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LOUTH YEARBOOK ARTICLES

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CLUBS
Annaghminnon Rovers	Clan na Gael	Cooley Kickhams	Dowdallshill
Dreadnots	Dundalk Gaels	Geraldines	Glen Emmets
Glyde Rangers	Hunterstown Rovers	John Mitchells	Kilkerley Emmets
Knockbridge	Lannleire	Mattock Rangers	Na Piarsaigh
Naomh Fionnbarra	Naomh Mairtin	Naomh Malachi	Naomh Moninne
Newtown Blues	O'Connells	Oliver Plunketts	O'Raghallaighs
Pearse Og	Roche Emmets	Sean McDermotts	Sean O'Mahonys
St Brides	St Fechins	St Josephs	St Kevins
St Mary's, Ardee	St Mochtas	St Nicholas	St Patricks
Stabannon Parnells	Westerns	Wolfe Tones (Football)	Wolfe Tones (Hurling)
Young Ireland's

County Articles

2008	Annie Reneghan	Book Review: Divided Loyalties	Brian Lynch
	Castle Emmets	Cathedral Financial Consultants	Collins Connolly
	Cumann Louth	Darver Project	Eamon McEneaney
	Fairways Hotel	Flogas	Frank Doyle
	Gary Thornton	George McDonnell	Johnny McDonnell
	Junior Footballers	Ladies Footballers	Larry McGrane
	Lyn Savage	Matthews Coaches	McArdle Meats
	McArdle Transport	Minor Footballers	Northern Brewery
	Ogsport Lu	Peter Murphy	Poc Fada
	Ray Finnegan	Ronan Carroll	Senior Footballers
	Senior Hurlers	Shane Mulroy	St. Brides Ladies Footballers
	U16 Ladies	U21 Footballers	Western Motors

2007	Senior footballers	Senior hurlers	Path to 1957 final
	A final remembered	Kevin Beahan	Junior footballers
	Poc Fada	Colm Judge	Supporters Club
	Under 21 footballers	Minor footballers	Dermot O'Brien
	Mount Avenue Developments	Sustainable Energy	Bellurgan
	St. Oliver's Drogheda	Colin Goss	Fire Services
	Friends we lost	Louth County Council	IJM
	HJ Heinz	DPL Group	Dan O'Neill
	Boyne Valley Cars	Ladies footballers	Eamon McEneaney
	Crown Plaza

2006	Bennett Construction	Bord Gais/Sicim Roadbridge Ltd	Louth County Council
	Development squads	Dundalk Stadium	A year to remember
	Louth Environmental Campaign	First All-Ireland final	Colin Goss
	Senior Hurlers	Junior Footballers	Ladies footballers
	M1 Europark	John McCabe	Pat McConnon
	Eamonn McEneaney	Minor footballers	Ocean Fresh
	Oxyarc	Louth County Council	NFL win
	Senior Footballers	Championship structures	Tommy Murphy Cup
	U21 footballers

2005	Senior Footballers	Senior Hurlers	Junior Footballers
	Minor Footballers	Poc Fada	Louth Primary Schools
	Under 21 Footballers	Supporters Club	Ladies Footballers
	Dan O'Neill	Ladies Club Football	Handball
	Paddy Oliver	Eamonn McEneaney	Darvery Project
	Alan Meehan	Seamus Maguire	Paddy Clarke
	P&A Quinn	John Keenan	Dundalk Retail Park
	Park Inn Hotel	Martin Crosbie	Padraig O'Neill
	Shane McGuinness	Underage Hurling

2004	Senior Footballers	Senior Hurlers	Minor Footballers
	U21 Footballers	Tuft Cup	Dundalk IT
	Ladies Footballers	Terry Hyland	Darver Project
	Darren Clarke	Poc Fada	Mulreid Construction
	Cherryfield Homes	Ace Plant	Diamond Shipping
	Duffy Concrete	Crumb Rubber

2003	Senior Footballers	Senior Hurlers	U21 Footballers
	Paul Dunne	Orlaith Kirk	Mark Stanfield
	Junior Football	Val Andrews	Dundalk IT
	Minor Footballers	Underage Hurling

2002	Senior Footballers	Senior Hurlers	Dundalk Schools
	Ollie McDonnell	Players of the year	Under 21 Footballers
	Paddy Carr	Cups of Cheer	Minor Footballers
	Underage Hurling	Ann Marie King	De La Salle
	Love thy neighbour	Louth's Luck

2001	Senior Footballers	Minor Footballers	Senior Hurlers
	Under 21 Footballers	Alan Page	Dermot O'Brien
	Foot and Mouth	Ladies Footballers	Underage Hurling
	Paddy Carr	Vocational Schools	Manor Park Homes

Annaghminnon Rovers
2008	Facilities to be proud of Being one of the smallest clubs in the county Annaghminnon Rovers may not have the biggest playing panel, but in many ways they epitomise the strength and importance of the GAA as the passion of many dedicated individuals, both on and off the pitch, makes the club a vital part of the local community.
2007	National recognition for Rovers driving force Annaghminnon Rovers may not have enjoyed much success on the field of play in 2007, but the club had cause to celebrate when their founding committee member Pat Holland was honoured with a President's Award at Croke Park in March. Pat has given a lifetime of service to the club and nobody is more deserving of such a high honour.
2006	Rover and rout For Annaghminnon, the 2006 Louth JFC was a tale of two routs. They opened their campaign with a thumping victory over Wolfe Tones but departed the equation when going down heavily to group winners Westerns. In between, the Rovers produced a credible display against champions-elect St Kevins, a performance that suggests they can hold their own against the best junior outfits in the Wee County. That's what David Kellett Ð who doubles up as a player and committee member - is hoping for anyway.
2005	One to watch Annaghminnon Rovers may not have set the Wee County's playing fields alight during the 2005 season, yet midfielder and captain for the year Aidan Kerr saw enough to convince him that the club will book a return to intermediate ranks within the next two years. The decision to field a second team proved an inspired move and Aidan expects the Red & Whites to reap the benefits in the not-too-distant future.
2004	Championship derby brought best out of Rovers Annaghminnon Rovers didn't exactly have an outstanding 2004. However, there were some flashes of brilliance over the course of the year, no more so than in the drawn JFC clash with neighbours and keen rivals St Mochtas in mid-June. The villagers went on to gain promotion, proving that Annaghminnon aren't too far off the mark.
2003	Rovers return has no silver lining Tony Martin chipped in with five points when Annaghminnon beat Glen Emmets in the 2000 JFC final to capture their first piece of silverware in 36 years. Speaking to Gerry Robinson, he admits that Rovers' return to junior ranks in '03 was less memorable.
2002	2B or not 2B; that was the question Annaghminnon Rovers' 2002 season gradually descended into a relegation dogfight before they lucklessly surrendered their Division 2B status right at the death. Team captain Niall Matthews reflects on an eventful term for the club and looks forward to a quick return to the middle grade.
2001	Rovers don't return Many predicted that Annaghminnon Rovers would suffer an immediate demotion to the junior ranks they fled in such spectacular JFC-winning fashion in the summer of 2000 but they silenced their critics by gathering enough points to stay in Division 2B, much to the obvious delight of long-serving player Colm Martin who doubles up as club Secretary. Words: Gerry Robinson.

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Clan na Gael
2008	Gael force In their second season of intermediate grade football Clans harboured high hopes of making a huge impact in an effort to regain senior status.
2007	Clan na Gael's year Clan's first season outside the Senior grade since 1954 proved to be another year of disappointment to follow the previous two, with no trophies to display for their efforts at adult level writes Peter Brannigan.
2006	90 years young For Clans this year heralds the club's 90th year in existence, founded in 1916, the years since have brought much success and also a show of disappointments. By Peter Brannigan.
2005	A drop down A 1-12 to 0-7 defeat against St. Josephs on Sunday 23rd October sealed Clans senior teams fate for the 2006 season writes Peter Brannigan.
2004	Clan loyal Young forward Mark McGeown was on top form as Clan na Gael narrowly missed out on reaching the 2004 Louth SFC final. With some impressive displays in the premier competition, the Clans announced their return as genuine Joe Ward Cup contenders. They were just two points shy of defending champions St Patricks at the semi-final stage Ð and could well go even closer next year. They also figured prominently in the shake-up for honours in the Cardinal O'Donnell and Paddy Sheelan Cups.
2003	Bringing through a fresh batch Clan na Gael enjoyed the most successful period in their history during the 1990s. The undoubted kingpins of Louth football they were seen by most of their senior rivals as the team to beat. By Eunan Whyte.
2002	Switching codes At the beginning of this year, one of Louth's best known coaches, Tommy Connolly, surprised many when he announced that he was ending his 36-year association with Dundalk Football Club.
2001	No joy for Clans in 2001 All in all, it was a disappointing year for Clan na Gael, as Peter Brannigan reflects.

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Cooley Kickhams
2008	Cooley Kickhams claim league honours Cooley Kickhams have enjoyed their fair share of success over the past number of years, but as the 2008 season came to a close the club were left to reflect on another year without their number one target - the Joe Ward Cup.
2007	Cruelly Kickhams It seems that there is no end to Cooley Kickhams' pain. In 2007, the men from Fr McEvoy Park once more came agonisingly close to capturing the Joe Ward Cup but, yet again, they had to give second best to their deadly rivals St Patricks on county final day. Knowing that they were the second-best team in the '07 SFC offered no consolation to the Kickhams as their peninsula rivals celebrated a third senior championship triumph in five years.
2006	Cooley retain MFC With a devastating dismantling of a fancied Dreadnots/St Fechins side in the decider, Cooley Kickhams completed back-to-back minor football championship victories in 2006. For the second successive year, Jason Long registered two goals on county final day, but the modest youngster insists it was a team effort that worked the oracle for Cooley's magnificent U18s.
2005	Plenty of kick here Cooley Kickhams set out at the start of the year to end their 15-year wait for the Joe Ward Cup and after coming so close last season, were determined to go one better this time around. By Eunan Whyte.
2004	The final countdown Cooley's 2004 season was all about finals. The Kickhams enjoyed an extraordinary year, qualifying for all three senior County Board deciders (the senior championship, the Paddy Sheelan Cup and the Cardinal O'Donnell Cup), winning two. Pete McGrath also unearthed a real gem in young Brian White, Top Scorer in the 2004 Louth SFC. On the evidence of what we witnessed in '04, it is surely only a matter of time before the Joe Ward Cup makes its long-overdue return to Fr McEvoy Park.
2003	Thornton inspires as senior trophy famine ends While Cooley's inopportune 2003 SFC exit was heartbreaking (to put it mildly), they did collect their first piece of senior silverware in eight long years. David Thornton's seven-point contribution was integral to the Kickhams' ACC Cup final defeat of St Marys in Dundalk during the second weekend of May.
2002	Cooley spreading their wings Even the least observant visitors to Fr McEvoy Park in 2002 will have noticed a lot of activity therein, as arguably the Wee County's busiest club undertakes an ambitious three-phase redevelopment that will enable it to cater adequately for its burgeoning numbers. Gerry Robinson gets the latest news from club chairman Adrian Sheelan.
2001	Cool(ey) kids Gerry Robinson reports on how the Cooley juveniles came close to wiping the board in 2001. He also gets the thoughts of Gerry Sheelan, who managed the club's U16 county championship winning side.

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Cuchullainn Gaels
2008	Handing on the baton Cuchulainn Gaels may be the youngest GAA club in the county but they can already be very proud of their achievements, both on and off the field, and the 2008 season saw them continue the great progress they have made in their short history.
2007	Getting there It was a fairly good year for Louth's youngest GAA club. Though 2007 was only their second season to field teams, Cuchulainn Gaels broke new ground on two significant fronts: they captured their first ever county title and also earned county representation for the first time. Things are picking up nicely for the Carlingford/Omeath outfit.

Dowdallshill
2008	Cutting the red ribbon Over the past decade, Dowdallshill have been one of the strongest teams in junior football and many predicted that 2008 would see the club add to their collection of silverware.
2007	Injuries prove crucial Having won the Junior Championship on each of their previous two seasons in the grade, Dowdallshill were hoping to make it a hat-trick of Christy Bellew titles when they started their preparations for the 2007 season.
2006	Facilities to be proud of Over the past number of years, Dowdallshill GF & AC has hit the headlines for their exploits on the field of play. However, the 2006 season will be remembered for a major event off the field of play. By Eunan Whyte.
2005	Junior glory Dowdallshill paid the most fitting tribute possible to late Brendan Leggett by dedicating their junior championship success to the player who died tragically just four weeks before the final. By Eunan Whyte
2004	Something new for the Dowdallers in '04 Two-thousand-and-four was a landmark year for Dowdallshill GFC, who had the distinction of playing intermediate football for the first time in their 108-year history. Though things may not have gone quite according to plan, it was certainly a taste of something new. Attacking talisman Gerry McShane is hopeful that it was a glimpse of things to come for the Red & GreenÉ
2003	'02 disappointment banished Dowdallshill emphatically put the heartache of losing the previous year's junior decider behind them by capturing the 2003 Louth junior football championship. And boy did they do it in style! The St Brigids Park outfit then went on to complete a clean sweep of junior trophies by adding the Division Three league and Kevin Mullen Shield titles to round off a truly remarkable year.
2002	One 'Hill of an effort Dowdallshill came agonisingly close to capturing the Louth junior football championship in 2002. However, they were decidedly unfortunate to finish the season empty-handed.
2001	Giving youth its chance After being on the receiving end of some harsh treatment for countless years, Junior football in Louth seems to be hitting back after undergoing a transformation in recent times, writes Eunan Whyte.

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Dreadnots
2008	Third light It was a wonderful year for Dreadnots, who made up for the close shaves of 2006 and 2007 by landing the 2008 Louth intermediate football championship title Ð their third such success of the present decade. This time, the Red & Blacks will be more determined than ever to consolidate their senior status and so cease their perennial flirtations with the middle grade.
2007	Within a whisker of bouncing back Dreadnots GFC went into the 2007 season with the aim of making up for the disappointment of relegation to the Intermediate ranks at the end of the previous campaign.
2006	Young guns fired Not many clubs in the Wee County can claim to have as much exiting young talent at their disposal as Dreadnots. The Clogherhead outfit had three men on the county minor team in '06 and also reached the county MFC decider (amalgamated with St Fechins). Little wonder club chairman Padraig Califf is looking on the bright side of life, despite the obvious disappointment of the club's luckless demotion to intermediate level.
2005	Safe and sound Dreadnots' target at the start of the 2005 campaign was to retain their senior status. Nothing overly ambitious. Though it proved to be yet another protracted affair, spilling over into late autumn, the 2004 intermediate champions achieved their pre-season goal with some spirited displays in Division 1B of the all-county league. It's a competitive league at the best of times, so midfield stalwart Paddy McGuigan was pleased with the way things worked out for the Clogherhead men. By Gerry Robinson
2004	Dreadnots are back After a two-year absence, Dreadnots reclaimed their place in senior football by winning the 2004 Louth intermediate football championship. And they did it the hard way. The triumphant campaign went right down to the wire before the Clogherhead men carved out a one-point victory over O'Raghallaighs in the final at Dunleer on Sunday October 3.
2003	Home Malone One-time St Nicholas player Darren Malone is very much at home in the Dreadnots colours. Now part of the Dreadnots furniture, the industrious midfielder captained the Clogherhead men in 2003, as the Black & Reds once more flattered to deceive...
2002	Dreadnots' drive catches the eye Dreadnots took no prisoners in 2002 as they stormed inexorably towards an instant return to senior football. They fell marginally short in the intermediate championship but set the pace all year at the top of Division 2A. At the time of going to press, the Clogherhead men had one hand on the Toner Cup and were long odds-on to return to the top grade.
2001	Dread the 'nots Dreadnots came a long way in the course of three short seasons. They may not have realised their incredible dream of capturing junior, intermediate and senior championships in successive years (instead suffering relegation back to intermediate ranks) but, as Gerry Robinson points out, they certainly didn't shame themselves during the course of five appearances in the Wee County's 2001 SFC.

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Dundalk Gaels
2008	Active on all fronts Dundalk Gaels have become accustomed to winning silverware over the past number of years, and although the senior team failed to land any major honours in 2008, the club will nonetheless look back on the season with a great deal of satisfaction.
2007	Double champions Dundalk Gaels have enjoyed their fair share of success in recent years and the 2007 season will go down in the club's history as one to treasure.
2006	Two trophies out of three In comparison to other seasons, the 2006 campaign may not have been the most successful for Dundalk Gaels as they failed to secure promotion back to senior ranks, but The Ramparts club did managed to land both the Grogan Cup and the Division 2A title, so they have many reasons to look back on the year with satisfaction.
2005	An eye on the future It's usually on the football field that a club makes its mark. And the more significant the mark the better the season. Like, for instance, a championship or league win, or, for the Joe Ward Cup winners a decent run in the provincial series. There's also reason to celebrate if relegation, seemingly inevitable at one point, is avoided. It that case there can be reason to look back on the twelve months with a degree of relief if not satisfaction. By Joe Carroll.
2004	Gaels ruled Leinster in January The New Year was barely up and running when Dundalk Gaels became Louth's first big winners of 2004 by capturing the inaugural Leinster intermediate club championship. League and championship double winners in the Wee County's intermediate grade in 2003, the Gaels brought a first ever provincial club title to Louth when defeating highly-rated Laois outfit Arles/Killeen by 2-5 to 0-7 at Pairc na nGaeil on Saturday January 10.
2003	Guess who's back? Dundalk Gaels efficiently completed an instant return to senior ranks by winning the 2003 Louth intermediate football championship, beating Oliver Plunketts in the final at The Grove on Sunday October 5th. Guess who's back, back again, guess who's back, guess who's back, guess who's back, guess who's back...
2002	Na Gaeil U16s reign supreme! Na Gaeil were the toast of Dundalk and the entire Wee County when they defeated fellow town side Clan Na Gael by 1-8 to 0-8 at Dowdallshill on Sunday September 29th to capture the 2002 Louth U16 football championship. Gerry Robinson catches up with Niall Lambert who managed the winning team in conjunction with Andrew McQuaid.
2001	Gaels keep on blowing Dundalk Gaels weren't setting a precedent when they appointed Leslie Toal as senior team manager at the beginning of the season, writes Joe Carroll.

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Geraldines
2008	Future so bright Few clubs in the Wee County have as much cause as Geraldines to be optimistic about their future prospects. The Haggardstown/Blackrock club retained the county minor championship in 2008 and their first team put together a pretty decent effort, considering their relative youth. In a year or two, the Gers could be standing toe-to-toe with the very best in Louth. Paddy McGuinness, who managed the team in Õ08, is confident that things are heading in the right direction.
2007	Major minor achievement The undoubted highlight of Geraldines' year occurred at Dowdallshill on the afternoon of Sunday September 23 when the club claimed a historic 2007 Louth Minor Football Championship final victory over Dundalk Young Irelands. The superb 1-12 to 1-7 win completed an astonishing streak of success for this particular crop of players, underlining the Haggardstown/Blackrock outfit's reputation as the Wee County's most progressive club.
2006	Gers juveniles clean up As one of the Wee County's oldest clubs, Geraldines are certainly displaying no signs of old age. In 2006, the Gers enjoyed a year of unprecedented success at juvenile level, helping themselves to five championships and three league titles. Thus, to suggest that the Haggardstown/Blackrock outfit have a bright future could be construed as an understatement.
2005	An astounding year Two-thousand-and-five will long be remembered as a truly momentous year for Geraldines. The Haggardstown/Blackrock club excelled on all fronts, returning to senior football by virtue of a spectacular IFC success and also celebrating numerous notable juvenile victories. The glory days are back.
2004	Fursey noise The St Furseys U14s made plenty of noise in 2004, winning a league and championship double as well as competing impressively in the All-Ireland Feile competition in Tyrone in July. The club also won a third successive county U13 league title. With players of such high calibre in the Haggardstown/Blackrock pipeline, the future of Geraldines appears to be in safe hands. Wee County 2004 reflects on a memorable year through the eyes of former Monaghan footballer and proud Furseys juvenile mentor Eamon McEneaney.
2003	Smells like team spirit The strong sense of camaraderie and team spirit that permeates Geraldines GFC has been a huge source of comfort to Brian Farrell during the most trying period of his life. As goalkeeper, Brian has served the Gers magnificently for the past two decades. Here, he tells Gerry Robinson how, in turn, the club was there for him in his darkest hour.
2002	Within a whisker ... Geraldines came tantalising close to earning a return to senior ranks in 2002 but a narrow intermediate championship final defeat meant their year petered out in an anti-climactic whimper.
2001	Remember '82? Gerry Robinson recalls Geraldines' brilliant Joe Ward Cup heist of 19 years ago. Ah, them was the days...

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Glen Emmets
2008	A credit to the area The 2008 season may not have resulted in Glen Emmets landing any silverware, but it was nonetheless a significant one in terms of the continued development of the Tullyallen club as their state-of-the-art clubrooms were in use for the first time.
2007	A rollercoaster Glen Emmets' 2007 season could probably be described as a rollercoaster ride as the Tullyallen club's campaign was a mixture of hot and cold results in the championship and the league with the only real consistency coming in the winning of the Kevin Mullen Shield, and the march to the Division 4B final.
2006	Things are looking up Glen Emmets enjoyed a busy and relatively successful 2006. Making impressive strides on and off the field of play, the Tullyallen club is in safe hands. Committee member and first-team player Derrick Johnson insists the Green & Reds are moving in the right direction.
2005	Breaking new ground The year most recently hijacked by the sands of time was an exceptional one for Glen Emmets GFC. The Tullyallen club comfortably retained its hard-earned intermediate status, generating an unprecedented enthusiasm in the clubhouse. On all fronts, the Emmets are making enormous strides. Never before in the history of the club has there been such cause for optimism. By Gerry Robinson
2004	Promotion was thoroughly deserved Despite the disappointment of being edged out on junior championship final day, Glen Emmets retained their focus brilliantly to earn promotion to intermediate ranks via the league. This was no more than the Tullyallen men deserved for a wonderful effort over the course of the year. County attacker David Bracken spoke to 'Wee County 2004' about an eventful season on all fronts.
2003	Emmets were to the fore Glen Emmets were prominent in all three junior competitions and were decidedly unfortunate to finish 2003 empty-handed. But their performances are a source of encouragement ...
2002	A secretary's role Want to hear someone talk up the job of GAA club secretary? Cue Glen Emmet's officer Patricia O'Brien.
2001	ÒDon't write us off yetÓ Glen Emmets Chairman Mannix Carolan remains optimistic about the club's future but feels that structures in the county discriminate against junior clubs. Speaking to Gerry Robinson, he calls for a major re-think at County Board level.

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Glyde Rangers
2008	The Grown Rangers Glyde Rangers have been an emerging force in Louth football for a dozen years and more. In 2008, the Tallanstown men demonstrated further coming-of-age by winning the Division Two title and blazing to the semi-final stage of the Joe Ward Cup. Centre forward Gerrard Sheridan believes it was a satisfactory year for the mid-county club.
2007	Glyde have the promise Glyde Rangers had every reason to start the 2007 season in a positive frame of mind. The Tallanstown men had turned in consistent performances over the past number of years in both league and championship and proved that they could, on their day, compete with the best in the county.
2006	Striving for that title Ten years ago, Glyde Rangers were playing junior football, but in the decade since they have established themselves as one of the most consistent senior clubs in the county.
2005	The face of adversity Two-thousand-and-five was a testing year for Glyde Rangers. The club was rocked by tragedy and the entire Tallanstown community plunged into a state of shock when key player John O'Brien lost his life in a motorcycle accident. In the face of terrible adversity, the team soldiered on, determined to do John's memory proud. Conor Sheridan reflects on a campaign that Glyde emerged from with great credit and dignity, writes Gerry Robinson.
2004	Progression on Glydeside Glyde Rangers were the most progressive senior team in the Wee County in 2004. The Tallanstown men set the pace at the top of Division 1A for virtually the entire season and qualified for the final of the Cardinal O'Donnell Cup. They also came within a kick of the ball of a SFC semi-final place. David Devaney, who represented the club with distinction on the Louth senior football team, discusses the minutiae of an eventful year with 'Wee County 2004'.
2003	Glyde's minor miracle Glyde Rangers gave a good account of themselves over five SFC matches (including two play-offs!) in 2003, but didn't quite make it through to the knock-out stages of the race for Joe Ward. Still, all those championship outings were decidedly close-fought affairs and eye-catching county minor Trevor O'Brien is confident that the Tallanstown club is moving in the right direction.
2002	Glyde homing in on senior glory It was a very rewarding year for Glyde Rangers. The Tallanstown men consolidated their senior status - only narrowly missing out on promotion to Division 1A (for the second consecutive year) - and gave as good as they got in three championship outings. Senior team selector Pat Moran looks back upon the 2002 season with more than a degree of satisfaction.
2001	Baile Talun strike gold Gerry Robinson reports on how Baile Talun bridged a 32-year gap by deservedly clinching the 2001 Louth Minor Football Championship.

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Hunterstown Rovers
2008	Landy does it ... Despite an electrified start to the year, Hunterstown Rovers lost their way somewhat as 2008 unfolded and it was ultimately a disappointing seasons. However, attacking sensation Alan Landy Ð who was instrumental in Mellifont RoversÕ deferred 2007 county U21 championship final defeat of Cooley in March Ð is adamant that HunterstownÕs future can be a decidedly bright one.
2007	Proud of their standing Hunterstown Rovers have enjoyed their fair share of success in recent years and although there was no major silverware won in 2007, the club is very much looking to a promising future.
2006	Still in intermediate hunt Hunterstown Rovers will be in the chase for the 2007 Louth IFC following a successful Division 2B campaign in '06. The Reds had to take the 2B title to be guaranteed intermediate football next term and they duly obliged, claiming the McGahon Cup. Midfielder Robert Martin was influential as Rovers captured their first piece of silverware in five years.
2005	Still in the hunt Down but not out. Hunterstown Rovers may have slipped a division but they'll still contest the intermediate football championship in 2006. Thus, no real harm has been done. Ciaran Carrie is adamant that the Red & Whites are capable of regrouping and rebounding with a bang in the coming season. He's convinced that the ground lost during the '05 campaign can be regained with a slight improvement in attitude and application.
2004	Topped group but slipped in 'semi' Hunterstown Rovers' 2004 intermediate championship bid appeared on track when they finished top of Group B and qualified for the semi-final stage of the competition. However, a narrow defeat to O'Raghallaighs at Dunleer on Sunday September 12 put paid to their promotion prospects for another year. Still, there's a decent crop of young talent emerging in the club at present and the Rovers should reclaim their senior status (again!) sooner rather than later.
2003	Rovers looking to the future Hunterstown Rovers have plenty of cause for optimism going into the 2004 season. The mid-Louth club has a smattering of exciting new talent at its disposal, including Padraig Mathews, a young player who made a big impression in '03.
2002	The captain's log Niall Lynch was captain of Hunterstown Rovers in 2002. Sadly, unlike the previous year, he failed to make his acquaintance with any silverware. Kevin Carney reports
2001	Levins above! By virtue of a convincing Division 2A league campaign, Hunterstown Rovers have booked their return passage to senior ranks and ace attacker John Levins is of the opinion that they're better equipped than ever to secure a prolonged stay in the top flight.

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John Mitchells
2008	On an upward curve John Mitchells have been one of the busiest clubs in Louth over the past number of years in terms of developing their impressive facilities at Ballybailie.
2007	The golden boys John Mitchells may not have garnered any silverware to mark 2007 but they still struck gold during the course of the year thanks to some memorable 50th anniversary celebrations. The Ballybailie club has come a long way since its genesis in 1957, which was a special year for Wee County GAA in more ways than oneÉ
2006	Mitchells failed to fire With one last chance to escape junior ranks before the lower grade becomes congested once more, John Mitchells probably fancied their chances of making an impression in 2006. However, the Ballybailie men lost both their JFC outings and are faced with the prospect of an even more difficult '07 season. Looking on the bright side, club captain Alan Mackin insists that the experience of playing against a higher calibre of opposition can only work in the Whites' favour.
2005	Pipped at the post John Mitchells' dream of a return to intermediate football ended in double disappointment in 2005. With a semi-final place beckoning, the Ballybailie battlers lost a group play-off in the JFC before being edged into second place in Division Three of the all-county league. Thus, after challenging on both fronts, the Mitchells finished the year empty-handed and will have to make do with junior football once more in '06.
2004	No final for Mitchells John Mitchells were on the verge of a junior championship final appearance for most of the 2004 season. But somehow fate conspired against them to deny them a shot at promotion. Speaking to 'Wee County 2004', the club's '04 captain Niall McCartney reflects on a frustrating year.
2003	Battling group displays not enough John Mitchells demonstrated their true worth in the group stages of the 2003 Louth junior football championship. But a lacklustre semi-final performance in mid-August put paid to their promotion hopes. Club chairman James Sweeney reflects on the ups and downs of another year in the life of the Mitchells.
2002	Sparkle but no gold While they may have failed (narrowly) to realise their prime objective of promotion, John Mitchells certainly turned the corner in 2002.
2001	Halpenny bridge over troubled waters John Mitchells have been going through lean times since hitting the junior jackpot in 1998, but Des Halpenny is helping them weather the storm.

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Kilkerley Emmets
2008	Lady luck stays away When you've one of the smallest panels in the senior grade, it's always going to be difficult to challenge for honours. When that panel is depleted further by injuries, suspensions and players going abroad, then a tough task becomes even tougher. By James Rogers.
2007	Halfway there Kilkerley Emmets made a great start to their 2007 SFC campaign with two wins from as many outings in Group B. Unfortunately, they failed to pick up another point from their remaining three matches and narrowly missed out on a quarter-final spot. Goalkeeper Killian Quigley was left frustrated and disappointed but nonetheless confident that the Blue & Yellows can challenge for major honours in '08.
2006	No surrender Shane Lennon has been playing senior football for Kilkerley for so long now that many people could be forgiven for considering him a veteran, but despite being a regular fixture in the starting team for a number of years, Shane is still very much in the infancy of his career at the age of just 21.
2005	Kilkerley's rising man in black Kilkerley referee Paul Kneel has quickly established himself as one of the most respected officials in the Wee County. Though Paul was in huge demand to take charge of matches all over Louth and beyond throughout 2005, he still found time to have a chat with Gerry Robinson about his career to date in the black jersey.
2004	Colin all the heroes The 2004 season never quite took off for Kilkerley Emmets, but Colin McGuinness flew the blue and yellow flag high by figuring on the county senior panel all season. Wee County 2004 talks to the Kilkerley and Louth midfielder about the events of '04.
2003	Kilkerley hope for more of the Shane Kilkerley Emmets made light of the step-up to senior grade in 2003 by storming to the knock-out stages of the SFC. It was a year when Shane Lennon clearly marked himself out as a big star for the future, making a massive impact at both club and county level (with the minors and U21s!). Gerry Robinson caught up with the brilliant young Kilkerley attacker, whose contribution to Louth GAA in 2003 went way above and beyond the call of duty...
2002	So near, but yet ... Losing a semi-final is always a bitter pill to swallow. But there are no adjectives to describe the devastating range of emotions that go hand in hand with losing an IFC semi-final after a second replay. Such cruel fate befell luckless Kilkerley Emmets as they sought an instant return to senior fare in 2002. Gerry Robinson reports.
2001	Leaders of change When the history of Louth football is updated in years to come, the season 2001 is sure to get more than a few paragraphs, writes Eunan Whyte. Kilkerley Emmets had a big part to play in formulating the new-look senior championship.

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Knockbridge
2008	Knockbridge Four in a row Congratulations to all who helped to make 2008 a very successful year Knockbridge Hurling Club. The senior team made history by winning the Ôfour in a rowÕ Senior Hurling Championship titles which was a first for the club and also a first in Louth.
2007	Three in-a-row When you're at the very top sometimes there is only one way you can go. Knockbridge know this more than most with all of the other hurling clubs in Louth setting their crosshairs on the village outfit at the start of the year but they overcame injuries to end the year as still number one. By James Rogers.
2006	Knockbridge leinster march Congratulations to all who helped make 2006 a very successful year for the club. The senior team made history by reaching the Leinster junior club hurling final by beating Ballinamere of Offaly, Laois intermediate champions Ballyfin, and Our Lady's Island of Wexford.
2005	A very successful year Congratulations to all who helped to make 2005 a very successful year for the Club. Winning back the Senior Championship was the main aim of the Club for 2005.
2004	Another successful year Congratulations to all who helped make 2004 a very successful year for Knockbridge Hurling Club. Winning the senior hurling league for the fourth time with a very young team was the highlight of the year and a tremendous achievement for the club. Great credit must go to the hard-working players and mentors. The club finished third in Division One of the Armagh senior hurling league, with 19 points, having topped the division for most of the year. Cnoc Brid also made it five U14 Feile titles in a row and secured the U11 and U12 championships. Furthermore, at the time of going to press, Knockbridge were in both the U16 and minor championship finals.
2003	Knockbridge regain their mantle While the Joe Ward Cup for the senior football championship has yet to be claimed by the St. Brides footballers, the hurlers from Knockbridge are getting increasingly familiar with the Paddy Kelly Cup for the senior hurling championship. Their county final victory over Wolfe Tones in August was their third in total and the club has only been in existence for five years. Later in the year, the senior league title was added for good measure. By Brendan Cummins
2002	Knockbridge keep up the pressure While there was rare disappointment on the SHC front for Knockbridge in 2002, the village club did win a commendable third successive county minor hurling championship as well as annexing the senior hurling league crown for the third time in four years. There were a number of other worthwhile successes to record too.
2001	Business as usual for Knockbridge The trophies continue to fly into Knockbridge at lightning pace. In 2001, the Wee County's youngest hurling club once again performed like seasoned veterans in the winning stakes, dominating the Louth hurling scene.

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Lannleire
2008	Pushing for the top After enduring a couple of disappointing seasons during which the club slipped from senior footballto the junior ranks, Lannleire will reflect on the 2008 campaign with a considerable amount of satisfaction.
2007	All go in Lannleire Lannleire GFC began the 2007 season back down in the junior ranks and like many who had suffered due to the restructuring of the leagues, began the year with high hopes of making an immediate return to the intermediate grade.
2006	Remembering patsy The introduction of the new league structures for the 2007 season meant that for many clubs this year's performance in the league was vital for their immediate future.Lannleire began the season Division 2B which meant that a big effort was needed if they were to achieve their initial aim of staying in the intermediate grade. By Eunan Whyte.
2005	Lannleire live to fight another day Lannleire flirted with the unthinkable in 2005. At one stage, it looked as if the Dunleer club might suffer the ignominy of demotion to junior football but they managed to consolidate their intermediate status and will be hoping to push for a return to senior ranks during the forthcoming season. Carlos Lambe, who acted as club captain for 2005, insists that Lannleire are far from a spent force. By Gerry Robinson
2004	A good start, but ... Lannleire made an encouraging start to the 2004 season but lost the plot around the midway point, failing to escape intermediate ranks and suffering relegation to Division 2B. The good news from the Dunleer camp was that they recorded their first championship win in four years and enjoyed a decent year at juvenile level.
2003	Dunleer at Boylan point! Red-hot Lannleire surprised most observers when they snatched a point off Cooley Kickhams in their first Group C outing in the 2003 Louth SFC. Unfortunately, the Dunleer men couldn't sustain that level of performance, losing their next two championship games and ultimately suffering relegation to intermediate ranks. Vice-captain John Boylan reflects on a season of ups and downs.
2002	Martin is no doubting Thomas Lannleire's veteran campaigner Thomas Martin readily admits that his club have been off song in recent seasons, '02 being a case in point. But he insists that the Dunleer side still has plenty to offer and warns that they intend to return with a vengeance next term.
2001	Lannleire ... and yet so far About three or four years ago, the smart money in the Wee County was on Lannleire winning a senior county championship sooner rather than later. The Dunleer club had made the tricky ascension from junior to senior status in double-quick time and, with a fountain of prodigious youth at their disposal, played a brand of football that even had opposition supporters licking their lips in admiration.

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Mattock Rangers
2008	So, so close Mattock Rangers came agonisingly close to claiming their third outright Louth SFC success in 2008. The Collon men safely negotiated their path to the decider, only to be narrowly beaten on the day by Newtown Blues.
2007	Still a force to be reckoned with The emergence of Mattock Rangers as a major force in Louth football has been one of the big stories of the decade. The Collon side have been consistently among the challengers for the top honours over the past seven years and in 2002 and 2005 claimed the Joe Ward Cup.
2006	Championship exit was a shock Their bid to retain the SFC in 2006 was derailed when Mattock Rangers surprisingly fell to St Josephs at the quarter-final stage in late July. Fancied by many observers to win the Joe Ward Cup for a third time in five years, Collon never quite got going in the '06 knockout as the exertions of a glorious 2005 season seemed to catch up with them.
2005	A tale of three trophies Mattock Rangers proved emphatically that they are no one-hit wonder by storming to an unprecedented treble in 2005. The Collon men claimed the Joe Ward Cup for the second time in four years, silencing their critics and emphasising their status as a real force in the game. Just for good measure, they added the inaugural Leinster senior league and the McShane Cup (Division 1B), spelling the most successful season in the club's 53-year history. By Gerry Robinson
2004	Close but not close enough Despite never firing on all cylinders, Mattock Rangers still came close to claiming a second Louth SFC. The Collon men made it as far as the semi-final stage, before losing to Cooley by three points. It could all have been so different had as many as three good goalscoring opportunities not gone a begging at Knockbridge that fateful mid-August evening. Centre forward Mark Brennan makes no excuses, however, conceding that ultimately Mattock got what they deserved.
2003	The calm after the storm Given the astonishing heroics of 2002 and the resultant hangover, everyone associated with Mattock needed a breather in '03. Cue an uneventful season on the playing front. However, Donal Geraghty, who famously captained the club to glory in '02, promises we'll see the real Mattock Rangers again in 2004.
2002	A year to remember Gerry Robinson reflects on how, in 2002, Mattock Rangers captured the Louth senior football championship for the first time ever, an achievement that was as meritorious as it was notable. The Collon men were the best in the Wee County all year . . . never before has the Joe Ward Cup found a more suitable home!
2001	The known rangers Gerry Robinson charts how Mattock put their name on the map with a series of top class displays which brought them all the way to the 2001 SFC final.

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Na Piarsaigh
2008	Better all the time Na Piarsaigh enjoyed another extraordinary year in 2008. The Black and Ambers finished runners-up in both the intermediate football championship and Division Two, their performances consistently impressive as the Rock Road men once more enjoyed their best-ever campaign. They may not have got the rewards they deserved but senior football surely beckons for this talented and hard-working group of players. By Gerry Robinson
2007	Stronger than ever Na Piarsaigh may not have fulfilled their prime objective of securing promotion to senior football for the first time, but their 25th-anniversary year was nonetheless a significant one for Dundalk's youngest club. The Black and Amber narrowly missed out on claiming the 2007 IFC and they now know they are good enough to progress to the top flight for the first time in their short but impressive history.
2006	Knockin' on seniors door Na Piarsaigh were desperately unlucky not to gain promotion to senior football for the first time ever in 2005. The Rock Road men didn't come quite so close in '06 but they at least managed to preserve their intermediate status amid the County Board restructure and team stalwart Robert Nash believes the Black & Amber can mount another serious challenge to coincide with their 25th anniversary celebrations.
2005	Committed to the cause They say nowadays that football is a young man's game but one man from Na Piarsaigh is currently proving the exception to that rule.
2004	U21s made history Na Piarsaigh finished 2003 and started 2004 in magnificent style by capturing their first ever county U21 football championship. The historic breakthrough arrived courtesy of a thoroughly deserved 3-10 to 1-8 final defeat of Mattock/Hunterstown/Emmets at Cluskey Park on Sunday January 25. Midfielder and captain Ronan McCartney spoke to 'Wee County 2004' about the monumental victory.
2003	Settling down Following their exploits on the field of play in 2002 Na Piarsaigh began the season in good spirits. Victory in the Junior Championship Final meant that the Rock Road club would be back in the intermediate ranks after just one season. By Eunan Whyte.
2002	Na Piarsaigh: the return Na Piarsaigh weren't about to stand on ceremony. Not for them the frustration of getting lost at sea amidst the treacherous waters of junior football. Instead, the Holy Family parish outfit bounced straight back up to the intermediate grade by capturing the 2002 Louth JFC - in style!
2001	Improving brick by brick There is no doubt that the year 2001 will not be remembered for the endeavours on the field of play, but Na Piarsaigh is a club made of strong stuff and, rather than allowing their heads to drop, are determined to come back stronger for the experience, writes Eunan Whyte.

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Naomh Fionnbarra
2008	Hot off the press Naomh Fionnbarra will look back on the 2008 season with a good deal of satisfaction as a major event off the field was matched with success on the pitch. By Eunan Whyte.
2007	Fifty, not out Naomh Fionnbarra reached their 50th anniversary in 2007 and the celebratory night that marked the occasion represented the highlight of the club's year. Though silverware was conspicuous by its absence, 50 years nonetheless constitutes a milestone for gaelic football in the Togher/Annagassan area Ð and something everyone associated with the club can be proud of.
2006	Should I stay or should I go Two-thousand-and-six was a strange year for Naomh Fionnbarra (to put it mildly). The Togher men fancied their chances of booking a return to senior football but a disappointing Group A championship campaign meant they failed to make the knockout stage of the IFC. Next thing, they were looking over their shoulders amid a Division 2B dogfight, with the dreaded drop looming. In the end, they failed to make the Top Two and slipped down to the bottom grade. Sharpshooter Bernard Osborne reflects on a season where uncertainty aboundedÉ
2005	Appearances can be deceiving A cursory glance at Naomh Fionnbarra's 2005 results would suggest that the Togher men are in rapid decline. But this is not the case. To the contrary, the mood in the camp is extremely upbeat as the Green & Golds face into the challenges of a new season. There were mitigating circumstances for the blip witnessed in '05 and the Finbarrs are capable of bouncing back in style in 2006.
2004	Promotion proves elusive Naomh Fionnbarra missed the promotion boat in 2004. For much of the season, the Togher outfit appeared on course for a return to senior football, but the wheels came off the wagon late on. Near misses in the IFC and Division 2A league mean the Finbarrs will play intermediate football once more in '05.
2003	Fionnbarra drew first blood Naomh Fionnbarra opened their 2003 season in excellent fashion when capturing the Grogan Cup on Sunday May 25th. Mayo native Brendan Healy played a key role in ensuring that the first County Board trophy of the year went to Markey Park.
2002	Down but definitely not out There is nare a trace of doom or gloom to be observed in Togher these days - despite the fact that Naomh Fionnbarra have been demoted back to intermediate level. Two-thousand-and-two first team manager Pat Hand is adamant that the season gone by was a mere blip and expects the Finbarrs to bounce back stronger than ever in '03.147
2001	Naomh Fionnbarra clinch senior status Gerry Robinson reports on how the Seamus Flood Cup was brought home to Markey Park at the end of an epic 2001 IFC campaign and concludes that the Finbarrs won through with storming finishes to virtually every game.

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Naomh Mairtin
2008	Absences make the heart grow fonder Even the best laid plans in football can be thrown off course by a shortage of personnel. Naomh Mairtin know that better than most after a difficult 2008 campaign. By James Rogers.
2007	50 years young Naomh Mairtin celebrated an important milestone in the club's history as 2007 marked the 50th anniversary celebrations of the Monasterboice club.
2006	Within touching distance Amid constant talk of a 'Big Four' in Louth football, things are not quite as clear-cut as some might have us believe. Far removed from the peninsula axis and slap bang in between the other two perceived Wee County heavyweights, Naomh Mairtin showed enough in 2006 to suggest that they are capable of upsetting the recently-installed hierarchy. The Monasterboice men should have reached a SFC semi-final at least and they are eminently capable of winning a Joe Ward Cup in the foreseeable future. And, perhaps ominously, 2007 marks their 50th anniversaryÉ
2005	Magnificent run Naomh Mairtin raised quite a few eyebrows with a magnificent run in the 2005 Louth senior football championship. The Monasterboice men emerged from their group unbeaten and went as far as the semi-finals before losing by three points to would-be champions Mattock Rangers at Drogheda in early September. The Mairtins also pushed hard for a place in Division 1A, making for a satisfactory year.
2004	And the award for 'unluckiest team of the year' goes to ... If the powers that be in Louth GAA circles completely lost the run of themselves and decided to present a special award to the most unlucky team in the county in 2004, there would be many genuine contenders. Hard luck stories are the order of the day in the Louth senior football championship every year Ð and 2004 was no different. Naomh Mairtin were the first club to receive a two-fingered salute from Lady Fortune, crashing lucklessly out of the race for the Joe Ward Cup as early as mid-June.
2003	McCullough made big impact Nineteen-year-old Francis McCullough was arguably Naomh Mairtin's most potent attacker in 2003. Some achievement considering that county stars JP Rooney and Nicky McDonnell also ply their trade in the Monasterboice forward line!
2002	Saint Nicholas Two-thousand-and-two was certainly an eventful year for Nicky McDonnell. He established himself as a permanent fixture in the senior county set-up and was an inspirational force for Naomh Mairtin as the Monasterboice men powered through to Division 1A and also reached the knock-out stages of the Louth senior football championship.
2001	Glory for Mairtins U16s Pride of place in Monasterboice in Year 2001 went to the club's U16s who finished the year with a 100% winning record. Gerry Robinson reports

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Naomh Malachi
2008	Mal-function After the incredible highs of the previous year, 2008 was something of a reality check for Naomh Malachi, who surrendered their senior status right at the death. However, with talented young players of the calibre of Kevin Rogers to call upon, the future remains bright for the up-and-coming Courtbane club.
2007	Phenome'mal' Naomh Malachi were an absolute revelation in 2007. The Courtbane men won matches in the SFC for the first time ever; came within a whisker of a Joe Ward semi-final place; and brought Cooley all the way in an epic, two-game Cardinal O'Donnell Cup final. Little wonder club captain and proud county man Ronan Greene looks back on the season with a strong sense of satisfaction.
2006	Once bitten ... Having suffered the heartache of losing the previous year's decider by the narrowest of margins, Naomh Malachi bounced back to claim the 2006 Louth intermediate football championship in considerable style. The Courtbane men demonstrated remarkable reserves of resilience and grit to edge out O'Connells by 1-9 to 1-8 in a tense IFC decider at Louth village on Sunday October 15.
2005	Closing in on a return to senior The 2004 season ended in disappointment for Naomh Malachi as they suffered relegation back to the Intermediate ranks after two years at senior level. However, given the character and determination that exists within the Courtbane club it came as no surprise to most followers of GAA in Louth that they almost bounced back in impressive fashion in 2005.
2004	Pride remains intact It was always going to be a difficult year for Naomh Malachi, but the border club retained its dignity with some resolute performances in Division 1B of the all-county senior football league. Long-serving goalkeeper (and vice-chairman) Aidan Hoey spoke exclusively to 'Wee County 2004' about the Malachis' brave bid to retain their senior status.
2003	More than just survivors When Naomh Malachi won the Intermediate Championship for the first time in their history in September 2002 many in the county, and beyond, rejoiced in their success. By Eunan Whyte.
2002	Naomh Malachi go senior for first time It was a truly historic year for the footballers of Naomh Malachi who have senior football to look forward to for the first time in their history after demonstrating remarkable resolve and determination to emerge victorious at the end of a marathon ten-game intermediate football championship campaign.
2001	All that your heart desires After their impressive showing the previous season, Naomh Malachi had high hopes for 2001. But their dreams did not materialise due to a combination of erratic league form and an uncharacteristically poor championship outing. However, defender Fra McArdle isn't giving up hope on this particular set of players. He believes senior football still lies within their grasp.

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Naomh Moninne
2008	The best is yet to come Next year marks the 50th anniversary of Naomh Moninne Hurling Club and, while the past couple of years may have marked some of the more difficult in the Dundalk outfit's history, they are heading into 2009 in better shape than ever. By James Rogers.
2007	Taking stock On the surface, it appears as though Naomh Moninne had a poor 2007. However, the reality is that the club is making steady progress behind the scenes and they are in a much stronger position now than they were a few years back. They've cultivated an impressive juvenile set-up and Ð with the prospect of a new playing surface at Toberona looming Ð Moninne have every reason to look forward to their 50th anniversary celebrations in 2009.
2006	Starting them young Over the course of their illustrious history, Naomh Moninne Hurling Club have set the standards which many other teams have followed in Co Louth.
2005	In for the long haul For so long Naomh Moninne were the kingpins of Louth hurling. The famous Dundalk club dominated the Wee County championship and provided countless players for the county over the years. By Eunan Whyte.
2004	Moninne rediscover championship form There were a number of positives to report from Naomh Moninne's year. With the senior championship played on an initial round-robin basis for the first time, they progressed impressively to the final only to produce a below-par display therein. There was also an abundance of activity at juvenile level Ð an area in which the club is making remarkable strides - as well as the much-publicised trip to Croatia. All in all, it was a busy, eventful and productive yearÉ
2003	The kids are all right Naomh Moninne once again faltered in their bid to regain the Louth SHC but 2003 still presented plenty of encouraging signs. The club's rigorous underage training programme is in full swing and is starting to bear fruit, while a number of minors have already broken through onto the senior team, making quite an impression.
2002	Playing the waiting game Not too many years back, Naomh Moninne were the kingpins of hurling in the north Louth area. So strong was the club that many of their players went on to help with the formation of both Pearse îg and Knockbridge senior clubs. Both those clubs had enjoyed considerable success at underage level and the logical step was to progress into adult hurling and promote the sport in the county, writes Eunan Whyte.
2001	In a league of their own Having been the standard-bearers in Louth hurling for many years, to go through the 2000 season without a trophy was a somewhat unusual situation for the Naomh Moninne club, writes Eunan Whyte. However, this year things have been on the up for the Dundalk side and once again they have had some silverware to celebrate after clinching the Louth Senior League title - their first trophy in two years.

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Newtown Blues
2008	Blues get it right! Two-thousand-and-eight was a truly fantastic year for Newtown Blues, who reclaimed the Joe Ward Cup with a magnificent campaign, culminating in their superb 1-15 to 1-12 defeat of arch rivals Mattock Rangers in the county final at DroghedaÕs Gaelic Grounds on Sunday September 28. All in all, the Blues were worthy outright winners as they ended their seven-year wait in absolutely emphatic style, winning every single game they played in the Õ08 SFC. They have now won the county title a staggering 18 times.
2007	Blues did the treble in '86 Two-thousand-and-seven marked the 21st anniversary of Newtown Blues' incredible senior clean sweep of 1986. At the end of that sensational year, all three major trophies Ð the Joe Ward, Cardinal O'Donnell and ACC Cups Ð wintered in Newfoundwell as an exciting Blues side dominated Louth football with an invigorating and vibrant brand of attacking football. One of the stars of that side, Johnny Doherty, provided Wee County 2007 with an insight into the historic exploits of a remarkable club team.
2006	McGinn on fire but blues fail to ignite Newtown Blues had realistic prospects of winning the 2006 Louth SFC. The Drogheda giants were installed as favourites before a ball was kicked but never quite justified that tag, stumbling through to the last four before surprisingly coming a cropper in a semi-final replay against the Joes. Even though the Blues never hit full stride in the premier competition, there were many positives to be taken from the year, including the superb form of ace attacker Hugh McGinn, who had an outstanding year with both club and county.
2005	League joy for the Blues Newtown Blues suffered the disappointment of losing the Senior Championship final to Mattock Rangers, but they didn't finish the season empty handed as they went on to win the Cardinal O'Donnell Cup.
2004	Blues minors end 29-year famine Newtown Blues bridged a gap back to 1975 by capturing the 2004 Louth minor football championship with a superb performance over the course of a testing campaign. The manner in which the Blues youngsters overcame every obstacle placed before them makes them worthy all-county champions.
2003	A rude awakening Newtown Blues seemed on course to regain the Joe Ward Cup - until they came up against St Brides at the quarter-final stage of the 2003 SFC. Ace attacker Thomas Carr reflects on a season that promised much but ended abruptly.
2002	Keith the faith! When you dominate the landscape like Newtown Blues did while collecting back-to-back senior football championships in 2000 and 2001, it's always going to be difficult to keep things going at that sort of intensity. The Blues never reached the same dizzying heights in '02, bowing out of the hunt for the Joe Ward Cup at the hands of Clan Na Gael after a quarter-final replay. Gerry Robinson caught up with Keith Lynch - one of the real stars of the club's double success - to discuss the season gone by, past successes, future hopes and a little more besides.
2001	The old spark is back With Louth GAA's greatest romance going through a rough patch, many observers even went so far as to declare that it was all 'off'. However, Newtown Blues and Joe Ward are back together now and - on the evidence of the Newfoundwell club's refusal to let go in 2001 - looking more inseparable than ever. Gerry Robinson reports on how the Blues have once more become very attached to the Wee County's most famous trophy.

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O'Connells
2008	Building diligently There's an old saying that Rome wasn't built in a day. That's a phrase that could be attributed to the O'Connells after a season in which they failed to achieve some of their lofty aims. Despite the fact the Castlebellingham outfit were listed among the favourites to challenge for this year's intermediate championship, things simply never got going for them. By James Rogers.
2007	Thriving O'Connells O'Connells GFC ended the 2006 season with the ultimate disappointment when they lost the Intermediate championship final to Naomh Malachi by a single point. As a result they were left with a stark choice at the start of the new season - either lie down and lick their wounds or brush themselves down and get stuck in again.
2006	So, so close Having slipped from senior football at the end of 2005, O'Connells went into the new year intent on booking an instant return to the top flight. With only the knockout competition offering such a prize, the Castlebellingham/Kilsaran men duly set about the task of trying to win their first ever IFC. They couldn't possibly have gone much closer to achieving this objective but, unfortunately, Colm Kearney and co. were pipped in the county decider in mid-November.
2005	O'Connells battle bravely O'Connells' senior survival went down to the wire the previous year, and in '05 the Castlebellingham/Kilsaran men found themselves in another relegation battle in Division 1B of the all-county senior football league. They didn't disgrace themselves in the SFC either, despite being thrown together with Mattock, Glyde and the Blues in a genuine Group of Death. Corner back Brendan Tuite spoke to Gerry Robinson about the ups and downs of a topsy-turvy year.
2004	Stronger than ever at 75 O'Connells celebrated their 75th anniversary in style in 2004. Appropriately, they took their place in senior football and did themselves proud. It was a year to remember.
2003	McKeever the believer Paul McKeever believes O'Connells are on the verge of senior football. The young forward helped the club to an intermediate semi-final in 2003 and insists that the long-awaited breakthrough to the top flight is imminent. Indeed at the time of writing, with only two games left to play, O'Connells were lying second in Division 2A with an excellent chance of claiming promotion via the league.
2002	O'Connells never got going O'Connells won Division 2B and reached an intermediate semi-final in 2001. Despite failing to reproduce that form in 2002, they still got within touching distance of a place in the knock-out stages of the IFC. All of which leaves goalkeeper Leslie Walsh wondering: "How far could we have gone if we'd actually played well?"
2001	O'Connells' cause for celebration Colm Doyle - captain of the O'Connells side that rounded off a near-perfect McGahon Cup (Division 2B) winning campaign with an emphatic 22-point drubbing of Sean McDermotts - speaks to Gerry Robinson about the club's beautiful year.

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Oliver Plunketts
2008	First steps along the road to recovery In 2008, Oliver Plunketts laid down a solid base for the future. Having disappointed in Õ06 and Õ07, the Drogheda club made significant strides during the course of a season that saw the south of the county in general move forward. They enjoyed a decent league run and reached the last four in the IFC, performances which leave them in good stead for future challenges. Cian Matthews, who has represented the Wee County at minor and U21 grades, believes Õ08 can be considered a relative success.
2007	Oliver! Having surrendered their senior status at the end of the previous year, Oliver Plunketts went into the 2007 season hopeful of challenging for an instant return to the top flight. However, things didn't go according to plan and the Slane Road club endured a forgettable campaign, struggling to cope with the demands of intermediate football.
2006	Nothing to be ashamed of Oliver Plunketts may have surrendered their senior status in 2006 but the Slane Road outfit gave a decent account of themselves at the top table. Ultimately, it was a harsh County Board ruling rather than any ineptitude of their own that led to the Plunketts' demotion and the Drogheda club can step back to intermediate ranks with their heads held high. Veteran campaigner John Moroney was disappointed that the eight teams in Division 1B were presented with such a difficult assignment.
2005	Youth springs eternal Mention St. Oliver Plunketts and the development of young players springs to mind immediately. One of the first clubs to recognise the importance of working with children from a very young age have witnessed their investment in youth pay handsome dividends in recent times. By Gerry Kelly.
2004	Plunketts go senior! With a tremendous late surge in Division 2A of the 2004 all-county league, Oliver Plunketts booked their return to senior football. An emphatic victory over intermediate double-winners Dreadnots on Sunday October 31st confirmed that senior football would be returning to Drogheda's Slane Road for the first time since 1991, much to the obvious delight of team captain Aonghus O hEochaidh and everybody else associated with the Mell club.
2003	Minor miracle on Slane road Though their bid for a famous double faltered against Dundalk Gaels in the 2003 Louth IFC final, Oliver Plunketts did capture major silverware in the shape of the county minor football championship - a significant success for the famous Drogheda club.
2002	2002: a sad year for Oliver Plunketts Sometimes other matters place football firmly into context. At the end of the day, it's only a game and nothing more. In 2002, football took a backseat on Drogheda's Slane Road as Oliver Plunketts lost two of their greatest gaels. The sad passing of stalwarts Phil Clarke and Terry Maher cast a shadow over the year and left a void at the heart of the club that can never be filled.
2001	Oliver twist There was a slight twist in the Oliver Plunketts story in 2001. Once again, it was a familiar plot which went along very similar lines. They were tipped for promotion and failed to deliver in the championship. But they did deliver an exciting new player who carries the potential to inspire the club to big things in future years.

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O'Raghallaighs
2008	An overwhelming case of DŽjˆ vu DŽjˆ vu: already seen; also called paramnesia; the experience of feeling sure that one has witnessed or experienced a new situation previously (an individual feels as though an event has already happened); a feeling of having experienced the present situation before; what happened to OÕRaghallaighsÕ footballers in 2008.
2007	Touching distance O'Raghallaighs are so close to senior football they can almost touch it. The famous Drogheda club reached the latter stages of the IFC once more in 2007, but again fell marginally short of a return to the senior grade. Chairman PJ Moore is confident that the now 50-year-old club is on the verge of a major breakthrough.
2006	Hoop Dreams O'Raghallaighs enjoyed a mighty run in the 2006 Louth intermediate football championship before losing to eventual Seamus Flood Cup winners Naomh Malachi at the semi-final stage. Determined to book a return to the top flight, the Hoops have been hovering around the doorway for a few years now and midfield powerhouse Anthony Briscoe is confident that they could be on the verge of realising their dream.
2005	Getting their house in order The New Year didn't bring much cheer to the O'Raghallaighs, as storms in early January ripped the roof from their clubhouse. The extensive damage both external and internal forced the club to close their facilities indefinitely. By Gerry Kelly.
2004	So near and yet so farrelly In 2004, O'Raghallaighs came extremely close to winning the Louth intermediate football championship for the first time. They went all the way to the final, only to be beaten by a single point. Defeat brought the Green & Whites back to earth with a resounding bang Ð suddenly they found themselves in a dogfight to avoid relegation to the junior grade. High-scoring attacker Eoghan Farrelly reflects on a bizarre seasonÉ
2003	Rallying O'Raghallaighs O'Raghallaighs have improved beyond recognition in recent years and proved during the 2003 season that they're now one of the most dangerous intermediate sides in the Wee County. A tower of strength at centre back, Cathal McGinty reviews the team's stellar displays in '03 and assesses their 2004 prospects.
2002	O'Raghallaighs have an 'Andyman in Rogan Gerry Robinson meets up with Andrew Rogan, one of the finest footballers to come through the O'Raghallaighs production line in many's the long year.
2001	Oh Really? O'Raghallaighs O'Raghallaighs stormed to junior championship glory in 2001. The Christy Bellew Cup returned to the County Grounds following meritorious wins over Westerns, Dowdallshill and Young Irelands. Midfielder Andrew Rogan inspired his side to glory in the county final at Cluskey Park in late July. Reflecting on the campaign, Gerry Robinson reveals how the best team won.

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Pearse Og
2008	Youth policy takes centre stage The main focus of hurling activity in the Holy Family parish in 2008 was on underage development. While the first team contested a fourth successive county SHC decider and the ÔsecondsÕ won the junior championship, tremendous work was carried out nurturing juvenile talent to safeguard Pearse OgÕs future. ÔWee County 2008Õ caught up with junior team boss and juvenile coach Gary Brodigan to discuss the strides being made at underage level.
2007	Hoodoo halted but SHC success proves elusive Pearse Og placed a spanner in the Knockbridge works by claiming the 2007 Louth senior hurling league in early June but they were unable to prevent their arch rivals from culling a third successive county SHC in mid October. While the latest narrow championship final reversal represented a definite blow to the town side, the thumping SHL final win was a real high for the Holy Parish men.
2006	Stepping in the right direction Pearse Og may not have regained the Louth SHC in 2006 but the Dundalk club reached another county final and lost by only three points. They also captured the Armagh Division Two league title with a series of powerful displays. All in all, midfielder Mick Martin is confident that the club is still moving forward.
2005	Two-in-a-row bid falls just short Having won two SHCs inside three years, the challenge that presented itself to Pearse Og in 2005 was to try to put championship wins back to back for the first time. They came agonisingly close to working the oracle, only for the dream to be dashed in dreadful playing conditions at Haggardstown two days short of Halloween. Exciting young attacker Gerard Smith, who lived the dream of every young hurler by playing in Croke Park in August, reflects on an eventful year with both club and county. By Gerry Robinson
2004	Pearse Og rule hurling roost The 2004 hurling year in Louth belonged to Pearse Og, who brilliantly captured a second county SHC. And nobody can argue with the Holy Family parish club's status as county champions Ð they beat all three of the Wee County's other main hurling powers en route to collecting the Paddy Kelly Cup for the second time.
2003	'02 was hard act to follow It was a tricky year for Pearse Og. Crowned Louth senior hurling champions for the first time in 2002, they were always going to find it difficult to scale the same heights. Alas, they relinquished their county crown, but it was nonetheless a satisfactory season for the Green & Gold, as 2003 team captain Padraig Larkin relates to Gerry Robinson.
2002	Pearse Og come of age In the face of constant adversity, Pearse Og have somehow managed to climb to the very top of the Wee County hurling ladder. Their 2002 Louth Senior Hurling Championship victory was one of the year's most astounding success stories.
2001	Pearse here Against all odds, Pearse Og had a pretty impressive 2001. Imagine how successful this Dundalk club could be if a few more people took an active interest in their well-being...

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Roche Emmets
2008	Rollercoaster year for Roche From the high of winning the Sheelan Cup in April, to the low of their failure to continue their blistering start to the year into the league and championship, there certainly wasn't a dull moment over the past 12 months for the Faughart outfit.
2007	Quietly content Although they missed out narrowly on a place in the knockout stage of the intermediate football championship, Roche Emmets were nonetheless reasonably pleased with their season's work in 2007. It was always going to be a difficult year, slipping down after a decade in the top flight, but goalkeeper Aidan McCoy, who acted as club captain, reckons '07 is definitely a year in the bank for the men from Pairc Roiche.
2006	Roche approach was to focus on league As five of the eight teams in Division 1B would be forced to surrender their senior status at the end of the season, Roche decided at the start of their 2006 campaign that they would concentrate mainly on the league. Michael Craven, who captained the side, admits that the main priority for '06 was to retain senior standing by virtue of a Top Three finish. Unfortunately, the Pairc Roiche men fell just short of their goal and surrendered top-flight status.
2005	Sitting nicely This was a year in which Roche Emmets wanted to do something big at adult level. It was, after all, the 25th anniversary of their last senior championship win - and what better way would there be to celebrate than to have the Joe Ward Cup back on the sideboard. Or any other trophy, for that matter. By Joe Carroll.
2004	Decent league effort spares blushes In keeping with recent custom, Roche Emmets carried plenty of ambition into the 2004 season. They were gunning for a decent showing in the SFC but such an eventuality was not forthcoming. Alas, for the second successive year, they failed to win a match in the premier competition Ð much to the obvious dismay of team captain Colm Callaghan and everybody else associated with the Faughart club. At least they fared better in Division 1B of the all-county league, finishing in second place and thereby securing promotion to Division 1A for the coming season.
2003	Spirit is strong Roche Emmets didn't set the Wee County GAA world on fire in 2003, but they're not about to dwell on that trivial fact. Rebuilding began towards the end of the season and - with a new campaign on the horizon - morale in the camp is high. Young midfielder Gerry Murphy epitomises the confidence permeating the Blue & Whites.
2002	Back to reality for Roche ... Following a double cup success, Roche Emmets went into the 2002 season with spirits high and, as a result, were tipped by many to be among the main contenders for the county's top prize - the senior championship. It's 22 years since the Joe Ward Cup made its way to Castleroche and there were many in Louth who felt that this year's team was in the best position for some time to emulate that feat, writes Eunan Whyte.
2001	Roche claim ACC Cup They may not have had the rub of the green in the Senior Championship, but there was some consolation for Roche Emmets this season when they captured the ACC Cup following a 2-14 to 0-15 victory over St. Mary's in July.

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Sean McDermotts
2008	Ready to bounce back Sometimes in football you have to take a step back before you can move forward again. That's what the Sean McDermotts will be hoping for after losing their intermediate championship status this year. By James Rogers.
2007	Sadness in Mountrush Having preserved their intermediate status in dramatic circumstances the previous year, Sean McDermotts went into the 2007 season full of hope. This time, they at least managed to avoid the unwanted tension of a relegation play-off but, sadly, the Seans' season was overshadowed by the passing of one of their most popular members Ð Gerard 'Cooper' Curran. Peter Osborne was understandably downbeat and crestfallen when he spoke to Gerald Robinson about the events of '07.
2006	Another play-off for the Seans For the second time in three years, Sean McDermotts found themselves in a play-off to determine whether they'd be playing intermediate or junior football. This game had not yet been played at the time of publication but, regardless of the outcome, there's no denying that goalkeeper Damien Curran and his team-mates put in a huge effort in 2006 as the Mountrush men endeavoured to preserve their status against the odds.
2005	Two from three as Seans bounce back Having suffered the decided disappointment of demotion to junior ranks at the end of the 2004 season, Sean McDermotts issued the ideal riposte by annexing two of the three trophies available to them in '05. The JFC may have eluded them but the Seans laid claim to both the Kevin Mullen Shield and Macardle Cup as they booked an instant return to intermediate ranks. Midfielder Declan Carroll is confident that the Mountrush men have learned their lesson and will be more guarded against the threat of relegation in the coming year. By Gerry Robinson
2004	Valentine's way Sean McDermotts enjoyed a prolonged involvement in the 2004 Louth intermediate football championship, playing a total of seven matches in the competition. However, despite a gallant effort, the Mountrush men failed to make it through to the semi-finals. Ronan Valentine, whose return from long-term injury was a massive boost to the Green & Reds, reflects on a topsy-turvy season for all concerned.
2003	Finlay key to seans hopes Due to circumstances beyond their control, Sean McDermotts never fielded a full strength team in 2003. Still, young full back Brendan Finlay is confident the Seans (who reached the Grogan Cup final but made no impact in the IFC or in Division 2A of the league) are good enough to put the disappointing season behind them and make a concerted push for intermediate honours in '04.
2002	Seans march on There's no stopping Sean McDermotts these days. Club stalwart Gerry Curran is a mightily proud man to have witnessed the Mountrush men book a place in Division 2A, intermediate's top flight.
2001	Seans so close to senior football Gerry Robinson reflects on a season which saw Sean McDermotts come within a whisker of a place in the top flight.

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Sean O'Mahonys
2008	Job done In 2009, Sean OÕMahonys will participate in the Louth senior football championship for the fourth time in five seasons. Having retained their top-flight status against the odds, the Point Road men can look back on 2008 as a successful campaign Ð but theyÕll be hoping to do a little bit better next time around!
2007	Plenty of heart in O'Mahonys The sign of a successful season is not always about the number of trophies you have collected by the year's end. After a hectic year, Sean O'Mahonys know that more than most.
2006	Point proven; Seans are dundalk's sole senior club Senior football returned to the Point Road in 2006 and, having gained promotion in successive years, Sean O'Mahonys set about the difficult task of proving that they have what it takes to compete at the highest level. The Seans registered one win in the SFC (against Geraldines) and battled magnificently all year for a Top Three finish in Division 1B. John O'Brien, who excelled at wing back for the county seniors and U21s, and the rest of the warriors who wore the famous Green & Gold certainly vindicated themselves with spirited displays that silenced more than a few criticsÉ
2005	Point Road braced for senior football The past few years have represented a transition period for Sean O'Mahonys. They have invested a lot of time, effort and resources into developing their Point Road home into one of the best grounds in the county and, with a place in senior football secured, are already reaping the rewards of those efforts on the field of play. O'Mahonys now have the facilities and a team to match.
2004	Hints of brilliance Sean O'Mahonys' form was somewhat on the erratic side in 2004 but the Dundalk club did at times produce some wonderful fare and they also achieved their prime objective of a quick return to Division 2A of the all-county league. All in all, it was a year to remember.
2003	Pointing in the right direction It was a good year for all on the Point Road. Focussed in their approach, the O'Mahonys enjoyed a brave run to the latter stages of the IFC and proved that, on their day, they're a match for any intermediate side in the Wee County. Outgoing manager Paul McLaughlin was happy with the response from his players.
2002	Making the return After a difficult couple of seasons of late, it was a case of Òhome sweet homeÓ for Sean O'Mahony's as they celebrated a return to their Point Road base by winning both the Division 2B and 4C leagues.

St Brides
2008	Another gallant effort In 2008, St Brides made another brave bid to win the Joe Ward Cup. Again they reached the semi-final stage Ð accounting for holders St Patricks along the way Ð but this time their run was ended by Newtown Blues at Dunleer on Saturday September 13. Though disappointed by that 1-12 to 0-11 defeat, long-serving full back David J McArdle believes the Brides still have enough quality to land a coveted SFC.
2007	Bringing it up a level When St Brides reached the senior championship final many at the Knockbridge club were hoping that, despite the pain of defeat, they would be be able to build on the performances over that summer in the year's ahead.
2006	Brides failed to pierce last eight ... The St Brides first team didn't have much to celebrate in 2006 but the return to full fitness of influential midfielder Pierce Murphy certainly came as a welcome boost in an otherwise forgettable campaign. After 18 months on the sideline, Pierce shook off his personal injury nightmare and was his usual dependable self, though most of the season was Òa non-eventÓ due to the uncompetitive nature of Division 1A.
2005	Looking good Over the past number of years St Brides have established themselves among the top clubs in the county. By Eunan Whyte.
2004	It's a knock'-out! For the third successive year, St Brides reached the knock-out phase of the Louth SFC. Once again, however, the Joe Ward Cup proved elusive as the Knockbridge men bowed out of contention at the quarter-final stage. Though the Brides confirmed their status as one of the leading lights in Louth GAA, David Mackin is disappointed that the current crop has yet to secure major honours.
2003	Brides' Ray of light It was another excellent year for St Brides. The Knockbridge outfit again reached the business end of the SFC and demonstrated remarkable consistency in Division 1A of the league. Corner forward Ray Kelly was outstanding throughout and was called into Louth's championship panel for his troubles.
2002	Come a long way! Four years ago, St Brides were still a junior club. In 2002, they blazed a remarkable trail to the senior county final, wherein they lost to Mattock by a mere kick of the ball. Gerry Robinson pays tribute to the Knockbridge men, whose recent rags-to-riches transformation has been one of the most remarkable in Wee County GAA history.
2001	Aaron's isle They say that no man is an island. But when Aaron Hoey pulls on the Louth Number 3 shirt, he is emperor of his own patch of territory on the edge of the square, writes Gerry Robinson.

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St Fechins
2008	A big year in store? Two-thousand-and-nine has all the makings of a landmark year for St Fechins, who have every chance of making progress under the guidance of new manager Tony Kearney. Enticing the former Wolfe Tones (Meath) boss represents a major coup for the Hoops and last yearÕs captain Harry McArdle believes they can mount genuine challenges in both the junior football championship and Division Three of the all-county league.
2007	Steady progress St Fechins may not have set the Wee County GAA scene on fire in 2007 but they still made a slight improvement on the previous year, so signs are encouraging that gaelic football is making an overdue comeback in the Termonfeckin area. First team boss Aidan Butterly is targeting further progress in '08 as the Hoops continue to gather a head of steam.
2006	Fechins stranded Naomh Feichin's plan of an instant return to intermediate ranks didn't quite materialise in 2006. The Termonfeckin club struggled to adapt to their new surroundings in the lower ranks and blew their JFC prospects when losing their second and final group game to Dundalk Young Irelands. Trusty clubman Fergal McEvoy is confident that the Green & White can offer an improved performance in '07É
2005	Fechin relegated Much to the obvious dismay of everyone associated with the club, St Fechins' 2005 Division 2B campaign saw them relegated to junior ranks. Vincent Mulholland accepts that it's a major blow but believes the Termonfeckin men have the necessary resources in place to bounce straight back into the intermediate grade.
2004	Savage year for the Fechins Though they lost only one of their four games in Group A of the 2004 Louth intermediate football championship, St Fechins narrowly failed to make the cut for the knock-out stage of the competition. Young goalkeeper Mark Savage, who featured on the senior county panel in the early part of the year, reflects on an eventful season out Termonfeckin wayÉ
2003	Hurl we go, hurl we go For the first time ever, St Fechins fielded an adult hurling team in 2003. This represents the latest step in an ongoing evolutionary process that has seen the small ball code become an increasingly important part of what the Fechins are all about. Mark Stephenson speaks to Gerry Robinson about the genesis of Louth's fifth senior hurling team.
2002	Fechins hold their ground It wasn't a landmark year for St Fechins - but it was by no means a bad one either. The Hoops reached the knock-out stage of the intermediate championship and consolidated their position in Division 2B of the league. Speaking to Gerry Robinson, veteran campaigner Michael McCormack reflects on the events of 2002
2001	St. Fechins' driving force Brian Ronan may once have been better known for his accurate drives in the colours of Baltray Golf Club, but in the season gone by he was also busy trying to drive St Fechins towards senior football. Gerry Robinson meets the Termonfeckin captain to discuss football, golf and the eternal search for equilibrium.

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St Josephs
2008	Things are looking up Following the disappointment of relegation to the intermediate ranks at the end of 2007, the message coming from Cluskey Park in 2008 is that St Josephs have most definitely turned things around and are looking forward to a very bright future.
2007	The unpredictability Many column inches are taken up by musings on the unpredictability of sport. Never was this phenomenon more in evidence than in the fate that befell St Josephs in 2007, as the Dromiskin/Darver combo went from the ultimate high of capturing a second-ever SFC to the embarrassment of suffering demotion to intermediate ranks Ð all within twelve months.
2006	Here we joe, here we joe, here we Joe ... St Josephs defied all odds and surpassed all expectations to capture the 2006 Louth senior football championship. Rated as outsiders throughout the competition, Jody McDonnell's irrepressible charges possessed a perfect blend of youth and experience. They were also imbued with an indefatigable, never-say-die spirit that left the likes of Mattock Rangers, Newtown Blues and St Patricks feeling frustrated and bemused. Nobody can argue when you dispose of the three teams that shared the last six SFCs. Make no mistake: the Joes are worthy champions of Louth!
2005	Good tidings for the Joes It was a frustrating enough year for St Josephs, who failed to make an impression in either league or championship, but there was some silver lining for the Dromiskin/Darver club in 2005: Declan O'Sullivan appears to have put his injury hell behind him after coming through an entire season unscathed. The Joes celebrate the tenth anniversary of their breakthrough SFC success in '06. With their full complement available, they are capable of challenging for silverware. By Gerry Robinson
2004	The Boatman calls Joes miss the boat again in 2004. Having left it too late to get their first points on the board in Group D, they failed to get their SFC challenge off the ground. Pipped in their first two championship games, the Dromiskin men struck with a comfortable victory over Kilkerley in their final group outing. But a surprise result elsewhere that same evening meant the Joes would play no further part in the 2004 race for Joe Ward glory. Yet again, the Green, White and Gold had underachieved; much to the disappointment of centre half back Aidan Maguire.
2003	Fox in Joes clothing .... After an electrifying start to their Group A campaign, St Josephs saw their 2003 SFC challenge ruthlessly cut down by back-to-back defeats at the hands of neighbours and bona-fide bogey team Stabannon. Team veteran John Fox was disappointed not just by the defeats but also by the limitations they exposed.
2002	Joes eye second senior crown St Josephs failed to realise their potential in 2002. But Aidan Gorham - who managed the side through their most recent campaign - is convinced that there's at least one more senior championship in the current Dromiskin/Darver crop. Aidan should know too: he guided the Joes to their first and only Joe Ward Cup success back in 1996.
2001	Six of the best! St Josephs played six times in the 2001 Louth SFC yet didn't even reach the semi-final stage. Such are the vagaries of the new championship system in the Wee County.

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St Kevins
2008	Finding their footing again Having come down from intermediate football at the start of the season, 2008 was a year of consolidation for St Kevins GFC.
2007	A learning curve After the high of winning the Junior Championship and moving up to the higher grade, all those involved with St Kevins were optimistic about their chances in 2007. However, things just didn't go their way on the field and the club ended up dropping back down to the junior ranks.
2006	Perfect Timing St Kevins could hardly have picked a better time to win the Louth junior football championship. Two-thousand-and-six presented one last opportunity to escape the bottom grade before the bottom field increased to twelve teams and the Philipstown men duly fled the scene with the Christy Bellew Cup in tow. By defeating Westerns in the JFC final at Dowdallshill on the last Sunday of September, the Kevins ensured that they will be playing intermediate football again in 2007.
2005	Kevins so close St Kevins' bid for a return to intermediate football took them as far as the 2005 Louth JFC final, wherein they were pipped by a mere point. Top scorer in the JFC, Liam Boylan is confident the Philipstown men are good enough to escape junior ranks at the third attempt in '06.
2004	Don't tread on me! It was a disappointing year for St Kevins, who failed to escape the suffocating clutches of junior football, despite a gallant showing in both league and championship. Niall Treadwell reflects on a frustrating season and looks forward to 2005, when the Philipstown men will mount a concerted effort to regain promotion to intermediate ranks.
2003	knock, knock ... The Kevins are still standing at the doorway to senior football, but the door refuses to open. In 2003, they once more pushed hard for IFC honours, reaching the semi-final stage for the third time in four years. However, frustratingly, top grade football continues to elude the Philipstown men.
2002	The Kevin's can bounce back St Kevin's never quite caught fire in 2002. However, in an interview with Gerry Robinson, team captain Michael Grogan insists there's no reason why the spark shouldn't return next year.
2001	Injury time misery for Kevins Having been edged out in the previous year's intermediate final, St Kevins were down on their luck again in 2001, advancing to the penultimate stage only to be shattered by an injury-time goal. Gerry Robinson reflects on a season that promised much but delivered little. Sounds familiar...

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St Mary's, Ardee
2008	U16Õs steal the show The 2008 campaign may not be remembered as a vintage year at adult level for Ardee St Marys, particularly given the proud tradition the club has in Louth.
2007	So near and yet so far St Marys Ardee gave another commendable showing in the 2007 Louth SFC but once again it wasn't quite enough as the Deesiders failed to advance beyond the group stage of the premier knockout competition. Despite impressive wins over the Brides and the Joes, the Marys were edged out by a last-gasp Blues point in their final group match. Young forward Robert Leavy reflects on an unfulfilling season.
2006	Diamond searching for gold Eleven years have now passed since Ardee St Marys defeated St Patricks at Dromiskin to claim the 1995 Louth SFC. The Deesiders made the knockout stage again in '06 but Ð not for the first time in recent seasons - came a cropper against peninsula opposition. Despite the obvious frustration caused by the disappointing quarter-final defeat to Cooley, full back Hugh Diamond is adamant that the Marys are moving in the right direction and vows to collect at least one county SFC medal before hanging up his boots.
2005	A decent year Ardee crew St Marys enjoyed a fairly satisfactory year as they returned to Division 1A of the all-county league and twice came agonisingly close to a place in the last eight of the SFC. The Deesiders started the year brightly with five straight wins in the league and were also responsible for removing back-to-back winners St Patricks from the Joe Ward equation. Unfortunately, there was no silverware at the end of the rainbow for first-team captain Alan Balfe.
2004	Another trophy in the Pairc Mhuire cabinet St Marys' recent record of winning trophies has been impressive. In 2004, the Deesiders worked the uncanny oracle yet again by capturing the Division 1B league title (the McShane Cup). The Joe Ward Cup again proved elusive, however, with Clan na Gael coming out on top at the quarter-final stage of the SFC. Still, back in the top flight of the league, Ronan Carroll and co. are tipped to go far in 2005.
2003	Joe slips through Marys' fingers Ardee St Marys came desperately close to recapturing the Joe Ward Cup in 2003 but - somehow - the Wee County's most coveted GAA trophy eluded the gallant Deesiders
2002	Steady Eddie - St. Mary's inspirational force If awards were handed out for loyalty, dedication to the cause and commitment, then St Marys stalwart Eddie Gray would have to build another new house - exclusively for silverware storage!
2001	St Marys' bright young hope If they are to end the frustrating barren spell plaguing them of late, St Marys must place their faith in young blood. The 1995 side has virtually disbanded at this stage and a new crop of heroes waits in the wings, hoping to one day restore glory to the Deeside town. Gerry Robinson speaks to Darren Clarke, one of the club's most promising young prospects.

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St Mochtas
2008	A brave effort St Mochtas gave the JFC another decent rattle in 2008, but once more they came up marginally short. Having contested the third-tier county final the previous year, the Louth villagers topped their group this time around and advanced to the semi-final stage, only to lose narrowly to the Nicks. Despite that setback, young attacker Liam McGranaghan is confident that the club is moving in the right direction.
2007	League winners At the start of the year St Mochtas were at something of a crossroads. Having won the Junior Championship in 2004, they went on to reach the intermediate semi-finals the following year - only losing out to eventual champions the Geraldines by a single point. By James Rogers.
2006	A strange old year St Mochtas went into the 2006 season on a bit of a high as two very impressive seasons had raised expectations that the club could go on to make a serious challenge for a place in the senior grade.
2005	All-Ireland glory for Louth village Hot on the heels of their excellent JFC success of 2004, St Mochtas followed up in style with some superb performances in '05. The Louth village outfit competed well on all fronts. They reached the last four of the IFC, finished a commendable third on the Division 2B league table and had the distinction of bringing All-Ireland glory to the Wee County. They did this by claiming the All-Ireland Shield in the St Jude's Sevens in Dublin on Saturday September 24. Manager Gerry O'Reilly has every reason to look back on the year with satisfaction.
2004	Mochtas bounce back Two-thousand-and-four was a memorable year for St Mochtas, who made an instant return to intermediate ranks by capturing the county junior football championship. The Louth village men made the most of their brief stay in the bottom grade, availing of the opportunity to regroup and take stock of things. The Mochtas rediscovered their spirit in '04 and, ironically, their flirtation with junior football has probably done them more good than harm.
2003	Mochtas bite relegation bullet It was a disappointing year for St Mochtas and 2003 captain Colin Hoey is suitably unimpressed. Even more frustrating than the actual results was the fact that some of the best footballers in the village are showing no interest in lining out for the club.
2002	Mochtas holding firm The Mochtas didn't set the playing fields of the Wee County alight in 2002, but they didn't expect to. The challenge of keeping gaelic football alive and kicking in Louth village was admirably dealt with and club secretary Michael Martin looks back on the past twelve months with more satisfaction than disappointment.
2001	Same old same old In many ways, it was the same old story for St Mochtas in 2001 - a creditable enough league showing and a championship outing in which they simply failed to perform to full potential. Gerry Robinson speaks to full forward Gervaise Marron about what was, what is and what might have been.

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St Nicholas
2008	Champions Looking back at a Championship winning year, it is often easy to look back at the season just past and identify the reasons for your success. For St. Nicholas GFC, this Championship victory started long before that. The victory and the claiming of the Christy Bellew cup for the second time in the club's history was the product of over four years of work.
2007	Youth is the key St Nicholas are one of the youngest clubs in Louth football but next season they will be hoping to mark an important milestone in their history by bringing silverware back to their Drogheda base.
2006	Youth hold the key The passing of Johnny Caffrey marked the end of an era and cast a long shadow over the St. Nicholas club in 2006. ÒKillerÓ, as he was affectionately known, was a founder member of the Nicks and a man who dedicated his life to club and county. By Gerry Kelly.
2005	Moving on up It's been a tremendous year for St. Nicholas whose adult Intermediate team secured promotion for the club to Division 2A of the football league. This affords the 'Nicks', as they're affectionately known, two opportunities in 2006 of making it up to senior football for what would be the first time in their history.
2004	A funny old game It's true what they say: football IS a funny old game. St Nicholas' topsy-turvy 2004 season was an obvious case in point. Despite playing some decent football in Division 2B Ð and beating intermediate championship finalists O'Raghallaighs home and away Ð the Red & Whites were still threatened by the spectre of relegation towards the end of October. The drawn out nature of the fixtures in Louth is such that the Nicks' fate had yet to be resolved at the time of going to press.
2003	Memorable 25th year for Andrew and Nicks St Nicholas - who celebrated their 25th anniversary in 2003 - enjoyed a decent year. The Drogheda club recorded a rare victory in the group stages of the intermediate championship, and contributed two men to Louth's celebrated minor team. One of these, wing back Andrew Tinley, reflects on an eventful season at club and county level.
2002	St. Nicholas were able to Hack-tt in 2002 County under 21 Paul Hackett was very much to the fore as St Nicholas won the 2002 Division Three league title (Macardle Cup) in impressive fashion. Gerry Robinson speaks to the half forward about the Nicks' brilliant year and their imminent return to the intermediate grade.
2001	Never say die There's no way the Nicks are going to throw in the towel. After all, they have young talent at their disposal that's the envy of even the most illustrious clubs in the county.

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St Patricks
2008	Eamon to bounce back St Patricks relinquished their county crown in frustrating fashion in 2008 but centre forward Eamon Carroll believes they can bounce back in style next year Ð just as they did when last they suffered a major disappointment. Still boasting the same core of players that brought Joe Ward to Lordship on three occasions in the recent past, the Pats will pose a real threat to all-comers if they get the bit between their teeth in Õ09.
2007	Third time plucky It was a magnificent year for St Patricks as the Lordship men returned from two years in the championship wilderness to reclaim the Joe Ward Cup. With three SFCs annexed inside five years, the Pats are very much the team of the moment in the Wee County. In many ways, the 2007 success was the sweetest yetÉ
2006	Sights already set on '07 The 2006 season may have ended in disappointing fashion for St Patrick's but there is no sense of despair at the Lordship club as they are already looking to set the record straight next year by bringing home the Joe Ward Cup.
2005	Building for the present and future The 2005 season may not be regarded as one of the best on the field of play in the history of St Patricks GFC. However, when they club looks back on this year they will have every reason to be extremely proud. By Eunan Whyte
2004	The immovable objects ... In 2003, St Patricks were an irresistible force as they claimed their first ever Louth senior football championship. In 2004, the Lordship men recreated themselves as an immovable object and duly retained their crown.
2003	The Golden boys The Pairc Eamoin revolution continues unabated - and what better way to celebrate your Golden Jubilee Year than by winning the Louth senior football championship for the first time! St Patricks famously worked the oracle in 2003 and Joe Ward is enjoying his first spell in Lordship as we speak.
2002	Pats land first ever ACC Cup They fired blanks in the championship and never quite got going in the league, but St Patricks did capture one of the three County Board trophies available to senior clubs in 2002, making history with a superlative ACC Cup campaign.
2001	A winding road In the past number of years, St. Patrick's have established themselves as one of the top teams in the county, with a senior final appearance in 1995, followed by a Cardinal O'Donnell success four years later. Words by Eunan Whyte.

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Stabannon Parnells
2008	Back to winning ways Stabannon Parnells returned to winning ways in 2008 by scooping the Kevin Mullen Shield Ð their first adult trophy proper since the ACC Cup was annexed on November 19 2000. Though disappointed that their brave JFC bid came unstuck with a quarter-final replay defeat to champions-elect St Nicholas, captain Shane Sweeney was nonetheless happy to at least bring some silverware back to the mid-Louth village.
2007	Finding their feet Stabannon Parnells found themselves in unfamiliar territory at the beginning of the 2007 season as the Mid Louth club who had been the undisputed kings of Louth football in the 1990s when they won four Senior Championships, had to prepare themselves for a season in junior football.
2006	Breaking up is hard to do The break-up of the team that brought unprecedented glory to Stabannon in the 'nineties has hit the club hard. Once masters of all they surveyed in the Wee County, the Parnells surrendered their senior status at the end of 2005 (after 15 incredible years in the top flight), taking their place in intermediate ranks for the first time since the IFC breakthrough of '89. Midfield powerhouse Colin Quinn reflects on another difficult year for the Green & Gold, who found themselves in a protracted battle against demotion to junior ranks.
2005	Spirit so strong The proud sense of spirit that permeates Stabannon Parnells GFC is unique, clearly evident as one of the true virtues of Wee County GAA. Having put a horrific career-threatening injury behind him, experienced campaigner Aidan Shevlin epitomises the steely heart, fortitude and sheer mettle that is synonymous with the Green & Gold. By Gerry Robinson
2004	Defiance in the face of adversity Upon the break-up of the great team of the '90s, many predicted the imminent demise of Stabannon Parnells as a senior entity. Some even suggested that the former kingpins would slip rapidly back to the obscurity of junior football. However, a defiant new breed of Stabannon footballer is emerging. These proud young men are a resolute, resilient lot. Padraig Lynch typifies 'The New Stabannon'.
2003	King with a throne Stabannon Parnells' bid for the 2003 SFC crown came crashing around them at the quarter-final stage, but Martin King and his team-mates gave a good account of themselves up until then. Here, Martin reassures Gerry Robinson that even though Stabannon are in transition they're far from a spent force...
2002	Utterly legendary It seems that Stabannon Parnells' Golden Era has come to an end. But what an innings they had! And tradition decrees that they will rise again. Gerry Robinson catches up with Pat Butterly, who was a key component in Stabannon's best ever team.
2001	Stabannon won the inaugural Joe Ward in 1949 The ageless Gerry Robinson looks back on Stabannon Parnells' first ever Louth SFC triumph, a feat achieved in 1949, the Joe Ward Cup's maiden year.

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Westerns
2008	Something in reserve WesternsÕ seconds stole the show in 2008 with a wonderful run to the semi-final stage of the Division 4C league. Their hunt for silverware was ended by Annaghminnon Rovers at the penultimate hurdle but hopes are high that the first team was taking note and that they can improve dramatically in the coming season. Westerns are also making good progress in developing their facilities, so itÕs certainly not all doom and gloom around Reaghstown these days.
2007	Chasing the holy grail After coming within 60 minutes of returning to Intermediate football in 2006, Westerns GFC began the 2007 season determined to go all the way this time around.
2006	More final heartache Westerns have contested three junior football championship finals inside a decade and have finished runners-up on all three occasions. It was a similar story in 2006 as the Reaghstown men succumbed to St Kevins on county final day, much to the obvious dismay of team captain and attacking talisman Terence Sweeney. However, despite the disappointment of that defeat, Terence is confident that the Green & Golds will be more than able to hold their own in next season's beefed-up JFC.
2005	For a few points more It seems rather appropriate that a man named Clint should be one of the star performers for a club called Westerns. The hotshot attacker is certainly quick on the draw and was one of the most impressive players at intermediate level in Louth during the 2005 season. Unfortunately, it was a case of the good, the bad and the ugly as the Reaghstown men surrendered their Division 2B status, high-plains-drifting back down to junior football for the forthcoming season. By Gerry Robinson.
2004	Westerns show their worth in 2004 Amazingly, Westerns finished bottom of Group C of the 2004 Louth intermediate football championship Ð despite hammering Dreadnots, who finished top and went on to win an intermediate double! In general, the Reaghstown men, who were superb in the league, gave as good as they got upon their return to intermediate ranks in 2004. The 3-13 to 0-14 IFC defeat of Clogherhead was just one of the highlights of a season that club captain John Lynch looks back upon with plenty of satisfaction.
2003	All's well that ends well All season long, Westerns looked destined to win the Louth JFC for the first time. They romped through to the final but were pipped by a point by Dowdallshill at Louth village. However, the Reaghstown outfit earned themselves a pretty decent consolation prize by booking promotion to intermediate ranks via the league.
2002	A mixed bag in the Wild West! Clint Eastwood became a Hollywood immortal with his convincing portrayal of avenging angels in epic spaghetti westerns. Westerns' 2002 season resembled one of Sergio Leone's most famous productions: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly. Midfielder Martin Kane reflects upon a year in the life of a six-shootin' Westerns footballer.
2001	Celebrating in style Two-thousand-and one marked the 50th anniversary of Westerns' foundation. In an interview with Gerry Robinson, player-manager Padraig Brennan reflects on how the Reaghstown outfit celebrated its Golden Jubilee in appropriate fashion by winning the Division Three crown and in the process rising to intermediate grade for the first time.

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Wolfe Tones (Football)
2008	Another step forward Wolfe Tones GFC made significant progress in 2008 by capturing both the Louth junior 2B football championship and the county minor Division Four crown. Steadily, they are regaining their feet and the signs are encouraging that the Tones will soon be ready to compete at full JFC level once more.
2007	The boys are back in tone After flirting with near-extinction for a couple of years, Wolfe Tones GFC have battled back from the brink. The Drogheda club did themselves proud in 2007, fielding for every game in the Division Three league and getting some valuable wins under their belt. The Tones also acquitted themselves well in the Junior 2 championship and Kevin Mullen Shield, so manager David Tully can look back on the year's proceedings with much satisfaction.
2006	Real Tones Wolfe Tones' recovery from the brink of extinction continued unabated in 2006. The born-again Drogheda club put together a very strong campaign in Division 4C of the all-county football league and also continued to make impressive progress at underage level, with their minor amalgamation pushing eventual champions Cooley all the way in a MFC semi-final at The Grove and the outstanding Niall Smith captaining the Louth U16 development squad team. Things are looking up.
2005	Raising the tone While recent times have proved testing for the Wolfe Tones GFC adult team, the Drogheda club continues to excel in juvenile matters. Two-thousand-and-five was another successful year for the Tones at juvenile and nursery levels. These players are the future lifeblood of a determined club that is hanging on grittily against the odds. Judging by the impressive underage displays in '05, there's every chance of a happy ending to this particular story.
2004	A hive of activity There was certainly no shortage of activity within Wolfe Tones GFC in 2004, with the club fielding impressively at all levels. While it may have been a year to forget for the junior team, there were many positives to report elsewhere. A number of young players stood up to be counted and demonstrated remarkable maturity, providing a definite source of encouragement as Drogheda's second oldest club prepares for the stiff battles that lie ahead.
2003	A few good men Wolfe Tones were in serious trouble going into the 2003 calendar year but the determination and endeavour of a few ensured that - against all odds - they came through intact and with reputations enhanced. Gerry Robinson reports on a remarkable tale of survival.
2002	Juveniles set the tone Rumours of Wolfe Tones' demise are indeed greatly exaggerated. The hive of juvenile activity within the club in 2002 was once more testimony to where the Drogheda outfit's current strength lies.
2001	No need to panic Things may not have gone exactly according to plan for Wolfe Tones' first team in 2001 but, as club Chairman and selector/player Martin Kelly tells Gerry Robinson, they're not reaching for the panic buttons just yet. To the contrary, in fact, they're looking to the future with unprecedented optimism.

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Wolfe Tones (Hurling)
2008	Not afraid to put their shoulder to the wheel Drogheda is a town that has really thrived on the sporting front in recent years. There's been success on the soccer front both at adult and underage level while in terms of Gaelic football this year saw the south of the county complete a clean sweep of honours. Oh, and Boyne Rugby Club haven't been going so badly either. With all that success, something inevitably has to suffer and in Drogheda in recent years the sport that has suffered more than most is hurling.
2007	Nursery times In 2007 the Wolfe Tones Hurling Club began a back to basics approach towards building for the future. A group within the club decided to instigate a nursery section to introduce youngsters from as young as four to the ancient game. The new initiative has been very well received to date and the signs are encouraging that Drogheda's sole hurling club is making the right moves in safeguarding its long-term future.
2006	Tones have got Carter Wolfe Tones continued to fly the flag for Drogheda hurling in 2006. They forced a three-way play-off in the county SHC, acquitted themselves superbly in the Dublin league and supplied the Wee County with their captain for the year Ð John Carter. Johnny is convinced that, with a bit of luck, the Tones can soon reclaim the Paddy Kelly Cup for the first time since 1996
2005	For the love of the game Wolfe Tones Hurling Club may not have picked up any silverware in 2005 but despite this the club will be able to look back on the season with some sense of satisfaction. By Eunan Whyte.
2004	Stay together for the kids Wolfe Tones Hurling Club enjoyed something of a revival at juvenile level in 2004. This was the good news in a year where the senior team failed to make a major impact, despite reaching the all-county league final. Due to the ongoing hard work of a few footsoldiers, the Tones continue to fly the flag for the small ball code in Drogheda. They're determined not just to survive but to rediscover the glory days, beginning with a more concerted drive to unearth, nurture and unleash underage talent. In '04, the battle commencedÉ
2003	Captain Diarmuid sets the tone Wolfe Tones hurlers enjoyed a satisfactory year on all fronts, giving a good account of themselves in the Dublin league and reaching the final of the Louth SHC. Inspirational captain Diarmuid McCarthy is confident that the Reds can do even better in 2004.
2002	Kelly's eye as sharp as ever Ollie Kelly has been a magnificent servant to Wolfe Tones hurling club over the years. In an interview with Gerry Robinson, the veteran attacker reflects upon the events of 2002, a season that saw him still very much on top of his game.
2001	Tale of two finals Try as they may, the Wolfe Tones stickmen just can't seem to make the all-important breakthrough. The beaten 2000 championship finalists reached both the league and championship deciders this time around but once more finished the season without senior silverware.

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Young Irelands
2008	Cruel end to good season Young Irelands came within a minute of promotion to Division 2 to go along with their Intermediate Championship status achieved following the 2007 junior final win over St. Mochtas. It wasnÕt to be however as Naomh Fionnbarra clinched the Macardle Cup and Division 3 title with a last minute goal from William Woods to finish 2-10 to 2-8 winners over Young Irelands in the Play-off Final at Dromiskin.
2007	Irelands come of age Dundalk Young Irelands had old heads on their collective shoulders in 2007 as the Wee County's oldest club rediscovered the sort of form for which they are traditionally renowned. They made light of the new, more difficult JFC format to capture the Christy Bellew Cup and also reached the minor championship final for the first time ever. Throw in a photo finish for the Division Three league title and it was a fantastic year all round for the Upper Marshes men.
2006	Young at heart Players and supporters of the county's oldest club will fondly remember 2006. The year brought numerous successes on the field of play and with ground developments continuing at Pairc Eire îg, the future is looking considerably brighter for the green and blacks.
2005	Young guns went for it! Young Irelands continue to be one of Louth's most progressive clubs and 2005 proved to be another busy year.
2004	Laying solid foundations One-hundred-and-twenty years on, Louth's oldest club is still looking to the future and laying solid foundations. In 2004, Dundalk Young Irelands continued to sow seeds for a future that promises to be every bit as glorious as their illustrious past. To coincide with their 120th anniversary celebrations, the Irelanders launched their official website www.dundalkyoungirelands.com, unveiled a new club crest, excelled at juvenile and nursery levels, and held a spectacular celebratory Dinner Dance in the Fairways on Friday October 29. It was a year that will be remembered for quite some time by all associated with the GAA's longest-established club.
2003	Young by name; Young by nature Dundalk Young Irelands may be the oldest GAA club in the country but, significantly, it's their younger members who are re-inventing the famous Wee County outfit. Here's hoping the spectacular 2003 U14 Division One league success is a glimpse of things to come!
2002	Down but not out The playing season of 2002 is one the Irelanders might like to forget ... due to poor results, suspensions and at times indifference to training sessions by a number of the club's players. For those reasons alone and also for the matter of restoring pride in the "green & blacks" it is vital that 2002 becomes a watershed within the Club.
2001	Young at heart Young Irelands may have failed in their attempt to land a first Junior Championship title since 1977, but despite that defeat it is not a sense of despair that surrounds the Upper Marshes club, writes Eunan Whyte.

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