Sean Mac Diarmada GFC
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Seans Notes 29/12/08

Happy New Year - Best wishes for a happy, prosperous and successful New Year are extended to everyone involved in the Club, may all our hope and dreams come true in 2009.

Membership - Renewal time again, club registrar Ciaran Mc Entee is now collecting the €20 subscription.

Totto - The numbers drawn for Christmas week were 5,7,2,6,3,1,4, these were not correctly forecast, the €40 winners were Sean & Imelda Murphy Nahill, and the €20 prizes were claimed by Lorna Duffy Cabra, D. Mc Stravog Cavancreevy, Gerry Mc Enaney Monaghan, Fergal Mullan Cabra, and Jade Stuart Carnbane. Next week jackpot is €3,000. The prizes winners in the special Christmas draws for multi draw participant were Paraic Mc Connon Manchester who landed the top prize of a music centre. Other winners were Hugh Mc Elvaney Drummuck, Martin Gilbert Cormeen, Majella Mc Entee Kiltubrid, and Sadie Murphy Carnbane. Top prize winner for weekly participants was Gerard Kieran Cabra who gets himself a DVD recorder; other lucky winners in this draw were Frank Thornton Cabra, Eileen Flanagan Newbliss, Conor Clerkin Threemile Inn, and Joan & Frank Mc Cabe Tattinaclave. The numbers drawn on Saturday 27th Dec were 2,3,6,4,7,1,5 the €3K jackpot was not claimed, the €40 winner was Fr. Joe Mc Cluskey, The €20 prizes went to Stephen Mc Elvaney, Alice Mc Carville, Tappa Dunraymond, Larry Mc Connon Killnaclay, Eileen Kelly Aghabog, and Mena Duffy Cabra, Next week’s jackpot is €3,100

Get well - Best wishes for a speedy return to good health are extended to former club secretary Pat Beagan presently recovering in hospital and to Briany Murphy also confined to hospital following an accident. In our thought and prayers at this time we hope both will be well enough to return to Drumlinney and Cornasoo and their families early in the New Year. Good to see another former club officer Edward Murphy after his recent hospital stay, home, and back among us again.

Fitness programme - Another reminder just in case one is needed for all adult players to liaise with team manager Benny Kieran regarding their own personal fitness programme. Special concession rates apply to student. This is an ideal opportunity for each individual player do his own bit of preparation before communal training commences early in the New Year. The take up of this personal fitness exercise will be a good early indicator of just how committed each player is to the team’s cause. Benny can be contacted on 087-2590604.

Seans Notes 21/12/08

Happy Christmas - I extend seasonal greeting to our players, members, and supporters and hope you all have a very happy, peaceful and very enjoyable Christmas and that Santa has something in his sack for everyone.

Christmas Hamper - The winner of the Christmas hamper drawn at our Christmas party on Saturday night last was Aoife Mc Elvaney Cooldaragh, congratulations Aoife. A word of thanks to all who bought lines for this draw and to patrons who supported our party nite.

Membership - Now is the time for the renewal of club membership, Registrar Ciaran Mc Entee is not letting the grass grow under his feet, already busy collecting these subscriptions. His effort would be greatly help if members could present him with their renewal fee as early in the New Year as possible. At the recent AGM that annual subscription was increased to €20.

Reports - Members may have had difficult accessing the AGM reports posted on the club web site www.seanmcdermotts.net last week, the invading gremlins have been eradicated and you can now browse these reports at your convenience.

Remembrance Sunday - Members are reminded that next Sunday’s mass in St Mary’s church TMH at 11.00am will be offered for all living and decease members of the club.

Totto - The numbers drawn 5,7,2,6,3,1,4, were not correctly forecast, the €40 winners were Sean & Imelda Murphy Nahill, the €20 prizes were claimed by Lorna Duffy Cabra, D. Mc Stravog Cavancreevy,Gerry Mc Enaney Monaghan, Fergal Mullan Cabra, and Jade Stuart Carnbane. Next week jackpot is €3,000. The prize winners in the special Christmas draws for multi draw participant were Paraic Mc Connon Manchester who landed the top prize of a music centre. Other winners were Hugh Mc Elvaney Drummuck, Martin Gilbert Cormeen, Majella Mc Entee Kiltubrid, and Sadie Murphy Carnbane. Top prize winner for weekly participants was Gerard Kieran Cabra who gets himself a DVD recorder; other lucky winners in this draw were Frank Thornton Cabra, Eileen Flanagan Newbliss, Conor Clerkin Threemile Inn, and Joan & Frank Mc Cabe Tattinaclave

Appreciation night - The annual appreciation night take place next Sunday night 28th Dec. in the complex, Club chairman and secretary as in previous years will be issuing invitations to those who volunteered and assisted with club activities during 2008. It’s an occasion when Danny and Sean on behalf of the wider club membership say a well deserved thank you to the many individuals who are so generous with their time in this regard, hopefully all invited will be able to attend.

Fitness programme - Player’s who have yet to liaise with team manager Benny Kieran regarding their personal fitness programme as discussed at the players meeting, are asked to do so as a matter of urgency. With all players at home now for Christmas, there is no excuse why they can’t contact Benny over this holiday period and begin this very worth while and beneficial activity. Special concession rates apply for student.While some players have yet to commit to the exercise the good news is that a good many are already enjoying regular sessions.

Seans Notes 18/12/08

AGM - Club members interested in viewing reports presented at our recent Annual General Meeting are invited to visit the club web site at WWW.seanmcdermotts.net. The full composition of the club’s 2009 Executive Committee as elected at the AGM was Chairman: Danny Clerkin. Vice Chairman: Gerry Lynch. Secretary: Sean Mc Elvaney, Treasurer: Mary Mc Connon, Registrar: Ciaran Mc Entee, Officer for Irish Language and Culture: Kevin Mc Morrow; Public Relations Officer: Cormac Connolly, Players representative: Damien Larkin, Committee: Colm Mc Mahon, Nigel Lynch, Enda Murphy, David Treanor, Shane Grant and Gerard Mc Nally. In welcoming the three new members on to the committee Danny Clerkin also paid tribute to the contribution may by Stephen Mc Elvaney, Brian O’ Neill, and Paul Kelly during their term on the executive committee. The new committee had their first get together on Tuesday night last, and will continue to meet fortnightly over the year.

Totto Results - The numbers drawn 7, 2, 6, 3,1,4,5 were not correctly forecast last week. The €40 prize was won by PJ and Patsy Mc Carron card players. The €20 prizes were claimed by Sean Mc Mahon Cabra, Connolly & Keenan Family Corcaghan, Bernadette Savage Monaghan, Emma Mc Veigh Corcaghan, and PJ and Kathleen. Next week’s jackpot is €2,900. Now is a very good time to enrol in this weekly social draw for as well as being in with a shout to claim that jackpot which is increasing nicely all multi draw subscribers will also be included in an extra special Christmas draw for a very valuable and worth while prize.

Festive Bingo - Our final special Christmas bingo continues on Monday night next 22nd December, as well as the regular bingo prizes there are spot prize give aways on every page.

Club merchandise - There is a limited number of club merchandise available, these items would make an excellent Christmas gift, contact Mary Mc Connon at 047-57331 any evening after 7.00pm to check out what in stock or to place an order for delivery in the New Year. Demand will determine what items are re ordered so get your requirement to Mary now.

Christmas party - All members and supporters are invited along to the club Christmas party night which take place in the lounge on Saturday night next 20th December.

Membership - Registrar Ciaran Mc Entee will over the coming weeks be making his annual calls to members to renew their club membership, members are asked to note that following a decision at the recent AGM the annual membership subscription has been increased to €20.

Seans Notes 11/12/08

AGM - There was a very big attendance of members for the club’s Annual General Meeting in the Complex on Friday night last. They heard club Secretary Sean Mc Elvaney in a wide ranging and comprehensive report note at national level, the appointment of Paraic Duffy as Ard Stiurthoir, Christy Cooney election at congress to succeed Nicky Brennan. He outlined the administrative personnel within the county, as well as the revitalised performances of Monaghan in the championship after their disastrous opener in Brewster Park .He dwelt at length on all aspect of club activities, paying particular attention to the senior team’s performances and ultimate relegation despite the best efforts of a very committed management team. He included a pictorial record of the history making St Michael’s N.S. team, winners of Roinn 4 Cumann na mBunscoil competition. On development he said a substantial amount of work had been completed and he outlined plans for the next phase due to commence in 2009.
He expressed sympathy to all who were bereaved especially to the family’s of club members who were called to their eternal reward in 2008, Dominic Prunty, Frank Mc Connon, Packie Mc Elvaney an Terry Mc Entee and reminded everyone that Mass for all members living and deceased would be offered in St Mary’s church on Sunday 28th December at 11.00am Youth Committee secretary Nigel Lynch in his report single out the successful Under 12 squad. He lavished praise on the U8/10 mentors whose Elco Oils sponsored coaching programme but for a few weeks around Christmas runs the whole year round. He thanked parents not only of the youngest age group but of all ages for supporting and encouraging their children to participate in these coaching sessions and competitive games. He was fulsome in his praise of the clubs involvement as a host club in Feile, he thanked the Cavan organisers for affording the club the opportunity and Youth Committee Chairman Enda Murphy for co coordinating the organisional effort locally.
Treasurer Mary Mc Connon’s financial report showed an operation deficit over the year. The audit accounts generated plenty of debate as members sought clarifications and explanation, Mary expanded on the figure presented and all queried were answered and explained to everyone satisfaction.
Club chairman Danny Clerkin in his address was very critical of the decision taken to abandon minor football for club players for a lengthy period during the year and the devastating effect this had on competitions when they eventually resumed. He counselled the club’s adult panel this year “let it not be through lack of effort”. He acknowledged all those who give so generously of their time as club volunteers and expressed the view that the club belong to all its members and he encouraged all members to play their part. Danny's address and both secretaries’ reports can be view in their entirety on the club website at www.seanmcdermotts.net

Totto Results - The numbers drawn 6, 1, 2, 7,4,3,5 were not correctly forecast last week. The €40 prize was won by Fergal Mc Guigan Mullinahinch; the €20 prizes were claimed by Kevin Mc Morrow, Kathleen Mc Entee Corcaghan, Margaret Keenan Shercock, John Murphy Blackrawe Wilson Jebb Rockcorry.Next week’s jackpot is €2,700.

Festive Bingo The Christmas spot prize give away continues next Monday night at our 9.00pm bingo session. As well as the usual bingo prizes on offer there is also two jackpots available plus these valuable spot prizes on every page.

Party Night - Regular social centre patrons and club members are invited to keep free and come along to the Club’s Christmas party celebration on Saturday 20th December. This is an opportunity for the club to say thank you to their many patrons, and a great night enjoyment is guarantee

Player's Fitness programme - New team manager Benny Kieran requests those remaining players who have yet to make contact with him regarding the fitness programme as discussed at the recent players meeting do so this week, so that the fitness plan for all can be finalised. Benny can be contacted on 087-2590604.

Seans Notes 04/12/08

Players Meeting - There was a very good attendance of players at last Friday night’s meeting, new team manager Benny Kieran outlined his expectations, and the demands he will be placing on them in preparation for the coming season. Squad training will commence in the New Year; Benny highlighted individual commitment, regular punctual attendance, and proper presentation as a few of the core values he will be insisting on. The general consensus from the players was that they would have no difficulty committing to these. Hopefully everyone's effort on the training field this year will be reflected and rewarded where it matters in the league tables position, and maybe even promotion at the end of it all. No pressure lads!!!!

Totto Results - The numbers drawn 1, 2, 4, 7,5,6,3 were not correctly forecast last week. Michael Mc Mahon Donegal won the €40 prize; the €20 prizes were claimed by Mags Creighan Roslea, Kevin Mc Morrow TMHBridie Murphy Blackrawe, Helena Smyth Newbliss and Carmel Mc Carthy Cootehill, Next week’s jackpot is €2,700.

AGM - Remember and keep free this Friday night 5th December for the club's Annual General Meeting, which gets under way at 8.30pm. There’s sure to be some frank observations regarding all aspects of club activity not least the senior teams relegation to junior ranks in secretary Sean Mc Elvaney ‘s report. Juvenile report, Treasurers report and the chairman's address are all awaited with interest; all members are encouraged to make the effort to attend. That's 8.30pm sharp.

Festive Bingo - Christmas spirit comes to the complex at next weeks Monday night bingo session, we begin the countdown to the Festive season with give away spot prizes on every page at all our bingo sessions right up to Christmas. As well as the usual monetary prizes on each page there are also a few fairly substantial jackpots also on offer which will put some lucky patron well in the money. Monday 8th 15th, and 22nd are definitely nights to enjoy the club's pleasant warm hospitality, you won't be disappointed starting time is as normal 9 o'clock.

Seans Notes 27/11/08

Players Meeting - New team manager Benny Kieran, convenes his first get together of all adult players in the complex on Friday night next 28th November at 9.00pm sharp. Benny invites all players interested in playing any grade of adult football with the club to come along to Friday night’s meeting. Various reasons have been put forward for our uneventful season just finished which resulted in relegation. Going forward one undeniable fact is that it will take a focused and committed bunch of players to challenge never mind win promotion at the first time of asking. Benny has at his disposal a good sprinkling of experience and youthful exuberance to plan and chart a successful course through next year’s campaign, but the only way he can harness these qualities is if the personnel make themselves available. Hopefully every player interested in playing adult football for the club in 2009 will make the effort to be present on Friday night, and remember 9.00pm sharp means just that.

Totto Results - The numbers drawn 2, 7, 4, 6,1,3,5 were not correctly forecast last week. The €40 prize was won by Felix Mc Elvaney Drumguill, The €20 prizes were claimed by Kathleen Mc Elvaney Cabra, Cormac & Philippa Connolly Carnbane, Noel Mc Elvaney Cooldaragh, John Bruton Ballinode Daniel & Cáili Mc Elvaney LisnaskeaNext week’s jackpot is €2,600.

Scor na nÓg - The club took part in the Scor na nÓg semi final hosted by Killeevan Sarsfields in the Acorn centre Newbliss on Friday night last, and although our young representatives did not make it through to the final, they all performed admirably. Our Instrumental duo Yvonne Ward and Cian Treanor appeared particularly unlucky on the night not to make the cut. Our quiz team of Ryan Mc Guinness, Conor Freeman, and Colin Mc Elvaney were always well in the running, but unfortunately the sequence of questions just didn’t fall their way in the end. Well done to everyone involved. The county final takes place in Corcaghan Community Centre on Friday night next 28th November, curtains are up at 8.00pm

Executive committee - Reminder to all committee members that an Executive meeting takes place on Thursday night 27th November at earlier than usual time of 8.30pm. please attend.

Conserve energy - Individuals and organisations using our complex facilities over the winter months are asked where possible to conserve energy, especially where lighting is concerned. Can I ask anyone coordinating activities to familiarise themselves with the lighting controls and having due regard for the safety of participants use only what is required. Also as nightly usage of the complex increases during this period can I ask everyone to be mindful of the need to secure all door and emergency exits before leaving, and of course don’t forget to “switch off” too. Everyone’s cooperation would be very much appreciated.

AGM - Don’t forget and keep free Friday night 5th December for our Annual General Meeting which gets under way at 8.30pm

Seans Notes 20/11/08

Under 8/10 - On Sunday morning last many of the older participants in the Elco Oils coaching and games programme had a useful run out in a highly competitive game against a Monaghan Harps selection. The result although of little significance went in favour of the town side, both clubs using this game to gauge the dept of talent and numbers available for what will form their respective Under 12 teams in next year 's competition. All round a very worthwhile exercise and well done to the youngster who turned out for the early throw in, the many parents who also turned out to lend their support and voice encouragement, not to mention all the adult coaches especially Gerard and Ciaran who arrange this friendly. Parents of all children participating in our internal underage coaching programme should note next Saturday's session will see the curtain come down on activity for this year. Children who have participated in the programme should insure they are in attendance for this the final session as I am sure the coaches will have a few suitable challenges and surprises in store to finish off the season. As in previous years this seasonal break spans Christmas but everyone can look forward to activities recommencing early in the New Year and a possible visit to Rooskey for a rematch, as well as the annual fun day tour.

Auction - A word of thanks to Mc Elvaney Waste and Recycling for their generous gesture which was very much appreciated, providing a skip at our recent auction, insuring all unsaleable items were quickly collected and environmentally disposed. It's a pity some buyers are not as efficient as this waste and recycling operator; a small number of lots remain uncollected, these items are bought and paid for so can I appeal to the new owners to come along and collect them as soon as possible.

Totto Results - The numbers drawn 2,1,7,3,6,5,4, were not correctly forecast last week. The €40 prize was won by Maureen Mc Phillips Sleiveroe, The €20 prises were claimed by Maureen Rooney Roslea, Paraic Coyle Rooskey, Mrs Marie Mc Nee Castleblayney, Maureen Sewell Aughnacloy, and Deidre Mc Elvaney Cabra Next week’s jackpot is €2,500.

AGM - All club members are reminded to keep Friday night 5th December free for the clubs’ Annual General Meeting. Proceedings are set to get under way in the complex at 8.30pm. Over the course of the next week or so Club secretary Sean Mc Elvaney as well as putting the finishing touches to his report, will also be making contact with all those nominated to positions on the executive committee. Hopefully all nominated will give serious consideration to taking up or retaining a position on the committee, or at least leaving their name in the race and allowing members make the decision. New blood and competition for places just like a team is what make for a vibrant and successful committee.

Seans Notes 13/11/08

New Team Manager - The executive committee at their meeting last week ratified Benny Kieran as the club’s new team manager for 2009. Benny’s long association with the club has to date seen him tick many boxes on a successful sporting CV. In a long playing career he was skilful and committed, one of only a handful of players to don the saffron and white and represent the club on the playing field for more than twenty five years. Loyalty and commitment were his watchwords. On the administrative side he is a former Rúnaí and Coistoir but it was when he assumed the mantle of Cathoirleach that we again saw these qualities come to the fore, playing a pivotal role in development and fund raising during his term. These qualities he will undoubtedly bring to his new appointment, hopefully that dedication to the club cause will be replicated by our current playing panel, if they do, then we can look forward with hope to a successful ’09 campaign and a quick return to intermediate football. We wish Benny and our adult squad success in the year ahead.

Thanks and appreciation - A word of appreciation to our out going management team of Lawrence, Barry, Niall and Stephen, their commitment to the cause was second to none, unfortunately sport is often cruel and we don’t always get the rewards our effort deserves, for this quartet this was certainly the case this year. Those directly involved know the time and effort the four lads put in with the squad; injuries, coupled with unlikely defeats, and I’m loathe to mention some bizarre refereeing decisions mitigated against all their good work. Everyone is disappointed at being relegated but I have no doubt individual and collectively our panel are better for the involvement of the four lads in 2008. For that I say a very sincere thank you.

Auction - Some four hundred lots were labelled and catalogued (no an Rúnaí is not heading to Sothebys) for last Sunday night’s monster auction, proceeds of which go toward the promotion of juvenile football in the club and our local national schools. With three local debutante auctioneer unveiled for the night all offers were accepted and the gavel fell quickly, often too quickly much to the consternation of some would be bidders. A special word of thanks to all who donated items, and the very many people both local and from further a field who turned up to support the sales on the night making it a great social occasion and a very successful fund raising venture for the club. The juveniles of our parish will benefit from your support and generosity

Totto Results - The numbers drawn 1,3,5,2,7,4,6, were not correctly forecast last week. The €40 prize was won by Patrick Kieran. The €20 prizes were claimed by Aaron Sherry Nahill, John Duffy Clones, Ailish Mc Entee Drumguill, Conal Smith Newbliss and Paul Kelly Killnaclay Next week’s jackpot is €2,400.

AGM - All club members will have received a reissue of notice for the clubs’ Annual General Meeting on Friday 5th December. This revised notification takes account of changes made to the club constitution earlier this year where nominations to the committee are now required for the positions of Officer for Irish Language and Culture as well as for Public Relations Officer. Completed nominations forms and notice of motions must be returned to Club secretary Sean Mc Elvaney on or before Friday next 14th November

Seans Notes 06/11/08

Auction - All roads next Sunday night lead to our annual Sale in the complex; proceeds generated go towards the promotion of juvenile football in the club and our national schools. Over the last few weeks households across the parish have been dusting down some very valuable but now unwanted items and generously donating these to this worthy fund raising effort for resale. As in other years there is a wide variety of items, a real Aladdin’s cave for bargain hunters. The first lot comes under the hammer at 6.30pm and to insure everyone has the chance to browse the extensively laid out show room viewing is from six O’ clock. A team of experience auctioneers will be on hand, and patrons show be aware they can pick out twitches, scratched even nods and winks that pass for bids from thirty paces. A word of advice check reserves be weary of the sweeteners and alert when on the market. This a real social occasion for the whole family and you’ll be supporting a very worthy cause; looking forward to seeing everyone there on Sunday evening.

Totto Results - The numbers drawn 6,3,1,2,4,5,7, were not correctly forecast last week. The €40 prize was won by Niall Malone Threemilehouse.The €20 prises were claimed by Sean Mc Mahon Cabra, Breda Prunty Cabra,Sadie Murphy Carnbane, Mollie & Patrick Greenan Cabra, Francie Murphy & Pete Keenan Next week’s jackpot is €2,300.

Seans Notes 30/10/08

Under 13 - On Sunday afternoon last in Killanny our Under 13 squad despite a gallant effort bowed out at the semi final stage of the competition beaten by a strong home side on a scoreline Killanny 1 - 14 Seans 3 - 4. In the opening half with the strong breeze at their back our boys matched the locals in all areas of the field and although the managed to raise just one white flag in this period they still held a slight interval advantage thanks to two first half goals, Killanny 0- 4 Seans 2 - 1. Against the breeze and playing a possession game they struggled to move the ball out of defence in the face of the elements and sustained Killanny pressure, Luke Killoran, Conor Freeman and Colin Mc Elvaney working tirelessly in this regard to get the ball forward and into the danger zone. Three point to the good and still hanging in there with five minutes remaining thanks to a third goal mid way through the half, Ryan Mc Entee Aidan Ward and Niall Kearns doing their utmost to keep their team's nose in front. It was however in those last few remaining minutes that the home side superiority began to show as they turned that three-point deficit in a four point-winning margin as the final whistle sounded. Although the squad were bitterly disappointed to go out in the penultimate game of the competition they can hold their heads high, they did their best, and no one can ask more. A work of appreciation to the entire panel for their commitment to each other, demonstrated by excellent attendance at their twice weekly coaching sessions. A big thank you to Gerard Mc Nally and his team of coaches Patrick Kieran Tony Mc Guinness, Christen Keenan and Aishling Keenan (team medic)) for their time and effort not just over the last few months with this squad, but year round with various other club juvenile panels. For the record the 2008 Under 13 panellists were James Mc Carron, Conor Freeman, Ryan Mc Guinness, Dylan Keenan Niall Kearns, Ryan Mc Entee, Luke Killoran, Jamie Keenan, Aidan Ward, Sean Freeman, Aaron Mc Nally Paul Bannon, Pierce Murphy, Jason Kearns, Niall Murphy, Dylan Mc Nally Patrick Mc Phillips Yvonne Ward, Daragh Bell,

Totto - The bank holiday number sequence 4,2,5,1,6,3,7 drawn on Sunday night last was not correctly forecast. The €40 prize went to Majella Kieran Togan, The ten €20 prizes were claimed by Celene Grant Cabra, John Duffy, O' Neill Pk Clones, Martin & Noleen Ellis Cootehill, Conor Mc Morrow Drumsheeney, Terese Mullarkey Knocktallon, Mary Mc Ardle Tullygillen, Seamus Mulligan Rooskey, Brian, Gerry, Delia, & Eileen, Joan Mc Cabe Tattnaclave, Ellen & Ailish Mc Entee Drumguill.The lucky recepitians for the additional bank holiday prize of bingo vochers were M.Mc Carron c/o Monaghan TC, Deirdre Mc Elvaney Cabra, David & Ailish Mc Entee,Drumguill, Maureen Mc Mahon Gortmore,Cathy Mc Elroy Aughnacloy. Next week jackpot is €2,200.

Auction - As mentioned last week details of our Annual Auction on Sunday 9th November to assist funding the promotion and development of juvenile football in the club as well as in the two national schools, St Michael's Corcaghan, and St Mary's TMH, are currently being circulated throughout the parish. If you have not received a personal visit or a flyer through your letterbox during the past few days, fear not, the principle of this fundraiser is simple. Gather your unwanted, valuable, saleable items together, club personnel will weave their way across the parish from 4th - 8th November collecting them, or you can of course deliver your items directly yourself to the complex on (8th) Saturday afternoon. We will gratefully accept and do appreciate the donation of all items, although this year because of space and disposal costs we will not be accepting used bedding materials, specifically bases and mattresses. I would ask donors also to note the description of the item preferred, new of course "unwanted, valuable, and resaleable", and remind everyone that this auction is not a shortcut via The Complex to the recycling or waste disposal facility at Scotch Corner. That said given the generosity of our community I have no doubt our 2008 Auction fund raising effort will be as successfully as those organised in previous years. Buyers should note the first lot falls under the gavel at 6.30pm on Auction Sunday and items can be view from 6 o'clock onwards.

AGM - Club members are reminded that they will receive notification of the Annual General Meeting shortly. Set for Friday 5th December all members are requested to complete their nomination forms and return them to An Runai Sean Mc Elvaney by the due date. Great effort has been made to extend and grow our membership base and encourage new membership, and while club AGM's are usually quite well attended there is still plenty of room for improvement with just over 30% of members actually attending. Hopefully a lot more will make the effort to be present this year, no doubt our aforementioned secretary's report will be awaited with interested. In a year that saw on the playing field our adult team relegated and in the present economic climate the annual topics of development and finance are sure to come under even greater scrutiny, make sure you are there to join in these debates.

Seans Notes 23/10/08

Cumman na mBunscol - Pride of place this week goes to St Michael National School Corcaghan, on Saturday last at Clontibret amid scenes of great jubilation the school's young representatives in the 2008 Cumman na mBunscol Boys Football Roinn 4 competition went into the record book, lifting the trophy for the first time. Three first half goals from Shane Farrell, Niall Kearns and Aidan Ward setting them on their way and putting them into a well-deserved interval lead of 3 - 5 to Loughmourne's 1 - 5. This was a good all round team performance; Adam Counihan was quick and alert in goal and couldn't be faulted for the shots that beat him. He was well fronted by the Mc Guirk brothers Martin and Mathew both defending with tenacity and bravery. Shane Farrell at the heart of the defence made some timely tackles especially in the second half when Loughmourne applied sustained pressure, and was also on the end of a classy passing movement to finish the ball to the net for an all important first half goal. It was at midfield though where Niall Kearns put in a powerhouse performance able assisted by Dylan Mc Nally that the outcome of this game was decided, this duo the launching pad for many of the St Michael attacks. Up front Aidan Ward was the ideal target man and he didn't disappoint moving impressively around the scoring area; great hands and a sweet left foot, he ended the game with a personal tally of 2 -3 to his credit. Flanking team captain Ward were Gareth Mc Guirk and Patrick Mc Phillips both producing superb performances and getting their name on the score sheet in the process with well taken points from play. Substitutes Gary Mc Mahon, Cathal Mc Phillips, and Dean Golding were keen to get into the fray and were all quickly into the action when introduced. Final score Corcaghan 4 - 9 Lougmourne 2 - 7, well done to the panel, teacher Evelyn Timoney Conaty, and to club chairman Danny Clerkin who helped coach these young players for this competition. Danny has long been a staunch advocate of greater co-operation between club and schools where the development and promotion of Gaelic football is concerned, and as demonstrated by his involvement with St Michael's he leads by example in this regard. Good to see our first club chairman Seamus Timoney present in Clontibret on Saturday too, but then, as a former principal of Corcaghan Seamus wasn't going to miss this one and no doubt delighted and savoured this success more than most. Another club man former player Ciarán Mulligan was also present and enjoying success, as coach to Roinn 1 winners Monaghan; club juveniles Paul Bannon, Mark Murphy, and Adam O Driscoll were members of his winning squad, all in all then a very successful Lá na gCluichí Ceannais for the club.

Under 13 - Our Under 13 side proved too strong for neighbours Eire Óg in their Division 2 play-off clash in Aghabog on Sunday morning last, and ran out comfortable 7 - 8 to 1 - 5 winners in the end. This victory sees them now pitted against Cup competition favourites Killanny on Sunday next in Killanny at 2.00pm. While the home side will no doubt be odds on to progress from this semi-final our boys are not making this long journey just to make up the numbers, coaches and panellists know that if the squad produce the football they are capable of a surprise could be on the cards. Win lose or draw these lads have done well to secure a top four slot, this achievement alone deserves encouragement and support and I hope to see a big contingent of Seans supporter travelling to Killanny on Sunday for that 2.00pm throw in. The panel on duty last Sunday was James Mc Carron, Ryan Mc Guinness, Niall Kearns, Ryan Mc entee, Luke Killoran, Jamie Keenan, Aidan Ward, Sean Freeman, Paul Bannon, Pierce Murphy, Jason Kearns, Niall Murphy, Patrick Mc Phillips Yvonne Ward, Daragh Bell,

Totto - The number sequence 4,3,6,2,7,1,5, drawn last weekend was not correctly forecast. The €40 prize went to Ciaran Murphy c/o Horticultural Solutions, The €20 prizes were claimed by J. Mc Elvaney, Patsy Mc Carron/Michael Mc Mahon, Gerry Mc Enaney Monaghan, Mary Mc Ardle Tullygillen, and Patsy Prunty Mullaghamatt. Next week jackpot is €2,100.

Auction - Advance notice !!! It's that time again, our Annual Auction to raise funds for the promotion of juvenile football in the club, the date Sunday 9th November. Time then to check the attic and any other nook or cranny you may have items that have outlived their usefulness stashed. Several teams of enthusiastic promoter will be visiting and distributing information leaflets across the length and breath of the parish over the coming week, hopefully encouraging you to hand over these item and allow us convert them into cash when they go under the hammer in the complex on Sunday 9th. More details later, for now, let the search and early spring clean begin.

October Bank Holiday Bingo - Next Monday night 27th October sees spots prizes galore being offered on every page for our special Holloween bingo session commencing in the Complex at 9 o clock, this is an occasion not to be missed. As well as the additional spot prizes on offer the jackpot prizes which are building up nicely are available, as are the usual line and house prizes. Definitely an opportunity to improve your bank balance as well as enjoying night out in the process See you there, bring a friend too..

Seans Notes 16/10/08

Adult team - Our final intermediate game of the season away to Aughnamullen scheduled for Sunday next at 12.30pm would regardless of outcome not change current league standings; as a consequence the decision has been taken not to travel. 2008 will see our adult squad regulated back to junior ranks, a grade the club last competed in in1992. Hopefully our squad of players can regroup and push for promotion next year, not a simple task given the quality of teams currently operating in this division, none the less this is goal and a target we must aim for.

Under 13 - Our Under 13 side have an early morning encounter in Aghabog on Sunday next at 10.30am when they take on neighbours Eire Óg in their U13 Division 2 play off. Having already accounted for the Smithboro lads in their previous league meeting they will be hoping to produce another performance on this occasion that will deliver a similar outcome, the Eire Óg boys will no doubt not make life easy as they too try to claim that place that is at stake for themselves. Should make for an exciting game, all support especially at this time of the morning is encouraged and welcome.

Cumman na mBunscol - The finals of this competition take place at Clontibret on Saturday morning next from 10.00 -12.30. St Michael NS Corcaghan take on Loughmourne NS in the final of their competition. St Michaels have made it through the qualifying four matches unbeaten and it would be a great boast to all involved if they can negotiate this final hurdle and lift the trophy. It certainly wont be for want of effort the whole squad are as keen as mustard. Adam Counihan Shane Farrell Niall Kearns, Mathew Mc Guirk Gareth Mc Guirk, Dillon Mc Nally, Aidan Ward, Cathal Mc Phillips, Martin Mc Guirk, Patrick Mc Phillips, Gary Mc Mahon we wish the lads, teacher and coach the very best. Getting to the finals is a great achievement for any school and deserves our support hopefully we will see a big following in Clontibret on Saturday morning

Totto - The number sequence 4,7,3,2,5,1,6, drawn last weekend was not correctly forecast. The €40 prize went to Rachel Connolly Carnbane, The €20 prizes were claimed by Marie Mc Nee Castleblayney, Molly Mc Entee Drumguill,Annie Greenan Cavan, Frank Thornton Cabra,and Matt Watters Crumlin. Next week jackpot is €2,000.

Bowls - Reminder to all our indoor bowling fraternity that bowling activity is gathering momentum in the complex on Thursday's nights at 8.30pm, existing and new members always welcome along. The new league season also got under way on a successful note last Sunday night with the Seans side edging out visitors Ballybay for a 5-3 victory. On Friday night member's head to Enniskillen to complete in a prestigious tournament, we wish them well, a similar good wish especially from his bowling team-mate goes to Padraig Greenan they all hope your impending absence will be short.

Sympathy - The club extends deepest sympathy to Mary Connolly Carnbane and her extended family circle on the death of her father Pat Hurson, also to the Mc Guinness Family Castleblayney and the Faughs club on the death of Mickey Mc Guinness. Go ndeana Dia trocaire ar a ainmacha.

Congratulations - To our parishes Community Games Organisation who celebrate their silver jubilee. Invitations have been extended to join the festivities in complex on Friday night to celebrate 25years of service to the community. We wish them well and hope they have a fantastic night.

Seans Notes 09/10/08

Under 13 - On Saturday last at Clontibret our under 13 squad failed to overcome the locals in their last league game of the competition going under by a couple of points. They now must wait the outcome of the one remaining game in this division 2 league between Clontibret and Latton to decide which knock out competition Cup or Shield they will compete in. Should Clontibret win then our boys will secure 4th spot, but a Latton victor will see them compete for the shield trophy. To prepare for which ever competition beckons most of the squad will be travelling to the Under 12 football blitz being organised by the Scotstown club on Saturday next. All members of the travelling panel are reminded to be at the assembly points at the appointed time.

Totto Results - The numbers drawn 4,1,3,7,5,6,2, were not correctly forecast last week. The €40 prize was won by Jim & Bridie Mc Connon Gortmore.The €20 prises were claimed by Edward Murphy Ballagh, Martin Gilbert Cormeen, Pat Murphy, Dunraymond, J. Mohan Knockatallon, and John Duffy Cabra. Next week’s jackpot is €1,900.

Cumman na mBunscol - The lads from St. Michael’s NS Corcaghan proved too strong for their visitors from Edenmore NS on Tuesday afternoon last at pairc SMacD and ran out comfortable winners in the end in a very high scoring game. Unbeaten in their four match league campaign the boys can now look forward to the finals of the Cumman na mBunscol competition on Saturday 18th October, venue and times to be decided. Well done to the panel and teacher M/s Conaty, we wish them well in the finals.

Collection - A collection for the Irish Heart Foundation will be taken up in the parish next week end, you are asked to give generously to this worthy cause.

Sympathy - At our most recent club meeting a vote of sympathy was extended to Peter Mullin Drumsheeney on the death in the USA of his brother Packie, Go ndeana Dia trocaire ar a ainm.

Best wishes - To the parish Community Games Committee who are current putting the finishing touches to their Silver Jubilee Celebration. This takes place on Friday 17th October. Commitment and dedication to the children of our parish in so many disciplines deserves support and recognition, an opportunity then for all of us, children and parents, to acknowledge the selflessness of so many in this regard over the past twenty five years.

Seans Notes 01/10/08

Under 13 - Last week our under 13 side despite home advantage suffered their second defeat in successive outings this time against a very strong Killanny team, on a scoreline of Seans 0 -9 Killanny 2 -9. Our youngsters tried hard and never gave up but those two goals were the difference in the end. There were good performances from James Mc Carron in goal, Ryan Mc Guinness and Dillon Keenan in defence, Niall Kearns was his usuall industrious self around the middle of the field, up front Yvonne and Aidan Ward were the biggest threats. Next Saturday they play Clontibret at the O' Neill venue at 11.00am. They will be hoping to reverse their recent run of results, as the outcome of this their final game will almost certainly determine which club competes in the Cup or Shield competition. This squad miss the services of Colin Mc Elvaney one of their most polished and stylished performers, Colin sustain a very nasty knee injury recently which will keep him sidelined for some time, despite that such is his commitment to this squad although on crutches he still hasn't missed a coaching session. This dedication hasn't gone unnoticed, we wish Colin a speedy recovery from this injury and we all look forward to him resuming his footballing activities as soon as possible.

Cumman na mBunscol - St Michael's N.S made it three wins on the trot on Tuesday last when they accounted for Killeevan N.S in an exciting and entertaining game played at Pairc SMcD. Two point seperated the side at half time 2 -3 to 1- 4 in favour of the Corcaghan lads. Wind assisted in the second half and powered on by Shane Farrell and Niall Kearns the St Michael's boys pressed home their superiority in the opening period of this half and looked like winning comfortably, but the Killevan lads had other idea rattling in two late goal to leave thing just a little uncomfortable for the home side, but steadying point from Dillon Mc Nally Aidan Ward in last few minutes insured a third successive and well deserved victory. Final score St Michaels 4 -11 Killeevan 3 - 9. As well as those already mentioned Adam Counihan did well in goal, Mathew Mc Guirk was formidable in defence, while namesake Gareth was sharp in attack, also well to the fore when introduced were Cathal Mc Phillips and Martin Mc Guirk, with Patrick Mc Phillips, Gary Mc Mahon also very eager for action. Having already accounted for Glaslough and Tydavnet the boys will be hoping for a clean sweep when they complete their league programme against Edenmore N.S on Tuesday next again at club headquarters. A win in that one will guarantee a place in the final on Saturday 18th October venue and time to be decided. Great to see parents even the odd grandparent out supporting these youngsters, Next Tuesday then around 1.00pm, if you have an hour to spare you won't be disappointed, see you there.

Totto - The number sequence 7,6,3,5,4,2,1, drawn last weekend was not correctly forecast. The €40 prize went to Eamonn Mc Entee Kiltubrid, The €20 prizes were claimed by Celene Grant Cabra, Donna Toal Monaghan, Pat O' Reilly Corcaghan, David Treanor and Cormac Connolly. Next week jackpot is €1,800.

Bowls - A reminder to all our indoor bowling fraternity that bowling activity has again resumed in the complex on Thursday's nights at 8.30pm. With the new season almost upon us existing and new members are encouraged to shake of those cobwebs and come along and joint this activity. New members will be made most welcome. That's Thursday night 8.30 in the complex main hall.

Congratulations - To former club player Michael Mc Mahon (Jnr) now domicile in Ballybofey. Mickey has thrown in his lot with the local Mac Cumhaill club and in his first term as team manager guided them to Intermediate championship success last Sunday. Well done Michael.

Seans Notes 25/09/08

Adults - Little activity on the adult football scene for our lads at the minute with the season all but over, just one game remaining in the intermediate league, that against Aughnamullen on Sunday 19th October at 12.30pm

Under 13 - Our under 13 side travelled to Latton last week and were on the wrong side of the result against a very useful Latton outfit. Despite home advantage next Saturday they have another very stern test ahead of them and they will do well if they can hold their own with visitors Killanny. Because of championship fixtures in the afternoon all U.13 game now have a morning throw in time of 11.30am.All involved as well as regular supporters to these games are asked to note this change.

Totto - The number sequence 5,1,6,2,3,4,7, drawn last weekend was not correctly forecast. The €40 prize went to Michael Mc Carron Monaghan, The €20 prizes were claimed by Niamh & Lisa Murphy Naghill, Una Kilpatrick, Felix Mc Elvaney Drunguill, Paula Treanor Ballybay, Molly Mc Entee Drumguill. Next week jackpot is €1,700.

Anniversary Bingo - Bingo patrons are reminder not to miss next week's Monday night session in the complex as we celebrate and mark another bingo birthday. Thanks to continued support our club bingo has gone from strength to strength over the years. To show our appreciation for that loyalty patrons will be treated to spot prizes galore next Monday night as well as of course to the usual valuable prizes that are always available on every page. The jackpots too are growing nicely and would be well worth taking home. Why not then come along enjoy the fun and maybe improve that bank balance in the process. Eyes down at 9 o'clock

Best wishes - Next Sunday in Croke Park, Monaghan Ladies make a very welcome return to the All Ireland Senior Football Final. We wish their mastermind manager John Mc Aleer and his panel especially parish representative Elanna Hackett the very best of luck. The girls have performed brilliantly to get to this final and we all hope they produce another top-drawer performance and overcome Cork. I would encourage all our own club followers to travel and give the girls the support and encouragement they deserve. Good luck to all involved.

Seans Notes 18/09/08

Minors - Our minor squad despite bowing out by the minimum of margins against a very strong St Pat's team in their Division 2 semi-final league clash in Drumhowan last Friday night have to be complimented, they produced a spirited and gutsy second half performance that almost swung the result in their favour. In arrears at the half way stage by 1 -7 to 1- 1 things look very glum indeed for our outfit. David Mc Entee opening the scoring with a second minute free but another twenty minutes would elapse before Dara Freeman gave our boys a life line when he forced the ball to the St Pats net following a goal mouth scramble. In between those scores the Drumhowan-Ballybay combination dominated both in terms of possession and scores racking up an impressive tally of 1-5, and when their inform top of the right marksman Kelvin Mc Entee landed two glorious point from play in the 27th minute and another in added on time, our boys looked dead and buried. But what a transformation; from the restart our lads showed their intent and were rewarded with pointed frees from David Mc Entee in the 2nd and 6th minute and a glorious effort from play in between from Brian Mc Quaid, Full forward Charlie Mc Guinness opened the St Pats account with the half almost ten minutes old. With Mark Mc Guigan anchoring our defence and excelling in his sweeper role, namesake Donal and Ashley Maguire were proving real stumbling blocks for the vaunted St Pats attack. In one of the best moves of this keenly contested second half, a turn over by full back John Kearns and sweet interplay out of defence involving Jamie Mc Elvaney Gavin Baxter and the Mc Guigan pair found midfielder Paraic Mc Guirk the long delivery into the danger area was excellently tapped down Donaghy style by Rory Lyden to the in rushing Mc Entee a goal chance seemed on, only for an alert St Pats defender to come from nowhere to make a last ditch but timely interception. With Mc Guirk and Mc Quaid gaining parity around midfield and Danny Mc Nally and Darren Keely shaking off the shackles of their immediate opponents on the half forward line the St Pats goal mouth was constantly bombarded, but their rearguard stood firm, content to prevent any passage to goal other than white flags being raised from frees. D. Mc Entee (2) 15th and 17th minute and D. Mc Nally (2) 24th and 28th minute. This wasn't by any means one way traffic as the St Pats boys were in equally determined mode not to throw away that big interval lead, and in one of their many attacks this time halted illegally, they were grateful for the accuracy of their thrusty free taker Kelvin Mc Entee in the 22nd minute and the impressive Mc Guinness five minutes later to maintain a sometimes dangerous but very valuable two point cushion. Our big contingent of followers were vocal in their support as the willed our lads on for every ball and a last minute goal that would surely swing the game in their favour. Alas in an extend extra time period that must have seem like an eternity for the home supporters try as they might the St Pats net wasn't to be breached and our boys had to be content with a excellent point from play from Brian Mc Quaid. Much to the disappointment of all involved their valiant effort wasn't enough and the St Pats outfit held on to secure a coveted place in the final on a scoreline of St Pats 1 -10 Seans 1 - 9. The panel on duty was Murt Cleere, Gavin Baxter, Jamie Mc Elvaney, John Kearns Donal Mc Guigan Mark Mc Guigan Rory Lyden, Ashley Maguire, Brian Mc Quaid, Paraic Mc Guirk, Emmett Connolly Darren Keely, Danny Mc Nally, Francis Mc Elvaney, David Mc Entee Shane Larkin Conor Hagan, Dara Freeman.

Under 13 - Our under 13 side had another impressive victory over visitors Clones in TMH last week end, if they can maintain this form they are well place for a knock out place, but they will have to produce another workmanlike performance for their excursion to Latton next Saturday if the are to overcome the locals. Throw in time is as usual 3pm.

Duck Racing - The tension was palpable would they wouldn't they ... It happened in a flash as they approached the finishing line in the second race; the attempted was made; escape!!! Duck only moments earlier that appeared docile crashed through the retaining fence and sped past a bewildered minder heading for the canal in a daring bid for freedom. Despite Fergal's quick hands and agility regularly demonstrated by heroics guarding the net on the playing field, on this occasion down by the element of surprise and up to his knees in water ducks glided past with ease. Even an runaí was taken by surprised by this unplanned turn of events, extricating himself from the deep water he quickly donned a madra rua guise and pounced on the unsuspecting duckling as they emerged from underneath the security of the bridge thirty metres away. The attempt foiled, all were safely apprehended and returned to the parade ring and starting enclosure. To prevent a reoccurrence some of the ring leaders had their wings clipped, and extra security was added, the remainder of the meeting went off without further incident. Congratulation to all the winners, a special word of appreciation to all who supported this event and especially to organiser Ciaran Mc Entee and his posse of helpers.

Totto - The number sequence 1,2,7,4,6,5,3, drawn last weekend was not correctly forecast. The €40 prize went to The Treanor Family Knocknacross Roslea, The €20 prizes were claimed by Monica Mc Connon Monaghan, Elaine Mc Dermott Beechgrove Clones, Marian Mc Morrow Drumsheeney, Seamus Mulligan Roskey, and Peggy Treanor Scotstown. Next week jackpot is €1,600.

Seans Notes 11/09/08

Minors - Our minor squad where overwhelmed on Wednesday evening last in their minor championship clash, a very strong Donaghmoyne side ending their interest in this competition. The home side dominated throughout and were full value for their victory, but what rankled, more than the result was our boy's lack lustre performance. Displaying little urgency or indeed willingness to compete this has to go down as their meekest performance this year. Everyone involved, as well as our travelling supporters know they were capable of much better both individually and collectively on this occasion. There is no doubt they were up against a quality side and have done well to progress to this stage of the championship and reach the last four in the league as well, but to bow out with a whimper is not something we had expected from this group of lads. Next Friday night 12th September in Drumhowan they will be given an opportunity to restore pride when they travel to Mc Keown Park to take on another hot favourite outfit in St Pats in the league semi-final clash. Although going into this game as rank outsiders they know that a repeat of last weeks performance will surely end their footballing activity for this year, everyone on the panel must produce a personal best if that is not to become a reality. Our supporters will again travel for this one and although the task of progressing to the final is huge, we know it is not beyond these boys capability, we certainly wish them well. Our 2008 minor panel is Murt Cleere, Gavin Baxter, Jamie Mc Elvaney, John Kearns Donal Mc Guigan Mark Mc Guigan Rory Lyden, Ashley Maguire, Brian Mc Quaid Conal Mc Crudden, Paraic Mc Guirk, Emmett Connolly Darren Keely, Danny Mc Nally, Francis Mc Elvaney, David Mc Entee Shane Larkin Conor Hagan, Dara Freeman. Throw in on Friday night is 6.15pm

Under 13 - Our under 13 side over came Eire Óg in a keenly contested game in Smithboro last week end, they have home advantage for the visit of Clones to TMH on Saturday next Throw in time is as usual is 3pm.

Duck Racing - Housed since our festival weekend back in August, but unlike the rest of us, these water loving creatures haven't seen a drop of uisce since then. But all that will be put to right immediately after Saturday Under 13 game when ducks of all shapes and size will be released on to the river in what promises to be the biggest and best duck race meeting held at club headquarters. Thanks to a high protein diet and pampered to their every need by a dedicated trainer these ducks are now in tremendous physical shape. Some owners have been seen visiting their compound slipping extra supplements to insure they cross the finishing line first. With the river in flood mode we are guaranteed fast time, this is definitely a race meeting not to be missed; you'd be quackers to do so!

Totto - The number sequence 3,2,7,5,4,1,6, drawn last weekend was not correctly forecast. The €40 prize went to Fintan Connolly Lisnalee Dunraymond. The €20 prizes were claimed by Brenda Mc Quaid Annabrack, Oisin Treanor Tonniscoffey, The Treanor Family Roslea,Jimmy Mc Guigan Mullinahinch, and Kate & PJ Togan Next week's jackpot is €1,500.

Comhaltas - We extend our heartiest congratulations to Pat Beagan who is to receive the Comhaltas Gradam Ceoil award in An Culturlann next weekend. Current Ulster and County Chairman, Pat, receives this award in recognition of his work in promoting traditional Irish music and song down through the years. A former player and holder of the office of an runai with our own club in the early '70. It has been his tremendous contribution in developing one of the most vibrant Comhaltas units in his native Corcaghan not to mention his unstinting contribution at county, provincial, and national level that has merited this award. On this very special occasion, we wish Pat, his family and local Comhaltas organisation a most enjoyable and memorable time in Monkstown next weekend. Comhghairdeas a Phadraig.

Seans Notes 04/09/08

Adult Team - Last Sunday at TMH our intermediate team went down by the minimum of margins, a last minute converted free swinging the result in favour of the visitors. Eire Óg opened smartly and were three points up before our boys registered their opening score in the thirteenth minute a solo effort from Patrick Kieran following a nice tap down from Derek Mc Mahon. A Damien Larkin free a couple of minutes later reduced the deficit to one but Eire Óg combined well to land a nice point from an acute angle before Patrick Kieran responded in kind for Seans. Eire Og midfielder Cassidy and full forward Paddy Croakin extended their lead punishing poor tackling in our defence with two well struck frees from opposite sides of the park. Patrick Kieran was on the end of a well directed pass from David Mc Entee to leave the half time score Seans 0 - 4 Eire Óg 0 - 6. Our boys were first to strike in the second half through a Damien Larkin free, but indicipline in our rearguard was again punished with unerring accuracy from the boot of Croakin in the 3rd, 5th and 8th minute. Paddy Kieran pulled one back for our boys. In the 24minute the visitors keeper was called into action and he did brilliantly to deflect a Damien Larkin shot away to safety, but there was little he could do when two minutes later his defence was caught napping a quick free found David Mc Entee and our minor starlet rattled the net from six yards to level the score. Both side had chances to go in front but it was left to full forward Croakin to land that last minute free and gain the two very valuable points that could secure his side a semi final place; final score Seans 1- 6 Eire Óg 0 - 10.

Minors - Our minor squad booked a place in the Division 2 semi final on Friday night last in Cremartin when they over came a spirited Carrickmacross side. Little separated the side in the opening period but greater cohesion and accuracy in front of gaol began to pay dividends in the closing period as the Carrick lads seemed to tire and our boys ran out comfortable winners 2 -13 to Carrick's 0 - 8. There were good performances from Murt Cleere in goal, John Kearns and Mark Mc Guigan in defence Paraic Mc Guirk was strong and forceful around the middle of the field up front David Mc Entee was always a threat. But with a championship date with Donaghmoyne beckoning on Wednesday night and a league semi final tilt with table toppers St. Patricks also around the corner if will take everyone playing to their full potential if they are to negotiate these hurdles. Certainly not beyond the bounds of possibility as there is quality a plenty in this squad. Throw in for that championship encounter with Donaghmoyne is 6.45pm hopefully a big contingent of support will travel to lend encouragement

Under 13 - The under 13 side over came Inniskeen at TMH on Saturday last but were on the receiving end in their deferred opening game in the competition against Cremartin a few days earlier. Next Saturday they travel the short distance down the road to Smithboro to take on the Eire Óg lads, starting time is 3pm.

Bon Voyage - We extend our best wish to Emylin Clerkin who is heading to Germany on Saturday to pursue his studies, his team mates and all in the club wish him well, also heading to foreign parts shortly is Olivia Mc Connon, Kewi land to be precise, we wish them both a safe and enjoyable time in their new surroundings.

Totto - The number sequence 3,6,1,2,5,7,4, drawn last weekend was not correctly forecast. The €40 prize went to Paul Treanor Roslea. The €20 prizes were claimed by Sharon Carville Castleblayney, Anne Marie Mc Mahon Gortmore, Peter Mc Elvaney Cooldaragh, Annie Cusack Aghabog, and Derek Mc Mahon Gortmore, Next week's jackpot is €1,400.

Seans Notes 28/08/08

Adult Teams - Next Sunday at TMH our adult team entertains neighbours Eire Óg in our penultimate game of the competition at 12.30. Little is at stake other than bragging rights, our boys already destined to the lower division next year, while our visitors have had mixed fortune too since they claimed those two league points when the sides last met, thanks to a late penalty. With the Smithboro lads already that game to the good our boys will be hoping to level things and avoid a whitewash. Perhaps more important than the outcome of the game, is that the spirit of friendly rivalry and sportsmanship that has existed and been a feature of clashes involving both clubs will be again restored for Sunday's encounter, and the niggleness that infected their last meeting will not be repeated, nor indeed inflammatory aftermath comments. Hopefully the big contingent of followers that this local derby game is sure to attract will be treated to a spectacle of good football and honest sportsmanship this time round.

Reserves - In the semi final of the Crawley Cup in Emyvale on Wednesday night last our reserve side were involved in one of the best game of football witnessed this year. Keenly contested and close throughout, good scores, defensive errors, near misses, keeping the outcome on a knife edge right up to the final whistle. Composure and accuracy are not always attributes associated with this level of competition, but on this occasion the quality of the point scoring from both side was out of the top drawer. Had some of our lads exercised a little more composure in shot selection and distribution in front of goal they might have managed to tilt the result in our favour. Although Emyvale over the hour probably just deserved to shade things, especially given the calibre of their last two long-range strikes few could complain about the outcome. Final score Emyvale 1 -13 Seans 1 -11

Minors - Our minor squad booked a place in the next round of the minor championship on Tuesday night last when the accounted for a depleted Truagh side on a scoreline of Seans 1- 16 Truagh 3 - 6. This was a good all round team performance with the forwards combining well to knock over some excellent scores. Their opponents in the next round are the winners of the Aughnamullen/Donaghmoyne clash; this game is set for Tuesday 1st September at 6.45pm. However before that they have another important date on Friday night next in Cremartin when the take on Carrickmacross in the play off for a place in the Minor league Division 2 competition, throw in for this one is also at 6.45pm. All support would be welcomed

Under 13 - The under 13 side also travel to Cremartin on Thursday night their game from last Saturday rearrange because many on the panel were representing the parish in the Community Games Nationals finals in Mosney. This Saturday they have home advantage for the visit of Inniskeen to TMH starting time is 3pm.

Skills Competition - Well done to Niall Kearns and Adain Ward who represented the club at the skill competition on Saturday morning last at Cloghan, although they didn't make the cut to progress to provincial stage they equipped themselves very well. Well done lads.

Discharged and home - Good news, committee member Paul Kelly has been discharged and is recuperating at home in Killnaclay following his recent stay in hospital, I receive this wee not from Paul for inclusion in this column "A Thank you" … "I would like to take this opportunity to express my appreciation for all the gifts, cards, and well wishes that I received over the past few weeks. I'll see you all in due course.. Paul Kelly".

Totto - The number sequence 7,2,6,3,4,5,1 drawn last weekend was not correctly forecast. The €40 prize went to Dominic Mc Stravog Castleshane. The €20 prizes were claimed by Patsy Prunty Mullaghmatt, Paraic Mc Connon Killnaclay, Deirdre Smith Newbliss, Peter Sherry Crumlin, Una Next week's jackpot is €1,300.

Seans Notes 21/08/08

Adult Teams - On Sunday last our intermediate side put in a battling performance against Truagh at St Mellan's Park and were well in contention at the half way stage, on equal terms 5 points apiece. Our boys grateful though for the reactionary ability of goalkeeper Mark Keogh called on to make a point blank save when his defence were exposed for the only time in the half. In the second half Truagh edged their way in front thanks to the free taking ability of Noel Clerkin and Keith Sherrin and it was the home sides turn to be grateful, firstly, to the crossbar when a delicate lob from Nigel Mc Quillan beat the advancing keeper but not the width of the lath. Several minutes later a quick free from the alert Mc Quillan putting Damien Larkin through, only for his well struck angled shot to rebound of the upright and away to safety. In the end Truagh deservedly shaded the issue as our boys struggled over the hour to gain a meaningful foothold around the middle of the field, and lost the possession stakes, that said they couldn't be faulted for effort, epitomised by full back Emmett Mc Elvaney who was our best player on view. Final score Truagh 0 -12 Seans 0 - 8 .

Reserves - Our reserve side will be hoping to book a place in the Crawley Cup final at the expenses of Wednesday nights opponents Emyvale. They will have to be at their very best if the are to make it to another reserve competition decider, Throw in is at 7.00pm with extra time scheduled should they finish level after the regulation sixty minutes. Hopefully we will see a big contingent of supporter travelling to cheer on these lads.

Minors - Our minor squad following their defeat at the hand of Latton on Tuesday night last must content themselves with a showdown play off with Carrickmacross for a place in the last four of their league division 2 competition. Despite the slippery underfoot conditions this was a very entertaining game with excellent passages of football. Our boys possessed the better attacking ability and created numerous opening but found the Latton keeper in unbeatable form, of the half dozen chances that presented themselves only one managed to beat the man of the match goalkeeper. One of those would have graced any stadium even Croke Park, orchestrated by David Mc Entee, his lovely weighted fisted pass unhinging the Latton defence only for the in form keeper to parry Darragh Freeman shot as he came to his teams' rescue for the umpteenth time and helped in no small way to edge his team into that coveted semi- final place. Bitterly disappointed with the outcome this was however a good all round team performance, luck deserting them in front of goal This week before that league play-off they will have to pick themselves up and hope to progress in the championship on Tuesday night all be it via the back door. How they get on in their TMH clash with Truagh will determine if participation continues in that competition.

Under 13 - The torrential rain of last Saturday put pay to many of the scheduled under age games and our youngsters match with Clontibret was no exception. Next Saturday they travel to Cremartin for another 3 o' clock start.

Totto - The number sequence 2,6,3,7,5,1,4, drawn last weekend was not correctly forecast. The €40 prize went to Majella Mc Entee Kiltubrid. The €20 prizes were claimed by Nan Rudden Castleblayney, Ann Marie Mc Mahon Gortmore.Evelyn Boylan Annyalla, Michael Mc Elvaney Mullinavanog, and Sadie Murphy Carnbane, Next week's jackpot is €1,200. Concert A big gala concert takes place in the Glencarn Hotel Castleblayney on Tuesday night 26th August featuring the who's who of Irish singers, songwriters, and showbands. Featuring among this illustrious talent is our very own Brendan Mc Mahon. Brendan no mean footballer with the club, but it's his ability to give a rousing impression of the late great Joe Dolan that has brought him into the limelight in recent time. Having already performed in that guise in Stars in Your Eyes, Brendan on this occasion will perform on stage with the Robert Mezzell Band, singing some of the Mullingar man's most familiar songs. Ticket are I believe for this extravaganza been snapped up at a lively pace, anyone interested in attending should contact hotel reception as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. We wish Brendan every success on his special occasion as he rubs shoulders with the cream of Irish showband talent. Sympathy We extend our sincerest sympathy to the family of the late Pete Lambe and to the wider family circle. Go ndeana Dia Trocaira ar a n-ainm

Seans Notes 14/08/08

Adult Teams - On Sunday last a purple patch in the open few minutes of the second half which saw a goal and two point registered on the scoreboard seemed to have tipped the outcome of this intermediate league game against Cremartin in our favour. Unfortunately two goals, one a freakish fisted effort which deceived goalkeeper Mark Keogh the other a sublime finish after a great thirty metre solo run through the heart of our defence saw the point going to the visitors. Possession wise our boys dominate the opening exchanges but failed miserable to convert their advantage into score, thanks largely to the accuracy of midfielder Barry Carragher Cremartin went in at the interval a point to the good. Seans 0 - 3 Cremartin 0 - 4. Derek Mc Mahon open the second half with a long range point a couple of minutes later Damien Larkin was on the end of a good move involving Patrick Kieran and Shane O' Neill to plant the ball of the inside of the upright to the Cremartin net. Further points from Christopher Connolly James Treanor and Derek Mc Mahon and an injury time goal mouth scramble which say the Cremartin keeper push the ball to safety over the bar could not undo the damage of those two goals, and the visitors held out for a one point victory final score Seans 1 - 9 Cremartin 2 - 7. Next Sunday they travel to Truagh for a 12.30pm throw in starting time.

Reserves - Our reserve side travel to Emyvale on Wednesday night next (20th Aug) for their semi-final Crawley Cup championship clash with the locals. Our boys will have to be at their very best if the are to overcome this strong Emyvale outfit and book a place in the final. With extra time on the cards in the event of a draw check fixture column for throw in time.

Minors - Our minor squad had a must win game on Tuesday night against Latton how they fared in this one will almost certainly determine if the have qualified for the knock out stages of this competition. Next week they entertain Truagh at TMH as both sides try to progress through the back door of the minor championship. Another close encounter can be expected in this one, home advantage and a big contingent of local support just might help tilt the balance in our boy's favour. 7 o' clock is the starting time.

Under 13 - This squad are currently being put through their paces in anticipation of their competitive action which begins on Saturday next with a visit to Clontibret. Starting time is an hour earlier than usual for Saturday under age games..3 O' Clock.

Totto - The number sequence 1,3,6,5,4,7,2 drawn last weekend was not correctly forecast. The €40 prize went to Dermot Maguire Scotstown. The €20 prizes were claimed by Eleanor Campbell Emyvale, John Keenan Scotstown, Noeline O' Hare_Ellis Cootehill, Jane Quigley Roslea, and Ann Treanor Smithboro. Next week's jackpot is €1,1 00.

Sympathy - All who knew him were deeply saddened to learn of the death last week end of Terence Mc Entee Drumaclan, Terry was a gentleman, his caring career as a member of St Davnets hospital staff mirroring the genuine interest he had in the welfare of family, friends, neighbours and our wider local community. Blessed with green fingers although he didn't rely totally on that talent, hard work for him was an equally important ingredient, and he certainly gave nature every assistance in that regard. Much of the bountiful produce from his garden ending up on someone else's table, given away discreetly, left on a doorstep with out a word, that was Terry. The recipients knew; and were grateful for his generosity and dexterity spade and hoe. No mean sportsman either, a proud member of the '55 and '56 Threemilehouse team. It is his fete of saving a penalty and scoring a goal in the same match that has his name etched in local football folklore. I had always thought these were two separate events, not so as verified by one of his teammates. Played in the Clontibret field behind the chapel, picture the scene, Terry at full forward recalled to do net minder when a penalty is awarded against his team. He dives, he saves, the backs have it, racing from the goal (obvious no changing of goalkeeper jersey) action continues with the ball out on the wing as Terry makes a b line down the middle to the No 14 berth. He arrives, the ball too, he grabs, lashes the leather… A goal!!!.. To Terry's family his wife Rose, their children Anne Marie, Aidan and Majella his brothers and sisters, and devoted grandchildren we extend our deepest sympathy. Go ndeana Dia Trocaira ar a n-ainm

Seans Notes 07/08/08

Sport & festival week -end - Our week end activities commenced on Friday night with a very enjoyable table quiz, the Connolly family Carnbane had a couple of points to spare over their nearest challengers. Although some teams competing had more than the regulation four, and there was plenty of prompting correct or otherwise from this extra manpower-not sure if it was help or a hindrance in the end. Question compiler and master of ceremonies Sean Mc Elvaney did an excellent job in both roles, most teams scoring high eighties and into the nineties. His visual and music rounds did produce a few stumbling blocks as did the knighted Englishman - a very no sorry the most successful manager we were told, his achievement splitting the attendance almost equally in admiration and disdain. Co drivers Seamus and Pauline Mc Caffrey steered their family to victory in the very well support car treasure hunt on Saturday evening. Clerk of the course Francie Murphy and Ailish Mc Entee set some tricky clues, but the eagle eyes Annabrack outfit were equal to them all. Second and third place were travelling companions Sarah Mc Grory /Patrick Kieran and PJ / Kathleen Murphy a bit like the Tour de France they work together over the course but in the sprint for the line Sarah and Pat's choices proved the more successful. Co ordinate by Therese Saturday night's Céilí, sets, and old time dancing prove a great success, definitely a few potential candidates on view to represent the club when scór come around next year, support for this inaugural event was much appreciated. On Sport day Monday as well as the usual athletic events the two other big attractions were firstly the Elco oils sponsored Under 8 and 10 exhibition games, all participants receiving a club bag from Elco's MD Hugh Mc Elvaney. Well done to all these young boys and girls, to their coaches who give so generously of their time and to the parents who encourage and support their children's participation in this underage skills development programme. Then the main attraction and boy did they look main, stiff, overweight, silver and thinning hairlines -that the management team. The player now there another story, some moving with the grace of rhinos and speed more associated with tortoises than hares, they did manage to produce end to end stuff. Sean Mc Elvaney for the all stars squad bagged a hattrick of goals set up for all three with uncharacteristic unselfishness by play maker supreme Gary Larkin. Eddie Masterson in the '90 team goal did manage to foil an runai with a couple of save right out of the top drawer, and in the second half with his team under every increasing pressure he move out field to good effect. Mickey Mc Mahon (Jun) and Fergal Sherdian just about shaded things in the mid field sector against Bernard Connolly and Frank Evans. Frank the anchorman allowed Bernard race opts move forward to score a great solo goal. Up front the babies of that 90's outfit Colm Mc Mahon and Stephen Hagan showed they still had an eye for the posts the later showing a deceptive turn of pace to rattle the net a couple of time. Full forward Jimmy Keely despite playing for most of the match with the handicap of his marker Paul Kelly on his back did manage to unseat the "jockey" to split the posts with both left and right footed scores on more than one occasion. In the end the all star selection ran out comfortable winners powered from the heart of their defence by Alan"attack"Treanor and Enda "elbows" Murphy, think it might be other way round! Not far behind were "jockey" Kelly, Conor "newshound" Mc Morrow and the man who always delivers Shane Grant in the No 2 berth. Fergal "Figo"Mc Quillan was a most reliable keeper. As already mention Mc Cumhaill Mc Mahon and his Kerry midfield partner vet of many a high ball tussle Sherdian held sway in this sector, they got steady support from the timely runs and thrusty left foot deliveries of Lawrence Strain. and the always available Tony Mc Guinness. Corner forward Brian O Malley brought all his years watching Jayo and his beloved Dubs to bear as he sneaked opts again ghosted in behind the defence to blasted the ball to the net from close range. Much as it pains me to report Mc Elvaney and Larkin were the all stars top scorers, An runaí strikes coming when your truly was supposed to be doing a man marking job on him. On the 90 team Pat Mc Entee and Stephen Connolly were the best defenders on view their trademark interceptions and uncanny positioning sense still there for all to see. Not far behind were Aidan Kierans and Cyril Kieran the later managing to get forward but landed his shots off target before injury curtailed his participation (another reason for the outcome of this game). Felix Mc Elvaney saw plenty of the ball in the opening half and he showed tremendous bravery with a couple of spectacular saves and goal line clearances when he moved in to mind the net. Up front the full forward line of Mc Mahon, Keely, and Hagan caught the eye repeatedly, this trio got good support from Brendan Mc Mahon and Brendan Finan although both struggled to shake of the attentions of "attack" and "elbows" Ciaran Mc Entee was sprung from the bench but despite plentiful possession could do little to stem the all star tide. Manager Danny Clerkin and selector Mick Mc Elvaney did make a number of positional switches but as per their norm it was too little too late. On the other side Sean Mc Elvaney was ruthless in his role as player manager. Although coming in for some persistent verbal criticism from the Referee's Administrator (frustration getting the better of him after Mc Elvaney's third goal; me thinks) Eamonn Mc Quillan the man in the middle was a very efficient effective and impartial adjudicator. At the final whistle all retired for well-earned refreshments to much applause from the large and appreciative attendance. To ensure correct identification such was the metamorphosis of some of the players, Francie Murphy with the aid of binoculars provided a very informed commentary. Well done to all involved.

Appreciation - A word of appreciation and thanks to all who supported our festival weekend and sports day, especially to everyone who helped out in anyway to make this event a success …Thank you.

Totto - The number sequence 4,1,7,2,6,5,3, drawn last weekend was correctly forecast by Jade Stuart Carnbane, Jade wins herself the nice round sum of €3,000, Congratulations.The €40 prize went to Catherine ThomasC/o Padraig Murphy. The €20 prizes were claimed by Mary Curry Dundalk, Monica Greene Silverbridge, J. Reilly Clones, P. Markey Bailieboro, Eileen Kelly Aghabog, C. Connolly Carnbane, M.Mc Mahon & F. Murphy, Jean Walsh Monaghan, Fabiola Martin Newbliss, Leah Clogher ballinasloe. Additional bank holiday prizes went to Conor Curran Dundalk, The McNamee Girls, Ann Marie Mc Mahon, Margaret Connolly Carnbane, and Brian Mc Phillips Slieveroe. Next week's jackpot is €1,000.

Adult team - Competitive action resumes next Sunday for our intermediate squad when Cremartin visit TMH for a 12.30 throw in. In the Crawley Cup competition our lads travel to Emyvale for a joust with the local in the semi-final of this competition, when last they met fortune favoured the home side our lads will be hoping to reverse that outcome and book a place in the final.

Under age Scene - Our Under 13 squad begin their competition on Saturday 16th August with a visit to Clontibret for a 3pm start please note earlier than usual starting time.

Seans Notes 31/07/08

Championship - On Sunday evening last in Scotstown our intermediate side exited the championship tamely, brushed aside by a more forceful Truagh outfit. Our lads after a dismal opening first half performance found themselves behind at the interval 1 -10 to 0 -3. They did respond to stern words at the break and after only seven minutes of play had themselves back in the match outscoring their opponents by 1 - 3 to a single point in those opening minutes to put some respectability on the scoreboard 1 -11 to 1 -6 at this stage. Despite the prompting of young Davis Mc Entee who was our most impressive and industrious player on view. Truagh braved the storm got their second wind, and a decisive second goal to run out comfortable winners in the end on a scoreline of Truagh 2 -14 Seans 1-10. Despite this reversal and the fact that relegation is also a reality too it's important that we give the remaining matches our best shot. To that end I expect all the players on our senior panel to keep the club flag flying and. be committed to these last few games the same as if promotion depended on them. There is also of course a very important reserve competition to be decided yet too.

Sport & festival week -end - Due to Monaghan game with Kerry in Croke Park on Sunday our usual sport day activities scheduled for that day have been deferred until Bank holiday Monday commencing at 2.00pm. Side shows galore plus open and confined races not to mention the 1990 championship winning team taking on an All-Star selection at 5.00pm. Prior to that the youngest footballers in the parish will display their skill in the annual Elco Oils sponsored exhibition match. Monday is definitely a day not to be missed at club headquarters. The week end activities commence on Friday night with a table quiz in our Social Centre, MC Sean starts of with easy first round questions for both adult and Under 16 participants at 9.30pm. A local charity will benefit from the funds raised. Saturday evening sees the car treasure hunt depart from the complex between 5.30 -6.00pm.On return and while we await results if water levels permit a few ducks may be released in the preliminary rounds of the Quackers Qualifying Races. A Sets, Céilí and Old Time night of dancing takes place in the main hall of the complex at 10.00pm, With good music guaranteed and space plenty this is sure to be most enjoyable, supper will also be served. Sunday it's off to support Monaghan, but on Sunday night a race night is planed for anyone who hasn't overdone the celebrations. Even if the odd flutter or horse racing is not your thing come along anyway we can still talk about what is sure to be a famous Monaghan's victory.First race gets under way around 10.00pm. Monday as mention is sports day with a very special and attractive Sports Bingo on that evening at the usual time of 9 o' clock Spot prizes galore

Ticket distribution - Tickets ordered for Sunday's game in Croke Park will be distributed by An Runaí on Friday night in the complex from 8.00pm - 8.45pm. Sean is a very busy gent on Friday night it would be appreciated that all or at least as many as possible adheres to this distribution time window. Ticket requests should be with Club secretary Sean Mc Elvaney on Tuesday evening by 6.30pm.

Best wishes - Well done to Seamus Mc Enaney and the county team on successfully overcoming the Donegal challenge last week, we hope he has similar success in taking the scalp of their illustrious opponent next Sunday, we wish Seamus and his squad success. We also send the club's best wishes for a speedy recovery and return to full fitness to executive committee member Paul Kelly, Paul is currently hospitalised following an accident at the week-end we hope his stay in hospital will be a short one.

Totto - The number sequence 4,7,2,6,1,5,3, drawn last weekend was not correctly forecast; the €40 prize went to Eamonn Mc Entee Thremilehouse. Padraic Mc Connon Threemilehouse, Fintan Connolly Lisnalee, B. Mc Quillan Belgium Sq., M Mc Kenna Derrygasson, and V. Mc phillips Drumbear Wood Connolly Park, claimed the €20 prizes. Next week's jackpot is €3,000.

Seans Notes 25/07/08

Competition success - Last week proved a very productive one on the trophy front for the club; on Friday night in Rooskey our under 12 side had a titanic struggle in the Division 2 Shield Final before eventually over coming Cremartin, it took extra time to decide the outcome. Both sides were locked together on four points apiece after regulation time, despite very few scores on the board this was anything but a dull game, it was hectic end to end stuff throughout. Our youngsters led at the interval by two points to one, Shane Farrell opening the scoring after 12 minutes, Aidan Ward doubling the tally two minutes later with a classy point, midfielder Kevin Mc Vicar getting Cremartin off the mark in the 18th minute. Two second half frees from our man of the match midfielder Niall Kearns in the 10th and 12th minute completed our lads tally. Cremartin possibly deserved a better return from their superiority in this period but had to rely in the end on Barry Kerr's accuracy from place balls to force the match into extra time, the talented midfielder knocking over three excellent frees. James Mc Carron in goal was by far the busier keeper making one first class save and repeatedly thwarting the Cremartin forward division with safe handling and smart clearences. Cousins Dylan and Jamie Keenan say plenty of the ball in the full back line but despite being put under pressure by their opposite numbers were always calm and composed, Dylan bravely sticking out a leg in the opening minutes of extra time to deflect a stinging net bound rasper away from his goal. The halfback line, on the flanks the Mc Nally brothers Arron and Dylan and in the centre Paul Bannon were always in the thick of things. Dylan steady and strong, the younger Arron working feverishly to keep tabs on his direct opponent the skilful Muireann Atkinson, and Paul, his timely interceptions, tenacious tackling and forays forward adding considerably to the effectiveness of this quintet as a defensive unit. In extra time Barry Kerr had the opening score in the 2nd minute to give his team the advantage for the first time in the match, Niall Kearns levelled things again three minutes later. From the kick out Seans were awarded a free about thirty metres out; Kearns lobed a high speculative ball into the congested goalmouth, deceiving everyone the ball ended up in the back of the net. In the eight minute full forward Aidan Ward fielded majestically turned and landed the best score of the match, Cremartin showing character responded instantly Kerr on the end of a sweeping move up field hit a well taken point of his own. In the closing minutes of this extra time period our goal had a couple of narrow escapes before Cremartin pressure was rewarded with another Kerr point this time from a 45 metre free. Scoreboard reading Seans 1 - 6 Cremartin 0 -7; still anybody's game. As already mentioned Niall Kearns was industrious throughout, his midfield partner Enda Connolly was not far behind, working tirelessly to keep Kevin Mc Vicar and the elusive Barry Kerr at bay. Upfront Shane Farrell, Aidan Ward and Sean Grant all got on the score sheet, Ryan Mc Entee was unlucky not to have joined them when his shot rattled the crossbar but he can be well satisfied with his contribution. Shane Kelly held his own too and was just narrowly wide of target on a couple of occasions, Jason Kearns, Darragh Bell, Shay Mc Caffrey and Mathew Mc Guirk also had their moments when introduced. But it was the intelligent positioning of Patrick Mc Cabe when he joined the fray that help upset and force the Cremartin defence into conceding those costly goal resulting frees. The second period of extra time was only minutes when Dylan Keenan denied Cremartin an almost certain goal with his brave block. The turning point came two minutes later a Kearns free into the Cremartin goal mouth was met bravely by Sean Grant, diving to his left he steered his fisted effort pass goalkeeper and defenders on the goal line to give his side a five point lead. Cremartin continued to drive forward but were narrowly wide of target with several efforts. Five minutes remained when another Kearns free sneaked inside the upright to the Cremartin net. The tireless Barry Kerr did raise another white flag, and Ryan Mc Entee crashed a pile driver of the Cremartin crossbar before the referee blew the final whistle. Our boys happy and delighted they had got the breaks and the goals when it mattered to secure a much welcomed juvenile trophy to the club. Final Score Seans 3- 6 Cremartin 0 - 8. The trophy was present to joint captains James Mc Carron and Dylan Keenan. As well as those already mentioned the panel included Niall Murphy, Adam O' Driscoll, Mark Murphy, Ryan Hughes, Martin Mc Guirk, Gareth Mc Guirk, Ashley Corrigan, Patrick Mc Phillips, Kyle Treanor, Jack Brennan, Ryan Connolly and Ryan Mc Quillan.

On Saturday evening our reserve C side despite playing second fiddle to a more skilful Oram outfit and adrift by eight point to four at the interval, rallied in the second half with the introduction of team captain James Murphy, Philip Farrell, Eunan Mc Entee and Stephen Mc Elvaney. It was the latter's vision and exquisite pass to Colin Murphy who dispatched the ball to the roof of the Oram net from twenty yards that turned the game in our favour mid way through the second half. Enda Murphy's tenacity halted an Oram attack he found the youthful Padraig Mc Guirk who carried thirty yards and delivered to Mc Elvaney out on the wing, Canavan like he found Murphy in the middle with the Oram defence marked absent he finished with confidence and aplomb. Oram won the possession stakes powered by an impressive display of high fielding by midfielder Barry Quinn, but failed to capitalised on that superiority in front of goal especially in the second half registering just a solitary point. The superb defending of Paraic Coyle ably assisted by Enda Murphy and Eamonn Mc Quillan did not help their cause. The introduction of James Murphy and Philip Farrell to that sector helped considerably and gave our boys much more ability to counter attack especially through the energetic Farrell.Defenders Fintan Connolly, Ruarí Mc Carron, and Gerard Mc Ardlle all played their part and couldn't be faulted for effort. At midfield JP Mc Entee and Stephen Clerkin had their hands full with Quinn and his partner Lorcan Keenan. Up front the inside line of David Mc Entee Colin Murphy and Nigel Mc Quillan were always a threat, Mc Quillan keeping our boys in touch with five expertly converted free, two in the opening half. Half forwards Christian Keenan, Ciaran Murphy, and Paraic Mc Guirk were always in the thick of the action, the later finishing superbly after one of his trade mark solo runs. The fir ionaid included Fergal Mc Quillan, Gary Larkin, Fergal Mullan, Seamus Conaty, John, Mc Connon, Alan Treanor, Paul Mc Phillips, Paul Durnion, Pardraig Murphy, Murt Cleere and Adrian Mc Carron. Having won this trophy in its inaugural year 1981 and again in '93 the long overdue return home on this occasion of the Paddy Kieran Cup was well celebrated by the victorious panel.

On Tuesday night last our Under 21 squad registered their first league point in the final match of this year's campaign when they tied with Emyvale 2 -12 apiece. Championship.

Championship - Next Sunday in Scotstown at 7.45pm it's make or break time for our adult squad when they take on Truagh in the Intermediate Football championship. In all recent meetings Truagh have had the Indian sign over us, our lads will be hoping to reverse that trend and salvage something and prolong their interest in this competition. To do that they will have to be at their very best, but Truagh too will be anxious to get their championship campaign back on track as well, should make for an interesting encounter. All our supporter given the teams recent poor league form will be hoping that they can pull a performance of note out of the hat for this one.

Totto - The number sequence 6,3,5,7,4,1,2, drawn last weekend was not correctly forecast; the €40 prize went to Mary C. Keenan Corcaghan. Mary Mc Connon Killnaclay, Fiona Bannon c/o Togan, Dermot Maguire Scotstown, Finian Smith Newbliss, and Mrs Sweeney Connolly Park, claimed the €20 prizes. Next week's jackpot is €2,900.

Sport & festival week -end - A host of activities are planned for our annual festival which take place over the bank holiday week end next week, hopefully the weather will be kind and we can all get out and about and enjoy our selves; full details next week.

Best wishes - Well done to Seamus Mc Enaney and the county team on successfully overcoming the Derry challenge last week, we hope he has similar success in Ballybofey on Saturday next, we wish Seamus and his squad all the best.

Seans Notes 18/07/08

Adult teams - The defeat on Wednesday night last at the hands of Rockcorry almost certainly consigns our adult team to junior football next year. Winning the championship our only salvation. Derek Mc Mahon kick over four successive 45metre free but even that fete could not improve the final scoreline of Rockcorry 1 -11 Seans 0 - 7. The unavailability of a number of key players almost on a weekly basis since the start of the season undoubtedly has contributed to the situation we now find ourselves in. While we can bemoan some poor performances the players in fairness have applied themselves diligently to attending training sessions. Now is the time for them to continue to stick together and do their best for the four remaining league games. They also have a very important championship date with Truagh in a couple of week's time, and who knows they may yet cause a few upsets and surprises. Wednesday night see the commencement of the Crawley Cup Reserve Championship for league Division 3 and 4 teams, we entertain Fergal O' Hanlons who make the short journey to TMH for an 8pm start. On Sunday evening last our reserved "C" side overcame Monaghan Harps to book their place in the final of the Division 4 league competition against Oram. Two goals from Nigel Mc Quillan in the opening half and one each from Cristian Keenan and Padraig Mc Guirk put the game well out of reach of the town side. The panel on duty was Jeremy Treanor, Enda Murphy, Paraic Coyle, Fintan Connolly, Ruarí Mc Carron, Eamonn Mc Quillan, Gerard Mc ArdleJohn Paul Mc Entee, Stephen Clerkin, Padraig Mc Guirk, Ciaran Murphy, Cristian Keenan, David Mc Entee, Colin Murphy, Nigel Mc Quillan, Gary Larkin, Fergal Mc Quillan Alan Treanor. The final is down for decision on Saturday night next in Clontibret at 7.30pm. The Under 21 game with Clones failed to materalise another club struggling with numbers in this age group, hopefully Emyvale and ourselves will have sufficient players available for the final game in the series which takes place in Emyvle on Monday night next the 21st July, throw in is 8.00pm

Under Age Scene - Our Under 16's failed in their bid to make a semi-final place when they where beaten in the final round of league games on Friday night last in Cremartin. The home side proving too strong for our lads and running out comfortable winners in the end. Our reserve C team may be in the final of their competition but the accolade of first team to book a final place in this year's competitions goes to our under 12 side who did just that when the had a comprenshive victory over visitors Inniskeen on Saturday evening last. Parent and supporters should note that this under 12 final takes place in Monaghan on Friday night next 18th July. Opponents Cremartin are sure to have their usual big band of followers, we need to match them with our own vocal support .I encourage all parents and club supporters to make the effort to turn out in numbers, and win loose or draw we will make this occasion a memorable one for all these youngsters from both club competing in this their first final. Friday evening Rooskey 7.30pm see you all there.

Summer Camp - A reminder if one is need that Ciaran Murphy's Camp Action 2nd week of activities continues on Monday 21st July Catering for boys and girls between the ages of 7 and 13 participants are guarantee a fun fill week of indoor and outdoors activity.. For more details contact Ciaran on 087-6840238.

Totto - The number sequence 6,3,7,4,2,5,1 drawn last week-end was not correctly forecast; the €40 prize went to Michelle Mc Elvaney Monaghan. The €20 prizes were claimed by Alice Mc Carville Dunraymond, Pat Mc Entee Cabra, Brian Sherdian Gortmore, Breda Prunty Cabra, and Anne Marie Mc Mahon Gortmore Next week's jackpot is €2,800.

Sympathy - It was with great sadness that we learned of the death of Packie Mc Elvaney last week. Packie was a real true gentleman, a great community leader and activist and although he immersed himself totally in all of his adoptive communities he never forgot his roots in Drumguill always maintaining a keen interested in the happenings around Threemilehouse and the fortune of the Seans. We extend our sincerest sympathy to his wife Rosleen, his brother Francie, and his immediate and extended family circle at their great loss. Go ndeana Dia trocaire ar a ainm.

Distribution of Ulster Final tickets - Club Members and supporters who have order tickets for Sunday's Ulster Final are request to collect them from Sean Mc Elvaney at his home on Thursday evening after 7.00pm. Another engagement means Sean is unavailable to distribute these as he usually does on Friday night in the complex. He apologies for any inconvenience this may cause put asked for your co-operation to insure that all tickets requested are distributed smoothly. That's Thursday evening Cooldaragh anytime after 7 and before 11!

Seans Notes 11/07/08

Ulster Final Tickets - A limited number of ticket will be available in the county for the Ulster Final in Clones on Sunday 20th July Club members or supporter wishing to attend must have their order with Club secretary Sean Mc Elvaney by 5 o' clock sharp on Friday. Yes this Friday evening! No request will be entertained after this deadline and there are no guarantees that all orders can be filled.

Adult teams - On Sunday morning last visitors Donaghmoyne proved to strong for our intermediate side and ran out comfortable winner in their Harte Peat league clash at TMH on a scoreline of Seans 0 - 7 Donaghmoyne 1 - 9. Patrick Kieran kick over three first half points but by the interval the visitors had racked up 1 - 6 on the scoreboard. Holding a midfield edge, and the upper hand in most positions it looked like the second half would be a mere formality and another easy victory for a visiting team To their credit our boy never gave in and although the found scores hard to come by they forced Donaghmoyne to work very hard for their two points. This defeat almost certainly consigns the team to relegation, but with a few game still left to be decided; pride is now the only thing at stake. On Wednesday night they travel to Rockcorry for an 8.00pm throw in, this game had by agreement been brought forward from the weekend. On Monday night last our U21 side where no match for visitors Ballybay in their division 2 clash played at TMH. Wind assisted in the first half our boys were still in the game and were level with their opponents at the interval. However against the elements we struggled and the visitors dominated possession and soon began to find the target. In the end they ran out comfortable winners the final score Seans 1 - 5 Ballybay 0- 17. This was a creditable enough performance given that half the team is made up of minor players with a couple also flying the flag for the U16 brigade. With a little more match practice and improved fitness levels and work ethic hopefully these lads can register at least one victory in this competition. They will have that opportunity over the coming weeks when the play Clones away next Monday night and Emyvale on 21st A couple of very important reserve fixtures are coming up; on Sunday evening next our Reserve league Division 4 side play Monaghan Harp in the semi final of that competition, the venue is TMH and the throw in is 7.00pm. On Wednesday evening also at TMH Fergal O Hanlon's are visitors for the opening game in the Crawley Cup championship competition 7.45pm is the starting time for this one. The pressure is well and truly on this panel if any type of silverware is to come to the club this year, but they handle pressure well! .

Under Age Scene - The Under 14 side failed in their bid to book a place in the Division 2 final last week, when Truagh proved too strong in their semi-final replay. Our lads struggled to settle and the home side ran into a 2 - 3 to 0 -2 lead after fifteen minutes of play, eventually our boys did find their rhythm and erased that lead and went ahead only for Truagh to find another gear and the target in the closing stage to book that coveted final place. Final score Truagh 2 -13 Seans 2 -9. The panel used was Sean Freeman, Conor Kearns, Ryan Mc Guinness, Davis Mc Kenna, Dwayne Mc Caffrey, Paul Bannon, Colin Mc Elvaney, James Mc Aleer, Dillon Keenan, Conor Mc Elroy, Conor Freeman, Ryan Mc Entee, Kevin Mc Mahon, James Connolly, Pierce Murphy, Niall Kearns. Next Saturday our Under 12 side entertain Inniskeen in the Division 2 Shield semi final at TMH please note starting time is 3.30 and not the usual Saturday throw in time of 4.o' clock. All support would be most welcome.

Feile - Pride of place goes to Kevin Mc Mahon who finished second in the Feile Peil nÓg skills competition, Kevin book his place among the ten finalists with an exception display of skill and speed and was a very worthy representative from a section that includes some outstanding players from the other three clubs in our group Latton (Monaghan) Padraig Pearse (Roscommon) and Aghamore (Mayo). In the final he was just pipped for overall honours by a faster time, a great achievement especially when one considers the array of young talent on show. Congratulations and well done Kevin. Guests and Organisation A word of appreciation to the mentor, players, and supporters of all three clubs who visited us for this competition, especially the Padraig Pearse club who we had the privilege and pleasure to host over the week -end. The youngsters were all great ambassadors for your club, we certainly hoped they enjoyed the visit as much as we did having them. To the Feile organising committee in Cavan who gave us the opportunity to be a host and venue club, to Enda and his youth committee especially Aisling and James who some might have thought had taken up residency in the complex such was their dedication to insuring everything went well. Of course to the team of catering ladies playing a blinder as usual, many of them doubling as host parents as well, and to John An runaí Mc Cririck who saddled another stable of thoroughbreds for Saturday night's entertainment. Well done to all concerned.

Summer Camp - Final reminder that summer camp activity resumes with Camp Action kicking off on Monday 14th July.If you are between the ages of 7 and 13 then down at the club is the place to be next week, where you will have the opportunity to take part in over 15 sporting and other activities. It's not about winning but about participation, fun and enjoyment if available to attend you are guaranteed a most enjoyable fun filled week. If not; don’t despair a second week's activity get underway on Monday 21st July. To enrol or receive more details contact Ciaran on 087-6840238.

Totto - The number sequence 1,6,5,3,4,7,2, drawn last week-end was not correctly forecast; the €40 prize went to Ita Kelly Killnaclay. The €20 prizes were claimed by Mary Mc Connon Killnaclay, Ailish, Larry & Mary, Threemilehouse, Michael Mc Elroy Smithboro, Francie Murphy Carnbane, Danny Clerkin/Pete Keenan. Next week Jackpot €2,&00.

Seans Notes 04/07/08

Adult teams - Damien Larkin made a welcome return to first team action after a lengthy lay off with a serious knee injury, and came through the game unscathed. Unfortunately his return was not enough to deny Corduff the two leagues points, the visitors reducing our chances of survival with this victory on a scoreline of Seans 2- 3 Corduff 1 -14. Our goals coming from Larkin and a spectacular effort from Mark Mc Entee.In the league table six points now separates us from our nearest competitors, it's imperative if we are to survive that we start winning matches and hope other results go in our favour. With games fast running out next up is the visit of Donaghmoyne to TMH on Sunday at 12.30. Hopefully for this one another few players on the casualty list will have recovered sufficiently to be considered for selection, and who know maybe the revival will begin, miracles do happen ! Scarcity of number meant Donaghamoyne had a numerical advantage even before a ball was kicked in Monday night U21 division 2 clash at TMH, we did manage to finish as per regulation but by then the visitors had victory well and truly sown up. The value of this competition has to be questioned, with our opening fixture having to be scratched because of our opponents lack of numbers, now we find ourselves in a similar position. Hopefully all our eligible players will make themselves available for the visit of Ballybay on Monday night next and maybe this squad will get at least one meaningful game it the competition, the usual throw in time of 8.00pm applies

Under Age Scene - The Under 14 side travelled to Truagh on Tuesday night for the replay of their semi-final to see who can make it to the final at the second time of asking. In the Under 16 Division 2 championship competition in Drumhowan on Friday night last our boys were piped by a single point by a Latton side who battled right to the finish and just managed to get themselves in front at the final whistle. Our Minor side has home advantage in their minor championship game with Truagh on Tuesday night next 8th July. Throw in is at 7.45pm and there will be extra time if necessary to determine who progress to the next round. As this is a "back door" game the losers will of course be eliminated.

Feile - Next week-end not only are we a host venue for Feile Peil na nÓg 2008 competition but we also host children from the Padraig Pearse club who are participating in this competition. The Roscommon youngsters and mentors arrive on Friday afternoon around 2.00pm. The first game between our U14 side and our visitors get under way at 3 o' clock, then its off to Cavan and Kingspan Breffni Park for parades etc. Saturday morning activities begin at 9oclock, with a full round of games and a skill competition scheduled to be run off between 9.30 and 12.30.Should either Seans or Padraig Pearses make it to the knock out stages it off to Cavan again in the afternoon, if not then alternative activities have been arranged. A Social get-together for players, parent and supporters of both clubs is arranged in the complex for Saturday night we hope to see many of "our own" there to give these youngsters a night to remember. Sunday it's finals or farewells. A special word of thank to all our host families and to all who assisted in organising this event especially our energetic youth committee chairman Enda.

Summer Camp - The VHI sponsored Cúl Camp is currently underway this week at Pairc Sheáin Mhic Dhiarmada participating numbers are very good an increase on last years figures. A word of thanks to parents who support summer camp activity by allowing their children participate. Well done to David and Brian two young future club stars who are also helping out this week at the camp in supervisory and coaching roles. I know despite the weather conditions all the boys and girls participating will have a fun fill and enjoyable experience this week Summer camp activity continue with Camp Action kicking off on Monday 14th July.This year's camp will provide children between the ages of 7 and 13 the opportunity to take part in over 15 sporting and other activities. Children can discover new skill or hobby they can develop and enjoy on into adulthood. Each activity allows the participant display his/her talent, develop existing skills and learn new ones during the course of the week long activities Like all good camps the focus here is on participation rather than elite performance "winning" is not the goal of any of the activities within the camp. There are of course activities of a non-sporting nature also included in the programme like table quiz's, treasure hunts, and obstacle courses. Week 1 runs from 14th to 18th July with week 2 commencing on 21st to 25th. To enrol or receive more details contact Ciaran on 087-6840238.

Totto - The number sequence 3,2,5,1,4,7,6, drawn last week-end was not correctly forecast; Fintan Connolly Lisnalee claimed the €40 prize. The €20 prizes were won by Paul Kelly Killnaclay, Veronica Mc Guinness Cornasoo, Philomena Duffy Cabra, Myles Quigley Denver Colorado, and Aoibheann Mc Mahon Kilnaclay. Next week Jackpot now stands at €2,600.

Seans Notes 26/06/08

Adult teams - Our reserve B side failed to make it to the semi-final of the Division 3 competition on Saturday evening last at Clontibret when they went down to Aughnamullen on a scoreline of Aughnamullen 1 -13 Seans 0 -12.Our boys were sluggishness in most areas of the field and paid the price in the opening half as Aughnamullen raced into a nine point to two lead. Few players other than Stephen Mc Elvaney and David Mc Entee showed the necessary intensity to match their opponents, goalkeeper Darren Mc Ardle was, and had to be very alert and agile to deny Aughnamullen an even greater lead. Half time changes in personnel, positional switches, and no doubt a harsh pep talk had the desired effect, our boys closed the gap to a single point, but the decisive score of the game came in the 19th minute of the second half. The ball rebounded of the upright; the Aughnamullen man reacted quickest and gave goalkeeper Mc Ardle no chance from three yards. For the last ten minutes Aughnamullen had to be on there toes as our boys tried valiantly to close the gap for a second time but it was not to be as time ran out on them and Aughnamullen held on to book that coveted spot against Scotstown in the semi final The Crawley Cup now beckons for this squad, that will be another tight encounter against Fergal O' Hanlons on Wednesday 16th July at TMH. If they are to progress further in this one they will have to play for the whole sixty minutes The reserve Division 4 semi-final game against Monaghan Harps scheduled for Wednesday night has been rearranged for Sunday evening 13th July. Our intermediate side entertains second place Corduff on Saturday evening next at TMH; hopefully they can put the recent run of reversals behind them and gain two-league point from this one. Their next outing is another home game against Donaghmoyne on Sunday 6th July at 12.30 and not Wednesday 2nd as originally fixed.

Under Age Scene - The Under 14 squad have to do it all over again this time on Tuesday evening 1st July at St Mellon's park Truagh, throw in is 7 o'clock with extra time again if necessary. It was the visitors who knocked over an injury time point to force SaturdaysDivision two semi- finals at TMH into extra time. No more than a point or two separate these two well matched sides throughout this contest as advantage swung one way then the other. The bigger Truagh lads came to terms much better with the wet and windy conditions, favouring the quick release of the football and more direct approach, our boys preference of playing a possession game was often undone by poor control in the slippery underfoot conditions, when it might have been more prudent to let the ball do the travelling. Half way through the second period of extra time our lads two point advantage was cancelled out by a long range effort, which ended up in the back of the net. and they had to rely on a late injury time free kick conversion to tie up the game at 2 - 12 a piece and set up a rematch on Tuesday evening next. The Under 16 squad travel to Drumhowan on Friday evening next to take on Latton in the Under 16 Division 2 championship semi final at 7 o'clock. They will have to be at their very best if they are to make it all the way to the final. All panel members insure you are on the bus travelling to Drumhowan by being at the assembly points at the appointed time as arranged with mentors. The Under 12 squad travel to Killanny on Saturday next, their coaches will have convey travelling arrangements to the panel

Summer Camp - The VHI sponsored Cúl Camp comes to Pairc Sheáin Mhic Dhiarmada next Monday 30th June, still a few days left to enrol either directly with Paul O' Connor or through the club's youth committee. Participants are guaranteed a great week of sporting activity and no end of fun and enjoyment… not to be missed!

Totto - The number sequence 7,6,2,4,3,5,1 drawn last week-end was not correctly forecast; Joan Mc Cabe Tattinaclave claimed the €40 prize. The €20 prizes were won by Aisling Treanor Smithboro, Owen Thornton Threemilehouse, Paul Kelly & Sinead Deery, Annette Mc Guigan Scotstown, Bridie & Jimmy Mc Connon Gortmore.Next week Jackpot now stands at €2,500.

Silver Jubilee Celebrations - The club were delighted to make our facilities available to the organising committee for the silver jubilee celebrations of Fr. Tom Coffey on Friday night last. Fr Tom a very popular pastor was joined by Bishop Duffy, numerous priests, family members and his many friends and parishioners to celebrate fifty year's of priesthood life. The high esteem in which he is held was evident by the large attendance filling the complex to capacity for this special and most enjoyable occasion. We offer our heartiest congratulations to Fr Tom on his silver jubilee and now that he can " put his feet up" we look forward to joining him in many more celebrations pastoral, parochial, and sporting in the years ahead. On Saturday night our facilities were also availed of by the Monaghan Branch of the Alzheimer's Society for their annual dance in aid of the Drumkill Day Care Centre. Another event well supported by the local community and beyond. A number of speakers' mention 85% of funding for day care centre Alzheimer's activity is generated by fund raising event. Anyone out there who may have a few Euro to spare I doubt if you will find a more worthy cause to support than this, Mae Murphy is the contact should you wish to donate. Functions like last week ends puts our football club at the heart of community activity, we are delighted to be there, and are grateful to be given the opportunity to play our part in parish life. It a privilege we don't take for granted and I want to acknowledge on behalf of the club the great support we get in turn from our members other community/parish organisations and families by them opting to use our facilities. A special word of congratulations to Helen and Aidan, health and happiness to you both, your patronage was much appreciated.

Sympathy - We extend our sincerest sympathy to the Prunty family on the death of Mary Prunty, to the Reilly family on the death of Mary Ellen Meehan, and to Shane Grant and his family on the death of his father Larry. Our sympathies, thoughts, and prayers are also with the Duffy family and the Doohamlet club on the tragic death of Lorcan Duffy. Go ndeana Dia trocaire ar a n ainmeacha

Seans Notes 19/06/08

Adult teams - Our hope that the senior squads fight for survival in intermediate ranks would begin at Emyvale on Friday night last were dashed when they went down by four point. They fought back gallantly to reduce the interval lead of 2 - 6 to 0 - 2 and in the end it was the home supporters who anxiously called for the final whistle to sound. This defeat coupled with a serious shoulder injury to full back Emylin Clerkin that will keep him side lined for a considerable period does little to improve our chances of survival Emylin joins our already growing list of injured casualties; Damien Larkin, team captain Christopher Connolly, James Treanor and Damien Connolly who was also forced to retire early from the Emyvale game. But all is not doom and gloom we have a crop of young players coming through who we hope will help us survive or at the very least rebuilt should the worst happen. Padraig Mc Guirk made his senior team debut on Friday night, Christopher Hughes, Philip Farrell, John Kearns, Seamus Conaty and David Mc Entee have all been introduced to first team football this year. Despite our present lowly position least any of our opponents think we are throwing in the towel, forget it, as long as it's mathematical possible to save our selves the fight will continue, and even if it's not, points will still not be surrendered cheaply. Next up is a home tie against Corduff. Our reserve B team play Aughnamullen on Saturday night next in Cremartin to determine who claims forth spot in the league table and a tilt at table toppers Scotstown in the semi-final. The C squad thanks to their victory over Blackhill on Monday night last claim top spot in the reserve league Division 4 competition and now play Monaghan Harps in the semi-final at a venue and date to be decided.

Under Age Scene - The Under 14 squad tied with Killanny for top spot in their Division two competition, the luck of the draw favoured them and they now have home advantage for the visit of Truagh on Saturday next in the semi-final,throw in 4.00pm, all support would be very welcome for this one. The Under 16 championship semi-final game against Latton takes place in Drumhowan of Friday 27th June at 7.00pm, again encouragement and support very welcome. We were well represented at Cloghan on Saturday last for another very enjoyable under 10-football blitz. The youngsters who took part were Emily Mc Nally, Kevin Kelly,Luke Perkins, James Murphy, Jack Brennan, Thomas Mc Phillips, Ryan Connolly, Jason Kearns, JamieKeenan, Ryan Hughes, Damon Hagan,Sean Grant, Patrick Mc Phillips, Mark Murphy, Aaron mc Nally, Martin Mc Guirk, Thomas Mc Clave.A special word of appreciation to their adult mentors and their two youthful helpers Pierce Murphy and Shane Larkin who's assistance proved invaluable on the day. Well done lads two budding coaches in the making!

Summer Camp - Just a reminder to all our young boys and girls The VHI sponsored Cúl Camp comes to Pairc Sheáin Mhic Dhiarmada from Monday 30th June until Friday 4th July, still time to enroll and participate in this enjoyable co-ordinated well supervised week long activities.

Totto - The number sequence 1,5,6,3,2,7,4 drawn last week-end was not correctly forecast; Laura Connolly Carnbane claimed the €40 prize. The €20 winners were won by Fergal Mc Quillan Cabra, Tony Mc Gorman Aghabog, Macartan Kieran Monaghan, John Mc Elvaney Drumguill, Mags, & Shives Roslea.Next week Jackpot now stands at €2,400.

Church Gate Collection - The Irish Kidney Association take up their annual church gate collection at all masses in the parish next week-end. Anyone who has undergone dialysis or transplants knows that this association is worthy of support, please gives generously to a very worthy cause.

Seans Notes 12/06/08

Adult teams - Our senior squad slipped further into relegation trouble on Sunday last when they allowed Ballybay take the very valuable leagues points. No disrespect to Ballybay but it was a case of our boys loosing this one; they made far more mistakes than the visitors and were duly punished. A much more disciplined approached was called for in the opening half, Ballybay benefiting and gratefully accepting territorial and positional advantage from free kicks which were conceded unnecessarily. These simple conversions laided the foundation for the visitor's two-point interval lead. The second half was even more frustrating for the large attendance of home support, hard won possession was surrender cheaply; misdirected foot passes, hand passes didn't reach their intended destination as an abundance of possession was squandered time and again. One can be critical of the quality of football, but no one can doubt the honest endeavour and effort of the players who lined out on Sunday, and while the outlook looks bleak at the moment a couple of victories would greatly improve our current position. With games running out and much of the opposition also in need of league points it not going to be easy as each game take on even more importance than the previous. All we can hope is that a couple of the lads will hit a rich vein of form, and what every about improving our league position at least improve performances, unfortunately as we know of late both are inextricably linked. Next up is an away game with Emyvale on Friday night 13th June at 8.o' clock.

Under Age Scene - The Under 14 squad were again the only under age team in action last week making the journey to Killanny on Saturday afternoon. Unfortunately they surrendered their unbeaten record when they were comprehensively turned over by a stronger well-drilled Killany outfit. Despite this reversal they now await the announcement of their opponents for the semi-final which is scheduled to take place later in the month. We wish Conor Mc Elroy a speedy recovery from a hand injury sustained in Saturday's game and hope that he'll be available should they make it to the final. All other panel should attend their coaching session at times agreed with adult mentors The Under 12 side are back in action on Saturday 14th when they entertain Cremartin at TMH at 4.00pm.

U14 Presentation - Well done to all involved in Sunday presentation of Mc Hugh Cup medal to last year's successful Under14 panel, club captain Christopher Connolly handed over the momentoes to the individual team members, In glorious sunshine youth committee chairman Enda Murphy welcomed everyone, Barry Mc Guinness introduced the panel as they made their way to the out door podium specially constructed for the occasion. Enda Mc Quillan, Stephen Mc Carron, Conor Mc Elroy, Conor Kearns, Adrian Prunty, Dwayne Mc Caffrey, Shane Larkin Jamie Mc Elvaney, Mathew Mc Cabe, James Mc Aleer, James Connolly Shane Hagan (Capt), Colin Mc Elvaney, Pearse Murphy Mathew Mc Cabe, Sean Freeman, Conor Freeman, Kaine Treanor, Conor Mc Cormick, A word of thanks to all parents and families who turned out to lend support, and to Seánine who again excelled herself in the catering department.

Totto - The number sequence 3,2,6,5,4,7,1, drawn last Saturday night was not correctly forecast; John Mc Connon Slieveroe was the €40 winner. The €20 prizes were claimed by Michael. Mc Mahon & Gerard. Mc Entee.Tony Mc Guinness Aughnamallagh, Florie Kieran Togan, Ryan Mc Elvaney Drummuck, Ann, Mags, & Shives Roslea.Next week Jackpot now stands at €2,300.

Get well wishes - We send get well wished to former club secretary Pat Beagan for a speedy recovery to good health and hope that he will soon be allowed home from hospital.

Juvenile Draw - A reminder that cards forecasting provincial and the All Ireland 2008 Football winners are currently available from committee members and members of the U14 Feile panel. Funds raised go towards defraying costs involved in participating in this years Feile competition which is hosted in Cavan, because of our close proxsimitary we too have been nominated as a host club. Cards should be returned to Enda Murphy or Nigel Lynch on or before Saturday 20th June. Unfortunately many of the early predictions had Monaghan for the Ulster title some even had them lifting Sam. Alas the Ulster title is gone but that ultimate prize is still not out of bounds, but for the purpose of this exercise it's about gaining maximum points by correctly nominating all four provincial winners as well as the All Ireland winners to claim the €200 prize.

Sports & Festival Week end - Plans are already taking shape for our August bank holiday festival and sports week-end activities. On the football front the gauntlet has been thrown down by an Runaí Sean Mc Elvaney … he will select, manage and play on a team (doubt if there is any selection that could over come that latter handicap) but, he is putting a squad together to challenge the1990 Junior championship winning team to a game on Sunday 3rd August at 5.00pm. Cathoirleach Danny Clerkin was the manager and you're truly the "over the hill" corner back on that '90 team; we felt duty bound to accepted this challenge. Sean's selection may include a number of guest appearances as well as some recently retired players (dodgy knees and all); current players are barred from participation. In preparation for this event and to cope with the dimensions of the new field, all members of that 1990 panel should commence a personal fitness programme. I would recommend walking to and from local hostelries and social centres, the odd bit of jogging nothing too strenuous! Then maybe when everyone is fit to train we will have a few collective sessions to improve our skill levels as well as working a bit on tactics, Danny might want to try out a few new tricks he has added to his armoury since then, but more importantly just in case Sean adopts a blanket defence approach to try and snuff out the ball winning ability of full forward Jimmy Keely or the radar like accuracy of "teenage" corner forwards Colm Mc Mahon and Stephen Hagan we need a plan B. Further updates on preparations and an Runaí "all-star" selection when to hand over the coming weeks. Pride at stake and bragging right also on the line.!

Seans Notes 05/06/2008

Adult teams - Our Senior squad have it all to do now given the results of their last two outings, on Wednesday evening last in Smithboro a controversial penalty in injury time secure the two league points for Eire Óg by the narrowest of margins. On Sunday a goal following a defensive mix up late in the game put a bit of a gloss on the result in favour of visitors Aughnamullen but more importantly gained them the two league points they too desperately needed. The big talking point among our supporters was the crucial decision of the referee not to award a penalty earlier in the game, had that been given and converted it would almost certainly despite our defensive frailties but the game beyond recovery for the Lough Egish men. They say these decisions level themselves out over the course of the season we certainly hope so as we enter the second half of this league campaign. Next Sunday they take on Ballybay at TMH at 12.30pm. Our reserve C team travelled to Castleblayney on Monday night last and came away with a victory, which almost certainly see them qualify for the knock out stages of this competition. A few outstanding games remained to be played before the final league placing are known. No news on the final placing in the reserve League Division 3 competition as yet, at worst our B squad have qualified for a play off to determine who pick up fourth place.

Under Age Scene - The Under 14 squad were the only under age team in action last week and they proved to strong for visitors Rockcory, on Saturday next they complete their league programme with a visit to Killanny. They have already book a knock out place but position in the league table is all-important for the semi-finals, which are scheduled to take place on Saturday 21st June. Our under 12 side are back in action on Saturday 14th June but all members of the panel are reminder that coaching sessions continue at the usual times. Members of the minor and Under 16 squads should also note their session are continuing at the normal times too, and with a couple of vital championship games on the cards against Truagh and Latton respectively as soon as the exams are over it important that all panellist attend these sessions. Our Under 8's participated in the football blitz held for this age group in Cloghan last Saturday, most clubs in the county had representatives there and while the emphasises was on participation, results of no significance. These youngsters were not to know that and they brought a refreshing competitiveness to the whole exercise, as they exhausted themselves to bring glory to their team. Our reps Ailise Mc Nally, Caoimhe Mc Mahon, Oliver Mc Clave, James Murphy, Oisin Mc Kenna, Zack Perkins, Cathal Mc Mahon, Darren Kelly, Fergal Clerkin, Shane Mc Clave, James Clerkin, Conor Brennan, KillianMurphy, Fintan Keogh, Danny Treanor, played some delightful football in their two matches with Clones and Eire Óg. Well done to all concerned.

Totto - The number sequence 1,7,5,3,6,4,2, drawn last Sunday night was not correctly forecast; Gabriel Bell Thremilehouse was the €40 winner. The €20 prizes were claimed by John & Bridie Sherry Emyvale, Shane Mc Mahon Gortmore, M. Mc Mahon & G. Mc Entee.Marian & Kevin Mc Morrow, Grace Carragher Cootehill, Nan Rudden Castleblayney, Michelle Treanor Tyholland, Fiona Mc Guigan Mullinahinch, Katie Mc Dermot Newtownbutler, Olive Mc Carron Monaghan.Extra bank holiday prizes went to ita Kelly Killnaclay, Patsy Mc Carron& Padraig Greenan, Gerard Caulfield Scotstown, Paddy Mc Guinness Cornasoo, Danny Clerkin Killnaclay.Next week Jackpot now stands at €2200.

Bingo & Road reopening - For the past couple of months or so our Bingo patrons had to endure road diversions when travelling from the direction of Monaghan town to support our weekly Monday night bingo session, we appreciate the effort made to over come this inconvenience The good news for all regular travellers on the Monaghan Newbliss road is that all barriers and diversions are to be removed this week we are reliably informed. For those who haven't experienced the "new road" why not try it out next Monday night, and who know what little surprises Gerry & Co will have in store to welcome everyone who ventures along next Monday night.

Seans Notes 29/05/2008

Adult teams - Our Senior squad have a couple of important game this week on Wednesday they travel to Smithboro to play Eire Óg; nothing less than victory and two league point will be good enough from this one, giving our precarious position propping up the table. With the competition almost at the half way stage we need to urgently increase our merge tally of three points if we are to give ourselves any chance of moving away from the relegation zone. The same applies on Sunday morning 12.30pm for our home game with Aughnamullen again a win is a must. Next up is a home games with Ballybay on 8th June and away to Emyvale on 14th. Our reserve B squad awaits the completion of one outstanding game in their competition to see if the result will affect the current standing at the top of the table. Currently Aughnamullen and ourselves sit level in joint third place; it may come down to a playoff to determine who books their place in the knock out stages of the competition. The "c" squad had a comfortable win over Monaghan Harps on Monday night last having accounted for Emyvale in their previous outing. As this competition also moves to its concluding stages, they travel to Castleblayney on Monday 2nd June for a 7.30 throw in.

Under Age Scene - Our Feile squad took their place along side other participating clubs for the official launch of 2008 All Ireland Feile competition on Thursday night last in Kingspan Breffini Park Cavan. These lad are looking forward in equal measure to competing in this competition in the first week-end in July and to hosting the youngsters from Roscommon's Padraig Pearse club to their homes. A great weekend to look forward to. The Under 14 panel should note that they have a home game not as usual on Saturday but on Tuesday 31st May when Rockcorry visit TMH and they completed their league programme on Saturday 7th June when they travel to Killanny. Training continues at the usual time on Thursday evening at 7.00pm. A depleted U12 side lost out to visitor's Eire Óg on Saturday afternoon last; they now have a break from competitive action until June 14th when they have Cremartin as visitors to TMH. Training for them is also on Thursdays and Mondays as well at the usual times of 7 o'clock

Totto - Seamus Mc Caffrey Annabrack came within a whisker of netting himself €2K on Saturday night last at the totto draw, unfortunately for Seamus the last two numbers he had forecast were the reverse of that drawn out but he still won himself €200. The numbered sequence was 6,1,4,3,7,2,5; the €40 prize was won Eamonn Prunty Cabra. The €20 prizes went to Aaron Treanor Carrickroe.PeeterMc Elvaney Cooldaragh, Billy Phair Newtownbutler, Enda Murphy Toga, and Elizabeth & John Prunty Cabra.Next week Jackpot now stands at €2100.

Special Bank Holiday bingo - For next Monday's 2nd June bingo session we will have very valuable spot prizes up for grabs on every page. The regular prizes and usual jackpots are also be available, A special word of thanks to all our patrons for their patients and understanding at last weeks session, but as pointed out by our chairman patron's health and welfare is of paramount importance. Despite the necessary delay on Monday night we unearth a real gem in young Ciara Mc Entee. Ciara received nothing but praise from all quarters on the excellent job she did in her first public performance as our new bingo caller. Hopefully she will be available at least to college resumes in the autumn to fill a regular spot on Monday night along with our two other seasoned callers. Well done Ciara.

Seans Notes 22/05/2008

Adult teams - The hope that our adult team's fortunes were finally beginning to show signs of improvement after a workmanlike performance against Ballbay in the championship were quickly dispelled in the opening few minutes of their league encounter with visitors Truagh. on Saturday last. Played at TMH the visitors showed no ill effects of their championship defeat and raced into a commanding interval lead of 1 - 11 to a single point. Noel Clerkin with unerring accuracy knocked over five points and Keith Sherin rowed in with the only goal of the half when Clerkin himself could have bagged the three pointer but unselfishly laid the ball off to his unmarked teammate. Our boys were always second best in all areas of the park but after a stern half time talking too they did manage to land four points before the visitors raised their first flag in the fifteenth minute. Despite this improved effort the Gaels goal was never really threatened and when Gary Meehan dispatched a twenty fifth minute penalty to the Seans net there was definitely no way back. It was disappointing to see the team playing so badly, we know they can perform better but it is going to take both individual leadership and collective effort to stem this slide. That starts with commitment to training and a work ethic in the next few games that has been lacking of late, next outing is away to Aughnamullen. Our reserve C team plays Oram at TMH on Saturday evening next at 7.00pm

Under Age Scene - Our under 16 squad proved too strong for Emyvale when the fixture at our request was changed to Emyvale on Thursday evening last, our boys running out comfortable winners in the end. With the exams just around the corner we wish all the lads who sit these the very best. Coaching sessions will continue during this period and it's important for body and mind that the boys take time out from their studies to unwind and enjoy the hour long weekly session. When the exams are safely out of the way this squad have a championship semi final on 27th June to look forward to. Their opponents will be Latton but the venue has yet to be decided. Some of our minor squad have the Leaving Certificate examination ahead of them over the next few weeks. They too like their U16 counterpart should find time to forget the anxiety that sometimes accompanies this test, and there's no better way to do that than by attending their regular coaching session, which will continue at the usual times. They can be guaranteed their coaches have forgotten all about Cos Sin and Tan and there wont be a mention of those three scourges or even that literary genius Shakespeare. The Under 14 squad travelled to Clones on Saturday last and proved too strong for the local lads their next outing is home to Rockcorry on Tuesday 31st May and they completed their league programme on Saturday 7th June when they visit Killanny. Although parents and the Under 12 panel were told that next Saturday's game with Eire Óg was being rearranged for an alternative date, this is now not the case and the game will go ahead as originally planned. Throw is in at 4 o'clock in TMH. Our under 10 panel competed in the Go Games blitz at Cloghan last weekend and equipped themselves very well. Along with coaches Gerard and Declan the youngsters who travelled were, James Murphy, Damon Hagan, Kevin Kelly, Luke Perkins, Sean Grant, Shane Kelly, Jack Brennan, Ailise Mc Nally, Sinead Mc Kenna, Patrick Mc Phillips, Thomas Mc Phillips and Thomas Mc Clave, well done to all involved and they have another Blitz to look forward to at the same venue on 14th June.

Totto - The numbers drawn 3, 2,7,5,4,6,1 last weekend were not correctly forecast. The €40 prize was won by Michael Mc Carron Monaghan Town Council, The €20 prizes were claimed by Una Mc Elroy, P.J. & Patsy Mc Carron, Pat Mc Entee Rawe Rd. Cabra,Francis Duffy C/o Tibby Bus, and Majella & Elizabeth Cabra.Next week Jackpot stands at €2000.

Sympathy - Our deepest sympathy is extended to the Mc Connon family on the death of Frank Mc Connon Slieveroe. Frank a former player with the club in the '60 and a man who always maintained more than a keen interest in the Seans welfare, being a life long supporter of the club and county teams. He was a regular at the clubs indoor bowling sessions, his untimely death leaves a big void among his bowling colleagues, but its his wife Rose; children, Gerard, Ann Marie, John, and Paul that our thought and prayers are with at this time of immense heartbreak and grief. We offer our condolences to the Mc Guinness, Thornton, and Coyle families on the death of Alice Mc Guinness Coolcorragh. Go ndeana Dia trocaire ar a n- ainmeacha.

Defibrillation Training course - A word of thanks to all twenty-six participants who under took a very intensive and highly informative four hour training course on Life Support, Automated Defibrillation and Resuscitation in the complex on Saturday afternoon last. A word of appreciation to the facilitators; Survival-Linx Ltd personnel Trevor Mc Nulty, Billie Jo Rice, Donna Mc Geary, and Paul Tierney, they presented the information and delivered instruction in a very professional manner, and made this the best course on life support most of us have every attended. Four hours well spent!

Ticket Distribution - Tickets for the Monaghan V Fermanagh game on Sunday next in Enniskillen will be distributed by An Rúnaí Sean Mc Elvaney in the complex on Friday night between 9.00 -11.00pm. All tickets ordered should be collect during this time slot, everyone's co-operation is requested to insure this distribution exercise runs smoothly.

Seans Notes 15/05/2008

Intermediate Championship - Although they went down by a margin of two points there was an air of optimist tinged with extreme disappointment at the finish of this Intermediate Championship game with Ballybay. For the first time this season our adult squad played with conviction for sixty minutes and produced a performance which possibly deserved a share of the spoils but at least went a long way in restoring hope for the rest of the season. Working extremely hard, they produced some intelligent passages of play, unfortunately shot selection and accuracy didn't match the build ups and we had a wide tally well into double figures. The Ballybay goalkeeper was by far the busier and he made two exceptional saves in the opening twenty minutes, during this period too our defence was breeched but the Ballybay man's effort never threatened Mark Keogh's goal and was well wide of the target. In the end it was Paul Finlay's superb free taking ability that nudged Ballybay over the finish line, although on this evidence we can still have a major part to play in this competition all be it via the back door. Final score Ballybay 0 -11 Seans 0 -9. This improved performance will count for nothing if they don’t produce a similar type of display on Saturday next and gain a couple of league points at the expense of visitors Truagh who will also be anxious to but their championship defeat behind them. Throw in is at 7.00pm, a big turn out of our supporter is required to give our boys all the support we can muster for this important game Both our reserve sides added two more points to their league tally, On Sunday morning last the “C” got the better of visitors Toome, while on Monday night the B side accounted for Clontibret also at TMH this game complete this side league programme and they will have to wait publication of a the league table to see if they have done enough to secure a semi-final place. The C squad have a couple of key games on Wednesday 14th they play Blackhill at TMH and on 21st May they travel to Emyvale ,how they fare in these two game will very much determine if they too can book a spot in the knock out stages in this Division.

Tickets for Monaghan V Fermanagh - Ticket application deadline Friday 16th at 7.00pm .All club members who intend travelling to Enniskillen on Sunday 25th May to support Monaghan in their opening Ulster championship game with Fermanagh; should note that application for tickets should be with club secretary Sean Mc Elvaney by Friday 16th May at 7. o’clock. No orders received after this deadline time will be taken. To place a ticket order contact Sean on 047-57966 or 087-9291612 any evening after 6.00pm.

Under Age Scene - Our minor squad were drawn against a well balanced Aughnamullen side in the minor championship on Tuesday evening last and although they managed to rack up a creditable score of 3 – 8; the visitors had too much fire power and physical strength and they hit five goals, three of them in the opening half, try as our boys did after the interval they just couldn’t undo that first half damage. The panel on duty was Gavin Baxter, Ashley Maguire Donal Mc GuiganJohn Kearns,Murt Cleere, Darren Keely Darren Mc Caffrey,Rory Lyden, Conal Mc Crudden Danny Mc Nally,Brian Mc Quaid, Emmett Connolly,Daragh freeman, Padraig Mc Guirk, DavidMc Entee, Jonathan Kavanagh, Conor Hagan, Mark Bell Our Under 16 team have home advantage on Thursday evening when they play Emyvale at TMH.Having already overcome this opposition in the championship our lads will be hoping for a similar outcome this time round and they will be anxious to get back to winnings ways after their reversal against a well balanced Corduff outfit last week. The Under 14 panel play Clones on Saturday in Clones at 4.00pm, all members of the squad should be at the assembly point at the time arranged with the mentors The Under 12 squad made the long journey to Inniskeen on Saturday last and proved too strong for the home sides youngsters, running out comfortable winners in the end on a score line of Inniskeen 0 – 7 Seans 1 -15. Aidan Ward was in sparkling form on the edge of the square knocking over six points with left and right, Ryan Mc Entee landed four points, Jason Kearns when introduced struck they only goal of the match and added a point for good measure. If Ward was to the fore up front then Kyle Treanor and Aaron Mc Nally were unbeatable in the full back line and thwarted the home side time and gain insuring James Mc Carron’s goal was never really threatened. In a good all round team performance the panel was James Mc Carron, Kyle Treanor, Jamie Keenan, Aaron Mc Nally, Dylan Keenan, Ryan Hughes, Enda Connolly (0 – 1) Paul Bannon, Shane Farrell (0 -1) Ryan Mc Entee (0 -4) Dtlan Mc Nally (0 - 1) Aidan Ward (0 – 6) Shane Kelly.Patrick Mc Phillips (0 _ 1) Jason Kearns (1 – 1) Daragh Bell, Ryan Connolly, Sean Grant, Shea Mc Caffery.

Totto - The numbers 6,2,3,7,1,5,4 drawn last weekend were not correctly forecast. The €40 prize was won by Patricia Mc Elvaney Santry, The €20 prizes were won by Delia, Eileen, Brian Gerry; Theresa Mullarkey, Joan & Frank Mc Cabe Tattinaclave Eamonn Prunty Cabra, Gerard Mc Entee Mullinavog, Next week Jackpot is €1900. Summer camp. Youngsters wishing to participate in the Monaghan VHI GAA Cul camps should note that the club host the camp on the opening week of the programme from. 30th June _4th July. Children wishing to participate should complete an application from which are available from the club and schools in the parish. They can also be had by contacting Football Development Manager Paul O Connor 086-8374827 (oconnorpaul@hotmail.com). Forms should be completed and returned to Paul at the County Training Grounds, Cloghan Annyalla Co. Monaghan

Defibrillation Training - The Basic life support and automated defibrillation training course previously mentioned in this column, is scheduled for next Saturday 17th May. The course starts at 2. O’clock in the complex, places have been limited as there is a strict ratio between participants and tutors. All who have placed their names on the course register are already aware of this starting time through co-ordinator Gerry Lynch but I want to stress the importance of everyone taking up their place on Saturday. The four-hour instruction will provide safe resuscitation techniques as well as the necessary training in the use of defibrillators to first responders who encounter a cardiopulmonary arrest.

Seans Notes 08/05/2008

Adult teams - Our adult had a dismal week with poor performances culminating in a one point defeat by Corduff on Wednesday night last but worse was to follow on Saturday evening in Cremartin when an under strength home side handed out a footballing lesson in the art of scoring gaols, and although our boys rallied in the second half there was no way anyone expected them to over haul the 3 - 4 to 0 - 2 interval lead. They did however manage to put a little be more respectability on the final result of 4 - 7 to 1 - 8, adding to their misfortune was injuries to Martin Kieran and Sean Mc Kenna. We all know that they are a better team than the form they showed in these two games, management and supporters will be hoping they can shake off this recent dip in form, given that they are set to play the most important game of the season so far on Sunday next in Scotstown at 7.30pm; the first round of the Intermediate championship against Ballybay. Unfortunately the effort being put in on the training pitch by all the panel is not being reflected by recent results, but we'll keep the faith and hope better days are ahead, All support would be encouraging and welcome in Scotstown, Sunday evening 7.30pm. Our reserve b squad went down also to Cremartin on Sunday evening in a high scoring game, again two goals from the visitors deciding the outcome and securing the two league points. Our boys seemed to be in the driving seat racing into an early six-point lead but the visitors were on level terms at the break. It was tit for tat in the second half with David Mc Entee and Shane O' neill in good scoring form for us but a second Cremartin goal gave the visitors the edge and they ran out comfortable winners in the end. Our reserve Division 4 side plays Toome at TMH on Sunday 11th May at 12.30.

Under Age Scene - Our minor squad pulled a most unlikely result out last week when they edged out clones by a single point at TMH, although fielding from a depleted panel because of injuries they never looked like getting anything from this game but to their credit they battled bravely and had their noses in front for the first and only time at the final whistle. They will be hoping to produce another battling performance for their championship encounter with Aughnamullen who visited TMH on Tuesday night last. They will have to be at their very best if the are to overcome the Sarsfields and progress to the next round. Our 16 brigade produced a workman like performance on Friday night last but were no match for the quality and strength of the Aghabog Currin combination, and ended up on the wrong side of a 2 -6 to 5 -10 result. They travel to Corduff on Thurs 8th May for a 7.00pm throw in The Under 14 squad proved to strong for visitors Magheracloone on Saturday last and ran out comfortable winners in the end, they will be anxious to keep their 100% record in tack when they travel to Clones for their next competitive outing on Saturday week 17th May. The Under 12 are in action this Saturday when they make the long journey to Inniskeen.

Jersey Audit - Very poor response to my last request on this topic although it did unearth one set, it appears that someone is sitting on two more set of juvenile jerseys and one set of adult jerseys. Can I ask anyone who was involved with any of these team last year or indeed are currently involved as mentors and coaches to check if they have a set of club jerseys about the house.

Totto - The numbers drawn last weekend were not correctly forecast. The €40 prize was won by Felix Mc Elvaney Drumguill, The €20 prizes were claimed by Michelle Malone, Olive Spinks Annyalla, Michael Mc Mahon /Gerard Mc Entee, Una Toal Monaghan, Mary Prunty Drumgarve, Una Kilpatrick, James Clerkin Newbliss, Michelle Malone, Jade Stuart Drumguill, Kathleen Mc Elvaney Cabra, Bank holiday additional prizes of free bingo books went to Emmett Connolly Carnbane, Conor Mc Morrow Drumsheeney, and Card player's MMc Mahon/F Murphy, Patsy Mc Carron/Padraig Greenan, PJ/ M Mc Mahon. Congratulations to all the winners, next week Jackpot stands at €1800.

Sympathy - Our deepest sympathy is extend to Tony Acheson and the family circle on the death of his sister Patricia, May she rest in peace

Seans Notes 01/05/2008

Results - U.16 Div 2 Championship Emyvale 2 - 4 Seans 3 -13
IFL Seans 1 -13 Rockcorry 0 -13
RLD3 Emyvale 0 -14 Seans 1 - 9

Fixtures - U.16 Seans (H) V Aghabog/ Currin Fri 2nd May 7.00pm
U14 Seans (H) V Magheracloone Sat 3rd May 4.00pm
IFL Cremartin V Seans (A) Sat 3rd May 7.00pm
RLD3 Seans (H) V Cremartin Sun4th May 7.00pm
Minor championship Seans (H) V Aughnamullen 7.15pm

Adult teams - Our adult team gained their first victory in the Harte Peat intermediate football league on Saturday evening last when they over came visitors Rockcorry on a score line of Seans 1-13 Rockcorry 0 -13. Our boys seemed to have the game sown up after twenty minutes of play leading as they were eight points to two, but a succession of unnecessary frees which were duly punished with unerring accuracy by Rockcorry's in form free taker Mark Daly. Marksman Daly almost single handedly had his team back in the game, just three points in arrears at the break. Two minutes after the restart Rockcorry had reduced the deficit to a single point, but points from Patrick Kieran and one from a Stephen Mc Elvaney penalty after a Rockcorry defender had been penalised for a foot block restored the interval advantage. The decisive score came in the eight minute James Treanor finishing a good move to the Rockcorry net from an acute angle to give his side a six point cushion. Rockcorry hit five unanswered points to again leave just one between the side as the game entered injury time. Christopher Connolly hit a glorious long range point on thirty minutes and chief score getter James Treanor completed his tally with a converted twenty metre free a minute later to give our boys a hard earned three point winning margin. Last night (Wed) they travelled to Corduff, but will have been well aware that they will have to play much better if they are to wrestle anything from that encounter. On Saturday next they travel to Cremartin to take on the Shamrocks in another must win game for both teams. Throw in is at 7.00pm. Our Reserve B squad had mixed fortunes last week accounting for neighbours Aghabog on Wednesday evening but succumbing to a more clinical Emyvale outfit on Sunday evening on a score line of Emyvale 0 -14 Seans 1 - 9.Next Sunday evening they have home advantage for the visit of Cremartin to TMH for a 7.00pm throw in.

Under Age Scene - The minor squad despite making all the early running in last weeks visit to O' Neill Park Clontibret were extremely disappointed to be overhauled by the locals, going down by the minimum of margins in the end. To add to their woos they have lost the services of Paraic Mc Guirk, out through injury, and will have to plan this week's encounter with visitors Clones with out their big anchor man. Hopefully he will have recovered sufficiently to take his place in the championship clash with Aughnamullen at TMH on Tuesday next 6th May. The Under 16 squad progressed to the next round of the Division two knock out competition on Friday evening last when they accounted for Emyvale. Despite the lobsided nature of the 2 -4 to 3 -13 result this was a close and evenly contested game. Only late in the second half did our boys shake off the Emyvale challenge, a brace of goals from Shane Larkin and a penalty goal from Brian Mc Quaid helping immensely in this regard. Other to get on the score sheet in a good all round team performance were Kevin Mc Mahon, Jonathan Bannon, and Danny Mc Nally with Shane Hagan and Adrian Prunty contributing handsomely in their the role of providers. The Emyvale youngsters never stopped trying and Gavin Baxter in goal was forced to make a couple of first class saves, Mark Mc Guigan and Jamie Mc Elvaney were classy defender in front of goal, and had to be, while on the wings Francis Mc Elvaney, Conor Mc Elroy and Mathew Mc Cabe did their bit to stem a black and white revival. James Mc Aleer, Stephen Mc Carron and Enda Mc Quillan all did well when introduced. Next Friday its back to league action when they have home advantage for the visit of the Aghabog Currin combination. Our under 12 side despite star performances from Dillon Keenan and Niall Kearns ended up on the wrong side of the result in their game with Latton on Saturday last. No action for them this week-end as it's the turn of the under 14's who welcome Magheracloone to TMH on Saturday for a 4 oclock throw in. The younger members of the under 12 panel will be in action though in the Community Games U.10 football competition on Thursday evening in Emyvale when they play Donagh at 7 o' clock. We wish them well in that one, support and encouragement for our underage squads is always welcome.

Totto Results - The numbers drawn 5,4,6,2,1,3,7, were not correctly forecast last week. The €40 prize was won by Wee P Kieran c/o Horticultural Solution. John Duffy Clones Shane Grant Threemilehouse, Ornagh Smith Newblis, Paddy Toal Smithboro, and Sinead & Aoife Prunty Drumgarve all won €20. Next week's Jackpot is €1,700 and the draw will be made on Sunday night in our social centre.

Seans Notes 25/04/2008

Intermediate team - Our senior squad have a hectic ten days ahead of them, on Saturday they have home advantage when Rockcorry are visitors to TMH. On Wednesday evening they travel to Corduff for the rescheduling of their deferred 23rd March round three clash, and its away to Cremartin on Saturday 3rd May, all game have a 7 o clock throw in. Having chalked up just one league point so far in this campaign our boys will have to get a few win under their belts very soon and move away from the bottom of the table if our supporters are to made a little more comfortable. With championship action just around the corner on the 10th and 11th May a couple of victories and much need league points would set them up nicely for their tilt at Ballybay in that competition.

Reserves - On Saturday evening last our reserve B squad prove too strong for Rockcorry and ran out comfortable winners in the end, although they did struggle throughout to contain the evergreen and classy Mickey Conlon. Hopefully they have added a further couples of leagues points after last evenings (Wed) visit of neighbours Aghabog to club head quarters. Next Sunday they travel to Emyvale for a 7.00pm evening game with the locals

Under Age Scene - Our under 14 Squad made the long journey to Inniskeen’s impressive new facilities on Saturday last and kept their 100% record in tact against the eager Grattan youngsters. Conor Mc Elroy impressed controlling much of the play around midfield Enda Connolly looked comfortable and very assured in his new position in the full back berth. Kevin Mc Mahon landed some lovely point but it was his brace of goals that finally but daylight between our lads and the home side.Colin Mc Elvaney and James Mc Aleer were also in fine form both contributing handsomely to the team’s victory as did a very alert goalkeeper Sean Freeman. Our Under 16 squad travelled to Clones on Friday night last and although the mentors had to select from just the bare thirteen they managed to come away with a victory. Coaching session continues this week hopefully the full panel all sixteen of them will be available to attend this very important session especially with championship action beckoning on Friday night away to Emyvale. The minor panel's game with Inniskeen last week didn't take place, this week they have another tough encounter in what is turning out to be a very competitive division when they travelled to Clontibret. On Tuesday 29th April they have Clones as visitors to TMH for a 7.15pm start. Then the following week is Minor Championship action against Aughnamullen.

Totto Results - The numbers drawn 3,1,7,2,5,6,4, were not correctly forecast last week. The €40 prize was won by Rose Treanor Ballybofey Co.Donegal; the €20 prizes were claimed by Mary Connolly Carnbane, Susan Treanor Smithboro, Adam West Cootehill, Barbara Lee C/o P.J.Murphy, and John & Elizabeth Prunty Cabra. Next week’s jackpot is €1,600.

Church Collection & Golf Classic - Church gate collections in aid of The Irish Epilepsy Society will be taken up at all masses in the parish next weekend, please give generously to this worthy cause. Another cause worthy of support is the Monaghan Lions Club Annual Golf Classic on 5th May in Rossmore Golf Club. Proceeds from this fund raising event as in other year's goes to Local Charities. The main recipient this year is The Drumkill Alzheimer's Day Care Centre. The day care centre work with those affected by Alzheimer's and Dementia, to maximise their quality of life and to offer valuable respite for their families. The dedicated staff not only provides this service in a voluntary capacity but also have to raise their own much-needed funds. This is an ideal opportunity then for all you golfing enthusiast in our community to have a very enjoyable sporting day out and support a great community service in the process. Details can be had from Lions Club personnel or from Club officers.

Seans Notes 18/04/2008

Fixtures - U.16 Clones V Seans (A) 7.00pm Fri 18th April
U.14 Inniskeen V Seans (A) 4.00pm Saturday 19th April
RFL Div 3. Rockcorry V Seans (A) TMH 7.00pm Saturday 19th April
U.18. Clontibret V Seans (A) 7.15pm Tuesday 22nd April
RFL Div 3 Seans(H) V Aghabog 7.15pm Wednesday 23rd April

Results - RLDiv3 Seans 3 – 12 Truagh 1 - 7
U16 Seans 2 - 8 V Latton 2 - 14
IFL Donaghmoyne 2 – 13 Seans 0 - 8
RLDiv3 Scotstown 0 - 15 V Seans 0 - 6

Intermediate team - Our senior squad suffered a comprehensive defeat at the hands of an on song Donaghmoyne side on Saturday night last. Our boys on this occasion never really got going, and although they couldn’t be faulted for effort and competed well in most areas of the field except where it mattered most; on the score board. This game was over as a contest by half time. County star Rory Woods and full forward Seamus Markey inflicting the most damage, and it could have been worse had it not been for the heroic effort of Mark Keogh in goal taking off two point blank saves to keep a glimmer of hope of a possible revival alive. A couple of pluses from an otherwise forgettable night was Emmett Mc Elvaney coming through the entire game with no apparent difficulties as did Derek Mc Mahon following his introduction as a second half substitute. Good to have them back after recent serious injuries. No games this week-end but training continues at the usual times.

Reserves - Mixed fortunes for our reserve B squad, last week they accounted for visitors Truagh, a couple of late second half goals securing the league points, but there was no such repetition on Monday night last when they travelled to Scotstown, the home side running out comfortable winners in the end on a score line of 0-15 to 0-6.Fintan Mc Kenna putting in the only performance of note in the full back berth. This squad will have to deliver a much improved display on Saturday evening next if they are to get back to winning ways. Neighbours Rockcorry because of on going development at their own grounds conceding home advantage to play this game at TMH; throw in is 7.00pm. Then on Wednesday another local derby Aghabog making the short journey down the road for 7.15pm start.

Under Age Scene - A very intense but enjoyable coaching session for our Under 12 squad was the outcome of the schedule fixture against Cremartin not materialising on Saturday last. Sessions continue this week at the usual times. The under 14 are back in action on Saturday next when they travel to Inniskeen, they will have to be at full strength and in determined mood if they are keep their winning sequence of results going.As arranged with mentors all panellist are asked to note bus departure time and pick up points; please be punctual. Our Under 16 squad failed to convert an abundance of possession especially in the opening period and paid the price, visitors Latton showed no such frailties in front of goal raising two green flags in a purple patch mid way through that first moiety to lay the foundation for victory. Both teams are to be commended on some excellent passage of football, played at a hectic pace and laced throughout with individual passion, skill and flair, over all despite the disappointment of the result a most entertaining enjoyable game. Our minor side produce a much improved performance last week to over came visitors Carrickmacross in a high scoring game at TMH. Goalkeeper Gavin Baxter made one fantastic save and his goal was protected well over the hour by John Kearns, Ashley Maguire and Donal Mc Guigan Darren Mc Caffrey and Daren Keely in defence, the pulse of the team Paraic Mc Guirk capitalised another great individual performance with the score of the game a long ranger under pressure way out along the side line. All six forwards were in fine form with Danny Mc Nally, David Mc Entee and Brian Mc Quaid scorers in chief, worthy of mention Murt Cleere minor and intelligently fisted effort from Darragh Freeman and a precision finish by substitute Conor Hagan. Also showing up well in a good all round team performance were Rory Lyden Conan Mc Crudden Emmett Connolly and second half substitutes Partick Royce and Jonathan Kavanagh .It will take a similar if not improved performance this week against Inniskeen and again on Tuesday 22nd April when the head to O Neill Park Clontibret if they are to increase their points tally and secure a coveted place in the knock out stages of this competition.

Totto Results - The numbers drawn 6,2,5,7,4,3,1 were not correctly forecast last week. The €40 prize was won by Darina Mc Connon Navan; the €20 prizes were claimed by Susan Clerkin Monaghan, Rose Mary Ginley Carrickroe, Michael Mc Elvaney Mullinavanog, Stevie Kelly Killnaclay and John Keenan Scotstown Next week’s jackpot is €1,500.

Good Luck and congratulations - We wish Seamus Mc Enaney and his panel the very best of luck in their most important game so far this season on Sunday next in Clones; everyone is rooting for them. Congratulations and well done to Frank Brady and his hurling squad on their outstanding performance and success in Breffini Park last Sunday.

Seans Notes 11/04/2008

Results - U.18 St Pats 4 -7 Seans 3 - 5
U.16 Div 2 Seans 5 - 7 Carrickmacross 3 - 7
U.14 Seans 6 - 5 Truagh 3 - 13
RLDiv 4 Seans 3 -6 Eire Óg 1 -3

Fixtures - U12 Seans (H) V Cremartin Sat 12th April 12.00a.m U16 Seans (H) V Latton Seans Fri 11th April 7.00pm
U18 Seans (H) V Inniskeen Tue 15th April 7.15pm
RLDiv3 Scotstown V Seans (A) Mon 14th April 7.15pm
IFL Donaghmoyne V Seans (A) Sat 12th April 7.15pm

Intermediate team - As can be seen from the fixture list above our adult team’s next outing is away to Donaghamoyne on Saturday evening, throw in is 7.15pm. Another stern test for this squad but one they will have to be up for it they are to claim the league points against the recently relegated Fontonoy outfit.

Reserves - Our reserve C team proved too strong for neighbours Eire Óg and ran out comfortable winners when the two sides met at TMH on Saturday evening last. A peach of a goal from John Mc Connon set our lads on their way and with James Murphy and Stephen Clerkin defending resolutely the Eire Óg forward division struggled to get score on the board. In a good all round team performance David Mc Entee and his minor team mate Padraig Mc Guirk impressed, the later hitting the score of the match a gem of a point from out near the corner flag. Training continues at the usual time check above fixture list for forth coming games.

Under Age Scene - Played prior to the reserve game on Saturday evening our under 14 side were under the cosh for most of this game with visitors Truagh. Indeed such was the interval lead the visitors enjoyed that it was a case of disbelief in both camps when the final whistle went and the score tot pointed in our boys favour. As the score line suggest 6 - 5 to 3 -13 this game had everything, but it was the hat trick of goals in the last eight minutes that really put our boys back in a game. A turn around seemed most unlikely but turn it they did, battling bravely to the end, and when the referee awarded a close in free Conor Mc Elroy accepted the chance to give his side the slenderest of winning margins and two most unlikely league point. On Friday evening our under 16 side accounted for visitors Carrickmacross on a score line of 5 – 7 to 3 – 7. Two well matched teams served up some delightful passage of football. In goal Gavin Baxter made one tremendous save to keep his team in front as Carrick mounted a comeback. Jamie Mc Elvaney and namesake Francis were very solid in the fullback line, Centre back Mark Mc Guigan put in a man of the match performance he was well flanked by Conor Mc Elroy and Stephen Mc Carron At midfield Brian Mc Quaid and Danny Mc Nally insure a plentiful supply of the ball. The half forward line of Adrian Prunty Shane Larkin and Shane Hagan and the inside pair of Kevin Mc Mahon and Jonathan Bannon all combined well as an attacking unit and hit some great scores. Mathew Mc Cabe and Enda Mc Quillan both equipped themselves well when introduced. On Friday they have another home tie with Latton providing the opposition.Throw in 7.00pm. Our Minor side suffered an opening game defeat at the hands of St Pats, these lad have put in a tremendous effort in training over the last number of weeks and were bitterly disappointed at this reversal. They will be hoping to get off the mark this week when Carrick Emmetts are visitors to club headquarters. Next week they make the long journey to Inniskeen, please note departure time of bus as announced by team mentors.

Totto Results - The numbers drawn 2,7,5,1,4,3,6 were not correctly forecast last week. The €40 prize was won by Fr Joe Mc Cluskey; the €20 prises were claimed by Rose Mary Gintey, Michael Mc Elvaney Mullinavanog, Marie O Flaherty, Ciaran Murphy Togan and Margaret Thorn & Sue Mc Eniff Smithboro Next week’s jackpot is €1,400.

Annual Gala Dance - Some two hundred plus club members, supporters, and friends filled the main hall of the complex to capacity on Saturday night last to enjoy our annual gala dance. Doubts that functions such as this belong to a bygone age were well and truly laid to rest as young and old alike turned out in strength and style to socialise, celebrate, and enjoy themselves. Guest of honour Ard Stuirthoir Paraic Duffy complimented the club on the position and facilities it held in and provided for the wider parish community, he praised the vision of successive committees and the ongoing development that had taken place over the past forty seven years. That vision and loyalty he said to previous generations was obvious, as was the pride the club had in its ability to organise and host this function at home; in the heart of the community an example for all units in our association. Master of ceremonies An Rúnaí Sean Mc Elvaney thank Paraic for his kind and encouraging remarks, and wish him well in his new position as Director General. Club chairman Danny Clerkin presented Paraic with a framed etched portrait of his late father Michael; chairman of Monaghan County Board and the man who was instrumental in the formation of the Sean Mac Diarmada club back in 1961. Danny also made presentations to players who tied the knot in 2007, last year’s adult team manager Tom Mc Geehan, and the Mc Entee award for the 2007 player of the year was presented to Martin Kieran. They say a picture paint a thousand words see associated photo’s elsewhere in this issue. Anyone wishing copies contact 085-1741779 to order same. A special word of thanks to everyone who contributed to make this event the success it was, all who supported it, our Club Chairman and Secretary. Derbhla, Leeann, and friends. Shane Mark, Emmett and Ciaran friendly faces behind the bar for a change! Mona and her team for superb cuisine and Martin for excellent music. Roll on next year and beyond to 2011 and our silver jubilee celebrations.

Seans Notes 04/04/2008

Results/ Fixtures - Under 12 Div 2 Seans 0 -12 Clontibret 0 - 8
U.16 Div 2 Seans (H) V Carrickmacross Fri 4th at 6.45pm
U.14 Seans V Truagh (A) Sat 6th at 4.00pm
RLDiv 4 Seans V Eire Óg

Reserves - No games for our adult teams last weekend. The next competitive outing is for our C squad against neighbours Eire Óg; which at time of going to press may be altered from Sunday’s original scheduled time.

Under Age Scene - Our under 12 side overcame Clontibret on Saturday last in the opening match of their Division two campaign. Played at TMH this was an evenly contested game which could have gone either way, our boys very happy to hold on for a four point victory. Next Saturday their attention turns to community games activity when the younger members of the panel will represent the parish in the U10 Gaelic football competition. A visit to Monaghan town for an 11.30 throw in is their opening game in the five match series these games which will be played out over as many weeks.It important everyone attends the regular coaching sessions least the miss the date and times of these up and coming matches. Support and encouragement is always welcome. Also next Saturday it's the turn of the under 14 squad when they have another home game, this time Truagh are visitors. Throw in is at 4.00pm. The Under 16's are out on Friday night when they also have home advantage for the visit of Carrickmacross starting time is 7.00pm.This squad are operating from a small panel ,its important therefore that everyone eligible for selection is in the dressing room ,half an hour before throw in time. The Minor squad have their second outing on Tuesday evening also at 7.00pm. This outfit had a usefull friendly against Emyvale on Sunday morning last and although they out score the visitors in the second half. It was the superior fitness and the concession of three goals in the opening half that will have most concerned their management. They will be hoping for a much improved performance now that the competition has commenced in earnest

Totto Results - The numbers drawn 5,1,2,7,4,3,6,. were not correctly forecast last week. The €40 prize was won by Michael Mc Guinness (Jnr) Ballagh.Pat Mc Nulty Ballybofea, Joanne Keenan Monaghan, Gerard Kieran Cabra, Margaret Quigley Clones, and Patrick Kieran Togan. Next week's Jackpot is €1,200.

Scor Sinsir - Despite five star performances from all our county representative, there was no joy in Silverbridge on Saturday night last for our novelty act troupe in the final of Scor Sinsir. A special word of thanks to Darina and the lads for the time and effort they invested in perfecting their sketch, it is very much appreciated by the club.

Annual Gala Dance - Club chairman and secretary have again pulled out all the stops to ensure Saturday night’s Annual Gala Dance is a big success. I hope our adult players and members give it the support their organisional effort deserves, you won’t be disappointed and there are a few surprises in store too. Patron should note that admission is by ticket only, these are still available from committee members and I would also asked that everyone attending make a special effort to be seated by the stated time of 9 O’ clock

Seans Notes 27/03/2008

Results - RLD4: Fergal O’ Hanlons 1 -7 Seans 0 - 10

Senior team - Our senior squad had a useful run out against Monaghan Harp on Easter Monday, although short a few regulars and ending up on the wrong side of the result it was a very worthwhile exercise. With no game scheduled for the next few weeks due to Monaghan’s National Football League programme the management team will be working hard to tighten up our defence, while at the other end they will be trying all the know to insure the forward division are much more clinical in front of goal. Over this period all members of the squad are requested to make a special effort to attend every training session.

Reserve Team - To hold on to a share of the spoils our reserve Division 4 side(“C” team) were made work very hard against a stiff breeze in the second half of their encounter with Fergal O Hanlon’s on Monday afternoon last. Although a home game for O’ Hanlon’s but played at TMH, this was a keenly contested contest with some excellent passages of open football. Star man for us on this occasion despite being beaten from the penalty spot was Jeremy Treanor especially in that second half. He made a string of fine saves and timely interceptions to keep his team in the game, the way the match fluctuated over the hour both team will I think be happy with the result. Regular training sessions continues for all eligible members of the “C” panel on Tuesday and Friday nights at 8.00pm

Under Age Scene - Our Under 14 squad open their account with a one point victory over visitors Corduff on Saturday last. With less than ten minutes remaining our lads seemed to have an unassailable double figure lead, but how quickly that changed, Corduff ramming in three unanswered goals to leave the final score in this enthralling contest Seans 3 – 14 Corduff 4 – 9. Two league points for the team and a very valuable lesson for their young mentors. It’s the turn of the under 12 squad this Saturday when Contibret visit Pairc Sheáin Mhic Dhiarmada for a 4.00pm throw in, panellists should be in the dressing at 3.30pm All support would be very welcome. The Under 16’s squad have a friendly home game on Saturday at one o’ clock its important with official competitions due to commence the following week that we have a full squad to select from on Saturday afternoon. These lads will also have a run out this evening Thursday at 6.00 pm.

Totto Results - The numbers drawn 5,4,6,7,1,3,2, last weekend were not correctly forecast, the €40 prize went to Sarah Mc Grory Monaghan. The €20 prizes were claimed byEamon Mc Entee Kiltubrid, Mary Mc Caughey, Patsy Prunty Cabra, Alice Mc Carville Tappa, Teresa O Leary Emyvale, Mairead Campbell Emyvale, Brian Sherdian Gortmore, Susan Mc Quaid Annabrack, Shane O Neill Cabra, and Bridget Mc Kenna Scotstown. Bingo book winners were Roseleen Mc Elvaney Monaghan, Mary Murphy Nahill, Neil Potter Lisnaskea, Ryan Mc Elvaney Corcaghan, and Florence Kieran Togan. Next week's Jackpot is €1,200.

Scor Sinsir - We wish our novelty act troupe Darina Moffet, Patrick Mc Ardle, Colm Mc Ardle, Frank Evans, Sean Prunty, and Brendan Finan every success on Saturday night next 29th March when they represent club and county in The Ulster Final of Scor Sinsir in Silverbridge. As previously mentioned in this column we hope there will be a big contingent of club followers there to cheer them on and give them and our other county representative every support. A great night entertainment is guaranteed. Curtains up at 7.30 sharp.

Annual Gala Dance - This very important date in the clubs social calendar is Saturday 5th April not far away now; have you got a ticket yet? We hope most of our big membership will avail of this opportunity to have a very enjoyable and entertaining night while showing their support for the club at the same time. Tickets for this function are available from committee members.

Child Protection & Foundation Level Course - For those involved in coaching Gaelic games to youngsters it is mandatory that they complete a child protection and foundation level course. Anyone in the club who has missed out in this regard should note that they have the opportunity this week to avail of both elements. In Cloghan tonight (Thursday) at 7.00pm the Child Protection element will be delivered, and on Saturday commencing at 9.30 am the components that make up the foundation level course will be presented.

Appeal - Now that the playing season for adult and juvenile competitions are almost in full swing. I’m making an appeal to mentors/coaches involved with all our teams to assist grounds man Seamus Mulligan. Seamus as most of us know goes way beyond the call of duty to have the pitch ready for any and all games. It would be nice if… no we have a responsibility to do; simple things! Collecting the flags after matches, moving the portable juvenile goals of the playing area after coaching sessions and games. There’s more; but I wont labour the point.

Sympathy - We extend our sincerest sympathy to the family, relatives, and friends, of the late Helen Ward. May she rest in Peace.

Seans Notes 20/03/2008

Results/ Fixtures - RLDiv.3: Aughnamullen 0 - 6 Seans 1 -8. RL Div 4 Fergal O’Hanlon’s V Seans (A)

Reserve team - Our reserve B team visited Aughnamullen on Sunday last and came away with both points, without ever hitting any high spots our boys were always in control. Only the Mc Kenna boys Sean in the middle of the field, Fintan at full back, Christopher Hughes and Damien Tackney could be happy with their performances. Although Ciaran Murphy did row in with the only goal of the match, and David Mc Entee contributed two points much of the shooting was erratic and will have to improve greatly if this outfit is to achieve its ambition and end of year target. Next week it’s the turn of our C team when they have their first competitive action of the season when they are away to Fergal O’ Hanlons on Easter Monday at 3.30pm. Check fixture column for venue.

Under Age Scene - The minor panel continue their weekly get together on Monday evenings at 8.00pm because of the Easter break they have a session today Thursday at 11.00 am. Sessions for the Under 16 squad will be on Friday evenings at 7.30pm but for this Friday the session is at 4.30pm. Under 14’s are out on Thursday night at 7.00pm, and they have their opening game of the competition on Saturday next when Corduff are visitors to TMH for a 4 o’clock throw in. Under 12’s have two sessions at 6.30pm on Tuesday evening and at 4.30pm on Saturday. Regular twice weekly sessions continue for the Under8/10 squads at the usual times It’s important that there is a full attendance of all eligible players at these coaching sessions

Totto Results - The numbers drawn 7,2,5,6,1,4,3. were not correctly forecast last week. The €40 prize was won by Michael Mc Elvaney Cooldaragh.Maggie Brady Clones, Edward Murphy Ballagh, Ita Kelly Killnaclay, Majella & Johnny Cabra, Lorna Duffy Cabra,Eileen Flanagan Newbliss, John Freeman Cabra,Josie Fay London,Peter Mc elvaney Cooldaragh and Larry Mc Connon all won €20. Special prizes of free bingo books went to Sean Mc Mahon Cabra, Oliver Mee Cootehill, Shane Farrelly Castleblaney, Richard Purcell Cabra, and Vera Smyth Togan. Next week's Jackpot is €1,100.

Scor Sinsir - Reminder the Ulster final of Scor Sinsir takes place in Silverbridge Co. Armagh on Saturday 29th March, curtains open at 7.30. Although still over a week away can I encourage as many club supporters as possible to travel and give our club and county representatives all the support they deserve

Annual Gala Dance - Tickets are now available from committee members for our annual gala dance which takes place in the complex on Saturday 5th April. Make sure you don’t miss out on this great social occasion

Dublin V Monaghan - All who travelled to Parnell Park on Saturday night last were disappointed not so much because the game didn’t take place, but because a decision to postpone hadn’t been arrived at and conveyed to those travelling earlier in the afternoon. We’ll all be making the return journey this Sunday but be sure you can still lay your hand on that admission ticket, and of course we will be hoping that Monaghan add two more points to their current league tally.

Sam Mor - Long before football games were played at club headquarters in Drumgarve there were many venues throughout the parish where matches were played. One of these in Coolcorragh just off the Monaghan Newbliss road before Mc Quaid’s Garage is sure to attach a large crowd on Saturday next, no doubt reminiscent of big local footballing derby of the ’20 and ’30. Seamus Keenan officially opens his family farm and menagerie to the public. Having invested a lot of time, energy, patients, and an eye for detail, buildings and machinery have been lovingly restored by the man himself; add in the animals, and Seamus’s affability and gift as a raconteur, a visit to the Sam Mor farm comes very highly recommended. We wish Seamus the very best in this venture and we hope he gets the support his restoration and preservation effort deserves.

Seans Notes 13/03/2008

Results/ Fixtures - IFL: Seans 2 - 07 Emyvale 2 - 07 RLDiv.3: Aughnamullen V Seans (A) Sun16th March at 3.00pm

Senior team - A last gasp fisted point secured a share of the spoils and our first league point of the season on Sunday last when Emyvale were visitors to club head quarters. Battling against the elements in the opening half Emyvale appeared to be in pole position at the interval, managing to restrict Mc Dermots to just a two point cushion, the half time scoreboard reading Seans 0- 5 Emyvale 0 - 3. James Treanor (3) and Patrick Kieran (2) were Sean's scorers, Treanor's 7th minute effort a real beauty from way out on the wing, Emyvale relied on the thrusty boot of Darren Farmer to keep them in touch. Wind assisted Emyvale attacked with fervour but fullback Emylin Clerkin cut out a misdirected pass two minutes after the restart. He carried, then laid off to Patrick Kieran, Kieran's thirty metre pass found Stephen Mc Elvaney and he finished the best move of the match with an exquisite shot to the corner of the net, great move, great goal! Colm Mc Kenna and Darren Farmer converted frees to keep Emyvale within touching distance, but when Mc Elvaney was on hand to toe poke the ball over the line in a goalmouth scramble after goalkeeper Declan Callery had made a good save the points looked like they were staying locally. That six point advantage however was short lived, reduced to fourteen men Emyvale threw caution to the wind. Centre half back Brendan Mc Kenna found himself well forward, his tap down found name sake Colm, he swivel Elvis style to plant the ball firmly to the roof of the net and reduced his team’s deficit by half in the processes. Patrick Kieran (jnr) lifted the siege for Seans with a well taken point from play. Substitute Brendan Askin fired Emyvale right back into the match with a cracker of a goal in the twenty fourth minute, and when Brendan Mc Kenna split the posts a minute later to level the match with a mighty effort from fifty metres the big Emyvale support suddenly found their voices. The roar was deafening from that quarter when Askin was on hand to land another neat point from play and put his side into the lead for the first time in the match. Emyvale defended stoutly as our lads pressed for an equaliser; it was left to the wile Kieran to carry and hold on to the ball in the dying minutes before fisting over to level things again and secure and a well deserved share of the spoils. No doubt our boys will be disappoint that they didn't take both points, given those two early second half goals, but the management team will be happy with the battling qualities displayed in the closing minutes when the game seem to be slipping away. On the day our star performer was corner back Damien Tackney, industrious and determined throughout, he got good support in defence from Emylin Clerkin Fntan Mc Kenna and Damien and Conor Connolly, Martin Kieran also showed up well in this sector, his first game back following his recent injury. At midfield Sean Mc Kenna and Christopher Connolly more than held there own. Up front James Treanor, Patrick Kieran and Stephen Mc Elvaney posed the biggest threat with Noel Rice and Barry Mc Guinness foraging like beavers, young Patrick Kieran revelled in his role as playmaker. Next outing for this squad is away to Corduff on Easter Sunday.

Reserves. Our reserve B team have their second outing of the year on Sunday next when they travel to Aughnamullen to take on the Sarsfields at 3.00pm. Panellists are reminder to be in the dressing room at least half an hour before throw in time.

Under Age Scene - Coaching session for all under age panels continues this week as arranged with team mentors .Minors are firmly installed on Monday nights with an hour long session commencing at 8.00pm. The Under 16 squad get together on Tuesday nights at 7.30pm, while the Under 14’s are out on Thursday night at 7.00pm. Under 12’s have two sessions at 6.30pm on Tuesday evening and at 4.30pm on Saturday The first competition to get under way is the Under 14’s a home game on Saturday 22nd at 4 o’clock against Corduff. Then on the following week Saturday 29th March the Under 12’s have Clontibret as visitors to TMH. The under 16’s take centre stage on Friday night 4th April when they also have an opening home game, against Carrickmacross Emmetts. With games coming thick and fast for all our under age squads it’s important that there is a full attendance of all eligible players at these coaching sessions sessions.

Totto Results - Donegal man Barry Mc Loughlin Cappry, Ballybofey, scooped our totto jackpot prize of €2,400 last week end when he correctly forecast the number sequence of 7,5,6,1,2,4,3. Congratulations Barry. The €40 prize went to Martin Gilbert Cormeen Monaghan, The €20 prizes went to Noel Prunty Cabra, Eileen Maguire Clones, Caoimhe Mc Mahon Drumaclan, Steven O Reilly Cabra and Mary Spruhan C/o Damien Larkin. Next week's Jackpot is €1,000.

Scor Sinsir - Good news on the Scor Sensir front, our novelty act troupe performing on home soil in Corcaghan Community Centre on Saturday night last booked their place in the Ulster final .This year that final takes place in Silverbridge Co. Armagh on Saturday 29th March, curtains open at 7.30. Hopefully a big contingent of club supporters will travel to give Darina, Brendan, Sean, Colm, Patrick, and the other Monaghan representatives all the support and encouragement they can.

Refereeing Course - Well done to David Treanor and Eamonn Mc Quillan who completed the referees’ introduction course last week and become the clubs newest recruits to this discipline. Another very important date for referees is the seminar that takes place on (this) Thursday night 13th March in the Hillgrove Hotel at 8 o’clock sharp. Facilitator for the evening is National Referees Tutor and well known Dublin referee Noel O’ Donaghue, sure to be an interesting evening and one that all club referees should make sure they attend.

Annual Gala Dance - Tickets are now available from committee members for our annual gala dance which takes place in the complex on Saturday 5th April. A great night is in store for all who attend. A few new additions are being added to the usual format, it’s intended to make this our biggest, best, and most enjoyable night since this social event was revived a few years ago. Tickets to Dublin V Monaghan Club secretary Sean Mc Elvaney will distribute the clubs allocation of tickets for Monaghan NFL game with Dublin on Friday night in the complex at 9.00pm. All who ordered tickets should make sure and collect them on Friday night.

Charity Function and Fun raising - A charity function was held in the Threemile Inn last weekend, all proceed from the night went towards Monaghan Hospice Homecare, anyone who hasn’t had the opportunity to contribute to this very worthy cause can still donate by contacting Conor in the Inn or any of the organising committee. Former player Derek Lynch (one of Gerry’s lads) now domicile in the USA completed the LA city marathon in the very respectable time of 4 hours 10 minutes. Derek participated to raise funds for Temple Street Children’s Hospital Dublin, again anyone who would like to contribute to Derek fund raising effort can drop sponsorship donation into Lynch’s local convenient store.

Bingo - A reminder to all our bingo patrons that next week’s bingo session on St. Patrick’s night is one not to be missed. As well as the usual jackpot prizes and the regular pay outs available on every page there is the added bonus of very valuable spots prizes also on offer. This is definitely a night not to be missed.

Seans Notes 06/03/2008

Reserve Team - Our Reserve League Division 3 team had their first outing of the year on Saturday last when Corduff were visitors to TMH. In a highly competitive encounter the teams were tied on 2 -3 apiece at half time, Ruari Mc Carron and Sean Mc Kenna our goal scorers; Niall Reilly and Reggie Mags responding in kind for Corduff. Wind assisted in the second half our boys ran out comfortable winners with Mc Kenna raising his second green flag and Gerard Mc Ardle putting the game beyond recovery for the visitors with his strike midway through the half; final score Seans 4 - 6 Corduff 2 - 5. Philip Farrell was the best defender on view, with Fintan Mc Kenna and James Murphy very much to the fore in the second period. Christopher Hughes and Sean Mc Kenna were always in the thick of things around the middle of the field; up front Stephen Mc Elvaney showed some deft touches and he got good support from the goalscorers, David Mc Entee and Fergal Mullan. We wish Ruari Mc Carron a speedy recover from a nasty facial injury sustained in Saturday's match. Ruari pooped up to land the opening score of the game, a goal taken with some aplomb, but his on field activities were curtailed following a clash of heads with a team-mate necessitating a visit to the hospital for treatment. Hopefully his injury will heal quickly and he will be back in action soon. Next outing for this panel is away to Aughnamullen on Sun 16th.

Senior Team - Our senior team has their first home league game of the year on Sunday next when they entertain Emyvale, throw in 3.00pm. Spoils were shared in the league last year and our boys will be anxious to get off the mark and close the gap on the visitors who have already tasted victory in their opening game. Both side are in a rebuilding process and are well matched, the outcome of this encounter even at this early stage will be a key indicator as to how that rebuilding programme is going and what the remainder of the campaign is likely to have in store.

Under Age Scene - Coaching session for all under age panels continues this week as arranged with team mentors. Many of the competitions are scheduled to commence later in the month its important therefore that every age group has a full attendance of all eligible players at these sessions.

Totto Results - The numbers drawn 3,5,2,6,1,7,4, last weekend were not correctly forecast, the €40 prize went to Rosaleen Mc Elvaney Monaghan. The €20 prizes went to Macartan Mc Mahon Gortmore, Luke O Reilly Cabra, Mary Mullen Castleshane, Colleen Millar Ballybay, and Therese Mc Connon Gortmore Next week's Jackpot is €2,400.

Scor Sinsir - The Ulster semi- final of Scor Sinsir takes place in Corcaghan Community Centre on Saturday night next 8th March. Thanks to a brilliant performance last week end in Ardaghey our club will represent the county in the Novelty act section; congratulations to Darina Moffet, Patrick Mc Ardle, Colm Mc Ardle, Frank Evans and Sean Prunty on their success in the county finals. Unfortunately despite their best effort our other representatives in instrumental music, solo singing, and question time, didn't make it through to the provincial stage. None the less a very sincere thanks you to Collette Mc Nelis, Sarah Lambe, Colin Breslin, Adrian Mc Entee, Louise Keelan David Treanor Michael Duffy, and Mickey Mc Entee for excellent performances on the night.

Refereeing Course - Reminder to potential referees a training course geared towards new and young referee takes place in Cloghan tonight Thursday 6th February commencing at 8.00pm. We hope to have a couple of new recruits at this introductory course.

Donegal Visitors - We had a very enjoyable night at the races on Saturday night last in our social centre when we entertained Mickey Mc Mahon (Jnr) and his club mates from Sean Mc Cumhaills Ballybofey. Prior to this get together the visitors went through a strenuous training session earlier in the evening. Fine big strapping lads that they are, they could play ball but I doubt if many of them would be comfortable in a saddle; even Pegasus would struggle with some of them on his back. There might have been no jockeys among them but they were quick to pick up horsy tips and a few of them amassed small fortunes and walked away with very valuable prizes at the end of the night. Team captain Joe Dunnion presented Danny Clerkin with a beautiful crystal piece to mark the visit, while Club chairman Terry O Reilly complimented our facilities and hospitality an invited us to allow them return the compliment. An invitation I’m sure that will be taken up in the coming months, our lads will have to be on their best behaviour to be as good ambassadors as the Tir Chonnail lads.

Annual Gala Dance - Plans are in place to hold our annual gala dance in the complex on Saturday 5th April. Since the revival of dinner dances in the club a few years ago they have become one of the most enjoyable and successful events in our social calendar. We expect this years get together to be no different. Tickets will be available shortly from any committee member or from the usual supplier; good food, good music and a great night is guarantee.

Tickets to Dublin V Monaghan - Club members wishing to attend this NFL game in Parnell Park on Saturday 15th March should note this is an all ticket match. Anyone presenting themselves at the turn stiles including children will be denied entry without a valid ticket. Application for tickets should be with Club Secretary Sean Mc Elvaney on or before 11.30 pm on Friday night next 7th March. Applications received after this deadline will not be considered, unfortunately because of the capacity of the ground and Monaghan’s likely allocation it’s probable that requests will only be filled on a pro rata basis. The most important point is to get your request to Sean by Friday night and keep the actual ticket numbers required accurate; Sean can be contacted after working hours at 047-57966 or 087-9291612 or by email secretary@seanmcdermotts.net.

Sympathy - Our club community was stunned when we learned of the death in tragic circumstances of Dominic Prunty on Saturday night last, that such a calamitous occurrence has befallen this exemplary, close knit, affectionate family has shocked and numbed our entire locality. Dominic played juvenile football with the club, but discovered early on sport was not for him; his passion was farm machinery, an honest diligent and reliable worker he was in his element when tinkering with or driving tractors. Pleasant, polite, and outgoing his roguish sense of humour and quick wittedness got him into many a slagging match, but he could hold his own with the best, his friends are devastated. But its in the home at 6 Cabra his untimely death will be hardest to bear and come to terms with. To Dominic’s heart broken parents John and Elizabeth, his grieving sisters and brothers and the extended Prunty and Mc Quillan families we extend our heartfelt compassion and deepest sympathy at their great loss. Sympathy is also extended to the Kelly family on the death of Mickey Smyth; to the Purcell family on the death of Daniel Devine and to the Mc Cormilla and Ward families on the death of Margaret Mc Cormilla.May they rest in peace

Seans Notes 28/2/2008

Senior Team - Our adult team made the journey to Pearse Park to take on Ballybay in the opening game of the Fr. Hacket Cup on Sunday last. Our followers were particularly interested in the line out given the spate of retirements and injuries that has befallen this squad of late. In the warm up before the game Ciaran Murphy became the newest addition to the growing injury list when he dislocated a couple of fingers. Making their debut in the halfback line were John Kearns and Seamus Conaty both equipped themselves well; they flanked Damien Connolly. This is the youngest half back line ever to line out on the club's first team, John's immediate opponent was none other than county star Paul Finlay, but worse was to follow, the referee adjudged the young minor to have committed an indiscretion late in the second half to warrant a red card. Few in the crowd eyeing this out of character offence. Our boys dominated the early exchanges and had ball in the Ballybay net after only two minutes of play, and were leading by 0 - 4 to. 1 - 6 in the twenty seventh when Mark Keogh made a full length save from a Paul Finlay pile driver but the Ballybay attack reacted quickest to force the ball to the net despite Keoghs valiant effort. Points from James Treanor and Patrick Kieran left the half time score 1 - 4 to 1 - 8. In the second half Finlay began to hold sway around the middle of the field and the home side had the deficit reduced to a single point mid way through the half. A point by James Treanor lifted the seige but Ballybay had their noses in front for the first time when they landed a second goal after a sweeping move up field. Treanor added another point but the numerical advantage Ballybay now enjoyed in the last quarter was beginning to tilt the outcome of the game in their favour and when we suffered the humiliation, of a second dismissal the writing was on the wall, Ballybay holding out for a hard fought victory on scoreline of 2- 10 to 1 -10. This was a very spirited performance, our boys producing some lovely football in that opening half. The big talking points though from this game was how the perpetrators of two very dangerous separate challenges (our lads lucky to escape serious injury) were let off the hook by being shown yellow cards, I suspect even to the most partisan home supporter were expecting red to be waved. This was a typical intermediate league game, apart from those two-isolated incidents it was played with great intensity and good spirit. Our team on duty was Mark Keogh, Conor Connolly, Emylin Clerkin, Damien Tackney, John Kearns, Damien Connolly, Seamus Conaty, Christopher Connolly, Mark Mc Entee, Patrick Kieran, Patrick Kieran, Noel Rice, Davis Treanor, James Treanor, Shane o' Neill, Sub used Sean Mc Kenna, Stephen Mc Elvaney, James Murphy.

Reserve Team - Our reserve B team have their first competitive outing of the year on Saturday afternoon next when then entertain Corduff at TMH. Throw in is at 3.30. All players eligible for selection should be in the dressing room at least a half an hour before starting time.

Totto Results - The numbers drawn 4,1,7,5,6,2,3, last weekend were not correctly forecast, the €40 prize went to Michael Mc Mahon Killnaclay.The €20 prizes went to Larry Mc Connon Killnaclay, Mary Mc Ardle Tullygillen, Eileen Lynch Cabra, Aine Keenan Shercock, Michael Mc Guinness Ballagh. Next week's Jackpot is €2,300.

Membership Subscription - Registrar Ciaran Mc Entee is still collecting the club membership fee of €10; Saw him diligently going about his roundup duty in Ballybay on Sunday, he has almost everyone corralled at this stage.

Coaching - A foundation level coaching course take place in Cloghan, Child Protection the first elements of the course will be delivered on Thursday evening 6th March commencing at 7 o clock, and the course concludes on Saturday 8th March beginning at 9.30 am. We have a big number of coaches currently involved with our younger age groups who have all indicated their intention to participate. Youth committee chairman Enda Murphy takes the credit for introducing and recruiting this new brigade of coaches.

Scor Sinsir - The county final of Scor Sinsir takes place in Ardaghey Community Centre tomorrow night Friday 29th February curtains up at 8.30pm. Our representatives in Instrumental music are Collette Mc Nelis, Sarah Lambe, Colin Breslin, and Adrian Mc Entee, while Louise Keelan is our solo singing representative. Seasoned campaigners Darina Moffet, Patrick Mc Ardle Colm Mc Ardle Frank Evans and Sean Prunty will be hoping to use their experience to progress in the novelty act. David Treanor Michael Duffy, Mickey Mc Entee will also be hoping that the questions fall favourably in the question time segment. We wish all our representatives the very best, could I request as much club support as possible to travel to give them all the encouragement they deserve and you'll enjoy a great night's entertainment as well.

Refereeing Course - Reminder to potential referee a training course geared towards new and young referee takes place in Cloghan tonight Thursday 26th February commencing at 7.30pm

Congratulations & best wishes - Congratulations to Francis Mc Cabe (Jnr) who was skip on the Monaghan bowls team winners of the All Ireland Shield last Saturday in Enniskillen. They overcame current all Ireland champions Westerns to take this coveted trophy. This is the first time a national title has come to the bowling fraternity in Monaghan we congratulate Francie and all his teammates on their success. Well done to Brendan Finan who added the handball Novice II championship title to his trophy cabinet recently. We extend best wishes to the Monaghan VEC team on Saturday next in their quest for All Ireland glory. Last weekend they had an enthralling encounter with Meath in the semi-final decider edging that one by a single point, they will be happy for a similar result against Galway in the final. At time of going to press venue is unknown, we wish the boys and the management team; success.

Donegal Visitors - We entertain one of our former stars Mickey Mc Mahon (Jnr) and his adopted team Mc Cumhaills Ballybofey in the club next weekend. We have a very special event laid on for the Tir Connail men on Saturday night in our social centre, with an early morning friendly scheduled for Sunday; why not come along and help give our visitors a big cead mile failte.

Seans Notes 21/2/2008

Adult Teams - Our adult teams had their first home match of this season on Sunday last when they entertained Beragh Red Knights in a fairly intense friendly, our boys proving to strong for the visitors and running out comfortable winners on the scoreboard in the end. The Tyrone side didn't go away empty handed, their second string getting the measure of our reserve side in another keenly contested encounter. Next Sunday it's down to business in earnest when the first team make the short journey to Pearse Park to take on Ballybay in the opening game of the Fr Hackett Cup campaign. Relegated from senior ranks last year the Pearse brothers will prove a very stern test for our new look line out. Throw in is at 3.00pm and all support would be welcome. The full list of fixtures for the coming month is: Intermediate Football League: Sun 24th Feb Away v Ballybay; Sun 9th Mar. Home v Emyvale; Sun 23rd Mar. Away V Corduff Reserve Football League Div 3: Sat 1st Mar H v Corduff (3.30pm); Sun 16th Mar. A v Aughnamullen.

Cardiac Screening - The club is currently distributing cardiac screening questionnaires to all players at senior and under age level. Anyone under 18 should complete the single page sheet under supervision or in conjunction with parent(s)/ guardian(s). Mentors involved with all our teams should insure that all of their charges have been provided with one of these forms. Juveniles should complete and returned theirs to Enda Murphy (Togan) while Sean Mc Elvaney (Cooldaragh) will look after the adult panels, all responses will be treated in strict confidence. The most important thing to note; questions should be answered honestly; anyone answering YES to any of the questions should in the first instance discuss this with their family doctor. From a record keeping point of view it is only necessary to complete one form regardless of the numbers of club teams you may line out for. In recent time much has been written and debated on this topic of sudden death risk, of all the cardiac screening tools available most experts agree, the best indicator or predictor of risk is positive answer(s) on this questionnaire. To insure we as a club exercise our duty of care to all our players I ask for everyone co-operation in compiling this essential and possibly life saving information.

Minor - There was a good attendance at this squad's first get together on Sunday evening last. At the short meeting afterward requirement to challenge for honours at the business end of the season were discussed; to a man they were all up for the challenge and committed to giving it a go. To that end the squad will meet again (tonight) Thursday at 8.00pm for a floodlit session, but bring indoor gear just in case. Even at this early stage as well as the midweek session they can pencil into their diary a regular weekend session which will usually take place on Sunday. Coaches will communicate any changes to this normal arrangement. Next Sunday's session is at 5 o' clock, so win, lose, or draw don't delay around Ballybay as another full attendance is expected and punctuality is critical.

Under 16 - All members of this panel are invite along to the minor session on Sunday evening at 5o' clock. A few of our U16 panel are big and strong enough to compete for places on the minor team and are already trying out with them, but for those on the younger side of the eligible age limit this invitation is pitched at them. Hope to see everyone there at 5 o 'clock sharp ready and rearing to go.

Under 12 & 14 - Sessions for these two squads continue this week at the usual time of 7.00pm on Thursday evening for the Under 14's and 6.30pm on Friday evening for the Under 12's All panellist are requested to make every effort to attend these sessions

Totto Results - The numbers drawn 5,1,3,7,2,4,6, last weekend were not correctly forecast, the €40 prize went to Mary Connolly Carnbane. Mary Hamill Killyconnigan, Sarah & Linda Mc Grory Monaghan, Joanne Mc Guigan Scotstown, Brian Murphy Cornasoo, and Ornagh Smith Newbliss won the €20 prizes. Next week's Jackpot is €2,200.

Membership Subscription - Registrar Ciaran Mc Entee is still collecting the club membership fee of €10; there are still a few members who haven't bumped into him yet.

Coaching - Coaching workshops continue at Cloghan. This week doctor in sports psychology Tadgh Mc Intyre leads the workshop Mental Skills Training on Thursday 21st. and concluding the monthly roundup on Thursday week 28th is John O Brien's workshop entitled Strength and Core Conditioning. Both sessions commence at 7.30pm. The county coaching committee have arranged a Foundation level coaching course also at Cloghan, the first elements of this course will be delivered on Thursday evening 6th March commencing at 7 o clock, and the course concludes on Saturday 8th March with the six hour tutorial beginning at 9.30 am. Those interested in attending should contact Enda Murphy.

Scor Sinsir - Reminder, pencil into your diary Ardaghey Community Centre Friday 29th February for the county final of Scor Sinsir. Starting at 8.30pm our competitors in Instrumental music, solo singing, novelty act and question time will welcome all the support we can muster.

Refereeing Course - Still looking for a couple of new recruits to join the whistle blowers and attend the refereeing course convened for Thursday 28th February in Cloghan at 8 o’clock. This course is geared toward young and starter referees and who knows where it might lead; Croke Park on a September afternoon perhaps; right now we’d settle for a new man in charge of a juvenile game anywhere in the county later on this summer. Fancy the challenge then secretary Sean would be delighted to get your call.

Defibrillation Training - Basic life support and automated defibrillation training is currently being organising for the complex for club personnel; places are limited, as there is strict ratio between trainees and instructors. The four-hour instruction will provide safe resuscitation techniques as well as the necessary training in the use of defibrillators to first responders who encounter a cardiopulmonary arrest. More details of dates and times when to hand.

Seans Notes 14/02/2008

Adult Teams - Our adult team's had a very useful run out on Sunday last against an Errigal Ciaran selection. This was a much improved performance from our previous visit north the Sunday before; on this occasion our boys produced some good patches of football and just shading things at the finish. The second team were under the cosh from the start but rallied in the second half only to be caught by a couple of sucker blows in the closing stages. All in all a very worth while exercise a special word of thanks to our host for their hospitality. Despite the soft underfoot conditions they have to endure at the moment everyone on the panel are asked to keep the effort and momentum going. Training session continue at the usual times

Minor - Some of this squad have already awakened from their winter hibernation and are out training with the senior squads and by all accounts have performed well in recent challenge games.The good news for the whole squad is that they have a session all to them selves on Sunday evening next at 5' o Clock with a players meeting scheduled immediately afterwards. The mentors involved with this panel are Danny Clerkin, Ciaran Mc Entee, Conor Clerkin, Gary Larkin, Emylin Clerkin, Conor Connolly. A fairly heavy oops knowledgeable bunch, but they can do little with out the co-operation and support of the players, it’s important therefore that everyone eligible for this age group are in attendance on Sunday evening. According to the proposed fixture plan minor competitions are set to start on Tuesday 25th March not much time to get into the groove. At Monday night’s county committee meeting they were drawn and have home advantage against Aughnamullen in the first round of the minor championship

Under 12 - This squad have their opening session together (Tomorrow) Friday evening in the complex at 6.30p. Invited along to are youngsters who are ten (this year) or older. Depending on numbers the younger age limit may have to be revised downwards watch this column for details. Enda Murphy, Brian O Neill, Noel Rice James Treanor, Martin Kieran, and Fergal Mc Quillan, are the mentors in charge of this crew’s coaching and preparation for the Under 12 Division 2 league campaign which begins on Saturday 29th March.

Under 14 - In command of the Under 14 brigade are Stephan Mc Elvaney, Ciaran Murphy, Eamonn Mc Quillan, Shane O Neill, Christopher Connolly, and Barry Mc Guinness. This squad can expect fairly intense but enjoyable sessions as the mentor keep one eye on the league competition and another on participating in Feile. Members of this panel in attendance at last week session will have received details of what has to be provided for registrations purposes, They should also complete and return the associated questionnaire as soon as possible. Absentees please note that time is fast running out to insure you name is included on the club's registration list. All under 14's are reminded that their weekly indoor session continues on Thursday evenings from 7.00 to 8.00pm Games in the Under 14 Division 2 competition are schedule to commence on Saturday 22 March.

Under 16 - Competition for this age group is down to begin on Friday 4th April. Mentors Colm Mc Mahon, Cyril Kieran, Eugene O. Prunty Adrian Larkin Emmett Mc Elvaney and Cormac Connolly are charged with plotting this squad’s fortune for the forthcoming campaign. Watch this column or local parish bulletin for details of the first get together.

Totto Results - The numbers drawn 3,6,2,4,1,5,7 last weekend were not correctly forecast, the €40 prize went to Fergal Mc Guigan Mullinahinch. Peter Mc Elvaney Cooldaragh, Chloe Curtis Nobber Co. Meath, Ann Treanor Smithboro, Mary Mee Cootehill and Michael Mc Elvaney Mullinavanog won the €20 prizes. Next week's Jackpot is €2,100. Can I appeal to everyone to please give our totto sellers as much support and encouragement as you can when they come calling. We are currently renewing our efforts to recruit and enrol new supporters in this weekly fund raising activity.

Membership Subscription - Registrar Ciaran Mc Entee will willing accept any €10 subscription that are now due.

Coaching - Coaching workshop continue at Cloghan this week and for the remainder of February. Reports from those who attended last week's session head /hands/feet say it was most interesting and excellently delivered by facilitator Paraic Mc Donald. Check with Enda Murphy or club notice board for times dates and works shop details for this week and for the remainder of February.

Scor Sinsir - The county final of this competition take place in Ardaghey Community Centre on Friday 29th February, curtains up at 8.30pm. Competing in the Instrumental music, solo singing, novelty act and question time we hope to have a big contingent of supporters on hand to cheer on our representatives when that time comes round,.

Refereeing Course - A refereeing course is convened for Thursday 28th February in Cloghan at 8 o clock, geared toward young and starter referees anyone interested in undertaking this course should in the first instance contact Club secretary Sean Mc Elvaney. New recruits are always required and in demand. Noel Corrigan and Patsy Prunty are our current standard bearer .If anyone would like to join this duo in that role the club will certainly do all it can to facilitate your development. If unable to attend on this date don’t worry the referees committee have arranged a similar course again at Cloghan on Thursday 6th March,

Seans Notes 7/02/2008

Adult Teams - Our adult team's scheduled games with Beragh Red Knights did not materialise due to a bereavement in the Tyrone club, we extend our sympathy. At short notice Drumquin Wolfe Tones stepped into the breech and a very useful couple of hour’s football went ahead as planned on Sunday last. Comprehensively beaten, coupled with poor performances in the opening game left the new management team with plenty of headaches and much to ponder and work on before the commencement of the Intermediate league in a couple of weeks time. The second string performed better and managed to redeem a little bit of club pride by winning their tussle. With nobody enhancing their reputations and performance generally lacking the necessary bite it's hoped that the return of some of those sidelined through injured to full training this week will enhance things and produce more workmanlike performances in the weeks ahead. Training sessions continue this week at the usual times, everyone is asked to make the effort to be there. Despite Sunday’s reversal there is an air of optimism and great commitment from most of the available panel, better days ahead lads, keep at it.

Totto Results - The numbers drawn 1,2,5,6,7,4,3, last weekend were not correctly forecast, the €40 prize went to Jason Mc Elroy Doohamlet. Kathleen Leonard Smithboro. Theresa Mc Mahon Smithboro, Breda Prunty Cabra, Una Mc Elroy Anyalla, and Gerard Kieran Cabra won the €20 prizes. Next week's Jackpot is €2,000. Can I appeal to everyone to please give our totto sellers as much support and encouragement as you can when they come calling. All income generated from this fund raising exercise is invested in our ongoing development programme. Support no matter how small is most appreciated, as well as the weekly option there are numerous multi draw choices available which make it virtually painless to financially support the club on an ongoing basis. The crock of gold is also well worth winning.

Jersey Audit - An appeal to anyone who may have club jerseys; nicely wash, folded and stashed away for safe keeping in their attics cupboards, garages, where ever, even if they are not in this pristine condition pull them out and bring them along to Club Secretary Sean Mc Elvaney. Sean is currently undertaking an audit of all jerseys. It's all too easy to end up with jerseys at the end of a playing season, then with a change of coaching personnel there is panic! Who had that set last? This is an attempt to avoid all that in advance of the opening games. If anyone has club jerseys be that, one, two, or maybe more, even complete sets Sean would be delighted to hear from you, he will be in the complex on Friday night from around 9 o' clock to accept any jerseys that are discovered.

Membership Subscription - Registrar Ciaran Mc Entee at this time is working feverishly renewing membership and collecting the associated fee. The €10 subscription is now due and should be paid without the need for a demand. Ciaran is definitely not afraid to ask but surprise him… give willingly.

Coaching - That interesting workshop led by Paraic Mc Donald teaching skills, head /hand /feet took place in Cloghan on Wednesday. Youth committee chairman was advising those involved with our under age teams to attend, hopefully they took his advice and we had a good representation. Next week on 13th February also at 7.00pm John Mc Gever leads the presentation when the topic under scrutiny is speed development; again anyone available to attend should do so.

Scor Sinsir - Recently elected Oifigeach Cultúra agus Gaeilge Pauline Rooney and her committee have scheduled February 22/23 for the semi-finals of Scór Sinsir, with the county final down for decision on 29th February. Thanks to the efforts of club co-ordinator Rose Mc Mahon we will be competing in solo singing, instrumental music and the novelty act, Sean Mc Elvaney who is helping Rose recruit participants is confident that we will also field a team in the question time and he wants to hear specifically from anyone who would like to take part in this particular discipline. An Runai has been offering grinds and exercising the brains of the Friday knights in the hope of unearthing a genius or two. Nothing seemed to fazed them in these relaxed surrounding but he's not sure how they'll respond to a quizmaster and an audience hence his request, anyone interested, just get in touch with Sean if you would like to represent the club at question time.

Under 14's - All members of the under 14 panel are requested to attend tonight (Thur) session at 7.00pm in the complex. Enrolment in the Feile competition to be held in Cavan later in the year will take place. All participants’ names, DOB’s and signatures must be recorded on the registration sheet to be submitted to the organising committee. It is important therefore that all eligible attend this particular session and make sure their name is on the list submitted by the club. After this administrative piece is out of the way they will have their usual coaching and games activity.

Valentine Bingo - That old romantic Gerry reminds me to remind bingo patrons next Monday night’s session will be a special Valentine Bingo with spot prizes galore. As well as the usual lucrative prizes plus of course our substantial jackpots there will be a romantic gift give away on every page. Definitely not to be missed bring a friend.

Seans Notes 31/01/2008

Adult Teams - Our adult team had a good work out on Sunday morning last when the Whites played Saffron's, not sure how the result went. Pasty Prunty was a very effective man in the middle and kept things from boiling over which they threatened to do so on more than one occasion, a good competitive match! A few nuggets were unearthed but only time will tell if they turn into the gems we all hope they do. Sessions continue at the usual times this week, all panellists are requested to make the effort to be there, and on time. A couple of friendly games are scheduled at home next Sunday against Beragh Red Knights, at time of going to press the exact starting time has yet to be finalised.

Totto Results - The numbers drawn 5,3,7,2,6,1,4 were not correctly forecast, The €40 prize went to Ryan Mc Elvaney Drumuck. Oliver Mc Guigan Mullinahinch, Christina Duffy Ballybay, Stephen Connolly Leck, Francie Mc Cormick Ardaghey, and Sean Connolly Tullygillen won the €20 prizes. Next week's Jackpot is €1,900.

Underage Scene & Funday away - "The best day of my life, thanks Enda" the parting remarks of one of our Under 8's after their successful and enjoyable activity day out. Comments like this make the effort in organising and promoting our Gaelic Games worth while, forget your pay for play, satisfaction, enjoyment and cementing a community is what the GAA is all about at least at club level. The thirty-eight youngsters and their adult supervisors did that in spades on Saturday last. Parents help considerably too, adhering to the tight time schedule, insuring all were ready and raring to go at the appointed time and no one had to wait when the coach returned to base. Indoor bowling was the first item on the agenda, then it was into the activity centre, the high slide proved a daunting ask for some of the younger brigade even a few of the older crew thought it a bridge to far and refused to chance it, but there were plenty brave enough to experience the thrill of the drop. Squeals of enjoyment filled the air but not for the adult, they could only watch in anguish from afar with raised voices as they tried to curb the enthusiasm and energies of their young charges as they tested and put every piece of equipment to its very limit. Children's paradise no adults allowed! Lunch was laced with copious supplies of ketchup. Then it was back to the pool where one attendant was heard remark "tell that big fellow not to be jumping in like", not sure which of the adults Colm or Enda he was pointing to at the time. Romance almost blossomed for Wee Pat; he declined the amorous advances, no wedding bells for Togan just yet. Everyone co-operated to make it a really worthwhile and enjoyable experience, a special word of thanks to the children for their impeccable behaviour over what was a long and exhausting day. To co ordinator Enda Murphy and his supervisory crew of Fergal Mc Quillan Colm Mc Mahon. Gerard Mc Nally, Declan Brennan Patrick Kieran Nigel Lynch, and parents Noel Melvin, Rodney Perkins and Stephen Hagan who joined them for their swimming pool activities, not to mention the very many more parents who demonstrated there encouragement and support by their presence on the balconies. Well done to all concerned. Coaching for this young crew continues on Wednesday night and Saturday morning at the usual times.

Congratulations & Best wishes - Congratulations to club treasurer Mary Mc Connon on her selection to the County Development sub committee. Celebrating his eighty sixth birthday last week was Club President Peter Mc Elvaney; we extend heartiest congratulations and many happy returns to Peter. Well done to Paraic Coyle, Cooler coached his Scoil Ui Chonail team to victory in the final of the Dublin Cumann Na mBunscoil competition in Croke Park recently. Paraic expect a call from Enda. Currently hospitalised after undergoing surgery is a very loyal club member and supporter Gerard Mc Entee, we wish Gerard a speedy return to full health. The lads on the bowling squad are looking forward to having him back at the mats again, and his card playing buddies are hoping he'll be back in the very near future to keep their table level too; we all wish him the very best and hope his stay in hospital will be short.

Membership Subscription - As regularly mentioned in this column membership renewal subscriptions are now due. The €10 fee should be paid to club registrar Ciaran Mc Entee as soon as possible.

Coaching - Reminder Monaghan County Coaching and Games Development Committee have put together a very comprehensive range of coaching works shops during the month February. Taking place at Cloghan they are targeted at coaches involved with under age squads. Anyone interested in attending any of these very useful workshops should check the club web site for details or make Enda Murphy 087-7840460 aware of your interest.

Club competitions - It was announced at the January County Committee meeting that competitions for Intermediate and junior clubs were expected to commence on Sunday 24th February. Less than a month lads to shake off any remaining winter cobwebs.

Allianz NFL - Good luck to Seamus Mc Enaney and the Monaghan panel in their opening round game against Roscommon in Clones on Sunday next, we all hope it will be the start of another exciting and successful season.

Seans Notes 24/01/2008

Adult Teams - Coaching for the adult panels continues on Tuesday and Friday nights at the regular starting time of 8.00pm. Absentees should check with Stephen or Niall for times of Sunday's session as it is sometimes necessary to change from the usual 12.O' clock. With no let up of the current inclement weather in sight panellist should insure that they bring indoor training gear with them as well, especially to the night sessions. Full attendance is expected at all sessions and punctuality is a must too. Following the championship draw on Monday night last we face Ballybay in the opening round of this year’s Mc Guigan Builders Intermediate Championship.

Totto Results - The numbers drawn 6,7,1,4,2,3,5 were not correctly forecast, The €40 prize went to Margaret Connolly Carnbane, The €20 prizes were won by Annie Mc Skane Clontibret, Martin Kieran Cabra, Ava martin Newbliss, Janice Cassidy Glaslough, and Gary Larkin Brandrum. Next week's Jackpot is €1,800.

Underage Scene & Funday away - Coaching for under 8/10 and under 14's continues at their usual weekly time slots, however all Under 8's and 10's involved in the Elco Oil coaching and games programme should note there is a slight change to next Saturday mornings activity. They head off for their annual fun day out, departure time from the Complex is 10 'o clock; make sure you are on the bus. All regular participants have received notification of the planned timetable. Monaghan Leisure Complex around 2.30-2.45 is the final destination on the itinerary; any parent or adult available to help supervise pool activity would be most welcome and encouraged to join the young revellers at this stage. There is a small nominal fee, but the most important thing for all intending passengers is to make they have a towel and swimming suit/togs in their travel bag, a few tasty morsel packed away too may not go astray if feeling peckish, but lunch will be provided. Hopefully the vast majority will be able to participate and enjoy Saturday's planned activities, remember departure time is 10am sharp. Additional info. if required contact Enda at 087-7840460

Coaching Development - Monaghan Coaching and Games Development Committee have put together a number of very interesting coaching workshops which take place at Cloghan during February. Targeted at coaches who work with teams at under14 to minor level, these workshops will be both practical and interactive and while U14- U18 coaches can expect to get the most out of them anyone interested in coaching can attend and benefit from the presentations. Tutor Paraic Mc Donald opens proceedings on Wed 6th at 7.00pm with Teaching Skills, Head /Hands/ Feet. A week later on the 13th same starting time John Mc Gever does Speed Development. The remaining workshops are all at 7.30pm with Aidan O Rourke and Bernie Murray centre stage on Friday 15th with Defensive play "Tackling". Dairmaid Marsden does his bit for the offensive side of the game on Monday 18th with Attacking Play_"Going past an opponent" Doctor in sports psychology Tadhd Mc Intyre leads the workshop Mental Skills Training on Thursday 21st.Concluding the monthly roundup on Thursday 28th is John O Brien's workshop entitled Strength and Core Conditioning. Check our web site www.seanmcdermotts.net for Monaghan's CGDC programme of events, any one interested in attending any or all of these workshops should get in touch with Enda Murphy co ordinator as well as transport manager to these forth coming sessions. All comers welcome but especially so those involved in coaching at under age level.

Membership Subscription - Membership renewal subscriptions are now due. The €10 fee should be paid to club registrar Ciaran Mc Entee as soon as possible. Those who have allowed their membership to lapse and/or new members should complete an application form and return it to club secretary Sean Mc Elvaney directly or via any committee member for ratification at an executive meeting. Only paid up members are allowed vote at annual or special meetings. Playing members must have their subscription paid before participating in club games. Every ones co-operation is requested in furnishing the registrar the requisite fee at your first opportunity.

Seans Notes 17/01/2008

Cathaoirleach determines job roles - Club Chairman Danny Clerkin took the opportunity at the first meeting of the New Year to distribute the work load to the infantry around his executive table, not only that he defined each brief and outlined his expectations for them. On the playing side of things we already know Lawrence Strain is the new manager of senior team. It took very little persuasion for his two selectors Niall Mc Guirk and Stephen Hagan to also commit to taking charge of our B side. Returned unopposed to his job at the helm of the C squad is David Treanor who will again be ably assisted by selectors Brian O' Neill and Padraig Murphy; two quiet men! Players' representative Stephen Mc Elvaney will liase between the playing panels and the committee, being the diplomat that Stevo is no major issues are expected to materialise. Enda Murphy and Nigel Lynch retain their interest in organising and co-ordinating our under age structures and affairs. As well as generating funding at this level they have to develop coaching, appoint mentors, insure all fixtures are fulfilled plus a whole lot more. No simple task but this duo is well up for it. Old reliable Gerry Lynch keeps the development brief. Preparation and progressing the next phase, the new stand, will be his key priority for the coming term. Pitch maintenance as well as general running repairs are also in his remit. He will be hoping that the weather turns favourable over the next few week so that work on the embankment side of the pitch can be competed before the start of the new playing season. Colm Mc Mahon and Paul Kelly head up a new unit which the chairman expect will enhance and streamline activities in our Social Centre, as well as fine tuning the organisational details associated with it's smooth and successful operation. Kevin Mc Morrow and Brian O' Neill are handed responsibility of insuring reliable and competent individuals are recruited as club match officials umpires/linemen for home and away games. If anyone is willing to operate as a club match official, Kevin and Brian would be delighted to hear from you, or if approached by them to do same, please give it due consideration. No need to submit PB's for the 100meters but a decent level of mobility is required for linesmen and for umpires too; especially if the ball has to be retrieved and us trailing! For the white-coated brigade reasonable keen sight would also be a requisite. Age wise you must be at least over 18. The lads hope there will be sufficient interest to appoint personnel to this duty on a rotating monthly basis. Registrar Ciaran Mc Entee is again charged with sustaining our club membership base and encouraging greater enrolment numbers in 2008. Much of his time around now is spent collecting the associated annual subscription of €10, which by the way outgoing members should pay as soon as possible if the wish to renew and retain membership. Treasurer Mary Mc Connon and the Chairman himself will be trawling through the membership data to enlist personnel to man the turnstiles on match days. Very few volunteer for this assignment, in fact last year Danny was sentinel on duty on a good many occasions, a case of don't ask anyone to do something your not prepared to do yourself. Any takers out there, prepared to lend a hand, Mary and the Chief would like to hear from you. It appears little remains to occupy our Secretary Sean and there are a few lads around the table who will take great delight in telling him so. Yours truly will do his best to keep our members and supporters informed of all club news and activities.

Adult Teams - There was a good workout for all attending the opening training session of the season on Sunday last. The new manager left the players in no doubt by the content of the session and his comments afterwards just what would be demanded and required from anyone with expectations of securing a place on the team. There is a fairly busy schedule to the training programme for the opening few weeks at least, with session planned for Tuesday and Friday nights at 8 o'clock plus a Sunday session. Punctuality and a full attendance are requested, absentees on Sunday please take note.

Totto Results - The numbers drawn 2,7,5,3,4,1,6 were not correctly forecast, The €40 prize went to Eileen Maguire Clones, The €20 prizes were won by Susan TreanorSmithboro, Ryan Connolly Monaghan, Niall Prunty Cabra, Malachy Clerkin Kilnaclay, Susan Mc Clave Roslea. Next week's Jackpot is €1,600.

Underage Scene - The regular U8/10 coaching session continues on Wednesday evenings from 6.30-7.30 and on Saturday mornings from 10.00 -11.15. The under 14's get together on Thursday evening at 7.00pm.

Casualty Report - It was only after copy was submitted last week that I learned Emmett Mc Elvaney had an appointment for surgery on his knee, coincidentally the same day (Friday) as Damien Larkin. The good news is, all went well, a bit painful by all accounts in Damien's case, both made an appearance at the training session on Sunday last, all be it on crutches. Another man there on crutches too was Derek Mc Mahon, Derek is looking forward to getting the cast off later this week and as he says, "learning to walk again". Derek and Emmett expressed the hope that they could possibly rejoin the panel in weeks rather than months, but unfortunately for Damien he is looking at a much longer recuperation period. Others making steady progress on the recovery trail are Martin Kieran and Adrian Larkin both engaged in their own personal fitness programme, which they hope will see them back in club colours before to long. Unfortunately for Stephen Mc Elvaney a niggling groin strain that has plagued him and curtailed his first team appearances over the last few seasons has struck again. We all thought Stephen had shaken off this injury having lined out with telling effect in the final few games of last season. Hopefully with a little rest he will soon be fit to resume training and again stake his claim to a place on the team in the very near future.We wish all on the injured list a speedy return to fitness and active participation on the training field.

Sympathy - Votes of sympathy were passed at the recent club executive meeting with the Thornton family Greagh on the death of Mary Mc Carey; and with the Freeman Family Kiltubrid on the death of Elizabeth Freeman.Ar dheis Dé go raibh a n-anamacha

Seans Notes 10/01/2008

Senior Team Management - The recently appointed triumvirate of manager Laurence Strain and his selectors Niall Mc Guirk and Stephen Hagan along with Chairman Danny Clerkin and Secretary Sean Mc Elvaney had their first official get together on Sunday last. Our administrative pair place the playing of games way ahead of everything and view it as the most important component in the club, it is after all why we exist. Ongoing ground development and the associated financial demands, not to mention the social responsibility of the club in our community diverts some of their energies; but they have always maintained a steadfast focus on the teams well being. As we know too well we don't always get the return or reward from our endeavours as was clearly demonstrated from results last year. 2008 is a New Year and we look forward with optimism and hope to the forthcoming campaign. Danny and Sean have assured the three lads that the focus remains the same and every assistance will be given them to get the very best out of our current playing panel. Hopefully that will be good enough to see us contest for honours at the end of the season. Sure, of course we all hope for more, but if that target is achieved most of us will be happy. Laurence, Niall, Stephen, No pressure!!!

Adult Teams - The upshot of last Sunday's caucus is that the adult panels have their first training session on Sunday next at 12 O' clock. EVERYONE interested in playing on any of our adult teams this year should attend, this includes lads who are currently carrying injuries, but expect to recover sufficiently to participate later on, and of course the younger brigade our minor players from last year. The three wise men are trying to complete a jigsaw but they need to know what pieces in terms of personnel are going to be available to them. The new manager can't assess the panels ability if individuals don't turn out, as they say you only get one chance to make a first impression, all players have that chance on Sunday; take it and good luck to everyone. A team meeting will be held immediately after the training session concludes. '08 buzz words attendance and punctuality.

Totto Results - The numbers 6,7,3,5,2,1,4, drawn last weekend were not correctly forecast. The €40 winner was Olivia Mc Connon Killnaclay.The €20 prizes went to Chloe Stuart Drumguill, Gerard Mc Entee Mullinavanóg, Patricia Mc Elvaney Dublin, John & Elizabeth Prunty Cabra, and Seamus Mulligan Rooskey. Next week's Jackpot is €1,500

Club Membership - Membership subscriptions are now due. Club registrar Ciaran Mc Entee will be delighted to accept the €10 renewal fee. It's important that adult players are aware that their subscription must be paid before their names can be included on any team for the '08 playing season.

Complex Activities - Badminton for adults and over 15's resumed on Tuesday night last 8th January. After the Christmas break all regular participants are encouraged to return to the normal Tuesday night exertion at the usual time of 8-30 -10.30, but watch out for the few cagey codgers who have been secretly honing their skills. New Participants welcome. Bowls also make a return to its regular Thursday 8.30 -10.30 slot. Again new faces would be welcome to this very enjoyable activity.

Underage Scene - The Under 8's and 10 squads continue their early Saturday morning session at the usual time of 10.00 -11.15am, and also on Wednesday evenings from 6.30 -7.30pm Any adults interested in assisting with these coaching sessions or indeed getting involved in coaching with any of our under age teams should make Enda Murphy 087-7840460 aware of their availability by Sunday 20th January. Another man who will be starting shortly to put his underage coaching jigsaw together.

Under 13 - Tony Mc Guinness and his under 13 squad (now U14) reconvene their hour-long session tonight Thursday 10th at 7 o' clock. All members in this age group are requested to attend this and future Thursday night sessions.

Coaching Conference - A Comhairle Uladh promoted coaching conference is scheduled for Cookstown on Saturday 19th January, sure to be of great interest and benefit again Enda is the man to contact if available to attend.

Congratulations - Congratulations and best wishes go to the club's newest married couple Conor Mc Elvaney and Marie Sheahan, we wish them the very very best of everything for the future.

Speedy Recovery - We wish Emmett Mc Elvaney and Damien Larkin a speedy recovery and hope the surgery Damien undergoes on Friday to repair a serious knee injury sustained in the last game of the season will be a complete success. Emmett is scheduled on Friday too for an exploratory examination and possible surgery on a knee problem that has prevented him lining out for the team since his return from Oz, we hope the outcome of this consultation will be another perfect success. Hopefully their rehabilitation period will be short and they will be back in action before too long. Having Damien, Emmett and Derek Mc Mahon currently sidelined with a very nasty ankle injury available again would strengthen the panel considerably and give the management and panel a real confidence boost. Lads good luck and get well soon.

Remembrance Sunday - Reminder…Our annual remembrance mass will be offered for living and deceased members of the club in St Michael's Church Corcaghan on Sunday next 13th January at 10 O clock.

Seans Notes 03/01/2008

Happy New Year - Best wishes for 2008 are extended to all our players, members, and supporters, no doubt everyone involved in the club are looking forward to a successful year, especially where our adult team is concerned.

Totto Results - Prizes associated with our Christmas Totto Social Members draw went to Minnie Mc Entee Coolcorragh, who won the DVD player. The Stuart Family Drumguill won the Music centre, other prizes went to Maureen Mc Mahon Gortakeegan, Eileen Kieran Togan, Seamus Greenan Castleblaney, John & Elizabeth Prunty Cabra, The Kieran family Drumsheeney, Dermot Maguire Scotstown, Eileen Kelly Aghabog, Gerry & Ailish Thremilehouse. The numbers in the Totto draw were not matched; the €40 winners were Bridie & John Sherry Emyvale. €20 went to Pat O Reilly Corcaghan, Danny, Christina, Aisling Treanor Cooldaragh, Fionnuala Caulfield Scotstown, P Curran Clontibret, and Shane O' Dowd Clones. Numbers drawn last week-end were 7,5,1,3,2,4,6,no one forecast this sequence, the €40 winners were Mc Namee Girls Tyholland. Noel Clerkin Monaghan, PJ & Patsy Mc Carron cardplayers, Ann Marie Mc Mahon, Gortmore, Gerard Mc Entee Mullinavanóg, and Patsy Prunty Mullaghmatt claimed the €20 prizes

Club Merchandise - After the Christmas sales rush Mary Mc Connon still has a few items of club merchandise left, she can be contacted any evening after 7.00pm at 047-57331 should you wish to get your hands on any of these items.

Christmas Draw - Winner of the top prize of a camcorder in our Christmas draw was Fergal Mc Quillan, Cabra, Congratulations to Fergal and a special word of thanks to everyone who supported this draw.

Bingo - Our regular bingo session resumes next Monday night 7th January at 9 O' clock. As well as the usually line and house prizes not to mention substantial jackpot prizes, patrons are reminder that Santa on his recent visit has left a gift for everyone, Brian Gerry and the rest of the bingo crew will be distributing these on Monday night, be there to collect.

Appreciation Night - Everyone attending the appreciation night laid on for all who helped or volunteered in the club during 2007 had a most enjoyable night. Stephen Hagan showed his skill at the card table, pontoon definitely his game! Although running second behind Marie Mc Entee, who had phenomenal luck at the roulette table, it was when the horses left the starting gates that Stephen really came into his own turning his original stake of $1200 into close to one million. Needless to say with winning like that he out bid everyone else at the end of the night to walk away with top prize a Christmas hamper. A word of thanks to Club chairman Danny and secretary Sean who organised and made sure the night's activities went off without a hitch, to Michael and Eddie who stepped into the breech insuring everyone else could enjoy themselves. Well done lads.

Membership - Subscriptions to renew club membership are now due and should be paid to registrar Ciaran McEntee without delay.

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