With a catchment of less than a dozen town lands to pick from Moneyglass are proud of the fact they have 11 teams represented in various leagues within the county at all levels from under 12 through to senior level for both male and female players.
As autumn closes in most leagues are at the winding up stages and all club teams are seeking to consolidate their positions in the leagues for next year. The senior footballers have a handful of fixtures to fulfil at this stage and are aiming for a mid-table finish in Division One. Along the way they have taken a few notable scalps with fixtures against this years Championship finalists Portglenone being amongst some of their finest displays. Indeed had it not been for a number of one or two point defeats to very strong opposition their finishing position in the league could have been much better. The reserves have battled bravely in Division Six and remain in the Reserve Football Plate. The Minors have also had a solid year in the league and gave a good account of themselves in their championship run.
Ladies football continues apace with the seniors holding their own in Division One of the Derry league. Re-building remains the focus with many budding stars that could easily grace the field against those of the less fairer sex.
As usual at the club an immense effort has been put in by all the coaches, mentors and trainers who have worked tirelessly to nurture all the youth teams from under 8 level up to minors for both boys and girls.
Many training sessions on Sunday mornings have helped develop the young Gaels who will provide the backbone of teams for years to come.
As well as the hard work of training the fun element is vital in the development of our young players. To this end a Fun Day took place in July where over a hundred kids enjoyed a day of football, kick fada, amusements and general merriment. The day was closed off with a Barbecue and Dance arranged as usual by the hard working volunteers and supporters at the club.
The emphasis on youth development was in evidence later in August when the Cul Camp came to Moneyglass which was attended by almost 50 boys and girls who received some excellent coaching in football and life skills.
As with all Gaelic clubs, financial sustainability is one of the core challenges that we face. Special thanks must go to all our volunteers who organised the various events throughout the year including the club lotto, card nights, barbecue, steak night and the very successful Moneyglass Golf Classic.
As this year comes to a close we look forward to the Annual Dinner and the challenges next year will bring along with any new faces that have spare energy and devotion that they can bring to Naoimh Eargnaid GAC.
Above: Cul Camp, August 2007