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Páirc Aibhistin
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Seo dhíbh a chairde mo thuarascáil ar imeachtaí Cumann Lúthchleas Gael I gCiarraí i rith na bliana 2004. Seo é an dara uair a chuir mé ós bhúr gcóir é agus ba mhaith liom mo bhuíochas a ghabháil do gach éinne a chabhraigh liom i rith na bliana. The co-operation and support of GAA clubs, officials and supporters was invaluable in what was a most satisfying year for the County Board. Peil Sinsear All-Ireland, National League and Munster Champions 2004! What more could one ask of any team? They set out last October to recapture football glory and 11 months later delivered in style in Croke Park on All-Ireland Final day. Along the way many questions were asked and answered; new stars were born, experienced players led by example and on and off the field, the role of Captain was never more inspirational. Most important of all pride was restored in the players and Kerry football. All this was made possible by the input of Manager Jack O'Connor, Trainer Pat Flanagan, selectors Johnny Culloty and Ger O'Keeffe, along with a dedicated back-up team having the full support of Chairman Sean Walsh and his fellow officers. In all 16 Inter-County games were played – 9 National League, 4 Munster Championship and 3 in All-Ireland series: 13 wins – 2 losses – 1 draw. A loss to Longford on our opening game gave rise to much criticism, some of it completely over the top, but the victory over Cork in the first floodlight game in Tralee a week later set the scene for the year ahead. The extended panel was never more necessary with Gaeltacht players unavailable because of involvement in All-Ireland Club semi-final/final. But it was those same Gaeltacht players who continued to give support and encouragement as the League progressed with Captain Dara O'Cinnéide constantly appearing to lend his guidance and leadership. The only other defeat was a one-point loss to Tyrone in Omagh. Croke Park in early May saw Kerry win the League over Galway with Tomás O'Sé the Captain on the day. Limerick provided the opposition in two titanic games before the Munster crown was won. All-Ireland success followed with victories against Dublin, Derry and Mayo. Manager Jack O'Connor may have taken the position in controversial circumstances but left no one in any doubt at the year's end that the right decision had been made. He united the players, kept them focused on the ultimate prize and along with his fellow selectors made the best of decisions when injury deprived the panel of its most experienced members – namely Dara O'Sé and Seamus Moynihan. But from the sideline these players were still critical to success. Both worked endlessly to get back into action. It was not to be for Dara O'Sé, but Seamus Moynihan's 2nd half introduction in the final was just reward for the Glenflesk man, whose National League displays earned him numerous “man of the match” awards and whose form suggested he could have been “player of the year”. An Captaen Bhí ceannaire den chéad scoth againn mar chaptaen na fóirne. Comh maith le sin d'éirigh le Dara Ó'Cinnéide na gortaithe a bhí aige i rith na bliana a chur taobh thiar de chun ceannaireacht fíor iontach a dhéanamh ní h-amháin ar an bpairc imeartha ach lasmuigh den pháirc comh maith. Ní dhéanfaidh éinne dearmad go deo ar an óráid a thug sé as Gaeilge tar éis dó an Chorn a ghlachadh i ndiaidh an Chluiche Cheannais i bPáirc An Chróchaigh. Ba chruthú é sin ar an gcaighdéan ard atá ag Dara féin agus atá ag gach ball den phainéal. Tá Dara fíor lámhach lena chuid ama ag dul timpeall an chontae ag bualadh leis an lucht leanúna agus táimid uilig bródúil as an méid atá á dhéanmah aige ar son Cumann Lúthchleas Gael agus do Chíarraí i gcoitine. Táimid fíor bhuíoch duit a Dhara agus táimid fíor bhróidíúil as gach rud a rinne tú féin agus an Fhoireann i rith na bliana. “Sam on Tour” The reaction to Kerry's success has generated a “feel good” atmosphere among Kerry people at home and abroad. Demands for the Cup have been received from all over the world. The Board in association with AIB ensured a visit to every school in the county over a four-week period. Colm Cooper and Donal Daly, along with Coaching Officer Bernie Reen took on the task. It was well received by pupils and teachers and again emphasised how important the GAA and success is in Kerry. Much comment has been made on the condition of “Sam”. Suffice to say that the “problems” existed when the cup was presented in Croke Park. Time has not yet permitted Kerry County Board to return “Sam” for repairs. Hurling The year gone by was most disappointing for hurling at Inter-County level. The failure to field a Senior Team for the All-Ireland pre-qualifier against Down was an embarrassment for the Board and undid much of the good work and progress of the past few years. The early indication in Phase 1 of National League suggested that Kerry would build on the success of 2003. Once again every support was given to the team in relation to holiday, facilities, gear, gyms, back up while Maurice Leahy, Eddie Murphy and their fellow selectors worked tirelessly for the cause. On entering Phase 2 of the League and with the Cork championship game on the horizon, the commitment of some of the players left a lot to be desired. The Cork defeat was demoralising and efforts to get the players focused for the qualifier proved impossible. How ironic therefore that subsequent comments - attributed to players – in the National Media, were critical of the support from the Board and the team management but not of the attitude of some players. The future of Senior Inter-County Hurling for Kerry is now a matter for Board, club and player co-operation and commitment that was not there this past year. The Minor Hurlers were well beaten in the two Munster Championship games. However the U21 hurlers gave a whole-hearted display against Limerick. Maybe the future is with this group of players. I would like to thank Maurice Leahy for his great work on behalf of hurling over the years. While he continues as Hurling GPO, his passion for the Inter-County scene will be missed.
Congress The GAA Annual Congress returned to Killarney in April. It proved to be an outstanding success with Sean Kelly's Presidential address the highlight. Sean has proved to be a most progressive leader and has moved the Association forward on many fronts – despite some personal criticism at times. Coiste Chiarraí also received high praise for the Congress organisation, which had many highlights – not, least of which was the Liam O'Connor International Show at the Congress Banquet. A special word of thanks to all involved especially the East Kerry Board Officers for their full co-operation and assistance . Awards It was a great year for individual awards for GAA people in the county • John Mike Dooley, Tomas O'Sé and Colm Cooper – all received “Player of the Month” awards. • Colm Cooper – “Texaco Footballer of the Year”. • Jack O'Connor – Manager award. • Maria Daly – Handball Award. • Geraldine O'Shea – “All Star” • Mick O'Dwyer and Mick Fitzgerald – “Hall of Fame” • Eoin Brosnan, Paul Galvin and Tadhg Kennelly on Irish Team v Australia • John Mike Dooley and Ivan McCarthy on Irish Shinty Teams. • Mick Dwyer and Brendan Hennessey – “Munster Hall of Fame”. • Padraig Reidy, Scartaglen and Daniel Doyle, Churchill on Junior Rules Team in Australia. • Michael Burkett, Ballyheigue honoured by President Mary McAleese. • Gaeltacht – “AIB Club of the Year “ (County). • Tommy O'Connor, St. Brendan's – McNamee Award for best County Final Programme. • Eddie Murphy – Hurling Award from GAA President. • Tomás Ó'Sé – Footballer of the Year. From 12 nominations six Kerry players – Diarmuid Murphy, Tom O'Sullivan, Tomás O'Sé, Paul Galvin, Mike McCarthy and Colm Cooper received “All Stars” awards. Congratulations to all of above and to the other six nominees Marc Ó'Sé, Éamon Fitzmaurice, William Kirby, Dara O'Cinnéide, Eoin Brosnan and Declan O'Sullivan. Finally, apologies in advance for any omissions!! Stadium On behalf of the Board I wish to pay tribute to the men and women involved in the Fitzgerald Stadium Committee. Not alone is it home to Kerry Senior Footballers for training, but in a 5-week period this summer staged 3 major Inter-County games and 3 major concerts. This requires a massive investment in effort by people who give of their time and expertise voluntary. Killarney remains an ideal venue for major games. The Town provides the best of facilities for followers. The criticism re traffic for the Cork/Tipperary game may have been justified but this can be rectified and those of us who travelled regularly from the South West will remember the many traffic problem encountered in Thurles, and Monasterevin over the years – problems we took in our stride. 40000 people travelled to Killarney on a Saturday in Mid July! That's what's best in the GAA! Long may it continue. Declan Over the years Kerry have been well served by goalkeepers who are household names. Declan O'Keeffe of Rathmore will be included with the best. A regular for many years, Declan was a most solid last line of defence, inspiring confidence in the whole team. While his decision to step down at the start of the National League campaign came as a surprise, he will always be regarded as “one of the greats” by Kerry football followers. Thanks for the memories! Kieran Cronin Kieran Cronin of St. Michael Foilmore, playing in his first ever game for Kerry U21 footballers, received a most serious neck injury v Clare in June. The swift action of medical personnel on the night was most important in ensuring the injury wasn't even more serious. Kieran had spent the last months since the incident recovering in hospital and at home. The UCC student has had to put his life on hold while his recovery continues. Support for Kieran and his family was forthcoming from many sources including clubs, individuals and divisional and county board. This injury concentrates minds on the need for adequate back-up at all venues for injured players. We wish Kieran well and look forward to him making a full recovery and returning to his school, work and team. In a time like this, it is most encouraging to see the GAA network rally to the assistance of a fellow member. County Championship Kilmoyley achieved four-in-a-row of AIB Senior Hurling Championship – a magnificent achievement and just reward for hard work, a good under-age structure and having one of the best hurlers in the country – namely Captain Shane Brick. The role played by the Manager John Myler cannot be understated. Hopefully Kilmoyley's example can transfer itself to the Inter-County scene. No less inspirational was Maurice Fitzgerald who led South Kerry to Senior Championship success for the first time in 22 years - thereby earning himself that elusive County medal! The final with Laune Rangers was a great occasion. It was hard luck on the Killorglin side on losing at this stage for the 2 nd year in a row. The tragic death of Noel Clifford in Australia overshadowed all of Rangers preparations while the loss of Liam Hassett was an enormous blow. However sincere congratulation to South Kerry and Chairman Pat Everett and his fellow officers. The District contested Senior, Minor U21 and U16 County Finals winning Senior and U21. A sure sign that football in the south is in a very healthy state! East Kerry and West Kerry won the Minor and U16 finals, which were of the highest standard. Lixnaw won Minor and U21 hurling titles and will surely challenge for Senior honours in the year ahead. The Club Championship will be debated at Convention. Its future depends on club attitudes and the need to have worthy representatives in the Munster Championship. An extra week would have given Milltown/Castlemaine a better chance in Clare. But Inter-County success brings its own problems re fixtures. Congratulations to all other competition winners who are listed elsewhere. Vice-Chairman Jerome Conway of Laune Rangers steps down from the position of Vice-Chairman at Convention. In his tenure in this position Jerome has worked tirelessly in the interest of the GAA in the County. His commitment to promoting hurling was outstanding and while the year proved a major disappointment, he ensured that good coaching structures remain under Coiste Iomána. But Jerome was much more that “Hurling Officer”. He was involved in many committees and was most supportive of his fellow officers and the decisions that were made. I know that Jerome's passion for the GAA will see him remain involved. His experience and commitment will be missed at Board level. I wish to express my thanks and appreciation to him. Best wishes to him, his wife Eva and family for the future. Minors Kerry Minor Footballers lost out at the final hurdle in Croke Park to Tyrone. However the team produced some great performances along the way and can look back with pride on the year's achievements, which included a Munster four-in a-row. Manager Sean Geaney had the team in great condition and should be complimented on his achievement in his first year as manager. He was very well supported by his fellow selectors Seanie O'Leary, Tim Coffey and John Galvin who gave of their time since January and who have already began the preparations for next year. Mike Houlihan of Ballyduff stepped down during the year and a replacement will be decided at Convention. The promotion of Development Squads at a more intensive level should be of benefit to preparing minor players for Inter-County teams. Regular club activity at this age level must also be promoted both at County and Divisional levels. Tickets As the financial statement will show, much money (2 million plus), time and effort was devoted to “tickets” during the year. In all there were 14 games in which the office dealt with tickets – eight of these involving Kerry. The Ticket Purchase Scheme – which brings much needed revenue-, takes up most of the time. It also brings problems, as the standard of ticket may not be to the satisfaction of those who invested. However most people have been understanding in their dealings with the office staff who did an excellent job in sometimes difficult situations. However we must now question the time and expense to the Board for this service, which is provided without recognition from Croke Park. We are delighted to be in the position to avail of tickets right through to All-Ireland final. But that privilege comes at a cost in time, finance, workload and accountability by mainly voluntary officers. The availability of family tickets from both Munster Council and Croke Park is welcomed and should continue for all games – even Provincial and All-Ireland finals! Club Officers I would like to thank the club officers for their great co-operation in dealing with all aspects of administration throughout the year. We take for granted the amount of work done on behalf of the club by officers. When elected they take responsibility for fixtures, teams, development, insurance, tickets, maintenance, fund-raising along with all the other problems associated with running a club. We are lucky that so many people still give of their time. However we should not take that voluntary effort for granted. At all levels we must provide excellent back-up - be it in coaching, administration or with a streamlined fixture programme. Those who take up officer positions in clubs should be recognised and rewarded in some small way. Without them the GAA will not survive! Inter- County Both the Junior and U-21 footballers lost to Cork in the Munster Championships. The U-21 lost in a close finish in Tralee in the Final, while the Juniors lost the semi-final in Killarney. Next year the U-21 Munster and All-Ireland series will be played from mid-March to mid-May. This should help in availability of players and also in relation to fixture planning. The internal U-21 competition has generated some motions re player availability. It's the age group which can cause most difficulty and indeed one must question if it serves any purpose in its present format. Discipline We must continue to be vigilant in relation to discipline at all levels of our Association. A number of serious incidents this year did nothing for the image of the G.A.A. However the application of discipline through the Rule Book is proving a difficult task with appeals to higher bodies now more prevalent. Another area proving very continuous is the Parish Rule/Club boundary issue. There is no easy solution and with changing population trends, the time has come for clubs to plan for the future – even if we must contemplate amalgamations for under-age teams. New guidelines in relation to registrations may help but without clubs co-operation we will continue to debate and adjudicate on these matters, rather than getting on with playing games. In the New Year also clubs will have to adopt “Best Code of Practice” for all coaches and members – especially those involved with under-age teams. This is now a legal requirement and again emphasises that the G.A.A. and sport in general are now subject of outside control. Sponsors Kerry's s success this year was also just reward for Kerry Group, whose support for the teams and the Co. Board is invaluable. This sponsorship over many years ensures the best and highest standard of preparation for all our inter-county teams. I would like to thank Frank Hayes and Hugh Friel for their continuous support and encouragement throughout the year. A.I.B's sponsorship of the county championships has added greatly to both players and clubs enjoyment. The Man-of-the-Match function has grown in status. Many thanks to Pa Laide, Pat McTigue and Kieran Mahon for their interest and involvement. Chapter 23 Credit Union Leagues sponsorship of the Co. Leagues is most welcome and hopefully will continue in the years ahead. Garveys continue its association with coaching, while Castleisland Co-Op Mart sponsor the Club Championships. The Minor Fixtures Committee, chaired by Mike McCarthy ran a number of new competitions with Peter Keane of P.K.'s Killorglin as sponsors. Media The full Media Report is presented by the P.R.O. Willie O'Connor. It was a very busy year – mostly positive with little or no controversy. Local Press and Radio have provided extensive coverage and are sincerely thanked for this service. The Kerryman celebrates its Centenary and as part of the years' activities sponsored a “Football Sevens” which proved very successful. Sports Editor John Barry steps down from that position next May. His contribution to sports coverage and the G.A.A. in particular over many, many years makes Kerry the envy of most counties. Once again I would hope that those in the media would remember that all who work with sporting organisations do so in a voluntary capacity, may not always be available for the instant quote and can't have an answer to every little complaint. Co-operation and constructive criticism is always welcome as we continue to depend on each other! Administration With the workload now involved at Board level, the need for active, progressive sub-committees is now more necessary than ever. Each Officer is involved and regular reports are made to Co. Board. Sub-committees help in two ways: To improve the administration at Co. Committee level To help officers/coaches to achieve maximum potential at club level. There has been and still is enormous progress in physical development. However this has not been matched by the needed recruitment and training of officers and coaches and getting more volunteers to share the workload. The reports of all the sub-committees are contained in this booklet. They show the amount of activity in all aspects of the G.A.A. in the county. All of the expertise/ experience of these committees is available to help clubs and should be availed of. However, more people are needed to share the workload. I wish to thank all the officers for their work at committee level. The opening of the County Board office in Austin Stack Park on a full time basis was welcomed as necessary by all the clubs. It also serves as a base for G.P.O.'s, for the schools Servicing Officer and for the administration of all aspects of the GAA in the county. Such a service however comes at a cost in rates, maintenance, equipment, stationary, postage and salaries. A closer look at funding the County Board office may now be needed. If necessary I am sure the clubs and Divisional Boards will not be found wanting! G.A.C The G.A.C. continues to provide a comprehensive games programme for the clubs of the county, in association with the Divisional Boards. There is no doubt that the inter-county scene impacts on club activity but it is now more important than ever that the club games are regular and competitive. We still have too many players who are eligible for many grades- thus making fixture scheduling very difficult. I want to put on record the enormous input by Peter Twiss and Willie O'Connor to the GAC and to ensuring that games are kept on schedule as much as possible. Their availability to club officers on a daily basis made my task much easier. The GAC members from the Divisional Boards have a difficult task but in the year gone past have been most understanding of the need for balance between club and Inter-County activity. Also thanks to Michael O'Sullivan and family for their input into referees appointments for all games. Success • Having won the AIB Club of the year award in the County An Ghaeltacht reached the All-Ireland Club Final only to suffer a heart-breaking defeat. Despite injuries, the West Kerry side and supporters were a credit to the county • Spa Club in Killarney made Scór history by winning both the Figure Dancing and Set Dancing at the All-Ireland finals. • Handball continues to make great strides in the county. Both boys and girls had success this year with the highlight being Maria Daly's All-Ireland Senior success. Expense The treble success of Kerry Senior Footballers is reflected in the Financial Report despite increased income, the cost incurred in preparation of Inter-County teams at all levels has risen dramatically. This follows a directive from Croke Park re improved conditions for Inter-County teams in relation to travel, gear, medical, tickets, facilities and general back-up. This is as it should be for players. Unfortunately, the Croke Park back-up for County Boards has not matched the increased costs involved- despite a Congress promise. We must express disappointment at the level of financial support received for the All-Ireland weekends (final and semi-final) in Dublin. With two teams involved, the expenses received were far short of what was required. From a capacity crowd of 80,000 – surely a realistic figure should be available to cover all the Board costs. Bereavements 2004 brought its own sadness for many GAA people in the county. We remember with affection the late Danny Enright (Tarbert), Seamus O'Donnell (Castlegregory), Jim Sheehy (Austin Stacks) and Ned Roche (Knocknagoshel). As Referee administrator, supporter and players respectively they all made significant contribution to the GAA in the county. To officers, delegates, club officials and supporters who suffered bereavements during the year, sincere sympathy is extended. Buíochas: • The year gone by was a most successful but exceptionally busy one for the officers and staff of the board. I wish to thank all of my fellow officers for their great work and co-operation especially in the months of August and September. The All-Ireland victory makes it all worthwhile. • A word of praise for new Treasurer John Joe Carroll who got a “baptism of fire” in his first year with this board's financial turnover of 8 million! • Chairman Sean Walsh led by example. An outstanding Chairman, he was always available to give advice, and the time, enthusiasm and effort he brings to the board is an example to us all. • My thanks to Vincent Linnane of Austin Stack Park for his work in a very busy year with the introduction of floodlit games. • Thanks to Mary Sugrue (Scór) and Michael Williams (Austin Stack Park) for their commitment as Secretaries to both committees. Both step down at Convention. • I wish to express my appreciation to Tony O'Keeffe and Sean O'Leary from the GAC; to Simon Moroney, Sean Fogarty and staff in the Munster Council and to the staff in the Ticket Office in Croke Park for their help and co-operation. • My position as Runaí of Coiste Chondae Chiarraí would not by possible but for the co-operation of my teaching colleagues at Castleisland Community College. • To Kate, Catherine and Breda at the office, we can only admire the way they dealt with the public with courtesy and efficiency in a hectic season. • A special thanks to my wife Joan and family for their understanding of the time involved in the GAA. We can now look forward with confidence to the year ahead. In the meantime may I wish you all a Happy and Merry Christmas and a sporting and successful New Year.
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