Club Notes 2012

Club Notes 2012:

* Attached Image: _DSC3216 - U-12 League An Riocht 12-09-12 Caption: It is with great sadness that we mark the passing of such a young and aspiring member of the GAA community. He is pictured defending the ball against Ballymartin, during the last match of the South Down league on 12 September 2012. Conal Baldwin was in the full swing of life, immersed in GAA football and hurling, playing for Down, Ulster and his home team an Riocht. His Requiem Mass took place on Friday 28 December 2012 and it was a tribute to him and his family, that the extensive crowd that had gathered for the possession overflowed the Churches capacity. May his family find peace at this festive time in the knowledge that he is at peace with the Lord. R.I.P. Conal.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 30 December 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* There will be a Football Coaching Clinic hosted by St Columbans College in Kilkeel from 10am to 1pm on Saturday 12th January 2013. The clinic will be run by Stephen Poacher with contributions from Jim McCorry and Brendan McVeigh. The cost is £10 per person if any of our senior players or coaches wishes to attend, please confirm interest to Stephen Poacher ASAP.

* The New Year will soon be upon us, also; NEW legislation for the compulsory use of Mouth guards following the GAA’s Annual Congress in April 2012, this new rule was enacted that made it mandatory to use a mouth guard in all Gaelic football matches and training sessions from January 1^st 2013 (for all age grades up to and including minor) and at U21 and Adult level from January 1^st 2014.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 30 December: 5, 13, 15, 19. ONE Jackpot Winner: congratulations to EDITH MCCARTAN. Next week’s Jackpot now stands @ £10,000. Seven People Matched 3 Numbers, congratulation to all the lucky winners; Wilfred Rogers, Joan Brown, D. Murphy, Monica McAlinden, Kerry McCabe, M. Cunningham & Joanne Sloan.

* This Sunday 6 Jan 2013 Lotto ROTA Team ‘D’ – Y. Fitzpatrick (Leader), S. & P. Fitzpatrick, C. Bailey, E. Ward, P. & M. Doran, C. Higgins & G. Quinn

NO papers on 23 Dec carried over till 30 dec....

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 23 December 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* It is with great sadness that we mark the passing of young Conal Baldwin from an Riocht. The Club and Committee would like to extend our condolences to his family and extended family circle.

* Congratulations to Christopher Cunningham on winning the Pool Turkey Competition, beating Seamus Rodgers in the Final.

* The Ballymartin Christmas Pub Quiz takes place on Thursday 27 December @ 9pm. Everyone welcome.

* Congratulations to St Columbans U-16 Camogs, who on Thursday 20th December lifted the Ulster Champions Title once again!!! With a fantastic second half display, the girls are now through to the All Ireland Semi-Final. Well done to all the girls and their coaches, St Columbans Abu!!

* The New Year will soon be upon us and also NEW legislation for the compulsory use of Mouth guards for all youth players from the 1^st of January.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 23 December: 6, 9, 16, 26. No Jackpot Winner. Next week’s Jackpot now stands @ £10,400. Two People Matched 3 Numbers, congratulation to all the lucky winners; John Hanna & Brenda Leneghan.

* This Sunday 30 Dec Lotto ROTA Team ‘C’ – E. Phillips (Leader), S. Phillips, S. Rogers, S. Cunningham, L. Byrne, L. Cunningham, P. Higgins, C. Cunningham & R. Cunningham.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 16 December 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* The Committee would like to this opportunity to wish all our members a Safe and Peaceful Christmas followed by a prosperous New Year.

* We would like acknowledge that Jim Collins was elected as President of Ballymartin GAC at the AGM of the previous week. The Committee is sure that everyone will wish him well in the future as President. The Committee would like to take this opportunity to thank out-going President James Cunningham, for his service over the past years and wish him well in the future.

* The U-14 boys got together on Saturday for a sponsored gaming session to raise funds for their upcoming trip in the New Year. More details as the time approaches.

* Ballymartin GAC are selling the NEW DOWN GAA Year Books and are available from Committee members and the Ballymartin Inn, prices are £6 each or two for £10.

* There is a “Turkey” pool competition will be taking place every Sunday evening over the next couple of weeks till Christmas. Anyone wishing to enter can contact Ballymartin inn for more info.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 16 December: 7, 18, 20, 21. No Jackpot Winner. Next week’s Jackpot now stands @ £10,300. Fifteen People Matched 3 Numbers, congratulation to all the lucky winners; Sharon McLoughlin, Evelyn Marsh, Peter Kelly, Theresa Trimble, Jacqie Brown, Mark McGinn, Jasper & Hughie, “Jasper & Hughie”, Paul Trimble, Mary Upritchard, George McRann, Connor Wells, Linda Doran, Cunningham Family & Catherine Young.

* This Sunday 23 Dec Lotto ROTA Team ‘B’ – M. McKibbin (Leader), J. McKibbin, D. O’Hanlon, L. Byrne, A. Cunningham, S. Rogers, M. McCartan, C. Doyle, S. Rooney, S. Cunningham.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 9 December 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of a great family friend of Ballymartin GAC, George McGuinness; and to a great Gael, Jerry Quinn. Our condolences to their family and extended family circle and May they Rest In Peace.

* Ballymartin GAC has announced their Senior Manager for the new season as Mr Johnny Mc Cumisky. Also announced, as Reserve Joint Managers are Ronan Mc Cartan and Sean Holman. The Committee sends out their congratulations and every success in the future to the teams and managers...

* Ballymartin Primary School are having their Christmas Draw on Friday 14 December @ 1:00pm. Tickets can be bought from the school with some great prizes for more details contact: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

* There is a “turkey” pool competition will be taking place every Sunday evening over the next couple of weeks till Christmas. Anyone wishing to enter can contact Ballymartin inn.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 9 December: 2, 4, 26, 32. No Jackpot Winner. Next week’s Jackpot now stands @ £10,200. Three People Matched 3 Numbers, congratulation to all the lucky winners; “Leah, Michael & Corey”, Evelyn Trimble & Sheila Doran.

* This Sunday 16 Dec Lotto ROTA Team ‘A’ – C. Cunningham (Leader), J. Doran, P. Higgins, P. & M. Collins, K. Cunningham, L. Hanna, K. & L. Rooney.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 2 December 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* Commiserations to both Warrenpoint and Kilcoo who were defeated on Sunday during their Ulster titles.

* Ballymartin GAC held their AGM on Sunday evening with a good turnout. The Secretary, Treasurer and Chairman gave a good account of the years past and the new Committee were elected; Chairman - Colin Cunningham, Vice Chairman - Paul Higgins, Secretary – P.J. Cunningham, Treasurer - Marie McKibbin, Assistant Treasurer - Liam Byrne, PRO - Eamonn Ward, Cultural & Language Officer - Eamonn McEvoy, Senior Players Representative - James Doran. All outstanding posts will be filled at the first Committee meeting.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 2 December: 10, 16, 18, & 30. No Jackpot Winner. Next week’s Jackpot now starts @ £10,100. Five People Matched 3 Numbers, congratulation to all the lucky winners; James McKibben, Hugh Buchanan, Megan Sloan, Nicky Devlin & Ashleen Rodgers.

* This Sunday 9 Dec, Lotto ROTA Team ‘D’ – Y. Fitzpatrick (Leader), S. & P. Fitzpatrick, C. Bailey, E. Ward, P. & M. Doran, C. Higgins & G. Quinn

Attached Image: Ladies_DSC5631-1 Caption: Ballymartin’s Ladies team members, who picked up special Awards on Saturday night at the Annual Dinner Dance. Colin Cunningham - Chairman, Special guest Mary Keegan - Secretary Ulster Ladies Gaelic Football Association, Ellen Marks – Ladies Most Improved Player, Jacqueline O’Neill - Ladies Runner-Up, Sinead Brannigan – Players’ - Player of the Year. Lauren Cunningham and Caroline O’Neill - Joint Players of the Year. Lauren also received the “Conal O’Hare Cup” for her performance on the field in the Down Final, along with Special guest Lucy Groom – Assistant Secretary Ulster LGFA. All of the Ladies team were presented with their League Runners-Up medal and with their Gold Down Intermediate Champions, Winners Medal.

Attached Image: Mary Keegan_DSC5668-1 Caption: Ballymartin’s Cultural Officer Eamonn McEvoy, presents Mary Keegan - Secretary of the Ulster Ladies Gaelic Football Association with a bouquet of flowers.

Attached Image: Minors-POY_DSC5613-1 Caption: “The Leestone Caravan Park Cup” Minors Awards were presented to; Kristopher Rooney – The Most Improved Minor Player, Ross Cunningham - Runner-Up Player of the Year and Ryan McCullagh – Minor Player of the Year.

Attached Image: Special Recoginition_DSC5636-1 Caption: These awards were selected by the Committee to honour those within the Club that stood out over the years. Michael Higgins collected the Club Supporter of the Year Award on behalf of his uncle Anthony Higgins, Colin Cunningham collected nothing, he just jumped in the picture as Club Chairman, Henry Noel Quinn collected the ‘Joe Haughain Trophy’ – Hall of Fame and Damien Cunningham collected a Special Recognition Award for his long Service to the Ballymartin Senior Team.

Attached Image: Sen-Res-U21_DSC5642-1 Caption: The Senior, Reserve and U-21 players received their trophies; Colin Cunningham Club Chairman, Martin Quinn received the “Bayview Contracts Cup” – Player of the Year Award. Canice Quinn received the “Cunningham Cup” Reserves Runner-Up jointly with Michael McManus (Not Pictured); Noel Kerr received the “Michael Greene Trophy” for Senior Player of the Year and Rory McManus (Not pictured) received the Runners-Up Player. Young Seamus Rodgers accepted the “Cunningham Cup” Reserve Player of the Year on behalf of Paddy Greene (Not Pictured) and Ryan McCullagh enjoyed getting photographed that much he stood in for another one!

Attached Image: Spec-Rec_DSC5658-1 Caption: As you can see, Colin Cunningham Club Chairman was in great form considering he had back surgery several weeks ago. He is pictured with Claire Higgins who was selected as the “Club Person of the Year” and picked up the “Johnny Byrne Trophy”. Sean O’Hare and John O’Neill who managed the Senior Ladies team were each presented with framed Club Jerseys and special commemorative trophies to mark their journey, in taking the Ladies to success in the Down Intermediates.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 25 November 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* The Clubs annual Dinner Dancetook place on Saturday past in the Whistledown, Warrenpoint. This was a special 90^th anniversary year of the Club, and the Committee congratulates those members that turned out for the occasion, on such a wet night and made it, the success it was. Ballymartin GAC would also like to extend their gratitude to the Whistledown for their warm welcome and great service and food. Special guest Mary Keegan, Secretary Ulster Ladies Gaelic Football Association was on hand to present the players with their awards, specially as the Ballymartin Ladies won the Down Intermediates Final and were League Runners-up. Mary said it was an honour to have been invited to the Clubs presentations, as her mother had lived in Ballymartin as a young child in the 1920’s, during the years, the club was founded. Mary honoured the Clubs members for keeping their traditions going. Special mention to the members who bind a Club and ALL Clubs together, those working behind the scene without compensation to make the Club better for the next generation and keeping the community together.

* During Ballymartin GAC’s Dinner Dance on Saturday, there was a special note to mark the tragic passing of young Ryan Doyle in Australia. As great percentages of our members have immigrated to Australia over the years, this tragic event hit a chord with the Ballymartin Club members and Committee. At the Dinner Dance, the club would hold a table prize raffle on the night, which is a collection to benefit the Club, with a first and second prize of £100 & £50 to the raffle winners. The Committee had agreed to donate the takings to the family of Ryan Doyle to assist in repatriating his remains. On that note, the 1^st and 2^nd prize winners Darren O’Hanlon and Eamonn McEvoy both returned their winnings to the fund for Ryan Doyle. On the night, £650 was raised, and if anyone would like to make a donation, they could contact Club Secretary Marie McKibbin. The Club and Committee would like to extend our condolences to the family of Ryan Doyle.

* Ballymartin’s Annual General Meeting takes place on Sunday 2nd December @ 6pm in the Clubrooms on Pats Road. *** Please note the time change of the AGM, to allow members to support Kilcoo in the Senior Ulster Final.

* The First Trial for the Down Under 14 Ladies for 2013 will take place in Annesborough on 2^nd December 2012 @ 9:30am. Players from -Annaclone, Ballymartin, Burren, Carryduff, Clonduff, Downpatrick, Glasdrumman, Longstone, Teconnaught and Tullylish should attend this session. There is a second session @ 11:00am.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 25 November: 3, 6, 8 & 25. ONE Jackpot Winner - ** Congratulations to Rodney Hanna - Next week’s Jackpot now starts @ £10,000. Eight People Matched 3 Numbers, congratulation to all the lucky winners; Bernadette Rooney, T. Flood & L. Morgan, Colette Byrne, Bernadette McDowell, Peter McAlinden, Kasia Szpecht, Mickey Megennis & Bridie Smith.

* This Sunday 2 Dec Lotto ROTA Team ‘C’ – E. Phillips (Leader), S. Phillips, S. Rogers, S. Cunningham, L. Byrne, L. Cunningham, P. Higgins, C. Cunningham & R. Cunningham.

Peter Fitzpatrick Captaining Victoria, Austrlia. Australasian Championship 2012 * Attached Image: Peter Fitz Playing for Victoria Au.jpg Caption: Peter Fitzpatrick in action during the Australasian Championships outside Perth, Peter was selected from his adopted local club to play for Victoria, unfortunately they were put out of the competition in the Semis-Finals.

Picture from:facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=215703801894204&set=a.215698091894775.51854.212256122238972&type=1&theater

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 18 November 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* A Mass was held last night - Tuesday 20th Nov - in St. Josephs Church, Ballymartin in honour of our deceased members. The club and committee members would like to thank Fr Sean Gilmore for the Service and to the Phillips Sisters and Choir who took part.

* The Clubs annual Dinner Dancetake place this Saturday 24 November in the Whistledown, anyone who has not yet got their tickets they can do so by contacting a committee member or calling into the Ballymartin Inn, and signing your name to the register.

* Ballymartin’s Annual General Meeting takes place on Sunday 2nd December @ 3pm in the Clubrooms on Pats Road. ***Please note The time of the AGM has been changed to 6pm to allow members to support Kilcoo in the Senior Ulster Final.

* U-21 squad of Lower Mourne had a promising start to the Group-A season, with a good win over Castlewellan. However, their next two games ended in resounding victories for the opponents, Mayobridge and Clonduff. This Sunday 25^th November they will be hosting Tullylish @ 2pm with Referee Shane Lowey. There may be a possibility that the U-21 A & B Semi-Finals will take place on Saturday December 1st as opposed to the Sunday Nov 2nd schedule, due to Kilcoo and Warrenpoint's continued success in their Ulster campaigns. Confirmation of dates and the Draws for these Semi-finals will take place later in the week.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 18 November; 6, 19, 31 &32. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @ £10,800. Three People Matched 3 Numbers, congratulation to all the lucky winners; Michael Brennan, Alan Trainor & Claire Higgins.

* This Sunday 25 Nov Lotto ROTA Team ‘B’ – M. McKibbin (Leader), J. McKibbin, D. O’Hanlon, L. Byrne, A. Cunningham, S. Rogers, M. McCartan, C. Doyle, S. Rooney, S. Cunningham.

* Congratulations to Ballymartin & Down Senior Player, Peter Fitzpatrick playing for Victoria, Australia, who took part in the AUSTRALASIAN GAELIC FOOTBALL & HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP 2012 that took place for the first time at the BGC Ground at the Tom Bateman Reserve in Canning Vale, 20km from Perth. Victoria was putout of the Semi-Finals when up against Western Australia 01-12 vs. 01-07 Victoria.

* Attached Image: Peter Fitz Playing for Victoria Au.jpg Caption: Peter Fitzpatrick in action during the Australasian Championships outside Perth, Peter was selected from his adopted local club to play for Victoria, unfortunately they were put out of the competition in the Semis-Finals.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 18 November 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* This Sunday 25 Nov Lotto ROTA Team ‘B’ – M. McKibbin (Leader), J. McKibbin, D. O’Hanlon, L. Byrne, A. Cunningham, S. Rogers, M. McCartan, C. Doyle, S. Rooney, S. Cunningham.

Ballymartins U-8 squad with Brendan McVeigh * Attached Image: _DSC5413.jpg Caption: Ballymartin’s U-8 boy’s and girl’s who received their certificates from Downs Goal keeper and All-Star player Brendan McVeigh (centre), also included Liam Quinn and Claire Higgins Underage Mentors.

Ballymartins U-10 Squad with Brendan McVeigh * Attached Image: _DSC5431.jpg Caption: Ballymartin’s U-10 boy’s and girl’s who received their certificates from Downs Goal keeper and All-Star player Brendan McVeigh (centre), also included Liam Quinn and Claire Higgins Underage Mentors.

Ballymartins U-12 Squad with Brendan McVeigh * Attached Image: _DSC5454.jpg Caption: Ballymartin’s U-12’s who the South Down Div 3 League, received their certificates and Gold League winners medals from Downs Goal keeper and All-Star player Brendan McVeigh (centre), also included are U-12 Coaches Colin Quinn and Cathal Doyle (Seniors Captain).

Some of those that attended the Underage Prizgiving 2012 * Attached Image: _DSC5402.jpg Caption: Ballymartin’s youth members and parents who attended the prize giving night on Thursday 9 November to receive their certificates from Downs Goal keeper and All-Star player Brendan McVeigh.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 11 November 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* A Mass for our deceased members will be held on Tuesday 20th Nov @ 7.30pm in St. Joseph’s Church, Ballymartin. All are welcome to join this celebration mass.

* Ballymartin’s Dinner Dance will take place on Saturday 24 November in the Whistledown Hotel, Warrenpoint.

* Ballymartin’s Annual General Meeting takes place on Sunday 2nd December @ 3pm in the Clubrooms on Pats Road.

* Ballymartin’s youth teams had their prize giving on Thursday night past. This was a great event for the youth teams and their families, to hear from the coaches and mentors about their development of their children and overall, how great a bunch of kids we have coming up through the ranks. Liam Quinn started the evening commenting on how noticeable the development has been in the children that have persevered over the past 2 – 4 years that he’s been involved in the youth (U-6 squad from 4 years ago now playing U-10 football). Their ability to read situations on a pitch has come on leaps and bounds, hand in hand with their co-ordination and general skills. He went on to commend the U-10’s on securing some silverware, when they won a tournament in Glassdrumman. He then introduced special guest, Down County Goal-Keeper Brendan McVeigh to issue certificates and medals to the U-8 &U-10 members. Next Cathal Doyle our Senior Captain who coaches the U-12’s got up to say a few inspirational words about the squad of lads he had all year. Not just for them turning up to matches but their dedication to training sessions – wind, rain and hail on occasions, and the lads still came to train. Brendan McVeigh presented the lads with their Gold Div 3, South Down League Winners medals and certificates of participation through the season. Our Cultural Officer Eamonn McEvoy then gave the floor to Brendan for a few words. He started by thanking the Club for inviting him to the evening and took it as an honour to be able to encourage the youth from clubs other than his own. He went on to say how he had watched some of our team play when they participated at an Riocht’s tournaments through the year and was very impressed at how they managed the ball, their tackling and blocking was excellent for the age-group. He was impressed with the youths work rate and said that, with the right attitude you can accomplish anything. The Club and Committee appreciate Brendan taking time out from his busy schedule, as the Down squad have already begun their coaching sessions for the 2013 campaign and thanks to all the parents who have been running left and right to find the venue for coaching and matches as our Club is still without a pitch.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 11 November; 3, 5, 25 &30. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @ £10,700. Six People Matched 3 Numbers, congratulation to all the lucky winners; Scooby’ Dessie Sloan, Michael Doran, R. M. Cunningham, Dee Dee & Alison Ivans.

* This Sunday 18 Nov Lotto ROTA Team ‘A’ – C. Cunningham (Leader), J. Doran, P. Higgins, P. & M. Collins, K. Cunningham, L. Hanna, K. & L. Rooney.

S.Down U12 League Winners New Jersey from Sponsor Dominic McCrink * Attached Images: DSC4106.jpg Caption: Ballymartin U-12s who received their new training tops sponsored by Dominic McCrink (Back Centre) with his nephew Ryan Higgins in front. Also included are mentors Colin Quinn and Cathal Doyle.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 4 November 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* A Mass for deceased members is to be held in Ballymartin Church on Tuesday 20th Nov @ 7.30pm. All welcome.

* Dinner Dance - Saturday 24 November – Whistledown.

* AGM - Sunday 2nd December @ 3pm – Clubrooms, Pats Road.

* The U-12 boys were rewarded for their outstanding achievement in winning this year’s League, when they received a special bonus from Club sponsor Dominic McCrink. Dominic is uncle to U-12 player Ryan Higgins. As Ryan and his teammates performed so well, Dominic sponsored the team and Managers with a set of training tops after their League winning match when they defeated an Riocht to clinch the title. The Committee, team and mentors where overwhelmed at the generosity shown by Mr McCrink and many thanks to him. Club Chairman Colin Cunningham said, “It is great to see family members of such young players feel so proud of their nephew and his teammates to reward them all so generously.”

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 4 November; 2, 10, 11, 19. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpotnow stands @ £10,600. 11 People Matched 3 Numbers, congratulation to all the lucky winners. Pauline McConville, Russell Hamilton, Cunningham Family, Barry Gribbin, Tony Donnan, Joel Cunningham, Brian O’Rielly, Jimmy Burden, John McCartan, D. Brady & Eileen Trainor.

* This Sunday’s 11 Nov Lotto ROTA Team ‘D’– Y. Fitzpatrick (Leader), S. & P. Fitzpatrick, C. Bailey, E. Ward, P. & M. Doran, C. Higgins & G. Quinn

* There is a class starting in St Columban's Kilkeel Gym tonight Wednesday 7th November at 7pm. This is a GAA specific class. Over the 6 weeks, you will be challenged to put your form to test with a dynamic mix of Cardio circuits, weights and Pilates all specific for the GAA player, contact Steven Poacher or Catrina Rodgersthough Facebook or by text to book a place.

* MONSTER TABLE QUIZ (Proceeds to the Pioneer Total Abstinence Association). The Pioneer Total Abstinence Association is on the look-out for the top quiz brains in Ireland. A Monster Table Quiz is being organizedon their behalf in the Grand Hotel, Moate, County Westmeath on Saturday, 10 November 2012 at 8.00pm. The cost per table of four people is €50. Hot finger food will be provided on the night. The Quiz is open to everybody – Pioneers and non-Pioneers alike. There is a prize fund of €1000.

* Last week the Ballymartin Senior Ladies League Competition were finalised with the Intermediate League winners being Kilcoo and the Runners-Up were Ballymartin. This is to add to their achievements at winning the Down Intermediate Championship, congratulation to all involved.

Atticall U14s @ Ballymartins 90th Celebration Tournament * Attached Images: DSC4630 Caption: Atticall U-14s

Longstone U14s @ Ballymartins 90th Celebration Tournament * Attached Images: DSC4643 Caption: Longstone U-14s Runners-Up

an Riochts U14s @ Ballymartins 90th Celebration Tournament * Attached Images: DSC4648 Caption: An Riocht U-14s Tournament Winners

Ballymartins U14s @ Ballymartins 90th Celebration Tournament * Attached Images: DSC4745 Caption: Ballymartin U-14s

an Riochts U14 Captains recieve Winners trophy @ Ballymartins 90th Celebration Tournament * Attached Images: DSC4977 Caption: An Riocht’s U-14 Joint Captains received the trophy from Club Secretary Marie McKibbin.

an Riochts U16s @ Ballymartins 90th Celebration Tournament * Attached Images: DSC4632 Caption: An Riocht U-16s Tournament Winners

Longston U16s @ Ballymartins 90th Celebration Tournament * Attached Images: DSC4638 Caption: Longstone U-16s

Ballymartin U16s @ Ballymartins 90th Celebration Tournament * Attached Images: DSC4690 Caption: Ballymartin U-16s Runners-Up

Atticall U-16 @ Ballymartins 90th Celebration Tournament * Attached Images: DSC4820 Caption: Atticall U-16s

An Riocht U14 Captain Recieves winners trophy from M.McKibbin * Attached Images: DSC4981 Caption: An Riocht’s U-16 Captain received the trophy from Club Secretary Marie McKibbin.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 28Oct 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* A Mass for deceased members is to be held on Tuesday 20th Nov @ 7.30pm. All welcome.

* Dinner Dance - Saturday 24 November – Whistledown.

* AGM - Sunday 2nd December @ 3pm – Clubrooms, Pats Road.

* Ballymartin GAC was formed in 1922 and turned Ninety years young in 2012. The Committee had big plans arranged to mark the occasion during the year. These were cancelled due to the Championships and the Ladies team doing so well. With the rebirth of our home pitch being re-sown and after a season where our local clubs rallied behind us to loan a pitch when needed, there seemed no better and fitting way, than to celebrate our Gaelic traditions and culture and to honour the sporting youth in our local community through our Gaelic games. So, on Saturday morning past the local clubs came together with their U-14 and U-16 boy’s football squads to play in the ‘90^th Anniversary, Celebratory Sevens Tournament’ and what a great day this turned out to be. A crisp fresh Autumnal morning, clear blue skies and a touch of warmth from the winter sun. All games commenced at 10:30 with each team getting an opportunity at the others. Things were getting frantic, as most of the players would not normally play 7-a-side, the game has a quicker and more challenging pace than what they are used. The day’s event was not intended to show superiority or brilliance, but the sporting prowess of our youth in Gaelic Games, so as in most sporting challenges there had to be an eventual winning team for both age groups. In the U-14s Longstone were Runners-Up with the an Riocht Club lifting the trophy, in the U-16s the host club Ballymartin, were the Runners-Up with again an Riocht taking the trophy, all runners-ups and winners received commemorative medals. Not to forget the fact that the Player’s of the Tournament for both groups, whom were selected by the referees were both from an Riocht. Congratulations to both winning teams from an Riocht, both teams did their Club proud. The Ballymartin Club - Committee would like to thank all those in attendance and to the two Referees, organisers; Eamonn McEvoy, James Doran, Claire & Danielle Higgins, Marie McKibbin, Theresa McCrink. The latter four who helped make and serve the soup, sandwiches, tea and coffees throughout the day. Apologies to anyone left out and thanks to all that supported the event.

* Congratulations to the Lower Mourne U-21s team that successfully won their first match in the Round-Robin Championship against Castlewellan on Sunday evening. Next Sunday November 4^th in Group ‘A’ Lower Mourne vs. Mayobridge (Ref: Damien Laverty) and Castlewellan v Clonduff (Ref: Dominic Brogan).

* There will be a selection of New sports gear available shortly, check our website BallymartinGAA.com and our Facebook page for more details.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 28 October; 14, 16, 24 &27. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @ £10,500. Six People Matched 3 Numbers, congratulation to all the lucky winners; Malachy Cousins, Brian & Anne Rooney, Jenny Spencer, Bronagh McLoughlin, Paddy Greene & Gerard Boyle.

* This Sunday 4 Nov Lotto ROTA Team ‘C’ – E. Phillips (Leader), S. Phillips, S. Rogers, S. Cunningham, L. Byrne, L. Cunningham, P. Higgins, C. Cunningham & R. Cunningham.

* Attached Image: KitBagHandover.jpg Caption: Mr John McKibbin of LeestoneSportHorses.com presents a set of training tops to Ladies Coach - Sean O’Hare, after the ladies great success in winning the Down Ladies Intermediate Championship 2012. Also included are Rhianna and Callum McKibbin who presented the Ladies team with new kit bags, also sponsored by LeestoneSportHorses.com. Receiving the Kit Bags for the ladies team are; Orla Doyle, Lauren Cunningham and Naimh Rogers. (Picture: Colin Cunningham, Chairman)

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 21 Oct 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* Important Dates for Ballymartin GAC:

* Under-age Prize-giving night – Thursday 6 November – Clubrooms, Pats Road.

* Return of Motions and Nominations – Sunday 11 November to Secretary.

* Dinner Dance - Saturday 24 November – Whistledown.

* AGM - Sunday 2nd December @ 3pm – Clubrooms, Pats Road.

* Ballymartin’s Annual General Meeting takes place on Sunday 2nd December 2012 @ 3:00pm. ALL current members are requested to attend. Nomination and Motions forms are available from the Club Secretary, Marie McKibbin. Nominations and Motions forms are to be returned, no later than November 11th 2012.

* The underage Prize Giving Night which was set take place tomorrow Thursday 25^th Oct. has been postponed until Tuesday 6 November in the Club Rooms at Pats Road. Sorry for any inconvenience, please LIKE our Facebook page for updates.

* The Ballymartin Dinner Dance has been booked for The Whistledown on Saturday 24 November. The committee took it, that the current committee should host the Dinner Dance for the current year. Hope to see you all there celebrating the great success of the club.

* The club and committee of Ballymartin GAA would like to extend their condolences to the family of the late Matt Fitzpatrick R.I.P.

* The club and committee would like to send our best wishes and a speedy recovery to our Chairman: Colin Cunningham who went through a long and delicate surgery during the week, latest reports were good and that there were no complications. The surgeons were pleased to say... Good Luck Colin and we all hope to see you back on your feet soon, ‘cause there a lot of work to do around the club.

* ‘Past’ Ballymartin Players are getting together this Saturday for a pool competition in Rostrevor, bus leaving Ballymartin inn at 6:30. All welcome.

* The forthcoming U-21 Championships sees Ballymartin, Glasdrumman and Longstone join forces to form ‘LOWER MOURNE’. They are in Group ‘A’ and the group winners will proceed to the ‘A’ Semi-Finals and Runners-up to the Shield Semi-finals. Group ‘A’; Lower Mourne (Ballymartin, Glasdrumman & Longstone), Tullylish, Mayobridge, Clonduff and Castlewellan. The first date of Round Robin matches takes place on Sunday Oct 28^th @ 2pm when Lower Mourne will be on the road to take on Castlewellan.

* U-16 Ladies took to the roads on Sunday to play football, taking on Saul. This was a match the ladies wanted/needed to play although the result was to have no bearing on standings, the ladies just wanted to get a game, having played only 8 matches in 27 weeks with one cancelled the ladies just needed to play more football. The last time they met Saul was mid September and the Ballymartin ladies were pipped at the post (Ballymartin 4-11 vs. 4-13 Saul), this time the just couldn’t advance and the score finished Saul 2-07 vs. 2-07 Ballymartin. That’s the end of competitive ladies football for this season. Thanks to Paddy, Claire and Declan for their hard work during the season.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 28 October; 1, 15, 18 & 19. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @ £10,400. 6 People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation to all the lucky winners; M. S. Caughey, Sean Phillips, Colm Phillips, S. Caughey, John Campbell & Calum Murnagh.

* This Sunday 28 Oct Lotto ROTA Team ‘B’ – M. McKibbin (Leader), J. McKibbin, D. O’Hanlon, L. Byrne, A. Cunningham, S. Rogers, M. McCartan, C. Doyle, S. Rooney, S. Cunningham.

* Attached Image: DSC4214.jpg Caption: Ballymartin Ladies, Down Intermediate Championship Winners team who were defeated by Magheracloone, Monaghan during Sundays Ulster Intermediate Quarter Final. The Ladies put a great performance and did themselves and their Club proud. They gave all they had for the full of the match, despite Magheracloone getting a goal in the after 15 seconds of the initial whistle, the ladies kept their heads up and played the game. Congratulations to the Ladies and Management Sean O’Hare and John O’Neill.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 14 Oct 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

Important Dates for Ballymartin GAC:

Under-age Prize-giving night – Thursday 25 October – Clubrooms, Pats Road.

Dinner Dance - Saturday 24 November – Whistledown.

AGM – Sunday 2nd December 3PM – Clubrooms, Pats Road.

* U-21 squad will begin coaching sometime this week or early next week with an amalgamated ‘Lower Mourne’ team. Details to follow; Ballymartin GAC / Facebook.

* The U-11s had a successful day in Atticall, with great performances from Matthew Cunningham, Paul Quinn, Cormac Greene and Morgan Buckley.

* Intermediate Ladies had a great game on Sunday despite losing to a very strong and disciplined Magheracloone squad, the ladies did themselves very proud in their achievements for the year, this is a credit to their Management team of Sean O’Hare and John O’Neill.

* U-16 Ladiesplay Saul away this Sunday 21 October at 12.30pm.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 14 October: 2, 4, 18, 28. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @ £10,300. 10 People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation to all the lucky winners; Julie Sinclair, Leah, Michael & Corey, Kristopher Rooney, Jacki White, Joanne & Alex Young, Jacqueline Rooney, Sue Trainor, Malachy Poland, K. Murney & Aisling Trainor.

* This Sunday 21 Oct Lotto ROTA Team ‘A’ – C. Cunningham (Leader), J. Doran, P. Higgins, P. & M. Collins, K. Cunningham, L. Hanna, K. & L. Rooney.

* Ballymartin PRE-AGM, will take place on 14 October 2012 in Ballymartin Club Rooms on Pats Road. This will give all current members a chance to hear what has been happening in the Club and what the Committee intend for the future. This will also allow current members a chance to prepare for the AGM, which will take place on 25 November 2012 in the Club Rooms. All Current Members are welcome to attend.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 7 Oct 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* Ballymartin Dinner Dance has been booked for Saturday 24th November 2012 in the‘Whistledown’ Warrenpoint. More details to follow.

* The Parent & Toddlers are in Ballymartin GAC clubrooms every Friday morning 10.30 am everyone welcome.

* The U-11’s are on the road this Sunday 14th October to Atticall for the Ballykelly Group - South Down U-11 Leagues at 10.30am. Venue:- Atticall - Teams:- Drumgath, Atticall, Bosco, An Riocht, St.Michaels & Ballymartin. Refs: G. McVeigh & M. O’Rourke.

* Intermediate Ladies:Ballymartin GAC are appealing to all Club members/Players, fans supporters alike to come out in your numbers this Sunday 14 October to cheer on our very own County Intermediate Champions in their quest for a spot in this year’s Ulster Championship Final – this is a big occasion for the ladies, we want to see the flags and bunting out along the highways and byways. We also want to wish the Players and Management the very best of luck.

* U-16 Ladiesplay Saul away - next Sunday 21 October at 12.30pm

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 7 October 19, 22, 23, 26. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @£ 10,200. 3 People Matched 3 Numbers; £20 each. Congratulation to the lucky winners; Mary Uprichard, Cannon Cunningham & Hector.

* This Sunday 14 Oct Lotto ROTA Team ‘D’– Y. Fitzpatrick (Leader), S. & P. Fitzpatrick, C. Bailey, E. Ward, P. & M. Doran, C. Higgins & G. Quinn

Ballymartins Underage at Coco's Newcastle at their end of year party. * Attached Image: DSC_3848-1 Caption: Ballymartin GAC’s U-8 and U-10 children who had a well deserved outing at Coco’s last Sunday morning. This was in recognition of their support and effort through-out the year not forgetting the silverware won by the U-10’s. The Committee of Ballymartin GAC thanks the mentors, parents and players for all their hard work and hoping for greater success next year.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 30 September2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* The Committee and Members of Ballymartin GAC would like to pass on our condolences, following the recent death of Mr Charlie Morgan to his Wife Mary and family and extended family circle.

* Congratulations to Joe Phillips, who won the ‘All Ireland Squares’ last weekend and lifted the £1000 prize. Thanks to all who bought squares and special thanks to Wee Seamus for all his hard graft?

* Good luck to both the Longstone and Bryansford in the Semi-Finals of Senior Football Championship on Sunday, both clubs made their pitches available to Ballymartin GAC during the football season.

* The -U-11 and U-12’s are having a short training session tomorrow (Thursday) evening at St. Colmans: 6.15-7.15. The U-11’s are taking part in the South Down blitz ‘Mini-League’ over the next two Sunday mornings. This Sunday they travel to Drumgath. Children will be departing from Pats Road at 9.30am sharp.

* Last Sunday morning the U-8 and U-10 footballers had a great morning's entertainment in Coco's Adventure Playground,Newcastle to mark the end of their season. There was a big turnout and fun was had by all. Clare, Eamonn and Liam would like to thank all the players for their great efforts this year and to the parents for their continued support. A special thanks also to Ballymartin GAC for sponsoring the trip to Coco’s event. We look forward to seeing you all in 2013.

* Intermediate Ladies had a great battle on their hands last Thursday when they travelled to and drew with Rostrevor 4 -12 vs. 4-12 Ballymartin. They have until October 14 to prepare themselves for their biggest match to date, when they will be taking on Magheracloone (Co. Monaghan), in the Ulster Quarter-Final in An Riocht.

* U-16 Ladies have their next match on October 21 against Saul, outcome of last week’s match is classified as “unknown”.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 30 September; 7, 19, 20, 30. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @£ 10,100. -*-*-* People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation to all the lucky winners: Raymond McCartan, Mattie Rooney, Ion McAnulty, Sharon Sloan, Sean & Laura & Teresa Haughain.

* This Sunday’s 7 Oct Lotto ROTA Team ‘C’ – E. Phillips (Leader), S. Phillips, S. Rogers, S. Cunningham, L. Byrne, L. Cunningham, P. Higgins, C. Cunningham & R. Cunningham.

* Attached image: DSC3686-1.jpg Caption: Glassdrumman number ‘four’ player, picked up the ball and ran off into the sunset, with over a dozen players giving chase during last Tuesdays Final Friendly of the Season for the U-8 and 10’s.

* Attached image: DSC3682.jpg Caption: Ballymartin’s Thomas Higgins carries the ball up field during last Tuesdays friendly against Glassdrumman, flanked by Éoin Ward and his not much Bigger Brother Aodhán Ward, whilst Glassdrumman’s Connor McDowell is hot on his heels.

* Attached image: P1016684.jpg Caption: Anthony Rogers of the South Down Board presents; Ballymartin’s Joint Captains Daniel Ward and Rory Quinn with the U-12 Ballykelly Group - South Down Div 3 Trophy after winning the League title on 12 September.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 23 September 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* Seniors had a disappointing result last Tuesday when they travelled to Tullylish for their last match of the league. This was both teams fighting for fourth place in the tables, final score; Tullylish 3-10 V 0-13 Ballymartin.

* U-16 have one match left to play in the league, away to Clan na Derg, this match is yet to be scheduled.

* The U-12s will continue their coaching sessions in St.Colmans Pitch, Kilkeel. They had a great session last week, despite the continual rain. An U-11 team will be taking part in two Blitz's over forthcoming weekends. Children will informed of details at training.

Reminder to put in presentation photo for U12including caption, missed last week.

* U-10’s played a great end of season friendly match with local rivals Glassdrumman on Tuesday night. Although it was bitterly cold as the sun started to set, all the youngsters had a great evening. Thanks to the parents, mentors and players of Glassdrumman for travelling up the road and putting on a great display of Gaelic Football. Keep up the training and we look forward to seeing you all next season.

* Intermediate Ladies had their last match called off as Clonduff conceded the game. Their next outing is away toRostrevor for a 6pm throw-in. The ladies are now on full throttle preparing for their Ulster Semi-Finals match which has changed to October 14 - when they host Magheracloone (Co. Monaghan).

* U-16 ‘B’ Ladies played Saul on Friday evening and played some inspiring football however, the final whistle blew the Whites away... Ballymartin 4-11 vs. 4-13 Saul. On Monday evening (24/9) they travelled to Kilcoo. The next match is away to Loughinisland on Sun September 30 with A 12:30 throw-in.

* Lotto Numbers this week were drawn on Monday 24 September due to the All Ireland Finals. ; 9, 19, 23, 26. *** ONE Jackpot Winner - Una Trainor - *** Next week’s lotto changes to four from 32 numbers and the Jackpot now stands @ £10,000. 17 People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation to all the lucky winners: Hector, Richie Morgan, Eithne Poland, Martin Fitzpatrick, M. Cunningham, M. Cunningham, Pat Cunningham, Danny Cunningham, Aidan Rogers, Gail Doyle, May Trimble, Eamonn Mallon, K. Mallon, Una Evans, Joe Higgins, John Fegan & H. N. Quinn.

* This Sunday 30 Sept Team ‘B’ – M. McKibbin (Leader), J. McKibbin, D. O’Hanlon, L. Byrne, A. Cunningham, S. Rogers, M. McCartan, C. Doyle, S. Rooney, S. Cunningham.

* Attached Image: DSC3491.jpg - Caption: Ballymartin U-12’s who Claimed victory at the top of the South Down U- 12 Div 3 - Football League last Wednesday when they defeated An Riocht in amazing fashion. Congratulations to Coaches; Colin Quinn and Cathal Doyle and the Panel; (BR) Matthew Cunningham, Matthew Cranney, Sean Quinn, Morgan Buckley, Paul Quinn, Cormac Phillips, James Quinn and Keelin Kearney (Keeper). (FR) Ryan Higgins, Ryan McAlinden, Callum Turner, Rory Quinn and Daniel Ward (Joint Captains) and James Ward.

* Attached Image: DSC3613.jpg - Caption: Ballymartin’s ‘Forward Line’ of Aodhan Ward and Orla Quinn (with Cormac Green), take on a defensive role as they tried to win back the ball, as the Castlewellan’s Defenders try to clear their lines during Saturday Shield Final in Glassdrumman.

* Attached Image: DSC3652.jpg - Caption: Ballymartin’s U-10 Joint Captains Amy Higgins and Orla Quinn receive the Glassdrumman U-10 Shield.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 16 September 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* ‘Wee Seamus’ is doing the “All Ireland Squares” with £1000 up for grabs for the final score on All Ireland day. Squares are already selling fast and places are limited. The ‘Squares’ board is behind the bar at Ballymartin Inn if anyone is interested in buying a square.

* Seniors Last week in Park Esler the Lillywhites did not give a very convincing display. Warrenpoint arrived in Park Esler ‘hungry’. After a slow start, the Blues got the first score with the ball finding the net after four minutes. From here on it was a downhill spiral for the Whites. At the half, they were trailing 1-07 vs. 0-03. When the match was restarted, ‘The Blues’ is what had a grip of Ballymartin supporters. After five minutes into the second Warrenpoint had stretched the lead 2-08 vs. 0-03 and the punishment went on. The deserved victors were wearing’ Blue and won by 3-12 vs. 0-06. Warrenpoint now meet Tullylish in the Semi-Final, the first weekend of October. On Saturday the Whites went on the road to meet Bosco in their penultimate match of the league; St John Bosco 1-2 V 1-11 Ballymartin. Last night the lads were hitting the road to Tullylish for the last game of the season, details next week.

* U-16 have one match to play away to Clan na Derg, this match is yet to be scheduled.

* U-14 had their last coaching session last week when the lads took on a challenge match against their parents and mentors. They had a great last session and would like to thank the coaching staff for all their hard work through the year.

* The U-12s take Pride of place this week, who last Wednesday evening secured the South Down Division 3 League title, following a hard fought final league game against neighbours An Riocht. Having beaten the same opposition the previous week, Ballymartin had to win this last game to ensure the league title. However, An Riocht certainly wanted revenge and started the game in blistering fashion racing into an early and well-deserved lead. The nervous Ballymartin lads found it hard to settle, but following tenacious defending by goalkeeper Keelin Kearney and defenders Matthew Cunningham, Matthew Cranney and Cormac Phillips during the second quarter, the Lilywhites started to find holes in An Riocht's rearguard and were rewarded with goals from the skilful Paul Quinn and James Ward. At half time Ballymartin held a six-point lead. The second half commenced with An Riocht again applying serious pressure on Ballymartin's defence and when the deficit was reduced to three points, the league title appeared to be slipping. However with serious questions being asked, Ballymartin midfield partnership of Rory Quinn and Daniel Ward continued to show great leadership and drove forward repeatedly to score and set up scores for the front line; Ryan Higgins, Sean Quinn and Morgan Buckley. An Riocht launched a late series of attacks, but the hard working Callum Turner, James Quinn and youthful Ryan McAlinden ensured a Ballymartin victory and league title. Final score was Ballymartin 7-07 vs. 3-03 An Riocht. Well done to all the players and Management for the tremendous effort and dedication throughout the year and for all the entrainment provided. The U-12 players and management also congratulate neighbours Longstone who had two victories at the weekend to join Ballymartin at the top of the table and share the league title.

* U-10 squad had an eventful day at the Glassdrumman Tournament on Saturday morning. They ended as the winners of the Shield, having defeated Castlewellan in the Final. Congratulations to the Claire Higgins (coach) and to all the players and supporters, this was a great day’s craic and thanks to Glassdrumman for the invite and hospitality. Coaching continued last night with a friendly match with Glassdrumman.

* Intermediate Ladies were to host Tullylish on Saturday however, Tullylish e-mailed to say they could not field and have conceded the match. Next Saturday the Ladies are on the road to Clonduff to play round 14 of the league; this will be a ‘re-play of sorts’ from the Ballymartin Ladies win three weeks ago in the IFC. This will be the Ladies last competitive match before the Ulster Semi-Finals on October 7, when they host Magheracloone (Co. Monaghan).

* U-16 Ladies next match is on 7 October in Loughinisland. This coincides with the Senior Ladies Ulster Quarter-Final in An Riocht.

* U-14 Ladies had a great game against Teconnaught on Wednesday night beating themconvincingly; Ballymartin 8-03 vs. 1-03 Teconnaught. Ballymartin have one game left to play against Saul, this was a postponed game from 13^th May due to Ulster U-14 Final v Cavan, no date as yet for this game.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 16 September; 5, 6, 17 & 19. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @£ 10,200. 18 People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation to all the lucky winners.

* This Sunday 23 Sept Lotto ROTA Team ‘A’ – C. Cunningham (Leader), J. Doran, P. Higgins, P. & M. Collins, K. Cunningham, L. Hanna, K. & L. Rooney.

Attached Image: u8AnRiocht2012Tourney.jpg Caption: The Ballymartin U-8 Squad had a great day at An Riocht in the “The Kingdom Cup U8 Football Tournament”.

Attached Image: _DSC3215.jpg Caption: Ballymartin’s, Mathew Craney casually looks over his shoulder to view the ball lodged firmly in the netting after his magnificent strike on goal, as team-mate Sean Quinn comes over to celebrate Matthews second goal of the match against An Riocht last Thursday.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 9 September 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* Ballymartin Ladies have organised a table quiz for this Saturday in Ballymartin Inn, come early to get a good seat (Eight to a team). All questions are easily answered by someone with a basic knowledge!

* Seniors took on Warrenpoint on Monday past in the Around A Pound IFC Q-Final in Pairc Esler. More details next week. On the Saturday 15 Sept. They are set to travel to St John Bosco V Ballymartin for a 5:00PM throw-in. Referee: Jim Burns. This match will be followed with an away game on Tuesday 18 Sept. to Tullylish.

* Reserves lost out to a strong Atticall 2-16 V 1-13 Ballymartin on Sunday night.

* Minors next match is pencilled in for 22 September in Down Minor B Football Championship when Baileghlas takes on Clann na Derg.

* U-16 Management would like to wish a speedy recovery to Jordan Fitzpatrick who was injured during their last match.

* U-14 squad had their final coaching session of the year on Tuesday night. Thanks to the mentors for all their hard work and dedication.

* The U-12s were defeated by Longstone two weeks ago in the top of the table clash at the Valley Rd. Played in perfect conditions; nothing separated the teams during the early stages, with both sides exchanging scores of the highest quality. The second half started like the first, with the sides again swapping scores, but the slicker Longstone forward line scored two more goals at the three quarter stage and ended up deserving winners. Despite the defeat, Ballymartin had admirable performances from Keelin Kearney, Matthew Cunningham, Rory Quinn, Daniel Ward and Paul Quinn. Both teams have to be commended of the high level of skill and determination displayed. The U-12s penultimate league game of the season took place last Thursday evening, with an away game against An Riocht. This was again an entertaining and high scoring affair, with the young Lillywhites building up a commanding half time lead, having played with the aid of a strong breeze. An Riocht came back strong in the second period and registered many fine long range points, but the ‘tiger-ish’ defending by all players, ensured victory for Ballymartin. Players to impress included James Ward, Matthew Cranney, James Quinn, Sean Quinn and Callum Turner. This evening at 6.45pm (Wed) the U-12s conclude their league campaign, with An Riocht again the opposition. A win in this game would ensure the team ends up league winners or at worst joint league winners, so best of luck to all involved. Thanks to Cathal Doyle and Colin Quinn for their dedication throughout the year.

* U-10's played a challenge game against neighbours Glassdrumman on Monday evening. Report next week. Also U-10's will be participating in the Glassdrumman Tournament this Saturday 15th September. Details to follow.

* U-8’s team had a very enjoyable day on Saturday at the An Riocht Tournament. In the group stages, they met stiff opposition playing St Colmcille Meath, Aughlisnafin, Clonduff and Bryansford. These young guns of the future played some great football and showed great character. They went onto beat Clonduff A in the preliminary round before succumbing to the host club in a very closely fought game. Liam, Clare, Sean and Eamonn would like to thank the players for their endeavours and the hosts, An Riocht, for providing a well organised tournament.

* Intermediate Ladies lost out to a strong Kilcoo side on Saturday, with the Ulster Quarter-Final looming with Magheracloone (Co.Monaghan - 7 Oct.), we hope all the key players are getting well rested. The next league match is this Saturday 15 Sept. When they travel to Tullylish for a 6:30 throw-in.

* U-16 Ladies were beaten by Kilcoo in the Championship Semi-Final on Sunday. There was a strong performance from key players and Fiona Cunningham had a great second half.

* U-14 Ladies are set to host Teconnaught in St Colmans PS, Kilkeel on Sunday 16 Sept @ 12:30.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 10 September; 1, 7, 14, 22. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @£ 10,100. 23 People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation to all the lucky winners.

* This Sunday’s 16 Sept Lotto ROTA Team ‘D’– Y. Fitzpatrick (Leader), S. & P. Fitzpatrick, C. Bailey, E. Ward, P. & M. Doran, C. Higgins & G. Quinn.

* Attached Image DSC2547.jpg Caption: Ballymartin’s Daniel Ward breaks up-field with team-mate Paul Quinn on his wing during last week’s defeat with Longstone.

* Attached Image: DSC2799.jpg Caption: Ballymartin Ladies before they claimed victory over Clonduff in the Down County Intermediate Championship Final on Saturday evening in Saval.

* Attached Image: DSC2806.jpg Caption: Referee Marty Rawlinson welcomes the two Captains to the pitch.

* Attached Image: _DSC3087.jpg Caption: Triumphant Ballymartin – third time luck is all down to hard work and dedication from both the players and the Management of Sean O’Hare and John O’Neill. “Three Finals in 3 years is a testament to the character of this group of ladies, who play for the pure love of the game” (Collin Cunningham Chairman Ballymartin GAC)

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 2 September 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* The Ballymartin Seniors take part in the Intermediate Championship Q-Final on Monday September 10 when they take on Warrenpoint in Pairc Esler at 7pm.

* Reserves are on the road this Sunday 9th September to take on Atticall in the McAvoy Construction LLP South Down RFL at 6.00pm.

* Minors next match is pencilled in for 21 September in Clann na Derg.

* U-16 Management would like to wish a speedy recovery to Jordan Fitzpatrick who was injured during their last match.

* U-14 Coaching continues as usual.

* The U-12s were defeated by Longstone last Thursday in the top of the table clash at the Valley Rd. Played in perfect conditions; nothing separated the teams during the early stages, with both sides exchanging scores of the highest quality. However, in a three-minute spell before the break, the home side scored as many goals to build up a healthy lead. The second half started like the first, with the sides again swapping scores, but the slicker Longstone forward line scored two more goals at the three quarter stage and ended up deserving winners. Despite the defeat, Ballymartin had admirable performances from Keelin Kearney, Matthew Cunningham, Rory Quinn, Daniel Ward and Paul Quinn. Both teams are to be commended for the high level of skill and determination displayed. The U-12s penultimate Ballykelly Group - South Down U12 Div 3 league game of the season takes place tomorrow evening at 7pm, with an away game against An Riocht.

* U-10 coaching continues on Tuesday evening in Carrigenagh Road. On Saturday 8th September there is a Ballykelly Group - South Down U-10 Go Games at 10.30am hosted by Mayobridge; it si not yet known if Ballymartin will be able to attend, details will be given at coaching session.

* U-8 Ballymartin hosted their second Go Games Blitz in as many weeks, last Saturday. This turned out to be another great success for Ballymartin, with nine Clubs attending consisting of 15 teams; An Riocht, Atticall, Ballymartin, Clonduff (Gaels & Ógs), Glassdrumman, Mayobridge (Gaels & Ógs), Rostrevor (Gaels & Ógs), Shamrock (Gaels, Ógs & Harps) and Warrenpoint (Gaels & Ógs). The committee would like to thank all the children, mentors and parents for participating and supporting, also thanks to Ballymartin members that organised and did all the preparations; Billy McCourt, Claire Higgins, Eamonn McEvoy, Colin Cunningham, Liam Quinn and thanks to the South Down Assistant Secretary Michael O’Rourke with organising and officiating with the referees.

* Intermediate Ladies won the Down 2012 County Intermediate Final: Ballymartin 3-12 vs. 1-10 Clonduff. This was the Ladies third successive attempt to claim the Title and with a gruelling nine months of training and great coaching their efforts have finally paid off. The next step is to attack the Ulster Title with the same vigour. Congratulations to the all the Ladies, the Management of Sean O’Hare and John O’Neill and the little helpers, including all the sponsors. A note of thanks to the Ballymartin Committee; for assisting in the team development. Special well wishes to the team Captain - Caroline O’Neill, who played all of the second half with a broken hand. Not to forget Player of the Match Lauren Cunningham. Congratulation also to both the Junior Final winners: St John Bosco 1-11 vs. 2-5 Loughinisland and Senior Final winners: Bryansford 0-12vs. 1-6 Carryduff. Ballymartin GAC Committee would like to wish them every success in the Ulster’s.

* U-16-B Ladies take on Kilcoo at St Colmans PS, Kilkeel on Sunday 9 September @ 12:30pm in theU-16 Championship Semi-Final. Referee; M. O’Rourke.

* U-14-B Ladies are set to host Teconnaught at St Colmans PS, Kilkeel on Sunday 16 September @ 12:30pm.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 2 September 4, 10, 21, 24 ONE Lucky Jackpot Winner - * Brian Cunningham * - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @£ 10,000. 15 People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation to all the lucky winners;P. Gribben, R. Poland, Jerome Sharvin, H.N. Quinn, Riena Rooney, Mary Higgins, Mary Cunningham, Karl Cunningham, Ciara Quinn, Ian Moris, Claire McNeill, Laura Cunningham, Seamus Nelson, Shanua Quinn & Peter Collins.

* This Sunday 9 September Lotto ROTA Team Team ‘C’ – E. Phillips (Leader), S. Phillips, S. Rogers, S. Cunningham, L. Byrne, L. Cunningham, P. Higgins, C. Cunningham & R. Cunningham.

* 2012 DOWN IFC - Ballymartin 3-12 vs. 1-10 Clonduff

Ballymartin Ladies made it through to their third County IFC Final in a row having beaten Carryduff, Mayobridge and Kilcoo along the way. Now all that stood between them and the title was Clonduff. The game was played at Saval on 01/09/2012.

The game started brightly for the whites with Danielle Newell rising to take the throw in and playing a good early ball into the full forward line where Caroline O’Neill grabbed it. As she bore down on goal she was upended (the first of many times during the game) and a penalty was awarded. Danielle was given the task of striking it and although she has not had much luck in recent weeks with them – she dispatched this one with ease. Nerves settled – stick to the game plan.

The kick out was collected by Jessica Collins who rose majestically through the air and when she landed and took four steps, she split the posts with aplomb. Another great score and the girls looked like they could take control. Clonduff did make a brief push and scored the next point after a simple mistake in the defence allowed the centre half forward to kick from distance. The resulting kick out was collected by Laura Sloan who fed it directly to Caroline O’Neill. Almost instinctively, Caroline passed over her shoulder to the space where her partner in crime Lauren “Mighty Mouse” Cunningham was bearing down on goal. She side stepped her seven markers and blasted the ball low underneath the keeper for another goal for the whites.

Ballymartin were gaining control in the midfield area with Orla “Dougal” Doyle and Danielle Newell really taking the game by the scruff of the neck and playing it simple. Two scores in quick succession from Caroline saw the girls stretch their lead and a brace from Lauren pushed them even further ahead. Clonduff looked like they did not have a response and then suddenly a chink of light appeared for them. A high looping ball into the full forward line saw a mix up between the best full back in the County; Andrea (Annett) Hennity and keeper Sinead Rooney and the ball spilled over the line for a goal.

The crowd went wild and the ‘Yellas’ seemed set for a period of dominance. It never unfolded. Carol Rafferty took a great point on the run and a triple from Lauren had them in tatters again. But it was in the 28^th minute that the real drama happened. Ellen Marks playing in her first County Final at 15 years old caught a short kick out and passed it to Michaela Cunningham in front of her. Quick thinking saw the ball transferred to Carol Rafferty and she fed the on rushing Caroline O’Neill – met with three players – Caroline flicked the ball into the path of Rebecca Cunningham. Rebecca rounded the keeper and tapped the ball over the line with the help of some strong wind for the decisive third goal. Clonduff looked a beaten team as the half time score was Ballymartin 3-09 vs. 1-02 Clonduff.

The second half started with the introduction of Karen Gribben for Clonduff. She moved straight into the full forward line – their plan was obvious. With wind advantage – let us get it in early and often to the full forward line. Ellen Marks had the duty of picking her up and handled the job like a veteran. Youth shows no fear!

Clonduff began to chip away at the lead built up taking their points and not panicking in possession. Ballymartin were finding the going tough against the elements. A few positional changes saw Jessica Collins moved to the halfback line, Carol Rafferty deployed as a sweeper and Lauren Cunningham moved to the half-forward line. With 13 minutes gone – Clonduff had hit 5 unanswered points and the lead didn’t look like it would keep the whites safe. Caroline broke the deadlock in the 14^th minute with some good trickery and a fine point after some great composure on the ball from Laura Sloan in the build-up. Ballymartin went a further 15 minutes without scoring and Clonduff hit 3 points to reduce the deficit to a mere 6 points. However, in that period Ciara Cunningham, Andrea Annett, Ellen Marks, Jacqueline O’Neill and Jessica Collins defended as if their lives depended on it. Ably assisted by Carol Rafferty and another new full back – Caroline O’Neill – they held out brilliantly. Sinead Brannigan, with her carrying of the ball into the wind was exceptional in this period. This gave the girls a real lift. The only problem was – there was one forward with 70 yards of space in front of her!

Injury time was to be 5 minutes as Jacqueline needed a kit Kat and Dougal wondered why everyone was dropping around her looking for chocolate! It was perhaps fitting that the final say in this County Championship would rest on the shoulders of the extremely talented Lauren Cunningham. She hit two free kicks into the breeze in the last two minutes of the game to wrap up an 8-point victory. When the referee blew the whistle for full time – the scenes of jubilation were worth the wait. Some of these girls have picked up silver medals for long enough and today was their just rewards for a long hard season, which they started back in November 2011.

Player of the match went to the dynamic Lauren Cunningham – who gave a master class in the many Arts of the game. In particular, her last two performances on the big stage have set her apart. Lauren would be the first to point out that the work of her team mates around her leaves her with the easy task of getting the scores – but her tackling, finishing, catching kick outs and general work rate have improved as the year has progressed. Surely a future County STAR for many years ahead.

The presentation of the cup to captain Caroline O’Neill was met with a massive roar. The people of Ballymartin have waited for this Championship to be delivered and the 21 girls on the panel finally got their reward. Ballymartin will now progress to Ulster and the fixture will be posted soon.

Get well soon wishes are extended to Captain Caroline O’Neill who played the whole second half with a broken hand. The mark of a true leader is one who does not dessert the trenches when her comrades need her. Fair play Caroline.

J.F.D.I

* Attached Image: _DSC2475.jpg Caption : Ballymartin’s U-12 lads had a great match on Sunday when they hosted Annaclone4-11 vs. 3-16 Ballymartin. Ballymartin’s (6) Rory Quinn scrambles for the ball blocked down bydefender James Quinn, with Callum Turner and Ryan Higgins either side of him.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 26 August 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* Seniors are to hit the road, to take on Drumaness on 31 Aug at 7pm. The following Friday 7 Sept. They travel to St John Bosco. On 10 Sept. In the Intermediate Football @ 7pm they travel to Páirc Esler, Newry to play Warrenpoint vs. Ballymartin.

* Reserves next outing is away to Rostrevor on Sunday 2 September at 6:30pm. The following week they travel to Atticall.

* The Minors - there will be a Play-Off to decide the winner of the ACMFC. B Group 1; between Longstone and Baileghlas, is fixed for An Riocht at 7pm on Thursday Aug 30th.

* U-16 B Championship Match scheduled for Thursday night against Clann na Derg will now be played on Sunday 2^nd September@3pm in Aghaderg.

* The U-12s played Annaclone last Sunday morning and after the toughest of battles came away with a 2-point win. Annaclone started the first half in blistering pace and raced into an early lead. However, staunch defending by Ryan Higgins and the impressive Callum Turner provided the platform for a Ballymartin revival. At half time, the sides were all level. Ballymartin’s best football was played in the second period with all players recording strong performances. Sean Quinn, James Quinn and Matthew Cranney have to be commended for their sterling efforts. U-12s next league game is an away game against neighbours Longstone tomorrow evening at 7pm. Followed by an away game in An Riocht this Sunday morning 2 Sept at 11am.

* Cumann Naomh Iosaf, Baile Mairtín are hosting U-8 Blitz on Sat 1^st Sept. at St.Colman's Pitch Kilkeel behind St.Colmans PS Kilkeel. Starts @ 10:30am, children to be in St.Colmans @ 10am thanks. This wwas postponed from last week due to the weather.

* Intermediate Ladies have a big match this Saturday 1st Sept. when they take on Clonduff in theIntermediate Championship Final. Clonduff are triple Senior Championship winners in the last 6 years so the Ballymartin Ladies are going to have it all to play for, with their impressive form to date this could be a great game to watch. The ladies have put in a tremendous amount of effort to date and all the hard work and effort will show dividends on Saturday evening. The venue is Downpatrick @ 5pm Clonduff vs. Ballymartin. A bus is being run to the match from Ballymartin Inn, there will be a BBQ & entertainment from Tiny afterwards in Ballymartin Inn, details from the bar. Next weekend the ladies are on the road to take on Kilcoo @ 6.30pm.

* U-16 Ladies next match is set for 09-Sep: U16-B Semi-Final Championship in St Colmans PS,Kilkeel @12.30pm, when Ballymartin take on Kilcoo.

* U-14 Ladies are set to play Bosco tonight29-Aug: U14-B Prelim Rd Championship in St John Bosco @ 7pm. This is a Championship match and some support would be a great boost for the team. If they win tonight’s match they will progress to play Teconnaughton Sunday 02-Sep: U14-B Semi-Final Championship @ 12.30pm.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 26 August; 8, 10, 16, 18. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @£ 10,800. 9 People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation to : Hugh Buchana, J. P. McVeigh, Joe Poland, James Cunningham, Paul Nelson, Liam Berry, Rosaleen McRann, Harvey Hevitt & Eileen Trainor.

* This Sunday 2 September Lotto ROTA Team ‘B’ – M. McKibbin (Leader), J. McKibbin, D. O’Hanlon, L. Byrne, A. Cunningham, S. Rogers, m. McCartan, C. Doyle, S. Rooney, S. Cunningham.

* Attached Image ; DSC2083 Caption; Ballymartin U-8 squad who played some magnificent football in the Longstone on Saturday 18 August.

* Attached Image ; DSC2239-0 Caption; Ballymartin Social Sevens team that went on to finish as runner-up to a strong an Riocht team in Saturday’s Longstone Tournament.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 19 August 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* Ballymartin GAC is hosting a U-8 Blitz this Saturday in St.Colmans Pitch, Kilkeel.

* Thanks to Longstone for hosting two tournaments last Saturday; the U-8 and Social Sevens which Ballymartin Senior-senior’s came runner’s-up.

* The Seniors had their match called off on Friday past due to a waterlogged pitch in Bryansford. ~~The replay was on Monday night in the Longstone~~. The match was cancelled. The next outing is on 31 August when they travel to Drumaness for a 7pm throw-in.

* The Reserves take part in the Reserve Football Championship Quarter -Finals at 6pm on Sunday 26th August when the take on Rostrevor, this will be held in Longstone Park with Shane Lowey refereeing. They will be travelling to Rostrevor on the 2^nd September.

* The Minors racked up a good win against neighbours Longstone in the Minor Championship on their last outing; Baileghlas 1-13 vs2-09 Longstone. Last night Tuesday, they hosted St. Paul’s in the B Championship.

* U-16 ‘B’ Football Championship Group2 saw An Riocht host Baileghlas in very wet and blustery conditions last Thursday, An Ríocht 4-11 vs. 1-04 Ballymartin. Best wishes to Jordan who was injured during the match. On 30 August, they are on the road to Aghaderg to take on Clan na Derg, throw-in at 7:15.

* U-14 Baileghlas squad were last out on 6th August when they lost to Tullylish by a point, Baileghlas 1-9 vs. 1-10 Tullylish. On Monday past, they were on the road to St. John Bosco.

* The U-12s have a busy few days coming up in the South Down league. This evening (Wednesday) they entertain Newry Mitchell's at St.Colmans, with a 7.00pm throw in. On Sunday morning at 11am, the young stars have another home game at St.Colmans, with Annaclone, the opposition. This is followed by an away match to Longstone on the 30^th August for a 7:00pm throw-in.

* U-8’s go Games Blitz to be hosted by Cumann Naomh Iosaf, Baile Mairtín, in St.Colmans Pitch, behind St.Colmans P.S. Kilkeel this Saturday, August 25^th 2012. The following 12 Clubs (providing 17 teams), have agreed to participate; Aghaderg, Atticall, Ballymartin, Burren ‘A’ and ‘B’, Clann na Banna , Clonduff ‘A’ and ‘B’ Longstone, Mayobridge ‘A’ and ‘B’, Rostrevor ‘A’ and ‘B’, Shamrocks ‘A’ and ‘B, Tullylish & Saval.

* Ballymartin ladies played in the championship semi final on Saturday evening against Kilcoo. They were under the cosh in the first 15 minutes of the game with Kilcoo hitting the net twice in this time to lead with comfort. Ballymartin to their credit fought back and ended up taking the lead when Jessica Collins fired over 2 points in quick succession at the end of the half. The second half was a different story with Ballymartin under constant pressure from the Magpies. Kilcoo hit 5 unanswered points to cut the deficit and were then awarded a penalty which they hit with power but it rose up and over the bar. This was met with huge relief from the lilywhites and it was left to Lauren Cunningham to hit the final point from a free kick. Ballymartin 3-13 V Kilcoo 2-9. The girls now play the mighty Clonduff in the county final on Sept 1st. This will be a massive challenge for the young girls from the club. Clonduff are triple senior championship winners in the last 6 years and will have plenty in the tank for this game. They will rightly go into the game as favourites - but let’s hope the Ballymartin girls can perform on the day and do themselves justice. The ladies have a league game this Saturday evening when Mayobridge will be the visitors to Dunaval. Throw in time is 7pm.

* U-16 Ladies are on the road to play Kilcoo on26-August in the U16-B Rd 8 @12.30pm.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 19 August: 6, 16, 19, 27. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @£ 10,700. Five People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation to; Noel Quinn, Ciara Rooney, Phelim McKibben, Bernie Matthews & Michael Cunningham.

* This Sunday 26 August, Lotto ROTA Team ‘A’ – C. Cunningham (Leader), J. Doran, P. Higgins, P. & M. Collins, K. Cunningham, L. Hanna, K. & L. Rooney.

U-12's who defeated Glassdrumman 12 Aug 2012 * Attached Image: DSC1728.jpg Caption: Ballymartin U-12 lads who recorded an away win over neighbours Glassdrumman 3-05 V. Ballymartin 4-14.

* Attached Image: U-10_Ballymartin_Blitz_11-08-12.jpg Caption: Ballymartin hosted an U-10 Blitz on Saturday past. This was great event and great to see so many youngsters giving their best for their clubs. In all there were Nine Clubs participating with fourteen teams; Annaclone, Atticall, Ballymartin, Burren A & B, Mayobridge A & B, Rostrevor A & B, Saval, Shamrocks A & B and Warrenpoint Og’s & Gaels. Ballymartin GAA would like to thank all the teams, mentors, coaches and parents for their participation on Saturday 11th August. A BIG thanks to all those that did the preperations behind the scenes and to those on the day for organising; Colin Cunningham – Chairman, Eamonn McEvoy - Cultural Officer, Claire Higgins - U-10 Coach, Marie McKibbin – Secretary and special thanks to Mrs. Theresa Mccrink (claire’s mother) who made the teas and coffees amongst other duties. Ballymartin will be hosting an U-8 Blitz on Saturday 25th Aug at 10.30am. Anyony who would like to assist in the organinsing please contact Chairman Colin Cunningham.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 12 August 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* Seniors had a narrow victory in last Thursday’s IFC double-header in Downpatrick, against a hard-hitting Ardglass. The lads dug deep to claw back from a losing position to win by two points, shows that the lads can do the necessary to get the win. Ballymartin 0-14 V. 1-09 Ardglass. On Monday past the lads played Darragh Cross and this Friday they host Ardglass with a 7:30 throw-in.

* Reserves on Sunday past had a 2PM start in Park Esler due to the SFC double header. The lads put in a great performance;Shamrocks 0-8 V 1-12 Ballymartin. Their next match is the Quarter Final of the Reserve Football Championship on 19 August @ 6:00pm, when they take on Rostrevorat 6:00PM in the Longstone. Their next League match is on Sunday 26 August when they travel to Atticall for a 6:30 throw-in.

* Baileghlas Minors are on the pitch again next Tuesday 21 August, when they play St. Pauls in Glassdrumman in the Down Minor ‘B’ Football Championship. The lads will need to secure a victory here.

* U-16’s are out tomorrow Thursday 16^th, when they travel to An Riocht for a 7:30 start in the Down U16 Football Championship ‘B’. Their final match of the Championship is against Clann na Dergon Thurs. 30 August in Aghaderg.

* Last Sunday the U-12's continued their fine form to record an away win over neighbours Glassdrumman. After a tense opening 10 minutes, Ballymartin settled to play some impressive football and were rewarded with two first half goals and a range of points from a number of players. Glassdrumman played their best football midway through the second period, but Ballymartin inspired by the Ward twins, Rory Quinn, Ryan Higgins, Matthew Cunningham and Paul Quinn ensured victory. Final score Glassdrumman 3-05 V. Ballymartin 4-14. Training for U-12s continues tomorrow evening at 7pm at Carrigenagh Road. Their next league match is on Sunday 19^th @ 11:00AM when they travel to Longstone, followed Wednesday 22 August @ 7PM; when they host Mitchels in St Colman's Kilkeel .

* U-10’s hosted a very successful Blitz on Saturday morning. Thanks to all those who helped in any way, specially to Mrs. Theresa Mccrink.

* Intermediate Ladies - Ballymartin Ladies v Kilcoo in Intermediate Championship Semi-Final on Saturday 18th August at 7.00 - Venue (TBC). A massive game for the ladies beckons at the weekend when they take on one of the favourites for the championship Kilcoo in the semi final. Ballymartin have beaten Carryduff and Mayobridge to get to this stage - however with the new system in place all teams got a second chance in the championship. Kilcoo have benefitted from this as they were beaten in their first game by Clonduff and they have recovered to beat both Carryduff and Shamrocks to get to the Semi-Final. Kilcoo have really gathered momentum in the last while in the league and have posted some notable victories over Rostrevor, Teconnaught and Tullylish and go into the game as favourites to progress. The fact that Ballymartin have not played a game since 7th July is a disgrace. This needs to be addressed by the county board so that no team goes 6 weeks between games!!!

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 12 August; 1, 2, 7, 23 No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @£ 10,600. 11 People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation to: Bernadette Cunningham, G. J. P. & S. Rooney, Rory McRann, A. M. Tyrell, Marie McAleenan, Barry McCartan, Cory Cunningham, Francis Harper, Loretta Rogers, Keely Farrell & Jim McClenaghan.

* This Sunday 19 August; Lotto ROTA Team ‘D’– Y. Fitzpatrick (Leader), S. & P. Fitzpatrick, C. Bailey, E. Ward, P. & M. Doran, C. Higgins & G. Quinn

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 5 August 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

NOTES

* Seniors will be on the road to Downpatrick tomorrow 9 August to play Ardglass in the first round of the IFC. Throw-in @ 8::30pm. They will be hosting Darragh Cross on Monday 13 August to play a previously postponed game, the throw-in is @ 7:30pm.

* Reserves McAvoy Construction LLP South Down RFL when Ballymartin travel to Newry Shamrocks for a 2:00pm throw-in. A win here will same them jump into fourth position in the league table.

* The Minors lost out in their round one match of the Championship to St. Marys Dromara by two points. Last night (Tuesday) they hosted Longstone. On the 21^st they host St. Pauls in Glassdrumman @ 7:30pm.

* U-16 lost out to a strng Saval team last week, next Thursday 16 August they travel to neighbours An Riocht for round two of the U-16 Down Football Championship ‘B’.

* U-14 Baileghlas squad hostd Tullylish in the U-14 ‘C’ Championship; details next week.

* The U-12's get back into league action this Sunday 12 August, with an away game against neighbours Glassdrumman at 11am. Details of assembly time will be given at tomorrow evenings training at 7pm.

* U-10 Ballykelly Group - South Down U-10 Go Games at 10.30 will be hosted by Ballymartin in St. Colman’s pitch in Kilkeel. Teams:-Ballymartin, Annaclone, St.Michaels, Atticall, Saval, Burren A & B, Shamrocks A & B, Mayobridge A & B, Warrenpoint A & B.

* Intermediate Ladies next outing is set for 25 August when they host Mayobridge.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 5 August; 5, 10, 15 & 28. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @£ 10,500. 11 People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation to; Rosemary Brannigan, Rose Cunningham, Monica Kelly, Kevin Hearty, Johnny McDowell, Ian Morris, Willie Quinn, Tommy Fitzpatrick, P. Cunningham, M. Curran and Ronald Chambers.

* This Sunday 12 August Lotto ROTA Team Team ‘C’ – E. Phillips (Leader), S. Phillips, S. Rogers, S. Cunningham, L. Byrne, L. Cunningham, P. Higgins, C. Cunningham & R. Cunningham.

U-6 & U-8 Friendly Ballymartin hotsed Glassdrumman in Carrigenagh Road * Attached Image:U-6-8 Ballymartin Glassdrumman Friendly.jpg Caption: Ballymartin U-6 and U-8 boys and girls hosted a friendly with Glassdrumman last week in the wettest of conditions on the Carrigenagh Road pitch. This was great entertainment as the kids played their hearts out in the warm and wet evening. Thanks to all palyers, parents, mentors and supporters for their support. Photo: Colin Cunningham

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 29 July 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

NOTES

* Last Friday the seniors made the short trip to An Riocht;Ballymartin 2-10 V 0-10 St John's. Next Thursday August 9^ththe Seniors play Ardglass @ 8.30pm in the Intermediate Football Championship - Round 1 as part of double header with Darragh Cross V St John’s (7pm), this will be played in Downpatrick.

* Reserves are set to host St John Bosco tonight at 7:15 PM, in St Colman's Kilkeel. There next match is set for this Sunday, when they are to host Saval @6:30.

* Minors are playing this Tuesday August 7th in Round 2 of the Down Minor B Football Championship. This is set to be played in Glassdrumman, No time for start.
* U-16’s are set to host Saval (St Colman's Kilkeel) tomorrow night in their round one of U-16 Football Championship B. The next outing is set for Thursday 16 Aug. When they will be travelling over to An Riocht for Round Two.

* U-14 Baileghlas squad are to host Tullylish @ 7:15 in the McAvoy Construction LLP South Down U-14 Championships on Monday 6^th August in St Colman's Kilkeel.

* The U-12s league resumed last Sunday after the holiday break and the young Lillywhites put in a very strong performance to come away with the points at Bosco. At half time Ballymartin trailed by two but fine second half performances from Cormac Phillips, Ryan Higgins, Matthew Cunningham, Paul Quinn, Daniel Ward and a super goal from Morgan Buckley ensured a well deserved victory. Training for U12s continues tomorrow evening at 7pm. All panel members to be in attendance. This Sunday's U12 league game against Mitchell's is postponed as a number of families are attending both All Ireland Quarter Finals over the weekend. Details of the re-fixture date will be given at training.

* U-6, U-8 had a great friendly when they hosted Glasdrumman in the pouring rain at theCarrigenagh Road pitch last week. Thanks go out to all the coaches parents and players that participated and special thanks to the young Glassdrumman boys and girls, for the sporting challenge. Thanks also to the brave Ballymartin squad for and their mentors Claire and Liam.

* Intermediate Ladies are set to travel to play Shamrocks on August 4^th at 7pm.

* U-14 Ladies are set to travel to Saul on Sunday 5^th August for a 12:30 throw-in.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 29 July; 5, 23, 24 & 26. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @£ 10,400. Two People Matched 3 Numbers. Congratulation to; Elizabeth Cassidy and Seamus Rooney.

* This Sunday 5^th August; Lotto ROTA Team ‘B’ – M. McKibbin (Leader), J. McKibbin, D. O’Hanlon, L,. Byrne, A. Cunningham, S. Rogers, m. McCartan, C. Doyle, S. Rooney, S. Cunningham.

NO NOTES 22 JULY 2012 – HOLIDAYS...

-=-=-=

* Attached Image: DSC0050-2.jpg Caption: Ballmartin’s U-12 Squad who
attended Longstone G.A.C> Ambrose Rogers Tournament on Sunday past, and
were Runners-up in the Shield after beating Longstone and Clonduff ‘A’ in
the Group Stages and Rostrevor in the Semi-final losing out to the Shield
winners and hists; Logstone. Back: Keelin Kearney, Matthew Cranney, Rory
Quinn, Cormac Phillips. Front: Calum Turner, Daniel Ward, Ryan Higgins,
James Ward and Paul Quinn. Thanks to the host Longstone for the invitation
and all the competitors.

*Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 15 July 2012 - *

*BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes*

* A bus has been organised for transport to the down vs. Donegal game on
Sunday 22 July. There are seats remaining. The bus will be departing
Ballymatin Inn at approximately 9am on Sunday morning. Match tickets can
be collected from Marie McKibbbin residence between 7 and 9pm on Wednesday
and Thursday.

* Seniors had a bad result on Monday last, when they lost to Drumgath
2-12 vs. 2-09. Their next outing is on Monday 23 July, when they host St.
John’s in Longstone Park.

* Reserves are set to play Shamrocks on Sunday 29 July in Longstone Park
in the Reserve Football Championship.

* The minors are set to travel to Dromara to play St.Mary’s in the Groiup
One of the Minor Championship on Tuesday 31 July.

* U -16 are set to play Saval in Longstone Park in Group Two of the
Footbal‘B’ Championship.

* U-12 are away to Bosco on Sunday 29 in a battle that they will need to
win too maintain their top spot on the League Table. They are currently
sitting one point ahead of their hosts on Sunday. The management would
like to thank their host from the Longstone for the invite to the Ambrose
Rogers U12 Tournament which took place last Sunday. The young lads put up
some great performances in the group stages and were beat in the Final by
the hosts.

* U -10 & U-8 Coaching resumes on Tuesday 24.

Attached Image: DSC9542.jpg Caption: Ballymartin’s Cenk Akdeniz and Darren O’Hanlon jump for the final ball bashing into the Saul net in last Friday’s 1-05 Draw with Saul in the Londstone.

Attached Image: DSC9595-1.jpg Caption: Ballymartin’s James Cunningham had another tireless game. Constantly filling the gaps in both defence and on the full forward line, James had great game, battling in the mid-field.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 8 July 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* As 2012 sees the 90^th anniversary of the founding of the club by Mr. Paddy Savage,Ballymartin GAC is hosting their ninetieth anniversary celebrations from the 16^th to 19^th August. The Thursday and Friday will see the hosting of a two day coaching camp “Campa Naohm Iosaf” as a festival of youth for ALL the youth teams. This will culminate with a disco in the clubrooms run by the youth club. On Saturday 18^th there will be live entertainment in the Ballymartin Inn and on the Sunday a Trad. Session, everyone welcome. Anyone with Club memorabilia please contact a member of the committee if they would be willing to display the items for the 90^th anniversary. Any images that the club could scan or duplicate please contact Eamonn on 07743917996 or forward them to; This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

* Coaching for the U-12, 10 & 8 Groups will commence on Tuesday 24 July.

* Last Friday the seniors took on Saul in Longstone Park and came away with a last minute goal to pull a DRAW out of the hat; Ballymartin 1-05 vs. 1-05 Saul. With a hard hitting Saul looking for another glorious win after last week’s win over League Leaders Glasdrumman, Ballymartin had it all to play for and with scores at a premium, this proved to be a hard task. With constant rain and gusting wind both side were finding the going as hard as the hitting. Five minutes into the match and Ballymartin were trailing by two points when Centre Forward - John Fitzpatrick took a hit in the back while releasing the ball and it ricocheted of the upright, (no free given and Ballymartin won the ball back, which found its way back to John Fitz; and surrounded by six Saul men; while taking a beating he released the ball, wide. Ballymartin spent all of the first 18 minutes to find their first score, but they were already trailing 1-03 to 0-01. Within the next two minutes they had it pulled back to a goal difference and by the half mark the Ballymartin had notched up another point (Ballymartin 0-04 vs. 1-03 Saul). Twelve minutes into the second period had passed before there was a score on the board which came from a struggling Ballymartin squad; it would be another ten gruelling minutes before Saul made a dent on the score board (over twenty-five minutes since their last score). After a few skirmishes and the ref taking a few details Ballymartin forced the ball up the field and in furry around the Saul goal-mouth the ball found its way to the back of the net, giving Ballymartin a draw.

* Reserves next match is a home game against Saval on 5^th August.

* U-14 Baileghlas squad finished their league campaign on a low when lost (Baileghlas 2-06 vs. 3-11 Drumgath) to a very disciplined and strong Drumgath. Young Ethan Birnie made some excellent saves in the goal mouth, keeping the Drumgath score line at a minimum. It was evident that the team missed Calum Fitzpatrick for the extra suport. Other great performance form James’ younger brother Matthew, Padraig Stevenson, Niall Greene, Ronan Grant, William Higgins and Dominic Grant.

* The U-12s take part in the Ambrose Rogers annual tournament this Sunday at Longstone Park. Children to meet at 10am. Club support for this prestigious tournament would be most welcome.

* Ballymartin Intermediate Ladies had a great win in their round 2 of the Championship, defeating Mayobridge (Ballymartin 3-9 vs. 1-9 Mayobridge). Their next outing in 4^th August away to Shamrocks.

* U-16 Ladies match against Saul was cancelled. Their next match is set for the 29 July when they host Annaclone in St. Colman's, Kilkeel.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 8 July 6, 7, 21, 25. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @£ 10,100. 5 People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation to all the lucky winners;Morris Moore, Sean Fitzpatrick, Orla Rooney, Paul McCann & Kerrie Rooney.

* This Sunday 15 July Lotto ROTA Team Team ‘C’– E. Phillips (Leader), S. Phillips, S. Rogers, S. Cunningham, L. Byrne, L. Cunningham, P. Higgins, C. Cunningham & R. Cunningham.

* Attached Image: DSC9237.jpg. Caption: James Ward; Full Forward of Ballymartin’s U-12 squad pumps the air after finding the back of the net on his second attempt after the St.Michaels keeper blocked down the ball during Ballymartin’s impressive win over St Michaels on Sunday morning. Final score: Ballymartin 5-08 vs. 1-02 St.Michaels.

* Attached Image: DSC8931.jpg. Caption: John Fitzpatrick wins the ball and a free after the ref spots the infringement. This resulted in another score during Ballymartin’s great turn-a-round performance on Friday when they defeated Glen (Ballymartin 1-09 vs. 0-10 Glen).

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 1 July 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* Any Club Member looking to order tickets for Down Donegal match contact the Chairman (Colin Cunningham) or Secretary(Marie McKibbin), also anyone interested in travelling by bus please contact same before Sunday 6th July (Deadline) and pay £10 deposit. If there is enough interest a coach to clones can be ordered, this must be in place before the upcoming holidays.

* Anyone who would like to assist in general help within the Club or on the fund-raising, please do not hesitate to speak to nay of the mentors or committee. We are always keen to involve as many people as possible.

* The Seniors travelled last Friday to take on Glen. This was a greatmatch, after 21 minutes Ballymartin were 04-01 down and finding it hard to control the ball andwhen they did they couldn’t maintain possession. Things quickly turned around after John Fitzpatrick (Centre Back), won the ball and carried it up the field to get a score on the board, this marked the change after Ballymartin’s Poor start. Going into the half Ballymartin had regained the lead and were ahead by two with five unanswered points from Rory McManus, Kieran O’Hare and John Fitzpatrick; 0-04 vs. 0-06. Ballymartin opened the second half with a point and it would be nine minutes into the second half before both sides had notched up a point 0-05 vs. 0-07. Some ten minutes later Ballymartin found the back of the net 0-06 vs. 1-08. Ballymartin slowed their pace after the goal, and both sidesstarted to get ratty with others, and the ball was moved forward on several occasions allowing Glento pull back a few scores. The Final whistle blew after four minutes extra-time, with Ballymartin securing victory; Ballymartin 1-09 vs. 0-10 Glen. This Friday Ballymartin are going to have to UP the game when they host Saul in Longstone GAC @ 7:30Pm (Referee: Peter Brannigan) with only six point separating the two teams and only six matches left ‘It’s Hammer Time’.

* The next outing for the Reserves is scheduled for 29th July (Sun) when Ballymartin head off to Rostrevor for a 6:30Pm throw-in.

* The Minors were on the road last Tuesday to play St. Mary’s and what a great performance they Baileghlas lads put on. This was a great result from the lads; St Marys 1-07 vs. 6-12 Baileghlas. On Saturday past the lads hosted Glen and the tides of fortune had turned on them. A gallant effort and well fought battle Baileghlas 0-0 vs. 0-05 Glenn. This was the last league match for the Baileghlas lads.

* U-16 have finished their league matches, coaching continues a usual.

* U-14Baileghlas lads had a brave defeat last Monday when they travelled to St. John Bosco 9-13 vs. 3-02 Baileghlas. On Monday past the lads hosted Longstone. Tonight they are in Atticall for a7:30pm throw-in.

* The U-12s got back to winning ways on Sunday morning with an impressive win over St Michaels. The first half was nip and tuck with Keelin Kearney, Matthew Cunningham and the impressive Callum Turner ensuring no way through for the visitors. In the second half, the young Lillywhites really upped the work rate, with Sean Quinn, Cormac Phillips and James Ward leading by example. In the end Ballymartin ran out comfortable winners. Final score: Ballymartin 5-08 vs. 1-02 St.Michaels.

* The U-10's played their last game of the Mourne League last Tuesday evening against a verystrong An Riocht team at the Carrigenagh Road pitch. A large crowd witnessed some fine football played by both teams on this historic occasion, with An Riocht running out eventual winners. With each match played this year, these young Lilywhites have improved more and more each week, with many having played competitive football this year for the first time. Credit must also be given to the "Young Guns" of the U-10 panel who gave a great account of themselves in the second game, much to the appreciation of the supportive crowd. The previous week our A and B U-10 teams played Atticall away. Again the improvement of this team was evident having scored 4 goals and 4 points against a strong Atticall side, and just like the home fixture, the second game was very exciting, with some magnificent performances, proving the future looks bright for Ballymartin's youth teams. The management team would like to thank each and every player and their parents for giving so much commitment and entertainment during this league campaign. There is now a 2-week break from training for U-8 and U-10s with a return on Tuesday 24th July at 6.30pm at Carrigenagh Road pitch.

* Intermediate Ladies are out in Burren on 7^th July for Round 2 of the Championships, when they will meet Mayobridge.

* U-16 Ladies fromBallymartin hosted Loughinisland in St Colmans PS, Kilkeel on Wednesday past and had a great result; Ballymartin 4-13 vs. 4-07 Loughinisland. Their next outing is at home to Annaclone on 29^th July in St Colmans PS, Kilkeel. Well done ladies great result.

* U-14 Ladies will be hosting Loughinisland in St Colmans PS, Kilkeel on 8th July @ 12:30pm. Comeout and support the girls in their round 7 match.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 1 July; 1, 2, 12, 23. *** ONE Lucky Jackpot Winner *** Yvonne Murphy wins £12,300 *** - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @£ 10,000. 8 People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation to: Ann Burden, Carol Clerkin, Art Martin, Danny Carr, Andrea Sloan, Bernadette Cunningham, Sharon Rice & Louise Rogers.

* Attached image: DSC7786.jpg Caption: Ballymartin’s Rory Quinn wins the throw-in during last Tuesdays first League defeat, against local rivals Longstone in the Ballykelly Group - South Down U-12 League.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 24 June 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* After Sunday's great win, Down are now preparing for an Ulster Senior Football Final on 22nd July in Clones at 2.00pm. This will be an All Ticket Game and we would like to get the Clubs ticket orders by Friday 13th July to allow then a week for second Club orders and public selling. We asking Members to apply for tickets, the earlier we can have your Club order the greater chance we have of meeting the needs of all our PAID UP MEMBERS.

* Last Friday the seniors made the short trip to take on the local rivals of Atticall. Shortly after the match started Atticall had started to drift with a 3 point lead. This trend continued with the wind assisting Atticall, the Whites were left chasing the ball – moving out of position and leaving the pitch open for the Atticall offence. As the game resumed Ballymartin with the wind were expected to turn the tide and close the margin. They progressed some, coming back from nine points down to three points of a difference. Again Atticall pushed forward after a turn-over and found the back of the net. Final Score: Atticall 2-11 vs. 0-10 Ballymartin; this Friday the lads are going to have to tighten up their play-book, stop the turn-over’s and make their shots count, with home-field advantage for Glenn, they will have their work cut out for them to do better than the meet that resulted in a draw.

* Reserves have no matches until 29 July when they take on Rostrevor.

* Minors last outing was a loss to League Leaders; Tullylish by the narrowest of marginsBaileghlas 1-12 vs. 1-13 Tullylish. This was a hard blow for the team, after fighting so hard and to fall by a point against such a strong side. Last night Tuesday they travelled to Dromara to take on St. Mary’s. On Saturday evening; 30 June @ 5:00pm, the lads will be hosting Glenn in Glassdrumman. This will be the last match of the league for the Baileghlas squad and it would be appreciated to see a good turn-out for the lads as a small reward for the effort they’ve put in this season.

* U-16 Cumann Naomh Iósaf vs. Saul. The U-16s travelled to the undefeated Saul St Patrick’s on Thursday evening buoyed from their convincing win over Loughinisland last week. This week the elements again appeared to conspire against good football with the players having to contend with very wet conditions. Ballymartin fielded the same team as last week and got off to a positive start winning the early midfield exchanges. They were dealt a hammer blow early on with a Saul goal but they regained their composure and hit two great scores to leave the minimum between the teams. The slippery conditions made handling difficult but Ballymartin were on top throughout the field with Kristopher Rooney lording it at midfield catching clean possession or intelligently breaking to the very impressive Owen Collins. As the half progressed it was a tense game with scores at a premium but Ballymartin led at the half by 0-06 to 1-02. Conor Cunningham was excellent throughout intercepting Saul passes and reading the game with great vision. If the first half was tense and enthralling the second was open and thrilling. The two teams went for it with abandon. Ballymartin were scoring freely with Ross Cunningham, Niall Quinn and Shaun Harper to the fore. Blaine McCulla enjoyed the best hour of the year winning every ball that came his way, holding up possession and providing the ammunition for his team-mates. The Whites went in to a four point lead and it appeared there would be only one winner but Saul had other ideas and gained a foothold in the game mid-way through the second half. With this possession they scored two goals putting them back in a two point lead. Then came the most satisfying aspect of the display. The fight-back was immediate and the team responded magnificently scoring four unanswered points from Shaun Harper, Ross Cunningham, Kristopher Rooney and a richly deserved point from Blaine McCulla. Then the killer blow came, after missing one to a brilliant save from the Saul keeper, Ryan Greene was put in by Ross Cunningham and he placed the ball low and to the keeper’s left, the Whites were again in the driving seat. But back came Saul in the last five and scored another brace of points to leave two in it, but the Whites were not to be denied and saw out the game by two. Final Score Ballymartin 1-15 Saul 3-07. It would be unfair to single out any one player for special mention as at various stages each player played his part. Tonight’s display was the best of the year so far. It has been building to this point but there is definitely room for further improvement. The team: Jordan Fitzpatrick, Conor Cunningham, Cathal Greene, Daniel Sloane, Owen Collins, Daniel McBennett, Geoffrey Greene, Kristopher Rooney, Shaun Harper, Niall Quinn, Ross Cunningham, Ethan Smyth, Blaine McCulla, Ryan Greene, Joe Higgins, Michael Rooney and Patrick Quinn.

* U-14Ballykelly Group - South Down U14 League Div 3; Baileghlas were on the road to meet with St John Bosco on Monday night past. This Saturday 30th June at 3:00pm Baileghlas take on Drumgathfor a home game at St. Colman’s PS. Kilkeel. Then on Monday 2^nd July Baileghlas are at home to Longstone @ 7:30pm. This is followed up with a third match in five days, when on Wednesday evening they travel to Atticall for a 7:30pm throw-in. With half of the U-14’s playing for the U-12 teams this is a great demand on these young sports men

* The U-12s came up against a strong Longstone side last Tuesday evening and were out over run in every sector. In the end the visitors ran out easy winners. Let’s hope the boys bounce back this Sunday when they host An Riocht at 11am at St. Colman’s PS, Kilkeel. Training for U-12s continues tomorrow evening at 6.30pm at Carrigenagh Rd.

* U-10 played a home match on Tuesday night (more details next week). This was the last match in the Mourne U-10 League.

* Intermediate Ladies suffered a defeat on Saturday past, Ballymartin 1-09 vs. 3-09 Rostrevor. Their next outing is in the Championship next Saturday when they take on Mayobridge in Burren with a 7:45pm throw-in.

* U-16 Ladies travel to Loughinisland for a 7.30pm throw-in on the 27-June. This is followed by a home match against Saul on 01-July @ St Colmans PS, Kilkeel @12.30pmRef: E. O’ Hare.

* U-14 Ladies next match will be a home game against Loughinisland on Sunday 8^th July in St Colmans PS, Kilkeel with a 12:30 thro-in.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 24 June; 1, 2, 10, 27. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @£ 12,300. 15 People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation to: James Reay, Maurice Cole, Isla McMorrow, Marcella Greene, Tina Maguire, MaryAnn Cunningham, Wendy Rooney, A. McGivern, Colleen White, Mary Rooney, Loretta Rogers, Colin Cunningham, Cathal Doyle, Yvonne Byrne & Charlene Rooney.

* This Sunday 1 July Lotto ROTA Team ‘A’ – C. Cunningham (Leader), J. Doran, P. Higgins, P. & M. Collins, K. Cunningham, L. Hanna, K. & L. Rooney.

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* Attached Image; _DSC7438.jpg Caption; Ballymartin GAA appreciate the hard work, effort and tax payers money, that Newry and Mourne Council put into getting the play fields on the Carrigenagh Road in to a useable condition for use by Ballymartin GAA youth teams, during the ongoing pitch renovation currently taking place at the Clubs home field due to waste repatriation carried out by NIEA. It was great to see the underage teams making use of the facilities in their own Parish.

* Attached Image; _DSC7537.jpg Caption; Ballymartin’s Rory Phillips receives the ball and quickly pulls the trigger, sending the ball between the uprights during Ballymartin’s Reserve’s win, when they hosted local rivals Glassdrumman. Final score Ballymartin 1-12 V 1-5 Glassdrumman

* Attached Image; _DSC7487.jpg Caption; Ross Cunningham out-paced the defence and with only the keeper to beat, he dispatched the ball to the middle of the net leaving the keeper stunned and speechless during last Thursdays dismantling of Loughinisland; Ballymartin 3-16 vs. 1-00 Loughinisland.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 17 June 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* Hard luck to the Primary Seven team of St. Josephs’ Ballymartin who were defeated by St Michael's (Finnis) Primary School last Thursday in the Semi-Final of the of the Down 7 aside Cumman naBunscoil competition.

* The Club Gym is still open for new members. Anyone wishing to join please contact a committee member for more information.

* Ballymartin GAC hosted an emergency First Aid course for coaches and mentors last Saturday, the follow-up course will be this Saturday 23 June.

* Last Friday the Seniors made the short trip to take on the Leagues undefeated Glassdrumman; and they’re still unbeaten. Glasdrumman 2-08 vs. 2-05 Ballymartin. This Friday we travel to Atticall with a 7:30PM throw-in (Referee: Peter Brannigan).

* On Sunday 17 June the Reserves hosted Glassdrumman at St Colman's P.S. Kilkeel Ballymartin 1-12 V 1-05 Glasdrumman. Their next match will be on Sunday 29 July, when they travel to Rostrevor for a 6:30PM throw-in. The following match will be 05.08.12 Sun. Ballymartin vs. Saval.

* The Baileghlas Minors hosted Tullylish yesterday in Glassdrumman. Next week they are away to Dromara to take on St.Mary’s with a 7:30PM throw-in.

* U-16;Cumann Naomh Iósaf vs. Loughinisland (14/06/12). Loughinisland made the long trip to St Colman’s on Thursday evening on the resumption of the U-16 league. In what were absolutely atrocious weather conditions it is a credit to the two teams that any football was played at all. Ballymartin lined out one of their strongest teams of the year so far, Owen Collins is back and has had some training and Shaun Harper has recovered fully from a broken hand. From the start, the Whites were playing with the assistance of a huge breeze which aided their cause and they raced into a three point lead. This should have been a lot more but for some very poor wides but it must be remembered the weather conditions did play a part in this. The defence at this stage were untested and suddenly when the test came after they were caught cold and Loughinisland grabbed a goal. This kicked the Whites into gear and they began to dominate the game even more. Owen Collins was a constant threat from right half back and the midfield of Kristopher and Shaun were in control. While most of our scoring threat came from Ross, Blaine and Joe all made significant contributions. The half time score was 3-11 to 1-00. The second half was perhaps the most satisfying aspect of the game. Ballymartin had been warned that Loughinisland would come out with wind advantage and really have a go and that threat would have to be met. To their credit Ballymartin seized the initiative and took the game to their opponents. The midfield was exceptional and carried the challenge in to the teeth of the rising breeze scoring a couple of early points to break the Blues’ spirit. The defence while tested more in this half were resolute and warded off any threat with Owen Collins, Dan Sloan, Cathal Greene and Geoffrey Greene to the fore. The early scores of the half secured, Ballymartin went on to win comfortably by 3-16 to 1-00. Next up for the U-16 lads will be a trip to Saul tomorrow (Thursday) night for a 7:30 throw-in.

* Tonight, Wednesday 20 June the U-14 Baileghlas lads host Annaclone in St Colman's Kilkeel with a 7:30PM throw-in, Referee: Gerard Rooney. The lads play again on Monday 25 June, when they go on the road to St John Bosco for 7:30PM. This will be followed by a match on Saturday 30 June whrn they Host Drumgath with a 3PM throw-in. Venue: St Colman's PS, Kilkeel.

* The U-12s came out on top in their latest league game away to Annaclone last Sunday. Played at a hectic pace, Ballymartin raced into an early lead in the opening ten minutes. There was very little to separate the sides in the opening half and with both defences on top, scores were at a premium. At the interval Ballymartin held a one point lead. The second period was also nip and tuck and when Annaclone levelled in the final five, a draw appeared to be on the cards. However, following a heroic save from Keelin Kearney, the young Ballymartin players lifted the game to new level and a late goal from Paul “Find the net” Quinn stretched the lead to four. Final score Annaclone 1-2 vs. 1-6 Ballymartin. There were fine performances from Ryan Higgins and James Ward in defence, Rory Quinn and Daniel Ward in midfield and up front Callum Turner and Matthew Cranney. U-12 coaching continues tomorrow evening at 6.30pm. Their next match is scheduled on Monday 19 June, when they host Longstone in St Colman's PS, Kilkeel.

* U-8 & U-10 coaching continues on Tuesday evenings on the Carrigenagh Road pitch. It was great to see the turn-out last week.

* Intermediate Ladies had a good away win over Teconnaught 4-4 vs. 2-15 Ballymartin last Saturday. This Saturday 23 June they host Rostrevor in An Riocht with a 7pm throw-in. The Intermediate Championship between Ballymartin and Mayobridge will take place the following Saturday 7 July. Coaching as usual.

* U-16 Ladies lost on their previous outing when they hosted Kilcoo (Ballymartin 5-06 vs. 8-11Kilcoo). Their next match sees them on the road to Loughinisland on Wednesday 27 June for a 7:30 throw-in, this will be followed with a home match in St Colmans PS, Kilkeel against Saul on Sunday 1 July @ 12:30pm.

* U-14 Ladies were on the road to Bosco last Sunday and were hoping for a positive outcome, despite some great play in all sectors of the game they were defeated by a point; St John Bosco 0-08 vs 1-04 Ballymartin. The next match sees them hosting Loughinisland on 8 July @ 12:30pm in St Colmans PS, Kilkeel.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 17 June; 4, 13, 16, 26. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @£ 12,200. 13 People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation t; Jenny Murney, Fiona Turner, Dee & Tomasz & Emilia, Seamus Rogers (Sen), Suzanne Cassidy, Sam Edgar, Sharon O’Hanlon, Teresa Byrne, Conor Rafferty, Charlene McCracken, Margaret Rogers and Ryan Cunningham.

* This Sunday 24 June Lotto ROTA Team ‘D’ – Y. Fitzpatrick (Leader), S. & P. Fitzpatrick, C. Bailey, Ed Ward, P. & M. Doran, C. Higgins & G. Quinn.

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* Attached Image: Mother of a Player U8&10.jpg Caption: Ballymartin GAC’s ‘Mother of a Player’ pampering session kicked off last week with the some of the U-8 and U-10 mothers along with two Cairns’ Ladies from Gordon’s Chemist, Kilkeel.

* Attached Image: IMG_0825.jpg Caption: Ballymartin GAC’s 12^th Golf Classic First Place Winners; T Curtis, J Trainor, M Magill and B McKernan - 88 pts.

* Attached Image: IMG_0800.jpg Caption: Ballymartin GAC’s 12^th Golf Classic Second Place Winners; S Holman, R McCartan, S Cunningham and L Byrne - 87 pts. 3rd Place (NO Photo) J McKibbin, P McKibbin, C Quinn C Cunningham - 87 pts.

* Attached Image: DSC7393.jpg Caption: Ballymartin GAC’s 12^th Golf Classic Non Golfers 1st; Liam O'Hare, Peter Fitzpatrick and Jordan Fitzpatrick.

* Attached Image: IMG_0807.jpg Caption: Ballymartin GAC’s 12^th Golf Classic Non Golfers 2^nd; C Trainor, P Greene, S Hanna and P Trimble.

* Attached Image: IMG_0795.jpg Caption: Ballymartin GAC’s 12^th Golf Classic Non Golfers 3^rd; Martin Quinn, Ciaran O'Hare and Cenk Akdeniz.

* Attached Image: IMG_0811.jpg Caption: Ballymartin GAC’s 12^th Golf Classic Non Golfers Special Recognition ‘The Ladies Team’; Lauren Cunningham, Rebecca Cunningham, Michaela Cunningham and Orla Doyle.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 10 June 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* Last week there were NO notes available due to the Bank Holiday.

* The Committee and Members of Ballymartin GAC would like to pass our condolences following the recent death of Mr Sean Rooney to both his Wife Mary and family and extended family circle, of which are both players and members of the Club.

* At 6AM on Friday, Kilkeel Golf Club had a course inspection to see if the weather was going to hamper play of the 12^th Ballymartin GAC Golf Classic, and at 6:05AM text messages were flying as the course got the go-ahead. Those that had the good fortune of being able to play in the morning escaped the worst of the weather. All the Main Prize Winners had teed off before the worst of the weather caught hold of the day. As for those that had to finish work before enduring the luxury of a round of golf they had donned the rain Macs and waterproofs, as they were in for a torrential downpour. Alas this didn’t dampen their spirits. Results of Ballymartin Golf Classic; Main Prizes: 1^st - T Curtis, J Trainor, M Magill and B McKernan - 88 pts. 2^nd - L Byrne, S Holman, R McCartan and S Cunningham - 87 pts. 3^rd - J McKibbin, P McKibbin, C Quinn and C Cunningham - 87 pts. Non Golfers Prize winners; 1^st - Peter Fitzpatrick, Jordan Fitzpatrick and Liam O'Hare. 2^nd - C Trainor, S Hanna, P Trimble and Paddy Greene. 3^rd - Ciaran O'Hare, Cenk Akdeniz and Martin Quinn. Longest Drive - Liam O'Hare, Beat the Pro - Sean Holman. Nearest to pin at 15th Hole - T Murphy; Nearest to pin at 11th Hole - P. McAteer. Special recognition to the only ladies team Lauren Cunningham, Rebecca Cunningham, Michaela Cunningham and Orla Doyle. The committee would like to thank everyone who helped in any way to make the golf classic a success

* Ballymartin GAC’s ‘Mother of a Player’ kicked off last week when the mothers of the U-8 and U-10 players were invited to a ‘Pampering and Beauty Session’ in the Ballymartin Inn. The next ‘Mother of a Player’ beauty night was held on Monday 11^th June for the mother's of the U-14 & U-16 Girls players, the beauty night will be in Ballymartin Inn starting at 7:30pm. The beauty night for the mother's of the U-12 & U-14 Boys players will take place tonight Wednesday 13^th June in Ballymartin Inn starting at 7:30pm.

* Well done to P7s from St. Josephs Primary School who defeated Cabra Primary in the Quarter Final of the Down 7 aside Cumman naBunscoil competition. Details of the Semi-Final opposition and date are awaited. Panel: Cormac Phillips, Sean Quinn, Taylor Poland, Rory Quinn, James Quinn, Matthew Cranney and Paul Quinn.

* St Joseph's Flute Band, Ballymartin is reaching a mile stone. The committee are trying to put together a history of the band. Were you or any of your family, members or involved with the band over the years? Do you have any instruments, old uniforms, photographs or memorabilia relating to the band? Would you be prepared to donate or loan it to the band for copying so as to put a booklet together? If so, please contact either: Hillary McGuinness : Tel 077 29633716 or Jacinta Higgins 078 4171 1047.

* The Seniors had a great home game on Friday 1^st June. Although a narrow escape, this game could have been a more comfortable win. Ballymartin 1-11 vs. 0-13 St John Bosco. Their home match with Darragh Cross on Thursday 7^th June was postponed due to inclement weather. Next outing is this Friday 15^th June away to Glasdrumman with a 7:30 throw-in, Referee: Con Reynolds.

* Reserves lost to Clonduff 2-11 vs. 2-10 Ballymartin on Tuesday 5^th June and host St John Bosco tonight (Wednesday), in St.Colmans School, Kilkeel @7:30pm. Ref: Kieran Trainor. The lads also host Glasdrumman this Sunday with a 6:30 throw-in, Referee: Denis Cotter.

* Baileghlas Minors had a great home win Baileghlas 3-12 vs. 0-12 Kilcoo on Saturday 2^nd June, and were on the road Tuesday 12^th (yesterday), to Tullylish, next Tuesday there is NO match, and they are away to St. Mary’s @ 7:30pm in Dromara on June 26^th.

* U-16’s next match is at home (St Colman's Kilkeel), on Thursday 14^th June when they host Loughinisland @7:30 PM. Coaching as usual.

* U-14’s played two matches last week; Monday 4th June they beat Drumgath 5-6 vs. 7-8 Baileghlas and on Wednesday 6^th June they hosted and lost to Saval in a very thrilling game. Baileghlas keeper; Ethan Bernie made some great save and one great penalty save. Baileghlas 7-6 vs. 5-13 Saval. On Monday they are away to Atticall for a 7:30 throw-in.

* The U-12s had a comfortable away win last week against Mitchels 2-5 vs. 6-8 Ballymartin, but tougher games areahead including this Sundays mornings away fixture against Annaclone at 11am. Children to meet at Pats Rd at 9:45am. Last Sundays match against Longstone was postponed due to the death Sean Rooney – R.I.P. Coaching for U-12s continues tomorrow evening (Thursday) at 6.00pm.

* U-10 match against Longstone has been cancelled due to the death of Mr Sean Rooney - R.I.P. Coaching continues on Tuesday evening @ 6:30pm until 7:45pm on the Carrigenagh Road Pitch.

* U-8 Coaching continues on Tuesday evening @ 6:30pm until 7:30pm on the Carrigenagh Road Pitch.

* Intermediate Ladies are away to Teconnaught this Saturday 16 June with a 7pm throw-in. Coaching as usual.

* U-16 Ladies are away to Loughinisland next Sunday 24^th June.

* U-14 Ladies are on the road this Sunday to St John Bosco for a 12:30 throw-in. Coaching as usual.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 10 June; 4, 15, 22, 27. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @£ 12,100. 5 People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation to:Anne Farrell, Ruth O’Hare, Stephen and Liam, Patricia Farrell & Steve Morris.

Lotto team c

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* Attached Image: DSC6971c.jpg Caption: Ballymartin U-8 & 10s that gathered in Glassdrumman for a match on Sunday morning. Some great talent and potential was witnessed by all. The coaches would like to thank Glassdrumman for the invite and fort the parents for coming out and supporting the children, enjoying their sport with their friends.

* Attached Image: DSC6875.jpg Caption: Ballymartin’s Ruth Collins wins the ball, tight on the end-line and blazes back up the field past the Clonduff defender during Sunday’s comfortable win, Ballymartin 5-12 vs. 1-04 Clonduff, whilst young supporter Joe Higgins watches on in amazement.

* Attached Image: DSC6803e.jpg Caption: Ballymartin’s Intermediate Ladies received a new set of jerseys from their new sponsor Lisa Cunningham of M.C.Transport. Lisa is pictured with daughters Ellie & Nicole; presenting the jerseys to Caroline O'Neill (Captain), Sinead Rooney, Sinead Brannigan(Vice Captain) & Jessica Collins (Vice Captain).

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 27 May 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

NOTES

* A reminder to all the golfers; Ballymartin GAC are holding their 11^th Annual Golf Classic in Kilkeel Golf Club on Friday 8^th June and there are still a few times slots left for team places. I would also like to mention that anyone wishing to sponsor a hole or a Tee, contact Marie McKibbin.

* To all mothers of Ballymartin U-12 & U-14 players, as promised at the start of the year to celebrate our 90th year and to say thank you for the vital role that the mothers of our young players have within our club you are invited to the first beauty/pamper night for the mothers of our underage players. The event will be hosted on Wednesday 4th June and will begin at 7:30pm upstairs in Ballymartin Inn. The event is only for the mothers of our U-12 & U-14 players; there will be a ‘Clarins’ skincare and cosmetic consultant at the event doing demonstrations and given advice. All mothers who attend the beauty night will receive a free make up goodie bag. We look forward to seeing you all there. Johnny Rooney - Youth officer Ballymartin GAC.

* Seniors had a convincing win (Ballymartin 2-08 vs. 1-08 Drumaness), when they met last Friday. After twenty minutes the Whites seemed to have everything in control, and were ahead 0-06 vs. 0-01... Then the Drumaness forward line received a ball and dropped it in over the keepers head. This gave the foundations a rattle and from then on the lads had to keep possession. The second half was about ‘the wind against them’ and maintaining the narrow lead they had and converting their chances of scoring. Some note-worthy play from Noel Kerr, Paddy Greene, Ryan and Kieran O’Hare. This week; Friday 1st June @ 7.30pm Ballymartin Host St John Bosco in the O’Neill’s All County Leagues ACFL Div 3.

* Reserves had to travel yesterday (Tuesday 5 June), for their round eight away match against Clonduff V Ballymartin. The next outing is Wednesday 13 June @ 7:30PM when they host St John Bosco in St. Colman's School Kilkeel.

* The Minors previous match was postponed and has not yet had a fixture put in place, the next match isset for Tuesday 12 June when they will be travelling to Tullylish for a 7:30PM throw-in.

* U-16 next match is scheduled to held on Thursday 14 June at home in St. Colman's School Kilkeelto Loughinisland.

* U-14 Baileghlas lads were away to Saval on Monday past. Next Monday 4th June, the South Down U-14 Leagues sees Baileghlas host Drumgath in St.Colmans Kilkeel, with a 19:30 throw-in.

* The U-12s recorded their third league win on Sunday morning with a comfortable win over neighbours Glassdrumman. There were strong performances across the pitch, with Morgan Buckley, James Ward and Callum Turner catching the eye. The team was action last night Tuesday in a rearranged fixture against Mitchell’s (details next week). No game this week for U-12s. Coaching for U-12s continues tomorrow evening at 6pm.

* U-10 Saturday 2nd June Ballykelly Group - South Down U10 Go Games at 10.30am
Venue Saval:- Saval A & B, Clonduff Shamrocks, Clonduff Harps, Clonduff Gaels, Drumgath, Ballymartin, Glassdrumman, Mitchels & Annaclone. On Monday 4 June the U–10 MOURNE LEAGUE has Ballymartin travelling to Longstone. The match starts at 7pm - all players to be at the pitch for 6:30pm. Coaching continues on Tuesday evening @ 6pm.

* Intermediate Ladies hosted a ‘feared from the past’ Clonduff team on Sunday. These old worn-out fears lay around the Ballymartin ladies feet. Alas these fears were put to bay in the opening minutes when a strong Ballymartin squad notched-up score after score without reply. A dazzled crowd were well impressed with the ladies fitness and stamina. Final score line Ballymartin 5-12 vs. 1-04 Clonduff. Next match for the ladies is Saturday 2^nd June, when they travel to Mayobridge for the re-scheduled match from 23^rd May.

* U-16 Ladies are due to host Kilcoo on 9^th June in St.Colmans Kilkeel; this is same date Down play?? Coaching as usual.

* U-14 Ladies are away to Teconnaught on Thursday 31 May, meet at Pats Road at 5:30pm, throw-in is at 7pm. Coaching as per usual.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 27 May; 8, 11, 15, 20. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @£ 11,900. 7 People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation to all the lucky winners: Kevin Krilly, Mary McMullan, Sis O’Hare, Marian Annett, Serena Ward, Paddy Matthews & Damien Cunningham.

* Lotto ROTA Team ‘A’ – C. Cunningham (Leader), J. Doran, P. Higgins, P. & M. Collins, K. Cunningham, L. Hanna, K. & L. Rooney.

Attached image: DSC6033.jpg Caption: Luke Sloan of Atticall narrowly misses the block on Ballymartin’s Daniel McAlinden, as he releases the ball up the field in last week’s thrilling U-10 Mourne League match were Ballymartin hosted Atticall

U-10 Mourne League vs. Atticall Attached image: DSC6041.jpg Caption: Ballymartin’s smallest player Aodhán Ward receives protection by his mid-field team-mates; Mollie Ireland and Eve Quinn as they are surrounded during last week’s U-10 Mourne League match against Atticall.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 20 May 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

NOTES

* Seniors last Friday had a convincing win over hosts Ardglass 0-9 V 3-12 Ballymartin, this Friday May 25^th in the O’Neill’s All County League Ballymartin host Drumaness (Eddie Morgan ) @7.30pm in Longstone.

* Reserves - After last week’s disappointing performance against Longstone, the lads tore into Drumgath when they hosted them on Sunday past, Ballymartin 4-18 V 1-7 Drumgath. Their next outing is currently set for an away match with Clonduff on June 5^th.

* Minors – Due to a death in Kilcoo the Minor match was called off and is yet to be set. The next match in the league see’s the Baileghlas squad travelling on 12.06.12 (Tue) to Tullylish for their round seven match @ 7:30pm.

* U-16 After an excellent performance on the previous outing the U-16s travelled with renewed optimism to Saval, another team riding high in the division. On an evening made for Gaelic Football the two teams served up some excellent football over the hour. Ballymartin were painfully aware that poor starts had cost them dearly in the league and so they took the game to Saval in the opening minutes and this adventurous tactic yielded two excellent scores one free from Ross Cunningham and Kristopher Rooney from play. The home team hit back with a brace of points themselves from Corey McCullough and James McConville. The home team were gaining more possession now and the pressure was on the Whites’ defence who were dealing with it very well, none more so than Conor Cunningham who enjoyed his best game of the year; HT Saval 1-07 Ballymartin 0-04. The second half began with the Whites taking the game to the hosts and this again resulted in scores narrowing the gap to four points. Kristopher and Ross at midfield owned the ball and Shaun Harper’s pace constantly opened gaps in the Saval defence. This pressure began to yield points with Saval defence having no option but to foul. Ross Cunningham pointed from frees and from play and Niall Quinn tormented the Saval defence on the right wing. The score was narrowed to the minimum with twelve minutes to go when another Ballymartin attack ended in a foul, this time in the big square. Ross dispatched the kick with clinical ease and the Whites were ahead. Immediately, however, Saval hit back and goaled themselves after a combination of Ballymartin mistakes and the game turned again in the hosts favour. The big pitch was taking its toll on the legs and fresh men were introduced Ryan Greene and Daniel Burden for Blaine and Geoffrey. Ballymartin had chances but exhaustion lead to inaccuracy and the games ended with Saval two points to the good. FT Saval 2-09 Ballymartin 1-10. This break in play for exams should allow the lads to regroup and get physically fit for their next outing in R-8Ballymartin V Loughinisland @ 7:30PM , Venue: St Colman's Kilkeel on June 14^th.

* U-14 – Baileghlas U-14 squad had a great game last week when they travelled to Annaclone 1-4 V 5-13 Baileghlas. There were great performances from; Ronan Grant, Callum Fitzpatrick, Padraig Stevenson and James & Daniel Ward (twins). Yesterday evening they hosted St John Bosco. Tomorrow evening they play their round seven match away to Longstone @ 7:30. Next Monday they are on the road again, this time taking on Saval @ 7:30PM. This will be followed with a BYE on 31.05.12 (Thu).

* U-12 - Sundays U12s league game against Mitchells was cancelled at late notice and has been rescheduled for Tuesday 29th May. This Sunday the U-12’s have a home game against Glassdrumman at 11am. Coaching for U-12s takes place this evening (Wednesday) at 6.00pm due to the U-14s needing the pitch to play tomorrow evening.

* U-10 – The Mourne U-10 League continued last week with Ballymartin hosting Atticall. What started a wet day had turned out to be a brilliant evening and you can put a price on thirty plus U-10’s running riot around a pitch with smiles on their faces. The evening started with the more mature players taking to the field for the first match, this was convincingly won by the strong team from Atticall led by; Small and Fitzpatrick. In the second match all hands on deck was the preferred option. What a display. The most enthralling match viewed by any coach, mentor or parent. This match was played for some thirty minutes and was well worth it. Congratulations to all the players and all the spectators from both teams, this was a most enjoyable evening.

* Intermediate Ladies – They just seem to be getting stronger and more motivated and with results like they’ve been getting what more can we expect from the Ballymartin ladies team? Hopefully NOT complacency! Travelling to Downpatrick last week to take on Carryduff 0-02 vs. 5-20 Ballymartin, in the Championship first round. Well done to all the crew and players and a speciall thanks to all who travelled up to support the ladies, the support is much appreciated. On Saturday they host Clonduff in an Riocht @ 7pm.

* U-16 Ladies continue to train away with the first match set for Sunday 10^th June.

* U-14 Ladies last match was cancelled and are set to play Teconnaught on 31 May.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 20 May; 3, 21, 22, 23. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @£ 11,800. 7 People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation to all the lucky winners; Dominic Bennett, Colin Cunningham, William Irvine, Mary Allen, Jim Burden, Jim Rogers & Rebecca Cunningham

- Lotto ROTA Team ‘D’ 27 May – Y. Fitzpatrick (Leader), S. & P. Fitzpatrick, C. Bailey, E. Ward, P. & M. Doran, C. Higgins & G. Quinn.

2012 Golf Classic CD - CON - JMCK - CC - PH Attached image: DSC5835.jpg Caption:

Ballymartin GAC is holding their 11th Fundraising Golf Classic on Friday 8th June 2012 at Kilkeel Golf Club. Pictured above is; Senior Men’s Captain - Cathal Doyle, Intermediate Ladies Captain - Caroline O’Neill, Main Sponsor - Jarleth McKibbin of Leestone Caravan Park, Ballymartin Chairman Colin Cunningham and Reserves Manager Paul Higgins. As most people are aware Ballymartin GAC are without home playing facilities and are in the process of reinstating their original playing field. To help us with this venture we would appreciate your help in this fundraising event. Should you have any queries about the competition or sponsorship please contact Mrs. Maire McKibbin 62 Leestone Road Kilkeel Co. Down BT34 4NW - Tel. 028 4176 9566 : Fax 0284176 9566 E-Mail This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

2012 Golf Classic Attached image: Ballymartin GAC Golf Classic 2012 Poster

u-10s @ glassdrumman blitz Attached image: DSC5864.jpg Caption: Ballymartin U-10 Boys and girls at the Glassdrumman Go Games Blitz on Saturday 12 May. As you can see the weather was brilliant and all the youth teams involved had a great time and thanks to the hospitality of the Glassdrumman Youth Coaches and those that prepped the refreshments.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 13 May 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

NOTES

A ‘Get Well and We hope for a quick recovery’ for two mid-fielders; Danielle Newell and Cathal Doyle.

* The Seniors had a rest last week and we hope that all are up for the challenge when they travel to Ardglass for a 7:30 throw-in at Ardglass GAC. Best wishes and a speedy recovery to team Captain, Cathal Doyle, who underwent surgery last week?

* Reserves had a tough game to say the least, when they travelled over to Longstone 3-13 vs. 0-5 Ballymartin. Under very windy conditions, that didn’t seem to hinder the Stone, Ballymartin seemed to be lost and couldn’t get their head into the game. Next week they host Drumgath in St. Colman's, Kilkeel with a 6:30 throw-in.

* Minors - Advance notice of last Minor Football games before the Exam break. Yesterday; Tuesday May 15^th in ACMFL Div 2, Baileghlas hosted Kilcoo in their round 6 match. Round 7 games will resume on 12 June, when the lads travel to Tullylish for a 7:30 throw-in.

* U-16’s - Ballymartin hosted the league leaders and undefeated Ballyholland Harps on Thursday at St. Colman’s. On paper this fixture appeared a foregone conclusion with the Harps riding high at the top of the table and in the first ten minutes the game went to form. Ballymartin were slow off the mark again and the Harps raced into an early lead. Within nine minutes the visitors were a staggering 3-03 to no score ahead and it looked like we were in for a long night. Then something stirred and young Whites began to believe in their own ability. Ryan Greene hit a point after a great move through the middle involving Sean Harper (just back from injury) Ross and Ethan. They then hit a purple patch and played the best football of the year. In the following ten minutes they won every break ball through half backs Daniel McBennett, Geoffrey Greene, Conor Cunningham, Kristopher Rooney and Sean Harper were having a great tussle with the Harps midfield of Michael Hasson and Ruairi Campbell. Ballymartin scored a further 2-03, brilliantly engineered goals from Ethan and Ross, without reply to bring it back to two points. A few costly mistakes in possession gifted the Harps three points and they went in at the break rattled but 6 points to the good. HT - Ballymartin 2-04 Harps 3-07. After the break the Whites set about their task and took the game to Ballyholland. Their direct play and fierce determination for the ball yielded another spectacular goal from Sean Harper and a point from Ross to get it back to two again. Ballyholland began to get to grips again with the Irwin twins, Garret Campbell and Tiarnan Rushe playing very well. But Owen Collins was introduced and he made an immediate impact adding strength to the defence and attack when called upon. The Whites were again in the ascendancy and rocked the Harps with another peach of a goal from Niall Quinn. Ross added two frees and there was only three between the teams with five to go. The Harps then mounted one last attack and got the insurance point to leave four between the teams at the finish. There were massive performances from every man who played, Jordan in goals was assured and steady. Callum Fitzpatrick showed his class every time he was involved and Dan Sloan was much more comfortable in the corner. Cathal Greene was his usual excellent self. The half back line was brilliant to man and the midfield had a fantastic battle with their opponents. The goals showed the class of the forwards with four different scorers. It was a defeat but one which shows the ability of this group when focussed. Eradicate the mistakes, learn from them and bring the fight and the style to the next game and this team will achieve. Final score: Ballymartin 4-08 Ballyholland Harps 3-16. Tomorrow they travel to Saval for their Round 7 match with a 7:30 throw-in, Venue: Saval.

* U-14’s in Baileghlas had a bad run last week when they hosted a roasting Atticall. The young guns in the Baileghlas squad are still finding their way with the new coaching staff and between the new players. But the lads are going to have to pull together and learn from the display that Atticall put on. On Monday past they had an away match with Annaclone. Next Monday they host St John Bosco with a 7:30 throw-in, Venue: St Colman's Kilkeel.

* U-12 played The U12s continued their winning start to the league last Sunday with an impressive win over St John’s Bosco. Played in blustery conditions, Ballymartin started in whirlwind fashion with forward Paul Quinn scoring three cracker goals in the opening 15 minutes. The team played some great football in the opening period with defenders Cormac Phillips, James Quinn and the impressive Matthew Cunningham ensuring no way through for the visitors. The second half was a much tenser affair, with Bosco applying more pressure. However the tireless work rate and link play of midfielders Rory Quinn and Daniel Ward and a late point from target man Matthew Cranney allowed Ballymartin hold out for victory. This Sunday, the U-12s travel to Mitchells, Newry. The children are to meet at Pats Road at 9:45am sharp. Coaching continues tomorrow evening (thurs.) at 6.00pm.

* U-10’s were to travel to Ballyholland on Saturday 12th May, but this venue was cancelled and rescheduled for Glassdrumman; this was a great event and the we had the weather to prove it. With a slight breeze and plenty of sunshine the ‘Starz of the Future’ were enjoying the limelight. We would like to thank the Glassdrumman Club for hosting a great event and thank them for the Tea, coffee, buns and refreshments provided and for the other competitors; Mayobridge A & B, Rostrevor, Glassdrumman, Atticall & Longstone, Ballymartin & An Riocht. On Monday past the U-10 boys and girls hosted Atticall, details next week.

* Intermediate Ladies

Ballymartin ladies got their pre championship week off to a flyer with a comprehensive display and victory over Tullylish. This was the ladies first away fixture of the season that was actually played and the girls showed that they don’t have to be playing in Dunaval to get the results. Tullylish were only able to field 13 players so Ballymartin did likewise. This left a position in the full back line and the full forward line vacant. There were also a number of changes on the Lilywhites side. Ballymartin added scores from Rebecca (2), Caroline, Lauren (2.2), Jessica and Carol to lead at the break by 4 – 19 to 0 – 01. Ballymartin had made sweeping changes at the half with Louise Rodgers replacing Lisa Bailey, Michaela Cunningham replacing Ciara Cunningham, Evelyn Mac Marcus replacing Carol Rafferty, Ruth Collins replacing Mary Jane Smyth and Amy Marks replacing Jessica Collins. It didn’t take long for them to get back into the swing of things and a Lauren triple followed by a Rebecca special where she fetched the kick out and ran through the heart of the defence to split the posts put Ballymartin back in the driving seat. This was the most comprehensive performance of the season to date from the girls where they showed real class in front of the posts, they played with real intensity throughout the game, they tackled high up the pitch which left the defence with an easy task and most importantly their fitness and sheer class meant the game was comfortable. This was a perfect performance with the championship only a week away. If the girls apply the same principles in next week’s game – the city girls will not be able to cope with them. Next fixture – Championship; Ballymartin v Carryduff in Downpatrick at 6pm 19^th June.

* U-16 Ladies Coaching as usual.

* U-14 Ladies are set to travel to Teconnaught on Sunday 20 May for a 12:30 throw-in.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 13 May; 9, 11, 26, 28. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @£ 11,700. 5 People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation to all the lucky winners; Patricia McGovern, Heather Campbell, Peter Cairns, Michael Morgan & Paul McStay. Get your ticket from our many sellers in the Kilkeel area and further afield. Tickets must be returned by 7:30 PM on Sunday. Lotto ROTA Team ‘C’ – E. Phillips (Leader), S. Phillips, S. Rogers, S. Cunningham, L. Byrne, L. Cunningham, P. Higgins, C. Cunningham & R. Cunningham.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 6 May 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* Ballymartin GAA have great Gym facilities available to all adult members, membership is required and an induction. The latest gym induction for the year is tonight Wednesday at 8:45. New members are welcome, contact Marie McKibbin (07802344253), or any committee member for details.

* The Ballymartin GAC is holding their 11^th fundraising Golf Classic on Friday 8^th June 2012 at Kilkeel Golf Club. Entry forms are available from Marie McKibbin (028 4176 9566 or 078 0234 4253).

* The Seniors had a disappointing finish to a match they had ‘in the bag’; until the last three minutes, because a two point lead is not a GOOD lead. Tullylish ran the pitch and scored a goal putting them one point ahead, this was shortly followed with a point and the final whistle shortly after Ballymartin 0-10 V 1-9 Tullylish. The next match is scheduled for Friday 18 May away to Ardglass with a throw-in: 7 30 PM.

* The Reserves match on Sunday was called off, this Sunday 13th May in the McAvoy Construction LLP South Down, the lads are playing the Longstone in the Longstone at 6.30pm.

* The Minors hosted Saul on Friday 4 May in the Round 4 match of the and came away with a low scoring win Baileghlas 0-5 vs. 0-0 Saul. Yesterday - Tuesday, they travelled to St John Bosco. Next Tuesday the round 6 match sees them hosting Kilcoo in Glassdrumman at 7:30pm.

* The U-16 squad suffered a blow last Thursday when they travelled to Kilcoo 2-15 vs. 2-10 Ballymartin. The lads played some great football, but kept getting closed down and losing possession. Tomorrow – Thursday, they host Ballyholland at St.Colmans Pitch, Kilkeel. Throw-in at 7:30 PM.

* U-14 Baileghlas squad hosted Atticall on Monday past, next Monday night they are on the road to Annaclone for a 7:30 throw-in for the Ballykelly Group Div 3 match.

* The U12s commenced their league campaign last Sunday with an away win against St.Michaels. Ballymartin started brightly and playing with the aid of the wind and held a two point half time lead, with Ryan Higgins netting after a move involving six players. The second period was much tougher with both sides guilty of missed passes and poor shooting and plenty of wides. Fortunately the young Lilywhites held on for victory. This Sunday morning at 11am the U-12s host Newry Bosco at St. Colman's Pitch, Kilkeel. Coaching for U-12s continues tomorrow evening 6pm at St.Colmans. Best wishes from the U-12 team and all club members to club captain and U-12 coach Cathal Doyle, who has an operation to repair his cruciate knee ligament this Friday. We all trust Cathal has a speedy recovery.

* The U-10’s have a Go Games blitz on this Saturday 12th May at 10.30am. This will be held in Glasdrumman:- Mayobridge A & B, Rostrevor, Glasdrumman, Atticall, Longstone, Ballymartin & An Riocht.

* Intermediate Ladies -Ballymartin ladies played their third game of the season on Saturday night against a travelling Kilcoo that arrived in Dunavil unbeaten from their previous 3 matches. The magpies have obviously worked hard in pre season and started the game meaning business. The threat of Doherty in midfield and the two Laverty’s up front meant that the Lilywhites would surely need to be on their guard for the whole 60 minutes.

When the ball was thrown in – Kilcoo won the first tussle with ease and played with great fluency until they won a free in front of the posts. Kerry Laverty stepped up to split the posts with ease. Sinead Rooney hit a kick out that again was won by the now rampant magpies and again they scored. Ballymartin looked like they were suffering a hangover of lack of games and their touch had deserted them somewhat. Or was it just the fact that Kilcoo were working harder in all departments? Lauren Cunningham hit the first point from a free but this seemed to rile the magpies even more and they hit two unanswered scores to lead by 3 points with only 12 minutes gone. Another score from the counties central club and Ballymartin looked in real trouble. A major turning point came when the ball broke into the full forward line and Sinead Rooney sprang like a March hare to clear the danger – the ball fell to Sinead Brannigan who fed Lauren for another score. The kick out saw Caroline O’Neill rise unchallenged and feed the ball to Jessica Collins who fed the onrushing Amy Marks for a fine fisted score. For the next 13 minutes Ballymartin failed to register a single shot at the target. The introduction of Jacqueline O’Neill and Laura Sloan in quick succession stemmed the tide for a while. With her first touch Jacqueline was back in familiar territory of the sin bin. This was a harsh lesson for Jacqueline and hopefully a lesson learned for the remainder of the season. Rebecca Cunningham moved to corner back and Laura Sloan moved to wing half forward to compensate for her loss. This didn’t stop Kilcoo scoring a further 4 points on the bounce to lead by 9 points to 3. What happened next was Ballymartin playing how we knew they could. Fast flowing football and no one taking-on, unnecessary danger. Carol Rafferty got her customary point before a real flowing move starting in midfield with Orla “Dougal” Doyle fell into the hands of Laura Sloan and she made no mistake from 6m out and with the help of the post to hit the net. This gave Ballymartin a huge lift and Lauren hit another point to leave the bare minimum between the sides as the half approached. Kilcoo were shell shocked. Their tactic of flooding the defence with bodies was working so well but the goal was a real sucker punch to their challenge. The half time whistle went much to their delight and the score reading Ballymartin 1.05 Kilcoo 0 – 09

There must have been harsh words in the dressing room at half time as Ballymartin emerged with a renewed vigour and sense of work-rate for the second half.

Caroline O’Neill and Orla Mac Dougal were now in midfield and from the throw-up – this powerful combination won the ball and moved it forward with purpose. The ball finally found its way to Lauren and she scored with ease. Kilcoo using their full back to hit kick outs in the first half caused confusion – but now Ballymartin were switched onto it and indeed for the duration of the half they won 16 out of 18 kick outs from their opposition. Laura Sloan was making a nuisance of herself with her probing runs and it was her finish in the 8^th minute that pushed Ballymartin ahead for the first time in the game. Kilcoo hit back – but with pressure being put on their main players further out the pitch – they were not getting the freedom to shoot they were afforded in the first half. Their wing half forward did manage to squeeze in a fine shot in the 10^th minute to bring the team’s level – but this was as good as it got for Kilcoo. Ballymartin won the kick out and first time football saw the ball fall to 14 year old Ruth “Ruthless” Collins. She absolutely smashed the ball to the top corner of the net to give the team and her confidence a massive lift. The kick out saw Orla Mac Dougal rise through the air to fetch a fine catch – she fed the onrushing Caroline O’Neill who hit the ball low to the keeper’s right and into the back of the net. Breathing space at last – and we could now start to play football with freedom. The unusually off colour Lauren Cunningham hit a few wides when perhaps there were players better placed for the score and indeed the calls for over carrying the ball caught her out sometimes. She did get the next score after some fine play from Sinead Brannigan opened the space for her shot. Kilcoo were now becoming frustrated with Ballymartin’s physical fitness, desire and hunger for every ball. Late challenges were going unpunished though and in fairness to the Lilywhites they just got on with playing their game. Caroline O’Neill was ripped down on the right hand side of the pitch for a free and quick thinking meant she found Sinead Brannigan in acres of space. Sinead hit a shot for a point but it took a wicked dip to go into the back of the net. Kilcoo were done for. Some more easy chances went a-begging for Ballymartin before Lauren hit the last score of the game to leave them comfortable winners in the end.

This was a very patchy performance from the girls with some glimpses of excellent play and some moments of individual brilliance – Orla Mac Dougal giving her father - the great Charlie something to be proud of and Rebecca Cunningham finding some form again. Her catch from one particular kick out was very memorable. However, there were also some moments to forget. But it’s onwards and upwards for the panel as they take on Tullylish in their next game away from home on Saturday 12/05/12 with a 7pm throw in.

* U-16 Ladies Coaching continues as usual. 5 – 6pm Thursday

* U-14 Ladies were beaten by Loughinisland 4-8 vs. 4-03 Ballymartin, there was some great play from Caitlin Quinn and Olivia. Taylor and Anna had a great game their first competitive outing. Coaching continues on Thursday 6 – 7pm. The Committee and coaching staff would like to wish Ciara Rice a speedy recovery after injuring her elbow in the first play of the ball against Loughinisland last week, a game in which she continued the match carrying the injury, the team wish her well.

* The Mourne U-12 Division 2 Hurlers have a Go Games throw-in 7.30pm at home against Warrenpoint on Thursday 10th May.

* The Mourne U-14 Hurling League, Division 2 Throw-in is at 7.30pm on Friday 11th May, whenthey travel to Liatroim.

* The Mourne U-16 Division 2 Hurlers have a 5pm throw-in home match against Kilclief On Sunday13th.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 6 May; 8, 13, 17, 22. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @£ 11,600. 3 People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation to; Brendan Allen, Amanda Rooney & Agnes Haughain.

Attached Image: _DSC5365.jpeg Caption: Ballymartin’s Kieran O’Hare Pops another one over the bar during last Friday’s Div 3 match with St John's 1-07 V 1-11 Ballymartin.

Attached Image: _DSC5252.jpeg Caption: Ballymartin’s U-16 squad hosted St.Pauls, Hollywood last Thursday (Ballymartin 1-14 V 3-8 St Paul's), had to settle with a draw, when St.Pauls clawed back from an assault of points during the first half. Tomorrow the lads are away to Kilcoo.

Attached Image: _DSC5563.jpeg Caption: The U-12 Lads who attended the Newry Mitchels Blitz on Sunday past. The Blitz was held in an Riocht due to a waterlogged Mitchels ground. Thanks to an Riocht for hosting the event and for the participating teams; an Riocht, Longstone, Mayobridge Gaels & Mayobridge Ogs, unfortunately the Mitchels did not attend. The lads played some remarkable football. Great performance from Daniel Ward, Keelin Kearney and Cormac Greene; who scored a wonderful match winning goal in the dying minutes against the Mayobridge Gaels.

Attached Image: _DSC5151e.jpeg Caption: Ballymartin’s U-10’s were presented with New Jersey’s before last Monday night’s U-10 Mourne League 1^st round match with Glassdrumman. The Jersey’s were presented by Amy Higgins (niece of Sponsor, Larry Cunningham Haulage, Newcastle) to U-10 Coach Liam Quinn.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 29 April 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

NOTES

* The Seniors travelled to Durmnaquoile on a bitterly cold Friday 27 April to take on St.John’s for their round seven match. Ballymartin had a few injury worries, and as the game went on, they took everything in their stride. Great play from Kieran & Ryan O’Hare and Ryan McCullaghon the front line kept the scores notching up, giving a half-time lead of 1-06 vs. 0-02 for Ballymartin. The Reds had the wind and the sun on their backs in the second period, and after six minutes had clawed back 3 scores and were handed a penalty and things were looking tight for Ballymartin. But the dazzling Patrick McManus had other ideas and when the ball was struck Paddy was all over it. The ball was high to the top left corner and Paddy lunged out, he palmed it away for a fifty. This was a great result St John's 1-07 V 1-11 Ballymartin, but Ballymartin have a lot of work to do as St.John’s WON hands down when it came to Hospitality... Thank You to St.John’s for their wonderful hospitality on Friday night, with tea and sandwiches for the supporters and players after enduring the cold Spring evening. This Friday sees Ballymartin at Home (Longstone) to Tullylishwith a 7:30PM Throw-in.

* The BaileghlasMinors had a tough game on Tuesday past, Baileghlas 3-11 V 5-9 Clann na Derg. This weeks match sees them at Home (Glassdrumman), when they host Saul @ 7:30pm. On Sunday 6^th May the South Down Minor Feis 7’s start at 10.15am in St. Marks Warrenpoint. Attending are; Shamrocks, Warrenpoint, Clonduff, Burren, Drumgath, Ballyholland, Atticall, Clann na Banna, Mitchels, Ballymartin, Rostrevor, Mayobridge, Saval, Glenn & Tullylish.

* U-16 Squad hosted St Paul's last Thursday in the round 4 match, Ballymartin 1-14 V 3-8 St Paul's. There was some great play from both sides, as Ballymartin had an onslaught of points in the first period, fighting off the visitor’s goal scorers. Tomorrow they travel to Kilcoo for a 7:30 throw-in.

* U-14 Coaching continues as normal in St.Colmans Pitch, Kilkeel @ 7:15pm in preparation for the first match against Atticall Monday 7 May @ 7:00pm.

* U-12 lads had a great morning under extremely blustery conditions at the Blitz held in an Riocht on behalf of the Newry Mitchels. Coaching continues on in St.Colmans Pitch, Kilkeel on Thursday Night at 6:30pm. On Sunday 6^th May Ballykelly Group - South Down U12 Leagues Ballymartin travel to St.Michaels for a 11.00am throw-in.

* U-10’s had a good run out against Glassdrumman last Monday night. Great potential was shown by a number of players, Cormac Greene, Calum Rooney and Amy Higgins, to a few. A great effort and well done to all. On Monday past the U-10s had a league match at home against Longstone, details next week. Coaching continues for the U-8 and U-10’s on Tuesday evenings at 6:30, please be prompt and can those picking children up please come down the lane to the pitch to collect the children, Thanks.

* Intermediate Ladies round 4 match on Saturday against Mayobridge was called off by the Bridge, the ladies next outing is a home match (An Riocht), when the ladies host Kilcoo on May 5^th @ 7:00pm.

* U-16 Ladies coaching continues as usual, only ten weeks to your second league match.

* U-14 Ladies should have played Bredagh on Sunday in Loughinisland details next week. Their next League match is at Home to Saul on Sunday May 13 in St.Colmans PS, Kilkeel. Coaching continues as usual.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 29 April; 9, 17, 25, 28. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @£ 11,500. 10 People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation to: Joanne Kelly, Edward Mason, Martin McConville, Caitlin & Eoghan Smyth, Jimmy Burden, Nadine Hewitt, Mary Quinn, Paula Doran, James McCarvery & Cormac Phillips. This Sunday Lotto Rota Team ‘A’ – C. Cunningham (Leader), J. Doran, P. Higgins, P. & M. Collins, K. Cunningham, L. Hanna, K. & L. Rooney.

* Attached Image: _DSC4983.jpg Caption: Ballymartin Reserves Team who convincingly defeated a strong Mayobridge panel, final score: Ballymartin 4-12 vs. 1-09 Mayobridge.

* Attached Image DSC9460.jpeg Caption: Ballymartin’s Daniel Newell, notches up a hat-trick during their stunning performance over Newry Shamrocks last Saturday, final score-line Ballymartin 4-08 vs. 0-12 Shamrocks.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 22 April 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* Best wishes and hope for a speedy recovery to Senior Payer and U-12's coach, Cathal Doyle. Cathal was injured on 25 mach in play against Glassdrumman. It is likely that Cathal will NOT see competitive football this year due to ‘cruciate ligament’ damage and pending surgery.
* Best wishes to reserve player and youth coach Niall Doyle, who marries Gayle Forsythe this Friday. Best wishes for the future from all at Ballymartin GAC.

* The Seniors put on a good show last Friday with their home game to Drumgath. This proved to be a great contest, with the whites putting on a great display of team-work and ball control. The forward line still needs some tightening up with fourteen wides. However, the end result was most pleasant, Ballymartin 2-13 vs. 1-9 Drumgath. This Friday the lads are on the road to at John’s for a 7:30 throw-in, this will be followed with Monday 30^th April when they host Tullylish in Longstone Park @ 7:30pm.

* The Ballymartin Reserves started some men that haven’t played competitive football in a couple of years and saw some cobwebs falling off old boots, when they hosted a strong Mayobridge panel of 30 plus men. Ballymartin had a great show of strength in the mid field and great presence in the front line, with two subs both scoring a goal Rory Phillips and Ronan McCartan.

* The Baileghlas Minor squad had a long dragged out match last week when they travelled to Warrenpoint 1-17 V 1-10 Baileghlas this week they were at home in Glassdrumman, for their Round 3 match to Clan na Derg. Details next week. Next Tuesday they host Saul in Glassdrumman with a 7:00pm throw-in.

* U-16’s – Match Report - Cumann Naomh Iósaf .v.Naomh Eoin Bosco. Match Date: 19/04/12

The U-16s were on their travels again on Thursday, this time to Jack Mackin Park to face the Bosco, refereed by Leo Smyth. The Lilywhites began the game brightly with a new midfield partnership of Kristopher Rooney and Dan Sloan gaining good early possession. The team were wasteful though and kicked three wides in as many minutes before registering the first two scores from Ross Cunningham and Blaine McCulla. After this initial flourish the home side took over for the next 20 devastating minutes. Their first foray into the Whites’ half yielded a goal and it was added to with a point soon after. The Ballymartin lads seemed shell shocked and were rocked back on their heels again with another goal after a slick move from the Newry lads with Jordan Pinnington and Darren McShane combining to set up Conor McCabe. This was to be the pattern of the half with Ballymartin proving wasteful in front of goal and the Bosco men punished every mistake with a score. They were keener to the ball and won countless break balls through Oisin Carnegie and Gary Crummy which set up wave after wave of attack. The half-time score was grim reading for the Mourne men 4-05 to 0-06.

The second half had to be attacked and the Whites threw off the shackles to a man and went at the Newry men with abandon. The defence tightened, the midfield gained a monopoly of possession and the Newry men were fighting a rearguard action. Cathal Greene was immense again at full back as was the debutant Callum Fitzpatrick putting in a great hour. Geoffrey and Conor on the wings won the break ball battle in the second period and this set the platform. The forwards got moving more coherently as a unit and began to tear up the Bosco defence. The Whites were motoring, lead by Ross Cunningham who linked very well with Niall Quinn and Ethan Smyth the scores began to come and after registering three goals, two from Ross and one from Ethan, soon there was only four between them with seven minutes on the clock. The Bosco men to their credit were able to take a few vital scores in the second period but the Whites kept coming. With three in it Ross pointed from a free to leave it that a goal could take the points. It wasn’t to be as Leo blew the final whistle shortly after a Bosco point. The final score line was Naomh Eoin Bosco 5-11 vs. Ballymartin 3-14. An epic comeback just fell short but lessons will have been learned that we hope we can bring into the next game on Thursday (tomorrow @Home), night against St Paul’s, Hollywood at St Colman’s with a 7:00pm throw-in. Next week’s round 5 match is away to Kilcoo @7pm.

* U-14 Baileghlas squad had a bye this Monday past. The next match is Monday 7^th May, when they are at Home in Glassdrumman against Atticall with a 7:00pm throw-in. Coaching continues in St. Colman's, Kilkeel at 7:00pm.

* Our U12s took part in an enjoyable Blitz at Rostrevor last Sunday. They are on the road this Sunday morning again when they take part in the next series of Blitz at Mitchells with their first match at 10.30 am when they take on Mayobridge Ogs. The bus will be departing Pats Road at 9.30am sharp. Coaching for U-12 boy’s tomorrow evening (Thursday) at 6.00pm at St. Colman’s Pitch, while we wait for the preparations at Carrigenagh Road Playing fields to be completed.

* Senior ladies had a great game on Saturday evening defeating their old nemeses Newry Shamrocks. Match Report - Ballymartin Senior Ladies vs. Shamrocks 21-04-2012

NO GUTS NO GLORY

Ballymartin ladies met their old nemesis Shamrocks on Saturday past in Dunaval and it turned out to be a thriller. It’s not often referees comment after a game about how competitive it was and the level of football that was played – so this indeed highlights how good the game was.

Ballymartin started with the wind in the first half but were under the cosh from early on when Orla Fegan cut through the defence like a hot knife through butter to fire the first point. It was taking Ballymartin a while to settle again and they hit a few wides from scoring positions much to their own frustration. Carol Rafferty was first on the score sheet for the lilywhites with a great point and this was quickly followed by the terrible twosome Lauren Cunningham and Caroline O’Neill firing over points to put a bit of breathing space between the teams.

Shamrocks responded with a brace of points themselves to make the game all Square. Now a number of things happened. Firstly Ellen Marks moved out to wing half back in a swap with Jacqueline O’Neill, Danielle Newell dislocated her finger and had emergency work carried out on the pitch before continuing to play a ‘stormer’, Caroline O’Neill switched to midfield to allow Danielle to sit on the edge of the square. Michaela Cunningham and her sister Rebecca switched positions momentarily. This all seemed to upset the balance of the Shamrocks team as their players were chasing shadows around the pitch trying to keep Ballymartin at bay. The only problem, however, was that Ballymartin forgot their shooting boots!!

They did manage to tag on another two points both from Lauren before they were awarded a penalty. Ruthless Collins found herself in good space and was fouled in the area. Danielle stepped up to smash the ball well wide more out of frustration than a bad shot. She did, however, redeem herself within seconds after a poor kick out from the shamrocks keeper saw Caroline O’Neill leap like a salmon. She was fouled and hit a quick free over the top for Danielle to smash the net with a fine effort. This was it now – Ballymartin were beginning to flow. They hit another point from Lauren and when Danielle found herself one on one with the keeper she was fouled and dusted herself down to hit the second penalty to the net. A great mark of a player who doesn’t let failure on the first kick put her off.

The half time whistle sounded and Ballymartin were in front by 2.06 to 0.04 – but with the wind on their backs – Shamrocks would surely fancy themselves in the second half.

The second half started with a point after 16 seconds for the Shamrocks. They were showing that they meant business. They were dominating possession in the middle of the pitch through clean catches and breaking ball. Ballymartin took Jessica Collins from the bench to replace her sister Ruth(less) and this gave the whites a bit of pace in the middle third.

Still the points kept flowing for Shamrocks. They were quite content to keep pegging the score back point by point. Now it was time to roll up the sleeves and be counted or let the Shamrocks walk away with the game. By the mid- point of the second half there was two points between the sides – with Ballymartin yet to score in the half. A number of players grew in stature at this stage and started to show the crowd that had assembled a “NO GUTS NO GLORY” attitude. From Louise Rodgers to Christine Burns to Michaela Cunningham to Orla “Charlie” Doyle – the girls started to tackle with fierce intensity. The forwards finally awoke from their sleep to get stuck in to the Shamrocks. Now with this platform in front of them – Shamrocks were finding it increasingly tough to break down the Lilywhites. In the 22^nd minute Ballymartin hit their first score of the half to push themselves in to a lead of 3 points. It was however, in the 24^th minute when the ball fell to Lauren “Mighty Mouse” Cunningham and she hit the back of the net with ease to leave the lead comfortable. Shamrocks were not done yet and hit another 4 wides on the trot. A break up the field saw them on the 21 yard line with goal on her mind Sinead Fegan pulled back to kick – but out of no-where came Caroline O’Neill to block down the kick, retrieve possession and pass to Sinead Brannigan. Sinead took off on a mazy run and fed Laura Sloan who split the posts with a great score. Fantastic team score. Shamrocks were visibly tiring now and Ballymartin were showing their fitness and running at them in droves. With Jacqueline O’Neill taking an “enforced break” this allowed another run into the Ballymartin rearguard but saw the terrible twins Lauren and Caroline carry out their defensive duties with aplomb. Caroline blocked again and Lauren cleared her lines to Sinead Brannigan. Sinead played a ball up into the top corner of the pitch and Danielle Newell looked to have an impossible angle – the keeper was off her line and Danielle drove the ball as a defender came in to block, the ball blasted through the block and lobbed over the keeper’s head, into the back of the net for a fantastic goal from a player who got a hat-trick on the night. This closed out the game and a few injuries left the long whistle delayed for a further 4 minutes. Neither team scored, and Ballymartin were winners. A fantastic team effort from all the girls. Serious concentration, fitness, intensity and giving the ball to the player in the best position saw them conquer a team they haven’t beaten in their previous 7 attempts. Next up for the ladies is Mayobridge away on Saturday 28^th April at 7pm.

* U-16 Ladies had a great match on Sunday when they travelled to Tullylish to meet the combined forces of Annaclone and Tullylish (Annalish). The girls performed well in all areas and did the coaches proud with the final result defeating Annalish by two points, Annalish 3-05 vs. 4-04 Ballymartin. The ladies have some seven weeks to prepare for their next outing, when they host Kilcoo on the 10^th June.

* U-14 Ladies are on the road this Sunday 29^th April for their first outing when they travel to Loughinisland for a 12:30 throw-in, meet at Pats Road, details at training session in St. Columban's College at 6:00 till 7:30pm on Thursday.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 22 April; 3, 6, 7, 22. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @£ 11,400. 15 People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation to all the lucky winners.

* Lotto ROTA Team ‘D’ 27 Apr – Y. Fitzpatrick (Leader), S. & P. Fitzpatrick, C. Bailey, E. Ward, P. & M. Doran, C. Higgins & G. Quinn.

Ryan OHare scores againt Darragh Cross *Attached image; _DSC4267.jpeg Caption: Ruthless Ryan O’Hare, out guns the competition during Ballymartin’s round 3 match against Darragh Cross on Easter Monday, when Ryan blazed his way into the far corner and found himself surrounded by Cross men, he let loose a dazzling low ball which blew past the Cross keeper and hit the back of the net!

U-16 Squad B4 Liatoim Match *Attached image; P1050955.jpeg Caption: Ballymartin’s U-16 squad, who hosted Liatroim during their Round 2 match played in St Colman's Kilkeel. On this occasion the Ballymartin lads were defeated with the final score: Ballymartin 2-7 vs. 3-15 Liatroim.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 15 April 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* Tonight there will be an induction for anyone looking to join gym which will commence at 8:45pm.

* On Easter Monday the Senior squad travelled to DarraghCross for their third match in the league. They put up a great fight and never quit, and with the win, win attitude they fought hard and well resulting in no fewer than eight Lily Whites racking up a score. Darragh Cross 0-5 vs. 1-13 Ballymartin.

On Friday past, the lads had a home match against Glenn (Round 4); this was a difficult game for the lads to finish off, with simple errors being made, the lads made life more difficult for themselves. With reports of up to nine minutes of added time in the second half the Whites walked away with a draw. Final score; Ballymartin 0-7 vs. 0-7 Glenn.

The seniors were away to Saul on Monday night, details next week.

This Friday night the seniors have a 7:15 PM throw-in for their Round 6 match against Drumgath.

* This Sunday see’s the start to the South Down Reserve League, after Sunday’s matches were postponed due the Down County Senior team playing in Croke Park. This will begin with the Round 2 selection when Ballymartin host Mayobridge, the throw-in is scheduled for 6:00 PM, with Shane Lowey Refereeing.

* Last Tuesday the Minors of Baileghlas had good win over Ballyholland when they hosted them at their home grounds for the season in Glasdrumman. Final score: Baileghlas 1-10 V 0-6 Ballyholland

Yesterday the Minors of Baileghlas travelled to Warrenpoint for their second round. Details next week.

* Ballymartin U-16 lads had a hard game on their hands last Thursday when they hosted Liatroim. The tides had turned after the previous weeks convincing win over Clan na Derg. They fished at Ballymartin 2-7 vs. 3-15 Liatroim.

This Thursday (tomorrow) sees the U-16 lads travel to Bosco for a 7pm throw-in.

* Baileglahs U-14’s schedule has been revised and the lads have NO first match listed and second match is a bye. Please check with your coach for updates or www.ballymartingaa.ie.

* James Ward and Matthew Cranney were picked to represent Ballymartin GAA in the Down GAA U-12 players to Croke Park for a Go Games Activity Day last Wednesday 11th April 2012. As Mathew had sustained a broken wrist in the previous week’s go-games event in the Longstone; Tierna Fitzpatrick was asked to step in as the first alternate. The trio had an early start; having to catch a bus Castlewellan’s Upper Square at 7am sharp and then on to Croke Pairc. The bus stopped at The Carrickdale Hotel on the return journey, where the children were provided with lunch, returning to Castlewellan at approximately 3.30pm. The trio were among 96 Children from Co. Down who had access to the hallowed Croke Park Pitch from 9.30am – 11am during which time children participated in small sided games of Hurling and Gaelic Football. The day also included a tour of the Coke Park Stadium and Museum. A great day was had by all, and we wish Matthew a speedy recovery.

The U-12 boys’ coaching continues on Thursday evening 6.00pm, St. Colman’s. All panel members to attend. U-12 boys attending Blitz this Sunday in Rostrevor. Meet at Club Rooms on Pats Road, Departing at 9.30am sharp.

* Underage coaching continues on Tuesday evenings.

* Ballymartin Ladies REPORT V TECONNAUGHT from Wed 14 April 2012

Ballymartin ladies played their first game of the intermediate league against the newly promoted Teconnaught at Dunavil. Due to Teconnaught being crowned junior champions last year – the Lily Whites approached this game with caution.

Indeed it was the East Down ladies who scored first when they converted a free from 30m out. Ballymartin seemed out of sorts in the early stages and were finding it difficult to break down the opposition. Handling errors at vital stages, possession being turned over and general frustration was creeping in. It was the pocket rocket Lauren Cunningham who lifted the siege with a point in the seventh minute. From the resulting kick out – Orla “Dougal” Doyle rose to take possession clean and feed the debutant Amy Marks who fired over from a tight angle. Teconnaught were finding it difficult to get the ball out of their defence now and two quick points from Caroline O’Neill and Lauren after good work from Danielle Newell and Amy Marks settled the nerves somewhat. Another free conceded in the defence allowed Teconnaught to close the gap to two.

The next passage of play showed all that is good about the Lily Whites. First time football from Sinead Rooney at the kick out to Rebecca Cunningham who rose majestically through the air to take a fine catch. Rebecca fed Laura Sloan who drifted through the tackles and fed Caroline. First time ball over the top to Carol Rafferty and she fed Lauren who hit the net. If this didn’t deflate the east Down girls enough – their next kick out was in their possession – but a fine block down from Laura Sloan and pass to Carol Rafferty saw her smash the ball to the net again. Ballymartin were now in complete control of the game and their fluency was a pleasure to watch. A brace of points each from Lauren and Caroline were sandwiched between two scores for Teconnaught to leave the half time score: Ballymartin 2 – 08 vs. Teconnaught 0 – 04

The second half started a little nervy again for both teams. It took a full 9 minutes for the first score of the half. It was worth waiting on as Lauren grabbed the ball and smashed it to the net of the underside of the bar. This gave the girls renewed belief in themselves and two quick fire goals from carol Rafferty ended the game as a competition. Ballymartin had the luxury of putting on their 5 substitutes and it was the Collins sisters who grabbed the spotlight with some vigour. First Jessica took a pass from Orla to cut through the defence with sheer speed and skill to fire a great point. A point each from Caroline and Lauren left the whites in a real comfortable position. A penalty awarded was hit by Danielle Newell who nearly smashed the bar – the rebound fell to her though and she calmly dispatched it to the net. Teconnaught were still giving it their all and hit two consecutive points – which were their only efforts of the half. The final passage of play again saw the Whites at their best and when the ball fell to Ruth Collins – she “tapped it home” to the net. The final whistle sounded and although the score line suggests comfort – the game itself was anything but comfortable. Full Time score: Ballymartin 7 – 11 vs. Teconnaught 0 – 06

This Saturday the Ballymartin ladies host the Newry Shamrock’s. Throw-in is at 7pm.

* This Sunday sees the U-16 Ladies first match away to Annaclone with a 12:30pm throw-in. The Ladies are to meet at the Club Rooms on Pats Road at 11am.

* Tonight (Wednesday 18) is the start of the U-14 Ladies season. A 6:45pm throw-in will see Ballymartin Host St. John Bosco, this match will be played in St. Colman's Kilkeel. Please be at St. Colman's pitch for 6pm.

Coaching for the U-12, 14 & U-16 Ladies continues on Thursday at St. Columbans College from 6pm to 7:30pm.

Congratulations to two of Ballymartin U-14 Ladies who were on the Down U-14 Ladies team who played Antrim on Saturday past in Kilcoo for their first Championship game. Down came away comfortable winners 5-11 vs. 0-03 Antrim. This brings them through to the Ulster ‘B Final’ against either Cavan or Derry. Well done to both Jemma Grant and Ciara Rice who proved their worth throughout the match.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 15 April; 4, 6, 17, 23. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @£ 11,300. 17 People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation to all the lucky winners.

Julie Ann Rogers presents U-16 ladies with kit *Attached image: _DSC3580e.jpg - Comment: The U-16 Ladies were presented with a set of Jersey’s Sponsored by Julie Ann Rogers of ‘Clip Around The Ear’. Julie Ann is seen here with Club Chairman Colin Cunningham and Ladies Coach Claire Higgins.

*Attached image: P1050928.jpg - Comment: Ross Cunningham of the U-16 passes the ball to teammate Shaun Harper during their win against Clan na Derg last Wednesday 04—4 April.

Attached image: _DSC4144.jpg - Comment: The U-14 lads of the Baileglas team that travelled to Pairc Esler for the Féile Peil na nÓg 2012.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 8 April 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* The seniors played their third match in the league against DarraghCross, details next week. This Firday they host Glenn in Longstone Park at 6:45pm.

* The Minors have amalgamated with Glassdrumman (Baileglas), all home matches will be played at Glassdrumman grounds. They played the first match yesterday (Tuesday) at home to Ballymholland. Next Tuesday 17^th April the travel to St. Peters Warrenpoint for a 7pm throw-in.

* Match Report: All County U-16 Div2 R1 – 6.45pm Clann na Derg V Ballymartin.

Cumann Naomh Iósaf .v. Clann na Derg 04/04/12

The U-16s travelled to the Scarva Road, Banbridge for the opening game of the Division 2 All-County league on Wednesday evening. After a less than convincing show against local rivals Atticall the previous week, the team were determined to consign that below par exhibition to the history books and show what they are really capable of.

The game started brightly for the Whites with a brace of unanswered points from Ross Cunningham, one each from play and the placed ball. These early scores proved to be an excellent settler for the travelling team who seemed to get to grips early on in the game while the hosts struggled to gain a foothold. The omens were good for Ballymartin as they followed the points with two goals, again one from the leader of the attack Ross and another for Blaine McCulla. It seemed the team was in cruise control with Shaun Harper and Kristopher Rooney gaining the upper hand at midfield and spreading the possession evenly among the forwards who at this stage seemed to be winning most of the key battles.

As in every game there comes a period of dominance for the opposition and the Clann’s midfield began to gain more possession around the middle through Shane Campbell and Eoin Monaghan. What was most pleasing for the Ballymartin support was the manner in which their full-back line dealt with these challenges. All three, led by Cathal Greene, were first to the ball and thwarted the Clann’s attack at every turn, William Higgins was a revelation at corner back; he blocked and harried and won countless possessions and set up attacks with well placed intelligent play. The confidence of the early scores returned and the Whites added more scores from Blaine, Niall and Joe, to lead at the half by 5-07 to 0-02. This was a little generous to Ballymartin and more than harsh on the hosts.

The game resumed and Clann’ returned to the fray with greater direction and purpose. After Ballymartin raised the first white flag they seemed to step back and Clann na Derg took the initiative and scored 2-01 without reply. There was still a mountain to climb for the reds but they had some excellent players in Niall Scullion at half-back, Michael Mallon at full back and Phillip O’Keefe at centre-half. Ross Cunningham took control of proceedings and scored an excellent goal to steady any nerves and a series of well worked points from Ethan Smyth, Niall Quinn and Blaine McCulla opened the margin again. The Clann na Derg boys, to their credit, did not give up and registered another goal and four points before the end of the game while the Whites tacked on a few more scores to make the winning margin 6-13 to 3-06. This score-line flatters the Ballymartin team slightly and doesn’t do full justice to the efforts of Clann na Derg.

There were excellent performances from the mercurial Ross Cunningham, Shaun Harper, Niall Quinn, Cathal Greene, Dan Sloan and William Higgins. In truth it was at times a very good team performance but there will be stiffer tests ahead as the league progresses and the return to the panel of Daniel McBennett and Owen Collins will add greatly to the options available.

‘Tús maith, leath na h-oibre’ (A good start is half the work)

* U-16’s All County Div2 Football League round two match for Ballymartin is a home game on Thursday 12th April at 6.45pm which will be held in St. Colman's pitch Kilkeel (All home matches will be here).

* The U-14 squad have amalgamated with Glassdrumman (Baileghlas). Their first coaching session was cancelled last Thursday due to the poor weather conditions; their next coaching session is set for tonight Wednesday 11 April, in St. Columbans College. On Monday past they took part in Féile Peil na nÓg 2012 in Newry. The event was held over three venues; St Colman‘s College, Abbey CBS and Pairc Esler. On the day the Baileglas squad had five group stage matches, all played in Pairc Esler against the following teams; Aughlisnafin, Drumaness, Atticall, Drumgath & Longstone. The day was well organised and apart from the persistent showers and cool wind; the lads relished the opportunity to play several competitive matches on the Down senior’s home ground. Unfortunately for the lads they were eliminated after the group stages.

* U-12 coaching takes place tomorrow evening (Thursday) at St. Colman’s Pitch, Kilkeel at 6.00pm. All panel members to be in attendance. The U-12's are taking part in the next round of Blitz in Rostrevor this Sunday morning. All children are to meet at Pats Rd at 9.30am sharp.

* U-8 & U-10 Coaching continues at St. Colman's Pitch, Kilkeel. Coaching commences at 6:30 to 7:30 sharp. Coaches; Johnny Rooney, Liam Quinn, Seamus Rogers, Claire Higgins & Ronan McCartan will be in attendance.

* Underage Ladies Coaching continues in St. Columbans School from 6.00 to 7.30pm.

* U14-B- Ladies First Round match kicks off with a home game played against St John Bosco in St. Colman's, Kilkeel on Sunday 15-Apr-2012 throw-in at 12.30pm.

* U16-B – Ladies Round 1 match kicks off next Sunday 22^nd April, with an away game to Annaclone throw-in at 12.30pm.

* Intermediate Ladies Round one match pits Ballymartin against Teconnaught, with the match to be played in An Riocht. This match takes place on Wed 11-Apr with a throw-in at 6.45pm referee; M. O’Rourke. This match will be followed with an away game, were the ladies take on Rostrevor on Sat 14-Apr with a throw-in at 6.45pm, referee; P. Cairns.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 8 April; 1, 2, 12, 22. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @£ 11,200. 10 People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation to; Denise Cunningham, Colin Cunningham, Kevin McDowell, Danny Carr, B. Cunningham, Patrick Higgins, Vanessa Higgins, Seamus Rogers, Rose Crawford & Andrea Sloane. This week’s loot rota is team ‘B’.

*Attached Image: _DSC3600.jpeg Caption: Ballymartin’s U-14 Ladies were presented with their new strip by their sponsor Mr. John Rooney of Glen Minibus Services. Colin Cunningham (left) receives the jersey from Mr. John Rooney, also in the frame is their coach and number one fan Mrs. Claire Higgins. The presentation took place at a coaching session before attending the Kilcoo U-14 Feile last Saturday were they played Annaclone, Bredagh and Kilcoo in the group stages. All the girls played very well and overall great performance for some who were out on their first competitive match. (Photo E.Ward)

*Attached Image: _DSC3749.jpeg Caption: Ballymartin’s Connor O’Hare wins a long ball up the field and evades the Atticall defence. Connor took a heavy tackle just as the final whistle was blown and we hope all is well. (Photo E.Ward)

*Attached Image: 3871.jpeg Caption: Ballymartin’s shining star, Noel Kerr breaks away after winning another ball in the mid-field area and eventually he went on to score both of Ballymartin’s goals, the second of which clinched the all important win for the team in the last minute of play. His work-rate is second to none and he always gives a 100%. Keep up the good work. (Photo E.Ward)

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 1 April 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* Congratulations to the senior team who had a narrow win in a battle of three halves on Sunday’s round two match against Atticall, played in the Longstone. The lads came out strong with good movement of the ball, keeping the scores to minimum on both sides, until Noel Kerr stuck the ball into the back of the net after 27 minutes, with a half-time score-line 1-6 vs. 0-4. In the second half; Atticall came out of the gates meaning business. They controlled the centre of the field and Ballymartin slowly watched their 4 point half-time advantage slip away. With several shots going wide; time and time again, Ballymartin seemed to let things slip away further at one point Atticall were 5 points clear and shouting for the full-time whistle. With Connor O’Hare taking a pounding on nearly every play, Atticall seemed to run out of steam, giving away a couple of fouls from thirty yards out which Ryan O’Hare lined up and placed them over the bar, bringing Ballymartin to within two points. But the “Ballymartin Bomber” Paddy Greene came on and sorted things out up in the front line, clearing the goal mouth, allowing young Kerr to spread his wings and force another ball deep into the back of the Atticall net. The Back line of Atticall were pounding the ground in anguish, as on the next kick-out the whistle blue and the crowd roared. Final score Ballymartin 02-09 vs. 0-14 Atticall. Outstanding play from Noel Kerr, Ryan McCullagh and Connor O’Hare. Good Luck to Cathal Doyle who was injured last week hope all is well.

* This Easter Monday the Seniors are on the road for their round 3 match against Darragh Cross with a 6:45pm throw-in.

* Ballymartin Ladies Intermediate round one match has Ballymartin hosting Teconnaught on Tuesday 10-Apr-2012 at 6.45pm.

* Ballymartin’s Minor squad have amalgamated with Glassdrumman and they have agreed the on the name of “BAILEGHLAS”. Their All County Minor Division 2 Football League gets underway on Tuesday April 10th at 6.45pm, with a home game against Ballyholland. All HOME matches will played in Glassdrumman. Home matches the team will wear the Glassdrumman jersey and on Away matches, they will wear the Ballymartin jersey.

* Ballymartin’s All County U-16 Div2 Football League, round 1 starts tonight; Wednesday 4th April at 6.45pm. The Lads will be travelling to take on Clann na Derg. Next week they will be hosting Liatroim.

* U-12, 14 & U-16 Ladies Coaching continues in St. Columbans School from 6.00 to 7.30pm.

* The U-12 lads coaching, continues on Thursday nights at 6:30 to 7:30pm. Congratulations to the coach Colin Quinn who ran a marathon on Sunday past, which surprised himself and all who heard the good news that he ran the marathon just over a minute quicker than last year’s time.

* The Croke Park away day for the DOWN U-12 children is the 11th April. The coach selected the two children to attend via a draw of all those in their last year of U-12 football; the names of the two children from Ballymartin GAC are: James Ward & Matthew Cranney. There were also two alternates Tierna Fitzpatrick and Daniel Ward, in the event that one or the other cannot attend.

* U-8 & U-10 Coaching continues at St. Colman's Pitch in the town. This venue will be used until such times as the Council pitch is made available on the Carrigenagh Road. Coaching commences at 6:30 to 7:30 sharp, followed by the U-14 coaching session.

* Congratulations to Ballymartin’s Damien Cunningham for taking part in the 2012 National Lottery Park Run in Aid of Southern Area Hospice, says Damien Cunningham – “I'm Running Three Marathons to raise Funds for Southern Area Hospice Services because they do Great Work and deserve all the Support! “ http://www.justgiving.com/damien-cunningham - you can make a donation by clicking on the link on the BallymartinGAA.com website.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 1 April; 3, 8, 13, 20. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @£ 11,100. 13 People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation to; William Irvine, Colin O’Hanlon, Katie Conway, Martina McGuigan, Andrea Cole, Paddy Matthews, Dione Higgins, Sheila Rogers, Sheila O’Rielly, Bru McCarvery, T. Flood & L. Morgan, John Rice & Frank Mc Manus

Attached Image: _DSC3122.jpg – Caption: Ballymartin GAC Committee members Colin Cunningham (Chairman), Johnny Rooney (Youth Officer) and Seamus Rogers (School’s Liaison Officer) presented St. Joseph’s Primary School with some much need sports equipment to acting principal Ann Marie Quinn and Staff member Patricia Rooney. Included in the picture are a selection of happy pupils from P4 to P7, with a selection of balls, bibs and training cones that were presented.

U-12 Blitz in Longstone Attached Image: _ DSC3265e.jpg – Caption: The Ballymartin U-12 team that competed in a very successful Go Games Blitz in the Longstone. Back Row: Rory Quinn, James Cunningham, Paul Quinn, Sean Quinn, Mathew Craney and Keelin Kearney. Front Row: Matthew Cunningham, Daniel Ward, Callum Turner, James Ward and Ryan Higgins.

Attached Image: _DSC3451.jpg – Caption: Cathal Doyle of Ballymartin wins the ball in the mid-field seconds before a tackle that saw him stretchered off the pitch. We all hope that no serious damage was inflicted and that he makes a speedy recovery.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 25 March 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* Committee &Team managers / Mentors are requested to attend CPR Training in the Clubrooms at Pat’s Road. Two classes have been arranged as follows; each 6 hours (2 x 3 hour sessions). Class 1 -
Part 1 Thursday 29th March 7pm - 10pm, Part 2 Saturday 31st March 10am - 1pm. Class 2 - Part 1 Wednesday 11th April 7pm - 10pm, Part 2 Thursday 12th April 7pm - 10pm.

* Congratulations to the U-12 squad who had a very successful Blitz at the Ballykelly Group South Down U-12 Go Games held in the Longstone. Both Coaches Colin Quinn and Cathal Doyle were very impressed with the outstanding performance the young lads put on, as this was their first competitive match since last August (seven months ago) and that they have had only one training session, plus the fact that the lads have NO Home training facilities available and rely on the local clubs to facilitate them, as they wait for the completion of the Newry and Mourne playing facilities at the Carrigenagh Road. This was a great start for the lads and we would like to thank the hosts Longstone and the competing teams Burren ‘A’, Burren ‘B’ and Rostrevor.

* U-12 Boys Coaching will be held on Thursday night at 6pm to 7pm sharp and also this Sunday morning for 10:30am in St. Colman's pitch.

* The Seniors played the first match of the league at home (Longstone grounds) losing the match 0-11 vs. 1-12 to a strong Glassdrumman panel. Cathal Doyle’s removal from the game didn’t help the Lilywhites progress as he was stretchered off the pitch. Hope Cathal has a speedy recovery and fit for next Sundays home match against Atticall @ 3pm in Longstone.

* U-14 Ladies Coaching continues at in St. Colman’s pitch on Thursday evening. All members are asked to attend for a presentation of anew kit before coaching begins.

* Please note the amended times for the Down GAA Development Squad Trials will commence on Saturday 31st March and both will be held in Ballykinlar GAC: U-17 trial will now take place at 10am and the U-16 trial at 12.30pm. Playersare asked to be present for registration 30 minutes prior to start. Only players who have been officially nominated by the clubs will be trailed. Players should bring their playing gear, tracksuit and water bottle.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 25 March; 7, 11, 15, 25. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @£ 11,000. 13 People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation to; K. M. V. W., John Rogers, Dodi & Faith, Mrs D. Fitzpatrick, Richie Morgan, Mary McMullan, JJ. Sloan, Brian Trainor, Michael Magennis, Lily Brannigan(x2), Maura Trainor & Sean Cunningham

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Monday 19 March 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* Congratulations to the Ballymartin Ladies team for their superb performance off the pitch for their Big Breakfast on St. Patrick’s Day morning. This was a great event and really showed the club in its true light - with everyone working together and supporting each other. This was a fantastic effort and proved to be a great success. The team and management would like to thank everyone who got involved in preparation and consumption of the Big Breakfast. A special thanks also to the Ballymartin Inn for the use of their facilities without which - the day would not have happened.

* As Carrigenagh Road Council facilities are still not ready for our underage teams, the U-12 coaching will commence tomorrow evening at St. Colman’s (Kilkeel) from 6-7pm.
The U-12s will be taking part in a blitz this Sunday morning in Longstone commencing at 10:30am. Children are to meet at Pats Road at 10am.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 18 March; 2, 3, 22, 24. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @£ 10,900. 7 People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation to;Colin Cunningham, Helen Smyth, K. McCoy, E. Harper, Rose Crawford, Ciara Rooney & Shane O’Neill.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 11 March 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* The Club and Committee would like to send their condolences to the extended family circle of the Late James (Jim) Greene who passed away last week. A past member and player of the great team of 1938 who were the first of the Lilywhites to win the Down Senior Football Championship for Ballymartin. May he Rest in Peace.

* Come along and support the Senior Ladies in their fundraising event “The BIG Breakfast”- From 8.30am – 1 pm on Saturday 17^th March in - Ballymartin Inn.

* The Senior men had a poor turnout on Sunday past, when they travelled to Warrenpoint. With two men from the ‘Point assisting the Lilywhites they pulled together as a unit and had a comfortable win. This Friday they will be playing Clann na Banna in St. Patricks Park Newcastle, with a throw-in at approx 9:15pm, after the Ford finish training. The committee and team thank the Bryansford cub for the use of their facilities.

* All membership fees are now due. All existing and any new members must return their completed forms to any committee member or they can be left in the Ballymartin Inn.

* Club Gear can be ordered from Club Chairman Collin Cunningham.

* Good luck to the Ballymartin Flute Band who are travelling to Bundoran, Co. Donegal on St. Patrick’s Day.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 11 March; 5, 7, 22, 27. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @£ 10,800. 8 People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation to;Damian O’Hanlon, Leah Heaney, Brian & Anne Rooney, Peter Bennett, Steven Cunningham, Gail Upritchard, Christina Sloan & Kathleen Higgins.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 4 March 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* After their hard fought pre-season friendly with An Riocht last week the seniors are in preparation for their first match of the league on March 25, when they travel to Glenn. Note that all senior home games will be played at the Longstone. The Committee would like to thank the Longstone for the use of their pitch and facilities and thanks to the CCC for making the necessary arrangements for Longstone to be away when Ballymartin had a home match. The first home match in the Longstone will be against Drumgath on April Fool’s Day!

* Club Membership is Now Due for 2012. Payment and Membership Forms should be submitted to Club Registrar, Liam Byrne, as soon as possible.

* If there are any club members who would like to get more involved with club activities please contact either This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . There are currently roles to be filled in the mentoring and assisting of both boys and girls youth teams; this is the perfect opportunity to give back to your club; a couple of hours invested per week will give back ten –fold the rewards in betterment of your community.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 4 March; 1, 2, 4, 23. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @£ 10,700. 10 People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation to; Lily Brannigan, Niall McDowell, Breidge O’Hare, Christina Speers, Kevin (Seller - Patrick McManus), Anne & Geoffrey, Michael Rooney, Mary Ellen Trainor, Dee Dee & Patricia Farrell.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 26 February 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

U-16 Lads training with the Coaching the Coach program U-16 Lads resting up after an intense session - Coaching the Coach Attached image: _DSC2969 & _DSC2972 Caption; A big thank you has to go out to the U-16 squad and coach Eamonn McEvoy for assisting in the ‘Coaching the Coach’ program that the coaches and mentors have been participating in over the past four weeks.

* U-12, U-14 and U-16 girls football training starts this Thursday at 6pm till 715pm in St. Colman’s pitch Kilkeel could all girls make sure they are there. Arrangements for the coming season will be detailed and any new members wanting to join please come along. Please bring suitable gear (weather dependant) and a water bottle for hydration.

* Congratulations to the Senior Ladies Panel; Caroline O’Neill, Rebecca Cunningham, Sinead Brannigan, Laura Sloan, Jessica Collins, Lauren Cunningham, Carol Rafferty, Ellen Marks, Andrea Annett, Ciara Cunningham, Jacqueline O’Neill, Ruth Collins and Amy Marks. This was the ladies first Sevens competition and they did themselves proud. Now they have to get prepared for their next outing on Sunday March 4^th, when they take on Killeavy.

* The Ladies Senior team are doing a ‘Big Breakfast Morning’ on St. Patricks Day. Everyone is welcome along to Ballymartin Inn for their breakfast for a small fee to raise funds.

* A big thank you has to go out to the U-16 squad and coach Eamonn McEvoy for assisting in the ‘Coaching the Coach’ program where the coaches and mentors have been participating over the past four weeks.

* Also on St. Patricks Day the Committee have the intention of running a coach to Croke Pairc for the All Ireland Senior Club Championship Hurling Final: 2.00pm Loughgiel Shamrocks (Antrim) v Coolderry (Offaly) AND the All Ireland Senior Club Championship Football Final: 3.45pm Crossmaglen Rangers (Armagh) v Garycastle (Westmeath). For this to take place we need to know if this is going to be a viable option, therefore if interested parents can notify if they would like to travel to Croke Pairc with their children, on St. Patricks Day please contact Colin Cunningham or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. so as we can get numbers.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 26 February; 5, 15, 16, 27. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @£ 10,600. 8 People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation to; Louis Mooney, Kerry McCabe, Yvonne Fitzpatrick, Brigid Doyle, V. Cassidy, Mrs Mickey Greene, Anthony McKay & Paul Quinn.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 19 February 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* The Club and Committee would like to send their condolences to the extended family circle of Danny Cunningham on the sudden death of his wife. The family are greatly involved in many aspects of Ballymartin GAC. May she Rest in Pease.

* Club Membership is Now Due for 2012. Payment and Membership Forms should be submitted to Club Registrar, Liam Byrne, as soon as possible. There will be a chance to register on Thursday 25^th February in Ballymartin Inn.

* Seniors had their first win of the season with their first challenge match against Newry Shamrocks, winning 1-14 vs. 1-10. A great all-round performance, players who caught the eye were; Martin Quinn, Conor O’Hare, Darren O’Hanlon, Cathal Doyle, Ryan McCullagh. Well done to both the Coach and the lads whom have worked very hard.

* All Lotto Ticket Sellers for Ballymartin GAC are invited To a Buffet Supper 9pm - 10pm in Ballymartin Inn on Saturday 25th February 2012 Followed by Entertainment from – TINY.

* Parent information & introduction night; there will be an information night for parents/guardians of all new and current underage players’ boys & girls up to 18 in the club rooms at Pats Road on Thursday night 23^rd February at 7:30p.m. The main point of the night will be to inform the parent(s)/guardians of the playing and training arrangements for the forthcoming season and to answer any concerns that parents may have. Due to the development work that is currently taking place at Pats Road the training for the underage of the club will take place at a number of different venues. On the night parents/guardians will also be able to meet the managers and mentors of the underage teams for the year ahead. There will also be new club merchandise which includes polo shirts hoodies etc. on display; parents/guardians will be able to view/order the new club gear on the night. The information night will be another opportunity for any player to register as a club member, it is essential that this registration is undertaken, to enable your child to take part in Club activities for the season ahead.

* Coaching the Coach Training information; where will be another coaching session for all the underage coaches in the club on Sunday 26th February at 12:30pm at St. Colman’s Kilkeel.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 19 February; 5, 9, 26, 28. No Jackpot Winners - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @£ 10,500. 4 People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation to; Karl Cunningham, Gary Murphy, Ritchie Morgan & Peter Collins.

Ballymartin GAC Annual Dinner Dance & Awards Night. Saturday 11 February 2012 -

Awards Night 2011

The chairman and committee would like to thank all members that turned out last Saturday for the Annual Dinner Dance and Awards night held in Diamond Pats.

Chairman Colin Cunningham opened the night by thanking everyone for supporting the club and thanked Diamond Pats for the wonderful meal; he went on to thank Down Chairman Seamus Walsh and his for attending and presented Mrs. Walsh with a bouquet of flowers and called on Down County Chairman Seamus Walsh to say a few words. Seamus mentioned the success and failures that all clubs go through and the effect that immigration has had on small rural clubs and that despite losing out on some silverware 95% of the teams in Down would have loved the accomplishment of getting to an Intermediate Final.

Colin taking control of the mike said that he had been warned about taking too long with the speeches so continued by thanking all the work done by last year’s committee members with special mention to Barry Cunningham (outgoing Club Chairman), for his tireless efforts and dedication to the club and especially for the work done in getting the illegal waste removed from the Pat’s Road Playing fields. Also mentioned was the efforts of Damien Phillips (past Secretary), for his continuous efforts as Club Secretary and coach whilst running up and down the length of the country.

Colin went on to mention the clubs progress in all areas of the GAA, Club Maith, Scór, Team successes (Men’s and Ladies Teams) and Field Development; leading him to thank in advance the local clubs from Glassdrumman, Longstone, Atticall and An Riocht for their assistance and were necessary use of playing surfaces while Pats Road is being redeveloped.

Awards:

Ladies Player of the Year- Jessica Collins.

Ladies Runner-Up- Ciara Cunningham & Michaela Cunningham.

Ladies Most Improved- Orla Doyle.

Ladies Lady Player of the Year- Rebecca Cunningham.

Senior Player of the Year - The Michael Greene Trophy - Adrian Doran (James Doran received).

Runner-Up Senior Player of the Year - Sean McManus (Paddy McManus received).

Reserve Player of the Year - The Cunningham Trophy - Noel Kerr (Paddy Greene received).

Runner-Up Reserve Player of the Year - Cathal Rogers.

Minor Player of the Year - Leestone Caravan Park Cup - Ryan McCullagh.

Minor Runner-Up - Corey Cunningham (Paddy Greene received).

Most Improved Minor Player of the Year - Shaun Harper.

Special Recognition Award - Conal O’Hare Cup – E.Ward.

Club Person of the Year - Johnny Byrne Trophy - Damien Phillips(John Fitzpatrick received).

Club Supporter of the Year – Shield- James Cunningham(SeanFitzpatrick received).

Hall of Fame - Joe Haughian Trophy - Seamus McLoughlin.

For Services to Ballymartin GAC Senior Team - Gerry Quinn & Christopher Cunningham.

For Services to Ballymartin Club - William McCourt.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 12 February 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* The Committee would like to congratulate senior player Michael Higgins on winning the British Universities GAA Men’s Gaelic Football Championship with Hope University, Liverpool; when they met reigning champions and local rivals Liverpool John Moore’s University (LJMU), beating them in extra time 1-8 to 0-9.

* The first training session for the club coaches took place on Tuesday 7th February; a training session plan was given to all coaches followed by a session demonstration. A special word of thanks to Eamonn McEvoy for setting up and taking the demonstration, but the real stars of the night were they youth members who took part in the demonstration, their effort is very much appreciated. There are another 3 training nights planned for the youth coaches of the club, the next session is on Thursday 16th February starting at 7pm, the training will take place on the pitch at St. Colman’s primary school Kilkeel, were the u-16s lads will be displaying the coaching skills.

* More mentors are needed to help with the underage teams this year, if you are interested in helping to develop our stars of the future please come along to the training night on Thursday 16th February at 7pm.

* There will be NO parent and toddlers group in Ballymartin Clubrooms this Friday.

* There will be an information and introduction night for all parents of children currently playing for the club and for new children who want to play Gaelic football for Ballymartin. The night will be held in the club rooms at Pats Road on Thursday 23th February starting at 7:30pm. The club wants to use the night to inform parents of the plan and location for training and matches for the year ahead due to the fact that the current playing field at Pats Road is being redeveloped. The night will give parents the opportunity to meet and speak to the club coaches responsible for each team. At the event it will also be possible for those members who have not registered as a member of the club to do so; there will be more details next week.

* Club Membership is Now Due for 2012. Payment and Membership Forms should be submitted to Club Registrar, Liam Byrne, as soon as possible.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 12 February; 7, 10, 18 & 24 - NO JACKPOT WINNERS - Next week’s Jackpot now stands @£ 10,400. 19 People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation to; Linda Dolan, Anna Murphy, Ryan Cunningham, A or D Trainor, Sharon McLoughlin, Catrina Hanna, Gillian Stevenson, John B. McGuinness, Maria Forsythe, Danny Carr, I. Magill, Danny Trimble, Taylor Poland, Dermot Collins, M. Maginn, John Trimble, Olivia Haughian, Caroline Barrow & Merle McCartan.

* Lotto ROTA Team ‘B’ – M. McKibbin (Leader), J. McKibbin, D. O’Hanlon, L,. Byrne, A. Cunningham, S. Rogers, m. McCartan, C. Doyle, S. Rooney, S. Cunningham.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 5 February 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* Ballymartin Dinner Dance is set for 11 February 2012, and is to be held in Diamond Pats. If you haven’t already got your tickets you can get them from Committee members or from the Ballymartin Inn. Tickets are £20 with entertainment from ‘Goldrush’.

* The Down GAA Coaching and Games Committee will be holding a Level1 Child Course: Hurling & Football in St. John's GAC on 24/25th Feb & 2/3rd March 2012. The Above course is aimed at coaches of players aged 6 - 12 years. Coaches wishing to attend must have completed a Foundation Level Coaching Award & GAA Child Protection Course. Please contact the This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

* All ladies that intend playing for any of the Ballymartin teams must have their Registration details completed immediately, especially if they were not registered last year. Please contact Paddy, Claire, Liam or P.J. for registration details.

* Down GAA Schools draw for 2012 was launched on Thursday 26th January. Tickets cost £2.00, with £1.00 going straight back to school funds. This gives the schools in DOWN a chance to raise funds. Please support the Down GAA Schools Draw.

* Congratulations to the Down team on a successful conclusion to their first round on the NFL: Down 1-10 Donegal 1-09.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 5 February 2012; 12, 19, 23 & 28 - NO JACKPOT WINNERS - Next weeks Jackpot now stands @£ 10,300. 6 People Matched 3 Numbers, Congratulation to; Una Maginn, K. Mallon, P. Mallon, John & Eimear, Hugh Rooney & John Rooney.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 29 January 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* Congratulations to Paul Higgins, Liam Byrne and Eamonn McEvoy who gave their best at the Scór on Friday night in Annaclone. The competition was tough and the questions a little too tough for the Ballymartin contingent, but the lads of Mourne can hold their heads proud after coming in third at their first Scór quiz. This has left the lads with a wetted appetite and they’re well prepped for next year. What’s that ... a year won’t help ‘em!

* A Parent and Toddler Group will start on Friday 3^rd February in the Club Rooms on Pats Road from 10:30 – 12:00 noon, everyone welcome. See attached image.

* Guitar lessons started on Monday evening @ 7.30pm in the Club Rooms on Pats Road, this will be a six week course for beginners £30.00. Anyone wishing to learn can contact Paula on 077 2906 1404.

* Congratulations to Ballymartin’s U-14 Ladies members; Ciara Rice, Olivia Greene & Jemma Grant who played for the DOWN U-14 Ladies on Sunday.

* Youth Coaching Committee held a successful meeting on Sunday past and on Saturday morning 4^th February at 10am @ Pats Road, they will be carrying out an audit of equipment; Jerseys, kits , balls, cones, bibs and medical/first aid packs. If you have any of this equipment from last season please bring it along for the audit.

* There will be a Youth Coaching Session on Tuesday 7^th February from 7 – 8pm in St. Colman’s pitch. All persons wanting to partake in coaching of any of the youth teams must attend. This session will be for one hour only. Please contact Johnny Rooney for further information This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 29 Jan 2012 1, 18, 24, 27 No Jackpot Winner; 4 People Matched 3, Congratulations to; Fiona Mc Alinden, Patricia Farrell, Kellie Wallace & Patrina Cunningham. Next week’s Jackpot £10,200, Please have all tickets returned by 7:30pm on Sunday evening.

* Lotto ROTA Team ‘D’ – 5 Feb – Y. Fitzpatrick (Leader), S. Fitzpatrick, C. Bailey, E. Ward, P. & M. Doran, C. Higgins P. Fitzpatrick & G. Quinn.

Ballymartin GAC Club Notes on Sunday 22 January 2012 -

BALLYMARTIN GAC Club Notes

* There will be a Youth Teams Management meeting this Sunday 29 Jan @ 1:00pm before Club Registrations in Club Rooms. This is a follow-up from last Sundays meeting. All Youth Team Managers (U-8 to Minors) should make themselves available for this meeting.

* Club Registration will be held this Sunday @ 2:00pm. All members are asked to attend to renew their membership.

* Congratulations to St. Columbans College, Kilkeel, beating Inver College Carrrickmacross, Co. Monaghan; 4-11 Vs. 0-4. Ballymartin supplied the talents of; Kristopher Rooney, Owen Collins, JJ Cunningham, Daniel McBennett, Conor Smyth, Jordan Fitzpatrick, Daniel Burden and Ross Cunningham. The Club and Committee would like to congratulate them and the team on their performance and wish them and Mr S. Poacher success in the Semi-Final.

* Lotto Numbers for Sunday 22 Jan 2012 2, 7, 11, 25 No Jackpot Winner; 10 People Matched 3, Congratulations to; Next weeks Jackpot £10,100, Please have all tickets returned by 7:30pm on Sunday evening.

* Lotto ROTA Team ‘C’ 29 Jan – E. Phillips (Leader), S. Phillips, S. Rogers, S. Cunningham, L. Byrne, L. Cunningham, P. Higgins, C. Cunningham & R. Cunningham.

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