By Tom Aherne

The death has taken place of Maureen Hynes, (nee Lee) Knockane, Newcastle West, on Saturday March 14^th. She was a native of Ballyine, Carrigkerry and ninety two years old. She lay in repose at her residence on Sunday from 5pm to 7.30pm. Her Requiem Mass was celebrated in the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Newcastle West on Monday at 11.30am. Maureen was laid to rest in Calvary Cemetery Newcastle West on Monday March 16^th. We extend our sympathy to her daughters Patricia, Catherine and Helen, son Michael, sister Nancy, brothers Patjoe and Mattie, nieces, nephews, daughter-in-law, sons-in-law, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, relatives and friends. May she rest in Peace.

The death has taken place of Batt O’Connor, Rooska East, Carrigkerry at University Hospital, Limerick on Monday March 16^th. He was in his eighties and he was a well liked member of the community. He was a hard worker and a good provider for his family. Batt and Mary were married for 55 years and they raised eight children. He liked music, singing, dancing, Limerick hurling and listening to local radio. He enjoyed the entertainment provided at Stacks and Moran’s Lounge Bar and wren nights over the years.  He lay in repose at Reidy’s Funeral Home, Newcastle West on Saint Patrick’s Day from 4pm to 6pm, followed by removal to Saint Mary’s Church Carrigkerry.

His Requiem Mass was concelebrated by Fr Richard Keane and Fr John Mockler on Wednesday at 12 noon. Family members participated in the ceremony and the hymns and music were uplifting. Fr Richard paid a nice tribute to Batt who was a regular Mass attendee. He was a man of faith who regularly received the sacraments. The Holy Rosary was recited in the home every night by family members. He lived a long and fulfilled life and will be sadly missed and mourned by family and friends. His coffin was taken from the church as Brosna Town was sung in tribute. Batt was laid to rest as the sun shone in Ardagh Cemetery on Wednesday March 18^th.

We extend our sympathy to his wife Mary, sons Tom, Paddy, Mike, Batt and Jimmy, daughters, Catherine, Joan and Maryellen, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, sister-in-law, brothers-in-law, nephew, niece, other relatives and friends. May he rest in Peace.

The death has taken place of Michael O’Donnell, Kilscannell, Ardagh, at University Hospital, Limerick on Tuesday March 17^th. He was one of nine in family and was aged 83 years old. He was educated locally before he embarked on his travels all over the world. He worked on the buses in England and on cruise ships around the World. He was involved in the hotel and restaurant business in America, and was a fine cook. He did a lot for the Irish community in America, and a letter of tribute from the American counsel was read out during the Mass.

He lay in repose at his residence on Thursday March 19^th from 6pm to 8pm. His remains arrived at Saint Kyran’s Church, Coolcappa for his Requiem Mass at 12.30pm on Friday.  Gifts important in Michael’s life were taken by family members to the altar before the Mass commenced. They included a cookery book and chef hat to signify his love for cooking. The American flag as Michael had dual citizenship. Next a history book as he loved history and knowledge, and read the New York Times daily and a family portrait to show his love for his family.

His Funeral Mass was celebrated by Fr Tim Curtin, and family members participated in the ceremony. Fr Tim traced his journey through life and Orla, and George paid lovely tributes. Tim led the singing of his favourite hymn before the final prayers. He was laid to rest in Kilscannell Cemetery close to his home on Friday March 20^th.  We extend our sympathy to his brother Tim, brother-in-law George, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours, and friends. May he rest in Peace.

We extend sympathy to Geraldine and Patsy Brouder and family Finnoe, Ballyhahill on the death of Geraldine’s mother Anne Larkin, Clash, Athea, who was laid to rest in Holy Cross Cemetery on Monday March 16^th. We extend sympathy to Michael and Liz Scanlan, and family Kilbradern on the death of Michael’s father Patsy Scanlon, Church Street, Dromcollogher, who was laid to rest in Dromcollogher Cemetery on Wednesday February 18^th. May they rest in Peace.

Johnny McCarthy and Darragh Treacy from the Saint Kieran’s club were members of the Limerick team that lost to Fermanagh by 2-19 to 2-10 in Round 5 of the National Football League Division 3 at Brewster Park, Enniskillen   on Sunday March 15^th.  Both players got their names on the score sheet.

Alva Neary, and Mai Kennelly from the Old Mill club were involved in Limerick’s 1-18 to 3-5 victory over Derry in Round 4 of the National Football League Division 4 at Martinstown on Sunday March 15^th.

Askeaton/Saint Kieran’s lost by 2-15 to 1-14 to Daithi Brudair’s in the West Under 21 B Hurling Championship semi-final on Saturday March 14^th at Knockaderry.

Saint Kieran’s lost to Rathkeale by 1-14 to 1-5 in Round 2 of the County Senior Football League at Coolcappa on Saturday March 14^th.

Congratulations to Con Enright and Moss O’Connor, who were prizewinners at the Flag Floor card game held on Wednesday March 11^th. Congratulations to Peg Mulvihill, and Jim Lynch, who were prizewinners at the card game held in Shanagolden Hall on Friday March 13^th. The annual Good Friday night 45 Drive will be held in Shanagolden Hall on Friday 3^rd April starting at 9.30pm sharp.

Carrig Celtic defeated Newcastle West Rovers 2-0 away in the Desmond Premier Division League Cup quarter final on Sunday March 15^th with Sean Mc Sweeney, and Francis Moore scoring the goals. Creeves Celtic lost 4-1 away to Glin Rovers B in the 2^nd Round of the Desmond Cup with Jason Ahern scoring their goal. Carrig Celtic B lost 4-0 at home to Newcastle West Rovers B in Group B of the Division 3 League Cup.

In Division 1 of the Desmond Ladies League Carrig Celtic defeated Charleville 1-0 at home with Layla Sparling scoring. Creeves Celtic defeated Kilcolman Rovers 4-0 at home with goals from Avril Dalton, 2 Amy Madigan Cooke, and Linda Kennelly.

Ardagh Graveyards and Ardagh Cemetery book written by Mary Kury is a most interesting publication and it is selling well since its launch on Saturday February 28^th. It is a mine of information on its past history and the people who are buried there. It is on sale for € 20 and it can be got at Ardagh Post Office and Shop. All the proceeds from the sales will go to Ardagh Development Association for the upkeep of the graveyard and cemetery.

Congratulations to Sue Mullins, Ardagh, who received the best actress award at the West Limerick Drama Festival on Sunday March 15^th. She played the part of Cass in the Knockaderry/Clouncagh Drama Group production of The loves of Cass Mc Guire. Congratulations to Gerard Liston, Coolcappa who received the best supporting actor and adjudicator awards at the various Drama Festivals. He played the part of Fr Rice in the Shoestring Theatre Company production of Trad.

 

Ardagh Drama Group presents The two loves of Gabriel Foley by Jimmy Keary in Rathkeale Arts Centre on 28^th, 29th 31^st, March and 1^st and 2^nd April at 8pm.

Kilcolman School fundraising committee will hold a cookery demonstration night with Deirdre Doody on this Thursday 26^thMarch in Ardagh Hall at 8pm. The tickets are € 10 and they are available from Marian on 087-7901425 or Sharon on 086-8106522

Daffodil Day will be held on this coming Friday 27^th of March.   People who wish to volunteer on the day or to donate daffodils please contact Kate Buckingham Glenastar, Ardagh on 069- 76148.

Jackie Geoghegan and Sharon Kinehan (Madigan) are holding a coffee morning in aid of the Irish Cancer Society’s Daffodil Day on Friday 27^th March from 10am to 3pm, at Jackie’s house Lisgordan, Ardagh. Your support would be greatly appreciated and enquiries to Sharon on 086-8106522

Knockdown Vintage Club and Estuary Macra Charity Modern Vintage Run will take place on Sunday 29^th March at 12.30pm. It will start and finish at Knockdown and light refreshments will be served and a free raffle for the participants. There will be music by the Nightingales in the Knockdown Arms from 3pm to 6pm. A raffle will be held for numerous prizes, and proceeds to Saint Vincent De Paul.

Thomond Archaeological & Historical Society will hold their monthly talk on March 30^th. 2015  on ‘Ritual Animal Sacrifice in Irish Folk Tradition’ by Dr. Billy Mag Fhionn at Room T.1.17 Tara Building, Mary Immaculate College, South Circular Road, Limerick at 8pm. For further detail contact Pat O’Donovan P.R.O. Key House, Newcastle West 087 9977340 / 069 62713.  All are welcome, and no admission charge.

Saint Senan’s and District Community Alert will hold its AGM on Wednesday 1^st April in Shanagolden Hall at 8pm.

Team Limerick has organized a major clean up around the city and county for Good Friday 3^rd April. It is open to community groups, voluntary group’s schools and sports clubs as well as individuals 

Glenville House and Gardens Ardagh have announced their opening hours for 2015 as follows.

April 3^rd -30^th Tuesday-Saturdays 9.30am to 1.30pm.

May 1^st -15^th Tuesday –Saturday 9.30 am to 1.30pm.

August 22^nd -30^th Saturday and Sunday 9.30 am to 1.30pm.

September 1^st -26^th Tuesday-Saturdays 9.30am to 1.30pm.

The admission rates are €5 students €3 children and old age pensioners are free.

Lucky Numbers Draw

21/ 03/ ‘15

No’s Drawn: 3, 6, 15, 24. No Winner

Lucky Dips

€20 each

The Cummane family, Ballyhahill

Jim Sheehy, Templeathea

Paddy Wallace, Athea

Sean O’Keeffe, Kilmeaney, Kilmorna

Sellers Prizes:  Jerry Brouder & D. de Barra

Entrants to draw for €200 at end of month

Helen O’Connor, 5 Village Living

Jimmy Cleary, Templeathea

Next Draw: 28/03/’15 Venue:  Batt’s.  Jackpot: €5,600

Athea GAA

Matches:

Tuesday March 17:

West Senior Championship:

We played a very strong Ballysteen side in Glin on St. Patrick’s Day in the West Senior Football Championship. Despite a bright start, the Ballysteen Senior football team upped a gear midway through the first half and pulled away from us scoring two goals before half time. The opposition continued to press in the second half and ran out easy winners on the day. Team: Jonathan Fitzgerald, Padraig Reidy, Matthew Tierney, Raymond Brouder, Shane Tierney, Denis Greaney, Michael Reidy, Jamie Collins, Neilus Hunt, Gerard Collins, Gerard Ahern (0-2), Pa Chawke, Mark O’Connor, Martin Chawke, Kevin Murphy (0-2). Subs: Pa Kiely (Mark O’Connor), Eoin McCarthy (Kevin Murphy), Dan McMahon (Ger Collins) Padraic Walsh (Gerard Ahern), John Geoghegan (Kevin Murphy), Jason Dalton & Brian Ahern.

Fixtures:

County Intermediate Football League Division 3:

Round 3:

We play Cappamore in the third round of Division three of the County football league. Time, date and venue to be confirmed. All support would be greatly appreciated.

 

County Intermediate Football League Division 3:

Tuesday April 4:

Round 4:

We play Bruff at home in the Fourth round of Division three of the County football league on Tuesday April 4 at 7pm. All support would be greatly appreciated.

Junior B Football League:

Thursday April 9:

Round 1:

We play Glin away in the first round of the Junior B football league on Thursday April 9 at 7pm. All support would be greatly appreciated.

Club membership:

For those who have not yet become members of Athea GAA Club they can still do so on Monday March 30 in the Clubhouse at 8.30pm. This is a great way of supporting the Club at only a cost of €20 for the year. This also entitles you to put your name in for match tickets for every championship game Limerick will play and also All Ireland Final tickets. The GAA has the largest membership of any sports organization in Ireland. When one becomes a member of Athea GAA club, they become part of our GAA family and part of a great community based organization that continues to enhance the lives of so many people both young and old. If you would like to become a member of our Club please contact any of our committee members or Jacqueline on 086-0670091.

Limerick Club Development Draw:

The Limerick Club draw known more commonly as the Mackey Stand draw will commence in March. This is a hugely important source of revenue for our Club. It costs €100 for the year which enters you in ten monthly draws. For more information please contact Mairead Donovan on 087-7703673. Our ticket sellers will be out and about shortly, so if you can please support.

Gym Equipment:

If there is anyone around the Parish with any unwanted gym equipment that they would be interested in donating to the Club e.g. thread mill, Cross trainer, Benches, etc., we would greatly appreciate it. This would be of great help with the training of our senior teams. The benefits and rewards of having such equipment would be an added advantage to our boys. We would gladly collect any item and you can contact Jacqueline on 086-0670091 for more details.

Intermediate Football Championship Draw 2015:

There are two groups of six teams who will contest the Championship.

Group 1: Claughaun, Feohanagh/Castlemahon, St. Senans, Mountcollins, Hospital/Herbertstown & Bruff.
Group 2: Oola, Mungret, Galbally, Cappamore, Athea & Glin

Round 1: Athea V Glin, April 23-26
Round 2: Athea V Cappamore, May 8-10
Round 3: Athea V Galbally, June 5-7
Round 4: Athea V Mungret, August 7-9
Round 5: Athea V Oola, August 28-30

Quarter-Final: September 5

Semi-Final: September 19

Final: October: 3

 

West Junior B Football Championship Draw 2015:

We are in group B in the Junior B Championship along with Rathkeale, Ballysteen, Glin and St.Kierans.

County Minor 13 aside Football Championship Draw 2015:

There are eight teams contesting the County Minor 13 aside competition this year. Athea, Castlemahon, Crecora Manister, Mountcollins, Kilteely/Dromkeen, Croom, Galtee Gaels & Granagh/Ballingarry.

West Minor A Football Championship Draw 2015:

There are four teams contesting the Minor A Championship Athea/Mountcollins Rangers, Ballysteen, Deel Rangers and Gael na Sionna.

Sympathies:

The Club would like to offer our deepest sympathy to the Whelan family, Newcastle West on the recent passing of John T. Whelan. John played hurling with Athea in the late seventies early eighties. May he rest on peace.

The Club would also like to offer its sympathy to the Mullane family, Knocknagorna on the recent passing of Joan. May she rest in peace.

Wedding Bells:

We would like to congratulate Tom Collins and Caroline O’Reilly who celebrated their wedding on Friday last in Adare and the reception afterwards in the Devon Inn. May they have many happy years together.

Athea Coiste na nÓg:

Fixtures:

Monday March 30:

Athea U15s will play Shamrock Gaels on Monday March 30 in Páirc Na nGael at 6.15pm. Players to be at the field for 5.45pm. All Players must have gum shields. All support would be greatly appreciated.

Wednesday April 1:

Athea U15s are away to Rathkeale on Wednesday April 1 at 6.15pm. Cars leaving the village at 5.15pm. All Players must have gum shields.

Monday April 6:

Athea U16s will play Deel Rangers on Monday April 6 in Páirc Na nGael at 6.45pm. Players to be at the field for 6.15pm. All Players must have gum shields.

Training:

Thursday March 26:

U14:

Training for U14s will continue this Thursday evening March 26 in Páirc Na nGael at 6.30pm. All players must have gum shields

Junior Infants & Senior Infants;

Coaching for Junior and Senior Infants continues in the Con Colbert Hall this Friday evening March 27 from 5.30pm to 6.25pm. All players must have gum shields.

First Class & Second Class;

Coaching for First and Second Class continues in the Con Colbert Hall this Friday evening March 27 from 6.30pm to 7.30pm. All players must have gum shields.

Calendar 2015:

This year’s Calendar is still on sale in Roses shop and Paul Collins shop and is once again bursting with over one hundred team, action and assorted photographs from the year gone by. This wonderful production at a cost of only €5 would make a lovely present for anyone at home or abroad.

County Underage:

Well done to Jack and David O’ Connor who played with the County U14 team against Laois on Saturday last and also to Micheál Dalton and Shane Ambrose who both played with to County U15 team against Offaly on Sunday. All played extremely well.

County Football League Division 3 Results

March 15 RD 1: Gerald Griffins 0-12 Glin 0-16

Athea United Soccer

U12 Division 2 (Sat, March 21st) 

Shannonside (2) 2      Athea Utd     (0) 0

Team – Gavin Mulvihill, Fergal Pierse, Shauna Sweeney, Andrew O’Riordan, Gavin Ambrose, TJ Hunt, Daire O’Shea, Michael Tierney, Brandon Finucane, Eoin O’Shea, Cillian O’Connor.

Subs: Paric Enright, Pierce O’Brien, Gearoid O’Sullivan, Shane Scanlon, Jack Vaughan, Dermot Pierse, Conor Mullane.

Referee Donie O’Gorman.

FIXTURES

Saturday, March 28th

U8s friendly away to Killeaney at 3pm. Leaving village at 2.15pm

Sunday, March 29th

Junior As away to Abbeyfeale Utd A at 11.30am

Tuesday, March 31st

U14s home to Bluebell Utd at 6.50pm.

Thursday, April 2nd

U10s home to Broadford Utd B at 7pm

LAST MAN STANDING 

Last week we had round eight of our last man standing competition with ten people in contention and all ten progressed to round nine. As this coming weekend sees international fixtures our last man standing competition will resume the following weekend.

Best of luck to everyone left in the competition.

Brown Joe’s Bar are sponsoring this Last Man Standing Competition with €300 going to the winner and the club thanks them for their sponsorship. We also have a €50 sellers prize to the person that sells the winning line.

TRAINING AT THE VALES

In 2008 we undertook a major development with the installation of a synthetic training area, known as ‘FIELDTURF’ which is the only one of its kind in Co. Limerick and is approved to FIFA standards. There has being a hugh amount of interest from clubs, leagues, companies in the years since. To book your slot for either training or leisure contact Pat on (087)7934417 or Denis on (087)2069900. Slots are very limited so ring us today.

CONGRATS

The club sends its congratulations to A player Tom Collins who got married last Friday to Caroline O’Reilly from Co. Cavan.

Congrats also to Ciara McMahon and Sean Flavin who also tied the knot last Friday here in Athea.

Wishing both married couples health and happiness in their futures together.

SYMPATHY

The club extends its sympathy to the family and friends of Paddy Moore, Hillside Drive, Athea who passed away recently. May He Rest In Peace.

ATHEA UTD LOTTERY RESULTS FOR MONDAY, MARCH 16th 

The results of our weekly lottery draw for Monday, March 16th at Batt’s Bar are as follows –
Jackpot was €18,100. Numbers drawn 4, 7, 9, 20.

No Jackpot Winner.
Lucky dips to the following – Betty Gaire, Duagh. Kathleen Phillips, Strand. Tim Kelly, Coole East. David Doherty, Ballylongford. Marie O’Connor, Croom.

Sellers Betty Gaire & Batt’s Bar.

New Jackpot €18,200 at JP’s on Monday, March 23rd.
Tickets €2 each or three for €5

ATHEA UTD LOTTERY RESULTS FOR MONDAY, MARCH 23rd 

The results of our weekly lottery draw for Monday, March 23rd at JP’s are as follows –
Jackpot was €18,200. Numbers drawn 15, 21, 27, 28.

No Jackpot Winner.
Lucky dips to the following – TJ Mulvihill, Upper Athea. John McEnery, Moyvane. Clodagh Ahern, Parkanna. Betty & Kelly Murphy, Hillside Drive. Agatha Barrett, Markievicz Park.

Sellers Doreen & Margaret Dalton.

New Jackpot €18,300 at The Top of the Town on Monday, March 30th.
Tickets €2 each or three for €5