patricia Walsh, Kay Barry, Michael Murphy and John O Leary. The five facilitators are now assigned to different clubs to help them complete their Club Plan. A further Vacillator Training Night will take place in Mallow in January. and John O Leary and Liam Moroney. I would also like to thank the County Board Chairman, Tom Cunningham for all his support and attending all functions, County Board Secretary, Tim O Keeffe for all his help throughout the year especially his help on the crest wall. County Treasurer Michael Hogan for all his help and I wish him all the best as tonight he will resign his post. He will be a huge loss to our Board. To our County P.R.O., Joe Cleary for promoting our events and finally to our Irish Officer, Thomas O Caladha for all his help on the Crest Wall. Special thanks must also go to Bernard Brannigan who resigned a secretary of our committee during the year due to work commitments. Bernard gave this committee a great deal of his time over a number of years and is a huge loss and we wish him well in the future. I look forward as we enter my third year as County Development Officer. Conclusion Finally I would like to thank our hard working committee, Tommy Hennessey, Anne Hogan, Kay Barry, Pat Flynn Brendan O Toibín Oifigeach Forbartha 35