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West Cork GAA Games Development News

West Cork GAA Games Development News 14/11/11
 
Carbery Beara U17 football at Ahamilla
A group of over forty footballers from across Carbery and Beara assembled at Clonakilty, yesterday for a development game involving players eligible for Minor in 2012. A 70 minute match saw all players involved with a high standard evident throughout. The match was refereed with usual efficiency by Michael Collins and many thanks are due to Fergal Keohane (Kilbrittain) and Mike O'Neill (Clonakilty) for organising both teams and of course the host club for the use of their magnificent facilities. A further 33 players were unavailable due to injury and club commitments and these players will be assembled at a future date.
 
Cork Coaching Forum Workshop in Dunmanway THIS WEDNESDAY
On this Wednesday night, November 16th, from 7 to 9.30pm in MICC, Dunmanway a workshop for underage coaches entitled "An introduction to Coaching Children" will focus on the Fundamental skills and physical literacy which is key to the development of children in sport.  The session will help develop coaches understanding of the importance of fundamental movement skills and the benefit of these skills to each sport.  The evening will have both a theory and practical element to it along with a questions and answers/feedback session.
 
The Cork Sports Partnership recently launched this new initiative for coaches which aims to provide coaches/volunteers and leaders of underage sporting activities in Cork access to relevant, up to date and appropriate material, training and information. For more information or to register for one of the events please contact the Cork Sports Partnership on 021-4665081 or go to www.corksports.ie . There is a nominal charge of €5 per person.
 
Beara Award 1 Youth Football Course on THIS FRIDAY NIGHT...
On this Friday, November 19th an Award 1 Youth Coaching course will commence in Beara Community School. This 18 hour course will run over three weekends and incorporates the OTu coaching model as illustrated in the modules listed below.

Each of the Beara clubs are asked to confirm three or four names in order to make the course viable. Cork U15 football coach and Castlehaven senior coach James McCarthy will be tutoring on the first two weekends, with a second tutor to be confirmed for the final weekend. Cost €50 per person if >=18 attend (i.e. 3 or 4 per club).
 
Upcoming Children's Officer Course November 21st & 22nd
Venue: Cork Sports Partnership Office, Yeats House, Ballincollig, Co. Cork; Time: 6.30pm to 9.30pm
 
There are still a number of places available on the Children's Officer course taking place on the 21st and 22nd of November from 6.30pm to 9.30pm in Yeats House, Ballincollig.
 
This workshop is being run specifically for designated Children's Officers within the club, of which there should be at least one. Clubs are encouraged to send 2 representatives to the training, one of which should be the designated Children's Officer. It is essential that those who wish to attend the training have attended the Irish Sports Council Code of Ethics Basic Awareness/Child Protection Training workshop (at least 4-6 months previously).

· The course lasts 6 hours and is being run over two nights.
· It is essential that those who wish to attend the training have attended the Code of Ethics Basic Awareness Workshop
· There are limited places available for the workshops and pre booking is essential as it is on a first come first served basis.
· Each individual must fill out an application form and return it with fee to the Cork LSP Office to reserve a place on this workshop (we accept payments made by cheque/postal order/cash)
· All participants must be over 18 years of ages
· A fee of €20 applies for administrative costs
· Certificates of attendance are issued on the last night of the course
Contact: Maurice O'Sullivan mosullivan@corksports.ie
 
Cork Underage Squads Begin Physical Development Programme
Monday night last, the 7th November, saw the Cork underage Schools of Excellence and Development squads commence a 6 week coaching programme in the area of physical development.
This programme has been designed by Mark McManus of Leisureworld Bishopstown and is being rolled out at 4 venues around the county to minimise travel for coaches and players. The venues are Glen Rovers, Randal Og GAA complex, Caherlag and Kilshannig GAA complex. For further details click on...
http://www.rebelog.ie/taggedNews/87035/211/cork_underage_squads_begin_physical_development_programme

Exercises can be seen on the Leisureworld Youtube channel; http://www.youtube.com/user/LeisureWorldCork?blend=1&ob=5
 
Mise le meas,
Kevin O'Donovan,
GAA Games Development Administrator,
Carbery Beara,
Kilmeen, Rossmore, Clonakilty, Co. Cork.
Ph. 086-7753567 www.rebelog.ie

West Cork GAA Games Development News 08/11/11

Carbery Beara U17 Football Development;  Cork Minors 2012- "On this Sunday....
Award 1 Youth Football Course in Beara; "Starting Friday week...
Carbery Beara U16 football; "Meeting in the near future...
Carbery Beara U15 & U14 football; "Postponed until January 2012...
Carbery Beara U13 Emerging Players; "Concluded for 2011...
Cork Development Squads Physical Development Programme; "For six weeks...
Cork Coaching Forum Workshops- "Starting tonight in...

Carbery Beara U17 Football Development - Cork Minors 2012
On Sunday next, November 13th, a series of U17 football development games will take place in Ahamilla, Clonakilty.

Clubs have previously been asked to submit the names of players who were U17 in 2011, while 25 U16 players who were involved with Cork at county level in 2011 have also been invited. All of these players are eligible for the Cork Minors in 2012. Therefore, Cork Minor selectors, including Mike ‘Haulie' O'Neill of Clonakilty will be in attendance on the day.

All players on this list are asked to confirm their availability for Sunday, either personally or through a club contact. If unavailable through injury or club commitments, just let us know and they will be included at a future date. Subsequent games and coaching will be organised depending on the level of interest shown by clubs and players.
Players are asked to assemble at Ahamilla at 1pm and to wear full club gear to help identification.

Award 1 Youth Football Course in Beara
On Friday week, November 19th an Award 1 Youth Coaching course will commence in Beara Community School. This 18 hour course will run over three weekends and incorporates the OTu coaching model as illustrated in the modules listed below.

Each of the Beara clubs are asked to confirm three or four names in order to make the course viable. Cork U15 football coach and Castlehaven senior coach James McCarthy will be tutoring on the first two weekends, with a second tutor to be confirmed for the final weekend. Cost €50 per person if >=18 attend (i.e. 3 or 4 per club).

To confirm participants, email kevin.odonovan.gda.cork@gaa.ie

DateTimeModuleTimeTheory / Practical
Friday,
Nov 19th7.30-10pm1. INTRODUCTION1 h(60 mins THEORY)
2. ROLE OF THE COACH1 h(60 mins THEORY)
3. COMMUNICATION0.5 h(30 mins THEORY)
Saturday, Nov 20th9.30am-12pm4. TECHNICAL PROFICIENCY2.5 h(20 mins THEORY
& 130 mins PRACTICAL)
    
Friday,
Nov 26th7.30-10pm5. TACTICAL PROWESS2.5 h(40 mins THEORY
& 110 mins PRACTICAL)
Saturday, Nov 27th9.30am-12pm6. TEAM PLAY2.5 h(30 THEORY
& 120 mins PRACTICAL)
    
Friday,
Dec 2nd7.30-10pm7. PHYSICAL FITNESS2.5 h(40 mins THEORY
& 110 mins PRACTICAL)
Saturday, Dec 3rd9.30am-1pm8. PLAYING FACTS1.5 h(90 mins THEORY)
9. PSYCHOLOGICAL FOCUS1.5 h(90 mins THEORY)
10. CONCLUSION0.5 h(30 mins THEORY)
   TOTAL: 16h(8 h THEORY
& 8 h PRACTICAL)

Carbery Beara U16 football
The inter-divisional U14 football tournament scheduled for Saturday, November 26th has been moved to Saturday, December 3rddue to the high levels of club activity currently ongoing. With Carbery having won the U15 tournament in Clonakilty in 2010, they will now be joined by their Beara counterparts to field two teams. Therefore a combined panel of over 40 players is being formed and an open invitation to all players is being extended. A number of players will attend the U17 games referred to above and the remainder will assemble in the near future. Further details to follow.
 
Carbery Beara U15 & U14 football
Due to the involvement of a number of clubs in county championships the inter-divisional U14 and U15 football tournaments have been postponed until late January. Collective training fro these panels will resume in the early 2012.
 
Carbery Beara U13 Emerging Players
Last week saw U13 hurlers and footballers from all around West Cork assemble for hurling and football sessions in Bandon, Skibbereen and Adrigole. These players will next assemble during the first week of January 2012 and continue as the U14 panel for the year. Thanks to Noel Crowley and James McCarthy for their help with the coaching and to parents for ferrying their sons to the various venues.

Cork Development Squads Physical Development Programme
A six-week physical development programme commenced throughout the county on last night, Monday, November 7th for hurlers and footballers on Cork development squads at U14, U15 and U16 level. At various venues, physical instructors, along with squads mentors and third level students, will strive to deliver 6 weeks of exercise instruction to players ensuring that technique is emphasized. The clear understanding is that ‘real' change in physical development may not occur in the 6 sessions, but this is not the key objective. The 6 sessions are a short development phase where focus is placed on players practicing ‘best' technique and experiencing what ‘correct' movement feels like. As a result players will use this ‘knowledge' in their training ongoing. Venues are spread throughout the county at Glantane, Caherlag, Glen Rovers and Ballinacarriga.

Cork Coaching Forum 'Fundamentals' Workshops
West Cork players involved in various squads will assemble at the magnificent indoor facilities at Randal Og GAA Club at different times throughout the evening under the guidance of Liam O'Reilly and Arthur Tobin. In future weeks, club coaches will be invited to attend and observe the sessions and eventually it is hoped that the programme will extend to divisional teams and ultimately the club player.
 
The Cork Sports Partnership recently launched a new initiative for coaches which aims to provide coaches/volunteers and leaders of underage sporting activities in Cork access to relevant, up to date and appropriate material, training and information. The Cork Coaching Forum is delighted that Coaching Ireland  who has the lead role in developing coaching in the country, have come on board as a partner with production of the modules to be delivered to the coaches.
Phase one of the programme is due to be rolled out this coming November, where coaches can attend the first module in one of four areas throughout the county. The first module entitled "An introduction to Coaching Children" will focus on the Fundamental skills and physical literacy which is key to the development of children in sport.  The session will help develop coaches understanding of the importance of fundamental movement skills and the benefit of these skills to each sport.  The evening will have both a theory and practical element to it along with a questions and answers/feedback session.
The dates for the first module of the Cork Coaching Forum are:
DateVenueTime
Tuesday November 8thCork Institute of Technology, Bishopstown7pm-9.30pm
Wednesday November 16thMICC, Dunmanway7pm-9.30pm
Thursday November 24thThe Youth Centre, Fermoy7pm-9.30pm
Tuesday November 29thCommunity School, Youghal7pm-9.30pm

For more information or to register for one of the events please contact the Cork Sports Partnership on 021-4665081 or go to www.corksports.ie . There is a nominal charge of €5 per person.

Mise le meas,
Kevin O'Donovan,
GAA Games Development Administrator,
Carbery Beara,
Ph. 086-7753567 http://www.rebelog.ie/

West Cork GAA Games Development News 01/11/11

On Monday last, the Carbery U14 hurlers lined out for the inter-divisional hurling blitz in CIT, playing in the B section which contained six teams. A win over Carrigdhoun in their opening game was followed by a win for Seandun B over the same opposition. This meant a deciding game versus the city boys, which Carbery duly won, to emerge as group winners.

With Imokilly B emerging from a group which included Duhallow and Muskerry, the final of the B competition saw Carbery open up a half-time lead of 0-10 to 0-3, after playing with a strong breeze. With the West Cork defence well in control throughout, this lead was never threatened, with a final score-line of 0-15 to 0-6 displaying a fine scoring return from a forty minute game.

A notable feature of the tournament was the fact that all 21 Carbery players made a significant contribution in each of the three games, before team captain, John O'Sullivan of Ahan Gales, finally lifted the tournament trophy, which was a worthy reward for all concerned.  Meanwhile, Avondhu won the A tournament after victories over both Seandun and Imokilly

Panel: John O'Sullivan and Sean Buttimer (Ahan Gaels), Jack Cahalane and David Kiely (Barryroe), David O'Donovan (Carbery Rangers), David Lowney, Tiernan O'Connell and Sean McEvoy (Clonakilty), Barry Kirby, Shane Scannell and Thomas Oige Scannell (Kilbree), Sean O'Donovan and Gerard Collins (Newcestown), Daniel O'Brien, Luke Murray and Colin Crowley (Pedlars Cross), Joseph O'Mahony, Eoin McCarthy, Aaron Ryan, Timothy McCarthy and Senan Healy (St. Brogans). 

Selectors; Tom Lyons (Clonakilty) and Ger O'Donovan (Carbery Rangers)

On Tuesday, over forty U13 hurlers from Carbery clubs assembled in Bandon, under the emerging players initiative, for a session with GPO Noel Crowley and GDA Kevin O'Donovan and no doubt these players will reassemble in 2012 in an attempt to retain the crown won by their older counterparts.

Meanwhile, divisional sessions continue throughout the week, with the Cabery Beara U14, U15 and U16 footballers training at Rossmore on Wednesday and the U13 emerging footballers meeting in three different groups at Skibbereen on Thursday.

Mise le meas,
Kevin O'Donovan,
GAA Games Development Administrator,
Carbery Beara,
Ph. 086-7753567 http://www.rebelog.ie/

West Cork GAA Games Development News 05/10/11

West Cork Primary Schools Programme
The West Cork GAA Primary School coaching scheme got off to a promising start last week, with coaching in nine schools getting off the ground. A total of over 800 pupils in Scoil Mhure Barra Rua, Kilmeen NS, Scoil Naisiúnta Rath A 'Bharraigh, Ardfield NS, Ahiohill NS, Kilcolman NS, Newcestown NS and Coppeen NS commenced a 5-week football programme under coaches Michael Mennis and Daniel Twomey. All pupils in each school will receive weekly coaching sessions during the period in question, with a 5-week hurling programme following next Spring.

All schools had previously completed a GAA survey on class sizes and teacher contact details. Continued development of this database will allow us to develop further plans to meet the needs of schools over the coming years.

Funding for the programme is currently provided from a number of sources such as participating clubs, schools and Carbery / Beara divisional boards. Further sources of funding are also being investigated.

Of course, the schools covered thus far represent a small fraction of the 90 primary schools in the Carbery and Beara divisions and the scheme will be expanded in the coming weeks, with a large number of other clubs and schools currently awaiting roll-out.

All contact with schools is made within the national Heads of Agreement guidelines and age-appropriate coaching is being carried out based on the principles established in the Fun Do coaching pack. Two central themes will drive all sessions however, namely the development of fundamental movement skills and the ability of players to complete all skills on left and right sides.

If your club or school would like further details regarding the scheme you can contact me at the details provided below.

Hurling Workshop at Na Piarsaigh
On next Monday, October 10th (7pm to 9pm) at Na Piarsaighs' GAA Grounds, Frank Flannery will host a hurling workshop aimed at Minor coaches. Frank was a mentor with the Cork U16 hurling development squad  this year and is the Cork Minor hurling coach for 2012/13. On the night he will work on tackling, overhead catching plus other drills. Fee €10 per person. Places are limited so if you wish to attend please contact Brian Murphy by email brian.murphy.gda.cork@gaa.ie or text him at 0867725377.

Foundation Level Coaching Course
A Foundation Coaching Course scheduled for Friday 21st October 7pm to 10pm and Saturday 22nd September 10am to 4pm.  The venue is to be confirmed but it will be a city venue.  This course is open to coaches from all clubs in Cork.  If you are interested in taking part in the course please contact Martin Coleman 086-7725372 or martin.coleman.gda.cork@gaa.ie to receive an application form.  The course is €20 per person.  Payment is to be made when the course is being booked and sent back with the application form.  The course has to be paid for in advance to secure your place on the course. Places are limited so book early to avoid disappointment.

St. Brogans' U12s Conquer Pairc Ui Chaoimh
While the Bandon intermediate hurlers reached their holy grail at Pairc Ui Chaoimh last Sunday, it's possible that they drew inspiration from their younger counterparts namely the St. Brogans' U12 hurlers who took to the field for the half-time Go Games. With 22 players lining out in two games versus Fr. O'Neills which were played simultaneously, it capped a memorable occasion for the young players and their mentors. Congratulations to all involved.

This week they will be followed by the U12 footballers from Castletownbere who will play at half-time in the intermediate football final versus Kinsale and indeed by Castlehaven U12s who will line out during the senior football final on Sunday week.

Mise le meas,
Kevin O'Donovan,
GAA Games Development Administrator,
Carbery Beara,
Kilmeen, Rossmore, Clonakilty, Co. Cork.
Ph. 086-7753567 http://www.rebelog.ie/

West Cork GAA Games Development News 26/09/11

Last Saturday, September 24th, saw almost one hundred U10 footballers converge on Sam Maguire Park, Dunmanway for the annual Munster U10 blitz programme. It turned out to be a local event with teams from Sam Mauires, Valley Rovers, Kilmeen, Newcestown and Carbery Rangers participating. Indeed, a total of 9 teams played in a 4-round format with games comprising of 20 minutes each. Teams of 10 aside meant that all players played a significant part in all games with a number of modified rules in play such as 'no 45s' and 'one hop / one solo' to ensure meaningful participation by all.

Of course, the smooth running of the event was mainly due to the organisational skills of Brian Collins form the host club, who organised the programme of games along with 5 playing pitches, referees and refreshments for players and parents. Scores were kept by referees for the duration of each game, however there was no collating of results subsequently.

Pictured are players from each of the participating clubs, namely, Carbery Rangers, Sam Maguires, Valley Rovers, Newcestown and Kilmeen.

Mise le meas,
Kevin O'Donovan,
GAA Games Development Administrator,
Carbery Beara,
Kilmeen, Rossmore, Clonakilty, Co. Cork.
Ph. 086-7753567 http://www.rebelog.ie/

West Cork GAA Games Development News 23/08/11

U13 & U14 hurling sessions in Carbery this week
Following a successful series of U13 football sessions last week, on this Thursday, August 25th, the hurling equivalent will take place in Rossmore. At 10am U13 players (born 1998) from all hurling clubs in Carbery are asked to attend a coaching session This will be followed at 12pm by a session for U14 players (born 1997), again from all hurling clubs in Carbery. Players are once more asked to bring €2 and to wear club gear, while parental notes are not required of players who attended football sessions last week.

On Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday of last week a total of over 120 U13 players were coached at sessions in Castlehaven, Rossmore and Adrigole with the vast majority of clubs responding to our request for players of all abilities. With a firm focus on movement and kicking off both feet, the attitude of all present was exemplary as they ran through a series of drills under the watchful eyes of James McCarthy and Michael Mennis in Carbery (pictured) and Aidan Cremin in Beara. These groups will receive further coaching at a future date and will form the basis of the Carbery and Beara U14 squads in 2012.

Meanwhile, the Carbery Beara U14 footballers also trained at Rossmore on last Saturday, under selectors Sean McCarthy (Bantry), JJ Santry (Kilmeen), Dan O'Sullivan (Carbery Rangers) and Diarmuid O'Callaghan (Mizen Rovers) in preparation for the inter-divisional tournament later this year. This panel, which currently contained 64 players will now be narrowed down to just over 40 from which two panels will then be selected for the tournament.

U10 Munster Inter-towns Blitzes
On Saturday, September, 24th next, U10 blitzes will take place at various club venues across Munster. Titled the ‘Munster Inter-towns Blitz', it offers the opportunity for any club with sufficient numbers to travel to or host teams from across the province. Each participating club will be asked to field two teams of 11, therefore panels of 24 players are required. Obviously it is aimed at the bigger urban clubs, however if you have any queries regarding same please do not hesitate to contact me at kevin.odonovan.gda.cork@gaa.ie .

U15 Munster Super Touch Blitzes
On Saturday, September 10th and 24th next, 9-aside U15 blitzes will take place across Munster in both hurling and football. These will be particularly suitable for teams that have been knocked out of championships, with successful teams from the first date qualifying for a finals day on the later date. If interested, please do not hesitate to contact me at kevin.odonovan.gda.cork@gaa.ie.

Inter-county Hurling Tournaments
On this Saturday Cork hurling teams at U14, U15, U16 and U17 hurling teams will travel across Munster as they attempt to repeat the success of their football counterparts last month. Venues include Waterford, Carrigaline, Tipperary and Mallow. A number of Carbery players and mentors are involved in the various squads and we wish them the best of luck in their endeavours. Further details will appear at a later date, once the official squads are named.

Bere Island Camp
The sports camps run by local development officer Siobhain Sexton allowed a rare opportunity for organised hurling sessions on Bere Island recently when the local children participated in GAA activities over two weeks in July and August. With a firm Kilbrittain influence in the area it is hoped to allow further development of hurling on a relatively informal basis locally and indeed within the wider Beara region.

Vhi Cul Camp Activity Days in Pairc Ui Chaoimh
On Wednesday and Thursday of this week, U10 football and hurling blitzes in Pairc Ui Chaoimh will bring the curtain down on our Cul Camp programme for another year. All clubs attending have now been allocated time slots by coordinator Noel Crowley. Many thanks to Noel and indeed all of the club coordinators and coaches who facilitated the 23 camps which ran throughout West Cork over the past 8 weeks. Thanks also to Patrick Kelly and the many other Cork players who visited camps locally. This programme continues to expand annually and we look forward to a time in the near future when all clubs will come on board.

School Coaching Workshop
Coiste Oiliúna will host a coaching workshop for club school link coaches (primary level) on next Tuesday, August 30th in Na Piarsaigh GAA Complex. Registration will take place @9.45am and the day will conclude at 3pm. Various elements will be included:  Warm Up and Fun Games incorporating ABC's; football and hurling sessions including skill development; STEP, IDEA, HHF; drills for the school yard; FUN DO pack. Contact kevin.ocallaghan.gm.cork@gaa.ie if you know of any schools coaches who wish to attend.

HSE GAA sessions
Over recent months a number of GAA sessions have run at Clonakilty GAA Astroturf for children from across West Cork in cooperation with the HSE and local occupational therapist Aileen McCarthy of the HSE West Cork Paediatric Service. With almost 30 children involved in the programme, fundamental movement skills for gaelic games has been the central theme of one-hour sessions completed in a safe and relaxed environment.

Munster U12 blitzes at Provincial Venues
Over the last few months a number of West Cork clubs have taken the opportunity to play at various Munster provincial venues in both football and hurling. With Clann na nGael gracing the sod at Fitzgerald Stadium, Killarney, Kilmeen and Carbery Rangers made the short trip to Pairc Ui Chaoimh, where a bonus included meeting Cork star Donnacha O'Connor for a questions and answers session afterwards (pictured). Meanwhile Pedlars played in the hurling equivalent at the Gaelic Grounds in Limerick, with Kilbrittain lining out on the hallowed turf at Semple Stadium, Thurles. Many thanks to the various club personnel who organised teams and buses etc.

Mise le meas,
Kevin O'Donovan,
GAA Games Development Administrator,
Carbery Beara,
Kilmeen, Rossmore, Clonakilty, Co. Cork.
Ph. 086-7753567 http://www.rebelog.ie/

West Cork Games GAA Development News 18/07/11  

'Cork West' Rebel Og U15 footballers capture Humphrey Kelleher
 
Last Saturday, saw the ‘Cork West' U15 footballers capture the Humphrey Kelleher Munster football title in Millstreet after an epic series of contests versus Clare, South Kerry and North Kerry. This combination which draws on players from Carbery, Muskerry and Beara is managed by James McCarthy of Castlehaven, along with Kevin O'Driscoll (Kilmacabea), Billy Twomey (Iveleary) and Charlie Wilson (Newcestown).
 
A panel of 24 players was selected for the day from a training panel of 32 who have met regularly at their base in Rossmore over the last few months: Michael Desmond, Cill Na Martra; Cian O'Donovan, Clonakilty; Alex Hasset, Ilen Og; John Mullins, Eire Og; Sean O'Leary, Bantry; Murt Kennelly, Newcestown; Denis Murphy, Eire Og; Conor Lowney, Urhan; Mike Dineen, Naomh Aban; Conor Nolan, Castlehaven; Damien O'Gorman, Kilmeen; Chris Moynihan, Gabriel Og; Michael Hurley, Castlehaven; Diarmuid O'Callaghan, Kilmacabea; Kevin Whooley, Kilmacabea; Colm O'Driscoll, Castlehaven; Martin Collins, Kilmacabea; JP Maughan, Clonakilty; Euan Tobin, Kilmacabea; Cathal Nyhan, Pedlars Cross; John Poland, Ballinora; Greg Long, Aghabullogue; Barry O'Leary, Iveleary; Aaron Raw, Inniscarra.
 
In the first round versus Clare in Dromtarriffe, the Cork lads were slow to settle and retired at the short whistle with the sides level on a score line of 1-3, apiece. A few positional switches, along with the introduction of Martin Collins and John Poland led to more control around the middle third and a series of attacks saw the floodgates eventually open. Barry O'Leary came off the bench to claim two majors and the control of Alex Hasset and Sean O'Leary in defence ensured a comfortable passage to the semi-final, notwithstanding an outstanding save from Cork goalkeeper, Michael Desmond. Final score; Rebel Og (Cork) 6-4 Clare 1-7; Scorers Micheal Hurley 3-2 (1-0 pen, 0-1 f), Damien O'Gorman 1-1, Conor Nolan 0-1, Barry O'Leary 2-0.
 
With Kerry South comprehensively beating Limerick in the corresponding quarter final, it meant a semi-final against the side that had beaten the West Cork lads at U14 level in 2010. This was a high intensity battle with Cork playing well in the first half, going in ahead 1-5 to 0-2 at the break, with another penalty from Michael Hurley, along with points from Conor Nolan, John Poland, Kevin Whooley and Hurley.
 
In the 2nd half both defences were on top, with some great defending on the Cork side from John Mullins and Cian O'Donovan in the corners. Meanwhile, Murt Kennelly and his flankers, Denis Murphy and Sean O'Leary picked up all the loose ball around the half back line, while O'Leary found time to venture forward and land a monster point from 45 metres out. With the Kerry lads confined to a single second half point it allowed Cork to rotate their squad with Euan Tobin, Aaron Rawe, Conor Lowney, Barry O'Leary, Diarmuid O'Callaghan all making valuable contributions when introduced. Final score Rebel Og (Cork) 1-7, Kerry South 0-3
 
Then it was on to Millstreet to play in the Humphery Kelleher Final against Kerry North, who won the Jim Power U14 trophy in 2010. With high wind and driving rain, playing conditions were daunting for two tired sets of players. Cork were first to get on the score sheet with a Chris Moynihan free, with Kerry replying with a pointed free. Quick thinking from Conor Nolan from a free then found JP Maughan on the edge of the square who duly blasted it to the Kerry net. Martin Collins added to the Cork score line with a great point from a solo run, however Cork then lost their way in the last ten minutes of the half to concede 1-2, leaving the half time score Cork 1-2 Kerry 1-3.
 
Cork now found themselves a point down playing against a stiff wind and driving rain, but a different side was to emerge from the dressing room. Kevin Whooley came on to kick a great free against the wind and then a barnstorming run from Mike Dineen found Whooley once more who was upended in the square resulting in a penalty. Up stepped Michael Hurley to bury yet another major. Whooley continued his tour de force with another point from the right corner and John Poland who switched to wind back in the 2nd half for the injured Denis Murphy, went on a solo run to land another beauty.
 
Cork were now playing some quality football and another point from Mike Dineen who had a storming 2nd half made it 2-6 to 1-3. Cork's defence was then put under pressure, but O'Donovan, Kenneally, Hasset and Mullins came up trumps and while two late Kerry points followed, a final score of 2-6 to 1-5 led to great joy and celebrations when the long whistle sounded. Indeed the spirit and heart shown in the 2nd half when Corks backs were to the wall augurs well for the future, with the whole panel contributing to success over the three games in the tournament. Captain Martin Collins then received the Humphery Kelleher cup from the Kelleher family to a rapturous reception.
 
Thanks to the Dromtarriff club, the North regional board and Millstreet club for the welcome meal provided after the game. Also thanks to the Coiste Oiliuna and Coiste na nOg and indeed the parents for their support throughout the day. With players and mentors having started out from West Cork at the crack of dawn, the tired men that returned later that day remained a credit to the clubs that they represented, from all corners of the three divisions and to all the mentors that have worked so diligently with them over their playing careers so far.

Kevin O'Donovan,
GAA Games Development Administrator,
Carbery Beara,
Kilmeen, Rossmore, Clonakilty, Co. Cork.
Ph. 086-7753567 http://www.corkgaagamesdevelopment.ie/

West Cork GAA Games Development News 11/07/11

Coach Education
A 20 hour Coaching course for teachers at primary level concluded last Friday at the West Cork Education Centre, Dunmanway. The Role of Gaelic Games in the Curriculum: a cross-curricular approach incorporated the standard foundation level coaching course in both football and hurling as well as presentations on: inclusion (Yvonne Bennett, Cork Sports Partnership); games (William Harmon Ladies football coaching officer); Ceim ar Aghaidh schools' coaching resource (Liam Weir) camogie skills; (Tom Pierce, Camogie tutor); and handball (Ashley Prenderville, coaching officer). A corresponding course also ran in Glantane (Kilshannig GAA) under Martin Coleman and Kevin O'Callaghan, for the remainder of the county.

The following attended Hilary Wilson, Presentation Primary School, Bandon; Breda Herlihy, Marie Crowley, St. Mary's Infants, Dunmanway; Mairéad Twohig, St. Marys N.S., Enniskeane; Anne Marie Fleming, Ahiohill N.S. Carol Fleming Barryroe N.S.; Joan Corkery, Our Lady of Mercy, Bantry; Elaine Brookes, St. Andrew's N.S. Lucan; Alice O'Connor, Castletownshend N.S.; Patrick O'Meara, St. Finbarr's BNS Bantry; Tony O'Farrell Sunday's Well BNS, Cork; Niamh O'Leary, St. Patrick's BNS, Wicklow; Michael Mennis, Reenascreena.

Thanks to the West Cork Education Centre, Dohenys GAA Club and Randal Og GAA Club for the use of their magnificent facilities.

This brings to 740 the number of Foundation Level coaches qualified in West Cork over the past two years. After a significant delay, certificates for all courses will soon follow. Our coach education programme will recommence next autumn with Award 1 courses for youth and adult coaches. It is planned to now coordinate all future coach education with local education institutions at second level. Meanwhile, Foundation Level courses will follow in the new year after club agms and the recruitment of new coaches at club level.

This spring has seen the number of West Cork coaching tutors expand, with the addition of Gavin Kelly (Newcestown and Clonakilty CC) and David Burns (Castlehaven and Bantry CC) to our team. They will join James McCarthy (Castlehaven) and John McCarthy (Clonakilty) in providing future courses at Foundation and Award 1 Level. Meanwhile, Martin Coleman and Kevin O'Donovan will soon join Brian Lotty as qualified tutor trainers. This will allow the roll out of further tutor training courses locally. If you wish to become a GAA tutor and assist in the roll-out of coach education programmes please do not hesitate to contact us.

Meanwhile, James McCarthy has joined the panel of Code of Ethics tutors and continues to be available for courses in this area also.
 
Cork West U15 football
On Saturday, 25 players assembled in CIT as part of the Cork West U15 football selection for two games against two Dublin U15 selections. A comprehensive win in the first game saw good performances from Michael Hurley (1-5), Damien O'Gorman (1-1) and Mike Dineen, amongst others.  In the second game the Carbery/Muskerry/Beara lads again emerged as clear victors. Once more, the above players shone along with Murt Kennelly and Sean O'Leary. All 25 players got game time between the two games before receiving dinner in the CIT canteen. It was a good work-out, a week before the Humphery Kelleher Munster U15 tournament in Millstreet, with players gaining experience on playing 2 x 40 minute games back to back and also for the mentors on how best to rotate the panel. The management would like to thank the Dublin teams for travelling, the physio, referees and the county board for their support.

Panel: Murt Kennelly, Cian O'Donovan, Alex Hassett, John Mullins, Denis Murphy, Sean O'Leary, Greg Long, Euan Tobin, Darragh Casey, Chris Moynihan, Diarmuid O'Callaghan, Kevin Whooley, Conor Nolan, Michael Hurley, Damien O'Gorman JP Maughan, Cian Healy, Barry O'Leary, Jack O'Driscoll, Mike Dineen, Conor Lowney, Cathal Nyhan, Aaron Raw, Colm O'Driscoll, Michael Desmond.

At the same time in Rossmore, the Carbery & Beara U15 footballers were joined by a number of their Muskerry counterparts for a coaching session. Players ran through a series of drills on key skills and game situations focussing on each of the skills categories namely: contesting, gaining, maintaining and releasing possession. Great enthusiasm from all players was on view throughout.

Finally, best of luck to all Cork teams, at U14, U15 and U16 level, that are involved in inter-county football tournaments at various venues on next Saturday, July 16th. Reports will follow next week.
 
West Cork Primary Schools Programme
A highly constructive meeting took place on last Thursday night with the officers of the South West Junior Board in relation to introducing a comprehensive schools' coaching in West Cork for the forthcoming academic year. With 89 primary schools situated in the Carbery and Beara divisions, the proposed scheme will aim to offer a GAA coaching programme to all schools, with the local club, the South West board and the regional GDA coordinating a clearly defined and mutually agreed programme. A tie-in with transition year students and club coaching programmes is also being considered. Discussions are still at an early stage so if any clubs or schools wish to put forward any ideas, please do not hesitate to contact us.
 
U12 Provincial Activity Days
Over the next month, a number of West Cork clubs will take part in U12 blitzes at a number of county grounds in Munster. Panel of up to 20 will assemble and play 10 a side games against teams from all over Munster. The schedule is as follows:
U12 Football @Fitzgerald Stadium, Killarney; July 20th Clann na nGael;
U12 Football @Pairc Ui Chaoimh, Cork; July 27th - Kilmeen & Carbery Rangers;
U12 Hurling @Gaelic Grounds, Limerick; August 4th - Ballinascarthy;
U12 hurling @Semple Stadium, Thurles; August 10th - Kilbrittain
 
U10 Munster Inter Towns Blitzes
A number of clubs have made queries regarding this programme. On September 24th next three hurling clubs and three football clubs from Carbery and Beara will send a panel of 22 players to venues across Munster. At each venue four clubs will field two teams of eleven each. Each team will play 3x20 minute games. Some clubs will be drawn at home, while others will be allocated to a venue in south Munster. A number of places have already been filled, so please let us know if your club would like to participate.
 
Le meas,
Kevin O'Donovan,
GAA Games Development Administrator,
Carbery Beara,
Kilmeen, Rossmore, Clonakilty, Co. Cork.
Ph. 086-7753567 http://www.corkgaagamesdevelopment.ie/

West Cork GAA Games Development News 04/07/11

Foundation Level Coaching Course
On Saturday last, 18 coaches completed a football and hurling Foundation level coaching course under the instruction of tutor Brendan O'Driscoll at Rossmore. Padraig O'Donovan, Anthony Murphy, Sinead O'Mahony Clonakilty; Sean Woods, John Mears Ol. Plunketts; Mark Sugrue Bandon; Dan McEoin, Ilen Rovers; John O'Rourke, Padraig Hicks, Michael Mennis Carbery Rangers; Darren Murphy Ballincollig; Peter Fitzgerald Kinsale; Jane Ward Muintir Bhaire; Eilis Nyhan, Tony Harrington St. Colms; Aidan O'Donoghue Kilbrittain; Kevin Manning, Iveleary; Angela McCarthy Enniskeane Camogie. A large number of these coaches will be travelling across west Cork this summer, coaching at various Vhi Cul camps, the first of which are running at Adrigole and Caheragh this week.

Meanwhile, the primary teachers coaching course runs from Monday to Friday this week at the West Cork Education Centre and Sam Maguire Park, Dunmanway. Yvonne Bennett from Cork Sports Partnership was a welcome visitor today for a practical coaching session with a focus on inclusion.
 
Development Squads / School of Excellence
The following U14 players are currently involved with the Cork squads who are in preparation for the inter-county blitz on Saturday July 16th next: Shane McCarthy, Killian O'Sullivan, Tim Foley Bantry Blues; Cathal O'Rourke Carbery Rangers; Ronan Walsh, Patrick Bohane, Conor Cahalane, Finbarr Maguire Castlehaven; Ross Mannix, Sean McEvoy, David Lowney Clonakilty; Gary Murphy Castletownbere; Tom Bushe, Liam Coombes Ilen Og; Brian Keohane, Darren Santry Kilmeen; Connor Ellis St. Colms. Mentors Sean McCarthy (Bantry) and Paul Holland (Argideen Rangers) are also involved.

Meanwhile, at U15 level the Cork West squad were in CIT during the week for a game with their Cork counterparts and after a useful run out will reassemble once more in Rossmore on this Wednesday night @7.30pm. This will be followed by a game with a Dublin selection in CIT on this Saturday @1pm. The final panel of 24 for the tournament on Saturday, July 16th will then be announced after training on next Monday night. The following 32 players are currently part of the panel:

Sean O'Leary Bantry Blues; Michael Hurley, Conor Nolan, Colm O'Driscoll Castlehaven; Cian O'Donovan, JP Maughan, Joe White Clonakilty; Eddie O'Sullivan Colm Og; Chris Moynihan Gabriel Og; Alex Hassett, Darragh Casey Ilen Og; Martin Collins, Diarmuid O'Callaghan, Kevin Whooley, Euan Tobin Kilmacabea; Damien O'Gorman Kilmeen; Murt Kennelly, Cian Healy Newcestown; Cathal Nyhan Pedlars Cross; Jonathan Mulcahy St. Brogans; Conor Lowney Urhan; Greg Long Aghabullogue; John Poland Ballinora; Michael Desmond Cill Na Martra; John Mullins, Denis Murphy, Jack O'Driscoll Eire Og; Peter Worth, Sean O'Donoghue, Aaron Raw Inniscarra; Barry O'Leary Iveleary; Mike Dineen Naomh Aban.
 
Also, the following players are part of the Carbery Beara U15 panel and are asked to reassemble in Rossmore on Saturday morning @10.30am for a coaching session:
Cathal O'Donovan Argideen Rangers; Tim Cronin, Eoin Lynch Bantry; Damien O'Brien, John Hodnett Carbery Rangers, Csaba O'Mahony Castlehaven; Connor O'Mahony Clann na nGael; Darragh McCullagh, Mark Lynch, Eoghan Deasy Clonakilty; Stephen Holland Colm Og; Stephen O'Sullivan Glengarriff, Darren O'Donovan Mizen Rovers; Daniel O'Driscoll, Sean O'Donovan Ilen Og; Odhran Connolly, Shane McDermott Kilmacabea; Liam O'Brien, Eamon Barrett Kilmeen; Greg O'Sullivan Muintir Bhaire Og; Jason Jordan Newcestown; Eoin O'Brien Pedlars Cross; Edward Ahern St. Brogans.
 
Finally, at the time of writing, the following Carbery players were part of the Cork U16 football squads that are also in preparation for the inter-county tournaments: Don O'Driscoll Clann na nGael; Jack O'Mahony Clonakilty; Jack Bushe Ilen Og; Richie O'Sullivan, Niall Hayes Kilmacabea; Conor O'Driscoll Mizen Rovers; Michael McSweeney, Trevor Horgan Newcestown; Michael Cahalane, Patrick O'Brien St. Brogans.

Many thanks to all clubs as well as the regional boards for for adjusting club fixture programmes, thus allowing their players to line out for Cork. Various divisional coaching camps for players of all age groups will follow in late July, after the inter-county tournaments, depending on regional club championships.
 
U14 Feile Peil na nGael
Well done to all participating and host clubs that took part in the U14 All Ireland football Feile last weekend. Special thanks go to the coaches, coordinators, referees, caterers and stewards at the various venues, who ensured the smooth running of events over the three days. West Cork was well represented in the later stages by Kilmacabea who reached the semi-final of Division 6 and Ahan Gaels who reached the final in Division 3.
 
U8 Contacts
Many thanks to clubs that forwarded U8 coaching contacts following the last regional meeting. A sheet including over 20 clubs has been emailed to your club's juvenile runai. If clubs require help organising blitzes at this age level, they can contact me by phone or email. U8 Play and Stay blitzes continue to run for the selected clubs.
 
U10 Munster Blitzes
I am currently seeking three hurling and three football panels to participate in Munster U10 blitzes on September 24th next. Participating clubs will field two teams of eleven players to play in blitzes across Munster. The scheme is aimed at town teams, however any club may enter, given sufficient playing numbers. If interested, you can let me know.
U12 Leagues
Most clubs have forwarded player numbers for participating in the upcoming U12 leagues. These leagues are now likely to start on Monday week, July 18th. All details to be forwarded to regional runai Eddie Moloney.

Kevin O'Donovan,
GAA Games Development Administrator,
Carbery Beara,
Kilmeen, Rossmore, Clonakilty, Co. Cork.
Ph. 086-7753567 http://www.corkgaagamesdevelopment.ie/

West Cork GAA Games Development News 27/06/11 

WCEC Teachers' Course
Next week, starting Monday July 4th, a GAA summer course for teachers, will be held at the West Cork Education Centre (Dunmanway). The 20 hour course, running over five days, is registered as an official Department of Education summer course (eligible for course days) and incorporates the Foundation level coaching course also. Places are still available. Contact WCEC for further details wcecentre@eircom.net

Foundation Level Coaching Course
On this Saturday, July 2nd, a one-day Foundation level coaching course will take place at Rossmore. The course is specifically aimed at Vhi Cul camp coaches who must gain the relevant qualification before the beginning of camps on the following week. However all coaches are welcome. The course will begin @10am sharp. Fee €20. Contact kevin.odonovan.gda.cork@gaa.ie or 086-7753567 to register.

School Blitzes
On Tuesday, June 21st last, the pupils and teachers Dreeny NS, Caheragh NS and Dromore NS assembled at Tadhg MacCarthaigh GAA Grounds, in Caheragh for an end-of year coaching blitz. Over the previous six weeks the schools had participated in a Fundamentals coaching programme in both football and hurling with the local GDA. On this occasion 130 pupils from Junior Infants to 6th class lined out for a football blitz.

Two groups of four teams were chosen, with separate blitzes running for 1st to 3rd and 4th to 6th, respectively. Meanwhile a ‘no-holes-barred' game was organised for mixed teams of Junior and Senior Infants. Many thanks to the teachers and club personnel for their help on the day, as well as TY student Alison Dullea from Ahiohill. Finally, the support of Cork Sports Partnership in running this programme is gratefully acknowledged.

A further schools blitz took place on Wednesday, June 15th of this month in St. Colum's GAA Grounds in Kealkil, involving five local schools, namely, Coomhola N.S. Kealkill N.S, Cappabue, Dromclough and Derrycreha, All of these schools have previously undergone a hugely successful 4 month schools training programme under St. Colum's coach and UL student Jason Wycherley.

160 children from 2nd to 6th class participated. Boys and girls of 2nd & 3rd classes were mixed into ten teams, 4th to 6thgirls into five teams and 4th to 6th boys into 5 teams. The format was run on a league basis and each team was allocated a county name. On the following Friday, Cork senior footballer Alan O' Connor and club player Wesley O' Connor called to the five schools and presented each child with a certificate for having participated in the St. Colum's schools training programme. Many thanks to club coordinator Tom Farley of Coomhola NS, for overseeing the coaching programme and the end-of-year blitz.

‘Cork West' U15s
On Saturday last, June 25th, 26 players from this squad assembled in CIT for a challenge game versus a Cork U16 trial selection. Three 20 min periods were played with all players participating. Players who impressed on the day were Cian O'Donovan, John Poland, Damien O'Gorman, Murt Kennelly and Mike Dineen. A high intensity game proved to be a very good workout for both teams. Dr Paul O'Keeffe then hosted a talk on nutrition with the squad with particular emphasis on pre and post-match refuelling. This squad will reassemble in CIT on this Thursday, June 30th for a challenge match versus a ‘Cork East' U15 selection.

Meanwhile, large numbers of Carbery and Beara players are also involved with Cork U14 footballers (3 teams) and Cork U16 footballers (2 teams), as all three age groups prepare for inter-county tournaments on Saturday, July 16th. Further details on these squads will follow next week.

Beara ‘Play & Stay Blitz'
On last Saturday, June 25th the U8 footballers of Urhan, Garnish, Glengarriff, Castletownbere, Adrigole and Tuosist took to the field at Eyeries for a blitz, with up 50 players playing simultaneously. Despite the weather, there was honest endeavour throughout and the same players will reconvene at Glengarriff on Saturday, June 9th, with a further blitz to follow in Cahermore at a later date. Many thanks to Terence O'Shea for coordinating the dates and to the Urhan club for the impressive layout of pitches on the day.

All Ireland Feile Peil na nOg
The All Ireland U14 Feile na nGael arrives in West Cork later this week and best wishes go to the teams involved: Clonakilty (Division 1); Bantry, Castlehaven, Sam Maguires, St. Brogans (Division 2); Kilmeen, Clann na nGael, Ahan Gaels (Division 3); Glengarriff, Kilmacabea (Division 6).

Munster GAA Child Coaching Programme
A coaching meeting was held at Bantry Blues GAA Club on Monday night in the first of a series of meetings with a number of West Cork clubs. The programme entails both meetings and coaching sessions, during which a club reviews and develops a coaching and games programme for 6-12 year olds. The three main issues which emerged on the night were schools coaching programmes, club coaching plans and the recruitment of coaches.

U12 & U8 details
Further to last week's bulletin, all clubs are reminded to forward playing numbers for the upcoming U12 leagues to Eddie Moloney before the end of the week. Having sought clarification from the county games manager, we are informed that the proposed leagues are not in contravention of general rule. Meanwhile, a query to Croke Park has confirmed that no permission has been given to any counties to organise any U12 games for teams of greater than the 11-aside specified in general rule.

Meanwhile, a number of clubs have returned contact details for U8 coaches and this list will be circulated next week. If you wish to play games at this level, please submit details before the end of the week.

Kevin O'Donovan,
GAA Games Development Administrator,
Carbery Beara,
Kilmeen, Rossmore, Clonakilty, Co. Cork.
Ph. 086-7753567 http://www.corkgaagamesdevelopment.ie/

West Cork GAA Games Development News 20/06/11

‘Cork West' U15 Football Squads

The following players are currently part of a 29-man ‘Cork West' U15 football squad which is currently in training for the inter-county tournament on July 16th next, in Millstreet. In preparation, they will play a Cork U16 selection in CIT on this Saturday, June 25th in CIT, followed by a fixture versus their city counterparts on Thursday, June 30th. A panel of over forty players has trained at their base in Rossmore over the last few months under Charlie Wilson, Billy Twomey, Kevin O'Driscoll and James McCarthy (pictured).

Panel: Murt Kennelly, Newcestown; Colm O'Driscoll, Castlehaven; Alex Hasset, Ilen Og; Cian O'Donovan, Clonakilty; Sean O'Leary, Bantry; Cian Healy, Newcestown; Michael Hurley, Castlehaven; Conor Nolan, Castlehaven; Joe White, Clonakilty; Eddie O'Sullivan, Colm Og; Chris Moynihan, Gabriel Og; Martin Collins, Kilmacabea; Diarmuid O'Callaghan, Kilmacabea; Damien O'Gorman, Kilmeen; JP Maughan, Clonakilty; Kevin Whooley, Kilmacabea; Jonathan Mulcahy, St. Brogans; Cathal Nyhan, Pedlars Cross; Darragh Casey, Ilen Og; John Mullins, Eire Og; John Poland, Ballinora; Denis Murphy, Eire Og; Greg Long, Aghabullogue; Peter Worth, Inniscarra; Barry O'Leary, Iveleary; Sean O'Donoghue, Inniscarra; Michael  Desmond, Cill Na Martra; Mike Dineen, Naomh Aban; Aaron Raw, Inniscarra.

Meanwhile, on Saturday July 9th, this squad will reassemble at 10.30am for training in Rossmore, where they will be joined by the extended Carbery-Beara squad which contains the following 25 players:

Panel: Conor Lowney, Urhan; Stephen Holland, Colm Og; Jason Jordan, Newcestown; Euan Tobin, Kilmacabea; Tim Cronin, Bantry; Odhran Connolly, Kilmacabea; Damien O'Brien, Carbery Rangers; Liam O'Brien, Kilmeen; Darragh McCullagh, Clonakilty; Edward Ahern, St. Brogans; Mark Lynch, Clonakilty; Eoin O'Brien, Pedlars Cross; Shane McDermott, Kilmacabea; Daniel O'Driscoll, Ilen Og; Sean O'Donovan, Ilen Og; Darren O'Donovan, Mizen Rovers; Eoin Lynch, Bantry; Eoghan Deasy, Clonakilty; Cathal O'Donovan, Argideen Rangers; John Hodnett, Carbery Rangers; Csaba O'Mahony, Castlehaven; Greg O'Sullivan, Muintir Bhaire Og; Eamon Barrett, Kilmeen; Connor O'Mahony, Clann na nGael; Stephen O'Sullivan, Glengarriff.

Later this summer, Carbery-Beara will field two teams in the inter-divisional tournament from the 44 players listed in their quest to continue last year's dominance at U14, U15 and U16 level.

Lee Flag Presentations

At a recent ceremony in Pairc Ui Chaoimh, seven Carbery clubs received Lee Flag awards in recognition of their sterling work at underage level. This project, which was launched in 2010, contained a wide range of key targets for a progressive underage setup, such as schools coaching programmes, the provision of coaching officers, number of qualified coaches etc. The following clubs from Carbery received cheques from Cork County Board on the night as well as a flag to be raised at club grounds in recognition of their achievements: Kilbrittain, Kilmacabea, Kilmeen & Kilbree, Clann na nGael, Castlehaven, St. Brogans, Bantry.  Details of this year's programme are posted on various websites. Pictured; Kevin O'Donovan, Carbery Beara GDA, Jerry O'Sullivan, Chairman Cork County Board, Phil Murphy, St. Brogan's GAA.

U8 Play & Stay Launch

The U8 Play & Stay programme was recently launched in Pairc Ui Chaoimh, with over 40 Cork clubs receiving equipment packs and details of the programme of fixtures. Over the summer months, participating clubs will meet up for Fun blitzes and games in both hurling and football. Three groups have been set up in West Cork, involving the following clubs; Kilbrittain, Argideen Rangers, Barryroe, St. Brogan's (all hurling); O'Donovan Rossa, Ilen Og, Gabriel Og, Mizen Rovers (all football); Urhan, Garnish, Glengarriff, Castletownbere, Adrigole (all football).

Child Players; Games Development Proposal

A coaching and games programme for 6 to 12 year old in West Cork

Given the wide range of issues which have arisen with changing underage structures recently and the dispersed geographical area of Carbery and Beara, a monthly forum for clubs to voice their opinions and ideas in regards to both coaching and games programmes for 6 to 12 year olds in West Cork was recently proposed.

It would operate as a subcommittee (chaired by Kevin Greene) of the existing regional underage board which is currently chaired by Aidan O'Rourke and any proposals would be forwarded to its secretary Eddie Moloney and the committee for consideration. I believe that, given the pressure that all officers are currently under to complete fixture programmes from U13 to U18, this new subcommittee would allow more time for discussion on a suitable games format for the 6-12 year old group in particular.

Given that there is now a clear divide from 12 year old downwards, with no championships and therefore no county deadlines etc, allowed under general rule, this committee would initially focus on the many challenges facing coaches in terms of playing numbers, the layout of pitches, appropriate levels of competition etc. Subsequently, monthly meetings could cover other games development areas such as coach education, schools programmes, coaching plans etc. The following points were recorded at the first of these meetings.

Date; June 16th, 2011.                     Venue; Sam Maguire Park, Dunmanway

Agenda; U12, U10, U8 Games Programmes

Present; Western Region Committee, Kevin O'Donovan GDA, Club officers and coaches.

U12 Games Programme

Motion;                                "GAMES in U12 and younger age groups shall be organised on the Go Games model with teams being a maximum of 11-a-side and structured to ensure that all participants get to play in the full game.

At U12 level, competitions may also be organised on a mini-league format on the basis that the teams are a maximum of 11-a-side and that provision is made for all members of the team panel participate in the game."

•(i)                 Competition Structures

There was a majority view that an element of competition was required as an incentive for players. It was accepted that bringing back championships was off the agenda for now, however a league format with each team guaranteed a league final in both football and hurling would allow a moderate level of competition.

A number of coaches expressed satisfaction with the current fixtures, however most coaches felt that we had moved too far from the old model. Therefore, the commitment of players had fallen thus allowing other codes to encroach further upon the GAA playing season. Yet it was agreed that if the bad behaviour seen on sidelines previously, re-emerged, leagues would have to be reviewed once more.

Also, it was pointed out that there remained a contradiction between competitive structures and giving everyone a game. Therefore it was decided that no U10s should play in the soon to be organised U12 end -of-year leagues. However, if a club could not comfortably reach 11 players, they could seek permission of the board to use younger players.

The contrast with the highly competitive structures in place for Sciath na Scol was noted, however as these competitions are U13, they are not directly affected by the motion in question.

The difficulty in fielding teams at U12, U13 and U14 level within four days was noted. Due to uncertainty regarding U12 competitions, many clubs had entered at U13 level despite not having an abundance of players. This intensive fixture programme has come at the expense of coaching. However, the fixture programme is now largely governed by Coiste na nOg and there are deadlines on all competitions from U13 upwards.

•(ii)               Games Format

There was general dissatisfaction with limiting teams to 11 players, however this remains part of general rule and therefore is not up for negotiation at present. Some coaches felt that in smaller-sided games, one or two strong players could dominate more easily.

Clubs were also unhappy with fielding two teams concurrently. However, there was no clear answer from the floor with regard to the number at which a club should field two teams i.e. if a club had 16 players, should they play 2 x8 or 1 x11 with 5 subs? It was stated that some players are opposed to splitting up into two teams.

Placing a requirement on coaches to play all players, all of the time also removes the useful tool of substituting players to improve discipline.

The financial strain on clubs having to provide two sets of goalposts was noted.

The value of recording scores in U12 games for grading was noted, however in a few cases this could be skewed by the use of girls at U12 level. Of course, these girls are subsequently ineligible to play at U13 level.

A query was raised regarding the recording of scores and whether this was in contravention of the motion passed at congress. There is no problem in this regard, as there is provision for leagues under the motion.

For the upcoming league format, neutral referees were considered essential and there was dissatisfaction with the use of local referees heretofore.

The greatest difficulty this year has been matching teams with similar numbers. Clubs were asked to be more clear on the numbers available to allow appropriate groupings.

Travelling long distances also proved to be a problem for western clubs. It was agreed that this would be taken into consideration when grouping clubs for future leagues.

ACTION

All clubs who are interested in entering leagues are asked to correspond with Eddie by email before Friday, July 1st. Please supply numbers of players at U12, U11 and U10 in both codes. League fixtures and a suitable format for games will then be published at the subsequent regional board meeting on Monday, July 4th. Games are to be played on Monday nights from mid-July onwards, after the conclusion of U13 competitions.

Teams may be grouped in groups of four or six. It has yet to be decided whether to run the leagues, alternating between football and hurling or finishing one code before starting the other.

U10 Games Programme

The major issue at this age level was the pairing of teams with similar numbers. With the board having grouped teams based on numbers there was clearly a discrepancy between available numbers on a given night and the numbers recorded initially.

It was also felt that playing every week did not allow sufficient room for coaching, particularly in hurling and that fortnightly fixtures were sufficient. Also given the low-intensity nature of games and coaching at this level, a longer playing season could be incorporated.

U8 Games Programme

There were mixed views on the provision of games at U8 level. Having too many organised fixtures came at the expense of coaching. However, having a season of coaching without a game was deemed to be the other extreme.

ACTION

Therefore, it was decided to compile and circulate a list of U8 coaches to allow clubs to contact each other if they required games. Clubs are asked to email me contacts kevin.odonovan.gda.cork@gaa.ie In hurling, it was agreed to confine games to ground hurling and to focus on perfecting the grip and striking off both sides. Puck-outs could be replaced by restarting the game with a throw-in at midfield.

West Cork GAA Games Development News 16/06/11

A large crowd of young coaches attended Rossmore on last Saturday for a Cul Camp coaching workshop with Martin Coleman (Cork GDA) and James McCarthy (Cork U15 & Castlehaven). The theme of the day was the use of games and drills for coaching 6-12 year olds. Two-hour sessions were run in both hurling and football and numerous valuable tips were provided for the coaches in attendance who will now provide their expertise at 24 Vhi Cul camps in West Cork this year. The following points were considered essential for all coaches;

•1.       Communication: Language, Rapport, Praise, Use of names

•2.       Organised Fun

•3.       Hurling grip: Hurley hand and Helping hand = C-swing

•4.       Focus on Fundamental Movement Skills; Agility, Balance, Coordination etc

•5.       Small groups for drills and games

•6.       Progression; Challenging Achievable Tasks

•7.       Competition through Games

•8.       Keep active - 45 minutes

•9.       Fun AND Focus on skill

•10.   Vary the type of equipment used... sponge balls, ropes, hoops, beanbags etc

•11.   Think on your feet - adjust degree of difficulty depending on success

•12.   Design games to make players think

•13.   Emphasis on movement skills, speed and decision making

•14.   No ‘Strong and Weak' in football.....just Left and Right!

On Saturday, July 2nd next, there will be a one-day Foundation Level coaching course held in Rossmore in both football and hurling. This will provide a final chance for Cul Camp coaches to receive this mandatory qualification for all coaches attending camps. To book places, email kevin.odonovan.gda.cork@gaa.ie

West Cork Squads

On Wednesday night, a West Cork selection travelled to CIT for an U14 football fixture versus a Duhallow / Avondhu combination. This group had assembled in Rossmore with on the previous Friday for a coaching session with Paudie Kissane (Cork GDA) and Paul Holland (Cork U14) as part of the Cork School of Excellence programme. The main part of this programme has seen 22 other players from West Cork travel to six consecutive sessions on Sunday nights in both CIT and Rossmore.

Wednesday night's game saw the Carbery and Beara lads in control for most of the hour with a number of players staking a strong claim for accession to the School of Excellence squad. Those who played on the night were as follows: John O'Sullivan, Gearoid O'Donovan, Sean Buttimer Ahan Gaels; Eoin Lawton, Eoin Holland Argideen Rangers; Owen O'Flynn, Shane Keevers Bantry Blues; Jack Cahalane Barryroe; Aidan Pearce, David Whelton, Ian Casey Castlehaven; Zach Harrington, Clonakilty; Declan Dunne, James Kelly Castletownbere; Eoin McElhinny      , Tadgh McCarthy, Sean McCarthy Glengarriff; Barry Kirby, Oige Scannell   , Shane Scannell Kilmeen; Timothy O'Sullivan, Sean O'Donovan Newcestown; Luke Murray, Daniel O'Brien, Colin Crowley Pedlars Cross; Joseph O'Mahony St. Brogans; Sean McCarthy Tadhg MacCarthaigh.

A few weeks previously, many of the same players lined out for the Carbery U14 hurlers for in inter-divisional blitz, playing both Muskerry and Seandun at Riverstick. While the match against Seandun provided an eye-opener for all involved, the game versus Muskerry proved a tighter affair with the West Cork lads eventually going under on a 2-9 to 0-8 scoreline. A further blitz will be played later in the year, with groupings based on the results of the first day out.

With regional championships and the All Ireland Feile na nGael tournament taking place over the next few weeks, there will little room for action on the U14 divisional squad front, however, activities will resume in mid-July in both football and hurling.

Meanwhile, a large portion of the West Cork U15 football panel is currently involved with the Cork U15 football squad and they will soon resume activities with the Junior Cert coming to an end. With Cork fielding a number of teams at this level, a training base has been formed at Rossmore for players from the Carbery, Muskerry and Beara divisions. A panel of over forty players has trained over the last few months under Charlie Wilson, Billy Twomey, Kevin O'Driscoll and James McCarthy (pictured). Sessions resume for this group on this Saturday, June 18th in Rossmore, in preparation for the inter-county tournament to be held in July.


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