Castlelyons Under 12 Camogie Team left the little village for Dublin on Saturday morning early with their mentors and Stephen driving the bus.  They were among 64 teams and 1,100 girls who were selected to participate in a Special Under 12 Blitz in the hallowed turf of Croke Park.

The Castlelyons team were selected from a Provincial Blitz which was held in Semple Stadium, Thurles in June, which also included Pearse Stadium, Galway, Clones, Co. Monaghan, and O Connor Park in Tullamore.

The girls and supporters had a pleasant trip up and refreshments in Junction 14.  Then it was into action as they were drawn in Group 4 with Castleblaney, Co. Monaghan, Tuam, Co. Galway and Roanmore, Co. Waterford.  They ethos of games at this age group is fun and enjoyment and there was plenty.  However, as in any game the element of competition creeps in and I am informed that the girls were outstanding and won all their games – comhghairdeas – what a day in the hollowed turf of Croke Park.

Congratulations and well done to Ms Aoife Beausang who done so well as an official referee at the event.  It is great to see a young person taking on these responsibilities especially in Croke Park.

After leaving Croker Stephen Hallihan took the girls and their supporters on a tour of the Phoenix Park, Arás an Uachtaráin, Farmleigh House and the Papal Cross.  Then it was southward down the Motorway once more and home after the perfect day.

What an honour to be lining up in a tournament with such famous Clubs such as Newmarket-on-Fergus, Co. Clare, Toomevara, Co. Tipperary, Liam Mellows, Galway, O Loughlin Gaels, Co. Kilkenny and Roanmore, Co. Waterford.  Lads bate dat!

Congratulations to the mentors, Stephen O Riordan, John Coleman, Orla Hallihan and Mary McNulty.  It must be a great sense of achievement and recognition for the hard work of Orla Hallihan and Mary McNulty who are tireless in the cause of the Camogie, helping Dave with the Cúl Camps, the weekly Lotto and, of course, helping with so many teams.  Also to the supporters who travelled on the day.

Finally well done to our under 12 girls, enjoy the game and who knows there could be some success along the road. Castlelyons Abú 

Team photo also includes Stephen O Riordan and John Coleman with Orla Hallihan and Mary McNulty of the Camogie Club and in the center is Eibhlín Uí Leathóbhair with the Sponsors Torpeys of the Banner who do a special type of Camogie Stick and can be contacted at : - manager@torpeyhurleys.com  or their online shop www.torpeyhurleys.com 

Under 6 and Under 8 Camogie Fun Games.

Last Friday night under floodlights on the main pitch saw our last training session of the season for the U6 & U8 camogie teams. On a stormy night we had a large attendance for fun and games. 

The girls were each presented with commemorative bags, bottles, medal & treats. Many thanks to everyone who helped out during the year including Trainers Pat O Sullivan,  Paul Maher and Declan Buttimer. 

Thanks also to all of the parents for their help during the year, and especially the girls for representing the club and our sponsors Centra. U6/U8 will re commence next February.