Club Notes: Week Ending 14.04.13

11th April 2013 By Munster Rugby

This week’s club notes come from Clonakilty, Shannon and Young Munster rugby clubs.

Click here for Young Munster Club Notes

Clonakilty RFC:- Courtesy of Roy Maguire, PRO

Big Weekend for Clonakilty Rugby

Clonakilty's senior rugby players now know exactly what they have to do to avoid having to play off to retain their senior status. The league, as ever, goes right down to the wire with only two clear facts facing into the final weekend. Rainey Old Boys, Clon's opponents this Saturday have already been crowned champions and will play their rugby in the higher division next season. Connemara All Blacks will sadly return to the junior ranks next season. There are as many as four clubs sweating on their game and maybe other results to see which of them will have to play off against a provincial junior champion side to decide who joins them. Clon will be joined by Sunday's Well, Ards and Thomond in a nail-biting finish to the season.

Clon simply have to beat the hitherto unbeaten league champions to ensure their survival. There are other permutations and results which could help but a win nails it for the West Cork club. Rainey have averaged 30 points per game and conceded an average of just 10 over their 14 games and have scored four or more trys in eight of those games. So why bother to travel to Derry you might say? Well those who saw the last game against Naas will fancy the West Cork side's chances. Clon have always played best against the better sides and the bigger the challenge the bigger the performance…and then there is the Munster factor. It is a long way to Magherafelt but it could be a lonely place without supporters given the guaranteed turnout of the champion's support so the club asks for a special effort from all supporters who can travel.

UNDER 17s

The Underage also carry the standard but with a different outcome at stake. The all-conquering 17s, as Munster champions, take their exciting brand of rugby to Galway to play in the All Ireland U17 League Semi Final. They will meet Connaught Champions, Sligo, in The Sports Grounds at 2.30pm with advancement to the All-Ireland Final in Naas the following week the prize.

Last Saturday, Clon's Under 17s secured their second title win of the season by defeating Kanturk in their League Final in PBC fields in Wilton. Clon had defeated the same Kanturk side the previous Saturday in the quarter final of the Cup competition, so the sides were no strangers to each other.

The north Cork side were not cowed by this history and had the better of the first half exchanges. Their pack was winning the battle at the breakdown where Clonakilty were being penalised too often. That, added to a much improved Kanturk defence, denied the Clon backs the space they had enjoyed a week earlier. Clonakilty's set piece was solid throughout, which was their main source of supply of ball but still the penalties were going Kanturk's way. Two were converted before Aaron Hayes scored Clon's first try after good offensive pressure from forwards and backs. However, another penalty from Kanturk was worrying before centre Andrew Cullinane got Clon's second try after good work by Joe White. This gave Clon the narrowest of leads, 10-9, at half time

The second half brought with it a Clon team with a bit more urgency. A switch between Olan Deane and Paul O'Regan seemed to balance the forwards with both excelling in their new positions. Deane began to steal ball at will at the front of the line out and O'Regan was lording the middle. From that possession the maul was used to great effect putting Kanturk on the back foot. Outstanding work by Mark Lynch and Robert Kingston in the loose and tight respectively was beginning to open gaps in the opposition defence.

No one exploited this more than O'Regan who went in within 15 minutes with Eoghan Deasy converting. By this stage the big men were getting in on the act and sorties by Ross O'Connor, David Jennings and Phillip Poillot were having the desired effect and O' Regan popped up for his second try. Kanturk battled hard but didn't threaten the Clon line and when O'Regan completed his try hat trick, which Deasy converted, the result was inevitable.

The squad was Bobby Smith, Ogie Scannell, Shane Scannell, Aaron Hayes, Andrew Cullinane, Joe White, Eoghan Deasy, Rob Finglas, David Walsh, Darragh McCullagh, David Jennings, Robert Kingston, Ross O'Connor, Tadgh Dignan, Frazer Pock, Conor Madden, Paul O'Regan, Olan Deane, Phil Poillot, Mark Lynch, Denis O'Driscoll. Captain Phillip Poillot accepted the cup on behalf of his team who enjoyed great support on the day with the final score 29-9. It is unfortunate that the semi-final and the crucial senior game had to clash but support for both is very necessary.

UNDER 13s

Muskerry U13's came to Clon last Saturday knowing a win would guarantee them a place in the U13 league final. Mighty Muskerry had been undefeated in the league to date but met a very focused and determined Clon outfit who played some fantastic open rugby in bright sunny conditions in The Vale. Clon ran the ball from everywhere, scoring three great tries in the process, which gave them a well-deserved 17-12 win. All 35 members of the squad enjoyed game time which has been the emphasis for this team all year and mentors Nev Burton, Barry Dillon, Martin O'Connor and Cecil Beamish deserve great credit for their efforts.

LOTTO!

The club Lotto draw for week 9/4/13 produced no Jackpot winner but the Lucky Dip Winners were Rana O'Boyle, Bandon, Paddy Jennings, Clonakilty and Patrick Minihane, Clonakilty. The numbers drawn were 6, 15, 24 and 27
Next week's Jackpot will be €8,800.00.

GLOBAL SHARES

A special thank you to Global Shares, Clonakilty for their sponsorship of the senior sides "Number Ones". It is a hard time for the club and sponsorship is difficult to come by in these austere days. Without support from local companies and individuals we could not compete in a 32 county competition. Hopefully, on Saturday, the post-match shirts, sponsored by Global Shares may need a decent laundering to remove Champagne stains!

GOLF CLASSIC

Likewise we are indebted to Dunmore Golf Club for the hosting of the Club's Golf Classic fundraiser on May 10th and 11th. The club's final major fundraiser of the season will take place in Dunmore Golf Club on May 10th & 11th. The fantastic First Prize is kindly sponsored by James Deasy & Co Accountants. Each member of the winning team will receive a voucher for Dinner, B&B plus a round of golf for 2 persons in the magnificent setting of Carton House.

Participants will also enjoy a three course meal in Dunmore House Hotel and a Barbecue which will take place in the Rugby Club on the Saturday evening and at which the prizes will be presented. There will be an excellent range of team prizes and there will be prizes for Hole in One, Nearest the Pin and Longest Drive.

In these hard times we are appealing to all sports enthusiasts to support this deserving cause. The club caters for over 250 children (under 7s to under 19s) and 100 adults successfully helping them to reach their potential on a provincial and national scale. Traditional forms of income have dried up and it is increasingly hard to find the funds necessary to continue this work.

The hard working and dedicated committees appeal to all to support this event by entering a team, sponsoring a prize, a tee box or a green. It will genuinely be a very enjoyable event and the money raised will be well used. Book your Tee times on 086 255 9799 and for further information contact Jimmy Deasy, 087 247 5010, Kieran O'Regan. 087 251 9409, Marie Henson, 083 419 3011, John O'Regan, 087 267 6661 or Rob Walsh 087 239 8712.

This weekend's fixtures

Saturday 13th April

Under 17 All Ireland Semi-Final,
Clonakilty v Sligo, Galway Sports Grounds, 2.30pm

Senior UB All Ireland League,
Clonakilty v Rainey Old Boys, Magherafelt, Co. Derry, 2.30pm

Clonakilty U'17s

Shannon RFC:- Courtesy of Siofra Scanlan, PRO

We had a one score loss against St Marys last weekend with the final score 27-20 to the home side. We managed to get a losing bonus point so all was not lost. Many thanks to all who travelled to support the team on the day.
We would like to see as many people as possible at the Shannon V Young Munster match which takes place this Saturday at 2.30pm in Tom Clifford Park.

Match reports are available at http://www.shannonrfc.com/rugby/senior/match-reports.htm

Events and News

Dates for the Diary
President's Dinner: Friday April 5th

Many thanks on behalf of our President Vinny Ryan and all at Shannon RFC for supporting the Presidents's Night. It was a great night with excellent food and music. A special thanks to Maire and all her staff for superb service. We are also hugely grateful to all who contributed spot prizes. For a few pictures of the evening please go our facebook page.

President's Walk Sunday April 14th

The "Presidents Walk" is on Sunday 14th April starting in the Club House at 12 pm. The routes are the same as last year at 5k and 10k. A percentage of the money collected will go to Milford Hospice. Afterwards back in the clubhouse, food and beverages will be served, Live 95 fm will be there, face painting,Munster Rugby Stars, music and prizes for best dressed etc will all follow. Last year was a big success so lets try and make it even better this time. Should you wish to obtain a sponsorship card please contact any member of the Executive Committee. All contact details can be found on www.shannonrfc.com in the contact section.
We would urge everyone to support this great event. It is raising important funds for your club and community.

Jim McNicholas Memorial Match April 21st

The Leprechauns will be hosting a memorial match for Jim McNicholas on Sunday April 21st in Coonagh at 1pm.

Golf Classic: Friday June 21st. Shannon RFC Golf Classic at Shannon Golf Club.

Full details for these events will be available soon.

We Need Your Support

As the end of the season draws closer, we are all only too aware of where we are in the standings. We have had a season of ups and downs but in true Shannon RFC spirit we have never given up.Our Senior players with the positive guidance of their coaches and management have fought with heart and determination when things looked less than positive. We know that this largely could not have been made possible without the loyal following of our supporters home and abroad. We are urging everyone if they can to come out and show support for the Senior XV this Saturday as they face Young Munster in what, no doubt, will be a great local derby. You the supporters do make a difference.

Heineken Cup Semi-Final Clermont Auvergne v Munster

Shannon RFC has a limited number of tickets for the Heineken Cup Semi-Final Clermont Auvergne v Munster which will take place at the Stade de la Mosson on Saturday April 27th at 6pm (5pm Irish time)
Anyone who wishes to apply for tickets please contact Tadhg Crowe directly on tadhgcrowe@yahoo.com or 087-6524958.

Note that all application for tickets must be submitted NOT LATER THAN Wednesday, 10th April at 5.00pm, Please note that all orders must be accompanied by full payment in order to be processed.
*Note that application does not guarantee reservation of tickets*

Shannon RFC AGM

Shannon RFC will be hosting their AGM on the 15th of May at 8pm sharp in Shannon RFC Clubhouse. Any submissions in relation to this AGM are to be logged with Tadhg Crowe, Club Secretary, no later than close of business on the 1st May. Please contact Tadhg Crowe directly at tadhgcrowe@yahoo.com or 087-6524958

All at Shannon RFC would like to thank everyone for their support for all events for 2012 and would urge anyone interested in helping out at the club in 2013 to contact any of the committee members. All contact details are on our website http://www.shannonrfc.com/

Lotto Results 4th April

No Jackpot Winner!

Numbers Drawn: 5, 15, 16, 25

€€50 Consolation Prize Winners

1.TOMMY DALTON_________C/O JOHN LEAHY____
2.COLETTE HANNON _______ C/O O'DRISCOLL'S BAR
3. AUDREY O'DONOGHUE___ C/O TIM O'DONOGHUE

NEXT WEEKS DRAW 11TH APRIL @ FITZGEARLD'S

Next Weeks Jackpot: €€8,450

*DON'T FORGET TO SUPPORT YOUR CLUB WITH SHANNON RFC CLUB CALENDERS AVAILABLE NOW.*
Please keep in mind the Shannon RFC clubhouse for any event, birthdays celebrations or office parties. All contact details can be found at
http://www.shannonrfc.com/club/parties-a-functions.htm

Please find the Senior fixtures and Youth Training as follows:

Saturday April 6th

AIL- Senior XV- Young Munster V Shannon- Tom Clifford Park 2.30pm

Underage Training Weekend Saturday 6th April

Congrats to U19s who won Closed Cup on Sunday

The Magnificent 10 is what we will call these young heroes who took to the field in Naas in glorious sunshine.They played 5 matches without any subs,lost 1,drew 1 Won 3 ,but most of all played as proud Shannon men and friends,The future is bright with the likes of Mark Mulally,Joe Dougan,Dylan Kelly,Jack Purcell,John Maher,Cillian Ryan O'Dwyer,Eoghan O'Connor,Philip Bourke,Conor O'Grady and the amazing scrum-half Conor O'Brien who controlled the games with a wonderful right boot.Connor Murry watch out.A big thank you to all who attended this amazing day out,yours in rugby Brian Kelly

Saturday 13th
12.00pm
U6/7 blitz v Blackrock (main pitch)
U8 blitz v Blackrock (main pitch)
U9 blitz @ Old Crescent
U10 blitz v Blackrock (New Pitch)
U11 blitz v Blackrock (Well field)
Training Pitch and Mini area can be used as well if needed

2.30 pm
U13 Friendly v Wanderers (Well Field)
U12 Blitz v Greystones,young Munster and Ennis (Main and New pitches)

Food and Beverages will be served in the blue cabin.We need parents to volunteer to help out with the food in the cabin.
There will be plenty of bins around the place so no excuses for litter.
Anyone who wants to sponsor drinks or food it would be greatly appreciated.
The early afternoon blitz please leave the cabin in good clean condition as there are games on in the afternoon.

Sunday 14th
U15s Cup V Kilrush Coonagh @12 Main Pitch
U13 Friendly v St Marys/Richmond @11.30 Well Field
Pitches available for any age group who wishes to train

Boots – Blades.
Note: We (Underage) at Shannon RFC are putting into place a complete ban on boots with blades. The injury to a young u15 player early this season at the club has focused the mind on the horrific injury he had to suffer. He has had a long period of recovery and we want to make sure that no other player suffers a similar injury. It is important that parents are advised at this point as lots of kids will be looking to get new boots for Christmas. When checking boots, Referees will be paying particular attention to 'blades' and if they are in any way damaged/rough then they will not allow them.

Thought For The Week

"Learn from the past, set vivid, detailed goals for the future, and live in the only moment of time over which you have any control: now."

Club Shop

Please keep in mind for Birthdays and special occasions we have a great selection of Shannon RFC clubware available from the club shop.
Now in Stock:
Windbreakers, Club Gearbags and small size club jerseys and shorts.
The shop is open in Coonagh every Sunday from 10am to 12pm.
Anyone who wishes to order any items please contact Audry Yeoman on yeomanhannon@gmail.com or 087 6293002

Weekend Fixtures:

AIL – Senior XV- Shannon V Young Munsters Greenfields 2.30pm Saturday April 13th

NMC U21- Shannon v Old Crescent 12.30 Staurday April 13th

Shannon RFC – RTE" Game On" Live from Thomond Park with RaboDirect
Just to briefly introduce myself – I work on behalf of RaboDirect on their sponsorship of the RaboDirect PRO12, and wanted to give you a heads up on an exciting event we've got going on Friday evening at Thomond Park, ahead of the Munster v Leinster derby, which we hope will be of interest to your members!

RaboDirect are hosting an outside broadcast of RTE's Game On programme, LIVE from Thomond Park at 18:30 – 21:00 this Friday evening. Presenters Damien O'Meara, Michael Corcoran & Co will be previewing the big match and answering your questions ahead of the highly anticipated Munster v Leinster RaboDirect PRO12 derby in The Thomond Suite from 18-30-21:00. It'll be a great night of rugby banter with your chance to put your questions to the experts – there will also be a Munster player present on the panel.

We'd love to see some Shannon RFC members down there. All they need to do is send me an email to register interest and get their names on the guest list, so if you would be able to circulate this info to your members that would be great.

Young Munster RFC:- Courtesy of Olivia O'Sullivan, PRO

Young Munster congratulates Prendergast on new role

It was confirmed this week that Young Munster's Director of Rugby, Mike Prendergast, will move to France next season to take up the position of skills coach with Top 14 club, Grenoble.

"Mike

The 35 year old Limerick local has had four successful years at Young Munster, guiding the side to promotion to division 1A in his first season as player/coach. This was followed by Munster Senior Cup success, and three successive Limerick Charity Cups, and last season Young Munster were a whisker away from winning the league, in contention right till the end.

Young Munster would like to congratulate Mike Prendergast on all he has done for the club as he takes the next step forward in his career, coaching at professional level.

President of Young Munster, Jack O'Brien, commented, "We at Young Munster are very grateful for all Mike Prendergast has done for the club during his tenure at Tom Clifford Park. From the experience gained in his playing career, Mike has always been able to earn the respect of players, and players wanted to do well for him. You can see that in the silverware we won under his guidance. He gathered great squads during his time here and we saw some fantastic rugby which the supporters will always be grateful for."

Prendergast will be involved in the transition to the new coaching setup before he leaves for France. He commented, "I am massively grateful to Young Munster who created an opportunity for me for the last four years to work in a full time role with the club. This new opportunity coaching at professional level might never have arisen were I not able to work full time in rugby."

Young Munster would like to wish Mike Prendergast and his family all the best in the move to France, and look forward to seeing him at Clifford Park on his visits home.

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Young Munster Golf Classic 2013

Young Munster RFC will be holding a fundraising Golf Classic on Friday 19th April 2013 at Limerick Golf Club, Ballyclough, Co. Limerick. As many of you know, these are very difficult times for all rugby clubs and Young Munster is no different. We also understand how difficult it is for all individuals in these times but would greatly appreciate your support for Young Munster RFC by entering our Golf Classic.

This year's event is being kindly sponsored by GGL Security and we are doing everything possible to make it a most enjoyable day out for our teams and their guests. We have put together a package on an excellent parkland course with 15 top quality prizes on offer for the competing teams.

All teams that compete on the day will also be automatically entered into a draw that evening at our presentation of prizes for a signed and framed Paul O'Connell jersey which Paul himself has kindly donated, which will be presented to the winning team drawn. Paul O'Connell will be presenting the prizes that evening.

We would greatly appreciate your support by entering a team on the day.
Please contact the organising committee for further information:

Darragh O'Sullivan 086-7246563
Ger Haugh 087-2584341
Mike Prendergast 087-8311297
Brendan Collopy 086-6062606
Johnny Smalle 087-2497428

Entry for team of four people €300
Includes:
Þ Goodie bag on sign-in
Þ BBQ at "wee tee" (10th hole)
Þ Dinner afterwards in Clubhouse
Þ Entry into draw for signed and framed Paul O'Connell jersey
Þ Presentation of prizes by/photograph with Paul O'Connell that evening

Tee Box Sponsorship:
€50 an individual/company can sponsor a tee box on the day.
(Cheques/drafts made payable to Young Munster RFC)

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Fixtures

Saturday 13th April
THE LAST AIL HOME GAME OF THE SEASON
Ulster Bank League Div 1A: Young Munster v Shannon, Tom Clifford Park 2.30pm

Saturday 14th April
Women's Connacht Invitational Cup Final: Sligo v Young Munster, Sportsground, 1pm
Best wishes to our Women's team who travel to the Sportsground in Galway on Sunday to play in the final of the Connacht Invitational Cup Competition. Kick off 1pm.

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Underage Fixtures

Sunday 14th April
U17 Open Cup: Young Munster v Thomond, Tom Clifford Park, 2.30pm
U14 Cup: Young Munster v Killaloe/Ballina, Tom Clifford Park 11am