1983

Laune Rangers – 1983

 Laune Rangers had three teams in the Co. Senior Leagues, in Division 1, Division 4B and 4D.

Laune Rangers ‘B’ lost the final of Co. League Div. 4 but retained the Mid-Kerry ‘B’ Championship, again at the expense of Laune Rangers ‘C’ (Cromane).

Laune Rangers won the Mid-Kerry Senior Football Championship for the first time since 1973 and the eighth time in total.

Laune Rangers won the Mid-Kerry Minor Football Championship for the eighteenth time.

Laune Rangers won the Co. U-14 Championship for the fifth time, Co. U-14B and Mid-Kerry U-14 Championship for the fifteenth time.

Killorglin Community Games Football team won the Co. Final for the fourth time.

Laune Rangers lost the Co. U-12 Football Final for the fifth successive year to Austin Stacks.

Killorglin lost the South-Kerry U-16 Hurling Final to Kenmare/Kilgarvan.

Kerry won the All-Ireland U-16B Hurling Championship – Gerard Murphy was on the team.

Kerry won the Munster U-21 Football Championship – Joe Shannon was on the team.

Jerome Conway was Co. Youth Officer for the second successive year and Chairman of Bord na nOg Chairraí for the third successive year.

James Coffey was Joint-Treasurer of the Kerry Co. Board for the eleventh successive year.

Pat O Shea was on the Co. Senior Football Selection Committee for the tenth successive year.

Maurice Harmon was elected as Joint-Treasurer, PRO and Delegate to the Co. Board for the Mid-Kerry Board for the fourth successive year.

Bart Moriarty was re-appointed as Secretary of the Kerry Referees’ committee for the fifth successive year.

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The AGM of the Laune Rangers Club was held in the Intermediate School, Killorglin on Sun. 2^nd Jan. at 2.30pm. 60 people attended (approx). The minutes of the previous AGM were taken as read and were adopted. Dan Carey proposed and Liam Shannon seconded their adoption. (The Secretary’s Report is given at the end of 1982). The Treasurers’ report was given by Eamonn Crowley and John Foley. They said that the following year would be more difficult but that the club could look forward to the challenge with hope as the spirit was in the club.

Income and Expenditure Account

 

Gross Dancing Receipts       £27,116

Deduct Expenses

Bands                        £15,696

Advertising                1,643

Rent of Hall                2,250

Caretaker’s Fees                   540

Performing Rights      365

Phone, tickets etc.         50

£20,544

Net Income from Dancing     £6,572

Net Income from Silver Circle           1,832

Other Income

Membership & Insurance 1,322

Gate Money                          282

NFL Game (Armagh)              409

Donations                          308

Profit from Shop                          175

2,496

10,900

 

Deduct Running Costs

Team Travel & Expenses            450

Players’ Travel                        584

Field Maintenance          1,583

Dressing-rooms                        536

Footballs, jerseys etc.            742

Trophies                                    150

Affiliation fees                         467

ESB                                    107

Secretarial Expenses            125

Insurance                        260

Bank Charges                          10

Loss on Social                        119

Sundry (including legal)            284

Bord na nOg                        129

Jerseys to Cromane              50

5,596

5,304

Deposit Interest Received                          205

Net Income for the Year ended 31^st Dec. 1982                                5,509

 

Pat O Grady proposed the adoption of the report and in seconding the proposal, Pat O Shea congratulated Joe Crowley for his immense contribution to the club finances through the dances.

Pat O Shea gave the Bord na nOg report. He said that 103 games had been played involving 191 players between the ages of eleven and eighteen years. He reported that the club had lost the U-12 and U-16 Co. Finals. The Primary Schools’ competition had again been a great success with Cromane winning the ‘A’ competition, beating Glounaguillagh in the final. He thanked all those who helped during the year. Dan Carey proposed the adoption of the report and Joe Crowley seconded.

Election of Officers:

President – Tadhg O Reilly (Life President).

Chairman – James Coffey. (Pat O Shea had also been nominated but he withdrew when it was established that James Coffey was willing to remain in situ). In his Chairman’s address, he declared that the senior team should and would achieve success. He wished that they could win the Mid-Kerry Senior Championship and proceed to win the Co. Senior Championship in Centenary Year. He paid tribute to both the ‘B’ and ‘C’ teams. He thanked his fellow selectors, Dan Carey and Michael O Shea, for their contribution to the success of the ‘B’ team in the Co. Club ‘B’ Championship and the Mid-Kerry ‘B’ Championship. He thanked all those who used their cars for transport. He criticised those who failed to collect for the club draw. He thanked the teachers in the schools, both primary and post-primary, for their great interest and co-operation. He thanked all his fellow officers – Jim Galvin, Michael O Shea, who had been a wonderful Ass. Secretary. He appealed to both the Secretary and the Co. Board Delegate (Michael Foley) to reconsider retiring from their respective positions. He thanked Joe Crowley for running the dances and the Ladies’ committee for their great work.

Vice-Chairman – Jim Galvin. He thanked the club for the honour and he expressed the hope that he would be able to do even more in the coming year.

Secretary – Jerome Conway. (Michael O Shea and Pat O Shea had also been nominated. The former withdrew his name and the latter said that he had allowed his name to go forward only on the understanding that the Secretary was not seeking re-election. If the Secretary would reconsider, he would withdraw his name. That was done.).

Ass. Secretary – Michael O Shea. (Joe Crowley had also been nominated but withdrew).

Joint-Treasurers – Eamonn Crowley and John Foley. (Michael O Sullivan (Bog House) had also been nominated but withdrew).

Delegate to Co. Board – Pat O Shea. (Joe Crowley and Michael Foley had both been nominated also but withdrew). Pat O Shea resigned on 6^th Jan. and was replaced, at the club meeting on Mon. 17^th Jan., by Noel O Mahony.

Delegates to Mid-Kerry Board – Michael O Shea and Dan Carey. Michael O Shea resigned on 16^th Jan. and was replaced by Jerome Conway. James Coffey occasionally attended Board meetings as a delegate.

Delegates to Co. Convention – Pat O Shea, Dan Carey and Liam Shannon.

Delegates to Mid-Kerry Convention – Michael O Shea, Dan Carey, Frank Walsh and Patsy Joy.

Senior Selection Committee – There were two motions on the agenda dealing with the Senior Selection Committee and they were taken before the election of the selection committee

1. ‘That the number of selectors for the senior team be reduced to three.’ (James Coffey).

2. ‘That we cut down the number of senior selectors to three and that these selectors be the holders of some Mid-Kerry medal.’ (Seamus Hurley).

Both motions were taken together. After some discussion, Seamus Hurley withdrew his motion in favour of the first motion. Before a vote on the motion was taken, a discussion arose on who, of the people present, were entitled to vote. Only those that were members were entitled to vote. It was decided that, in future, members would be notified, verbally or in writing, when their subscription had lapsed. The vote was as follows: In favour of the motion – 38, against – 6, abstentions – 11.

Nominated – Dan Carey, Jim Casey, Jerome Conway, Patsy Joy, Pa O Grady, Noel O Mahony, Pat O Shea, Liam Shannon. (James Coffey, Eamonn Crowley, Joe Crowley, Michael Foley and Michael O Shea had also been nominated but they withdrew.). The results of the ensuing vote were Noel O Mahony (32), Jerome Conway (29), Patsy Joy (27), Pat O Shea (27), Pa O Grady (24), Liam Shannon (12), Jim Casey (4), Dan Carey (3). Noel O Mahony and Jerome Conway were declared elected and Pat O Shea withdrew in favour of Patsy Joy.

Senior ‘B’ Selection Committee – James Coffey, Michael O Shea and Pa O Grady. (Dan Carey had also been nominated but he withdrew).

Senior ‘C’ (Cromane) Selection Committee – Pat O Shea and Dan Carey (the Senior ‘C’ team was given permission to nominate one other selector and John Joe O Reilly was nominated).

Motions

3. ‘That players be allowed to act on the selection committees.’ (James Coffey). It was pointed out that players were allowed to act as selectors on the ‘B’ and ‘C’ Selection Committees and that the motion applied to the senior team only. The motion was defeated.

4. ‘That the appointment of a trainer or trainers be made following a meeting between the players, selectors and officers.’ (James Coffey). That was seconded by Billy Dodd and carried unanimously.

5. ‘That the trainer will have complete control of the team on the field and be responsible for any changes once the team takes the field.’ (Seamus Hurley). That motion was withdrawn.

The Chairman thanked the members for attending and the AGM concluded.

 

The AGM of Killorglin Hurling Club took place in mid-Dec. 1982. The following officers were elected: President – James Coffey, Chairman – Pat Lynch, Vice-Chairman – Seamus Murphy, Secretary – Noelette Purcell, Ass. Secretary – Noreen Murphy, Joint Hon. Treasurers – Dermot Goggin and Liam Healy, PRO – Bill Hearne. Committee – John Purcell, John Fitzpatrick, Pat Sheehy, John Sheehan (St. James’ Gardens), Christy Kennedy, Michael Sweeney, Gerry Foley, Mrs. Patsy Clifford, James Clifford, Paddy Creagh. The club decided to enter teams at Intermediate, Minor, U-14, U-15 and U-16 levels in Co. Board competitions.  Membership cost £3, U-18 players – 50p.

 

Co. Senior Football Championship

Sixteen teams entered for the Co. Senior Championship, Kerins O Rahillys, Spa, John Mitchels, Laune Rangers, Gneeveguilla, St. Brendan’s, Austin Stacks, Mid-Kerry, Killarney, Fanaithe na Luachra, Castleisland, Kenmare, Shannon Rangers, Feale Rangers, South-Kerry and West-Kerry.

Laune Rangers’ Selection Committee – Noel O Mahony (Trainer), Jerome Conway and Patsy Joy.

Rd. 1 on Sun. 19^th June at Austin Stack Park: John Mitchels 3-2; Laune Rangers 1-4.

There were five bookings, one sending-off and a liberal sprinkling of fisticuffs as John Mitchels pulled back a seven points lead to record a convincing win after a fiery encounter. Laune Rangers set the pattern for the first half by winning possession from the throw-in and pointing in the first minute. Playing with a stiff wind, Rangers found it hard to convert their superiority into scores until the seventh minute, when corner-forward John O Dwyer volleyed a loose ball to the net, at the second attempt. With a solid defence behind them, the Killorglin side added three more points to coast seven points clear, 1-4 to 0-0, by halftime.

Ironically, it was that same defence that was to leave the Rangers down in the second half, as the Mitchels attack stole in for three goals. Still, despite an early point from a free, Mitchels found it hard to get back into the game. Then came a penalty award to them and John O Dowd thumped the ball past Ger Hurley to reduce the lead to three points. It was anyone’s game midway through the half. Then a free was floated in from the right by Mitchels and Frank O Donnell pounced on the break and hit a rasper into the top right-hand corner of the net to level the scores. And though Mitchels lost centre-fielder Peter O Donoghue, who was sent off for his involvement in a fist-fight, they went ahead through a pointed free. With six minutes to play, Noel Kelliher belted home a goal to give the fourteen-man Tralee team a deserved four-points’ win.

Rangers’ attack showed great opportunism in the first half, while Joe Shannon was a pillar of strength at midfield and man-of-the-match. James Sheehan, despite some terrible harassment, was not far behind. Michael O Reilly performed well up front.

Laune Rangers: Ger Hurley, Teddy Clifford, James O Shea, Joe Crowley, Liam Hayes, Paudie Sheahan, James Sheehan. Joe Shannon (0-2), Stephen Russell, Peter Lyons, Pierce Prendiville (0-1), Anthony Shannon, John O Dwyer (1-0), Brian O Shea (0-1), Michael O Reilly. Subs: Frank Russell for B. O Shea, Pa Foley for J. Crowley.

John Mitchels: Rory Kilgallen, Pat Costello, Joe Myers, Michael ‘Fox’ O Connor, Jim O Donnell, John Higgins, Jack Moriarty, Peter O Donoghue, James O Dowd (0-1), Jimmy Moriarty, John O Dowd (1-0), Frank O Donnell (1-0), Noel Kelliher (1-0), Timmy O Dowd, Bernard Kerins (0-1).

Ref: Joe Langan (Tarbert).

 

Co. Club Football Championship

That competition was played between the winners of the various District Boards, the winners of the District Leagues, if the Championship was not finished and the top two teams in the Co. League Div. 1.

 

Rd. 1 on Sat. 1^st Oct. at Glenflesk: Laune Rangers 2-8; Gneeveguilla 1-8.

Laune Rangers played against the wind in the first half and led at halftime by 1-5 to 1-4. They played a mixture of good and poor football. Some of the players had lost some of their fitness. However, considering that Gneeveguilla were a good, physical side, it was a good performance.

Laune Rangers: Michael McCarthy, Gene Evans, John Evans, James O Shea, James Sheehan (0-1), Paudie Sheahan, Anthony Shannon, Tom Johnston, Liam Hayes (0-1), Mícheál Johnston (0-2), Michael O Reilly, Joe Shannon (0-2), John O Dwyer (1-1), Frank Russell, Pierce Prendiville (1-1). Subs: Peter Lyons for M. O Reilly, Brian O Shea for F. Russell, Stephen Russell, Joe Crowley.

Ref: Eamonn O Sullivan (Desmonds).

 

Quarter-final on Sun. 9^th Oct. at Glenflesk: Kenmare 0-10; Laune Rangers 1-4.

That was a very disappointing result for Laune Rangers, as they should have had the game sewn up in the first half. Obviously, some of the players were suffering from ‘Saturday-night fever’, having underestimated the opposition. Rangers failed to score in the second half.

Laune Rangers: Ger Hurley, Gene Evans, Brian O Shea, James O Shea, James Sheehan, Paudie Sheahan, Anthony Shannon, Tom Johnston, Liam Hayes, Mícheál Johnston, Michael O Reilly, Joe Shannon, John O Dwyer, Frank Russell, Pierce Prendiville. Subs: Teddy Clifford for G. Evans, Peter Lyons for M. Johnston, Stephen Russell, Joe Crowley.

Ref: Eamonn O Sullivan (Desmonds).

 

Co. Club Championship Final on Sun. 6^th Nov. at Tralee: Kenmare 1-9; Ardfert 1-4.

 

Co. Senior Football League Div. 1

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 6^th March at Valentia: Valentia 1-11; Laune Rangers 1-3.

The sides were level at halftime but the fitter Valentia boys, aided by a ‘soft’ goal shortly after the restart, proved too strong for the Rangers, who, however, put up a brave performance. Michael F. O Shea, who had been selected to play at centre halfback, failed to show. As a result, Tommy Woods had to play a second game. John Griffin was also missing due to a family bereavement (The premature death of Johnny Griffin). Frank Walsh, who had been selected to play at left half-forward, failed to show.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Gene Evans, James O Shea, John Clifford, John Sheehan, Joe Crowley, Anthony Shannon, Joe Shannon, Paudie Sheahan, Tommy Woods, Pierce Prendiville, Michael O Reilly, Frank Russell, John O Dwyer, John Evans.

Ref: Kevin Farrell (Derrynane).

 

Rd. 2 on Sun. 20^th March at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 0-5; John Mitchels 0-4.

Peter Lyons and Frank Walsh were absent through injury. John Griffin was inexplicably absent. Seamus O Shea played with Laune Rangers ‘C’ team, even though he had been selected to play with the senior team. Michael F. O Shea was again absent without explanation.

Laune Rangers: Ger Hurley, Gene Evans, James O Shea, Paudie Sheahan, Stephen Russell, Joe Crowley, John Sheehan, Joe Shannon, Pairce Prendivile, Anthony Shannon, John Evans, James Sheehan, Frank Russell, Tommy Woods, John Clifford. Subs: Teddy Clifford for J. Clifford, Liam Hayes for S. Russell, Pat Pigott for T. Woods.

Ref: Michael O Sullivan (Glenbeigh).

 

Rd. 3 on Fri. 1^st April at Tarbert: Ballylongford 1-8; Laune Rangers 2-5.

Laune Rangers had a goal and a point disallowed during the game.

Laune Rangers: Ger Hurley, Gene Evans, James O Shea, Joe Crowley, Liam Hayes, Paudie Sheahan, John Sheehan, Joe Shannon, Tommy Woods, Anthony Shannon, John Evans, James Sheehan, Pa Foley, Teddy Clifford, Michael O Reilly. Subs: Stephen Russell for T. Woods, Brian O Shea for P. Foley, Pat Pigott for J. Evans. Peter Lyons and Pierce Prendiville were on holidays. John Griffin and John Clifford were sick. Frank Walsh was injured and Frank Russell was working.

Ref: Billy McCarthy (Gneeveguilla).

 

Rd. 4 on Sun. 17^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 2-9; Dingle 0-5.

That was a five-star performance. Rangers’ midfield was dominating all opposition and the forwards were combining well. Anthony Shannon scored 0-5 and Brian O Shea scored the two goals.

Laune Rangers: Ger Hurley, Gene Evans, James O Shea, Joe Crowley, Liam Hayes, Paudie Sheahan, John Sheehan, Joe Shannon, Michael O Reilly, Anthony Shannon, Pierce Prendiville, Teddy Clifford, John Griffin, Brian O Shea, James Sheehan. Subs: Pat Pigott for J. Sheehan, Frank Russell for B. O Shea, Pa Foley, Tommy Woods, Peter Lyons.

Ref: Ger O Riordan (Scartaglin).

 

Rd. 5 on Sun. 1^st May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 3-3; Desmonds 2-11.

That was a game that Rangers could have won but some players were lacking fitness. Nevertheless, the team played better than in previous outings and were in fact leading going into the last quarter but the overall experience of Desmonds won the day. It was a home-game for Desmonds but they had conceded home advantage as their pitch had not yet been reopened.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Gene Evans, James O Shea, John Clifford, James Sheehan, Paudie Sheahan, John Sheehan, Pierce Prendiville, Teddy Clifford, Frank Russell, Michael O Reilly, Anthony Shannon, John Griffin, Brian O Shea, Frank Walsh. Subs: Liam Hayes for John Sheehan, Pat Pigott for F. Walsh, Stephen Russell. Joe Shannon, Ger Hurley and Joe Crowley were on holidays.

Ref: John Somers (Legion).

 

Rd. 6 on Sat. 21^st May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 2-7; Austin Stacks 2-11.

That was a first-class performance by Laune Rangers. The teams were level at halftime and, when, on the resumption, Stacks goaled it looked all over but the Rangers came back for a like score. The followers on both sides were roaring themselves hoarse. Exchanges were hectic and again Stacks came through for their second goal for what seemed the clincher but Rangers hit back courageously to punch home a like score and with ten minutes to play, Stacks led by only two points. However, the experience of the Tralee boys, and in particular Mikey Sheehy, carried the day. Teddy Clifford had a truly magnificent game. Indeed all the players played well.

Laune Rangers: Ger Hurley, Gene Evans, James O Shea, Teddy Clifford (capt.), James Sheehan, Paudie Sheahan, John Sheehan, Joe Shannon, Stephen Russell, Frank Russell, Michael O Reilly, Anthony Shannon, John O Dwyer, Brian O Shea, Pat Pigott. Subs: Joe Crowley, James O Shea (Shanara).

Ref: Weeshie Fogarty (Legion).

 

Rd. 7 on Sat. 4^th June at Strand Road: Kerins O Rahillys 0-10; Laune Rangers 1-5.

Laune Rangers dominated the first half but failed to get the scores and many chances went a begging. The Tralee boys took over on the resumption and were able to hold out despite a late, spirited rally.

Laune Rangers: Ger Hurley, Gene Evans, Paudie Sheahan, Teddy Clifford, James Sheehan, James O Shea, John Sheehan, Joe Shannon, Stephen Russell, Anthony Shannon, Michael O Reilly, Liam Hayes, John O Dwyer, Pierce Prendiville, Brian O Shea. Subs: Frank Russell, Peter Lyons, John Evans, Joe Crowley, Pat Pigott, James O Shea (Shanara).

 

Rd. 8 on Sat. 9^th July at Rossbeigh: Glenbeigh 2-6; Laune Rangers 2-10.

That was the first time that Rangers had scored ten points for some time. The fact that the Johnston brothers, Tom and Mícheál, were substitutes encouraged some players to play very well. Frank Russell had a ‘blinder’ at full-forward, scoring 2-3.

Laune Rangers: Ger Hurley, Teddy Clifford, John Evans, James O Shea, James Sheehan, Paudie Sheahan, Anthony Shannon, Stephen Russell, Liam Hayes, Peter Lyons, Michael O Reilly, Joe Shannon, John O Dwyer, Frank Russell, Pierce Prendiville. Subs: Mícheál Johnston for P. Lyons, Tom Johnston for S. Russell, Gene Evans, Brian O Shea, Joe Crowley, Pa Foley, James O Shea (Shanara).

Ref: Eamonn O Sullivan (Desmonds).

 

Rd. 9 on Sun. 20^th Aug. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 0-10; Spa 1-7.

That was an uncertain performance by Laune Rangers. The fact that the two players did not arrive for the beginning of the game, upset the team – that is not to detract from the performances of their replacements, who played extremely well. Rangers had a total of eight points from nine games played in the League.

Laune Rangers: Ger Hurley, Gene Evans, Brian O Shea, James O Shea, James Sheehan, Paudie Sheahan, Stephen Russell, Liam Hayes, Tom Johnston, Pierce Prendiville, Michael O Reilly, Joe Shannon, John O Dwyer, Frank Russell, Mícheál Johnston. Subs: Peter Lyons for F. Russell, James O Shea (Shanara), Teddy Clifford and John Evans (late arrivals).

Ref: Maurice O Sullivan (Ballyheigue).

 

Rd. 10 on Sun. 4^th Sept. at Killarney: Dr. Crokes 0-6; Laune Rangers 1-12.

Dr. Crokes had been reeling from their defeat in the East-Kerry Final on the night before. Rangers played quite well and, indeed, should have won more convincingly. They were then on ten points and well clear of relegation, which was one of the team’s aims for 1983.

Laune Rangers: Ger Hurley, Gene Evans, John Evans, James O Shea, James Sheehan, Paudie Sheahan, Anthony Shannon, Tom Johnston, Michael O Reilly, Mícheál Johnston, Pierce Prendiville, Joe Shannon, James O Shea (Shanara), Frank Russell, Peter Lyons. Subs: Brian O Shea for J. O Shea (Shanara), Michael McCarthy for F. Russell, James Foley for P. Lyons, Pa Foley, Stephen Russell.

Ref: Chas Cronin (Duagh).

 

Rd. 11 on Sat. 29^th Oct. at Gneeveguilla: Gneeveguilla 1-7; Laune Rangers 1-8.

The result was only of academic value but it was a nice way in which to end the season for Rangers. It was a useful exercise in positional changes. Tomás Hayes and Declan Crowley looked like very good prospects.

Laune Rangers: Gene Evans, Teddy Clifford, Liam Hayes, James O Shea, Tomás Hayes, Stephen Russell, Declan Crowley, Tom Johnston (0-2), Michael O Reilly (0-1), Joe Shannon (0-3), Paudie Sheahan (0-1), James Sheehan (0-1), Peter Lyons (1-0), Pierce Prendiville, Brian O Shea. Subs: Finbarr Coffey, Maurice Corkery. Anthony Shannon, Ger Hurley, Mícheál Johnston and John Evans were absent because of work. Frank Russell was absent because of his cousin’s, Timothy O Riordan, untimely death. John O Dwyer had been bitten by a dog.

Ref: Chas Cronin (Duagh).

 

Co. Club ‘B’ Football Championship

That competition was for players who had not played in the previous or current year’s Senior Co. Championship. However, clubs were allowed to regrade players – Laune Rangers succeeded in regrading Peter Lyons, John Clifford, Liam Woods, Paudie Healy and Stephen Russell.

 

Rd. 1 on Sat. 14^th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 1-7; Dr. Crokes ‘B’ 1-5.

Laune Rangers repeated their success of the previous year with that exciting win over their Killarney opponents. Despite the terrible condition of the O Sullivan Park, both sides played some fine football. They were level at 1-3 each at halftime. On the resumption, it looked like the end for the Rangers when Crokes went ahead by two points. However, a great midfield display by Stephen Russell, the man-of-the-match, rallied the side and, with Brian O Shea performing well at full-forward, Rangers scored four points to win comfortably in the end. That was a gritty, determined performance by Laune Rangers. Michael McCarthy gave a faultless display of goalkeeping.

Laune Rangers ‘B’: Michael McCarthy, Gene Evans, John Clifford, Gerry Foley, Pat Pigott, Liam Hayes, John Sheehan (Glencuttane), Stephen Russell, Harry Carey, Teddy Clifford, Pa Foley, Michael O Reilly, John O Dwyer, Brian O Shea, Donie McKenna. Subs; James O Shea (Shanara) for M. O Reilly, Declan Crowley, Mossy Joy, John Sugrue, Michael Teahan, Peter Lyons, John Sheehan (Tinnahalla).

Ref: Ger O Riordan (Scartaglin).

 

Rd. 2 on Sat. 28^th May at Austin Stack Park: Austin Stacks ‘B’ v Laune Rangers ‘B’.

The referee failed to show and both teams went home.

 

Rd. 2 on Sat. 13^th June at Austin Stack Park: Austin Stacks ‘B’ 0-8; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 1-4.

Despite the fact that Rangers were very depleted, with no less than seven players missing, they should have won that game with ease. Playing with the wind in the first half, they could only manage to lead by 1-2 to 0-0 at the interval, after completely dominating the half. In the second half, Austin Stacks launched attack after attack but, thanks to great defensive play, scores were slow to come and it took the Tralee boys twenty minutes to equalise and then go ahead. The Rangers fought back to draw level with only three minutes remaining. The Stacks got the winning score seconds later. A Laune Rangers’ ‘45’ just on fulltime was straight and high but, alas, it dropped short and Stacks went through to the semi-final. An injury to fullback, John Clifford, which forced him to retire shortly after the resumption, was a tremendous blow  to the Killorglin boys.

 

Co. Final on Sat. 6^th Aug. at Tralee: Austin Stacks ‘B’ 1-5; John Mitchels 0-6.

 

Co. Senior Football League Div. 4B

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 6^th March at Valentia: Valentia ‘B’ 1-6; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 1-7.

That was a great display by a depleted team (Brian O Shea, Pa Foley, Stephen Russell and Teddy Clifford were on holidays). Features of the game were the great performance at midfield by James Foley, at centre halfback by Pat Pigott, the accuracy of Tommy Woods (0-4 from play) and very good performances by Tommy Foley, Ger Hurley, Michael Sweeney and Pat Diggin.

Laune Rangers ‘B’: Ger Hurley, Mossy Joy, Declan Crowley, John Hurley, Michael Sweeney, Pat Pigott, John Foley (Reen), James Foley, Tommy Woods, Tommy Foley, Liam Healy, Pat Diggin, Edward Stack, Pat Horgan, Donal Pigott. Subs: Patrick Freeman for E. Stack, John Galvin. Harry Carey played with Laune Rangers ‘C’ team, despite having been selected with Laune Rangers ‘B’.

 

Rd. 2 on Sun. 20^th March at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 3-2; John Mitchels ‘B’ 1-3.

That game signalled the return of Brian O Shea, after a five-months’ layoff due to injury. He had a fine hour at fullback. Once again James Foley gave a fine display at midfield. All the backs played very solidly in front a very alert goalkeeper, John Hurley. In attack, Liam Healy, Tommy Foley, Michael O Reilly, Pa Foley and James O Shea played exceptionally well.

Laune Rangers ‘B’: John Hurley, Mossy Joy, Brian O Shea, Declan Crowley, Michael Sweeney, Pat Pigott, John Foley, James Foley, James O Shea (Shanara), Tommy Woods, Pa Foley, Michael O Reilly, Liam Healy, Pat Horgan, Patrick Freeman. Sub: Tommy Foley for T. Woods (required for the senior team).

Ref: Michael O Sullivan (Glenbeigh).

 

Rd. 3 on Sun. 17^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 2-10; Dingle ‘B’ 0-1.

Laune Rangers ‘B’: Peter Lyons, Mossy Joy, John Clifford, John Hurley, Michael Sweeney, Declan Crowley, John Foley, James Foley, Stephen Russell, Tommy Foley, Pa Foley, Tommy Woods, Liam Healy, Pat Horgan, Patrick Freeman. Subs: Donal Pigott for P. Foley, Edward Stack for P. Horgan, John Sheehan for S. Russell, John Galvin, Patrick McInery.

Ref: Timmy O Sullivan (Dr. Crokes).

 

Rd. 4 on Sun. 1^st May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 0-4; Desmonds ‘B’ 0-11.

The Rangers’ team was depleted through injury (Declan Crowley) and work (James Foley). Tommy Woods was also missing.

Laune Rangers ‘B’: John Galvin, Dominic Crowley, Mossy Joy, John Hurley, Michael Sweeney, Pa Foley, John Foley, Stephen Russell, James O Shea, Tommy Foley, Liam Healy, John Sheehan (Tinahalla), Pat Diggin, Pat Horgan, Patrick Freeman; Subs: Edward Stack for P. Horgan, Donal Pigott for J. Sheehan, Patrick McInery.

Ref: Jerome Conway (Laune Rangers).

 

Rd. 5 on Sat. 21^st May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 1-9; Austin Stacks ‘C’ 0-9.

A feature of the game was the fine display at full-forward by Peter Lyons and by Tommy Foley at right half-forward. John Galvin brought off a great save in the last minute to deprive Stacks of a share of the spoils.

Laune Rangers ‘B’: John Galvin, Edward Stack, Mossy Joy, Pat Diggin, Michael Sweeney, Declan Crowley, John Foley, James Foley, Harry Carey, Tommy Foley, Liam Healy, James O Shea, Michael O Sullivan, Peter Lyons, John Sheehan. Sub: Dominic Crowley.

Ref: Jackie Quirke (Firies).

 

Rd. 6 on Sun. 5^th June at Strand Road: Kerins O Rahillys ‘B’ 1-8; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 1-5.

As in the senior game on the previous evening, Laune Rangers dominated the first half but failed to take their scores. On the resumption, O Rahillys took the initiative and held on to win.

 

Rd. 7 on Fri. 8^th July at Glenbeigh: Glenbeigh ‘B’ 2-11; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 0-7.

Laune Rangers were very much understrength for that game.

 

Rd. 8 on Sat. 20^th Aug. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ w/o; Spa ‘B’ scr.

 

Rd. 9 on Sun. 24^th Oct. at Gneeveguilla: Gneeveguilla ‘B’ scr.; Laune Rangers ‘B’ w/o.

 

Play-off on Sat. 19^th Nov. at Milltown: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 2-9; John Mitchels ‘B’ 2-2.

That was a poor performance. The fact that Laune Rangers did not have a game since 27^th Aug. certainly did not help matters.

Laune Rangers ‘B’: John Galvin, Edward Stack, Declan Crowley, John Clifford, Michael Sweeney, Stephen Russell, Pat Pigott, Tom Johnston, Tommy Woods, Tommy Foley, Liam Healy (capt.), Peter Lyons, John Griffin, Brian O Shea, John Sheehan (Tinahalla). Subs: Maurice Corkery for J. Sheehan, Pat Diggin for J. Clifford, Dodo Sheahan for M. Sweeney, Gerard Murphy.

Ref: Tony Falvey (Firies).

 

Quarter-final on Sun. 27^th Nov. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 3-5; Laune Rangers ‘C’ 1-9.

That was a thoroughly enjoyable, sporting game. The ‘C’ team had chances to win the game but lacked experience. The ‘B’ team did not play well in the second half but had done enough in the first half. They led at halftime by 2-4 to 1-3. John Griffin scored a great goal and John Sheehan the other. On the restart, John Griffin scored another goal, and that gave them to cushion to withstand a breathtaking last quarter, as the ‘C’ team began to haul back the lead, point by point. The best performers for the ‘B’ team were Brian O Shea, Declan Crowley, John Galvin (goalie), Liam Healy, John  Sheehan, Peter Lyons and John Griffin.

Laune Rangers ‘B’: John Galvin, Edward Stack, Brian O Shea, Pat Pigott, Michael Sweeney, Pa Foley, Declan Crowley, Tom Johnston, Stephen Russell, Tommy Foley, Liam Healy, Tommy Woods, John Sheehan, Peter Lyons, John Griffin. Subs: Pat Diggin for P. Foley, Maurice Corkery for E. Stack, Donal Pigott.

Ref: John Somers (Legion).

 

Semi-final on Sun. 4^th Dec. at Austin Stack Park: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 2-6; Finuge ‘B’ 3-2.

Laune Rangers pulled that result out of the fire, as at one stage they trailed by seven points. Two great goals by Tommy Foley gave the team great heart for the last twenty minutes’ comeback. Stephen Russell played soundly at midfield, while Tommy Foley, John Sheehan and John Griffin played well in attack, especially after the introduction of John Evans, who made a big difference at full-forward. Tommy Woods linked well with midfield. Peter Lyons, though out of position at midfield, contributed much to the side’s victory. Finuge had led by 1-2 to 1-1 at the interval. An objection by Finuge to the constitution of the Laune Rangers ‘B’ team was ruled out of order at the Co. Board meeting on 6^th Feb. 1984.

Laune Rangers ‘B’: John Galvin, Edward Stack, Brian O Shea, John Clifford, Michael Sweeney, Declan Crowley, Pat Pigott, Stephen Russell, Peter Lyons, Tommy Foley, Liam Healy, Tommy Woods, John Sheehan, Pa Foley, John Griffin. Subs: John Evans for E. Stack (P. Pigott to corner-back, Pa Foley to centre halfback, Declan Crowley to left halfback and John Evans to full-forward), Pat Diggin, Maurice Corkery, Donal Pigott, Michael O Shea (Laharn), Patrick McInery.

Ref: John Somers (Legion).

 

The final was not played until 1984 due to an objection by Finuge, which had been mischievously instigated by a member or members of the Laune Rangers ‘C’ team, who had told Finuge that Brian O Shea, John Evans, Pat Pigott, Stephen Russell and Peter Lyons had been ineligible to play. It was proven at Co. Board that they had been eligible to play. However, it did not show good sportsmanship or relations from what was supposed to be a Laune Rangers team towards a fellow club team. Unfortunately, the minds of some of the players in the Cromane area had been poisoned against Laune Rangers Club.

 

Final on Sat. 6^th Oct. 1984 at Milltown: Knocknagoshel 2-5; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 0-6

It was a game that Laune Rangers should have won but they missed too many gift chances. James O Shea, Shanara, was easily man-of-the-match at centre halfback. It was an extremely tough game.

 

Co. Senior Football League Div. 4D

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 6^th March at Portmagee: Skellig Rangers 3-3; Laune Rangers ‘C’ 2-2.

Rd. 2 on Sun. 20^th March at Vocational School Field: Laune Rangers ‘C’ 1-6; Foilmore 1-5.

Rd. 3 on Sun. 3^rd April at Dromid: Dromid Pearses 0-1; Laune Rangers ‘C’ 0-8.

Rd. 4 on Sun. 17^th April at Vocational School’s Field: Laune Rangers ‘C’ 0-13; Rathmore ‘B’ 0-5.

Rd. 4 on Sun. 1^st May at Tuosist: Tuosist 0-7; Laune Rangers ‘C’ 2-6.

 

Rd. 5 on Sun. 22^nd May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘C’ 1-13; Derrynane 2-5.

Noel Foley gave a most impressive display in the attack.

Laune Rangers ‘C’: Michael McCarthy, John Teahan, John Sugrue, Seamus O Shea, Jimmy O Neill, Michael F. O Shea, Jerry Foley, Tomás Hayes, Harry Carey, Donie McKenna, Ciaran O Callaghan, Noel Foley, Fergal O Shea, Michael O Shea, James Foley. Subs: Frank Walsh for M. O Shea, Patrick Sugrue for J. Foley, Michael Teahan.

Ref: Jackie Quirke (Firies).

 

Rd. 6 on Sun. 10^th July at Vocational School’s Field: St. Michael’s scr.; Laune Rangers ‘C’ w/o.

 

Sat. 3^rd Sept. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘C’ 3-6; Glenflesk ‘B’ 1-4.

Laune Rangers ‘C’: Michael McCarthy, John Teahan, Michael Teahan, Seamus O Shea, Jimmy O Neill, Michael F. O Shea, Jerry Foley, Tomás Hayes, Frank Walsh, Sean O Sullivan, James Foley, Noel Foley, Fergal O Shea, John Sugrue, Donie McKenna.

Ref: Chas Cronin (Duagh).

 

Quarter-Final on Sun. 27^th Nov. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 3-5; Laune Rangers ‘C’ 1-9.

The forward line with four minors, three of whom were under seventeen, lacked experience. Padraig McMahon was under sixteen years of age. The centre field pairing played well and dominated for long periods. Their best performers were Michael F. O Shea, Frank Walsh, Liam Hayes, Ciarán O Callaghan, Noel Doyle, Fergal O Shea, Jimmy O Neill, Michael McCarthy (goalie) and Michael O Shea.

Laune Rangers ‘C’: Michael McCarthy, Seamus O Shea, Michael Teahan (capt.), Padraig McMahon, Jimmy O Neill, Frank Walsh, Jerry Foley, Liam Hayes, Michael F. O Shea, Noel Foley, Michael ‘Fox’ O Shea, Fergal O Shea, Ciaran O Callaghan, John Sugrue, Noel Doyle. Subs: Mick O Connell for P. McMahon, Michael Stack, Austin Stack, Pádraig O Shea, John O Shea (Lonart), Michael Healy.

Ref: John Somers (Legion).

 

Mid-Kerry Senior Football Championship

There was a losers’ round in the competition.

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 24^th July at Milltown: Beaufort 2-5; Laune Rangers 0-9.

The team played exceptionally well all through the game. It was felt that if Laune Rangers were going to topple Beaufort, that was the day and, with five minutes left and leading by five points, it looked on.

Rangers, with the Johnstons back in the side, settled early and put pressure on the Beaufort backs. However, after John O Dwyer, Frank Russell and Joe Shannon (0-2) had kicked points, they reverted back to their old form of trying to walk the ball into the net. Beaufort’s only reply in that half was a point by John Coffey. Rangers led by 0-4 to 0-1 at the break.

The second half began with Laune Rangers attacking and with five minutes remaining, they led by 0-8 to 0-3. John Coffey kicked a point and Donie Hartnett scored a classic goal. John Coffey and Joe Shannon exchanged points and with one minute left in the game, Rangers led by one point but then Beaufort did a Seamus Darby or a Tadhg Murphy on it, when Timmy Hartnett scored a last gasp goal. Best for Rangers were John Evans, John Clifford, Stephen Russell, Joe Shannon, Frank Russell and the Johnstons, Tom and Mícheál.

Laune Rangers: Ger Hurley, Anthony Shannon, John Evans, James O Shea, James Sheehan, Paudie Sheahan, Tom Johnston, Liam Hayes, Stephen Russell, Pierce Prendiville, Michael O Reilly (0-1), Joe Shannon (0-4), John O Dwyer (0-1), Frank Russell (0-2), Mícheál Johnston (0-1). Subs: Peter Lyons, Brian O Shea, James O Shea (Shanara), Joe Crowley, Pa Foley. Teddy Clifford was absent.

 

Losers’ Round on Sat. 30^th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 2-10; Milltown/Castlemaine 1-9.

That was a real Houdini act. With two minutes remaining, Rangers were two points in arrears. Then Peter Lyons, who had come on as a substitute a few minutes earlier, seized on a great ball by Pierce Prendiville and ran through to score a great goal. Many from Milltown felt that the line ball, from which the goal resulted, should have gone the other way and that linesman, Michael O Shea, Laharn, had been unduly influenced in his decision by Patsy Joy. However, Mícheál Johnston added another goal to seal the issue in injury time. That was a thoroughly enjoyable game, full of excitement right through.

The first half saw the sides exchange point after point to end all square, 0-5 each, at the interval. Highlights of that first half for Laune Rangers were Liam Hayes’ fielding at midfield, which was simply marvellous, Joe Shannon and Michael Reilly played fine attacking football and James Sheehan was outstanding in defence.

Milltown/Castlemaine began to dominate on the restart, with Mike Colgan taking over at midfield and, by the fortieth minute, they led by 1-8 to 0-6. Positional switches brought an improvement for Rangers but scores were slow to come. With ten minutes remaining, Peter Lyons was introduced to the Rangers’ attack and immediately the side began to move with greater purpose. Two minutes from the end, Milltown/Castlemaine held a two-points’ lead but their defence and midfield were showing signs of wear and then Peter Lyons scored his goal. Milltown/Castlemaine came down-field from the kick-out. They needed a goal but John Evans fielded well and from his clearance, Mícheál Johnston got his boot to the ball to push it into the empty net.

The performance by Rangers had been below par and, even though they played well in patches, they could never pull away from Milltown/Castlemaine, mainly due to the superb free-taking by Willie Maher. The two clubs had tossed for venue. Best for Rangers were James Sheehan, Teddy Clifford and Anthony Shannon in defence, Liam Hayes at midfield and later in attack, Joe Shannon, Michael O Reilly and Mícheál Johnston in attack and Peter Lyons and Tom Johnston after their introduction to the game. Best for Milltown/Castlemaine were Jim O Connor in goals, James Mangan at fullback, Mike Colgan, Johnny Maher, Willie Maher, Mike Heffernan and Gerald Teahan.

Laune Rangers: Gene Evans, Teddy Clifford (capt.), John Evans, James O Shea, James Sheehan, Paudie Sheahan, Anthony Shannon, Liam Hayes (0-1), Stephen Russell, Pierce Prendiville, Michael O Reilly (0-3), Joe Shannon (0-3), John O Dwyer (0-2), Frank Russell, Mícheál Johnston (1-1). Subs: Tom Johnston for J. O Shea, Peter Lyons (1-0) for F. Russell, Brian O Shea, Pa Foley, James O Shea (Shanara), Joe Crowley, Tomás Hayes.

Ref: Michael O Sullivan (Glenbeigh).

 

Semi-final on Sun. 7^th Aug. at Milltown: Laune Rangers 2-10; Beaufort 0-5.

That was a performance out of the top drawer by Laune Rangers. It was a tremendous team performance. It was felt that the team was on the brink of something big. Great credit was due to the trainer/coach, Noel O Mahony. That was the heaviest defeat inflicted on Beaufort in Mid-Kerry for many a day. Laune Rangers played better than they had done for a long time, being much sharper and contesting every ball with a new-found spirit.

The defence was unyielding and was quick to seal off any gaps that occasionally appeared, while the foundations of victory were laid at midfield, where Tom Johnston and Liam Hayes were completely on top for the entire hour. The high-fielding of that pair, and their wonderful delivery of the ball, had the Beaufort defence under pressure for the entire first half and most of the second. Laune Rangers led by 0-8 to 0-2 at the break and, despite facing a stiffish wind in the second half, they were still able to keep Beaufort on the defensive for long spells. Corner-forward, John O Dwyer, put the nails in the champions’ coffin when he placed himself perfectly to score two fine goals. Frank Russell, at full-forward, showed once again that he could beat the best in the air. The half-forward trio of Pierce Prendiville, Michael O Reilly and Joe Shannon moved with great precision, while Mícheál Johnston and substitute Peter Lyons contributed well to that win. John Evans, at fullback, was outstanding with Teddy Clifford not far behind. Also very much to the fore were Anthony Shannon, James Sheehan, James O Shea and Paudie Sheahan.

Laune Rangers: Ger Hurley, Teddy Clifford (capt.), John Evans, James O Shea, James Sheehan, Paudie Sheahan, Anthony Shannon (0-1, free), Tom Johnston (0-1), Liam Hayes (0-2, 1 free), Pierce Prendiville, Michael O Reilly (0-1), Joe Shannon (0-3, frees), John O Dwyer (2-2), Frank Russell, Mícheál Johnston. Subs: Peter Lyons for M. Johnston, Stephen Russell, Brian O Shea, Pa Foley, Joe Crowley, James O Shea (Shanara), Gene Evans.

Ref: Michael O Sullivan (Glenbeigh).

 

Final on Sat. 17^th Sept. at Milltown: Laune Rangers 2-6; Glenbeigh 0-1.

That was the result that Rangers had been waiting for since 1973 and it occurred on the 25^th anniversary of their first Mid-Kerry Senior Championship in 1958. Their power football left Glenbeigh reeling in the atrocious weather conditions at the Paddy Burke Memorial Park. What a pity that game had to be played in such conditions!

There was a very slight breeze and Glenbeigh elected to play against it in the first half. After ten minutes, however, the wind and rain really blew up. At halftime, Laune Rangers led by 1-3 to 0-1. It hardly looked sufficient. But whatever words trainer, Noel O Mahony, had for them in the dreeing-room during the interval certainly did wonders because the attendance was treated to a grand display of both defensive and open football by the Rangers after the resumption. The Killorglin boys faced into the wind and rain and scored 1-3 without reply. It is hard to believe that Glenbeigh, with the aid of such a wind, failed to register a score in the second half. That was mainly due to to the heroic defensive work by all six of the Rangers’ defenders and their goalkeeper, Ger Hurley. The latter had his easiest day ever in the Rangers’ goal and yet he effected the save that certainly put paid to Glenbeigh’s hopes, when, early in the second half, he brilliantly cut off a hard drive by Mike O Shea. The halfback line was outstanding, particularly Anthony Shannon.

A team could have been forgiven for playing poorly in the conditions but Laune Rangers’ game never suffered and the promise, that they had begun to show a few months previously, was maintained. Their fielding and holding of the ball was marginal to say the least and their deliveries always found a team-mate. There was no dilly-dallying in their play, with the ball coming fast out of defence to set up attacks, with Tom Johnston and Liam Hayes providing a wonderful link-up at midfield. Both seemed to turn up in the most unexpected places with Liam Hayes doing the defensive work and Tom Johnston attacking. And what attacking he did, with two brilliant goals and a point! His display was rated as one of the best-ever in the county and he made a huge contribution to that championship as he had excelled in all the games.

The Laune Rangers attack played very cute football, with wingers Mícheál Johnston and Joe Shannon doing most of the running to probe and open the Glenbeigh defence, which stood up to the onslaught fairly well in the first half, but almost completely collapsed in the last quarter, when Michael O Rielly put over three fine points in the 43^rd, 50^th and 56 minutes. O Reilly’s second half display had the Killorglin supporters cheering loudly as had veteran full-forward, Frank Russell. One had to marvel at that man’s second-half performance, as he outran and out-fielded opponents and team-mates alike. He seemed to get better as the game progressed and finished strongest of all, coming out to midfield to fetch the Glenbeigh kick-out. He had been switched with Tom Johnston and, as the midfielder made his way into the full-forward position, he collected a high ball and banged it to the net. What a perfect switch by the selectors! Pierce Prendiville was always dangerous, as his passing to colleagues often cut the Glenbeigh defence open. John O Dwyer, in the right corner, did not figure in the scoring on that occasion. Glenbeigh knew that he was the danger man and had to be watched closely but, in doing so, other areas of the defence were left open. John Evans was the man-of-the-match at fullback, urging his colleagues by word and example. His mighty fielding and powerful clearances, driving opponents out of his way, inspired his team-mates to greater effort and none did better that the halfback trio of Anthony Shannon, Paudie Sheahan and James Sheehan. Gene Evans, who had taken the place of team-captain, Teddy Clifford (He had been unable to play due to illness) put the much-vaunted Denis ‘Mannix’ Griffin in his pocket. James O Shea, in the left fullback position had one of his greater games. It was obvious that the team would progress to even greater heights.

After the game, Mid-Kerry Chairman, Noel Spillane, presented the Kennedy Cup to the Laune Rangers’ Captain, Teddy Clifford, who handed it over the Joe Shannon, captain for the day. There were scenes of great emotion in the dressing-room afterwards as members of the 1958 winning side called to congratulate the winners. The team-trainer, Noel O Mahony, had done a splendid job with his charges, many of whom had been on the minor team he had trained in 1977 to win the county title. A cavalcade of cars escorted the team through Killorglin and its surrounding housing estates, where they were greeted by cheering crowds, after which the win was really celebrated.

Laune Rangers: Ger Hurley, Gene Evans, John Evans, James O Shea, James Sheehan, Paudie Sheahan, Anthony Shannon, Tom Johnston (2-1), Liam Hayes, Mícheál Johnston (0-1), Michael O Reilly (0-3), Joe Shannon (capt. for the day) 0-1, John O Dwyer, Frank Russell, Pierce Prendiville. Subs: Peter Lyons for J. O Dwyer, Joe Crowley for P. Prendiville, Brian O Shea, Stephen Russell, James O Shea (Shanara), John Clifford, Teddy Clifford, capt. (sick), Pa Foley

Glenbeigh: Owen O Riordan, Donal Griffin, John Griffin, Pat O Grady, Mike O Grady, Pat Sheahan, Patrick O Shea, Donie O Sullivan, Pat O Riordan, Neilie O Sullivan, Mike O Shea, Peadar O Sullivan, John O Connor, Mike Breen (0-1), Denis Griffin.

Ref: Pat Twiss (Milltown/Castlemaine).

Mid-Kerry Senior Football League

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 27^th Feb. at Glenbeigh: Glenbeigh 4-2; Laune Rangers 1-7.

The conditions were terrible with both sides bravely fighting a near gale-force wind and some heavy rain. The Rangers were leading by 1-7 to 2-2 with about ten minutes remaining, and then Glenbeigh were awarded a goal, which was hotly disputed by the Rangers who claimed that the ball went through the side netting. That score gave Glenbeigh the lead for the first time and they went on to win by four points. James Sheehan was sent off midway through the second half. At a subsequent Mid-Kerry Board meeting, he was suspended for two weeks. Michael F. O Shea and Seamus O Shea had been selected to play, but neither showed up.

Laune Rangers: Peter Lyons, Gene Evans, James O Shea, John Clifford, John Sheehan, Joe Crowley, Anthony Shannon, Paudie Sheahan, Joe Shannon, John Griffin, Pierce Prendiville, James Sheehan, Frank Russell, John O Dwyer, John Evans. Subs: Pat Pigott for J. Evans, Tommy Woods for J. O Dwyer.

Ref: Aidan Kelly (Beaufort).

 

Rd. 2 on Sun. 27^th March at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 2-5; Milltown/Castlemaine 0-4.

That was a reasonably good performance. Things were beginning to come right. The team was creating the chances but the forwards were not taking all of them.

Laune Rangers: Ger Hurley, Gene Evans, James O Shea, Brian O Shea, Liam Hayes, Paudie Sheahan, John Sheehan, Joe Shannon, Tommy woods, Anthony Shannon, Pa Foley, Pat Pigott, James Sheehan, Teddy Clifford, Michael O Reilly. Subs: John Evans (late arrival) for T. Clifford, John O Dwyer. Pierce Prendiville and Peter Lyons were on holidays. John Griffin and John Clifford were sick. Stephen Russell was working. Declan Crowley had to go to Cork. Frank Russell and Joe Crowley were rested.

Ref: Michael O Sullivan (Glenbeigh).

 

Rd. 3 on Sun. 10^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 1-7; Beaufort 0-10.

The Rangers missed many scoring chances in the opening quarter and when they could only lead by 0-6 to 0-5 at the interval, having played with the aid of a strong wind, things looked black for them. However, they gave a fine, spirited display in the second half and it was Beaufort that had to come from behind to tie the game with an ‘extra-time’ point.

Laune Rangers: Ger Hurley, Gene Evans, James O Shea, Joe Crowley, Liam Hayes, Paudie Sheahan, John Sheehan, Joe Shannon, Michael O Reilly, Anthony Shannon, Pa Foley, James Sheehan, John Griffin, Teddy Clifford, Frank Russell. Subs: Pat Pigott for J. Crowley, John Hickey for F. Russell. Pierce Prendiville and Peter Lyons were on holidays. John Evans was injured.

Ref: William O Shea (Keel).

 

Rd. 4 on Sun. 24^th April at Keel: Keel 0-4; Laune Rangers 2-5.

Laune Rangers: Ger Hurley, Gene Evans, James O Shea, Joe Crowley, James Sheehan, Paudie Sheahan, John Sheehan, Joe Shannon, Michael O Reilly, Anthony Shannon, Pierce Prendiville, Teddy Clifford, John Griffin, Brian O Shea, Frank Russell. Subs: Frank Walsh for F. Russell, Declan Crowley for John Sheehan, Stephen Russell for B. O Shea, Peter Lyons, Pa Foley. John Evans was injured.

Ref: Pat Twiss (Milltown/Castlemaine).

 

Semi-final on Sun. 8^th May at Milltown: Beaufort 1-6; Laune Rangers 0-4.

Rangers played with the breeze in the first half and, though they had plenty of possession, they failed to capitalise on it. They made a terrible mess of a high ball into the square and conceded a goal in the opening minutes. The goal was certainly lucky in every sense as Laune Rangers’ midfielder, Joe Shannon, was fouled when fielding a ball about 60 metres from his own goal and, on dropping the ball, a free was awarded to Beaufort. The well-placed ball seemed to be sailing wide but two defenders went for it and collided. The dropping ball was sent goal-wards, only to be saved by corner-back, Gene Evans. However, he rushed his clearance and the ball was belted home by an inrushing Beaufort forward.

It took Rangers quite some time to recover from that setback and when they did, the forwards, especially the inside trio, failed to turn the possession into scores and, at the end of a half almost completely dominated by Rangers, they could only turn over on equal terms, 0-4 to 1-1.

The second half, as far as Laune Rangers were concerned, was a non-event. On the occasion that they tried to save the game, they overplayed the ball or were shot-shy, while Beaufort went on to score five points and miss as many more, as the Rangers fumbled dangerously close to goals.

The duel between Paudie Lynch and Joe Shannon at midfield was one of the highlights of the game, with both players setting up attacks and linking well with their respective defences. Pierce Prendiville was Rangers other best performer and the support came mainly from Liam Hayes, Gene Evans, James Sheehan and Teddy Clifford.

Laune Rangers: Ger Hurley, Gene Evans, James O Shea, John Clifford, Liam Hayes, Paudie Sheahan, James Sheehan, Joe Shannon, Pierce Prendiville, Frank Russell, Michael O Reilly, Teddy Clifford (capt.), John Griffin, Brian O Shea, Anthony Shannon. Subs: Frank Walsh for F. Russell, Pat Pigott for J. Griffin, Pa Foley for A. Shannon, Stephen Russell, Peter Lyons.

Ref: Pat Twiss (Milltown/Castlemaine).

 

Final on Sun. 29^th May at Milltown: Beaufort 0-12; Glenbeigh 1-2.

 

Mid-Kerry ‘B’ Football Championship

This competition was for players who had not played in the previous year’s Mid-Kerry Senior Championship. The team at the top of the league, after the preliminary rounds, went into the final and the second and third teams played in the semi-final. Laune Rangers entered two teams, ‘B’ and ‘C’.

 

Rd. 1 on Tues. 31^st May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 4-7; Glenbeigh ‘B’ 1-12.

That was a close, tough game.

At Vocational Schools Field: Laune Rangers ‘C’ beat Beaufort ‘B’ by a huge margin..

At the subsequent Mid-Kerry Board meeting, Beaufort objected to the playing of Michael F. O Shea for Laune Rangers ‘C’, while being a listed player with Laune Rangers ‘A’ team. Jerome Conway said that the selectors of the Laune Rangers ‘C’ team were well aware that they could not play the player but had still gone ahead and played him. The Chairman, Noel Spillane, said that he was satisfied that Laune Rangers ‘C’ had intentionally broken the rules of the ‘B’ competition and awarded the game to Beaufort ‘B’. The Secretary of the Baord was instructed to write to the Laune Rangers Club and bring to their notice that if Michael F. O Shea played again with Laune Rangers ‘C’, that team would be removed from the competition.

 

Rd. 2 on Tues. 7^th June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 3-12; Laune Rangers ‘C’ 4-3.

At one stage, the ‘B’ team was eight points in arrears but fought back to win a thrilling game.

 

Rd. 3 on Sat. 18^th June at Milltown: Milltown/Castlemaine ‘B’ 1-2; Laune Rangers ‘C’ 1-13.

Rd. 3 on Tues. 21^st June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 3-10; Beaufort ‘B’ 0-4.

Rd. 4 on Fri. 1^st July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 3-3; Keel’ B’ 0-5.

That was a close, tough encounter.

Rd. 4 on Sun. 3^rd July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘C’ beat Glenbeigh ‘B’.

 

Rd. 5 on Tues. 12^th July at Milltown: Milltown/Castlemaine ‘B’ scr.; Laune Rangers ‘B’ w/o.

Rd. 5 on Tues. 19^th July at Keel: Keel ‘B’ lost to Laune Rangers ‘C’.

Semi-final on Fri. 29^th July at Milltown: Laune Rangers ‘C’ beat Glenbeigh.

 

Final on Sat. 27^th Aug. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 2-12; Laune Rangers ‘C’ 0-4.

That was a top drawer performance from the ‘B’ team. The game had been billed as the game of the year in Mid-Kerry, with plenty of rumour of ‘needle’.  However, the game was played in a very sporting manner and credit for that had to go to both sets of players.

The large attendance got little to cheer about as the ‘B’ team was much too strong and won easily. Apart from the first ten minutes, during which the ‘C’ team should have scored on at least four occasions, the winners were never in trouble. Man-of-the-match was Brian O Shea at fullback. Declan Crowley blotted out the threat of Sean O Sullivan. Tom Johnston and Stephen Russell were outstanding at midfield, while all the forwards played well, especially Mícheál Johnston and John O Dwyer. Michael McCarthy was outstanding in goals for the ‘C’ team, saving a penalty and at least two other certain goals. None of the others lived up to expectations.

After the game, the Mid-Kerry Board Chairman, Noel Spillane, presented the shield to the Laune Rangers ‘B’ captain, John Clifford.

Laune Rangers ‘B’: Gene Evans, Pat Pigott, Brian O Shea, John Clifford (capt.), John Sheehan, Pa Foley, Declan Crowley, Tom Johnston (1-0), Stephen Russell, Tommy Foley, James O Shea (Shanara) 0-1, Mícheál Johnston (0-6), John O Dwyer (1-5), Peter Lyons, James Foley (Iveragh Road). Subs: Dodo Sheahan for P. Lyons, John Sheehan (Tinnahalla) for J. Foley, Donal Pigott for T. Foley, John Galvin, Michael O Shea, Michael Sweeney, John Hurley.

Laune Rangers ‘C’: Michael McCarthy, Michael Teahan (capt.), John Sugrue, Jerry Foley, Jimmy O Neill, Tomás Hayes, Seamus O Shea, Frank Walsh, Harry Carey, Sean O Sullivan, Ciarán O Callaghan, Noel Foley, Fergal O Shea, James Foley, Michael Healy. Subs: Patrick Sugrue for J. Foley, John Teahan for J. O Neill, Michael ‘Fox’ O Shea for M. Healy.

Ref: Michael Murphy (Milltown/Castlemaine).

When the fixing of the date and venue for that game was about to be made at the Mid-Kerry Board meeting on 8^th Aug., James Coffey, Laune Rangers’ delegate, said that the final would have to be played in Killorglin. The Chairman, Noel Spillane, said that it was the final of a Mid-Kerry Board competition and not a parish league game. He asked Dan Carey where they (Laune Rangers ‘C’) wanted the game to be played and he replied Milltown. A long heated argument took place between the Chairman and James Coffey. Eventually, the Chairman ruled that the final should be played in Milltown but he said that if the two teams came to an agreement to play the game in Killorglin, it would be all right with him.

 

Senior Football Challenge Game

 

Sun. 27^th Feb. at Vocational School Field: Laune Rangers ‘C’ 1-6; Churchill 4-6.

 

Sat. 10^th Sept. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 1-13; St. Mary’s 0-11.

Laune Rangers moved well. The players were keen and determined to win the Mid-Kerry Championship. St. Mary’s were under-strength but the Rangers gave all their players a run. The Mid-Kerry Final versus Glenbeigh had been scheduled for that date but it was called off because Pat Sheahan (Glenbeigh) was on the Kerry team to play Dublin in the All-Ireland Junior Final in Nenagh on Sun. 11^th Sept.

Laune Rangers: Ger Hurley, Gene Evans, John Evans, James O Shea, James Sheehan, Paudie Sheahan, Anthony Shannon, Tom Johnston, Liam Hayes, Mícheál Johnston, Michael O Reilly, Joe Shannon, John O Dwyer, Pierce Prendiville, Peter Lyons. Subs: Frank Russell for J. Shannon, Brian O Shea for M. O Reilly, Tomás Hayes for T. Johnston, Joe Crowley for J. Sheehan, Stephen Russell for A. Shannon, James O Shea (Shanara) for J. O Dwyer, Pa Foley for P. Lyons.

Ref: Ger O Driscoll (Valentia).

 

Sun. 30^th Oct. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 3-10; Foilmore 1-9.

 

Co. U-21 Football Championship

Coach/Trainer – Jerome Conway.

 

Rd. 1 on Tues. 28^th June at Ballylongford: Shannon Rangers 1-10; Laune Rangers 1-9.

Laune Rangers failed to score from a penalty and a 20 metres free and, despite that, they were unlucky not to have drawn the game, as Shannon Rangers scored the winning point just on fulltime.

Laune Rangers: Ger Hurley, Dodo Sheahan, Brian O Shea, John Hurley, Liam Hayes, Paudie Sheahan, John Sheehan, Joe Shannon (capt.), Tomás Hayes, Tommy Foley, Michael O Reilly, Jimmy Hannon, James O Shea (Shanara), Pierce Prendiville, John Griffin. Subs: Gerard Murphy for J. Hannon, John Galvin, Jerry Houlihan.

Ref: Eamonn O Sullivan (Desmonds).

 

U-21 Football Challenge Games

 

Thurs. 17^th March at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 1-10; Firies 1-6.

That was principally a game for seniors, who had returned from holidays, and U-21 players.

Laune Rangers: Dominic Crowley, Jerry Houlihan, John Hurley, Donal Hurley, Roy Evans, Stephen Russell, Tommy Woods, James Foley, Michael O Reilly, Jimmy Hannon, Pa Foley, John Sheehan, Tommy Foley, Patrick Freeman, Donal Pigott. Subs: Brian O Shea for S. Russell, John Foley for T. Woods, Pat Diggin for M. O Reilly, Michael O Sullivan for P. Foley.

 

Sun. 29^th May at Strand Road: Kerins O Rahillys lost to Laune Rangers.

 

Fri. 24^th June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers v Mid-Kerry.

 

Co. Minor Football Championship

The minor team commenced training on Sun. 13^th Feb. under trainer/coach – Jerome Conway.

 

Rd. 1 on Fri. 15^th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 2-5; South-Kerry 0-7.

That was a great performance of guts and determination by Laune Rangers. It was the first time that year that the team had gelled. It was a personal triumph for Gerard Murphy who scored 2-3 and he often had the opposition defence running in circles. Tomás Hayes was superb at midfield and Ciaran O Callaghan was in great form both on the ‘40’ and at midfield. Brian O Sullivan, Florence Leen, Donal Hurley, Noel Doyle, Martin Clifford, Michael Moriarty and James Foley played extremely well in that fine win.

Laune Rangers: Michael Dermody, Con Counihan, Donal Hurley, Noel Doyle, Martin Clifford, Florence Leen, Martin Joy, Tomás Hayes, Michael Moriarty, Brian O Sullivan, Ciaran O Callaghan (capt.), Gerard Murphy, Patrick McInery, James Clifford, James Foley (Corbally). Subs: Patrick Brennan for P. McInery, William Joy.

 

Quarter-final on Tues. 26^th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 1-9; Killarney 4-5.

Laune Rangers conceded a soft goal in each half, but otherwise the team played quite well.

Laune Rangers: Dermot Clifford, Con Counihan, Donal Hurley, Noel Doyle, Martin Clifford, Florence Leen, Terence O Shea, Tomás Hayes, Richard O Connor, Michael Moriarty, Ciarán O Callaghan, Gerard Murphy, Brian O Sullivan, James Clifford, Gerard Clifford. Subs: James Foley, Martin Joy, Patrick Brennan, William Joy. Michael Dermody was working. Due to lack of numbers, a few of the U-16 team had to be added to the panel e.g. Michael Moriarty, Richard O Connor, Patrick Brennan and William Joy.

Ref: Tommy Sugrue (Austin Stacks).

 

Co. Minor Football League

 

Rd. 1 on Fri. 1^st April (Good Friday) at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 1-8; Legion 2-4.

Laune Rangers created many more scoring chances but failed to translate them into scores. The team was shaping well. Unfortunately, Fergal O Shea did not play.

Laune Rangers: Noel Doyle, Con Counihan, Donal Hurley, Michael Scannell, Terence O Shea, Florence Leen, Michael Moriarty, Tomás Hayes, Martin Clifford (Glencuttane), Noel Foley, Ciarán O Callaghan (capt.), Gerard Murphy, Brian O Sullivan, James Clifford, Gerard Clifford (Caragh Bridge). Subs: Andrew Pigott for G. Murphy, Joe Doyle for B. O Sullivan, David Griffin, Andrew Doona, Michael Dermody.

Ref: Eamonn O Sullivan (Desmonds).

 

Rd. 2 on Mon. 11^th April at Killarney: Dr. Crokes 2-8; Laune Rangers 1-4.

There were only two points between the teams with a few minutes to play but then Rangers caved in. Rangers had only fifteen players. The team was transported to the game in three cars – Bart Moriarty, Patsy Joy and Jerome Conway.

Laune Rangers: Michael Dermody, Con Counihan, Florence Leen, Noel Doyle, Terence O Shea, Michael Moriarty, Joe Doyle, Tomás Hayes, Martin Clifford, Noel Foley, Ciarán O Callaghan, Gerard Murphy, Brian O Sullivan, James Clifford, Gerard Clifford. Donal Hurley and Michael Scannell were unavoidably absent.

Ref: Der Flynn (Ballymacelligott).

 

Rd. 3 on Fri. 15^th April at Tralee: Kerins O Rahillys 2-10; Laune Rangers 2-3.

Laune Rangers: Noel Doyle, Con Counihan, Donal Hurley, Michael Scannell, Terence O Shea, Florence Leen, Joe Doyle, Tomás Hayes, Martin Clifford, Noel Foley, Ciarán O Callaghan, Gerard Murphy, Brian O Sullivan, Michael Moriarty, Gerard Clifford. Subs: James Foley (Corbally) for G. Clifford, Andrew Doona for J. Doyle.

Ref: Michael McSweeney (Ballymacelligott).

Cars – Bart Moriarty, Seamus Murphy, Pierce Prendiville, James Coffey and Jerome Conway.

 

Rd. 4 on Fri. 22^nd April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 1-6; St. Mary’s 2-6.

Laune Rangers: Michael Dermody, Con Counihan, Donal Hurley, Michael Scannell, Martin Clifford, Florence Leen, Noel Doyle, Tomás Hayes, Terence O Shea, Noel Foley, Gerard Murphy, Gerard Clifford, Brian O Sullivan, Ciarán O Callaghan, Joe Doyle. Subs: James Foley, Andrew Doona and David Griffin. Michael Moriarty was injured.

Ref: Richard Fitzgerald (Listry).

 

Rd. 5 on Fri. 29^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 0-3; Kenmare 3-11.

Rangers had to start with thirteen players and, when Michael Dermody and Andrew Doona arrived, they came on. Donal Hurley was sent off and was suspended for two months.

Laune Rangers: David Griffin, Con Counihan, Donal Hurley, James Clifford, Martin Clifford, Michael Scannell, Florence Leen, Tomás Hayes, Terence O Shea, Noel Foley, Ciaran O Callaghan, Gerard Murphy, Gerard Clifford. Subs: Michael Dermody and Andrew Doona. Missing through injury were Brian O Sullivan, Michael Moriarty and Noel Doyle.

Ref: Dan O Sullivan (Currow).

 

Mid-Kerry Minor Football Championship

 

Rd. 1 on Tues. 5^th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers w/o; Beaufort scr.

 

Semi-final on Tues. 9^th Aug. at Milltown: Laune Rangers 2-12; Glenbeigh 1-2.

That was a very good performance. Brian O Sullivan and Gerard Murphy scored the goals. Michael Moriarty, Ciarán O Callaghan, Tomás Hayes, Brian O Sullivan and Gerard Murphy also got very good points.

Laune Rangers: Dermot Clifford, Con Counihan, Donal Hurley, Noel Doyle, Martin Clifford, Florence Leen, Terence O Shea, Tomás Hayes, Richard O Connor, Michael Moriarty, Ciarán O Callaghan (capt.), Gerard Clifford, Brian O Sullivan, James Clifford, Gerard Murphy. Subs: James Foley for R. O Connor (inj.), Martin Joy for N. Doyle, Patrick McInery, Patrick Brennan, William Joy.

Ref: Michael Murphy (Milltown/Castlemaine).

 

Final on Tues. 23^rd Aug. at Milltown: Milltown/Castlemaine 1-3; Laune Rangers 3-10.

Laune Rangers conceded an unnecessary penalty in the first half and were in arrears at halftime by 1-1 to 0-3. In the second half, the team really settled down and ran out easy winners. Brian O Sullivan scored the three goals. The venue was agreed on the toss of a coin. After the game, the Vice-Chairman of the Mid-Kerry Board, Mike McCarthy, presented the trophy to the Laune Rangers’ captain, Ciarán O Callaghan.

Laune Rangers: Michael Dermody, Con Counihan, Donal Hurley, Noel Doyle, Martin Joy, Florence Leen, Terence O Shea, Tomás Hayes, Richard O Connor, Michael Moriarty, Ciaran O Callaghan (capt.), Gerard Murphy, Brian O Sullivan, James Clifford, Gerard Clifford. Subs: Martin Clifford (late arrival) for M. Joy, James Foley (Corbally) for G. Clifford, Patrick McInery, William Joy, Patrick Brennan, Patrick McKenna (Lonart), Dermot Clifford.

Ref: Michael O Sullivan (Glenbeigh).

After the game, Jerome Conway, as was the policy by all the Laune Rangers’ mentors at the time, dropped the Cromane boys home. As he got out of the car at Glosha, Ciarán O Callaghan stated that he would not be playing on the following year with Laune Rangers as, ‘we will have our own club here in Cromane.’ That gave credence to the rumours that had been circulating that Cromane would apply to have a club of its own, the players having been assured that they would be made into a powerful force, one of the best clubs in the county. It also showed a lack of appreciation and respect that Ciaran O Callaghan had for the club/mentors that had nurtured him as a footballer up through the ranks, culminating in making him the captain of the minor team in 1983.

 

Minor Football Challenge Games

 

Sat. 5^th March in Vocational School’s Field: Laune Rangers v Legion.

The teams played fourteen players-a-side (one midfielder) and, whereas no score was kept, the teams were fairly evenly matched.

Laune Rangers: Patrick McKenna (Lonart), Dermot Clifford, Florence Leen, Con Counihan, David Griffin, Martin Clifford, Terence O Shea, Tomás Hayes, Noel Foley, Ciarán O Callaghan, Andrew Doona, Brian O Sullivan, James Clifford, Gerard Murphy.

Ref: Bart Moriarty (Laune Rangers).

 

Sat. 19^th March at Killarney: Legion 0-3; Laune Rangers 5-10.

The teams had to play at thirteen-a-side, due to lack of numbers (No fullback and no full-forward).

Laune Rangers: Michael Dermody, Donal Hurley, Florence Leen, Andrew Doona, Michael Moriarty, Terence O Shea, Tomás Hayes, Martin Clifford, Noel Foley, Ciarán O Callaghan, Gerard Murphy, Brian O Sullivan, James Clifford.

Ref: Weeshie Fogarty (Legion).

 

Sun. 26^th June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers v Fánaithe na Luachra.

 

Co. U-16 District Board Championship

Coach/Trainer and sole selector – Jerome Conway.

 

Trial game in Killorglin: Team ‘A’ v Team ‘B’. (13-a-side).

Team ‘A’: Podge Leen, Bertie Griffin, Dermot Clifford, Liam Kerins, Andrew Doona, Jerome O Connor, Michael Moriarty, Richard O Connor, Brian Prendergast, Austin McGinley, Liam Kelliher, John Burke, Gerald O Connor.

Team ‘B’: Gerard Woods, Tommy Sheehan, Patrick McKenna, Michael Murphy, William Joy, Brian Kerins, Paud Hogan, Aidan Roche, James Moriarty, Patrick Brennan, Cormac O Shea, Patrick Barton, Timmy Horgan.

 

Rd. 1 on Fri. 26^th Aug. at Fossa: Mid-Kerry 7-19; Kenmare 0-3.

The opposition was very weak. Mid-Kerry’s midfield pairing was excellent.

Mid-Kerry: Podge Leen (Milltown/Castlemaine), William Joy (Laune Rangers), Bertie Griffin (Milltown/Castlemaine) capt., Connie Daly (Keel), Aidan Roche (Glenbeigh), Liam Burke (Milltown/Castlemaine), Jerome O Connor (Glenbeigh), Michael Moriarty (Laune Rangers), Mícheál Moriarty (Beaufort), Austin McGinley (Keel), Patrick Brennan (Laune Rangers), Gerald O Connor (Milltown/Castlemaine), Liam Kelliher (do.), Pádraig Barton (Keel), James Moriarty (Glenbeigh).

Subs: Dermot Clifford (Laune Rangers), John Burke (Milltown/Castlemaine), Patrick McKenna (Laune Rangers), Derry Coffey (Beaufort), Cormac O Shea (do.), Gerard Woods (Milltown/Castlemaine) and about six others.

Ref: John Daly (Dr. Crokes).

 

Semi-final on Wed. 31^st Aug. at Farranfore: Castleisland 4-3; Mid-Kerry 0-7.

Mid-Kerry had plenty of chances to win that game and led by two points after ten minutes of the second half. The conditions were terrible, as it lashed rain right through the game. Mid-Kerry caved in during the final ten minutes.

Mid-Kerry: Podge Leen, Dermot Clifford, Bertie Griffin, Connie Daly, Aidan Roche, Liam Burke, Jerome O Connor, Michael Moriarty, Mícheál Moriarty, Austin McGinley, Patrick Brennan, Gerald O Connor, Liam Kelliher, Pádraig Barton, James Moriarty. Subs: John Burke for A. McGinley, William Joy, Patrick McKenna, Derry Coffey, Cormac O Shea, Gerard Woods.

Ref: John Daly (Dr. Crokes).

 

Co. Final: East-Kerry beat Castleisland.

 

Co. U-16 Football Championship

The U-16 team commenced training on Sat. 5^th March under trainer/coach – Frank Walsh.

 

Rd. 1 on Wed. 6^th July at Killarney: Legion 2-10; Laune Rangers 1-5.

The score at halftime was 2-5 to 1-1 in favour of the winners.

Laune Rangers: Joe Kennedy, Sean O Connor, Dermot Clifford, Eoin Mangan, Patrick McKenna (Lonart) capt., Andrew Doona, Kieran O Keeffe, Michael Moriarty, Richard O Connor, Anthony Ahern, Patrick Brennan, Paul O Sullivan, Liam Foley, Shane O Sullivan, Robert Evans. Subs: Patrick McDunne for R. Evans, David McGrath for P. McKenna (sick).

 

Rd. 2 on Wed. 13^th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 1-4; Austin Stacks 2-8.

Rd. 3 on Wed. 20^th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 1-6; John Mitchels 1-9.

Frank Walsh was finding it difficult to get all the players together for games.

Rd. 4 on Wed. 27^th July at Tralee: Kerins O Rahillys 3-17; Laune Rangers 3-2.

Rd. 5 on Wed. 3^rd Aug. at Killarney: Dr. Crokes beat Laune Rangers.

Needless to say, Laune Rangers failed to reach the semi-finals.

 

Co. Final: Dr. Crokes beat Legion.

 

Mid-Kerry U-16 Football Championship

That competition was played on a league system.

 

Rd. 1 on Thurs. 17^th March at Milltown: Milltown/Castlemaine 3-9; Laune Rangers 0-4.

Rd. 2 on Mon. 4^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 5-11; Glenbeigh 0-1.

Laune Rangers: Shane Mulvihill, Sean O Connor, Dermot Clifford, Eoin Mangan, Patrick McKenna (Lonart), Andrew Doona, Kieran O Keeffe, William Joy (capt.), Michael Moriarty, Ronan O Shea, Patrick Brennan, Gerard Casey, Shane O Sullivan, Michael Brosnan, Robert Evans. Subs: Sean Moriarty, Brian Casey, Patrick Teahan, Gerard Teahan, Patrick McDunne.

Ref: Peter Twiss (Milltown/Castlemaine).

 

Rd. 3 on Sat. 16^th April at Keel: Keel 1-2; Laune Rangers 6-16.

Laune Rangers: David McGrath, Timmy Moroney, Dermot Clifford, Kieran O Keeffe, Brian Casey, Andrew Doona, Sean Moriarty, Michael Moriarty, Patrick McKenna, Gerard Casey, Patrick Brennan, Paul O Sullivan, Shane O Sullivan, Michael Brosnan, Patrick McDunne. Subs: Patrick Teahan for P. McDunn, P. McDunne for P. Teahan. There were quite a number of players missing due to the Intermediate School excursion.

Ref: Peter Twiss (Milltown/Castlemaine.

Cars – Bart Moriarty, Jerome Conway, Liam Shannon, Nuala O Keeffe and Pat Clifford (Farrentoreen).

 

Rd. 4 on Sat. 23^rd April at Beaufort: Beaufort 1-3; Laune Rangers 1-6.

Laune Rangers: Shane Mulvihill, Timmy Moroney, Dermot Clifford, Kieran O Keeffe, Sean Moriarty, Andrew Doona, Eoin Mangan, Pat McKenna, William Joy (capt.), Ronan O Shea, Patrick Brennan, Paul O Sullivan, Shane O Sullivan, Michael Brosnan, Robert Evans. Subs: Patrick Teahan, Patrick McDunn, Gerard Teahan, Patrick Curran. Michael Moriarty was injured.

Ref: Jerome Conway (Laune Rangers), as the appointed referee, Tom Evans, Keel, did not show.

Cars – Bart Moriarty, Frank Walsh, Nuala O Keeffe and Jerome Conway.

 

Semi-final on Sat. 21^st May at Milltown: Laune Rangers 2-5; Glenbeigh 2-4.

At one stage in the second half, Laune Rangers were eight points in arrears. Then Michael Moriarty converted a penalty. Soon afterwards, he missed a similar kick. However, the team showed great character in fighting back. A typical tearaway run by William Joy, then playing at centre half-forward, ended with him crashing the ball to the net from about thirty yards out.

Laune Rangers: Shane Mulvihill, Eoin Mangan, Dermot Clifford, Kieran O Keeffe, Sean Moriarty, Andrew Doona, Brian Casey, Michael Moriarty, William Joy, Patrick McKenna (capt.), Patrick Brennan, Gerard Casey, Shane O Sullivan, Richard O Connor, Robert Evans. Subs: Patrick McDunne, Alan Foley, Liam Foley.

Ref: Michael Murphy (Milltown/Castlemaine).

Cars – Frank Walsh, Jim Galvin and Jerome Conway.

 

Final on Sun. 29^th May at Milltown: Milltown/Castlemaine 4-12; Laune Rangers 2-6.

 

Mid-Kerry U-16B Football Championship

Having been beaten in the ‘A’ championship, Laune Rangers entered the ‘B’ championship, which was played on a knock-out system.

 

Semi-final on Sat. 23^rd Oct. at Milltown: Laune Rangers w/o; Keel scr.

 

Final on Sun. 13^th Nov. at Milltown: Laune Rangers 5-16; Beaufort 0-3.

Having received a walk-over from Keel, Laune Rangers faced Beaufort with confidence. The trainer of the team, Frank Walsh, failed to show up for the game without notice. He explained afterwards that he had to referee a game in the Cromane Parish League instead! However, the players played tremendously well and did not show any ill-effects at the loss of their trainer.

Laune Rangers: Pat McKenna (Steelroe), Alan Foley, Dermot Clifford, Eoin Mangan, Patrick McKenna (Lonart) capt., Andrew Doona, Kieran O Keeffe, Michael Moriarty (Iveragh Park), Michael Moriarty (Tinnahalla), William Joy, Richard O Connor, Robert Evans, Shane O Sullivan, Patrick Brennan, Timmy Fleming. Sub: Liam Foley for T. Fleming.

Ref: Tommy Evans (Keel).

A ‘parish league’ had been organised in Cromane and that deprived the team of some players and, obviously, its trainer.

 

Co. U-14 Football Championship

The U-14 team commenced training on Sun. 20^th Feb. under Anthony Shannon and James Sheehan (trainers/coaches).

 

Rd. 1 on Wed. 18^th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 7-13; Dr. Crokes 0-0.

Laune Rangers: Gerard Clifford, Fergus O Meara, Paul McKenna (Lonart), Bertie O Riordan, John Byrne, Pat Hannon, Patie Casey, James O Shea (Lonart), Pat McKenna (Steelroe), Paul Griffin, John O Sullivan, Timmy Fleming, Danny Cahill, Michael Cronin, Mark O Connor.

Ref: Michael Murphy (Milltown/Castlemaine).

 

Rd. 2 on Wed. 25^th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 1-8; Kerins O Rahillys 2-2.

Rd. 3 on Wed. 1^st June at Killarney: Legion 1-3; Laune Rangers 2-9.

Rd. 4 on Sun. 12^th June at Connolly Park: Austin Stacks 0-5; Laune Rangers 1-11.

Rd. 5 on Wed. 15^th June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 3-10; John Mitchels 0-4.

Semi-final on Wed. 22^nd June at Farranfore: Laune Rangers 1-9; Kerins O Rahillys 2-2.

 

Final on Tues. 28^th June at Farranfore: Laune Rangers 4-12; Austin Stacks 1-7.

Laune Rangers: Tommy Byrne, Fergus O Meara, Paul McKenna, Bertie O Riordan, Tommy Stack, Pat Hannon, Kevin Galvin, Timmy Fleming, John Byrne, Paul Griffin, Pat McKenna (capt.), Patie Casey, Ian Murphy, Danny Cahill, Mark O Connor. Subs: Sean Fenton, Frankie Brennan, Gerard Clifford, Maurice O Shea, Brian O Keeffe, John F. O Brien, Sean Moriarty.

Co. U-14 B Football Championship

Only three teams entered that competition, Austin Stacks, Kerins O Rahillys and Laune Rangers.

Trainer/Coach – Jerome Conway.

 

Rd. 1 on Mon. 1^st Aug. at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ lost to Austin Stacks ‘B’.

Rd. 2 on Thurs. 28^th July at Strand Road: Kerins O Rahillys ‘B’ lost to Laune Rangers ‘B’.

Semi-final on Mon. 8^th Aug. at Strand Road: Kerins O Rahillys ‘B’ 2-3; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 3-10.

Laune Rangers ‘B’: Gerard Clifford, Joseph Hoare, Sean Fenton, Michael Corkery, Bernard O Sullivan, Tadhg Hayes, John Clifford (The Lake), Danny Cahill, Kevin Galvin, John F. O Brien, Frankie Brennan, Patrick Curran, Timmy Corkery, Maurice O Shea, Billy O Sullivan. Subs: Gerard Costello for P. Curran, John Linehan for B. O Sullivan, Timothy Linehan for T. Corkery.

Ref: Davy Keane (K. O Rahillys).

 

Final on Thurs. 25^th Aug. at Milltown: Laune Rangers 3-3; Austin Stacks 1-8.

That was an unexpected victory for Laune Rangers, having already won the ‘A’ title. The backs got off to a jittery start, conceding 1-2 without replay in the first ten minutes. At halftime, Austin Stacks led by 1-5 to 1-2. Tommy Byrne was switched to centre halfback and he sewed up all the gaps. Michael Cronin and Maurice O Shea scored second half goals.

Laune Rangers: Gerard Clifford, Joseph Hoare, Sean Fenton, Michael Corkery, John Clifford, Tadhg Hayes, Bernard O Sullivan, Danny Cahill, Kevin Galvin, Tommy Byrne, Frankie Brennan (capt.), Patrick Curran, Maurice O Shea, Michael Cronin, John F. O Brien. Subs: Padraig Lynch for B. O Sullivan, John Cronin for T. Hayes (inj.), Gerard Costello, Timmy Corkery, Billy O Sullivan, Brian O Keeffe, Laurence Hogan, John Linehan, Timothy Linehan, John Sweeney (Steelroe).

Ref: Michael Murphy (Milltown/Castlemaine).

 

Mid-Kerry U-14 Football Championship

Laune Rangers entered two teams, ‘A’ and ‘B’. It was an eleven-a-side competition.

 

Rd. 1 on Mon. 30^th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘A’ 3-12; Milltown/Castlemaine 1-4

Laune Rangers ‘B’ 2-6; Glenbeigh 0-3.

Rd. 2 on Mon. 6^th June at Rossbeigh: Glenbeigh 0-2; Laune Rangers ‘A’ 5-13.

At Keel: Keel 0-6; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 1-6.

Rd. 3 on Mon. 13^th June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘A’ 2-11; Laune Rangers ‘B’ 2-8.

Rd. 4 on Mon. 20^th June at Beaufort: Beaufort 2-1; Laune Rangers ‘A’ 0-14.

At Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ 1-7; Milltown/Castlemaine 1-9.

Rd. 5 on Mon. 27^th June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘A’ 4-12; Keel 0-5.

At Beaufort: Beaufort 3-5; Laune Rangesr ‘B’ 1-4.

 

Final on Fri. 29^th July at Milltown: Laune Rangers ‘A’ 3-12; Beaufort 3-3.

At halftime the score was 3-1 to 0-5 in favour of Beaufort. Laune Rangers were more determined in the second half. Pat McKenna, at midfield, was especially prominent. Eventually, they ran out easy winners. The referee made some dubious decisions in the first half, allowing a blatant push on Paul McKenna for the first goal to mention just one.

Laune Rangers ‘A’: Ian Murphy, Fergus O Meara, Paul McKenna, Bertie O Riordan (capt.), Kevin Galvin, Pat Hannon, Pat McKenna, Paul Griffin, Timmy Fleming, Mark O Connor, Patie Casey. Subs: Danny Cahill for K. Galvin, Frankie Brennan, Maurice O Shea, Gerard Clifford, Tadhg Hayes, Tommy Stack (late arrival). Shane Mulvihill, John and Tommy Byrne were on holidays.

Ref: Flor O Sullivan (Glencar).

 

U-14 Football Challenge Games

 

Wed. 27^th April at Strand Road: Kerins O Rahillys lost to Laune Rangers by one point.

Cars – Bart Moriarty, Frank Walsh, Noreen Griffin, Mary Fenton and Anthony Shannon.

 

Thurs. 5^th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers v St. Mary’s.

 

Wed. 20^th July at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 2-6; Hartford Minor Club, USA 2-4.

That game was played before one of the biggest attendances to watch juvenile football in the J.P. O Sullivan Park. It was a thrilling game and the Co. Champions had to come from behind with late scores to win. Hartford was easily the best organised and disciplined team to visit Kerry from the USA. In charge of the team were Neil Quinlan, John Gorman and Tom Staunton. At a most enjoyable get-together afterwards, trophies and souvenirs were exchanged to mark the visit.

 

Community Games Football (U-13)

Trainers – Myles Coffey and Noreen Murphy.

Semi-final: Killorglin 1-5; Rathmore 0-6.

Final on Sat. 25^th June at Tralee: Killorglin 4-10; Ballyduff 2-5.

With the win in the final, Killorglin qualified for the Munster finals in Cork on Sat. 16^th July.

Killorglin: Brian Curtayne, Pa Murphy, Terence McCarthy, Nessan Diggin, John O Donnell, John Cronin, Timothy Jones, Danny Cahill, Billy O Sullivan, Timmy Corkery, Timmy Linehan, Pat Curran, Paudie O Shea, Brian O Keeffe, Eoin Joy. Subs: Stephen Corkery for P. O Shea, Michael Lynch for T. Linehan, Danny O Sullivan, John Sweeney, Brian Mangan.

Co. U-12 Football Championship

The U-12 team commenced training on Sun. 20^th Feb. under Patsy Joy (trainer/coach). There were six teams in Div. 1, Austin Stacks, Laune Rangers, Kerins O Rahillys, Legion, Dr. Crokes and John Mitchels.

 

Rd. 1 on Wed. 6^th April at Killarney: Legion 3-5; Laune Rangers 2-8.

Laune Rangers: Brian Curtayne, Kieran Moriarty, Timothy Linehan, Nessan Diggin, Pa Murphy, Brian Mangan, Eoin Joy, Billy O Sullivan, Paudie O Shea, Michael Lynch, Timmy Corkery, Jason Griffin, Adrian Hassett, Danny O Sullivan, Stephen Corkery. Subs: John Joe O Sullivan for S. Corkery, John O Donnell for E. Joy, Ivor Falvey, Malcolm Sweeney, Billy Dermody.

Cars – Tom Curtayne, Tom O Shea, Bart Moriarty, Patsy Joy, Donie Griffin and Anna Joy.

 

Rd. 2 on Wed. 13^th April at Killorglin: Laune Rangers 1-3; Austin Stacks 3-10.

Laune Rangers: Brian Curtayne, Kieran Moriarty, Timothy Linehan, Nessan Diggin, Pa Murphy, Brian Mangan, Eoin Joy, Billy O Sullivan, Paudie O Shea, Michael Lynch, Timmy Corkery, Jason Griffin, Stephen Corkery, Danny O Sullivan, Adrian Hassett. Subs: John O Donnell for P. O Shea, Peter Byrne for A. Hassett.

Ref: Pat Sweeney (Fossa).

 

Rd. 3 on Wed. 20^th April at Killarney: Dr. Crokes 1-0; Laune Rangers 4-10.

Laune Rangers: Brian Curtayne, Kieran Moriarty, Timothy Linehan, Nessan Diggin, Pa Murphy, Brian Mangan, Eoin Joy, Billy O Sullivan, Paudie O Shea, Michael Lynch, Timmy Corkery, Jason Griffin, Danny O Sullivan, Ivor Falvey, John O Donnell. Subs: Peter Byrne, Malcolm Sweeney, Adrian Hassett, John Joe O Sullivan.

Cars – Patsy Joy, Peggy O Donnell, Noreen Griffin, Mike Hassett, Tom Curtayne.

 

Rd. 4 on Thurs. 28^th April at Clounalour: Kerins O Rahillys 3-6; Laune Rangers 4-10.

Laune Rangers: Brian Curtayne, Kieran Moriarty, Timothy Linehan, Nessan Diggin, Pa Murphy, Brian Mangan, Eoin Joy, Billy O Sullivan, Timmy Corkery, Michael Lynch, Ivor Falvey, Jason Griffin, Adrian Hassett, Danny O Sullivan, John O Donnell. Subs: Peter Byrne, Stephen Corkery.

Cars – Patsy Joy, Peggy O Donnell, Noreen Griffin, Anna Joy, Sean Moriarty, Mary Fenton.

Ref: Patsy Joy (Laune Rangers).

 

Rd. 5 on Wed. 4^th May at Killorglin: Laune Rangers w/o; John Mitchels scr.

 

Semi-final on Mon. 16^th May at Milltown: Laune Rangers 1-4; Kerins O Rahillys 1-3.

Laune Rangers were 1-3 to 0-0 in arrears at halftime. The team rallied in the second half after Ivor Falvey had opened the scoring with a point.

Laune Rangers: Brian Curtayne, Kieran Moriarty, Timothy Linehan, Nessan Diggin, Eoin Joy, Brian Mangan, Pa Murphy, Billy O Sullivan, Timmy Corkery, Michael Lynch, Paudie O Shea, Jason Griffin, John O Donnell, Danny O Sullivan, Adrian Hassett. Subs: Ivor Falvey for D. O Sullivan, Peter Byrne.

Ref: Michael Murphy (Milltown/Castlemaine).

Cars – Patsy Joy, Tom Curtayne, Tom O Shea, Peggy O Donnell, Bart Moriarty, Mike Hassett.

 

Final on Fri. 27^th May at Fossa: Austin Stacks v Laune Rangers.

The game was called off because Stacks could not field a team!

 

Final on Fri. 3^rd June at Fossa: Austin Stacks 3-7; Laune Rangers 2-3.

Laune Rangers: Brian Curtayne, Kieran Moriarty, Timothy Linehan, Nessan Diggin, John O Donnell, Brian Mangan, Pa Murphy, Billy O Sullivan, Timmy Corkery, Michael Lynch, Adrian Hassett, Jason Griffin, Danny O Sullivan, Ivor Falvey, Paudie O Shea. Subs: Peter Byrne, Eoin Joy, John Joe O Sullivan.

Ref: Dan O Sullivan (Currow).

 

Co. U-12B Football Championship

Six teams took part, Austin Stacks, Kerins O Rahillys, Legion, Dr. Crokes, Na Gaeil and Laune Rangers.

 

Rd. 1 on Tues. 31^st May at Tralee: Austin Stacks ‘B’ v Laune Rangers ‘B’.

Rd. 2 on Thurs. 2^nd June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ v Legion ‘B’.

Rd. 3 on Tues. 7^th June at Tralee: Na Gaeil ‘B’ v Laune Rangers ‘B’.

Rd. 4 on Tues. 14^th June at Killorglin: Laune Rangers ‘B’ lost to Austin Stacks ‘B’.

 

The Mid-Kerry Board did not run an U-12 competition.

 

U-12 Football Challenge Game

 

Wed. 25^th May at Castelisland: Desmonds lost to Laune Rangers.

 

U-10 Football

There was no competition for that age-group but Tommy Woods held weekly coaching sessions, during which the basic skills of the game were taught.

 

Schools’/Colleges’ Football

 

Mid-Kerry Primary Schools’ Competition

That competition was based on the number of teachers in the schools. Laune Rangers entered six teams, Cromane, Glounaguillagh, Douglas and 3 teams from Scoil Mhuire.

Finals on Sun. 5^th June at Killorglin:

4 Teachers Schools: Kilgobnet N.S. beat Scoil Mhuire ‘A’ (Tommy Byrne).

3 Teachers Schools: Glounaguillagh N.S. beat Fybagh N.S.

2 Teachers Schools: Boheishill N.S. beat Curraheen N.S.

 

Laune Rangers Primary Schools’ Competition

There were six teams, Cromane (Patsy Joy, trainer), Douglas (Bertie Houlihan, trainer), Glounaguillagh (Noel O Mahony, trainer) and three teams from Scoil Mhuire (Tommy Woods, Mícheál Scanlon, Vincent Moriarty and Jerome Conway, trainers).

Finals on Sun. 3^rd July at Killorglin;

‘A’ (Patsy Foley Trophy); Cromane beat Scoil Mhuire ‘A’ (Tommy Byrne) by one point.

‘B’; Scoil Mhuire ‘B’ (Timmy Corkery) beat Scoil Mhuire ‘C’ (Frankie Brennan).

‘C’; Douglas beat Glounaguillagh.

 

Kerry Vocational Schools’ Intermediate (U-19) Championship

Semi-final on Wed. 20^th April at Killorglin: Killorglin V.S. 1-10; Kenmare V.S. 1-3.

Paud Hogan opened the scoring for Killorglin with a point in the fifth minute and David Lynch levelled for Kenmare in the twelfth minute. Killorglin dominated for the remainder of the first half and led at halftime by 0-5 to 0-2. Kenmare’s Patsy O Sullivan tied the scores three minutes into the second half when he goaled from a penalty. Brian O Sullivan pointed a free for Killorglin and then a rather fortuitous goal in the thirty-sixth minute from the boot of Gerard Casey, which got a deflection, left the home side in a strong position. A gallant Kenmare side gave it everything but they were unable to stop Killorglin adding a further four points to their tally before the end. Best for Killorglin were Bertie Griffin (Milltown/Castlemaine), Paul Moriarty (Glenbeigh), Michael Moriarty (Laune Rangers) and Jamie Courtney (Listry). Scorers for Killorglin were Gerard Casey (Laune Rangers) 1-2, Brian O Sullivan (Laune Rangers) 0-4, Paud Hogan (Milltown/Castlemaine) 0-2, James Moriarty (Glenbeigh) 0-2.

Ref: Bart Moriarty (Laune Rangers).

 

Final: Listowel V.S. defeated Killorglin V.S.

 

Kerry Vocational Schools’ U-16 Football Championship

Final at the end of Jan. in Killarney: Rathmore V.S. 1-5; Killorglin V.S. 1-3.

Rathmore, the holders, retained that title. The game was played in perfect conditions and both sides were evenly matched. The sides were level at 0-2 each at the interval. Two quick points by Liam Murphy and a goal by Andreas O Sullivan set Rathmore on its way to victory. Then Michael Moriarty (Laune Rangers) hit the crossbar and that was a vital let-off for Rathmore. Michael Finnegan increased their lead with a point before John Gamble (Laune Rangers) scored a point and a great goal from the boot of Dermot Griffin (Laune Rangers) came too late for Killorglin. Outstanding for Killorglin were Austin McGinley, Bertie Griffin, John Gamble, Jamie Courtney, Michael Moriarty and Paud Hogan.

Killorglin: Austin McGinley (Keel), Patrick McKenna (Laune Rangers), Bertie Griffin (Milltown/Castlemaine), T. Murphy, John Gamble (Laune Rangers) 0-1, James Moriarty (Glenbeigh), Dermot Clifford (Laune Rangers), Michael Moriarty (Laune Rangers), Jamie Courtney (Listry) 0-1, Gerard Casey (Laune Rangers), Paud Hogan (Milltown/Castlemaine) 0-1, Cyril Morris, Joe Kennedy (Laune Rangers), T.J. Horgan (Milltown/Castlemaine), Timmy Moroney (Laune Rangers). Sub: Dermot Griffin (Laune Rangers) 1-0.

 

Co. Vocational Schools’ First Years’ Championship

Final in mid-March at Listry: Killorglin V.S. 1-5; Killarney V.S. 1-1.

In the whole competition, the team, trainer by Myles Coffey, scored a total of twenty goals and thirty-two points.

Killorglin Panel: John Foley, John Clifford (Laune Rangers), Sean O Dowd, Gerard Foley (Laune Rangers), Liam Cronin (Milltown/Castlemaine), Brian O Keeffe (Laune Rangers), Padraig Horan, Bertie O Riordan (Laune Rangers), Thomas O Brien, Bryan Dowd, Michael O Sullivan , Ronan Diggin (Laune Rangers), Paul Sheehan, Ian Wharton (Laune Rangers), Patie Casey (Laune Rangers), Liam Condon, John O Sullivan (Laune Rangers), Randle Joy (Beaufort), Paul McKenna (Laune Rangers), Sean Costello (Laune Rangers), Kevin Heffernan (Laune Rangers), Anthony Griffin, Cyril Morris (Firies), Mick Murphy, Gerard Naughton (Laune Rangers).

 

Higher Education Colleges’ Football

Special Freshers (1^st Years) Final on Mon. 2^nd May at Rathcoole: RTC, Tralee 1-8; Ulster Polytechnic 1-5.

Tralee had beaten Athlone RTC, Galway RTC and Sligo RTC on its way to the final. Tommy Foley (Laune Rangers) was a substitute.

 

Co. Vocational Schools’ Senior Championship

Semi-final on Tues. 15^th Nov. at Mitchels Pitch: Listowel 1-7; Killorglin 1-3.

There was a great battle for supremacy in the first half but both defences came out on top and the teams were level (0-3 each) at the interval. Listowel broke through for the all-important gaol midway through the second half and they added the vital points to make the outcome safe before Killorglin goaled from the penalty spot just before full-time. Best for Killorglin were Bertie Griffin (Milltown/Castlemaine), Paul Moriarty (Glenbeigh) and James Courtney (Listry).

 

Co. Vocational Schools’ U-16 Championship

Semi-final replay on Wed. 23^rd Nov. at Austin Stack Park: Tralee 2-10; Killorglin 4-1.

That match was one of the best Kerry vocational schools matches played in a long time. The few lucky passers-by, who had dropped into the field around lunch-time, were treated to an excellent display of football, six superb goals and a dramatic comeback by Tralee, who were four goals in arrears after twenty minutes.

Killorglin started in devastating fashion, scoring four goals per James O Sullivan, Cyril Morris, James Courtney and Austin McGinley. Tralee replied with a point and a goal by Anthony Gleeson from the penalty spot, to leave the halftime score at 4-0 to 1-1. Aided by the strong wind, Tralee whittled away at the Killorglin lead and eventually drew level six minutes from time. Two further points made the issue safe.

Killorglin: John Cronin, Liam Cronin, T. Murphy, James Moriarty, J. O Sullivan, Pat McKenna (Lonart), James Courtney, Austin McGinley, Cyril Morris, James O Shea, James O Sullivan, Gerald Woods, Bertie O Riordan, Randle Joy, Patie Casey. Sub: Tommy Stack for J. Courtney (inj.).

 

Kerry/Munster Colleges U-18 Football Championship

In Dec. Intermediate School, Killorglin had qualified for the Munster semi-final.

 

Kerry/Munster Colleges U-16 Football Championship

In Dec. Intermediate School, Killorglin had qualified for the Munster semi-final.

 

Kerry Colleges’ First Years’ Football Championship

In Dec. Intermediate School, Killorglin had qualified to meet St. Michael’s, Listowel in the county semi-final.

 

Schools’/Colleges’ Hurling

 

Kerry Colleges U-16 Hurling Championship

Rd. 1 in mid-April: Intermediate School, Killorglin 6-2; St. Brendan’s, Killarney 2-0.

Intermedaite School: D. Murphy, Robert Evans, Paul Gillespie, John Sheehan, Tony Ahern, Vincent Hearne, Anthony Clifford, J. Buckley, Michael Moriarty, Cormac O Shea, Eoin Mangan, Pat Hannon, Ronan O Shea, S. O Connor, Brendan Hearne. Subs: Patrick Brennan, Mark O Connor, Kenneth O Sullivan.

 

Co. Intermediate Hurling Championship

 

Rd. 1 on Mon. 1^st Aug. at Tralee: Shannon Rovers 3-5; Killorglin 1-1.

 

Co. Senior Hurling League Div. 3

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 24^th April at Killorglin: Killorglin 6-5; Killahan 1-4.

One of the stars of the game was Mossy Joy, who scored three goals from corner-forward.

Killorglin: Gerard Murphy, James Clifford, Jim O Malley, Michael Sweeney, Ciarán O Callaghan, L. Dowling, Jerry Foley, Pat Pigott, J. Moloney, Liam Healy, Joe O Malley, Johnny Byrnes, Francis Mangan, Mossy Joy.

Ref: Jack Harrington (Ballyduff).

 

Rd. 2 on Sun. 8^th May at Killorglin: Killorglin 1-1; Ballinclogher 1-6.

That Ballinclogher team contained four players who had played in the previous year’s Co. Senior Hurling final with Lixnaw.

Killorglin: Gerard Murphy, James Clifford, Jim O malley, Michael Sweeney, Jerry Foley, Ray Walsh, Ciarán O Callaghan, Pat Pigott, Liam Healy, Johnny Byrnes, Joe O Malley, John Whelan, Mossy Joy, Francis Mangan, Dermot Goggin. Subs: Gene Evans for J. Whelan, Harry Carey for F. Mangan, Michael Cronin (Milltown) for M. Joy.

 

Rd. 3 on Thurs. 2^nd June at Ardfert: Ballyheigue ‘B’ w/o; Killorglin scr.

Only eight players travelled and the points had to be conceded. The eight that travelled, Jim O Malley, Liam Healy, Pat Pigott, John Whelan, Jerry Foley, Gerard Murphy, James Clifford and Dermot Goggin teamed up with seven Ballyheigue players to play a most enjoyable game.

 

South-Kerry Senior Hurling League

 

At Dingle: Dingle 2-8; Killorglin 3-2.

 

Co. Minor Hurling Championship

 

Rd. 1 on Fri. 22^nd July at Abbeydorney: Abbeydorney 2-0; Killorglin 5-5.

That was Killorglin’s debut in the Co. Minor Hurling Championship and the team had to travel to Abbeydorney as a venue could not be found in Tralee.

Killorglin: Joe Purcell, Ronan O Shea, Vincent Hearne, Fergal O Shea, Martin Joy, Ciarán O Callaghan, Paul Gillespie, Richard O Connor, Gerard Murphy, Joe Kennedy, Gerard O Connor (Dooks), Michael Fleming, John Sheehan, Tomás Hayes, Brian O Sullivan. Subs: Timmy Moroney and Brendan Hearne.

 

Rd. 2 on Sat. 20^th Aug. at Milltown: Killorglin 4-5; St. Brendan’s 2-11.

That was a thrilling game, with Killorglin coming from behind to draw level just before full time. That was a first-class performance from a young team that contained nine players under sixteen years of age.

Killorglin: Joe Purcell, Ronan O Shea, Vincent Hearne, Fergal O Shea, Martin Joy, Ciarán O Callaghan, Eoin Mangan, Gerard Murphy, Richard O Connor, Bernard O Sullivan, James Clifford, Gerald O Connor, John Sheehan, Tomás Hayes, Michael Fleming. Subs: Michael Moriarty, Joe Kennedy, Cormac O Shea, Dermot Clifford, Anthony Clifford, Shane O Sullivan, J. Corkery, Tony Ahern.

 

Replay: St. Brendan’s 4-6; Killorglin 0-2.

 

Munster Inter-Divisional U-16 Hurling Championship

 

Sat. 26^th March at Killarney; South-Kerry lost to North-Kerry.

Killorglin had the following representatives on the South-Kerry team Joe Purcell, Ronan  Shea, Shane  Sullivan, Eoin Mangan, Anthony Clifford, Joe Kennedy, Paul Gillespie and Richard  Connor.

 

Co. U-16 Hurling Championship

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 24^th July at Killorglin: Killorglin beat Austin Stacks.

Killorglin: Joe Purcell, Ronan O Shea, Vincent Hearne, Michael O Connor (Glencar), Gerard Clifford, Paul Gillespie, Tony Ahern, Richard O Connor, Eoin Mangan, Joe Kennedy, Gerard O Connor (Dooks), Cormac O Shea (Beaufort), John Sheehan, Michael Brosnan, Shane O Sullivan. Subs: Robert Evans, Kenneth O Sullivan, J. Corkery, Paul Griffin, Timmy Fleming, Mark O Connor.

 

Rd. 2 on Sun. 31^st July at Killarney: St. Patrick’s lost to Killorglin.

Killorglin: Joe Purcell, Ronan O Shea, Vincent Hearne, Michael O Connor (Glencar), Dermot Clifford, Paul Gillespie, Anthony Clifford, Richard O Connor, Eoin Mangan, Cormac O Shea, Gerard O Connor (Dooks), Michael Moriarty, Shane O Sullivan, Patrick Brennan, John Sheehan. Subs: Kenneth O Sullivan, J. Corkery, Mark O Connor, Brendan Hearne.

 

Rd. 3 on Sun. 7^th Aug. at Kenmare: Kenmare 1-0; Killorglin 4-3.

Killorglin: Joe Purcell, Ronan O Shea, Vincent Hearne, Michael O Connor (Glencar), Dermot Clifford, Paul Gillespie, A. Clifford, Richard O Connor, Eoin Mangan, Cormac O Shea (Beaufort), Gerard O Connor, Joe Kennedy, Shane O Sullivan, Patrick Brennan, Edward Moriarty. Subs: John Sheehan, Timmy Fleming, J. Corkery, M. O Connell, Brendan Hearne.

 

Semi-final at the end of Aug: Ballyduff  0-5; Killorglin 0-3.

Many felt that Killorglin had been deprived of a legitimate goal in the second half of that game.

 

South-Kerry U-16 Hurling Championship

 

Final on Sun. 20^th Nov. at Milltown: Killorglin 3-0; Kenmare/Kilgarvan 1-6.

After a tremendously exciting encounter, Killorglin were lucky to snatch a draw, when a last gasp goal was scored by Paul Griffin. Outstanding for Killorglin were Paul Gillespie, Vincent Hearne, Dermot Clifford, Richard O Connor and Eoin Mangan.

Killorglin: Joe Purcell, Ronan O Shea, Vincent Hearne, Michael O Connor (Glencar), Anthony Clifford, Paul Gillespie, Dermot Clifford, Michael Moriarty, Richard O Connor, Cormac O Shea (Beaufort), Eoin Mangan, Joe Kennedy (2-0), John Sheehan, Gerard O Connor (Dooks), Patrick Brennan. Subs: Shane O Sullivan for J. Sheehan, Paul Griffin (1-0) for G. O Connor, Sean Fenton, M. O Connell, J. Corkery.

 

Final replay on Sun. 11^th Dec. at Kilgarvan: Kenmare/Kilgarvan 3-3; Killorglin 1-0.

The game was played in atrocious weather conditions. Kenmare scored three goals in the opening ten minutes, with Denis Randles in brilliant form and, although Killorglin matched them for the remaining fifty minutes, the vital scores did not come and Kenmare were the victors.

Killorglin: Joe Purcell, Ronan O Shea, Vincent Hearne, Eoin Mangan, Anthony Clifford, Paul Gillespie, Dermot Clifford, Michael Moriarty, Richard O Connor, Joe Kennedy, Gerard O Connor, Cormac O Shea, Shane O Sullivan, Sean Gamble, Patrick Brennan. Subs: Pat McKenna, John Sheehan, Sean Fenton, M. O Connell, Brendan Hearne, J. Corkery.

 

Co. U-15 Hurling Championship

 

Rd. 1 in mid-Sept: Kenmare 7-0; Killorglin 2-1.

 

Co. U-14 Hurling (Féile na nGael)

The team commenced training in the Vocational School’s Field on Sat. 12^th March under Michael Sweeney, James Clifford, Jerry Foley, Liam Healy, Dermot Goggin and Gerard Murphy. Killorglin was grouped with Austin Stacks, St. Patrick’s (East-Kerry) and Kenmare.

 

Rd. 1 on Sat. 9^th April at Caherslee, Tralee: Austin Stacks v Killorglin.

The game was postponed due to the condition of the pitch.

 

Rd. 2 on Sat. 16^th April at Killorglin: Killorglin 7-4; St. Patrick’s 2-0.

Killorglin: Adrian O Connor, Mark Murphy, Tommy Byrne, Gerald Brick, Mark O Connor, Timmy Fleming, Laurence Hogan, Paul Griffin, Pat McKenna (Steelroe), Bernard O Sullivan, John Byrne, Barry Lynch, Kevin Galvin, Tommy Stack, Padraig Lynch. Subs: Paul Curtayne, Dan Horgan, Tim O Connor, Pa Murphy, Timothy Jones, John Sweeney (Steelroe).

 

Rd. 3 on Sat. 23^rd April at Killorglin: Killorglin 1-0; Kenmare 5-2.

Killorglin: Dominic Jones, Mark Murphy, Tommy Byrne, Fergus O Meara, Mart O Connor, Pat McKenna, Laurence Hogan, John Byrne, Paul Griffin, Bernard O Sullivan, Tommy Stack, Sean Fenton, Barry Lynch, Brendan Hearne, Padraig Lynch. Subs: Tim O Connor, Pat Hannon, Dan Horgan, Mark O Sullivan, Paul Curtayne, Kevin Galvin, John Sweeney.

 

Rd. 1 on Sun. 1^st May at, Caherslee, Tralee: Austin Stacks 4-0; Killorglin 7-4.

Killorglin: Adrian O Connor, John Sweeney, Pat McKenna, Gerard Clifford, Laurence Hogan, Tommy Byrne, Sean Fenton, Mark O Connor, Paul Griffin, Dominic Jones, John Byrne, Barry Lynch, Bernard O Sullivan, Brendan Hearne, Kevin Galvin. Subs: Billy O Sullivan, Tim O Connor, Padraig Lynch, Mark Murphy, Mark O Sullivan.

 

Play-off on Sun. 8^th May at Tralee: Ballyheigue 4-1; Killorglin 2-1.

Killorglin: Adrian O Connor, Dan Horgan, Pat McKenna, Fergus O Meara, Barry Lynch, Tommy Byrne, Sean Fenton, Mark O Connor, Paul Griffin, Bernard O Sullivan, John Byrne, Laurence Hogan, Dominic Jones, Brendan Hearne, Gerard Clifford. Subs: John Sweeney, Padriag Lynch, Mark Murphy, Mark O Sullivan, Kevin Galvin.

 

Co. U-14 Hurling Championship

 

Rd. 1 on Mon. 18^th July: Killorglin had a big win over Crotta O Neills.

Killorglin: Billy O Sullivan, Gerard Clifford, Pat McKenna, Pat Costello, Dominic Jones, Timmy Fleming, Barry Lynch, Paul Griffin, Laurence Hogan, Mark O Connor, J. Murphy, Kevin Galvin, Bernard O Sullivan, Brendan Hearne, Padraig Lynch. Subs: John Sweeney, Timmy Corkery, Danny O Sullivan, A. Fitzgerald, Adrian O Connor.

 

Semi-final: Kilmoyley beat Killorglin.

Killorglin: Billy O Sullivan, Kevin Galvin, Pat McKenna, Gerard Clifford, Mark o Connor, Timmy Fleming, Barry Lynch, John Byrne, Paul Griffin, Laurence Hogan, Tommy Stack, Tommy Byrne, Padriag Lynch, Brendan Hearne, J. Murphy. Subs: Adrian O Connor, John Sweeney, Mark Murphy, Timmy Corkery, Timothy Jones, Dominic Jones, Fergus O Meara.

 

U-12 Hurling Blitz

 

Sat. 11^th June at Killarney: St. Patrick’s Blitz.

That blitz was organised by the South-Kerry Hurling Board and hosted by St. Patrick’s. The Killorglin lads had to play six games, each of twenty minutes duration and they scored a total of 7-33 and conceded 2-5. It was Killorglin’s first U-12 title.

Killorglin: Danny O Sullivan, Paudie O Shea, Pa Murphy, Timmy Corkery, Billy O Sullivan, Peter Byrne, David Gillespie, Malcolm Sweeney, Patrick Clifford, Alan Fitzpatrick, John O Donnell, Robert Kennedy, Timmy Linehan and Raymond O Sullivan.

 

All-Ireland Minor ‘B’ Hurling Championship

Gerard Murphy, Richard O Connor, Paul Gilespie and Vincent Hearne were on the Kerry Minor Hurling panel for the Munster Minor Hurling Championship versus Limerick.

 

Rd. 1 on Sat. 30^th July at Causeway: Kerry 8-14; Roscommon 0-1.

Scorers for Kerry were Sean McCrohan 3-2, Mike Crowley 1-3, Sean O Rourke 1-2, Gerard Murphy 1-1 John Curran 1-0, Paddy Harty 1-0, Mike Fitzgerald 0-3, Jerome O Sullivan 0-2, Seamie Sheehan 0-1.

 

Final on Sat. 3^rd Sept. at Nenagh: Kerry 1-15; Meath 3-9.

Gerard Murphy scored 0-1 from left half-forward.

 

Final replay on Sat. 17^th Sept. at Nenagh: Meath 2-10; Kerry 2-7.

Kerry: Eamann Murnane (Ballyheigue), James McCarthy (Crotta), Sean O Rourke (Lixnaw), Anthony O Connor (Causeway), Seamus Sheehan (do.), Eamonn Young (Kilmoyley), Martin Conway (Lixnaw), Jerome O Sullivan (Kilmoyley),  Mike Fitzgerald (St. Brendan’s), Paddy Harty (Ballyheigue) capt., Mike O Shea (Kenmare), Gerard Murphy (Killorglin), Mike Crowley (St. Brendan’s), Sean McCrohan (do.), Donal Cronin (Kenmare).

 

Munster/All-Ireland U-21 Football Championship

 

Trial on Mon. 13^th June at Fitzgerald Stadium: Kerry ‘A’ v Kerry ‘B’.

Paudie Sheahan played at centre halfback on the ‘B’ team, Joe Shennon played at right half-forward and Pierce Prendiville was a substitute.

 

Rd. 1 on Wed. 3^rd Aug. in Tipperary Town: Tipperary 0-10; Kerry 4-10.

Joe Shannon started at left half-forward and finished at right halfback. Paudie Sheahan started at right halfback but was replaced early in the first half.

 

Semi-Final: Kerry 0-12; Limerick 0-7.

 

Final on Wed. 7^th Sept. at Castleisland: Kerry 1-10; Cork 0-12.

Kerry: Rory Kilgallon (John Mitchels), Pat O Grady (Glenbeigh), Mike Crowley (Austin Stacks), Liam Hartnett (Dr. Crokes), Davy Keane (Kerins O Rahillys), John Higgins (John Mitchels), Johnny Clifford (Dr. Crokes), Ambrose O Donovan (Gneeveguilla), Joe Shannon (Laune Rangers), Willie O Connor (Desmonds), Willie Maher (Milltown/Castlemaine) 0-3, Liam Liddy (Tarbert), Tommy Parker (Dr. Crokes), Sean Liston (Beale) 0-2, Michael McAuliffe (Spa) 1-5. Subs: Liam Kerins (Austin Stacks) for W. O Connor, John Costello (Beale) for T. Parker, M. J. Moynihan (Glenflesk) for L. Liddy, Tommy Sheehy (Ballylongford), Paudie Sheahan (Laune Rangers), Michael Keating (Waterville), Willie Maher (Milltown/Castlemaine), Richard O Brien (Legion), Tom Dee (Ballylongford), John Gallagher (Valentia).  .

 

All-Ireland Semi-final on Sun. 25^th Sept. at Ennis: Mayo 3-6; Kerry 0-7.

Joe Shannon played some heart-warming football at midfield.

Kerry: Rory Kilgallon, Pat O Grady, Mike Crowley, Liam Hartnett, Davy Keane, John Higgins, Johnny Clifford, Ambrose O Donovan, Joe Shannon (0-2), Pa O Donoghue (Dr. Crokes), Sean Liston (0-1), Liam Liddy, Tommy Parker, Willie Maher (0-1, free), Mike McAuliffe (0-3, 1 free). Subs: Michael Keating (Waterville) for T. Parker, Willie O Connor for A. O Donovan, John Kennedy (Ballylongford) for J. Clifford, Tommy Sheehy (Dingle), Paudie Sheahan (Laune Rangers), Richard O Brien (Legion), Liam Kerins (Austin Stacks).

 

National Football League 1983/’84

 

Sun. 23^rd Oct. at Newbridge: Kildare 0-8; Kerry 2-2.

Joe Shannon played at right half-forward but was replaced by John L. McElligott after the interval.

Administration/Miscellany

 

Paddy Buggy, Cill Cainning, was Uachtarán CLG.

Annual Congress was held in the Great Southern Hotel, Galway. James Coffey was on the Kerry delegation. At a Central Council meeting in April, An tUachtarán said that he thought that no one could suspend U-14 and U-15 players, but the individuals responsible for playing them should be answerable.

 

Brendan Vaughan, An Clár, was elected Chairman of the Munster Council, Donie Nealon, Tiobrad Árainn, was Secretary and Tadhg Crowley, Ciarraí, was Treasurer. James Coffey and Jerome Conway were appointed onto the Kerry delegation to the Munster Council Annual Convention, which was held in Páirc Uí Chaoimh on 4^th March.

 

Kerry County Board Annual Convention was held on Sun. 30^th Jan. in the Pavilion, Austin Stack Park, Tralee. Laune Rangers Club was represented by Liam Shannon, Dan Carey, Noel O Mahony and Bart Moriarty. Pat Lynch represented Killorglin Hurling Club. The following officers were elected: President – Mícheál Ó Ruairc, Chairman – Frank King, Vice-Chairman – Sean Kelly, Secretary – Gerald Whyte, Joint-Treasurers – Murt Galvin and James Coffey, PRO – Denis P. O Sullivan, Oifigeach na Gaeilge – Derry Murphy, Youth Officer – Jerome Conway, Delegates to Munster Council – Michael O Connor and Dave Geaney (At the Munster Council Convention, Michael O Connor was elected as Vice-Chairman. Anthony O Keeffe was elected as delegate to the Munster Council at the Co. Board meeting on Mon. 11^th April. Six others had been nominated for the position, Jerome Conway, P.J. McIntyre, Tom Keane, Pat O Shea,, Donie Sheehan and Pat Healy but they withdrew their names.), Delegate to Central Council – Gerald McKenna.

Senior Selection Committee – Mick O Dwyer, Liam Higgins, Joe Keohane, Pat O Shea and Eddie O Sullivan.

Minor Selection Committee – Joe Langan, Tarbert (108), John Bambury, Dingle (104), Paudie Herlihy, Knocknagoshel (103), Michael Price, Kenmare (96), Donie O Leary, Spa (83), all elected, Donie O Leary, Rathmore (78), John Galvin, Dr. Crokes (73).

Laune Rangers had two motions on the ‘Clár’.

“That Rule 74 O.G. be amended to read, ‘That Divisional and Group teams, winning a Senior County Championship in either football or hurling, may participate in the Provincial or All-Ireland Championships.’ That was passed and forwarded to Congress.

‘That each affiliated club in the county supply at least one active referee to Senior Co. Board and Bord na nOg, penalty in this respect to be decided by Co. Board.’ That was carried.

 

Co. Referees’ Committee: Chairman – Weeshie Fogarty, Secretary – Bart Moriarty.

 

Co. Board GPC was elected at the Co. Board meeting on 14^th March – Murt Galvin (Chairman), Jerome Conway (Chairman Bord na nOg Chiarraí), Paddy Gallagher (Valentia), Timmy Carmody (Ardfert), Pádraig Lynch (Dingle), Pat Murphy (Austin Stacks), Jack Harrington (Ballyduff), Richie Williams (Fossa), Derry Murphy (Dingle), James Broderick (Causeway) and P.J. McIntyre (Kenmare).

 

A Coaching Committee, to be known as Coiste Oiliúna, was set up by the Chairman of the Co. Board, Frank King, on Wed. 1^st Dec. 1982. The Chairman was Mickey O Sullivan (Kenmare) and the secretary was Jerome Conway (Laune Rangers). Other members of the committee were Mick O Dwyer, John O Keeffe, Jimmy Deenihan and John Fitzpatrick (Killorglin Hurling Club). Paudie O Shea was co-opted later on to the committee.

A Coaching Course was organised on Sat. 6^th/Sun. 7^th Jan. and Sat. 15^th Jan. in the Fitzgerald Stadium, Killarney. There were, in fact, two courses, one for minor coaches under the instruction of John O Keeffe, Ogie Moran and Paudie Herlihy (Kerry Minor Football Trainer) and the other for senior coaches (those who had done a minor course about two years previously) under Mickey O Sullivan and Jimmy Deenihan. Guest speakers at the courses were Dave Geaney and Weeshie Fogarty. The course began at 10.00am each day and finished at 6.30pm. The administrator of the course was the Coiste Oiliúna Secretary, Jerome Conway. 70 people were awarded certificates, 28 passing the senior course and 42 the minor course. Amongst the former were Frank Walsh (Intermediate School) and Jimmy Foley (Vocational School, Killorglin). The following Laune Rangers coaches attended the minor coaching course: Noel O Mahony and Tommy Woods.

A Hurling Coaching Course of Primary Teachers was organised in the Austin Stack Park from Mon. July 4^th to Fri. 8^th July. The Course Director was Tommy O Riordan, originally from Limerick but living in Dublin, and the course Administrator was Jerome Conway. The lecturers included Donie Nealon, (Tipperary), Noreen Lynch (MITC), John Moloney (Tipperary) and Dr. Dave Geaney (Desmonds). 42 teachers, 21 of whom were female, attended.

 

At the Co. Board meeting on 13^th June, the Chairman (Frank King) read correspondence from Bord na nOg Chiarraí re the playing of 4 Laune Rangers U-14 players in Co. Clare in 1982. He then outlined the history of the case to date. He then read a letter from Michael F. O Shea, seeking clarification of his playing status. That was referred back to the Laune Rangers Club. The Chairman then read a letter from Pat O Shea, which stated that he wanted to make it quite clear that he had no responsibility for the players who played in Clare. He also stated that the notification from Bord na nOg re meetings had not been satisfactory. He then outlined his case. Jerome Conway, Chairman of Bord na nOg, stated that the decision to suspend the players had not been appealed. Denis P. O Sullivan praised the contributions made to the GAA by Pat O Shea, Jerome Conway and Jimmy Coffey. It had been a pity to see conflict between them. He felt that further discussion on the matter would not achieve anything. Joe Linnane, Chairman Bord na nOg GPC, said that they, in Bord na nOg, wanted to see justice done and seen to be done. He referred to the dilemma of Jerome Conway’s position, being Chairman of Bord na nOg and Secretary of Laune Rangers Club. In reply to Pat O Shea, he said that the young lads had answered the questions at Bord na nOg GPC with sincerity and one of the boys had been close to tears. They, in Bord na nOg, only wanted to ask Pat O Shea one question. The Chairman recommended that Pat O Shea would attend the Bord na nOg GPC and that the Chairman would accompany him.

Bord na nOg GPC again wrote to Pat O Shea inviting him to attend its meeting. On the scheduled date, the GPC convened, with the Chairman of Bord na nOg also in attendance. There was a knock at the door and a man entired – Michael Ahern, solicitor. He introduced himself and advised that he was representing Pat O Shea. He lectured the meeting on the seriouness of interfering with an individual’s good name and the possibility of litigation in such circumstances. He then left. Needless to say, the committee members were shocked and confused and it was decided that the whole matter should be referred to the Senior Board.

 

The Annual Convention of Co. Bord na nOg was held on Mon. 17^th Jan. in the Pavilion, Austin Stacks Park, Tralee. In the course of his address, the Chairman, Jerome Conway, was critical of some clubs in the county. ‘Sixteen clubs failed to send representatives to any of the coaching courses in the past two years, while other clubs should have sent more than one delegate,’ he said. ‘These clubs are not fulfilling their duties to their juveniles, to Bord na nOg or to Kerry football. If the number of games played in 1982 is taken as a guideline, then juvenile football and hurling are in a healthy state. But clubs should not be complacent and they must be prepared to work harder to make our games more attractive and enjoyable, if we are to attract juveniles before other codes. The fact that our games are Irish, is no longer sufficient reason for boys to compete and I urge those club officials to wake up to those facts.’ Referring to referees, he said that the turnout for the referees’ seminar was a source of disappointment and embarrassment to himself and to the Bord. Only six clubs were represented and yet clubs were complaining that referees were not turning up to their matches. He thanked the senior referees for their help and co-operation. He praised the great strides made by hurling over the year and congratulated all the winners, especially Kenmare. He thanked all those associated with the Co. U-16 Hurling team, which had reached the All-Ireland ‘B’ final. He thanked John Fitzpatrick for his work with Coiste Iomána and the Munster Council for organising a hurling course for national teachers. Causeway represented Kerry at Féile na nGael but many more clubs should have participated in the skills and long puck competitions. He said that some of the established hurling areas were falling behind and he hoped that the trend would be reversed. He welcomed St. Patrick’s, East-Kerry, a newly formed hurling club, to the Bord’s activities in 1983. He congratulated Dr. Crokes on reaching the semi-final of the All-Ireland Og Sport and he hoped that that the local county competition would be better supported, especially by the smaller rural clubs. He announced that the league groupings would be reviewed with more games for clubs. He thanked the Co. Senior Board for their assistance, especially in regard to the Co. Football Final programme. He praised his fellow officers, with Tom O Connor (Secretary) and Matt Flaherty (Treasurer) getting special mention for their excellent reports.

The following officers were elected: Chairman – Jerome Conway (Laune Rangers), Vice-Chairman – Joe Linnane (Ballydonoghue) beat Ger Doyle (Abbeydorney), Secretary – Tom O Connor (Lixnaw), Fixtures’ Secretary – Derry Sheehan (Desmonds), Treasurer – Bernie O Connor (Legion), Registrar – Sylvie Mason (John Mitchels), PRO – Eamonn O Sullivan (Desmonds). GPC – Joe Linnane, Patsy Cremin (Spa) and John M. McCarthy (St. Brendan’s).

 

The Annual Convention of the Mid-Kerry Board was held in Glenbeigh on Mon. 24^th Jan. The outgoing Chairman, James Coffey, did not seek re-election, thus severing thirty years of continuous association with the Board. In the course of his address to one of the best attended conventions in years, James Coffey paid tribute to some of the great officers of the Board he had had the pleasure of working with. He singled out Father Dan Griffin, Father Brian Kelly, Willie Barton, Pat O Shea, Kevin Griffin, Paddy Clifford and Maurice Harmon. He paid tribute to the President of the Board, Murt Kelly, who had been a founder of the Board and who had served it well for many years as its representative at Co. Board and as a county selector. ‘I don’t think I would ever have become so involved in the affairs of Mid-Kerry were it not for the influence of Murt Kelly and his predecessor, the late Paddy Foley,’ he said. The outgoing Chairman said that the displays of Mid-Kerry senior and minor teams in recent years had been disappointing. He called for more commitment from the players who, he said, were, at that time, putting their clubs before the divisional team. He called on the convention to discuss the serious problem that existed at that time with the Co. Championship teams and he appealed to Beaufort, Glenbeigh, Keel and Milltown/Castlemaine to break with amalgamations and enter their own team in the Co. Minor Football League. He said that if those clubs did not look after their minors, they would pay the penalty later. Concluding, he thanked the club officials, players and trainers for their co-operation down through the years. He wished the Board and its teams every success in future years. ‘I depart the scene bearing no grudge against any individual or club,’ he said. Indeed, he said that his connections with Mid-Kerry had given him many years of pleasure and some great memories would always remain with him. Glowing tributes were paid to James Coffey by the various clubs.

The Secretary, Maurice Harmon, in the course of a detailed report, made a strong attack on the attitude of clubs to the Board’s referees and he called for an end to it.

The following officers were elected: President – Murt Kelly (Beaufort), Chairman – Noel Spillane (Beaufort), Vice-Chairman – Michael McCarthy (Milltown/Castlemaine) beat Jim Moriarty (Glenbeigh) by 18 votes to 6, Hon. Secretary – Paddy Clifford (Milltown/Castlemaine), Treasurers – George Evans (Keel) and Maurice Harmon (Laune Rangers), PRO – Maurice Harmon (Laune Rangers), Delegate to Co. Board – Maurice Harmon (Laune Rangers). The following motions were carried:

1. ‘That the Mid-Kerry Novice Championship be discontinued.’ (Glenbeigh).
2. ‘That all Mid-Kerry games be refereed by Mid-Kerry referees.’ (Milltown/Castlemaine).
3. ‘That the selection committee for the Mid-Kerry senior team be made up of one representative from each club plus the trainer.’

A motion from Laune Rangers Club, calling for the playing of all Senior Mid-Kerry Championship finals in the J.P. O Sullivan Park, Killorglin, was heavily defeated.

 

The minutes of eleven Mid-Kerry Board meetings, all except one of which were held in the J.P. O Sullivan Park, Killorglin, are available. The other meeting was held in the Paddy Burke Memorial Park, Milltown. The meetings dealt mostly with fixtures and matters arising from them.

At the Board meeting on Tues. 1^st February, it was decided that any club that did not provide two referees to the Board would forfeit its home games in the League.

On Tues. 15^th Feb. Jerome Conway, having been requested by the Board, conducted a seminar with the referees, instructing them on what was expected of them and how they should carry out their duties. Bart Moriarty distributed Referees’ Handbooks. The referees in attendance were Steve Caulfield and Michael O Sullivan (Glenbeigh), Pat Twiss and Michael Murphy (Milltown/Castlemaine) and Peter Lyons (Laune Rangers).

At the   meeting on Wed. 1^st June, the Chairman reported that he had been approached by a number of players on the Mid-Kerry Senior team, who had asked him to postpone the Mid-Kerry Senior Championship so that the Mid-Kerry team would have an opportunity to train properly for the Co. Senior Championship. A long discussion ensued. Eventually, Derry O Sullivan, Glenbeigh, proposed and Jim O Connor, Milltown/Castlemaine, seconded that the games should be postponed. Denny Flynn, Keel, proposed and Jerome Conway, Laune Rangers, seconded that the games should be played as scheduled. In the ensuing vote, the proposal to postpone the games was carried by 5 votes to 4.

At the Board meeting on Mon. 20^th June, letters were read from two individuals from the Laune Rangers Club. The first letter, dated 3^rd June and signed by Pádraig Ó Sé, stated that Laune Rangers ‘C’ team was seeking a ruling from the Co. Board on the decision of the Mid-Kerry Board to award the points from the Beaufort ‘B’ versus Laune Rangers ‘C’ game to Beaufort ‘B’. The second letter, dated 18^th June and signed by Michael Healy, requested that the Mid-Kerry Board reconsider its decision on 1^st June awarding the points of the Laune Rangers ‘C’ versus Beaufort ‘B’ game to Beaufort. Jerome Conway, Laune Rangers, said that he had been criticised for things he had never said. He also said that the whole thing was an internal problem for the Laune Rangers Club and the only place it could be sorted out was at a Laune Rangers Club meeting, but the gentlemen, who were writing those letters, did not attend meetings of the club. The Chairman said that he was not going to get involved in problems in the Laune Rangers Club. (That was proper procedure by the Chairman and, indeed, the letters should not have been entertained at all, as they had not been official correspondence from the Laune Rangers Club.)

 

James Coffey, Chairman of Laune Rangers Club, received the following letter, dated 6^th Jan. 1983:

“Dear James,

I wish to tender my resignation from the position of club representative to the Co. Board. My heart is not with Laune Rangers at the moment and it would be dishonest to continue in the above role. The above decision was taken after long contemplation and not in frustration on being defeated for the position of selector to the Laune Rangers club.

I maintain one should uphold a position of responsibility with dignity and act with integrity. Administrators should apply justice with equality and always give a balanced report.

It is with profound regret that I am forced to resign from the position of secretary to the juvenile committee rather than my wish. I am involved with the Laune Rangers juveniles from 1959 and in other words I have given then 24 years of unbroken service irrespective of what position I held in other boards. Laune Rangers were always my priority.

Were the four juveniles the only players from Laune Rangers to played with a second club in 1982? If the answer is no, what action did the officers of the club take and why was it not on the secretary’s report?

I will act as a selector to the Cromane team. Hoping that our personal friendship over the years will continue, wishing you and Laune Rangers every success in 1983. Sorry that I was forced to write this letter, it is better to be frank and truthful. I will deal with other matters as they relate to other Boards.

Yours in Sport,

Pat O Shea.”

It is to be presumed that the reference to administrators giving a balanced report referred to the Club Secretary’s Report to the AGM of the club on Jan. 2^nd. However, that report was factual and non-judgemental. Also, the officers of the club were not aware then, or since, of any other player or players that had played illegally with any other club in 1982.

 

The Secretary of Laune Rangers Club received the following letter, dated 16^th Jan. 1983:

“A Chara,

I hereby give notification of my resignation as (a) Asst. .Sec. (b) Selector of the ‘B’ team of Laune Rangers Club.

(a) I have become disillusioned with the treatment, which past officials have received in the recent past. It appears that some members and players who offer the Laune Rangers Club and the GAA only ‘lip service’ carry more ‘weight’ than people who have given a lifetime dedication to the Club. Some of these people are glad to get rid of officials but offer little else. The respect shown by players to officers and officials of all teams leaves a lot to be desired. Blame is cast upon everyone for failure but they are not honest either to team-mates, etc. or themselves. On examination it can be seen that commitment is lacking. For this reason and other personal reasons, I shall not continue as Asst. Sec.

(b) As regards being a selector with the ‘B’ team, I have offered my services to the Laune Rangers ‘C’ team. I believe I can play football for another year or two and could offer a little experience to this team. Being a ‘B’ selector would make this impossible. Also it would be unfair to my co-selectors and other players.

I wish to thank all officers, officials, players and members who have given me assistance during my term of office. It was a pleasure to work with and for some of these people but unfortunately I can no longer do so.

I wish the Laune Rangers Club officers, officials and players the best of luck in the future.

Thank You

Mise le Meas

Mícheál Ó Sé.”

 

The minutes of thirteen Laune Rangers Club meetings are available. The system allowed the sub-committees to report to the club meetings.

Social Sub-Committee (Joe Crowley).

It was decided to be more selective with the dates on which the club would run dances e.g. holiday periods.

Fri. 7^th Jan. – Reform.

Wed. 30^th March – Chips.

Fri. 8^th April – Reform.

Fri. 3^rd June – Reform.

Fri. 10^th June – Starband.

Fri. 17^th June – San Bernadino.

Fri. 24^th June – Zen Alligators.

It was reported at the meeting on Mon. 27^th June that the dances had been making a profit.

Fri. 1^st July – April South.

Fri. 8^th July – Lucky Numbers.

Fri. 15^th July – Chips.

Fri. 22^nd July – Nevada. 300 people attended. Net profit – £50.

Fri. 29^th July – The Lookalikes.

Fri. 5^th Aug. – Mama’s Boys.

Fri. 19^th Aug. – Reform.

Fri. 28^th Oct. – Street Talk.

Fri. 4^th Nov. – Reform

Fri. 16^th Dec. – Daddy Cool and the Lollipops.

Fri. 23^rd Dec. – Peter Rivers Band.

Fri. 30^th Dec. – Shrine.

 

Field Sub-Committee (Jim Galvin):

At the club meeting on Mon. 14^th Feb. Jim Galvin reported that the goalposts had been erected. Jim Casey had dug the holes for the cement posts at the lower end of the pitch. Donie Griffin was appointed to examine the main gate and remedy the problem.

At the club meeting on Mon. 28^th Feb. the Secretary was instructed to make out the rota for the National Football League game, Kerry v Down, in the J.P. O Sullivan Park on Sun. 13^th March. The arrangements were as follows:

Ticket Sellers – Edward Stack and Joe Shannon (Top of boreen at the western end of the field), Pat Lynch and Anthony Shannon (outside Mick Ahern’s house), Michael Foley and Pierce Prendiville (at the main gate), Maurice Harmon and Eamonn Crowley (at Kevin Foley’s gate), Frank Walsh and Michael O Shea (at Linehan’s Cross), John Clifford and John Fitzpatrick (at Mikey Kennedy’s gate), Liam Healy and Pa Foley (at Clifford’s gate), Pat O Grady and James O Riordan (at the speed-limit sign).

Gatemen – John Foley (Treasurer) and Con Griffin (at Western gate), Denis Lynch and James Foley (gate at Eastern side of pavilion), Michael Moriarty, Josie Fenton and Frank Russell (small gate near the main gate), John Evans and Pat Sheehan (Main gate).

Dressing-rooms – Dan Carey and John Galvin.

Catering – Bart Moriarty and the Ladies’ Committee.

Scoreboard – John Foley (Reen), Brian O Shea and Donie Griffin.

Gate into the pitch – Jim Galvin, Thomas Evans and Pat Horgan.

Press-box – Joe Crowley.

Parking outside the wall – Liam Shannon and James Sheehan.

Stewards at the low boundary wall – Gene Evans and Peter Lyons.

Linesman – Noel O Mahony. Amplification – Tommy Woods. Band – Myles Coffey.

Stewards in side the wire – Stand side (Patsy Joy, Liam Shannon, Pat Pigott, Jim Casey, James Sheehan and Donal Pigott. Eastern side (John Hurley, John Sheehan, John O Dwyer and Stephen Russell.

The game went off without a hitch and the result was a draw, 2-7 each. The pitch was in great condition and the stewarding left nothing to be desired. The Gardai did a fine job with the traffic management, Killorglin Mountaineering Club had their ambulance and first-aid on standby, the Ladies’ Committee looked after the catering and the shop, and members of Killorglin Hurling Club assisted with the ticket sales. The local Youth Band did a wonderful job in entertaining the attendance before the game and during the interval. The players and members demonstrated a wonderful show of strength, thereby ensuring that all arrangements were carried out properly.

In May in was decided to proceed with a children’s play-ground in the J.P. O Sullivan Park and to give a general overhaul to the showers and the dressing-rooms.

At the meeting on Mon. 25^th July, it was reported that the leaking flat roof on the pavilion had been fixed by Seamus Murphy, Jim Galvin, Bart Moriarty and Jerome Conway. The field had been cut and lined, the embankment had been cleaned up and Maura Tuohy was making flags.

In Dec. it was decided to close the pitch in preparation for the forthcoming National Football League game, Kerry versus Offaly. However, a certain amount of animals were trespassing and causing anxiety and the club advised the owner that action would be taken if the trespassing did not stop. That sorted out that problem.

 

Bord na nOg Committee

Bart Moriarty was appointed as the Chairman of Laune Rangers Bord na nOg Committee. The officials in charge of each age-group were, U-10 – Tommy Woods, U-12 – Patsy Joy, U-14 – Anthony Shannon and James Sheehan, U-16 – Frank Walsh and Minor – Jerome Conway.

Parents’ cars were used to transport the players to the games. A rota to that effect was set up.

 

The following also transpired at Laune Rangers Club meetings during the year:

At the club meeting on Mon. 31^st Jan. there was a report on the meeting between players and officials, which had taken place on Fri. 21^st Jan. in the clubrooms. There had been a satisfactory turnout of players. Patsy Joy had reconsidered his decision not to remain on as selector. Dan Carey proposed Noel O Mahony as senior trainer, Liam Shannon seconded and it was unanimously accepted. Bart Moriarty said that Noel O Mahony was the right man for the job and he recommended that the club should advertise the home and away games in the town.

At the meeting on Mon. 14^th Feb. it was reported that the senior team had commenced training on Sun. 13^th Feb. 23 players had been present. Unfortunately, a challenge game, Laune Rangers ‘C’ versus Churchill, was organised in opposition to the training.

At the meeting on Mon. 28^th Feb. James Coffey reported that he had contacted Pat O Shea to explain Michael F. O Shea’s non-appearance at the Mid-Kerry Senior League game versus Glenbeigh. Pat O Shea had suggested that he should contact Michael F. O Shea for an explanation. Noel O Mahony expressed great disappointment that the club had not been informed before the game. He had been speaking to Pat O Shea, who had informed him that Michael F. O Shea would be available but that Seamus O Shea would not due to examinations. James O Shea informed the meeting that he had been speaking to Michael F. O Shea since the game and he had said that he would be available to the senior team from then on. (Unfortunately, that did not happen).

At the club meeting on Mon. 2^nd May, John Joe O Reilly reported that none of the Laune Rangers ‘C’ players would be available to play with Laune Rangers ‘B’ team in the Co. Club ‘B’ Championship. He listed some grievances as follows: 1) Liam Hayes should have been started on the senior team versus Desmonds. 2) The finance for the bus to Tuosist – the club had not been asked to provide or pay for the transport. Eventually, Noel O Mahony proposed, Bart Moriarty seconded and it was carried that each player who had been selected to play for the ‘B’ team in the Co. Club ‘B’ Championship would be asked individually if he was available to play. (Thankfully the five players that were selected and two substitutes from Laune Rangers ‘C’ team travelled to play and defeat Dr. Crokes ‘B’ and one was left to wonder who John Joe O Reilly represented).

At the meeting on 27^th June it was decided to again run a Silver-Circle – 400 club draw to commence on the last week of Oct. The following, amongst others, were included in the draw: Pat Finnegan, Con Griffin, Pa Foley, James Foley, James Coffey, Paddy Crowley, Michael O Sullivan, Dominic Crowley, Joe Crowley, John Griffin, Frank Russell, Michael O Shea (Senior), Jim Casey, Patsy Joy, Bart Moriarty, Frank Walsh, John Evans, Bill McSwiney, Michael Foley, Peter Lyons, Donal Pigott, Jim Galvin, Tadhg O Connor, Thomas Evans, Noel O Mahony, Declan Crowley, Pat Horgan, Danny O Sullivan, Patie O Riordan, Sheila O Sullivan, John Purcell, Pat Lynch, Mike Hassett, Liam Clifford, Josie Fenton, Denis O Neill, Frank Griffin, Brendan Mangan, Owen Mangan, Pat O Riordan, Mattie Cronin, Seamus Murphy, Kevin Foley, Liam Shannon, Joe Shannon, Billy Dodd, Maura Tuohy, John Clifford, Danny Healy, John Sheehan, Christy Kissane, Pat O Grady, James O Riordan, Jimmy Doona, Johnny Doona, Mossy Joy, Johnny O Connor (Cromane), Sean O Mangan, Seamus Hurley, Pierce Prendiville, Pat Sheehan, James Sheehan, Johnny Foley, Pat Pigott, Teddy Clifford, John Galvin, Michael Sheehan, Bernadette O Mahony, Maureen O Mahony, Jerry Griffin, Denis Russell, John Sugrue, Jimmy O Neill, Michael Healy, Jerry Foley, Ciarán O Callaghan, Danny O Sullivan, John A. McCarthy, Florence McCarthy, Donie McCarthy, Daniel McCarthy, Michael Teahan, Donie Mckenna, Michael McCarthy, James Foley, Harry Carey, Liam Hayes, James O Shea (Senior), James O Shea, Stephen Russell, Brian O Shea, Patrick Sugrue, Tom Curran, Tommy Woods, Michael O Reilly, James O Shea (Shanara), Liam Healy, Patrick Freeman, Paudie Sheahan, Edward Stack, Maurice Geary, Anthony Shannon, John Foley, Eamonn Crowley, Jerome Conway. Some of the winners were,

Sun. 2^nd Nov: £100 (Lena Flynn), £50 (Johnny Byrnes), £25 (Mike Murphy), £25 (Joe Shannon).

Sun. 9^th Nov: £100 (Mattie Cronin), £50 (Bridie O Grady), £25 (Tom Harris), £25 (Willie Griffin).

Sun. 16^th Nov: £100 (Catherine O Connell), £50 (Sandra Diggin), £25 (Bertie Sweeney), £25 (

Sun. 23^rd Nov: £100 (Marie Fenton), £50 (Pat Sheehy), £25 (Nick’s Bar), £25 (Laurence Hogan).

Sun. 9^th Dec: £100 (Barry Harmon), £50 (Brendan Keogh), £25 (Siobhán Hayes), £25 (Gene Evans).

At the meeting on 25^th July, it was reported that the senior team had been presented with a set of jerseys by Lyons Brothers (Donal and Tony) and the ‘C’ team had also received a set.

12^th Dec. the following letter, copies of which had been sent to Pádraig Ó Sé, Rangue, Cill Orglan, and Tomás Ó Conchubhair, Rúnaí Bord na nOg Chiarraí CLG, was received from the Secretary of Kerry Co. Board, Gerald Whyte:

“A Chara,

Re playing of Laune Rangers underage players in Clare in 1982, I am instructed to inform you that

1. Laune Rangers underage players (Bord na nOg) played in Clare in breach of Rule 24 Official Guide,
2. Bord na nOg investigated this on information received by Cathaoirleach CLG Chiarraí from Rúnaí CLG An Chláir.
3. Bord na nOg found that the information supplied was correct.
4. Bord na nOg dealt with these players under Rule 24, penalty 3 T.O., as a result of their investigations.
5. Pat O Shea contends that the procedure adopted by Bord na nOg was not in accordance with Rule 24, penalty 4 T.O.
6. The officers of Coiste CLG Chiarraí will not dispute this.
7. The officers, having considered the matter at great length, hope that the above clarification brings this matter to a satisfactory conclusion for all concerned.”

 

The following attended Laune Rangers Club meetings during the year: James Coffey (12), Jim Galvin (12), Jerome Conway (12), John Foley (11), Bart Moriarty (10), Eamonn Crowley (7), Dan Carey (6), Noel O Mahony (5), Thomas Evans (5), Liam Shannon (3), Michael Foley (3), Patsy Joy, John Joe O Reilly (2), Pat O Shea (1), gerard O Shea (1), John Evans (1), Anthony Shannon (1), James O Shea (1), Pat O Grady (1), Joe Crowley (1), John Sugrue (1), John Teahan (1), James Sheehan (1), Peter Lyons (1), Brian O Shea (1), Stephen Russell (1), Donal Pigott (1).

 

The following were registered as members of Laune Rangers Club for 1983: James Coffey, Jim Galvin, Jerome Conway, Eamonn Crowley, John Foley, Noel O mahony, Patsy Joy, Patrick O Grady, Pat o Shea, Dan Carey, John Joe O Reilly, Bart Moriarty, Denis O Neill, Johnny O Shea, Tommy Woods, Anthony Shannon, Myles Coffey, Frank Walsh, Seamus Murphy, Jim Casey, Michael Foley, Peter Lyons, Gene Evans, Seamus O Shea, John Clifford, Liam Hayes, Paudie Sheahan, Joe Crowley, Michael F. O Shea, Joe Shannon, John Griffin, Pierce Prendiville, James Sheehan, Frankie Russell, John O Dwyer, John Evans, Michael O Reilly, John Sheehan (Glencuttane), Pat Pigott, James O Shea (Caragh Lake), Liam Shannon, Teddy Clifford, Stephen Russell, Pa Foley, Michael O Shea (Rangue), John Hurley, Brian O Shea, James O Shea (Shanara), Declan Crowley, Patrick Freeman, Jerome O regan, Gerard o Shea (Rangue), Pat Horgan, John Horgan, John Galvin, Liam Clifford, Gerry Coffey, Pat Joe O Mahony, Maurice Corkery, Tom O Connor, Finbarr Coffey, James O Riordan (School Road), Pat Grandfield, Harry Carey, John O Neill, Pat O Riordan, Jimmy Hannon, John Costello, John Foley (Reen), Mossy Joy, James Ferris, Donal Pigott, Andrew Pigott, Roy Evans, Sean Corkery, Timothy Doyle, Dodo Sheahan, Jerry Houlihan, Dominic Crowley, Martin Clifford (Mountain View), Michael Sweeney, Danny Healy, Dan Mangan, Johnny Healy, Mike O Shea (Ceannovree), Pat Diggin, Alan Diggin, Davy O Shea, Mícheál O Callaghan, Jimmy O Neill, Paudie O Shea (Rangue), John Murphy, Tommy Foley, Paudie Healy, Patrick Horgan, Frank O Dwyer, Mike Hassett, Mike Murphy, Mick O Connell, Gerry Foley, Gene Ahern, Patrick O Shea (Caragh Lake), Michael O Sullivan (Tureenasligaun), Liam Healy, Teddy Mangan, Edward Stack, Declan Falvey, Paddy Creagh, Owen Mangan, Michael McCarthy, Michael Healy, John Teahan, Danny McKenna, Patrick Sugrue, John Sugrue, Michael Teahan, James Foley, Dermot Teahan, Austin Shaughnessy,

The following were members of the Laune Rangers Minor Club for 1983: Frank McCarthy, Richard O Connor, Donal Hurley, Michael Scannell, David Griffin, Florence Leen, Austin Stack, Noel Doyle, terence O Shea, Tomás Hayes, Martin Clifford (Glencuttane), Noel Foley, Ciarán O Callaghan, Fergal O Shea, Brian O Sullivan, Gerard Murphy, James Clifford, Billy O Neill, Michael Fleming, Tommy Geary, Michael Moriarty, Eoin Mangan, Padraig McMahon, John O Shea (Lonart), James Foley (Corbally), Andrew Doona, Donie Griffin, Seamus Naughton, Brendan Mangan, Pat Lynch, Patrick Foley, Sean McKenna, John O Shea (Lower Bridge St.), John A. O Brien, Liam woods, John Joy (Annadale), John Richard Wharton, Patrick O Sullivan (Sunhill), Teddy Houlihan, Richard Sheehy, Thomas Curran.

 

The Killorglin Hurling Club was very busy during the year both on and off the field of play. Membership cards cost £3 for adults and 50p for U-18’s.

A most enjoyable Social was held in the Railway Hotel, Killorglin in February. Music was by the ‘Hi-Lows’, Tralee, with assistance from Michael Johnston on accordion. Tickets cost £4 and Noelette Purcell, Laune View was in charge of sales.

A ‘31’ card-drive was played during February. John Purcell and Pat Lynch were in charge of tickets, which cost £8 for two people. The final was played on Sun. 6^th March in the Intermediate School. The prize fund was £250. Michael Brosnan and Frank Brennan won the first prize and the runners-up prizes went to Josie and Donie Fenton and Pat Joy and Steve Teahan. The ladies supplied tea and cakes as refreshments.

On Sun. 5^th June the Church Gate Collection was taken up and yielded £200.

Juvenile Hurling Coaching was provided, under a scheme funded by the Munster Council, in the J. P. O Sullivan Park for U-12’s, U-14’s and over 14’s, commencing on Sat. 6^th Aug. Jim Bennett, Waterford, conducted the courses. The time table was: 11.00am to 12.30pm – U-12; 1.30pm to 3.00pm – U-14, 3.00pm to 4.30pm – over 14’s. The courses continued during Aug. and Sept.

A Club draw was held on Fri. 12^th Aug. (Tickets were returned to Pat Lynch, Seamus Murphy and John Purcell). The winners were: 1^st prize (bicycle) – William O Reilly, Rangue, 2^nd prize (All-Ireland ticket) – Donie O Sullivan, Laharn.

 

Arising out of the passing of an Austin Stacks motion at Co. Convention, the South-Kerry Hurling Board was reformed at a well-attended meeting in the Railway Hotel, Killorglin in mid-April. The following officers were elected: President – Richie Purcell (Kilgarvan), Vice-President – Rev, Brother J. Murphy (Corca Dhiubhne), Chairman – P.J. McIntyre (Kenmare), Vice-Chairman – Pa Doyle (St. Patrick’s), Secretary – Pat Lynch (Killorglin), Joint-Treasurers – Martin Driver (Corca Dhiubhne) and John Fitzpatrick (Killorglin), PRO – Brian Neenan (Austin Stacks).

 

At the Co. Board meeting on Mon. 14^th March, the following Laune Rangers’ players were regraded from senior status: Peter Lyons, John Clifford, Liam Woods, Paudie Healy and Stephen Russell.

 

At the Co. Board meeting on 14^th Nov., the transfer of James J. Foley from Laune Rangers to Wicklow was sanctioned.

 

Kerry Gardaí defeated Cork Gardaí in Ardfert on Wed. 6^th April by 1-6 to 1-5 and, in so doing, won the Munster Garda Football Championship for the first time in fourteen years. John Evans (Laune Rangers) was always in the thick of things at full-forward, distributing the ball well. In the All-Ireland semi-final Kerry defeated Galway at Ennis by 1-7 to 0-7 in a close, hard-fought encounter. John Evans played at left full-forward. However, in the All-Ireland Final at Croke Park on Thurs. 9^th June, Kerry lost to Wexford by 1-12 to 0-4. John Evans played at full-forward.

 

On Sat. 14^th May, the Kerry Senior Football team played Clare in a challenge game in Ennis and drew on the score of 1-8 each.

Kerry: Rory Kilgallon (John Mitchels), John Higgins (do.), John O Keeffe (Austin Stacks), Cathal Sheehy (Kerins O Rahillys), Ger Power (Austin Stacks), Ger O Keeffe (do.), Paddy Moriarty (do.), Liam Kerins (do.), Ambrose O Donovan (Gneeveguilla) 0-1, John L. McElligott (Austin Stacks) 0-1, Joe Murphy (Currow) 0-2, Mícheál Kerins (Kerins O Rahillys) 0-1, James Dowd (John Mitchels), Humphrey Moynihan 0-1, John Dowd (John Mitchels) 1-0. Subs: Paudie Sheahan (Laune Rangers) for P. Moriarty, Joe Shannon (Laune Rangers) 0-2 for M. Kerins), Pierce Prendiville (Laune Rangers) for L. Kerins.

Sun. 15^th May at Annaduff, Co. Leitrim, Kerry played Meath in a challenge game and lost by 1-11 to 2-7. Joe Shannon scored 0-1, while Paudie Sheahan, Pierce Prendiville and James O Shea also played.

 

Denis O Neill refereed the following games, amongst others, for the Kerry Co. Board:

Sun. 20^th March, SFL Div. 1 at Killarney: Dr. Crokes 2-6; Ballylongford 0-6.

Fri. 1^st April, Minor League Div. 2 at Currow: Currow v Duagh.

Sun. 3^rd April, SFL Div. 1 at Castleisland: Desmonds 3-5; Kerins O Rahillys 1-4.

Fri. 8^th April, MFL Div. 1 at Killarney: Legion 2-5; Kerins O Rahillys 2-7.

Sun. 17^th April, SFL Div. 2 at Cahersiveen: St. Mary’s 2-12; Tarbert 1-8.

Sun. 1^st May, SFL Div. 1 at Boherbue: John Mitchels 1-3; Gneeveguilla 0-9.

Sun. 15^th May, Club ‘B’ Championship at Strand Road: Kerins O Rahillys ‘B’ beat Kilcummin ‘B’.

Mon. 16^th May, Club ‘B’ Championship at Connolly Park: Austin Stacks ‘C’ drew with Currow ‘B’.

Sat. 21^st May, SFL Div. 3B at Connolly Park: Austin Stacks ‘B’ v Ballydonoghue.

Sat. 9^th July, SFL Div. 1 at Connolly Park: Austin Stacks v Desmonds.

Sun. 31^st July, SFC at Dingle: West-Kerry v Feale Rangers.

Sun. 21^st Aug. SFC Semi-final at Tralee: Killarney 5-8; Shannon Rangers 3-10.

Sat. 27^th Aug. JFC Semi-final at Killorglin: St. Mary’s beat Adrfert.

Sun. 4^th Sept. Senior League Div. 2 at Killarney: Legion v Lispole.

Sun. 16^th Oct. JFC Final in Tralee: St. Marys 1-8; Cordal 0-6.

Sun. 30^th Oct. Senior League Div. 3A at Fossa: Fossa v Firies.

 

Denis O Neill refereed the following game, amongst others, for the Mid-KerryBoard:

Mon. 20^th Feb, Senior League at Glenbeigh: Glenbeigh v Keel.

 

Johnny O Shea refereed the following games, amongst others, for the Kerry Co. Board:

Sun. 3^rd April, SFL Div. 4B at Valentia: Valentia ‘B’ v Gneeveguilla ‘B’.

Sun. 17^th April, SFL Div. 4A at Ballyheigue: Ballyheigue 2-3; Blennerville 3-4.

Fri. 22^nd April, MFL Div. 2 at Currow: Currow v Castlegregory.

Sun. 1^st May, SFL Div. 3 at Fossa: Fossa 1-8; Kilgarvan 1-9.

Sat. 14^th May, NFC at Cahersiveen: Renard beat Foilmore.

Sun. 15^th May, Club ‘B’ Championship at Scartaglin: Scartaglin ‘B’ 1-7; Moyvane ‘B’ 1-10.

Sat. 21^st May, SFL Div. 4D at Ballinskelligs: St. Michael’s v Tuosist.

Sat. 3^rd Sept, SFL Div. 4C at Castleisland: Desmonds ‘C’ v Keel ‘B’.

Sun. 4^th Sept, SFL Div. 4B at Strand Road: Kerins O Rahillys ‘B’ v Spa ‘B’.

 

Johnny O Shea refereed the following game, amongst others, for the Mid-Kerry Board

Sun. 20^th Feb, SFL at Glenbeigh Glenbeigh 0-9; Keel 2-2.

 

Mid-Kerry SFL on Sun. 20^th Feb. at Milltown: Milltown/Castlemaine 2-3; Beaufort 4-3. Ref: Jerome Conway (Laune Rangers).

 

Russell Cup Final on Fri. 27^th May at Killorglin: Cahersiveen CBS 3-3; Ballybunion 3-0. Ref: Peter Lyons (Laune Rangers).

 

Co. Vocational Schools’ Intermedate Final on Fri. 18^th Nov. at Killorglin: Castleisland 2-4; Waterville 1-3. Ref: Bart Moriarty (Laune Rangers).

 

A ‘Young Referees of the Future’ training manual, together with a corresponding rules questionnaire, sponsored by Kellogs, was distributed to the primary and secondary schools of the county. The winner in Scoil Mhuire, Killorglin, was John Cronin, Upper Bridge St.

 

Munster SFC Final on Sun. 17^th July at Páirc Uí Chaoimh: Cork 3-10; Kerry 3-9.

Kerry: Charlie Nelligan, Ger O Keeffe, John O Keeffe, Paudie Lynch, Paudie O Shea, Tim Kennelly, Mick Spillane, Jack O Shea (capt.) 2-0, Vincent O Connor, Ger Power (0-1), Ogie Moran, Tommy Doyle, Mikey Sheehy (0-7), Eoin Liston, John Egan (0-1). Subs: John L. McElligott for J. O Keeffe, Sean Walsh (1-0) for G. Power.

Rd. 1 Munster Minor Football Championship in May at Kilmallock: Cork 1-13; Kerry 1-7.

Kerry: Joe O Leary (Spa), Patie Griffin (Glenbeigh), John Keane (Kenmare), S. Moyniahn (Glenflesk), Donal McCarthy (Kenmare), Kieran Culhane (Ballylongford), Johnny Walsh (Austin Stacks), Philip Danagher (Duagh), Pat Condon (Kenmare), Davy O Donoghue (Glenflesk) capt. 1-4, Fionán Murphy (Valentia), Connie Murphy (Dr. Crokes), M. Ó Súilleabháin (Gaeltacht), Mike O Shea (Kenmare) 0-1, Mike Fitzgerald (Ardfert). Subs: P. Stackpoole (Finuge) 0-2 for M. O Shea, M. Scanlon (Moyvane) for D. McCarthy, Cian Sugrue (Dingle) for M. Fitzgerald.

 

Co. Senior Football Championship Final on Sun. 16^th Oct. at Tralee: Killarney 0-10; Feale Rangers 1-4.

(The Killarney team was composed of Dr. Crokes and Legion and the captain was Josie O Donoghue).

Co. JFC Final on Sun. 16^th Oct. at Tralee: St. Mary’s 1-8; Cordal 0-6.

Co. MFC Final on Sun. 21^st Aug. at Tralee: Feale Rangers 3-6; Kenmare 1-6.

Co. U-21 Championship Final: John Mitchels beat Spa/Glenflesk.

Co. Club Championship Final on Sun. 6^th Nov. at Tralee: Kenmare 1-9; Ardfert 1-4.

Co. League Div. 1 Final on Sun. 27^th Nov. at Tralee: Desmonds 2-5; Austin Stacks 0-8.

 

Laune Rangers Club organised its own Scór na nOg in the Intermediate School on Thurs. 18^th Nov. and, arising out of that, the club was represented by the following at the Mid-Kerry Scór na nOg finals at Milltown on Sat. 20^th Nov:

Rinnce Fóirne – Siobhán McKenna, Angela McKenna, Grace O Sullivan, Linda McMahon, April Mangan and Áine Joy.

Amhránaíocht Aonair – Áine Joy (Maidin i mBéara).

Aithriseoireacht – Colette Finnegan (Peaitsín).

Tráth na gCeist – Darragh O Grady, John Sheehan and Gerald Brick.

Ceol Uirlise – John and Bernard Sheehan (Hornpipe and jig).

Bailéad Grúpa – Áine Joy, April Mangan, Zoe Khan, Grace O Sullivan and Ann Murphy (My Singing Bird and Déirín Dé).

Rinnce Set – Elizabeth O Reilly, Caroline Moriarty, Sheila Frances Sheahan, Shirley O Sullivan, Mike Hassett, Liam Hassett, Noel Kingston and Robert Kennedy.

Rinnce Set and Amhránaíocht Aonair won in Mid-Kerry and qualified for the Co. Semi-finals in Kenmare on Fri. 25^th Nov.

 

The Co. Bord na nOg Church Gate Collection on Sat. 28^th/Sun. 29^th May yielded £228 in Killorglin.

 

The Laune Rangers 24^th Annual Social was held in the Three Lakes Hotel, Killarney on Wed. 28^th Dec. The ‘A’ and ‘B’ teams were guests and were presented with their trophies for winning the Mid-Kerry Senior Championship and the Mid-Kerry ‘B’ Championship respectively. Teddy Clifford, senior captain, made a presentation on behalf of his team-mates to Noel O Mahony, senior trainer. Presentations were also made to Noreen Murphy, Myles Coffey, Anthony Shannon and James Sheehan, who had been in charge of county-championship winning teams. Tickets to the Social cost £9 and Eamonn Crowley and John Foley were in charge of sales. 225 people attended @ £7 + bar exemption = £1,620. A bus was hired from Dero’s, Killarney (£80) to transport people to the Social.

 

The Kerryman of Fri. 9^th Dec. carried the following interview with Pat O Shea, conducted by Eamonn Horan, Sports correspondent: ‘I would ask the older players to give it a bit of commitment for the coming year. They have the potential to win it. If we don’t win it (the All-Ireland) for the Centenary Year, we won’t win it for a few years.’ “The words are those of retiring Kerry selector Pat O Shea and they are by way of advice to the Kerry team as the Cromane man bows out after being a member of the Kerry selection committee since 1974. Sunday’s game against Meath at Navan was Pat’s swan-song as a selector. For, by the time Kerry resume their National League engagements in the New Year, a new selection committee will have been installed. And, with Kerry beating Meath at Navan on Sunday, his wish was granted – to go out on a winning note. He remembers the very first game in which he was involved as a selector. That was in a National League tie against Tipperary at Tipperary Town and Kerry won it. That was early in 1974. But a bitter event was to follow later that year. ‘We were hammered by Cork in the Munster Final in Killarney that year,’ said Pat, who is a Milk Recording Manager with Kerry Co-Op. ‘We made eleven changes for the first National League game against Offaly at Tullamore after that,’ he continued. ‘John O Keeffe, Brendan Lynch and a few more were retained. I remember Dick Spring came on as a left halfback in that particular game against Offaly and he came on at right halfback against Cork at the Mardyke. He was fairly impressive at the time. We played Meath in the knockout stages of the National League in 1975 and they beat us by eight points. That defeat taught us a lesson and opened our eyes. We had to look around for key players, especially at midfield. We found a new pairing in Pat McCarthy and Paudie Lynch.’

He remembers that before the 1975 All-Ireland Final against holders Dublin, a lot of people did not give Kerry a chance of winning. ‘I had great confidence in them,’ continued Pat, ‘even though they were a bit immature.’ And, as we all know, the young Kerry team hit the high spots and gave the Dubs a seventeen points drubbing. But the team’s immaturity was starkly revealed in the following year, when the Metropolitans demolished Kerry with three blistering goals to win back the title. ‘We should have brought on Sean Walsh sooner that day,’ says Pat. And the following year, when Dublin beat Kerry in that thrill-packed semi-final, he feels that the selectors lost it for Kerry that day. ‘We should have made changes on the sideline. But it all came right again in ’78,’ he went on. ‘Kerry’s best successes were in 1975, ’78 and ’79. We were struggling in 1980 and ’81 and I thought we were very lucky to beat Roscommon in the 1980 Final. I feel you only get a team like that once in a lifetime. You’ll never see it happen again. It gives one great personal satisfaction to be associated with a team like that. We were all one happy family, including the players.’

The Mid-Kerry man says that he would prefer to be beaten by Cork than by any other team. ‘Men like Kevin Kehilly and Denny Allen had never won a Munster medal after all their years of trying, so it was good to see them achieve their ambition by winning the Munster title this year. I feel it’s time to pull out,’ he told me. ‘My honest opinion is that a guy should not hold the position longer than five years. We had an excellent team. I was there when we brought them together and we should go out together. You need new men coming in with fresh ideas.’

Pat, who lives at Caragh Lake, was Chairman of the Mid-Kerry Board in 1971 and ’72 and trained the Mid-Kerry team in both those years. They won the county final after a replay against Shannon Rangers in ’71 and the following year they lost to the same opposition in the final. Now that he is pulling out as a county selector, Pat intends to get involved at local level with Cromane. ‘When a team loses ite appetite for the game, apathy sets in,’ he added. ‘But I think the present team are on course to win next year’s All-Ireland if they keep their heads and if there is sufficient commitment from the older members of the team.’

Pat O Shea has given steadfast service to Kerry as a member of the selection committee. He deserves the congratulations of one and all for a job well done. I’ll second that motion.”

 

There was furore in Kerry in Dec. when it was discovered that Kerry had lost its home venue against Offaly in the National Football League because of the late return of league gate-money. That game had been allotted to the J. P. O Sullivan Park, Killorglin. The Chairman of the Co. Board, Frank King, assured all concerned that he would investigate the matter. ‘It would be disastrous if we were to lose this vital fixture’, fumed Laune Rangers’ Chairman, James Coffey. ‘It would be an awful let-down for this side of the county that has had nothing really gamewise all year. The club here will be up in arms. We are one of the oldest clubs in the county and we are coming close to our centenary year. We know that Frank King is not going to let us down. He will use his good offices everywhere possible to win back the fixture. For us it is vital.’ He said that the club had been more than generous to hurling and football clubs in the county, as well as to vocational and secondary schools, in allowing them use the J.P. O Sullivan Memorial Park pitch. Every penny that had been taken up at National League and Co. League games had been put back into the ground development. (The Launre Rangers Club was entitled to 10% of the gate by way of field rent. The Kerry-Offaly game would be expected to draw a crowd of about 5,000 with an admission charge of £2.50). As it turned out, Kerry won back the fixture and the game went ahead in Killorglin on Sun. 5^th Feb. 1984.

 

In January, the AGM of the Limerick/Kerrymen’s Association was held in Na Piarsaigh Clubhouse, Caherdavin. Michael Clifford, Killorglin, was elected as Asst. Treasurer.

 

In March, the Killorglin telephone exchange switched to automatic and the manual operators bade farewell to the 400 telephone subscribers.

 

On Tues. 29^th March, Donal Creed, Minister of State at the Dept. of Education officially opened the New Vocational School in Killorglin, which had cost £1.5m to build.

 

The 1983 Rás Tailtean was sponsored by the National Dairy Council. It commenced in Dublin on Sat. 25^th June and finished in the Phoenix Park on Sun. 3^rd July. Included in the Kerry team were Michael Breen, Gortnascarry, Mícheál O Callaghan, Cromane, and Sean Mangan, son of former Rás winner, Gene Mangan. Sean O Callaghan, Cromane, was team manager and Denis Harris also accompanied the race.

 

On Sun. 23^rd Oct. an N.A.C.A Club was reformed in Killorglin with the following officers: Chairman – Maurice Foley, Secretary – Phil Foley, Treasurer – Joe O Shea, PRO – Pat Finnegan.

 

The Killorglin Youth Band, under the baton of Myles Coffey, headed a torchlight parade through the streets of the town on New Year’s Eve. The band played in the New Year, watched by a fine crowd in the Square. It brought back memories of great New Year’s Eve parades of the past.

 

The Annual Convention of the Mid-Kerry Board was held in Killorglin on Tues. 17^th Jan. The Secretary, Pat Clifford, gave the following report: “The year under review was not a good one for Mid-Kerry football. At the Convention back in January of last year, we heard lots of talk about what should be done and what should not be done. The four clubs involved in making up the Mid-Kerry teams gave a full commitment that the players selected on Mid-Kerry teams would be sent out one night per week to train and play for Mid-Kerry. When the Mid-Kerry senior panel was picked, there were thirty-two players selected. On the first night of training, eighteen of the thirty-two players turned out, but for half of the eighteen, it was only clocking-in night, just to put their names on the list. We did not see them again until the team was about to be picked for the first round of the County Championship against Austin Stacks. There were two clubs that made no effort to fulfil the commitment that they gave at the Convention – Glenbeigh and Keel.

In our first game against Austin Stacks in Tralee, the team was very slow to settle down and, with that happening, gave away some easy scores. In the second half, they got their game together and looked like they were going to win. In the dying minutes of the game, Austin Stacks got the equalising point from a free. Austin Stacks would not have earned a second chance if it was not for a bad decision from a bad referee. Seconds before the Austin Stacks got their last point, a Mid-Kerry player was going through for what looked like a certain score, the two legs were taken from under him and the ball knocked away from him and the referee did not give Mid-Kerry the free that they should gave got. The trainer asked all the players in the dressing-room after the game if they would come out and train for the replay. All but one told him that they would and training was arranged for the following night, but only seven players turned up. The replay was played in Milltown. It was one of the sickest games that Mid-Kerry ever played in. Only seventeen players turned up for the replay, there was not a bit of spirit going out on the field and it was no wonder they were kicked off the field. Laune Rangers also took part in the Co. Championship but, even though they had some weak players, they showed some very good determination and spirit, but they were also beaten by John Mitchels in the first round.

Mid-Kerry U-21’s were beaten by St. Brendan’s in the first round. Some of the best players did not turn up for this game either. A challenge game was arranged before the match with Laune Rangers but only seven players turned out. In this competition, Laune Rangers were also beaten by Feale Rangers in the first round. The Mid-Kerry Minors were just equal with the U-21’s. Again a challenge game was arranged with Laune Rangers, but again only nine players turned out. Laune Rangers did a little better in this competition – they reached the second round.

Within the area, all our competitions were completed. In all, 115 games were played. A decision was taken during the year that the Mid-Kerry Senior Championship first round would not be played before the first round of the Co. Championship. It was a good decision, but it did not get the backing and support from the clubs for what it was supposed to achieve. Our Senior Championship Final was played on a Saturday evening at six o clock in worse than bad weather conditions, with a very small attendance. By playing our senior final on a Saturday evening at six o clock, it deprived some of our best supporters of seeing the game. Laune Rangers won the Senior Championship, beating Glenbeigh in the final. Beaufort won the senior league final, which was played in May and also won the O Sullivan Cup. The winners of all our competitions are as follows:

Senior Championship – Laune Rangers; Senior League – Beaufort; ‘B’ Championship – Laune Rangers ‘B’; Minor Championship – Laune Rangers; O Sullivan Cup – Beaufort; U-16A – Milltown/Castlemaine; U-16B – Laune Rangers; U-14A – Laune Rangers; U-14B – Milltown/Castlemaine.

Schools’ Leagues: 4 Teachers’ Schools – Kilgobnet; 3 Teachers’ Schools – Caragh Lake; 2 Teachers’ Schools – Boheishill.

Senior Scór, which as run for the Board by Glenbeigh, was once again a failure.

A motion that was passed at last year’s convention that the Board does not go outside the area for referees, proved to be a good one. All games were refereed by Mid-Kerry referees during the year and I must say that the standard of refereeing was good – much better than some of the referees that we saw in the Co. Championship.

For the New Year something must be done about clubs that do not see that players selected to play on the Mid-Kerry teams come out, train and play. After all, the rules are there, so why not use them.

As the GAA is celebrating its 100^th birthday this year, the Board should run a special competition. I would suggest setting aside one Sunday and running a blitz in senior, junior and minor, all on one day or a weekend.

I would suggest that the system of selecting Mid-Kerry teams be scrapped once and for all and give a chance to a new system. I think that the Board should appoint a trainer and two selectors and let them get on with the job.

We should never again play our senior final on a Saturday evening at 6 o clock.

When the Co. Senior Championship time comes around again, our delegates should see to it that the Co. Board will appoint referees for the Championship games and not just give a whistle to every Tom, Dick and Harry, just because it is his turn or he may be a good friend of those that appoint him.

In conclusion, I would like to thank the club Secretaries for their co-operation during the year, the officers of Bord na nOg for the great work that they are doing, to our referees who never get any praise only abuse, to Jack McGrath, the senior team trainer (I know if he got the players, he would have done a very good job), to Jim Coffey for the help he gave to the Board during the year, to all our Board officers, to Laune Rangers and Milltown/Castlemaine Park Committees for their fields, which were in good condition for our games, finally, to our Chairman, Noel Spillane, in his first year as Chairman, you did a very good job.”

 

The AGM of Laune Rangers Club took place on Mon. 20^th Feb. 1984. The Secretary, Jerome Conway, in his report, said, “A Chathaoirligh agus a bhaill uilig, we can reflect on 1983 with a mixture of feelings. A feeling of sadness is experienced as we lost our President (Tadhg O Reilly) after a brief term of office of two years. Having been a noted referee in his time, he was a long supporter of the Laune Rangers. It is a consolation that he was lucid right up to the end and he did not have to suffer. Ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh a anam.

A feeling of awe is experienced as we begin to realise the magnitude of effort required to fulfil the work of the club. We now have an excellent club, which demands co-operation from all its members in order to keep it running smoothly.

A feeling of satisfaction is experienced as we had a most successful year both from the point of view of playing the games and from the point of view of organisation.

Pride of place in ’83 must go to our senior team. The players decided their objectives at the beginning of the year – remaining in Div. 1 of the Co. League and winning the Mid-Kerry Championship. The players gave a tremendous commitment to these objectives and how well they were rewarded! In the Co. League, they finished mid-table and in the Mid-Kerry Final, they defeated Glenbeigh by 2-6 to 0-1. They also partook in the Co. Senior Championship but were defeated by John Mitchels in the first round. They lost the Mid-Kerry League semi-final to Beaufort by 1-6 to 0-4. In the Club Championship quarter-final, they lost to Kenmare (the eventual winners) by 0-10 to 1-4. For these excellent performances (indeed we were despairing that success would ever come), I would like to thank Patsy (Joy) for his great contribution both this year and in previous years. I am sure that Patsy won’t mind if I say that the greater proportion of congratulations for the year’s improved performances must go to Noel (O Mahony). He put tremendous work and thought into the training and coaching of this team and I would say that, without him, success would not have come so soon. Thank you, Noel.

Our ‘B’ team had an excellent year, also. Having defeated Dr. Crokes in the Club ‘B’ Championship, they lost to Austin Stacks in the second round. They have reached the Co. League Div. 4 Final and were denied their objective of winning the league by a presumptuous and invalid objection. Nevertheless, they will have the belated opportunity of achieving their aim next Sunday, when they play Knocknagoshel in Tralee at 3.00pm. The ‘B’ team, also, annexed the Mid-Kerry ‘B’ Championship for the second year-in-a-row. My thanks to the players for their commitment and to the selectors, James (Coffey) and Pat O Grady, for their dedication.

Our ‘C’ team, also, continues to grow in strength. It was unfortunate to again have to meet the ‘B’ team in the Mid-Kerry ‘B’ final. It laso reached the quarter-final of the Co. League Div. 4 and would have certainly progressed, were it not for meeting the Laune Rangers ‘B’ team. It is an indication of the strength of the club that its teams can contest the closing stages of these competitions. My thanks and congratulations to the players of the ‘C’ team and their selectors, Pat O Shea, Dan Carey and John Joe O Reilly. In total the senior team played 23 games, the ‘B’ team 18 games and the ‘C’ team 17 games. The U-21 team lost to Shannon Rangers in the first round of the Co. Championship. As you can see, there is great activity at adult level, which would cost a fortune, were it not for the fact that players and mentors are prepared to provide transport to the games. Our sincerest thanks to the players and mentors for this facility.

At Bord na nOg level, a total of ninety games were played, catering for, at a conservative estimate, 150 young people. In the Co. Minor League the performances were disastrous as a few players were not dependable. However, the majority were outstanding. The team regrouped for the Co. Championship and defeated South-Kerry but lost to Killarney in the quarter-final. The team went undefeated through the Mid-Kerry Minor Championship. There is a lot of character in this team, with some very potentially good senior players.

During the U-16 Co. Championship, Frank Walsh found it difficult to get players to attend for training or for games. It is played at a bad time of the year, as most players now get part-time jobs during the summer. The team was physically small and were well-beaten. In the final of the Mid-Kerry Championship, Laune Rangers were beaten by Milltown/Castlemaine but it recovered to win the ‘B’ final. That win was just reward for the dedicated players. Some of the team took part with Mid-Kerry in the Co. U-16 District Board Championship, which was beaten in the semi-final by Castleisland. Thank you, Frank.

The U-14 team were undefeated in 1983, winning the Co. Championship, by defeating Austin Stacks in the final by ten points, and winning the Mid-Kerry Championship. The ‘B’ team won the Co. ‘B’ Championship and partook in Mid-Kerry. My sincere thanks to both Anthony Shannon and James Sheehan for their excellent handling of this team. Both volunteered to take the team at the beginning of the year and no praise is too great for the way they went about their task. The U-14 team, also, played host to U-14 players from the New Haven, USA, Minor Club and played them in a great game.

Noreen Murphy and Myles Coffey took charge of the Community Games (U-13) team, leading them to the county title. They were eventually beaten in the Munster semi-final. Our thanks to both dedicated mentors.

Patsy Joy led the U-12 team to the county final and, although they lost to Austin Stacks, they did the club proud. I could not describe to you the great affection these players have for Patsy and that speaks volumes for his approach. Thank you, Patsy. Unfortunately, Mid-Kerry did not run an U-12 competition but we hope to remedy that situation in 1984.

The club organised a very good National Schools’ competition, firstly within the parish and then in Mid-Kerry. Thanks to Patsy Joy (Cromane N.S.), Noel O Mahony (Glounaguillagh N.S.), Bertie Houlihan (Douglas (N.S.), Tommy Woods, Mícheál Scanlon, Vincent Moriarty (Scoil Mhuire N.S.).

The activity at Bord na nOg level is awesome. The man who co-ordinates this activity is Bart Moriarty, who volunteered his services at the beginning of the year. Thank you, Bart. No praise is too much for the parents, who bring their cars to matches. Some of them are simply outstanding. We would always, of course, be delighted if others would volunteer – it would ease the pressure considerably.

Joe Crowley, and his faithful band of followers, lead the Social aspect of the club and sometimes, unfortunately, have to plough a lone furrow. Over the years, dancing has been very good to the club financially and great thanks are due to Joe.

I wish to thank my fellow officers for their help and dedication. Chairman, James Coffey, who has been associatied with the club for thirty years, has great coolness under pressure and is well-respected throughout the county. The field in a credit to the work of the Vice-Chairman, Jim Galvin. If anyone was ever persecuted by me, it has to be Jim but he never refuses – his tractor, his trailer, his heater and his very farm are at the disposal of the club. Eamonn Crowley and John Foley have brought the club’s house-keeping to a fine art. They have managed to cut expenses without the pinch being felt. They seem to know where and when to cut expenditure and, at the same time, when to spend money. Noel O Mahony accepted the vacant post of Delegate to the Co. Board at the beginning of the year and we could not have found a cooler, fairer and more calculated man to represent the club. I wish to thank the club delegates to both the County and Mid-Kerry Conventions. Thanks to Mike Dowd, who organised successfully Scór na nOg. The contribution of the club members on the day of the National Football League game in the J.P. O Sullivan Park in February would raise the cockles of one’s heart. They sacrificed their own comfort for the benefit of the club and that is the spirit of a successful club.

I deliberately left the best wine until last – the Ladies’ Committee. It is second to none in the county. It gave outstanding service during the year. There was no fuss but a quiet excellence in providing refreshments and operating the facility that is the shop. It organised a party for the visiting youngsters from the USA, and for all the players in the National Schools’ finals. It had great pride in the club and it could compete with any Ladies’ Committee anywhere. Thank you sincerely.

We have the ingredients for an outstandingly successful club. We must pull together in harmony to achieve the fulfilment of a successful club. I hope and pray, I implore the whole parish to row in and do its part to make this club the greatest club in the country. Go raibh maith agaibh.”