The Joe Delaney Cup

The Joe Delaney Cup

June 23, 2015

On Saturday last, the 20th of June, for the Third year, the juvenile section of Ballincollig GAA club held the Under 11 hurling tournament, The Joe Delaney Cup. Clubs involved were Ballincollig, Na Piarsaigh from Limerick, Valley Rovers and James Stephens of Kilkenny, while each club brought 3 teams with them and in all approximately 150 boys took part.

The day itself was a fantastic success, the good weather played its part and was a welcome bonus, the conditions were perfect for summer hurling (Joe was obviously beaming down on us). As a club we can be very proud of ourselves, with all clubs going away congratulating us on putting on a thoroughly enjoyable day for everyone. A huge thanks needs to go to everyone who helped make this wonderful day happen, from people making teas, coffees and sandwiches to the referees, to the grounds staff who had our pitches in perfect order and everyone else who came down to help on the day.

The competition itself was played at an exceptionally high standard. Watching the skills on display from all clubs, the future of hurling has nothing to worry about. The final round of games had Ballincollig and James Stephens neck and neck with the home side narrowly missing out.

Congratulations to James Stephens who ended up victorious bringing the Cup to Kilkenny for the first time where it now resides in Delaneys Bar,  considering the caliber and traditions of the clubs we were playing against this was a fantastic achievement for the Ballincollig team and one that bodes well in moving our own club forward in the GAA world.

Thanks again to everyone who got involved, there was no shortage of volunteers and supporters and it was wonderful to see the club and community spirit working so well together. And of course well done to the wonderful under 11 Ballincollig team, ye represented the Club magnificently and we are all proud of ye.