Colmcille GFC AGM 2024: A Year in Review

Colmcille GFC AGM 2024: A Year in Review

The Annual General Meeting of Colmcille GFC took place on November 23, 2024, marking the conclusion of another significant year for our club. With an agenda packed with accomplishments, reflections, and future plans, 2024 was truly a year of growth, achievement, and unity.

On the Pitch: A Year of Triumphs and Near Misses

Senior Team Achievements
Our senior team, under the leadership of Ger Carberry and assisted by Ryan Casey, Mark Kiernan, and Padraig Murtagh, delivered a season of exceptional performances. Their achievements included:
• Division 2 League Champions: A flawless campaign saw the team secure the Michael Moran Cup with a 100% winning record, earning promotion back to Division 1.
• Patsy Reilly Cup: The seniors claimed their second piece of silverware with a hard-fought win against Sean Connolly’s.

The team’s championship journey was equally eventful, battling through group stages and earning victories against Kenagh, Granard, Mostrim, and Rathcline. A superb win in the semi-final against Mullinalaghta set the stage for the Sean Connolly Cup final against Abbeylara.
• County Final Replay: Despite fierce determination and immense community support, the team fell agonisingly short in extra time during the replay. Nevertheless, their efforts brought pride to the entire parish, and the homecoming was a testament to the community’s gratitude.

We are delighted to announce that we have retained the management team for the 2025 season.

Junior Team Progress
With a management team of Colin Kiernan, Killian Reilly and Andy McKeon, the junior teams also showcased strong performances:
• Division 3: The team narrowly missed league success but rebounded by winning the John Gilmore Cup with outstanding victories over Clonguish and Carrickedmond.
• Division 5: Competing against strong second-string senior teams, the juniors secured a respectable 3rd-place finish, laying the groundwork for further growth.

The juniors’ championship campaign, highlighted by crucial wins over Grattan’s, Clonguish, and Slashers, ended in a narrow semi-final defeat. Their progress reflects the growing strength and depth of talent at Colmcille GFC.

Underage Football Success
Our underage teams continued to shine, with nearly 150 players registered in 2024. Key highlights included:
• Minor Amalgamation: Winners of the Glenn Brady Cup.
• U16 League Shield Champions (Division 2).
• U14 Shield Champions (B League).
• U12 Teams: The only club in Longford to field two U12 teams, both of which were highly competitive.

The club’s commitment to youth development was evident in the Frankie Murphy U12 Tournament, a standout event with teams from four counties participating. Special thanks to Pauric and Aoife Kavanagh and Dermot Murphy for organising this fantastic and eagerly awaited tournament.

Off the Pitch: 

2024 was a year of significant progress beyond the pitch:

Infrastructure Improvements
Several projects enhanced Fr. McGee Park’s facilities, including:
• Astro-turf installation at the dugouts and ball wall construction.
• Pitch improvements such as sanding, verti-draining, fertilizing, and goalmouth resodding.
• Dressing room upgrades and a new line marker purchase.
• Preparations for future developments, including dressing room and spectator stand renovations.

Funding for these projects came through grants like CLÁR and the unwavering support of the Ladies Club and local businesses. Its important to note the work completed on these projects from several volunteers of which there too many to mention.

Successful Fundraising Efforts
The introduction of the 50/50 Draw in May proved transformative, providing a vital source of weekly income for the club. This initiative reduced the need for major fundraisers while awarding significant prizes to our supporters. Due to the success of the draw, the club took the decision to waive membership fees and all 2023 members of Colmcille GFC retained their membership status for 2024.
• Golf Classic: Held in May, this event raised €10,000 thanks to the generosity of sponsors and participants, including Breedon and Murtagh’s Bar.

Dillon Quirke Foundation Screening
The club partnered with the foundation to provide heart screening for underage players, emphasising the importance of player welfare. Special thanks to Colm Ginty and family among others for their generous contributions to the Dillon Quirke Foundation.

Community Spirit
The lead-up to the county final showcased the true spirit of Colmcille, with great support in our events like:
• A breakfast morning and Club Colours Walk, fostering unity and excitement among supporters.
• Parish decorations and generous financial contributions, reflecting unparalleled support for the team.

Acknowledging Excellence and Dedication

Representatives on County and Provincial Levels
Congratulations to Luke Donnelly, Keelan Hudson, selector Padraig Murtagh and Manager Enda McGahern for their roles in Longford’s Leinster Minor Championship success. .

Club Volunteers
The club’s success is built on the tireless efforts of volunteers. Special thanks to:
• Barry Kennedy (Chairperson): For his outstanding leadership and dedication.
• Zara McCabe (Secretary): For her meticulous organisation and unwavering commitment.
• Andy McKeon: The epitome of volunteerism, contributing to pitch maintenance, matchday preparations, among many more duties.
• Rose Mulligan and the 50/50 Draw team: For their work behind the scenes ensuring the draw’s success.

Ladies Club Achievements
The Ladies Club had a stellar year, with the seniors winning the Gold Cup and the U16s capturing the B Championship. Their U10 girls also had the unforgettable opportunity to play in Croke Park.

Remembering Those We Lost
The AGM included votes of sympathy for members of our community who passed away in 2024. In particular, the passing of some of our club members and former players including Jim Corcoran, Sean Lynch, Jim Kiernan, Jimmy Reilly, and Joe Kilbride and to all families in the parish that suffered the loss of a loved one this year.

Looking Ahead to 2025: Our 135th Anniversary

As Colmcille GFC prepares to celebrate 135 years, plans are already underway for commemorations that honor our history. With continued focus on player development, community engagement, and facility enhancements, 2025 promises to be another milestone year.

We encourage everyone to get involved—whether through coaching, volunteering, or supporting events. Together, we can continue to make Colmcille GFC a club we are all proud to call our own.

Go raibh míle maith agaibh, agus ádh mór don bhliain seo chugainn!