CUMANN LÚTHCHLEAS GAEL CILL CHAINNIGH SECRETARY'S REPORT 2016 - Kilkenny GAA
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CUMANN LÚTHCHLEAS GAEL CILL CHAINNIGH
SECRETARY’S REPORT 2016
Tá athais mór ormsa mar Runai an Coisde Contae Cill Chainnigh tuarascail an bhlian 2016
a chur os comhar an Comhdail Bliantuil anocht. Ba mhait liom mo comghairdeas a treaslu
agus mo bhuiochas a gabhail do gach duine a cabraigh leis obair Cumann Luthchleas Gael
Cill Chainnigh i rith an bhlian seo.
Once again, it is an honour, to attempt for a fourth and penultimate time to record the
events, the highs and the lows of the GAA year in Kilkenny. It covers a great diversity of
activities on and off the playing field and it is driven by the dedication and commitment of
so many, in Kilkenny and those living elsewhere that have a grá for it. Often unknown to
each other, it takes the one who nurtures the idea, ploughs the furrow, tills the soil, plants
the seed, and cares for it to combine to create what we are and what we have.
In an organisation that continues to give at all levels, January 1st drew a line under the
highlights and achievements of the previous year. Recalling the adage “that it is tough at
the top”, our rivals eyed our plans to retain the McCarthy Cup, won by our Senior Hurlers
and the Sam Maguire Cup by our Junior Footballers. Similarly we focussed on reaching the
pinnacle that other sides had held. At club level Bennettsbridge and Glenmore in hurling
and Tullaroan’s Camogie teams also had plans for their campaigns towards All Ireland
titles. Elsewhere in the South of the County, our border, some clubs catchment areas and
the Pride of Place of being from Kilkenny was under threat. Off the field, completing the
planned developments to bring Nowlan Park to a 28,000 plus capacity stadium with 18,000
seats was well in hand. At club level, retuning the format of the leagues and supporting the
clubs were the big tasks on hand.
With the All-Ireland club victories of Glenmore over Eoghan Rua of Derry and
Bennettsbridge wining their second successive All Ireland Crown against Galway’s
Abbeyknockmoy, the new season showed plenty of early promise. It was followed by St.
Kieran’s, All Ireland Senior Hurling Colleges triumph over Ard Scoil Rís.
Amongst the years playing achievements were the retention of the Bob O’Keefe Cup, the
qualification for the All-Ireland Senior Hurling Final and the winning of the Intermediate
All Ireland hurling title. It also included the success of our Camogie teams winning the
Senior League and Championship, the Intermediate All Ireland title and the performance
of our Handballer’s in all grades and codes. In addition the visit of the All-Ireland Senior
football champions Dublin for their game with Laois was a great occasion.
Tonight as we meet to reflect, and plan for 2017, the current phase of developments in
Nowlan Park and Dunmore are completed, finances are on a sound footing and the focus
returns to coaching and the teams. Elsewhere steps have been put in place to enhance the
pitch in Nowlan Park and tentative ones to provide a GYM, meeting rooms and additional
floodlighting at the training facilities in Dunmore. In the distance there will be new
challenges and new faces as we look forward to building on the past year and hopefully
hosting another concert and planning ahead for the Rugby World Cup in 2023.
On the playing fields, best wishes are extended to the new County Management teams, to
Mooncoin and Carrickshock in hurling and Thomastown in Camogie in their respective All
iIreland Club campaigns. Also to the clubs, their officials and players and everyone involved
in any way in Cumann Luthchleas Gael Cill Chainnigh.
Senior Hurling:
The Walsh Cup:
The Bord na Mona Walsh Cup (Accident Tournament) became the first inter county game
played in MW Hire Park Dunmore. It saw the under twenty one side, under newly
appointed team manager Eddie Brennan represent Kilkenny in the game against D.I.T.
Well in control approaching the break, two goals gave the visitors a match winning
initiative. For the second game the side was strengthened by six senior panellists and
travelled to Birr for the first time in many years. As Kilkenny drew level in front of two
thousand spectators in the final minutes against a strong Offaly side a late brace of goals
saw the home side qualify for the final.
Allianz National Hurling League:
Having escaped the relegation trap door against Clare in the spring of 2015, Kilkenny’s All
Ireland win had erased the memories as they travelled to Walsh Park to meet the new
League Champions. After the customary guard of honour for the All-Ireland Champions, it
was all action by the Deise side as they were well worth their 0-14 to 0-11 win. The side’s
next outing, in Nowlan Park against old rivals Tipperary attracted over eleven thousand
people. On the day James Maher, Jonjo Farrell and Kevin Kelly with two goals became the
new kids on the block as they assisted TJ Reid in fashioning a late and hard earned win by
2-17 to 0-18. With all the teams on equal points, the visit of All Ireland finalists Galway
was to be another stern test. After a slow start by the visitor’s, TJ’s fourteen point scoring
run was met by a second half rally, which caused some problems, before Kilkenny took the
points on a 0-21 to 1-14 scoreline. Next up, was a visit to Pairc Uí Rinn, where the home
side were clad in a Special edition blue jersey. It was a copy on the one the Rebel County
wore a century ago and was now part of their 1916 commemoration celebrations. Played in
splendid conditions, under lights in front of a partisan home crowd of over eight thousand
spectators, the Leesiders raised the heat as they recalled the past and threw the weight of
history at the visitors. Playing like a side transformed they were six points up with six
minutes to go, before two late goals by TJ Reid and John Power looked to earn both sides
a League point. In the end John Powers’ late, late effort earned the visitors a dramatic 2-23
to 2-22 victory. With both Dublin and Kilkenny, in the quarter finals over eight thousand
eight hundred people turned up to see Dublin’s final round visit to Nowlan Park. With
Paraic Walsh in fine form, the side, led by eight points at the break on their way to a 0-23
to 1-14 win. The quarter final saw Offaly travel to Nowlan Park as Lester Ryan and Liam
Blanchfield with 2-1 made their mark in a 6-20 to 0-14 victory. The reward of a semi-final
place in Thurles saw a replay of the previous year’s relegation final against Clare. On the
day over twenty thousand saw the Banner men score three early goals to record a 4-22 to
2-19 win, as they went on their way to their first National League Hurling title since 1978.
Leinster Championship:
Dublin provided the semi-final opposition in Portlaoise, as Kilkenny set out on the road for
iia three in a row of Bob O’Keeffe Cups. Playing against the strong wind Kilkenny were just
a point behind at the interval and with an unanswered 1-8 immediately after the break, they
went on to record a 1-25 to 0-16 win.
In Kilkenny’s one hundredth Leinster Senior Hurling Final played against Galway in Croke
Park, a slow start saw them three points behind at half time. After an even restart, a Jonjo
Farrell goal had the side’s level at the three quarter way stage. In the end, the contribution
of Padraig Walsh, Conor Fogarty, Michael Fennelly and half time substitute Richie Hogan
with five points saw Kilkenny win by 1-26 to 0-22. On the day that the records will show
it was the county’s 71st and Brian Cody’s 15th Provincial Title as a manager, the skill,
timing and co-ordination of the diving save by Cillian Buckley a foot from the goal line
was worth the admission fee in itself.
All Ireland Campaign:
In the All-Ireland semi-final in Croke Park, Kilkenny and Waterford played out a classic
man to man game. On a day when Pauric Mahony, Noel Connors and later to be dual young
and senior player of the year Austin Gleeson displayed their skills, Waterford led 0-13 to
0-12 at the break. The Déise side appeared to be well in the driving seat as a lead of five
points slipped to three points and the clock ticked into injury time. However, a Walter
Walsh goal tied the game. After Waterford’s Paraic Mahony’s scored an injury time free
that looked a winner, a long range effort by Conor Fogarty tied the game. To add to the
drama Paul Murphy’s attempt at daylight robbery drew sighs from both sides as it was just
off target.
In Thurles the following Saturday for the replay, the Camogie All Ireland semi-finals filled
out the blank spaces on the three match programme when both games went to extra time.
For the locals the Kilkenny Ladies win pointed the way to a possible All Ireland Finals day
Senior double appearance in Croke Park. Following another thriller, three Liam Blanchfield
points and two Colin Fennelly goals saw Kilkenny lead by 2-10 to 2-7 at the break. Still it
was Kilkenny who led by a point as the game crept towards injury time, as another point
made it two and put a dangerous lead between the sides. After a Maurice Shanahan reply,
a long range free from Pauric Mahony appeared to be bringing the game into extra time,
before a panther like leap saw Eoin Murphy go ten feet tall, to catch the ball, stun the crowd
and also reach for a rare goalkeeping all-star for Kilkenny. The 2-19 to 2-17 victory in the
game of the ages was sealed after Richie Hogan added his fourth point. It saw Kilkenny
qualify for their third All Ireland Final appearance in a row.
The following day Tipperary took revenge on Galway’s victory in 2015 to set up another
traditional final as the seriousness of Michael Fennelly’s injury settled across the hurling
world. In the final Kilkenny started tentatively, created reasonable goal chances and with
the side’s level nine times were just 0-14 to 0-12 behind at the break. After a TJ Reid free
put his side in front, a move by Walter Walsh and Liam Blanchfield saw a Kevin Kelly goal
put Kilkenny 1-14 to 0-15 ahead. From there on, the opposition gained control and hurling
at a different level, a one way tidal flow was created and saw their full forward line
dominate the scoring to add 1-7 to Kilkenny’s 0-1. Eventually the Tipperary momentum
was thwarted by Paraic Walsh and Eoin Murphy with the score at 1-22 to 1-15. With a never
say die attitude the side, got back into the game and threw everything forward as Richie
iiiHogan struck a goal. However the hungrier premier side kept the scoreboard ticking in
tandem with the Kilkenny scores to record a 2-29 to 2-20 win. As Tipperary celebrated
their well-deserved victory, the players and management having grown and stood together
through many happier days, collected the feeling of the moment with a promise to regroup
for another day. For their efforts, achievements and the memories created, thanks are
extended to Brian Cody his long-time friend and trainer Michael Dempsey, their co-
selectors James McGarry and Derek Lyng, the players, the extended panel members and
the background team led by Dr. Tadhg Crowley, Physio’s Kevin Curran, John Kearns, Neal
Byrne and Alison Holmes, Nutritionist Noreen Roche, Statistician’s Emma and Louise
Byrne, Brian Dunne, Brian Ryan and Denis ‘’Rackard’’ Cody with Canice O’Gorman
adding logistical support on key occasions.
Intermediate Hurling:
The manner of the achievement of the County Intermediate sides All Ireland victory
reflected all that is good in the game in Kilkenny. Having access to a second string team,
it saw the side play on a level playing field for the first time. In the championship the side
visited Wexford Park for the Leinster Final. In a titanic game the battling nature of the
performance saw the side, looking at an apparent lost cause time their run to perfection for
a 3-14 to 2-14 win. After a slow start in the final against Clare in Thurles the side got into
their stride, as timely goals saw them lead by seven points 4-5 to 1-7 at the break. After
John Walsh led the scoring list with 2-2 to give them a 5-16 to 1-16 winning margin, the
result saw Nicky Cleere presented with the Michael Cusack Cup.
Great credit is due and thanks extended to long serving team manager, Pat O Grady, his
selectors Sean Mangan, Anthony McCormack, Joe Walsh, Willie Blanchfield, Dave
O’Neill and the backroom team of JP O’Neill and Dr Jim Ryan for their efforts which were
celebrated in style. With a new re-organised format for 2017, the lifetime of the
Intermediate championship is unsure as many counties may choose not to compete. For
others it continues to provide a development ladder by ensuring an upward link for players
to inter-county level.
Under 21 Hurling:
The appointment of Eddie Brennan to lead Kilkenny’s Bord Gais under Twenty One
Championship campaign added early momentum. After promising results around the
challenge match circuit, the side looked set to break Welford’s dominant Provincial run.
However it was not to be as, on their first outing against under dogs Westmeath the side
were out muscled and out hurled in Mullingar. In the game, that was winnable right to the
last puck, the awaited for flick of the switch failed to turn on as Westmeath’s belief grew
and they earned themselves a historic and well-deserved 1-11 to 0-12 victory. Thanks are
extended to team manager, Eddie Brennan, Richie Doyle, Richie O’Neill, James Maher and
the backroom team of Dr. Cormac Behan, Sean Manton, Alan Kavanagh and Joe Pyke for
their genuine efforts.
Minors:
All Ireland semi-finalists in 2015 the minors campaign was both strengthened and
ivhampered by the Senior Colleges run of Kilkenny CBS and St. Kieran’s. It saw the side
play Offaly in the first round in Nowlan Park where they had a 3-25 to 1-13 victory. The
do or die semi-final being played prior to the Leaving Cert saw Kilkenny travel to Parnell
Park to play their most recent adversaries Dublin. After early dominance by the home side
Kilkenny led by three points on the run in to the final whistle. However a late goal brought
the game to extra time. In it a good start was secured, before Dublin with growing
confidence got ahead approaching the additional half time break and built a lead of four
then five points. .After a Kilkenny rally the game was on a knife edge before the final score
gave Dublin a 2-18 to 1-19 victory. Thanks are extended to Pat Hoban who had an
excellent run including an All-Ireland victory and to his selectors Peter O’Donovan, Ray
O’Keeffe, Niall McCormack, Pat Nolan, Sean Kelly and also Dr Jim Ryan, Teresa McGinn,
Willie Dempsey and Joe Pyke.
Retirements:
Under this too regular heading the retirements of more legends of the game are recalled.
Preseason saw Richie Power and Matthew, Ruth retire, mid-season it was Michael Rice,
Mark Kelly and Brian Kennedy, then Jackie Tyrell at the years end and Eoin Larkin as we
go to the printers. Household names they all played their part in the counties great run of
success and are still go to men for their clubs.
Richie Power:
Having battled a serious knee injury for a number of years, news of Richie’s retirement still
came as a shock, His burning pace, talent and killer instinct for goal had served Kilkenny
well and lit up many big games. One of the outstanding forwards in the country, Richie’s
career saw him win eight of his nine senior medals on the field of play. From the
Carrickshock Club his hurling pedigree saw him mirror his father Richie Seniors
achievement in winning all Ireland medals at minor, under twenty one and senior level.
Richie then went on to add further goals with his brother John. He also won nine Leinster,
six National League and was selected on the All Star teams of 2010 and 2011. In recent
weeks his match winning cameo appearances with his club has helped them reach the All-
Ireland Intermediate Club semi-final.
Michael Rice:
Also from the famed Carrickshock Club, Michael’s career was interrupted by a series hand
injury when he was at his peak winning All Stars at centre field. Strong and versatile he
won seven All-Ireland Senior Medals ten Leinster National Hurling Leagues, Walsh and
Railway cups Michael is also the holder of two All-Ireland under twenty one medals and
an All-Ireland Minor medal. At club level he won County and Leinster Intermediate Club
Championships, a Kilkenny under twenty one B medal and two minor A medals. Michael
currently trains the St Kieran’s senior team that he won an All-Ireland senior colleges title
with in the year two thousand. He still mans the crucial midfield berth as Carrickshock
continue on their All Ireland Intermediate Club semi-finals.
Jackie Tyrrell:
The seasons end saw the retirement of another legend in James Stephens Clubman Jackie
vTyrrell. For fourteen years he not only manned the dykes, inspired the crowds and created
momentum with his long clearances. A gentlemen and a real warrior, an untimely foot
injury in 2015 broke his playing momentum. On the field Jackie was feared and respected
for his strength and great skill as he protected the last line of the Kilkenny defence. Jackie
is one of a small band of holders of an amazing nine All Ireland Senior Hurling Medals. In
addition he won ten Leinster six National Hurling League titles and four All Stars. At under
age he added All-Ireland under twenty one, two Fitzgibbon Cup and an All-Ireland
Colleges with St. Kieran’s. With his beloved Village Club he collected Féile and All-
Ireland Senior Club, three senior county hurling and a senior county Football championship
medals. In his long career Jackie collected his first adult county medal at junior level in
1999
Eoin Larkin:
As a forward Eoin was one of the top players in the game and was selected as Hurler of the
Year in 2008. In addition Eoin had the honour of captaining Kilkenny the All-Ireland
champions in 2012. In matches Eoin was in the thick of the action everywhere on the field,
working the hard shift supporting team mates back to the full back line and then moving
the ball forward with skill and speed. Eoin broke the pain barrier when he played with a
broken thumb in the 2015 All Ireland Final. He made his senior debut in 2005 and collected
eight All-Ireland medals, ten Leinster titles, six National League medals and two All-Stars.
Also two under twenty one All-Ireland medals, two All Stars and a coveted Hurler of the
Year and All-Ireland medals at Minor level and Senior County with club his James
Stephens. Eoin was also a member of the Army that recently served a peace keeping tour
on the Golan Heights.
Football:
Holding on to the Sam Maguire Cup after winning the British Junior Football title was the
key focus for the year. The campaign opened as a curtain raiser to the Leinster Senor
Football tie between Dublin and Laois. In it the home side played well and were unlucky
to go down as London converted all of their goal scoring chances. The side then recovered
well to record an 8-18 to 1-07 win over Hertfordshire in Birmingham.
The result saw them qualify for a repeat of the 2105 final against Scotland in Glasgow. In
a well contested game it saw a very strong home side win by 1-9 to 1-7 before conceding
to Lancashire in the final replay. During the year the side showed great commitment after
the loss of some key players to emigration, retirement and secondment to other county
panels. After the changes were taken in their stride, it has left a valuable resource of players
for next year’s campaign. The on-going success is thanks to the dedication of the players,
team manager Christy Walsh and his selectors JJ Grace, Pat Mulrooney, John Dowd and the
backroom team of Ned Lawlor and Coiste Peil Chairperson Tom O’Reilly. In the year
ahead the championship will be a week earlier, it will be shorter and will provide more time
between the games. At minor level a return to intercounty fare saw Wexford win easily in
Nowlan Park. The result will see the county focus on the new minor level by bringing the
current under fourteen side through for the 2017 or 2018 campaign.
viThe Turning Point:
In Kilkenny GAA history there were many turning points, the transition from football
almost a century ago, the formation of the schools board, the implementation of the Parish
Rule and the development of Nowlan Park. This year as their Golden Jubilee approached
the 1967 All Ireland Senior Hurling team were presented and honoured at the Senior
County Finals in Nowlan Park and afterwards they were hosted with their partners by the
Springhill Hotel. It was a well-deserved tribute as their achievement at the time was truly
an important milestone.
Club Championships:
Saint Canice’s Credit Union Senior Hurling Championship:
The semi-finals of this year’s well attended championship saw recent champions Clara and
Ballyhale Shamrocks meet in one semi-final and 2015 county finalists O’Loughlin Gaels
face the Rower Inistioge who bridged the gap from their last appearance in 1977.
After a slow start the champions Clara were 0-10 to 0-7 behind at the break. Entering the
last quarter they had forged a point ahead as the game swung towards them. However a late
rally saw the Shamrocks home by 0-19 to 0-16. In the second game two first half goals saw
the City side take sail. Three points behind at the break the Noresiders never gave up and
after drifting five behind fought the battle to the end and a very creditable 2-13 to 0-16
scoreline. With current and county stars in abundance an Indian summer’s day saw the
County final attendance surge to nine thousand one hundred and thirty. After TJ Reid netted
early for the Shamrocks they led 1-7 to 0-8 at the break. After drawing level almost
immediately O’Loughlins were quickly three points behind before clawing it back to be
one ahead 0-14 to 1-10 with a quarter of an hour to go. Level again at 0-15 to 1-12 the city
side added four more points to take the title on a 0-19 to 1-12 scoreline.
The result saw Brian Hogan having the honour of following his brother Keith to collect the
Tom Walsh Cup after Keith had collected it a year earlier for Clara. Earlier in the campaign
the finalists Ballyhale Shamrocks had captured the League Crown with O’Loughlin Gaels
taking the Shield.
In the relegation final, Danesfort were newcomers to the guillotine position as they faced
the Fenians who had diced with the drop on a number of previous occasions. After a
cracking first game Richie Hogan led his Danesfort side to the retention of their senior
status as the Fenians made the step to intermediate in the well-attended replay.
Michael Lyng Motors Intermediate Hurling Championship:
The scenes were set for the competitive games when the eventual four county semi-finalists
met in the League and Shield Finalists with Tullaroan and Glenmore marking their claims
after having comprehensive victories. On the way Glenmore and Tullougher Rosbercon
went the replay route with both sides eventually having a single point win over the ever
consistent St Patricks and Thomastown On the other side Tullaroan were well challenged
by St Lachtains as Carrickshock were finding a richer vein over Lisdowney. In the semi-
finals championship fare saw the league formbook cast aside as Carrickshock defeated
Tullaroan in a tight game and Tullogher Rosbercon savoured a rare win over their
neighbours Glenmore. On final day Carrickshock with a strong experienced spine made of
viihousehold inter county names in Dalton, Tennyson, Franks, Powers and Rice led 0-7 to 0-
3 at the break. At the final whistle they recorded an instant return to the senior grade after
a 0-13 to 0-6 win over the Walter Walsh led Tullogher Rosbercon side. In the relegation
final Conahy Shamrocks made the drop to junior after going down to Young Irelands.
J.J. Kavanagh and Sons Junior Hurling Championship:
With concern expressed about the decline of standards in junior hurling in the South in the
recent annual reports, the division again provided two new faces in the county final. With
the regraded Emeralds being amongst the early favourites, Dicksboro’s second team
retained their Section B title to qualify for the semi-finals. The search for the three
remaining semi-final places saw neighbours Barrow Rangers, Blacks and Whites and
Graiguenamanagh joined by The Emeralds, John Lockes and Mooncoin. With Mooncoin,
John Lockes and Barrow Rangers coming through Mooncoin defeated the Barrow siders in
one semi-final and John Lockes defeated the Palmerstown based City side in the other.
In the county final, first goals by Kevin Crowley and Michael Grace approaching half time
gave Mooncoin a 2-10 to 0-5 lead. Finding it difficult to cope with a physically stronger
side who were led by the towering Eamon Hennebry at full forward the young John Lockes
side fought to the end before going down by 2-19 to 1-8. For county chairman Ned Quinn
it was an emotional occasion as he handed over the Bob Aylward Memorial Cup to team
captain Ethan Ryan to his beloved Mooncoin Club. Elsewhere Barrow Rangers captured
the JJ Kavanagh and Sons All County League with a 1-16 to 3-9 over Naomh Eoin with the
Paddy Cahill Cup going to Dicksboro after they defeated John Lockes by 1-20 to 0-19.
Provincial Champions
Carrickshocks win over Kiltale and their very last second win over Celbridge along with
Mooncoin’s wins over St. Feckins, Oliver Plunketts and Rathoath has seen them all take
their respective provincial crowns. Now in the All-Ireland series they carry the best wishes
of all in the county After O’Loughlin Gaels victory over Oulart the Ballagh they found
Dublin’s Cuala, too strong in the senior Provincial final.
Honda Citroen Centre Minor Hurling Championship:
After Danesfort and Dicksboro went out in the semi-finals “done and dusted” was the
word, on the County Final as another James Stephens goal hit the net with just minutes to
go. In a thriller that vied for many as the game of the year in Nowlan Park, it was not to be
as Ballyhale Shamrocks never say die attitude brought them back into the game. A
clinically finished penalty and a sixty-second minute goal saw them win by 3-15 to 4-9.
In the B County Final Erin’s Own captured their second title with a 2-13 to 2-18 win over
Clara as Dunnamaggin and Conahy Shamrocks made the last four. Tullaroan took the C
county title with a 2-17 to 3-11 win over James Stephens.
J.J. Kavanagh and Sons Football Championships
The senior championship saw Railyard the holders of the past two years create a three in
a row after they met and revenged a league semi-final defeat against a fine Kilmoganny
side/. The sides were level at half time and Kilmoganny led late into the game before going
viiidown by 1-8 to 2-3. Having benefitted early on from playing in the Carlow leagues, the
long break to the Leinster Club championship did not help as they went down to the Offaly
Senior B Champions Cappincur in Castlecomer. With their old rivals Muckalee celebrating
their centenary in 2017 the championship fever is already rising. In the relegation final
Conahy Shamrocks face Glenmore as both teams look towards participating in the
Intermediate or senior championship in 2107.
In the intermediate championship Dicksboro in their second successive final were
promoted to the senior grade as Mickey Hayes lifted the cup after they recorded a 3-8 to 1-
3 win over the Blacks and Whites. With the game delayed until late October owing to
player commitments with the county senior hurlers it saw no team take part in the Leinster
junior championship. At junior level the field to promotion is still open as the semi-finalists
are awaited.
County Championship Results – 2016:
Grade: Teams/Results:
Senior Hurling O’Loughlin Gaels 0-19 Ballyhale Shamrocks 1-12
Intermediate Hurling Carrickshock 0-13 Tullogher Rosbercon 0-6
Junior Hurling Mooncoin 2-19 John Lockes 1-8
Junior ‘A’ Hurling Rower Inistioge 0-21 Lisdowney 1-14
Junior ‘B’ Hurling Dicksboro 1-15 Glenmore 1-14
Minor ‘A’ Hurling Ballyhale Shamrocks 3-15 James Stephens 4-9
Minor ‘B’ Hurling Erins Own 2-13 Clara 2-8
Minor ‘C’ Hurling Tullaroan 2-17 James Stephens 3-11
U.16 ‘A’ Hurling Dicksboro 1-17 O’Loughlin Gaels 1-10
U.16 ‘B’ Hurling Ballyhale Shamrocks 2-13 St. Patricks 2-10
U.16 ‘C’ Hurling Conahy Shamrocks 1-14 James Stephens 0-12
U.14 ‘A’ Hurling Dicksboro 1-10 James Stephens 0-4
U.14 ‘B’ Hurling Piltown 2-10 St. Martins 0-8
U.14 ‘C’ Hurling Tullaroan 0-11 Conahy Shamrocks 0-9
Senior Football Railyard 1-8 Kilmoganny 2-3
Intermediate Football Dicksboro 3-8 Blacks & Whites 1-3
Club Championship Sponsors:
Once gain sincere thanks are extended to our competition sponsors St. Canices Credit
Union, Michael Lyng Motors, J.J. Kavanagh & Sons, Iverk Produce, Countrystyle Foods,
Citroen-Honda Centre and Duggan Steel for their on-going commitment to the games and
Kilkenny GAA.
Out and About:
This year the County Board took to the highways and Byways for the first time in
generations for their monthly meetings during the redevelopment of Aras Cearbhaill. Visits
to John Lockes in Callan and the Dicksboro Club in Palmerstown gave delegates an inner
view of both clubs and their state of the art facilities. At both venues they were warmly
welcomed by Club Chairpersons John Walker and Eddie O Donoghue and their club
ixmembers. The meetings were interspersed by a trip to the wood panelled picture lined
hallways and rooms of the famed hurling nursery of St. Kierans College where Fr. Dermot
Ryan and the students were the excellent hosts.
Glanbia PLC:
Sincere thanks are extended to the Glanbia group through the Groups Managing director
Siobhan Talbot and Brian Phelan the CEO of the Global Ingredients Division for their
renewed and increased sponsorship of Kilkenny GAA teams at all levels. The new three
year partnership that was launched by the senior team in Nowlan Park has brought two
major parts of the Kilkenny Brand to worldwide audiences and long may it continue to do
so. Thanks also to Kieran O’Connor and Patricia Barry for their liaison work between both
groups.
Supporters Clubs:
Membership income increased once again, thanks to the work of the Supporters Club
committees led by John Mackey, Jim Freeman and Eddie Keher in Kilkenny, Eddie Nolan
in, Dublin and Dr. Sean Dunne in Kildare. Behind them are strong groups who collect the
individual membership fees of €20 and also Business membership. Their activities include
the Race Day, Quiz’s, Golf Classics, Dinner Dance, Concert whilst the mobile shop sells
Kilkenny gear, Wallets, mugs Team Photos and calendars. All the activities support, the
teams representing the county, schools, coaching and also provide meals for the county
teams when they are competing in Dublin. All branches are looking for new members to
join and provide a text when all the county teams are released and also provide a valuable
social outlet for supporters.
Huge Achievement for Martin:
Congratulations are extended to Martin Fogarty on his appointment as the new National
Hurling Development Manager. Martin credentials are impeccable as a long serving player
with Erin’s Own, a dual winning Under twenty one All Ireland Hurling manager and as a
selector with Brian Cody on the Kilkenny senior team from 2005 to 2013. In addition,
Martin has also worked developing the games in the schools and giving much sought after
coaching sessions across the country.
Coiste na nÓg:
To the new officers of Coiste na nÓg, Chairperson John Byrne, Willie Dempsey in his new
role of secretary and Ray Byrne as Treasurer and their hard working committee sincere
thanks are extended for their diligent work in organising the competitions in the busiest of
our Fixtures Boards. Having reviewed the various competitions and implemented changes,
some areas have improved immensely whilst a gap has appeared in having games in some
grades in the middle of the summer. The inclusion in the various leagues of hurling teams
from other counties is to be continually commended. This year Féile will add more games
and effect the organisation of fixtures with clubs being involved with the new internal Féile
competition and on both the Féile hurling and handball weekends.
Grading too is an on-going task where tweaking is required with falling populations
xthrowing up additional issues at certain age groups in different clubs at different times. It
is not an easy and always popular task to get all aspects right in so many competitions and
grades in hurling and football whilst being aware of potential clashes with squads, the
Celtic League, changing age groups and inter-county and schools games. The organisation
of a full fixtures list early in the season is a great help at both adult and juvenile level. The
board’s officer’s effort in getting a large group of players together for a minor football team
is to be complimented. On the night the result against Wexford showed the gap we have yet
to travel. To all we extend best wishes in the year ahead in this crucial development side
of the organisation for players.
Féile:
This year’s hurling competitions saw Dicksboro, Piltown, Graiguenamanagh and Cloneen
Railyard participate in the National Féile in Tipperary with Thomastown competing in the
Féile Peil. Congratulations are extended to Galmoy’s Billy Drennan who won the National
Hurling skills championship. The additional competitions for stronger teams took place in
Thurles, Carraiganore and in Kilkenny. This year’s Féile na nGael will be closer when all
of the teams in Kilkenny will participate in the event hosted in Kilkenny, Wexford and
Carlow. The event is being co-ordinated by Willie Dempsey and PJ Kenny and will bring
additional demands on clubs in hosting visiting teams, organising Garda Vetting and having
their grounds in order and also for the county in supplying referees. However for anyone
who ever participated in Féile the experience, memories and opportunity to showcase their
club far outweighs the work involved. In addition Seamus Norris proposal for a new format
of a competition for the county Féile competition in March will provide more games. It is
also envisaged it will provide an improved access route to development squads.
Divisional Boards:
Once again the Divisional Boards looked after many of the Junior, Junior A, Junior B and
the under twenty one competitions, organised meetings and programmes whilst also
catering for the Carlow clubs. This year they encompassed the changes in PJ Kenny’s
proposals and have monitored how they filled the match requirements for the various
teams. For some the lack of an opportunity to participate in the flagship Divisional
championship at junior level was missed. With the changes in the format of the inter-county
intermediate championship the Farrell Cup that was run in conjunction with the
Intermediate hurling selectors did not take place. As the competition has now reverted back
to its traditional format it may again be an asset with finding players. Once again special
thanks are extended to the respective Committees under Chairpersons Donal Brennan and
Pat Dunphy and Secretaries Dan Kenny and Ned Buggy and their fellow officers and sub
committees for their great work. This year Donal Brennan’s chairmanship is up and we
thank him for his great work for the Northern Board over the past five years and look
forward to working with his successor.
Coiste Peil:
The Board under their new officers in Chairperson Tom O’Reilly and Secretary Eoin
Mulhearn has a huge role to play the promotion and development of the game in Kilkenny.
xiWith the majority of the participating clubs being stronger and more interested in hurling,
a means of providing sufficient games for players and clubs whose main interest and
passion is football is a major challenge. The reciprocal arrangement where just one of our
three football clubs play football in the Carlow leagues is an option. However other
solutions will have to be found and developed at board level if the current momentum is to
continue. Thanks are extended to Tom for all his support and logistical work with getting
our junior team to and from the games in London, Birmingham and Scotland which are
often in a six or seven day turnaround.
Competitions Control Committee:
Led by vice chairperson Conor Denieffe the Competitions Control Committee had a busy
year formatting and organising the new league structures. They are assisted by
Competitions Control Committee in the Northern, Southern Boards and Coiste na nÓg.
Working with the clubs they try to facilitate special requests as they deal with a myriad of
competitions at club, colleges and inter-county level. Added to the list of game changers
are draws, bereavements, walkovers, weddings, church ceremonies and this year the very
bad weather that led to match postponements in the spring. Having set February 15th as
the date for player, team regarding and inter club transfers in the county, they meet
regularly and have all the decisions and the fixtures plan ready for the County Board
meeting in March.
With Ned Buggy as secretary they also deal Referees reports and disciplinary matters and
also arrange venues and appoint match officials. In addition the potential effect of the new
Football proposal if they are passed, the new minor inter county at under seventeen and the
possible changes of age groups to facilitate it are added items that have to be pencilled in.
Also playing a major the role is Notification Officer Liam Dewberry who looks after match
notifications to the referees, updating the results system and providing programmes for the
senior, intermediate and junior games. The decision to open up the Servasport Fixtures
System training server to provide a greater understanding and the creation of a backup
resource is widely welcomed. To all we say a sincere thank you for the great work in
organising so many games so successfully.
P. J. Kenny:
Off the playing fields P.J. Kenny’s well thought out proposals for streamlining the adult
hurling leagues were taken on for a year’s trial and in the main they proved to be very
successful. A similar review was carried out at juvenile level where great steps were made
and additional tweaking will be required at some levels for more games in mid-summer.
Referees:
Once again thanks are extended to the referees who officiated at all games in all weathers
during the year. Thanks to the work of Referees Administrator Sean Breathnach and his
committee of Martin Gordon, Pat Hayes Tommy Duggan the annual in Service Day and
fitness testing was carried out with the assistance of Sean Cleere. Their work ensures a
supply of trained officials for the smooth running of the games at all levels. Owing to a lack
of new volunteers it was not possible to hold a course for new referees. However with two
xiireferees in Sean Cleere and Peter Burke on the National panel and John Kennedy at
provincial level a numbers of others are gaining experience as they assisting and in the
Leinster Cub games. With a renewed focus on rules knowledge and fitness, and grading a
new pathway for referees that is supported by mentors is being put in place. With some
recent retirements and eight clubs without a club referee a training night will take place in
the New Year, after the mark in football has been briefed to all tutors and presenters.
Thanks are extended to the various CCC who organise the games and venues and referees
and Liam Dewberry the Notifying Officer for his work with the Fixtures and Results
System. Once again the notification of all injuries to the referees after the game and the
improved submission of referee’s reports for the Player Injury Benefit are crucial.
Hearings Committee:
Again the Hearings Committee under Chairman Jim Walsh and Secretary Tom Egan dealt
with a small number of appeals in a totally professional manner with video coverage
becoming more common. Thanks are extended to all involved in this important area.
Year Book:
Both a historical and a financial resource the profits of the Joey Holden adorned 2015 year
book supported the provision of an amazing gallery of players and scenes of the past in the
new extension of Aras Cearbhaill and in the corridors of Ardán Cearbhaill in Nowlan Park.
They also invested in the future when they provided new state of the art support equipment
for the Development Squads. Once again the committee under Barrie Henriques, Gerry
O’Neill, Pat Henderson, Ned Buggy, Conor Denieffe, Tommy Lanigan, Conor Brennan and
the advertisers have excelled and produced another top class issue that combines all codes
of the games played at every level in Kilkenny. Complied through long hours by Gerry
O’Neill at his Apple Mac PC the resultant disc only needs to be paged by pat Henderson
and run through the printing presses to become a much sought after record, and present.
This year it is set to be another best seller.
Primary Schools:
Thanks are extended to Jim Fennelly and Conor Brennan in Cumann na mBunscoileanna
and to all of the teachers and club officials who are involved in organisation of the games
in our Primary schools. Once again the Schools finals held in Nowlan Park, MW Hire in
Dunmore and elsewhere were the pinnacle for the top teams in each grade. In addition their
colourful and vocal supporters made them great occasions.
A welcome highlight saw two teams participate in the fourth Primary Schools Football
tournament with teams from Offaly, Laois and Carlow with Kilkenny West overcoming
Kilkenny East in the final. In addition the Board also runs the Cúl camps and the Helmet
and Hurling Subsidy schemes.
Second Level Schools;
Thanks are extended to the second level schools teachers, trainers and players for their
great work. Successful at the various levels in Kilkenny they provide a crucial link between
the primary school and the minor, under twenty one and adult teams at club and county
xiiilevel. With many fine grounds they provide support to our county squads and fixtures
programme. With Martin Gordon as their representative and Pat Henderson as the South
Leinster co-ordinator they are in good hands as we once again look forward to winning
some Provincial or National silverware.
Coaching and Games Development:
This year’s focus moved to renewal and a refreshment of the Development Squads System
that has served the county so well. The work was carried out by the Coaching and Games
committee under Coaching Officer Brendan O’Sullivan, Pat Henderson Brían Ryan, James
Meagher and Sean Kelly. It covers the games activities in the schools and clubs and
includes Summer Camps, Coaching, Development Squads, Club Flag awards and Go
Games and uses the Players Pathway model as its guideline. On the representative side the
inaugural victory of the under seventeen side who defeated Cork by a point in the Eugene
Carey inter county tournament in Mallow was a milestone. Over the year it is truly amazing
the amount of activities and venues from Kildare to Cork to Antrim to Wallslough that our
development squads have trained and played. The year ended with Pat Tynan stepping in
to replace Brendan O’Sullivan as the Counties Coaching Officer.
A huge debt of gratitude is owed to Brendan for his work at various team management
development and coaching roles in the schools, clubs, county and Province for well over
forty years. In addition he instilled a love of the games in many students and friends who
went on to play major parts in their clubs and at other levels.
Clubs:
The foundation and driving force of the games in the county the clubs continue to amaze
all involved at the amount of innovative ways they come up with through walks, runs,
concerts, boxing, dancing, etc. to improve their facilities and develop their teams. As a
result many clubs are completing huge works whilst others are planning for ones to cater
for them well into the future. Amongst them is the new focus on gyms and strength and
conditioning.
For some flood damage started their year whilst for others it was an opportunity to start
afresh in various areas or enlarge the clubs membership before the playing season began.
In many of our clubs Tús, Fás and RSS workers provide a great service carrying out
maintenance and other valuable works. In addition our County Board minutes alone
showed well over three hundred votes of sympathy for club members and former officers
and players and their families. To them we extend our prayers and deepest sympathies.
Once again I wish to thank all clubs and their officers and members for their help and
support at county level with stewarding, attending meetings, distributing match tickets,
supporting the Lotto and Hurlers Co Op draw and providing pitches for fixtures. Also
Development Officer Val Malone for looking after a wide area including much sought after
Club developments and grants.
Club Officers:
On the island of Ireland with four provinces and thirty two counties our greatest number of
front line volunteers is in the sixteen hundred clubs. Led by their Club Officers and
xivexecutive committees they provide the crucial link from the members and players of all
ages to the top. Following the 2015 observations of 9 new Club Secretaries, 10 new
Chairpersons, 13 new PRO’s and 7 new Treasurers being elected in the forty one Clubs in
the county, it showed a change rate of almost one in four officers. For the third year in a
row the 2016 figures showed similar levels of change with 9 new Club Secretaries, 8 new
Chairpersons, 15 new PRO’s and 4 new Treasurers. In all twelve clubs were unaffected with
only two of the retiring officer staying within the main officer board of their clubs.
Similarly at the Coiste na nÓg secretary level in the clubs there was a change in one in three
of the thirty six clubs with only two of the outgoing officers moving up to the senior section
of the club. As I write another chairperson, two secretaries and one treasurer has moved on
in the handful of Club AGM’s held to date.
Once again one would script a play, make a film, a box set or fill a volume of books on the
life and times of the outgoing officers and their contribution to their clubs and
communities.
Whilst change is good I wonder why we have so many changes and how we can continue
to re-generate without any obvious loss of activity.
To the outgoing officers we say well done and thanks for all of your time and commitment
that in some cases has stretched over thirty years. Best wishes are extended to the Danesfort
secretary Michael Moylan on his recent marriage to Eileen. Once again a warm welcome
is extended to the new officers who have raised their hand to help their clubs and
communities. To all we extend our support and assistance at any times and looks forward
to working with you in the year ahead.
Club Leadership:
During the year a Club Leadership Development Programme for Club Chairpersons,
Secretaries, Treasurers and PRO’s took place over two nights in Hotel Kilkenny. It was led
by former GAA President Liam O’Neill and Ruairi Harvey from Croke Park. The
attendance of club officers with chairperson and secretaries in particular was one of the
highest in the country.
Support Required:
On the arrival of Sky in the Country a senior member of personnel Yann Thomas reflected
on the accessibility of GAA Officials no matter what part of the world or what time zone
he was in. He noted it was something new and remarkable as he organised coverage of
some of the world’s leading sporting events that his station covered.
To me this is duplicated in most of the 1,600 clubs nationwide as the officers provide an
almost twenty four hour, seven day service in an area where time for family, work, play and
volunteering in the club all need to be managed.
For clubs the advent of a Membership Management System over a decade ago was a major
step as the organisation moved from hard copy to online systems. Currently Membership
Systems and reports, Texting, Players Lists, Emailing Players Injury, Challenge Games,
Transfers, Loyalty Cards, and Season Tickets are all being accessed by PC. Having
provided basic systems way back then, we have neglected to move ahead with their
development and streamlining.
xvAs a result we have many clubs using different systems, different companies, maintaining
multiple databases and doing work a rounds to meet their demands. In some cases this
could possibly conflict with our own rules and guidelines.
In the modern era texting is the way to go for clubs communicating and making instant
contact. The service in clubs is estimated to cost two million euros per year and it is paid
for by the clubs whilst alternative options that are free or dirt cheap and that may have
implications are possible!. To fund texts it takes more valuable time and work
In recent times widespread disappointment has been expressed as the long promised
improvements have not materialised. When compiled the numbers of Secretaries,
Treasurers, Registrars, PRO’s, Insurance Officers, Registrars and Team Managers who use
the various IT systems in the 1,600 clubs and excluding the County Boards, could easily
reach twenty thousand. All of them are the grass roots members who organise and run the
activities at all levels on a daily basis and they really deserve much better support!
Handball:
This year the handball world was stunned with the death of Ducksie Walsh the most well-
known, honoured and accomplished hand baller ever and then later Pat O’Keeffe. They
were two men, two sporting ambassadors, generations apart who would go to the end of the
earth to promote or play a game of handball. In the county with participation falling at
underage level in urban areas the game continues to grow in rural areas in Kilkenny. During
the year players recorded notable victories in 60 x 30, 40 x 20 and one wall courts at all
levels. A new initiative saw the organisation of a very successful under thirteen doubles 60
x 30 competitions to help re-mobilise the traditional form of the game in the county.
Amongst the good news was the work on a new alley in Urlingford and the announcement
of the plans for the new National Handball Centre in Croke Park. Initial work was
commenced on organising a Safety Statement from all of the Handball clubs in the county.
During the year, the county hosted the All-Ireland doubles competitions and in a proactive
move will see those dual hurling, Camogie and handball players play on two separate
weekends in the 2017 Féile being hosted in Kilkenny, Wexford and Carlow. With all GAA
clubs striving to get ahead of their competitors through new initiatives the benefits of
participating in the basic handball skills in halls and on external walls is a win, win
situation. Sincere thanks are extended to the County Board led by Martin Lawlor and Liam
Mahon, the various club officials and the many players for their great work in promoting
and playing the games.
Michael Ducksie Walsh (1966-2016):
First encountered when the local alley was being built in Windgap in the early eighties
Michael Ducksie Walsh packed the venue for training nights and was still there coaching
players to win the Clubs first Féile Division 1 title just weeks before his sudden death.
Across the world, it was the same story; Ducksie had a presence everywhere as the stunned
crowds who had gathered at his funeral, brought and wore their club jerseys as their
appreciation in a moving tribute in both Bennettsbridge and Foulkstown. In the intervening
thirty four years Ducksie became the most accomplished hand baller ever as he dominated
the sport and became a legend that reached across every form of sporting activity. Still
xvicompeting at the time he fell ill, Ducksie’s playing career extended from the open alley at
the Waterbarracks, to his beloved Talbots Inch and to every court at 60x30, 40x20 and One
Wall on the world stage. Having won his first All- Ireland at under-12 doubles he played
with many partners’ accumulated 38 senior titles in over one hundred All Irelands
successes. In addition he collected a handful of world titles whilst winning his last national
at 60x30 just weeks before his demise. His loss will be felt by his family, friends and
opponents alike.
Camogie:
As Callan CBS settled in as Camogies home venue, the year exploded as the county side
won the League over Galway. The adult sides then went on to capture both the Intermediate
and Senior All Ireland Titles that saw Uachtarán Catherine Neary making the memorable
O’Duffy Cup presentation to Michelle Quilty after a twenty two year break. The link across
the generation was made by the successful team manager Ann Downey. At home
Thomaston won the senior county title and went on to add the provincial title and will now
play Sarsfields of Galway in the All-Ireland semi-final. At the intermediate and junior
levels and Glenmore and Young Irelands captured the respective titles as the game
blossomed around the county. Once again thanks are extended to Chairperson Martin
Quilty, Secretary Sheila Norris and their committee for their work and co-operation. With
best wishes being extended to Shelia who has completed her term and is being replaced by
TJ Mills.
Ladies Football:
During the year many changes took place at County Board level in the fastest growing
sporting organisation in the country. In the past year local participation levels moved from
a total of three adult and ten juvenile clubs to seven adult and eleven juvenile clubs. As a
result Kilkenny are all set to field in Division 4 of the LGF National league with their first
game against Wicklow in January. On the local front Kilkenny City defeated Thomastown
to take their second senior title whilst five Piltown Ladies Emily McCarthy, Lisa Norris,
Jennifer O’Dea, Aoife Doyle and Kelly Ann Doyle won the All-Ireland Senior Post-
Primary Schools “A” Final medals with Scoil Mhuire, Carrick-on Suir when they beat
Coláiste Íosagáin of Dublin by 4-16 to 2-8 in Nowlan Park. Best wishes are extended to
acting Secretary Brendan Cooke and the incoming County Board and clubs for the year
ahead.
Borders:
After 19,200 submissions were made to the Boundary Commission from across the County,
residents and clubs involved in the area being reviewed in the South of the County are
anxiously awaiting news of the report that is due after Christmas or early in the New Year.
Elsewhere a triangular bid for the hosting by the “3 Sisters” Wexford Kilkenny and
Waterford of the European Capital of Culture in 2020 was unsuccessful, as it went to
Galway.
xviiFixtures Book:
The production of the Fixtures Book of all the adult and juvenile fixtures for the March
County Board meeting once again got an early hand on the complexities and anomalies at
all levels. It included all of the County Northern, Southern, Coiste Peil, Coiste na nÓg and
Provincial fixtures. In addition it contained the Sponsors and Match Regulations along
with the Development Squad Dates and all the relevant County and Club Officers in
Hurling, Football, Camogie, Ladies Football and Handball. Also the, Referees and
Supporters Clubs contact details and a map of the pitches and alleys in the County. Also a
table of the 2015 title holders and the names of the relevant trophies. Thanks are extended
to all involved in its compilation and production, its publication in hard copy for club
secretaries and on the county website where it proved to be a valuable resource that was
widely used.
Nowlan Park:
During the year Nowlan Park was described as not a County Ground but a Provincial one
by Sports Commentator Jim McGuiness. In Kilkenny for the big football game he has
visited many grounds in a number of codes at national and international level, Recently
Nowlan Park made international headlines as an option for the 2023 Rugby World Cup
fixtures. In addition it hosted Dublin’s first championship game out of Croke Park in years
when they played Laois. Also the Rod Stewart concert in addition to National Hurling
League, Inter County Camogie and Club games in all codes and a Shinty tie
Another development was the addition of almost three hundred seats, new turnstiles, an
extension to and additional access to the City Terrace, two toilet blocks and a new shop.
The development that brings the capacity up to twenty eight thousand also includes an
additional referee’s room, new public office and meeting rooms with glass fronted viewing
areas In addition the installation of a panoramic photographic history of the park, a corridor
of hall of fame award winners, car parking that also helps to support of the local economy
In addition to on field drainage works, the plan to reseed the pitch over the next eighteen
months has commenced under the watchful eye of John Coogan and Kevin McGarry.
Changes too took place on the Stadium team with the retirement of Timmy Grogan after
over twenty years’ service. Timmy has been replaced by Kevin McGarry with the ever
present Michael O’Neill doing Trojan work and overseeing the transition; In addition the
Student Summer Jobs scheme has the grounds and surrounds looking ever ready for the
next event. To streamline activities on the smaller match days it was decided to only open
one stand. Thanks are also extended to the growing number of valuable pitch side sponsors.
Once again thanks are extended to the clubs who provided over two hundred volunteer
stewards for the big match and to the many steward who arrive hours before the game and
who manage key areas. Thanks are also extended to the gatemen, ticket sellers, volunteer
doctors Mary O’Gorman and Sean Dunne and all involved in any way on big match days
that are run under Event Controller Seamus Reade and his team. They also include the
Local Authorities, Gardaí, state bodies, Order of Malta and the Red Cross.
Rugby World Cup:
There was great delight across the county on the inclusion of Nowlan Park on the shortlist
xviiiof venues for the hosting of games in the 2023 Rugby World Cup. The news announced at
the IRFU press conference saw Nowlan Parks profile stretch far beyond the GAA and
Irelands boundaries. Its achievement reflects well on the foresight of the local organisation
that looked after its transformation over many years. It is one of eight GAA grounds
involved nationwide. Having passed the initial selection criteria over a large number of
headings no stone will be left unturned to ensure it makes the final cut when the short listed
sites are being analysed in detail and revisited. Its potential to be a player in a worldwide
game on a worldwide stage will raise the Kilkenny profile and benefit both the City and
County.
Official Opening :
Following all of the recent developments major matches, TV coverage and the success of
the senior hurling team over a prolonged period Nowlan Park now attracts an on-going
stream of visitors. For them a trip to the stadium is a must see and do before they leave
Kilkenny. The people are from all corners of the country, all nationalities and from all
sporting backgrounds. In many cases their love and knowledge of the game and our local
hurling heroes can be astounding and reflects anything bar an ABK attitude. As a result the
time for an open day to provide an organised opportunity to visit the ground has arrived.
The hosting of the October monthly meeting of Kilkenny Tourism a voluntary body made
up of all the business areas was a revelation. Following it, regular interaction through a
subcommittee is planned to jointly promote all that is good in hurling heritage and culture
that is repeated across all of the club areas in Kilkenny city and county. The completion of
the plastering work in recent days has paved the way for the oft delayed official opening of
Ardán Cearbhaill, the re-roofed Ardan Breathnach its media area and the extended Aras
Cearbhaill. In conjunction an open day for the public sometime around St Patrick’s
weekend is planned as the reaction of supporters who attend most games and would have
their favourite seat or section in the ground for decades has to be seen to be appreciated.
Timmy Grogan:
Any report on Nowlan Park cannot be completed without acknowledging the input of
Timmy Grogan for well over twenty years. Timmy’s dedicated work in developing and
maintaining the facilities and manicuring the playing area to perfection knew no bounds.
Cutting, marking, sweeping, cleaning, plumbing, painting, were only some of the many
skills Timmy used in his search for perfection. However it was the playing pitch that was
his pride and joy, a labour of love that looked and was resplendent for big match days. Just
weeks before he retired the Dublin senior football team and management most of whom
had made their first visit and many who had personal dreams of playing there were amazed
at the quality of the surface. This resulted unknown to spectators as Timmy replaced and
forked in every divot after every game or training session within the crucial re-growing
hours. For him it had to be done, even in the rain and cold after a national league game in
February or March in conditions that would be akin to a penance or a custodial sentence to
many. For Timmy the rare concert damage inflicted by Rod Stewart and now repaired on
the twenty one yard line on the eve of his departure would have not been appreciated. From
one and all we say a sincere thanks to Timmy for the legacy of Nowlan Park and wish you
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