Sunday’s Rounders Results: Breaffy Blitz, Glynn Barntown Sweep, and Carrickmacross Men Shine

Sunday’s Rounders Results: Breaffy Blitz, Glynn Barntown Sweep, and Carrickmacross Men Shine

The 2025 GAA Rounders season produced another action-packed Sunday with standout results across all grades.
Breaffy delivered a fireworks show with a two massive home wins, Glynn Barntown completed a senior sweep in Ballon, and Carrickmacross Emmets men’s impressed.
Emo extended their unbeaten run, while Gusserane, Wolfe Tones, and Kilmeena made statements in the junior ranks. Here’s the full breakdown from Sunday, 25th May.

Senior Mixed

Cuchulainn 17–22 Glynn Barntown
Cuchulainn’s offence fired early, with scores from Amy Maloney, Leah Mullins, Carmel Maloney, Caroline Waters, Billy Connors, and Pearce Ryan. They posted 5 in both the first and third innings, but Barntown’s 16-run burst across the middle innings proved too much to overcome.

Limekiln 7–6 Carrickmacross Emmets
A razor-tight Senior Mixed contest saw Limekiln edge Carrick by a single run. Chris Hughes was outstanding, delivering under pressure and leading Limekiln’s late push.

Breaffy 28–12 Kilmeena – Senior Mixed
Breaffy’s Mixed team made it two dominant wins on the day, racking up a massive score in blustery conditions. Mark Jennings and Leo Cannon hitting home runs. Even after emptying the bench, Kilmeena stayed competitive and scored consistently, but couldn’t match Breaffy’s relentless attack.

Senior Men

Carrickmacross Emmets 15–6 Limekiln
Carrick controlled the game from start to finish. Paddy Bermingham launched a 3-base screamer to clear the bases, while Justin nailed a trademark rocket to 1st for the out of the day. Barry Lambe quietly fouled out a chunk of Limekiln’s batting lineup.

Breaffy 31–6 Michael Glaveys
Breaffy were clinical once again. Jamie Murphy hit three home runs, with support from John Gibbons (2), Colin Cannon. They hit three in a row at one point in a relentless display.

Cuchulainn 7–11 Glynn Barntown
Cuchulainn spread their scoring with contributions from Kevin Laszczak, Adam Kelly, Peadar Waters, Ronan Broderick, Evan Dunphy, and Fiachra Shier. A 5-run fourth inning sealed it for Barntown.

Senior Ladies

Cuchulainn 7–15 Glynn Barntown
Barntown’s scoring across the final innings pushed them ahead. Cuchulainn were led by Amy Maloney, and Caroline Waters, who showed promise in both attack and defence.

Intermediate Mixed

Raheen 23–40 Emo
Three from three for Emo. Eoin Keenan made a brilliant sliding catch, JP sent a home run into the ditch, and Áine anchored things as backstop. Raheen hit 5 home runs but couldn’t match Emo’s firepower.

Junior Men

Myshall 7–6 Inniskeen Grattans

Sean Connollys 19–31 Gusserane

Junior Ladies

Dublin Mets 13–12 Myshall

Carrickmacross Emmets 15–6 Drumhowan Geraldines

Sean Connollys 17–12 Skryne

St Kierans 23–6 Knockainey

Kilaneran 11–8 Ferns St Aidans

Junior Mixed

Wolfe Tones 25–15 Sean Connollys

Kilmeena 9–7 Garrymore

CLICK FOR LEAGUE TABLES

*Updates will be done as results appear

GAA Rounders Week 4 Preview – Sunday 25th May

GAA Rounders Week 4 Preview
Sunday 25th May

Breaffy vs Kilmeena – Senior Mixed (1pm)

Breaffy are the reigning All-Ireland champions and looked every bit the part in their opening rounds. This is the first ever championship meeting of the two Mayo clubs. Kilmeena, newcomers to the senior grade, will be up against it after losing their opener to The Heath, 13–11. With a polished batting order and disciplined fielding, Breaffy should have this wrapped up early.

Prediction: Breaffy

Breaffy vs Michael Glaveys – Senior Men (2:30pm)

Michael Glaveys have found the Senior Men’s grade a tough transition and will need to find form quickly. A trip to Breaffy is a tough ask. The hosts have shown immense progress over the past 24 months and will look to use home turf to their advantage.

Prediction: Breaffy

Cuchulainn vs Glynn Barntown – Senior Ladies (11am)

Cuchulainn are gritty but lost an epic opening battle against Erne Eagles, 34–30. Glynn Barntown’s infield is clinical, and their batting lineup shows no signs of slowing. They must be favourites for the title—this fixture will show whether that’s justified.

Prediction: Glynn Barntown

Cuchulainn vs Glynn Barntown – Senior Mixed (12:30pm)

Another tough test for the hosts. Glynn Barntown’s mixed side already look like semi-final contenders, showing strong structure and composure in their 12–5 away win over Carrick. Cuchulainn will need to stay error-free and strike early with the bat. Should be a very entertaining contest.

Prediction: Glynn Barntown

Cuchulainn vs Glynn Barntown – Senior Men (2pm)

Glynn Barntown’s third clash of the day—but fatigue shouldn’t be a factor. Their men’s side has great depth and will back themselves to complete a clean sweep. Cuchulainn will be determined, but it may not be enough.

Prediction: Clean sweep for Glynn Barntown

Carrickmacross vs Drumhowan – Junior Ladies (11am)

Carrickmacross have been ruthless in this grade, while Drumhowan smashed 49 runs in just two innings against Sean Connolly’s. This match could decide who qualifies for the quarter-final.

Prediction: Carrickmacross

Carrickmacross vs Limekiln – Senior Mixed (12:30pm)

Both sides lost their opening matches, making this a vital clash—losing two in a row makes competing at senior level extremely difficult. Limekiln bring physicality and presence, but Carrick have more weapons across the diamond. This could be the game of the weekend.

Prediction: Carrickmacross

Carrickmacross vs Limekiln – Senior Men (2pm)

This one’s all about belief. Carrick’s men are developing into a real force and will fancy their chances against a Limekiln side convincingly beaten by Breaffy. Expect a decent crowd and even bigger energy for this clash.

Prediction: Carrickmacross

The Heath vs Kevin’s – Senior Mixed Game OFF

Kevin’s are goneHeath edged past Kilmeena in their opening fixture. Kevin’s haven’t played yet this season, but on their day they could beat anyone. This match will say a lot about how both teams’ seasons are shaping up.

Prediction: OFF

Sean Connolly’s vs Skryne – Junior Ladies (11am)

Sean Connolly’s haven’t impressed so far, conceding heavily to Drumhowan, but if they can shore up their defence, they have the ability to score. Skryne are playing their first game of the season, and if they get the bats going, they could be hard to stop.

Prediction: Skryne

Sean Connolly’s vs Wolfe Tones – Junior Mixed (1pm)

Wolfe Tones opened with a good win, but Sean Connolly’s have enough talent to make this a tight encounter. This could go down to the final inning.

Prediction: Wolfe Tones

Sean Connolly’s vs Gusserane – Junior Men (3pm)

In a strange twist, Sean Connolly’s were one of the few unbeaten teams in 2024 but missed the knockouts due to a walkover. Gusserane will push them hard, but expect the Longford side to end the day on a high.

Prediction: Sean Connolly’s

Myshall vs Dublin Metropolitans – Junior Ladies (11am)

Myshall have been quietly impressive and will see this as a crucial game in their knockout push. Dublin Metropolitans have experience and depth—it could all come down to bowling.

Prediction: Dublin Metropolitans

Myshall vs Dublin Metropolitans – Junior Mixed (1pm)

This could be one of the most exciting games of the round. Both teams are athletic and aggressive. Dublin Metropolitans reached the semi-finals last year and are serious contenders for the title.

Prediction: Dublin Metropolitans

Myshall vs Inniskeen Grattans – Junior Men (3pm)

Inniskeen have far more experience in their squad and, after losing last year’s All-Ireland final, are hungry to go one better. Myshall will try to control the early innings, but it may be a tall order.

Prediction: Inniskeen Grattans

Raheen vs Emo – Intermediate Mixed (11am)

Emo blitzed Na Fianna in Week 1 and cruised past Glynn Barntown last week—easily the form team in the grade. Raheen are entering the competition for the first time this season but were finalists last year and have several senior players. A superb matchup; the winner becomes All-Ireland favourite.

Prediction: Emo

Ballinagore vs Mayo Gaels – Junior Mixed (5pm)

Mayo Gaels are enthusiastic but still developing. Ballinagore are more settled and come in off two solid wins, including a dominant display over Kilmeena. Experience and cohesion should see them through.

Prediction: Ballinagore

Garrymore vs Kilmeena – Junior Mixed (6pm)

A classic Mayo derby. Kilmeena are struggling to find form in Junior Mixed—setting up a second team is always tough—but they’ll know this match could decide who reaches the quarter-finals. Garrymore are gaining momentum, with a solid win over Mayo Gaels behind them.

Prediction: Kilmeena

Go Games Rounders Pilot a Hit at Kevins GAA Club in Dublin

Go Games Light Up Loreto!

The Kevins Club in Dublin hosted a high-energy Go Games pilot for boys and girls aged 12 and under on Saturday, 10th May—and the reaction? A home run! While Go Games are well-known in GAA circles, Rounders hasn’t yet rolled out a full national version—until now. Judging by the smiles, cheers and non-stop action last Saturday, that might be about to change.


Mini Pitches, Maximum Fun

Over 80 children from Kevins, Na Fianna, and Emo took to the mini-pitches at Loreto College on Crumlin Road for an afternoon of fun-focused Rounders. Four games ran simultaneously between 3:30 and 5:30 pm. With the focus on skill-building and teamwork, no scores were recorded—just grins and great shots! The format encouraged clubs to mix boys and girls, creating exciting opportunities for kids to make friends, learn together, and enjoy the game.
 

“The Only Problem? Getting Them to Leave!”

That was the verdict from many parents, who praised the well-timed afternoon slot that allowed dual-code kids to join in after morning football or hurling. And the big bonus? Loads of new members signed up to Kevins thanks to the event!

 

Batting, Bowling, and Blazing Home Runs

The kids learned to bat, bowl, catch, throw and more. Many parents were surprised at the fast-paced sprints and sharp movements that aren’t as common in traditional GAA. It was skill development disguised as fun—ABCs, RJTs and communication skills all in action! And yes, there were Home Runs. Big ones. With even bigger celebrations. “I’ve never seen our kids run that fast on a hurling pitch,” one coach chuckled.

 

Special Guests & Big Smiles

National Secretary Shirley Lennon dropped in to lend her support, and All-Ireland winner Serena Scott gave out coaching tips and encouragement to future stars.

 

Survey Says… More Please!

Parents filled in a short survey after the event. When asked “Will your child play Rounders again?”, the most popular answer was a loud and clear: YES! Favourite activities? “Batting” and “Having Fun With Friends” took the top spots. Because that’s what Go Games is all about!

 

Want In? Here’s How

More events are scheduled throughout the summer in Dublin, and new clubs are welcome to try it out. You only need 9 players and a GAA pitch (35m x 35m) to host a Go Games Rounders event. No goalposts needed, just enthusiasm and a ball! If your club is interested, get in touch at secretary.rounders@gaa.ie.

Let’s bring the joy of Rounders to every corner of Ireland!

GAA Rounders Matchday Report – Sunday, 18th May 2025

GAA Rounders Matchday Report – Sunday, 18th May 2025

Sunday’s round of GAA Rounders fixtures served up another action-packed day with dominant displays, nail-biters, and a couple of walkovers sprinkled in. With the Intermediate Championships starting to take shape and Junior teams fighting hard to build momentum, the stakes are already rising.

Intermediate Grades

Kilmeena’s Intermediate Men made a serious statement in their second game of the tournament , brushing aside the Metropolitans 30–8 in just two innings. Their power at the plate and composure in the field left no doubt about their title ambitions.

Glynn Barntown had a strong showing in the Intermediate Ladies, defeating Emo 17–7 after just three innings. Emo bounced back in the Mixed fixture, racing to a 37–17 win over the same opponents in a high-scoring encounter.

Carrickmacross Emmets held their nerve to edge Kilmeena 22–21 in an entertaining Intermediate Ladies clash

Meanwhile, Michael Glavey’s Mixed side opened their campaign with a solid 19–16 win over Erne Eagles. Their Ladies team fell 21–12 to The Heath, who continue to impress.

Junior Grades

Carrickmacross Emmets received a walkover in the Junior Ladies after Naomh Trea were unable to field. On the pitch, their Mixed team overwhelmed the same opponents 34–17.

Ballinagore delivered a composed away performance to defeat Kilmeena 27–12 in Junior Mixed. Myshall made it a double with victories over Naomh Éanna in both Ladies (22–17) and Mixed (26–19).

Inniskeen were awarded a walkover in the Junior Men’s tie against Gusserane. Elphin secured a hard-fought 12–8 win over Kildimo Pallaskenry.

Sporting Limerick edged the Junior Men’s contest with Galway City Rapparees 28–23, but the Connacht side struck back with a commanding 31–6 victory in the Mixed game.

Elsewhere, Castletown Liam Mellows were too strong for Leighlinbridge in the Junior Ladies, and Kilanerin played out a 19–19 draw with Glynn Barntown.


Full Results – Sunday, 18th May 2025

Grade Home Team Score Innings Away Team Score Innings Winner
Intermediate Men Dublin Metropolitans 8 5 Kilmeena 30 2 Kilmeena
Intermediate Ladies Carrickmacross Emmets 22 4 Kilmeena 21 5 Carrickmacross Emmets
Intermediate Ladies Glynn Barntown 17 3 Emo 7 5 Glynn Barntown
Intermediate Ladies Michael Glavey’s 12 The Heath 21 The Heath
Intermediate Mixed Glynn Barntown 17 5 Emo 37 3 Emo
Intermediate Mixed Michael Glavey’s 19 Erne Eagles 16 Michael Glavey’s
Junior Ladies Carrickmacross Emmets Walkover Naomh Trea Carrickmacross Emmets
Junior Mixed Carrickmacross Emmets 34 Naomh Trea 17 Carrickmacross Emmets
Junior Mixed Kilmeena 12 5 Ballinagore 27 3 Ballinagore
Junior Ladies Naomh Éanna 17 5 Myshall 22 2 Myshall
Junior Mixed Naomh Éanna 19 5 Myshall 26 5 Myshall
Junior Men Inniskeen Walkover Gusserane Inniskeen
Junior Ladies Kildimo Pallaskenry 8 5 Elphin 12 3 Elphin
Junior Men Sporting Limerick 28 5 Galway City Rapparees 23 5 Sporting Limerick
Junior Mixed Sporting Limerick 6 5 Galway City Rapparees 31 3 Galway City Rapparees
Junior Ladies Leighlinbridge 18 5 Castletown Liam Mellows 28 5 Castletown Liam Mellows
Junior Ladies Kilanerin 19 5 Glynn Barntown 19 5 Draw

Want more Rounders updates? Stay tuned for weekly previews, full match results, and exclusive interviews with players and coaches.

GAA Rounders – Week 3 Intermediate Previews & Junior Fixtures

GAA Rounders – Week 3 Intermediate Previews & Junior Fixtures

Sunday, 18th May


Intermediate Mixed: Glynn Barntown vs Emo

Throw-In: 3:00pm, Glynn Barntown

Emo opened with an emphatic 29–7 win over Na Fianna and arrive in Wexford looking to back it up. Their aggressive batting and high-tempo fielding will test a Glynn Barntown side making their seasonal debut. The home side will aim to disrupt Emo’s rhythm early and feed off local support, but they’ll need a near-flawless display to derail one of the group’s early frontrunners.

Key Battle: Emo’s momentum vs Glynn’s fresh legs.


Intermediate Ladies: Glynn Barntown vs Emo

Throw-In: 1:00pm, Glynn Barntown

It’s already must-win territory for Emo after a 16–8 defeat to Carrickmacross. A second loss could put their semi-final hopes in real jeopardy. Glynn Barntown will be keen to open with a statement win on home soil. Expect Emo to come out swinging — but the stakes may weigh heavy.

Pressure Point: Emo need a result to stay in the mix.


Intermediate Men: Dublin Mets vs Kilmeena

Throw-In: 11:30am, Carrickmacross

This is one of the biggest games of the Intermediate Men’s group stage. Kilmeena remain unbeaten, while the Mets are out to recover from a recent loss to the Rapparees.

What’s at Stake: A semi-final spot is within reach — but only for one.


Intermediate Ladies: Carrickmacross vs Kilmeena

Throw-In: 1:00pm, Carrickmacross

Kilmeena’s narrow defeats have left them chasing the pack. Carrick have the momentum after a strong opening. A win for Kilmeena could flip their season.

Turning Point: Kilmeena must win to stay in the race.


Intermediate Mixed: Michael Glaveys vs Erne Eagles

Throw-In: 12:45pm, Glaveys

Glaveys are back from Senior and favourites for a reason. But managing expectations — and pressure — will be key.

Favourites Watch: Glaveys have the pedigree — now they need the points.


Intermediate Ladies: Michael Glaveys vs The Heath

Throw-In: 11:00am, Glaveys

The Heath enter as serious contenders and boast a heavy win in last year’s fixture. Glaveys will need more than home support to stop them.

On Alert: The Heath are contenders — Glaveys need to be near-perfect.


Full Fixture List – Sunday 18th May

Carrickmacross

  • 11:30am: Kilmeena vs Dublin Mets – Intermediate Men
  • 1:00pm: Carrickmacross vs Kilmeena – Intermediate Ladies
  • 2:30pm: Kilmeena vs Ballinagore – Junior Mixed
  • 4:00pm: Carrickmacross vs Naomh Trea – Junior Mixed
  • 5:30pm: Carrickmacross vs Naomh Trea – Junior Ladies

Glynn Barntown

  • 1:00pm: Glynn Barntown vs Emo – Intermediate Ladies
  • 3:00pm: Glynn Barntown vs Emo – Intermediate Mixed

Michael Glavey’s

  • 11:00am: Michael Glavey’s vs The Heath – Intermediate Ladies
  • 12:45pm: Michael Glavey’s vs Erne Eagles – Intermediate Mixed

Kildimo Pallaskenry

  • 12:30pm: Kildimo Pallaskenry vs Elphin – Junior Ladies

Sporting Limerick

  • 12:00pm: Sporting Limerick vs Galway Rapparees – Junior Men
  • 2:00pm: Sporting Limerick vs Galway Rapparees – Junior Mixed

Naomh Éanna

  • 11:00am: Naomh Éanna vs Myshall – Junior Mixed
  • 1:00pm: Naomh Éanna vs Myshall – Junior Ladies

Leighlinbridge

  • 12:00pm: Leighlinbridge vs Castletown LM – Junior Ladies

Kilanerin

  • 7:00pm: Kilanerin vs Glynn Barntown – Junior Ladies

#GAARounders #IntermediateChampionship #JuniorFixtures #SupportRounders

GAA Rounders Matchday Report – Sunday 11th May

GAA Rounders Matchday Report – Sunday 11th May

A thrilling day of GAA Rounders action unfolded on Sunday 11th May with fixtures played across multiple grades, producing high scores, tight battles, and plenty of standout performances.

Senior Men
• Breaffy showed their class with a convincing 21-11 win over Limekiln, despite batting one inning less.
• Erne Eagles demonstrated ruthless efficiency, needing just 3 innings to defeat Cuchulainn 22-0.
• Carrickmacross Emmets were too strong for Glynn Barntown, claiming a 15-4 win over 4 innings each.

Senior Mixed
• Breaffy came out on top in a competitive tie with Limekiln, winning 7-5 after 4 innings.
• Erne Eagles continued their strong form, taking a 23-12 victory over Cuchulainn in a five-inning thriller.
• Glynn Barntown got their revenge in the mixed grade, beating Carrickmacross Emmets 12-5.
• The Heath edged out Kilmeena 13-11 in one of the most tightly contested fixtures of the day.

Senior Ladies
• Erne Eagles completed a hat-trick of wins across the grades with a pulsating 34-30 win against Cuchulainn in a high-scoring encounter.

Intermediate Men
• Kilmeena were too strong for St. Clare’s, running out 22-15 winners over 4 innings to open their campaign positively.
• Galway City Rapparees delivered a dominant 20-6 win over Dublin Mets, establishing themselves as early contenders.

Intermediate Ladies
• St. Clare’s narrowly edged Kilmeena 11-10, taking the lead late in the fourth inning to snatch the win.

Intermediate Mixed
• Galway City Rapparees impressed once more, securing a comfortable 23-6 win over Athenry to round off a perfect day for the club.

With Round 1 of the senior championship in the books, the championship is off to a flying start.

Rounders Championship Previews & Fixtures – Sunday, 11th May 2025

Rounders Championship Previews & Fixtures – Sunday, 11th May 2025

The second weekend of the 2025 GAA Rounders Championship — and the opening round of the senior championships — brings a packed slate of high-stakes fixtures across the country. With promotion hopefuls, former finalists, and early-season form all colliding, Sunday could prove pivotal. And for most teams in action, it’s only week one.

All eyes will be on heavy-hitters like Limekiln vs Breaffy in both the Senior Men’s and Mixed grades, as the two All-Ireland finalists renew their rivalry. Erne Eagles vs Cuchulainn promises to be a crucial clash across three codes, with last year’s tight margins fresh in the memory. Elsewhere, newcomers Kilmeena face a baptism of fire away to The Heath in Senior Mixed, while the all-Galway Intermediate Mixed derby between Galway City Rapparees and Athenry could be a historic first.

INTERMEDIATE LADIES

Kilmeena vs St Clare’s
Venue: Heath
Time: 1.30pm
Kilmeena were promoted to Intermediate Ladies for 2025, but started with a disappointing 9–10 defeat to Michael Glaveys. A second loss would seriously dent their semi-final hopes. St Clare’s, losing semi-finalists in 2024, are considered one of the early favourites — and will expect to take care of business here.

INTERMEDIATE MEN

Kilmeena vs St Clare’s
Venue: The Heath
Time: 11:30am
They met in 2024’s Intermediate Men’s Championship — where Kilmeena emerged 11–6 winners. With St Clare’s coming off a 2024 semi-final appearance, this game could tilt the balance of the group for either side. All-Star Tommy Hoban will need to be in on top form for the Mayo side if they are to start the season off with a win.

Galway City Rapparees vs Dublin Metropolitans
Venue: Galway
Time: 1.30pm
The Rapparees, 2023 finalists, endured a miserable 2024 and are desperate to bounce back. Dublin Mets, promoted as Junior Men’s champions, made a major statement with a last-gasp win away to Emo last time out. With Ryan Dennis and Jack Cheyne set to battle it out on the mound, this is one of the most exciting pitching duels at intermediate level of the weekend — and potentially a decider for a semi-final spot down the line.

INTERMEDIATE MIXED

Galway City Rapparees vs Athenry
Venue: Galway
Time: 3.15pm
The first all-Galway Rounders Championship clash in the history of rounders, and with local pride on the line, it’s shaping up to be a huge day for both clubs.

Galway City Rapparees were one of only a couple of unbeaten teams across all grades last season. They capped off a perfect 2024 campaign by winning the Junior Mixed final and earning promotion — but despite that, they enter 2025 as underdogs in a fiercely competitive Intermediate division. With momentum on their side, they’ll be hoping to extend their winning streak and make an early statement.

Athenry, meanwhile, had two wins last season and know they’ll need to be sharper if they want to push for a semi-final place this year. They’ll be wary of a fired-up Rapparees squad with a point to prove and home support behind them. Expect a passionate and tight encounter in what could become one of the league’s newest rivalries.

SENIOR LADIES

Erne Eagles vs Cuchulainn
Venue: Erne
Time: 11:30am
Two of last year’s top contenders collide in what could be an early decider for a semi-final place.

Cuchulainn looked destined for the 2024 final before a late-on fightback from Breaffy to snatch victory. Erne Eagles also bowed out at the semi-final stage — but it was this exact fixture where they prevailed in a pulsating 24–21 shootout. That game was one of the matches of the season and both sides will be desperate to lay down a marker early in 2025.

With the strength of this year’s Senior Ladies division, neither team can afford to lose ground. The winner here could already have one foot in the knockout stages.

SENIOR MEN

Erne Eagles vs Cuchulainn
Venue: Erne
Time: 2:30
Erne Eagles are the hot favourites to retain their Senior Men’s crown and begin their 2025 campaign at home to Cuchulainn — a side they comfortably defeated 22–5 last season.

While Cuchulainn did secure two wins in 2024 and have their sights set on a top-four finish, this fixture represents a huge step up. It’s a valuable early test of how much they’ve progressed, but they’ll need to be at their very best — and then some — to cause an upset here. Anything other than an Erne win would send shockwaves through the championship.

Carrickmacross Emmets vs Glynn Barntown
Venue: Carrickmacross
Time:
The rivalry continues as Glynn Barntown return to face a Carrickmacross Emmets side that handed them a humbling 20–2 defeat in 2024. Barntown will be out for blood this time around, and there’s every chance this could be a far tighter contest than last year’s one-sided affair.

Carrickmacross had a mixed league campaign but really put it up to Erne Eagles in the semi-final. They will be hoping for victory — but don’t be shocked if we see a much tighter match this season.

Limekiln vs Breaffy
Venue: Limekiln
Time: 2pm
This is a repeat of the 2024 semi-final, which Breaffy won before losing the final — and it’s another chance for Breaffy to get one over on Limekiln. Their league clash last season finished 13–12, and expect this one to be just as close, with a draw not being ruled out.

Both clubs are stacked with All-Star talent, and this should be a physical, high-skill contest.

SENIOR MIXED

Erne Eagles vs Cuchulainn
Venue: Erne
Time: 1pm
This game in 2024 decided Cuchulainn’s fate of not making the semi-finals. They narrowly lost 5–7. Last season’s semi-finalist Erne Eagles will be looking to go at least one better — but don’t be surprised if this is as close as 2024. Cuchulainn have the tools to compete but must be near-perfect to pull off a result.

Carrickmacross Emmets vs Glynn Barntown
Venue: Carrickmacross
Time: TBC
Glynn Barntown have added a few players which should move them to favourites. Carrick easily beat them in 2024 (23–7)

If Glynn can come away with a victory here, every team in the division will be afraid of them. But if Carrick win, it should set them up for at least a semi-final place in 2025. It will confirm the readiness of both sides for the top four places.

Limekiln vs Breaffy
Venue: Limekiln
Time: 12.30pm
Another rematch of the 2024 final — and another chance for Limekiln to finally get one over on Breaffy. Both clubs are stacked with All-Star talent, and this should be a physical, high-skill contest.

If you like top-class bowling, Michelle Hopkins vs Chris Hughes in this one will be epic. Home advantage might swing it Limekiln’s way, but Breaffy won’t be in any mood to start off their title defence with a loss to their biggest rival in the division.

The Heath vs Kilmeena
Venue: The Heath
Time: 3pm
Kilmeena’s promotion to Senior Mixed is a major milestone — but their debut match is a tough one. They are back-to-back champions in the Junior and Intermediate grades and will be the Wrexham of Rounders if they can win three in a row.

The Heath are title contenders, having taken a year out in 2024 after a tough championship in 2023 which ended in All-Ireland victory. A close game is possible, but the hosts are clear favourites to show they are back with a bang in the Senior Mixed Championship.

Final Call for U13 Féile Entries

Final Call for U13 Féile Entries – Don’t Miss Out on 31st May in Roscommon!

FÉILE 2025 – U13 Boys & Girls
Date: 31-05-25
Venue: Clann na nGael GAA, Co. Roscommon

Entries are still open for this year’s GAA Rounders U13 Féile — but spots are filling fast!

To register or find out more, email:
juvenilesecretary.rounders@gaa.ie

Let’s make memories on and off the pitch!

Inaugural CWL Winter League sets the standard — 80 games in just six days

The inaugural Carlow-Wexford-Laois (CWL) Rounders Winter League has exceeded all expectations, delivering an action-packed competition that saw an incredible 80 games played over just six days. What began as a small initiative in September quickly grew into a major event, with 20 teams competing across the three counties.

A Platform for Growth

The league was established to promote rounders and give clubs a platform to attract new players. As organiser Peadar Waters reflected, it evolved into something much greater — a showcase of dedication, community spirit, and the ever-growing strength of rounders in the region. The remarkable interest proved the demand for structured competition outside the traditional championship season, while strong support from clubs, volunteers, and officials ensured smooth delivery.

Key Contributors

Peadar credited four “hidden gems” whose tireless efforts underpinned the success:

  • Caroline Waters (Cúchulainn)
  • Emma Reddy (Glynn-Barntown)
  • Carmel Maloney (Cúchulainn)
  • Paul Cooper (Glynn-Barntown)
From scheduling to logistics, these volunteers went above and beyond to keep the show on the road.

Referee Development

A key milestone was a new referee training course, where 13 participants took their first steps towards qualification — a crucial boost for a growing sport.

Special thanks to AnnMarie Brennan (Cúchulainn), Jack Cheyne (Dublin Mets), and GAA Rounders for enabling the course.

Final Day & Celebrations

Under glorious early-March sunshine, the finale delivered 16 games in a single day. A men’s exhibition match capped proceedings — players, many already after multiple outings, battled fatigue and hunger before the whistle sounded after an hour and fifteen minutes.


That evening, Hunters Rest in Fenagh hosted a well-earned celebration. Medals, trophies, and appreciation awards were presented, with GAA Rounders President Iain Cheyne on hand to congratulate the mixed and ladies’ champions. His message underlined how the CWL Winter League strengthens the wider rounders pathway.

Awards
Mixed & Ladies champions recognised • Appreciation awards to volunteers & officials

The Future of the CWL Winter League

The success of this year’s competition lays firm foundations for future editions. Participation across Carlow, Wexford, and Laois has surged, while the sheer volume of fixtures showcased the region’s passion for rounders. With committed organisers, thriving clubs, and an expanding referee base, the CWL Winter League looks set to become a permanent fixture in the calendar.

“Rounders is growing rapidly, and these teams are getting stronger by the day. I can’t wait to see where it will be in five years’ time.”


Mark Jennings: From Rookie to All-Star – A Rounders Journey

Mark Jennings: The Accidental Star of GAA Rounders

Mark Jennings’ Rounders story isn’t what many would expect—there were no childhood matches, no juvenile titles, no dreams of glory. His journey into the sport began during the pandemic and grew into something far greater.

“It Was a Bit of Luck, Really”

“Like a lot of people during COVID, I was looking for something to pass the time,” he says. “I saw a post on Facebook about Breaffy Rounders, thought, ‘Why not?’ I joined in, and I haven’t stopped running since.”

Mark hadn’t run in five years. Rounders changed that.

From Beginner to All-Star

“I could throw, I could catch. But that’s not enough. I had to learn the rules, how to position myself, when to run, where to throw. It was all new.”

But something clicked. “Rounders is like therapy,” he says. “No matter how bad my week is, Rounders lets me switch off. It’s just you, the game, and the people you’re playing with.”

The Biggest Influence?

His answer is immediate: Darryl Dolan of Erne Eagles. “He ran a foundation course at Michael Glaveys in 2022. I left that course a much better player. He simplified the game, taught us real technique.”

The Rise

Mark wasn’t a star when he started—but now he’s an All-Ireland champion and an All-Star. “This year, there was a fire. We weren’t leaving that final without the trophy.”

While Breaffy Mixed celebrated, the Men’s team came up short. But for Jennings, progress was everything.

“Eighteen months ago, Breaffy Men hadn’t won a game in three years. And now we’ve reached a final. That’s real growth.”

The All-Star Moment

When asked about being named an All-Star, his response is vintage Jennings: “Yeah, grand. But I’d trade that for another final win with the team.”

His favourite memory? That semi-final win. “I told the girls we might lose the run of ourselves celebrating. We did. And we deserved it.”

What Makes Breaffy Special?

Fielding. We’ve always been known for great fielding. Defence is key.”

But it’s more than tactics. “The people make Breaffy special. We’ve become a family. There are quirks, there’s fun. You never know what’s coming next.”

The Role of Connacht Head

As head of Connacht Rounders, Jennings juggles administration and playing: “Saturdays are for development, Sundays are for playing.

He believes the next step is hiring a full-time Games Development Officer. “That would change everything.”

“For junior players to truly develop, they need to watch senior games. It inspires and teaches them.”

No Pressure

“There’s no such thing as pressure to me,” he says. “If I make a mistake, it’s not the end of the world. Finals are big, but Rounders always gives you another chance.”

Pride in Progress

I’ve only missed five training sessions in four years. But what excites me most is the trophies to come. This team is capable of more.”

Looking Ahead

Mark Jennings may have stumbled into Rounders by chance—but now, with silverware and All-Star honours to his name, his place in the sport’s future is assured.

Go n-éirí an t-adh leat, Mark.

Get Involved

If you’d like more information on setting up a Rounders club or want to help Mark promote the sport across the province, please get in touch:

Email: connacht.rounders@gaa.ie

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