Juvenile Football News

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1 Juvenile Football News Volume 1, Issue 1 May 2010 Welcome to our new Newsletter! Features in this issue: U14A Feile Report 2-4 U14B Feile Report 8-11 Coaching Update 12 And much more, including team updates and other items of interest! Remember to visit for Feile photos and to keep up to date with us daily! We plan to publish a newsletter a couple of times a year in addition to providing you with information via our website Our first edition is a bumper issue featuring news from our U14s valiant Feile weekend efforts. Read inside for more details of what was a very exciting weekend for everyone involved whether playing, coaching or supporting. Our many thanks to everyone that helped out in the preparation. Also to our U15 coaches and parents that hosted Feile in Silver Park over the weekend. Read on and enjoy what we hope will be a well received and popular new addition to the Club s communications. Your input and support of juvenile football is great appreciated. If you would like to volunteer to help out with either the newsletter or the website we would be delighted to hear from you. Please get in touch with Des Molyneaux at either o r desmx@eircom.net Michael McNicholas Chairman Juvenile Football Name the Newsletter to win a Prize Calling all juvenile footballers! We are looking for a catchy name for our newsletter so put your thinking caps on. Send your entries by E- mail via your parent/s to desmx@eircom.net if you want to have a chance to win a special prize! The winner will also be featured on our website. Enter by May 17th to be included, and with as many name options for the newsletter as you like!

2 Page 2 Juvenile Football News U14A Feile Report (Division 1) Panel: Eamon Allen, Stephen Barr, Richard Couse, Kevin Creasey, Cian Fahy, Graham Fallon, Luke Hanrahan, Peter Herlihy, Sean Keating, Peter Linehan, Mark McCallion, Andrew McGowan, Eoin McMahon, Alan Murphy, Ryan Murphy, Cian O'Connor, Francis O'Reilly, Adam O'Neill, Cillian O'Shea, Gavin Sheridan, Shane Veale, Michael Crowley, Connor Gowing.. Kilmacud Crokes 0-7 Castleknock 3-8 (Match 1) The sky was overcast but that did not dampen the enthusiasm of the many supporters that turned out in Silver Park. After the warm-up and pep talk from Eamon, the lads took to the field in the first match versus Castleknock, each player resolved to give it their all. From the throw-in, Kilmacud s half and full back line came under early pressure and within a few minutes conceded two close-in frees to Castleknock which were duly converted to points. Kilmacud mid field worked tirelessly during the first half to get the ball into the forwards and following great efforts by Adam O Neill, Ryan Murphy, Peter Herlihy, the work paid off leading to points scored by Eamon Allen, Eoin McMahon and Andrew McGowan. Cian O Connor showed well at this stage in the game. Kilmacud Keeper Gavin Sheridan was directing the defence with constant words of encouragement and ably dealt with many high balls lobbed into the square. The Kilmacud defence of Graham Fallon, Francis O Reilly, Peter Linehan, Kevin Creasey, Richard Couse and Cian Fahy were under constant pressure and broke up Kilmacud were well on top in the last quarter and piled on the pressure many Castleknock attacks by early interceptions and bursting out of defence to feed the ball into the forwards. Unfortunately, Kilmacud lost possession during a number of attacks due to wayward passes and loose marking, allowing Castleknock to counter attack and find the net on three occasions in the first half. Kilmacud were trailing 0-4 to 3-4 at half time. Throughout the second half, Kilmacud defenders Francis O Reilly, Stephen Barr and Kevin Creasey tackled hard and prevented Castleknock from adding to their goal tally. On one occasion Gavin Sheridan made a high saving catch and thereafter followed a great series of passes from Gavin to Peter Linehan to Mikey Crowley to Ryan Murphy to Richard Couse and finally to Cillian O Shea who barely missed scoring a point while under severe pressure. Kilmacud were well on top in the last quarter and piled pressure on the Castleknock defence through relentless work by Richard Couse, Ryan Murphy, Peter Herlihy, Cillian O Shea and Eoin McMahon. Kilmacud scored three points in the second half, the first from Andrew McGowan when he received a great pass from Sean Keating, the second from a free kick taken by Sean Keating and the third was scored by Eamonn Allen when he burst through the Castleknock defence. Shortly afterwards Eamonn was unlucky to have a free kick saved on the line. Kilmacud were unable to overturn the score deficit from the first half and Castleknock were deserving winners with the final score of 3-8 to 0-7.

3 Volume 1, Issue 1 Page 3 Kilmacud Crokes 3-12 Cuala 3-8 (Match 2) After a shock defeat to Castleknock, Crokes mentors and team had little time to prepare for a do or die battle with close rivals Cuala. After a tentative start Crokes got the break they needed when awarded a penalty which Captain Eamonn Allen dispatched to the net. However Cuala were not to be out done and scored a well taken goal themselves. The game was now on and the tempo increased to fever pitch. A key turning point came when Cuala were awarded a penalty which was well saved by Gavin Sheridan who from this point on had a great tournament. The ball broke down field and Eamonn Allen operating on the edge of the square fisted the ball to the net. Points from Sean Keating, Ryan Murphy and a free from Eamonn cancelled out some good scores from Cuala and the game was all square at half time 2-4 to 1-7. Crokes started the second half flat and two quick goals mid way through the half left Crokes trailing by six points with 8 minutes left on the clock. Crokes were now facing an early and surprising exit from the tournament. Cometh the hour cometh the man, midfielder Ryan Murphy refused to accept defeat and went on to give one of the best individual performances seen in Silver Park for a long time in driving Crokes forward time and time again. Aided by a gallant team Crokes never say die attitude was rewarded with points from Sean Keating, Eamonn Allen, Ryan and most importantly a goal from dynamic wing forward Cillian O Shea. The final score of 3-12 to 3-8 in a 40 minute game highlights the entertainment value for all those in attendance. The manner of the comeback left the players in a positive frame of mind going into the final pool game against arch rivals Lucan. Kilmacud Crokes 3-16 Lucan Sarsfields 2-1 (Match 3) ber of scoring chances. Eventually, nine minutes into the game Lucan Sarsfields got their first and only point of the first half. After that a series of attacks by Kilmacud saw Peter Herlihy score two points in quick succession, with Eoin McMahon and Eamonn Allen each getting points as well. The first half drew to a close with Sean Keating putting over two points just before the break, to leave the scores 2-7 to 0-1. While it had become clear that Kilmacud Crokes A would win this Having been beaten by Castleknock in their first match and having squeezed a great win against Cuala in the second match, Kilmacud Crokes had to get a big win in their last match against Lucan Sarsfields, if their hopes of progressing to the semi-finals were to be fulfilled. Things started well when only two minutes into the game a Sean Keating shot was deflected from the crossbar into the path of Eoin McMahon, who netted the ball coolly. Two minutes later Cillian O Shea put over a point with a good shot from a difficult angle. Two minutes after that, Crokes got their second goal, this one coming from Sean Keating. Lucan Sarsfields were not to be rolled over easily. They counter attacked well and would have scored earlier but for some excellent defence from Kevin Creasey. Gavin Sheridan also played very well in goal to deny Lucan a nummatch, they still had a lot of work to do as Cuala were beating Castleknock on it was looking the adjoining like it would all pitch. So it was come down to looking like it points would all come down to points difference at difference at the end of the the end of the day day. Crokes needed to put a lot of points on the board to go through. The second half started well with a point from Andrew McGowan, who had been excellent throughout the day. However Lucan were not about to lie down. Some early pressure in the second half saw them rewarded by two goals in the second and sixteenth minutes of the second half. This pressure was stemmed by the hard work of the backs and midfield

4 Page 4 Juvenile Football News Match 3 Cont... players, in particular Kevin Creasey, Richard Couse, Cian Fahy and Stephen Barr. Alan Murphy got Crokes back on the scoring path with two well taken points. By this time Lucan were beginning to tire, particularly as they were being put under relentless pressure by Cillian O Shea and Andrew McGowan. Eamonn Allen continued the scoring with a further two points. Then came what was probably the cheekiest goal of the day. Having been awarded a free about ten metres out and just to the left of the goal, Sean Keating put the ball on the ground and struck it sweetly over the keeper s head and into the top right hand corner of the net. Sean is not saying whether he was going for a point or intended the David Beckham like goal! After that Alan Murphy got another point to leave the final score Kilmacud Crokes 3-16 to Lucan Sarsfields 2-1. The big points differential was enough to see the Crokes team go on through into the semi-finals as winners of the group. Kilmacud Crokes 2-3 Ballyboden 3-6 (The Semi!) After three hard games the previous day both teams arrived tired mentally and physically to Silver Park early on Sunday morning. It says a lot for the pride and the commitment of both teams that the large crowd in attendance were treated to a very entertaining game of football. Crokes started well and had an early point from Eamonn Allen from play to cancel out and early Boden point. Crokes then got the break we needed when Eamonn scored a well taken goal from play. From this point on Boden looked to be in control but Crokes held onto to lead by a narrow margin at half time largely due to some great defending by the Crokes rearguard ably led by man of the match Kevin Creasey. The second half begun with Boden taking the initiative with a series of points to put them leading by three points coming to the key mid well done to all the players, mentors, coaches, supporters and parents way stage. Again Crokes showed their never say die attitude. Sub Michael Crowley fed speedster Cillian O Shea who ran at the middle of the Boden defence. He passed to Eamon who in turn fed Eoin McMahon now operating at full forward who calmly planted the ball firmly in the Boden net. All to great roars from the Crokes support. This was the goal of the t o u r n a m e n t. With 8 minutes left on the clock the match was all square. However Boden finished the stronger and scored two well executed goals in rapid succession to end Crokes hopes in Feile While winning is important it is not everything and the spirit and camaraderie shown by this group of players augurs well for both their and the clubs future. Ballyboden like Crokes are a lovely footballing side and went on to run a physically larger Na Fianna team to two points on Sunday afternoon in Parnell Park. Again well done to all the players, mentors, Caption coaches, describing supporters picture and parents on a or very graphic. enjoyable weekend of football. Eamon Keating, Don O Shea & Arthur McMahon P.S. Don t forget to check out all the photos from the weekend on the website!

5 Volume 1, Issue 1 Page 5 U13A Update In January 2010 the Year of 1997 moved into the Big League of CCC2 and the senior section of the club. The season kicked off with the round of U13 Grading league matches where we encountered Northside opposition for the first time outside of friendly matches. Despite our initial reservations about the nature of the grading leagues in proved to be a very worthwhile transitional structure and it allowed the lads to make the adjustment without too much pressure about results. We achieved our objective of being placed in Division 1. The lads having won the U12 league the previous season were slow to find their form but moving into the competitive league structure they have gradually begun to show their real potential with some impressive results and a very skilful style. Supplementing our league matches with a few friendlies has helped to build a momentum that we are hoping to carry us through the remaining league matches before the summer break in July. Finian Daly, Enda Kelly, Des Molyneaux & John Shovlin U13B Update This is the boys first season in an all- Dublin league and, as such, has been a steep learning curve. Having lost 7 players from last year s team to the A Panel, this was always going to be a challenging year with many of the boys not having played together before as a team. However, there is a lot of talent and determination in this team and this was very evident when they won their first match in the Grading League against a very strong St. Oliver Plunkett s A team. The next three matches in the Grading League were tougher with a few heavy defeats. Matters weren t helped by the large number of injuries and players missing through other commitments. However, despite the poor results, the lads battled admirably and there were signs that if we could get the basics right, we d be in with a good chance in the League-proper. The League started with a home defeat to If they keep St. Margaret s A team. This was very disappointing in that we had up the level of performance been winning at halftime. However, St... they ll Margaret s had the definitely be wind in the second-half and won the match comfortably in the end. a top spot challenging for This was followed up by a bad loss to Whitehall Colmcille s A team, albeit with a much depleted Crokes team. However, these are a determined bunch and they were unlucky not to beat Na Fianna B s in their next match, drawing a brilliant game using great skill and excellent teamwork. This was followed up with a comprehensive win against Templeogue A s where all 20 of the squad contributed 110%. This is a very good squad with plenty of talent. It has taken a while to settle on the best positions for each player, but we re almost there. What s really encouraging is how many of the boys have improved so much over the last four months and how many of them are now looking to get on the ball, support each other, and play a really exciting brand of football. They are starting to show real grit and determination and if they keep up the level of performance that they ve shown in the last few matches, they ll definitely be challenging for a top spot come the end of the season. Conor O Shea, Paul Cooke & TJ Maher

6 Page 6 Juvenile Football News 2010 Registration 2010 Registration of players was carried out earlier in the year and we owe a huge debt to registration supremo herself Margaret Keane (seated left) who managed a significant portion of the juvenile football registrations with her many helpers. This was done as part of her Coiste na nog registration days. The juvenile section benefited hugely from this and from her automation of our registration process. Life will be much easier going forward for one and all. The tills never rang up so early before! Many thanks Margaret. The tills never rang up so early before! 15B Update After a very successful year in 2009 where we won U14 Division 4 league, we were promoted to Division 3. Success brings its challenges and the pace of football at division 3 has been the issue for us. We are currently placed in the lower half of the table but with a couple of back matches yet to play. The performance of the boys in our matches has been very encouraging with everybody putting in a great effort. We have had great starts to all our matches so far with the boys keeping in contention or leading at half time. Maintaining the fast pace and high work rate for the entire match is an issue which we have to tackle. On the positive side, we have 24 motivated players on the panel which is excellent for this age group. We look forward to working with Paraic McDonald to improve our performance and adjust to the pace of Division 3 football. As we approach the end of the school year, please note that we have games scheduled over the summer holidays and it is essential that as many players as possible turn up for matches. Enjoy the summer. Michael Kelly, Patrick McDonnell & Des Lane 16B Update The year to date has seen a continued full commitment from the squad, with excellent turnouts at training sessions and for match days. There has been some movement with the "A" Squad, and this has worked out seamlessly. On the performance front, We are mid table in our league, having lost away by the narrowest of margins to both James Gaels and Liffey Gaels. These results have been overturned with good wins against Round Towers away and at home to Cuala and with an away win against Liffey Gaels in a friendly. The Championship is underway and we have recorded good wins against Na Fianna and Liffey Gaels, with a semi final scheduled for Saturday 15th against Round Towers. Given that this is the last year at a distinctive age group, Minor next year, we are hoping to gain some deserved silverware for a group who have been together since U8/9. The Championship is underway and we have recorded good wins against Na Fianna & Liffey Gaels A thanks to the mentors John Moriarty, John Ryall & Pat Conlon and to Tommy Mannion, Declan Herlihy and Greg O'Brien for their help and guidance.

7 Volume 1, Issue 1 Page 7 15A Update The season to date has been a bit of a mixed bag for the U15 footballers. Victories in the league over Sylvesters, St Vincent's and Ballinteer have been offset by defeats to Ballyboden and Cuala. Our last game in the league saw us fight back from 7 points down with 8 minutes to go against Sylvesters to earn a draw. This means we sit just behind Ballyboden and Cuala in the league with home matches against both of them to come. We have played to a high standard all season long and when we move the ball quickly we are a match for any team in the county. We made the trip to Fermoy, Co. Cork for a tournament over Easter and were beaten by a point in the final by Glenville. Along the way we had victories over Austin Stacks, Listowel Emmets and Kerins O Rahillys. We played some very good football on this trip and it was a great opportunity for the boys to play against teams from the south of the country. Thanks to all the parents who made the journey to Cork for what was a very enjoyable weekend. We have settled into our new training slot of 6pm in Silver Park on a Wednesday night. Attendance at these sessions has been good and the boys seem to be enjoying themselves which is always a positive sign. We have a number of league matches coming up in the month of May and it is important that we maintain our push for league honours. Some of these games will be played midweek but fortunately for us they will be played in Silver Park which makes it much easier from a logistics perspective. Our last league game before the summer break is scheduled for June 29th. We will then have a break from matches until we play St Vincent's on August 22nd. The U15 Championship is scheduled to start on September 5th and we will be making a big push to ensure we are fit and well on that date. We have just finished hosting the Feile in Silver Park for the U14 footballers. A lot of hard work went into ensuring the weekend went off smoothly and it was great to see all our parents putting in the time and effort to make the weekend such a success. We are all looking forward to the rest of the year on the football front and with the great effort the boys are making, anything is possible... Garrett Robinson, Pat Horgan & Tom Doran U16A Update We would like to take this opportunity to thank Michael McNicholas for all his hard work with this team from the very beginning of their football careers. The team was handed over in very good shape having won the League and Championship in 2009 at U15A. To date this year we have played six league matches and sit proudly on top of the table closely followed by Ballyboden St. Enda s and Na Flanna. There are still eight league matches to play so a lot done but more to do to secure the league title in In the championship we beat Thomas Davis in round one and St. Vincent s in round two. Our next match is a semi-final away to Ballyboden and as ever we are expecting a hard match with the result usually decided by a very narrow margin. The team has prepared very well with several challenge matches and excellent turn out at all training sessions. Some of the B players have trained and played some league matches with us this year. This is improving the development of the squad as we look towards minor football next year where it is important that every player gets his chance to improve and develop as a footballer for Kilmacud Crokes in the future. We would like to thank the under 16B management team it is important for their cooperation in fa- that every player gets his cilitating the movement of chance to players between improve and panels. The develop panel of players have developed their skills even further as footballers and we look forward to continuing this over the remainder of the season and hopefully along the way win some silverware. As ever we appreciate and thank the parents for their continued support. Tommy Lyons, Brendan Linehan & Pat Cunningham

8 Page 8 Juvenile Football News U14B Feile Report Sport is wonderful but can be very cruel. An epic journey and a great Feile day eventually were halted by the width of a post. A final berth was denied but the success of this enterprise was never going to be judged by a cup or medals. More important was the fun the players had in what turned out to be a very exciting run. Of great satisfaction also was the quality of football we played, the bravery we displayed and the sporting and gracious manner with which we took victory and defeat. Thankfully we never resorted to negative tactics or the overweening "Win at all costs" mentality so prevalent these days. The injured Tadhg Murphy had to be held back from activity. Ronan Kennedy said that "he couldn't wait!" Over the past four months we have endured a torrid time. In fairness never did morale drop and our players - sometimes thirty plusdutifully turned up for training come hail, rain or high water. Much more important than winning is the participation of all and being fair to everyone as far as possible. The run-in was lifted by a marvellous performance against Naomh Olafs two weeks before the Feile pageant. We ran up three goals and fifteen points against a team who went on to win the Feile division above us. Tadhg Murphy served notice of serious football intent with eight points and Ronan Kennedy rowed in with two goals and three points! As somebody said that was the day we became a team. Club coach Paraic McDonald twice came in to assist us and gave a lift with some sensible advice and training methods. Most of all it was the players themselves who suddenly switched on. A great team meeting in the boardroom in Glenalbyn prior to travelling to Sandyford concentrated minds - we started to believe. A rain-drenched training session on the Sunday evening before the Feile event saw the players sharp and eager for the fray. The downpour did not deter and they were disappointed when we called time - veteran senior referee John Fagan, father of panel member Jack, pulled the plug having been soaked to the skin. The last session was on Wednesday when no fewer than thirty four players attended including those on the injury list. Dan Coakley was in hospital under observation for possible concussion. The atmosphere was first class and boded (sorry!) well for the big day out. Excitement was mounting. The injured Tadhg Murphy had to be held back from activity. Ronan Kennedy said that "he couldn't wait!" Mayday and an early start at Glenalbyn. The forces gathered kitted out in their wonderful Feile gear. Nerves and excitement bustled in the morning air. People were busy. Tadhg Murphy had his suspect ankle strapped by Jane Culligan, former physio to the Irish International Hockey team - no expense was being spared! Late fitness tests were done on Stephen O'Hurley and Matthew Redmond on the home pitch. Footballs were kicked around and thoughts wandered to points to be scored and blocks to be made later in the day. Understandably there was anxiety as to whether players would, or would not, be on the panel for the day. This was the biggest concern of the management and overshadowed the preceding weeks. Tears were shed by a few players and their parents privately for them when the final squad was announced. The cavalcade reached Malahide in good time. This quiet north Dublin village was having its Saturday morning sleep-in as we slipped by un-noticed and climbed the hill to the St Sylvester's club's home pitches. Before sending them out we paused for a moment to remember our friend Robert Shaw and we sang Happy Birthday to Mayday child Robert Cahill. An important message emphasised was to respect the underlying values of Feile and to play hard but fair. Of course they should play to win but with style and express their true abilities and above all - HAVE FUN!

9 Volume 1, Issue 1 Page 9 U14B Feile Contd... First up were St Sylvesters themselves. We played with conviction and cohesion after being rocked by the concession of a soft early goal and notched some fine goals and points by Tadhg Murphy (1-6), Paul Comerford (2-1), and Ronan Kennedy (1-4) after slick moves. The move of the game saw a sublime diagonal ball from Paul Comerford taken well by Robert Cahill whose instant transfer found Shane Vallom coming at pace to slam left-footed past the helpless keeper. This particular move paid off several times later. We were looking good! All over the pitch we were winning personal duels and although down by 3-1 to 1-6 at the break we were confident of winning. New goalkeeper Cathal Keane was settling in well, coolness personified, and placing his kick outs thoughtfully. Hard to believe it was his first full game for us! A Hail to our teaktough full-back line - John McDonald covered and battled from the left-corner back station. Matthew Redmond and vice-captain Jack Farrelly quickly came to grips with tricky opponents. Eoin Ryan was in commanding form at centre halfback flanked by very competent lieutenants team-captain Barney Sultan and Fintan Jordan. Liam Lundon took up great attacking positions not always seen. In the second half Des Dagg continued his powerful running display at midfield to drive us on to a relatively e a s y t e n p o i n t w i n. The second game allowed us to The second game allowed us to re-jig re-jig the the forces and forces and ensure all ensure all players players got got a decent run. a decent run. Gavin McDermott led the way with a personal tally of two goals and three points. Tadhg Murphy landed a powerful goal and a clatter of points to boot. Daniel Coakley in defence really found his feet in this game - all aches and pains of the week now forgotten. The ever improving Sean Ryan at corner-back showed great anticipation and probably deserved more time on the pitch. Cultured half-back Stephen O' Hurley launched many scoring moves. B r i a n F u r e y c a p p e d a n all-running display with a fine goal. Syed Rizvi thundered in for the ball all over the place. Pacey forwards Kevin Culligan, Shane Freely and Andrew Wade ran rings around the James Gaels defence. Kevin coolly landed a free after being fouled after a mazy run. In the end the five goal margin did not flatter us. Two wins on the trot - smiles all round. Before we knew it we had qualified for the semi final! Panel: Craig Lawlor, Paul Comerford, Dan Coakley, Kevin Culligan, Robert Cahill, Des Dagg, Jaz Keane, Colm Egan, John Egan, Jack Fagan, Cathal Keane, Jack Farrelly, Shane Freely, Brian Furey, Ruairi Geraghty, Luke Hayden, Ronan Kennedy, Andrew Liffey, Liam Lundon, Peter Malone, Gavin McDermott, Pete Moloney, Tadhg Murphy, Stephen O'Hurley, Michael Raftery, Matt Redmond, Eoin Ryan, Colin Smyth, Barney Sultan, Shane Vallom, Syed Rizvi, Andrew Wade, Fintan Jordan, John McDonald, Sean Ryan.

10 Page 10 Juvenile Football News U14B Feile Contd... Old enemies Ballyboden faced us next. Our last outing against them waspainful but our second half display that day had been brilliant. Our opposition started sharply and put us under pressure as is their wont. Two early goals might have unhinged us previously but w e weathered Two early goals might have t h e unhinged us previously but we storm and weathered the got down to storm and got down to b u s i n e s s. business. Some outs t a n d i n g m e m o r i e s include Cathal Keane's amazing save in the second-half. A scamper across goal and a dive low with outstretched left hand - Gordon Banks, eat you heart out! Well worth the appearance fee! Barney Sultan twice in quick succession getting the better of an opponent who tried a pass soccer-style but each time he read and blocked the attempt. The heroism of Jack Farrelly at full-back who took some hard hits against a tough opponent. When the going gets tough the tough get going... Des Dagg's enormous capacity for hard work so important to the team. As ever Eoin Ryan's pace and intelligence at centre-back shone through and inspired the fight-back. Shane Vallom won a ball down the left-hand side and with a delightful hooked kick landed the ball perfectly in Robert Cahill's path who recorded another left-footed point. The Shane Vallom... with a delightful hooked kick landed the ball perfectly in Robert Cahill's path birthday boy was having a good day and he set Ronan Kennedy up for a goal minutes later. While Boden won this encounter, we had held something in reserve and had drastically reduced the margin b e t w e e n u s a n d t h e m. Finishing second in the group meant we had to journey to St Marks in Tallaght. The trip was longer and more stressful than we anticipated. Even mentors found it hard going. We had too little time to re-group - thankfully Paraic McDonald was on hand to prepare us and to remind the lads to be as brave as the A team had been when recovering from an almost impossible situation in their own group that morning. Nevertheless we found ourselves two goals and a point down in no time at all. Such is the resilience in the team that within a further five minutes we were level thanks to two superb goals from Gavin McDermott. The first goal was a real poacher's effort, a neat palm to the net and the next a smart turn and blast home. Game on...! Ronan Kennedy was working his socks off even after being unmercifully hacked repeatedly early on. Cathal Keane's kick outs were accurate and he began to boss his defenders. There ensued an exciting contest which moved end-to-end all the way with the lead changing hands on several occasions. Just when we thought we were taking charge an unlucky goal or point went against us. Affairs were level at the break. Fatigue was taking hold - perhaps in retrospect we should have held more in reserve in game three? Shane Vallom scored another valuable goal to keep us in it early in the second half. Then another moment to lift the team. A remarkable chase back by Dan Coakley saw him put his man off his shot - as vital as scoring! The umpire, Kevin Coakley, Dan's father roared his approval Well Done, Dan Coakley!" - he was rightly proud as it was a massive piece of defending. Matthew Redmond although hampered by injury continued to throw himself in harm's way to secure possession. Brian Furey was true to his name with a high-energy performance. Sean Ryan cleared up well when introduced late on. A cameo by Liam Lundon provided an assist almost immediately for our late goal. Three minutes left and another of our attacks seemed to falter but up popped Ronan Kennedy to stab home a goal. Hope renewed! Up stepped centre-back Eoin Ryan, Within a further five minutes we were level thanks to two superb goals from Gavin McDermott our player of the tournament, to send over the equaliser from thirty five yards - a lovely curling kick. Draw game. Our large supporting contingent gave great encouragement and mentally chased every ball. Parents, grand-parents, brothers and sisters upped the volume. So having fought our way back from a four point deficit with three minutes left on the clock, we laid siege to the St Marks goal. Two successive attempts narrowly failed to find the target - Tadhg Murphy and Fintan Jordan desperately unlucky not to enter the Kilmacud Hall of Fame! But they are heroes

11 Volume 1, Issue 1 Page 11 U14B Feile Contd... anyway, of course. We were undone by a last gasp breakaway which secured the winning point for the opposition off the post. So near and yet so far! A very disappointing conclusion but what a memorable day! More tears were shed - they had given it everything - what more could you ask for? Each player in his own unique way had brought something to the party and will have great memories to draw on for future games. The St Mark's manager commented that we are some second team - and so we are. St Marks went on to win the cup which tantalises us even further -- Oh, what might have been...? Feile is a great event, a rite of passage as it were. But in terms of overall progression in a sporting sense the under fourteen year is just another part of the overall continuum from the nursery to adulthood. The acquisition, the improvement of skill is more important than winning at this stage. In this peak growing time it is important to keep the focus on that. We can be satisfied that our players are indeed improving and achieving personal bests each year. Of course the day was a fantastic experience but it is important to keep it in perspective. There are so many people to thank. Tony O'Shaughnessy watched all the group games at St Marks for us and gave us the information we needed. Michael Kelly of the Under 15s provided the backup set of jerseys not to mention advice on all matters. Football committee chairman Pat Lambe travelled to both venues to lend support. Great clubmen! All those who travelled who had no direct connection with the team. Thanks to our battery of photographers who took hundreds of snaps, Michael Ryan father of Sean, Dee Keane mother of Jaz and John Fagan father of Jack. Many thanks to Helen Lawlor mother of Craig who was in charge of First Aid. All those who travelled who had no direct connection with the team. Last but not least to a great group of players and their parents and many more. There was a great spirit of "Meitheal" abroad. On Sunday evening both squads gathered in the club with their parents - a unique occasion to celebrate our participation in and the completion of the event. After the food they had great fun on the main pitch - up to God knows what! And then they listened respectfully to the two managers sum up. They had played to the limit of their abilities in a fair and sporting manner and represented their club with pride and distinction as we had predicted. It was perhaps best summed up by Dermot Furey, father of Brian. All are winners, look at the day and the fun they have had he said. There they all were in the clubhouse for a brief few moments in time with their friends, the people they are growing up, and play football and hurling with, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Is that not what it is really all about? Creating memories that will last a lifetime. Is that not what it is really all about? Make sure to visit the juvenile website for all the photos from the weekend! Matt Cahill, Michael Culligan & Carl Farrelly TJs Teasers 1. How many football All Ireland Under 21s have Dublin won? 2. When did Louth last win Sam? 3. Who is Dublin s senior Football Captain This year? 4. Who won the All Ireland Club Titles in March 2010? 5. Who captained Tyrone to all Ireland success in 2008? 6. When did a Leinster county last contest the All Ireland Football Final? 7. Who is the manager of Carlow Senior Football team? 8. Who won the Dublin Division 1 Feile in 2010 (don't say it wasn t easy!)? 9.Which is the only county to not have won a Leinster Senior Football title? 10. Which is the only county to not have won an Ulster Senior Football title? (Answers at the bottom of page 13) TJ Maher

12 Page 12 Juvenile Football News Coaching Update Summer Coaching - Silverpark Supervised Games & Coaching available during the month of July (starting 5 th July for 4 weeks) for boys & girls aged 6 to 14. Only open to paid up members of Kilmacud Crokes Juvenile Teams. Football: Hurling: 11am to 1pm 1pm to 3pm Glenalbyn Summer Camp Glenalbyn Summer Camp is a multi sports camp open to members & non members of Kilmacud Crokes and Kilmacud Glenalbyn the (ages 5-14, boys & girls). Activities include Gaelic Football & Hurling, Swimming, Tennis, Volleyball, Rounder s, Olympic Handball, Basketball, Children s Olympics, Talent Show, Fancy Dress, Fun & Games, Treasure Hunt and Wet Weather Activities. The camps run from Monday 5 th July (10am to 3pm daily) for 6 weeks until Friday 13 th August. Prices have been greatly reduced for 2010 including reductions for 2 or more children, multiple weeks and a 10% reduction for members of Kilmacud Crokes & Kilmacud Glenalbyn. 80 per child Reductions for 2 or more children st child, 70 for 2nd child, 60 for 3rd/4th child Further reductions for booking in for 2 weeks - 75 per wk 1st child, 65 per wk for 2nd child, 55 per wk for 3rd /4th child Further reductions for 3 or more weeks - 70 per wk for 1st child, 60 per wk for 2nd child, 50 per wk for 3rd /4th child Bank Holiday week (Wk 5) - 65/ 55/ 45, if part of 2 weeks 60/ 50/ 40 10% discount on overall cost for club members VHI Cúl Camps Kilmacud Crokes are delighted to once again host 2 weeks of VHI Cúl Camps in August. The 1 st week is the Football & Ladies Football Camp and the 2 nd week is the Hurling & Camogie Camp. Open to members and nonmembers alike. Camps run Monday to Friday, 10am to 2.30pm VHI Football Camp Monday 16 th August to Friday 20 th August VHI Hurling Camp - Monday 23 rd August to Friday 27 th August 70 per child for 1 week, 65 each for 2 or more children Family Package (2 or more) 65 per child per week Each participant receives the full camp kit (jersey, socks, shorts, and bag) Check out: Players never stop learning and developing. The more effort you put in, the more you get out of it. Coaching Jobs for the Summer Application forms are now available for club members who wish to apply for a coaching job on any of the Summer Events. Coaches must be aged 16 or over on the 1st day of the camp. Note: Coaches must be paid up members or playing members of Kilmacud Crokes GAA Club or Kilmacud Glenalbyn Sports Club. Due to expected demand a coaching qualification and/or coaching experience and/or evidence of voluntary coaching/work in the club may also be needed. Forms are available from the front office or by from crokescoaching@gmail.com Mini All Irelands The dates for the upcoming Mini All Irelands are as follows (Prices greatly reduced for 2010) Week 1: Ladies Football & Camogie, Monday 31 st May to Thursday 3rd June Week 2: Hurling, Monday 7 th June to Friday 11 th June Week 3: Football, Monday 14 th June to Friday 18 th June U6, U7, U8 & U9 competitions Monday, Wednesday & Friday nights. U10, U11 & U12 competitions Tuesday, Thursday & Friday nights. For further information on any of the events listed please contact Paraic McDonald at

13 Volume 1, Issue 1 Page 13 Minor A Update Both groups making up this years Minor A team were in Division 2 at Under 16, so competing at premier level at Minor was going to be a tall order. We began against Na Fianna one of the favourites this year and were unlucky not to come away with a result. A draw at home against Sylvester s was followed by a disappointing defeat away to Ballyboden. Confidence was restored by a convincing win over Cuchulainn and this part of the year finished with a wonderful win away against Castleknock, again one of the favourites. We recommence after the Leaving Certificate and victory in our last 2 games amazingly could see us in the semi final. We haven t had access to the Under 16s until after their championship. We have a few others to return and all in all we hope to be competitive in the championship come September. Victory in our last two matches amazingly could see us in the semi final Pat Duggan & Martin McDermott Minor B Update The Minor B team have a 100% record after 4 games in the League. They have recorded easy wins over Raheny and St Judes and had tougher games against Ballyboden and St Vincents. With three games remaining in the league stages we are in a strong position to make the play-offs with this committed group of players. The team is gelling well together and we are looking forward to a strong second half to the league season and further ahead to the championship. John Shovlin, Ian Byrne, Rory Ward & Damien Kenny Minor C Update At the start of the season we were unsure if we would have enough players for a team. Feverish texting and contacting of players past and present gave us confidence that there was indeed enough for a squad. It was getting them out of bed on a Sunday morning that proved to be the issue for some who we will not mention! To a large degree the team is made up of last year s under 16B (1993s) team blended with an influx of talent and experience from the 1992 age group. We started the league with a great match against Cuala at the end of March. We needed a number of the under 16s to complete the team that day. The lads played really well and it was a great match to start the campaign. In the end Crokes won by 3-12 to Next up was Thomas Davis and we struggled to field a team on the day. In fairness, Davis were the same way. We played below par and lost 2-5 to 5-8. Next up was St. Damians who blew our socks off with a superb performance worthy of a Div 3 team. The score line is best kept to ourselves it could only get better from that low point. We played Ballyfermot DLS most recently and we played really well. It was good to have a squad of 19 minor players for the first time. The lads led from the start and we never fell behind. We won by 3 points. It is great to see the team develop over the last few months and we look forward to finishing the league and start our championship in September. We would like to especially thank John Ryall of the under 16B management team who has graciously provided players as they were required and thanks to those under 16s who played with us. Garrett Robinson, Ken Kelly & Sean O Keefe Answers to TJs Teasers: 1. Two David Henry 4. St Galls & Ballyhale Shamrocks 5. Brian Dooher Meath 7. Luke Dempsey 8. Na Fianna 9. Wicklow 10. Fermanagh

14 What is the Under13-18 Football Committee? This is a committee of the football section that co-ordinates the activities of the Managers and Mentors of all football teams between the ages of 13 and 18 (Minor). There are 11 teams and over 250 boys playing football at theses ages in the club. The committee meets about once a month. Officers: Michael Mc Nicholas Chairman Brendan Linehan Secretary Tommy Lyons - Vice Chairman Michael Kelly - Dublin County Board Representative Des Molyneaux - Communications The main purpose of the committee is to ensure all Managers are set up with training slots and proper training gear at the start of the season, create a forum for more experienced Managers to share experience with newer Managers and Mentors and help set up initiatives that improve the development of the boys and the standard of football played by Kilmacud Crokes. Some of the key initiatives the Committee is involved in during 2010 are: Communications and the Use of the Website Des Molyneaux is doing a great job as our Communications Officer and he keeps the website up to date and active. This year we started a match report system whereby a parent or mentor from each team compiles a brief summary following each match and this report is put up on the Juvenile Football website. This has proved to be a great success and the players regularly log-in to the website after the weekend matches to review these reports. Des is also the main driver behind this Ezine, which is designed to keep parents more up to date and involved with what is going on in the Club. Strength and Conditioning Paraic Mc Donald and John Costello are developing a simple Strength & Conditioning Programme that we hope to roll out this year. It will start with some simple activities at U13 and build up in terms of the programme detail from U14 through to Minor. Video Analysis of Teams We are hoping to get each team to carry out analysis of one of their matches using a software package that we have in the Club. This software is used to analyse different elements of the game (e.g. kick outs, high catches, turn-overs, etc.) and the great benefit is that players will see themselves in action and will learn so much more from the video analysis than they would otherwise. It takes a lot of effort to set up this analysis but we hope the teams will find the time to do it during the year. Brendan Linehan Secretary