Unfortunately our dreams and hopes of collecting another senior championship title lay in shatters on Sunday evening following defeat by Castleblayney on a score-line of 1-15 to 0-8 in Pearse Park Ballybay.
In fairness, the match had everything going for it in terms of playing and pitch conditions, tough opposition and great local support. But for whatever reason, we suffered major meltdown on the day, with very few of our players reaching anything near their potential in this crucial encounter. Credit to 'Blayney, they displayed their unapologetic hunger for Corn Gael Linn, by setting out their stall from the throw-in and playing the entire game like their lives depended on it. In complete contrast to our girls, their players raised their game to match the occasion, so I don't believe anyone in the Clontibret camp would begrudge them their victory. Congratulations to Castleblayney and we wish them well as they embark on the Ulster Club championship in October.
However with the Monaghan League to complete, Clontibret will be back in training with a vengeance on Friday evening and will use Sunday's experience as a learning opportunity (albeit a harsh one!). Then again, that's how some of the best lessons in sport are learned. So, 'down, but not out'!!!
Many thanks to all those who turned up to support the girls on Sunday - it was probably even more appreciated in the light of defeat, than in victory.
However it wasn't all 'doom and gloom' on Sunday afternoon, as everyone was delighted afterwards at the post-match meal, to be joined by Angela Kerr, one of the great 'foundation blocks' of the current panel. Angela timed her annual leave from her OT job in St George's London, to coincide with the final. At present, not only is she one of the key players on the Croyden team, but also their captain, so the camogie blood is still freely flowing in her veins! And then to boost our jaded morale's even further, we discovered that Big Brother, Aidan, Ned's predecessor, before he emigrated to London, is engaged!! So it's not all work Aidan, eh? Hearty congratulations, Aidan and Martha, and every happiness together in the years ahead.
Saturday was also a great day 15 of our U-12 panel, who, despite torrential rain in Inniskeen, acquitted themselves admirably. They returned to Clontibret clutching their medals, delighted with their achievements. This is a great little bunch of girls who are very enthusiastic and keen. Well done also Marie, Ned, Sorcha and the parents who helped out in many ways on the day.
Panel: Ellanna Fitzpatrick, Ria and Kayla McCann, Emma Treanor, Hannah Greenan, Emma Kellett, Alanna McCarron-Walsh, Rebecca Hamill, Leah Magennis, Ellyn McKenna, Éimear Brennan, Rachel Leonard, Siné Markey, Caoilinn Treanor and Catherine Walshe.
A reminder that all those interested in travelling to Croke Park for the All-Ireland Camogie Finals, need to signal their intention asap as a group booking will be made later in the week. Thanks also to those parents who have offered to help on Sunday Sept 13th with the girls.
Every good wish to Clíona who commences her academic studies in UCD this week. Don't forget to sign up for 'Freshers' camogie, Cliona! A great way to meet new friends (and perhaps even meet a few hurlers as well)!! Good wishes to all our players returning to college after their summer break.
Finally our deepest sympathy goes to the Mc Quade Family of Annasera on the death of Bridie. Bridie was a wonderful camogie player and served Clontibret club and her county, during the 1960's and 70's. Her daughter Rosita was also very skilful and 'plied her trade' for a number of years with
the club prior to the arrival of the current crop of senior players. Off the field Bridie was one of the most pleasant ladies you could wish to meet, with a smile always lighting up her eyes. Hopefully her gentle soul is lighting Heaven above now. May the Clontibret soil, of which you were so proud, rest gently on you Bridie.
Many thanks to our current and past senior players who helped form a guard-of-honour at her funeral.

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