Nothing Mini about the Mini World Cup

Despite the inclement weather, the Clubs fundraiser on 18 March 2013 in aid of the Princess Leah trust was an unqualified success. A total of €803 was raised on the day and when added to the club Committee donation of €250, a total of €1053 was donated from the club and lodged in the Princess Leah trust account in AIB Newbridge on 19 March 13. The event itself was kicked off by our Under 8 and Under 9 footballers who set a high standard for the remainder of the players to follow. I witnessed a goal being scored by Jamie "Messi" Stafford that I knew would be the goal of the event - it was an overhead kick into the top corner.  The turn out by these young lads was tremendous. Our Under 10s and 11s then followed and we were treated to fantastic football and goalscoring and a little competitiveness which was great to see as for these boys it was an ideal training session and it was great for them to show us how much these 2 teams have improved. We were then treated by the U12s and U13 players who displayed an abundance of skill in their tournament. The days outstanding player, Darren Judge was on show here and it was a pleasure for me to referee these games and witness how good a player this boy is. He had many rivals however on the day and its no surprise to me that our U13s are performing as well as they are and in contention to win their League. Our Under 15s did not get to take part as they were listed to play a League game against Naas AFC. Thankfully, they beat Naas comfortably and remain top of the League. However, these boys very kindly sent over a generous donation for the trust. Well done Dermot and the lads. Keep up the good form.

Our coaches then took centre stage and produced a tournament worthy of the event. Despite sore heads, aches and pains, old age and little sense we all committed to it and gave it our all. In a blast from the past, the "Team of the 90's" with 4 over 40s (and 2 not far off it) managed to win out at the expense of the team of youngsters -- and they say miracles never happen!!

Our Senior Ladies followed the coaches tournament and challenged all comers to play them in their tournament. Some of our stronger underage footballers played them and got them warmed up so that the winning Coaches team could have a crack at them. Thanks to the ladies for not kicking us too hard, even though temptation must have been huge - my physio bill is on its way to Lisa. This was a most enjoyable part of the day as it included underage, senior ladies and a Coaches team in friendly competition and hats off to the ladies who played for a solid hour or more against us all.

Our final slot was taken by our Senior Mens squad which was backed up very ably by some of the Masters players. Their support for this event was fantastic. Regrettably, they had to play in the worst of the weather but watching their intensity, I am certain they didnt even notice it. They were good value for their slot. I expect Monread FC could be in for it on Sunday morning.

On to the thank you's:

Special thanks goes to Sandra who planned, organised and coordinated the entire event. Well done.

To those who made sandwiches, cakes and teas and coffees and kept flasks filled with boiling water. Thank you all. 

To Paula Jones for the donation to the underage players raffle.(Draw takes place at underage training on 21 March 2013) 

To those of you who made generous donations even though you could not be present for the event. Sincere thanks. 

Thanks also to Evelyn O Brien and the Bord na Mona, Drehid Facility for donating the bottled water.

Finally, to Ballyteague GFC for donating the use of their Astro Turf facility for the entire event. Thank you kindly.