Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Dedication This history of Ballyteague GFC is dedicated to all of the people, both past and present, who have contributed in any way towards making the club such a positive influence and a force for good in the community.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History Contents
Introduction Tributes
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Chapter 1 - Local History Hill of Allen Ballyteague Village Ballyteague Castle Kilmeague Crosspatrick Dr. James Gallagher Ballyteague Mass Rock
13 15 15 16 16 16 17
Chapter 2 - The Early Years How it all started Reformed Enter the ‘60’s First Championship Title Chairman’s Address
18 22 25 26 28
Chapter 3 - The Golden Era Tough Start 1972 Junior A Final 1972 Jack Higgins Cup Win 1973 Intermediate Success 1974 Senior Championship First ever Senior Final Carbury bring Larks Dream to an end Chapter 4 - Highs and Lows Setting the Foundation 1985 Junior A final 1987 Junior A Final 1988 Junior A Champions 1988 Jack Higgins Cup Victory Return to Senior Ranks 1993 Sarsfields Saga Herbert Cup Victory Sarsfield suffer shock defeat by the Larks 2000 Intermediate Final Defeat 2002 Senior League Div. 3 Win 2005 Intermediate B Champions 2007 Intermediate B Champions again
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31 32 32 36 38 40 42
46 47 48 48 51 52 54 55 57 58 59 60 61
Ballyteague G.A.A. History Chapter 5 - Featured Players and Teams Joe McTeague Father Tommy Hayden Marc Herbert All Ireland Kick Fada Champion Underage Teams Underage Coaching Club Quiz Ballyteague men who served the county teams Club Roll of Honour
62 62 65 66 74 75 76 78
Chapter 6 - Feature on Allen St. Marys Na Fianna Allen Parish Senior Team St. Marys Senior Team Roadstone Allen Team Allen National School Report
80 81 83 84 84 85
Chapter 7 - People and Events Snippets of Information Club Quiz Answers 1984 Official Opening Day Commemorative Trophies Club Development Plan Club Officials down the years 2009 Club Officials
88 93 94 96 100 103 104
Chapter 8 - Social and Community Activities Ballyteague Social Club Dinner Dances Benefit Game Fundraising Ballyteague canal Activities Group Allen Little Theatre Group Chapter 9 - Ballyteague Teams Finals Team Lineouts Fantasy Team of Captains
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106 110 114 115 116 116
118 128
Ballyteague G.A.A. History Introduction A successful Gaelic Football Club cannot exist in isolation but must draw its support and commitment from within its own locality. Ballyteague’s successes on the playing field are documented in this book. The development of the playing pitches and club rooms are further proof of its healthy condition but the real measure of success of Ballyteague is the total commitment and dedicated loyalty of the many club officers, mentors, player and supporters down the years since the team was founded in 1927. A club’s greatest asset, like a country, is its people and so a club history of Ballyteague would be incomplete were it to concentrate solely on the activities on the playing fields and ignore the past happenings in the locality from which it draws its support. We have decided to include in this book a short history of the people and places in the surrounding countryside and, while acknowledging that much more could have been written we hope that the few items we have chosen will be of interest to our readers. Ballyteague Gaelic Football Club has produced players who have played at the highest level in the county but we also wish to acknowledge the contributions made by those players who never reached such dizzy heights. The old adage that “a team is only as good as its subs” has been proven true time and time again and so we wish to pay tribute to each and every person who has donned the jersey and to each and every person who has contributed in any way to making Ballyteague the club that it is today. The club history would not have been possible without the many photos and material provided by various people and we wish to thank all who helped in any way towards the publication of this book. We would particularly wish to thank the history committee of Paddy Swords, Tommy Herbert, Darren Maguire, Cathy Murphy and Declan Jacob for their advise and help and also Mario Corrigan, Kildare County Library, Newbridge. We are very grateful to the kind sponsors of this publication for their generous support. They are our main sponsor Tim Dooley of Dooley Insurance Group, plus our other sponsors Ace Sports Awards, AYS Embroidery / De Ja Sports Sales, Cill Dara Betting, Comerford Bakeries, Gilligan Electrical, Hillside Windows, Michale Hoey, Jim Kelly, Tommy Mooney Plastering, Eamonn Sheridan Tarmacadam. We would also wish to acknowledge the help, support and co-operation of our printer John Holden of Lilywhite Print, Newbridge. While we have made every effort possible to ensure that all of the facts are accurate to the best of our available knowledge and records we regret if any unintentional errors appear in this book. It has been an honour to have the opportunity to undertake this venture as it has given us much pleasure in reliving many golden events that have taken place since the foundation of the club in 1927. Vincent Kelly and John Ivers.
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Vincent Kelly
John Ivers.
Ballyteague G.A.A. History Club Secretaries Address As Club Secretary of Ballyteague GFC it is my honour to write a tribute on behalf of all club officials and club members in this book written to commemorate the 125th. Anniversary of the GAA and dedicated to the history of Ballyteague GFC and to the people of the surrounding area. First of all I wish to thank Vincent Kelly and John Ivers for their time, patience and research they put into the club and area history in order to write and produce this splendid book. This is their second publication, having written one for the club in the GAA Centenary year of 1984. We are also grateful to Paddy Swords, Tommy Herbert, Darren Maguire, Cathy Murphy, Declan Jacob and every person who supplied items and photographs for inclusion in the publication. We are also very thankful to the book’s sponsors and to the printer, John Holden Lily White Print Newbridge. The club was formed in 1927 and in its eighty-two years has gone from strength to strength on and off the playing field. The club has won championships at Junior B, Junior A (twice), Intermediate (twice), reached the Senior Final in ‘74, won Intermediate B on three occasions and their players have been very successful at underage level with St. Marys and Na Fianna parish side. Major Club Development has taken place and we now have wonderful facilities that are the envy of many clubs. I wish to thank all those members who have contributed to the progress over the years and I pay tribute to all the hard working officers who have guided the club though thick and thin. To all members who have suffered bereavement I wish to extend sincere sympathy. Ar dheis De go raibh said. I hope you enjoy reading this club history that recalls many memories over the years. Gi raibh mile maith agat. Marie Jacob, Runai.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History Club PRO’s Address Nestled deep in the countryside, miles from the nearest town, bordered by the canal and the bog, you will find a living creature. This creature is fuelled by energy, enthusiasm, interest, and love. This creature is made up of hundreds of moving parts, big and small, old and young. This is Ballyteague Gaelic Football Club, otherwise known as the “Larks”. The club was founded in 1927 by a group of football loving locals who saw space for a new club in the area. They were given the use of a field, the site of the present pitch, by a local landowner. It is said the first set of jerseys was bought by one of the founding members and that they had a collection among themselves to buy a football. A humble beginning. Since its foundation it has gone through good times and bad times. Experienced success and failure. Made friends and indeed enemies. It has had many great people guide it along the path to reach where it stands today. Many of them are no longer with us but I am sure they look down on Ballyteague with pride. Where are the “Larks” today. The present site, which consists of the main playing pitch, a second training pitch, an all weather facility and the club house which includes dressing rooms, referee’s room, function room, kitchen, offices and a fully equipped GYM, was purchased in the 70’s. The highly motivated committee at the time had a dream and indeed the courage to take on the task of starting the journey to where we find the Club today. Our duty presently is to keep that dream alive. We have the bricks and mortar, but more importantly we have teams, in Intermediate, Junior , U 6, U 8, U 9, U 10, U 11 and U 12. From U 13, U 14, U 15, U 16, Minor and U 21 Ballyteague along with its neighbouring clubs Allenwood, Robertstown and Milltown form the Na Fianna club. Na Fianna field teams for boys and girls, men and women. The underage structure is working well; most of the present first team have come up through the underage ranks. The club has a very active Social committee. They organise weekends away, table quizzes, and social nights and help out with fundraising. There are living links with the past. We have children and grandchildren of past players, proudly wearing the green and gold jerseys. But we also have players proudly wearing the jersey who have come to live in the community and who are most welcome. We have All Ireland medal holders, an All Ireland Feile champion, an All Ireland Kick Fada Champion. The club has been represented at County Board level with many club members serving as County Board Officials. But our biggest assets are our club members, who by their loyalty, support and dedication carry the club in their hearts every day. They support the club no matter what and when asked for financial support to keep the show on the road do so without issue. In this special year, when we are celebrating 125 years of the GAA, we should bear in mind the huge gift we have been given and do everything in our power to pass it on to future generations for them to enjoy. Catherine Murphy, Ballyteague Club PRO
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History Co. Chairman’s Tribute Is cúis mór áthais dom cúpla focal a scríobh ar an ocáid specialta seo do gach duine a bhfuil baint acu le Cumann Luthchleas Gael Baile Thaigh. It gives me great pleasure to pen these few words on this another milestone in the history of Ballyteague GAA. Since the formation of the club Ballyteague have contributed immensely to the well being of their community and the GAA in Kildare in general. Your achievements both on and off the field are the envy of many and the facilities that you have provided for your members are second to none. From a County Board perspective “The Larks” have always been extremely supportive whether that be the provision of pitches and facilities, the involvement of players on County teams or the involvement of officials at Board level. The compilation of a club history is an arduous but hugely important task. It is important that we remember our past, the characters, the players, the games, the highs, the lows, the successes and the failures. It is important that this information is handed down so that present and future generations will be conscious of what has gone before and will not take what they have for granted. As Chairman of Kildare G.A.A. I congratulate Ballyteague on the production of this fine publication. No matter what task John Ivers and his team set themselves you are always guaranteed that no stone is left unturned and once again they have done Ballyteague and the GAA proud. Congratulations on what the club has achieved over the years and my sincere best wishes in the future. Syl Merrins Cathaoirleach Cumann Lúthchleas Gael Chill Dara 2009
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History County PRO and Communications Committee Tribute I have great pleasure as County Kildare PRO in this the 125th anniversary year of the C.L.C.G. to a pen a few words of praise of Ballyteague G.F.C. for this fine production. Congratulations to John Ivers, Vincent Kelly and all who were involved in producing this excellent club history. It is very important that clubs publish a record of times past and the Larks have set a fine example for all to follow with such a wealth of detail that also includes some local history of their community. The club have produced many quality players and officials with the name John Ivers known all over Ireland as one of the most respected GAA stalwarts for over forty years. The club can boast of one of the finest pitches and club facilities in the country that are a tribute to the hard work and commitment of dedicated voluntary workers over many years. Co Kildare teams have benefited from many fine players, officials and selectors who have contributed to the success of Lily White teams at all levels. I would like to wish the Ballyteague club every success in the future. Is Mise, Mary Donnelly, County PRO and Chairperson of Communications Committee 2009
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History Main Sponsor – Dooley Insurance Group The Dooley family have a long association with the Ballyteague GFC with Ned Dooley taking on the position of Club Secretary of the reformed club in 1951. He was honoured when he was given the privilege of receiving a Hall of Fame Award in 2008 for his service to the club over very many years. He is currently one of the club Presidents. This commitment to Ballyteague GFC coincided with Ned Dooley’s commencement of a highly successful career in the Insurance industry that has seen our business grow to one of the largest Insurance businesses in the Country. We have supported and enjoyed the success of the various teams at all levels that have won many trophies for the club. We commend the club for the wonderful developments that have been initiated with the new and existing playing fields along with the all-weather playing surface in addition to the provision of a state of the art Club Pavilion. I would like to acknowledge the commitment of the players, trainers, officials and members of Ballyteague GFC who have worked so hard to build the Club to the level of success that it now currently enjoys. I would also like to acknowledge the support of our many clients who live in Ballyteague and the surrounding areas who have supported us by entrusting their insurance needs with Dooley Insurances over the last 50 years. On behalf of Ned Dooley, Tim Dooley and the Dooley Insurances Group we wish Ballyteague GAA every success in the future and we are delighted to sponsor this fine publication on the history of Ballyteague GFC. With every best wish to all of our customers and friends in the Ballyteague area. Tim Dooley, Managing Director, Dooley Insurance Group
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Ned Dooley
Ballyteague G.A.A. History My Ballyteague Memories by Paddy Behan Ballyteague in the late forties and early fifties was a far cry from the fine new houses of the present day. Nearly all the houses had thatched or galvanized iron roofs. The towpath on both sides of the canal was the only way getting in or out of our cottage homes. A Grand Canal sign at the stop gates at Sales’s Lock; read “No motor vehicles beyond this point” All this ended when the new road was built in the early 1950s Most houses had a battery wireless that was powered by a dry H.T battery and a wet cell type battery that had to be recharged every week. Or so. The only programmes we listened to were, the news, Michael O’Hehir’s GAA matches, and “Round the Fire” on a Saturday night. We had oil lamps and candles to light the house and we kept ourselves warm with turf fires that burned your face and shins, while, your back was perished with the cold, however, this was rectified when we knelt down with our backs to the fire to say the rosary. But despite the prayers there was ghosts and spooks at places like the Round Bush, the Madman’s Turn, the Bawn Gate, 20th Lock, the Masters Acre and the Castle. Then in the 1950s rural electrification arrived and everything changed. Everyone got an electrical powered radio, it wasn’t called a wireless anymore and we listened to Radio Eireann, BBC and Radio Luxembourg all day long. Most people got a fridge and washing machines replaced the tub and washboard, and the kettle was plugged into the wall. Tom Hendy of the castle got the first television in the early 50s and Dick Cross got the second in the mid 50s, black and white it was then with lots of snow on the screen, the only stations was BBC and ITV. Telefis Eireann came in 1962. Back then the canal was a big part of our lives, you went for a spin on a canal boat from Sales’s Lock to the Feighcullen Aquaduct and back on the next boat. We spent the summer evenings learning to swim by means of a bull rush “swimming sheaf” formed into the shape of a large V and used to support us in the water. On Sundays we went to see the “larks” playing on bicycles or in the back of Tom Sheridan’s lorry. But it was not all sport and play. We had to do plenty of work dropping the potatoes in the Spring and picking them in the harvest, we helped save the hay, rear and bring home the turf and threshing day was one of the great events of the year when Jim Lyons’s horsepower spluttered and backfired into the haggard and all the neighbours assembled in the haggard in a great spirit of co-operation. Teenage social amusement consisted of the cowboy films, in the old tin roofed picture houses at the Skew Bridge or Robertstown, or the “Fit Ups” that came around every year. The talent shows always proved popular because the audience picked the winner amid boo’s, cheers and whistles from the various opposing gang entries. It would not be possible to write an article about 1950s Ballyteague without mentioning Paddy Carawan, (Carthy) “The Bard of Ballatague” Paddy made up songs about everything that happened in the locality. Songs like the “Electric Poles” the “New Road” and many others. Paddy always had a variety of birds Goldfinches, Chaffinches, Bullfinches, Canary’s, and cross breeds which he called “Mule Birds”. He also had a pet Grouse called Dick, who would roar as soon as a stranger came near the cottage. Mitching with Jim (Cuan) Doyle was another favourite pastime of ours. Jim lived down the lane leading to Healys farm and the old turf camp foundations. Jim would play a tune on the melodian for us, everything going well until the “lump of paper” blew out the bellows bringing the music session to a sudden stop. Silence would descend until we’d ask if he saw any strange goings on lately, to which Jim would reply
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History “ha, ha, ha I saw a lad an a wan, heading for Haly’s furze to canoodle yesterday” to which we’d say “how did you know they were going to canoodle, Jim” to which Jim would reply “ I’m a cliver cuan sure didn’t I know by the gimp of thim, what they were up to.” These are some of my memories from simple time now past and gone forever. P.S. I grew up in Ballyteague but have lived in Naas for the past 40 years. I have very fond memories of Ballyteague and indeed of the Parish of Allen and its people, some gone to their eternal reward, R.I.P. You have always held and continue to hold special place in my thoughts and memories. I admire the achievements of Ballyteague GAA club, officers, players and members and congratulate them on this publication and thank them for the opportunity to contribute some of my happy memories of a time now gone forever. Paddy Behan 2009
Paddy & May Murphy 1947
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History We have included a tribute published in our last edition and written by the late Hugh Campion who was Chair of the Kildare GAA Centenary Committee in 1984.
Centenary Committee Tribute Ballyteague G.F.C. have contributed their share to the promotion of Gaelic football over many years and it is fitting that they should, in the Centenary year of the foundation of the G.A.A. officially open their magnificent Club rooms and Grounds. The fact that I was closely associated with the club for so long perhaps prompted them to ask me to write a few words for their Club History, and that coupled with the fact that Catherine Donoghue, the secretary of the Kildare Centenary Committee is a member of Ballyteague Club how could I possibly refuse. My own association with “The Larks” goes back over many years during the bad as well as the good times. I recall with nostalgia the memory of the much-lamented Ned Herbert for so long their outspoken County Board Delegate. I also recall the memory of Jimmy Dowling not too long laid to rest. Jimmy played with the All Whites in the All Ireland Football Final of 1935, which was our last appearance in a Senior Decider and later refereed at the highest Inter-County level. Ned Herbert’s memory is honoured each year with the running of the Herbert Cup considered to be the most efficiently run tournament within the county. I recall with happy memories the scotch accent of the late Tom Keenan “The Larks” most fervent fan. During their low moments I can still hear him shout loud and clear “Come on Ball-a-tage”. His memory is honoured by the running of a Junior Tournament and this is fitting, as at heart Tom was a Junior man. Turning to the playing side Seamus Nugent who for too short a time was a Kildare player and in later years won many awards in New York was perhaps their most famous son. However other players whom I much admired were Joe McTeague, holder of All-Ireland u/21 medal, Father Tommy Hayden who paid me the tribute of asking me to share in his first Parish Mass, “Big” Paddy Swords, “Red” Tommy Herbert, Seamus Brennan and the flying John Jacob. Ballyteague has a history of efficient club officials and I hope those I fail to mention will forgive me but some deserve recognition. These are Willie Aungier for his long years of service to the club, Brendan Kenny who works so hard on behalf of our county minors, and John Ivers who is the most efficient official I have met in a lifetime of G.A.A. activity. Finally I would hope to see in the coming years the establishment of hurling in the Parish of Allen and would ask the surrounding clubs to work towards that end. Ballyteague has a special place among the G.A.A. clubs in County Kildare and I would like to express my good wishes towards its members and know that Ballyteague G.F.C. can face its future safe in the knowledge of its past achievements and confident in its ability to meet the challenge of the coming years. Hugh Campion, Chairman, Kildare Centenary Committee
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Chapter 1 - Local History Hill of Allen The focal point of Allen parish is the famous Hill of Allen which rises majestically over the surrounding flat countryside and which affords a view of several counties from its summit. The renowned and fearless warrior Fionn Mac Cumhaill had his palace there in the second half of the third century A.D. He was the leader of a fearless band of warriors known as the Fianna, whose exploits are known to most school children throughout the country. He had two famous sons, Oisin and Fergus, who like their father, were also warriors and poets. Faint traces are all that remain as evidence to show the earthworks, which existed formerly. The present tower is situated in the centre of a small mound, which is known as Suidh Fionn or “Fionn’s Chair” which occupies the summit level of the hill. A great battle was fought at Allen in 722 A.D. between the forces of the King of Leinster Murchadh Mor, numbering about 9,000 and by the combined forces of Meath, Ulster and Connaught totalling 21,000 and led by the High King Feargal Mac Maelduin. He had invaded Leinster for the purpose of forcing payment of the tribute or Boru, which was the cause of much conflict and was always fiercely resisted by the Leinstermen. The invading superior forces were overcome and the High King was slain. Sir Gerald George Alymer of Donadea Castle erected the tower. Due to the site being too exposed to the elements work could only be carried out when the weather was favourable and as a result the building took from 1859 to 1863 to complete. During the excavation in preparing the foundations a number of human bones including a remarkably large skull was discovered and were re interred in a hollow space beneath a sloping tongue of rock near the entrance to the tower. Some of the stones used were quarried at Edenderry and transported by canal to Roberstown from where they were subsequently brought by cart to the site. The granite coping, steps and the pedestal of the table at the top of the tower came from Ballyknockan near Blessington. Some stone was quarried on the hill itself and was used in the lining of the building. This material was conveyed to the top of the Hill on a four wheeled vehicle, the wheels of which came from one of the cannons at Donadea Castle. The whole edifice was completed with a half-inch thick glass dome, copper framed and a railing around the tower. The two masons who built the tower were brothers, Laurence and William Gorry from Robertstown, whose names are cut on the landing at the top of the stairs. One notable visitor to the site was H.R.H. the Prince of Wales, later to become Edward VII, who was stationed at the Curragh Camp at the time and the visit is commemorated by the following inscription on the flags inside the railings, “Sept. 16th A.D. 1861 H.R.H. the Prince of Wales ascended this tower. Sir Gerald had promised that the names of each person who assisted in the construction would be cut as an everlasting memorial on the steps and some of the descendants of those people still live in the area. The following is a complete list of those names and the townlands from which they came: -
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History Allenwood - Balentine -
James Dowling, Anne Healy, Wilson Symonds, Thomas Baker, Patrick Logan, John Tiernan, Michael Gannon, Thomas Culleton, James Walsh, William Flynn.
Denis Healy, John Tiernan, William Lazemby.
Ballyteague -
Michael Somers, Christopher Healy, Peter Healy, Edmund Hogarty, Edward Payne, James Doyle, John Thornton, James Hennigan, Patrick Moran.
Baronstown -
Francis Dowling, George Lowe.
Baranacrow -
Francis Dowling, James Carroll.
Carrick -
Thomas Flood, James Walsh, George Wilson, Elizabeth Knowles, James Doogan.
Cloncumber -
Patrick Lennon, Thomas Hynes.
Coolagh -
Robert Strong, Joseph Strong, John Rochford.
Derrymullen -
Pat Callan, Bridget Mulhall, Thos. Herbert.
Drimshree -
Joseph Payne, Michael Thorpe, Peter Cribben.
Dunburne -
Samuel Strong, William Wilson, Hugh Kelly, James Dowling, Patrick Dunne, Charles Ryan.
Grangeclare -
James Norton, William Price, James Carter, John Fitzpatrick, Michael Connor, Joseph Nevitt, Joseph Carter, Thomas Carter, George Price, Wm. Tyrrell, Lawrence Behan, James Brennan, John Lazemby, John Cribben, William Ormsby, Christopher Hickey.
Grangehiggin - Edward Nowlan, Matthew Nolan Kilmeague -
Peter Nowlan, William Curtis, Stephenson Haslam, Matthew Lazemby, John Healy.
Littletown -
Christopher Quinn
Lowtown -
Marcella Cribben, Lawrence Cribben.
Pluckerstown - Matthew Knowles, Denis Dunny, John Dunny. Rathernan -
Patrick Hickey, Richard Kelly.
Russelstown -
Catherine Healy, Peter Healy.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Ballyteague Village Very little is known concerning the village of Ballyteague that was located beside the Castle. Tradition has it that all the houses were thatched and that it contained three shops. The founding date of the village is unknown but the houses were demolished about a centenary and a half ago by a man named Laurence Dunne. Of the inhabitants of the village the names of two people are all that remain known to this day. One was James Flanagan, who left to take up business at John Nolan’s place in Naas. He died in 1814, aged 79 years and is buried in Crosspatrick graveyard. The other person to be known was Conway who also went to Naas and whose descendants still live there. Ballyteague also contained its own school and one of its teachers was Thomas Farrell who was educated in Munster. He commenced in 1818 with an annual income of £20 due to subscriptions from his students. The school-measured 32ft by 10ft, the cost of which was met by local donation and the Canal Company gave the ground for the site free. In the summer of 1824 there were a total of 56 pupils – 21 females, 35 males. Some of the books used in the school were – Sincere Christian, Telemachus Geography, Think Well Out, Imitation and Catechism, Spelling and other Elementary books.
Ballyteague Castle
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History The date of the founding of Ballyteague Castle is unknown but according to local tradition the Normans invaded the original castle in 1169 that was occupied by the Teige family. The men folk were killed but however one of the women escaped to return some time later to re-occupy her former home. The Castle was again attacked in 1172 and this time whilst escaping across the bog towards Lullymore she lost a silver slipper full of gold coins that were never recovered.
The present Castle dates to the 15th century and one of its most famous occupants was Silken Thomas who is reputed to have sheltered within its walls during his ill-fated rebellion against the crown forces. It was badly damaged in 1650 during the Cromwellian campaign, when it was subjected to cannon fire from nearby Crosspatrick Hill. Generals Hewson and Reynolds, who led the assault on the Castle, directed this fire. It lay in ruins until the middle of the nineteenth century, when its owner John Thornton had it repaired and it became habitable once again. It is no longer used as a dwelling but has undergone some recent renovation that has enhanced its impressive and striking features. Most visitors to the Ballyteague G.F.C. grounds pass it by before they reach their destination and remarked on its splendid state of preservation.
Kilmeague The first Church, which stood on the present site of the Church of Ireland Church, was dedicated to St. Mogue and hence Cill Mogue was finally anglicised to Kilmeague. The present village of Kilmeague was built over one hundred and fifty years ago under the supervision of Rev. A.J. Preston. Some of the materials used in its construction are reputed to have come from the walls of the Churches at Rathernan and Crosspatrick. Whilst excavating the foundation large numbers of bones were found which led to speculation that it was the sight of a battlefield. The castle in the village was the stronghold of the Fitzgeralds and it is probable that it was hence that Silken Thomas made his submission to Lord Grey following his unsuccessful and ill-fated rebellion. No stone remains to show the site of this castle as the last remaining tower was knocked down some years ago to provide material for road making.
Crosspatrick An ancient roadway marks the route over the high ground of Crosspatrick that was used by St. Patrick on his missionary work in the area. Here he established a Church that served as a place of worship for a great number of years. The traces of the old church no longer remain.
Dr. James Gallagher (1681 to 1751 Bishop of Kildare). The renowned Dr. Gallagher lived in the area and like some of his predecessors, particularly Bishop Forestall, 1676 to 1683, used the Bog of Allen as a place of refuge. The site of Dr. Gallagher’s cabin is on the Roberstown Road out of Kilmeague in a field opposite a disused sand pit. He was a hunted man with a price of £50 on his head. He was a constant fugitive from priest hunters, liable to transportation if caught, and if caught a second time, was liable to be hanged, disembowelled and quartered, according to the 1698 Penal Act. In practice numbers of priest were summarily executed as soon as they were caught.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History In 1735 he had a volume of sermons published that were dispersed and were taught in the hedge schools throughout the country. Dr. Gallagher died in 1751 and his final resting place cannot be determined in either Kilmeague or Crosspatrick graveyards in spite of efforts to locate it.
Mass Rock
On 18th Aug 1996 a Commemorative Mass was held at the Ballyteague Mass Rock to mark the 150th anniversary of the Great Famine. The celebrant was Rev. Laurence Ryan, DD, Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin. The mass rock is located in a site away from notice where the local population could attend to their religious duties performed by a priest who was hunted under the Penal Laws and liable to the cruellest execution if caught.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Chapter 2 - The Early Years Of The Club How it all started. Ballyteague G.F.C. was officially formed in 1927 and was given the nickname of the “Larks” immediately, due the close proximity of the bog. In the previous year the foundation of the club was laid when a challenge game, which they won, was organised with a local club Drimshree. Mr. Eddie Walker was one of the men to assist Drimshree on that day and later was of great help and assistance to Ballyteague. He served as headmaster in Allen National School and taught many of the people who were to assist the club over a long number of years. Other clubs had been established in the area such as Allen Fionn McCumhals, The Gallaghers, Derrymullen Green Flags and Grangeclare. These had all ceased to exist by the time Ballyteague came along to fill the void that was left. Football had strong roots in the area and this may be demonstrated in this poem written by Jim Clare at the time to commemorate the visit of Larry Stanley, from nearby Blacktrench, to Ballyteague to celebrate Kildare’s win of the 1919 All Ireland Title. The Bonfire in Ballyteague 1919 In Ballyteague the other night Great Honour there was seen To celebrate the victory Of our gallant county team, When the speech and it was over Brave Shortt he took the chair To welcome Larry Stanley From the gates of sweet Kildare. He said my boys here is the man Who won the glorious fights. Give three cheers for Stanley And its up the Lily Whites Now Lyons stuck up his fiddle Well rossoned his bow While Cleary and his melogin I’m sure he wasn’t slow While Maher and his tambereen Likewise wasn’t slack, And the boys and girls danced all night Till they made the old stage crack. Stir up the fire says Sheridan While Farrell he did shout Make room for Andy Hyland He’s bringing us the stout. The whole night long The dance went on You would hear it in Athlone Farrell he cursed Gladney Who broke his collar bone.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History Ballyteague hardly got off to an auspicious start as Celbridge beat them in the first round of the Junior Championship. This game was played in Maynooth and the following is a list of players who assisted the team on that day: Patsy Clare, Kit Dunny, Pat Hynan, Tom Hynan, Johnny Brennan, Stephen Herbert, Jack Gilligan, Peach Mills, Mick Behan, Kit Sheridan, Paddy Nugent, Larry Dunne, Johnny Connolly, Jack Dunne, Dick Behan, Jim Dunne and Dinny Dunny. The Club Officials were Mick Behan, Paddy Nugent and Jack Gilligan. The first jerseys were supplied by Paddy Nugent and were vertical stripes of red and green. Peter “Tinch” Sales supplied the ball and Jim “Captain” Connolly trained the team. Behan’s field served as the first playing pitch. The following year provided the new club with its first trophy when Ballyshannon were overcome in the Final of the Junior Football League and Ballyteague won the Tipperary Cup.
1928 Team Back Left: Kit Dunny, Dinny Dunny, Dick Behan, Larry Dunne, Stephen Herbert, Pat Hynan, Johnny Brennan, Tom Hynan. Front Left: Paddy Nugent, Johnny Connolly, Peach Mills, Jack Gilligan, Mick Behan, Jack Dunne, Kit Sheridan and Jim Dunne in front. During the following years Ballyteague did not win any trophies having managed to get to a few semifinals of the Junior Championship but by and large the pickings were lean. In 1937 Ballyteague were due to play Kilcock in Naas in the Junior Championship. Travel at that time was by lorry and the question of proper insurance cover was raised when it was discovered that a number of Gardai were on duty and likely to stop the vehicle. The team dispersed only to be re-assembled when four Kilcock cars arrived to take them to the game. Some of the players however could not be recalled
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History as they had gone elsewhere and in the ensuing match Kilcock won by two points. In 1938 the team disbanded with four of the players lining out with Robertstown and winning a Junior Championship with them in 1939. In spite of the fact that the team was no longer in existence, matches continued to be played at Ballyteague, most notably the 1946 Senior Football Championship Semi-Final tie between Carbury and Ellistown. J.J. Dowling incidentally refereed this game and admission was 6d. The poem published below titled “The Larks and the Magpies” was written to commemorate an exciting League final played between Robertstown and Ballyteague. Kit Ennis who hailed from the Isle of Lowtown and who in his day had played for the “Gallaghers” composed it.
“THE LARKS AND THE MAGPIES” Let you search through the wide world over, To far foreign lands you can sail, I hold you will never discover, The beat of the game of the gael. A jump by a lily white forward And the ball soaring high through the air, O’er the bar and a “point” is recorded To the victorious score of Kildare. 2. The news of each victory is sweeping Through hamlet and mountain and glen, Awakened the past then slumbering In the hearts of the best of young men A team called the Magpies were training To play for the championship crown Most eager of all to be gaining The laurels for old Robertstown, The Magpies to battle were going With the “Larks” down from old Ballyteague A townsland that never was known The game of the gael to renague. From homes that look lovely and bare, In the midst of brown heather and moor, Emerges the “Larks” with them few can compare, So manly swift footed and sure. 3 What a crowd were in Milltown that day, Of travel stained gaels from near and afar, Some travelled by bike, some travelled by dray,
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History And more by the swift motorcar. The teams take the field and a cheer rends the sky. Both sides to their favourites call, The backs are in place, and the excitement runs high, As the referee throws in the ball, No finer young stalwarts contending, On any pitch was ever seen, Some times black and white were defending, Next moment the red and the green. Young Hivon, Kavanagh and O’Reilly, Are seen in the thick of the fray, And Domican the nimble and wily, For the Magpies are giving good play. 4 The Larks well can boast of young Behan, And also of Mills and of Dunne. Their rivals will know they are playing, Eire the hard earned victory is won. Gilligan ‘tis years since I first heard his name, When the crowd hailed his father before. The referees whistle has ended the game, And the Magpies have won by one score. The crowd rushed the field, some seem out of mind, The players are raised shoulder high, And headgear was flung to the cold winter wind. Sacrificed to their owner’s joy. One hat in particular took a great flight, I heard it belonged to Dan Toole. The boys got it down with a ladder that night, From the roof of the National School. 5 To both teams leave not credit owing, In the heart of the gaels may they lie, To each on their capital stunning All honour unstunted I give. Where there is such stalwarts there never should be, For the short grass a care, The honour of sporting Kildare.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Reformed On 10th February 1951 the Club was officially reformed with its Annual General Meeting being held in Cleary’s to an attendance of thirty people. The following were elected: President Tom Hendy Snr., Chairman Bill Aungier Snr., Vice-Chairman Paddy Nugent Secretary Ned Dooley Assistant Secretary Peter Connolly Treasurer Willie Aungier Jnr., (who held the purse Strings until 1980) Team Captain Tom Doyle Vice-Captain Dick Cross Committee Peter Sales, Mick Moore, Mick Gilligan, Henry Doyle, Donohue, Jim Cross, Johnny Aungier. Selectors Bill Aungier, Tom Doyle, Tommy Donoghue, Willie Aungier Jnr. Team Manager Gandi Roche. The fees levied at the meeting brought in the sum of £3 and a report on the reforming of the club appeared in the Sunday People. The Club was presented with a new set of jerseys by Tom Doyle which was green and Gold in colour and which still remains the clubs official colours. At that time timber was very scarce and hard to come by but however Ballyteague’s new goalposts “arrived” overnight. Photo taken in the early fifties of from left Oliver Bright and Tom Doyle who both played with the Larks. Oliver who was a native of Kilcock worked as a shopboy in Wilkinsons of Littletown.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History The first game played was a challenge against Allen in Roberstown that Ballyteague won on a scoreline of 1-3 to 0-3. The team on that day was P Duggan, P. Hynan, M. Duggan, T. Doyle, P. Connolly J. Cross, D. Cross, j. Aungier, M. Moore, J. Flynn (0-1) H. Doyle, O. Bright ( 0-1), M. Gilligan, D. Kelly (1-0), Ned Dooley (0-1). The referee on the day was R. Cusack. In spite of such a promising start Staplestown beat Ballyteague by one point in the Junior Championship in a match that was played in Prosperous.
Ballyteague team which played against Carbury at Timahoe in 1952 Back: Fr. McNamee, Ned Dooley, Joe Donoghue, Johnny Aungier, Peter Ennis, Tom Flynn, Peter Duggan, John Flynn, Dinny Moore, Michael Jacob, Jim Cross, Dick Cross, Tom Doyle, Mick Gilligan, Henry Doyle, Peter Connolly, Matthew Duggan, Harry Doyle. In the following year of 1952 the Junior Championship was not held due to a series of objections between Kill and Straffan and the competition was postponed until it was held in 1953. All clubs usually have to struggle in order to cope financially and Ballyteague were no exception. So on 15th August 1952 a dance was organised in order to raise funds. The dance took place in Allen Hall, Music by the “Ritz Melody Makers” who charged £8 for the night. After deducting £3 expenses for the use of the hall the club was left with the princely sum of £10 profit – no mean figure at the time.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
1957 Team Back Left: Patsy Boland, Christy Herbert, Tom Dunne, Larry Dunne, Tom Nugent, Tom Flynn, Mick Gilligan, Mick Nugent, Jack Goulding. Front Left: Johnny Gilligan, Andy Cross, Tom Doyle, Joe Carty, Bill Dunne, Mick Aungier, Peter Connolly. Over the next number of years success on the playing fields was very limited but probably survival was the clubs greatest achievement as is instanced in 1956 when Allenwood G.F.C. was formed taking eleven Ballyteague players with them.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Enter the 60’s Some clubs have to wait many years before success comes their way and Ballyteague G.F.C. certainly had its lean times. But when the team reached the Junior B Championship Final on 8th October 1961 hopes of winning were very high. Alas it was not to be as Carbury by the minimum margin beat them in Newbridge – the final score was Carbury 1-4, Ballyteague 1-3. Ballyteague had started the game brightly and scored three points in a row early on without reply and were well in control of the match. In the second half they had stretched their lead to five points before Carbury started to make a comeback. The Ballyteague defence gave away too many free thus allowing Carbury back into the game and just on the stroke of full time when everyone was expecting a draw Carbury were awarded a free that they duly converted and snatched the victory. Ballyteague Team: Bill Dunne, Sean Brennan, Mick Nugent, Paddy Boland, Mick Lyons, Mick Gilligan, Peader Dunne, Seamus Nugent, Christy Jacob, Christy Hannon, Tom Nugent, Larry Dunne, Paddy “Ducks” Moran, Johnny Gilligan Capt., Joe Keeley.
Team, including mentors and supporters beaten by Carbury Back Left: JJ Dowling, Tom Keenan, Ned Herbert, Mick Nugent, “Ducks” Moran, Bill Dunne, Tom Doyle, Patsy Boland, Seamus Nugent, Sean Brennan, Tom Mills, John Carter, Tom Nugent, Seamus Brennan, Tom Donoghue. Front Left: Larry Dunne, Mick Lyons, Christy Hannon, Peader Dunne, Johnny Gilligan Capt., Andy Cross, Christy Jacob, Mick Gilligan, Joe Keely, Seamus Doyle, Paddy Nugent. The Committee in 1961 was as follows: President Chairman Vice Chairman Secretary Treasurer Captain Trainer
Tom Hendy Ned Herbert Tommy Donoghue J.J. Dowling W. Aungier Johnny Gilligan Tom Keenan
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
First Championship Title The defeat by Carbury made the “Larks” even more determined and so they bounced back immediately the following year and defeated Sallins in the Junior B Final on the score line of 1-7 to 0-5. This game was played on 14/10/62. It was a game that was reported as being one of the best junior matches of that year as it was a thriller right up to the end with Ballyteague only forging ahead in the last five minutes. While Sallins opened the scoring with a point it was quickly levelled by Ballyteague and both sides traded points until half time when they went in level at the break with Sallins guilty of many wides. Sallins scored a point on the resumption to go into an early lead having hit the cross bar three times. Seamus Nugent levelled and Jim Ennis, who’s sons Karl and Pierre now star for Maynooth and Kildare teams, pointed to put the “Larks” ahead. Both sides exchanged points to leave Ballyteague one point ahead with five minutes to go when they tagged on a goal and a point to seal a famous victory that gave the club its fist every Championship Trophy. Bonfires greeted the victorious team when they returned to home turf and were triumphantly transported on the back of Ned Dunne’s lorry around the locality to display their winning trophy. Ballyteague Team: Seamus Jacob, Seamus Brennan, Mick Nugent, Joe Keeley, Mick Lyons Capt., Mick Gilligan, Tom Logan, Peader Dunne, Seamus Nugent, Larry Dunne, Johnny Gilligan, Christy Jacob, Tom Nugent, Paul Brennan, Jimmy Ennis.
The team that defeated Sallins Back Left: Ned Herbert, Christy Hannon, Peader Dunne, Mick Nugent, Paul Brennan, Jimmy Ennis, Seamus Nugent, Johnny Gilligan, Andy Cross, Seamus Brennan, Paddy Moore, Sean Brennan, Willie Connolly, JJ Dowling. Front Left: Tom Keenan, “Ducks” Moran, Larry Dunne, Christy Jacob, Mick Gilligan, Tom Logan, Mick Lyons Capt., Seamus Jacob, Joe Keely, Tom Nugent, Tony Dunne, Bill Dunne.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History The victory over Sallins brought Ballyteague into its first ever Higgins Cup Final against Suncroft. The first meeting of the two teams took place on the 9th December 1962 and ended on level terms with a final score of 1-6 each. The replay was fixed for Newbridge and was played on 24th February 1963. Suncroft won by 2-3 to 1-2 and thus the “Larks� bid for an Intermediate status was ended for a number of years. There were unruly scenes on the pitch and on the sidelines and then a player who had been sent off returned to the field and became involved with an opposing player. This resulted in a large number of supporters entering the pitch and the referee was forced to suspend play for about ten minutes until order was restored and the match resumed. The conduct of the players and supporters was reported to the County Committee dealing with disciplinary matters. Ballyteague Team: Seamus Jacob, Seamus Brennan, Mick Nugent, Joe Keeley, Mick Lyons Capt., Mick Gilligan, Tom Logan, Peader Dunne, Seamus Nugent, Larry Dunne, Johnny Gilligan, Christ Jacob, Tom Nugent, Paul Brennan, Tony Dunne. Sub: John Nugent, Jimmy Ennis.
Photo of a team reunion that was held in 1987 in the clubhouse to commerate the twenty-fifth anniversary of the team that won the first ever championship for the club.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Chairman’s Address The following Chairman’s address given on behalf of Ed Herbert at the A.G.M. of 14/01/67 gives an insight into the state of the Club and its players. To the Secretary, Ballyteague G.F.C. 14/01/67. A Chara, I am sorry at being unable to attend the Annual General Meeting, but as you are aware I have been ill for sometime and will be unable to be about for another couple of weeks. As outgoing Chairman I will write a report on the activities of the club during the year. First I wish to thank the members and players who did so much during the past year for the club. Those who put their cars to bring players and supporters to matches, also to the members who worked so hard to make funds for the club. As all are aware funds must be made to run a club, and our way of raising funds are limited. Our only means last year was the flag days which were a fair success. I am sorry to have to say that a few members who could have, did not give much help, otherwise the proceeds would have been bigger. It is hard to be asking the same members to be doing the work all the time, should these lose interest there will be no funds and no club. At the last Annual General Meeting it was decided that all members pay 1/ weekly towards the funds. Collectors were appointed. Last September we had a meeting and found some were paying all the time, some were paying some of the time, and some had paid nothing, under the circumstances I told the collectors to call off the effort. With regard to the championship: It was hard luck to be beaten by one point for the 2nd year in succession. The majority of the players trained hard for the matches, of course it is hard to expect players who are working to attend at training. There is one matter which I think should be considered at the meeting and that is the question of players being in the dressing room at least half an hour before starting time in important matches, so as the trainer can have a chat with them. In the Sallins match nearly all the players were late, as a matter of fact some did not arrive until after 3 p.m., and as you all know things were in a “heap”. This did not help the players in any way. In future all players should make a special effort in this regard. I think a Committee should be appointed to assist the officials during the year, this was overlooked last year. Should you decide to appoint such a committee they could meet at times to look after the general interest of the club. Wishing the Meeting every success and hoping all members will do their best during 1967 for the club. I know there are several members more fitted to carry out the duties of Chairman than I, and I hope the meeting will give considerations to this.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History For the information of the meeting the position in the Bank is as follows: Balance last year Proceeds from Flag Days (lodged) Total Accounts paid since lodgment Balance in Bank
£1 £48 £50 £12 £38
15s. 1d. 13s. 6d. 8s. 7d. 5s. 0d. 3s. 7d.
There are a couple of small accounts to be paid roughly £6. The Treasurer may have a small amount of petty cash on hand which he will let you know about at the Meeting. Mise le Meas, Ed Herbert. Perhaps his words had the desired effect as Ballyteague won the 1967 Intermediate Football league Title by defeating Rheban even though the final was played in 1968. Ballyteague 2 – 9 Rheban 2 - 3 That match was a tough, rugged encounter with three players from both sides getting their marching orders. The opening fifteen minutes was very sedate and neither team managed to register a score but things started to boil over and by the half time whistle sounded both teams had a man sent off and the score registered Ballyteague 0 – 2 to Rheban’s 0 – 3. Matters continued in a similar vein on the resumption and in a free ridden second half both teams had two more men sent to the bench. Ballyteague capitalised on the scoring opportunities and ran out worthy winners. At the end of the game the referee Tony Keogh had to be escorted from the field to avoid the attention of some irate supporters who were unhappy with his decisions. Ballyteague Team: Seamus Jacob, Paddy Moore, Mick Nugent, Martin Iivers, Jody Brennan, Seamus Brennan, Mick Lyons, Paddy Swords, Tony Smullen, John Jacob, Joe McTeague Capt., Robbie Ivers, Christy Jacob, Johnny Gilligan, Tony Dunne. Ballyteague also reached the Junior A Championship Final that year and it was played at Newbridge on 8th September 1968. Disappointment was in store for the “Larks” as they suffered defeat at the hands of Ardclough. Ballyteague 1-9 Ardclough 0 - 14. The game was full of excitement and was as tough and robust an encounter that anyone could wish for. While a number of names went into referee Tony Keogh’s notebook no player was sent for an early shower. Both teams were very evenly matched in the first half with neither one capable of pulling too far away
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History from the other. As a consequence the half time whistle blew with both teams even on a score line of 0-7 each. Ardclough improved after the resumption of play and started to build up their lead to a position of being three points ahead well into the second half when matters took a dramatic turn. John Jacob punched the ball to the Ardclough net to leave the sides level and this was followed a few minutes later by Robbie Ivers pointing from a free to put Ballyteague ahead by the minimum margin. Ardclough, to their credit, fought back grimly and replied with three points before the full time whistle to secure the title. Ballyteague Team: Seamus Jacob, Paddy Moore, Mick Nugent, Martin Ivers, Jody Brennan, Joe McTeague (0-1), Paddy Swords, Seamus Brennan Capt., Tom Hayden, John Jacob (1-0)), Christy Jacob (0-1), Mick Thorpe (0-1), Robbie Ivers (0-4), Johnny Gilligan, Tony Dunne (0-2). Subs: Tom Brereton, Mick Roche.
Team that lined out in the 1968 Final. The ‘60’s ended on a sour note however when in 1969 Ballyteague conceded a walk over to Rheban when the appointed referee failed to attend and agreement could not be reached on his replacement.
Some of the guests enjoying the first ever Ballyteague Dinner Dance held in the Downshire House Hotel on 2/12/1967. In the center is Fr. Gaynor CC Allen. The Chairman Ned Herbert and the Secretary Jim Dowling are seated together in the front row.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Chapter 3 - The Golden Era Tough Start Ballyteague hardly started the new decade on a high note as the team was beaten in the Semi-Final of the Junior A championships by Rathangan in a replay. 1971 saw Ballyteague play in two rousing encounters with Kilcullen in the Junior A Final. The first game ended on a score line of 2 – 9 to 2 - 9 each after a thrilling hour of top class football before a record attendance at St. Conleth’s Park. The game was reported as having lived up to the pre-match expectations with classic goals; the teams level half-a-dozen times, superb football and exemplary sportsmanship. When Kilcullen’s Martin White scored a goal with time running out for the “Larks” the ice cool Robbie Ivers converted two late frees to draw the game and ensure that his team would get another chance to win the day. The replay against Kilcullen was held at the same venue on 12th. Sept. and while the fist half did not live up to the pre match expectations the second half was tinged with tension and sparkling fast –moving football as fortunes swayed from end to end. The half time score of Ballyteague 0 – 4 to Kilcullen 0 – 3 reflected the closeness of the encounter. On the restart Kilcullen came with a bang by scoring a quick goal followed by another goal in the thirtyfifth minute. Ballyteague fought back and were rewarded in the forty-fifth minute when the Kilcullen keeper failed to hold a shot from Joe McTeague as John Jacob tackled him and the loose ball was scrambled over the line. Ballyteague piled on the pressure and in the fifty-first minute Robbie Ivers pointed a free to equalise. However, Ballyteague had no answer to Kilcullen’s final point in the fifty-fifth minute and so were defeated on the score line of Kilcullen 2 – 4 to Ballyteague 1 – 6 Ballyteague Team: Seamus Jacob, Paddy Moore, Eamonn Sheridan Capt., Mick Nugent, Jimmy Swords, Seamus Brennan, Jack Dunne, Tom Herbert, Seamus Nugent, John Jacob, Joe McTeague, Mick Thorpe, Robbie Ivers, Tommy Hayden, Ned Dunne. Sub: Mick Nugent
Team defeated by Kilcullen - Back Left: Paddy Higgins, Joe McTeague, Seamus Nugent, Paddy Moore, Jimmy Swords, Seamus Jacob, Tommy Hayden, Tommy Herbert, Mick Gilligan. Front Left: Seamus Brennan, Ned Dunne, Mick Nugent, Mick Thorpe, Jack Dunne, Eamonn Sheridan Capt., Robbie Ivers, John Jacob. Some measure of compensation for this defeat was made when Ballyteague overcame Grange in Kildare Town to win Div. 2 of the Senior League on a score line of 0 – 7 to 0 - 6.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
1972 Junior A Final Ballyteague 2 – 10 and Castlemitchel 0 - 6 The disappointment of the defeat however was tempered when Castlemitchel were defeated by 10 points in the Junior “A” Final and Ballyteague became the first holders of the Noel Moran Cup and also win the Junior A Championship for the first time in the club’s history. The first half had been even enough with Ballyteague leading at the interval by six points to four but the turning point came in the forty fifth minute when at that stage they had increased their lead to five points and John Jacob punched the ball to the net from a sideline free. Five minutes later John Jacob again flicked the ball into the Castlemitchel net and ended the game as a contest. Ballyteague Team: Seamus Jacob, Paddy Moore, Seamus Brennan, Eamonn Sheridan, Jimmy Swords, Joe McTeague, Paddy Swords, Tommy Herbert, Tommy Hayden, John Jacob Capt(2-2)., Larry Kelly(0-1), Mick Thorpe(0-2), Robbie Ivers(0-3), Johnny Gilligan(0-1), Johnny Leeson(0-1). Subs: Ned Dunne, Mick Nugent.
1972 Jack Higgins Cup Final St. Kevins were overcome by 5 points in the Higgins Cup Final – the newspaper report of the game ran as follows: “Ballyteague are the Champions” Ballyteague 2-9, St. Kevin’s 2-4. Ballyteague proved themselves the best of the 36 Kildare Junior Football teams on Sunday when they ousted St. Kevin’s, the J.F. “B” champions to take the Jack Higgins Cup in the final in Naas. Once again the gulf between “A” and “B” in Kildare was seen, for St. Kevin’s were one of the best “B” teams for many seasons, but for all their polish when routing Raheens in the “B” final they lack the experience and flair in Naas. It was a teak-tough affair but thoroughly entertaining, with some good football produced. The final quarter waned unfortunately as the match was interrupted by encroaching crowds and cautions to a few players. Two were dismissed – Ballyteague’s Jimmy Swords and St. Kevin’s Seamus Tuite, the star of the “B” final the previous Sunday. Experience was the difference between the sides, but Ballyteague with six Co. players, had to pull out all the stops in the opening quarter as St. Kevin’s threatened to become the fifth “B” team to win the final. Paddy Browne gave the Saints fair possession at midfield, but it was 14 minutes before they scored, due to the tremendous back-play of primarily Joe McTeague and the accomplished Paddy Swords. In fact, Ballyteague with the hill in the opening half did not assert any superiority until the 25th minute when Skipper John Jacob scored the only goal of the half. A free on the right from McTeague floated towards the end line, but Jacob caught it, beat two defenders and scored from an almost impossible angle. St. Kevin’s only scored one point in the first 26 minutes but they collared two more between that and the interval from J.J. Cahill (frees) to leave them 1-5 to 0-3 down at the interval.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History After an early Ballyteague point from Mick Thorpe St. Kevin’s took over and played some of the football, which demolished Raheens in the “B” final. Ger Tobin threw away a certain goal when put clean through by Jerome Casey, but the corner forward shot against the advancing ‘keeper. The Saints did all their scoring for the half in a three-minute blitz. In the 4th minute Sean Ward, after a move involving Liam Murphy, Browne and Jerome Casey, goaled. Second’s later Ballyteague’s Larry Kelly pointed a free but the ball was back at the other end in a flash for Browne to score a fine point. Then they struck again. A lob in by Browne dropped in the square and Ward grabbed the goal with Casey there in support to unsettle the ‘keeper and draw the match for the second time. That was St. Kevin’s final score and they spent the remaining 23 minutes playing second fiddle to Ballyteague, who recovered like champions after the miniblitz. Four minutes after Ward’s second goal, Ballyteague got the most vital score of the game. Johnny Leeson in the 11th minute boxed a free across from Kelly to the net off the post. While St. Kevin’s were scoreless for the remainder of the half, Ballyteague only registered one point in the final 19 minutes, one from Larry Kelly a few minutes from the end. There can be no disputing that the honours went to the more accomplished team, but the gusto with which St. Kevin’s played added to the pace and tension of the game. While St. Kevin’s had a great midfielder in Paddy Browne, his possession was nullified by the superb Ballyteague half back line of Jimmy Swords, Joe McTeague and Paddy Swords. The latter two were the best of the side and saved Ballyteague from more than a few anxious moments. Paddy Moore and Seamus Brennan also defended well, but at midfield only Tommy Herbert showed any class. He was well out fielded by Browne for most of the opening half but recovered well towards half time and later in the second half, after the Saints pair seemed to have shot their bolts. The six winners’ forwards played with more fire and elusiveness than the opposing six who frequently lost possession in front of goal, or passed away their chances. John Jacob and Larry Kelly and the corner forwards, Johnny Leeson and Ned Dunne, were always on the go and never allowed the St. Kevin’s defence to settle down and lured them into repeated error. But Nick Delaney played a blinder for the losers. He was superb, fielding spectacularly and making up for the lapses by colleagues. Paddy Casey and Mick Kane were diligent workers, but up front only J.J. Cahill, Jerome Casey, Liam Murphy and Sean Ward impressed. They moved well when they got going, but their football was in fits and starts. They registered six wides in comparison to Bakllyteague’s 14. Scorers: Ballyteague – J. Leeson (1-2), L. Kelly (0-5) four frees, J. Jacob (1-0), N. Dunne (0-1), M. Thorpe (0-1). St. Kevin’s – S. Ward (2-1), J.J. Cahill (0-2) frees, D. Browne (0-1). TEAMS: Ballyteague – S. Jacob, P. Moore, S. Brennan, E. Sheridan, J. Swords, J. McTeague, P. Swords, T. Herbert, T. Hayden, J. Jacob (Capt.), L. Kelly, M. Thorpe, J. Leeson. J. Gilligan, N. Dunne. St. Kevin’s – J. Geraghty, P. Fox, P. Casey, M. Kane, S. O’Shea, N. Delaney (Capt.), J. Fox, P. Browne, D. Browne, G. Tobin, J.J. Cahill, S. Tuite, L. Murphy, J. Casey, S. Ward. Ref. – S. Aldridge (Athy).
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Ballyteague Higgins Cup Winners Back Left: Tommy Hayden, Tommy Herbert, Jimmy Swords, Paddy Swords, Larry Kelly, Paddy Moore, Johnny Gilligan. Front Left: Seamus Brennan, Eamonn Sheridan, Ned Dunne, Joe McTeague, John Jacob Capt., Johnny Leeson, Seamus Jacob, Mick Thorpe. The team had by the following year established itself as being one of the most formidable in the county. History was made when Ballyteague became the first Junior “A” team to reach a Leader Cup Final when after a close game Carbury won by one point. Ballyteague 0 – 5 Carbury 0 – 6 The County Senior Champions Carbury had one point to spare over a very gallant Ballyteague team that had to consider themselves very unlucky not to have at least come away from the fixture with a draw. The low score does not reflect on the quality of the play from both sides but rather is attributable to the strange cross-field wind that did no favours to either team. Carbury opened the scoring with a point after ten minutes but Larry Kelly replied with a point after a minute and he followed up with another one to put the Larks ahead. Carbury struck back before half time to leave the sides level at the interval at 0 – 2 each. On the resumption John Jacob pointed but this was nullified by Carbury pointing. Tommy Hayden then kicked his side ahead again but Carbury came back again to level and then increased the pressure to go two ahead. The Larks were undaunted and Robbie Ivers pointed to leave one between the sides but alas the gap could not be bridged and Carbury held out to win by the solitary point. Ballyteague Team: Seamus Jacob, Paddy Moore, Seamus Brennan, Eamonn Sheridan, Mick Thorpe, Eamonn Swords, Paddy Swords, Tommy Herbert, Tommy Hayden (0-1), Johnny Leeson, Joe McTeague, Larry Kelly Capt. (0-2), John Jacob (0-1), Johnny Gilligan, Robbie Ivers (0-1).
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History The measure of the enthusiasm within the Club can be gauged by the report of the clubs Annual Dinner Dance as reported in the local paper: Ballyteague’s Great Season Ballyteague G.F.C., which this year made history by winning the Noel Moran Cup, the Junior “A” Championship, and who have reached the final of the “Leinster Leader” Cup competition, broke further records by attracting over 420 patrons to their sixth annual dinner dance in the Keadeen Hotel, Newbridge, on Saturday night January 13. Among the guests were Co. Board chairman, Mr. Hugh Campion; secretary, Mr. Liam McManus; Rev. Fr. Gaynor, Rev. Fr. Murphy, Mrs. Jack Higgins and Mr. Eddie Walker, N.T. Welcoming those present, Mr. Mick Gilligan, club chairman, congratulated the championship players and also those who had played on the Kildare team during the year. He mentioned especially P. Swords, T. Herbert and J. Swords who won Leinster under 21 medals. Thanking the organizers of the function, Mr. John Ivers, club secretary, also congratulated J. McTeague on winning an O’Byrne Cup medal; S. Brennan and J. Jacob on winning their places on the County Junior Team, and John Jacob on winning the Junior “A” player award. He also congratulated Milltown on winning the Intermediate Championship, Allenwood on reaching the Senior Semi-Final and the Allen under 21 team, which was beaten in the Final by Athy. He thanked the team trainers, selectors and officials for a wonderful year’s work. Paying tribute to the Club Chairman and Secretary, Mr. Campion said Ballyteague were disappointed at their function last year at not having won the championship, but through dedicated preparation they made a comeback and now had the trophies to show for it. Mr. McManus, congratulating the club, thanked the members for the help they had given the County Board down the years and for supplying so many players to county teams. Judging by the spirit of the club it would not be long before Ballyteague was in senior ranks. Mrs Jack Higgins presented the Higgins Cup to team captain, John Jacob, and wished the club luck the future. Fr. Gaynor presented the U.21 medal winners with engraved plaques from the Club Messrs. Walker and Jacob and team trainer Paddy Higgins presented two gifts on behalf of the members to Messrs. Gilligan and Ivers. The County Chairman presented the Noel Moran Cup to John Jacob and medals to the following players: S. Jacob, P. Moore, S. Brennan, E. Sheridan, S. Swords, P. Swords, J. McTeague, T. Herbert, T. Hayden, J. Jacob, L. Kelly, M. Thorpe, J. Leeson, J. Gilligan, N. Dunne, R. Ivers, M. Nugent, J. Brennan, G. McNally, L. Dunne, D. Domican, C. Jacob, J. Dunne and E. Swords. A very enjoyable dance followed to the music of the Foundations.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
1973 Intermediate Success The year 1973 saw Ballyteague compete in the Intermediate Championship for the first time in the club’s history. The momentum and experience gained by the team in the previous year helped to bring them to their first ever Intermediate Final. Their opponents on that day were Rathangan and the following is an account of the match as reported in the following weeks “Leinster Leader”: Ballyteague left no one in doubt by John Lynch. Ballyteague 1-12 Rathangan 0-5. Supremacy in all sectors gave Ballyteague a well deserved win over a disappointing Rathangan side in the Co. Kildare Intermediate Football Championship final in Droichead Nua on Sunday before a good sized attendance. The weather was perfect for the game but it ceased to be a contest midway through the second period. With five minutes remaining, and Ballyteague in a commanding lead of 1-10 to 0-5, the Rathangan supporters were already streaming for the exits. But the “Larks” and their mentor Paud Moore, deserve the highest praise for their achievement. Appearing for the first time in an intermediate final, they gave an impressive account of themselves and showed no weak links. Jubilant supporters chaired Paud Moore and the captain, Larry Kelly, off the field and as the cup was filled in the dressing room, notice was served that “The Larks” have their eyes on the senior football title. Nevertheless, it took Ballyteague some time to settle down. Exchanges were fairly even throughout an undistinguished first half. With ten minutes gone in the second period, Rathangan were still within striking distance of the leaders with the score line 0-6 to 0-3. It was then that Ballyteague showed their true mettle, scoring 1-6 to 0-3. Full forward Joe McTeague sent over what was to be the first of a spate of Ballyteague scores, practically all from fast open play. The full forward pointed again and Robbie Ivers, Ballytague’s scorer-in-chief with a tally of 1-3 was beautifully placed to raise the white flag again. At this stage, Ballyteague were practically camped in the Rathangan half and only two smart saves from the losers’ goalie prevented the men in the green and gold from stretching their lead even further. All Rathangan had to offer were brief skirmishes into their opponent’s territory, which led to Nicholas O’Connell pointing from a 14 yard free. Some of the exchanges in the Ballyteague goal area were heated and umpires and referee, M. Curtis, had to break up one bout of fisticuffs, which was developing into a free-for-all. Tempers were kept in check and the game finished in as sporting manner. The writing was on the wall as far as Rathangan was concerned when Robbie Ivers put the ball in the roof of the net after the goalie had brilliantly parried a previous shot. The same player added three good points from play to put the issue beyond doubt. In the last five minutes, Rathangan attacked gamely but lacked the strength and skill to break through a cast iron Ballyteague defence. Outstanding in defence for the winners were Paddy Moore, Seamus Brennan, Eamonn Sheridan and Ned Dunne. Under 21 stars Tom Herbert and Pat Swords held sway at centre-field throughout the vital second half and gave their forwards a ceaseless supply of good balls. Of the forwards, Robbie Ivers, Larry Kelly, Tommy Hayden and senior county footballer Joe McTeague were outstanding. But the victory was a team effort and Ballyteague on the day was a side with few weak links. A measure of the confidence, which the selectors had in them, is reflected in the fact that there were no substitutions. Nicholas and Jack O’Connell were impressive for Rathangan and other players to show up well were Pat Gavin, M. Moore and E.McDermott. Although they looked strong on paper, they more than met their match in a fine young Ballyteague team.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History “The Larks” captain, Larry Kelly, was presented with the cup by Mick Leavy chairman, Kildare Football Board. At the end, the official score-board read 1-11 to 0-5, but by my tally, the scorekeeper inadvertently missed a score. As it turned out, the winning margin was so clear cut as to leave argument irrelevant. Scorers: Ballyteague – R.Ivers (1-3), J. McTeague (0-4), L. Kelly (0-3), and T. Hayden (0-2). Rathangan – N O’Connell (0-4) and J. O’Connell (0-1) Ballyteague Team: S. Jacob, P. Moore, S. Brennan, E. Sheridan, M. Thorpe, E. Swords, N. Dunne, T. Herbert, P. Swords, J. Leeson, T. Hayden, L. Kelly (Capt.), R. Ivers, J. McTeague, J. Jacob. Rathangan: K. Dockery, Joe O’Connell, S. O’Donoghue, P. Gavin, T. McCormack, Jack O’Connell, P. Bagnall, P. Flood, M. Moore, E.McDermott, M. O’Connell, N. O’Connell, J. Shanahan, J. O’Sullivan, R. Conlon.
Intermediate Champions Back Left: Jimmy Swords, Christy Gorey, Paddy Moore, Eamonn Swords, Tommy Herbert, Paddy Swords, Tommy Hayden, Johnny Gilligan, Mick Nugent. Kneeling Left: Joe McTeague, Eamonn Sheridan, Mick Thorpe, Seamus Jacob, Seamus Brennan, Larry Kelly Capt., Robbie Ivers, John Jacob, Ned Dunne, Johnny Leeson, Larry Dunne, Front Left: Paud Moore, Sean Coogan, Sam Brennan, Danny Heavey, Ger McNally, Mick Dunne. Football Board County Chairman Mick Leavy presents the winning Capt. Larry Kelly with the Intermediate Championship Trophy. Thus the Ballyteague club and supporters could look forward to competing in the Senior Football Championship in the following year for the first time in the club’s history. This surely was exciting and heady stuff for the local supporters who had followed the clubs fortunes during much leaner and struggling times.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
1974 Senior Championship The year 1974 brought great excitement to Ballyteague as the team was drawn to play against Round Towers in the first round of the Senior Championship. Victory over Towers was followed by a second round win over Clane who have been many people’s fancy for the eventual honours. The Semi-Final saw Ballyteague pitted against area side St. Wolstan’s who were the other shock team of the series. It took three epic encounters before Ballyteague eventually overcame the gallant challenge of a very stubborn and determined St. Wolstan’s side. The following is the report given in the Leinster Leader on the third and final meeting of the two sides. “ Ballyteague reach their first Senior Final” Ballyteague 3-6, St. Wolstan’s 1-6. This third Senior Football Championship game between last year’s Intermediate Champions, Ballyteague, and shock team of the Championship, St. Wolstan’s (CelbridgeStraffan) brought a big gathering to Droichead Nua for its late afternoon setting on Sunday. Especially noticeable was the prensence of a large contingent of cheering, chanting St. Wolstan’s supporters be-decked with flags and hats. No doubt, they gave to the occasion a much needed atmosphere. However, they were to meet disappointment and as the occasion turned out, it was the Saints who did the singing but the “Larks” called the tune. At the end of a good hour’s football, well contested at all times, sporting and with periods of grade 1 standard, Ballyteague with six points to spare had made their own bit of history by, for the first time reaching a County Senior Football Final to be held on 29th. Sept. against Crabury. All credit to Ballyteague for a merited win, but having on the last occasion the sides met, pleaded various excuses from robbery to ill-luck, this time they cannot deny that “Lady Fortune” carried an “Up the Larks” placard all during the hour. In the last 15 minutes, in particular, St. Wolstan’s got no breaks, and despite constant pressure, near misses and miraculous clearance, they could make little headway. A big contrast to Ballyteague who, despite less frequency on the offensive, were nevertheless rewarded with a well-taken if lucky goal by Ned Dunne with just about ten minutes left for play. Even then “The Saints” came marching back and with a goal from a “penno” by Vinnie McKenna, and what looked like another one not awarded, the final tally could have been much closer. But so much for the hard luck story. The team that gets and makes the breaks wins the match. And on Sunday the very fit and eager, Ballyteague side took their chances, played their hearts out, and thus fully deserved to win, if not by a two-goal margin. In the opening quarter of a game that got underway amidst great excitement, both side could gain the upper hand and the fact that the score was level at 2 points each after 20 minutes substantiates this statement. Then came Ned Dunnes’s first goal, a fine piece of opportunism and this tonic score helped give Ballyteague a slight edge in the overall play, an edge which they maintained up to half-time, at which they were five points in front 1-4 to 0-2. This lead, taking the important fact that key attacker Vinnie McKenna
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History had retired minutes before half time, looked reasonable. Still, Wolstan’s despite the absence of McKenna restarted in menacing fashion and a point from Frank Grogan had their fans once more at full cry. The neutrals present sat back anticipating another pulsating finish, however the 37th minute saw the trailing Saints rocked back on their heels. Joe McTeague sent in a ball from the wing, which the fully alert Johnny Jacob sent past a groping St. Wolstan’s goalie that was caught napping at this vital stage. In an effort to come back, the losers reintroduced McKenna, this decision imperative considering that good scoring chances from frees were being missed by the acting free-takers. Against the odds, Wolstan’s continued to try and in the last quarter they pressurized the unyielding Ballyteague defence. Outfield they made ground but when it came to finish they were found wanting and despite good chances they cut no ice, in the close exchanges around the Ballyteague goal. At times it looked certain that the winner’s rearguard must crack, but another fine goal by Ned Dunne was the final thrust, which made the “Larks” sure, and deserving winners. Granted, the losers continued to try and a goal from a penalty by the returned McKenna was some small compensation for their many near misses. And so the Ballyteague men march on to further glory and they are but one hour away equaling the Ballymore record of an unbeaten run from B to Senior. All connected with the club can feel proud of their achievements but it still remains to be seen if Carbury can be overcome. That’s another day. On Sunday, it was full honours to the defence with the last line of Paddy Moore, Seamus Brennan and Eamonn Sheridan impregnable. One point was their total concession during the hour. Goalie Heavey, comparatively new to the big time, gains confidence, while in a reasonable steady halfback line, Jimmy Swords stood out. Midfielder Tommy Herbert and Tommy Hayden worked diligently without ever winning complete control, while in an attack that must improve. Ned Dunne (a defender until now, if memory serves me right), John Jacob and Joe McTeague were best on the day. St. Wolstan’s might have lost but their presence and performances in the Championship were refreshing and most praiseworthy. They have brought new names to the forefront and football in the doldrums down their way for so long, must gain a new lease. Well done St. Wolstan’s. The Donovans again played well to a man, but centrehalf forward Mick, impressive in all games, must have won an assurance of a chance to prove himself In wilder fields. Cha Carey, the Kellys and Tos Walsh were others to contribute their share to a fine game of football. Ballyteague scorers: Ned Dunne (2-0), J.Jacob (1-0), J. McTeague (0-2), L.Kelly (0-2), T. Herbert and J. Leeson 1 point each. Referee: T. Keogh, Athgarvan.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
First Ever Senior Final The excitement which enveloped Ballyteague was almost overwhelming on the run up to the County Final. Supporters hardly dared dream that the club could emulate the great Ballymore side of the ‘50s and win the Junior, Intermediate and Senior title in successive years. John Ivers was moved to take pen in hand and compose the following song:Ballyteague Song Country Hall of Fame – County Final ’74. “Air of the song The Country Hall of Fame” As I was passing through Ballyteague I looked into the field. I could see the “Larks” training Like they did for many years. As I just stood and watched them A thought it came to me. That they had won the last 2 finals in ’72 and 73. 2. There were men like Danny Heavey Who watched the goals for sure. There was Sheridan and Capt. Brennan And the big man called P. Moore. With Thorpe and Eamonn Swords And brother Jimmy too. Tom Herbert and Tom Hayden The likes of them are few. In the forwards they have heroes Men who brought them through the League Larry Kelly and John Leeson and the Great man called McTeague And Ned Dunne a man of spirit. Paddy Swords a trainers dream And will ‘o’ wisp John Jacob Sums up that mighty team 3. As I turned and looked around me I saw a man greater still Paddy Moore the man who trained them He has a dream that’s near fulfilled John Ivers and Mick Gilligan Men like them you seldom meet. And they will bring the “Larks” to victory For them there’s no defeat.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History In the week before the final the “Leader” published the following thumbnail sketches of the players: Danny Heavey, goalie. This nineteen year old, six footer made his first appearance on the Championship in the first game against St. Wolstan’s. Winner of an Under 16 football medal with St. Mary’s playing outfield, he was sub goalie on the Kildare minor side who reached the All Ireland final last year. Pat Moore, right full back. At 27, one of the most experienced campaigners on the team. A member of the great St. Mary’s Minor teams of the mid-sixties, he has been a regular in Ballyteagues march from A grade to Senior. Seamus Brennan, 28, fullback and skipper. Has won many honours in the game. Two Leinster Junior Football Championships, All Ireland Junior (Home), Leinster Schools, Minor Championship and a couple of All Ireland Factory trophies. Eamonn Sheridan, 26, left fullback. Another product from the St. Mary’s underage nursery. Has played Minor, Junior and Senior with Kildare and over the years a member of the successful roadstone teams. Jimmy Swords, right halfback, 20 year old and the youngest of a trio of brothers on the team, has shared in all the club’s wins over the last few years and holds a Leinster Under 21 medal won with Kildare two years ago. Eamonn Swords, 25, 5’ 11” and just 14 stone. Formerly played with Allenwood with whom he won medals. Also holds hurling and football trophies won with Prosperous Vocational school. Has played Under 21 and Senior Football with the county and holds a Byrne Cup medal. Employed with Roadstone with whom he plays in factory competition. Mick Thorpe, 25, one of the smallest and lightest members of the team, 10 stone 7lbs and 5’ 7”. He too has won many trophies and captained Allen school to win the County Under 14 Championship over ten years ago. Also has an Intermediate, Junior and Minor Championship medal. Tommy Herbert, 21, 6’ 2”, 13 stone. Son of the late Ned Herbert, well known County Board representative and for years an official of the club. The ‘Red’ is holder of hurling medals won at under 16 with Coil Dubh and Prosperous V.S. Philips Award winner. On the Kildare Under 21 Leinster Championship winning side. This year he helped Kildare to a Byrne Cup and Division II of the National Football League. Tommy Hayden, Clerical student, 23. Has helped the “Larks” to all their successes in the last few years. Won an under 14 medal with Allen, 1970 player of the Tournament in Monasterevin. Johnny Leeson, righthalf forward, 27. A regular on the team for some years, he has Junior A and Intermediate Championship medals. Joe McTeague, 28. No doubt the best known of the team. Nine years on the senior county side, he holds three Byrne Cup medals, Under 21 All Ireland, three Leinster Under 21’s, one Leinster Junior, and a Division II national Football League. 5’ 10”, 14 stone.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History Larry Kelly, left half forward, 27. Captained Ballyteague to their Intermediate Championship last year. A dual performer, has played for Kildare in Junior Hurling, and has helped Coill Dubh to a Junior Hurling Championship title and three under 21’s. Also the holder of two Minor Football Championships won with St. Mary’s. John Jacob, right fullforward, 25. Has played Minor, Junior and Senior with Kildare. Captained Ballyteague in their Junior B win two years ago and won the Philips award the same year. Ned Dunne, left fullforward, 27, 5’ 8”, 12 stone. Out of football for most of the year through injury and usually a defender, came back with a bang to score two goals in the third game V St. Wolstan’s. Holds Junior A and Intermediate Championship medals. Paddy Swords, 22, 6’ 1”, nearly 17 stone. Has played Intercounty Minor, Junior, under 21 and Senior and holds a Leinster under 21 and Byrne Cup and Division II National Football medals as well as several trophies won with Roadstone. Needless to say that every house and home in Ballyteague was deserted on that fateful day as the club’s supporters and their families travelled to see their heroes play in the Senior Final for the first time. Hopes were high that the “Larks” could pull the big title off. It was not to be, however, as Ballyteague came up against a Carbury fifteen who would not be denied. Thus ended a glorious attempt by the Ballyteague team to write their own piece of history and it represent the high point in the history of the club.
Carbury bring Larks Dream to an end. The “Leinster Leader” report on the game ran as follows:Carbury 2-9, Ballyteague 0-5. Disappointing for all but the victors must be the verdict of Sunday’s Co. Kildare Senior Football Championship Final at Newbridge, before a large attendance, when Carbury returned to the top of Kildare Football after a year’s absence. That they had to pull out all the stops against a poor Ballyteague side served only to highlight the poor standard overall. Indeed, to my mind, the score line scarcely reflected the play. But for two easy Carbury goals at the start of each half, it would have been anyone’s game and a more competitive even if not a more exciting final. Frees, of which there were over 120 between the minor and senior finals on Sunday slowed play in both matches. Still, there were some good individual displays even if Co. Kildare fans in general were not satisfied with the performance of the teams as a whole. And if Ballyteague feels frustrated by their more experienced neighbours, they have the consolation of an excellent championship campaign. With neighbouring teams however, victory was not so pronounced nor defeat so ignominious when it was realised that the victors’ bonfires would shine on the defeated. Even though vanquished, the newcomers showed plenty of determination in their first attempt at the honours and it is obvious that whoever their opponents may be, “The Larks” intend to be back. Nervous start – After a few minutes of nervousness, Ballyteague settled down well to their first final. It
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History was kick for kick for most of the first half but the losers failed to take advantage of the stiff breeze and were leading by only a point at the interval. The Carbury defence was under severe pressure during this period but bad teamwork on the part of the Ballyteague forwards failed to take advantage of this. Too many solo attempts ended up back at midfield when some passing would at least have got the ball beyond the end line. The energy expended on these vain efforts, combined with a strong breeze and a re-vitalized Carbury team, turned the tables on Ballyteague in the second half. It was all Carbury and in the face of such adversity, one could not but marvel at the gallant effort of Ballyteague midfielder Tommy Herbert who again and again tried to press an attack with seemingly endless stamina. It was only of academic interest, however, and not even one Ballyteague score came during the second half. The ball spent much of the time in the Ballyteague half and only good defensive work kept the winning margin from increasing. It was not good football for a county final and some followers had to think hard to find a precedent for it. Promising Outset – The game began on a promising note with each side content to let the other set the pace. Ballyteague were shaken out of their complacency after three minutes, however, when Danny Heavey in the goal fumbled a dribbling ball from Dermot O’Reilly to let in Carbury’s first goal. Ballyteague now threw all they had into the struggle and in the ensuing attack they had little time for the nervousness that possibly resulted in the earlier goal. After several dangerous shots that went wide, Larry Kelly got their first score, a point from a free in the ninth minute. Good defence work by Tom Logan, Noel Ryan and Nick Moore in the fullback line frustrated some good Ballyteague moves as they reached their peak towards the end of the first quarter. Then a ‘50’ from Joe McTeague was caught characteristically by Olly Crinnigan in the goal, but his short clearance was intercepted by the waiting Tommy Hayden who took Ballyteague’s second point. It was anyone’s game now, and Michael Nugent replaced Pat Moore at left corner back after 20 minutes as the Carbury backlash presented a danger. But they kept control and Larry Kelly equalised with a point from a free a minute later after he was fouled in the corner. With four minutes left in the first half, Kevin Connolly put Carbury in the lead again when he pointed from a free. The Ballyteague forwards had now found their feet and John Jacob and Joe McTeague added points in the dying minutes to leave the score 0-5 to 1-1 in favour of Ballyteague at the interval. Combined Well – The Larks must have regretted making so little use of their scoring chances in the first half because they got so few of them when the game resumed. Not only did the forwards get little of the ball but also they faced a changed Carbury team making full use of combination skills. Also Mick McKeever had moved to full forward and was aided by midfielder Mick Moore who replaced him at half forward, with Jack McKeown moving from the front line to the midfield position. Kevin Kelly gave a portent of what was to come when he gained possession almost from the throw-in and sent a low, rasping shot to the net, giving little chance to the Ballyteague backs or the luckless Danny Heavey. Connolly, Kelly and O’Reilly added three points in as many minutes, and the writing was on the wall for Ballyteague. They still tried to retain control but were outclassed by superior teamwork, and their prospects were grim. A fisted point from Kelly at the end of the third quarter and a further point from a free by Connolly in the 20th minute increased the lead.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History The last Ballyteague hope of a reprieve came a minute later when they were awarded a penalty but Olly Crinnigan blocked the shot from Larry Kelly. Carbury added three well taken points before the final whistle. Pick of the lot- For the winners, Olly Crinnigan, Tom Logan, and midfielder Mangan and Moore kept Ballyteague on their toes. In the forwards, O’Reilly, Kelly and Connolly were most prominent. Eamonn Swords, Tommy Herbert, his partner at midfield, Tommy Hayden and Joe McTeague and John Jacob were best for the losers. Scorers – Carbury: Kevin Kelly (1-2), Dermot O’Reilly (1-1), Kevin Connolly (0-4), Mick Moore (0-1), Brian Daly (0-1). Ballyteague: Larry Kelly (0-2), John Jacob, Tom Hayden and Joe McTeague (0-1) each. Carbury: O. Crinnigan, N. Moore, N. Ryan, T. Logan, L. Balfe, N. Nally, J. Farrell, P. Mangan, M. Moore, D. O’Reilly, M. McKeever, K. Connolly, B. Daly, J. McKeown, K. Kelly. Ballyteague: D. Heavy, P. Moore, S. Brennan, E. Sheridan, J. Swords, E. Swords, M. Thorpe, T. Herbert, T. Hayden, J. Leeson, J. McTeague, L. Kelly, J. Jacob, P. Swords, N. Dunne. Subs: M. Nugent, Robbie Ivers.
Beaten Senior Finalists Back Left: Joe McTeague, Johnny Gilligan, Eamonn Swords, Paddy Swords, Seamus Jacob, Danny Heavey, Tommy Herbert, Tommy Hayden, Paddy Moore, Jimmy Swords, Robbie Ivers, Ger McNally. Front Left: Eamonn Sheridan, Mick Thorpe, Ned Dunne, John Jacob, Larry Kelly, Seamus Brennan Capt., Johnny Leeson, Mick Nugent, Sam Brennan, Denis Lyons. Further disappointment came to the club when the Junior team was beaten by one point on a bitterly cold day in Kilcullen by Athy. This defeat was even more galling as Ballyteague has failed to get any score from two penalties. Ballyteague Team: Danny Heavey, Christy Gorey, Johnny Gilligan, Willie Reidy, Vincent Kelly, Jody Brennan, John Joe Brennan, Jimmy Swords, Ger McNally Capt., Pat Smullen, John Moran, Larry Dunne, Mick Dunne, Mick Nugent, Ben Murphy. Subs: Christy Jacob, Denis Lyons.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Junior Team, mentors and supporters beaten by Athy Back Left: Mick Thorpe, John Ivers, Mick Gilligan, Mick Nugent, Ben Murphy, Jimmy Swords, Mick Dunne, Johnny Gilligan, John Kavanagh, Danny Heavey, Senan Cotter, Tommy Sheridan, Christy Gorey, John Moran, Seamus Jacob. Front Left: Christy Jacob, Larry Dunne, Vincent Kelly, Dinny Lyons, Willie Reidy, Ger McNally, John Joe Brennan, Pat Smullen, John McDonagh, Dan Domican, Andrew Goulding, Sam Brennan.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Chapter 4 - Highs and Lows Setting the Foundation The next number of years saw Ballyteague reach several finals only to fall at the last hurdle and it was not until 1979 when the Junior team won the Junior League Div. 2. The Club had however under the chairmanship of Larry Dunne achieved one of its greatest goals and that was in 1978 when it purchased its own playing field, thus ensuring the continuance of football being played in Ballyteague. The Hendy family had provided a field for the club over many years but the committee felt that the time had come to purchase the ground from the Hendy’s and not continue relying on their generosity. In 1980 Ballyteague won its first Senior Trophy for several years when it won the Vitners Cup in Milltown on a score of Ballyteague 0-9, Ellistown 0-6.
Junior Football League 1980 Back Left: J Ivers, H McKenna, T Smullen, S Moran, T Flynn, T Hyland, B Murphy, D Doyle, G McNally, J Herbert, T Herbert, T Dunne, T Farrell, B Kenny, W Dunne, T Walsh, J Crowe. Front Left: J Brennan, T Mooney, F Moran Capt., T McKenna, D Dunne, J Brennan, B Judge. In 1981 the club won the Mullally Cup in Arthgarvan by defeating Round Towers by 2 – 12 to 1 – 3. In 1981 also saw a Ballyteague Minor team assisted by players from Robertstown and Milltown win the Minor Football League Div. 3 Final at Suncroft by defeating Grange on a score of Ballyteague 2-9, Grange 2-3. Ballyteague Minor Team: Jody Ivers, Glen Sullivan, Paul Heffernan, Thomas Doyle, Shay Walsh, Jimmy Brennan, Frank Dowling, Terry Hyland, Joe Balfe, Declan Gilligan, Capt., Francie Kavanagh, John Smullen, Paddy Moran, Dermot Doyle, Mossie Lynch. Declan Gilligan in action in the Minor League Final.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Minor League Champions Back Left: John Ivers, Brendan Kenny, Paddy Moran, Paul Heffernan, Francis Kavanagh, Glen Sullivan, Jody Ivers, Joe Balfe, Frank Dowling, Thomas Doyle, Ray Melia, John Anderson, Ronan O’Flaherty, Mick Gilligan. Front Left: Shay Walsh, Peter Maher, John Smullen, Dermot Doyle, Jimmy Brennan, Mossie Lynch, Terry Hyland, Declan Gilligan Capt., Pa Casey, Jimmy Lyons, Joe Carty. Mark Farrell, Tommy Herbert and little Marc Herbert. The next success that Ballyteague had was in the Clongorey Burke Cup Junior Tournament Final played on 30/10/83 when the Junior team finished winners over the local team, Robertown.
1985 Junior A Final Ballyteague 2 – 7 Ballymore 1- -11 This was a very well contested game with the teams level on four occasions during the game that kept the latge attendance on their toes right up until the final whistle. Ballymore took control in the first fifteen minutes and were leading by five points when the Larks started to play some brilliant football midway through the half and in a ten minute spell overtook Ballymore to lead by two points. Ballymore responded to level the scores before Declan Gilligan gained a one-point advantage before the interval. The second half was a thriller with play flowing from end to end. Ballyteague were first to score by adding another point to their tally but Ballymore came back at them and once again took the lead. Thomas McKenna collected a ball sent into the Ballymore goal area ran in behind the defence and scored a brilliant goal to leave the Larks 2 – 7 to 1 – 8 in front. Ballymore kept plugging away and scored the next three points from frees without reply the last one coming in the twenty-sixth minute. Try as they might Ballyteague could not get that all important score to level the game and Ballyteague went down to defeat by a single point on a score line of 2 – 7 to 1 – 11. Ballyteague Team: Willie Dunne, Joe McTeague, Paddy Swords, Thomas Doyle, Ronan Kavanagh, Seamus Moran, Terry Hyland (0-1), Tommy Herbert Capt., Ronan O’Flaherty (0-3), Dermot Doyle, John Moran, Thomas McKenna(1-3), Frank Moran, John Jacob(1-0), Declan Gilligan. Subs: Robbie Ivers, Shay Walsh
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
1987 Junior A Final Ballyteague 0-8 Grange 2-4 Ballyteague’s hopes were dashed in the Junior A championship final played on 11th. Oct. when they tasted defeat at the hands of a tough and physical Grange side as they went down by two points. Ballyteague, trained by Tony Keogh, went into the half time break two points ahead on the score-line of 0-5 to 1-0. With five minutes remaining in the game Ballyteague were leading by 0-8 to 1-4 when Grange slipped in to score a fortuitous goal and snatch victory leaving the Larks waiting for another year to contest the Junior A Champioship Ballteague Team Willie Dunne, Dermot Doyle, Shay Walsh, Ronan Kavanagh, Terry Hyland(0-1), John Moran, Jimmy Brennan, Tommy Herbert(0-1), Brendan O’Flaherty, Brendan Walsh, Ronan O’Flaherty(0-2), Declan Jacob(0-2), Brian Hyland(0-1), John Jacob(0-1), Declan Gilligan. Subs: Frank Moran, Thomas Mc Kenna.
Back Left: Willie Murphy, Mick Gilligan, John Ivers, Frank Moran, Brendan O’Flaherty, Dermot Doyle, John Moran, Shay Walsh, Tommy Herbert, Terry Hyland, Tom Doyle, Frank Tobin, Brendan Walsh, John Gilligan, Ronan O’Flaherty, Tony Dunne. Front Left: Paddy Clancy, Tony Keogh, seamus Brennan, Thomas McKenna, Willie Dunne, Brian Hyland, Ronan Kavanagh, Declan Jacob, Declan Gilligan Capt., John Jacob, Jimmy Brennan, Pa Casey, Kevin Doyle, Mark Farrell, Ray Melia and mascot Niall Gilligan.
Ballyteague Junior “A” Champions for 1988. Ballyteague 4-8 Kill 0-8 The Larks displayed their best performance of the year when they defeated Kill and won the Junior “A” Final in a very sporting and exciting game. The “Leinster Leader” reported that “The enthusiasm and determination of both teams had to be admired as they played some of the best football seen in St. Conleth’s Park for many a long day which held the interest of the attendance right to the final whistle”. In the first half Ballyteague played with the advantage of a strong breeze and while it took them until the twelfth minute to register their second point the forwards clicked into gear for the remainder of the half with the assistance of Ronan O’Flaherty and Brendan Walsh dominating midfield. They led at half time on a score line of (1-7) to (0-1). John Jacob scored the goal as a result of a powerful run through from midfield by Ronan O’Flaherty.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History The second half saw a determined fight back from Kill and by the 58th minute they were within two points of the Larks. At that stage Ballyteague made a number of tactical changes allowing John Jacob a roving commission to use his experience to gain possession and feed his forwards plus introduce Liam Doyle who proceeded to score (2-1) within minutes of starting the game. Brendan O’Flaherty scored another goal on the stroke of full time. This victory gave the Larks their first championship since 1973. The victory was all the more remarkable as the team was trained by one of their own players – Ronan O’Flaherty. Ballyteague Team Willie Dunne, Dermot Doyle, Shay Walsh, Pat Smullen, Terry Hyland, John Moran, Ronan Kavanagh (Capt), Ronan O’Flaherty , Brendan Walsh, Declan Gilligan, Brendan O’Flaherty , Alan Jacob, Brian Hyland, John Jacob, Declan Jacob Subs Liam Doyle and Pa Casey.
The Winning team Back Left: Frank Moran, Christy Jacob, Frank Tobin, John Gilligan, Pat Smullen, Brendan O’Flaherty, Terry Hyland, Shay Walsh, Declan Gilligan, John Moran, Ronan O’Flaherty, Ray Melia, Brendan Walsh, John Ivers. Front Left: Eamonn Sheridan, Liam Doyle, Liam Ennis, Brian Hyland, Pa Casey, John Jacob, Willie Dunne, Ronan Kavanagh Capt. with mascot Robbie Kavanagh, Declan Jacob, Alan Jacob, Dermot Doyle, Kenneth Ennis, Seamus Jacob, Robbie Ivers. This victory was celebrated in a song written by John Ivers, sung by Jane Jacob and printed in the menu for the Dinner Dance held on second of Dec. 1988 in Dowlings Prosperous. The Jolly Ballyteague Man (To the Air of the Merry Ploughboy) Now I am a jolly Ballyteague man, and I mean to lead my name, With my ticket in my pocket I’m heading for the game, I’ve got my little paper badge, my hat and dolly too, For I’m off to cheer the green and gold, the team I love so true. Chorus: So we’re off to Newbridge for the game, for the game, for It’s there the final we will play, For the “Larks” to shout and Kill to route, to win the Junior “A”.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History I’ll take my place in the stand or on the sideline too, And there I’ll stay ‘till we’ve won the day and I’ll cheer For all the crew. I’ll cheer ‘till my mouth runs dry, I’ll cheer as I did before. For my faith is in the Ballyteague Lads to win the title once more. Chorus I’ll cheer for “Hermie” and Brennan, for Smullen and for Dunne, For Tobin, Terry and brother Brian, ‘till the game it has been won, I’ll cheer for captain Kavanagh, for John and Declan Gilligan too, For the Flaherty Brothers, Brendan and Ronan who scored The whole year through. I’ll cheer for John Moran who guards the square so well, For the Walshe brothers Brendan and Shay who will give The Kill boys hell. I’ll cheer for Decky Jacob, for Alan and “Bilko” Doyle, For Kenneth, Liam and “Joxer” the Kill backs he will foil. And then there’s Christy Jacob, “pa” and “Langer” too. Robbie Ivers and E. Sheridan they starred in seventy-two. Now to conclude and finish and thank our team masseur, Frank and Seamus and Paddy Clancy he is always there to cure. Now when the game is over and we have won the cup, We’ll take it down to Littletown and there we’ll fill it up Chorus
Kill gained a measure of revenge when they defeated Ballyteague Junior “B” team in their respective final
Team, mentors and supporters defeated by Kill in Junior “B” Final 1988
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
1988 Jack Higgins Cup Victory Ballyteague 0 –6 Carbury 0 - 3 Ballyteague won the Jack Higgins Cup for the second time in the club’s history when the team captained by Ronan Kavanagh and trained by midfielder Ronan O’Flaherty defeated Carbury at Naas on a very low score line of (0-6) to (0-3) Playing downhill in the first half Ballyteague had Ronan O’Flaherty in tremendous form as he completely dominated the midfield area of the field. In spite of his efforts Ballyteague only led at half time by (0-2) to (0-1) even though veteran full forward John Jacob almost found the net with an over flick with five minutes to go to the interval. After an exchange of points the teams were on equal terms midway in the second half and then Ballyteague moved up a gear and points from Declan Jacob, Brendan Walsh and Declan Gilligan saw off the Carbury challenge. In addition to Ronan O’Flahety Ballyteague stars on the day were Ronan Kavanagh, Shay Walsh, Declan Jacob, Declan Gilligan and Brendan O’Flaherty. Ballyteague Team Willie Dunne, Dermot Doyle, Shay Walsh, Pat Smullen, Terry Hyland, John Moran, Ronan Kavanagh (Capt.) Ronan O’Flaherty, Brendan Walsh (0-1), Brendan O’Flaherty, Liam Doyle (0-1), Declan Gilligan (0-2), Liam Ennis, John Jacob, and Declan Jacob (0-2). 1988 was a fantastic year for the club as they collected four Cups in total. Capt. Ronan Kavanagh is pictured with the Jack Higgins Cup, Junior A Noel Moran Cup, Conlan Cup and Keenan Cup plus special trophy from Round Towers club in London.
In 1989 Ballyteague won the Intermediate “B” for the first time by defeating Rathangan in the final on the score line of 1-10 to 1-8. The trophy for this championship is titled the Jim Joe Dowling Cup in honour of the former Ballyteague club Secretary Jim Joe Dowling. It was reported in the “ Leinster Leader” as one of the best ever finals played at the county grounds, St. Conleth’s Park, Newbridge. It “Had everything – excellent football, high fielding, intelligent passing and some great scoring which held the attention of the large attendance right to the final whistle. Ballyteague won this game because
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History they possessed in their lineout a good blend of youth and experience. It was the experience of veteran Joe McTeague, Tommy Herbert and Ger McNally which held the team together in the last minutes of the contest when Rathangan had narrowed the lead to a single score as Ballyteague held on.” With only a point between the teams in the 58th minute and with Rathangan pressing a draw appeared to be a distinct possibility. From the kick out Tommy Herbert rose high to field the ball, was fouled and from the resultant free Thomas McKenna pointed to relieve the pressure and seal the victory. Ballyteague Team: Paddy Swords, Kenneth Ennis, Joe McTeague, Barry Sheridan, Peter Maher, Sam Smith, John Brennan, Tommy Herbert (0-1), Ger McNally, John Herbert, Liam Ennis (0-2), Thomas McKenna ((0-2), Tommy Mooney, Frank Moran and Frank Tobin (1-5). Subs: Mick Gilligan, Jim Kelly,Kevin McCoy.
Team and mentors who defeated Rathangan in Intermediate “B” Final 1989
Return to Senior Ranks Ballyteague 1-12 Castlemitchel 2-4 In 1991 Ballyteague made a return to senior football status when the team won the Intermediate Championship for the second time in the club’s history since 1973 and collected the Hugh Campion Cup when defeating Castlemitchel on a score line of 1-12 to 2-4. The team was captained by Brendan O’Flahert and trained by former Kildare player and County Chairman Pat Dunny Ballyteague justified their tag as hot favourites for the IFC in a one sided final at St. Conleth’s Park, Newbridge. Ballyteague completely outclassed their opponents. The lark’s won this final because they were more alert, faster to the ball, used their possession to greater advantage and took their scoring opportunities with great confidence. The southerner’s attack cut absolutely no ice against a strong Ballyteague defence in which Shay Walsh was a commanding figure at full back. While at the other end the winner’s forwards, with Ronan O Flaherty in fine fettle, worked crisply as a unit. Consequently the scores came quickly and the winners were never in the remotest danger of losing. From the moment that Declan Gilligan slotted over the opening point after just two minutes Ballyteague were storming ahead and lead at half time on a score line of 1-7 to 1-2. On the resumption Ballyteague continued on from the first half and their dominance is shown by the fact that the losers only scored 1-2 in the second half with the goal coming seven minutes from the end and the point on the stroke of full time. Both Shay Walsh and Pat Smullen were the stars of the defence while the two Brendans, Walsh
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History and O’Flaherty won the midfield. Up front Ronan O’Flaherty, Declan Jacob and place kicker Seamus Hanafin caught the eye. Ballyteague Team: P. Casey, M. Gilligan, S. Walsh, P. Smullen, T. Hyland, John. Brennan, J. McTeague, B. O’Flaherty (capt.) 0-3, B. Walsh, R. Kavanagh, S Hanafin 0-4, R O’Flaherty 0-2, D. Gilligan 0-1, J. Harris, D. Jacob 1-2. Subs. L Doyle, D Doyle and Jimmy Brennan.
Intermediate Champions 1991 Back Left: Ronan O’Flaherty, Shay Walsh, Dermot Doyle, John Harris, Joe McTeague JNR., Pa Casey, Mark Gilligan, John Brennan, Liam Doyle, Brendan Walsh, Jim Hanafin, Kevin McCoy, Pat Smullen, John Herbert. Front Left: Willie Dunne, Alan Jacob, Declan Jacob, Terry Hyland, Declan Gilligan, Brendan O’Flaherty Capt., Ronan Kavanagh, Leslie Thorpe, Jimmy Brennan, Noel Nurphy, Barry McCoy.
Mark Gilligan celebrates victory 1991 was a significant year for Mark Gilligan who besides being a member of the victorious club Intermediate team played at centre half back with the Kildare team who won the last Leinster Minor title for the county.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
1993 Sarsfields Saga This was a bittersweet year for the team as they served up some wonderful football in the Senior Football Championship Semi Final against overwhelming favourites Sarsfields only to lose out in the replay after two gripping encounters. Ballyteague1-9 Sarsfields 1-9 This game was expected to be a one sided affair as Sarsfields were the complete bookies favourite to stroll into the final against an unfancied Ballyteague outfit. However, not for the first time, have Ballyteague teams refused to follow the predicted script and served up some classic football and were considered by the pundits to be very unlucky not to go through to their first senior final since 1974 when they were defeated by Carbury. Ballyteague’s midfield of Ronan O’Flaherty and Brendan Walsh dominated the midfield exchanges and together with a very strong half back line and extremely dangerous forwards had Sarsfields reeling from the start. Captain and corner forward Declan Jacob helped the Larks into an early with two well taken points that could have been stretched further had the referee not disallowed a shot to the net by Brendan O’Flaherty. A defensive mix up allowed Sarsfields get the ball in the Larks net for a goal that was against the run of play. However two points by Seamus Hanafin and a slick move from Hanafin to Harris to Declan Jacob who sent the ball to the back of the Sarsfields net left the score after eighteen minutes at Ballyteague 1-4 to 1-0. Sarsfields started to chip away at their opponents lead and after a number of points from Niall Buckley brought the teams level after thirty-two minutes. An exchange of points after the resumption of play in the second half left both teams level after thirteen minutes whereupon Ballyteague tagged on three points in a three-minute spell and were causing great consternation to the Sarfields team, mentors and supporters. To their great credit Sarsfields did not throw in the towel or panic but gradually tagged on the points to earn a draw and the prospect of another tilt against an outstanding Ballyteague team. It is noteworthy that 1-8 of Ballyteague’s scores came from play and the remaining point was converted from a 45. Ballyteague Team. Pa Casey, Pat Smullen, John Brennan, Leslie Thorpe, Ronan Kavanagh, Shay Walsh, Joe McTeague Jnr, Ronan O’Flaherty, Brendan Walsh (0-1), Liam Doyle (0-1), Seamus Hanafin (0-3), Brendan O’Flaherty, Declan Gilligan (0-2), John Harris, Declan Jacob (1-2) Ballyteague 1-7 Sarsfields 0-12 The conventional view was that Ballyteague had lost their chance in the previous encounter and that Sarsfields would pull away as easy winners in this eagerly anticipated replay. Once again Ballyteague failed to follow the script and were in with a chance of snatching victory right up until the full time whistle sounded as two goal chances in the dying minutes almost rattled the Sarsfields net. Sarsfields scored the first point and it remained nip and tuck between the teams until half time was called with a score line of Sarsfields 0-4 and Ballyteague 0-3 with Seamus Hanafine accounting for all of Ballyteague’s points from placed balls.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History The second half continued in the same vein as the first half with very little between the sides until Ballyteague were awarded a penalty in the 41st minute. Seamus Hanafin rattled the back of the Sarsfields net to leave Ballyteague one point ahead of Sarsfields for the first time in the game. Sarsfields responded by scoring the next four points to gain a lead of two points and while Declan Jacob and John Harris both put a point each on the scoreboard these were nullified by two points from Sarsfields. The final whistle was greeted with relief rather than joy by the Sarsfields team and supporters and they were very pleased to have overcome a team that had pushed them to the limit right up to the end and who had not been in any daunted by the reputation of their much vaulted opponents. Ballyteague Team. Pa Casey, Pat Smullen, John Brennan, Leslie Thorpe, Joe McTeagueJnr, Shay Walsh, Ronan Kavanagh, Ronan O’Flaherty, Brendan Walsh, Liam Doyle, Seamus Hanafin (1-4), Brendan O’Flaherty, Declan Jacobn (0-2), John Harris(0-1), Declan Gilligan. Sub: Noel Murphy The County Board declared Ballyteague to be the winners of the 1994 Senior League Div. 2 Title as Ballymore made the decision not to fulfil the delayed fixture even though Ballyteague turned up for the game at Sarsfields grounds fixed for third attempt on 5/3/1995.
Herbert Cup Victory Ballyteague 2-5 Clane 2-4 After a drawn encounter the replay resulted in Ballyteague, for the first time in the history of the competition, winning the Herbert Cup in dramatic fashion by coming from behind to steal victory in injury time with a score by Declan Gilligan. While the weather conditions were dreadful for the duration of the game both teams served up a very sporting and skilful game that delighted the large attendance. Terry Hyland gave the home team the best possible start when he had the ball in the Clane net after seven minutes and this was quickly increased when Seamus Hanafin pointed. Clane were not to be outdone, however, and hauled themselves back into the game to lead by two points at the interval having scored a goal on the stroke of half time. On the resumption Clane added to their lead with a brace of points until Seamus Hanafin in the forty-fifth minute goaled and then added a point to bring the sides level. Both teams pointed and with the game heading for extra time up stepped Declan Gilligan to snatch a victory and keep the Herbert Cup at home for the first time. After the game team captain Seamus Hanafin was admitted to hospital with a serious injury from which he thankfully recovered.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History Ballyteague Team P. Casey, Shay Walsh, John Brennan, Ronan Kavanagh Leslie Thorpe, Mark Gilligan, Joe McTeagueJnr, Ronan O’Flaherty, Brendan Walsh(0-1), John Harris, Seamus Hanafin Capt. (1-2), Brendan O’Flaherty, Noel Murphy, Terry Hyland (1-0), Declan Jacob (0-1). Subs: Tom Fields, Declan Gilligan (0-1), Barry McCoy.
Team that won the Herbert Cup in 1994
Mrs. Herbert presenting the Herbert Cup to winning Capt. Seamus Hanafin who is surrounded by jubilant Ballyteague supporters.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Sarsfields suffer shock defeat by the Larks On Sunday 4th June 1995 at St. Conleth’s Park, Newbridge The Larks inflicted a shock defeat on the county champions of the previous two years in the opening round tie of the Senior Championship and avenged the semi final defeat inflicted on them by Sarsfields in 1993. The honour of the little village as written by the Fenian novelist Kickham in “Knockgow” was well and truly upheld by Ballyteague’s magnificent victory over emigration, injury and Sarsfields. Revenge truly is sweet. Sarsfields were the hottest of favourites going into the game and they seemed to be living up to this status, as they were the better side for most of the game. Indeed they led by eight points on a score line of 2-7 to 0-5 shortly after half time. Ballyteague’s recovery began when Barry McCoy scored their first goal and John Harris equalised in the 45th minute with another goal. Ballyteague’s third goal from Brendan O’Flaherty left the Sarsfields men in disarray. Ballyteague totally dominated the closing stages of the game and ran out deserving winners.
Photo displaying the scoreboard at the end of a titanic struggle in favour of the “Larks” on a margin of 3 – 10 to 2 – 9. Ballyteague won the game through sheer determination and this was best illustrated by midfielder Brendan Walsh who had three different dressings applied to a nasty looking head wound before the end of the game. Ballyteague Team. Pa Casey, Paul Brennan, Mark Gilligan, Ronan Kavanagh, Leslie Thorpe, Brian Hyland, Tom Fields, Brendan O’Flaherty (1-0), Brendan Walsh, Noel Murphy, Seamus Hanafin (0-5), John Harris (1-1), Declan Gilligan (0-2), Ronan O’Flaherty (0-2). Declan Jacob (0-2). Subs: Barry McCoy (1-0) and Terry Hyland.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Team that beat Sarsfields in 1995 Back Left: Ronan O’Flaherty, Brendan Walsh, Brendan O’Flaherty, John Harris, Liam Doyle, Shay Walsh, Pa Casey, Joe McTeague Jnr., Front Left: Pat Smullen, Ronan Kavanagh, Declan Gilligan, Leslie Thorpe, Declan Jacob, John Brennan, Jim Hanafin. The years following this excellent victory were fairly barren with regards to success in the senior championship. The club was regarded from senior status at the end of 1999 and won through to the Intermediate Final in the following year.
2000 Intermediate Final Defeat Ballyteague 0-10 Ellistown 2-5 This defeat was a huge disappointment as the team went down by the minimum margin in a game where they could have run out comfortable winners but with numerous opportunities found it very difficult to convert all of their scoring chances. Ballyteague’s lead of two points after twenty minutes of the first half was overtaken when Ken Donnolly found the net for Ellistown. An exchange of points before the break left Ballyteague behind on a score line of 0-5 to 1-4. Early in the second half Declan Jacob scored two points against one for Ellistown and when Niall Moran scored a point midway through the half the teams were level going into the final quarter. Declan Jacob scored a further point to put the Larks noses ahead with ten minutes to go. Ellistown grabbed the initiative when Andrew Dowling netted to gain a two-point advantage. Seamus Hanafin responded with a point and try as they might Ballyteague simply could not raise another flag in spite of laying siege to the Ellistown defence. Ballyteague Team Marc Herbert(0-1), Dermot Moran, Ronan Kavanagh, Tom Fields, Leslie Thorpe, Tommy Coogan, Niall Moran (0-1), Brendan Walsh, Paul Brennan, Robbie McCabe (0-1), John Harris (0-1), Liam Doyle (0-1),
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History Emmet Nugent (0-1), Seamus Hanafin (0-1), Declan Jacob Capt. (0-3). Subs: Ronan O’Flaherty, Brian Hyland. In 2001 because Ballyteague had so many players the club was able to field a third team who played in the Junior C championship.
Ballyteague Junior C Team
2002 Senior League DIV 3 on 30/11/2002 Ballyteague 0-11 Eadestown 0-8 “Jacob takes the Biscuit” was the headline in the paper as it reported on this game. This final was switched from an unplayable Kilcullen venue to Ballymore at very short notice and played in wintry difficult conditions. This victory was some compensation to loosing to the same opposition in the intermediate Championship Semi-Final earlier that summer. Mick Carolan and his selectors had made a number of positional switches that proved to be very fruitful for this final – with Tommy Coogan at full back, Paul Brennan moving to the full forward position and regular goalie Marc Herbert lining out in the half-forward line. Fifteen-year old Derek Mooney taking over with great effect between the posts. With underground conditions difficult scores were hard to come by with the losers ahead at half time on a score-line of 0-6 to 0-4. Declan Jacob who was unable to start due to injury was introduced onto the team at the three quarter stage and made a immediate impact on the proceedings – finishing the game with a person tally of 0-5. His contribution gave the Larks a well-deserved victory with a nail biting finish. The trophy that was presented to the winning captain Tommy Coogan was coincidentally in memory of former Ballyteague club trainer the late Paud Moore. Ballyteague Team Derek Mooney, Dermot Moran, Tommy Coogan (Capt.), Ronan Kavanagh, Wesley Smullen, Niall Moran, Tom Fields, Brendan Walsh, Pa Gorey, Stephen Connolly(0-1), John Harris, Marc Herbert(0-4), Jason Mooney(0-1), Paul Brennan, Jim Hanafin. Subs: Robbie McCabe, Declan Jacob (0-5).
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Team that won SFL Div.3 Final
2005 Intermediate “B” Champions 23 Oct 2005 Ballyteague captured the Jim Joe Dowling Cup for the second time when they defeated a game Confey team on a score line of 2-12 to 1-11 at Rathcoffey. The Larks played very direct football and lead by seven points at half time at 1-7 to 0-3. The opportunistic Padraig Thorpe who reached swiftly when the ball rebounded off the post and he lashed it to the net to score the only goal in the first half. On the restart Ballyteague continued where they left off when Pa Gorey scored a point. However, Confey started to fight back and came within two points of the Larks but a long ball into the Ballyteague full forward line was gathered by Jim Hanafin Snr. who rounded his marker and finished coolly to the net. While Confey continued to fight back and scored another goal the game finished with Seamus Hanafin Jnr. kicking points to ease Ballyteague’s nerves and win the trophy once again. Ballyteague Team - Liam Doyle, Shane Reddy, Alan Wright, Leslie Thorpe, Darren Nugent, Brendan Walsh, Peter McCabe, Danny Heavy (Capt), Ciaran O’Flaherty, Emmet Nugent (0-3), Johnny Harris (0-1), Seamus Hanafin Jnr (0-5), Pa Gorey (0-1), Pauric Thorpe (1-2), Jim Hanafin Snr (1-0), Subs R Smullen, S Dunne and S Buckley.
Intermediate B champions and League Finalists 2005
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
2007 Intermediate “B” Champions On 20th. Oct. 2007 Ballyteague gained the Intermediate “B” Jim Joe Dowling Cup by defeating Rathangan by a three-point margin on a score line of (0-12) to (0-9). While Ballyteague had a bit more to spare than the final whistle suggests there was little enough between the teams for much of the opening half with Ballyteague ahead on two points at the interval. The Larks maintained the lead until full time but the outcome was decided in the third quarter of the game when Trevor Bowers pointed virtually from the throw in and while Rathangan replied with a point their failure to score enough from play meant the game was headed in one direction only. Best for Ballyteague were Stephen Dunne, Bryan Hyland, Trevor Bowers, Shane Buckley and Johnny Harris. Ballyteague Team: David Tiernan, Leslie Thorpe, Alan Wright, Brian Hyland, Stephen Dunne (0-1), Liam Doyle (Capt), Kevin Murphy, Joey Behan, Pa Gorey (0-1), Jamie Doyle(0-2), Kieran Bowers (0-1), Shane Buckley (0-2), Trevor Bowers (0-3), Johnny Harris (0-2), Joe Kenny. Subs Peter McCabe, Emmet Nugent, Pauric Thorpe.
Intermediate B Winners 2007 Back Left: Dean Bowers, Frank Tobin, John Herbert, Joe Ewing, Joe Behan, Harry McKenna, Jack Wright, Kieran Bowers, Joe Kenny, David Tiernan, Pa Gorey, Stephen Dunne, Brian Hyland, Padraig Thorpe, Conor Mullaney, Gary Nugent John Ivers, Johnny Leeson. Front Left: Shane Buckley, Ian Dunne, Jamie Doyle, Leslie Thorpe, Trevor Bowers, Kevin Murphy, John Harris, Liam Doyle Capt., Dermot Moran, Peter McCabe, Emmet Nugent, Dan Domican. Mascots: Dale Hyland, Jack Gorey, Callum Gorey. Bilko’s Boys B is for Bilkos boy who wear the gold and green A is for the Achievement you all now have seen L is for Larks the name they are well known L again is for Loyalty each player he has shown Y is for the Year and the trophy and medals they have won T is for our Trainer (John Herbert) and the great job he has done E is for Elegance and the way they looked in their new jerseys and fancy polo shirts A is for Assistance each official and team mentor gave G is for the Glory of the Larks so true and brave U is for the Upcoming these fine players they have made E is for the Exciting times we all had when we won our third Inter B grade.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Chapter 5 - Featured Players and Teams Joe McTeague Since its foundation Ballyteague has had a large number of players who have served the club and county with distinction. Joe McTeague came to be regarded as Mr. Ballyteague himself. Besides sharing in all the clubs successes and disappointments since the mid sixties Joe wore the “Lily White” jersey from 1964 to 1975 at Minor, u / 21, junior and Senior level. He has won during that time All Ireland u /21 medal in ’65, three Leinster u/21medals, Leinster Junior medal, O’Byrne Cup medals, Div. 2 Medal 1974. He played against Down in National Football League Final 1968 and also played in five Leinster Football Championship finals – losing each time. He also helped Kildare win the over 40’s All Ireland Championship in 1990 wearing his usual number 2 jerseys. He has served as a County Junior Selector and club selector and Vice Chairman. His club championship medals included Junior A 1972, Intermediate 1973, played in Senior Final in 1974, Intermediate B 1989. Joe McTeague wearing the Lily White jersey >
Father Tommy Hayden Ballyteague is particularly proud of one of its members who is serving as a missionary in Nigeria. Born on 25/11/1950, Fr. Tommy was a keen footballer having played with Allen parish team, St. Mary’s at u /14, u /16, u/18 and u /21. He started playing with Ballyteague in 1966 and was a member of the team beaten by Ardlough in the Junior “A” Final in 1968. He was a member of the subsequent very successful team which followed and won – Intermediate League in 1968, Senior League Div. 2 in 1971, Junior “A” Championship in 1972, Div. 2 in 1971, Junior “A” Championship in 1972, runner-up Leader Cup 1972, Intermediate Championship 1973, beaten finalist in Senior Football Final 1974. He also won various tournament medals with the club. He was captain of the team in 1976 and also for a time served as its trainer. Fr. Tommy left for the Missions in September ’76 but keeps in regular contact with the club members – he is the patron since 1977. Every few years he gets the opportunity to come home and in fact played Junior League and Championship while on holidays in 1983. In spite of the fact that he was away at various colleges during his playing career, i.e. Knockbeg, St. Patrick’s College, Cork and finally Kiltegan, he somehow managed to rarely avoid any important matches. His studies prevented him from playing u /21 and junior trials and if given the opportunity he would have been a strong candidate for a place on the county teams. The following is an extract from a newspaper report on a supper dance held in honour of Fr. Tommy before he left to take up his missionary work. “Priest is Nigeria bound”.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History A large crowd of parishioners from Ballyteague gathered at O’Neills, Milltown, on Friday night to bid farewell to newly ordained priest and Ballyteague footballer Fr. Tommy Hayden who left on Sunday to take up missionary work in Nigeria. The attendance at the Supper Dance included his parents, Mr. Tommy and Mrs. Kitty Hayden; sisters, Ann and Mary; his former schoolteachers, Mrs. Peggy Nash and her husband Willie, and Mr. E.K. Walker; his godmother, Mrs Guirnan, Dublin, Rev. Fr. Gaynor, Rev. Fr. Reilly and Rev. Fr. Carton. All the playing and non-playing members of Ballyteague G.F.C. were present, and secretary John Ivers wished Fr. Tommy every success in the mission field. He praised his loyalty and dedication to the club over the years. Though it had not been one of the club’s best years on the playing field, it was a great honour to have a player ordained. He thanked the school and colleges who had released Fr. Hayden to play for the club. Club Treasurer Willie Aungier presented Fr. Hayden with a wallet of notes on behalf of the Club, and chairman P.J.Gorey presented him with a magnificent engraved trophy. Fr. Hayden said it had been a great pleasure to play for the team and he thanked the club for all its help, particularly Secretary John Ivers. He thanked the people of the parish and surrounding district for their support since he was ordained. Fr. Hayden won three Intermediate League medals with Ballyteague, a Junior “A” Championship, an Intermediate Championship and a number of tournaments. He played in the 1974 Senior Championship final. He represented the club in the novelty section of Scor.
Farwell Night From Left: Willie Aungier, John Ivers, Fr. Tommy Hayden, PJ Gorey.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History The Call of God Come all ye faithful people and list to what I say, Our hearts rejoice. Ring out the bells. We celebrate today. We’ii raise the roof, we’ll sing and dance, we’ll pipe a merry tune, For Thomas Hayden’s now a priest this thirteenth day of June. Ordained yesterday in Kiltegan’s far-famed school, Today he said his first Mass in the parish church of Almhain. The church was packed from wall to wall, for all his friends were there. To thank the Lord a priest was raised, to lift their hearts in prayer. For the young missionary, who chose to hear the call Of Christ to His Apostles. “Go teach the nations all”. They’re proud of his decision to take up his Master’s Cross In far away Nigeria; but still they’ll feel his loss. They’ll miss him on the football field, the “Larks” are in dismay – Who’ll take his place at centre-field ? Who’ll kick the points today ? With quip and joke he rallied them when things were looking blue. Unselfishly they wish him luck, their comrade good and true. His skill on stage earned many laughs; a comic born was he. The roles he played brought down the house; his sallies as M.C. Caused gales of laughter which livened up the show This gift of fun will prove of worth wherever he may go. His classmates all remember him with pleasure and pride He headed the class in all his grades. This cannot be denied And yet he joined in all the games – good sportsman was he too – And when he won the scholarship they gave a wild halloo. D-day came for Da and Ma, a long road they have trod. They trained their boy on Christian lines, which led him on to God. Congratulations to them both, they’ve earned this just reward – To see their son go forth to serve in the vineyard of the Lord. Slainte agus faid saoil do Thomas Poem written by John Ivers and Eddie Walker.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Marc Herbert All Ireland Kick Fada Champion Marc Herbert from Ballyteague holds a unique record in GAA history when he achieved the distinction to become the first person to win four consecutive Kick Fada All Ireland Competitions that are held annually and attract many of the game’s sporting giants. The report in the Irish Independent of 4th. Sept. 2000 gives a vivid account of the first time Marc won this prestigious title. It ran as follows:“ Kildare’s Marc Herbert surprised the more fancied candidates in the inaugural MBNA Kick Fada All Ireland Competition held at Emmet Park in Bray on Saturday. The spectators were treated to a day of drama, culminating in the sudden-death shootout between Marc, the 21-year-old computer graduate and Padraig Kelly, the Offaly goalkeeper from Mucklagh. Initially sixteen competitors started out in the senior men’s final competition with the start-up mark at 40 metres. The competition drew a number of big names with Dublin midfielder Ciaran Whelan, Meath’s Trevor Giles, Cork’s Philip Clifford, Wexford’s Leigh O’Brien and Derry’s Anthony Tohill, the pre-tournament favourite, all going out much earlier than expected. At 60 metres it was down to the two goalkeepers Herbert and Kelly as local lad Conor Flannery, Derek Duggan, Roscommon and Maurice Sheridan, Mayo all failed agonisely to keep their hopes alive.” Marc prevailed and became the first winner of the Kick Fada All Ireland Competition. An action shot of Marc Herbert, winner of four successive All Ireland Kick Fada Competitions.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Underage Teams An under age structure for the club was put in place in the late 70’s when Ballyteague fielded teams from U-14 to U-21. The club won the Minor League in 1981. In 1994 the Kildare South Board League was established and the club has enjoyed great success in those competitions since then from U-8 to U-13. The club has won many titles or contested finals over the years in the different grades. The year 1997 was a remarkable year in the history of our underage teams in that five of the teams won titles in their respective competitions. U 16 Won their League and collected the Maher Cup. U 14 Won their league and collected the Crowe Cup plus reached the play off stage of the U 14 Feile. U 10, U 12 and U 13 won their South Board Title. Another remarkable fact was that the same selectors from the club were involved with the five teams. The officials were – Tommy Mooney, Dan Domican, Charlie Connolly, John Ivers, John Moran, Tommy Herbert and Liam Kavanagh. On 22nd. of November a major Presentation Night was held in Allen Hall for all of the teams. A total of 125 medals were presented to the players by the great Mick O’Dwyer who was also assisted on the night by County Kildare Football stars Ken Doyle and Christy Byrne.
Photo taken at the Underage Presentation Night 22nd. Nov 1997 including Mick O’Dwyer and Ken Doyle. The names of the following players lined out with the above teams: Danny Domican, Gary Tobin, Paul Moran, Gary Lawlor, Liam Moran, Thomas Behan, Niall Moran, Thomas Dunne, Joey Behan, Mick Balfe, Colin Connolly, Jason Mooney, Thos O’Connor, Frank Goulding, Robert McCabe, Henry Reidy, Roy Smullen, Edward Swords, Diarmaid Riordan, Alan Wright, Wayne Kavanagh,
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History Frankie O’Neill, Trevor Bowers, Jonathon Smith, Shane Reddy, Brian Gorey, David Goulding, Clive Curran, James Murphy, Joe Kenny, Derek Mooney, Danny Heavey, Kieran Bowers, Seamus Moore, Jason Bowers, Darren Balfe, Brian O’Neill, Timmy Reidy, Patrick Maher, Michael O’Connell, Sean Greville, Colin Mullins, Mark Cross, Thomas Kavanagh, Barry Mullins, Caroline Buckley, Nigle Doyle, Shane Buckley, Joe Bowers, Kieran Brennan, Gavin Smullen, Kevin Harris, Thomas Maher, Daniel Dunne, Niall Coogan, Wayne Bowers, Joe Dunne, Joe Kavanagh, Robbie Kavanagh, Amanda Casey, Declan Ivers, Claire Ivers, Kevin Murphy, Mark Curran, Jason Maher, Stephen Dunne, Paul Lyons, Ruth McCabe, Conal Byrne, Brian Cross, James Cross, Paul Mulhall, Conor Mullaney, Gary Nugent, Aidan Foy, Joe Dunne, Andrew Cross. Note. Two of these players went on to become well known in another sport. They are now prominent jockeys - Wayne Kavanagh and Michael O’Connell. 1999 produced a very talented U-14 team that defeated a fancied Clane outfit in the League Final and the U-13, U-12, U-11 and U-10 also brought honour to the club by winning their South Board Titles. In 2004 the U-14 team won the League Title and the Feile B Competition. The U-15 team of 2005 were very unlucky to loose the League Final by one point when defeated by Sallins. The U-8 teams compete in local Day Football Blitzes and GO Games. All under age players competed for the Crowe Cup, Maher Cup and the Wilkinson Cup for many years in the club. A new Trophy was presented to the club for underage competitions at the Club Day held on 10th. May 2009 by the O’Neill family in the memory of the late Brian O’Neill who played at underage level for the club. In the past the underage players were treated to Day Trips, including a visit to Croke Park in 1995 for a medal presentation by Barney Rock. In 2000 they also attended one of the Compromise Rules Games Ireland v Australia in Croke Park. A number of our players, both boys and girls, have represented the county at the annual U-12 inter county weekends. At big match days in Croke Park many a fledgling “Lark” both boys and girls lined out at the Mini 7’s at half time. The club are very grateful to all of the underage team mentors for their outstanding work down the years. In 1997 the club hosted a visit from the under age section of Eire Gal Ciarain (the home club of the well known Peter Canavan and Mickey Harte of Tyrone) and played two games over the weekend.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History The U-8 2002 Team Back Left: Cathal Hanafin, Niamh Mattimoe, Shannon Landy, Roisin Murphy, Donal Dempsey, Hannah Fitzsimons. Front Left: Dylan Jacob, Brian McGrath, Cathal Mattimoe, Padraic Murphy.
The U-10 2002 Ballyteague South Board Team
The 2003 U-12 League Team
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
The U-13 South Board Winners of 2004
The 2004 U-14 Feile B Champioship Winners and League Winners Back Left: Michael Ennis, Declan Jacob, Killian Leeson, Jamie Doyle, Raymond Langton, Seamus Hanafin, Thomas Ennis, Joe Carthy, Sean Dowling, Mark Gill, Irene Heavey, Kevin Doyle, Jimmy Langton. Front Left: Barry Dempsey, James McTeague, Glen Smullen, Colin Donoghue, Michael Hanley, Sean Michael Jacob, Stephen Ennis, Gus O’Neill, Amy Molyneaux, Amy Cross
2005 VHI GAA Cul Camp held at the club grounds.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
2005 U-13 Div. 3 League Winners
The Captain of the 2005 U-13 Div 3 League Winners Casey Jacob pictured as she walks down the steps after being presented with the Winners Cup.
The 2007 U-12 Div. 4 Winning Team
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
The 2007 U-11 Team beaten in the Div. 2 Final by Eadestown at St. Conleth’s Park on 9th June 2007
The 2008 U-12 Winners of the Paddy Smyth Cup.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Brian McGrath u 14 All Ireland Feile Skills Winner being presented with his trophy by the President of the GAA Mr. Christy Cooney.
The 2009 U-8 Team Coaches from left Damien Keating and Stephen Kiernan
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
The 2009 U-6 Team Coaches from left Damien Keating and Stephen Kiernan
The Na Fianna B Team who played in Feile 2009
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
The successful U-11 Shield Winners of 2009
Underage Coaching Underage coaching commenced in the newly developed Allen school pitch in 1993 on Sunday mornings and proved to be very popular with the young players. County players Martin Lynch, Niall Buckley, Pauric Brennan, “Sos� Dowling and Noel Donlon gave the benefit of their talents and coaching to the players in those days. It has continued to the present day at the club grounds with large numbers attending on Sunday mornings and Tuesday evenings. Great credit is due to the many coaches and adult players who given of their time and effort.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Club Quiz – Test your Knowledge 1. In what year was the club formed and knicknamed 2. What Balyteague player figured on the Kildare U –21 All Ireland winning team in 1965. 3. What Ballyteague player holds four Kick Fada All Ireland titles in a row. 4. Name the captain of the first Ballyteague championship winning team in 1962. 5. Name the Ballyteague player u14 Feile Skills Winner with Na Fianna 2009 6. In 1976 what clubman was ordained to the priesthood. 7. Kildare won the Leinster u21 title in 2004. Name the Ballyteague player who lined out at full back on that Team. 8. Name the two Ballyteague father and son combinations who played on the same team that won 1988 Junior “A” title and 2005 Intermediate “B” title. 9. In what year was the official opening of the old clubhouse and grounds. 10. Name the three brothers who played on the Ballyteague team in the Senoir Football Final of 1974. 11. Ballyteague won the Herbert Cup on one occasion – who captained the team. 12. Kildare u-21 team won the Leinster Title and reached the All Ireland Final in 2008. Name the Ballyteague player who wore the number fifteen jersey on the team. 13. A late Ballyteague clubman’s name is commerated on the county minor football trophy. What is the name of the trophy. 14. What Ballyteague player wore both the Lily White and the New York jersey. 15. Kildare last won the Leinster Minor Title in 1991. Name the Ballyteague player who wore the number 6 Jersey 16. How many Intermediate “B” titles have Ballyteague won. 17. Name well know former county player who trained Ballyteague to win the Intermediate title in 1991. 18. This man refereed the game involving Ballyteague in the 1972 Junior “A” Final. He then trained Ballyteague to win the Intermediate Title in 1973 and reach the Senior County Final in 1974. Who is he. 19. In 1973 Kildare reached the All Ireland Minor Final . Name the Ballyteague player who was the sub goalie on that occasion. 20. Ballyteague won Junior A, Jack Higgins Cup, Conlan Cup and Keenan Cup in 1988. Who was the captain of the team ? See Answers on Page 93
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Ballyteague Men who served the County JJ Dowling
Played County Junior and Senior. He won a Leinster Senior Medal in 1935 and played on the Leinster Railway Cup team in the same year. When his playing career ended he became a noted referee and officiated at the All Ireland Football Semi-Final of ‘47’.
Dan Kelly
Played Junior in the early 50’s.
Seamus Nugent
Minor, Junior and Senior. Won O’Byrne Cup Medals. One of the County’s leading scorers in the late 50’s and early 60’s. He emigrated to New York and played with them in the National League.
Paddy Swords
Minor, Junior, u/21 and Senior. Won Leinster u/21 in 1972, O’Byrne Cup 1975, N.F.L. Div. 2 1974. He also played minor Hurling.
Tommy Herbert
Minor, u/21, Senior. Won Leinster u/21 1972, O’Byrne Cup 1975, N.F.L. Div. 2 1974, Voted Intermediate player of the year 1973.
John Jacob
Minor, u/21, Junior and Senior. Voted Junior ‘A’ player of the year 1972.
Eamonn Swords
Minor, u/21, Senior O’Byrne Cup 1975.
Jimmy Swords Tony Smullen
U/21. Won Leinster u/21 in 1972. U/21, Junior, Senior. Won Leinster u/21 in 1967, N.F.l. Div. 2 1974, O’Byrne Cup ‘75’. Played in three Leinster Senior Football Finals.
Danny Heavey
Minor. Won Leinster 1973. Lost in All Ireland Final against Tyrone.
Jack Dunne
Minor 1971.
Seamus Brennan
Minor, u/21, Junior and Senior. Leinster u/21 1967. All Ireland Junior 1970.
Mick Nugent
Junior and Senior. Leinster Junior Medal 1967
Larry Kelly
Senior and also played Junior Hurling.
Eamonn Sheridan U/21 and Junior. Terry Hyland
Minor 1981 won Fitzpatrick Shield Trophy.
Ronan Flaherty
Minor U-21 and Senior
Barry Sheridan
U/14 1984.
Robbie McCabe Mark Herbert
Minor, U-21 Junior and Senior Minor, U-21, Junior and Senior
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History Brendan Walsh Senior John Harris Senior Gavin Smullen Minor and U-21, Leinster Medal 2008 Seamus Hanafin Jnr. Minor David Reddy Minor Sean Dowling Minor Michael Hanley Minor Ronan Kavanagh Minor and U -21 Kieran Brennan Minor, U-21 and Junior John Brennan Minor and U-21 Joe McTeague Jnr U-21 Mark Gilligan Minor Barry McCoy Minor Joey Behan Minor Derek Mooney Minor Shay Walsh Junior Declan Jacob Minor and U-21 Niall Moran Junior Stephen Connolly Junior
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Ballyteague Club Roll of Honour 1928
Junior League Tipperary Cup Winners
1961
Junior B Finalists
1962
Junior B Championship Winners
1965
Joe McTeague All Ireland u 21 Medal Winner
1966
Joe McTeague Leinster u 21 Medal Winner
1967
Joe McTeague Leinster u 21 Medal Winner
1967
Mick Nugent Leinster Junior Medal
1967
Intermediate League Winners
1968
Junior A Finalists
1970
Seamus Brennan Leinster and All Ireland Junior Championship Medals
1971
Junior A Finalists
1972
John Jacob Junior A Player of the Year
1972
Paddy and Jimmy Swords together with Tommy Herbert won Leinster U-21
Championship Medals.
1972
Junior A and Higgins Cup Winners
1973
Intermediate Championship Winners
1973
Leader Cup Finalists
1973
Tommy Herbert Intermediate Player of the Year
1973
Danny Heavey leinster Minor Medal
1974
Senior Championship Finalists
1974
Junior League Finalists
1979
Co Kildare GAA Club of the Year
1980
J Ivers Co. Kildare GAA Club Official of the Year
1981
Div. 3 Minor League Winners
1985
Junior A Finalists
1987
Declan Jacob Leinster Minor Championship Medal
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
1987
Junior A Finalists
1988
John Brennan All Ireland College Medal with Schoil Mhuire, Clane
1988
Junior A and Higgins Cup Winners
1989
Intermediate B Winners
1989
Shay Walsh Leinster Junior Medal
1991
Intermediate Championship Winners
1991
Mark Gilligan, Leinster Minor Championship Medal
1994
Senior League Div. 2 declared winners final not played v Ballymore.
1994
Willie Reidy Co.Kildare Referee of the Year Award
1994
Jim Hanafin selected on the Co. Kildare All Star Team
1994
Herbert Cup Winners
1995
John Ivers Co. Kildare GAA Club PRO of the Year
2000
Intermediate Championship Finalists
2000
Marc Herbert All Ireland Kick Fada Champion
2001
Marc Herbert All Ireland Kick Fada Champion
2002
Marc Herbert All Ireland Kick Fada Champion
2002
Div 3 League Winners
2003
Marc Herbert All Ireland Kick Fada Champion
2004
Robbie McCabe, Leinster U-21 Medal
2005
Intermediate B Winners
2005
John Ivers Co. Kildare GAA Club Official of the Year
2007
Intermediate B Winners
2008
Gavin Smullen Leinster U 21 Championship Medal
2009
Brian McGrath U-14 All Ireland Feile Skills Winner
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Chapter 6 - Feature on Allen St. Marys St Mary’s was the name given to the under age Allen parish team. It was formed in 1954 under the guidance of Fr. Reilly, Fr. Collins, Ned Herbert and Michael Dowling. Another person to become heavily involved was E.K. Walker, the headmaster of Allen National School, who was to serve for a number of years on the Kildare Minor Board. The first trophy to be won by St. Marys was the u-14 Rural Championship of 1962 and players from that team who later assisted Ballyteague were – Mick Thorpe Capt., Robbie Ivers, John Jacob, Andrew Moore, Tommy Hayden, Eamonn Swords, Eamonn Sheridan, and Christy Gorey.
St. Marys U-14 Champions 1962 Back Left: Danny Kelly, Seamus Malone, Eamonn Sheridan, Christy Mulhall, Eamonn Swords, Tommy Byrne, Andrew Moore, Willie Moore, Christy Gorey, Vincent Donoghue. Front Left: Tommy Hayden, “Yank” Smith, John Joe Behan, Robbie Ivers, Mick Thorpe Capt., Eddie Connolly, John Jacob. The Golden Years for St. Mary’s came in 1964 and 1965 when they won two Minor Championships and one Minor League. The following played subsequently with Ballyteague – Joe McTeague, Seamus Brennan, Mick Thorpe, Tony Smullen, Paddy Moore, Larry Kelly, John Jacob, Eamonn Swords, Eamonn Sheridan, Christy Gorey, Robbie Ivers and Tommy Hayden. 1965 was the last year when St. Marys reached the U-14 county final when Monastevan defeated them. The format has since changed and each school enters its own team. Schools from the parish have enjoyed success with teams comprising both boys and girls. In 1970 St. Marys won the U-16 Football Championship and on that team from Ballyteague were Danny Heavey, John Moran, Liam Champ and Christy Ivers. Fr. Gaynor cc Team Manager and John Ivers selector. In 1971 St. Marys lost the U-21 Football Championship Final against Athy and playing that day from Ballyteague were Paddy Swords, Tommy Hayden, John Ivers, Tommy Herbert, Dan Domican and Jimmy Swords. 1982 saw St. Marys win the Minor League Div. 2 Title and on that team from Ballyteague were Declan Gilligan, Shay Walsh, Thomas Doyle, Ronan O’Flaherty, Francie Kavanagh and Jody Ivers.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Na Fianna In 1986 St. Mary’s changed their name as there was also another club in the county titled St. Marys, Leixlip. The new name given to the club was Na Fianna – a name of great historical significance due to the geographical link to the Hill of Allen famed as the base of the legendary Fionn Mac Cumhaill and his band of warriors Na Fianna. Credit for the new name belongs to Frank Moran and Tony “Maggie” Moore. The new club comprising of players from both Ballyteague and Allenwood in its first year under the new banner was joined by Robertstown and Milltown and promptly won the u-21 County Championship. It also won the u-21 County Title in 1995 and 2008. The victory in 2008 held a particular significance for Ballyteague as there were fifteen players from the club on the winning panel with ten Larks on the starting fifteen.
Na Fianna celebrates victory in 2008 U-21 Final In 2004 a very talented team bridged a gap of thirty-nine years by defeating Celbridge to win the Minor Champion ship title that last came to the parish when St. Marys were victorious in 1965. This victory made some compensation when the minor team was defeated in the final of 2001 by one point by Leixlip.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History Some of the Ballyteague players who were members of the 2004 Minor Championship winning Na Fianna team pictured with Ballyteague Club President Tom Doyle. From Left: Gavin Smullen, Kieran Brennan, David Reddy, Thomas Maher, Derek Mooney.
Na Fianna’s other county titles over the years have also included: u-14 League Winners in 1988, 1989 and 2001 u-15 League Winners in 1989 and 2001 u-16 League Winners in 2000 Minor League Winners Div. 2 in 1986 and also in 2005 captained by Gavin Smullen. Na Fianna has provided an underage nursery that gave the young players a platform to perform at the highest level available within the county. The experience gained by the players has benefited the adult clubs of the parish and has helped them to success on the field. Allenwood have won the County Senior Championship in 2004. Robertstown won the Junior B Title in 1989 and also have contested a number of Junior A Finals and in 2009 won the Junior League. Milltown won the Junior A and Jack Higgins Cup in 2008 and Ballyteague annexed the Junior A and Higgins Cup in 1988 and the Intermediate in 1991. The success of Na Fianna could not have come about by accident and is the result of a huge amount of hard work and effort by many people over the years. The following people deserve special mention. They are – Frank Moran, Tony “Maggie” Moore, Noel Moore, John Roddy, Johnny O’Callaghan, Mick Byrne, Mick Moore, Tom Smullen, Noel McKenna, Brian Dempsey, Marguerite Boland, Pa Geraghty, Gemma McCabe, Noel Dunne, Liz OShea and Frank Dowling. Na Fianna also played their part in ensuring that the 2009 All Ireland u-14 Feile held in Co. Kildare was a huge success. A number of Na Fianna players went on to represent their county with great distinction. Among them were Ken and Dermot Doyle, Mark Gilligan, John Doyle, Robbie McCabe, Gavin Smullen, Tom Byrne, Emmet Mulhall, Joe Kavanagh, Shane McCormack, Mark Hogarty, Marc Herbert, Colin O’Shea, Seamus Hanafin, Timmy Dowling, Eoin Hearty, Damien Leeson, John Wiltshire and Sean Dowling.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Allen Parish Senior Team In 1974 a new Inter Parish Tournament was established in the county with teams representing each parish playing for the Ulster Bank Trophy. Allen parish with players from Allenwood, Ballyteague and Milltown became the first holders of the trophy when they defeated Newbridge parish, which comprised of players from Sarsfields and Moorefield, on a score line of 1-12 to 1-6. The game was evenly matched throughout the fist half with the teams level in 9th. 16th, 25th and 33rd minutes before the half time whistle sounded with Allen leading by 0-7 to 1-3. Allen turned on the style in the second half and ran out worthy winners with six points to spare. Best for Allen Joe McTeague, Patsy Kelly and Joe Doyle in defence, with Harry Doyle dominating midfield and in attack Christy Meade, Tommy Herbert, Paddy Swords and John Jacob shone for the winners. Allen Team: Pat Duffy (M), Joe McTeague (B), Patsy Kelly (A), Jim Cross (A), Joe Jacob (A), Eamonn Swords (B), Joe Doyle (A) Capt., Christy Dowling (M), Harry Doyle (A), Christy Meade (M), Tommy Herbert (B), Billy Mulpeter (M), John Jacob (B), Paddy Swords (B), Mick Cullen (M). Subs: Eamonn Sheridan (B), Tony Smullen (A), Pat Curran (M). Allen Team that won the Parish Senior Football Tournament 1974
Back Left: Christy Dowling, Christy Meade, Mick Cullen, Paddy Swords, Patsy Kelly, Tommy Herbert, Pat Duffy, Eamonn Swords. Front Left: Joe Jacob, Harry Doyle, Jim Cross, Billy Mulpeter, Joe Doyle, Joe McTeague, John Jacob.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
St. Marys Senior Team 1991 An Allen team comprising of Ballyteague, Robertstown and Milltown combined to form a team called St Marys were defeated in the Herbert Cup final of 1991 to Leixlip and the same team lost to Naas in the Senior Championship of that year. The panel of players comprised of the following:- Willie Dunne, Eamonn Slattery, Shay Walsh, Jimmy Brennan, Terry Hyland, Patrick O’Sullivan, Johnny Bowers, Brendan O’Flaherty Capt., Brendan Walsh, Ronan Kavanagh, Paddy Moran, Pa Hanlon, Frank Dowling, John Harris, Jim Hanafin, John Sullivan, Gay Leeson, Sham Moran, Sly Moore, Patrick Dunne, Eoin McDonald, Noel Dunne, Bernard Dunne. Mentors:- Frank Moran, John Murphy and Maurice Musgrave.
Roadstone Allen Team Over the years a number of players from Ballyteague lined out with the Roadstone Allen team that played in the Factory League Tournament and enjoyed a measure of success in the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s. One of those teams reached the All Ireland Final in 1975 when a very strong Shannon Team beat them at the game played in Semple Stadium, Thurles.
Back Left: Tom Groarke, Nicky Brennan, Christy O’Hara, Paddy Swords, Eamonn Swords, Tommy Carew, John Anderson, Joe O’Hara, Mick Cullen, Liam Balfe. Front Timmy Casey, Seamus Prendergast, Eamonn Sheridan, John Joe Walsh, Seamus Jacob, Tom Shields Capt., John Joe Brennan, Mick Donoghue, Martin Taffee, Harry Doyle, Anthony Nutterfield, Tommy Farrell. Regulars with the team who were unable to play on the day were Tommy Herbert (injured) and Patsy Kelly due to his father’s bereavement on that weekend and as a mark of respect the team wore black armbands.
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Allen National School Report Scoil Na Trionoide Naofa Allen is situated near the famous Hill of Allen and has had great success in sport down through the years. One has to only walk along the school corridors and witness all the pictures of the teams that have represented the school so successfully – teams that have won various Cumann na mBunscal competitions and won Bord na Nog competitions prior to the foundation of Cumann na mBunscol. Over the past number of years all teams that represented the school, whether successful or not, have pride of place on the school corridor walls. The school participates in Boys and Girls football, Basketball, Cross-country and Athletics, however, it is in football that the school has been most successful. It has won titles in Senior Boys and Girls, U-11 Boys and Girls, U-10 Boys, Mini-7 Boys and Girls. The Roll of Honour to date reads as follows: Senior Boys: 1976, 1978, 1985, 1989, 1995, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2003 Senior Girls: 1992, 2006 U-11 Boys: 1997, 1998, 1999. U-11 Girls: 1995, 1997. U-10 Boys: 1988, 1992, 1993, 1995. Into Mini –7 Boys: 1990, 1999. Into Mini – 7 Girls: 1997. The boys have won numerous Parish Cups over the years in Senior, U-11 and at U-10 level. We would like to thank our local GAA club Ballyteague for their wonderful support down through the years, for their upkeep of the playing field, cutting the grass etc., Also for their support in coaching and game development. We would also like to thank our sponsors down through the years. Many thanks also to all of the teachers and coaches who gave of their time down through the years in preparing school teams. It is of great enjoyment and pride to these teachers and coaches when one of their past pupils goes on to represent Kildare at any level from U-12 to Senior on either Boys and Girls teams. Is ar scath a cheile a mhairimid asus i dteannta a cheile is treise sinn. Seamus Hanafin
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Allen School Photos from the Past School children attending Allen School in the early 1930s Front Left: Paddy Murphy, Sean Clinton, Jack Hanlon, Paddy Fitzgerald, Christy Connolly, Christy O’Hara. Row 2 Left: Joe Ivers, Patsy Leeson, Brigid Toohey, Nancy Clinton, Mick Fitzgerald, Peggy Toohey, Tom Mills, Nan Hayden. Row 3 Left: Andy Hyland, Cissy O’Hara, Bridie McDonagh, Joe Flood, Brigid Dunney, Jimmy Mills, Peg Hayden, Tommy Toohey, Nancy Hyland. Row 4 Left: Maura Gladney, May O’Hara, Lizzy Mills, Lily Dempsey, Billy Ivers, Johnny Mills, May Leeson, Kitty McDonagh, Josie Doyle.
School children at Allen School in the late 40s Front Left: Deirdre O’Connell, Carmel Daly, Maeve O’Connell, Mary Herbert, Teresa Downey, May Thorpe, Anne Domican, Biddy Dunne, Nancy Cross, Lil Swords, Peg Healy, Carmel Walsh, Richie Murphy, Jimmy Thorpe, Eddie Healy. Middle Left: Betty Healy, Seamus Jacob, Peter Domican, Christy Jacob, Michael Swords, Mick Mills, Oliver Kavanagh, John Mulhall, Barney Kavanagh, Fran Dowling, Seamus Murphy, Willie Mulhall, Tom Boland, Patsy McGee. Back Left: Miss McCormack (Teacher), Seamus Toohey, Cathy Mulligan, Eileen Thorpe, Kitty Wilson, Nellie Downey, Bridie Maher, Rose Mulligan, Kitty Bolton, Rosie McGee, Alice Toohey, Bridie Thorpe, Mary Mulligan, Betty Leeson, Teasy Hayden, Micky Lyons, Dan Kavanagh, John Mills, Timmy Connolly, Mick Herbert, Christy Connolly, Sean McGee.
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In the 1940’s Allen also had football team Standing Left: Tom Dunne, Sean Clinton, Matt Smyth, Mick Dunne, Joe Duffy, Andy Hyland. Back Kneeling Three Left: Joe Byrne, Joe Byren (Ballyadam), Cock Roche. Middle Row Left: Paddy White, Paddy Fitzgerald, Tom Doyle, Michael Fitzgerald, Michael Ivers, Christy O’Hara. Front Left: Paddy Dunne, Jack Cassidy, Paddy O’Hara
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Chapter 7 - People and Events Snippets of information The Gallaghers were a team who existed around the end of the 19th century and the following is a list of some of the people from the Ballyteague area who played with them: Mick Gilligan, Tom Gilligan, Mick Garry, Ed Garry, Simon Geraghty, Martin Geraghty, Jim Lennon, Jack Lennon, John Dunne, Andy Hyland, James Lyons, Tom Nugent, Tom Spooner, Charlie Spooner, Stephen Hazlem, Jim Thorpe, Kit Ennis. --------------------------------------Paddy Dowling – an uncle of former Milltown and county player Christy Dowling, trained the 1928 Ballyteague team, that won the Tipperary Cup. --------------------------------------Dinny Dunny who played with the first Ballyteague team was the father of the former County Board Chairman Pat Dunny whose sporting exploits have made him a household name throughout the country. --------------------------------------In 1935 two challenge games between Ballyteague and Sean Doyles of Templeogue were played. These matches were arranged by “Tinch” Sales and a bread van driver who used to supply Wilkinsons shop. Before the first game, the two teams marched from Littletown to the playing field behind a brass band. For the record Ballytegue won both matches. --------------------------------------Generations of Players The following families have played for the club for at least three generations: Gilligans:
Jack Gilligan, Mick Gilligan, Sean Gilligan. Jack Gilligan, Paddy Gilligan, John and William Gilligan Mick Gilligan (Snr), Mike Gilligan (Jnr), Michael Gilligan Mick Gilligan (Snr) Johnny Gilligan, John Gilligan, Eoin and Cian Gilligan. – 4 generations
Jacob:
John Jacob, Declan Jacob, Sean Jacob. Seamus Jacob, Fergus and Alan Jacob, Keenan and Dylan Jacob.
Thorpe
Mick Thorpe, Dermot Thorpe, Glen Thorpe.
Brennan
Johnny Brennan, Sean Brennan, John Brennan Johnny Brennan, Seamus Brennan, Paul and Kieran Brennan.
Moran
Ned Moran, John Moran, Niall Moran Jimmy Moran, Ted Moran, Eugene and Philip Moran
Dunne
Jimmy Dunne, Larry Dunne, Shane Dunne Jimmy Dunne, Mick Dunne, Colin and Keith Dunne
Nugent
Paddy Nugent, Mick Nugent, Darren, Emmet and Gary Nugent --------------------------------------In September 1938 Allen Parish u/14 Football team defeated Rathangan in Ballyteague to become County Kildare Rural Champions. The final score was Allen 0-11 to Rathangan 0-2. The Allen team was
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History as follows: Paddy Fitzgerald, P. Coyne, C. Dowling, P. Daly, T. Cross, Joe Donoghue, P. Kelly, L. Cummins, Tom Doyle, M. Fitzgerald, E. Cummins, M. Lambe, W. Donoghue, C. O’Hara, P. Sullivan. --------------------------------------The Ballyteague team was trained in the 50’s by Fr. Jer McNamee who was a c.c. in Allen and then became Parish Priest in Ballingarry, Co. Limerick. --------------------------------------John Roddy, John Ivers and Harry Doyle all played together on the St. Marys team that reached the county U-14 final in 1965. They all became very prominent and respected officials with their clubs. --------------------------------------In 1972 John Ivers, at 21 years of age was one of the youngest ever, county selectors when Kildare won the Leinster U-21 Title. In the following year he was a minor selector with the Kildare team who reached their last All Ireland Final when Tyrone defeated them. As well as at minor and U-21 he also served as a selector with the county Junior team. --------------------------------------In November ’73 for the first and only time four players from the club played with the Kildare Senior Football team. The game was against Clare in Doonbeg in the National Football League. The players were – Joe McTeague, Tommy Herbert, Eamonn & Paddy Swords. --------------------------------------In 1974 Ballyteague represented Co. Kildare in the Seven-a-side Tournament held at Mobi Rd, Glasnevin. --------------------------------------Brendan Kenny was a county minor selector with the minor team who won the Leinster Title in 1983. --------------------------------------In 1986 the club hosted Cavan Champions Ramor United from Virginia and played a friendly game against them. --------------------------------------In 1987 Ronan O’Flaherty was the Capt. Of the Kildare U-21 Team. ---------------------------------------
The photo was taken in the late 1980’s and feature brother and sisters who were wonderful loyal “Larks” who supported the club into their ninties. Left: Brigid Nugent, Mick Gilligan and Mary “Moll” Thorpe. Mick was a former player and was Club President. ---------------------------------------
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History In 1996 James Murphy underage player co-starred with Gabriel Byrne in the locally made Irish film An Draiocht. This was the first Irish film to be shown on T Na G. --------------------------------------A number of our players have shared in Coill Dubh’s successes down the years. They are Larry Kelly, Willie Reidy, Tommy Herbert, Paddy Swords, Brendan Walsh, Liam Doyle and Barry Mullins. --------------------------------------Tony Smullen won a Junior Hurling Medal with Sarsfields in 1986 ---------------------------------------
Seamus Nugent pictured with some of his customers in his pub in New York titled the “Lark’s Nest” in honour of his homeland. Seamus was a well know club and county player, who later played with New York against the National League Winners. He played with Ballyteague in the fifties and sixties and was a member of the first ever champioshio-winning team in 1962. In 1971 having played in the drawn game against Kilcullen he returned from New York to lineout in the replay. He was one of the leading scorers of the Kildare Senior team in the late 50’s and 60’s. --------------------------------------Ballyteague hosted a return visit by Round Towers from London in May 1990 --------------------------------------In 1992 Former club chairman PJ Gorey was honoured at a lavish function attended by almost five hundred people at the K Club, Straffan as The County Kildare Person of the Year for his community and charitable work. The annual event was founded by Vincent Kelly in 1989 and is celebrating its twentieth anniversary this year. --------------------------------------Throughout the 90’s Frank Moran was a selector change from selection for the Kildare U-21 team - one of which won a Leinster Championship in 1992. He also served as the Team Manager in ‘94, ‘95 & ‘96. --------------------------------------Jack Boothman, President of the GAA attended the club’s Dinner Dance in 1994 and also attended the Herbert Cup Final in the same year.---------------------------------------
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History Barney Rock the former star Dublin player put the players through their paces in early 1994. He also presented medals to our under age teams in the Hogan Stand, Croke Park in Nov. 1995 --------------------------------------Well know Meath star Tommy Dowd helped in the preparation of the senior team for the 1995 championship --------------------------------------Kerry legend, Mick O’Dwyer, in his first term with the Kildare Senior Football team, threw in the ball to start the Herbert Cup Final. --------------------------------------In May of 1995 saw the club arrange a game between Kildare and Galway in Newbridge in aid of club development funds not knowing that in three year’s time they would play a far more significant fixture in the All Ireland Final of 1998. --------------------------------------Joe McDonagh the President of the GAA presented awards to the members of the ’72, ’73 and ’74 teams at their reunion night on 18/9/98 --------------------------------------Club Millenium Day was held on 19th. March 2000 featuring adult and underage events and games. --------------------------------------The old Ballyteague club pavilion in its time housed the St. Marys Boxing Club, Majorette Classes and the Ballyteague Youth Club. Irish dancing Feis and Youth Discos also took place at the club pavilion. --------------------------------------U-10 player Cliona Hanley appeared on the Late Late Toy Show in 2003 giving a brilliant performance as “The Unbelievables” --------------------------------------In 2006 Jim Hannifan played for the Irish Over 40’s team in Australia. --------------------------------------At the Co. Kildare GAA Awards of 2005 a notable feature was that three former pupils of Allen school representing three different clubs from Allen Parish – John Doyle, Allenwood, Player of the Year, Brother and sister Patricia O’Sullivan, Milltown, PRO of the Year and John Ivers, Club Official of the Year. --------------------------------------In 2006 the very popular young Lark Tony Coogan, who rarely misses a game, training session or any event in the club did himself, his family and his club proud when he travelled to USA to take part in the Physically Challenged Irish and American Youth Games. He returned home having won seven gold and two silver medals. Tony Coogan displaying his haul of medals.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History In Nov. 2008 Kieran McGeeney, Kildare Senior Football Manager, and his fellow county selectors held one of their county trial games on the grounds. In 2009 he availed of the facilities for a number of training sessions. --------------------------------------During 2009 Brian Murphy and his fellow county minor selectors used the facilities of the club. --------------------------------------What started out as day trips for club members, supporters etc to places such as Cavan, Buffers Alley in Wexford, Tramore, moved on to weekend trips to Dingle in Kerry to Bundoran in Donegal, and Westport in Mayo and many a town in between the “Larks� were on tour. Subsequently in 1988 the first venture overseas resulted in a memorable stay in London that also included a game against local team, Round Towers. In 2003 seventy people travelled to enjoy the sun in Grand Canaria and in 2004 the venue was Lanzarote.
Ballyteague players and supporters enjoying the sun in Lanzarote. --------------------------------------Croke Park has a presence in the club grounds. Fans can relax, enjoy the game and sit on an original seat from the old Cusack Stand. Some of the sods covering the two squares on the main pitch are from the consignment of famous sods laid after the U2 concert in time for the All Ireland Quarter Final involving Kildare and Tyrone on 26/7/2009. --------------------------------------For over forty years three people have been involved in marking out and preparing the pitchs for all of the matches in all weather. They are Sean Brennan, Mick Aungier and John Ivers. --------------------------------------A Club day was held all over the country in 1984 to commemorate the first hundred years since the foundation of the GAA. In this year to celebrate the one hundred and twenty fifth year another Club Day and Barbeque was organised at the club grounds involving under age and adult players and members in a range of competitions. A special event was a novelty game between the Intermediate Champions of 1991 and the present squad. --------------------------------------In recent years a VHI GAA Cul Camp is run for five days during the summer months throughout the country. Ballyteague and Allenwood take their turn at organising the camp every second year and it has proved to be very successful and enjoyable for the large number of boys and girls who attend. In 2009 125 boys and girls had an enjoyable week that also included a popular visit of Lily White Captain Johnny Doyle. ---------------------------------------
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History Over many years a number of club members served the GAA as referees at national and county level with great distinction. They were Jim Joe Dowling, Willie Reidy, Tony Smullen, Paddy Swords, Jim Kelly, Colin Connolly, Declan Jacob, Noel McKenna, Liam Doyle. Willie Reidy in his referee’s gear about to take charge of yet another game doing what he loves best after almost thirty years. ---------------------------------------
A number of people have served as Team Trainers / Managers. They are: Gandi Roche, Fr. McNamee, Johnny Smullen, Paddy Higgins, Paud Moore, Pat “Red” Connolly, John Anderson, Tony Smullen, Tony Keogh, Frank Connolly,Gerry Loftus, Brendan Downey, John O’Sullivan, Nickey Tobin, Ronan O’Flaherty Jim Waters, JJ Cahill, Jimmy Brennan, John Moran, Pat Dunny, Tommy Dowd, Mick Carolan, Frank Moran, Mick O’Loughlin, John Doran, Sean Liston, Tony Kelly, Mick Murphy, Mark O’Brien, Paddy Archibold, Ronan Kavanagh --------------------------------------The following members of the club have served as officials and selectors with Kildare County Board:JJ Dowling, Ned Herbert, Eddie Walker, John Ivers, Cathy Donoghue, Joe McTeague, Brendan Kenny, Jim Hanafin, Frank Moran. ---------------------------------------
Club Quiz Answers 1 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20.
1927 and the Larks was the knickname Joe McTeague Marc Herbert Mickey Lyons Brian McGrath Tommy Hayden Robbie McCabe John and Declan Jacob 1988. Jim amd Seamus Hanafin 2005 1984 Eamonn, Paddy and Jimmy Swords Jim Hanafin Gavin Smullen Gilligan Cup (Johnny) Seamus Nugent Mark Gilligan Three 1989, 2005,2007 Pat Dunny Paud Moore Danny Heavey Ronan Kavanagh
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Official Opening Day 10/6/84 Celebrating One Hundred Year Anniversary of the Founding of the GAA Club chairman, John Kavanagh, welcomed the Director General of GAA Liam Mulvihill to perform the official opening of the Ballyteague grounds and clubrooms at very well groomed and perfectly presented facilities that were great credit to the very hard working club committee. Liam Mulvihill congratulated the club for the excellent high standard facilities they had achieved and he wished the teams continued success on the playing field. Another speaker was County Chairman, Pat Dunny, who said he was delighted to be associated with the official opening of the grounds, as his own father had played with the club almost fifty years ago. The other speakers included Jack Boothman, representing Leinster Council, Jim Clarke, Co. Kildare Delegate to the Leinster Council and Fr. Tommy Hayden – a former player with the club who was home from the missions in Nigeria who also blessed the grounds and clubrooms.
Fr. Tommy Hayden blessing the grounds and clubrooms at the Official Opening. Also included in the photo are from left Director General of GAA Liam Mulvihill, Ballyteague Club Chairman John Kavanagh, Jim Clarke, Co. Kildare Delegate to the Leinster Council and County Chairman, Pat Dunny.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
A section of the large attendance at the Official Opening being addressed by County Chairman, Pat Dunny. To also honour the occasion Roscommon and Kildare played a very enjoyable senior football challenge after which the Roscommon team captain Dermot Earley was presented with silver tankards on behalf of the Roscommon team. For the record Roscommon won on a score line of 1-15 to Kildare’s 2 –11 with a number of Larks lining out for Kildare The day was completed by the ladies committee entertaining the guests, teams and visitors to a very enjoyable meal in the clubrooms.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Commemorative Trophies Over the years a number of Commemorative Trophies have been inaugurated to commemorate the memory of former members of the Ballyteague club. These include in alphabetical order The Crowe Cup in honour of the late Joe Crowe for underage tournament within the club was presented by his wife Carmel Gilligan Cup in honor of late Johnny Gilligan for Co. Kildare Football Minor Championship. For Johnny I write for you a verse of a local football star, A friend to all, a battler be it cup or league. Called from us before his time, was mourned near and far, His name was Johnny Gilligan, his team was Ballyteague. His skill at playing football as good as you could meet. A smile, a wink, a flick, or pass, always the one on song. He was a fair and honest man in victory or defeat. To follow in his gentle way one could not go wrong. A man of many talents all positions he could play. Our County Minor Trophy, a memory to his name. He was a credit to our club and local GAA It was on the turf of Ballyteague he loved to play the game. So goodbye for now, dear Johnny, may you rest in God’s land For take a man while in his prime its hard to understand. In dreams I see a pitch in Heaven and you in the green and gold Where along with all the other Larks he’ll keep you in his fold. A poem written in tribute to the memory of Johnny Gilligan by Paddy Swords. Herbert Cup is in honour of former club Chairman Ned Herbert who gave longstanding, dedicated and loyal service to Ballyteague over many years. The trophy was presented by his family in 1973 and has become one of the most popular tournaments in the county. It commenced in 1974 with Carbury, the first name to go one this much-coveted trophy, who defeated Milltown in the final. It has been played for an annual basis since its inception and has proven to be very successful, enjoyable to the large crowds of supporters who attend the matches and has provided a source of much needed revenue for the club. The Herbert Cup is arguably the best organised and most sought after Senior Football Tournament that is run in the county. It is keenly contested by Senior Clubs as it is used as a testing ground for their team’s championship hopes and plans because it is held before the commencement of the Senior Championship, run efficiently over the short period of three to four weeks and is held in high regard by the participating clubs.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History Moorefield have proved themselves to be the masters of the tournament by winning it nine times in total including two sets of three-in-a-row. Leixlip’s participation in 1986 with a team that included the notable Kerry famed Jack O’Shea attracted huge crowds to the venue. A twenty-five year gap separated father and son Denis O’Flaherty, Raheens and Morgan O’Flaherty, Carbury who both accepted the trophy as captains of their respective teams. The Keenan Cup is in honour of the late Tom Keenan , a Scotsman, who was involved with the club in the sixtees. The family presented the cup in 1979 and the first winners were Nurney. It is played for on a regular basis by Intermediate and Junior teams. It has also proven to be very popular and profitable for the club. Celbridge recorded a three-in-a-row in the 80’s with Ballyteague having captured this fine trophy on nine occasions – the latest being 2009. Maher Cup was presented by the family of the late Patsy Maher in his honour for underage tournament within the club. McCoy Cup is in honour of the late Michael McCoy for Co Kildare Senior League Division 4 and was presented by his family to commemorate his name.
A tree planting cermoney was held at the at the club grounds in 2001 in memory of the late Michael McCoy. Back Left: Colm McCoy, Noelle McCoy, Kevin McCoy, Philip Dowley, Barry McCoy, Marion McCoy and son Quin.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History Stephen Herbert Shield was donated to the Club by the family of Stephen Herbert and was played for annually by the adult members in commemoration of his name over the winter period.
Winners of the Stephen Herbert Shield in 1978/79 Back Left: Paddy Moore, Eamonn Swords, Danny Heavey, Jimmy Swords, Jack Dunne, Jack Goulding. Front Left: Andrew Goulding, John Joe Brennan, Larry Dunne, Christy Gorey, Willie Reidy Wilkinson Cup was donated by the Wilkinson family and was dedicated to the memory of the late Bill Wilkinson who owned a licenced premises now known as “The Travellers Rest�. This cup was confined to the teams of the parish and was won by these teams: 1956 Milltown, 1957 Allenwood, 1958 Milltown, 1959 Allenwood, 1960 Milltown, 1961 Milltown. The cup was not played for again until 1970 when teams from outside the parish were invited and the records show that it was won by: - 1970 Milltown, 1971 Carbury, 1972 Carbury. The cup was then withdrawn from adult competition by the club and replaced by the Herbert Cup. The Wilkinson Cup was from 1973 onwards for an U-16 years tournament confined to club members only.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Presentation by Fr. Gaynor of Wilkinson Cup to the first winning captain Vinnie Swords. Also included is John Ivers club secretary and Vice Chairman of Kildare County Board.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Club Development Plan The first reaction of visitors to the club is one of great surprise at the range and high standard of the facilities currently being enjoyed by the players, members and the local population at Ballyteague GFC. These facilities are the result of a well thought out and determinedly executed strategy over the past number of years designed to deliver state of the art resources to the people who use and benefit from them. These facilities are a monument to the commitment of a very dedicated committee who put in a huge and consistent effort for nearly ten years to ensure that only the very best was good enough for the club and its members.
View of the clubhouse and grounds at the start of the 80’s The first phase in the plan was to form a Development Committee who subsequently purchased four and a half acres of land in 2001 for the purpose of developing a second football pitch.
An aerial photo taken of the clubhouse and grounds in Aug. 2002
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History A three way tender, with the assistance of National Lottery Funding, resulted in three contractors, Cross Plant Hire, Kilmeague Landscaping and Tom Logan Plant Hire, being successful in gaining the contract. Over two hundred lorry loads of topsoil were used in the development of the new pitch. At the same time a state of the art set of floodlights were installed on the first existing pitch and were officially opened by Minister for Finance Charlie McCreevey TD in May 2003.
Minister for Finance, Charlie McCreevey with committee members at the Official Switching on of the new Floodlights. When phase one was successfully completed the committee then turned their attention to the need to source further funds and develop the pavilion in order that it could provide a service to match the new facilities. Architects John Cross and Associates designed a total new plan for the pavilion that consisted of Toilets, Four Dressing Rooms completed with Showers, Referees Dressing Room, under floor heating, a Gymnasium, Meeting Rooms, Bar Facilities, Offices, and a Viewing Balcony. The new pavilion demonstrates how successfully the plan was executed 2005.
Left Photo - The old Pavillion as the construction work has just commenced. Right Photo - The newly finished Pavillion. The committee then turned their attention to providing an all-weather astra turf facility under floodlights that resulted in a forty-eight by thirty-five meter pitch with a Mondo carpet that was finished to a very high specification by Emerald Pitch Development. The all-weather pitch is also hired out to interested parties as a source of raising funds to help alleviate the financial debts at the club.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History The final and fourth phase the committee set for themselves was the development of the original and main pitch that resulted in the whole surface being drained, levelled and reseeded to deliver a playing field that is among the best in the county. This final phase was completed in 2007 and the first game played on it was in June 2008.
Heavy construction work being carried out on the main pitch.
A Football match being played on the redeveloped main pitch 2009.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History The total cost of all of the developments at the club cost almost one million euro that was sourced from both local and lottery funding. Throughout the years a number of people served on the committee along with the driving forces of Tommy Herbert and Chairman Brendan Kenny. These were Wesley Smullen, Tommy Coogan, Tom Foy, Marie Jacob, Leslie Thorpe, Eugene Boland, Pauric Thorpe, Seamus Brennan, Ted Moran and Gerry Randals
List of Club Officials down the years Chairman Mick Behan, Jim Joe Dowling, Bill Aungier Snr. Ned Herbert, Christy Jacob, Larry Dunne, PJ Gorey, Seamus Jacob, Mick Gilligan, John Kavanagh, Frank Moran, Terry Hyland, Brendan Kenny, Tommy Herbert, John Ivers. Vice. Chair. Paddy Nugent, Jim Joe Dowling, Tommy Donoghue, Ned Herbert, Christy Jacob, Mick Gilligan, Larry Dunne, PJ Gorey, Brendan Kenny, Paddy Swords, Robbie Ivers, Seamus Brennan, Joe McTeague, Paddy Clancy, Frank Horan, Tommy Herbert, Brian Dempsey, Eugene Boland and Declan Jacob. Secretary Dick Behan, Ned Dooley, JJ Dowling, John Ivers, Mick Gilligan, Brendan Kenny, John Herbert, Marguerite Boland and Marie Jacob. Treasurers Dick Behan, Willie Aungier, Christy Jacob, Peter Connolly Paddy Swords, Harry McKenna, John Ivers, Paddy McKane, Cathy Moran, Tommy Herbert and Darren Maguire. PRO John Ivers, Frank Moran, Declan Jacob, Marguerite Boland and Cathy Murphy
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Club Officials 2009 Chairman: John Ivers Vice. Chairman: Declan Jacob Secretary: Marie Jacob Assist. Secretary: Karen Maguire Treasurer: Darren Maguire PRO; Cathy Murphy Registrar: Marc Herbert Irish Officer: Seamus O hAnafein Underage Co-ordinator: Marie Jacob Child Liaison Officer: Niall Moran Co. Board Delegate: Brendan Kenny South Board Delegates: Marie Jacob, Karen Maguire Executive Committee: John Ivers, Declan Jacob, Marie Jacob, Karen Maguire, Darren Maguire, Cathy Murphy, Brendan Kenny, Niall Moran, Mick Ennis, Tommy Mooney, Michael Downey. Football Committee: Declan Jacob, Mick Thorpe, Thomas McKenna, Pa Casey, Marie Jacob, Gavin Smullen, Mick Kenna, Stephen Connolly, Liam Doyle, Michael Ennis. Grounds Committee: Sean Brennan, Mick Aungier, John Ivers, Dan Ward, Johnny Leeson, Peter Connolly. Social Committee Breda Brown, Paudie Brown, John Ivers, Ger McNally, Leslie Thorpe, Cathy Murphy, Ciara Herbert. Intermediate Team Management: Ronan Kavanagh, Paddy Archibold, Declan Gilligan, Brian Hyland. B Team Management: Michael Ennis, Johnny Leeson, Fergus Jacob. Intermediate Team: Captain: Gavin Smullen. Vice. Captain: Kieran Brennan B Team Captain: Alan Wright. Vice. Captain: Dermot Moran
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Ballyteague Executive Committee 2009 Back Left: Michael Downey, Brendan Kenny, Tommy Mooney, Niall Moran, Michael Ennis, Jim Hanafin, Marc Herbert. Font Left. Declan Jacob, John Ivers, Marie Jacob, Darren Maguire, Cathy Murphy, Karen Maguire.
Gym and all weather pitch
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Chapter 7 - Social and Community Activities Ballyteague Social Club In 1975 the Social Club was formed, principally from the members of the Ladies Football team and from those people who took part in the Scor Competition. The club took part in the Senior and Scor na nOg for almost thirty years and enjoyed much success in that time. The competition covers eight different acts and the club participated in all of them and also attracted a huge following all over Kildare and Leinster. The Senior Scor has won Set Dancing, Novelty Act, Figure dancing, Solo Singing, Instrumental Music, Recitation, Ballad Group and won the Scor Club of the Year for Co. Kildare in 1977. The Scor-na-nOg won the following: - Novelty Act and with Pauric Downey winning County and Leinster Titles and reached the All Ireland with Recitations. Pauric won three in a row county title in 1975,1976 and 1977. He later also won Senior Scor Recitations.
< Pauric Downey Resitation Winner The club has hosted many of the Scor competitions in the old Allen Hall in that time.
Members of the very successful 1977 Scor Team
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History 1977 Novelty Act County winners taken onstage. From Left Maura Shannon and Peggy Thorpe.
Scor Early ‘80’s Figure Dance Team Back Left: Davy Ward, Liam Reilly, Michael Noonan, Paddy O’Hanlon. Front Left: Annette Curran, Pauline Moore, Agnes Dunne, Alice Connolly. The members of this Figure Dance Team along with Bernadette Jacob, Liz Jacob, Brid Murphy, Paddy Dunphy, Dick Cross and Andy Shannon were members of the very successful Set Dance Team of the ‘70’s and early ‘80’s.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History The Ballyteague Novelty Act pictured left for Scor 1993. From Left: Davy Maher, Jim Kelly, John Ivers, Frank Tobin and Kay Doyle The Social Club worked in conjunction with the Football Club in organising Raffles, Field Days, Card Drives and other fund raising activities that contributed to the financial position of the club.
The hard working Social Committee pictured above in the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;80s Back Left: Bennie Ivers, Dan Ward, Pur Maher, Agnes Dunne, Kathleen Dunne, Paddy Clancy, Liz Jacob, Kathleen Gilligan, Maura Brennan, Frances Corrigan. Front Left: Davy Ward, Mary Clancy, Nellie Farrell, John Ivers, May McKenna, Lily Leeson.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History Besides catering for the senior citizens by running an annual outing and party for them, the Social Club also used to hold a Christmas Party for the children and a function for the members of the North Kildare Branch of the Irish Wheelchair Association. The following is a list of those officials who have served the Club since its foundation: Chairperson: Mrs. Maura Shanahan, Paddy Dunphy, Mrs. Lily Leeson, Mrs. Helen Herbert, Larry Dunne and Paddy Swords. Secretary: Mrs. Chrissie Ivers, Miss Eileen Cross, Mrs. Nuala Byrne, John Herbert, Mrs. Jane Jacob. Treasurers: Mrs. Bridie Jacob, Larry Dunne.
Celebrating the Larks Golden Jubilee at the Dinner dance in 1978. Recipients of mementoes presented to the members of the original 1928 team and their families.
Left Photo - From Left: Jack Gilligan, Captain of the 1928 Ballyteague team with Special Guest of Honour, Larry Stanley
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Dinner Dances On Dec. second 1967 our first Dinner Dance was held in the Downshire House in Blessington with one hundred and forty people attending and has been held successfully ever year since then in such venues as the old Derby House, Lawlors Ballroom, The Hazel and Keadeen for a long number of years, Dowlings, Toughers and the Milltown Inn. In 1973 there was a record attendance of four hundred and twenty people.
1972 Dinner Dance with the Junior A Noel Moran Cup and the Higgins Cup. Back Left: Hugh Campion, May and Mick Gilligan, Liam McManus, Bernadette and Christy Jacob. Front Left: Paddy Higgins, John Jacob (Capt), John Ivers
Annual Dinner Dance Presentation to from left: Danny Heavey, Paud Moore, Willie Aungier and Betty Dowling in Hotel Keadeen, Jan, 1974
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Club Committee photographed at the Annual Dinne Dance in the late seventies. Back Left; Pat â&#x20AC;&#x153;Redâ&#x20AC;? Connolly Trainer, Brendan Kenny, PJ Gorey, Harry McKenna, Christy Jacob, Vincent Kelly, Paddy Moore. Front Left: John Herbert, John Ivers, Larry Dunne, Willie Aungier, Willie Reidy.
At the 1992 Dinner Dance a Special Presentation was made to PJ Gorey to mark the the fact that he had been given the title of Co. Kildare Person of the Year 1992 some weeks previously at a gala night in the K Club.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History The Dinner Dance of 2006 saw the inauguration of the Club Awards, being presented at the function. County Footballer, Anthony Rainbow, presented the following Awards: Joint Hall of Fame – Mick Gilligan Snr. And Tom Doyle Snr. Club Person – Tommy Herbert Intermediate Player – Paul Brennan “B” Player – Peter McCabe “C” Player – Conor Mullaney Young Player – Seamus Hanafin Special Award – Tony Coogan, Eugene Boland and Jim Hannifan
Photo of the Club Award Winners at the 2006 Annual Dinner Dance In 2007 the club Awards were presented by Michael O Muircheartaigh and they were: Joint Hall of Fame – Willie Aungier and Peter Connolly Club Person – Marie Jacob Intermediate Player – Gary Tobin “B” Player – Joey Behan Young Player – Jamie Doyle Special Award – Tom and Willie Flynn (Left Photo) In 2007 Michael O Muircheartaigh presents Peter Connolly with his Hall of Fame Award In 2008 the Awards were presented by Mick O’Dwyer as follows: Hall of Fame – Ned Dooley Club Person – John Ivers Intermediate Player – Tommy Coogan “B” Player – Kevin Murphy Young Player – Sean Dowling Special Award – Gavin Smullen
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Mick Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Dwyer making a special Award to Gavin Smullen on his achievements with Kidare U-21 team at the 2008 Annual Dinner Dance
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Benefit Game On Sunday 13th. Nov. 1977 a benefit game was arranged in aid of one of the clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s long-term officials, former player and intercounty referee Jim Joe Dowling who had undergone a leg amputation. Kildare played Meath in the county grounds in Newbridge with Ballyteague players Paddy Swords and Tommy Herbert lining out for the county and the referee was Ballyteague Trainer, Paud Moore. This game was followed a few weeks later with a social night in Dowlings, Prosperous with proceeds for the same fund.
Photo taken after the game at a function in McTiernans, Newbridge. Back Left: PJ Gorey, John Ivers, Jim Joe Dowling Jnr., Frank Dowling. Front Left: Mick Gilligan, Larry Dunne, Jim Joe Dowling, Paddy Swords, Peter McDermott (Meath Legend) who helped to organise the game.
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Fundraising Fundraising in the early days was done mostly by the hardworking and dedicated Social Club Committee with the ladies in particular to the fore travelling around the pubs of the county selling raffle tickets and flag weekends and being ferried home safely with the hard earned funds by non drinking drivers. Also in those years Twenty Five Card Drives and Progressive Twenty Fives proved both popular and profitable for the club. A once off event was the Earl of Allen Competition with Paddy Swords as our club candidate. Another big popular event was the Annual Field Day that was run for many years and comprised of a variety of stalls and events including Tug O War. A notable TV celebratory was “Bengy” from the Riordans who had the unenviable task of judging the “Bonnie Baby Show” and the “ Glamerous Granny “
Ballyteague Tug O War Team at the Annual Field day in the 70’s Back Left: Paddy Swords, Mick Nugent, Paudge Sullivan, Eamonn Swords, Eamonn Sheridan. Front Left: Tony Dunne, Jim Quinn, Johnny Gilligan. A number of very successful Cabaret Shows were staged featuring such well-known musical stars as Joe Dolan, Johnny McEvoy and Fr. Michael Cleary among others. The following major fundraising ventures included Lottery Funding and Grants, The Eire Og, Carlow and Raheens, Kildare Bumper Draw, Club Tournaments, Sponsored Walks and Cycles, Greyhound Racing, Youth Discos, Table Quizs’ Race Nites, Monthly 300 Club Draw – tickets were one pound and draw was held at the old Allen Bingo. Auctions, Golf Classics, many generous sponsorships and Membership Fees. The Allen Parish Lotto, in existence since 1995, has provided regular and much needed income for the club. This involves a huge amount of work by a large number of loyal promoters selling tickets week after week. A special mention must go to Carmel and Lorna Keely, Cathy Moran, Agnes Dunne and Ger McNally for their trojan work on behalf of the club.
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Ballyteague Canal Activities Group In the early nineties a pilot project was established to develop facilities to cater for disabled anglers. It originated from a sub committee of the Ballyteague Community Council Development Committee. The people behind the project were PJ Gorey, Ted Moran, Tommy Herbert and Seamus Brennan. The purpose of the project was to gain access from the new bridge to the fishing stands adjacent to the club grounds where the fishermen use the Set Down and club facilities. Funding was granted from the Department of Arts, Culture and Gaeltact and also from the Central Fisheries Board. The canal was stocked in 1995 and the official opening took place in Oct of that year by Minister Michael D Higgins TD and Tainste Dick Spring TD. The project set the standard for Disabled Anglers with the Inland Waterways and OPW. On 3/9/09 the first All Ireland Disabled Anglers Competition was held at our location and it proved to be a wonderful occasion with the reception being held in the Ballyteague clubhouse.
Allen Little Theatre Group Members and supporters of Ballyteague G.F.C. make a contribution to their community in numerous ways. It would be impossible to highlight each individual activitiy and we chose just one club to focus on as an example of the vibrant community in our locality. Members of the club have been involved with the Allen Little Theatre Group for many years since its foundation either onstage or in the background working with the production team. . Allen Little Theatre Group first prformane of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Rebeccaâ&#x20AC;? in New Assembly Hall, Edenderry on 26th Jan 1961
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Left Photo - Back Left. Jack Herbert, Peter Connolly, Frank Lawlor, Patricia Lawlor, Patricia Conlon, Denis Fitzgerald, Johnny O’Connor, Gabriel Dunne, Paddy Finnegan, Betty Fields, Rose O’Hara. Front Left. Jim Regan, Seamus Murphy, Pauline Snee, Eddie Walker, Fr. Tommy O’Reilly, Peg Treacy, Chalie Weld. The Dog is named “Bruce”
Right Photo - Allen Little Theatre Group presentation of “Sive” that came second in the Cavan Drama Festival 1974. Back Left. Ben Murphy, Tommy Hayden Snr., Del Weld, Breda Corrigan, Paddy Scanlon, Peter Connolly, John Roddy, John Walsh, Tod Herbert, Annette Lyons, Seamus Murphy, Kevin Dunne, Paddy Clancy. Front Left. Ger McNally, Richie Gordon, Phyllis Moore, Mary Hayden, Eddie Walker, Lucy Loonan, Alice Casey, Fr. Gaynor.
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Chapter 9 - The Lineouts of all the Ballyteague Teams who played in a Final either in the Championship, the League or a Tournament. The following is a list of the teams and players who have served the club in various football Finals in which Ballytegue have been involved down the years. This compilation is by no means comprehensive but represents all the information, which is available at this time. 1928 Junior League Ballyteague defeated Ballyshannon. The team was comprised of the following panel of players: Kit Dunny, Dinny Dunny, Dick Behan, Larry Dunne, Stephen Herbett, Pat Hynan, Johnny Brennan, Tom Hynan, Paddy Nugent, Johnny Corry, Peach Mills, Jack Gilligan, Mick Behan, Jack Dunne, Kit Sheridan, Jim Dunne. 1961 Junior B Final on 8/10/61 Ballyteague 1-3, Carbury 1-4. Bill Dunne, Sean Brennan, Mick Nugent, Paddy Boland, Mick Lyons, Mick Gilligan, Peader Dunne, Seamus Nugent, Christy Jacob, Christy Hannon, Tom Nugent, Larry Dunne, Paddy “Ducks” Moran, Johnny Gilligan Capt., Joe Keeley. 1962 Junior B Final on 14/10/62 Ballyteague 1-7, Sallins 0-5. Seamus Jacob, Seamus Brennan, Mick Nugent, Joe Keeley, Mick Lyons Capt., Mick Gilligan, Tom Logan, Peader Dunne, Seamus Nugent, Larry Dunne, Johnny Gilligan, Christy Jacob, Tom Nugent, Paul Brennan, Jimmy Ennis. 1962 Higgins Cup Final on 9/12/62 Ballyteague 1-6, Suncroft 1-6. Seamus Jacob, Seamus Brennan, Mick Nugent, Joe Keeley, Mick Lyons Capt., Mick Gilligan, Tom Logan, Peader Dunne, Seamus Nugent, Larry Dunne, Johnny Gilligan, Christy Jacob, Tom Nugent, Paul Brennan, Jimmy Ennis. 1963 Higgins Cup Final Replay on 24/2/63 Ballyteague 1-2, Suncroft 2-3. Seamus Jacob, Seamus Brennan, Mick Nugent, Joe Keeley, Mick Lyons Capt., Mick Gilligan, Tom Logan, Peader Dunne, Seamus Nugent, Larry Dunne, Johnny Gilligan, Christ Jacob, Tom Nugent, Paul Brennan, Tony Dunne. Sub: John Nugent, Jimmy Ennis. 1967 Intermediate League Final on 17/11/68. Ref. T. Keogh Ballyteague 2-9, Rheban 2-3. Seamus Jacob, Paddy Moore, Mick Nugent, Martin Ivers, Jody Brennan, Seamus Brennan, Mick Lyons, Paddy Swords, Tony Smullen, John Jacob, Joe McTegue Capt., Robbie Ivers, Christy Jacob, Johnny Gilligan, Tony Dunne.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History 1968 Junior A Final on 9/9/1968 Ref. S. Campbell. Ballyteague 1-9, Ardclough 0-14. Seamus Jacob, Paddy Moore, Mick Nugent, Martin Ivers, Jody Brennan, Joe McTeague, Paddy Swords, Seamus Brennan Capt., Tom Hayden, John Jacob, Christy Jacob, Mick Thorpe, Robbie Ivers, Johnny Gilligan, Tony Dunne. Subs: Tom Brereton, Mick Roche. 1971 Junior A Final on 29/8/71 Ref. S. Campbell. Ballyteague 2-9, Kilcullen 2-9 Seamus Jacob, Paddy Moore, Eamonn Sheridan Capt., Mick Nugent, Jimmy Swords, Seamus Brennan, Jack Dunne, Tom Herbert, Seamus Nugent, John Jacob, Joe McTeague, Mick Thorpe, Robbie Ivers, Tommy Hayden, Ned Dunne. 1971 Junior A Final Replay on 12/9/71 Ref. S. Campbell. Ballyteague 1-6, Kilcullen 2-4 Seamus Jacob, Paddy Moore, Eamonn Sheridan Capt., Mick Nugent, Jimmy Swords, Seamus Brennan, Jack Dunne, Tom Herbert, Seamus Nugent, John Jacob, Joe McTeague, Mick Thorpe, Robbie Ivers, Tommy Hayden,Ned Dunne. Mick Nugent was injured early in the game and was replaced by Johnny Gilligan. Seamus Nugent was brought home from U.S.A. especially for the replay. 1971 League Div 2 Final on 2/10/71. Ref. C. Keatley. Ballyteague 0-7, Grange 0-6. Seamus Jacob, Paddy Moore, Eamonn Sheridan Capt., Mick Nugent, Jimmy Swords, Seamus Brennan, Jack Dunne, Tommy Herbert, Tommy Hayden, John Jacob, Joe McTeague, Mick Thorpe, Robbie Ivers, Johnny Gilligan, Ned Dunne. 1972 Ballymore Murphy Cup Senior Tournament Final on 23/1/72. Ref. T. Daly. Ballyteague 0-7, Kilcullen 1-4. Seamus Jacob, Jody Brennan, Eamonn Sheridan, Mick Nugent, Jimmy Swords, Seamus Brennan, Paddy Swords, Tommy Herbert, Tommy Hayden, Mick Thorpe, Joe McTeague, Ned Dunne, Robbie Ivers, Jack Dunne, John Jacob Capt. Subs: Johnny Leeson. 1972 Ballymore Murphy Cup Final Replay on 2/4/1972 Ref. T. Daly. Ballyteague 0-6, Kilcullen 1-9. Seamus Jacob, Paddy Moore, Eamonn Sheridan, Jack Dunne, Jimmy Swords, Seamus Brennan, Paddy Swords, Tommy Hayden, Joe McTeague, Johnny Leeson, Larry Kelly, Ned Dunne, Robbie Ivers, Mick Nugent, John Jacob Capt. Subs: Tommy Herbert. 1972 Wilkinson Cup Senior Tournament Final on 3/9/72. Ref. J. McCormack. Ballyteague 2-6, Carbury 1-11. Seamus Jacob, Paddy Moore, Seamus Brennan, Eamonn Sheridan, Jody Brennan, Eamonn Swords, Jimmy Swords, Tommy Herbert, Tommy Hayden, Johnny Leeson, Larry Kelly, Mick Thorpe, Robbie Ivers, Joe McTegue, John Jacob Capt. Subs: Mick Nugent.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History 1972 Junior A Final on 1/10/72. Ref. P. Moore. Ballyteague 2-10, Castlemitchel 0-6. Seamus Jacob, Paddy Moore, Seamus Brennan, Eamonn Sheridan, Jimmy Swords, Joe McTeague, Paddy Swords, Tommy Herbert, Tommy Hayden, John Jacob Capt., Larry Kelly, Mick Thorpe, Robbie Ivers, Johnny Gilligan, Johnny Leeson. Subs: Ned Dunne. 1972 Higgins Cup Final on 5/11/72. Ref. S. Aldridge. Ballyteague 2-9, St. Kevinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2-4. Seamus Jacob, Paddy Moore, Seamus Brennan, Eamonn Sheridan, Jimmy Swords, Joe McTeague, Paddy Swords, Tommy Herbert, Tommy Hayden, John Jacob Capt., Larry Kelly, Mick Thorpe, Johnny Leeson, Johnny Gilligan, Ned Dunne. 1973 Leinster Leader Cup Final on 22/4/73. Ref. S. Campbell. Ballyteague 0-5, Carbury 0-6. Seamus Jacob, Paddy Moore, Seamus Brennan, Eamonn Sheridan, Mick Thorpe, Eamonn Swords, Paddy Swords, Tommy Herbert, Tommy Hayden, Johnny Leeson, Joe McTeague, Larry Kelly Capt., John Jacob, Johnny Gilligan, Robbie Ivers. 1973 Intermediate Final on 26/8/73. Ref. M. Curtis. Ballytegue 1-12, Rathangan 0-5. Seamus Jacob, Paddy Moore, Seamus Brennan, Eamonn Sheridan, Mick Thorpe, Eamonn Swords, Ned Dunne, Tommy Herbert, Paddy Swords, Johnny Leeson, Tommy Hayden, Larry Kelly Capt., Robbie Ivers, Joe McTeague, John Jacob. 1974 Senior Final on 29/9/74. Ref. J. Furlong. Ballyteague 0-5, Carbury 2-9. Danny Heavey, Paddy Moore, Seamus Brennan Capt., Eamonn Sheridan, Jimmy Swords, Eamonn Swords, Mick Thorpe, Tommy Herbert, Tommy Hayden, Johnny Leeson, Joe McTeague, Larry Kelly, John Jacob, Paddy Swords, Ned Dunne. Subs: Mick Nugent, Robbie Ivers 1974 Junior League Div 2 Final on 27/10/74. Ref: J Brown Ballyteague 1-3, Athy 1-4. Danny Heavey, Christy Gorey, Johnny Gilligan, Willie Reidy, Vincent Kelly, Jody Brennan, John Joe Brennan, Jimmy Swords, Ger McNally Capt., Pat Smullen, John Moran, Larry Dunne, Mick Dunne, Mick Nugent, Ben Murphy. Subs: Christy Jacob, Denis Lyons. 1976 Ellistown Martin Cup on 15/2/1976 Ref. S Fitzgerald Ballyteague 0-8 Ballykelly 1-9 Seamus Jacob, Seamus Moran, Joe McTeague, Seamus Brennan, Mick Thorpe, John Moran Capt., Ger McNally, Paddy Swords, Jimmy Swords, John Jacob, Tommy Hayden, Larry Kelly, Liam Flynn, Tommy Herbert, Ben Murphy. Sub: Johnny Leeson
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History 1977 Senior League Div 2 Final on 6/8/77. Ref: M Smith Ballyteague 1-6, Sallins 0-9. Danny Heavey, Seamus Moran, Eamonn Swords, Pat Smullen Jimmy Swords, Paddy Swords Capt., Johnny Leeson, Tommy Herbert, Ger McNally, Robbie Ivers, John Moran, Mick Thorpe, Joe McTeague, Mick Smullen, John Jacob. 1977 Senior League Div 2 Final Replay on 2/10/77. Ref. M Smith Ballyteague 0-10, Sallins 1-16. Danny Heavey, Joe McTeague, Eamonn Swords, Seamus Moran, Johnny Leeson, Paddy Swords Capt., Jimmy Swords, Tommy Herbert, Ger McNally, Robbie Ivers, John Moran, Pat Smullen, John Jacob, Mick Smullen, Mick Thorpe. 1978 Herbert Cup Senior Tournament Final on 5/5/78. Ref. P. Broe. Ballyteague 2-8, Raheens 3-11. Danny Heavey, Seamus Brennan, Joe McTeague, Mick Thorpe, Johnny Leeson, Jimmy Swords, Tony Smullen, Tommy Herbert Capt., Paddy Swords, Robbie Ivers, Mick Smullen, Pat Smullen, Timmy Casey, John Moran, John Jacob. Subs: Ben Murphy, Frank Moran 1979 Junior League Div 2 Final 18/11/79. Ref. J. Moore. Ballyteague 2-5, Rathcoffey 2-4. Paddy Dunne, Ben Murphy, Jody Brennan, Jimmy Brennan, John Herbert, Seamus Moran, Gay Leeson, Frank Moran, Ger McNally Capt., Timmy Casey, Robbie Ivers, Tommy Mooney, Peter Cross, Eamonn Sheridan, Dermot Doyle. Subs: Dan Dunne. 1979 Quinn Cup Junior Tournament Final in Kilmeague on 14/1/’79. Ref. Tony Keogh. Ballyteague 1-3, Allenwood 0-7. Jim Curran, Tommy Farrell, Eamonn Sheridan, Tommy Sheridan, Vincent Kelly, Jody Brennan, Capt., Gay Leeson, Frank Moran, Ger McNally, John Joe Brennan, Larry Kelly, Willie Dunne, Brendan Judge, Johnny Gilligan, John McDonagh. Subs: Ned Dunne, Andrew Goulding, Peter Cross. 1980 Junior Football League Div. 2 Final on 9/11/’80. Ref. P. Coyle. Ballyteague 0-7, Rathcoffey 1-4. Paddy Dunne, Jimmy Brennan, Seamus Moran, Tommy Farrell, John Herbert, Frank Moran Capt., Ben Murphy, Tommy Herbert, Ger McNally, Terry Hyland, Dermot Doyle, Thomas McKenna, Tommy Mooney, Tony Flynn, Dan Dunne. 1980 Junior Football League Div.2 Replay on 23/11/’80. Ref. P. Coyle. Ballyteague 1-6, Rathcoffey 1-7. Paddy Dunne, Tommy Farrell, Seamus Moran, Jimmy Brennan, John Herbert, Frank Moran Capt., Ben Murphy, Tommy Herbert, Ger McNally, Dermot Doyle, Tony Flynn, Tom McKenna, Tommy Mooney, Paddy Swords, Brendan Judge.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History 1980 Milltown Vintners Cup Senior Tournament Final on 28/6/’80. Ref. T. Howard. Ballyteague 0-9, Ellistown 0-6. Danny Heavey, Jimmy Brennan, Seamus Brennan, Eamonn Sheridan, Terry Hyland, John Moran, Tony Smullen, Ger McNally, Jimmy Swords, John Jacob, Tommy Herbert Capt., Seamus Moran, Tommy Mooney, Paddy Swords, Frank Moran. 1981 Athgarvan Mullally Cup Senior Tournament Final on 8/5/’81. Ref. S. Campbell. Ballyteague 2 - 12, Round Towers 1-3. Danny Heavey, J. McTeague, Seamus Brennan, Eamonn Sheridan, Terry Hyland, John Moran, Jimmy Brennan, Tommy Herbert, Jimmy Swords, Robbie Ivers, Dermot Doyle, John Jacob Capt., Seamus Moran, Frank Moran, Mick Thorpe. Subs: Paddy Swords. 1981 Minor Football League Div. 3 Final on 8/11/’81. Ref. L. Buckley. Ballyteague 2-9, Grange 2-3. Jody Ivers, Glen Sullivan, Paul Heffernan, Thomas Doyle, Shay Walsh, Jimmy Brennan, Frank Dowling, Terry Hyland, Joe Balfe, Declan Gilligan, Capt., Francie Kavanagh, John Smullen, Paddy Moran, Dermot Doyle, Mossie Lynch. 1982 Keenan Cup Junior Tournament Final on 29/7/’82. Ref. D. Melia. Ballyteague 1-5, Celbridge 1-14. Paddy Dunne, Kevin Doyle, Tommy Sheridan, Thomas Doyle, John Herbert Capt., Tony Smullen, Ronan O’Flaherty, Ger McNally, Gay Leeson, Ben Murphy, Tommy Mooney, John Smullen, Declan Gilligan, Frank Moran, Thomas McKenna. Subs: Vincent Kelly, Jody Ivers, Jody Brennan. 1983 Rathangan Conlon Cup Senior Tournament Final on 3/4/83. Ref. J. Barker. Ballyteague 0-7, Rathangan 1-7. Paddy Dunne, Tom Doyle, Seamus Moran, Gay Leeson, Shay Walsh, John Moran, Tony Smullen, Tommy Herbert, Terry Hyland Capt., Dermot Doyle, Frank, Moran, Ronan O’Flaherty, Declan Gilligan, Joe McTeague, John Jacob. Subs: Ger McNally, Seamus Brennan. 1983 Robertstown O’Moore Cup Senior Tournament Final on 1/6/83. Ref. N. McCormack. Ballyteague 3-3, Robertstown 3-9. Willie Dunne, Tommy Sheridan, Paddy Swords, Tom Doyle, Kevin Doyle Capt., Seamus Moran, Gay Leeson, Ger McNally, Dermot Doyle, Liam Ennis, Terry Hyland, Ronan O’Flaherty, Robbie Ivers, Frank Moran, Thomas McKenna. Subs: Shay Walsh, Tony Flynn, Tom Walsh. 1983 Clongorey Burke Cup Junior Tournament Final on 30/10/83. Ref. T. Howard. Ballyteague 3-8, Robertstown 2-4. Mick Gilligan, Dermot Doyle, Gay Leeson, Tom Doyle, Ronan Kavannagh, Seamus Moran, Kevin Doyle Capt., Ger McNally, Frank Moran, Declan Gilligan, Shay Walsh, Ronan O’Flaherty, Pa Casey, Paudie Browne, Thomas McKenna. Subs: Mick Thorpe.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History 1985 Keenan Cup Junior Final on 25/5/1985 Ref. T Farrell Ballyteague 0-11 Robertstown 1-4 Willie Dunne, Joe McTeague, Paddy Swords, John Anderson Jnr. John Herbert, Ronan Kavanagh, Terry Hyland, Tommy Herbert Capt., Ronan O’Flaherty, Thomas Mckenna, John Moran, Brendan O’Flaherty,John Smullen, John Jacob, Dermot Doyle. Subs: Kevin Doyle, Tom Doyle, Frank Moran 1985 Junior A Final on 1/9/85 Ref. Andy O’Brien Ballyteague 2-7, Ballymore 1-11, Willie Dunne, Joe McTeague, Paddy Swords, Thomas Doyle, Ronan Kavanagh, Seamus Moran, Terry Hyland, Tommy Herbert Capt., Ronan O’Flaherty, Dermot Doyle, John Moran, Thomas McKenna, Frank Moran, John Jacob, Declan Gilligan. Subs: Robbie Ivers, Shay Walsh !987 Keenan Cup Junior Final on 17/3/1987 Ref. N McCormack Ballyteague 2-8 Allenwood 2-1 Willie Dunne, Kevin Doyle, Shay Walsh, Ronan Kavanagh, Terry Hyland, John Moran, Alan Jacob, Brendan O’Flaherty, Frank Moran, Declan Jacob, Brendan Walsh, Declan Gilligan Capt., Frank Tobin, Brian Hyland, John Jacob. Sub: Tom Doyle 1987 Junior A Final on 11/10/87 Ref. T Buggle Ballyteague 0-8, Grange 2-4 Willie Dunne, Dermot Doyle, Shay Walsh, Ronan Kavanagh, Terry Hyland, John Moran, Jimmy Brennan, Tommy Herbert, Brendan O’Flaherty, Brendan Walsh, Ronan O’Flaherty, Declan Jacob, Brian Hyland, John Jacob, Declan Gilligan Capt. Subs: Frank Moran , Thomas Mc Kenna. 1988 Keenan Cup Junior on 21/2/1988 Ref. N McCormack Ballyteague 2-9 Robertstown 1-4 Willie Dunne, Ray Melia, Shay Walsh, Alan Jacob, Terry Hyland, Ronan Kavanagh Capt., Jimmy Brennan, Ronan O’Flaherty, Brendan Walsh, Brian Hyland, Brendan O’Flaherty, Declan Jacob, Frank Moran, Frank Tobin, Declan Gilligan. Sub: John Jacob 1988 Rathangan Conlan Cup Senior Final on 10/4/1988 Ref. N McCormack Ballyteague 3-9 Robertstown 2-4 Pa Casey, Alan Jacob. Shay Walsh, Dermot Doyle, Terry Hyland, Ronan Kavanagh Capt., Jimmy Brennan, Ronan O’Flaherty, Brendan Walsh, Declan Gilligan, Brendan O’Flaherty, Pat Smullen, Frank Tobin, John Jacob, Declan Jacob. Subs: John Gilligan, Frank Moran 1988 Junior A Final on 4/9/88 Ref. P Dowling Ballyteague 4-8, Kill 0-8 Willie Dunne, Dermot Doyle, Shay Walsh, Pat Smullen, Terry Hyland, John Moran, Ronan Kavanagh Capt., Ronan O’Flaherty, Brendan Walsh, Declan Gilligan, Brendan O’Flaherty, Alan Jacob, Brian Hyland, John Jacob, Declan Jacob. Subs: Liam Doyle, Pa Casey.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History 1988 Jack Higgins Cup on 13/11/88 Ref. T Carew Ballyteague 0-6, Carbury 0-3 Willie Dunne, Dermot Doyle, Shay Walsh, Pat Smullen, Terry Hyland, John Moran, Ronan Kavanagh (Capt.) Ronan O’Flaherty, Brendan Walsh , Brendan O’Flaherty, Liam Doyle, Declan Gilligan, Liam Ennis, John Jacob, and Declan Jacob. Subs: Frank Tobin, Pa Casey 1988 Junior B Final on 2/10/88 Ref. J Flood Ballyteague 2-5 Kill 1-11 John Smullen, Kenneth Ennis, Joe McTeague Snr, Frank Moran, Kevin Doyle, John Anderson Jnr., John Gilligan, Ger McNally Capt., John Brennan, Liam Ennis, Frank Tobin, Thomas McKenna, Tommy Mooney, Mick Thorpe, Robbie Ivers. Subs: John Harris, Jim Kelly, Aiden Donoghue. 1989 Intermediate B Final on 3/9/89 Ref. C Burke Ballyteague 1-10 Rathangan 1-8 Paddy Swords, Kenneth Ennis, Joe McTeague, Barry Sheridan, Peter Maher, Sam Smith, John Brennan, Tommy Herbert, Ger McNally, John Herbert, Liam Ennis Capt., Thomas McKenna, Tommy Mooney, Frank Moran, Frank Tobin. Subs: Mick Gilligan, Jim Kelly, Kevin McCoy. 1989 Rathangan Conlan Cup Senior on 30/9/1989 Ref. D O’Flaherty Ballyteague 0-7 Allenwood 0-5 Pa Casey, Alan Jacob, Shay Walsh Capt, Pat Smullen, Terry Hyland, Brendan Walsh, Ronan Kavanagh, Tommy Herbert, Brendan O’Flaherty, Liam Doyle, Ronan O’Flaherty, Declan Gilligan, Liam Ennis, Dermot Doyle, Declan Jacob Sub: John Jacob 1990 Keenan Cup Junior Final on 30/3/1990 Ref. N McCormack Ballyteague 1-5 Allenwood 1-7 Thomas McKenna Capt., John Gilligan, Pat Smullen, Barry Sheridan, Peter Maher, John Brennan, Leslie Thorpe, Tommy Herbert, Kevin McCoy, Enda O’Flaherty, Frank Tobin, Sam Smith, Tommy Mooney, Dermot Doyle, Frank Moran Subs: Joe McTeague , John Jacob, Liam Ennis 1989/90 13 a side Winter League Final on 25/2/1990 Ref. J Barker Ballyteague 3-7 Milltown 1-5 Pa Casey Capt., Alan Jacob, Shay Walsh, Terry Hyland, Ronan Kavanagh, Jimmy Brennan, Brendan O’Flaherty, Brendan Walsh, Declan Gilligan, Ronan O’Flaherty, Liam Doyle, Declan Jacob, Dermot Doyle Subs: John Brennan, John Harris, Thomas McKenna 1991 Rathangan Conlan Cup Senior Final on 1/4/1991 Ref. N McCormack Ballyteague 0-12 St. Kevins 1-2 Willie Dunne, Barry Sheridan, Shay Walsh, Jimmy Brennan, Terry Hyland, John Brennan, Mark Gilligan, Brendan Walsh, Brendan O’Flaherty Capt., Ronan Kavanagh, Jim Hanafin, Liam Doyle, Declan Gilligan, John Harris, Declan Jacob.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History 1991 Intermediate Championship Final on 25/8/91 Ref. P Freaney Ballyteague 1-12 Castlemitchel 2-4 Pa Casey, Mark Gilligan, Shay Walsh, Pat Smullen, Terry Hyland, John Brennan, Joe McTeague Jnr, Brendan O’Flaherty Capt., Brendan Walsh, Ronan Kavanagh, Jim Hanafin, Ronan O’Flaherty, Declan Gilligan, John Harris, Declan Jacob. Subs: Dermot Doyle, Jimmy Brennan, Liam Doyle. 1993 Moorefield Moore Cup Final on 17/3/1993. Ref. J Barker Ballyteague 2-6 Moorefield 0-15 Willie Dunne, Ronan Kavanagh, Shay Walsh, Pat Smullen, Terry Hyland, John Brennan, Tom Fields, Barry McCoy, Mark Gilligan, Declan Gilligan, Jim Hanafin, Noel Murphy, Pa Casey, John Harris, Declan Jacob Capt. Subs: Eddie Gannon, Dermot Doyle. 1993 Keenan Cup Junior Final on 3/7/1993 Ref. P Freaney Ballyteague 1-9 Allenwood 2-8 John Corrigan, Niall Jacob, Paul Brennan, Pat Smullen, Denis Lyons, Kieran Harris Capt., Tom Fields, Peter Maher, Barry McCoy, Darren Nugent, Ray Melia, Noel Murphy, Kieran Smullen, Dermot Doyle, Frank Moran Sub: Tommy Mooney 1994 Herbert Cup Final on 8/5/94 Ref. N McCormack Ballyteague 1-8 Clane 2-4 Pa Casey, Shay Walsh, John Brennan, Ronan Kavanagh Leslie Thorpe, Mark Gilligan, Joe McTeagueJnr, Ronan O’Flaherty, Brendan Walsh, John Harris, Jim Hanafin (Capt.) Brendan O’Flaherty, Noel Murphy, Terry Hyland, Declan Jacob. Subs: Tom Fields, Declan Gilligan, Barry McCoy. 1994 Robertstown Smullen Cup Final on 10/7/1994. Ref: N O’Connell. Ballyteague 1-18 Ellistown 2-8. Pa Casey, Paul Brennan, John Brennan, Ronan Kavanagh, Leslie Thorpe, Mark Gilligan, Joe McTeague Jnr., Brendan O’Flaherty, Barry McCoy, Noel Murphy, John Harris, Declan Jacob, Declan Gilligan, Terry Hyland, Jim Hanafin Capt.. Sub: Liam Doyle 1995 Keenan Cup Junior Final on 27/8/1995 Ref. M Monaghan Ballyteague 3-9 Robertstown 0-5 Tom Fields, Niall Jacob Capt., Paul Brennan, Gay Leeson, Dermot Moran, Kieran Harris, Alan Moran, Liam Doyle, Kenneth Leeson, Pa Gorey, Ger Randles, Enda O’Flaherty, Thomas Anderson, Kevin McCoy, Mick McCoy. Subs: Peter Maher, Eugene Moran, Willie Ivers. 1995 Milltown Reddy Cup Senior Final on 3/9/1995 Ref. M. Stynes Ballyteague 0-12 Allenwood 0-7 Pa Casey, Shay Walsh, Paul Brennan, Ronan Kavanagh, Leslie Thorpe, Ger Randles, Kenneth Leeson, Brendan Walsh Capt., Brendan O’Flaherty, Noel Murphy, John Harris, Tom Fields, Barry McCoy, Terry Hyland, Liam Doyle. Sub: Declan Jacob, Kieran Harris
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History 1996 Keenan Cup Junior Final on 25/8/1996 Ref. T Merriman Ballyteague 1-10 Allenwood 0-11 Marc Herbert, Niall Jacob, Kieran Harris, Eugene Moran, Dermot Moran, John Brennan, Alan Moran, Kevin McCoy Capt., Shay Walsh, Kieran Smullen, Darren Nugent, Kieran O’Flaherty, Pa Gorey, Terry Hyland, Pauric Thorpe. Subs: Emmet Nugent, Denis Lyons. 1997 Keenan Cup Junior Final on 21/7/1997 Ref. M Monaghan Ballyteague 1-8 Allenwood 1-11 Marc Herbert, Tommy Coogan, Kieran Harris, David Tiernan, Dermot Moran, Deirmid O’Connor, Kieran Smullen, Darren Nugent, Pa Gorey Capt, Pauric Thorpe, Terry Hyland, Kieran O’Flaherty, James Langton, Declan Fry, Emmet Nugent. Sub: Mick Fox. 1999 Milltown Reddy Cup Final on 9/10/1999 Ref: M Monaghan Ballyteague 1-7 Milltown 0-13 Marc Herbert, John Brennan, Ronan Kavanagh, Darren Nugent, Tommy Coogan, Niall Moran, Dermot Moran, Brendan Walsh, Liam Doyle, Joey Behan, Tom Fields Capt., Brian Hyland, Emmet Nugent, Declan Jacob, Leslie Thorpe. Subs: Pauric Thorpe, Wesley Smullen, Liam Galvin. 2000 Intermediate Championship Final on 21/10/2000 Ref. F Barrett Ballyteague 0-10 Ellistown 2-5 Marc Herbert, Dermot Moran, Ronan Kavanagh, Tom Fields, Leslie Thorpe, Tommy Coogan, Niall Moran, Brendan Walsh, Paul Brennan, Robbie McCabe, John Harris, Liam Doyle, Emmet Nugent, Seamus Hanafin, Declan Jacob Capt. Subs: Ronan O’Flaherty, Brian Hyland. 2000 Senior Football League Div. 2 Final on 18/5/2001 Ref. M Stynes Ballyteague 0-11 Milltown 1-9 Marc Herbert, Dermot Moran, Niall Moran, Ronan Kavanagh, Wesley Smullen, Tommy Coogan, Leslie Thorpe, Paul Brennan, Brendan Walsh, Liam Doyle, John Harris, Kieran O’Flaherty, Jason Mooney, Joey Behan, Declan Jacob Capt. Subs: Jim Hanafin, Darren Nugent 2001 Milltown Reddy Cup Senior Final on 21/10/2001 Ref M Stynes Ballyteague 0-7 Rathangan 0-8 Marc Herbert, Dermot Moran, Ronan Kavanagh Capt., Wesley Smullen, Leslie Thorpe, Tommy Coogan, Liam Moran, Niall Moran, Brendan Walsh, Liam Galvin, John Harris, Brian Hyland, Emmet Nugent, Jim Hanafin, Declan Jacob. Subs: Alan Jacob, Stephen Connolly, Jason Mooney. 2002 Keenan Cup Intermediate Final on 23/3/2002 Ref. L Herbert Ballyteague 2-5 Rathangan 0-14 Alan Jacob, Dermot Moran, Paul Brennan, Ronan Kavanagh, Tommy Coogan Capt., Niall Moran, Tom Fields, Brendan Walsh, Pa Gorey, Joey Behan, John Harris, Jason Mooney, Stephen Connolly, Marc Herbert, Declan Jacob. Subs: Emmet Nugent, Roy and Wesley Smullen.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History 2002 Senior League Div. 3 Final on 30/11/2002 Ref. A Lambe Ballyteague 0-11 Eadestown 0-8 Derek Mooney, Dermot Moran, Tommy Coogan (Capt.), Ronan Kavanagh, Wesley Smullen, Niall Moran, Tom Fields, Brendan Walsh, Pa Gorey, Stephen Connolly, John Harris, Marc Herbert, Jason Mooney, Paul Brennan, Jim Hanafin. Subs: Robbie McCabe, Declan Jacob. 2005 Keenan Cup Intermediate Final on 11/6/2005 Ref. T O’Rourke Ballyteague 2-16 Clogherinkoe 0-6 Marc Herbert, Dermot Moran, Liam Moran, Gary Tobin, Barry Mullins, Robbie McCabe, Tom Fields Capt., Niall Moran, Kieran Brennan, Stephen Connolly, Derek Mooney, Trevor Bowers, Kevin Harris, Gavin Smullen, Jason Mooney. Subs: Declan Jacob, John Harris, Pauric Thorpe, David Tiernan. 2005 Intermediate B Championship Final on 23/10/2005 Ref. J McLoughlin Ballyteague 2-12 Confey 1-11 Liam Doyle, Shane Reddy, Alan Wright, Leslie Thorpe, Darren Nugent, Brendan Walsh, Peter McCabe, Danny Heavey (Capt), Ciaran O’Flaherty, Emmet Nugent, Johnny Harris, Seamus Hanafin Jnr, Pa Gorey, Pauric Thorpe, Jim Hanafin Snr, Subs: Roy Smullen, Stephen Dunne, Shane Buckley. 2007 Intermediate B Championship Final on 20/10/2007 Ref. P Scully Ballyteague 0-12 Rathangan 0-9 David Tiernan, Leslie Thorpe, Alan Wright, Brian Hyland, Stephen Dunne, Liam Doyle (Capt), Kevin Murphy, Joey Behan, Pa Gorey, Jamie Doyle, Kieran Bowers, Shane Buckley, Trevor Bowers, Johnny Harris, Joe Kenny. Subs: Peter McCabe, Emmet Nugent, Pauric Thorpe. 2007 Keenan Cup Junior Final on 17/11/2007 Ref. A Lagrue Ballyteague 2-8 Rathangan 1-5 David Tiernan, Leslie Thorpe, Alan Wright, Brian Hyland, Stephen Dunne, Liam Doyle Capt., Peter McCabe, Trevor Bowers, Pa Gorey, Jamie Doyle, Kieran Bowers, Shane Buckley, Joe Kenny, John Harris, Pauric Thorpe. Subs: Joe Bowers, Conor Mullaney, Dermot Moran, Ian Dunne 2008 Keenan Cup Junior on 25/7/2008 Ref. J McLoughlin Ballyteague 2-9 Allenwood 1-5 David Tiernan, Leslie Thorpe Capt., Alan Wright, Conor Mullaney, Kevin Murphy, Dermot Moran, Brian Kenna, Kieran O’Flaherty, Kevin Harris, Shane Buckley, Pauric Thorpe, Kieran Bowers, Glen Smullen, Jim Hanafin, Joe Kenny. Subs: Sean Greville, Joey Behan, Declan Jacob, Barry Dempsey. 2009 Keenan Cup Intermediate on 30/7/09 Ref. T Doyle Ballyteague 2-16 Straffan 0-15 Mick Kenna, Stephen Dunne, Tommy Coogan, Garry Tobin, Kevin Murphy, Wesley Smullen, Liam Moran, Kieran Brennan, Marc Herbert, Jason Mooney, Derek Mooney, Stephen Connolly, David Reddy, Gavin Smullen(Capt), Stephen Ennis. Subs: Thomas Ennis, Sean Jacob.
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Fantasy Team of Championship Captains We have selected a fantasy team comprising Captains who played in sixteen Championship Finals in total down the years. We have endeavored to place each player in their position in which they lined out during their career. Two fathers and sons, Johnny and Declan Gilligan and John and Declan Jacob have captained the Larks in Championship finals since the first one nearly fifty years ago. Seamus Brennan had the honour of being captain on both the 1968 and 1974 teams. For your information we have included the year in which they led out their team. Captains xv
Liam Doyle (2007 B) Danny Heavey Jnr. (2005 B)
Seamus Brennan (1968 and 1974)
Eamonn Sheridan (1971)
Mick Lyons (1962)
Ronan Kavanagh (1988 A)
Ger Mc Nally (1988 B)
Tommy Herbert (1985)
Brendan Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Flaherty (1991)
John Jacob (1972)
Larry Kelly (1974)
Declan Jacob (2000)
Liam Ennis (1989 B)
Johnny Gilligan (1961)
Declan Gilligan (1987)
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Autographs
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Eamonn Sheridan Tarmacadam Contractor and Kerb Laying Ballyteague, Kilmeague, Naas. Tel:045 860450 Mob: 087 2469273 Best Wishes to Ballyteague GFC on the publication of the Club History and hope everyone gets great enjoyment from reading it.
Gilligan Electrical Ballyteague, Kilmeague, Naas Tel: 045 870274 Mob: 087 2560526 Best Wishes from Declan and Marie Gilligan to everyone involved with producing the history of the Larks.
Tommy Mooney Plastering Contractor Ballyteague, Kilmeague, Naas Tel:045 860165 Mob:086 2469316 Wish Ballyteague every success with the history of the club and continued success on the playing fields.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Comerford Bakeries Newbridge. We are delighted to wish Ballyteague GFC continued success both on and off the field.
A.Y.S. Embroidery / De Ja Sports Sales Allen Cross, Kilmeague, Naas. Tel: 045 860016 Fax: 045 860860 Mob: 087 2807759 Email: britton@eircom.net It gives us great pleasure to send best wishes to Ballyteague GFC on the publication of their clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history.
Ace Sports Awards Grangeclare, Kilmeague, Naas . Tel: 045 870566 Email: acesport@gofree.indigo.ie We are suppliers of Trophies, Medals, Awards, Crystal and Engraving Specialists. Well done to Ballyteague GFC for recording past events for future generations enjoyment.
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
Michael Hoey Treatment of back pain, and all sports injury’s, Neuromuscular therapist, Trigger Point Needling, Ultra-Sound, Cryrotherapy baths, Scanning for Orthotics, Tel:0868615653 Email mikehoey_68@msn.com Well-done Ballyteague GFC on producing such a fine publication to help relive memories of great times past.
Hillside Windows Allen, Kilmeague, Naas. P.V.C. Windows & Conservatories Sunrooms & Rooflights For a Free Quotation Contact Pat Casey Tel: 087 6381242 or 045 870544 30 Years Experience
Congratulations to Ballyteague GFC on producing a splendid club publication.
CillDara Betting Dunlavin – Kilmeague – Prosperous – Ballymore www.cilldarabetting.ie email: cilldarabetting@gmail.com
*** Dial-a-bet – Free Phone 1800 252 006 ***
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Ballyteague G.A.A. History
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