Kilmurry GAA celebrate a year to remember 

On Friday, January 31, Kilmurry GAA gathered at the Oriel House Hotel in Ballincollig to celebrate an historic 2024.

The room was beautifully decorated in green and gold with an impressive display of silverware on the stage highlighting the club’s remarkable success throughout the year.

The evening began with a heartfelt welcome from new chairperson Donagh Wall. He expressed his gratitude for a wonderful turnout and acknowledged the presence of distinguished guests, including Muskerry GAA chairperson John Feeney and vice-chairperson Ed Warren and Cork County Board vice-chairperson Noel O’Callaghan. Munster Council chairperson Tim Murphy and his understudy Seán Michael O’Regan were also present.

A special welcome was extended to GAA President Jarlath Burns. Fr Michael Kelleher then led a thoughtful and reflective prayer before proceedings continued.

Medal presentations were interwoven between meal courses. The Junior B panel were first to be honoured, receiving their Mid-Cork championship medals. Their mentors Michael John O’Mahony, Donagh Wall, and Denis O’Mullane were recognised for their leadership. 

The U21 panel followed, accepting their Mid-Cork and County medals at B level, with mentors Brian Harte, James White, David McCarthy, and James O’Mullane also acknowledged for their dedication.

Special presentations were made to outgoing officers Peter Lyons (Chairperson), Denis O’Mullane (Treasurer), and Richard Hinchion (County Board Representative) for their years of dedicated service to the club.

A highlight of the night was an inspiring speech by the GAA President Jarlath Burns which captivated the room. Jarlath spoke passionately about the true foundation of the GAA: the club. He acknowledged the immense effort required for small clubs to thrive and succeed, highlighting the importance of community spirit in driving that success.

Jarlath then presented the Premier Junior team with their County and Munster medals, marking a moment of immense pride for all involved. The team’s management and backroom staff were also recognised for their tireless work.

Team manager Cormac Linehan added a personal touch, warmly speaking about each player before reflecting on the club’s incredible journey over the last three years. He expressed gratitude to his backroom team of David Drummond, Denis O’Mullane, Con Barry-Murphy, and Fr Michael Kelleher for their unwavering support.

Premier Junior captain William Ronan closed the speeches with heartfelt thanks to the community, management, and committee for their amazing support. He highlighted the team’s camaraderie as a key driving force. 

As Kilmurry GAA closes the chapter on an unforgettable 2024, they now turn their focus to the 2025 sporting year.