Snr Ladies 1st Round Championship
Clonakilty Senior ladies began their Senior Football Championship on Tuesday 15th with a disappointing defeat to St Mary’s. This match was played in Macroom and was always going to be a tough assignment as St Mary’s (an amalgamation of teams) boasted Cork Inter County stars Geraldine O’Flynn, Deirdre O’Reilly, Brid Stack, former Cork player Norita Kelly and a number of younger players who have worn the Cork jersey at different levels. Clon began brightly but despite an early point from Ciara McCarthy, they trailed 0-04 to 0-01 after 10 minutes. Clon’s backs were extremely brave but were unable to stem the flow of the extra player coming through from outfield. 2 goals from St Mary’s with Clon scoring 3 points in reply left Clon 6 points behind and another goal before half time left the half time score St Mary’s 3-07 Clon 0-04. Clon faced a huge task in the second half but again started brightly with a point from Maura O’Brien. Due to the tenacity of the backs they limited St Mary’s to one point until mid way through the second half. But the constant pressure told and inspired by Geraldine O’Flynn, St Mary’s ran out winners on a scoreline of 5-12 to 0-08. It was obvious that Clon’s preparation wasn’t at the level it might have been. Nevertheless there were solid displays from Martina O’Brien, Susie Forristal, Carol-Anne O’Donovan, Sinead O’Neill, Ciara Ryan and Ciara McCarthy. Clon meet Eire Og next week in the next round robin championship game. Panel: Martina O’Brien, Susie Forristal, Carol-Anne O’Donovan, Rebecca McAree, Niamh Deasy, Sinead O’Neill, Aileen McCarthy, Aine O’Leary (0-01) free, Beulah McManus, Ciara Ryan (0-01), Jenny Quinn (0-01), Rosemary Dullea, Maura O’Brien (0-03) 0-01 free, Ciara McCarthy (0-01), Anna O’Hea (0-01), Louise Collins, Aoife Barry, Caroline Dullea, Lydia Kenny, Ellen Hayes, Hollie O’Sullivan, Orla Deasy Dunne, Rebecca O’Sullivan, Katie O’Connor, Leanne Calnan.
Championship Fixtures
Junior A hurling c'ship q/final, Clonakilty v Newcestown in Ballinascarthy, August 3rd at 7 pm
TRIBUTE TO THE LATE FLOR HAYES
The recent death of Flor Hayes in London at the age of 70 has evoked considerable sadness and nostalgia among GAA followers everywhere, and especially in his native Clonakilty. Long before the word "superstar" came into common usage Flor Hayes was truly a superstar on the playing fields. He first came to prominence in the late 1950s as one of the most exciting under age players to have been seen in West Cork GAA circles. His dazzling speed and extraordinary ball skills marked him out as as a uniquely exciting player, destined for greatness. Having starred at under 14 and under 16 level for Clonakilty and the Carbery Division in both football and hurling it was inevitable that he would come to the attention of the Cork minor selectors in 1961 while still only 17. He emerged as an outstanding member of that year's Cork minor football team that created history by winning the county's first All-Ireland title at that level. 1961 was to prove an exciting year for many other reasons for the new young Clonakilty star. On the first Sunday of August he made his senior championship debut for Clonakilty in the county quarter-final against Carbery. To make the occasion even more memorable, the game was played on Clonakilty's home pitch, just a hundred yards from Flor's home. He proved his worth to the team as Clon ran out winners in front of a monster crowd. He was to retain his place as Clon went all the way to the county final, losing in heartbreaking circumstances to Avondhu. The year ended on a high note for young Flor Hayes however as he was a star player on the Clonakilty junior hurling side that won the West Cork championship in thrilling fashion against the famed Courcey Rovers. An All-Ireland minor football medal and a West Cork junior hurling medal for a 17 year old was a great start to his career. Flor was a dual Cork minor the following year but both Cork sides were beaten in the Munster finals. Flor had the privilege of captaining his school, St. Mary's College, to its sole victory in the Munster Colleges senior football championship early in 1962 and in the same year he was also drafted onto the Cork under 21 football panel. He was now one of the most exciting young talents in the county. His mazy solo runs and ball skills attracted fans who would otherwise have had little interest in football. One of his proudest moments came in 1963 when he was the outstanding player on the Cork under 21 football team that defeated Kerry in the Munster final on a score of 2-03 to 1-04. The game was particularly significant as it was played in Clonakilty in front of an enormous crowd. Coming onto the Cork team was another young player that was creating a huge stir in Cork GAA circles, Flor's brother, Tim F. Incredibly, Tim F. was only seventeen. With Flor scoring 2-01 of Cork's total of 2-03 it was one of the most memorable days in the life of the Hayes family and Clonakilty GAA club. The following year brought heartbreak for Flor as a hotly fancied Clonakilty senior team were shocked in the county semi-final by Carbery, despite Flor himself turning in a magnificent display. It was in the following year, 1965, that Flor's career was to see possibly its lowest point. He was the central figure in one of the most controversial of the many internal disputes that have dogged Cork GAA over the years. Flor was working and living in Waterford and his extraordinary skills had brought him to the attention of Waterford AFC, then the leading soccer team in the country and regular winners of the League of Ireland. With the infamous "ban on playing foreign games" still in force Flor's involvement with Waterford was bound to cause problems, and it was to prove to be the case in the most dramatic of circumstances. It was apparently brought to the attention of the Cork football selectors in the dressing room in Killarney minutes before the start of the Munster senior football semi-final against Limerick. With the Cork team already togged out Flor suffered the humiliation of being told to togg off again as he was being dropped. He was told that an objection would be raised if he played and Cork would be disqualified. In the event, a deeply divided and disillusioned Cork side was defeated by Limerick in the most sensational shock result of the decade. Many Cork players were deeply annoyed and made little effort. Flor was suspended and his absence from the Clon team led to one of their poorest ever performance in the senior football championship when they were heavily beaten by Nemo Rangers in Bandon. Cork under 21 footballers also felt his loss as they were beaten in a classic All-Ireland final by Kildare, a game that they would almost certainly have won if Flor had been available. To add to Flor's woes, his brother Tim F was injured and unable to play in that final.
Deirdre O Reilly Fundraiser 7-a-side 22-06-14
Well done to all who made the Fundraiser such a success on Sunday, June 22nd, especially to Aidan Mc Carthy who organised the teams, games etc
Summer Camps 2014
Clonakilty GAA club will again host two weks of its ever-popular Multi-Sports Camp this year. Week one will run from July 14th to 18th inclusive while week two runs from July 21st to 25th. Application forms area avilable in Ahamilla and can be returned there to Lotto Box. Enquiries to Timmy Anglin at 086 1727170.
LADIES FOOTBALL UPDATE 05/05/14
All teams are now up and running and training very hard for what will hopefully be a very successful season for the Club. The Senior Ladies have completed their league campaign and are awaiting Championship Fixtures for the season ahead. The U14 girls are the only other team in competitive action so far this year. Most other competitive action is on hold due to exams both at Secondary School and University Level. The May Bank Holiday disco was a big success and was enjoyed by all who attended. Our congratulations and best wishes go to Martina O’Brien, Aine O’Leary, Beulah McManus and Ciara Ryan who are again playing their part both at County and University level. Ciara Ryan played with the Cork U16’s recently when they defeated Waterford in the Munster Final on a scoreline of 1.15 to 1.14 and best of luck to Martina O’Brien, Aine O’Leary and their team mates in the forthcoming National League Final against Dublin on May 10th.
SNR LADIES FOOTBALL LEAGUE 4th ROUND
Clonakilty Senior Ladies collected their first win of the season with a comfortable victory against a young Donoughmore side on Friday April 11th in Ahamilla. Clon started brightly and a goal from Maura O’Brien gave Clon an early lead and despite a number of wides they tacked on points from Claire O’Leary, Ciara Ryan and Lydia Kenny to lead at half time 1-08 to 0-03. Clon’s backs were well on top epitomised by outstanding performances by Niamh Deasy and Rebecca McAree. A goal from Aine O’Leary early in the second half killed the game as a contest. With Louise Collins being the focal point of the attack Clon added on points from Jenny Quinn and a cracker from Ellen Hayes which left the final score Clon 2-13 Donoughmore 0-05. Team: Anna O’Hea, Aoife O’Neill, Carol Ann O’Donovan (Capt), Rebecca McAree, Niamh Deasy, Sinead O’Neill, Aileen McCarthy, Claire O’Leary (0-01), Lydia Kenny (0-02), Jenny Quinn (0-02), Aine O’Leary (1-05) 0-02 frees, Ciara Ryan (0-01), Maura O’Brien (1-01), Louise Collins, Ellen Hayes (0-01).
Congratulations to Sean White
Everyone in Clonakilty GAA club sends congratulations to Sean White, centre-back on the Cork team that captured the Munster U 21 football title on April 9th 2014
SNR LADIES FOOTBALL LEAGUE 3rd ROUND
Clonakilty Senior Ladies travelled to Eire Og on Sunday March 30th to take on the locals in the Senior League. Clon played against the breeze in the first half and got off to a great start with a goal from Ciara Ryan. However as the half wore on Clon found themselves under increasing pressure from a lively Eire Og outfit. At half time Eire Og led 2-07 to 1-01. Clon battled well in the second half and took some fine scores from Carol Ann O’Donovan, Sinead O’Neill and a good goal from Jenny Quinn narrowed the gap but they were unable to get close enough. Final score: Eire Og 2-12 Clon 2-06. This was a decent performance considering that Clon had 16 players 3 of whom were carrying injuries. Special mention also to Martina O’Brien, Aileen McCarthy, Aine O’Leary and Maura O’Brien in a brave team performance. Panel: Team: Martina O’Brien, Aoife O’Neill, Carol Ann O’Donovan (Capt) (0-02, 0-01 free), Rebecca McAree, Niamh Deasy, Sinead O’Neill (0-01), Susie Forristal, Claire O’Leary, Beulah McManus (0-01), Aileen McCrathy, Aine O’Leary, Ciara Ryan (1-00), Maura O’Brien, Jenny Quinn (1-02, 0-1 free), Ellen Hayes, Louise Collins.
SNR LADIES FOOTBALL LEAGUE 2nd ROUND
Clon Senior Ladies continued their league campaign when they entertained reigning county champions St Val’s in Ahamilla on Saturday 22ndMarch. Clon played with the strong wind in the first half and more than held their own against a very useful Val’s outfit. Again Martina O’Brien showed her class in goal while the backs as a unit were outstanding, epitomised by captain Carol Ann O’Donovan and Jenny Quinn who caused a lot of problems for the St Val’s defence when moved to the forward line in the second half. A fine goal taken with aplomb by Anna O’Hea and a nice point by young Ciara Ryan left the half time score... Val’s 1-06 Clon 1-03. Clon were under pressure for a lot of the second half but never left the heads drop. This was an encouraging performance by Clon and bodes well for the future. Final Score: St Val’s 1-15 Clon 1-04. Panel: Martina O’Brien, Aoife O’Neill, Jenny Quinn (0-01), Rebecca McAree, Niamh Deasy, Sinead O’Neill, Susie Forristal, Claire O’Leary, Lydia Kenny (0-01), Louise Collins, Juanita Brennan (0-01, free), Rosemary Dullea, Maura O’Brien, Anna O’Hea (1-00), Caroline Dullea, Aileen McCarthy, Ciara Ryan (0-01), Carol Ann O’Donovan, Aine O’Leary, Ellen Hayes.
SNR LADIES FOOTBALL LEAGUE 1st ROUND
Clonakilty Senior Ladies travelled to Mourneabbey on Friday March 14th to take on the locals in the first league game of the season. Clon played with the aid of a strong breeze in the first half and despite a lack of serious pre season training put in a fine performance on the night. Some fine free taking by Juanita Brennan and a cracking goal from Jenny Quinn had Clon 2 points ahead coming up to half time. But a Mourneabbey goal just before the break had Clon trailing 1-06 to 1-05 at the short whistle. Special mention to the 6 Clon backs who formed a very tight unit especially in the first half and of course Cork goalkeeper Martina O’Brien who pulled off some fine saves throughout the match. Clon battled very well in the second half thanks to the hard working Beulah McManus and Aine O’Leary. Points from Beulah McManus, Maura O’Brien and Grace McManus meant Clon trailed by only 5 points 2-11 to 1-09 with 9 minutes remaining. But they tired late on and with no substitutes to bring on, eventually lost on a scoreline of 2-16 to 1-09. Team: Martina O’Brien, Aoife O’Neill, Carol Ann O’Donovan, Rebecca McAree, Niamh Deasy, Sinead O’Neill, Susie Forristal, Claire O’Leary, Beulah McManus (0-01), Louise Collins, Aine O’Leary, Juanita Brennan (0-04) 0-02 frees, Maura O’Brien (0-01), Jenny Quinn (1-02), Grace McManus (0-01). Next Senior Fixture: Clon V St Val’s in Ahamilla on (Saturday 22nd March) @ 5.00 p.m.
Important Notice to all Players/members/Supporters of Clonakilty GAA Club
Clonakilty GAA Club wishes to advise all its players/members and supporters to prioritise their health and well being by not in any way, directly or indirectly, participating in the "Necknomination" Craze that has claimed the lives of a number of young people in recent days. We urge you all to protect yourselves, your families and friends from the serious risks involved by not, under any circumstances nominating them to participate in this "game".
Secretary's Report (2013)
Please note that any person who wishes to receive a copy of the secretary's report from the AGM held on January 19th 2014 can obtain it by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Buckley Financial Club of The Year 2013
Clonakilty were awarded the prestigious "Buckley Financial Club of The Year" for 2013 at a Gala Dinner in Dunmanway on Friday, January 17th. Well done to all involved
LADIES FOOTBALL FITNESS TRAINING
To get the season off to a start, basketball training has been arranged for Friday nights in the Community Hall from 9.00pm to 10.00pm., commencing on Friday 24th January. All registered players are welcome and encouraged to attend where they will be coached by a qualified basketball trainer – whilst this training will brush down the cobwebs and enhance fitness it will also generate some fun and get the season up and running for 2014. It is free of charge and again we look forward to seeing you there in large numbers.
Clonakilty GAA Registration / Membership 2014
Everyone to complete registration form – to bring data up to date
Download Registration form here Registration Form
- Membership / Registration Payments to Registrar without delay
- Each Team Manager is responsible for collection of membership from player’s in his squad and completion of Membership forms immediately on commencement of training.
- Team Manager’s to supply Registrar ( Jim Murphy ) with team panel for 2014 to record
- Final date for membership payment is February 28th 2014 – or Player, Team’s first training / game whichever is the earlier.
- Notice re payment of membership 2014 to be put up in Home Team Dressing - room.
- Committee 2014 to pay membership by January 31st 2014 and complete forms .
- Special Circumstances : If person is unemployed or experiencing financial difficulties – each case will be treated in confidence.
- G.P.C. : Will meet if player Membership remains un-paid after February 28th 2014 to decide what action is required – and report back to Adult committee to action.
Senior football V St. Nicks 16-11-13
Clonakilty senior footballers defeated St Nicks on a score of 0-12 to 0-09 for the Con O Donovan Memorial Cup played in Bandon on Saturday, November 16th 2013 as part of the celebration by the host club to mark the 75th anniversary of the playing of the 1938 county senior football final between Clonakilty and St Nicks in Bandon, the only such final to have been played in Bandon.
Sciath na Scoil Victory (19-11-13)
Scoil na mBuachailli Clonakilty scored a tremendous win in the Sciath na Scoil football final by defeating Beaumont National School. Final score at the end of a thrilling game in Pairc Ui Rinn was 3-05 to 2-03. Congratulations from all at Clonakilty GAA club
Clonakilty v St. Nicks, 75th Anniversary Celebration of 1938 County Senior Football Final
Clonakilty and St. Nicks senior footballers will play a special challenge game, with the Con O Donovan memorial Cup at stake, in Bandon on Saturdar, November 16th at 3pm as part of a day of celebration in the Bandon club to mark the 75th anniversary of the playing of the 1938 County Senior Football Final in Bandon, the only such final to have been played in that town.
Under 13 football league final result (22-10-13)
Clonakilty under 13 footballers scored a thrilling win over Rosscarbery in the West Region league final in Ahamilla on Tuesday, October 22nd. Final score was 1-09 to 1-08
GOOD LUCK TO MARTINA AND CORK LADIES
Minor football c'ship result(03-09-13)
Clonakilty minor footballers had a comfortable win over Milstreet in the county premier 2 football championship clash in Cloughduv on Tuesday, september 3rd. Final score was 1-19 to 0-07. Clon now meet Boherbue in the semi-final, with no definite date until after the minor hurlers have played their championship game on thursday, September 5th
Clonakilty GAA Club Museum (11-06-13)
Clonakilty GAA club is in the process of setting up a club museum and a room has been dedicated for this purpose in the sports complex in Ahamilla. Members of the public, whether involved in the club or not, are invited to donate items of interest either on temporary or permanent loan to form part of the exhibits. Already, a medal won by Tom Sutton with the 1892 football team has been kindly donated by his close relatives, the Ryan family. It is hoped that many other such memorabilia will be donated. The person to contact is Tom Lyons at 087.6425180 or club PRO, Fachtna Mc Carthy, at 087-6102033, or indeed any club member.
