We're well underway with our indoor hurling programme within Derry this winter. The Under 8's enjoyed a valentines blitz, the coaches were itching to get back to their other halfs. I spotted a big bunch of Red Roses in Hinphey's car for the women; Kevin's really romantic!
The clubs were split between Swatragh GAC and Roe Valley Leisure centre, the young lads all enjoyed a great days hurling.
On Saturday the Under 10's are out, we're using the same venues from 12pm and should be finished up before 3pm.
For the Under 12's we have two blitz days planned. One on the 7th March and the other 21st March. Many of our hurling clubs are also taking part in the North Antrim Indoor League which takes place just after Christmas, the extra indoor games should be a good aid to the players development.
Kevin Kelly from Ballinascreen has recently been appointed as the Ulster Council hurling officer and he's waisted no time in organising some indoor hurling blitz's that clubs can also enter. Some are a little out of the way for Derry clubs but at least they will throw up a few new faces to play against which I think is very important particulary when we only have 8 clubs.
As part of the 125 celebrations Kevin is hosting a large Provincial blitz for Under 10 hurlers in Meadowbank, all our clubs should be taking part on the 19th April. I am actually looking forward to going and seeing someone else under pressure at a blitz, 50 teams played off in an hour and a half :) - I'm not doubting him at all, no beter man!!
On Friday the 1st April at Roe Valley Recreation Centre Limavady a Super Touch Year 8 indoor Gaelic Football Blitz took place coordinated by Richard Ferris, GPO for the area. This event proved to be very popular with all that participated, 7 teams took part from St Patrick’s Dungiven and St Mary’s Limavady. 40 boys enjoyed the day’s football immensely, with 40 games taking place across the two halls. Finish off with all the boys getting 60mins session in the pool. Obviously a day such as this doesn't happen without the help of the teachers whom helped with the smooth running Mr. Mc Mullan, Mr. Mc Gilligan and six sixth form students from St. Mary's Limavady and St Patrick’s Dungiven refereed the games. Finally a big thank you to all the players who took part from 10am to 2.45pm, it was plain to see how much craic they were having and some of the skill levels on show was exceptional.
