Club News: May, June & July 2007

UNDER 10 HURLERS

Congratulations to Crotta under 10 hurlers who captured the Donal O'Flaherty Trophy, on Saturday 28th July at Ardfert in the North Kerry u-10 hurling blitz.

Crotta defeated Kilgarvan in the final. More details next week.

JUNIOR HURLERS

The Crotta Junior hurlers were in action at Dromakee on Tuesday July 24th in The Intermediate County Championship.

Crotta O'Neill's 0-9 to Abbeydorney 2-12 Abbeydorney led at half time by 1-5 to 0-4.

Referee: Pat Sheehy of Causeway

KERRY HURLERS

The Kerry under 21 hurlers advanced to the All-Ireland under 21 "B" Hurling Championship Final in Tullamore where they defeated Armagh by1-13 to1-12 in the Semi-Final.

The Crotta hurling club were well represented by. Philip Twomey (Full back), Francis Keane (Wing Forward), Colm Mc Elligott (Conner Forward), Matt Lynch (Sub Played), and Darren Twomey (Sub).

Kerry will now play Roscommon in the All-Ireland Under 21 "B" Hurling Championship Final, Saturday 4th August at 3:45pm at Semple Stadium Thurles.    Extra time if necessary.

Best Of Luck to the Crotta players and Kerry team mates and their mentors!

HURLING FIXTURES

All-Ireland Under 21 "B" Hurling Championship Final Kerry vs. Roscommon, Saturday 4th August at 3:45pm. Venue: Semple Stadium Thurles

.Best Of Luck to the Crotta players and Kerry team mates and their mentors!

Sunday 12th August:   All-Ireland Senior Football Championship Quarter-Final Kerry vs. Monaghan, at 2:00pm Venue: Croke Park

Sunday 12th August: All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship Semi-Final Waterford or Cork vs. Limerick at 4:00pm       Venue: Croke Park

Sunday 12th August:    All-Ireland Minor Hurling Championship Semi-Final Tipperary vs. Kilkenny at 12:15pm       Venue: Croke Park.

CROTTA MINORS play Abbeydorney in the first round of the Kerry County Championship on Friday August 10th. Venue: to be announced.

GRANT FOR CROTTA G.A.A

The North Kerry Hurling Board has awarded grants totalling €5,000 to Crotta, Abbeydorney, Ballyheigue, Lixnaw and Ballyduff clubs for current field development projects.

The Crotta hurling club have built an outside wall enclosing their field at Dromakee, Kilflynn. Crotta GAA Club received a grant of €1000 towards the project.

Crotta Minor Hurlers

The Crotta Minor Hurlers captured the Jimmy King Memorial Trophy on Thursday Evening 19th July, when they defeated a gallant Ballyheigue side, in the North Kerry Minor A Hurling Championship Final played in wet conditions at Austin Stack Park.     CROTTA 1-12. BALLYHEIGUE 1- 7.

Despite the constant rain both teams played some very good open hurling. The Crotta boys were quick off the mark and led 0 - 5 to 0 - 0 after 15 minutes but Ballyheigue came storming back and actually led by a point at the interval. However a goal and a point shortly after the resumption gave Crotta a lead that they were not to relinquish.

Ballyheigue threw everything at the Crotta lads at the end but they held on for a well deserved victory. Their first title at this grade for Forty years.

Shane Nolan pointed from a free and from play before his brother Richard fired over one shortly after. Shane pointed from play after good work by Sean Weir before Jonathon Caffrey made in five points without reply.

Ronan Kenny got Ballyheigue's first score in the 16th minute when he pointed a free. He had a similar score soon after and in the 23rd minute the sides were level when Pa O'Regan punished a Crotta mistake and goaled from close range. Kenny pointed Ballyheigue ahead for the only time in the game two minutes from the break and despite only having about 35 per cent of the play they led 1 - 3 to 0 - 5 at the short whistle.

Crotta's John O'Connor scored a peach of goal within a minute of the restart and Richard Nolan added a point to increase their lead. Ronan Kenny got one back from a free after five minutes. Richard Nolan and Chris O'Mahony swapped points but Crotta hit three without reply to lead 1 -10 to 1 - 5 at the end of the third quarter.

Kenny fired over from a penalty and Jonathon Caffrey was on target at the other end. Kevin Reidy pointed in the 23rd minute but Keith Hannifin had the final say shortly with a fine point.

Ballyheigue tried in vain to get further scores but the Crotta defence held out for a sweet victory on 1-12 to 1-07 at the final whistle.

REFEREE : Paddy White, Na Gaeil.

CROTTA: Aaron Sheehan; Luke Sheehan, Darren Twomey, Paul Linehan; Alan Leen, Paul Costello (Capt.), Sean Weir; Richard Nolan (0 -3), Jonathan Caffrey (0 - 2); David Moloney, Keith Hannifin (0- 1), Padraig O'Leary; Shane Nolan (0 -4), Sean Hurley, John O'Connor (1- 2).    Subs: Brendan Quinlan . Timothy Quinlan . Mossie Mc Elligott . Joseph O'Carroll .

BALLYHEIGUE: Chris James; Sean Casey, Danny Casey, Frank Gentleman; Tommy O'Mahony, Alan Lucid, Mark O'Regan; Kevin Reidy (0 - 1), Chris O'Mahony (0 - 1); Ronan Kenny (0 - 5), Richard O'Mahony Brendan Horgan; Joseph O'Halloran, Sean Colgan, Pa O'Regan (1- 0). Subs; John O'Halloran for Joseph O'Halloran; Tadhg Hartnett for John O'Halloran.

After the game the victorious captain, Paul Costello received the beautiful Jimmy King Memorial trophy from The late Jimmy King's niece Eilish O'Brien (photo above).

It is nice that Jimmy's club, Crotta, will be the first name to be inscribed on this new trophy.

Congratulations and well done to the lads and to their Mentors Brendan Twomey and Paul Shanahan on this fine victory!

In the game after the minor match, Kilmoyley defeated Causeway in North Kerry B Senior Hurling League Final 2007 on the 2-12 to 2-07 final scoreline.

SENIORS

The Crotta Senior hurlers made their exit from the 2007 North Kerry Senior hurling championship at Lixnaw on Saturday evening, July 20th, 2007, when they were defeated by neighbours Abbeydorney on a 0-19 to1-12 final score line.

Crotta went into an early lead with 4 points from Sean Twomey, Colm McElligott, Ian McCarthy and Francis Keane. Abbeydorney got their first score from Brian O'Donovan when Abbeydorney began to play better for the remainder of the first half with scores coming from Ian Maunsell (0-5), Brian Donovan, Damien Ryall, David Doyle, and Kieran O'Connell (0-1) each.

Crotta responded with points from Ian McCarthy, Brendan O'Mahoney, and Sean Twomey (0-1) each.

Half Time Score: Abbeydorney 0-10 Crotta 0-7.

In the second half Abbeydorney stepped up a gear with 3 pointed free from Ian Maunsell, David Doyle (0-1), Kieran Hannafin (0-3) and Brian Donovan (0-1) Tony Maunsell scored a point after a sideline cut from Brian O'Donovan midway through the second half.

Crotta kept battling away with points from Andrew Keane (0-2), Cyril Lynch (0-1), Ian McCarthy and Tom Cronin (0-1) and Crotta's goal came from Sub Matt Lynch in the closing minutes of this match.

Crotta Panel: Jerome O'Sullivan, John P. Quilter, Tom Mc Elligott, Diarmuid McKenna, Tom Cronin, Padraig Cronin, Philip Twomey, Andrew Keane, Cyril Lynch, Ian McCarthy Brendan Mahony, Sean Twomey, Francis Keane, Paul Culhane, and Colm Mc Elligott.

Subs: Jonathan Caffrey for P. Culhane, Matt Lynch for C.Mc Elligott, Pa Quille for D. McKenna, Richard Nolan for F,Keane and Mike Lynch for C. Lynch.

Referee: Paddy White Na Gaeil.

HURLING FIXTURES

The Kerry under 21 hurlers will play Armagh in the All-Ireland Under 21 "B" Hurling Championship Semi-Final on Saturday 28th July, in Tullamore at 3:00pm

Referee: Fergus Smyth (Meath).         Extra time if necessary.

Best Of Luck to the Kerry players and their mentors!

JERSEY PRESENTATION

Mark Hussey (and Son Cillian) of Kingdom Properties recently presented Paul Shannahan, secretary of Crotta O'Neills Hurling Club, with a set of Numbered Jerseys for the Crotta Bord na nOg teams. Many Thanks for your Sponsorship from all the Crotta Club!

NORTH KERRY CHAMPIONSHIP

The draws for North Kerry Senior Championship were made all games are provisionally fixed for Friday July 20th. First named team has home advantage. Draws as Follows: Causeway vs. Kilmoyley Crotta vs. Abbeydorney Lixnaw vs. Ballyduff Ballyheigue vs. St Brendan's

FIXTURES

Crotta Senior Hurlers are action in the North Kerry Senior Championship this Saturday 21st July against Abbeydorney at 5.00 p.m. in Dromakee, Kilflynn.

UNDER 8 HURLERS

Last Wednesday (July 11th) evening we welcomed Ardfert to Dromakee to play us in an under 8 and under 10 match. A very large crowd attended and the under 8 game started with a 7.15pm throw in.

It was agreed before hand that the first half of this match would be played applying ground hurling rules only. The opening half was a tough battle but finished scoreless.

Early in the second half with normal hurling being played Crotta made the breakthrough when Barry Mahony scored a goal with a long range strike. The ability to be able to pick up the ball seemed to suit the Crotta lads and the game opened up. Mahony soon scored his and Crotta's second goal following good work by Aaron Murnane. A third goal again scored by Barry Mahony from a free, after Adam O'Sullivan was fouled when bearing down on goal. In fairness to Ardfert they rallied and found the net themselves. After a number of near misses at both ends Darragh O'Donoghue completed the scoring when firing over a fine point from an acute angle.

Final score Crotta 3-01 Ardfert 1-00.

Sean Holden made his debut keeping up the Leen tradition of wearing the green and red and Dylan Murphy also wore the club colours for the first time. In our previous match against Kilmoyley Declan O'Donoghue and Darragh Clark made their debuts from the club.

T.J Stack of Ardfert refereed the game extremely well.

The following panel of players took part in the match against Ardfert: Adam O'Sullivan, Dominic Nolan, Jack McKenna, John Quilter, Brian O'Connell, Aaron Murnane, Barry Mahony, Darragh Behan, Darragh O'Donoghue, Sean Holden, Dylan Murphy, Declan O'Donoghue, Darragh Clark, and Aodhan McKenna

(Visit the Club's Gallery #23 to See the Photos)

UNDER 10HURLERS

The Under 10's also lined out against Ardfert on Wednesday evening (July 11th). This was an excellent hurling match and finished with the sides level. Jordan Conway who excelled throughout with his best game for Crotta levelled with full time looming. Crotta opened brightly with their defence on top and their forwards creating numerous chances. Two of these chances were taken by Conway using neat stick work. From midway through the first half Ardfert took the initiative and put 2-01 on the board themselves to take the lead. In a game that swings from end to end it was left to the man of the match Jordan Conway to tie the scores at the death. The coaches of both Under 10 teams were happy with the skills level of all players. Barry Mahony made some fine saves and his defence of Brandon Conway, Darragh Ryan, Thomas Quinlan, David Behan and Adrian Mahony all proved more that a match for their respective opponents. Midfield was in and out of the game and though all forwards contributed to the result Jordan Conway took the plaudits for his performance. Brendan Mahony proved to be a capable referee. The following panel took part in the match against Ardfert: Barry Mahony, Brandon Conway, Darragh Ryan, Thomas Quinlan, Adrian Mahony, Darragh Kennelly, David Behan, Raymond Nolan, Sean O'Donoghue, Jordan Conway, Mark Egan, Aoife Behan, Dylan McElligott, Nathan Fahy. The Club would like to thank T.J Stack for refereeing the Under 8 match and to the Under 8 coach of Ardfert Tommy O'Connor for bringing his team to Dromakee. A special word of thanks to Tadg O'Sullivan who coaches Ardfert under 10 for his help in organising both games. It was good to see some of the real die hard Crotta supporters now coming to these games. Thanks to the Crotta ladies who provided refreshments and sandwiches for all.

CROTTA U-10 HURLERS V CAUSEWAY

Our Under 10 team travelled to Causeway last Saturday week to play Causeway who are the best team at this level. Although Causeway proved to be a step up in standard our lads got a good work out and will only benefit from playing at this level.

We would like to express our thanks to Causeway coach Joseph Lyons who looked after us so well providing refreshments for the young lads. The hurling his team played is a credit to him. Thanks to Jerry Canty, Causeway who refereed the match.

*******

If there is any former player, current player or a parent who would like to help Jerome, Paul and Francis on a Wednesday night they would be more than welcome. To improve the skill of each player, more help is needed.

It is for one hour and we know everyone is busy but if the current coaches took this attitude and they are just as busy, there would be no under age hurling. Letâs keep the momentum going and have an outlet for all our children. Pictures of last Wednesday games appear on the website www.crottagaa.com

MINOR HURLERS

The Crotta Minor hurlers had a 2-05 to 1-06 victory over Ardfert in the North Kerry hurling league on Thursday evening 12th July at Ardfert. The Crotta team lined out as Follows: Eoin OâSullivan, Paul Lenihan, Jonathan Caffrey, Luke Sheehan, Alan Leen, Paul Costello, Sean Weir, Richard Nolan, Darren Twomey, Padraig OâLeary, Garry Marshall, Keith Hannifin, Shane Nolan, Aaron Sheehan, and Cian Counihan. Crotta scorers: S. Nolan 1-02, J. Caffrey 1-00, A. Sheehan 0-02 and K. Hannifin 0-01.

VHI CUL CAMPS

Are in full swing this week at Dromakee. An excellent time is being reported by those participating!

KERRY HURLERS

The Kerry Senior hurlers Interest in this yearâs Christy Ring Cup came to end on Saturday evening, 14th July. Westmeath had to dig deep to see of the challenge of Kerry in this clash at Cusack Park as Kerry made the Midlanders work all the way for their victory and more importantly a place in the semi final (1-14 to 1-11).

Kerry led for the majority of the match, but an impressive final quarter saw the home side edge in front and they were not about to relinquish their lead as they ran out winners by three points.

The Crotta hurling club was represented by Matt Lynch on the Kerry panel.

Up-coming HURLING FIXTURES

Kerry is away to Westmeath in the Christy Ring Cup Senior Hurling Group 2A on Saturday 14th July at 3:00pm in Cusack Park Mullingar.     Best of luck lads!

KERRY HURLERS

The Kerry Senior hurlers got their Christy Ring Cup Campaign back on track, at Austin Stack Park, Tralee on Saturday afternoon, with a comfortable ten point victory (2-21 to 2-11) over a bitterly disappointing Down .

Shane Brick's performance was one of the main components of the victory, with a personal tally of 15 points. Kerry's explosive opening to the game that saw them notch 2-4 before Down could issue a response laid the foundations for the impressive success.

Mike Conway and John Egan both managed to find the net during a very productive opening ten minutes for the Kingdom and with Brick then finding his range, there was no way back for the visitors.

Kerry now face Westmeath to decide who will progress to the last four of the competition while Down will face Meath who are almost certainly through to that stage following this result.

Crotta player Matt Lynch was a Sub.

UNDER 8 AND 10 HURLERS:

Last Wednesday Evening (11th July) Ardfert hurling club traveled to Dromakee to play Crotta in Under 8 and Under 10 matchs. A large number of spectators gathered for these two excellent games.

Crotta won the Under 8s game and the Under 10s match was a draw .

Refreshments were provided for both teams, and tea/coffee and sandwiches were available in the club rooms for supporters as well.

Thank You- to all the Crotta Ladies who prepared and served the drinks and food.

(Visit the Club's Gallery #23 to See the Photos)

VHI CUL CAMPS

There will be a Hurling\Camogie V.H.I Cul camp in the local sports field in Dromakee, Kilflynn on July 16th-20th Contact Crotta Coiste na nîg officer for more details.

Price: €55 - per person/ €45 - for second member of family/ €30 - for additional members of same family.

Price for person wishing to take part in 2 camps: €85 - per person/ €70 - for second member of family/ €50 - for additional members of same family.

One set of gear per child - Children will receive a full set of playing gear (jersey, shorts and socks) and a nifty knapsack.

Contact Crotta Coiste na nOg officers for more details.

For updates check: www.gaa.ie or www.vhi.ie

ARDFERT'S CAPTAIN PRIZE

Congratulations to Former Crotta hurler, Jerome McCarthy, Kilflynn who won, The Ardfert Golf club Captains Prize, with a score of 42 points in Ardfert Golf Course on Sunday 8th July.

Up-coming HURLING FIXTURES

All-Ireland Minor "B" Hurling Championship Kerry play Meath at 1:30pm in Austin Stack Park Tralee on Saturday 7th July.     Referee: John Healy (Clare).     Extra time if necessary.

Christy Ring Cup Senior Hurling Group 2A Kerry play Co. Down At 3:00pm on Austin Stack Park Tralee on Saturday 7th July.      Referee: Jason O'Mahony (Limerick)

All-Ireland Under 21 "B" Hurling Championship Semi-Final Kerry vs. Armagh     Venue: TBC      Referee: Rob Cornally (Meath).      Extra time if necessary.

RING OF KERRY CYCLE

The Annual Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle of 112 miles takes place this Saturday July 7th and it is expected that about 20 locals led by their coach Graham Harris, who have been seen in serious training over the past few weeks will be participating in this arduous event.

They are collecting funds for Enable Ireland and the Kerry Branch of Down Syndrome Ireland so we would ask you to contribute generously to these very worthy causes, to any of the cyclists or to the writer of these notes who will pass on same.

Those expected to take part are Graham Harris, Michael Barry, Bobs Barry, Shane McKenna, Kathleen Lynch, Karina Lynn, John Mulvihill, Norma O'Connor, Gemma O'Connor, Helen Kelly-Fuller, Paul Culhane, Christina Caffrey, Patrick Carmody, Michael O'Callaghan, Ann O'Callaghan, Frankie Lynch, Dan McCarthy, Derek Bones and Sarah O'Connell.

We wish them all the best of luck and that the weather improves for the day.

A.I.B. COUNTY SENIOR HURLING CHAMPIONSHIPS DRAW 2007

St Brendan's Vs South Kerry with the winners playing Ballyheigue.   Crotta will play Lixnaw, Causeway Vs Abbeydorney, and title holders Ballyduff will play Kilmoyley.

VHI CUL CAMPS

There will be a Hurling\Camogie V.H.I Cul camp in the local sports field in Dromakee, Kilflynn on July 16th-20th Contact Crotta Coiste na nîg officer for more details.

Price: €55 - per person/ €45 - for second member of family/ €30 - for additional members of same family.

Price for person wishing to take part in 2 camps: €85 - per person/ €70 - for second member of family/ €50 - for additional members of same family.

One set of gear per child - Children will receive a full set of playing gear (jersey, shorts and socks) and a nifty knapsack.

For updates check: www.gaa.ie or www.vhi.ie

GROUND HURLING TOURNAMENT

	The Eighth Annual Eddie Hayes Memorial Under 12 Ground Hurling Tournament, was held on Saturday 30th June in the Sports field Dromakee, Kilflynn. Five teams participated: Laune Rangers, Kenmare, Dingle, Austin Stacks and Crotta. Each team played four games. Dingle coached by Enda Flaherty emerging as winners defeating a gallant Kenmare side trained by Ger Morgan O'Sullivan in the final.
Crotta Coiste na nog Chairman Sonny Egan presented the Eddie Hayes Memorial Cup to a jubilant Dingle captain Colin Sheehy (above photo). All the winning players, Dingle and Runners up Kenmare, received beautiful medals from Mundy Hayes. The Crotta Coiste na nog would like to thank every body who helped with the preparation of the field, the people who refereed the matches and the ladies who did such a magnificent job in catering for all the teams, mentors and the supporters. A Special word of Thanks to the Hayes Family, for the continual sponsorship of medals for the Tournament.

KERRY RESULTS

All-Ireland Christy Ring Cup: Kerry 0-13, Meath 2-17 at Pairc Tailteann Navan on Saturday June 30th Kerry Conner backs were Crotta Players Tom Cronin and Andrew Keane with Matt Lynch on the sub bench Kerry 1-15 Cork 1-13.

Killarney Injury-time points from Kieran Donaghy and Sean O'Sullivan saw Kerry reclaim the Munster Senior Football Championship title on Sunday 1st July, avenging last year's defeat to Cork. The Kingdom pocketed the provincial crown at their Killarney home for the first time since 1986, but they had a good deal of fortune as Cork missed out on a late goal and had a penalty claim turned down. A 31,420-strong Fitzgerald Stadium, Killarney crowd watched Cork take a 0-9 to 0-7 lead into the break after playing with a considerable wind advantage in the first half.

ESB Munster Minor Football Final: Cork 1-16, Kerry 2-08 at Fitzgerald Stadium, Killarney on Sunday July 1st.

CROTTA HURLING RESULTS

The Crotta under 13 hurlers were defeated by Duagh in the North Kerry league on the final score line of 2-03 to 1-04 in Duagh on Tuesday evening last.   Crotta will play Ballyheigue in the next round at home.

On Saturday evening at Dromakee, Crotta under 16s defeated Austin Stack in the County League Div 2.   Crotta will play Duagh away in the next round.

FEILE NA GAEIL SKILLS WINNER

Congratulations to Shane Dunne, Ballyheigue on his outstanding performance at the Feile na nGaeil skills competition at Kilkenny's Nolan Park on Saturday the 16th of June.

Shane finished in second place in the overall competition and won first place in the section for the counties competing in the Christy Ring competition. The result can be attributed in the first place to his own natural ability but also to his dedication and practice. This is a very prestigious result for both Ballyheigue and Kerry hurling.

Mike Parker               

CROTTA HURLING MEETING

There will be a meeting of the Crotta Hurling club, at their Club rooms, Dromakee, Kilflynn at 9.00 p.m. on Thursday 28th June. All welcome to attend.

NATIONAL SCHOOL HURLING BLITZ

Last Wednesday Week June 13th, Kilflynn National School participated in the National Schools Hurling Blitz in Ballyheigue. There is not a trophy for this competition as it is more fun and enjoyment for our children. However, for the second year in a row the boys from 1st and 2nd class hurled superbly and defeated Kilmoyley, Ballyheigue and Abbeydorney schools in their group.

Well done to all concerned. A word of thanks to Maurice Leahy for organising the Blitz.

The games were ten minutes a half and teams were seven a side.

The panel that played on the day were: Adam O'Sullivan, Dylan McElligott, Dominic Nolan, Barry Mahony, Jack McKenna (Dromakee), Mark Egan, Sean O'Donoghue, David Ryan, Aaron Murnane, Darragh Clark, Ryan Ward, Daniel Quirke.

UNDER 10 HURLING BLITZ

Our under 10 hurlers travelled to Causeway last Saturday to take part in the under 10 Blitz for the Eddie Godley Trophy. After an open draw we were grouped with Abbeydorney, Causeway and Ballyheigue.

Our first match was against a very young Abbeydorney team and we beat them.

Next up were the holders Causeway and after an exciting game we conceded two second half goals to loose narrowly. Causeway and Ballyheigue drew with each other which meant if we beat Ballyheigue we would go through to the semi-finals. After a titanic match we did not have the rub of the green as near the end of the game with the teams deadlocked a Ballyheigue shot hit the inside of the post and rebounded across goal and hit our goalkeeper Barry Mahony's leg to cross the line.

Causeway beat Ardfert well in the semi-final and went on to win the final.

The following panel took part: Barry O'Mahony, Darragh Ryan, Darragh Kennelly, Brandon Conway, Darragh Regan, Adrian Mahony, Cathal Kennelly, Raymond Nolan, Donnacha Brosnan, Jordan Conway, Sean O'Donoghue, Adam O'Sullivan, Mark Egan, Bill Keane, David Behan, Aoife Behan, Colin Browne, Dylan McElligott, Thomas Quinlan, Dominic Nolan.

It was very pleasing to see the lads in green and red up there with the 'big guns' who have dominated this grade for the past few years. We are getting there slowly but surely and it will take a supreme effort from all concerned to make the breakthrough. All players played their part and if our forwards clicked on the day we would definitely have been there or thereabouts. Adrian O'Mahony was outstanding in every match we played.

Hurling training for under 8 and under 10 continues at Dromakee every Wednesday evening from 6.45pm to 7.45pm.

VHI CUL CAMPS

Since the 1980s boys and girls have enjoyed playing Gaelic games in summer camps throughout the country. Building on the enormous success of these local initiatives, the GAA, in association with Vhi Healthcare, has taken the concept one step further with the creation of Vhi Cœl Camps. A nationally co-ordinated programme, Vhi Cœl Camps encourages children to learn and develop sporting and life-skills by participating in Gaelic Games, in a fun, non-competitive environment. Irrespective of sporting skills or ability, at Vhi Cœl Camps children are encouraged to:1) Hone their sporting skills through participation in Gaelic games 2)Learn new ideas and meet new people 3) Develop a keen sense of fair-play and personal achievement 4) Stay active and healthy! 5) Have fun!

There will be a Hurling\Camogie V.H.I Cul camp in the local sports field in Dromakee, Kilflynn on July 16th-20th Price: €55 - per person/ €45 - for second member of family/ €30 - for additional members of same family.

Price for person wishing to take part in 2 camps: €85 - per person/ €70 - for second member of family/ €50 - for additional members of same family.

One set of gear per child - Children will receive a full set of playing gear (jersey, shorts and socks) and a nifty knapsack.

For updates check: www.gaa.ie or www.vhi.ie

KERRY TEAMS

The Kerry Senior hurlers will play Meath in the Christy Ring Cup Group 2A - Round 2, at Pairc Tailteann, Navan, Meath on Saturday June 30th at 3.00 p.m.

The Kerry Minors and Seniors will take on Cork in the Munster Football Finals, at Fitzgerald Stadium, Killarney on Sunday July 1st. The minor game starts at 12.00 noon followed by the Senior game at 2.00 p.m.

Best of luck to the Kerry Teams.

GROUND HURLING TOURNAMENT

The Annual Ground Hurling Tournament for the Eddie Hayes Memorial cup is fixed for this Saturday 30th June in the Sports field Dromakee, Kilflynn.

Teams from Div 2 and Div 3 of the County leagues are invited.

Action begins at 10.30 a.m.

See the young hurlers of the future in action.

Check with Club officers on Friday evening if this Tournament goes ahead.

SPORTS RESULTS

County Minor Division 1 Hurling Final: Crotta 1-08, Kilmoyley 2-10.

Division 2 Soccer Final: Kilflynn Santos 0, Dingle 3.

Mike Parker               

A TRIBUTE TO JIM O'MAHONY

On Monday 28th May, we said farewell to one of our greatest ever characters, Jim O' Mahony. Born and reared in Dromakee, Kilflynn, formerly of London, England he was lately living out his retirement in Abbeydorney village.

Steeped in the history, folklore and fun of his beloved North Kerry, Jim had legions of friends at home and abroad. Many assembled for one last occasion to remember the cheery presence, the joy and laughter that followed his footsteps, the tall tales, merry banter and yarns of kind neighbours, dastardly deeds and warm welcomes.

Jim's door never closed. He kept a roaring fire of hospitality, and many were the time we took advantage of his good nature at all kinds of ungodly hours!!!! He bore the trials and tribulations of life with even Temperament and remained devoted and loyal to family and friends until the day of his departure.

In his younger days he welded the caman in many grades and diverse locations, jousted merrily with many of the local legends of ash. As an actor he starred on stage with the greats of Kilflynn and Abbeydorney. Jim always worked hard for a living, and gave an honest dayâs labour for an honest dayâs wages. One of his greatest legacies was doing the deal with Crotta hurling club to help provide their excellent playing field and facilities in Dromakee, Kilflynn.

Weâll miss your smiling face, Jim and may the gentle sod of Glenballyma rest lightly on your peaceful remains.

To your sisters Mary Mc Elligott (Kilflynn) Hannah Doody (Dublin), your brother Patrick, and your many relations at home and away, we extended our deepest Sympathy and condolence.

Ar Dheis De Go Raibh A Anam Dilis.

         Mike Parker                    

FIXTURES

The Crotta Senior hurlers are at home to Lixnaw on Wednesday evening 20th June in the North Kerry Championship at 8.00p.m.

Crotta and Kilmoyley Minor hurlers will contest the County Minor Hurling Div 1 league Final, on Sunday 24th June at 12.   Noon in Ballyheigue. Check with officers re: venue.

Best of Luck to the lads in Green and Red!

CROTTA GAA CLUB MEMBERSHIP

A final reminder to all members that club membership will close shortly so if you need to renew your membership for 2007 contact Paul Shanahan, Club Secretary or Paul O'Donoghue, registrar immediately.

New members also welcome.

Only fully paid members will be entered in the draw for hurling and football tickets and the Munster football final is less than three weeks away.

Adult membership is €30, Students over 18 costs €15 and players membership is €40.

KERRY HURLERS:

The Kerry Senior hurlers got their Christy Ring Cup campaign off on a winning note at Austin Stacks Park, Tralee on Saturday June 16th, when they had a 1-18 to 0-11 victory over Mayo.

Kerry corner backs Tom Cronin and Andrew Keane were rock-solid as Mayo were restricted to one point from play. Well Done!

CROTTA GOLF CLASSIC

O'Neill's Crotta Hurling club are holding their annual golf classic on Saturday August 18th at Ballyheigue Golf Course.

Team of Four is €160 and Tee box sponsorship is €75

This event is the main fundraiser to finance the ever-increasing cost of running a G.A.A. Club.

The Club would greatly appreciate your support.

AISLING WINS GOLD !

Congratulations to Aisling Mahony, Tullig, Kilflynn who won a Gold medal in the Under 9 Relay Munster Final, in Castleisland on Saturday 9th June.

FIXTURES

The Kerry Senior hurlers will commence their Christy Ring Cup campaign at Austin Stacks Park, on Saturday June 16th, when Kerry plays Mayo. Time TBC. Best of luck Lads.

The Crotta Senior hurlers travel to Causeway on Saturday evening 16th June to play the home side in the North Kerry Championship at 7.30p.m. Best of luck!

CROTTA GAA CLUB MEMBERSHIP

A final reminder to all members that club membership will close shortly so if you need to renew your membership for 2007 contact Paul Shanahan, Club Secretary or Paul O'Donoghue, registrar immediately.

New members also welcome.

Only fully paid members will be entered in the draw for hurling and football tickets and the Munster football final is less than three weeks away.

Adult membership is €30, Students over 18 costs €15 and players membership is €40.

UNDER 8 AND 10 HURLERS:

Last Wednesday Evening (6th June) Kilmoyley hurling club traveled to Dromakee to play Crotta in an under 8 and under 10 match. Two excellent games were contested before a large attendance. The under 8 game was a draw and Crotta won the under 10 match by a point.

Well done to Darragh Clark who played his first Club Match with the Under 8s.

Special Thanks to Frances White, Paul O'Donoghue, and Jerome O'Sullivan for coaching and encouraging all these young players.

Refreshments were provided for both teams tea/coffee and sandwiches were available in the club rooms for supporters as well. A big thank you to all the Crotta ladies who prepared and served the drinks and food.

The two lads working on the Community Employment Project deserve a mention for having the pitch in excellent condition and the clubrooms spotless.

(Visit the Club's Gallery #21 & #22 to See the Photos)

UNDER 8 AND 10: Sponsorship and Congratulations

The Crotta Club would like to thank most sincerely local man Tom Walsh of Tom Walsh Plant Hire Ltd. who prior to Wednesday evenings games, presented a set of jerseys to us. All present remarked how nice it was to see the young lads wearing the club colours with numbers etc. (See photo of the presentation below. )

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The under 8 and under 10/11 coaches and players would like to express our congratulations to our Board na Nog chairman Sonny Egan for his recent success in the short story section of Listowel Writers Week. Sonny has been a very accommodating chairman and has always been there when called upon. He attends every under age game and helped with financial support when we were getting under 8 and 10 hurling started.

A VHI Cul Camp will be run in Crotta in July for one week. More details to follow.

UNDERAGE CLUB HURLING GEAR:

The Club has at present official club hurling gear in stock. Jerseys and Shorts from 5/6 years age group to 13/14 years are available. Jerseys cost €35 and Shorts cost €15 up to size 28 and €20 for size 32. Only a limited amount of gear is available so order now. Jerome (086) 3466680 or Paul (087) 6823579 the under 8 to 11 coaches can be contacted regarding the sale of official gear.

THE LATE JOHN O'CARROLL:

Death is never easy to accept but when it comes prematurely, it is extra difficult to understand. Consequently it was with great sadness the sportspeople throughout Kerry heard of the death of John O' Carroll from Ballyduff on Friday 27th April.

Crotta Hurlers first encountered John O' Carroll (and his brother Mike) when he burst onto the Ballyduff Senior hurling team in 1973. John with his long blonde hair and swashbuckling style - Reminiscent of Cork's John Horgan - broke the hearts of many Crotta forwards over the next fifteen years. The youthful John who appeared indestructible on the field was feared, tough and uncompressing as a defender, but was gentle soul and wonderful character off the field. A genuine passionate sportsman whose love for all sport continued right to the end.

For Crotta people John was special as he always shared their company after games. Definitely that unique bond shared between great rivals in the hurling fields of North Kerry strengthened over the decades. So it was only fitting that John wished to borne to his final resting place by former Crotta players. John is probably now playing backs and forwards with another great warrior of that era -Todd Nolan, just like Setanta and Cuchulainn.

To his wife Una, Sons Stephen and Brian, daughters Niamh and Aoife, brothers Mike, Patrick, and Anthony, sister Anne, relatives, friends and teams mates we extend our deepest sympathy.

John may you rest in peace under the gentle sod of your native Ballyduff.

Seniors Team:

On Sunday 27th May Crotta travelled to Causeway to play the home team in Round 6 of the County Senior Hurling League.

A very understrength Crotta team played very well in the first half. A strong cross field breeze made hurling difficult , however at half time Crotta trailed Causeway by just two points, Crotta 1-6 Causeway 1-8 .

Crottas cause was not helped by an injury to Colm Mc Elligott early in the first half .

The second half was a different story as a fitter Causeway team ran out easy winners on a scoreline Crotta 1-9 Causeway 3-15 .

Crotta were missing regulars players due to Exams, and injuries.

Shane Nolan and Aaron Sheehan made their Senior debuts in the green and red.

The game will be remembered as Shane Nolan scored his first senior point for Crotta , also a beautiful ground strike by Andrew Keane which resulted in Crotta's goal .

Team: Jerome O'Sullivan, Darren Twomey, Pa Quille, Denis Mahoney, Jodie Hannon, Brendan Mahoney, Diarmuid Mc Kenna, Colm Mc Elligott, Cyril Lynch, Shane Nolan ( 0-1), Sean Twomey ( 0-1), Paul Shanahan, Jerry Carmody, Andrew Keane ( 1-7) ( 2f-1-65), Aaron Sheehan.

In Round 4 of the Credit Union Senior Hurling League 2007 Crotta oNeills played host to Lixnaw on Saturday 5th May. The pitch at Dromakee was in perfect condition . . . a beautiful evening for hurling .

Crotta opened well with a point after 3 seconds by Tom Cronin . Crotta played some great hurling in this half leading at half time Crotta 1-9 Lixnaw 0-5 .

Lixnaw started the second half much the better team and had pulled back Crottas lead to just 2 points midway through the half .

A goal from a free by Andrew Keane steadied the ship and from there to the end Crotta finished the stronger team winning on a scoreline Crotta 2-14 Lixnaw 2-9 .

Scores for Crotta: T Cronin 0-1 A Keane 1-4 S Twomey 1-5 C Lynch 0-1 Ian Mc Carthy 0-3

On Sat evening 19th May in Keanes Super Value County Minor Hurling League Div 1 Semi Final played in Ballyduff Crotta oNeills had a good win over Ballyheigue .

In a game of two halves Ballyheigue made the better start leading at half time Crotta 0-4 Ballyheigue 0-9 .

A much improved Crotta team appeared for the second half , playing with determination and skill they out scored Ballyheigue to lead at full time Crotta 2-12 Ballyheigue 1-13 .

Crotta now go on to play Kilmoyley in the final of Division 1.

Team: Eoin Sullivan, Paul Lenihan, Jonathan Caffrey, Luke Sheehan, Darren Twomey (0-1), Paul Costello, Sean Weir (0-1), Richard Nolan (0-2f), Shane McAuliffe, Padraig oLeary, Gary Marshall (1-0), David Moloney (0-1), Shane Nolan (1-5 {4f} ), Aaron Sheehan, Keith Hannafin . Subs: Cian Counihan (0-2) for Aaron Sheehan, Luke Ward .

(Visit the Club's Gallery #19 and See the Photos)

Round 5 of the Credit Union Seniors Hurling League 2007 took place at sun drenched Dromakee on Sun 20th May .

An understrenght Crotta team played host to Ardfert , Crotta played with the breeze in the first half and led at half time Crotta 1-9 Ardfert 0-6. The goal was scored midway through the first by Ml Lynch .

Ardfert started the second half much the stronger team scoring some very good points , an early goal by Sean Twomey restored Crottas advantage , however a fitter Ardfert team finished the stronger winning on a scoreline Crotta 2-11 Ardfert 3-18 .

An injury to Tom Cronin and later J P McElligott did not help Crottas cause . Both are wished a speedy recovery .

Crotta Team and Scorers: Jerome OÕSullivan, Pa Quille, John P. Quilter, Brendan Mahony, J. P McElligott, Tom Cronin, Diarmuid McKenna, Colm Mc Elligott, Cyril Lynch, Sean Twomey 1-1 Francis Keane, Peter McGrath, Andrew Keane 0-8 (6f 1.65),and John Edwards

Subs: Mike Lynch 1-00 for T. Cronin (injury), Darren Twomey for J.P Mc Elligott, Fergus OÕSullivan for B. Mahony and Brendan Mahony for P. McGrath.

(Visit the Club's Gallery #20 and See the Photos)

Contributed by Phil & Sheila Hannafin