For any queries or information related to the Under-14 Girls squad, please contact Sean Holly on 087 626 2330.

Girls born in 2012 and 2013 are eligible at this age grade.

Please Note: Training for this age group will resume on <Date TBC>.

[2025-09-11]

Garrycastle 3-09, Ballycomoyle 2-01.

The u14 girls played their division 2 championship semi-final in Garrycastle on Thursday night last in what turned out to be a tight tense affair. The first half in particular was a very cagey affair with Ballycomoyle well set up and strong defensively, however the Garrycastle girls showed huge patience and perseverance in this first half and were rewarded with 2 penalties both of which were expertly converted by Aimee Greene, further scores from Freya Shine and Moya McHugh resulted in Garrycastle having a narrow 4-point lead at half time.

The second half was very similar with Ballycomoyle getting an early goal to narrow the deficit, and then they had a penalty saved by the ever-vigilant Orlaith Galvin, which proved to be a turning point in the game. From then on the Garrycastle girls powered to the finish and reeled off an unanswered 1-05 with huge scores from Aoife McHugh, Aimee Greene, Freya Shine, whose free taking was unerring all through and Zara Henson all contributing on the scoreboard.

This was a huge result and caps off a seven match unbeaten run for this squad in the championship with a county final to come on the weekend of the 20/21st of September. Throughout this season every member of the squad has contributed hugely to getting the team to the county final and again on Thursday last it was a huge squad effort. The squad has demonstrated huge resilience and determination and we welcome all the support possible for the county final.

Panel: Madison Browne, Mollie Byrne, Aoife Clyne, Laoise Costello, Katie Dowling, Kayla Duffy, Drew Dunphy, Orlaith Galvin, Aoibheann Galvin, Lillyrose Galvin, Laoise Glennon, Aimee Greene, Mikaela Greene, Nicole Greene, Emily Hanlon, Zara Henson, Zoe Hewitt, Ella Mai Holly, Aoife McHugh, Dearbhla McHugh, Moya McHugh, Matilda Moore-Lewy, Aoibhinn Nugent, Eabha O’Neill, Freya Shine.

[2025-05-29]

Garrycastle 3-10, St. Loman's Mullingar 3-01

Our under-14 girls enjoyed a good win vs St. Loman’s Mullingar on Thursday evening. On what turned out to be a very wet evening, the Garrycastle girl’s teamwork and support play helped them win out on a score line of 3-10 to 3-01. Well done to all. 

[2024-08-15]

Garrycastle 4-05, Athlone 3-04

The Garrycastle under-14 ladies team made the short journey to Páirc Chiaráin last Thursday to play Athlone in the final group game of the under-14 Championship. Garrycastle were trailing by 2 points into the final minutes, but thanks to a superb Erin McHugh goal, took the lead and ran out winners on a score line of 4-05 to 3-04 after a very keenly contested game.

Team: Orlaith Galvin, Leticia McGee, Aoife McHugh, Megan Killian, Zara Henson, Erin McHugh, Elliana McManus, Ríonagh Costello, Olivia Henson, Freya Shine, Alanna Gaffey, Aoife Clyne, Laoise Glennon, Isabel Kearney, Katie Dowling, Aoibheann Galvin, Lily Rose Gavin, Amelia Masternak, Lexi Lowe, Hayley McBride.

[2024-04-25]

Garrycastle 12-05, The Downs 7-07

A great start to the Div 1 league for our Under-14 girls.

Garrycastle had their first outing in the u14 league last Thursday night. For many of these girls it was their first time playing on the full-size pitch and against a good Downs team put in a superb performance to run out convincing winners in the end with a score of 12-05 to 7-07.   

Well done girls!

Garrycastle 6-08, Multyfarnham 1-06

Under-14 Div. 3 Final: 

A week on from the success of the Red team the Green team were hoping to make it a double for the Garrycastle under 14 squad. A late change of venue meant a move to St. Loman's Mullingar to play on the Astro pitch. 

Both teams were wasteful in the early stages. During a back and forth period a close range stop from Ellen Parker settled the nerves and Garrycastle through Ellianna went up the field and scored a great point from play, this was followed by a point from Trudy. Then the excellent Drew Dunphy scored a long point from play. A typical Mikaela Greene finish into the far top corner eluded the Multyfarnham keeper and Garrycastle were starting to build a big lead. This was not reflective of the game as Multyfarnham piled on the pressure, but the back line stayed strong, with Zara, Sarah, Hayley, Doireann, Drew and the calm Aoife McHugh not relenting on their defensive duties. Multyfarnham finally got on the score sheet with a lopping effort past Ellen Parker who had made a string of saves at this point. A free from Wiktoria and a wonder point from the same player sent the momentum back in favour of Garrycastle. The ever influential Olivia scored a point she created herself by winning back the ball not for the first time in this half. A cool finish from Trudy to lob the keeper and a great point from Alanna Gaffey sent Garrycastle into half time with a commanding lead of 3-07 to 1-00. 

A poor start from Garrycastle and some wayward passing allowed Multyfarnham take hold of the game with 6 unanswered points. With legs getting tired Garrycastle made changes of the bench with Alex Murphy. adding fresh legs to assist the defence. Erin McHugh's super effort came off the inside of the post and you started to wonder was this game was going away from the girls. The never say die attitude of the girls kept them going and a quick break and good interplay from Ellianna and Olivia, led to a goal from the impressive Olivia who ran herself into the ground. This settled the nerves and the engine room of Alanna, Erin and Rionagh took hold of the game again. Quick goals from Aoife McHugh and Michaela Greene put the game beyond Multyfarnham, a point from Wikktoria finished the scoring for the day. Garrycastle made a number of substitutions and the introduction of Eirinn and Orlaith helped solidify the defence in the closing minutes. With the Introduction of Hollie, Freya, Lily and Hannah Garrycastle still looked dangerous and Lilly Duffy went very close in closing stages after a clever jinking run by Freya sent the defender the wrong way. The final whistle blew in a very entertaining game. The score line was not kind to a Multyfarnham team who pushed this team very hard. 

Well done to the Garrycastle girls who made history being the first side in the county to win 2 titles in the same age group in the same season, Captain Erin accepted the cup on behalf of the team. 

Team: Ellen Parker, Zara Henson, Sarah Condon, Hayley Murphy, Doireann Keena, Aoife McHugh (1-0), Drew Dunphy (0-1), Rionagh Costello, Alanna Gaffey (0-1), Erin McHugh, Olivia Collins (1-1), Wiktoria Wziatek (0-3), Trudy Quilty (2-1), Ellianna McManus (0-1), Michaela Greene (2-0), Alex Murphy, Lily Duffy, Hollie Barclay-Heneghan, Sienna Connor, Hannah Browne, Eirinn Gaynor, Niamh Doyle, Freya Shine, Orlaith Galvin. 

Thanks to all the supporters who travelled. Thanks to backroom team Vanessa Walsh and Rhoda Costello. Special mention to the managers Brian Ganly and Jonathon Sweeney for their dedication and commitment to field 2 teams this season and win at both Division 1 and Division 3 which is a testament to them. Not alone did they do this for the club, but they also managed the Westmeath u14 side and took them to the u14 B Leinster Final and the Gold series of the All – Ireland. Congratulations lads, you deserve a well-earned rest now. 

The team extends its thanks to Ganlys for their sponsorship of tops and to Tormey Solicitors LLC for sponsoring kit bags. 

[2023-10-21]

Garrycastle 7-06, St. Lomans Mullingar 2-05

Under-14 Div. 1 Final: 

The Under-14 girls made the journey to The Downs GAA last Saturday, (October 14th), to contest the Div. 1 final against familiar opponents St. Loman's.

Garrycastle have been in tremendous form all season having won the Div 1 league earlier this season and were favourites going in. This Garrycastle side lost one game only this season and it was against St. Loman's in the Championship league stages, so the final was going to be in the balance and a tough one to call. 

From the start, our girls hit the ground running with scores from Erin, Wiktoria, Hannah and Ella settling nerves. Amelie played a real captain's role, commanding the midfield and making unstoppable runs all throughout the game. Jane, Rebecca, Libby and Rionagh worked tirelessly to keep St. Loman's at bay, but a conceded penalty and a late goal just on the stroke of the break kept St. Loman's in the game on a half-time score-line of 4-04 to 2-02. Garrycastle started the 2nd half in spirited form with a quick goal from Wiktoria and a point from Hannah giving the team breathing room. Aoife’s introduction as a sweeper paid off, and along with her defence they didn’t allow St Loman's to convert many scores in the half. Another goal from Amelie and Erin towards the end of the game sealed it for our girls, who showed great grit and determination to secure status as the best team in the county at under-14 level. 


This was a fantastic performance from this young side providing great entertainment to the Garrycastle supporters who travelled, showing off the skills of the game, fantastic defending, great blocking, fielding of the ball and great passing and finishing with well taken scores from play and from frees. Well done to the management team on their great work to get the girls to this level. Final score 7-06 to 2-05. 

Captain Amelie Henson accepted the u14 Trophy on behalf of her team. Team: Ellen Parker, Doireann Keena, Amy Carter, Orla Turner, Rebecca Sleator, Libby McHugh, Rionagh Costello, Jane Byrne, Amelie Henson (2-01), Wiktoria Wziatek (2-0), Erin McHugh (3-01), Jola Kearney, Alanna Gaffey, Ella Sweeney (0-2), Hannah Ganly (0-2), Aoife McHugh, Aisling Gormley, Olivia Collins, Hollie Barclay-Heneghan, Sarah Condon, Trudy Quilty, Lily Duffy, Elianna McManus, Niamh Doyle, Eirinn Gaynor, Drew Dunphy, Michaela Greene, Alex Murphy Hayley Murphy. 

Thanks to all our supporters, to the parents for their support all year and especially team managers, Brian Ganly and Jonathon Sweeney and the backroom team of Rhoda Costello and Vanessa Walsh. The club extends sincere thanks to Ganlys for their very kind sponsorship of tops to the team.

Well done to all involved, especially the management team who worked really hard all year round, and to all the supporters who got behind the team! The future is certainly bright with this bunch of girls!

Caisléan an Gharraí Abú !

[2023-10-14]

Our U14 Green team qualified for the Div3 county final after overcoming a strong Moate team in the semi-final. After a slow start, the girls started to find their rhythm when a couple of quick goals settled their nerves. With a nice lead built up at HT, the girls were very disciplined in the second half and battled well throughout the field until the FT whistle. Final score was 11-7 to 3-8. Well done to this great bunch- they are going from strength to strength and getting better each week. Team: Sienna Connor, Ellianna McManus, Olivia Collins (2-2), Eirinn Gaynor, Ellen Parker, Alanna Gaffey, Erin McHugh (3-1), Hannah Browne, Lily Duffy, Sarah Condon, Zara Henson, Hayley Murphy, Alex Murphy, Aimee Greene, Niamh Doyle, Rionagh Costello, Orlaith Galvin, Trudy Quilty (1-1), Hollie Heneghan, Wiktoria Wziatek (4-3), Doireann Keena, Drew Dunphy, Aoife McHugh, Freya Shine, Mikaela Greene (1-0). Thanks to the pitch committee for having the pitch in great order for this game.

[2023-10-09]

Under-14 Division 4 Final vs. St. Lomans, Saturday October 1st, 2022

Garrycastle 0-4, St. Lomans Mullingar 1-0

The under-14 Green side travelled to Rochfortbridge on Saturday to take on St. Lomans in the Div. 4 final. 

In what turned out to be a low scoring game, Garrycastles ability to defend and take points made the difference and they claimed victory by the minimum on a scoreline of 0-4 to 1-0. The girls deserved their win after putting in a great performance all through the league. 

Captain Amelie Henson, also player of the match, accepted the cup on behalf of the team. 

Congratulations to all the players and to team managers Brian Ganly and Jonathon Sweeney and backroom team, Vanessa Walsh and Amelia Keena for the great work with this side all year. The team made a loud return to Garrycastle and received a great welcome back in the club. 

Team:
Ellen Parker, Allana Gaffey, Lara Ellen Keena McDaid, Amy Carter, Rebecca Sleator, Libby McHugh, Jane Byrne, Erin McHugh(0-1), Amelie Henson (0-1), Hannah Ganly, Jola Kearney (0-1), Ella Sweeny(0-1), Trudy Quilty, Teodora Ramac, Alex Murphy, Doireann Keena, Niamh Doyle, Hollie Barclay Heneghan, Hannah Browne, Sophia McNamara, Haley Murphy, Sarah Murray, Orla Turner, Rionagh Costello, Rachel Murray, Sarah Condon, Sienna Connor, Aisling Gormley, Lian Duffy, Lilly Duffy.

Under-14 Division 1A Final vs. St. Lomans, Saturday September 17th, 2022

Garrycastle 1-06, St. Lomans Mullingar 6-10

Garrycastle were left with little time to celebrate their semi-final win, with the final being played only five days later on a sunny Saturday morning in Cusack Park.  

Unfortunately, they found themselves playing a really excellent team, who have dominated all opposition all season, and despite putting in a brave, battling performance, and never giving up, Garrycastle ultimately just couldn’t deal with the superior speed, movement, physicality and overall skill level of the St. Lomans girls.  

The tone was set right from the first whistle with Garrycastle finding themselves camped in their own half for the whole first quarter, being unable to break out of their own 45 and when they did, they turned the ball over due to poor handling.  Only poor finishing from St Lomans prevented the game from being over but they still had 2-3 on the board before Aislinn Kelly swung over Garrycastle's first point from a close in free.  To Garrycastle's great credit they actually took over as the better team from the 15th to the 25th minute, but they couldn’t make their dominance count, and were denied what would have been a lifeline when a shot came back off the crossbar.  To make matters worse, St Lomans then capitalised on a rare poor kick out and despite Siobhan Ni Chluaid pulling off a fantastic save the St. Lomans attacker scored a goal from the rebound.  Unfortunately, Siobhan was injured in the process and was unable to come out

for the second half, which began with the score 3-5 to 0-2 to St Lomans.  

There was some encouragement for Garrycastle at the start of the second period with the introduction of their playmaker Sallyann Joyce into the action, and despite being clearly hampered with injury she definitely improved the attack, and they deservedly pulled a goal back after brilliant work from the tireless Amelie Henson.  However, any hope of an unlikely comeback was short lived as in typical fashion St. Lomans moved the ball at lightning speed down the field to score a brilliant team goal.  The rest of the game saw a great contest between two teams that gave everything they had but the St. Lomans quality with and without the ball was always evident and this was typified in the dying moments of the game when they made two unbelievable goal line clearances to deny Isabella Hogan a consolation goal.  

Despite this defeat, the Garrycastle girls can be very proud of their never say die attitude and a number of players do deserve mention for their final performances.  Cadhla Kelly was excellent all through at full back despite being under enormous pressure.  Rebecca Sleator also grew into the game to put in a fine display.  Both midfielders, Aislinn Kelly and Amelie Henson, were up against as good a midfield pairing as one can hope to see, but they both did well and contributed to most of the Garrycastle scores.  Hannah Murray returned from illness to put in a typically energetic and brave performance while Eve Murphy was probably Garrycastle's most consistent player throughout the hour.  Overall, this was an excellent season for the Garrycastle girls and while St. Lomans are clearly well ahead of the other teams at this age group at the moment, they definitely deserve the right to consider themselves the best of the rest, going unbeaten in their championship group, and playing a lot of enterprising, attacking football in the process.  

Thanks to the management team of Brian Murphy, Geraldine Griffith, Lydia Hogan, and Diarmaid O'Cluaid, as well as female liaison officers Vanessa Walsh and Amelia Keena, and to all of the many others who helped the squad over the season, including Laura Brennan, Brian Ganly, Jonathan Sweeney, Karl Henson, Rhoda Costello, Trish Dolan, Katrina Sweeney and Barry Shine, as well as Emma Larkin who put on a very enjoyable yoga session for the girls during the week.   

Team:  Aislinn Kelly (capt.), Amelie Henson, Cadhla Kelly, Chanelle Nestor, Ella Sweeney, Emma Blagriff, Erin McHugh, Eve Murphy, Hannah Ganly, Hannah Murray, Isabella Hogan, Jane Byrne, Jola Kearney, Lara Ellen Keena McDaid, Libby McHugh, Lily Mulvihill, Mairead McBride, Mandisa Ni Chluaid, Matilda Parker, Molly Copelin, Rebecca Sleator, Roberta Narmontaite, Róisín Ni Chluaid, Sallyann Joyce, Siobhan Ni Chluaid, Tanya Stephane, Trudy Quilty.

Under-14 Division 1A Semi-Final vs Cill Óige, Tuesday September 13th, 2022

Garrycastle 6-09, Cill Óige 3-03

The Under-14 "Red" team had a very hectic week, with their deferred semi-final vs Cill Óige played under lights in Castledaly on Tuesday evening.

Both teams went into the match missing their top scorers, with Sallyann Joyce from Garrycastle and Alex Kelly from Cill Óige ruled out through injury.

Garrycastle also lost another key forward in Hannah Murray to illness on the morning of the game, but her replacement Lara Ellen Keena McDaid went on to play a key role in the victory, scoring 2-1 in the first half.  Garrycastle dominated the opening period in terms of territory and possession but they squandered numerous good scoring opportunities whereas Cill Oige were clinical at the other end scored every time they attacked, with Allie Duffy, in particular, proving a real handful for the Garrycastle defenders.  Nevertheless, Garrycastle held a healthy eight-point lead at the break, on a scoreline of 4-07 to 3-02.  

The second half was a much tighter affair and was marred by a number of stoppages with players from both sides going down with cramp as the half wore on. The move of Erin McHugh to the half back line tightened up the Garrycastle defence considerably and they restricted the Cill Óige attack to just one point while they managed to score a couple of goals at the other end to see themselves home.  

Amelie Henson was the scoring star of the day, with four excellent goals, while Aislinn Kelly played a real captain’s part scoring five points, four of them from play.  Her sister Cadhla was also very good at full back.  However, Garrycastle's player of the match was undoubtedly Rebecca Sleator, who put in a simply outstanding display from start to finish, breaking up countless Cill Óige attacks with clever reading of the play and always managing to find a teammate with her distribution.

The win meant a Saturday morning final appearance vs. St. Lomans Mullingar.

2020 Report

Under-14 Girls 2020 saw this group of girls competing in division 2 of the Under-14 Championship. With only nine under-14 players available we had to bring in under-12 players to supplement the squad. In their first game with a couple of players absent through injury and illness the team were well beaten in a rain soaked Loughnavalley. There were plenty of positives to be taken from this match, however, as several players were playing on a full-size pitch for the first time and after a poor start there was a huge improvement in the second half. 

Next up was an impressive win over St Marys that was marred by an unfortunate injury to Matilda Parker, playing in her debut match. Following this was a match vs. Caulry, the winners of which would be almost guaranteed to get to the final. After a brilliant match the girls were unlucky to lose out by a single point. The girls finished out their season with a defeat to Killucan and a comprehensive win over Goldsmith Girls. 

Overall given the lack of numbers at this grade, the girls did very well in a tough division. Special mention to the under-12 girls who stepped up and gained in confidence with every game. Thanks to all mentors that helped out over the course of the year and to the parents who supported the players.

Under-14 Div. 2 Championship vs Goldsmith Girls, Thursday September 3rd, 2020

Garrycastle u14s finished off their Division Two championship campaign with a good win over a brave Goldsmith Girls side in Tang on Thursday evening.  Garrycastle laid the foundations for the victory with a dominant first half performance that saw eight different players get on the scoresheet.  The girls took the foot off the pedal a bit in the second half and Goldsmiths took advantage with some very well worked scores but Garrycastle steadied the ship again before the end to emerge comfortable winners. Overall Garrycastle can be very happy with their performance in what has been a very competitive division.  They had good wins over St Mary’s Rochfortbridge and Goldsmith Girls, and were very competitive in their games against the Division Two finalists, Loughnavalley and Caulry, losing to the latter by only a point. Their one bad defeat was away to Killucan but that was with a severely depleted team. With 8 of the 19 players who played this season coming from the under 12 squad the girls deserve a lot of credit for their efforts.  Thanks also to coaches and mentors Colin Clyne, Geraldine Griffith, Richie Byrne, Noelle O’Donnell and Tanya Frawley.  

Squad:  Mandisa Ni Chluaid, Rihanna Lowe, Emma Connaughton, LaraEllen Keena McDaid (1-0), Aislinn Kelly, Kayleigh Clyne, Cadhla Kelly, Jessica Frawley (1-1), Jasmine Molloy (2-0), Eve Murphy (0-1), Hazel Donegan (3-2), Kacey Mulvihill (0-2), Moya McKiernan (1-1), Lucy Kearney (1-3), Tanya Stephane (1-0), Siobhan Ni Chluaid.  Other squad members unavailable on the day were Gemma Duffy, Mairead McBride and Matilda Parker.

Under-14 Div. 2 Championship vs Caulry, August 9th 2020

The U14s travelled to Caulry on Sunday evening for their third group game of the Division 2 championship and after a great contest just lost out by the narrowest of margins. Garrycastle were the better team early on and led by 6 points at one stage but Caulry finished the first half strongly to trail by only two at the break 1-5 to 0-6. 

Caulry poured on the pressure early in the second half and moved into a two point lead only for Garrycastle to fight back brilliantly with a goal and two points.  Both sides struck the woodwork before Caulry scored what proved to be the winning goal minutes from the end.  Garrycastle did everything they could to try and manufacture an equaliser but just couldn’t find a way through and Caulry maintained their 100% record on a scoreline of 2-08 to 2-07.

Garrycastle team: 

Gemma Duffy, Aislinn Kelly, Emma Connaughton, Kaleigh Clyne, Rihanna Lowe, Jasmine Molloy, Cadhla Kelly, Kacey Mulvihill, Jessica Frawley (1-1), Tanya Stephane, Hazel Donegan (1-6), Lucy Kearney, Lara-Ellen Keena McDaid, Moya McKiernan, Mandisa Ni Chluaid.

Under-14 Div. 2 Championship vs St. Marys Rochfortbridge, July 23rd 2020

Garrycastle under 14 girls hosted St. Marys Rochfortbridge in their second match of the Division 2 championship. Due to a couple of late withdrawals from the home squad the game started as a 14 a side match. Garrycastle got off to the better start with two great goals scored by Hazel Donegan following excellent work from Mandisa Ni Chluaid and Jasmine Molloy.  Kacey Mulvihill added two further points to the tally, one from a free. At the other end some great defending by Kaleigh Clyne, in particular, and good goalkeeping by Gemma Duffy stopped a hard running St Mary’s side breaking through for goals. A very unfortunate injury to Matilda Parker, who was enjoying a fine debut in the half forward line, midway through the first half, resulted in the home side having to see out the remainder of the match a player down. Garrycastle led 3-02 to 0-1 at the break thanks to a further goal scored by Moya McKiernan. 

The second half was another competitive affair but it was Garrycastle who again dominated on the scoreboard mainly due to the scoring prowess of Hazel Donegan, who finished with a total of 3-3 to her name, and Moya McKiernan who scored 2-2. Jessica Frawley and Kacey Mulvihill also excelled in midfield while Jasmine Molloy and Cadhla Kelly consistently drove forward from half back creating some great scores.  Emma Connaughton, Aisling Kelly and Rihanna Lowe all put in big second halves at the back, while half forward Tanya Stephane worked very hard all through and fellow under 12 player Mandisa Ni Chluaid enjoyed a superb game at full forward. Overall, an excellent performance from Garrycastle who put themselves back into contention in the division with this win. 

The team wishes Matilda a speedy recovery and look forward to having her back on the squad. 

GARRYCASTLE: Gemma Duffy, Aislinn Kelly, Emma Connaughton, Kaleigh Clyne, Rihanna Lowe, Jasmine Molloy, Cadhla Kelly, Jessica Frawley, Kacey Mulvihill (1-02) Tanya Stephane, Hazel Donegan (3-03), Matilda Parker, Moya McKiernan (2-02) Mandisa Ni Chluaid. 

Under-14 C-Championship Final vs. Loughnavalley, Oct. 13th

Garrycastle 5-14, Loughnavalley 2-07 

Our under 14 girls finished off a tremendous season with victory in the county final on a sunny Saturday afternoon in Rochfortbridge. Loughnavalley sent a free wide with the first attack of the game but the next five minutes were all Garrycastle as they went on a blitz that saw them score a goal and five unanswered points.  Hazel Donegan scored the goal from close range, and points quickly followed from Kacey Mulvihill (two frees), Ella Dowling, Nessa McNamara, and Roísín Murphy. Loughnavalley finally got on the board from a free, but Hazel Donegan responded with a point, and then a long range shot from Tegan Foley sailed all the way to the net. Hazel Donegan followed another Loughnavalley free with a point before Loughnavalley converted a penalty. Garrycastle didn’t let the concession of a goal affect them and another good attack saw Tegan Foley score a fine point.  

Then came the move of the match which saw the ball transferred all the way up the pitch and after a brilliant catch on the run Kacey Mulvihill played in Ella Dowling who fired a low shot to the net.  The sides then exchanged two points apiece, Kacey Mulvihill from a free and Ella Dowling for Garrycastle, before Hazel Donegan scored her second goal to leave the score 4-10 to 1-4 at half time. 

The second half was a tighter affair as both teams started to tire in the soft underfoot conditions and Loughnavalley deserve huge credit for never giving up despite the large deficit. Ella Dowling kept the scoreboard ticking over with a free followed by a point from play and then Meliagh McDonagh pounced on a loose ball on the edge of the square before firing high into the net.  The game went into a bit of a lull after that as both sides made changes before Loughnavalley enjoyed their best spell of the game scoring a goal and three points while Garrycastle missed some great goal chances at the other end.  However, it was Garrycastle who scored the last two points of the game, courtesy of Ella Dowling and, fittingly, Jessica Frawley, who deserved her score after an outstanding individual performance.  

Aside from the scorers, the rest of the Garrycastle players are deserving of great praise, starting with both keepers, Kayleigh Clyne, who pulled off a super save midway through the first half, and Gemma Duffy, who was making a welcome return to action after a long lay off with injury.  The backs were superb all through, with Emma Kearney and Amy McGovern doing very well in their battle on the right hand side with Loughnavalley’s two most dangerous attackers while Jasmine Molloy put in a powerful display at full back particularly in the second half. Emma Connaughton made some crucial interceptions at different stages while Arlene Devery and Orlaith Lynch rivalled Tegan Foley and Jessica Frawley as the squad’s best performers on the day. Moya McKiernan teamed up well with Kacey Mulvihill on the left hand side of the attack while substitutes Grace Costello and Eve Murphy were full of energy off the bench.  

This victory rounded off a super season for these girls who have lost only one competitive match all year, a narrow and controversial loss in the National Feile Division 4 quarter final against eventual winners and Longford champions, Clonguish.  Many thanks to Colin Clyne and his back room team of Geraldine Griffith, Noelle O’Donnell, and Anne Kearney, who have put in a huge effort with this talented and enthusiastic squad, starting as far back as mid-January when they held the first of almost eighty training sessions, and ending with this very enjoyable and well deserved win.

The committee would like to thank u14 team manager Colin Clyne and his backroom team of Ger Griffith, Noelle O’Donnell and Anne Davin.

Féile Peil na nÓg 2019 - June 28th - June 30th 

The Garrycastle under-14 Girls squad did their club proud on and off the field at this weekend’s Feile. As Division 2 winners in Westmeath they were placed in a very strong Division 4 which included several teams who had either won or finished runners up in their own county’s Division 1 Final. 

However, they exceeded all expectations by winning all three of their group games and then giving eventual champions Clonguish of Longford an awful fright in the cup quarter final before going down to a gallant and somewhat controversial defeat. 

After making the bus trip to Mayo to their wonderful host club St Mary’s of Aghamore, Garrycastle faced two matches on Friday evening. Their first opposition were Charlestown Sarsfields who really put it up to the girls for much of the match before Garrycastle eventually pulled away in the second half, with Kacey Mulvihill’s goal a real turning point. 

Final score was 1-7 to 0-2. 

Scorers: Kacey Mulvihill (1-1), Ella Dowling (0-2), Tegan Foley (0-2), Hazel Donegan (0-1), Nessa McNamara (0-1). 

The second game saw the girls up against the hottest of group favourites, Donaghmore-Ashbourne, who had only lost the Meath Division One Feile Final by a point, and featured some players from the Meath team that won the Leinster Final against Dublin earlier in the year, and who had comfortably won their first group game against very good opposition by 17 points. However, in an incredible atmosphere the Garrycastle girls put in probably their best ever performance as a team, winning 3-2 to 1-4 against stunned opposition, who just simply couldn’t cope with the pace and intensity of the Garrycastle players all over the field. 

A word has to be given to Hazel Donegan’s critical third goal, an amazing strike on the turn into the top corner from the edge of the square. 

Final score was 3-2 to 1-4.

Scorers: Tegan Foley (1-1), Moya McKiernan (1-0), Hazel Donegan (1-0), Ella Dowling (0-1). 

The final group match on Saturday morning against hosts St Mary’s was another fiercely enjoyable game. The Aghamore girls were really up for this one and led by a goal early in the second half, but Hazel Donegan was now unstoppable and fired home four goals in an amazing ten minute spell to see Garrycastle home on a score line of 7-3 to 3-3. 

Scorers: Hazel Donegan (4-0), Jessica Frawley (2-0) Ella Dowling (1-1), Tegan Foley (0-1), Roisin Murphy (0-1).

Garrycastle then decamped to Oran GAA club in Roscommon on Saturday afternoon to play Longford Division One champions Clonguish Óg in the Cup quarter final. Just like their game the night before, Garrycastle were in blistering form early on and their two goal lead was little reward for their dominance before Clonguish scored from a soft looking penalty right at the stroke of half time. The start of the second half followed the same pattern with Garrycastle the better side but they were not taking their chances and moreover they were also suffering from a succession of very questionable refereeing decisions against them, many of them taking even the opposition by surprise. Gradually the inevitable happened as the fitness of the older Longford girls paid off and they fired home some late scores to prevail against a very tired but very brave Garrycastle side, 4-3 to 2-2. 

In fairness to Clonguish, they are clearly a superb team and they proved it the next day as they played some brilliant football on their way to the Division 4 Cup title. 

And so the journey ended for this remarkable group of Garrycastle girls who won a lot of supporters from different clubs over the weekend with their brand of non stop attacking play. Every one of the 20 girls played a huge part. 

Gemma Duffy made some great saves and driving clearances and her kick outs nearly always found their targets. 

The defence were probably the real stars of the tournament - Jasmine Molloy, Emma Connaughton, Kaleigh Clyne and especially Emma Kearney and Arlene Devery were all phenomenal, turning over countless ball, and reading the game superbly. Orlaith Lynch deserves special mention for her display against Donaghmore-Ashbourne while Amy McGovern was a revelation, especially in the quarter final, where she was probably the player of the match. 

Captain Tegan Foley, as always, led the team by example with her skill and unlimited determination, driving her players forward at every opportunity and literally running herself into the ground, while her midfield partner Jessica Frawley was probably the squad’s most consistently excellent performer throughout. 

Kacey Mulvihill played a key role in both attack and defence getting and setting up some key scores but also sweeping back when called upon. Nessa McNamara started the tournament in great form but unfortunately picked up an injury in the second game and her ability to find space and link play was badly missed in the quarter final. Roisin Murphy worked tirelessly from her centre forward role and while receiving a lot of attention from the opposition managed to set up numerous scores as well as scoring a crucial point at a key stage against St Marys. 

At the point of attack Meliagh McDonagh showed up really well in all of the games pressuring defenders into mistakes and was really unlucky not to get on the scoreboard. Ella Dowling was as impressive as ever, scoring in every game, and could well have been a match winner in the quarter final if she had been awarded even a fraction of the frees she looked to have earned. Moya McKiernan’s well taken goal in the Meath match was a huge moment but her work rate and rate of improvement in all the games was even more impressive. 

The younger players on the squad, Rihanna Lowe, Juliet O’Hara and Eve Murphy all played their part when called upon, and what they lacked in size they each made up in effort while Hazel Donegan has to receive special plaudits for a stunning performance, scoring five goals and causing all sorts of problems for her markers despite just having returned to the squad this week after being away all year. 

Huge credit has to go to manager Colin Clyne for the way he prepares and motivates this group of girls and gets them playing football in the right way. Thanks too to his backroom team Geraldine Griffith, Noelle O’Donnell and Ann Kearney for all of their hard work, to David and Marie Mc Govern for all their help especially with fundraising and to the many parents, relatives and supporters who travelled all the way to Mayo to provide such great support. A special word of thanks to Paddy Mulvihill for his inspiring work with the girls over the weekend. 

And last but not least, it is very difficult to put into words how wonderful as hosts the people from St Marys, Aghamore were. They really could not have done any more to make this weekend a wonderful memory for the girls. Their kindness and hospitality, will never be forgotten.

Match results:

Friday June 28, Div. 4 Group A, Round 1: Garrycastle 1-7, Charlestown 0-2

Friday June 28, Div. 4 Group A, Round 2: Garrycastle 3-2, Donaghmore/Ashbourne 1-4

Saturday June 29, Div. 4 Group A, Round 3: Garrycastle 7-3, St. Marys Aghamore 3-3

Saturday June 29, Div. 4 Cup Quarter-Final: Garrycastle 2-2, Clonguish 4-3

The club would like to extend huge congratulations to all of the players, Colin and his backroom team, Geraldine Griffith, Noelle O’Donnell and Anne Davin. Many thanks to the hardworking Féile committee for organising a number of fundraising events, to everyone who contributed to and supported the events and to the club for their support. 

Special thanks to our very generous sponsors, Enda McKiernan Plant Hire and Grovelands Childcare who have co-sponsored the girls’ training tops, and Tormeys Solicitors who have sponsored their gear bags. 

Féile Peil na nÓg 2019 - June 24th

For the fourth time in their twenty four year history an under 14 squad from Garrycastle Ladies will compete at Féile. Next weekend sees the team off to Mayo to compete in Division 4 where they will be hosted by St.Marys LGFA, Aghamore. Féile is a very special and memorable GAA event and one to be enjoyed. It is an opportunity for teams from all over Ireland and abroad to come together to participate in and enjoy Gaelic football. In this year’s event there will be no less than 75 girls teams competing in 10 Divisions hosted by Connacht GAA. The Garrycastle girls will play their first game against host club St Mary’s on Friday 28th June and will play Charlestown (Mayo) later that evening before taking on Donaghmore/Ashbourne (Meath) on Saturday morning in their final group game. Results will determine if they make it to the Cup or Shield playoffs which will take place Saturday evening /Sunday morning.

The girls have worked hard to make it to this stage of the competition winning group matches against Loughnavalley, Athlone, Ballycomoyle and Shandonagh in order to qualify for the county final where following a tough encounter with Loughnavalley they were crowned Westmeath Division 2 Feile champions. A young squad, with over half of the girls eligible again next year, they have been well prepared by manager Colin Clyne, training hard and playing several challenges matches as well as enjoying a successful campaign so far in the county championship. The club would like to extend best wishes to all of the players, Colin and his backroom team, Geraldine Griffith, Noelle O’Donnell and Anne Davin. Many thanks to the hardworking Féile committee for organising a number of fundraising events, to everyone who has contributed and supported the events and to the club for their support. Special thanks to our very generous sponsors, Enda McKiernan Plant Hire and Grovelands Childcare who have co-sponsored the girls’ training tops, and Tormeys Solicitors who have sponsored their gear bags. 

Under-14 Féile na nÓg Division 2 Final - April 16th

Garrycastle 2-08,  Loughnavalley 1-02

The Garrycastle under-14 girls were crowned Feile Div 2 champions on Tuesday evening in Rosemount thanks to a hard fought 2-08 to 1-02 victory over a very determined Loughnavalley side.  

Loughnavalley were the first to every ball in the early stages and were unlucky not to have more than just the one point to show for their dominance.  Garrycastle responded well though, with a neatly taken goal from Róisín Murphy, and Ella Dowling then won a free which she converted herself to put them ahead.  Loughnavalley worked a very good goal themselves before the sides exchanged points to leave the sides level at the break, Róisín Murphy with the Garrycastle score.  

With the breeze now behind them, Garrycastle made a great start to the second half.  Ella Dowling scored a good point followed by Meliagh McDonagh who converted a free after she was fouled when breaking through.  Ella Dowling then scored a crucial second goal with a powerful shot from a twenty metre free, and followed that up with two more points before Kacey Mulvihill got on the end of a good move to slot over.  Fittingly, Ella Dowling got the final score of the game with a lovely point from distance. 

Loughnavalley did everything they could to get back in the game but were denied by some brilliant defending in front of Gemma Duffy who was solid throughout.  Apart from the girls mentioned there were great performances all over the field starting with the full back line of Emma Kearney, Emma Connaughton and Kayleigh Clyne who put up a brick wall in the second half. The half back line of Orlaith Lynch, Jasmine Molloy and Amy McGovern were good throughout but excelled after the break, while the tireless Tegan Foley played a captain’s part in midfield, where she got great support from Arlene Devery, with both players seeming to cover every blade of grass. 

Moya McKiernan and Nessa McNamara did not get on the scoresheet themselves but made great use of space and played their part in several scores.  Grace Costello and Rihanna Lowe added extra legs off the bench in the second half and helped keep the pressure on a tiring Loughnavalley defence.  Great teamwork by all of the girls helped minimise the loss of the absent Jessica Frawley, who had played a huge part in getting her team to the final. The girls now look forward to the National Féile Peil na nÓg tournament which will be played from the 28th to the 30th June.

Féile na nÓg group stage - April 14th

The Garrycastle Under-14s had a very successful outing in Pairc Chiarain last Sunday when they overcame opposition from Loughnavalley, Athlone, Ballycomoyle and Shandonagh to qualify for the Division 2 Féile final. 

Garrycastle Squad: 

Gemma Duffy, Emma Connaughton, Emma Kearney, Orlaith Lynch, Jasmine Molloy, Arlene Devery, Kayleigh Clyne, Rihanna Lowe, Grace Costello, Roísín Murphy, Jessica Frawley, Tegan Foley, Kacey Mulvihill, Ella-May Dowling, Amy McGovern, Meliagh McDonagh, Nessa McNamara and Moya McKiernan.

Under-14 League vs. Tyrellspass, April 4th

The Garrycastle under-14 girls started off their league campaign with a decisive win over Tyrrellspass last Thursday. 

The Garrycastle girls showed great determination and excellent teamwork and accumulated an impressive tally of scores. 

The newly formed Tyrrellspass team battled hard but it was not to be their day. 

Medal Presentation, December 9th, 2018

The presentation of medals to the successful U12 and U14 championship winners took place last Sunday night in the club house in front of a great turnout. It was a successful season for both teams culminating in winning the championships.

Both teams were congratulated and thanks extended to the management teams. The U14 side was managed by Declan Finn assisted by Katrina Jameson, Noelle O’Donnell and Anne Davin. Thanks to Garrycastle and Westmeath players Aoife Connolly and James Dolan for presenting the medals while the special awards were presented by club President Seamus Nugent.

U14 recipients: Amy Duffy, Amy Mc Govern, Aoife Galvin, Arlene Devery, Chloe Fitzgerald, Ciara Finn, Ciara Shiels, Danielle Devery, Donnahay Molloy, Ella May Dowling, Emma Kearney, Elaine Mc Govern, Erika Lowe, Gemma Duffy, Jasmine Molloy, Jessica Frawley, Kacey Mulvihill, Meliagh McDonagh, Nessa McNamara, Orlaith Lynch, Roisin McNamara, Roisin Murphy, Sarah Carter, Shauna Jameson and Tegan Foley.

Award winners:

U/14 Player of the year: Elaine Mc Govern

U14 Most improved player: Shauna Jameson

U14 Best attendance: Orlaith Lynch

Under-14 County Final, September 17th

Coralstown/Kinnegad 7-07, Garrycastle 7-05

A goal fest, action packed, U14 B final enthralled the supporters on hand as our fantastic Under-14 side met Kinnegad ladies in the county final on Sunday 17th September. Both teams were evenly matched but unfortunately it was Kinnegad who edged out the two extra points to claim the Westmeath LGFA U14 B title for 2017.

We are all so proud of the Garrycastle Under-14 girls and their management and backroom team. They are a fantastic group of girls, a credit to their clubs and the skills, determination and improvements they show time after time is exceptional. Watch this space for the 2018 season!

Garrycastle team: Emily Ruane, Sarah Carter, Emer O'Neill, Nessa Dowling, Elaine McGovern, Stephanie O'Neill, Sarah Kelly, Shannon Mulvihill, Rebecca Norris, Aoife Galvin, Róisín McNamara, Jessica Henson, Ella Dowling, Tegan Foley, Donahay Molloy, Emma Hynes, Siofra McMahon, Danielle Devery, Ciara Shiels, Amy Duffy, Chloe Fitzgerald.

Under-14 Championship Semi-Final, Sept. 2nd

On Saturday afternoon the 2nd Sept, our U14 Team played in the Semi Final against neighbours Caulry, this was a tough game with great displays of football from both sides. However it was the Garrycastle girls who were victorious at the final whistle. Final score Garrycastle 8-6 Caulry 5-11. They now face Kinnegad in the County Final.

Team - Emily Ruane, Sarah Carter, Emer O Neill, Nessa Dowling, Elaine McGovern, Stephanie O Neill, Sarah Kelly, Shannon Mulvihill, Rebecca Norris, Aoife Galvin, Rosin McNamara, Jessica Henson, Ella Dowling, Tegan Foley, Donahay Molloy, Emma Hynes, Siofra MC Mahon, Danielle Devery. Ciara Shiels, Amy Duffy, Chloe Fitzgerald

Under-14 County Final

Garrycastle 7-4, Clan Gaels 3-6

A huge congratulations to our U14 side on winning Championship, beating Clan Gaels in a thrilling encounter on Sunday morning last in Kinnegad.

2 Goals from Aoife Galvin, 2 goals and 1 point from Stephanie O'Neill, a goal from Ciara McGovern, 3 points from Shannon Mulvihill, and 2 goals from Ella Dowling saw the Garrycastle girls lift the cup at the final whistle.

This was a great team performance working hard in every area of the pitch. Our Goalie Clionagh Murthagh pulled of many saves aided by the back line of Aoife O Brien, Rebecca Norris and Faye Hannify whose work rate made it difficult for the Clan Gaels forwards to score. The half back line of Sarah Carter, Muirin Mullvihil and Emily Ruane worked superb in defence.

Our midfield duo of Eimear O'Neill and Shannon Mulvihill played excellently. The half forwards Ciara and Elaine McGovern and Nessa Dowling made the half back line of Clan Gaels work hard, as the girls delivered brilliant passes into the forwards Jessica Henson, Stephanie O Neill, Aoife Galvin, Ella Dowling and Aimee McNamara who made the most of them. The rest of the panel Sarah Jane Kelly, Siofra McMahon, Emma Hynes, Ciara Kelly, Jane Connaughton, Roisin Mulvihill, Donnahay Molloy, Ciara Finn and Danielle Devery all played their part in getting this group of young girls to the final.

Well done & congratulations to this fantastic bunch of players who had a brilliant year this year, winning Div 2 Féile, representing Westmeath with pride in the Féile in Limerick and today winning their county final with a superb team performance.

A huge thank you to everyone who helped out with this team this year special thanks to the management team of Nicola Mullvihil, Paddy Mulvihill, Aisling O'Brien and Sarah Dolan who gave their time all year long and also to all the parents and supporters who cheered them on every step of the way!

The future is bright! Up the castle!

Under-14 Féile All Ireland Weekend 2016

Well at last the day arrived when the u14s could get on the bus to travel to Limerick and participate in Féile 2016. After lots of fundraising activities and hard work by all the girls and their parents, the girls were decked out in style and headed for Foynes where they were met by our host team. 

From the outset the girls and Foynes hit it off and after food and a game of basketball with the locals they set out for Monagae and the first match. This proved to be a tough encounter against Endork form Tyrone. With both sides evenly matched it was nip and tuck all through. Endork looked to be taking the points when the Garrycastle girls fought back and snatched a draw in the closing minutes on a scoreline of 3-3 to 2-6. 

After a short break they took to the field again this time to play local side Monagae and here the Garrycastle girls had the upper hand all through and were victorious, 5-5 to 2-1. With everyone pleased with the result it was back to Foynes and time to meet the host families and get some well-earned sleep. 

Saturday was an early start with a game against our host club. The girls started a bit weary and took time to get into this game but when they did they made it count and were convincing winners, 6-3 to 1-2. This win put the girls in the top two for a cup quarter final and a fantastic achievement. The management team were really pleased with this outcome and very happy with the team performance up to this point where every girl on the panel had played their part and contributed to the result. Through each game the defence were super making great runs forward and clearing their lines, with hard-work from every player throughout the field and great finishing up front. 

After some food and downtime it was on the bus again and off to St Sennans club in Listowel where our opponents were Kilcommin from Kerry who were also in the red and green and a toss of a coin meant Garrycastle changed to the away kit. It was a case of winners take all in this game and you would certainly know it from the play. From the throw in both sides were fighting hard and giving nothing away. Great defending from Garrycastle and with a penalty miss and a great penalty save we stayed in touch and had a 1 point lead at the break. The second half had end to end football and scores very hard to come by and parent’s nerves were on edge. However the Garrycastle girls on the pitch did the business and with every player doing their best and using every skill they were ever taught they forged a win of 1-4 to 0-2. 

Oh what relief and joy from everyone on the side we can all breathe again the girls have made it to the semis. On reflection this was a fantastic game of football and a pleasure to watch, the skill, the determination and the commitment from every single girl that went on the pitch was unbelievable, and the supporters were immensely proud. It was then on to NewcastleWest and time for the parade and then eventually we could relax with all teams at the BBQ. A great night was had by all, the teams enjoyed it and our hosts presented each player with a boot bag and Aisling O’Brien on behalf of the club presented an inscribed piece of Athlone crystal along with some football gear to St Sennan’s of Foynes in appreciation for the wonderful hospitality given to Garrycastle. It was then off to bed with an early start required for a trip to Tralee and our semi-final to take on Dr Crokes. 

The first half was very close and at half time the Castle had the edge by a single point. The second half was nail biting and Dr Crokes had the luck on the day and found the net and they won to take a place in the final, 1-4 to 0-3. It took everything from Dr Crokes to beat this very young Garrycastle side with only 5 players moving on and the remainder still eligible for u14 next year with a number of them still under 12. 

Dr Crokes went on to win out the competition so that speaks volumes for the Garrycastle girls. The girls can be so proud of themselves and how they played over the weekend, they played fantastic football, the teamwork was excellent with great displays of football all through and each and every player on the panel contributing. 

Many thanks to the management team of Nicola Mullvihill, Aisling O Brien, Patrick Mulvihill, Sarah Dolan, Orla Breathnach and Elisha Hunston. To the many supporters who travelled down and to the parents who helped out in any way they could in the build up and over the weekend, they have been fantastic and we discovered a hidden talent among our mothers when it comes to hair styles!

Overall a great weekend was had by all and the experience will stand to those girls and we extend every good wish to them in the remaining games in the championship. Many Thanks to all our sponsors who made this weekend possible for the girls and finally we discovered very talented.

Congratulations girls on your success in Féile and thank you all for giving us a great weekend.

Panel:
Shannon Mulvihill (Captain), Muireann Mulvihill (vice- captain), Cliodhna Murtagh, Faye Hanniffy, Aoife O'Brien, Emily Ruane, Nessa Dowling, Sarah Carter, Emer O’Neill, Ciara McGovern, Stephanie O'Neill, Elaine McGovern, Jessica Henson, Aoife Galvin, Siofra McMahon, Sarah Kelly, Aimee McNamara, Danielle Devery, Jane Connaughton, Ciara Finn, Emma Hynes, Donahay Molloy, Rebecca Norris.

Under-14 County Féile (April 2nd)

Congratulations to our u14 team who were deserved winners of the Division 2 Féile which was held  in Athlone GAA last Saturday. This spirited and hardworking team played excellent football in all their games to finish overall winners on the day.

The Garrycastle girls played Clan Gaels in the first game of the day. From the outset, all the backs showed great determination when coming out with the ball. Rebecca Norris, Aoife O’Brien and Faye Hanniffy worked very well together in the full back line driving out of defence with the ball. Shannon Mulvihill and Emer O’Neill worked tirelessly in the centre of the pitch to get the ball into the forwards. In what was a low scoring game it was important that the forwards converted their scoring chances when they got them, and that they did. Stephanie O’Neill got her first goal and point of the day while Elaine McGovern scored a brilliant point after taking a great pass from her sister Ciara.

Garrycastle finished their first encounter 1-2 to 1-0.

They then took on Ballycomoyle in what was in a one sided affair. The Garrycastle girls were too strong for the Ballycomoyle side and with goals from Shannon Mulvihill, Stephanie O’Neill, Muirin Mulvihill, Emer O’Neill and Elaine McGovern the game finished 6-1 to 0-0.

The girls then took on Milltown in their third game. This game was a tight encounter with Milltown ahead 1-1 to 0-0 at half time. However, the Garrycastle girls worked really hard as a team in the second half. Shortly after half time Ciara McGovern scored a clever goal when she palmed the ball into the back of the net after a high ball in from Stephanie O’Neill. This gave the Garrycastle girls the momentum they needed and Shannon Mulvihill split the posts with two fine points from play soon afterwards. Again the backs put in a great effort to protect their goals with Nessa Dowling a driving  force from centre back. Muirin Mulvihill added another point for Garrycastle and the game finished 1-3 to 1-1.

Garrycastle faced Athlone in the fourth game of the day. The Garrycastle girls played against the wind in the first half and were down at half time 1-1 to 0-0. However, these girls were determined not to lose any game and their team spirit was a source of admiration for anyone who watched them on the day. Emily Ruane and Faye Hanniffy teamed up well together to get the ball out of the back line and their hard work paid off as Emer O’Neill won the ball in the forwards and put Garrycastle on the scoreboard with a great goal. Stephanie O’Neill soon followed her sister’s example and placed two balls past the keeper into the back of the net. Stephanie added another point and the game finished 3-1 to 1-2.

This saw the Garrycastle girls through to the Division 2 Féile final against Milltown. 

The Garrycastle girls knew that this was going to be a tough contest and they were determined to get the win. They  started the game positively with a goal from Muirin Mulvihill. Nessa Dowling and Sarah Carter drove out with the ball from the half back line and their work was followed by a fine point from Stephanie O’Neill. Emer O’Neill and Shannon Mulvihill teamed up to defend the Milltown kick-out and their worked paid off as Shannon scored another great point after they won a kick-out in the middle of the pitch. However, it wasn’t going to be a one-sided affair and Milltown managed to get a ball to the back of the Garrycastle net making it 1-2 to 1-0 at half time. 

In the second half, the half back line of Ella Dowling, Nessa Dowling and Sarah Carter were determined to keep the ball out of the Garrycastle half while Rebecca Norris, Faye Hanniffy and Aoife O’Brien worked extremely hard and dominated in the full back line. They drove out with the ball time and time again to protect the Garrycastle goal from the Milltown forwards. Ciara and Elaine McGovern team up well on a number of occasions to split the Milltown defence with Elaine converting a fine point soon after half time putting Garrycastle three points ahead. The character of this spirited Garrycastle team was tested when Milltown got the ball into the Garrycastle net making it a draw game with five minutes to go.

The Garrycastle girls showed great determination and team work in every single position on the pitch. The backs dug deep with Rebecca Norris, Aoife O’Brien and Ella Dowling clearing ball after ball out of defence to get the ball down the pitch. Emily Ruane gave a fine pass to Emer O’Neill who got the ball down to Stephanie O’Neill who scored a point putting Garrycastle in front once again. Soon afterwards Ciara McGovern worked hard to hold onto the ball and her hard work was worth it as she won a free on the left hand side of the goals. Shannon Mulvihill converted the free kick to put Garrycastle two points up and winners of the Division 2 Féile. 

This exciting and nerve wrecking encounter finished 1-5 to 2-0.

Well done to all the girls who took part on the day they did themselves and the club very proud. A big thanks to the management team and parents who cheered the team on throughout the day.

Team:  Sarah Kelly, Aoife O’Brien, Rebecca Norris, Faye Hanniffy, Sarah Carter, Nessa Dowling, Emily Ruane, Shannon Mulvihill, Emer O’Neill, Aimee McNamara, Ciara McGovern, Elaine McGovern, Stephanie O’Neill, Muirin Mulvihill, Ella Dowling, Jessica Henson, Danielle Devery, Amy Duffy, Emma Hynes, Meliagh McDonagh.

Under-14 vs. Clan Gaels

Our U14 girls played their last round of the championship in a home game against Clan Gaels. The Garrycastle girls put in a super performance on the night, with some fine displays of football, with some great scoring, with scores from Aoife, Katlyn, Eimear, Stephanie & Shannon. The whole team had a super game with Ciara McGovern putting in a very strong performance as sweeper as did Coleen McCormack in the back line. This performance secures the girls position in the next level of the competition. Full Time Score: 9-12 to 1-2

Team: Cliodhna Murtagh, Faye Hannify, Colleen McCormack, Roisin Molloy, Amy McNamara, Ciara McGovern, Ailish Mannion, Kate Derwin, Eimear O’Neill, Stephanie O’Neill, Katlyn Murray, Shannon Mulvihill, Aoife O’Brien, Aisling McCarthy, Ivana Devery.

Under-14 vs. The Downs (July 21st)

Our U14 side travelled to play the Downs on Tuesday evening last. There were some great performances from all players but notably Shannon Mulvihil and Stephanie O'Neill player very well. The match ended on a score line of 5-0 to 3-4 in favour of Garrycastle.

Team:
Clionagh Murtagh, Ailish Mannion,Aisling Mulvihill, Roisin Molloy, Stephanie O'Neill, Eimear O'Neill, Aoife O'Brien, Faye Hanniffy, Aisling McCarthy, Kate Dervin, Shannon Mulvihill, Ciara McGovern and Sarah Dolan.

Under-14 vs. Goldsmith Girls (July 6th)

Garrycastle girls travelled the short distance to play Goldsmiths Girls. The Garrycastle girls led from the start with great defence from Rosin Molloy and Sarah Dolan who kept Goldsmiths girls on their toes. This made it difficult for the Goldsmiths forwards to get through. Their were some great scores from Aisling McCarthy on the debut with this U14 side. Shannon Mullvihil, Stephaine O'Neill and Muiren Mulvihil scored some great points and goals assisted by Aoife O'Brien, Faye Hannify and Eimear O'Neill. Team captain Coleen Mc Cormack encouraged her team throughout. There were great performances from Aisling Mulvihil and Ailish Mannion. The Garrycastle girls came out on top at the final whistle with the score at Garrycastle 8-11 Goldsmiths Girls 4-5.

Team
Colleen McCormack(c), Ailish Mannion, Aisling Mulvihill, Roisin Molloy, Stephanie O'Neill, Eimear O'Neill, Muireann Mulvihill, Aoife O'Brien, Faye Hannify, Aisling McCarthy, Shannon Mulvihill and Sarah Dolan.

Under-14 vs. Loughnavalley (June 9th)

Tuesday the 9th June we played our 2nd match under lovely skies against Lougnavalley.

A tough physical game, while the end score does not reflect the level of effort put in by our Garrycastle girls .

In the first half both teams held their own with Garrycastle in the last 10 mins floundering a bit. Our backs had a superb game with Roisin Molloy Sarah Dolan , Kate Derwin, Faye Hannify and Ciara McGovern working great together.

Loughnavalley scored the first goal and point but a great come back from Muirin Mulvhill taking the first point and goal with some excellent skill from Aoife O Brien who scored her first goal and point . Aisling Mulvhill ran her heart our and kept on top of her player at all times. Clionhna Murtagh our goalie had a fantastic match with great saves.

The first half of the match was fast and with 3 point behind the girls went back with winning on their minds.

Aimee McNamara and Shauna Deveraux sent some great passes into Stephanie O Neill and Muirin Mulvhill to allow them to get the scores we needed , Eimear O Neill and Aoife fought their way through a strong back line to never giving up. Sarah Dolan made some great blocks and possession of the ball working with Colleen Mc Cormack and Nessa Dowling.

It was not for the lack of trying but it was not our night to win but a great game.

Team :
Ailish Mannion, Sarah Dolan, Aisling Mulvhill (C) ,Katlyn Murray Clionhna Murtagh, Muirin Mulvhill, Ciara Mc Govern, Aoife O Brien, Aimee Mc Namara, Faye Hanniffy, Colleen Mc Cormack, Nessa Dowling.Eimear O Neill, Stephanie O Neill, Shauna Deveraux, Avana Deveraux.

Management Team : Mick Mannion, Tommy O Neill, Aisling O Brien Tara Hogan.

Under-14 vs. Goldsmith Girls (May 19th)

The first half both teams held their own. With Goldsmith girls taking the first point and goal with some great work form our forward line. Muirin Mulvhill scored a great goal and points. Kate Derwin and Colleen Mc Cormack made some great tackles and powered through to bring the ball through to our forwards.

In the second half we were 2 points behind.

Ailish Mannion and Faye Hanniffy worked great in defence against Goldsmith Girls but they still managed to break through and score some more goals. Nessa Dowling played a great game as a back. The team never gave up and played on to the end. Aoife O Brien made great tackles and got the ball through to Muirinn on several occasions and Ciara Mc Govern got a lovely point.

It was not our night to win but a great game. Well done girls.

Final score: 4-3 to 8-7

Team : Ailish Mannion, Sarah Dolan, Aisling Mulvihill, Katlyn Murray, Clionhna Murtagh, Muirin Mulvihill, Ciara McGovern, Aoife O'Brien, Aimee McNamara, Faye Hanniffy, Colleen McCormack, Nessa Dowling, Eimear O Neill

Under-14 vs The Downs (May 17th)

The u14 girls had a home game against The Downs on Sunday morning last. This was again a tough game. The girls played against the wind in the first half and they kicked some nice points with a great goal by the u12 player Shannon Mulvihill. However, the Downs were in the lead going in at the break.

With the wind on their backs in the second half the girls worked really hard especially Kate Dervin who proved to be a driving force. All the girls played to their potential and they came out deserved winners at the final whistle with a score of 4-3 to 2-3 to Garrycastle.

Team. Aoife O'Brien, Shannon Mulvihill, Kate Dervin, Faye Hannify, Roisin Molloy, Stephanie O'Neill, Eimear O'Neill, Aisling Mulvihill, Ailish Mannion, Ciara McGovern, Coleen McCormack and our goalie Sarah Dolan.

Under-14 vs. Caulry (May 14th)

Our u14 girls travelled the short distance to Caulry on Thursday evening last. This was a tough encounter and the Garrycastle girls worked hard however, it wasn't to be and the Caulry girls proved to be deserving winners at the final whistle.

Team: Kate Derwin, Muirin Mulvihill, Ailish Mannion, Sarah Dolan, Roisin Molloy, Katlyn Murray, Stephanie O Neill, Ciara McGovern, Aoife O'Brien, Faye Hanniffy, Colleen McCormack, Nessa Dowling , Shannon Mulvihill, Eimear O Neill.