SENIORS – WE NOW KNOW IT’S THE ‘BORO
After Dicksboro’s disposal of Danesfort last week we now know that it’s a city derby at the weekend a big crowd will be expected at this one. The prize is a place in this year’s senior Championship semi-finals. The lads will be familiar with their neighbours but after having a couple of wins behind them Dicksboro are going to be a serious challenge. Every advantage will be sought by the team so let’s start with what we as supporters can do and go in large numbers. Let’s give our boys the support they deserve and drive them on in the hunt for championship glory.
The junior team have their championship match fixed for the weekend also with an encounter currently fixed against Ballyhale Shamrocks. Keep a close eye on the O’Loughlin Gaels Facebook and Twitter pages for updates on both these fixtures and also www.kilkennygaa.ie Best of luck to all our teams.
 
MINORS INTO CHAMPIONSHIP SEMI-FINAL
A very bright evening in Danesfort was the setting for this game. The evening sun was a factor as both defences took their turns dealing with lowering sun. Ballyhale as expected came out strong hitting hard and not giving O’Loughlins any time to settle on the ball. The first ten minutes saw Ballyhale take a 1-2 to no score advantage as the ferocity of their play told. It wasn’t sustainable however and once the St. Johns side found their pace they always looked the better side. Not the comfortable side howeever as they could never get a complete stranglehold on the game. It wasn’t until the 14th minute that the first O’loughlin Gaels minor score came from a Shane Maher free. 6 wides throughout the first half was a poor return for the opportunities that presented themselves and the lads went into the half time break two points down 1-5 to 0-6.  The second half saw the lads settle into the came in a more purposeful way. Sean Bolger who was arguably the best player on the field caused the Ballyhale midfield some headaches. Jack Lawlor was solidly consistent in the backs. Both players keeping the momentum up when others were finding it difficult. The flow was patchy but during periods of good play the O’loughlins lads had the capacity to make it count on the score board. Cian Loy got on the end of some good play finding the net on 44 minutes and the O’Loughlins support seemed to breath a collective sigh of relief. At that stage O’Loughlins had added 1-6 to Ballyhale’s 0-2 (f) since the restart. Ballyhale’s struggle was telling now and  a lot of needless frees were awarded to the town side. It was a good nights work for the lads that sees them through to the Championship semi-final. Exactly where you’d want to be at the end of September. Keep up the good work lads.
 
U14s ROINN A COUNTY FINAL
The O’Loughlin Gaels u14s booked themselves a place in this year’s County Hurling Final by overcoming Bennettsbridge in a surprisingly one-sided affair on Saturday morning. Pitch and weather conditions were perfect and our young lads hit the ground running from the throw-in and didn’t stop. It will be a different story next weekend though when the boys face Erin’s Own in the final. Castlecomer are current league champions and already were the victors over O’Loughlins earlier in the year with a two point advantage at St. Johns Park. That was a good game and we expect no different on Saturday morning. It’s a mouth watering prospect with League Champions v our County Feile Champions. The match is currently fixed for 11am on Saturday morning at Ballyragget but keep an eye on the club pages for any changes. Good luck boys.
 
JUVENILE NEWS
The work continues at juvenile level with the u6, u8s, u10s and u12s all reaching the final weeks of their respective seasons. The next two weeks sees the lads wind down with u8s and u10s playing out a home league where the boys will be divided into teams and pitted against each other in a series of games. Expect some ferocious play as cousin takes on cousin and neighbour challenges neighbour for the ultimate prize – bragging rights!!. Well done to all the youngsters and their mentors for all the work put into their hurling development.
U10s PLAY BALLYCALLAN BLITZ
The u10s took part in the Ballycallan end of year blitz last Saturday morning . The sun was shining, the sandwiches were flowing and most importantly the action was relentless. Two teams played matches each against Dicksboro, Gowran and Ballycallan in some epic matches. The high standard on display by all teams will be music to the ears of Kilkenny Hurling fans everywhere. After two tough games against Gowran and Dickboro it was the hosts who put up the final challenge to our teams. These were super games, hard fought, high skilled and high scoring. Nothing more could be asked of all the players and with both clubs sharing the spoils it was just rewards for two great sides. Well done to all our young Gaels and well done and thanks to Ballycallan GAA for a thoroughly enjoyable morning.
 
CAMOGIE NEWS.
Hard luck to the O’Loughlin Gaels Junior Camogie team who gallantly went down to Gowran in the County Semi-Final at the weekend. Young Irelands had a very strong side and our girls struggled at times to keep up with the pace but their workrate kept them in the game and early in the second half just a single point separated the sides. However the Gowran girls pulled away towards the end and the scoreline finished 1-12 to 1-6. Well done to all the girls and their mentors for another good competitive year. Keep up the good work
JUVENILE PARTY BASH
As the juvenile camogie year came to an end on Saturday in St. John's Park, great fun was had by all O' Loughlin Gaels Camogie girls and their families. On a beautiful sunny morning, the under 6, 8, 10 and 12 groups celebrated an enjoyable sporting year with their team and mentors. The morning got off to a quick start with some camogie drills, and then the real fun of the day got underway. Teams and mentors gave their full attention to the serious business of the tug of war, where the competitive spirit of the adults involved was very evident. Co-ordination and teamwork were put to the test in the wooden ski race and camogie skills were on display as players skilfully weaved their way around the posts.  Children and adults all enjoyed the feast provided by local businesses and the committee.  It has been a great year, made possible by an incredible team of volunteers. A huge heartfelt thank you to children for turning up so regularly in such numbers, parents for bringing them and being so encouraging and helpful, transition year students for their big contribution, and finally, to the coaches and mentors who give so much of their time and energy to the teams in O' Loughlin Gaels. A big thanks too to all those who helped with the Camogie Shop during the year. It has been a great addition to the social fabric of the club and we look forward to it continuing on into the future. Well done to all. Enjoy the break and keep practicing.
 
CLUB LOTTO
There was no winner of last weeks Lotto.  The numbers drawn were 8,16, 17 ,27 and the bonus number was: 14.  Tickets can be bought from the usual selling agents or by asking at the clubhouse bar. Remember – if you’re not in; you can’t win the jackpot prize of €20,000.
 
JUVENILE BAG PACK –THANKYOU
Thanks to all those wo contributed to the Juvenile Section annual bag pack last weekend. Your contribution is very much appreciated as is the time offered by dozens of parents and volunteers over the two day bag pack. Thanks to Eurospar Newpark who are always on hand to offer their help towards the local community and O’Loughlin Gaels GAA is very grateful. Proceeds for the bag pack will go towards the upkeep of facilities and equipment used by our growing and vibrant juvenile section. Thank you.
 
CLUB FACILITIES
 
The club boasts the best facilities for any sports club in the town. A full sized gym is available to hire for sports activities or indeed for your own clubs big fundraising event. With newly refurbished kitchen the facilities also include a function room for your family gathering, club gathering or conference. Paddy Green is on hand to take any bookings and facilitate your needs. Contact Paddy on 0861298329 or 056 7765036
 
 
PARISH NEWS
 
Eucharistic Adoration
Eucharistic Adoration takes place in Dunmore Church every Tuesday from 3-4pm. All are welcome.
10.30am  Choir
10.30am choir will be resume on Sunday 4th October. New members are welcome.
St Joseph’s Young Priest Society
A meeting will take place in St John’s Presbytery on Monday 28th September at 11.00am (immediately after the 10.30am Mass) with a view to forming a Branch of the St Joseph’s Young Priests Society in St John’s Parish.  All who are interested are asked and encouraged to attend.
PILATES
Pilates( Body Control Pilates trained ) starting at the Dunmore hall for the older adult on a Wednesday at  10 am as well as a Wednesday  evening class at 6.30 pm for all age groups .To sign up for this low impact exercise that will keep you fit and toned contact Emma on 0874313925 , classes are limited to no more than 12 people so early booking is advised .

U16s CHAMPIONS ON THE DOUBLE
Within a week of retaining the Roinn A Hurling Championship the u16s completed a double by adding the u16 Roinn A hurling League title for the club. This was no easy task and although the scoreline at the end shows a considerable gap it was far from the case. Graigue Ballycallan and O’Loughlin Gaels went at it ‘hell for leather’ the whole way through in what was a pulsating finale to the u16 season. In truth the game could have gone either way but for two goals in the dying moments of the game to give the St. Johns lads a flattering score difference. But it is a credit to the teams resolve and determination that they did pull through. This is a team who know how to win out games..have learned how to pull together to win those precious inches that true champions know are needed. This determination, teamwork and resolve are all instilled by an equally determined group of mentors and strong team bond created by a club ethos of fairness for everybody. Well done again to all the lads and all of the u16 panel of 2015 who have contributed to another successful year at this level. Last week I listed the u16 mentors and inadvertently omitted James O’Keefe..I won’t do that this week James! James is the hurl man and when James O’Keefes van pulls into Johns Park on any given day it’s like the Ice Cream van turning into a housing estate except instead of ice-cream this van contains wonderfully crafted hurls. Keep up the good work James both at your mentoring and hurl making.  Final Score O’loughlin Gaels 3-15 to 1-11 Graigue Ballycallan
Panel: D. McCormack, L. Hogan, J. Molloy (Capt), M. Butler, B. Lawlor, C. Heary, O. Murphy, R. Buckley, E. O’Shea, R. Poyntz, A. Flynn, S. Kenny, E. Wall, D. Fwamba, B. Maher. J. Malone, J. Murphy (Spuddy), I. Clifford, E. Neary, J. Ryan, R. Boyd, J. Collins, L. Whelan, P. Nolan, J. Kearns, J. Murphy.
Mentors: Brian Dowling, Paul Phelan, Kevin Cleere, Rick Leydon and James O’Keefe.
 
SENIOR SHIELD FINAL DEFEAT
It wasn’t to be on this occasion. Before going into the shield final the club had already surrendered the league title they fought hard for in 2014. Last weekend they couldn’t put together a performance to win the Shield as The Fenians deservingly took the honours. With a few injuries however it was an opportunity for management to sample some more personnel who acquitted themselves quite well. It will be all hands on deck now as Championship time looms and the knockout stages get underway. The boys will by chomping at the bit going into a quarter final meeting at the weekend. Keep an eye on the clubs facebook and twitter for fixture updates and get out  to support your club.  
 
U14s CHAMPIONSHIP
The u14s will play Bennettsbridge in the Roinn A Championship Semi-Final at the weekend. Training is going well and the lads are leaving no stone unturned to be prepared for a hefty challenge in Bennettsbridge. This one will go to the wire and in tight games every little advantage counts. It’s down to the support to help with that advantage and this fixture will be confirmed on Kilkenny GAA fixtures list and posted on our facebook and twitter account so keep an eye and go support your club. Best of luck boys
 
JUVENILE NEWS
All juvenile teams continue training and participating in arranged challenge matches as the season’s end approaches. It’s a hive of activity in St. Johns Park as dozens of youngsters converge on the club to get the last ounce of play before things pack up for the winter. It has been  great season again with numbers rising and games being arranged regularly. Blitzes, tournaments and challenge games are arranged for the benefit of all the young players with a huge effort put in by the mentors that look after all the juvenile teams. The enjoyment these young players get is very evident too when you see them grace the pitches any evening of the week for a puc-around with a few mates independent of training nights. Hoards of O’loughlin’s kids too pour into Nowlan Park at half time on match days proudly wearing their club colours is another sure sign of things been done right at O’Loughlin Gaels GAA. Keep up the good work boys and keep on practicing. 
 
 
CLUB LOTTO – JACKPOT WINNER!!
There was no winner of last weeks Lotto.  The numbers drawn were 9,10, 11 ,20 and the bonus number was: 6.  Tickets can be bought from the usual selling agents or by asking at the clubhouse bar. Remember – if you’re not in; you can’t win the jackpot prize of €20,000.
 
JUVENILE BAG PACK –NEWPARK EUROSPAR  SEPTEMBER 25TH & 26TH
On Friday and Saturday parents of juvenile player at O’Loughlin Gaels will be at the tills at Newpark Eurospar to help you with your packing. This fundraiser contributes to the costs of training equipment and the running costs of the clubs juvenile section. The young lads of St. Johns Parish get a lot of enjoyment in participating with O’Loughlin Gaels GAA and take great pride in wearing their club colours. They are given the opportunity to make friends that they train with and play against and learn healthy habits in a very active environment. This fundraiser helps the club to keep that momentum up and your help is greatly appreciated. If anyone wants to help out on the day you can contact your child’s team manager or you can contact the club via facebook or twitter.
 
 
CLUB FACILITIES
 
The club boasts the best facilities for any sports club in the town. A full sized gym is available to hire for sports activities or indeed for your own clubs big fundraising event. With newly refurbished kitchen the facilities also include a function room for your family gathering, club gathering or conference. Paddy Green is on hand to take any bookings and facilitate your needs. Contact Paddy on 0861298329 or 056 7765036
 
 
 
 
 
PARISH NEWS
 
Eucharistic Adoration
Eucharistic Adoration takes place in Dunmore Church every Tuesday from 3-4pm. All are welcome.
10.30am  Choir
10.30am choir will be resume on Sunday 4th October. New members are welcome.
St Joseph’s Young Priest Society
A meeting will take place in St John’s Presbytery on Monday 28th September at 11.00am (immediately after the 10.30am Mass) with a view to forming a Branch of the St Joseph’s Young Priests Society in St John’s Parish.  All who are interested are asked and encouraged to attend.
Fibromyalgia support group
Meetings will be held each Saturday in Ossory Park Community Centre, near Nowlan Park, at 2.30pm.  All newcomers are most welcome for tea/coffee and chat, sharing of advice. Guest speakers/ therapists to be scheduled.  Tel:  Doris on 086 2346491 or Tommy on 086 1080291
Irish Kidney Association
Kilkenny Branch of the Irish Kidney Association will be holding their Annual Church Gate collection next weekend 26th / 27th September. Thank you for your support.
Parish Pastoral Council
The September meeting of the Parish Pastoral Council takes place this coming Wednesday at 7.30pm in the Presbytery.
St John’s Prayer Group
Mass will be held in the Day Centre at 8.15pm next Wednesday 23rd September.  All are welcome.
Ossory Bus To National Eucharistic Congress Knock
Members of the faithful are invited to travel by us to attend the National Eucharistic Congress  next Saturday, 26th September.
Father Brian Griffin,  St. John’s Parish,  will accompany the faithful on the bus.  Bishop Seamus will attend the Congress and will meet the Ossory group in Knock. Date:   Saturday, 26th September. Collection points:  7.00 a.m. Loughboy Car Park. Cost:   €13.00 per person. Contact:  Marian Fennelly at 086-0693510

U16s ARE COUNTY CHAMPIONS
This is a great team marked by the numerous successes it has enjoyed over the last number of years. Its greatest success however is it’s unity as a group of players. A group of young lads brought together through the ethos that O’Loughlin Gaels instils and a common passion for the game of hurling. These lads enjoy playing the game and have developed a friendship that binds them together when they take the field of play. One there’s that the success follows.  After disposing of Dicksboro, James Stephens in the lead up to the final the lads came up against a powerful challenge in Ballyhale. Big strong hard challenges were met with relish and the boys new they were in for a good game of hurling. Exactly what these lads want.  The stiff wind in the Thomastown sky meant that the O’Loughlin s lads had a tougher challenge in the first half. The wind holding the ball in the air suited the Ballyhale defence and the St. Johns side found it difficult to get their scores. Eoin Wall made a couple of piercing runs into the defencive zone only for the final pass to go astray under intense pressure.   It wasn’t until the 29th minute before Eoin Wall eventually broke the Ballyhale resolve to get a fine goal. Ballyhale tacked another point from a free before the half ended leaving the half time score O’Loughlin Gaels 1-5 to 0-6 Ballyhale.  The second half suited the Gaels that bit better. The exertions of keeping the Gaels at bay from the Ballyhale outfit waned somewhat as the half progressed and the game opened up with some fine scores won by the O’Loughlins attack. Sean Kenny (2pts), Adam Flynn (2pts), Dacel Fwamba, Eoin O’Shea, Ronan Buckley and Ryan Poyntz all 1 pt each. The top scorers on the day were Eoin Wall (1-4) and Ben Maher (0-9). All great scores but none would have been possible but for the defencive play of one Jordan Molloy. He was a joy to watch and his workrate , skill and vision were exceptional. In fairness he had the freedom to do so with the knowledge that his back was covered by his flankers Mikey Butler and Luke Hogan. Teamwork!. David McCormack manned the goal and pulled off a remarkable reflex save after the aforementioned Jordan Molloy deflected a rasper from Ballyhales centre foreward.  Oisin Murphy, Barry lawlor, Conor Heary, Eoin O’Shea and Ryan Poyntz all worked tirelessly around the middle of the park with a massive display by Conor Heary who had the onerous task of keeping tabs on the oppositions key player. Adam Flynn roamed around the centre of attack breaking ball and setting up a fine attacking platform for these guys to win out deservingly and take the title now retained from 2015. Congratulations boys and a big bualla bas to Managers Brian Dowling, Paul Phelan, Rick Leydon, Kevin Cleere who’ve primed these guys well.
Panel: D. McCormack, L. Hogan, J. Molloy (Capt), M. Butler, B. Lawlor, C. Heary, O. Murphy, R. Nuckley, E. O’Shea, R. Poyntz, A. Flynn, S. Kenny, E. Wall, D. Fwamba, B. Maher. J. Malone, J. Murphy (Spuddy), I. Clifford, E. Neary, J. Ryan, R. Boyd, J. Collins, L. Whelan, P. Nolan, J. Kearns, J. Murphy.
 
SENIOR HURLING . O’LOUGHLIN GAELS GAA 3-11 TO 0-13 JAMES STEPHENS GAA
It wasn’t a classic but it was a deserved win. The St. Johns side were always the better team and showed more menace up front. County player Mark Kelly earned a fine return of 2-4 for the workrate he put in throughout the game and could have been more but for another goal was deemed to be a square ball by referee Richard Dowling. In fact that was one of two goals disallowed for the same infraction. O’Loughlins first goal came from a penalty smashed to the net by goal keeper Stephen Murphy after another attack was hauled down by a hapless Village defence. It was the way the game unfolded and in truth the gap could have been greater but for the free taking of James Stephens David Walton. It wasn’t a classic but it sees the Gaels prepare for a Championship quarter final knowing a little more about the teams build up. Huw Lawlor showed great experience beyond his years in defence while Andy Kearns had an outstanding game. Paddy Cantwell came on midway through the second half for the injured Martin Comerford and put in a fine performance. Shane Mahony had his first outing at Senior league and showed that he’s another player for the future marking his day with a fine score. The league is over now and its business time now as the Championship looms. The lads will need your support so make sure to get along to the games. Keep an eye on the clubs facebook/twitter pages for fixtures ahead.
 
GORTA LE GORTU
Martin Comerford, Gorta, received a heavy knock during the league match last Sunday. The warrior as always put his body on the line and the sight of Gorta leaving the field by stretcher  was a worrying time for everybody not least his family. A very generous round of applause was given by both sets of supporters recognising the great commitment this man gives his club and hurling in general. Thankfully Martin is fine and eagerly looking forward to the club championship. But lets not forget the commitment and bravery and sacrifices all our players make In the name of the great game. Good man Gorta! The  County Board would do no wrong either by looking at the services available on all sidelines for such unfortunate events. It fell upon our club chairman, Eddie Buckley, to search under Ardan de Gras for the stretcher on this occasion. Our Eddie is always on the ball!
 
U14s MIXED BAG
It was a mixed bag of results for our u14 panels this week as the respective champoinships kicked off. The Roinn B team had a tough encounter and although coming out vanquished against a very strong Ballyhale side the acquitted themselves very well and matched them in the second half. It’s the end of the road for Roinn B but well done to all the boys and their mentors as the showed good fighting spirit. The Roinn A championship produced a first round win over Dunammaggin in a wet and slippy John Lockes Park. It was difficult to produce any sort of fluid hurling but our young Gaels handled the conditions better coming away with the win and a place in this years Championship semi-final. The quest to retain last years title still on track. Keep it up boys
 
JUVENILE NEWS
The u10s Took to the road again last weekend but only as far as our friends at Dicksboro GAA for their annual u10s Tournament. The young Gaels played games against the hosts plus city neighbours James Stephens in some high octane hurling. It was a great occasion and good fun as the city boys enjoyed hurling the socks of each other in a bid to have the best brag in the schools on Monday…as it should be. Well done boys and thanks to Dicksboro GAA – great sandwiches!!!
 
 
 
CLUB LOTTO – JACKPOT WINNER!!
The was no winner of last weeks Lotto.  The numbers drawn were 4, 21, 23 ,27 and the bonus number was: 12.  Tickets can be bought from the usual selling agents or by asking at the clubhouse bar. Remember – if you’re not in; you can’t win the jackpot prize of €20,000.
 
U12s CAMOGIE ARE COUNTY CHAMPIONS
Congratulations to the girls at u12 Camogie who defeated John Lockes of Callan last weekend in a very wet Tullaroan to become this years County Champions. Having suffered earlier defeats by the same opposition the success was all the sweeter. Just rewards for great work being done at O’Loughlin Gaels Camogie Club. Well done all and keep up the good work.
 
CAULFIELDS SUPERVALUE KITS FOR CLUBS
It may be steering towards the end of the season but already thoughts are towards getting ready for 2016 with the juvenile section receiving Training Kits from Super Value Loughboy thanks to their Kits for Clubs initiative. Thanks to all you shoppers out there who supported O'Loughlin Gaels coming out on top in our neighbours heartland. Manager Ezolda Chambers was on hand to present the kits. These will be very useful come spring when the Juvenile Section at O'Loughlin Gaels all gets going again. Thanks Caulfield's Supervalu Loughboy.
 
 
MEN ON THE MOVE
 
We all need a little maintenance so why not come along for your FREE Health Check as part of the Men on the Move programme in Kilkenny. You will be part of a network of 100 men from across County Kilkenny who are taking positive steps towards a healthier lifestyle.
The Free Health Checks will be available in Kilkenny City, Thomastown and Castlecomer. Each participant will receive 4 free Health checks (BMI, Waist Circumference, Blood Pressure, Cholesterol and basic Fitness Test) over a 12 month period. Following this, they can avail of a free 12 week physical activity programme in their community and two health and wellbeing workshops.
This programme is part of a National Research Evaluation so by participating you are taking steps to improve mens’ health across the country and you are also helping to raise funds for local organisations.
The only condition is that those availing of the Health Checks are currently inactive and will commit to attending the 4 health checks over the 12 month period!
Health Check Dates:
Castlecomer Health Check      Thursday 10th September        8pm       Erins Own Clubhouse        
Thomastown Health Check     Monday 14th September           7pm       Thomastown United
Kilkenny City Health Check    Tuesday 15th September          8pm      O’Loughlin Gaels GAA
For more information on the programme, please contact Kilkenny Recreation and Sports Partnership on 056 7794991 or our supporting clubs and organisations; Thomastown United, Erins Own, Castlecomer Athletics Club, Clara GAA, Young Irelands, O’Loughlin Gaels GAA and The Mens Shed.
 
 
PILATES
 
Commencing THURSDAY  17th of September, 2015 in the Dunmore Hall  from  7.00  -8.00 pm .
(6 weeks €50) All abilities catered for. Fully qualified Pilates Instructor.   Places are limited so booking is essential.
For further information please call (086 8547710)  Margaret
 

ALL-IRELAND CHAMPIONS
Congratulations to the Kilkenny team on yet another successful All-Ireland campaign. Well done to all the players but in particular our Mark Kelly whose commitment has earned him another wee-deserved All-Ireland medal. Everybody at O’Loughlin Gaels is very proud. Let’s not forget too that a successful team also has to have a back room team that is fully committed to the cause. The Kilkenny back room team is probably one of the best in the country and includes u16 camogie coach Tadgh Crowley who attends the battle weary wounded. Also included is u16s star Mikey Butler who this year has enjoyed being The Rackard’s aide in all the preparations that ensures the players want for nothing. Well done all
 
SENIOR HURLING RETURNS.
Now that all the madness of the All-Ireland has settled it’s back to business this weekend with a final round of the league versus city rivals James Stephens. James Stephens boast no less than four inter-county stars so our boys will have a task to out score these lads. O’Loughlins can take comfort knowing that their senior status is safe for 2016 but will want to take the easier route in the championship and book themselves into a quarter final berth with a win.  This was is fixed for Sunday and a big support is both expected and required. Get out and support your club.
 
U16’s DRIVE ON TO RETAIN TITLE
U16’s moved one step closer to retaining their Roinn A Hurling Championship Title with a solid win over James Stephens GAA. O'Loughlins Gaels were the dominant side in this Semi-Final with another fine team performance . Dacel Fwamba scored O'Loughlins only goal in what was a very determined driven display. James Stephens found it difficult to handle the hurling dominance of the St. Johns lads resorting to giving away fouls which Ben Maher was happy to convert. The opposition did manage a couple of consolation goals towards the games end but truly this one was well put out of sight long before the final whistle. Well done to all the lads and they look forward now to a County Final meeting with Ballyhale at the weekend. Keep an eye on the clubs facebook page for updates on this fixture and give these guys your support. Their well worth it.
The u16b team didn’t shaer the same fortune in their semi-final meeting against The Fenians on the same evening. It was always going to be a big ask but the lads fought hard and a last minute goal by the winners provided them with a flattering score difference.  It was one of those days where the ball didn’t fall right for the lads and on any other day you could safely be assured of another outcome. But it wasn’t to be. These guys have put in some hard yards this Summer and it’s a credit to their commitment to be still hurling at the penultimate stage of the Championship. A great bunch of lads they'll take their disappointment and only get better next year. Well done to all the lads and their management team. The boys look forward now to supporting their panel comrades in next weekend’s Roinn A final v Ballyhale.
 
JUVENILE NEWS
Well done to our u8s panel who enjoyed a great days hurling at the annual Dicksboro u8s blitz. Games v Dicksboro, Tullaroan, Cushenstown (Wexford), Urlingford, Ballycallan kept the boys busy on Saturday morning. On All-Ireland weekend these young lads showed that you don't have to go as far as Croke Park to see top class hurling. Well done boys.
The u10s travelled to Clonmel to take part in the St. Marys GAA tournament last Saturday. Our Tipperary hosts put on a good show and were very hospitable although a tad envious of our county’s participation in the following days All-Ireland. The boys played some good stuff too with the opposing net been rattled on a number of occasions. Well done to all on what was another enjoyable juvenile event.
 
CLUB LOTTO – JACKPOT WINNER!!
The was no winner of last weeks Lotto.  The numbers drawn were 1, 2, 10 ,23 and the bonus number was: 19.  Tickets can be bought from the usual selling agents or by asking at the clubhouse bar. Remember – if you’re not in; you can’t win the jackpot prize of €20,000.
GOLF CLASSIC
The Club held it's annual Golf Classic on Thurs/Fri, 27th & 28th in the immaculately manicured Kilkenny Golf Club. Fair play to former great Kilkenny and OLG hurler Sean Dowling on this, he looks after his own!!! The weather wasn't quite so kind at times and there were heavy showers particularly on the Thursday. This didn't stop the scoring being of a very high standard with the first 3 teams equal on 90 points. It was great to see that these 3 teams have been regular supporters over the years of our Classic and, after a back nine count-back 1st went to BTW/Danny Wall's team captained by Cyril Lawlor, 2nd to Country Style Foods lead by Joe Mulcahy and 3rd to M&A Coaches with Michael Dowling and his 2 ever-present playing partners Martin 'Goggy' Brennan and Ned Kenny. There was a ding-dong battle for the longest drive on the 14th as 2 of our own, Danny Loughnane & Maurice Nolan, battled it out. Danny lead for all of Thursday and most of Friday before Maurice pipped him with a massive drive to win the bragging rights. Thanks to all who played in the Classic and those businesses that sponsored teams, prizes or tee-boxes. Looking forward to 2016 already.
 
 
MEN ON THE MOVE
 
We all need a little maintenance so why not come along for your FREE Health Check as part of the Men on the Move programme in Kilkenny. You will be part of a network of 100 men from across County Kilkenny who are taking positive steps towards a healthier lifestyle.
The Free Health Checks will be available in Kilkenny City, Thomastown and Castlecomer. Each participant will receive 4 free Health checks (BMI, Waist Circumference, Blood Pressure, Cholesterol and basic Fitness Test) over a 12 month period. Following this, they can avail of a free 12 week physical activity programme in their community and two health and wellbeing workshops.
This programme is part of a National Research Evaluation so by participating you are taking steps to improve mens’ health across the country and you are also helping to raise funds for local organisations.
The only condition is that those availing of the Health Checks are currently inactive and will commit to attending the 4 health checks over the 12 month period!
Health Check Dates:
Castlecomer Health Check      Thursday 10th September        8pm       Erins Own Clubhouse        
Thomastown Health Check     Monday 14th September           7pm       Thomastown United
Kilkenny City Health Check    Tuesday 15th September          8pm      O’Loughlin Gaels GAA
For more information on the programme, please contact Kilkenny Recreation and Sports Partnership on 056 7794991 or our supporting clubs and organisations; Thomastown United, Erins Own, Castlecomer Athletics Club, Clara GAA, Young Irelands, O’Loughlin Gaels GAA and The Mens Shed.