Saval Awards Night
Club Personality of the Year - Andrew Ferguson
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Our Lady's Grammar School Senior Netball team travelled to Finaghy on Tuesday 7 January to play in the Netball NI Senior B league.
The team took on Regent Grammar, Sullivan Upper, Antrim Grammar, and the hosts for this weeks tournament, Hunterhouse College.
The Our Lady's squad had comfortable wins over all opponents, leaving the tightest contest to the last game of the day against Antrim Grammar. Overall the team and travelling supporters had a thoroughly enjoyable day of netball with the girls being crowned Senior B league champions.
Umpires, Wannita and Lisa presented medals on behalf of NNI to the girls.
Coach Cathy Mulholland-Shields is super proud of all players' performance and she thanked Banbridge and Clann Eireann Netball Clubs for all the work they are doing with the girls.
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A photographer who grew up near Kilkeel has won a Special Merit Award in the prestigious 2024 World Sports Photography Awards.
Photographer Gareth Quinn who now lives in London won his award for his 'Circle Classic Juniors' black and white capture at the Cicle Classic bike race.
Gareth explains on his website how his cycling interest started: "My appreciation for cycling started at a young age growing up on a hill farm in Ireland. Dad was always out and about so to go to friends’ houses or to play hurling at our local club in town, I needed transport.
"My uncle Jim owned a bike shop in Kilkeel; the local town and I received my first bike around 4. The rural roads meant that safety wasn't an issue and I used my bike all the time."
A photograph of Brazilian surfer Gabriel Medina, taken during the Surfing event at the 2024 Olympic Games in Teahupo’o, French Polynesia, has been awarded top honours at the 2024 World Sports Photography Awards. Captured by Tahiti-based French photographer Jerome Brouillet, the image highlights a remarkable moment from the third day of the competition.
This photograph is one of 24 winning images across various sports categories, including American Football, Baseball, Equestrian, Golf, Racquet Sports, and Football. This year’s awards saw over 2,200 professional sports photographers from 96 countries submit more than 13,000 images.
INFO Photographer Morgan Treacy also won a Special Merit Award for his incredible 'Jumps Racing' capture of a frog doing its own show jump at The Kilberry Apprentice Handicap at Navan Racecourse.
The World Sports Photography Awards are the only global awards dedicated exclusively to sports photography. The competition recognises the skill and creativity of professional photographers in capturing the emotion, athleticism, and dedication that define sport. Entries are judged by experts in sport, media, photography, and branding.
Sophie Collins, Chief Marketing Officer at MPB, a sponsor of the awards, commented: “As a judge and sponsor of the ‘World Sports Photography Awards,’ I am once again inspired by the extraordinary talent and creativity showcased in this year’s entries. Sports photography holds a unique power to freeze dynamic action and evoke profound emotion in a single frame, capturing stories that transcend the boundaries of the playing field. It’s been thrilling to see the innovation and passion from this year’s participants, setting a remarkable standard for the years to come.”
The full gallery of winning images, including the Top 10 in each category, can be viewed on the official World Sports Photography Awards website at www.worldsportsphotographyawards.com
Check out Gareth Quinn's photography at www.mightyquinnphotos.com and go to inpho.ie to check out Morgan's and other Irish Photographers skills.
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Newry City AFC have signed two more players on loan deals until the end of the 2024/25 season.
Ben Harvey and Tommy Taggert will help Manager Darren Mullen reshape his squad for the remainder of the Playr-Fit Championship.
Harvey, 20, arrives from Loughgall, having made a number of appearances for the Villagers across both the Sports Direct Premiership and cup competitions in the first half of this season.
Highly-rated 18-year-old Taggert joins from Dungannon Swifts, having come through the much-heralded Dungannon United Youth system. Like Harvey he can operate at centre-back, or central midfield.
Speaking of the new arrivals Darren Mullen said: “Ben comes to us with Premiership experience, but with a desire to get further game time. The coaching staff and I were well aware of his talent and I’ve no doubt his ability and versatility will be a big asset for us in the remainder of the season,” he said.
The Newry Manager added “Tommy is a player that comes highly recommended. He can play as centre back or in the holding midfield role and has the mobility and aggression that we need in those areas.”
“Both of these signings fit exactly the profile of player that we currently need at the club. They are both versatile and can play in that defensive area where we undoubtedly need reinforcements,” added Mullen,
“They are keen to improve and I’ve no doubt that working with our coaching staff and alongside the other players at the club they will both be excellent additions.”
Speaking of the challenge Harvey said “I’m delighted to be joining Newry City AFC until the end of the season. I can’t wait to get started and do my best to help the club push on up the league.”
Taggert added “I’m delighted to a join a club like Newry City AFC. I’m hoping to come in and get minutes under my belt and help the team push up the Championship table.”
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Nominations are now open for this year’s NMD Be Active Sports Awards.
Held by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council they are run in partnership with the Sports Association Newry, Down and South Armagh (SANDSA).
The awards will acknowledge the remarkable sporting accomplishments of local athletes and clubs whilst collectively recognising the tremendous contributions of mentors and volunteers during the calendar year January to December 2024.
The awards ceremony will take place on Friday 14 March 2025, at the Canal Court Hotel, Newry.
Speaking about the event Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Cllr Pete Byrne, said: "These awards celebrate the exceptional commitment and determination of our athletes, their coaches and mentors and the unwavering support of our volunteers. Their efforts form the foundation of our vibrant sports communities across the district. They inspire others and create opportunities for people of all ages to participate in sport and physical activity at all levels. By recognising these accomplishments, we hope to motivate even more individuals to get involved—whether through participation or volunteering—and enhance the positive influence of sport in our community."
The Categories
Nominations are open to all athletes, sports clubs, schools, local organisations, and sports enthusiasts within the district. Nomination forms can be obtained from www.newrymournedown.org or from Newry Leisure Centre and Down Leisure Centre.
The deadline for nominations is Monday 10 February 2025 at 4pm. Nominations can be submitted via email to leisureandsport@nmandd.org or dropped off at reception at either of the Leisure Centres.
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Armagh got the defence of their Lidl Ladies National Football League Division 1 crown off to a great start on Saturday 25 January with a 3-11 to 1-13 win over TG4 All-Ireland senior champions Kerry in Tralee.
Armagh manager Darnell Parkinson was pleased with the opening win “We’ve had a lot of girls coming back in from club duty so these girls have been thrown in at the deep end a bit but they’ve really stood up to it,” said Parkinson.
“Once the first goal went in it gave us a bit of momentum and then you try and stay in the game and hopefully the next chance comes and luckily enough it did.”
In what was a repeat of last year’s top-flight decider, and a first competitive meeting between the counties since the 2024 TG4 All-Ireland senior Championship semi-final, an outstanding second half from champions Armagh, in which they outscored Kerry by 3-6 to 0-6, saw them claim the spoils.
The introduction of substitutes Blaithín Mackin, who struck for 1-1, and Rebecca Cunningham, with a goal, made all the difference, whilst Anna Carr in the Armagh goal was also in superb form.
Kerry manager Mark Bourke said that their challenge faded in the closing stages but they will learn a lot from the first outing of the season.
“Their goals were a result of probably us running out of legs in the last ten minutes. Our yellow card meant that it took an awful lot of effort for us to keep them at bay even though we did score one or two points with the yellow card but it could be seen that they had more legs than us in the final quarter.”
Lidl National Football League Division One Round One Results
Armagh 3-11 Kerry 1-13
Dublin 2-7 Mayo 1-7
Meath 4-4 Tyrone 0-2
Waterford 1-13 Kildare 2-7
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The current Down Senior Ladies Football Captain has lived and breathed football from an early age, a journey that has taken her as far away as Abu Dhabi.
When her former school teacher, Brendan Rice, told 11 year old pupil, Clara Mulvenna, that he was taking her and a school team to a soccer tournament back in 2008, little did she know that it would kickstart her GAA career. A year later her father Brendan took her to the home of Down football, Pairc Esler, where she joined the ranks of Newry Shamrocks.
Sometime later after the Shamrock's team folded young Clara was enroute to St Bronagh's, Rostrevor, where she remains to this day. The South Down club had no minor team so 16 year old Mulvenna went straight into the senior panel and has been a mainstay for the Reds ever since.
In 2014 her good friend and Down senior footballer, Lauren Cunningham, asked Clara to go to the County senior trials, she made the panel and on the weekend of her 17th birthday made her senior County debut. Down went on that year to win both the Ulster and All Ireland Intermediate titles under the Management of Mark Copeland and Ryan McShane.
Mulvenna left the Down panel in 2019 to travel, and joined the Na Fianna club in Abu Dhabi, where she stayed and Captained the senior ladies footballers in 2022 before returning home to the Emerald Isle.
Clara got straight back to club football with St Bronagh's and rejoined the Down panel as vice Captain in 2023 under the leadership of Carryduff's Megan Doherty. Although they won a Junior All Ireland in 2023 the County footballers just missed out on promotion to Division 2 of the Ladies National League in 2024 and in her newly role as Down Senior Ladies Football Captain (announced in early January) Clara Mulvenna will hope she can lead the Mourne girls to continued success in 2025.
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As the reigning All-Ireland Senior Football Champions, the Armagh team enters the 2025 season with a target on their backs. Their historic triumph in 2024, which ended a long wait for Sam Maguire, has ignited a wave of optimism and expectation across the Orchard County. However, defending their title will be no easy feat as seen in the league opener against Galway but perhaps this evenings Tyrone game will work out well with Tyrone behind by 11 points while we add this. The 2025 season promises to be a grueling test of resilience, depth, and tactical ingenuity as Armagh looks to cement their place among the great teams of the modern era.
The 2024 victory was built on a foundation of disciplined defending, explosive attacking play, and a never-say-die attitude. Under the astute management of Kieran McGeeney, the team showcased a perfect blend of experienced leaders and emerging talents. Players like Rian O’Neill, Jarlath Óg Burns, and Blaine Hughes became household names, delivering standout performances when it mattered most. The challenge now is to maintain that level of performance while adapting to the ever-evolving landscape of inter-county footballand the new rules that are still not to everyone's liking.
The season break while controversial while visiting the States has been crucial for Armagh. McGeeney and his backroom team have likely focused on fine-tuning their game plan, addressing any weaknesses exposed during the 2024 campaign, and ensuring the squad remains hungry for success. Retaining the core of the team while integrating fresh talent will be key to sustaining their dominance.
Defending an All-Ireland title is one of the toughest challenges in football. Opposing teams will have spent the their time analysing Armagh’s attacking strengths and devising strategies to counter them. The physical and mental toll of a long season, coupled with the pressure of being champions, can weigh heavily on any team.
Injuries and squad depth will also play a significant role. Armagh’s ability to manage their panel and keep key players fit will be tested, especially in the latter stages of the championship. Additionally, the ever menacing appearance of other teams like Dublin, Kerry, and Derry means the competition will be fiercer than ever.
The path to retaining the All-Ireland will begin in the Ulster Championship, a competition known for its intensity and unpredictability. Navigating this minefield will require focus and consistency. A strong showing in the provincial championship is something the supporters are craving for in the Clones sunshine and would provide serious momentum heading into the All-Ireland series.
The success of 2024 has galvanised the Armagh faithful, and the support from the stands will be a significant factor in 2025. The sea of orange and white in Croke Park during last year’s final was a testament to the passion and pride of the Armagh supporters. Their unwavering backing could provide the extra edge needed in tight contests.
As the 2025 season dawns, Armagh stands at a crossroads. They have the opportunity to etch their names into the annals of Gaelic football history by becoming back-to-back All-Ireland champions. However, the challenges are immense, and the margin for error is slim. With a talented squad, a visionary management team, and the backing of a passionate county, Armagh has the tools to defend their crown. The question is: can they rise to the occasion once again? The journey has already begun with a disappointing outing in Galway, and the eyes of the GAA world will be firmly fixed on the Orchard County.
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Dominating completely in the second half of the LIDL National Football League, Division One champions Armagh ran out easy winners against Tyrone today at St Paul’s in Lurgan.
Tyrone failed to score after the turnaround and a yellow card to corner forward Chloe McCaffrey midway through the second period left last year’s beaten TG4 All-Ireland intermediate championship finalists with an even more difficult task.
Armagh, who needed three late goals to secure an opening day win over All-Ireland champions Kerry last weekend, didn’t hit the net this time but kept the scoreboard ticking over with points.
It was the Red Hands were who the commanding side during the opening exchanges, however. As the rain trickled down at the Lurgan venue, the visiting side raced into a 0-4 to 0-1 lead.
Maria Canavan, her side’s only scorer in their first round defeat to Meath, got things up and running with a pointed free. Armagh top scorer Niamh Reel played provider early on and set up the energetic Emily Druse for the equaliser.
Canavan fired over two more frees while McCaffrey also raised a white flag to put her team three ahead. That gap could have been wider, but McCaffrey’s goal chance sailed harmlessly wide.
Caroline O’Hanlon pointed and two from Reel, her second a marvellous outside-of-the-boot effort, got the Orchard back on level terms. Canavan and Reel traded scores to bring the first-half to a close, with the sides tied at 0-5 apiece.
Within 90 seconds of the second period, Armagh stretched three ahead with Druse, Niamh Coleman and O’Hanlon all firing over scores. Roisin Mulligan and Reel grew the lead further as Tyrone were reduced to 14 players for a ten-minute period.
A stunning Amelia Coyle stop denied Druse a goal, but Armagh continued to split the posts with Reel landing four of the final five points (all frees) while Maeve Lennon also got in on the scoring act.
The victory sets Armagh up well for their trip to Dublin next weekend and they’ll be keen to extend their winning streak. Tyrone on the other hand have yet to get off the mark and will hope to do so against Mayo in round three.
Final score Armagh 0-16 Tyrone 0-5
Scorers – Armagh: N Reel 0-8 (5f), C O’Hanlon 0-2 (1f), E Druse 0-2, R Mulligan, N Coleman, M Lennon, C McNally 0-1 each.
Tyrone: M Canavan 0-4 (4f), C McCaffrey 0-1.
Teams
Armagh: A Carr; M Ferguson, C Garvey, C Towe; E Druse, L McConville, R Mulligan; N Coleman, C O’Hanlon; A McCoy, M Feehan, B Mackin; N Reel, E McGeown, M Lennon. Subs: N Henderson for E McGeown (39), C McNally for B Mackin (44), M Lavery for E Druse (54), L Kavanagh for M Ferguson (56) R Cunningham for A McCoy (56).
Tyrone: A Coyle; J Lyons, J Barrett, E Quinn; C Canavan, M Corrigan, A Strain; A McHugh, M Mallon; C Campbell, S Byrne, E McNamee; C McCaffrey, M Canavan, A Quinn. Subs: A Horisk for A Quinn (39), S McCarroll for E McNamee (44), A Grimes for C Canavan (47), E Conroy for S Byrne (52), C Daly for A Strain (57), M Moore for C Campbell (59).
Referee: Eoghan O’Neill (Kildare).
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Saval GAC held their annual awards night at the weekend with Chairman Cormac Canavan thanking everyone for their hard work in the past year.
The John Cunningham Spirit of Saval award was presented to Eamon McCarthy & Aidan Havern while Andrew Ferguson took the Club personality of the year.
Saval girls minor team were also presented with their Championship Runner Up Medals.
Player of the Year Awards were also handed out. Minor Girls Player of the Year was Cara McShane while Minor Boys Player of the Year was jointly won by Senan Loughran & Conla Fegan.
The Senior Ladies Player of the Year was Leanne Fearon while Dean Rice took the Senior Men’s Player of the Year award.
Reserve Player of the Year was Michael McCarthy and Handballer of the Year was Fergal McConville.
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