Kilmacabea Gaa Web-Site

Welcome to the Kilmacabea Gaelic Athletic Association club homepage. Kilmacabea is a club involved in hurling and football and plays in the Carbery division in Cork County. Kilmacabea is based on the parishes of Kilmacabea and Kilfaughnabeg. This is centred on the villages of Leap, Glandore and Connagh in West Cork and stretches from Derryleigh Bridge in the West to Connagh in the East and from the coast in the South almost to Drinagh in the North. The area is approx. 45 miles from Cork City on the N-71 between Clonakilty and Skibbereen. Kilmacabea has been translated as the Church of the Maccabees. The club competes in the Carbery Division of County Cork, which has a very strong tradition in football. The club teams play their home games in the William Goulding Park.

This website is intended to be of interest to all who are interested in the affairs of Kilmacabea GAA club. It is hoped it will be especially useful to those who are no longer living locally. There is much work to be done to develop the history of the club and all items that would assist with that would be most welcome. The club is for the people and the club welcomes any contact from past members. Hoping that you find this of interest.

Images of pitch openning weekend

Joseph and Kay Ronan have kindly supplied some images of the friday night of the pitch openning weekend when the Kilmacabea junior C team played the Irish navy. Click here for more images

For images of the construction of the pavillion accompaning the new pitch. Click here

Weekly Notes:

Kilmacabea took part in the semifinal of Carbery Scor na bPaisti in Lisavaird on Saturday 30th January 2009. The club was represented by Aishling O'Callaghan, Ciarán French, Amy O'Donovan, Sylvan Morrison, Julie Anne Williamson, Iona Tobin, Darren Whooley, Eoin O'Sullivan. After good performances by all the music group and quiz team were successful and go on to represent the club in the West Cork Final in Ballydehob on 26th February. We wish them well.

The club would like to express sympathy to the family of Mrs Johanna Daly, West View, Leap whose family has a long tradition of involvement and contribution with Kilmacabea GAA.

The under 21 football panel has been training diligently for some time. They are competing in the A grade again this year. Dohneys are their opponents in the first round. This game is expected to be played in Rossmore on the third weekend in March

The first prize winners in the January club draw were Thomas and Karen Sheahan, Leap. Second prize went to Denis O Driscoll, Lady’s Cross, Clonakilty and third Jamie Stott, Keamore. Consolation prize winners were Dan Burke, Gurandruig, Kilbrittian; Ml. & Alison Tobin, Kilfinnin; Finbarr & Deirdre Twomey, Clonkeen and Adrian O Driscoll, Derryleigh.

Arrangements are being finalised for an informal function in the club pavilion on Saturday 6^th February at 8pm. Medals will be presented to last years winning players and the generosity of our sponsors will be acknowledged. Everybody is welcome, so it will be an opportunity for the general public to view our new premises and hear about the range of activities the club is involved in. Looking forward to meeting as many as possible on the night.

For details of local monthly draw to fund pitch development click here

15 December 2009

Friday 5^th Dec. 2009 was a historic milestone for the club when they held their AGM under their own roof for the first time. In welcoming the sixty members present the chairman Patrick Burke said the new club facilities were testament to what could be achieved by the club when they set their minds to it. Making progress in hurling and football should now be the goal. He said the creditable performance of the under 21A footballers and the success of the under 12 footballers in the SW championship was very encouraging but pride of place had to go to the under 14 footballers who won the SW league and championship and went on to win the county championship, a first for the club at that level. He thanked all who helped in any way to make the year the success it was.

The outgoing secretary John O Sullivan then gave a comprehensive account of the clubs activities on and off the field during 2009. He steps down after a decade and a half in that demanding position. The burden has been particularly heavy during the last five years with the upgrading of the club facilities in John William Goulding Park. He now takes on the newly created position of coaching and development coordinator.

Pat O Callaghan, longstanding treasurer, as well as giving his customary meticulous account of the years financial transactions, gave an overview of the financing of the club development project, from the purchase of the field from the community council to the official opening last August, a total budget of close on three quarters of a million euro. He stressed the importance of maintaining the fundraising efforts to service the loan which completed the project.

There was only one motion for consideration. William Williamson proposed the appointment of an officer to coordinate coaching and player development in the club. It was seconded by Tom Hayes. After a short discussion it was passed unanimously. This was followed by the election of officers which was very straightforward, there being only one effective nomination for each of three vacancies. Donal O Donovan, who previously served as chairman several years ago, is incoming secretary. Kay Ronan, who has been a very effective member of the finance committee, replaces Michael Tobin as assistant treasurer. Michael continues in his other position as underage PRO. Bart Kerrisk takes charge of the junior football team, replacing Dan Hourihane, who has stepped down after a two years stint.

5 september 2009

U14 County Champions 2009

Back Row L-R Tiernan Kerrisk, Odrahan Connolly, David Kapinski, Martin Collins, Kevin Whooley, Aidan Williamson, Niall Hayes, Richie O'Sullivan, Diarmuid O'Callaghan, Declan O'Sullivan, Kevin O'Donovan, Euan Tobin, Ruairi O'Mahony.
Front L-R Shane McDermott, Eoin O'Sullivan, Daniel O'Sullivan, Matthew O'Neill, Shane O'Neill, Darren Whooley, Jonathan O'Regan, Isaac O'Shea.

After all the wet weather and difficulties with pitches the uncertainty was over with the fixing of the County U14 Football Final for Castletownkenniegh on Saturday 5/9/09. The day was dry and while there was a strong wind, it was a good day for the match given conditions during the week. Aghinagh started brightly and had the first score but Richie O’Sullivan soon cancelled that. The Kilmacs had the advantage in possession but Aghinagh defended excellently and scores were at a premium. Diarmuid O’Callaghan then finished a good flowing move with a goal in the 8^th minute. The Kilmacs began to convert the possession with further scores from Diarmuid O’Callaghan were ahead 1- 4 to 0-1 after 16 minutes. Aghinagh had looked dangerous on the break and they had a bit of luck when a long range effort ended in the back of the net off the post. They followed this up with a good move to score a second goal to level the match shortly afterwards. The Kilmacs while winning the possession were not being allowed to play with their usual fluency. They edged ahead again in the 22^nd minute with a point from Diarmuid O’Callaghan but suffered another set back in the 26^th minute when a speculative lob again ended up in the net. The Kilmacs after being the better team went in at the interval 2 points behind on the score of 1-5 to 3-1 and the large crowd of followers were a little worried that maybe this wasn’t to be their day. This was now the time for the team to show their true worth and they came out for the second half in determined mood. Diarmuid O’Callaghan soon added another point and the Kilmacs were now opening the game up and making space for themselves. The turning point came when after a fine move the length of the pitch Euan Tobin was on hand to blast to the net. This was followed soon after when Jonathan O’Regan who was to prove a very effective sub, did well to win possession and was coolness itself to pick his spot for the goal that was to signal a complete take over. The Kilmacs were now on top in all sectors of the pitch. Aghinagh continued to battle bravely and to their credit never gave up but the Kilmacs continued to increase the margin with some fine long range points from Niall Hayes(2) and Diarmuid O’Callaghan. In the 22^nd minute Euan Tobin took a pass from Richie O’Sullivan after another flowing move to fire a fine goal and the game was effectively over. Aghinagh gamely kept going but the Kilmacs were now playing confidently even though a lot of scoring opportunities were not taken. Richie O’Sullivan capped a fine individual performance with a great goal in the 25^th minute. Aidan Williamson made an instant impression when he was at the end of another move soon after to score another goal. From here it was a matter of playing out time, for the Kilmacs to record a famous victory and the first county title for the underage club. The final score was Kilmacabea 6-9 Aghinagh 3-1. The trophy was presented by Míchéal Mac Suibhne, Runaí Bord na n-Og an Chondae to captain Niall Hayes amid scenes of great celebration. This was a fine team performance with each and every player contributing his part as they have done through the year. Shane O’Neill was unlucky with the shots that beat him but was very solid and made some important stops and used the clearances effectively. Declan O’Sullivan was masterful in defence with nothing getting by him and was also able to get forward himself. Darren Whooley won everything that came his way often against fellows twice his size. Martin Collins at centreback was out standing throughout the game, unbeatable and driving forward at every opportunity. Odhran Connolly had a very impressive performance and was another who was unbeatable. Daniel O’Sullivan capped his season with a super display and was first to everything and used it effectively. Niall Hayes(0-2) with the ability that we have come to expect showed the leadership needed in the sticky patches and got through a huge amount of work to drive the team on. Euan Tobin(2-0) linked well with those around him especially going forward and found the scoring zone when it was needed. Richie O’Sullivan(1-1) was unstoppable at centre forward showing superb skill matched by work rate. Diarmuid O’Callaghan(1-6)again showed his scoring ability as the leading scorer even if he had more wides than his normal high conversion rate. Eoin O’Sullivan showed his skill and linked very well as part of the attack. Shane McDermott won plenty of ball and played his part. Kevin Whooley worked hard, linked well and was very unlucky especially with a number of goal scoring chances. Jonathan O’Regan(1-0) made a huge impact showing both his football ability and competitive attitude. Aidan Williamson(1-0) and Matthew O’Neill also played their part. Other members of the panel were David Kapinski, Tiernan Kerrisk, Kevin O’Donovan, Ruairí O’Mahony and Isaac O’Shea. The players achieve the reward they have earned but it is also due to the work of the mentors William Williamson and Tom Hayes with them throughout the year and the huge input of coach Kevin O’Driscoll which has had a massive impact on the success of this group. Well done to all for the pleasure you have given. See below for more images of the day.

While this was the big event of the week other teams have also been playing away. No less important are the U10 footballers who have been playing with varying degrees of success but are developing their knowledge of the game and will hopefully follow the example set for them in the future.

17 August 2009 U14 west cork championship football final

The U14 footballers played Barryroe in the final of the championship on Monday 17^th August 2009 in Clonakilty. Going into any final there is always a sense of trepidation. Early indications were that this would be a tight affair. The start was extremely competitive and while the Kilmacs had a slight advantage they were getting little return. After 10 minutes the game settled and it was then the Kilmacs showed their true capability. Taking control in the vital positions and with superb use of possession they began to create scores. Driving on to dominate from here to half time, and with important goals coming from Richie O’Sullivan in the 20^th minute and Shane McDermott in the 27^th minute, they went in at half time well in control, on the score of 2-14 to 1-3. While Barryroe did get an early goal the Kilmacs continued with some excellent football to create fine scores and ran out convincing winners on the score 2-28 to 1-6. While the score makes the result look easy, Barryroe did put in a good effort and the result was achieved due to a super work ethic, excellent teamwork and use of the ball and was a powerhouse performance. Shane O’Neill in goal dealt capably with what came his way and his kicking was important. In front of him Darren Whooley’s reading of the game was far ahead of his years. Declan O’Sullivan’s athleticism was fantastic, covering acres of ground and initiating attack after attack. Martin Collins(0-1) was huge at the centre of defence with Odhran Connolly and Daniel O’Sullivan showing up well either side of him. Niall Hayes(0-8) and Richie O’Sullivan(1-1) were truly outstanding around the middle, competing everywhere from defence to attack and showing true leadership, as would be expected of them. The attack combined skilfully and effectively to fashion the scores. Diarmaid O’Callaghan(0-10) showed consistent accuracy from all areas, with Kevin Whooley(0-4) showing well for possession. Euan Tobin(0-1), Eoin O’Sullivan, and Shane McDermott(1-0) all contributed handsomely. Sub Jonathon O’Regan showed excellent skill and contributed 3 fine points and the other subs who contributed were Aidan Williamson, Kevin O’Donovan and Ruairi O’Mahony . Subs also were David Kapinski, Isaac O’Shea, Tiernan Kerrisk, Patrick O’Donovan. In reviewing the winning margin it has to be remembered that when these sides played at U10 level Barryroe won by in excess of 20 points and the Kilmacs only scored one point ! and when they played at U12 Barryroe won by 9 or 10points.The improvement that has been achieved is a tribute to the attitude and approach of the players themselves, the efforts of their mentors William Williamson and Tom Hayes and the outstanding coaching and commitment of Kevin O’Driscoll in the last couple of years. Congratulations on a well earned victory.

02 August 2009: Official opening of the new club house and refurbished grounds in John William Goulding Park

Kilmacabea parish dates back into the mists of history and Kilmacabea GAA club dates back to the early years of the organisation. In the history of the club and parish there can have been few more memorable days than last Saturday the 1^st of August. To be present at the official opening of the new club house and refurbished grounds in John William Goulding Park was a heart-warming experience. All strands of the community were represented there. Former players in their eighties were there. Some of them had spent half a lifetime in other parts. Infants in pushchairs were there, far too young to comprehend the significance of the occasion. With a bit of luck some of them may well live to see the turn of the next century. They will be able to tell their grandchildren or even great-grandchildren they were there. The grandson and namesake of the captain David O Brien who led the first Kilmacabea football team in 1888 was there. The churches, the state, the local authority, the West Cork, County board and Munster council of GAA were all well represented, as well as neighbouring clubs and other organisations from within the parish. Messages of congratulations were received from others who were unable to attend. Those who spoke were full of praise for the standard of the development, the quality of the finish and the attention to detail in the presentation for the day. The club officers and members and all their voluntary helpers knew it wasn’t mere flattery, because in our hearts we had the satisfaction of knowing we had done a good job. Whoever controls the great cosmic forces must have concurred also. The dismal weather which has seldom been far away this summer, cleared about 6.30pm Friday in time for the start of our weekend’s programme. We had pleasant sunshine all day Saturday and the rain didn’t return until lunchtime Sunday just as our outdoor events came to a close.

A football game between our second junior squad and the Naval Service Friday evening was rather one sided in the first half. A couple of hastily commissioned local recruits joined the visitors at half time and ensured the second half was quite a competitive affair. Both panels and all our underage players were treated to a barbeque after. On Saturday after the opening ceremony Bandon played our junior 1 team in a challenge match. A draw was the very appropriate result for the occasion. A minor football match against Kilmeen brought outdoor activities to a close, on a day to remember for all Kilmacs. On Sunday morning those of us sufficiently recovered from Saturday’s festivities were treated to a very competitive 7 a side football contest. With one game left Carbery Rangers had won two. Ilen Rovers, O Donovan Rossas and Kilmacs had one each. From somewhere Kilmacs summoned enough energy to pip Rangers in that game and set up a final between the two. A lucky goal gave Kilmacs a one point final victory, so the trophies for the historic occasion grace the home sideboard. To all the visiting teams, mentors and referees and all who helped in any way to make the weekend such an unqualified success, our sincere thanks.

08 August 2009: Victory in U14 football championship

The U14 footballers were in championship action when they took on Ahan Gaels on Wednesday 29^th July 2009 in Timoleague. Making light of playing against the wind and the fall they made an excellent start and this was the platform for the result. The action was competitive but the Kilmacs had the edge defensively and with good combination and movement the Kilmacs were using the ball effectively to get scores and went in ahead on the score 3-9 to 0-4. Ahan Gaels came out in the second half and showed their mettle and put in a good effort as they tried to save the game. Gaining the upper hand for the third quarter, they started to reduce the gap and looked like they may be able to succeed. When it looked as if they may run into trouble the Kilmacs came again to put the game safe. This was a good test for the team and the game was much tighter than the 3-17 to 1- 9 scoreline would suggest. Man of the match on the night was Declan O’Sullivan who was outstanding. Team Shane O’Neill, Darren Whooley, Declan O’Sullivan, Odrahan Connolly, Martin Collins(0-1), Daniel O’Sullivan, Euan Tobin, Niall Hayes(0-4), Eoin O’Sullivan(0-1), Richie O’Sullivan, Diarmaid O’Callaghan(0-8), Shane McDermott(0-1), Kevin Whooley(3-2), Johnaton O’Regan, Isaac O’Shea, Kevin O’Donovan, Ruairi O’Mahony, Patrick O’Donovan.

The crest consists of a shield depicting an amalgam of local artist Mim Hill’s depiction of a horse leaping the ravine which gives Leap its name and a view of Drombeg Stone Circle aligned with the setting sun. Above the shield is 1888 the year the club first competed in championship football, flanked by the harp and shamrock. In the early years the club was known as Kilmacabea Harps and Shamrocks. Underneath is a scroll bearing the clubs name as Gaeilge

It was endeavoured to fit as much as possible into a relatively simple format which will transfer satisfactorily to the fabric of sports wear. The horse is associated with the local placename, was central to agriculture the main industry of the parish. The locality is still very prominent in the sports horse industry. The stone circle is the best known of its kind in the country. It is about 3,500 years old, reminding us how far back human habitation goes in the area and brings us to tourism, the second most important industry in the parish. Beginning in 1888 Kilmacabea is one of the oldest rural clubs in the division and the name in Irish reminds us of the main reason for founding the association was to stem the rampant Anglicisation of Ireland in the late 19^th century

The club acknowledges the help of the graphic arts section of O Neill’s Sports and Mim Hills kind permission to copy her picture.

Local monthly draw

Construction of the new club facilities is making great progress in John William Goulding Park. When completed it will compliment the excellent playing surface, which has resulted from last years upgrading of the pitch. It stood up extremely well to this years difficult weather, despite being used continuously by the clubs thirteen football and hurling teams. It is envisaged that this number will increase in future years, with the possibility of under 21 and junior hurling teams emerging.

Inevitably all this very welcome development has stretched club finances. The very successful 2006 fund raising drive and the National Lottery grant etc.is covering about two thirds of the outlay. A Credit Union loan was secured to cover the balance. To meet repayments of this loan it has been decided to hold a local monthly draw, with a prize fund of one thousand euro each month and tickets ten euro each. There will be a total of 84 prizes in the course of the year giving approximately a one in three chance to subscribers of having a favourable return on their investment. When completed this grounds development will greatly enhance the facilities available to young people locally and secure the future of Kilmacabea Club for years to come.

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