​Lotto
Sunday 28th of January 2018
Jackpot
€9,100 NO WINNER
Numbers Drawn 2, 20, 25, 27

The weekly winners of €30 were
• Seamus Comiskey.
• Fintan Donnelly, Castle Street.
• Aidan Walsh, Hyde Court.
• Sandra Smyth, Brackloon, Ballintubber.

Thanks to everyone who bought and sold tickets your support is very much appreciated.

COACHING NEWS (WK 05 2018)
A. Visit by Roscommon Gaels to Primary Schools in Town
Further to recent communication in our Newsletter and following the positive feedback from the visit by our Club Coaches to the Gael Scoil and Abbey Boys (now St Comans Wood) in early 2017 we made a repeat visit to both schools on Thursday and Friday last. We visited 1st and 2nd classes to promote our club ahead of our upcoming Registration Night (02 Feb).
  
Thanks to our Coaches:-
• Nicola Crosbie
• Tom Killion
• Finbar O’Reilly
• Declan Hussey
• Joe Biesty
 
Thanks also to our players Joe Finnegan, Mark Purcell and Kevin Glynn who joined the coaches and spoke so positively about their experience of playing with Roscommon Gaels.
 
A big Thank You to the staff of the Gael Scoil and St Comans Wood for accommodating the visit and for their hospitality.






 
B. Nursery Programme : Starting 2018 Season
 
The club is working towards implementing a Nursery Programme for our youngest members. The details/structure of the programme are being worked through at present but it will look something like:-
 
• 12- 16 week programme.
• Programme would start Week 1 of May and continue to mid July/August.
• Players can be accepted if they have started in Primary School.
• First 4-5 weeks would be indoor concentrating on an ABC programme and getting them to follow along with a session environment, getting a little discipline and getting them to listen.
• Second 4 weeks we could be starting to ease off on the ABC and start basic ball movements (Hop, Catch-up Kick) so a 50/50 session
• Third 4 weeks ABC + starting to bring in Simple Games.
• Another 4 weeks TBC depending on how we feel the first 12 went and how we are getting along.
• There will be an emphasis on Fun... Fun... Fun... while developing their interest of the game and encouraging them to stay with us.
• Objectives at the end from a child’s perspective is that they come away confident, wanting to come back, have developed some motor skills, they know what the sessions are about and they’ve being introduced to some basic GAA skills. Also, we have new parent recruits.
 
Some of the drivers behind the programme include:
 
• Starting too early within the existing U8 Structure has proved challenging especially weather wise. It can still be cold and it’s hard to keep the younger children going and probably not terribly nice to look at from a parent’s perspective.
• The U8 season is too long for younger children and it is debatable how much value they get out of 30+ sessions...
• The programme will reduce the load on the U8 Coaches, thereby allowing them to run effective training sessions.
 
Thank You to Declan Hussey for the work done to date on promoting the Nursery Programme and for putting the foundation blocks in place.   
 
For the Nursery Programme to be a success we will need input from our Coaches. If you are willing to assist in any way with the Nursery Programme contact any of the following: Declan Hussey/John Donnellan/Finbar O’Reilly.
 
More details on the programme will follow 
 
C. Club Mentoring Programme 2018
This important programme will include an opportunity for all our coaches to present their views on how we can improve our club. Information on implementation of the Programme within our club will follow in the coming weeks.
 

REFEREES
There is still a shortage of Referees in both ladies and men’s, if you or you know of anyone interested in being a referee put your name forward courses are starting in February.  Level 1 Referees Course on Saturday 3rd and 10th of February, in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon from 9.30am to 4pm approx.  There is a shortage of Referees; it is up to clubs to supply them without them games can’t be played.  If you are interested please contact Niamh 086 3818389. There are still places available.  

CARDS
Winner of the 25 Card game on Monday 22nd of January in The Hyde Centre was Pat Dillon and the runner up was Jimmy Naughton.  Well done everyone.  Thank you for your continued support.  New players always welcome Mondays at 8.30pm.

CLUB MASS
Our Annual Club Mass will be celebrated on Sunday 4th February at 10.30am. The Club Committee wishes to invite all members, past and present to attend and asks that if possible could members attend in the club colours.  

CASH FOR CLOBBER
We will be holding a Cash for Clobber initiative later in the year but we will accept a collection on a Sunday night 8.30pm-9.30pm using the bar entrance in the Hyde Centre or alternatively you can contact Harry Hoare on (086) 3436225 to arrange a drop off. Please donate all your clean unwanted clothes, bed linen, towels, curtains, shoes, bags, belts and soft toys etc.  Also accepted are mobile phones, laptops, so if any house is doing a clearout please contact us and we will store the bags.  We ask that bags are not left unattended at any time.
 It’s a great opportunity to do a clear out and to easily earn money for the Club in the process.  So get de cluttering!

RONAN MCCORMACK CHARITY CHALLENGE
If you’ve ever wanted to trying running....this is your chance  👍🏻




 
EXPLORE AND RESTORE
Here's the full programme of events for Explore and Restore in Roscommon Town on 3rd and 4th February. Events are free of charge but those with * need to be booked. Selling out fast so get booking  👏
https://www.facebook.com/events/742429485967363/
OR FIND THEM ON ROSCOMMON TOWN TEAM ON FACEBOOK

U10 BOYS ANNUAL TRIP


The 2017 U10 Boys made a trip to Carrick indoor Karting for their annual trip before Christmas.  No better way to travel than the club rossie bus.  The boys had a great time as did the big boys!! 📵 😂

U14 Girls Football


Pictured Holly Harkin, Ellen Beisty, Noelle Healy (Dublin Footballer), Eva Beisty and Eimhear O’Farrell.
Roscommon U14 Football Girls played Offaly in a challenge game on the 20th and did very well. The Girls played Cavan this Saturday 27th they put up a great battle and were only beaten by the narrowest of margins.  We have 4 Roscommon Gaels Girls on the panel Holly Harkins, Eimear O’Farrell, Chloe Donoghue and Ellen Beisty.  Well done girls yea are doing the gaels proud.  We also have one girl on the U16 panel Eva Beisty.  Well done Eva.

Feile
Féile Concludes for our U14 girls on the 4th of February in Kiltoom when they play St. Brigid’s in the semi final and Clann na ngael play Eir og in the other semi final.  The winners of these two games will play in the final at 1.30pm. Up the Gaels!

Roscommon Gaels Registration Night 
Registration night is on Friday 2nd February at 7- 8.30pm.  As part of the night we are asking coaches to notify their players/parents to root out old/unused gear so that it can be given out to our younger players.  Roscommon Gaels Togs, Socks, Football boots, Hurls, Helmets.  All in reasonable state.  Can all be left into the Hyde at least half an hour before the registration starts.   We are not selling anything but parents wishing to avail of any gear - we would look for a small contribution towards funding of Items towards our juvenile teams.   Please note that you will NOT be insured while training or playing matches if you have not registered.

JUNIOR LADIES FOOTBALL 
Anyone wishing to play Junior Ladies Football we are holding a meeting in The Hyde on Tuesday 30th at 8pm.  This is a new year under new management.  The league is starting soon we need to get training ASAP.  We would like past players to attend or anyone that is interested in joining our Junior Ladies Team to come along, all are welcome.  It’s important everyone is working together for this to succeed and for the future of the Junior Ladies Football team within the Roscommon Gaels.  What’s app group has been set up for this group.  If you have any further queries contact Deckie on 086 6011515. 

Volunteers
The Roscommon Gaels like many others are always on the look - out for more volunteers in all areas i.e. administration, coaching of teams, washing of jerseys, the lining of playing pitches, the transportation of players to and from games, the organisation of fundraising initiatives in addition to performing a host of other specialised tasks.  
Parents and guardians of the children are fundamental to the successful running of our club.  Each year we invite parents to volunteer to become coaches/helpers in the Gaels.  No previous experience is required as the club provides resources; training courses and support so get involved.........................................
    
CBS
Best of Luck to the CBS on Thursday 18th of February when they take on Carrick-on-Shannon Community School in the PPJuvB Cup.

Convent of Mercy Roscommon 
Congratulations to Ms Farragher and The Convent of Mercy Cadette Volleyball team on a superb win in UCD to retain the All Ireland title.  The Roscommon Gaels were well represented on this team by Amy Hanly, Zara Hunt, Emily Horan, Rosin Tully, Neasa Madden, Laura Creaven and Ava Kelly well done girls.  

Fundamentals in training course Saturday 27th of January
The LGFA FUNdamentals Coaching Course took place this Saturday in The Convent Gym in Roscommon many coaches from around the county were in attendance. This was an excellent opportunity to get your coaching qualifications for the upcoming season.
This course is an introductory coaching programme. Coaches looked at:
• Importance of creating a positive environment for our players
• Planning and implementing training programmes
• Introduction to the player pathway
• Create an awareness about making sessions more inclusive
• Importance of Fundamental Movement Skills & Injury Prevention
Coaches looked at issues such as planning and implementing training programmes as well as practical coaching and an introduction into the player pathway.
This course provided a good basis for further development for those already coaching or those who are keen to get involved.  The Roscommon Gaels were well presented with 5 coaches in attendance.   Excellent course facilitated by the Roscommon Lgfa. 

  
Dr. Hyde Park Need’s Stewards
The Roscommon GAA Management Committee now wishes to recruit additional stewards from the clubs of Roscommon to add to the existing pool of volunteers. The Committee would like to hear from club members, male and female, who would like to become involved in this important work for Dr. Hyde Park and Roscommon.

A comprehensive programme of training and mentoring will be provided for all new stewards
To be part of the match day action, the following criteria is required:
•Aged from 18 years old
•Available at weekends
•Active and enthusiastic
•Customer focused
•An interest in GAA would be beneficial
If you would be interested in getting involved please contact Stephen in the Roscommon GAA Co Board Office on 09066 27176 or by email to administrator.roscommon@gaa.ie
  
Best Wishes
A little birdie was in touch to tell me that Clubman Andy Hession has clocked up the half century this week.  The Club would like to wish you a very happy birthday Andy.



Roscommon Ladies Football Church Gate Collection
Thank you to all those who contributed over the Week End to the Church Gate Collection for The Roscommon Ladies Football.  Thank you to all those who stood at Gates.  Thank you to the people of Roscommon Parish for their ongoing support.  It is very much appreciated.

Well Done
Well done to Cillian and Gearoid Egan who were on the Roscommon Hurling Panel today against Louth and to John McManus who was on the Roscommon Senior Football team today against Meath and to Mark Nally who was on the Longford Senior Football team today against Offaly.  

​Lotto
There was no winner of the jackpot and next week’s jackpot is €8,950 and the numbers drawn were 23,25,27,28.

The weekly winners of €30 were
• Keith Mayock, Lahardane, Mayo.
• Anthony Costello, SHH, c/o P. Menton.
• Marita Nugent, Woodview, Ardsallagh.
• Kenny & Catherine Doyle, Ardsallagh.

COACHING NEWS (WK 04 2018)
A. Team Managers & Coaches for 2018 – Final Reminder
All Team Managers are requested to confirm their coaches for the 2018 season by e-mail by Friday 26 January.
 
Please e-mail names and contact numbers of your coaches to:
 Minor Board Secretary: Secretarybng.roscommongaels.roscommon@gaa.ie
 Coaching Officer: johndonnrosgaels@gmail.com
 
NOTE:
1. Team Managers and Coaches must be Garda Vetted.
2. Team Managers and coaches must have attended a Child Protection in Sport class (formerly called Code of Ethics)
3. Each team manager should identify what Coaching Courses coaches in their group have completed.
4. Roscommon Games and Administration will shortly be running Coach Education Courses and it is most important that any gaps re. Garda Vetting, Child Protection in Sport and Foundation F/H within our club coaching group are closed.
              
B. Nursery Programme : Starting 2018 Season
 
The club is working towards implementing a Nursery Programme for our youngest members. The details/structure of the programme are being worked through at present but it will look something like:-
 
• 12- 16 week programme.
• Programme would start Week 1 of May and continue to mid July/August.
• Players can be accepted if they have started in Primary School.
• First 4-5 weeks would be indoor concentrating on an ABC programme and getting them to follow along with a session environment, getting a little discipline and getting them to listen.
• Second 4 weeks we could be starting to ease off on the ABC and start basic ball movements (Hop, Catch-up Kick) so a 50/50 session
• Third 4 weeks ABC + Starting to bring in Simple Games.
• Another 4 weeks TBC depending on how we feel the first 12 went and how we are getting along.
• There will be an emphasis on Fun.. Fun... Fun... while developing their interest of the game and encouraging them to stay with us.
• Objectives at the end from a child’s perspective is that they come away confident, wanting to come back, have developed some motor skills, they know what the sessions are about and they’ve being introduced to some basic GAA skills. Also, we have new parent recruits.
 
Some of the drivers behind the programme include:
 
• Starting too early within the existing U8 Structure has proved challenging especially weather wise. It can still be cold and it’s hard to keep the younger children going and probably not terribly nice to look at from a parent’s perspective.
• The U8 season is too long for younger children and it is debatable how much value they get out of 30+ sessions...
• The programme will reduce the load on the U8 Coaches, thereby allowing them to run effective training sessions.
 
Thank You to Declan Hussey for the work done to date on promoting the Nursery Programme and for putting the foundation blocks in place.   
 
For the Nursery Programme to be a success we will need input from our Coaches. More details will follow
 
C. Club Mentoring Workshop / Planning for 2018
This important workshop will include an opportunity for all our coaches to present their views on how we can improve our club. Information on implementation of the Programme within our club will follow in the coming weeks.


REFEREES
If you or you know of anyone interested in being a referee put your name forward courses are starting in March.  Level 1 Referees Course on Saturday 3rd and 10th of February, in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon from 9.30am to 4pm approx.  There is a shortage of Referees; it is up to clubs to supply them without them games can’t be played.  If you are interested please contact Niamh 086 3818389.

CARDS 
Winner of the 25 card game on Monday the 15th of January in The Hyde Centre were Kathleen Finan, Maureen Kilmartin and Michael Finan.  Well done all.  Thank you to all for your support, new players always welcome Mondays at 8.30pm.

CLUB MASS 
Our Annual Club Mass will be celebrated on Sunday 4th February at 10.30am. The Club Committee wishes to invite all members, past and present to attend and asks that if possible could members attend in the club colours.
While every effort will be made to notify the large numbers of people involved, the Committee would welcome your assistance in spreading the word to former Club members who may have moved from the locality.  

CASH FOR CLOBBER
We will be holding a Cash for Clobber initiative later in the year but we will accept a collection on a Sunday night 8.30pm-9.30pm using the bar entrance in the Hyde Centre or alternatively you can contact Harry Hoare on (086) 3436225 to arrange a drop off. Please donate all your clean unwanted clothes, bed linen, towels, curtains, shoes, bags, belts and soft toys etc.  Also accepted are mobile phones, laptops, so if any house is doing a clearout please contact us and we will store the bags.  We ask that bags are not left unattended at any time.
 It’s a great opportunity to do a clear out and to easily earn money for the Club in the process.  So get de cluttering!

CONGRATS
 A big congrats to Marie McAleer who is to receive The GAA Presidents Award.  Marie is the Roscommon Ladies Football Secretary and also a member of The Roscommon Gaels.  Marie will be honored with the GAA Presidents award in Croke Park in February for her services to ladies football.  Marie was founding member of the Roscommon Ladies Board in 1974 and was also Vice-President of the national ladies board.
 
Congrats Marie It’s nice to see you being rewarded for all your hard work.    Well done.



 
Congrats to our clubman Mark Nally who has been recruited by Longford for the 2018 Season. Well done.

Roscommon Gaels GAA Registration Night 2018 takes place in the Hyde Centre on Friday  2nd Feb from 7-8.30 pm

For all members – Underage & Senior.
All players must be registered (affiliated to GAA and Insured) before taking part in any club activity (training & games). 
As Roscommon Gaels provides all four GAA codes, all families / children who live in the parish of Roscommon / Kilteevan must register with Roscommon Gaels to play their GAA sports, regardless of the schools they attend.  Children who live in neighbouring parishes, who do not have hurling or camogie in their clubs, are welcome to join Roscommon Gaels to play these sports.

Annual Membership fees collected are used to pay for player GAA affiliation and insurance. 

GAA Affiliation & Insurance fees paid by Roscommon Gaels
Year 2014 - €23,890
Year 2015 - €25,475
Year 2016 - €24,204
Year 2017 - €25,495

We are encouraging all members to support our weekly Lotto  by subscribing on an annual basis - €90 per year pay upfront (resulting in 8 free draw entries) or pay  €8 per month Standing Order (resulting in 4 free draw entries). The weekly Lotto fundraising provides much of the necessary funds to operate the club. (approx. operating costs €80,000 per year.)
 
Thank you very much to all members for their continued support.
Our club playing gear is available in local sports shops and online at www.oneills.com/shop-by-team/gaa/ireland/roscommon-gaels-gaa. Hurleys & helmets are for sale within the club, at discounted prices.

Also this year there will be on display 2nd hand gear available for all codes – Hurls, Helmets, Boots, Socks, Togs.  We will be asking all coaches to ask parents to give what they can & there will be a voluntary contribution towards the Minor Board Finances.

Annual Subscriptions Cost 2018:
​
Family  - 2 children U18  €135
Family  - 3 or more children U18  €155
Family  - 1child U18 €85
Student (Over 18) €70
Student – Over 18, where family are already paying family membership    €55
Single Child €65 OAP    €25
Adult player €75
Non playing Adult €55

If possible, please complete the registration form, below, before arriving for registration night.
Contact Secretary, Roscommon Gaels Minor Club, on 087-9266923, with any queries.

Please Support our lotto for the funding of our Club

Lotto
There was no winner of the jackpot and next week’s jackpot is €8,800 and the numbers drawn were
19, 22, 23, 26.
The weekly winners of €30 were
• De Brennan, C/o S.H.H.
• David Kilduff, C/o Hyde. 
• Teresa & Gary, C/o, S.H.H.
• Stephen & Kyran, C/o Hyde.

COACHING NEWS (WK 03 2018)
  
A. Visit by Roscommon Gaels to Primary Schools in Town - Reminder
Following the positive feedback from the visit by our Football & Hurling Coaches to the Gael Scoil and Abbey Boys (now St Comans Wood) in early 2017 we are carrying out a repeat visit before our Registration evening which is on 02 Feb.
 
We will visit the Gael Scoil on afternoon of 25th Jan and visit St. Comans Wood on afternoon of 26th Jan.
 
We are asking Hurling, Football and Camogie Coaches to give about two hours of your time to promote our club by helping on the 25th and/or 26th Jan.
 
Contact John Donnellan (086-0402081) so that rota etc can be arranged.
 
 B. Team Managers & Coaches for 2018 - Reminder
All Team Managers are requested to confirm their coaches for the 2018 season by e-mail by Friday 26 January.
 
Please e-mail names and contact numbers of your coaches to:
  Minor Board Secretary : Secretarybng.roscommongaels.roscommon@gaa.ie
  Coaching Officer : johndonnrosgaels@gmail.com
 
NOTE :
1. Team Managers and Coaches must be Garda Vetted.
2. Team Managers and coaches must have attended a CHILD PROTRECTION IN SPORT AWARENESS class (formerly called Code of Ethics) –
3. Each team manager should identify what Coaching Courses coaches in their group has completed. Roscommon Games and Administration will shortly be running Coach Education Courses and it is most important that any gaps re. Garda Vetting, Child Protection in Sport and Foundation F/H in our coaching group are closed.
       
C. Club Mentoring Workshop / Planning for 2018
This important workshop will include an opportunity for all our coaches to present their views on how we can improve our club. Information on implementation of the Programme within our club will follow in the coming weeks.


REFEREES

If you or you know of anyone interested in being a referee put your name forward courses are starting in March.  Level 1 Referees Course on Saturday 3rd and 10th of February, in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon from 9.30am to 4pm approx.  There is a shortage of Referees; it is up to clubs to supply them without them games can’t be played.  If you are interested please contact Niamh 086 3818389.

UMPIRE AND LINESPERSONS WORKSHOP
Umpire & Linespersons workshop training course will take place on the afternoon of Sunday 21st January 2018 at Connacht GAA Centre.  Interested please contact Michelle 087 2830624
 
CARDS
 Winner of the 25 card game on Monday the 8th of January in The Hyde Centre were Colm Kilcline and runner up was Johnny Walker.  Well done lads.  Thank you to all for your support, new players always welcome Mondays at 8.30pm.

Scór na nÓg
Well done to our singer, dancers and musicians who competed in the Scór na nÓg final on Friday 5th in Elphin. The children all represented themselves so well and we are all very proud of you. While we have not qualified for the Connacht Final, we have made great progress in the club in 2017. Congratulations and well done to all involved.


The Key to Successful Indoor Training
What you do this winter with your teams can really make or break your season in the coming year. It is true that many players will have just completed a long season and now they need rest but it is important for you, the coach, to start planning for the year ahead. ‘Rest’ can be forgotten when it comes to planning your training programmes but too much training in the winter can lead your team to becoming ‘January Stars’ and peaking long before the season even begins so it is important that you use suitable activities to ensure your players enter the season fresh and strong. So what age groups should be participating in Indoor Training? The answer to this is quite simple... any age group. Indoor training can be adapted for all teams in clubs from nursery level through to adult. Many teams continued training outdoor throughout the winter and had to battle all the elements of the weather from snow through to freezing fogs but with so many facilities available now in our clubs and communities it is important that we utilise these to maximum effect.   What are the advantages of winter indoor training? 
• A chance to continue to develop skills. 
A gym/ hall can be an ideal place to practice techniques. The limited space, even floor surface and opportunities to use the walls all speed up the game and make it more technically demanding. Indoor training provides an excellent opportunity for players, especially the very young, to work on coordination and effectively improve their technical skills
 • Keep in touch with teammates through the winter months and have some fun. 
It can be difficult to get your team back together after the winter months if they have not been in contact so by keeping them training during this season you are preparing for the New Year. Players enjoy their team mates company and using indoor facilities allows you to use new training methods and have some fun rather than usual training of preparing for competitive matches 
• Enter the pre season training sessions focused, fit and ready to go! 
 Although your indoor sessions will not be as intense perhaps as your usual training it will still assist your players to keep a level of fitness and feel more prepared for the new season. It will make it much easier to motivate your players to get them back on the field of play 
• Warm indoor environment where the practices are never cancelled. 
It is very frustrating for coaches and players alike when sessions have to be cancelled from week to week due to inclement weather conditions. By having your training indoor this is never a problem and your players will always be aware of their training days and times. 
• Ideal opportunity to get more parents/ volunteers involved.
 New volunteers find it difficult to assist with teams as they feel they do not have the required skills to help out. Indoor training should be fun and different and coaches should ensure to ‘ask’ any parents who are standing around to assist in some capacity particularly if you are using circuit training
   So hopefully all the above will give you an insight into the reasons behind indoor training and also the types of activities you should be planning. I am not saying all teams should train during the winter as I am fully aware that you as coaches need a break as do many of our players but it can be very beneficial to keep your teams together and help them prepare for the coming season. So in preparation for your indoor sessions you should be looking in your area for suitable facilities and hopefully your new season will be a huge success. 
 

The Craig Connolly Memorial
This is a 5km memorial family walk/run in memory of Craig Connolly who passed away suddenly on the 25th February 2017. The walk will start at Fullbody Workhouse Roscommon, where Craig was co-owner alongside Cathal Dinneen who is on the Senior Football team. The route is close to the gym and ending up back at Fullbody Workhouse. All profits from the event are going to two charities: Croi and Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital Crumlin. Our chosen charities were picked for a number of reasons. Croi was chosen because Craig suffered a massive heart attack and along with raising funds we also want to raise awareness about Croi and the work they do. Craig and Tracey’s youngest son is under the care of the respiratory team in Crumlin and they had discussed fundraising for Crumlin at some point in the future. It is fitting to do it now in Craig’s memory. There will be refreshments in the gym after the race and there will also be a raffle. Each race participant will be automatically entered into the raffle and additional tickets will be on sale on the day in the gym. There will also be an official opening of the gym on the day.  Your support is appreciated.

U14 GIRLS 
Reminder for our U14 girl’s gym continues every Tuesday Evening from 8.15pm to 9.15pm in Fullbody Workhouse. What a great imitative by the U14 management. The benefits of conditioning include more efficient use in muscle power.   Decreased injury risk by balancing muscles.  Increased ability to change direction.  Greater capacity for speed generation.  Improved balance and co-ordination.  Core stability is the foundation and should be developed.

 
CLUB MASS
Our Annual Club Mass will be celebrated on Sunday 4th February at 10.30am. The Club Committee wishes to invite all members, past and present to attend and asks that if possible could members attend in the club colours.
While every effort will be made to notify the large numbers of people involved, the Committee would welcome your assistance in spreading the word to former Club members who may have moved from the locality.  

CASH FOR CLOBBER
We will be holding a Cash for Clobber initiative later in the year but we will accept a collection on a Sunday night 8.30pm-9.30pm using the bar entrance in the Hyde Centre or alternatively you can contact Harry Hoare on (086) 3436225 to arrange a drop off. Please donate all your clean unwanted clothes, bed linen, towels, curtains, shoes, bags, belts and soft toys etc.  Also accepted are mobile phones, laptops, so if any house is doing a clearout please contact us and we will store the bags.  We ask that bags are not left unattended at any time.
It’s a great opportunity to do a clear out and to easily earn money for the Club in the process.  So get de cluttering!

Good Luck to the 2nd year Spike ball team who came 1st last Wednesday out of the 5 teams playing and are through to the All Ireland Spike ball Finals. The finals which will be held in UCD next Wednesday the 17th January. Best of luck to the team and a special good luck to our two Gaels girls Holly Harkin and Rosin Kilcline.

Lotto
There was no winner of the jackpot and next week’s jackpot is €8,650 and the numbers drawn were
3, 8, 9, 20.
The weekly winners of €30 were
• Declan Burke, C/o Bridie Hynes.
• Kathleen & Kirsty, C/o K. Hoare. 
• Linda Landers, Caltra, Co. Galway.
• Brian Rodger, C/o Bridie Hynes.

COACHING NEWS (WK 02 2018)
 
A. Team Managers & Coaches for 2018 - Reminder
All Team Managers are requested to confirm their coaches for the 2018 season by e-mail by Friday 26 January.
 
Please e-mail names and contact numbers of your coaches to:
• Minor Board Secretary : Secretarybng.roscommongaels.roscommon@gaa.ie
• Coaching Officer : johndonnrosgaels@gmail.com
 
NOTE:
1. Team Managers and Coaches must be Garda Vetted.
2. Team Managers and coaches must have attended a CHILD PROTRECTION IN SPORT AWARENESS class (formerly called Code of Ethics) –
3. Each team manager should identify what Coaching Courses each coach in their Management Team has completed.
 
B. Visit by Roscommon Gaels to Primary Schools in Town - Reminder
Following the positive feedback from the visit by our Football & Hurling Coaches to the Gael Scoil and Abbey Boys (now St Comans Wood) in early 2017 we are planning a repeat visit before our Registration evening which is on 02 Feb. We will be asking our coaches to assist. More details will follow in next week’s newsletter.
 
C. Upcoming Safeguarding Courses
 
Safeguarding Courses - Dates are all Thursdays:
Safeguarding 1: for everyone working with children in sport 11th January.
Safeguarding 2: for children officers, who advocates for the needs and rights of the child 1st of February.
Safeguarding 3: for designated persons whose role is to report suspected or alleged child abuse, 15th February from 7-10pm in Roscommon (venue depends on numbers) cost €15.  We will put another safeguarding 1 on if we have demand. Booking is essential please do so by email to infor@rosactive.org or 0906630853.
                              
D. Club Mentoring Workshop / Planning for 2018
This important workshop will include an opportunity for all our coaches to present their views on how we can improve our club. Information on implementation of the Programme within our club will follow in the coming weeks.
 
E. National GAA Developments Conference 2018
The annual GAA Games Development conference in partnership with Sky Sports will take place on Friday and Saturday January 12th and 13th 2018 in Croke Park. The cost of the conference is 60 Euro and for further information and booking details go to the GAA.ie website.

REFEREES
If you or you know of anyone interested in being a referee put your name forward courses are starting in March.  Level 1 Referees Course on Saturday 3rd and 10th of February, in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon from 9.30am to 4pm approx.  There is a shortage of Referees; it is up to clubs to supply them without them games can’t be played.  If you are interested please contact Niamh 086 3818389.

UMPIRE AND LINESPERSONS WORKSHOP
Umpire & Linespersons workshop training course will take place on the afternoon of Sunday 21st January 2018 at Connacht GAA Centre.  Interested please contact Michelle 087 2830624
 
Road Safety Information Evening
Roscommon GAA in conjunction with Roscommon County Council and the Road Safety Authority (RSA) have organised an "Information Evening" for Club Officers to be held in Hannon's Hotel Roscommon on Monday evening next January 8th at 8pm. Catherine Flaherty from the RSA will be in attendance and will outline what services are available to Clubs through their various programmes including "Play it Safe". 

‘Play it Safe’ was developed by the RSA in association with the GAA, FAI, IRFU, and Cycling Ireland. It presents information on organising sporting events with road safety in mind by encouraging the use of high visibility clothing, safe driving practices etc. 

Through the provision of these guidelines, the RSA will assist all relevant personnel in sporting organisations with information on how to be road safety aware when organising sporting activities or travelling to and from sporting events.

All interested club officers are asked to attend. 

Scór na nÓg Stars Shone in Elphin
All our young stars travelled to Elphin on Friday night to compete in the Scór na nÓg finals. The finals had to be rescheduled due to inclement weather. There was such a high standard in each of the seven disciplines and it was a difficult job for the adjudicators to decide the winners. 
Tensions were high among the competitors, as everyone wants to be crowned County Champion. Some have numerous county titles won already and yet there is a strong desire to add more titles to their C.V’s. Some of them have won All-Ireland titles and like any G.A.A person, lifting an All-Ireland trophy for your club and County is the biggest dream.  But it is not easy to win these titles. 
Hours have been spent training in preparation for these finals. It is a great opportunity to showcase their talents. School friends, cousins & county teammates will compete against each other. It is very social but do not underestimate what these County titles mean to these performers. Many of them are accomplished sportspeople within their own clubs and many have worn their county jersey this summer. They are fierce competitors who have a desire to do their club proud. This involvement in Scór is addictive. Many of the mentors are former participants. 
Our Bean an Tí was Kilbride native Aoife McLoughlin. Aoife has represented Roscommon in two All-Irelands in Solo singing. She is now overage but she is still eager to be involved in Scór. She did a great job on the night. For many of the winners, they were delighted to be presented with their trophy by Roscommon’s Connacht Senior Football Championship winning Captain Ciaran Murtagh. County Board Secretary Brian Carroll was also there on the night to cheer on the young people of Roscommon. 
Well done to all the clubs who had participants in the finals. They were a credit to their families and communities. Please come along to the Connacht Finals in Claremorris Town Hall on Sunday 14th January at 2.30pm to support Roscommon. They would be delighted with your support.
County Champions:
Figure Dancing                        St. Dominic’s
Solo Singing                            Saoirse Murray  Kilbride
Recitation                                Katie Heneghan St. Aidan’s
Ballad Group                           St. Dominic’s B
Léiriú Stáitse                           St. Dominic’s
Instrumental Music                  Elphin
Set Dancing                            Elphin

CARDS
Cards resume tomorrow night Monday 8th of January 2018 in The Hyde Centre all welcome.


CIAN CONNOLLY
Congratulations and well done to our very own Cian Connolly who won the TG4 Cúil na Bliana goal of the year award 2017. Cian secured the football award for his goal in Roscommon’s Connacht final victory over Galway last July in Pearse Stadium.  Cian’s goal was described as a peach by TV sports Pundit and Sunday World Columnist Pat Spillane.  Cian’s goal between finish and pass was a work of art.  Three of the top four were Rossie goals. Huup
​

Happy New Year
As the year draws to a close we would like to take this opportunity to thank you our members, sponsors and supporters for the contributions you have made in 2017 that make Roscommon Gaels GAA club such a great success. The year ahead brings many exciting opportunities and we will need everyone's help to turn the dreams of our players and your families, into reality.  Our club belongs to all its members and is there to support the ambitions of our players at all levels and playing codes.  This is YOUR club; its purpose is to enhance the happiness & health of its members, your children, your families, your community and your friends. Please do what you can to develop this club for everyone's benefit.
 Again many thanks for the huge contributions in 2017 and best wishes for the year ahead.

Lotto
There was no winner of the jackpot and next week’s jackpot is €8,500 and the numbers drawn were
8, 12, 16, 19.
The weekly winners of €30 were
• Bridie Fitzmaurice, Sleevinagee.
• Celine Nally, Ballymahon.
• Ray Kennedy, C/o Murray’s.
• Brian McCourt, Antogher Road.

COACHING NEWS (WK 01 2018)
A. Team Managers & Coaches for 2018 - Reminder
Can all Team Mangers decide who will make up their Coaching Group for 2018. The club will be asking each team to forward names of their coaching group within the next few weeks.
 
PLEASE NOTE:
1. Team Managers and Coaches must be Garda Vetted.
2. Team Managers and coaches must have attended a CHILD PROTRECTION IN SPORT AWARENESS class (formerly called Code of Ethics) –
3. Each team manager should identify what Coaching Courses each coach in their Management Team has completed.
 
Team Managers and their Coaches should be considering putting together Coaching Plans covering Short Term, Medium Terms and Long Term Goals for the 2018 season.
 
B. Visit by Roscommon Gaels to Primary Schools in Town - Reminder
Following the positive feedback from the visit by our Football & Hurling Coaches to the Gael Scoil and Abbey Boys (now St Comans Wood) in early 2017 we are planning a repeat visit before our Registration evening which is on 02 Feb. We will be asking our coaches to assist. More details to follow in next couple of weeks.
 
C. Upcoming Safeguarding Courses
Safeguarding Courses - Dates are all Thursdays:
Safeguarding 1: for everyone working with children in sport 11th January.
Safeguarding  2: for children officers, who advocates for the needs and rights of the child 1st of February.
Safeguarding 3: for designated persons whose role is to report suspected or alleged child abuse, 15th February from 7-10pm in Roscommon (venue depends on numbers) cost €15.  We will put another safeguarding 1 on if we have demand. Booking is essential please do so by email to infor@rosactive.org or 0906630853.
         
D. Club Mentoring Workshop / Planning for 2018
Information on implementation of the Programme within our club to follow in coming weeks. The programme will include an opportunity for all our coaches to present their views on how we can improve our club.
 
E. National GAA Developments Conference 2018
The annual GAA Games Development conference in partnership with Sky Sports will take place on Friday and Saturday January 12th and 13th 2018 in Croke Park. The cost of the conference is 60 Euro and for further information and booking details go to the GAA.ie website.

25 Card Drive
25 card playing in the Hyde continues on Monday nights.  The regular clientele are enjoying the cards, the craic and the friendly cuppa.  There is a €5 entry with cash prize on the night. All are welcome. Many thanks to all the players, who competed over the season, for their support of this Club event – we would love to see more players joining on Monday 8th of January 2018 when play resumes.

BAG PACK
The annual bag pack took place in Dunnes Stores on Christmas Eve.  Many thanks to all those both young and old who took the time out from what is a very busy day at home and assisted with this excellent fundraiser.  Thanks to Natasha Comiskey Hoare who coordinated the day.

Quiz Night
The Gaels Quiz night took place last Thursday night in Carthy’s Porterhouse.  Once again it was a great success with a large crowd in attendance and a great night of fun and laughs was had by all.  Mc on the night was Deckie Hoare who did a brilliant job and kept the crowd entertained as did the questions.  On behalf of the club thank you to all the people who came to support the quiz in such great numbers, to those that organised and helped with the quiz and to those who gave spot prizes.  Well done to all concerned.

Registration for 2018
Roscommon Gaels Club Registration Night will take place on Friday 2nd of February at 7pm in the Hyde Centre for all members – underage & senior.
All players must be registered (affiliated to GAA and Insured) before taking part in any club activity (training & games).  Applications forms can be found on the website http://roscommongaels.gaa.ie/documents   it is important we have all contact numbers and emails addresses.  When communicating with juvenile members messages will be sent to parents/guardians only.

MAKING THE MOST OF OUR CLUB
It is important to note that a Club does not have to be winning championships every year to be seen as an ‘active’ Club. There are many examples of positive stories in the Club including:
 • Anniversary of past glories 
• Fundraising success
 • Club social nights 
• Pitch and clubhouse development 
• Juvenile blitzes in the Club
 • County player visiting the Club 
• Club players making a county panel 
One of the most effective ways of ensuring that the Club’s story is told to the members and to the community in general is our newsletter, website and social media.  In order for it to be effective we need more input, more photos, more news.  I am asking all teams, all codes to designate someone a parent a manager a mentor to take a photo, to send in a couple of words we are after all making memories.  Our club is positive, progressive, alive and active’! Let our members see that the Club is a place full of social and sporting activity.  Let us show how much enjoyment and activity that players are getting in the Club. Effective communication requires a ‘team effort’. Every officer every member has some part to play in communicating or providing information when required.   Send in those match results no matter how bad or good they are.  Let’s not assume people know what is going on lets tell them.

Scor na nOg Finals
Our finals were postponed in early December due to heavy snow and our finalists have had to hold off until January to showcase their talents. On Friday 5th January the various clubs will travel to Elphin Community centre to perform and find out who will be crowned County Champions. 
The Connacht Finals will take place in Claremorris on the 14th January. Elphin G.A.A club have already been crowned County Champions in Tráth na gCeist and have been awarded The Pat Dennehy Memorial Cup.
 
This will be a fantastic night of entertainment where the young people of Roscommon will perform in the hope of bringing glory back to their parishes. Please come and support the young people in your area. The tickets cost €10 and can be bought at the door. The competition starts at 7 pm sharp.

Scór na nÓg Finalists
Figure Dancing: St. Dominic’s, Roscommon Gaels, Shannon Gaels, St. Aidan’s
Solo Singing: Saoirse Murray(Kilbride), Ciara Mulheir(St. Croan,s), Joe Cunnane (St. Croan’s), Maeve Bhurton (Ros Gaels)
Recitation: Katie Heneghan (St. Aidan’s), Patrick Mullooly (St. Dominic’s A), Roisin Kenny (St. Dominic’s B), Rose McGreevey (Shannon Gaels B)
Ballad Group: Kilbride, St. Croan’s, St. Dominic’s A, St. Dominic’s B,
Léiriú: Oran, Elphin, Kilmore, St. Dominic’s
Ceol Úirlise: Kilbride, Roscommon Gaels, Boyle, Elphin
Set Dancing: St. Dominic’s, Elphin