1 KPW Print, Ballinasloe. Tel: 090 9642297 Ballinasloe • Gort • Loughrea • West Galway Clár Oifigiúil/Souvenir Programme: Luach/Price €5 GALWAY, 18-21 September 2013 All proceeds from Programme go to
2 ON TO T RONTO DUBLIN TO TORONTO. DIRECT. aerlingus.com Book now at: Great Care. Great Fare. Check out our new North American routes. We’ll soon be flying to San Francisco, USA & Toronto, Canada.
3 A Chairde go leir, I extend my best wishes to all those who are participating in and enjoying the International Hurling Festival in Galway in the coming days. The Festival is a wonderful celebration of the uniquely skilful game of hurling, as well as the importance of Gaelic Games in the life of Irish communities across the globe. The fact that 16 teams from around the world are participating in the Festival is an apt reflection of the vitality of the Irish Diaspora and of its commitment to cherish Irish sport and culture. I offer a special welcome to the players, officials and supporters who have travelled from various continents to enjoy both the sporting contest and human fellowship that the Festival represents. I hope your few days in Galway will be very enjoyable and that your experience of the Festival will generate happy memories for many years to come. I wish to congratulate the Cumann Luthcleas Gael in Galway for hosting this great sporting occasion and the various sponsors who are generously supporting it. The people of Loughrea, Ballinasloe, Gort and West Galway will, I know, give a great welcome to the teams to as they participate in the qualifying games and the Finals in Pearse Stadium will no doubt be an exciting occasion for players and spectators alike. Ta suil agam go mbeidh cluichi chrua ach cluichi brea sportúil ann, agus go mbainfidh an fhoireann is fearr an bua. Michael D. Higgins Uachtaran na hEireann President of Ireland 9 September, 2013
Gaelic Athletic Association Cumann Luthchleas Gael – The GAA The Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) is the largest amateur sporting organisation in the world! It is a community based, volunteer organisation promoting Gaelic Games and Culture and life-long participation. The GAA focuses is energy primarily on the promotion and delivery, of Gaelic games, which include the traditional Irish games of Hurling, Gaelic Football, Handball and Rounders. There are 2,550 Affiliated GAA Clubs in existence 2,163 in Ireland, 85 in Britain and 302 “Timpeall na Cruinne”. What started as an exclusively Irish organisation is now changing to an International one and today GAA membership exceeds 1 Million Members. Since its foundation in 1884, the GAA has grown to become a major influence in Irish sporting and cultural life with an extensive reach into every community and parish in Ireland and increasingly overseas. Galway GAA Pearse Stadium Geographically, Galway is the second largest County in Ireland and is one of the few Counties with realistic aspirations of winning All-Ireland Championships in both Football and Hurling. There are 80 Affiliated GAA Clubs in Galway, fielding 1,003 Teams in all age grades and levels and there are 27,900 registered Members on the Galway GAA database. In order to facilitate annual games and cultural programmes for its members, Galway GAA has an annual turnover of €3m. The primary sources of Income are; Gate Receipts, Central Council and Provincial (Connacht) Council Grants, Sponsorship and Fundraising events. Although the GAA is a voluntary organisation, Galway GAA has 11 Full-Time Staff. (There are 5 in Administration and 6 in Coaching and Games Development). In addition there are more than 100 Members employed on a Part-Time, or Seasonal, basis throughout the year, to support and deliver the organisation’s extensive Coaching and Games Development activities and programmes.
5 I am delighted to be afforded this opportunity to extend a special ‘Céad Míle Fáilte’ on behalf of Cumann Lúthchleas Gael to the first ever International Hurling Festival. It is a wonderful weekend for all involved and I have no doubt good times will be had and further friendships forged. The Festival will see the best hurlers from USA, South America, Canada, Britain, Continental Europe, the Middle East and Australia descend on Galway to compete in what promises to be a fiercely contested competition. During this three day event, participants will have the chance not only to showcase their talents at one of the world’s most skilful games, but to also experience the ceol, craic and culture that is a part of our nation. The GAA are delighted to be supporting The Gathering, in bringing hurling supporters from all over the world back to our shores with thanks to Aer Lingus, in association with Etihad Airways. It is events like the International Hurling Festival that help with the promotion, development and enjoyment of Gaelic Games both at home and overseas. The contribution of our GAA clubs to the Irish diaspora over the past 129 years is much more significant than merely the legacy of the organisation of our national games. GAA clubs overseas have represented the passion that is unique to the GAA, the involvement that we all strive for and the enjoyment that makes all the work worthwhile. Finally, I would like to extend my sincerest congratulations and best wishes to the organising committee, host clubs, Galway County Board and the main sponsors Aer Lingus and Etihad Airways and all players and officials involved on what promises to be a great weekend of excitement, fun and celebration of Gaelic games and our Irish culture. Liam O’Neill Uachtarán, Cumann Luthcleas Gael GAA President Uachtaran Cumann Luthcleas Gael (President of the GAA) Flags of the participating teams in Croke Park on All-Ireland Hurling Final day.
6 Galway GAA Information Main Office: Pearse Stadium, Salthill, Galway. Tel: 091-862500 Website: galwaygaa.ie Grounds: Pearse Stadium (Galway), Kenny Park (Athenry), Duggan Park (Ballinasloe), Tuam Stadium. Total Registered Clubs 85 (Hurling and Football) Total Registered Members 27,669 (Adult 14,517, Youth 13,152) Adult Players 4,966 Under 21 Players 1,788 Minor Players 1,524 Juvenile 10,923 Hurling Championships – Roll of Honour All-Ireland Senior (4) 1923, 1980, 1987, 1988. Leinster Senior (1) 2012 All-Ireland Under-21 (9) 1972, 1978, 1983, 1986, 1991, 1993, 1996, 2005, 2007. All-Ireland Minor (8) 1983, 1992, 1994, 1999, 2000, 2004, 2005, 2009. All-Ireland Intermediate (2) 1999, 2002. Munster Intermediate (1) 1962 All-Ireland Junior (2) 1939, 1996. All-Ireland Club (12) 1980, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1997, 2000, 2001, 2006, 2008, 2009, 2011, 2013. Galway GAA Centre of Excellence
7 Céad Míle Fáilte roimh ár gCuairteoirí Idirnáisiúnta ó gach aird den Domhain agus ár gCuairteoirí Náisiúnta ó gach áird d’ár dTír, go Condae agus Cathair na Gaillimhe, Cathair agus Condae na bhFéiltí agus an Chúltúr. Táimid ag súil go mbainfidh síbh go léir sult agus spraoi as bhúr gCuairt anseo linn. Fáilte Uí Cheallaigh freisin go Dúiche Uí Máine – Regiúin stairiúil Úi Cheallaigh ar fud Chontae na Gaillimhe. A hundred thousand welcomes to all of our International Visitors, from all over the World, along with all of their Supporters, many who have come from all over our Island, to our International Hurling Festival. Our warmest welcomes to the County and City of Galway – where festivals are a regular and annual attraction to Tourists and Visitors alike, from all over the Globe. This unique and special Festival is the GAAs National Contribution to ‘The Gathering 2013’ Programme. We are absolutely delighted to be hosting this wonderful Sporting and Cultural Extravaganza here in County Galway and in the permanent Cultural Capital of Ireland – “The City of the Tribes”, on the Shores of Galway Bay. Moreover, as the Gaelic Athletic Association was first conceived by Michael Cusack and his visionary colleagues here in Loughrea, County Galway, in May 1884; we say to all of our Visitors – welcome home to the “Green Fields and Stonewalls of County Galway”. Hurling, is Ireland’s ancient National Game – the fastest and most exciting field game in the entire World. It is fascinating to watch at any time and it continues to attract successive generations of Players, Participants and Spectators on a continuous basis. In modern times, many Non-National Players from around the World are beginning to enjoy and relish our Game, both at home and on International fields. Our International Hurling Festival is comprised of both our Diaspora and other International non-Irish Players, which should make for a very exciting and enjoyable experience for all Players and Spectators alike. The Finals will be held in Pearse Stadium, Galway City, on Saturday 21st of September, in what will be a varied and spectacular occasion. Our gratitude to all of our Visiting Teams and their Officials, to our local Festival Committees in Ballinasloe, Gort, Loughrea and Galway City, along with our County & City Steering Committee. Special thanks to Aer Lingus and Etihad for their exceptional generosity in sponsoring all of our Teams, in this great year. It is our wish that this new and exciting initiative is the beginning of a long and enduring partnership with both Aer Lingus and Etihad Airways, Ireland and the Gaelic Athletic Association. Finally, we want you all to embrace the Celtic experience here in the West. We hope that you enjoy your visit with us, meet old friends and make new ones and that together we can cement a lasting bond that will last a lifetime and remain forever. We hope to see you all, along with your Families and Friends back in the Emerald Isle again, in the exciting years ahead. Let the games begin! Beir Bua agus Beannacht Noel Treacy, Cathaoirleach Cumann Lúithcleas na Gaillimhe Coiste CLG Chontae na Gaillimhe (Galway GAA County Board)
8 ClÁr / Schedule Host Town Local Welcoming Ceremonies for International Hurling Teams @ 9:00pm Gort Lady Gregory Hotel, Ballinasloe Carlton Shearwater Hotel, Loughrea Lough Rea Hotel and Galway Bay Hotel WEDNESDAY, 18th SEPTEMBER International Hurling Tournament Round 1 Games 2.00pm Duggan Park, Ballinasloe Div 1A St. Gabriel’s v Chicago – Ref: E O’Shaughnessy 3.30pm Duggan Park, Ballinasloe Div 1A Australia v Robert Emmett’s – Ref: C Browne 3.30pm Gort GAA Grounds Div 1B San Francisco v Kilburn Gaels – Ref: J Larkin 3.30pm Kilbeacanty GAA Grounds Div 1B New York v Rest of Britain – Ref: K Egan 3.30pm St. Brendan’s Park, Loughrea Div 2 Canada v Middle East – Ref: P Murphy 3.30pm Kilnadeema Pitch Div 2 Milwaukee v Europe Irish – Ref: G Donoghue 3.30pm Ballyloughane Div 3 Buenos Aires v Denver-Indianapolis – Ref: P Fahy 3.30pm Castlegar GAA Grounds Div 3 BHWolves-Allentown v Europe Non-Irish – Ref: T O’Connor Festival Opening Ceremony 6.30–9pm in Loughrea: Presentation of Teams, Live Music and Dance, Kids’ Fun and Game Zone in Weavers Car Park and Win Prizes and have great fun! Nightly Entertainment from 9pm–Gort: Gort Pubs International Theme Night, traditional music and dance. Ballinasloe: BBQ in Hayden’s Hotel, traditional music and dance. Galway West: BBQ in Crowes Bar, traditional music and dance. ThurSDAY, 19th SEPTEMBER International Hurling Tournament Round 2 Games 2.00pm Duggan Park, Ballinasloe Div 1A St. Gabriel’s v Robert Emmett’s – Ref: C Browne 3.30pm Duggan Park, Ballinasloe Div 1A Australia v Chicago – Ref: E O’Shaughnessy 3.30pm Kilbeacanty GAA Grounds Div 1B San Francisco v New York – Ref: J Larkin 3.30pm Gort GAA Grounds Div 1B Rest of Britain v Kilburn Gaels – Ref: G O’Connor 3.30pm St. Brendan’s Park, Loughrea Div 2 Canada v Milwaukee – Ref: D Dillon 3.30pm Kilnadeema Div 2 Middle East v Europe Irish – Ref: G Donoghue 3.30pm Pearse Stadium Div 3 Buenos Aires v BHWolves-Allentown – Ref: A Kelly 3.30pm Tonabrucky Div 3 Denver-Indianapolis v Europe Non-Irish – Ref: J Keane International Hurling Tournament Round 3 Games 6.00pm Duggan Park, Ballinasloe Div 1A St. Gabriel’s v Australia – Ref: S Moran 6.00pm Ballinasloe GAA Grounds Div 1A Robert Emmett’s v Chicago – Ref: P Greene 6.00pm Gort GAA Grounds Div 1B New York v Kilburn Gaels – Ref: J Keane 6.00pm Kilbeacanty GAA Grounds Div 1B Rest of Britain v San Francisco – Ref: G O’Connor 6.00pm St. Brendan’s Park, Loughrea Div 2 Canada v Europe Irish – Ref: S Moran 6.00pm Kilnadeema Div 2 Middle East v Milwaukee – Ref: D Dillon 6.00pm Pearse Stadium Div 3 Buenos Aires v Europe Non-Irish – Ref: M Ó Cualáin 6.00pm Tonabrucky Div 3 Denver-Indy v BHWolves-Allentown – Ref: P McGrath Nightly Entertainment from 9pm – Gort: Goodbye Ceremony in O’Grady’s Gort, Marquee, Music and Dance. Ballinasloe: Tug-o-War: Visitors v Locals with Music Tribute night to Ambrose Gordon (London) all taking place in Guillanes Hotel. Loughrea: Loughrea Gathering BBQ in Charlie’s Bar. Galway West: Night at the Dogs in Galway Greyhound Stadium Friday, 20th SEPTEMBER
9 ClÁr / Schedule Pearse Stadium 10.00am Division 3 Final – Ref: Eoin O’Shaughnessy 11.30am Division 2 Final – Ref: Leonard Fay 1.00pm Shield Final – Ref: Michael Haverty 2.30pm All-Stars Exhibition Game – Ref: Alan Kelly 3.40pm Pre-Final Entertainment Artane Band, Arcana Entertainers, Drummers, Flag and Flare performance and Presentation of Adult and Juvenile Teams Pre-Match Parade National Anthem sung by Joe McDonagh (former President of the GAA) 4.15pm Division 1 Tournament Final – Ref: Christy Browne 4.45pm Half-Time “Caman to the Pitch Children’s Jersey Run” 5.30pm Divisional 1 Final winners Presentation THE PRAIRIE – UNDER 12s Tournament 10.00am - 3.00pm Under 12 Tournament Finals: Local Galway teams host town Clubs and visiting team from Cork, Shannon, Dublin and Belfast. 3.00pm Under 12 Tournament Final Saturday, 21st SEPTEMBER Other Activities FESTIVAL ZONE – CHILDREN’S ZONE • Hakuna Matata, African Acrobat Show. • Monsieur Gusto, Straight Jacket Escape Show. • Local Street Performers and Stilt Walkers. • Face-Painters. • Etihad Tippy-Tappy Games. • Hurling All-Stars Autograph Signings. MUSIC ZONE Best of Galway Traditional Music and street performance. ARTISAN FOOD ZONE Food Stalls featuring local Galway Artisan Food Producers. ARTS and CRAFTS ZONE “Made in Galway” Arts and Crafts Stalls featuring Pottery Making, Wood Carving, Claddagh Rings and Bog Oak. SPORTS MERCHANDISE ZONE • Canning’s Hurleys and Sliotars. • Hurley-making process. • Coopers Sports Gear/Helmets. • O’Neill’s Sportswear. • SportsGift Souvenirs. Aer Lingus/ETIHAD ARE inviting teams from all over the world to compete in the first ever Ga W From Clifden T Ga SATURDAY 21st SEPT Pearse Stadium MAP Pearse Stadium NORTH TERRACE SEATED STAND WEST TERRACE MUSIC ZONE THE PRAIRIE Juvenile Hurling Tournament ROCKBARTON ROAD DR. MANNIX ROAD ARTS & CRAFTS ZONE CHILDREN’S ZONE COMMERCIAL FOOD COMMERCIAL FOOD ARTISAN FOOD ZONE FESTIVAL AREA ENTRANCE
10 Hurling Festival Launch At the launch of the Aer Lingus-Etihad International Hurling Festival at Croke Park, Dublin were (L-R): Brendan Bulger (Clare), Kevin Moran (Waterford), Laura McCabe and Claire Sutton (Aer Lingus Cabin Crew), Shane McGrath (Tipperary), Fergal Moore (Galway), Brian Hogan (Kilkenny), Joe Canning (Galway) and Shane O’Neill (Cork). Pictured at the launch of the Aer Lingus International Hurling Festival at the Galway Bay Hotel, Salthill were (L-R): Leanne McGarry, Etihad Airways; Michael Grealy, Chief Human Resources Officer, Aer Lingus; Galway Senior Hurler, David Collins; Dave Walsh, General Manager, Ireland, Etihad Airways and Carmel Coyne, Aer Lingus with Salthill-Knocknacarra Underage Hurlers Donal O’Shea, Finn Timon, John Kenny, Cormac Timon and Macdara Ó Griofa
11 I am delighted to welcome you all to the final day of the International Hurling Festival for another great day of sport. Our festival is one of many Gatherings that have taken place throughout the country this year. 2013 is turning out to be a very special year for Irish tourism. The industry has gone through major change in recent years and has finally turned the corner. The Gathering seems to have captured the hearts and minds of Irish people all over the world and there is no doubt that it has proven a vital force in the resurgent visitor numbers to our shores this year. A large portion of Aer Lingus’ business comes from inbound tourism and so when the initial plans for the Gathering emerged, in early 2012, we immediately identified it as an initiative we wanted to support. The big question was, How? How do we make a significant contribution? We looked for an idea that could involve the Diaspora in something traditionally Irish and that would fit well with our uniquely Irish brand and our tradition of connecting Ireland with the world. It didn’t take long for us to conclude that the beautiful game of hurling was a fitting theme upon which to base an Aer Lingus, Gathering event. As a relative newcomer to Ireland I can still remember the first time I saw hurling played. I couldn’t believe the skill, speed, passion and sportsmanship on display and have since learned to appreciate the immense pride that the national game inspires in Irish people. On behalf of all my colleagues in Aer Lingus, I wish to thank you all for supporting the festival. Of course, we wouldn’t be here today if it weren’t for the 16 teams, who came from all round the world to compete. Our sincerest thanks to the teams and to Galway GAA, Galway County Hurling Committee, the Galway Hurling Supporters Club, the tourism and hospitality community and the host town committees for creating memorable 3 days of sport, ceol agus craic. Enjoy the final day. Yours sincerely Christoph Mueller Chief Executive Festival OVERALL STEERING COMMITTEE Mattie Kenny: Aer Lingus, Overall Project Manager, Mary Hanniffy-Walsh: Aer Lingus, Events Co-Ordinator, Stevie Cahalan: Chairman of Overall Steering Committee, Christy Browne: Opening Ceremony, Team Lead, Noel Treacy: Chairman, Galway County Board, Keith Spain: Chairman, Loughrea Host Town Committee, Shane Donnellan: Loughrea Host Town Committee, Austin McInerney: Chairman, Gort Host Town Committee, Mike Finn: Gort Host Town Committee, Willie Ward: Chairman, Ballinasloe Host Town Committee, Darren Kelly: Ballinasloe Host Town Committee, Ollie Crowe: Chairman, Galway West Host Town Committee, Lisa Regan: Galway West Host Town Committee, John Hynes: Juvenile Competition Team Lead, Joe Byrne: Senior Competition, Team Lead, Jarlath Cloonan: Senior Competition and PRO, Mick Turley: Transport Committee, Team Lead, Paddy Murphy: Transport Committee, Bernie O’Connor: Catering, Team Lead, Bernard Pierce: Chairman, Loughrea GAA, Albert Mannion: Loughrea GAA, Christy O’Loughlin: Loughrea GAA.
12 Raise The Bar to win the biggest prize in the game. Etihad Airways - Official Sponsor of the GAA Hurling All-Ireland Championship €10,000 cash · Special guest coaches · Etihad flights · All-Ireland tickets and more. Etihad Airways has a proud tradition of supporting and sponsoring clubs and competitions all over the world. In Ireland, we understand the crucial role that GAA clubs play in communities throughout the country and appreciate the issues that many currently face. That’s why we want to help one deserving Irish hurling club, with a year’s worth of Etihad sponsorship. Closing date for entry is the 20th October 2013. It’s still all to play for - keep watching etihadgaa.ie for more details. to win the biggest prize in the game. Etihad Airways - Official Sponsor of the GAA Hurling All-Ireland Championship €10,000 cash · Special guest coaches · Etihad flights · All-Ireland tickets and more. Etihad Airways has a proud tradition of supporting and sponsoring clubs and competitions all over the world. In Ireland, we understand the crucial role that GAA clubs play in communities throughout the country and appreciate the issues that many currently face. That’s why we want to help one deserving Irish hurling club, with a year’s worth of Etihad sponsorship. Closing date for entry is the 20th October 2013. It’s still all to play for - keep watching etihadgaa.ie for more details.
13 Etihad Airways is immensely proud to support the International Hurling Festival, a key feature of The Gathering Ireland 2013. As one of the title sponsors for this tournament we are delighted to fly the teams from the Middle East and Australia to take part in a tournament that has all the makings of a classic, with sixteen teams from around the world battling to claim the crown. The team representing Australia contains All-Stars selected at the 2012 Australasian Championships and come from clubs in New South Wales, Queensland and Western Australia. The Middle East All Stars feature players from many of the Middle East clubs including Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Qatar. As guests of Etihad Airways they will fly on our modern fleet of aircraft, equipped with world class product and staffed by our award-winning cabin crew. Etihad Airways’ commitment to Ireland and Irish culture continues to grow. We have been a sponsor of the GAA Hurling All-Ireland Senior Championship since February 2008. Last year we extended our deal with the GAA for a further five years to incorporate naming rights of the Etihad Skyline at Croke Park. The GAA Hurling All-Ireland has finished for another year and all eyes will now turn to the International Hurling Festival, we wish all the teams taking part, the very best of luck. James Hogan, Etihad Airways’ President and Chief Executive Attending the European Aer Lingus/Etihad Hurling Festival launch in Brussels were (L-R): Mattie Kenny (Aer Lingus), Michael Grealy (Aer Lingus), Jelena Radakovic (Brussels GAA), Seán Murphy (Aer Lingus), Joe Connolly (Galway), Ann Ramaekers (Etihad), Aurelie Van Ghelune (Etihad) and Billy Finn (European GAA)
Under 12 Hurling Tournament Oranmore-Maree Pádraig Pearses 14 Saturday, 21st September 2013 The Prairie, Salthill 10.30am–3.30pm • 12 teams participating • 8 Galway Teams • 4 Invited Teams • Phase 1 Start at 10.30am • Finish at 12.30pm Galway Teams: Oranmore-Maree, Loughrea, Pádraig Pearses, Salthill-Knocknacarra, Gort, Castlegar, Athenry and Ballinasloe. Invited Teams: Cuala (Dublin), Crusheen (Clare), McQuillans (Antrim), Naomh Cholmain (Cork) The 8 Galway Teams divided into two groups of 4 per group. Each Team plays 3 group games. Top two Teams in each group (4) qualify for Phase II. Phase II Start at 1.pm – Finish at 3.30pm. 8 Teams (4 Galway Teams from Phase I and 4 Invited Teams) 8 Teams divided into 2 groups of 4, with 2 Galway Teams in each group! Each Team plays 3 group games. Top 2 Teams in each group to Play in Festival Finals GAME RULES: Normal GAA Rules apply, with these exceptions: Ten minutes per half max. (20 minutes per game max). Five minutes rest at Half-Time. Each team must make 9 substitutions at half-time in every game. Size 4 Sliothar, no solo! All puck-outs, frees and side-lines shall be taken from the ground. No square-ball. All Games will start and finish on hooter.
Under 12 Hurling Tournament Castlegar Athenry 15 ballinasloe McQuillans Gort GAA CUALA Loughrea Cloyne Salthill Crusheen
16 No PLAYER NAME Home County Home Club Current Club 1 Patrick Hegarty (Tour Manager) Clare Clarecastle Shamrocks 2 John Whelehan (Coach) Offaly St. Rynaghs Sarsfields 3 Damien Moroney (Coach) Clare Killenena Shamrocks 4 Oisin Lynch (Captain) Kildare Consey Na Fianna 5 Conor Hassett Clare St. Josephs, Doora-Barefield Michael Cusack’s 6 Tadg O'Guithin Cork St. Finbars Imokilly 7 Stephen O'Keefe Cork Aghada Sarsfields 8 Brendan McGourty Down Ballycran Sarsfields 9 Noel Lawless Galway Menlo Emmetts St. Gabriel’s 10 Daniel Whyte Galway Mullagh Michael Cusack’s 11 Enda Coen Galway Loughrea Michael Cusack’s 12 Raymond Regan Galway Loughrea St. Gabriel’s 13 David McDonagh Galway Turloughmore Emeralds 14 Caitriona Ní Mháinín Galway Spiddal Onkaparinga 15 James Whelan Kilkenny Blacks & Whites Cuchulainns 16 Rory Conroy Laois Clonaslee St. Manman’s Na Fianna 17 Thomas Quirke Limerick Old Christians Shamrocks 18 John O'Connell Limerick Pallasgreen Imokilly 19 Jason Whelehan Offaly St. Rynaghs Sarsfields 20 Hugh Treacy Offaly Cappincur Sarsfields 21 Seán Lahert Tipperary Gortnahoe-Glengoole Shamrocks 22 Patrick Marnane Tipperary Galtee Rovers Na Fianna 23 Michael Doherty Waterford De La Salle Shamrocks 24 Gary Maher Waterford Saint Mollerans St. Patrick’s 25 Michael Fenlon Wexford Geraldine O’Hanrahans Shamrocks The Australia team is made up of the All Stars selected at the 2012 Australasian Championships that were held in Perth. Players come from three units of the Association, namely Western Australia (Perth), New South Wales (Sydney) and Queensland (Brisbane). Team Captain is Oisín Lynch (Brisbane) – Best Player at the 2012 Championships. Joint Managers are John Whelehan (Perth) and Damien Moroney (Sydney). Physio is Clare Gough (Adelaide) and Tour Manager is Paddy Hegarty (Melbourne). Hurling is played all over Australia and New Zealand. Arriving players are often surprised at the standard and love being part of a club that allows them to play hurling and integrate. Australia
17 www.gaelicfootball.com.au Find us Online New South Wales 2012 Hurling Champions 2012 Australian Hurling All-Stars
18 BARLEY HOUSE WOLVES ALLENTOWN HIBernians Allentown Hibernians HC was started in 2008 when Pat O’Donnell met Jeff Purtell, who would become the first Club Chairman. Jeff realised it may be possible to start a club after hearing about the success of other American hurling clubs. Pat had no idea what it was. Almost immediately after telling Pat about it, they started recruiting players. Jeff bought hurls and sliotars and they had their first practice. At that time the team consisted of just Jeff, Pat and Pat’s brother Danny. Eventually they were able to recruit more people. Once there were enough members to field a team, Jeff contacted Philadelphia GAA and registered the newly formed hurling club into the Junior C Division. In the meantime our numbers continued to grow and we hosted a Tournament in 2011, with four teams. This included a team from Hoboken, NJ. It was great to see NYGAA and NACB teams on the same pitch. The tournament continued in 2012 and was named after Alex Campbell, who was hanged in 1877. He was a member of the AOH and group called ‘Molly Maguires’, who played a big role in improving rights of Pennsylvania Coalminers. The club started a pub league with three teams in 2011. They also have participated in Irish Heritage night at Coca-Cola Park, home of the local minor league baseball team and have been invited to play at the NJ Irish Sports festival. No Player Name Current Club in USA 1 David Brian Mahon Allentown 2 Thomas James Hirsch Allentown 3 Daniel James Quay Allentown 4 Trevor Paul Colahan Allentown 5 Luke P Coyle Allentown 6 John Michael Driscoll Allentown 7 David Michael Jones Allentown 8 Michael John Friel Allentown 9 Joseph Ryan McFadden Allentown 10 Daniel Kevin O'Donnell Allentown 11 Patrick Michael O'Donnell Allentown 12 Connor James O'Donnell Allentown 13 Edward Leo Clements Jr Barley House Wolves 14 Mishael Azariah Gregoire Barley House Wolves 15 John Tanner Stramer Barley House Wolves 16 Darragh Vincent Madden Barley House Wolves 17 Seán Michael McCarty Barley House Wolves 18 William B Mullen Barley House Wolves 19 Patrick Garrett Naughton Barley House Wolves 20 Seán Patrick Naughton Barley House Wolves 21 Alan Joseph Mangan Barley House Wolves 22 Lore Hemenway Ford Barley House Wolves 23 Dennis Andrew Trainor Barley House Wolves 24 Stuart Stanley Kremzner Barley House Wolves 25 Alec Michael Foley-Olsen Barley House Wolves
19 Barley House Wolves The soldiers of the ‘Charlie Company’ were first exposed to hurling during a layover in Shannon, Ireland on their way to Iraq. Love for the game was instant and the soldiers made good on their pledge to adopt the game as a way to maintain their bond. Today, the Wolves are reigning North American Junior C Hurling Champions. The Wolves play under the sanction of the Northeast Division of the GAA and has played throughout the United States. www.pahurling.com www.facebook.com/atownhurling Twitter @PAHurling www.hurlingnh.com www.facebook.com/barley.wolves Twitter @HurlingNH Find us Online Allentown Hibernians Barley House Wolves — Junior C Champions 2012
20 Buenos Aires Hurling was popular within the Irish community in Buenos Aires and practiced since the late 1880s. In 1900 the first official match between an Irish team and Irish-Argentines was played in Ireland Square. The Argentina Federation of Hurling was founded in 1922. At the time, 15 teams played every weekend at the only available pitch. Some of the teams were: Fahy Boys, Wanderers, Santos Lugares Gaels, Belgrano Gaels, Capilla Boys, St. Patrick Mercedes, St. Patrick Alumni, Almirante Brown, Nacional, Bearna Baoghail, St. Paul’s, New Lads, Juniors and Irish Argentines. The Federation organised many championships until the late 1940’s when the 2nd World War began and hurleys couldn’t be imported into the country. In 1941, because of the lack of camáns, they began playing rugby and hockey and then they simply became “The Hurling Club”. In February 2009, 2010 and 2011, Summer Camps, co-ordinated by the GAA and coaches George O’Connor and Martin Lynch (Wexford), were organised. After 70 years, they hoped that the game would make a revival, not in a competitive way, but as an important way of maintaining Irish traditions, especially for their young members. Hurling is now making a strong comeback and the boys and girls of The Hurling Club, many of them great-grandchildren of the last hurling players in Argentina, are working hard to have a No Player Name Home Club Current Club 1 Esteban Tomas Cartledge Argentinian Hurling Club 2 Francisco Jose Catan Argentinian Hurling Club 3 Gonzalo Martin Cocina Argentinian Hurling Club 4 Ramiro Cuesta Argentinian Hurling Club 5 Lucas Cayetano Daels Argentinian Hurling Club 6 Tomas Daels Argentinian Hurling Club 7 Bernardo Andrés Devereux Argentinian Hurling Club 8 Federico Alberto Diaz Argentinian Hurling Club 9 Marc Ganly Argentinian Hurling Club 10 Agustin Gonçalves Borrega Argentinian Hurling Club 11 Ignacio Gonçalves Borrega Argentinian Hurling Club 12 Ernesto Juan Gonzalez de Urreta Argentinian Hurling Club 13 Alejandro Javier Lezcano Argentinian Hurling Club 14 Juan Patricio MacDermott Argentinian Hurling Club 15 Marcos Massa Argentinian Hurling Club 16 Ignacio Pablo Milito Bianchi Argentinian Hurling Club 17 Francisco José Mosquera Argentinian Hurling Club 18 Lucas Ruiz Cugat Argentinian Hurling Club 19 Dan Scally Argentinian Hurling Club 20 Martín Pablo Yelen Argentinian Hurling Club 21 Eduardo Gabriel Cabrera Argentinian Hurling Club 22 Michael Gerrard Connery Irish Hurling Club 23 David Ricardo Ganly Argentinian Hurling Club 24 Ricardo Felipe MacAllister Argentinian Hurling Club 25 Hernán Eduardo Magrini Argentinian Hurling Club
21 competitive team. On October 2012, Damien Coleman (Galway) visited for a coaching clinic and invited the team to take part of the Aer Lingus Hurling Festival in Galway. The hockey and rugby boys have made big efforts to be ready for this championship and are very proud to represent their club, country and hurling history in Argentina. www.hurlingclubcomar.blogspot.com.ar www.facebook.com/hurling.club Twitter @Hurling_Club Find us Online
22 Canada No PLAYER NAME Home County Home Club Current Club 1 Kevin Loughnane (Manager) Offaly Birr St. Michaels 2 Jonathon Kavanagh (Official) Dublin Crumlin JP Ryan’s Vancouver 3 William Donnellan Galway Craughwell JP Ryan’s Vancouver 4 Philip Ian Murphy Dublin Crumlin JP Ryan’s Vancouver 5 Jim Fogarty Clare Crusheen JP Ryan’s Vancouver 6 Tyson James Van Beek Canada JP Ryan’s Vancouver JP Ryan’s Vancouver 7 Daniel Brady Dublin St. Brigids JP Ryan’s Vancouver 8 Owen Michael Woulfe Clare Eire Óg Ennis JP Ryan’s Vancouver 9 Rory James Murphy Waterford St. Mollerans JP Ryan’s Vancouver 10 Derek Joseph Reynolds Galway Mullagh JP Ryan’s Vancouver 11 Aindriu Denis Doohan Monaghan Carrick Emmets JP Ryan’s Vancouver 12 Ronan Oliver Deane (Official) Cork Brian Dillons JP Ryan’s Vancouver 13 Greg Winston McKeon Dublin St. Annes JP Ryan’s Vancouver 14 Francis O’Hagan Limerick Old Christians Toronto Hurling Club 15 Gerard Power (Official) Dublin Lucan Sarsfields Toronto Hurling Club 16 Patrick Morrissey Kilkenny Barrow Rangers Toronto Hurling Club 17 Joseph Brady Offaly Killurin Toronto Hurling Club 18 John Coen Clare Wolfe Tones, Shannon Toronto Hurling Club 19 Denis Lucey Cork St. Colums Bantry Toronto Hurling Club 20 Anthony Storey Wexford Oulart the Balagh Toronto Hurling Club 21 Kevin Power Waterford Lismore Toronto Hurling Club 22 Mark Cunningham Clare Parteen Toronto Hurling Club 23 Mike Roche Limerick Pallaskenry Toronto Hurling Club 24 Shane Harnedy Waterford Shamrocks Toronto Hurling Club 25 Paul Browne Galway Beagh Toronto Hurling Club “All things Gaelic go into great sports history book, packed with historical anecdotes and names of players past and present ‘to acknowledge the fact [that] these people enjoyed what they did, they were prepared to sacrifice the time was needed for the games to be played,’ O’Flynn said. [His book ensures] ‘that there [will] be literature and memory of the Irish communities.’” Bob Mackin, Vancouver Courier. We are a very active and vibrant Association in Canada where Hurling and Football are played by both Irish and Canadians in cities and towns all over the country. Currently we have 40 teams embracing both men and women who are playing both Ireland’s national games. Hurling was re-introduced to the city of Vancouver in 2008. Vancouver entered the North American Junior Championship in 2010 and was crowned champions at their first attempt. In 2011, the Vancouver Hurling team was re-named, Joseph P. Ryan’s (Vancouver), in memory of Joseph Ryan, a founding member of the GAA who later immigrated to Canada and who is buried in Cranbrook, British Columbia. Hurling in the city has continued to grow and 2013 will see the role out of a 7-a-side city league, along with continued involvement in the North American Championship and a number of other tournaments in both the United States and Canada.
23 www.canada.gaa.ie Find us Online In the city of Toronto, the Toronto Hurling Club have re-invigorated the sport of hurling in the city. Founded in 2010, the club competes annually with teams from across Canada and the United States for the North American Championship. Locally, they compete in the city championship and provide an important social outlet for Irish immigrants and Canadians seeking to learn more about Irish culture. Having been invited by the Galway County Board of the GAA and Aer Lingus to send a National team representing Canada in a prestigious Hurling Tournament which takes place in County Galway, Ireland during the third week of September 2013 is such an honour and privilige. Joseph P. Ryan’s Vancouver will proudly send ten players to Ireland along with two selectors who will make up part of the management team while the Toronto Hurling Club will proudly send eleven players and two selectors for management. Thank you to all for allowing our athletes to represent Canada in this once in a lifetime opportunity to be a part of Ireland’s nationwide Gathering Event. JP Ryan’s, Vancouver Seattle Tournament 2013
24 No PLAYER NAME County Home Club US Club 1 Joseph Thomas McLoughlin N/A N/A Michael Cusack’s 2 Liam Joseph Dolan Galway Dad Sarsfields Michael Cusack’s 3 Kyle Farmer N/A N/A Limerick Hurling 4 Matthew Evan Schwertfeger N/A N/A Harry Boland’s 5 Brian James Connolly N/A N/A Michael Cusack’s 6 Daniel Frances McLoughlin N/A N/A Harry Boland’s 7 Thomas Martin Dolan Galway Dad Sarsfields Harry Boland’s 8 Martin Andrew Redmond NA N/A Michael Cusack’s 9 Marcus Morris N/A N/A Harry Boland’s 10 Seamus Martin McShane Antrim N/A Michael Cusack’s 11 John Halbert Cork N/A Michael Cusack’s 12 Paul Reynolds Galway Athenry Michael Cusack’s 13 Anthony Murphy Galway Meelick-Eyrecourt Harry Boland’s 14 Rory Kenny Galway Carnmore Cuchullains 15 James Tracey Galway Abbeyknockmoy Cuchullains 16 Declan Hession Galway Turloughmore Cuchullains 17 Adrian Christopher Hudson Kilkenny N/A Cuchullains 18 Thomas Sheehy Limerick N/A Limerick Hurling 19 Connor Fitzgerald Limerick N/A Limerick Hurling 20 Thomas Liston Limerick N/A Limerick Hurling 21 Seamus Wallace Meath N/A Michael Cusack’s 22 Diarmuid Horan Offaly N/A Harry Boland’s 23 Tiernan Martin Offaly N/A Harry Boland’s 24 Oliver Ryan Tipperary N/A Limerick Hurling 25 Frankie Bradley Wexford N/A Harry Boland’s The team is made up of all the four hurling clubs in the Chicago Region and three of the teams play at senior level and the All American team is junior level. Our Team captain, Manager and back room staff: The management consist of Paul Reynolds and Anthony Murphy who are both from Galway. Thomas Liston from Limerick and Martin Redmont from Chicago. What does it mean to be playing hurling outside of Ireland? Many players who come here do so just for the summer months. This gives them the chance to keep up their playing level and also helps to raise the standard of the players who participate year round, it Chicago
25 www.chicagogaelicsports.com www.facebook.com/ChicagoGaelicSports Twitter @ChiGaelicSports Find us Online really makes for an enjoyable competition. This helps the clubs not only by having new players to participate and bring new ideas to their clubs but to enable them to integrate into a thriving association Is there much cross over to the sport from people with no Irish connection? There is not much as most of the players are Irish or come from an Irish background How many people will travel to Galway for the ALIHF? Approximately thirty Players and Officials. Has this festival given a boost to your club/team? Being an International team it is hard to say, but everyone is really looking forward to participating. What most excites your Team about the festival? Representing Chicago in an International Competition mainly. Also it will be great to have family and friends in Ireland seeing them play. What does Galway mean to you? It means a great deal as it’s the home of many of the players travelling. Chicago Gathering Team
26 Denver & Indianapolis No PLAYER NAME Current Club in USA 1 Eamonn Gerard Ryan Denver Gaels 2 Brian Craig Arnold Denver Gaels 3 Robert Michael Kanaly Denver Gaels 4 Brian Patrick McCarthy Denver Gaels 5 Adam Christopher O’Leary Denver Gaels 6 Patrick Joseph Folan Denver Gaels 7 Adam Robert Kiefert Denver Gaels 8 Patrick Russell Ream Denver Gaels 9 Gregory Monroe Phelan Denver Gaels 10 Tim David Shaw Denver Gaels 11 Matthew Robert Santambrogio Denver Gaels 12 Timothy Nicholas Phelan Denver Gaels 13 Christopher Robert Cox Allentown 14 David William Littlejohn Allentown 15 Irles Duncan McCabe Allentown 16 Jacob Robert Wilkes Allentown 17 Michael Patrick Monaghan Allentown 18 Phillip M Barszczowski Allentown 19 Rudy Trooper Sandino Nehrling-Bortin Allentown 20 Timothy A Cabeen Allentown 21 Brian James Church Allentown 22 Jody Wynn Peacock Allentown 23 Andrew Joseph Hambrick Allentown 24 Brien Lee Shoemaker Allentown 25 Brian Michael Mathes Allentown Indianapolis GAA traces its roots back to a 2002 wedding, where the game was introduced by the groom to some of his US friends. The group stayed at this small size for a while, however in 2005, two native Irishmen joined forces with this group and got the club moving again, combining their leadership, knowledge and enthusiasm for the sport. GAA in Indianapolis were here to stay. The club has grown from the seven or eight members in the early stages to over 300 members today. The Indianapolis GAA currently supports two nationally competing men’s hurling teams at the Junior A and Junior C level as well as a Junior Camogie team and a Junior D football team. Indianapolis proudly sports champions in NACB Junior B hurling in 2012, Junior C hurling in 2008 and Junior Camogie Shield Championship in 2011. In addition to the national teams, the Club supports an 8-team intra-club summer league, a 4-team Gaelic football league and a 2-team Camogie league. The club plays all year round by renting an indoor soccer field and playing modified rules hurling and football. Finally, the Indianapolis GAA supports the social aspect of the club through various events throughout the year such as pub crawls, golf tourneys, social get-togethers and community service events.
27 Our club has won North American Championships in 2000 (Junior B Football), 2004 (U12 and U14 Football), 2007 (Junior C Hurling, U16 and U18 Football) and 2011 (Junior Camogie). In 2004 we hosted the North American County Championships in Boulder, Colorado. The Denver Gaels run year-round competitions from indoor hurling and football in the winter to pub league competitions in the Summer. In July, we invite teams from all over the US to play in a Denver hosted friendly tournament and throughout the year, we participate in local community activities from charity races to volunteering in local schools to teach GAA to students learning about international sports. The Denver Gaels were founded in 1996 by a group of Irish based in Denver, Colorado. Initially the club only played Men’s Football, but we have since grown to a club of over 100 active players and have teams in Hurling, Camogie, Women’s and Men’s Football. www.denvergaels.com www.facebook.com/denvergaelsgaa Twitter @DenverGaels www.indygaa.com www.facebook.com/indygaa Twitter @IndyGAA Find us Online Denver 2000 Indianapolis
28 Europe Irish Player Name Home County Home Club European Club Diarmuid Kelly Clare Ogonnelloe Dresden JP Griffin Clare Sixmilebridge The Hague John O’Gorman Cork Kilworth Amsterdam Brian Murphy Cork Glanmire Amsterdam Colm Ryan Cork Cloughduv The Hague Frank McNamara Cork Ballyhea Belgium Shane O’Sullivan Cork Iniscarra The Hague Eoin O’Sullivan Cork Valley Rovers Luxembourg Ivan O’Connor Cork Ballinhassig Dresden Declan Fitzgerald Cork Buttevant Gothenburg Malachy Magee Down Ballela Gothenburg Colm Mulhern Dublin N/A Dresden Fergal Mythen Dublin Whitehall-Colmcille Belgium Barry Heffernan Galway Rahoon-Newcastle The Hague Kevin Carey Galway Corofin The Hague Kevin Keary Galway Mountbellew-Moylough Belgium Eoin Meagher Kilkenny Erin's Own Dresden Joseph Whelan Laois Rathdowney Malmo Jason Ryan Limerick Dromcollogher-Broadford The Hague Shane Ryan Limerick Patrickswell Belgium Billy Finn Limerick Hospital/Herbertstown Gothenburg Edward Kelly Limerick Na Piarsaigh Toulouse Fergal Walsh Longford Longford Slashers Amsterdam Brian Clerkin Monaghan N/A Zurich Aaron Prendergast Wexford Geraldine O’Hanarans, New Ross Luxembourg The Europe (Irish) team is made up of players representing GAA clubs from across Continental Europe. Clubs based in Sweden, France, Belgium, Germany, The Netherlands, Luxembourg and Switzerland. There are three Galway players on this panel: Kevin Carey, Kevin Keary and Barry Heffernan. In recent years the development of Gaelic Games in Europe has picked up pace, with new clubs being set up in Maastricht, Budapest, Copenhagen, Gothenburg, Pamplona, Valencia and Vienna. Along with these, there have also been new clubs set up in Lyon and other locations in Brittany in France. The success of these clubs is proven by the fact that since 2006: • The European Hurling Championship now extends over four rounds and also includes an inter-county invitational event each year. • A Camogie Championship was formed in 2008. • New clubs are under development in various locations and if you are in a city/region where there is no club yet registered, please do not hesitate to get in touch as the European County Board may have local contacts in your area. GAA in Europe is controlled by the European County Board (ECB). The ECB is proud to be part of this wonderful Hurling Festival in Galway and the chance to test their skills against other similar selections.
29 Belgium – European Champions 2013 The Hague – European Champions 2012 www.europegaa.eu www.facebook.com/europe.gaa Twitter @EuropeGAA Find us Online Kevin Carey (in yellow) in action in the European Hurling Championships
30 The European hurling journey will take a giant leap forward when, for the first time, European GAA will send a panel of non-native players to compete in the International Hurling Festival. This is a truly momentous occasion for all the players and for Hurling in Europe. The geographical spread of players shows how truly global our game has become. It has been adopted by the natives of the following clubs: St. Brieuc Brittany, France; Budapest, Hungary; Paris and Toulouse, France; Munich, Cologne and Dresden, Germany and Zurich, Switzerland. The mentors and management are thrilled to showcase the vibrancy of hurling in European circles and the players themselves are chomping at the bit to showcase their talents on a world stage. Europe Non-Irish Player Name Home County Home Club European Club Mary Gavin Galway Mountbellew The Hague Ruairi Howell N/A N/A The Hague Peter Jannsen N/A N/A Amsterdam Shay Docherty Wicklow N/A Maastricht Tony Bass Dublin Cuala Maastricht Adam Balogh N/A N/A Budapest Attila Becsei N/A N/A Budapest Csaba Lajko N/A N/A Budapest Istvan Kincses N/A N/A Budapest Sebastian Tillmann N/A N/A Cologne Marcel Konig N/A N/A Cologne Frank Kahlenberg N/A N/A Dresden Konrad Menzel N/A N/A Dresden Todd Shopnikolov N/A N/A Munich Alex Sims N/A N/A Paris Benoit Loustalot N/A N/A Paris Abi Ghanem Rayan N/A N/A Paris Xavier Ingrad N/A N/A St. Brieuc, Brittany Clement Chiesa N/A N/A Toulouse Bryan Sheehy Meath Dunshaughlin Zurich Nicolas East N/A N/A Zurich Timo Powling N/A N/A Zurich Claude Holenstein N/A N/A Zurich Dresden Hurlers
31 Paris Hurling Brussels Hurling www.europegaa.eu www.facebook.com/e urope.gaa Twitter @EuropeGAA Find us Online
32 Kilburn Gaels No PLAYER NAME Home County Home Club 1 Michael Burke (Management) Clare Whitegate 2 John (Sean) Riordan (Management) Kerry Ardfert 3 Tom Bergin (Management) Tipperary Templetuohy 4 Brendan O'Connor (Management) Clare Kilmaley 5 John Joe Burke Kilkenny St. Lachtains 6 Chris McAlinden Armagh Seán Treacy’s 7 Henry Vaughan Clare Ogonnelloe 8 Martin Duggan Clare Clooney-Quin 9 Oran Cleary Derry Ballinascreen 10 Brian Regan Galway Gort 11 Stephen Lambert Galway Kilbeacanty 12 Aidan Treacy Galway Mullagh 13 John Walsh Galway Beagh 14 Keith Killilea Galway Gort 15 Luke Gaule Kilkenny Carrickshock 16 William Hoyne Kilkenny Carrickshock 17 Eddie Kelly Kilkenny Erins Own 18 William Campion Laois Borris-Kilcotton 19 Kevin Campion Laois Borris-Kilcotton 20 Michael O'Dwyer London Kilburn Gaels 21 Noel McDonnell Tipperary Burgess 22 Keith Kennedy Tipperary Killenaule 23 Peter Kennedy Tipperary Killenaule 24 Conor Hickey Waterford Abbeyside 25 Roderick Walsh Wexford Clongeen One team which is travelling as part of this festival is Kilburn Gaels Hurling Club in London. They are being hosted in Gort/South Galway for the duration of their stay and they are a club who, since being formed in 1997, have developed very strong links with the Gort area. Players like Shane Linnane, Tomás Fahy, Peter Naughton, Cathal Forde, Niall Forde (all Gort), Conor Tannian (Ardrahan) and John Walsh (Beagh) have represented the Gaels with distinction over the years. Cathal Forde, Castletown, Gort emigrated to London in 2009 and found work as a Site Engineer. He joined Kilburn Gaels HC and played at corner-back on the team that won the 2010 London Senior Hurling Final against Seán Treacys. This final was of particular significance to the Forde family as it contained not alone Cathal, who played at corner-back, but also his brother Niall (midfield), as well as his two cousins from Ogonnelloe, Co. Clare, Brian (corner-back) and Colm (centre-back). Brian was captain of the team and Niall was awarded man of the match for his display in the final. Unfortunately, Cathal’s life was tragically cut short when he died suddenly while out training with the Kilburn Gaels team in April 2012. A large contingent from Kilburn Gaels Hurling Club travelled over to Gort for his
33 www.kilburngaelshurlingclub.org www.facebook.com/groups/kilburngaels Twitter @KilburnGaels Find us Online Tom Semple Cup Winners 2012 funeral. This tragic event has served to develop a strong link between the two clubs and now Kilburn Gaels has become the first port of call for any young hurlers from the Gort and South Galway area who are heading to London in search of employment. Gort GAA Club have also recently developed a new gym and weights room which has been named in memory of Cathal. The Kilburn Gaels team which will travel to Galway for the upcoming festival will contain players from the Gort / South Galway who have emigrated to London in recent years such as Brian Regan, Keith Killilea (both Gort), Stephen Lambert (Kilbeacanty) and John Walsh (Beagh). Kilburn Gaels are also planning to bring over a large contingent of young players from their juvenile club to Gort for the weekend. They will be touring the local sites etc. during their stay and will also be having a training session with local county hurlers on the Sunday morning in Gort. Niall, Brian, Colm and Cathal Forde pictured after winning the 2010 London Senior Hurling Championship.
34 No PLAYER NAME Home County Home Club Current Club 1 Shane Carroll Cork Charleville Clann na hOman 2 Terry Kehoe Wexford Cloughbawn Arabian Celts 3 Michael Patrick Redmond Wexford St. Annes, Rathnure Dubai Celts 4 Alan Brennan Laois The Harps Dubai Celts 5 Ronan O'Donoghue Cork Douglas GAA Arabian Celts 6 Darragh Eamonn Carlow Carlow Town Dubai Celts 7 Declan Cahill Laois Ballypickas Dubai Celts 8 Willie Lonergan Tipperary Swan Dubai Celts 9 Shane O Donnell Clare Cratloe Clann na hOman 10 Nevin O'Regan Cork Bride Rovers (Rathcormac) Dubai Celts 11 Niall Drea Carlow Erins Own (Bagenalstown) Dubai Celts 12 Eddie Walsh Wexford St. Aidan's, Ferns Dubai Celts 13 Diarmuid Patrick O'Meara Clare Clonlara Dubai Celts 14 Killian Murphy Cork St. Finbarrs Dubai Celts 15 Shane Rackard Wexford Duffry Rovers Dubai Celts 16 Adrian Cliffe Waterford Cappoquin Dubai Celts 17 Colm Hunter Antrim Glen Rovers Dubai Celts 18 Anthony Ryan Waterford De La Salle Dubai Celts 19 Tommy Nolan Dublin Bangor Dubai Celts 20 Andrew Keary Galway Killimor Al Ain GAA 21 Caymon Flynn Wexford St. Anne’s, Rathnure Al Ain GAA 22 Aidan Clarke Down Ballycran Qatar GAA 23 Des Leamy (Selector) Clare Tulla Qatar GAA 24 Liam McAulliffe (Selector) Cork Charleville Clann na hOman 25 Donal McCarthy (Selector) Cork Carrigtwohill Dubai Celts 26 James Kennedy (Selector) Meath Ballinabrackey Arabian Celts Hurling was born in the Middle East back in 1985 when two Teams in Al Kharj, just outside Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, played in an inter-firm game at Almarai. The Boys from the Glens of Antrim played a Munster selection and there was skin and hair flying in the sands of Saudi Arabia. Over the years, further games were played in Saudi between Kentz and Aramco before an official tournament was set up in Bahrain in 1993, which saw the emergence of new clubs Naomh Abdulla Dhahran, and the Arabian Celts (formerly the Bahrain Irish). The tournament has been running ever since, celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. Other clubs emerged in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Qatar and Oman, with clubs in Kuwait, Al Ain and Sharjah joining later. The Middle East All Stars feature players from clubs from all over the Middle East and feature players like Killian Coleman (Cork Minor, 1998), Aidan Clarke (Down, 2010), Shane Rackard (Hurling MVP at the Asian Gaelic Games in 2012) and Andrew Keary (All-Ireland-winning, Galway minor captain 2005). The team also features Terry Kehoe, who is featured in the Guinness Book of Records for hurling when his club, Cloghbawn in Wexford, set a world record for a hurling match that went on for 24 hours in June 2012. Middle East
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