Report By Philip Cody
On the 28th of March our U10’s returned to training in Kilmanagh, having completed four weeks indoor training in Wallslough. The boys showed little rustiness as they worked on the basic skills and speed during the four weeks of indoor training. With a large panel it was decided to enter two teams for the Go Games:
TEAM BLUE: Aidan Cahill, James O’Halloran, Ryan Corcoran, Elliot Teehan, Donnacha Cleere, Paidi Egan, Aaron McEvoy, Jack Docherty, James Casey, Aidan Comerford, Ben Young, Chris Mahony.
TEAN WHITE: Billy O’Neill, Sean Roberts, Pat Purcell, Sean McGrath, James Brennan, Jake O’Brien, Ryan Cody, Sean Dillon, Jeff Neary, Dean O’Brien, Martin Brennan and Cillian Hoyne
On Monday 7th of April the teams participated in the National Go Games. Our boys played Erin’s Own, Barrow Rangers and Kilmacow and were victorious in all games while conceding only 2 points on the day. During April and May both teams played 5 Go Games matches and were unbeaten in all. On 6th of June we played Lisdowney in Nowlan Park to end the Go Games series.
Our U10s played out a three team blitz on Sunday 14th June in Kilmanagh. The boys were divided into Team Kilkenny, Team Ballycallan and Team Bibs. This was very competitive with all teams recording a victory each. Club Chairman Ben and Juvenile Chairman Dave presented the boys with medals and some well-earned treats.
On Sunday 5th July we brought the under 10’s to Dublin to cheer on Kilkenny in the Leinster final. Prior to Croke Park we played Liffey Gaels for a challenge match.
From June to October the 10’s were busy with training and a match most weeks. Throughout the year they remained competitive and were a match for anyone they met. The boys deserve great credit for their dedication and commitment to training as they all strive to improve their skills, which they continue to do.
During the year we participated in a number of tournaments and blitzes, and among the highlights of the year were our victories in Clonmel and Ballyhale.
St. Mary’s Tournament
Graigue Ballycallan U10 team travelled to Clonmel on Saturday morning 5th of September to participate in the annual St. Mary’s tournament. Following last year’s victory in the Shield Final the lads were travelling with hopes of doing well.
First game was against O’Loughlins. This game was one sided with all the GBC players on top and they won on a score line of 6-7 to no score.
Next up Clarinbridge (Galway), this was a competitive game with both sets of backs defending well. The second half continued as the first, little between the sides. Final score GBC 0-5 Clarinbridge 0-3. In the final group game we played St. Marys of Clonmel which we won well. Having won all our matches the lads qualified for the cup semi-final where Kilmacud Crokes (Dublin) provided the opposition. Final Score 3-5 to 2-3.
And so GBC qualified for the Final where we met Clarinbridge again, who had qualified for the Cup as the best runner up. This turned out to be another tense match with little between the sides. The sides traded points in the opening half and were level on 4 points each at half time. The second half resumed with a point for both sides before a goal us the lead. In the closing minutes, Clarinbridge went in search of the equaliser but the defence stood up and refused to be beaten and a fine save from a close range free ensured victory.
Final score GBC 1-5 Clarinbridge 0-5.
Captain for the day, Ryan Cody, accepted the Tom Maher Cup on behalf of this fine team. The boys gave everything throughout the day and fully deserved their victory.
Ballyhale Tournament
Our under 10s were out again on Saturday 12th September in the Alyward Cup tournament in Ballyhale. In our opening two games the boys recorded victories over Glenmore and Rower Inistioge. This qualified us for a semi-final against Thomastown. This game was very close and extra time was needed to separate the sides.
In the final Gowran provided the opposition. This game was close the whole way through and the sides were level at half time. Early in the second half Gowran goaled to open up a lead but the boys worked hard and went on to secure victory. TJ Reid presented James Casey, Captain of the day, with the Alyward Cup.
Well done to all the boys for their good work throughout the year and thank you to all the coaches.
