Secretaries Report 2012

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Kilworth GAA Club

Date: Friday December 7th 2012

Venue: Clubroom

Rev Father, Club President, fellow members it is once again my privilege as runai of Cumann Cill Uird to present to you my report on the activities of the club, both on and off the field during the past year.

As 2012 comes to a conclusion we can look back with great pride at a fantastic and historic year for the club during which we became Cork County Intermediate Hurling Champions for the first time. Sunday October 14th will live long in the memory as years of anguish and heartache were cast aside on a truly memorable and epic day for all associated with Kilworth GAA. In a fine final at Pairc Ui Rinn, Kanturk had early control before Kilworth stormed back to gain an exciting victory. A fantastic week was topped off winning the Division 1 Intermediate hurling league 6 days later against this years Premier Intermediate champions and substantiates the view that Kilworth are well capable of competing and challenging at the higher grade in 2013. Our opponents in the first round of the Premier Intermediate championship will be revealed at tomorrow nights County Convention where the draw will take place and we eagerly await the outcome.

Domestically hosting both the Premier and Junior North Cork Hurling championship finals was a huge honour for the club, while off the pitch our 4th annual Golf Classic our biggest to date was another huge triumph while the construction of the hurling and handball wall adds significantly to an already splendid club complex.

Firstly I will deal with playing activities, the season commenced with an U21 football challenge on January 29th and concluded on October 20th with the Division 1 Intermediate Hurling League Final.

INTERMEDIATE HURLING

Following last years AGM Declan Walsh was appointed intermediate hurling team manager and he swiftly went about assembling a professional and quality management and background team. T.J Ryan came on board as coach, met with the players over Christmas and plans for the year were laid out.

The taste of victory arrived early with the first silverware of the year accumulated with success in the inaugural Coughlan Cup. Following a bye to the semi final we accounted for Fermoy 1-14 to 0-10 played in Kilworth on February 26th, before comfortably defeating Churchtown 3-21 to 0-8 in the final played in Fermoy on March 7th.   

Following the game Arthur Coughlan in the presence of other members of the Coughlan Family and North Cork Board officials presented the trophy in memory of his late father Pat and Uncle Bill to team captain Brian Tobin. It was a great honour to win this competition in its first year given Pat and Bills long and illustrious association with this club. This competition also provided good early season preparation for the league and helped the new coach acclimatize and get to know the players.

Following months of diligent preparation and high quality league games, the historic trail to the Promised Land commenced on June 1st at Kildorrery with a first round clash against old divisional rivals Dromina. We entered the game as firm favorites but in a derby game with a lot of previous baggage we were forced to withstand a spirited Dromina performance before emerging comfortable enough winners by 2-16 to 2-8.  We got an early goal giving us a decided advantage, and moved 1-5 to 0-2 clear before a late first half flurry by Dromina saw them close the gap to 3 points 1-5 to 0-5 at half-time. An early second half goal from a sideline cut gave us a huge lift. We took control at midfield and the half backline for a period and built up a comfortable lead 2-11 to 0-7 entering the final quarter. Dromina had two late goals but we continued to tag on points to secure not only a 8 point win but safe passage to round 4 and Intermediate A grade hurling (at least) for 2013.

We had a long wait for the 4th round draw as progress of the second and third rounds of the championship was very protracted. The draw pitted us again divisional rivals and near neighbours Fermoy in a quarter final tie.

All of 10 weeks on from the Dromina game, Ballygiblin was the venue on August 10th for this eagerly awaited North Cork derby. On a perfect evening for hurling, we outplayed our opponents and were full value for a nine point win 2-15 to 1-9. A goal in the 5th minute and a second midway through the second-half proved our superiority. We were more efficient in front of goal with Fermoy shooting a lot of wides. It was a three point game at the break 1-6 to 0-6 in our favour. On the restart our greater array of scoring talent came to the fore and we led 2-10 to 0-7 at the three quarter stage.

With our back line on top and greater options in attach, we increased our lead before a late consolation goal from Fermoy put a healthier complexion on the scoreboard from their point of view. There was great relief after this game as there was a lot of talk and hype in the build up. However, the lads let their hurling do the talking and progressed to the semi final stage with relative ease.

Another 7 weeks elapsed before we took to the field at Pairc Ui Rinn on September 29th to take on Argideen Rangers in the penultimate round.

We started well, were never led and duly booked our place in the Cork IHC final on a final score of 2-14 to 0-16 for only the second time in the clubs proud history. This was a tough physical encounter with the lads showing great work rate, desire and discipline. Key to this victory was the bagging of two first half goal with our defence staunch throughout. We started strongly and proceeded to go 1-5 to 0-3 in front.  A marvelous four-man move resulted in Kilworth finding the net on 26 minutes and wind assisted we led by 5 points 2-7 to 0-8 at the break.

The Timoleague side resumed with more urgency but couldn’t get clear goal chances due to the excellence of our defence. They closed the gap on a few occasions but we were able to tag on a number of scores to maintain a safe lead and run out victors by 5 points. This was a excellent win, after a long lay off since the quarter final, the lads were up to the task, absorbed plenty punishment over the hour putting in a fine display and qualify for our second final, 3 years on from our inaugural appearance at this stage.

After 3 championship games well spread out, June 1st, August 10th and September 29th, we only had 2 weeks to wait for the final.

Their was an air of anticipation in advance of the final, but the lads feet were kept firmly on the ground as they focused on the challenge ahead.

Pairc Ui Rinn, where many of the team had captured the county junior title 6 years earlier played host to the decider which turned out to be a most memorable occasion on Sunday October 14th. Kilworth people from home, all over Ireland and abroad, were in Pairc ui Rinn, either in person or in spirit, and provided tremendous support to the lads. While those who due to emigration were unable to be there tuned into the internet, twitter etc all over the world to be part of the occasion.

Following a truly gritty performance by the lads at the end of an enthralling hours hurling Brian Tobin followed by team mates climbed the steps to the victory podium and accept the Paddy Walsh Cup from Bob Ryan county chairman which was greeted by great scenes of joy and celebration.

We were slow out of the blocks, maybe the occasion got to the players as Kanturk had a blistering start and led 1-4 to 0-0 by the 10th minute. Many a team would have wilted, but the lads and team management never panicked.  At a stage when the game appeared to be ebbing away from our clutches the team showed great intensity and a high work rate and they eventually began to make space, gaps were created, frees were won and pointed. The lads had a great hunger 10 minutes into the game we were looking at an Everest but they clung onto the edge for dear life until the team eventually got a foothold. We began to settle with a few points before an excellent and important goal brought us back into the game just two points in arrears. Kanturk were still hurling well against the elements. Increased their lead once more and held a 4 point advantage, 1-9 to 1-5 at half time.

A good start to the second half was crucial, and by god did we get it, with the lads emerging with all guns blazing and finding the net within 20 seconds of the restart with a wonderful individual effort manufactured from the right flank. We drew level soon after before leading for the first time in the game. Kanturk retook the lead with 2 points before 5 unanswered Kilworth points changed the course of the game again as we led 2-12 to 1-11. We got some super scores in this period. We were well on top at midfield and defence. However, it all changed with a Kanturk goal and we had a 1 point game entering the final 5 minutes. Kilworth finished strong scoring 3 excellent points to win by 2, 2-15 to 1-13. The final whistle sparked scenes of relief, joy and celebration.

While we had a poor first half, the lads were still confident at half time as they were only 4 points down and hadn’t really played yet. Management never panicked, getting their tactics spot on. We got a dream start to the second half with a great goal, it cut the gap to 1 point, it set us up for the rest of the game and lifted the team to go on and win it. While Kanturk had a lot of wides a lot of them were score-able but they were put under tremendous pressure and the work rate from our defense was immense.

A great amount of work was put in by the entire panel, with a lot of sacrifices made all year. They possess all the key qualities, skill, hunger, drive, attitude and they never know when their beaten. They displayed patience, perseverance and an unshakeable belief and were worthy winners. They were a credit to themselves, their club and their families and I want to congratulate each and every one of them for their achievements this year and for the enjoyment they provided throughout.

The team were guided and influenced by a magnificent management and backroom team led by Declan Walsh along with coach TJ Ryan, selectors Aidan Kenny Fred Sheedy, physical coach Damien O’Donoghue team assistant Darren Kenny who are to be thanked and congratulated for the great amount of time, work and effort put in throughout the year to reach this massive achievement. They brought a modern and cutting edge influence to bear on preparations. The groundwork for ultimate success was laid well in advance of the final, fitness levels were suburb, the hits were dished out and absorbed, skill levels were excellent as was the brand of hurling, while tactic employed were spot on. They drilled a massive belief into the players, and in the end it drove them over the line to victory. Team medic Mike Walsh and physio Caroline Coughlin were also very important cogs in the wheel and played a huge part all year. In the weeks leading up to the semi final and final we had injury concerns but Mike and Caroline had the lads spot on for the big day. I must also acknowledge at this point the input of Jack Russell in the preceding 3 years in bringing on the younger players.

Following the on pitch and dressing room celebrations it was back to the Corbett Count for a well earned meal for the team, management, mentors and club officers. This was followed by a never to be forgotten home coming in the village, it was one of those special occasions to remember. The team and mentors paraded through the village led by the Thomas Kent pipe band and were met by family, friends and supporters. The huge enthusiastic crown of young and old were addressed  by club chairman, team captain, team manager and team coach followed by a night of great celebrations. There was a great atmosphere in the village and our great supporters are to be thanked and commended. The amount of young aspiring Kilworth hurlers at the game and in the square that night bodes well for the future of Kilworth hurling. This win should give these youngsters great confidence and desire to prosper and go on and achieve success in the future.

COUNTY FINAL PREPERATION

In the run up to the county final a number of people were enlisted to prepare for all eventualities. These people helped decorating the village in advance, organizing the meal, the home coming celebrations, booking the band, providing the sound system, truck for parade etc. Whilst numerous people helped out, it would be unfair of me not to mention, Pat O’Brien for the use of this loader to decorate the village, Declan Corbett and the staff of the Corbett Court for a lovely meal, The Thomas Kent Pipe Band, Mick Twomey for the use of his truck, and Bob Burke for the sound system. I thank you all sincerely for your contribution to a truly remarkable night.

In the Rochestown Park Division 1 Intermediate hurling league that commenced on March 18th, we finished on 16 points following 8 wins and 2 losses and qualified for the final against premier intermediate hurling champions Ballinhassig, played under lights at Riverstown 6 days on from the County Championship final on October 20th. The 8 wins en route to the final were over: Tracton, Ballincollig, Blarney, Ballinhassig, Youghal, Inniscarra, Watergrasshill and Newcestown, our two hic ups along the way were against Carrigaline and Bandon. League games were strategically fixed and used very effectively this year as preparation for championship and were prioritized over challenge games with the team only playing 3 such games over the course of the year. The final was an enthralling contest, resulting in a resounding victory by 1-14 to 0-11. There was probably no great expectation on the lads entering this game and Ballinhassig were overwhelming favorites, preparing for the Munster Intermediate hurling championship, the pressure was also off us having won the previous Sunday. However our lads had a good training session on the Thursday night before put the celebrations aside for a few days and were very much focused and up for this game. It took us the first half to settle with our backs outstanding. We put in an excellent second half display, were on top all over the field, blitzed Ballinhassig, racking up 11 superb points restricting them to 4 points and displayed in my opinion one of the best half hours hurling from a Kilworth team for many a year.

After the game, Board PRO, Tracey Kennedy in the company of the Donnelly family presented a new cup in the memory of the late Haulie Donnelly from the Fr O’Neills club to team captain Brian Tobin accompanied by vice Captain Will Twomey.

What a fantastic double achieved , one of the most historic and successful weeks in the clubs history with Premier Intermediate hurling to look forward to next year and given the blend of youth and experience at our disposal, we wont be far away from being a top team at this grade. There is still a great drive within this bunch of players to achieve more and the journeys not for ending yet. If this team can be kept together and there is no reason bar maybe the blight of emigration, if a few younger players can make the breakthrough and integrate their way onto the panel and eventually into the team, another county title may not be too far away. As T.J. said to the assembled crown in the square the night of the county final the aim now has to be to play senior hurling. But before I get carried away with myself, our first round game next June, the draw for which will be made at tomorrow nights County Convention, is a most crucial and important game for the club as a win here will ensure premier Intermediate hurling for 2014 and I’m sure Declan, T.J. and the rest of team management will be focusing on this game and planning the year ahead once our opponents are revealed tomorrow night.

I would like to wish Damien O’Donoghue well in his future endeavors. His role in this year’s success was immeasurable and I know all involved were so appreciative of Damian’s expertise and professional approach as conditioning coach.

DIVISION 1 HURLING PRESENTATION NIGHT

Another bonus of winning the league was the financial wind fall of €3,000. A presentation night took place at the Rochestown Park Hotel on Tuesday November 27th which was attended by team manager Declan Walsh and selector Fred Sheedy. A total fund of €39,715 has been distributed to clubs in prize money for this year's County Leagues.

JUNIOR HURLING

Having been promoted to the Hibernian Hotel sponsored North Cork Premier Junior hurling Championship following last years Junior A final victory over Kilshannig we were drawn against Castletownroche in the first round played in Fermoy on May 20th. As this game was played before the first round of the intermediate we were able to call on the skill and experience off a few players who were away last year and weren’t eligible to be named in the first 15 for the hurling league. Following a good tough game we emerged victorious by 3-14 to 2-13. We settles quickly registering some early scores and following a very entertaining and exciting first half we led 1-7 to 0-7 at the break. CTR upped the pace in the second half but couldn’t make it count on the scoreboard. They did cut the deficit to a point, missed a few goal chances to forge ahead, but credit to our lads, they kept their composure and got the vital scores when need to preserve the lead and run out winners by 4 points. The pleasing aspect of this win was seeing so many of the younger players getting their chance and playing well on the night. This result not only set us up for a quarter final tie against Kildorrery but also secured premier junior status for our second team for 2013.

Fermoy was again the venue for the Kildorrery game on July 29th. In a disappointing game we were to suffer a big defeat 2-20 to 2-7 to a team who would go on and win the North Cork and County junior titles and who play the Munster final on Sunday.  The sides were level 0-1 and 0-2 each early on before we got a great goal after 5 minutes. Kildorrery responded well with a well taken goal soon after. We forced a penalty but our effort at goal was saved. From here on Kildorrery gained supremacy took their scored and were 10 clear 1-13 to 1-3 at half time. We failed to make any real impression in the second half, scoring only 1-4 in this period. On the night we had too many players who didn’t play to their potential while Kildorrery were strong all over the field, we also lost some of our stronger players promoted to the intermediate team since the Castletown game. In summing up this game we have to factor in that this was our second team while Kildorrery had 3 players playing senior with the Avondhu hurlers this year this displaying the enormity of the task that was presented to the lads.

We were very competitive in the Cavanaghs Fermoy Division 2 hurling league just losing out on semi final spot due to scoring differences.  Ballyhea finished on 15 points with Fermoy, Mallow, Kilshannig and Kilworth on 12 points. Ballyhea, Fermoy, Mallow and Kilshannig made up the semi finalists.

We had wins over Fermoy, Doneraile, Newtown, Shanballymore, received walkovers from Churchtown and Araglen, were beaten by Ballyhea and Mallow and were forced to concede a walkover to Kilshannig.

Thanks to the team management of Peter Mannix, Noel O’Brien, Fergus Flynn and Alan Kenny for their time and effort this year.

With Kildorrery out of the picture for 2013 on paper the premier junior championship has a very wide open look to it. If we continue to be competitive in Division 2, get big numbers training with the intermediates, and continue to integrate some of the younger players into the side we have the ability to be there or there a bout’s at this level next year.

JUNIOR FOOTBALL

Liam Kenny again took on the task of managing and coaching the team and was assisted by Aidan Hyland, Brian Carey, Labhras Flynn and Donal Kenneally earlier in the year.

In the first round of the Fermoy Credit Union Junior A football championship we played Kilshannig in Ballyhooly on April 29th. In a game we should have won we suffered a 1 point defeat with the final score 0-10 to 1-6. We trailed by 1 point 0-5 to 1-1 at half time after playing against a gale. We dominated the 3rd quarter scoring 5 points without reply to lead 1-6 to 0-5. However, Kilshannig finished strong getting 5 points themselves to win by the bare minimum. In a game we really left after us, injuries had an impact as did some dubious refereeing decisions but at the end of the day we had the chances to win the game and didn’t take them.

We were drawn against near neighbours Fermoy in Round 2, so motivation wasn’t going to be an issue. Played in Araglen on June 17th the lads recorded a comfortable 1-17 to 0-6 win. We had a strong team out and were able to use a full compliment of subs.

This win put us back on the championship trail with Glanworth our opponents in the next round on Sunday July 1st in Mitchelstown. This game ended 1-1 3 a piece after extra time following a tired and lethargic performance. We were 7 points up 1-9 to 0-5 with 7 minutes remaining and should have gone on to close the game out, but we were lucky to come out it in the end with a draw, as Glanworth were the team that looked like winning it in extra time.

The replay took place 6 days later in Fermoy, following a much better all round team performance from the drawn game we won out with 6 points to spare with the score line 1-11 to 1-5.

We had now qualified to play Clyda Rovers in the quarter final. This game played in Castletownroche on July 10th resulted in a good win 2-15 to 2-8. Following a good start the sides were level at half time. The team showed great character in the second half, as Clyda took the lead twice , with a point first and then a goal, and lesser teams would have wilted but the lads stuck in never gave up and got their just reward pulling away to win well in the last 10 minutes to reach the semi final.

Ballyclough just down from intermediate and with a fit again Colm O’Neill provided the toughest of opponents in the semi final played on September 1st.  We were always going to be up against it in this game and with a number of injuries and withdrawals from the panel since earlier rounds of the championship we were comprehensively beaten by 2-17 to 0-8. The writing was onto wall heading over to Kilavullen that evening, with so many players missing, poor preparation due to a lack of numbers and the body language said it all.  While defeat was probably always on the cards in this game, it was a disappointing way to finish the football year. The lads on duty on the day gave it their all but being down at lease 5 key players against such opposition and it’s an up hill battle from the off. While the team had built up momentum and had good numbers in the earlier rounds, the good work appeared to be undone in the interim.

We progressed through the Cavanaghs Fermoy Division 3 football league undefeated with wins over, Kildorrery, Liscarroll, Clyda Rovers Abbey Rovers, Kilavullen and Ballyclough. This put the lads in the semi final against Ballyclough once more. Following a 6 point win we qualified to meet Kildorrery in the final. Following a goal fest in Mitchelstown on June 26th we won a score-line of 7-10 to 1-9. After the game Conor O’Keeffe representing the sponsors Cavanagh’s of Fermoy in the presence of board chairman Christy Morrissey presented the cup to team captain Adrian Mannix. Paudie Lynch was awarded man of the match.

This league win ensures we will have a lucrative fund raising push in the New Year, courtesy of Cavanagh’s great sponsorship of the league competitions.

Liam and his management team have decided to step down and I want to thank them for the work and effort their have put in over the past two years. A big push was put in by the lads and at times they probably felt like they were banging their heads off a brick wall, but when you are a small duel club relying on a limited pool of players it is always going to be hard to find a happy medium with the majority of the current crop of adult players with a preference and desire to play hurling over football. Without players there is no club and their views and preferences have to be respected. We had 33 players togged out for the league final with headaches for management even deciding on 5 substitutes to use on the night, yet when it came to the championship semi final there was a general lack of interest, which was a regrettable fact.

U21

At U21 level we again had high hopes this year in both codes with the talent at our disposal, but we fell short in both which was very disappointing.

U21 HURLING

In hurling with the team backboned with key members of the intermediate team we were drawn against defending champions Charleville in the first round. This was a cracking contest, rated as one of the games of the season in my opinion.  Both teams served up a fantastic game of hurling in tough weather conditions played in Kildorrery on July 17th during which both sides led at various stages. However, we lost a key player during the game and following a titanic struggle Charleville came out on top after extra time. At the halftime whistle we led 1-9 to 0-8. A goal from Charleville on the resumption brought them back into the game and with both sides trading high quality scores and the lead changing hands on a few occasions the game finished 2-14 to 1-17 following 60 minutes. Charleville dominated extra time outscoring us 1-4 to 0-0 to leave it 2-21 to 2-14 at the finish. While the lads tired in extra time, the players must be commended for their performance on the night.

The team regrouped and clashed with Harbour Rovers in Round 2 played in Fermoy on August 14th.  Here we were comprehensive winners by 2-22 to 1-9.

We had now qualified to play Newtownshandrum in the quarter final at Doneraile on August 26th. On this occasion we were short the services of 5 key players due to injury and holidays and were beaten 3-18 to 0-11 by a better team on the night. Newtown were a strong side and it was evident they play at a higher grade at adult level. The concession of the first goal early on was a hammer blow, this was followed by a second shortly after, we missed chances our selves and trailed by 8 points at half time and the game was effectively over as a contest. The lads tried hard until the end, but missing so many important players was a pity as this team had great potential. They were well capable of challenging for this title and while they may not have won it if they had a full hand to pick from they wouldn’t have been that far off the mark.  My thanks to Alan Kenny, William Hegarty and Sean Carey who put in a lot of effort with this team in what was a frustrating way for the season to pan out given fixture scheduling and holiday plans.  Next Years U21’s reached the Minor A championship and league finals in 2010 but came up against a very strong Charleville side in both finals. Charleville went on to win the county.

U21 FOOTBALL

 Our U21 footballers were in action early in the year playing a number of challenge games before comprehensively defeating Doneraile in the first round of the championship by 5-16 to 1-4 played in Ballyhooly on February 25th. This win set up a semi final tie against Kildorrery which was played in Fermoy on St Patricks Day where we lost out by 6 points 1-12 to 1-6, following a hugely disappointing performance which was well below the level at which we had played in the first round and in 3 challenge games in preparation for the competition. Too many players were well below par on the day, with a very subdued and lethargic display all round.  Kildorrery went on to win the North Cork and County titles since. My thanks to Liam Kenny, Aidan Hyland, Brian Carey, Labhras Flynn and Donal Kenneally for their time and effort with this team.  Next years U21 team reached the North Cork minor A final in 2010 but missing a key player were defeated by Charelville.

MINOR

2012 was always going to be a challenging year for a young minor team in both codes with only one player up to the age. In fact it turned out to be a very disappointing season, with no championship win on the field of play and a poor league campaign in hurling and football.

MINOR HURLING

In the Minor A hurling championship we faced Dromtariffe in Doneraile on July 2nd. Following a high scoring game we lost out by 8 points 2-22 to 1-17. League points were also on offer in this game. With the back door reprieve introduced this year we were due to face Croke Rover, however we received a walkover from them and went straight to the semi final stage where our opponents were Dromtariffe once more played on August 18th. Here we always played second fiddle in a once sided game and were well beaten:

In the league we were defeated by Newmarket, league points went on the Dromtariffe championship game, conceded a walkover to Buttevant and Croke Rovers and Cuchulainns games were not played.

MINOR FOOTBALL

In the Minor B football championship we were well beaten by Newmarket 1-17 to 0-4 in the first round at Buttevant on July 19th. We were due to meet St Kevin’s in the back door game but they conceded a walkover to us 30 minutes before the game when our lads were on their way to the match venue. By virtue of this we advanced to a quarter final tie against Mill Rovers played in Glanworth on September 9th. After extra time we were defeated 2-14 to 3-6.

In the league which was split into 2 groups with A and B teams in each section and semi final places for both A and B sides, we had a win over Doneraile, were defeated by St Kevins, Mitchelstown and Wolfetones while games against Croke Rovers and Glanworth were not played.

Coiste Na nOg/Rebel Og

The establishment of Coiste Na nOg was for an initial 2 year experimental phase as per the decision of county Convention 2010. This pitted Avondhu and Duhallow clubs in league and championship action from minor down to U13 level. A review took place at the end of the 2011 season and one recently took place for the season just past.

I mentioned in last years report that in my opinion there were plenty teething problems in the first year of this trial period.

The second year has now concluded and there were again a number of factors less than ideal in 2012 for example; there was a lot of expensive travel, games called off at the last minute, it was very hard to re fix games due to scheduling of U16 and minor game on the same weeks. An example of this was, the following fixture list; MAHL Monday June 25th, U16 BHL Thursday June 28th, MAHC Monday July 2nd, U16 BHC, Thursday July 5th.   

When one factors in a big over lap of players in these age groups while also trying to work around U21 and junior championships in North Cork it can very easily become a nightmare in terms of fixing games and giving all management teams and panels a fair crack of the whip.

In the old system under the auspicious of the North Cork Board there was a set schedule for championship fixtures, hurling was played after the leaving cert exams with football commencing once the hurling was completed. U16 and minor games were not played together.

However, it appears the new structure is here to stay. On November 13th, Cork GAA clubs were presented with a review of the Coiste Na nÓg/Rebel Óg two-year trial period, including recommendations for continuing these structures. Motions to this effect were passed at the County Board meeting of November 21st, and will be put to all clubs to be voted on at County Convention tomorrow night.

On the positive side this is a good young team and looking through the panel all but one is eligible again next year, therefore our minors are well equipped to get back on track in 2013. Huge thanks to Micksey O’Brien and his selectors Adrian Mannix and Damien McNamara for their time and efforts during the year

SUM UP PLAYING ACTIVITY

In all we played over 60 games throughout the course of the year.

In summing up playing activity thank all our players for their commitment to the club throughout the season and for the many hours of enjoyment they gave us. We must never lose sight of the fact that our playing activities are the reason for our existence as a GAA club and therefore our players are our greatest assets and we are grateful to them all for the sacrifices they make and the immense pleasure they give club supporters each year.

Every team needs leadership and guidance and for that we depend on our managers, coaches, selectors and mentors who are to be commended for their huge efforts throughout the year.

I would like to thank the very dedicated work of all players, team managers, coaches’ selectors, mentors, backroom teams, and team medics for their time, effort, dedication and huge commitment to our club in both hurling in football during the past year. I would like to thank you all for your co operation and courtesy in any dealings I had with you during the course of the year.

JUVENILE ACTIVITY

I would like to congratulate the Juvenile club on another busy and successful 2012 and complement officers, coaches and selectors for the great work and dedication with such a large number of players. Again this year, a phenomenal amount of work is being done at juvenile level and great credit is due to those who give so much time and energy to ensure a bright future for our club.

The U14 hurlers won the Rebel Og North Cork championship, progressed to the County final where they faced Argideen Rangers. The loss of a key player to injury early in the game was a huge blow to the team’s chances; however, they battled hard to the end but were beaten by a stronger team on the day. The U12 footballers reached the Rebel Og final with the The Lar Sheehan (U14 hurling) and Bill Magnier (U16 hurling) Cups were won during the year.  The Under 10 footballers captured the Corbett Court tournament that was held during the Village festival held in August.

The U11 hurlers and their mentors played their part on County Intermediate final day, forming a guard of honour for the team running onto the pitch and playing mini games against Kanturk at half time. This was a great idea from the county board and hopefully it will give the young lads the desire and hunger to get back and play at the venue in the coming years in competitive fare.

To see the number of U6’s, U7’s and U8’s training on Monday and Thursday nights during the year bodes well for the future of the club. It is also great to see former players and lads who have been involved with mentoring adult teams in the past getting involved with these youngsters coaching them the basics of our games.

The 1986 U12 County Double winning team, 25th anniversary reunion night organised by the Juvenile club held in the Fermoy Pitch n Putt Club was a very well attended and successful and enjoyable function.

The newly constructed hurling and handball wall was the brain child of the juvenile club and was planned, constructed and funded by a dedicated bunch who gave of their time voluntarily to greatly enhance the clubs facilities and I want to congratulate and thank all involved for their vision and enterprise in striving to and delivering this amenity.

The Kellogg’s Cull Camps, the annual sponsored walk went ahead this year as did guess the score for the county final and the proceeds of both helped someway to offset the cost of materials for the hurling wall

The club held a very enjoyable Social last Friday night where players were presented with their medals for the year.

This is just a summary of some of the clubs activities during the year, as always great work is being done for the young of our community and I wish you every success for the future. It is great to see some current and former adult players getting involved in coaching at juvenile level. The pilot initiative between the adult and juvenile sections of the club in 2012 where a rota system was set up where current intermediate players would help out with coaching our young players on certain nights was very welcome. Our Juvenile section must always be supported, empowered and encouraged at every opportunity as our future lies in their hands.

CONGRATULATIONS PLAYING ACTIVITY

I would like to thank the teachers of Scoil Naoimh Martin for encouraging and promoting our games amongst their pupils during the year and thank Fr Leahy and Eileen O’Keeffe for the use of the school grounds for parking on numerous occasions for matches held at our grounds.

I would like to congratulate the Handball club, especially Michael & Tom Dunne, Dion Cahill and their helpers for the great work they are doing and I wish them well for 2013. Another very successful year was had; one of the highlights was All Ireland success for Aidan O’Brien, Oisin Hickey and Jamie Kenneally. At adult level I would like to congratulate John Kiersey on winning an All Ireland medal, this was hugely deserved and long overdue.

I would like to congratulate Kilworth Squash club and its officers following another successful year. Many of our players are active members of the club and it helps with off season fitness and keeping the eye in.

Congratulations to the Sports Complex Management Committee for continually maintaining and improving their fine facilities to accommodate Handball, Squash, Racquetball, fitness classes and tennis. I would like to thank them for use of the upstairs room in preparation for the County hurling semi final and final.

Paddy Whelan, Peter Mannix, Shane Tobin, Mike Walsh and Jack Quirke represented the club on the complex committee this year.

I would like to congratulate Adrian Mannix who represented the Cork Intermediate hurlers during the year, Kieran lane who made history as being the first Kilworth club player to win a Fitzgibbon Cup Medal with UCC and Nathan Byrne who was part of the UCC Fresher’s hurling team that won the All Ireland title earlier in the year.

Congratulations to Kieran Walsh, Adrian Mannix, Noel McNamara, and Mark O’Connor who represented the Avondhu senior hurling side and Elton Pierce who as part of the management team and all club players who represented the division at any level during the year. I would like to congratulate club players who represented St Colman’s College, especially Noel McNamara who captained their senior football team to the Munster B title earlier in the year, and those who represented Colaiste An Chraoibhin, or any other second or third level school or college during the year.

FESTIVAL

Kilworth Festival was revived after a number of years in August and I want to congratulate the organising committee for an excellent weeks events. Our grounds hosted 3 very successful events, namely the juvenile blitz, mini Olympics and the much anticipated novelty hurling game full of nostalgia.

The pitch was a hive of activity on Saturday August 11th for the mini Olympics with over 100 kid’s par taking and this was great to see. That evening one of the biggest crowds of the year was in attendance for the eagerly awaited contest between a current selection and our North Cork junior hurling champions from 1995. The win over Fermoy the evening before set the tone for proceedings in what turned out to be a most enjoyable game, with surprisingly or amazingly no injuries sustained on either side. The success of these events was testament to the overall success of the Festival and well done to all concerned. The bench the club sponsored for the village park was revealed during the festival. The slogan on it penned by our Cisteoir read as follows: ‘Here we come to rest; in the pitch we play our games’.

DEVELOPMENT / MAINTENANCE

A number of improvements in terms of development and maintenance were made to our grounds and facilities during the year under the guidance of Alan Kenny and I want to thank all those who helped in any way. A lot of this work went on behind the scenes by dedicated bunch of hardworking clubmen.

Alteration and repairs to wire around the first pitch was completed, this has improved safety and viewing for spectators, wire behind goals was mended. The men’s toilet was transformed into a disabled facility, with a ramp at the entrance, the front dressing-rooms were washed and painted, numbers for the scoreboard were repaired and behind the bank was cleared to allow cars down for parking.

HURLING WALL

The biggest development of the year was the construction of the hurling and handball wall and as already mentioned it will add hugely to the development of young hurlers and handball and is it is a credit to the Juvenile section of the club.

PITCH CLEAN UPS

Thanks to all whose who helped out with pitch clean ups during the year. Congratulations to Kilworth Community Council and especially the  Village Renewal Committee on an other excellent result in the tidy towns completion with the marks awarded on the up again this year.

CLUB GROUNDS / PITCHES

I must take this opportunity to thank Tom Howard for keeping our pitches in immaculate condition all year. We have one of the best facilities for our games in the region and the hard work by Tom can be seen by all.

One of the highlights of the year for us was hosting the North Cork junior hurling finals, and we had a pitch to be proud of that day. It was a credit to Tom; we were able to hold the two finals with all the rain that fell in advance.

The floodlit training area got plenty of use this year especially in the winter and spring and the huge benefit of it was plain to be seen with our pitches spared until playing activity commenced.

TUS SCHEME

I must also mention at this point the work that has been undertaken by our TUS Scheme worker Sean Deere. He has carried out his tasks to a very high standard since he commenced in June two and a half days a week and I thank him for his efforts under the guidance of Tom.

I would like to thank Sean Hegarty who brought this TUS Scheme under the auspices of Blackwater Partnership to our attention and encouraged us to apply for assistance.

NORTH CORK FINALS

Our venue was picked to host a number of high profile North Cork and County Championship games this year and I want to thank all those who helped out in any way, be it selling tickets, stewarding, parking cars, selling programmes, covering the score board. Two of the biggest days we had were the hosting of Killeagh V Newtown in the senior hurling championship on May 25th and holding both the premier and junior North Cork Hurling finals involving Harbour Rovers V Kildorrery and Ballyhea V Kilshannig respectively, on August 25th. We had plenty bodies to help out on both occasions which was great to see. Everything went off smoothly and again it shows how well things can go and are run if the workload is shared.

It was the clubs first time since 1978 to host the North Cork hurling final and it was great to host this prestigious event and showcase our fine facilities. A word of thanks to John Kenny who produced an excellent programme for the North Cork finals. A lot of taught, effort and work went into this. The feedback from this along with hosting the events so competently was great from outside the club.

Other county games held were; Glanworth V Kilavullen in County Intermediate football (at a few hours notice) , Araglen V Grange in County JB football and Clyda Rovers V Dungourney in County U21 B hurling championship on September 22nd

Other North Cork games hosted were PJH semi final Harbour Rovers V Ballygiblin, PJHC R2 CTR V Ballygiblin which ended in a draw after extra time on. We also held the replay and the JFC R1 Fermoy V Mitchelstown.

PRESENTATION NIGHT

A medal presentation night to acknowledge and celebrate our 2011 North Cork junior hurling championship win was held at the Grand Hotel on February 11th. Approximately 50 attended what was a very enjoyable function.

LEAGUE PRESENTATION NIGHT

A presentation night for the 6 winning clubs in the Cavanaghs Ford league was held in their showrooms in October. This night doubled up as Launch of the League for 2013 which Cavanagh’s will again sponsor. The players gear awarded for capturing the Division 3 football title was presented to the club on the night. Presentations were made to the ‘man of the match’ from various league games during the year. Paudie Lynch and Brian Tobin were recipients on the night.

CLUBS DEVELOPMENT DRAW

As a result of winning the Cavanaghs Fermoy Division 3 football league our ticket sellers will be out and about shortly promoting the clubs development Draw. This year there will again be 30 prizes, with 2 cars and 28 cash prizes of €250 on offer. As only 2 of the 6 clubs eligible for the draw are from this side of the division we have a real chance to make some serious money to help boost the club finances. A huge effort was put in two years ago where €21,900 was raised the second highest amount of the 6 clubs involved, with the 2 cars been won on tickets sold by club members. I would like to thank Tom Cavanagh and the staff of Cavanaghs especially Brian Carey and Conor O’Keeffe for this excellent sponsorship and initiative to help support clubs financially. 

ANNUAL GOLF CLASSIC

Our 4th annual Golf classic which was again kindly sponsored by Cavanagh’s of Fermoy was held at Fermoy Golf Club on May 18th. With a reduced entry fee for 2012, in spite of the poor weather on the day it turned out to be our biggest event yet with close on 50 teams taking part with numerous others sponsoring tee boxes and greens.

The continuous rain which fell all day did little to detract from what was once again an excellently run event and the scores which were recorded and feedback from the players are proof of same.

The GUI section was won by TOCO Welding, while the team representing Kilworth Community Council won the non GUI section.

Fermoy Golf Club were once again impeccable hosts of the event and numerous players commented on the standard of the course on the day. The meal afterwards was excellently prepared and greatly appreciated by all the players having completed their rounds.

The prize giving was this year held in The Village Inn and a big thank you must go to Mick and Chris O’Brien for allowing us to take over their establishment for the proceedings.

This event would not be possible with out our sponsors both business and individuals. A special word must go to Cavanagh’s of Fermoy who have been involved in this event for the last 4 years and have been wonderful supporters of Kilworth GAA club for numerous years. It never ceases to amaze us how helpful Cavanagh’s have been to us and their generosity must be seen to be believed. Thanks also to our own Brian Carey for all his help and support in this regard. O’Sullivans, Centra once again provided refreshments to all the players and we would like to thank Jason O’Sullivan for same.

It must be acknowledged that an event of this size takes a great deal of pre planning and we are blessed in Kilworth to have the likes of John Hegarty, Denis Motherway and especially Alan and John Kenny involved. These men did Trojan work in the days and weeks before the event to ensure the classic ran as smoothly as possible and I thank them sincerely for this. Their efforts were certainly rewarded with a fine turnout both in relation to players and sponsors. Thanks also to Caroline O’Brien and Catherine Mannix for their help throughout the day.

LOAN

All proceeds for the Golf Classic go towards the continuing upgrades being carried out at our club grounds and has been the main source of income to service our development loan with AIB. With this years installment paid off we have €32k circa remaining outstanding and we should be in a position to clear this in the next two years. This is a great position to be in, while the term of the loan is until November 2019, the quarterly interest rates are high so the sooner we pay it off the better and we are well on the way to paying this off a number of years in advance and there is great credit due to all involved. Full details of money raised in golf classic, loan repayment during the year and loan balance remaining please refer to the treasurer’s report.

MUNSTER COUNCIL GRANT

As a result of lighting the training area last year and the construction of the hurling wall we were eligible to apply for Munster Council Grant funding for 2012. Last month we were informed we have been granted €1,261 (just over 11% of total cost of both projects) and this cheques will be presented to the club at Pairc Ui Rinn next Wednesday night. I would like to thank Alan Kenny for putting together this detailed application. The projects completed as part of our application were inspected with the club visited by County Board officials before the documentation was passed to Munster Council where it was examined and scrutinised for compliance and accuracy before being sanctioned. 50% of this money will be passed onto the Juvenile club once received.

WEEKLY CLUB LOTTO

Our weekly lotto, which is held every Monday night, continues to be a huge revenue source for the club. A small but dedicated team, comprising of John Condon, John Twomey and Paddy Whelan, ensure the draw is run off smoothly every week.

Please support our lotto on a weekly or yearly basis; every €2 is very valuable to our club. Thank you to our dedicated sellers, especially John Condon and to our many supporters who make the lotto such a success for our club.

We have had no winner of our lotto jackpot since our last AGM on November 4th 2011. In fact the lotto was last won on August 16th 2011.  The jackpot now stands at €10,900.

CORK COUNTY CLUBS DRAW

The Cork GAA Clubs Draw now in its 21st year continues to be an important means of raising funds for the club in fact over the past 20 years it has been a major fundraiser for both our Club and County Board.

We had 126 members in 2011/2012 and had 122 members for the first 3 draws of the 2012/2013 term. This is a healthy number and in a time of recession it is great to see this draw being supported locally. For each €100 our 122 members have paid, 45% of it makes its way back to the club. As with the lotto it is unfortunate that a small number of people are responsible for most of the ticket sales, and it is very important that more people make an effort. As mentioned the 2012/2013 draw has commenced but there is still time to enter the December draw which takes place on December 20th at the Sarsfields club and I would appeal to everyone to contribute if they can. I would like to thank our Draw Co-ordinator, Patsy O’Mahony for all his hard work and my thanks also to all our sellers who help to secure this important source of income for the club.

Our County Board has earned €5.4m approx set the introduction of the draw which has contributed to a number of Developments such as the upgrading of Páirc Uí Rinn and the old North Monastery Field.

However, the great majority of income from the Draw has been spent by our Board in the area of Youth Development. The current expenditure a year in this area amounts to €275,000 approx. Without a successful Draw the board will not be in a position to continue to fund this from present resources.

This Draw has unlimited potential. It peaked in 2002 with 25,000 members but unfortunately there has been a steady decline since then. It is now close to breakeven. It is imperative this decline is halted. A small number of Clubs including our own have given tremendous support to the Draw with 40% of tickets being sold by 12½ % of our Clubs.

If this Draw reaches its potential it will generate much needed income for both Clubs and County.

A successful Draw will enable the board to fund the Youth Development Programme and make an important contribution towards the upcoming redevelopment of Páirc Uí Chaoimh and this may deter a levy been placed on clubs to contribute to the redevelopment.

It is also important for clubs to have occasional winners to promote the draw and we have had a number of these in the last 12 months:

November 2011 - Noel O’Brien - weekend break

December 2011 Draw - Noel O’Brien - 3rd prize, holiday or cash to value of €1,500

June 2012 Draw - Pat & Sheila Greehy - €4,000k

July 2012 Draw - Mike Walsh - weekend break

MEMBERSHIP

We had approximately 140 paid up members this year (251 registered members including juveniles) and once again I must stress how important the collection of membership fees is to the finances of the club. It is also very important from a player protection point of view that all players have their membership paid before the take to the field of play. My thanks to Development Officer Alan Kenny who collected player membership earlier in the year.

PLAYERS INSURANCE SCHEME

My thanks to Mike Walsh who once again undertook the administration of our Players Insurance Scheme during the year and has done fantastic work on this. There is a huge amount of unseen time involved in pursuing the immense paper trail associated with each claim. All players please note that claimants can help to reduce the effort and delay in resolving claims by producing all relevant documentation promptly.

SPONSORS

Once again this year my most sincere thanks to all our sponsors, especially our main sponsors, Mike Walsh Pharmacy, Jimmy’s Bar, and the Village Inn, without whose generous support our club could not survive financially. I wish them every success in the future and I would urge all our members to support our sponsors whenever possible.

CLUB MEETINGS

We have held 55 club meetings since last years AGM on November 4th and I would like to thank all those who attended these meetings. New blood is always welcome, so if you are interested in getting involved please come forward, don’t be shy! I would like to thank the committee members for their help and co-operation during the year.

BOARD DELEGATES

I would like to congratulate John Twomey on his re election to the GPC of the North Cork Board in 2012 and Patsy O’Mahony in his second year as Treasurer of Coiste Na nOg North.

Following Johns elevation to the GPC he continues to report back to the club with fixtures and board developments and I thank him for that. Thanks also to chairman Peter Mannix for attending a number of North Cork Board meetings during the year.

I would like to thank County Board representative Fergus Flynn for attending the fortnightly meetings and reporting back to the club. The role of board rep required considerable commitment, and as usual the lads did their best to ensure the interests of the club.

CULTURAL OFFICER

Thanks also to Paddy Whelan in his role as Irish and Cultural officer. There is a big push being promoted in this area of club activity by Croke Park and the County Board

REFEREE

We had no club referee for 2012 which is a cause for concern. Anyone out there interested in taking up the whistle please come forward and let us know.

WASHING JERSEYS

A big thank you as usual Catherine Mannix for washing and looking after the jerseys

It’s a thankless job but very necessary.

REFRESHMENTS

Sincere thanks to the two Sheila’s O’Brien and O’Mahony for the tea, sandwiches and cake on a number of occasions during the year be it for County and North Cork games or our own club games. This was greatly appreciated especially by the players.

PRO / SOCIAL MEDIA

At last years AGM Declan Walsh was re elected as PRO. However, when Declan was offered and accepted the pivotal role of Intermediate Hurling manager, the role of PRO became open.

I want to thank Declan for his time in the position.

 I want to sincerely thank Michelle O’Keeffe for coming forward and accepting the role and thank and congratulate her for her excellent reporting of games and club notes in the local press over the year. She has made it her own is young and energetic and if we had a few more like her club will prosper going forward.

I wish to thank Assistant PRO John Hegarty for helping out when the role or PRO was vacant for a number of weeks earlier in the year.

During the Year the club was equipped with a Face Book page and Twitter account. I would like to thank all our contributors to these social Media outlets especially Will Twomey, John Hegarty and Michelle O’Keeffe who are the main points of contact for updating and maintaining these valued means of communication.

Thanks to Fergus Flynn who covered for me as secretary on occasions I couldn’t make meetings or games and to Vice Chairman Jack Quirke for stepping in when called on during the year.

I would like to thank the local press especially the Avondhu for their coverage of our games and affording us space for our club notes on a weekly basis throughout the year.

I would like to thank the secretary and PRO of both the North Cork and County Boards and Mairead and Barbara in Pairc Ui Chaoimh for their help and co operation during the year.

All club secretaries and county board delegates are now on a texting service and this has become a very useful communications tool when clubs and or delegates need to be contacted urgently.

The new GAA email system in its third year has been a revelation and continues to be a vital source of communication between club and county. It is now the primary means of communication between country board officers, divisional board officers and the clubs as well as between Croke Park and the clubs. During the year this was further extended with the role out of gaa.ie email addresses to club treasurers.

Thanks to the spouses, partners and girlfriends who make the sacrifices and put up with the time commitment the lads give to the club, whether as players, managers, mentors or administrators.

SYMPATHY

I would like to extend my sincere sympathy to all club members who suffered bereavements during the year  

CONCLUSION 

In conclusion, every New Year brings new and difficult challenges for our club. Success is huge for development of the club both on and off the pitch. While we had a great 2012 lets not rest on our laurels and drive on for 2013. As a club we are lucky we are not stretched financially like other clubs up and down the county, therefore our energy can be focused on our teams. Even in this major economic downturn, there is still great enthusiasm within the club with members constantly seeking to improve facilities for the betterment of players and members.

However, there is also room for more active members in the club. As you can see from my report a number of names crop up on a number of occasions highlighting the fact few people are sharing a big workload. I would urge more members to come forward and offer their services. There are people out there who will do a job if asked, but why not put themselves forward. If you have talent and a vision for the club make yourself known. A new person or two getting involved may encourage others. New sets of skills are always welcome so the club can maximize its potential going forward.

In an ideal world our AGM, like in the past should be full of intrigue and plotting and we should have open competition for jobs, unfortunately it is not like that in most clubs this day in age. Change is important in any organization and I believe its now time for a change of secretary. However if a candidate isn’t forthcoming I will not let the club down for 2013.

As I sign off on my 5th report as Kilworth secretary I would like to place on record my thanks to all in this club who have helped, supported, advised and argued with me during the year and the last 5 years. Club secretary is a challenging and demanding role but also hugely stimulating, rewarding and enjoyable one. The co operation from all involved helps ensure the effort that goes into administering the club is a pleasure not a chore. Success on and off the field makes it all worthwhile and satisfying.

My thanks to my family especially Sandra and Mia for supporting me fulfill this role.

Thanks to my fellow officers Peter as chairman and Mossie as treasurer for all your help and hard work this past year, it has proved to be a very eventful one in the history of the club.

Mossie has given a lifetime of service to this club as a player, selector and administrator as far back as I can remember, and there was no prouder man in Pairc Ui Rinn on October 14th when his 3 sons played such key roles in our county success.

For any Chairman to oversee county success is great, but in your first year at the helm, with the club achieving the greatest success in its storied history with his son playing such a major part, this was something to savour  for Peter.

For myself it was great to see Brian captain the side on a memorable occasion.

Making history is great but for the players winning amongst family and friends is special. In essence the club is a family, one we should all be proud to be a member of.

I would like to apologise to anyone or for any item I may have inadvertently omitted from my report.

Best wishes and a speedy recovery to any club members who are ill or knocked out at present.

I would like to wish the club every success for 2013 and wish you and your families a very happy Christmas and all the best of health and good luck for the year ahead.

Go raibh mile maith agaibh go leir

Is mise le meas

Sean Toibin

Runai


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