Linda Kenny P.R.O – 087 6316137
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16/12/14 AGM
The Annual General Meeting of Burren Rangers Juvenile Club was held on Monday night at Ballon Community Hall. A good attendance reviewed a successful year for the club with a number of victories on the playing fields in all codes boys football, girls football, camogie and hurling.
Club President Very Rev Brendan Howard addressed the meeting and thanked the club for the excellent work it is doing promoting gaelic games in the parish for some many young people. He wished the juvenile club along with the new adult hurling club well for the year ahead. Outgoing chairman Mick Kinsella welcomed everyone to the meeting and thanked all players, parents and coaches for their commitment to the club during the year. He congratulated all teams on their performances during the year. He complimented all officers who worked diligently during the year and noted 2015 would be a busy year with the club expected to host teams for Féile Peil na nOg. Outgoing secretary Padraig Holden gave a comprehensive report on club activities during the year while Adrian Ryan, Treasurer gave a detailed financial statement showing the finances in a good position with more emphasis needed on fundraising in the year ahead.
Officers Elected:
Presidents: Very Rev Brendan Howard and Very Rev Edward Whelan
Vice Presidents: Tom Kealy, Marian Doyle, Pat Doyle, John Kelly.
Chairperson: Padraig Holden
Vice Chairperson: Matt English Hayden
Secretary: to be appointed
Assistant Secretary: Martin Doyle
Treasurer: Adrian Ryan
Assistant Treasurer: Darren Moore
PRO: Linda Kenny
Children’s Officer and ASAP Officer: to be appointed.
Coiste Delegate: Padraig Holden.
2/12/14 – Presentation Night by Linda Kenny
Club Person of the year James Connolly with vice president Matt English Hayden
Close to 250 players, parents and invited guests attended the Burren Rangers Juvenile Club Presentation on Sunday evening last at Ballon Hall. The sense of pride and unity that prevailed in the hall speaks volumes for the work of so many from committee to coaches, to players and parents.
Invited guests included Very Rev Fr Brendan Howard, Very Rev Fr Edward Whelan, Liam Foley Carlow Camogie Board Chairman, Michael OBrien, Coiste na nOg, Kathleen Mullins, Chairperson Carlow Ladies Football Board, Ronan Dempsey, Operations Manager Carlow GAA, Eoin Doyle, Mount Leinster Rangers Hurler. Vice Chairperson Matt English Hayden welcomed everyone to the event before MC Adrian Ryan proceeded with the presentations.
Each player from Under 6 to Under 18 were presented with certificates and medals for their achievements and accomplishments with the club in 2014. County Championship medals were presented to the Under 18 girls football, Under 16 boys and girls football teams along with the Under 14 hurling and girls football team. Mini League and Blitz medals were also presented to members of Under 12 hurling, Under 12 and Under 10 camogie teams as well as Under 9 and Under 11 Blitz medals for girls football.
One the highlights of the evening was the presentation of Team Player of the Year Awards. Players were chosen by the team coaches in each age group. The winners were U14 Hurling Lorcan Moore, U16 Hurling Darragh Quinn, U14 Football – DJ Sinnott, Donnacha Murphy, U16 Football (Boys) Ryan Hollick, Minor Darragh Bermingham U14 Football Girls Aoife McGrath, Under 16 Football Girls Orlagh Hickey, Under 18 Football Girls Ysobel Castle, Under 14 Camogie Joint Winners Sarah Cummins, Grace Donald, U16 Camogie – Orla Kenny and club person of the year to James Connolly.
County players from the club who achieved All Ireland success in hurling and camogie were presented with awards from Matt English Hayden. These players were Holly Barrett, Grace Donald, Rebecca Kelly, Aine Kennedy, Orla Kenny, Darragh Betts Allen, Eoin Cleary, Moling English Hayden, Billy Molloy, Stephen Medcalfe, Lochlann McGagh, Cathal Murray.
The club would like to thank all officers, coaches and parents who contributed so much in ensuring the presentations ran efficiently. Thanks also to Michael Martin for ensuring the evening was captured with photographs and to Angela Bermingham and Jo Kennedy for providing refreshments for guests.
Invalid Displayed Gallery
2/11/14
Burren Rangers U14 County Hurling Representatives. Medal winners in Down Tournament in August.
Which picture for the Calender?
Loughlan McGagh, Darragh Betts Allen, Cathal Muray, Stephen Metcalfe, Billy Milloy, Moling English-Haydn, Eoghan Cleary
Thanks to Ballykealey Manor Hotel for the photoshoot
27/10/14
Congratulations to the Under 16 Boys Football Team who won the Coiste na nOg Under 16 Division 2 Championship at Dr. Cullen Park on Saturday defeating Tinryland by 4:4 to 0:9. Adam Feeney won the player of the match after an outstanding performance with Conor Moore scoring a hat trick of goals. The defence were rock solid all through. The team was coached very well all season by Adrian Ryan, Padraig Holden and Darren Moore. In recent weeks the team were treated to a number of guest coaching sessions from Darragh Foley, Carlow and Kilbride Football with a recent visit from the one and only Alan Kelly from Ballon GFC who has turned many a game for his club.
Jack Ryan, John Cummins, Joseph Holden, Barry Ryan, Shane Ryan, Jack McDonald, Jim Nolan, Mikie Slattery, Conor Moore, Adam Feeney, Ryan Hollick, Darragh Quinn, Ryan Clarke, Doran Traylor, Evan Fitzsimons, Cormac Ryan, Rory O’Connor, Keelan O’Byrne,
Well done to the Fighting Cocks GFC on winning the Senior Football League Division 2 title on Saturday.
Best of luck to Ballon GFC in the Leinster Club Junior Football Championship on Sunday
20/10/14
A great day was had by the Burren Rangers Under 12 camogie team who played three games on the wonderful stadium that is Croke Park against Edendork (Tyrone), Athenry (Galway) and Enniskeane (Cork) in the 2014 Caman to Croker on Saturday. Team: Niamh Nolan, Aoibheann Quinn, Michelle Eustace, Leanne Carroll, Emma Ryan, Ciara Byrne, Aibha Kieran, Sophie Kane, Joan Maher, Caoimhe Holden, Abbie Roche, Bronagh Betts Allen, Aoibhe Connolly, Marie O’Neill, Orla Deacon. Thanks also to mentors James Connolly, Patrick Roche and Dave Betts Allen who have done a wonderful job with this group of girls all year. Well done to Orla Kenny on her refereeing skills and help with this team and Under 10s all year. Thanks also to the Under 14s and Under 16s who travelled to support the girls and who also played a match against Na Fianna. Thanks to Caroline Kelly and Catherine Kealy for their help with this group of girls. Thanks to all the parents who travelled to support the team and ensuring they were so well togged out in new skorts etc. Many thanks also to Terry and Gayle Kane, Kane’s Gala Carlow for their sponsorship.
Congratulations to the Carlow Under 14 Hurling Development Squad who were presented with All Ireland Under 14 Shield Medals won in Down earlier in the summer at the county hurling final on Sunday. The following young hurlers from Burren Rangers were members of the panel – Moling English Hayden, Lochlann McGagh, Eoin Cleary, Darragh Betts Allen, Cathal Murray, Billy Molloy, Stephen Medcalf and Bernard McDonagh.
Hard luck to the Ballon National School Boys Football team who lost the Cumann na mBunscoil Division 1final on Saturday after a gallant performance.
And finally congratulations to Ballon GFC on winning the Junior A Championship Final on Saturday. Their victory will see all three adult teams support clubs Ballon, Fighting Cocks and Kilbride compete in the Intermediate grade next year.
13/10/14
Burren Rangers U12 Tullow Tournament Report
Burren Rangers succeeded in winning the Tullow U12 O’Rourke Tournament for the first time last month. The U12 Panel produced fine team performances in hard-fought matches against strong opposition in Rathvilly and Tullow.
Match 1 Burren Rangers Vs Rathvilly
This was a very exiting match with a late point by Rathvilly securing a draw. As the score would suggest this was an evenly matched contest with great commitment and skill shown by both sides. Standout features of the game included a fine display of long range point scoring by Stephen Carroll (who ended up with 4 points). Conor Duffy broke through the Rathvilly defence to score a fine goal in the second half, and there were also points scored by Daragh o’Donohoe and Conor Duffy. For Burren Rangers there were outstanding displays from Adam Deacon, Cian Byrne, Lorcan Doyle, Corey Kelliher and Dylan Brennan.
Match 2 Burren Rangers Vs Tullow
The Final match saw Burren Rangers produce some of the best football they played all year against a very strong Tullow outfit. Burren Rangers led the way from the very start directed by a man of the match performance by Daragh o’Donohoe. Goals by Daragh O’Donohoe and Cormac Kinsella, along with points by Fionn McCaffrey and Daragh O’Donohoe pushed the team into a commanding lead at half-time. However a great fight-back by Tullow resulted in the teams drawing level midway into the 2nd half. Burren Rangers made a late surge with points by Cormac Kinsella and Daragh O’Donoghue pushing them ahead. The win and title was secured with a great team goal, expertly finished by Eoghan Murphy following a fine run and pass by Conor Duffy. Jake Somers, Ben Ward, Conor Bolger, Des McDonald and Ciaran Lewis were others that stood out in a strong performance by the entire panel of players.
U12 Division 2 Final Vs Askea
Burren Rangers Division 2 panel secured a great win against Askea in their final match of the year. In a closely fought first half goals by Sam Hogan and Stephen Carroll, along with points by Dylan Townsend and Stephen Carroll pushed them into a narrow half-time lead. A strong second half display included goals by Sam Hogan and a rocket by Ben Goodwin. This was a terrific team performance by all the panel with stand-out performances by Des McDonald, Niall Fitzpatrick, Alan Flynn, Ted Kelly and Dylan Townsend
U12 Division 1 Finals Vs Bagnalstown
Burren Rangers Division 1 team pulled of a well-deserved victory over a strong Bagnalstown outfit in the Division 1 finals in Fenagh. Early goals by Sam Hogan and Cormac Kinsella set the scene, before a strong response came from Bagnalstown. Adam Deacon, Jake Somers and Lorcan Doyle got to grips with a very dangerous Bagnalstown forward line to allow the team to pull away in the second half. Second half goals by Daragh O’Donohoe, Sam Hogan and Ben Ward cemented the win. In a powerful team display there were outstanding performances by Corey Kelliher, Conor Duffy and Cormac Kinsella.
12/10/14
On Saturday evening twenty two dedicated Under 14 and Under 16 camogie players gathered at the Fighting Cocks pitch for the Annual Fr Howard Cup blitz.
Since the formation of camogie in the club a blitz has been held each year among all players for a cup donated by Very Rev Fr Brendan Howard PP Ballon / Rathoe.
This year a very competitive game was played between all girls with coaches Barbara Jordan, Mossie Buckley, Eddie Townsend and Jarlath Bolger encouraging the girls over the hour. This year the cup will be retained by two members of the blue team Sophie Kane and Orla Kenny following two great performances of blocking, hooking and point scoring. For the runners up Emma Lawler and Grace Donald came in for praise from the coaches. Fr Howard was on hand at the end to present the cup who praised all the girls on their commitment to the club over the year and likewise all coaches who are doing a wonderful job promoting camogie in the club.
Very Rev Fr Brendan Howard presented the cup to Orla Kenny and Sophie Kane joint winners.
Photograph of all the participants in Fr Howard Cup
Burren Rangers Under 16s who after a gallant game lost to Naomh Brid
in the Under 16 B Semi Final on Friday evening.
11/10/14 U12 Camogie Girls
Excitement is at fever pitch among fifteen wonderful Under 12 camogie girls from our club as they will be representing their club and county at Caman to Croker next Saturday, October 18th.
Caman to Croker is a national initiative organised by the Camogie Association where club teams at Under 12 level from around the country get the opportunity to play matches in Croke Park. This year is even more special as event will mark the 110th anniversary of the Association.
Burren Rangers were chosen following an report submitted on their activities for Hurl Smart Week earlier in the year. Since then the girls have really trained hard and their improvement all year had been wonderful. The team is coached by James Connolly, Patrick Roche and Dave Betts Allen with assistance from Orla and Linda Kenny.
On Saturday the team will play three games on the wonderful stadium that is Croke Park against Edendork (Tyrone), Athenry (Galway) and Enniskeane (Cork).
Representing the club will be Niamh Nolan, Aoibheann Quinn, Michelle Eustace, Leanne Carroll, Emma Ryan, Ciara Byrne, Aibha Kieran, Sophie Kane, Joan Maher, Caoimhe Holden, Abbie Roche, Bronagh Betts Allen, Aoibhe Connolly, Marie O’Neill, Orla Deacon.
3/10/14
A fantastic team effort saw the Burren Rangers Under 16 girls football team retain their Under 16 A Championship title against Old Leighlin at the Carlow GAA Training Centre, Fenagh on Tuesday evening last on a scoreline of 2:12 to 3:4. The manner of this victory is all the more remarkable as they fought back really well after going three goals behind early in the first half. When leaders were needed Rebecca Kelly, Katie Byrne, Katie Brennan, Orlagh Hickey and Ysobel Castle until injured stood up and drove the team forward time and time again. Likewise Grainne Mullins until she was forced off with a recurring injury did a fantastic job as a sweeper clearing many crucial balls in defence. However it must be emphasised the importance of all the team in securing victory in this wonderful game of football. This result proves they are the best team in the county at this age group over the past two years. It is just reward for an exceptional group of young ladies who continue to be fantastic role models for younger players in the club through their discipline and commitment. Great credit must go to their team mentors Alister Castle (manager/selector), Ger O’Shea (trainer / selector), Bernie Hickey (selector), Caroline Kelly (fitness), Emily Maher, Catherine Kealy (mentors) and Jennifer Brazil (club secretary / administration) who worked diligently with this group of girls.
Team: Karen.Nolan, Casey Walshe, Aimee Kane, Caithlin Maher, Rebecca Kelly, Caithlin Doyle, Aoife McGrath, Katie Byrne 2:4, Orlagh Hickey 0:1, Katie Brennan 0:5, Ysobel Castle 0:2, Megan Brennan, Grainne Mullins 0:1, Aine Kennedy, Eva Kealy, Anna Treacy, Sophie Kane, Clodagh Hutton, Sarah Cummins, Holly Barrett, Aine Holden, Megan Dooley, Maisey Comerford, Eilish Murphy.
29/9/14
36 Girls at Croke Park with their tickets for the women’s finals
Yesterday these girls with their mentors attended Croke Park for the TG4 Ladies All-Ireland junior, intermediate and senior finals. They witnessed the astonishing come back of the Cork team defeating Dublin by just one point in an extraordinary second half.
Random pictures follow by Alister Castle:-
26/9/14 End of season pictures
U 6
U 8
U 8 Hurling and Football
U8
1/7/14
Team Photograph of under 14s girls
28/6/14
BURREN RANGERS NOTES
It was a great week for the girls in the club with three wins in three finals.
Firstly on Monday last our Under 10 team played a titanic game against Carlow Town in the Under 10 Mini League final at Dr. Cullen Park. Great excitement erupted at the final whistle with joint captains Abbie Kane and Aoife Smithers received a memento of their win from Liam Foley, County Camogie Chairperson and Jason Farrell from JF Sports. Many thanks to James Connolly, Kevin Barron, Tom Smithers, Ann Marie Cranny and Orla Kenny for working with this group of girls all year. Panel: Mia Collier, Roisin Connolly, Helena Cranny, Emer Deacon, Khiara Egan, Orlaith Holden, Abbie Kane, Niamh Lalor, Leah Kenny, Saoirse Moore, Edelle Morrissey, Roisin Morrissey,Aoife Smithers, Jenna Goodwin.
On Tuesday night it was the turn of the Under 14 Girls football team when they played Bennekerry / Tinryland in the Under 14 B Football Final at Ballinaboley. After a near flawless performance they ran out convincing winners on a scoreline of 3-20 to 2-7. With a solid defence, an energetic midfield partnership and a very accurate forward division this team has real potential to win many titles over the years. Holly Barrett accepted the trophy as captain on behalf of the team from Kathleen Mullins, County Ladies Football Chairperson. Thanks must be expressed to Donal McGrath, Terry Kane and Ger O’Shea for their excellent coaching with this team. Panel: Jade Whelan, Emma Cummins, Holly Barrett, Katie Kennedy, Sarah Cummins, Clodagh Hutton 0-2, Aine Holden, Aoife McGrath 0-2, Megan Brennan 1-5, Maisy Comerford, Anna Treacy 0-6, Sophie Kane 1-4, Joan Maher, Ashley Shannon, Michaela Flood 0-1, Mia Doogue 1-0, Aoibheann Quinn, Michelle Eustace and Marie O’Neill.
Finally on Thursday evening the Under 12 Camogie team were winners in their Under 12 Mini League final against a gallant Ballinkillen side. The girls saved their best performance on the year for their visit to Dr. Cullen Park and were impressive all through. Ciara Byrne accepted the trophy from Jason Farrell, JF Sports sponsors of the league on behalf of the group. These girls are coached by James Connolly, Patrick Roche and Dave Betts Allen and assisted on the night by Holly Barrett and Orla Kenny. Panel Niamh Nolan, Ciara Byrne, Leanne Carroll, Aoibhne Connolly, Orla Deacon, Michelle Eustace, Caoimhe Holden, Sophie Kane, Aibha Kieran, Joan Maher, Marie O’Neill, Abbie Roche, Bronagh Betts Allen, Emma Ryan, Aoibhinn Quinn.
Thanks also must be expressed to two club secretaries Jennifer Brazil (Football) and Linda Kenny (Camogie) for all their administration work and texts and for ensuring girls were treated with refreshments after their finals.
The Fantastic Under 10s
Under 12 Camogie Mini League Winners 2014
Ciara Byrne Captain accepts cup from Jason Farrell, JF Sports
Two little cute captains Abbie Kane and Aoife Smithers
22/6/14
Team: Lochlann McGagh, Seamus Connolly, David Ward, Andrew Farrell, Padraig Murphy, Donnacha Murphy, Moling English Hayden, Padraic Roche, Billy Molloy, Keelan O’Byrne, Conor Lewis, Joe O’Neill, Cathal Murray, DJ Sinnott, Lorcan Moore, Stephen Metcalfe, Jack Foley, Niall Fogarty, Rowan Deane, Darragh Betts Allen, Ruaidhi Moore, Eoghan Cleary, Bernard McDonagh.
Burren Rangers Under 14 hurlers embarked on the club’s first ever Feile na nGael experience over the past weekend. Twenty four young boys along with their team coaches James Connolly, Matt English Hayden, Micheal McGagh and Patrick Roche prepared very well for their trip with a lot of training sessions and practice matches since word filtered through in April that they had been selected for Feile Ulster 2014 in Division 5.
On Friday the group departed Ballon and Rathoe for their trip North to their host club East Cavan Gaels who over the weekend left no stone unturned in providing wonderful hospitality for all the Burren Rangers players, mentors, club officials and parents.
Burren Rangers first game of the tournament was against the host club East Cavan Gaels which was a thrilling game between two evenly matched sides, the hosts winning by 2-2 to 1-2. Early on Saturday morning Burren Rangers travelled back south to Co. Louth for their group games against St. Fechins (Louth) and Crotta O’Neills (Kerry).
Early goals set St. Fechins up well in the first of these game and they ran out winners on a score line of 4-6 to 0.1. Next up was Crotta O’Neills from Kerry. The boys played some great hurling in this game and held the advantage at half time 1-0 to 0-2. However the Kerry boys came out strong in the second half bagging two goals against the run of play to win.
Burren Rangers now went to the Feile Division 5 Shield Quarter Finals and travelled back North to Monaghan where they faced Eire-Og Corrachoill (Kildare). The feile adventure however ended in the heart of the Monaghan Harps grounds with heart breaking scenes. At full time the teams were level 1-3 each. Extra time resulted with the Carlow side scoring three excellent points to a goal for Eire-Og Currachoill. A shoot out of frees five per club resulted with the Kildare representatives taking the advantage by a point and advancing to the semi finals.
The experience is one that will live in the memory of this squad for many years to come. The team spirit and bond evident over the weekend will stand to this team over the years and they can look forward to the remainder of the Carlow Championship with much confidence.
The boys, their mentors and supporters did the club, parish and county proud always playing the game in a fair and sporting manner as well as been polite and respectful to everyone they encountered over the weekend.
Memories will live forever and this Feile voyage will inspire all in the club to continue to promote hurling as the wonderful game it is and hopefully the club will experience the thrill again in the near future.
18/6/14
Finbarr O’Connor Chairperson Fighting Cocks presents Rowan Deane with his Feile top
Billy Fanning Chairperson Ballon GFC presents DJ Sinnott with his Feile top
Finbarr O’Connor Chairperson Fighting Cocks presents Rowan Deane with his Feile top
The best wishes of the entire club goes to the Under 14 hurling team and their mentors James Connolly, Micheal McGagh, Matt English Hayden and Patrick Roche who embark on the club’s first Feile na nGael experience in Ulster this weekend. The boys will be hosted by East Cavan Gaels, a hurling club that was also formed in 2009. They will play the host club on Friday at 2pm before heading to the Gaelic Grounds, Armagh for a parade and opening ceremony on Friday. On Saturday morning the boys will play St Fechins, Louth and Crotta O’Neills, Kerry in their group games. Many thanks to club secretary Padraig Holden for all his administration work in the lead up to Feile. We wish all the team, mentors and parents travelling a very enjoyable weekend.
Team: Lochlann McGagh, Seamus Connolly, David Ward, Andrew Farrell, Padraig Murphy, Donnacha Murphy, Moling English Hayden, Padraic Roche, Billy Molloy, Keelan O’Byrne, Conor Lewis, Joe O’Neill, Cathal Murray, DJ Sinnott, Lorcan Moore, Stephen Metcalfe, Jack Foley, Niall Fogarty, Rowan Deane, Darragh Betts Allen, Ruaidhi Moore, Eoghan Cleary, Bernard McDonagh.
Michael Kinsella chairperson of Burren Rangers presented Lochlann McGagh with his Feile top.
Picture of the Burren Rangers U14 team and mentors with their new Feile tops presented by the club prior to their trip to Feile na nGael Ulster.
16/6/14
Burren Rangers Juvenile Club hosted a Feile Fundraising Cycle on Sunday, June 15th starting at Ballon GFC Clubhouse at 6pm and travelling in the environs of Ballon village. Cycle helmets are compulsory. Entry is €5 per person or through sponsorship cards. Plenty of pictures here:
7/6/14
The pitch at Ballon GFC was a hive of activity on Thursday night when the Burren Rangers Nursery Under 6 coaching of hurling, camogie and football took place with dedicated coaches.
31/5/14
Burren Rangers will embark on the club’s first “Feile na nGael” hurling experience when the boys Under 14 hurling team will represent Carlow at the National event in Ulster on the weekend of June 20th to 22nd. The following weekend the Under 14 boys football team will compete in a provincial Feile Peil na nOg competition.
A Feile Fundraising Cycle will take place on Sunday, June 15th starting at Ballon GFC Clubhouse at 6pm and travelling in the environs of Ballon village. Cycle helmets are compulsory. Entry is €5 per person or through sponsorship cards
4/5/14
The Burren Rangers Under 18 Minor Ladies Football Team brought home the first ever Minor B Championship title to the club when they defeated St Anne’s, Tullow in the final on Wednesday evening last at Leighlinbridge GAA grounds. This is the first time for a Ladies Minor team to be fielded in the club so winning this final is a great achievement. The team was captained by Sarah Nolan who accepted the trophy from Fran Mullins, Carlow Ladies Football Treasurer. The team was trained by Ger O’Shea, Caroline Kelly, Alister Castle, Bernie Hickey, Emily Maher and Catherine Kealy.
Team: Karen Nolan, Casey Walshe, Caithlin Doyle, Rebecca Kelly, Sarah Nolan, Katie Byrne, Caithlin Maher, Caoimhe Redmond, Niamh Quinlan, Ysobel Castle, Grainne Mullins, Orlagh Hickey, Katie Brennan, Aimee Kane, Aine Kennedy, Coco Doogue, Megan Dooley, Eva Kealy, Ciara Hickey.
24/3/14
History was made twice over the past week when for the first time since hurling and camogie was introduced in the club in 2010 the club fielded in official Under 16 Hurling and Camogie Leagues / Championships.
On Wednesday night the Under 16 Camogie team played Ballinkillen in the Carlow Under 16 Championship and were victorious on a score line of 4-3 to 3-1 after an outstanding team performance. Team: Holly Barrett, Ciara Hickey, Sarah Bermingham, Eva Kealy, Orla Kenny, Emma Lawler, Aine Kennedy 0-1, Caithlin Doyle, Ysobel Castle, Rebecca Kelly 0-1, Casey Walshe 2-0, Aimee Kane 2-1, Anna Treacy.
On Sunday the Under 16 Hurlers travelled to Bahana, St. Mullins for their first competitive Under 16 League Hurling match and after a great second half performance lost by 5-9 to 0-11. Team: Donal English Hayden, John O’Neill, Sam Meaney, Seamus English Hayden, Joe Holden, Nathan Fitzgerald, Mikie Slattery, Jack Ryan, Jim Nolan, Luke Morahan, Richard Butler, Darragh Quinn, Morgan Deane, Jamie Farrell, Kyle Rooney Kane.
Both sides are coached by Jarlath Bolger with Eddie Townsend assisting with the camogie side and Matt English Hayden and Padraig Holden with the hurling side. Well done to all concerned.
The minors footballer received a walk over from Mount Leinster Rangers in the MFL B.
The minors girls football team who are also fielding for the first time in the Ladies Minor Football Championship were defeated by a strong Old Leighlin side.
10/3/14
On 9/3/14 Helen Castle, Pheasant’s Rise B&B, Ballon presented a new set of jerseys to Jarlath Bolger, Chairperson of Burren Rangers Camogie Club for use by Under 14 and Under 16 teams.
The club is indebted to the Castle Family for their donation.
19/12/13
Presentation night in Ballykealey Manor Hotel on 29/11/13
27/6/12
U16 minor Footballers receive their jerseys
Jason Farrell of JF Sports, Fairgreen Shopping Centre, Carlow presents the jerseys with Club chairman John Kelly and trainers. Taken at the playing grounds, 27/6/12
BURREN RANGERS GIRLS WIN FOOTBALL’ B’ TITLE
Following an outstanding team performance Burren Rangers defeated St Annes, Tullow/Grange in the Carlow Ladies Under-12′ B’ final at Dr Cullen Park on Sunday, 17 May. The Burren Rangers girls had a very busy week, defeating Clonmore in the semi-final on Thursday in a torrential downpour. Conditions were much better in Dr. Cullen Park on Sunday morning for the final. Burren Rangers led at the interval by 1-2 to 0-0 with Sarah Cummins scoring a great goal from a free mid-way through the first half. Burren Rangers dominated the second half with further goals from Shauna Maher and Aoife McGrath, with lively forward Anna Tracey chipping in with some excellent points.
This was an outstanding team performance by all seventeen girls who played in the final. Clodagh Hutton accepted the shield on behalf of the team from Mrs. Kathleen Mullins, Chairperson of Carlow Ladies Football Board. The team was coached by Donal McGrath, Mary Flood and Ellen Kennedy. Many thanks to Ladies Football Club Chairperson, Kevin Doyle of Doyson Construction for sponsoring refreshments after the game.
Team: Emma Cummins, Ladine Fisher, Holly Barrett, Aine Holden, Clodagh Hutton, Sarah Cummins, Aoife McGrath, Anna Tracey, Ashley Shannon, Michaela Flood, Aoife Lawler, Shauna Maher, Megan Brennan, Sarah Buckley, Katie Kennedy, Emma Kennedy and Grace Donald.
6/4/12
Burren Rangers Under 14 Girls Football team competed in the Carlow Féile Peil competition on Saturday last at Carlow Hurling Club. The winner of this competition will go ahead to represent Carlow in the All Ireland Féile Peil na nOg in Laois/Offaly in June. Five clubs entered this competition – Bennekerry / Tinryland, Burren Rangers, Mount Leinster Rangers, Old Leighlin and St. Mullins which meant each team had to play four matches of 20 minutes duration. After some outstanding football Burren Rangers, Bennekerry Tinryland and Old Leighlin finished level on the league table with three wins each from four games. This means these three clubs must do it all again to see who wins the right to represent Carlow at the National event. Burren Rangers defeated Bennekerry / Tinryland, St. Mullins and Mount Leinster Rangers and lost by one point to Old Leighlin. All in the club wishes Katie Brennan a speedy recovery following her injury at this blitz. Team: Karen Nolan, Orla Kenny, Aisha Mullins, Megan Dooley, Anna Tracey, Caithlin Doyle, Coco Doogue, Holly Barrett, Caithlin Maher, Rebecca Kelly, Rebecca McDonagh, Katie Brennan, Ysobel Castle, Aimee Kane, Grainne Mullins, Aine Kennedy, Veronica Flood, Ciara Buckley, Sarah Bermingham.
29/11/11
BURREN RANGERS JUVENILE PRESENTATION 2011
Close to 250 players, parents and invited guests attended the Burren Rangers Juvenile Club Presentation on Sunday evening last at Ballon Community Centre. The sense of pride and unity that prevailed in the hall speaks volumes for the work of so many from committee to coaches, to players and parents.
Invited guests included Very Rev Fr Brendan Howard, Very Rev Fr Edward Whelan, Rev Scott, Pat O’Brien (Carlow Camogie Board Chairman), Liam Foley (Coiste na nOg & Youth Officer Carlow County Board), Sean O’Brien (Ireland and Leinster Rugby Star), Eoin Nolan (Ireland Shinty Player and Leinster & Carlow Hurler, Local Carlow Senior Footballers Darragh Foley, Garry & Kieran Nolan, Ballon Footballers Alan Kelly and Frank Fanning, Kilbride Footballer and club coach James Foley & Fighting Cocks Footballer William O’Brien.
Club Chairman Michael Kinsella and Treasurer Micheal McGagh welcomed everyone to the event before MC Adrian Ryan proceeded with the presentations.
Each player from Under 6 to Under 16 were presented with certificates for their achievements and accomplishments with the club in 2011. Medals were presented to the victorious double winning Under 14 hurling and football teams by Eoin Nolan and Sean O’Brien. The Girls U12 football team winners of the U12 Carlow “C” Championship were presented with their medals by Darragh Foley. Special certificates were awarded to the victorious U10 and U12 Camogie teams – winners of their respective leagues. The club’s Under 14 girls football and camogie teams were also presented with runner up medals for their respective championships.
One the highlights of the evening was the presentation of Team Player of the Year Awards. Players were chosen by the team coaches in each age group. The winners were U14 Hurling – Joseph Holden, U14 Football (Boys) – Reece Denieffe, U16 Football (Boys) – Laurence O’Sullivan, U14 Football (Girls) Joint Winners – Katie Brennan & Karen Nolan, U14 Camogie – Ciara Hickey and club person of the year to Linda Kenny.
To end the evening Michael Kinsella represented flowers to the club secretary Aisling McGagh, hurling secretary Annette Holden, girls football secretary Angela Bermingham and camogie secretary Linda Kenny for their outstanding work all year in dealing with all club affairs.
The club would like to thank Conor Morahan for his PA system on the evening, to Kevin Doyle, Alister Castle, Paul Kenny and Michael McGagh for their work in providing a stage and decorating hall. Thanks also to Michael Martin & Padraig Holden for ensuring the evening was captured with photographs and to all the coaches and parents who helped in tidying hall afterwards.
A special word of thanks also to Michael McAssey – a great friend of the club for his donation of drinks and crisps for the kids at the end of the evening.
SPEECH BY MICHAEL KINSELLA – Chairman
SPEECH BY Michéal McGagh – Treasurer
no images were found
20/11/11
Last night a special Mass supporting Burren Rangers Juvenile Club was held in Ballon Church
Representatives from the many teams donned their gear after Mass to pose for this picture.
28/10/11 – Report presented at meeting last night on the Progress and Future Development of Girls Juvenile Football in the Club
BURREN RANGERS JUVENILE LADIES FOOTBALL
“The Fastest Growing Sport in Ireland”
The club caters for girls from U-6 to U-14 at the moment. In total there are more that 100 girls playing ladies football for Burren Rangers. We are looking at having an U-16 team in 2012.
Structure
The club provides learning and development skills at the moment. All coaches are qualified with all have completed the GAA Foundation Coaching Course. Other coaches have completed Level One and others have the Fundamental Level Ladies Football course completed. With this in mind all girls at U-6, U-8, U10, U12 and U14 & U-16 level will have top class coaching available to them.
Currently we are fortunate to have a number of excellent coaches in place but there is still help needed. It would be ideal if some of the senior level Ballon ladies would get involved with coaching in the future. Perhaps we could look into maybe four or five of these ladies helping out on a rotation basis every week with the various teams. A special word of thanks to Angela Bermingham for all her great work through out the year – it wasn’t easy to arrange matches to suit everyone and also for looking after first aid. A big thank you to Selina and Linda for their help giving out jerseys in the dressing rooms.
The Season 2011
The U-6, U-8, U-10 teams trained every Thursday with James, David, Tom, Frances and Eilish. However, no games were provided for this age group by the Carlow Ladies Co. Board or Carlow GAA Development. In 2012 we would hope to get together with a number of other clubs inside and outside the county and organise blitz days every month for those age groups.
Our U-11 team completed in the U-11 blitz run by the Carlow Co Ladies Board. However there was not as many of these blitzes in 2011 as in 2010. When the girls competed in these blitzes they did very well and enjoyed their football. Many thanks to Angela and Frances for looking after this group.
Our U-12 team won the Carlow “C” Championship defeating Eire Og in the final on a score line of 6-7 to 0-1. This group of girls went from strength to strength as the year went on. It is our belief if this championship was to be played again this team would have given the “A” championship a right rattle. Thanks to Kevin as manager, Alister Mark and Paul for their help with this team.
The U-13 girls had an excellent year coming from winning the U-12 “A” Shield in 2010. They topped their group beating Rathvilly, Old Leighlin, Thomastown and Clonmore to qualify for the semi final against Bennekerry / Tinryland. After a tightly fought game Bennekerry / Tinryland won by eight points. If we had taken our chances the result of this game could have been different. Again thanks to Mark as manager, Paul, Kevin and Alister for their assistance.
For the first time ever we fielded a team at U-14 level. Taken into account that the girls were very young we reached the “B” championship final V Clonmore. On the day we lost to a very strong outfit. But we had some very good wins along the way notably against Eire Og and Rathvilly. To Paul as manager, Kevin, Mark and Alister a big thank you.
County
The club was well represented at county level also. At U-14 level Rebecca McDonagh, Grainne Mullins, Anna Molloy, Sarah Nolan and Karen Nolan represented the club. Eight girls represented Carlow at the first Leinster Blitz in May losing the Division 3 final to Kilkenny on free kicks. They were Holly Barrett, Sarah Bermingham, Caithlin Doyle, Nicole Keogh Dowling, Aine Holden, Rebecca Kelly, Orla Kenny, Ysobel Castle and Anna Tracey. In the last county blitz we had five girls representing the club. Carlow won the Division 3 title with wins over Laois, Kildare, Wexford and finally against a strong Meath team in the final. Representing the club were Caithlin Doyle, Nicole Kehoe Dowling, Aine Holden, Rebecca Kelly and Orla Kenny. A number of girls are now training with the Carlow U-13 Development Squad.
Conclusion
As you can see the progress is very good and the under age structure is in a good and healthy place. There is a big stream of girls coming through at the moment so it is vital for the club and the area that plans are put in place for continued and future development. If the right plan is put in place there is no reason why Burren Rangers can not win a Minor Ladies Championship by 2015. With everyone pulling together this can be achieved.
We feel it is very important for the young girls in Ballon / Rathoe to have a future in Ladies Football with what has been achieved over the last two years.
Many thanks to the officers of Burren Rangers – Michael Kinsella Chairman, Aisling McGagh Secretary and Michéal McGagh Treasurer for their support of girls football in the club this past year. A special word of thanks is also due to the camogie committee and coaches for their co-operation in all matters during the years especially in avoiding clashes between camogie and football games.
Thanks also to Ballon GFC, Fighting Cocks GFC and Kilbride GFC for their use of their grounds for games and training.
Finally a big thank you to all parents who supported the club in any way by bringing their daughters to all matches and training and supporting the club fund raisers.
Paul Kenny (Coach)
20/10/11
U 14 Footballers
U 12 Champions
9/10/11
Congratulations to the U-14 hurling team who were awarded the Carlow U-14 Div 2 hurling title on Sunday last at Tinryland GAA grounds. The cup was presented to captain Josh Meaney by Mrs. Marian Dunphy, Vice Chairperson of Coiste na nOg, Ceatharlach. The boys went on to play Naomh Brid afterwards in which they played some excellent hurling. This team should in the future form the nucleus of a minor team who can challenge for county honours. Huge credit must go to their coaches Maurice Buckley and Eddie Townsend for the amount of time and energy they gave all year with this group despite not have many competitive matches in the county. Anywhere a challenge could be found it was and just award was receiving the Div 2 cup on Sunday. Team: Evan Dunphy, Conor Cummins, Dan O’Connor, Jason Kelly, Joseph Holden, Seamus English Hayden, Josh Meaney, Colm Barry, Luke Brennan, Dylan Kirk, Danny O’Neill, Conor Quinn, Glen Pullen, Kyle Rooney Kane, Jim Nolan, Jordan McDonnell, Dylan Gladney, Jack Dunphy, Nathan Fitzgerald, Donal English Hayden, Luke Morahan, Darragh Quinn, Richard Butler, Sam Meaney.
6/10/11
Burren Rangers U10 Kinsella Cup Hurling 2011 (Jarlath Bolger) Burren Rangers pitch was a hive of activity on Sunday 2nd Oct. Burren Rangers Juvenile Club hosted the annual “Kinsella Tournament” which is now in its 3rd year. The local club rotate the event each year with U10 hurling and U10 football. This occasion has grown from strength to strength with no less than 6 clubs participating for the “Liam Mc Carthy Cup” (sorry Kinsella Cup). With 6 teams representing 4 counties this seemed more like a Leinster league than a local blitz. The 6 clubs were Carlow Burren Rangers St Patricks Tullow Carlow Town Hurling Club Wicklow Kiltegan Wexford Craanford Laois Ballypickas
With the rain that fell all day Saturday, all we could do is pray and hope for a dry spell on Sunday afternoon, our prayers were answered. From 1.30pm when the crowds arrived there was a real buzz and a sense of anticipation around. Players waited anxiously, mentors looked about for divine inspiration until 2pm when the referees blew their whistles with a shrill blast. The preparation was over it was down to business – no place for the faint hearted. The piercing sound of the whistle the sweet sound of the clash of the ash the roaring shouting and cheering from parents and coaches all added to the momentous occasion. From the outset Craanford looked to be a step ahead of the posy, popping points over at their ease, off their left and right side. We had never seen so many young children take points from so close in, usually they look for their name in lights by rattling the net but the local adjudicator had the rules and regulations in place : a goal = 1 score and point = 2 scores . With the exception of Craanford, the rest were very evenly matched with all showing great moments of hurling. All 6 teams participated for the cup and depending on their points after the group stages the finals were decided. Kinsella Cup final Craanford V Carlow Town Hurling club (runner up) Kinsella A Shield final Kiltegan V Burren Rangers (runner up) Kinsella B Shield final Ballypickas V St Patricks (runner up) All young hurlers thoroughly enjoyed the day. Not only was there a feast of hurling but also a feast of other kinds –sandwiches, buns, biscuits, crisps and drinks, and for the parents sandwiches tea or coffee (whatever was left following the hungry boys).
Medals were presented to all the budding U10 boys as a memento and as a token of our appreciation for making the day a huge success. Many thanks to all clubs, especially from outside Carlow for travelling on such a wet weekend, also to the referees who allowed free flowing hurling and at the same time kept things from boiling over. Thanks to Ballon GFC for use of the venue and Kilbride GFC for use of Juvenile goals and Fighting Cocks for support in organisation. Thanks to all the parents who catered for our visitors in any way, we appreciate it and to anybody in Burren rangers club who was involved in any way. The all star team of 2011 won’t be quaking in their boots but who knows in years to come some of these juveniles may very well form the backbone of intercounty teams; this is where it all starts “grass roots level”. COUNTY CHAMPIONS Burren Rangers U-12 Girls Football team were the toast of the parish of Ballon / Rathoe on Monday night last when they returned victorious after defeating Eire Og in the Carlow “C” Championship Final. This was an outstanding team performance by the Burren Rangers girls with even neutral supporters commenting on the many skills and team work involved in this fine victory. The final score in the final was Burren Rangers 6.7 Eire Og 0-1. Aine Kennedy was on fire scoring 3-3 but this victory has achieved by a huge panel effort. Nicole Kehoe Dowling, team captain collected the cup on behalf of the panel. Special thanks must go to coaches Kevin Doyle, Paul Kenny, Mark Dowling and Alister Castle, with a special mention for Angela Bermingham who has co-ordinated girls football in the club since its’ formation last year. Scorers: Aine Kennedy 3-3, Anna Tracey 1-1, Nicole Kehoe Dowling 1-1, Ysobel Castle 1-0, Rebecca Kelly 0-2. Panel was Aine Holden, Sarah Cummins, Orla Kenny, Holly Barrett, Caitlin Maher, Megan Brennan, Caithlin Doyle, Rebecca Kelly, Ysobel Castle, Aoife McGrath, Aine Kennedy, Nicole Keogh Dowling, Anna Tracey, Veronica Flood, Danielle Flood, Ciara Buckley, Megan Dooley, Sarah Bermingham, Aoife Lawler, Ladine Fisher.
18/8/11
Burren Rangers Juvenile Club wishes to sincerely thank Jimmy’s Takeaway, Main Street, Ballon for very kindly sponsoring a new set of jerseys for use by the club U-14 and U-16 football and hurling teams. The club are hugely indebted to Jimmy for this sponsorship. These new jerseys have arrived just in time for the county finals in both hurling and football and we hope with them comes the best of good luck for our young players.
Chairman Michael Kinsella receives the jerseys from ‘Jimmy’s’
Please support the Burren Rangers U-14 hurling team in the Coiste na nOg Div 2 Hurling Final V St. Patrick’s, Tullow on Monday evening next, August 22nd in Dr. Cullen Park, Carlow at 7.15 p.m. Best of luck to all involved with this team. Congratulations to the U16 Football Team who have qualified for the final of the Coiste na nOg Div 2 final. They now play neighbours Fenagh in the final. Details of date and time next week.
3/7/11
Burren Rangers hosted Setanta from Carlow on Monday, June 13th for Go Games. The pitch at Ballon GFC was a hive of activity with boys from Under 6 to Under 12 enjoying some really great hurling games. Under 6 hurlers
Under 8 hurlers
Under 10 hurlers
Under 12 hurlers
30/6/11
UNDER 16 FOOTBALL SECURE LEAGUE VICTORY Burren Rangers U-16 Footballers recorded a fine victory over neighbours Fenagh in the Carlow U-16 “B” championship at Ballon on Friday last. The final score was 2-7 to 2-5. The Burren Rangers side played a lovely brand of football right through the game with outstanding goals from Hugh Nolan and a classic from Aaron O’Byrne. Others good performers on the night were goal keeper Colm Barry, full back Dan O’Connor, wing back Sean Dunphy, Hugh Nolan at midfield with Reece Denieffe, Lar O’Sullivan, Hugh Nolan and Aaron O’Byrne in the forwards.
19/5/11
U-14 HURLERS WIN On a great night for Burren Rangers our U-14 hurlers won their first ever competitive match when they defeated St. Patrick’s of Tullow on Tuesday evening. In a great display all 18 players made important contributions. Scorers for Burren Rangers were Danny O’Neill 2-4, Luke Brennan1-4, Kyle Rooney Kane 1-0, Seamus English Hayden 1-0, Glen Pullen 0-2, Josh Meaney 0-1. This was a performance of skill and teamwork. Well done to the boys and their coaches. BOYS U-14 FOOTBALL Burren Rangers secured their first victory in the U-14 Div 2 football with a fine victory over Clonmore on Monday, May 9th. In an overall good team performance scorers were Reece Denniffe 3-6, Luke Brennan 2-2, Jim Nolan 2-1, Rory O’Connor 1-0, John Cummins 1-0, Evan Fitzsimons 1-0, Dylan Gladney -0-6, Aiden Deering 0-1, Thomas Smithers 0-1.
6/5/11
RACE NIGHT DATE CHANGE Due to unforeseen circumstances the Burren Rangers Race Night has been changed to Friday, May 27th in Leinster Hills Golf Club at 8.30 p.m. Parents of all juveniles are asked to return horses to committee members or coaches in the coming week at any training session. Horses cost €10. Please put Friday May 27th in your diary. Great night guaranteed. U-14 FOOTBALL TRAINING U-14 Football Training for boys will now take place each Friday evening in Ballon GFC pitch at 7 pm.
12/3/11 – Charity Bainisteoir
A training session for this event was held today at Ballon GFC. The Bainsteoir is Mairead Wilmot of The Nationalist. no images were found Shown are the players with the Bainisteoir and coaches training for the March 15th contest. Proceeds from this charity function will be divided between Carlow Down Syndrome, Carlow/Kilkenny Homecare and the Hospice.