Tag Archive for: Erne Eagles

InterProvincial GAA Rounders Returns as Panels, Fixtures and Referees Confirmed

InterProvincial GAA Rounders Returns

The victorious Leinster Rounders team in 2023

The victorious Leinster Rounders team in 2023

Some of the best Rounders players in the country will be on show in Athlone GAA on Sunday 29 March

This year’s tournament will look a little different. The last InterProvincials were played as a mixed competition, but this time the format changes with separate Men’s and Women’s tournaments being played across the same afternoon.

Across the extended panels announced this week, players from around 30 clubs have been nominated from across the four provinces.

Match Schedule

Time Match Referee
12:00 Munster vs Connacht – Women Danielle Keane
12:15 Leinster vs Ulster – Men Áine McLaughlin
2:00 Leinster vs Ulster – Women Danielle Keane
2:15 Munster vs Connacht – Men Áine McLaughlin
4:00 Women’s Final Michael Dowling
4:15 Men’s Final Paula Doherty

Final Squads

The lists released this week are extended panels. Each province will now cut those squads down to a final 15 players before the tournament.

Teams must include players from each championship grade:

  • 3 Senior players + 2 Senior substitutes
  • 3 Intermediate players + 2 Intermediate substitutes
  • 3 Junior players + 2 Junior substitutes

The finals should be a bit special too, with Rounders President Paula Doherty set to referee the men’s final, while former President Michael Dowling will take charge of the women’s final — a nice touch to round off the day.

With six matches across the afternoon and players travelling from clubs across the country, the InterProvincials promise to be a great showcase for the game and a brilliant chance to see some of the top Rounders players in Ireland on the same pitch.

Connacht Interpros Panels

Connacht GAA Rounders interprovincial squad in 2023

Connacht GAA Rounders interprovincial squad in 2023

Connacht Women

Senior
Player Club
Noleen Coghlan Kilmeena
Catriona Cox Kilmeena
Irene Kaye Kilmeena
Catriona Olsen Kilmeena
Helen Gallagher Breaffy
Intermediate
Assumpta Feeney Athenry
Lisa Guilfoyle Athenry
Priscilla Heffernan Athenry
Tara Reapy Athenry
Gretta Davis Elphin
Cat Carty Galway City Rapparees
Hazel Kilduff Galway City Rapparees
Clodagh Naughton Galway City Rapparees
Jessie Pereira Galway City Rapparees
Gwen Redmond Galway City Rapparees
Laura Salvatore Galway City Rapparees
Alex Stewart Galway City Rapparees
Sadie Hunt Kilmeena
Junior
Ciara Butler Elphin
Avril Coyne Elphin
Barbora Novobilska Elphin
Joanne Forde Garrymore
Sarah Tierney Garrymore
Ana Carr Kilmore
Nicola Craughwell Kilmore
Clodagh Sheerin Kilmore

Connacht Men

Senior
Player Club
Victor Del Rosal Breaffy
Mark Jennings Breaffy
Jamie Murphy Breaffy
Richie Vaz Breaffy
Ben Golden Kilmeena
Tommy Hoban Kilmeena
Darragh McDonnell Kilmeena
Ollie Conway Michael Glaveys
Micheal McGreal Michael Glaveys
John Nolan Michael Glaveys
Intermediate
Sean Maher Athenry
Kieran Shaughnessy Athenry
Cathal Creavan Galway City Rapparees
Ryan Dennis Galway City Rapparees
Stewart Hagen Galway City Rapparees
Jay Hall Galway City Rapparees
Tomas Kenny Galway City Rapparees
Ajay Kumar Galway City Rapparees
Rory McGarvey Galway City Rapparees
Vishal Pathare Galway City Rapparees
Ili Tuimauga Galway City Rapparees
Junior
Conor Gunn Elphin
Luke Gunn Elphin
Filip Novobilska Elphin
Pawel Szawernoga Elphin
Colin Flannery Galway City Rapparees
Seamus Keegan Galway City Rapparees
Matt Kelly Galway City Rapparees
Colin O’Halloran Galway City Rapparees
Fintan Hession Garrymore
Frankie Durcan Kilmeena
Frank McNicholas Kilmeena
Will Powell Kilmeena
Aidan Carr Kilmore
Breian Carroll Kilmore
Mark Harrington Kilmore
Jamie Sharkey Kilmore
Kevin White Kilmore

2026 InterProvincials – Munster Panels

Munster Men

Intermediate
Name Club
John Hanlon St. Senan’s
Dean Hogan St. Senan’s
Dean McCarthy St. Senan’s
Ian Sheehy St. Senan’s
Niall Sheehy St. Senan’s
Junior
John Cleary Na Piarsaigh
Gerard Kearns Na Piarsaigh
Leo McKenna Na Piarsaigh
Andrew Cusack Sporting Limerick

Munster Women

Intermediate
Name Club
Grainne Noonan St. Senan’s
Aoife O’Carroll St. Senan’s
Junior
Colette Butler Knockainey
Jacki Hehir Knockainey
Olivia McNamara Knockainey
Miranda O’Brien Knockainey
Emma Walsh Knockainey
Aideen Hogg Na Piarsaigh
Michelle Lambe Na Piarsaigh
Sarah Stanley Na Piarsaigh
Stephanie Downes St. Kieran’s
Caitriona Hough St. Kieran’s
Majella O’Connor St. Kieran’s
Ashling O’Sullivan St. Kieran’s
Diane Curran Sporting Limerick
Eleanor O’Brien Sporting Limerick

2026 InterProvincials – Leinster Panels

The victorious Leinster Rounders team in 2023

The victorious Leinster Rounders team in 2023

Leinster Men

Senior
Name Club
Pierce Ryan Cuchulainn
Peadar Waters Cuchulainn
Paul Cooper Glynn Barntown
Garry Jordan Glynn Barntown
Ian White Glynn Barntown
Eoin Johnson Limekiln
Aidan McDonald Raheen
Eunan Furlong Raheen
Austin O’Meara The Heath
Intermediate
Asa Carley Dublin Metropolitans
Beau Carley Dublin Metropolitans
Jack Cheyne Dublin Metropolitans
André Cruz Dublin Metropolitans
Leonard Looney Dublin Metropolitans
Michael Slevin Emo
JP Tynan Emo
Junior
Conor Murphy Gusserane
Shane Coburn Myshall
PJ Lalor Myshall
James Nolan Myshall
Eoin Rea Myshall
Matthew Roberts Myshall

Leinster Women

Senior
Name Club
Amy Kelly Cuchulainn
Amy Moloney Cuchulainn
Leah Mullins Cuchulainn
Sheena King Glynn Barntown
Alisha Reddy Glynn Barntown
Mary Roche Glynn Barntown
Intermediate
Pamela Brennan Glynn Barntown
Stephanie Kelly Glynn Barntown
Liz Fitzgerald Kilanerin
Junior
Laura Cuddihy Dublin Metropolitans
Jessica Maddock Dublin Metropolitans
Gráinne Martin Dublin Metropolitans
Claire Mulry Dublin Metropolitans
Karen Byrne Glynn Barntown
Jen Kelly Leighlinbridge
Tracy McNally Leighlinbridge
Louise Riddell Leighlinbridge
Jenny Jugessur St. Martin’s
Deborah Roche St. Martin’s
Christine Stone St. Martin’s
Hazel Costello Skryne
Noeleen Greally Skryne
Karen Lynch Skryne
Lauren Smith Skryne

2026 InterProvincials – Ulster Panels

Ulster Men

Senior
Name Club
Paddy Bermingham Carrickmacross
Declan Finnegan Carrickmacross
Ronan Kiernan Carrickmacross
Barry Lambe Carrickmacross
Gerard Clerkin Erne Eagles
Fionn Higgins Erne Eagles
Nathan Loughnane Erne Eagles
Justin Perrin Erne Eagles
Shane Sheridan Erne Eagles
Intermediate
Bryan Dolan St. Clare’s
PJ Kelly St. Clare’s
Chaz Solomons St. Clare’s
Barry Walsh St. Clare’s
Junior
Philip Brooks Inniskeen
Trevor Hilliard Inniskeen
Sean O’Connor Inniskeen
Sachin Krishnan Wolfe Tones
David Mallon Wolfe Tones
Matthew Mallon Wolfe Tones

Ulster Women

Senior
Name Club
Louise Byrne Carrickmacross
Aisling Ginnity Carrickmacross
Olive Hanratty Carrickmacross
Laura Hughes Carrickmacross
Marie Whelan Carrickmacross
Margaret Brady Erne Eagles
Lisa Flood Erne Eagles
Geraldine Goldrick Erne Eagles
Lindsey O’Reilly Erne Eagles
Emma Perrin Erne Eagles
Intermediate
Aoife Byrne Carrickmacross
Aine Cahill St. Clare’s
Laura Lynch St. Clare’s
Lisa Lynch St. Clare’s
Louise McAndrew St. Clare’s
Junior
Aisling McDermott Carrickmacross
Siobhan Cunningham Inniskeen
Catherine Deery Inniskeen
Julianne Smith Inniskeen
Arleen Ramsey Wolfe Tones

Celebrating Women in Sport Week 2026 | GAA Rounders Mums, Daughters & Sisters

Women in Sport Week 2026 runs from 2–8 March, and GAA Rounders is proud to celebrate the incredible female athletes who shape our game.

With over 60% of our membership female, Rounders truly spans every generation – from U7 Go Games right through to the Senior Women’s All-Ireland Championships. It is a genuine sport for life. Whether you are a lifelong player, returning after a break, or picking up a bat for the first time, there is a place for you in our community.

Our All-Ireland Championships feature dedicated Senior, Intermediate and Junior Women’s competitions. Uniquely within the adult GAA codes, women also compete alongside men in our Mixed Championships, highlighting the inclusivity and skill that define Rounders.

One of the most special sights in our sport is mothers playing alongside their daughters. These role models show that sport does not have an expiry date. By sharing the field, they pass on confidence, leadership and a lifelong love of the game.

While Part 2 will feature the cousins, wives and sisters-in-law who make Rounders a true family affair, today we celebrate some of our standout Mums & Daughters and Sisters.

The Ultimate Teammates: Mother & Daughter Combos

Carmel & Amy Moloney – Cúchulainn, Carlow

Carmel & Amy Moloney – Cúchulainn, Carlow

From Coach to Teammate: Amy won her first All-Ireland Minor medal under her mother’s coaching. Years later their roles evolved into teammates. Lining out together at Senior level, they reached a historic milestone: winning the All-Ireland Mixed title together in 2022. Sharing the pitch, the pressure, and the ultimate victory is a privilege few ever get to experience.

Pamela & Tyra Brennan – Glynn Barntown, Wexford

Pamela & Tyra Brennan – Glynn Barntown, Wexford

As Pamela emotionally reflects: “When my daughter Tyra moved up through the grades to play beside me on the field – and then win an All-Ireland together – it definitely topped the highlights of our Rounders journey.”

Jen, Amy & Katie Kelly – Leighlinbridge, Carlow

Jen, Amy & Katie Kelly – Leighlinbridge, Carlow

Amy has played alongside her mother, Jen, since the very beginning. Jen is renowned as a powerhouse hitter, often showing the girls exactly “how it’s done,” though Amy is now delivering some massive hits of her own. The family unit is now complete with Katie recently joining her mother and sister on the field.

Clare & Leah McNally – Leighlinbridge, Carlow

Clare & Leah McNally – Leighlinbridge, Carlow

Leah is a versatile player with a long throw and a talent for pitching, inheriting her mother’s knack for big hits. Her mother, Clare, is the club’s backbone – balancing roles as a selector and coach. Beyond their skills, the duo is famous for bringing the “craic” to every training session.

Karen & Sarah Lynch & Hazel Costello – Skryne, Meath

Karen & Sarah Lynch & Hazel Costello – Skryne, Meath

What began with Karen joining Skryne in 2024 quickly became a full family affair. Her daughter, Hazel, joined later that year, and by 2025 Karen’s sister (and Hazel’s aunt), Sarah, joined the crew to complete the family trio.

Double Trouble: The Twins

Katie & Kirstin Cronin – Elphin, Roscommon

Katie & Kirstin Cronin – Elphin, Roscommon

Twins Katie and Kirstin joined Elphin in 2024. “I like playing with my twin because we support one another – she always has my back,” says Katie. Kirstin adds a competitive twist: “We push each other more than anyone. I never want to let her get to the next base, so I work twice as hard to get her out!”

Sister, Sister: The Unbreakable Bond

Gráinne & Aileen Gavin – Breaffy, Mayo

Gráinne & Aileen Gavin – Breaffy, Mayo

The Gavin sisters play for the reigning Senior Women’s champions, Breaffy. In 2025 they didn’t just win matching All-Ireland medals – they both earned All-Star nominations, Gráinne for Senior Mixed Female Player of the Year and Aileen for Senior Women’s Centre Outfield.

Ciara & Katie Groonell – Breaffy, Mayo

Ciara & Katie Groonell – Breaffy, Mayo

This sister duo is a force to be reckoned with. At the 2024 All-Stars both took home awards: Katie for Senior Female Mixed Player of the Year and Ciara for Senior Women’s Roaming Player. Ciara, now Breaffy’s Club Secretary, says winning those awards together made an already amazing journey even more special.

Lindsey O’Reilly & Lisa Flood – Erne Eagles, Cavan

Lindsey O’Reilly & Lisa Flood – Erne Eagles, Cavan

For Lisa and Lindsey, Rounders is a lifelong story. Both started at ten years old and, despite Lisa’s ten-year detour abroad, they are back playing side-by-side for Erne Eagles.

They were originally inspired by another sister duo – their cousins Rosaleen and Dympna – ensuring the “Eagles” bond stays in the family.

Lorraine O’Connor & Michelle Dockery – Elphin, Roscommon

Lorraine O’Connor & Michelle Dockery – Elphin, Roscommon

“There’s something rebellious about playing with your sister at our age,” they share. “No talk of work or school runs – just us on a patch of grass laughing until we cry.”

Susan, Margaret & Catríona Griffin – Kildimo Pallaskenry, Limerick

Susan & Catríona Griffin – Kildimo Pallaskenry, Limerick

Susan & Margaret Griffin – Kildimo Pallaskenry, Limerick

While they played Community Games as children, these three sisters were never on the same team until now. They represent their club in both Rounders and Camogie. This year, the bond grew even stronger as Margaret’s stepdaughter, Katelyn O’DwyerGuerin, joined the team, proving to be an excellent addition with her ability to hit beyond outfield.

Margaret & Katelyn – Kildimo Pallaskenry, Limerick

Margaret & Katelyn – Kildimo Pallaskenry, Limerick

Margaret & Katelyn – Kildimo Pallaskenry, Limerick

Having started in the 1990s but never sharing a lineup, these sisters have waited 30 years to play on the same team.

Noeleen & Brenda Greally – Skryne, Meath

Noeleen & Brenda Greally – Skryne, Meath

With Noeleen serving as Club Secretary and Brenda as Club Chairperson, these sisters aren’t just playing the game – they are running the show!

Marie & Jackie Neary – Elphin, Roscommon

Jackie Neary – Elphin, Roscommon

Marie Neary – Elphin, Roscommon

Marie and Jackie joined Elphin at its inception. For them, Rounders is the perfect balance of team sport and social connection.

Caroline & Nicola Noblett – Kilanerin Ballyfad, Wexford

Caroline & Nicola Noblett – Kilanerin Ballyfad, Wexford

Despite a ten-year age gap the two have found a shared passion on the field, proving that it is never too late to start.

Lisa, Laura & Róisín Lynch – St. Clare’s, Cavan

Lisa, Laura & Róisín Lynch – St. Clare’s, Cavan

Laura, Lisa and Roisin Lynch are integral to the heart of the club. Lisa anchors the team as catcher, Laura patrols centre outfield and Roisin keeps everything moving as PRO.

While Lisa and Laura have been mainstay players from underage to senior level, the three sisters are famous for the banter they bring to the team.

Coming later this week: Part 2 – The In-Laws, Partners, and Cousins of GAA Rounders!

Connacht Cup 2025 Preview – Full Fixtures, Predictions & History

🏆 Connacht Cup 2025 Preview – Athlone Set for a Festival of Rounders

The 2025 Connacht Cup takes centre stage this Saturday, 18th October in Athlone, bringing together a brilliant mix of clubs from across the country for one of the most enjoyable and competitive days on the Rounders calendar.

With ten teams split into two groups, fans can expect a full day of action — from 10:00 am group games right through to the Connacht Cup Final at 4:00 pm. Each team will play four round-robin matches, ensuring everyone gets plenty of game time before the finals decide who takes home the silverware.

There will be some matches streamed on YouTube, we will post details on Friday.

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📍 Athlone GAA Grounds

Pairc Chiaráin, Ballymahon Road, Athlone, Co. Westmeath, Ireland

🗺️ Use the map above for parking and entrance details on match day.


⚫ Group A (Pitches 1–2)

Teams: Kilmore Blue, Rapparees Black, Breaffy, Erne Eagles, Kilmeena

This looks the tougher group, featuring a repeat of the Senior Mixed All-Ireland Final between Breaffy and Erne Eagles. Adding in another senior outfit in Kilmeena makes this pool a real test for Kilmore Blue (Junior) and Galway Rapparees Black (Intermediate), who could be already stretched after splitting their squads to field two teams on the day.

🟡 Group B (Pitches 3–4)

Teams: Kevins, Kilmore White, Elphin, Rapparees Yellow, Leighlinbridge

It’s great to have Kevins back in action — they missed this year’s championship but were Senior semi-finalists in 2024, and there’s no doubt they’ll be highly competitive once again. Rapparees Yellow, Kilmore White, and Elphin all bring plenty of energy and experience at junior and intermediate level, while Leighlinbridge make their first appearance in mixed Rounders, adding further excitement to the lineup.

This may be the slightly easier group on paper, but with several evenly matched teams and plenty of attacking flair, it should still produce some cracking contests throughout the day.


🏁 Final Fixtures – 16:00

  • 🏆 Connacht Cup Final: TBC
  • Plate Final: TBC
  • 🛡️ Shield Final: TBC

🔮 Predictions

Here is our best guess at who might make it through the groups.

  • Connacht Cup Final – Breaffy vs Kevins: Breaffy’s record is phenomenal, and while Kevins will push them hard, experience might just tell. Prediction: Breaffy by 3–4 runs.
  • Plate Final – Erne Eagles vs Elphin: The Eagles’ power hitting should prove decisive. Prediction: Erne Eagles by 5–2.
  • Shield Final – Kilmeena vs Kilmore Blue: Kilmeena’s senior experience gives them the edge. Prediction: Kilmeena by 6–3.

📜 Connacht Cup Final History

Year Final Winner Score
2021 Breaffy vs Glynn Barntown Breaffy 10–5
2022 Breaffy vs Galway Rapparees Breaffy 7-2
2023 Kevins vs Breaffy Kevins 2–1
2024 Breaffy vs Galway Rapparees Breaffy 6–5

Breaffy’s dominance over recent years is remarkable — four finals, three titles, and a reputation as the team to beat. St. Kevins remain the only club to dethrone them, setting up a fitting rematch in Athlone this weekend.


Special thanks to Connacht Representative Mark Jennings for organising this year’s event.


📅 Full Group Fixtures

⏰ Round 1 — 10:00
Group A (P1–P2)
• P1: Kilmore Blue vs Rapparees Black
• P2: Breaffy vs Erne Eagles
Bye: Kilmeena

Group B (P3–P4)
• P3: Kevins vs Kilmore White
• P4: Elphin vs Rapparees Yellow
Bye: Leighlinbridge

⏰ Round 2 — 11:00
Group A (P1–P2)
• P1: Kilmeena vs Rapparees Black
• P2: Kilmore Blue vs Breaffy
Bye: Erne Eagles

Group B (P3–P4)
• P3: Kilmore White vs Elphin
• P4: Kevins vs Leighlinbridge
Bye: Rapparees Yellow

⏰ Round 3 — 12:00
Group A (P1–P2)
• P1: Kilmeena vs Erne Eagles
• P2: Rapparees Black vs Breaffy
Bye: Kilmore Blue

Group B (P3–P4)
• P3: Kilmore White vs Rapparees Yellow
• P4: Elphin vs Leighlinbridge
Bye: Kevins

⏰ Round 4 — 13:00
Group A (P1–P2)
• P1: Kilmeena vs Breaffy
• P2: Erne Eagles vs Kilmore Blue
Bye: Rapparees Black

Group B (P3–P4)
• P3: Kilmore White vs Leighlinbridge
• P4: Rapparees Yellow vs Kevins
Bye: Elphin

⏰ Round 5 — 14:00
Group A (P1–P2)
• P1: Kilmeena vs Kilmore Blue
• P2: Erne Eagles vs Rapparees Black
Bye: Breaffy

Group B (P3–P4)
• P3: Elphin vs Kevins
• P4: Rapparees Yellow vs Leighlinbridge
Bye: Kilmore White

🏁 Finals — 16:00
• Connacht Cup Final: 1st A vs 1st B
• Plate Final: 2nd A vs 2nd B
• Shield Final: 3rd A vs 3rd B

Connacht Cup 2025 – A Celebration of Rounders in the Heart of Ireland

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🌟 2025 Intermediate All-Star Nominees Announced

🌟 2025 Intermediate All-Star Nominees Announced

The nominees for the 2025 GAA Rounders Intermediate All-Star Awards have been revealed, recognising the top performers from the closing stages of this year’s Intermediate Championships.

Selections are based on performances across the final few games of the season, highlighting players who delivered when it mattered most.

🏆 Winners will be announced next Tuesday at 7:30pm, with all trophies presented at the All-Stars Night on Saturday, 1st November.

We have our first confirmed All-Star for a club — with all three nominees in the Mixed Female category coming from Erne Eagles. It’s a remarkable reflection of their strength and consistency at Intermediate level this season.

There’s also a unique story within the nominations, as husband and wife duo Justin and Emma Perrin have both been shortlisted for All-Stars — Justin in the Mixed Male category and Emma in the Mixed Female list — marking an incredible shared achievement for the Cavan-based club.

🏆 Intermediate Men’s

  • Cathal Creaven – Galway City Rapparees
  • Ili Tuimauga – Galway City Rapparees
  • Padraig Langford – Emo Rounders

🏆 Intermediate Mixed (Male)

  • Gerard Clerkin – Erne Eagles
  • Justin Perrin – Erne Eagles
  • John Paul Tynan – Emo Rounders

🏆 Intermediate Mixed (Female)

  • Maggie Brady – Erne Eagles
  • Amy Lynch – Erne Eagles
  • Emma Perrin – Erne Eagles

🏆 Intermediate Ladies

  • Louise Byrne – Carrickmacross Emmets
  • Marie Whelan – Carrickmacross Emmets
  • Hannah McNamee – The Heath

👏 Congratulations to all nominees on being recognised among the top Intermediate performers of the 2025 season — an achievement that celebrates quality, consistency, and standout performances when it mattered most.

#GAArounders #AllStars2025 #IntermediateAllStars

Darryl Dolan: “Enough hard work will take you anywhere”

Darryl Dolan: “Enough hard work will take you anywhere”

There’s no hesitation when Darryl Dolan is asked about the greatest ever player.

If it’s a question of the Greatest, then Dolan doesn’t hesitate. “I’m going Damien McArdle,” he says. “He just wasn’t a power hitter for a home run. Damien has 15 men’s titles, 9 All-Stars. Retired for almost a decade in the middle and had 4 All-Ireland titles before the All-Stars were introduced — so really he should have about 15.”

He pauses only briefly before adding another name that rarely comes up. “Mick Cullen always gets forgotten about in big conversations because of the lack of All-Star accolades, but many years he’s been the best or one of the best players on the field in nearly every game.”

When it comes to memories, Dolan refuses to single just one out. “Really can’t single out a single one,” he admits, “but getting to share the field with some of the legends I watched train and play. And then the 2024 season was special as a new-look Eagles team after losing so many familiar faces. To see Fionn get man of the match and hoisted in the air after years of watching us play without an underage team — to see it reward him for his work — that was special.”

For Dolan, Erne Eagles is more than a club. “Home. It has been my home away from home and my club mates like family. Even when there’s disagreements 🤣 there’s always someone there if you need anything. And when everyone is there at an event, it feels like one big family reunion.”

He is quick to point towards the next generation. “So many to say at the underage brackets, I could name one in each team and the potential of them is almost limitless, just depends how far they push themselves — Adam, Alice, Aoibhe, Louis, I could go on and on. For the young players coming into senior this year? I’ll have to say Fainche Higgins has really made her mark on the game.”

The battles, he says, come in cycles. “It has come in waves and each year different teams. In men’s it was The Heath and then it transitioned to Carrickmacross. In the mixed, I’d have to say the battles with Glynn Barntown have been epic.”

But asked if any player ever truly dominated Erne, he’s dismissive. “No. I feel like we always adapt and we can ‘figure out’ players and adapt to them, so someone might be good on a day against us but we’ll be ready for them the next day.”

The greatest comeback? He doesn’t hesitate. “Too many to count — 2018 men’s final, 2019 final, the 2020 mixed final. But I’ll probably have to go with the 2021 mixed semi-final against Glynn Barntown. It was the greatest comeback I’ve ever witnessed.”

As for the toughest opponent? “Probably Ruairí Tracey, because we’ve gone head to head since underage so many times and I only ever got the better of him in senior. Now it’s the other lads on the team fighting to get a place 😅.”

He is quick to credit Carrickmacross too. “Without a doubt, the way they gradually learned, watched, and improved over the years. Starting slow and growing is very impressive and a lot of clubs could learn from them.”

And despite his own reputation, Dolan keeps returning to his teammates. “That I’m very lucky to have the teammates I have. They put up with me and temper me — trying to funnel my passion and energy for the game while making it enjoyable for others at the same time.”

Rounders has given him more than medals. “There’s something outside of Rounders??? Ah, I think coaching and teaching has been very interchangeable on and off the field, but the sport has definitely helped me hone those skills for other aspects of my life.”

For the younger players coming through, the advice is simple. “Just keep working hard and practice. Enough hard work will take you anywhere. Just because someone isn’t naturally gifted from the start doesn’t mean they can’t leave others in the dust with enough work.”

And if you ask him who the best nine he played with or against? “I am working on list,  I’ll send it on soon.”

Darryl can be found on Instagram: gaarounderscoach

GAA Rounders Senior Finals 2025 – Referees Confirmed & Ticket Info

🎉 GAA Rounders Senior All-Ireland Finals – Referees Confirmed! 🎉

The stage is set for a massive day in Abbotstown this Saturday, 6th September – and the referees have just been announced:

⚾ Senior Ladies Final

🕐 1.00pm – Breaffy v Glynn Barntown

Referee: Chris Hughes

⚾ Senior Mixed Final

🕞 3.15pm – Breaffy v Erne Eagles

Referee: Philip Keane

⚾ Senior Men’s Final

🕠 5.30pm – Carrickmacross v Erne Eagles

Referee: AnnMarie Brennan

🎟️ Tickets are available now – don’t leave it last minute!

Come out and support the best of the best as the Senior All-Ireland Champions are crowned! 🏆

All-Ireland Senior Rounders 2025 – Semi-Final Previews

All-Ireland Senior Semi-Finals – Men’s, Mixed & Ladies

🎟️ Click here to buy tickets for All‑Stars

The road to the 2025 All-Ireland Senior Rounders Finals in Abbotstown reaches boiling point this Sunday in Dunganny, with six
semi‑finals stacked across the Men’s, Mixed and Ladies grades.

In the Men’s, Erne Eagles face

Breaffy after their free‑scoring group clash, while Carrickmacross Emmets bring the grade’s most consistent attack into a tactical duel with Glynn Barntown.

The Mixed line‑up pairs top‑seeded Eagles with the unpredictable Cuchulainn, and renews a tight rivalry between
Breaffy and Glynn Barntown.

In the Senior Ladies, unbeaten‑looking
Breaffy meet the dangerous Cuchulainn, while Glynn Barntown test their composure against the high‑ceiling Erne Eagles. Form points one way, history another — and with one win
separating every team from the showpiece, expect sharp fielding, cool pitching and some thunderous hitting.


🎟️ Click here to buy tickets for All‑Stars

📊 Senior Men’s Semi-Final Previews – 24 August, Dunganny

Erne Eagles (1st) vs Breaffy (4th) –

Erne have looked the complete package across the group phase: six wins from seven, scoring a shade over
eleven per game while allowing just under six. That balance produced the second‑stingiest defence in the grade and
kept them on the front foot in most contests. There is, however, one smudge on the copybook — a breathless meeting with
Breaffy earlier this month that finished 19–15 against them.

Breaffy arrive with a more boom‑or‑bust profile. They matched Eagles for wins but did it by swinging big:
the joint‑best scoring rate in the league — roughly seventeen a game — but also the loosest defence of the top four,
shipping close to twelve on average. In a semi‑final, that can be terrifying in the best possible way, especially when
you’ve already outslugged the top seeds.

Key stat: Breaffy’s healthy positive differential is powered by bursts of heavy scoring; Erne’s similar margin comes
from constant pressure at the plate backed by tidy fielding and pitching.

Prediction: If Breaffy catch fire early it could be a repeat of the league upset, but Erne’s depth and control late on still make them narrow favourites.


Carrickmacross Emmets (2nd) vs Glynn Barntown (3rd)

Few teams have hit the ball as relentlessly as Carrickmacross. Over seven games they piled up well over a century of
runs — about seventeen a game — while keeping opponents to a touch over six. That combination delivers the best
differential in the grade and explains their calm march to second.

Glynn Barntown aren’t far off the pace. They’ve been in double figures most days (around twelve to thirteen per outing)
and defend capably (roughly eight conceded). The earlier meeting matters, though: Carrick were comfortable winners,
bossing a 22–9 encounter where they controlled both the strike zone and the diamond.

Key stat: Across the run‑in, Carrick have been scoring about a full inning’s worth more per game than Glynn — a sign of late‑season momentum as well as depth through the order.

Prediction: Glynn will need near‑perfect catching and clean bases to stem the Emmets’ power. Form says Carrick, but expect it to tighten if Glynn turn it into a five‑innings chess match.

📊 Senior Mixed Semi-Final Previews — Dunganny

Erne Eagles (1st) vs Cuchulainn (4th)

The Eagles’ mixed side has flown just as high: six wins from seven with scoring close to fifteen a game and only a little
over seven conceded. They’ve ended contests early too — the 21–1 against Carrickmacross was wrapped after just
two innings, and they beat The Heath 9–1 while batting three. When these two met in May, Erne had the answers in a
five‑innings 23–12.

Cuchulainn have been the league’s great entertainers: three wins, four defeats, and almost as many scored as conceded.
They can trade punches with anyone — that 24–21 shootout against The Heath (five innings) proves it — but tight finishes
have gone the other way against Carrickmacross and Breaffy.

Key stat: Erne Eagles already own two wins this summer while batting three innings or fewer; Cuchulainn tend to be drawn into
high‑scoring games that ask a lot of their defence.

Prediction: Erne Eagles to control the tempo. If they hit the front early they will be hard stopped.


Breaffy (2nd) vs Glynn Barntown (3rd)

Breaffy have mirrored the men with six wins and a calm assurance: around thirteen‑plus per game scored and just over
seven allowed. They’ve posted statement victories — 28–13 over Kilmeena in four innings and 21–6 versus Carrick in
four — and, crucially, edged Glynn in their latest meeting, 9–7 with both sides batting the full five.

Glynn Barntown are live contenders. They’ve kept opponents to roughly eight a game and already clipped the top seeds,
out‑thinking Erne 10–6 (four vs five). There’s firepower too: 22–17 at Cuchulainn and a ruthless day at The Heath where
they won 19–2 while batting only two innings.

Key stat: Over the last fortnight Glynn’s run‑rate trend is slightly sharper than Breaffy’s, thanks to that two‑innings rout,
but Breaffy have banked the head‑to‑head.

Prediction: Breaffy by a whisker if it becomes a fielding battle; if Glynn open the taps early, expect a classic that goes the distance.

🏆 Senior Ladies Semi-Finals – Preview

Two places in the All-Ireland final are up for grabs. Form guides point one way, but the numbers hint at a lively afternoon.


Breaffy (1st) vs Cuchulainn (4th)

Breaffy arrive unbeaten, winning four from four with the most balanced profile in the grade — scoring a little under
fourteen runs a game and allowing just over five. That blend of calm batting and tidy fielding has been their hallmark all summer.

Cuchulainn are the wildcards. They’ve been one of the division’s liveliest batting groups — right around fifteen per game — but they’ve also leaked heavily, closer to
eighteen-and-a-half per outing. When the tempo rises, they can trade blows with anyone; when it slows, their defense gets asked hard questions. This was a nail biting semi-final last year.

Key thread: If Breaffy keep innings short and traffic off the bases, their control usually tells. If Cuchulainn turn it into a shoot‑out, this could swing.

Prediction: Breaffy, unless Cuchulainn land an early big inning.


Glynn Barntown (2nd) vs Erne Eagles (3rd)

Glynn Barntown have been steady and composed — about nine runs scored per game and conceding just under seven. They’re comfortable in tighter contests and typically win the small margins with clean catching and reliable pitching.

Erne Eagles are the volatility play. They score on a similar clip to the top seed — roughly thirteen to fourteen per game — but they’ve also been hit the other way more than anyone in the top four. That profile screams danger: when the bats click, they can overwhelm; when the game slows, they’ve given opponents chances.

Key thread: Pace of the game. A tidy, chance‑light semi suits Glynn; an open, base‑busy contest drags the Eagles right into their sweet spot.

Prediction: Glynn Barntown in a controlled game — flip a coin if it breaks into a slugfest.

Respect the Game – Respect Each Other

  • 👏 Cheer great catches – no shouting while a player is attempting to catch the Sliotar
  • ⚾ Respect pitchers  – tough job, big skill.
  • 🫡 Back the refs – no arguing calls.

Play hard. Play fair. Keep it positive.

GAA Rounders Senior Previews – Semi-Finals order to be decided


Sunday, 10th August 2025 – Mullahoran GAA, Tymon & Athlone

Senior Men – Erne Eagles vs Carrickmacross Emmets

📍 Mullahoran GAA 12:30 Ref – Jack

Carrickmacross Emmets come into this one unbeaten, holding a perfect 6–0 record and an impressive +75 run difference. They’ve scored a massive 111 runs in just six games, showing they have the firepower to put teams away quickly.

Erne Eagles (5–0–1) have also been strong this season, but their scoring output — 70 runs — is notably lower. That means they’ll need to be clinical with every opportunity they get. Last week’s surprise to many defeat to Breaffy will still be fresh in their minds, and you get the feeling they’ll be well up for this one.

With top spot in the group still not certain, this has all the makings of a cracking match with plenty of niggle. But with both into semi-final it’s not as important to either team.

Prediction: Carrickmacross Emmets by 6–8 runs.


Senior Mixed – Erne Eagles vs Carrickmacross Emmets

📍 Mullahoran GAA 2pm Ref – Jack

Carrickmacross are barely in contention. By my calculations, they would need to beat Erne Eagles by something in the region of 27 runs to overtake Cuchulainn, which is a tall order. It’s another group where run rate is going to be vital in deciding the placings. Still, it shows that even when results haven’t gone your way, there’s always something left to fight for.

Erne Eagles are joint-top on points with Glynn Barntown and Breaffy, sitting at 5–0–1 with a +34 run difference. Carrickmacross (2–0–4) have found life tough against the top-tier sides, while the Eagles’ defensive record — just 49 runs conceded — speaks for itself.

Prediction: Erne Eagles by 10–12 runs with innings to spare, with Carrick unlikely to have much interest in chasing a big margin late on.


Senior Ladies – Glynn Barntown vs Breaffy

📍 Athlone – 12:30

This is a huge clash between two unbeaten sides in the Senior Ladies championship. Glynn Barntown have been rock-solid defensively, conceding only 15 runs in three games, while Breaffy boast the more explosive attack, scoring 42 runs in the same number of matches.

With top spot and valuable momentum ahead of the finals at stake, this could easily go down to the last inning.

Prediction: Low-scoring draw.


Senior Mixed – Glynn Barntown vs Breaffy

📍 Athlone – 14:00

Another heavyweight showdown in the Senior Mixed, with both sides sitting at 5–0–1 and averaging over 13 runs per game. Breaffy’s +41 run difference edges Glynn’s +34, but there’s little to separate these two on paper. Expect an attacking, high-scoring classic.

Prediction: Breaffy by 2–3 runs.


Senior Mixed – Limekiln vs The Heath

📍 Tymon Park – 14:00

Limekiln and The Heath are both 1–0–5 and fighting to avoid the wooden spoon. The Heath have conceded the most runs in the league (96) and will need to tighten up considerably to compete here. Limekiln’s slightly better scoring record (47 runs) could prove decisive.

Prediction: Limekiln by 10–12 runs.


Senior Men – Glynn Barntown vs Breaffy

📍 Athlone – 15:30

Breaffy (5–0–1) are the league’s second-best attacking side, with 104 runs scored, while Glynn Barntown (4–0–2) have been one of the more disciplined defensive outfits. Breaffy’s power hitters could prove the difference, but Glynn have enough resilience to keep it close for most of the contest. I’ve just got a sneaky feeling that Glynn Barntown are being underestimated and could be the surprise package of the senior men’s.

Prediction: Glynn Barntown by 4-5 runs.

Crunch Time: Key Fixtures Set to Shape the Championship This Sunday

📅 Sunday’s Championship Action

All eyes turn to Athlone, Tymon Park, and Mullahoran this Sunday as the Rounders Championship edges closer to the knockout stages.
 
With games running out, every result now carries weight — whether it’s for top spot, survival, or momentum. Breaffy’s Senior squads return to action aiming to extend their unbeaten runs, while Cuchulainn, Kilmeena, and Erne Eagles look to shake up the standings. It’s also a big day for the intermediate championship in Galway. Run rates, head-to-heads, and weather could all come into play.
 

Senior Ladies

Breaffy vs Cuchulainn 📍Athlone GAA | 🕧 12:30pm | 🧍‍♂️Ref: Jack All eyes will be on Athlone as defending All-Ireland champions Breaffy return to action for just their second match of the campaign. The Mayo side have lifted the last three national titles and opened their 2025 account with a dominant 15–1 win over Raheen, showcasing their depth, power, and ruthless streak.

Cuchulainn, meanwhile, have already played three matches, narrowly beating Raheen and losing tight encounters to both Erne Eagles (30–34) and Glynn Barntown (7–15). Despite sitting second in the table, their run rate is negative—an issue they’ll need to address quickly. Last year’s meeting between these two sides was a cracker, and Cuchulainn pushed Breaffy hard before ultimately falling short.

With scoring difference and final placings still on the line, Cuchulainn will be desperate to cause an upset. But they’ll need to produce their most disciplined performance yet to overcome a Breaffy team that knows how to finish games with precision.
🔮 Verdict: Breaffy by 6



Senior Mixed

Breaffy vs Cuchulainn 📍Athlone GAA | 🕑 2:00pm | 🧍‍♂️Ref: Jack

 

It’s a heavyweight clash as reigning All-Ireland champions Breaffy face high-flying Cuchulainn in a game that could define the top of the table. Breaffy may be sitting in sixth due to games in hand, but with a perfect 3–0 record and the best run rate in the group (+2.7), they’re still the team to beat.

Cuchulainn, meanwhile, have racked up some serious scores and sit second with three wins from five. Their recent 24–21 victory over The Heath showed their threat with the bat, but their defence will be tested by a ruthless Breaffy side. A win here for Breaffy keeps their title defence firmly on track. Cuchulainn will be out to prove they belong in that top bracket.
🔮 Verdict: Breaffy by 3 ⸻

 

Erne Eagles vs The Heath 📍Mullahoran | 🕚 11:00am | 🧍‍♂️Ref: Philip

 

Quietly effective, Erne Eagles are sitting third with a game in hand and a strong run rate of +1.0. Their dominant wins over Limekiln and Kilmeena have underlined their status as serious semi-final contenders.

The Heath have had a patchy campaign, with one win and three defeats. They’ve shown glimpses of promise but conceded 68 runs in four matches—far too many at this level. Erne Eagles look sharper, more consistent, and better equipped to handle pressure. The Heath will need to pull something special out of the bag to avoid slipping further down the table.

🔮 Verdict: Erne Eagles by 7 ⸻

 

Limekiln vs Kilmeena 📍Tymon Park | 🕚 11:00am | 🧍‍♀️Ref: Sarah

Two teams with 1–4 records, 17 points each, and almost nothing between them. This is make-or-break. Limekiln have been involved in multiple close games but struggled to close them out.

Kilmeena, meanwhile, got a huge morale boost last round with a shock 9–7 win over Glynn Barntown. This is the first time the two sides meet in senior championship action—and it’s a true knockout scenario. The winner stays alive in the semi-final hunt. The loser almost certainly exits.

🔮 Verdict: Draw 

 

Carrickmacross Emmets vs Kilmeena 📍Tymon Park | 🕧 12:30pm | 🧍‍♀️Ref: Aine

 

Carrickmacross are bottom of the table but showed huge improvement in their last outing with a 22–16 win over The Heath. They’ll be hoping to carry that form into this one and pull off another upset.

Kilmeena play earlier in the day against Limekiln, and the quick turnaround could challenge their depth and stamina. If they win the first, this becomes a must-win. If they lose it, this becomes a lifeline. Carrickmacross are fresh and finally finding their rhythm—Kilmeena could be caught cold late in the day.

🔮 Verdict: Carrickmacross by 1  

 

Senior Men

Breaffy vs Cuchulainn 📍Athlone GAA | 🕞 3:30pm | 🧍‍♂️Ref: Jack

Last year’s beaten finalists Breaffy are on a mission—and they’re doing it with style. Unbeaten in three, they boast a staggering +4.3 run rate, having brushed aside the likes of Michael Glavey’s (31–6) and Limekiln (21–11). Sitting just outside the top four due to games played, a win here would put them firmly back in the picture for top spot.

Cuchulainn are fourth, but their path is anything but secure. With losses to Erne Eagles and Glynn Barntown on their record, they’ll need something special to hold off the chasing pack. Their 2-run win over The Heath earlier in the season showed grit, but they’ll need much more to stop a Breaffy side in full flow. Cuchulainn are fighting to stay in the hunt so expect intensity.
🔮 Verdict: Breaffy by 5  

 

Limekiln vs Michael Glavey’s 📍Tymon Park | 🕧 12:30pm | 🧍‍♀️Ref: Sarah After conceding two walkovers in a row, Michael Glavey’s are set to line out again—but they’ll need to rediscover their form quickly. Bottom of the table with –9 points and a –4.2 run rate, their season has unravelled fast. But if they can put in a full performance, they could at least restore some pride. Limekiln haven’t had the season they hoped for either. Just one win from five has them stuck on 17 points, and while qualification nearly is now out of reach, a win here would ensure they finish the campaign on a high. Both sides are wounded. One will leave with a much-needed boost.
🔮 Verdict: Limekiln by 9  



Intermediate Mixed

Galway City Rapparees vs St. Clare’s 📍Galway | 🕧 12:30pm | 🧍‍♀️Ref: Shirley

 

Last year’s Junior champions Galway City Rapparees have stormed into Intermediate mixed with real intent, boasting two wins from two and the best run rate in the group (+2.4). A third win here would seal qualification and set up a winner-takes-all clash with Erne Eagles for top spot in early August.

St. Clare’s were unbeaten until they ran into an on-fire Erne Eagles side. They still sit second on 13 points, but their fate now hinges on this trip to Galway. A big win could book their place in the semis. A loss, and they will most likely be leapfrogged by both Galway and Erne. This is effectively a knockout game for St Clare’s . Expect fireworks in Galway.

🔮 Verdict: Galway City Rapparees by 4

 

Athenry vs Erne Eagles 📍Athenry | 🕛 12:00pm | 🧍‍♂️Ref: Peter

After a slow start, Erne Eagles are suddenly back in the mix. A commanding win over St. Clare’s has boosted their confidence and run rate—and if they beat Athenry here, they’ll leap to 14 points and set up a massive final game with Galway.

Athenry have been competitive, but a leaky defence (conceding 62 runs) has cost them. Even with three games played, they’re out of the running—but they’d love to spoil Erne’s charge and grab a statement win at home. Erne need this to stay alive. Expect them to show up.
🔮 Verdict: Erne Eagles by 6

 

Intermediate men 

🔵 Galway City Rapparees vs St Clare’s 📍 Galway | 🕑 2:00pm | 🧍‍♀️ Referee: Shirley

It’s a high-stakes finish in the Intermediate Men’s group as Galway City Rapparees take on St Clare’s, with top spot and semi-final pairings hanging in the balance. The Rapparees have turned things around brilliantly in 2025. After failing to win a single game last year—including a heavy defeat to St Clare’s in this corresponding fixture—they’ve emerged as one of the form teams of this season. A statement win over Kilmeena and a dominant performance against the Dublin Mets show just how far they’ve come. Their only blemish was a one-run loss to Emo in a thriller.

St Clare’s have also secured their semi-final place after seeing off the Mets and holding a valuable head-to-head edge over them. However, inconsistency has been an issue, with defeats to both Kilmeena and Emo. A win here could lift them as high as second depending on run rate, while a loss would likely see them finish fourth.

For Galway, it’s simple: win and they top the group. Lose, and they risk dropping to third—setting up a rematch with Clare’s in the semi-final. A full-circle showdown either way.

🔮 Verdict: Galway by 3

Junior Men

Galway City Rapparees vs St Senans 📍 Galway | 🕜 Throw-in 11am Junior Men – Group A

It all comes down to this for Galway City Rapparees, who host St Senans in the final game of Group A. But despite still being mathematically alive, the odds are stacked against them in a brutal run rate scenario that may yet punish one of the form teams of the group.

Galway come into this clash with 16 points and a run rate of –0.4, having won two of their four matches and received a walkover win against Elphin—crucially, walkovers carry no run rate gain.

St Senans, by contrast, sit on 18 points with a run rate of 2.1, and have already beaten Na Piarsaigh and Sporting Limerick convincingly. Even in last week’s narrow defeat to Kilmore (16–15), they showed they could mix it with the best. The Rapparees are now in the unenviable position of needing to beat St Senans by around 30 runs to leapfrog them and Na Pairsaigh on run rate. A win by 9 or 10 would have been enough in a normal situation, but the lack of a run rate boost from their walkover against Elphin means Galway are carrying a deficit both mathematically and psychologically.

To make matters even more frustrating, Galway already beat Kilmore, who are top finishers in the group, earlier in the campaign. If they manage to beat St Senans here, they could beat both of the group’s top qualifiers—but could still finish fourth and miss out on the semis. That would be an extraordinary and rare outcome in a six-team group format in rounders.

St Senans, with their current run rate cushion, can afford a close loss and still go through. Their 18(2)-10(5) win over Elphin earlier in the campaign did wonders for their run rate.

Expect Galway to come out swinging—they’ve no choice. For St Senans, this is all about scoreboard management. Even a loss could be enough… just as long as it’s not historic.

🔮 Verdict: St Senans by 4

Thanks to all the referees officiating this weekend.   It’s never an easy task, without refs we have no games. 

All-Ireland U16 Rounders: Emo Dominate as Girls and Boys Teams Claim Glory

🏆 All-Ireland U16 Rounders: Emo Dominate as Girls and Boys Teams Claim Glory

It was a golden day for Emo GAA Rounders as both their Girls and Boys teams claimed All-Ireland Under 16 titles, underlining the club’s incredible strength at underage level.

👱‍♀️ U16 Girls: Emo Continue Their Streak

In the girls competition, Emo continued their remarkable run of form with yet another title, adding the U16 crown to their earlier victories at U14 and U15 level, as well as the Leinster U14 Girls title. The Laois side looked sharp throughout the day, topping the Round Robin and delivering a composed, clinical display in the final.

But it was the Erne Eagles who created the biggest shock of the day. After a shaky group stage, where they struggled for form, the Cavan side rallied brilliantly in the semi-final to defeat a strong and well-organised Athenry outfit. It was a game that swung in the closing innings, with the Eagles showing grit and determination to turn things around when it mattered most.

A standout performer was Megan Harrington, who impressed while playing out of position at first base. Her smart defensive work and calm presence under pressure earned her the Player of the Tournament award — a fitting reward for a pivotal role in her team’s surprise run to the final.

Despite their momentum, the Erne Eagles couldn’t find a way past Emo in the final, as the champions showed their full range of quality to secure yet another All-Ireland title.

Emo

👦 U16 Boys: Emo Seal the Double

In the boys competition, Emo made it a day to remember for the club. They faced a determined Na Fianna side from Dublin, who pushed them all the way with some excellent outfield catches and impressive hitting. Na Fianna showed flashes of brilliance and never made it easy — but Emo’s all-round strength told in the end. Over the course of two well-contested matches, the Laois side proved too strong and took the spoils.

With both U16 titles secured, Emo’s golden generation continues to blaze a trail through underage Rounders — a club on a historic roll, and showing no signs of slowing down.

Na Fianna