It's amazing what our sponsors help us accomplish at Athenry FC and we love our brand new 'dug outs'. Well done to A&T Printing Athenry for their amazing signage on our dugouts. Huge thank you to our sponsors Raheen Woods Hotel and Athenry Credit Union. Without your support none of this is possible.
Best of luck to the Athenry FC Girls Team as they travel to Eamonn Deacy Park this Thursday evening to take on Maree/Oranmore FC in the U16 Premier Division Cup. Match Kicks Off at 19.30pm in Eamonn Deacy Park, Galway. H91 AV81. Come along and support the Team as they battle for the League Cup and ready themselves for the @sfaireland Cup Final!!
FAI Intersport Elverys Summer Camps are coming back to Athenry! This year the camp will run from July 8th - 12th in Moanbaun, Athenry. Bookings go live on Tuesday 30th April at 12 Noon. Places fill up fast, so be sure to book early! Every online booking will receive a 20% off code for Intersport Elverys online and instore.
Details and bookings can be found at www.faifootballcamps.ie
In the Girls U12 Division 3 Athenry played Cregmore in their final home game of the season winning the match with two games to spare to become League Champs. Isla Eastwood scored two to get the girls 'rolling' with Sophie Burke grabbing another before Isla completed her hat trick before the end of the half. Subs Aimee Quinn & Grace Higgins scored in the second half before, you guessed it, Isla finished off the scoring and Athenry were crowned champions. Carra Finnerty & Ella Greaney were phenomenal on the day but player of the match must go to Isla Eastwood.
Thanks to our sponsors
Quinn Vehicles and Sheils
Boys U14 Div 2
Athenry 3-0 Kilshanvey
This top of the table clash saw Athenry dominate early possession and scored through Aidan Murphy very early on. Captain Robert Eastwood scored next before Aidan Murphy scored another to make it 3-0. Resolute defending saw Athenry keep a clean sheet for the rest of the game to keep the visitors at bay. Excellent, efficient and wonderful performance with a good crowd watching. Athenry sit on top of the table with a game to go but have played two games more than their nearest rivals, with one of the meanest defences in the division and the highest goal scorers Athenry have given themselves a chance for the title as they will face Galway Bohs away on 11th May. With Kilshanvey scheduled to play their three games before Athenry play their final match of the season its still all up for grabs!
POM was Mufaro Chindavata who never stopped challenging and running, some engine!
Thanks to our sponsor @supermacsofficial Athenry
Best of luck to our Girls U17 Team as they host Corrib Celtic this Saturday 20th April. in the Final of the U17 GFA Premier Cup. Match Kicks Off at 19.30pm on the Astro in Athenry. H65 NY66 Come along and support the Team as they battle for the League Cup!!
The U16 Girls SFAI Subway National Cup Semi Final ended with a win for Athenry over Shelbourne. Mollie Noone scored a penalty, won by Anna Jordan, before Shelbourne equalised. Athenry took the lead once again as Mollie Noone got on the scoresheet a second time to bring the game to half time. Next half saw Sarah Egan grab Athenry's third after more good work from Anna Jordan before Anna herself scored to make it 4 goals to Athenry. Shelbourne battled well and brought the game to 4-3 to ensure a nervy end to the game as Athenry held on.
Great result from the Girls!
Team Sponsor Window Aide
Connacht Cup Quarter Final
Castlebar Celtic 2-1 Athenry FC
Men's premier team bowed out of the Connacht Cup at the Quarter Final stage to Castlebar Celtic. Going a goal and a man down Athenry equalised only to be thwarted by a very late winner in the 96th minutes by Castlebar. We wish them well as they progress in the competition.
Team sponsor: Premier Irish Homes.
UPDATES- To play with Manchester United Legends is now sold out but to play against them with the Athenry Legends is still available but selling fast. All players keep their match day gear. For further information, visit our website - www.moanbaun.com
Congratulations to the Athenry U13C Boys team who won the trophy competition at the Dynamic Coaching BCD Tournament in Clare last Sunday at the Seanchoil Sports Complex. A fantastic competition featuring teams from across the country
from as far a field as Dublin, Galway, Limerick, Clare, Kerry, Tipperary & Waterford. They beat Ballymackey B's in the final 2-1.
Its getting serious now. Not long to go. Be sure to book your tickets to be there to welcome Grindavik FC Legend Lee Sharpe to Athenry. Oh yes he won three Premier League titles, two FA Cups, a League Cup and the UEFA Cup Winners Cup with his other team Manchester United. He finished his career having made nearly 400 first-team appearances including playing for England and spells in Italy with Sampdoria and in Iceland with Grindavik.
More information at www.moanbaun.com
Best of luck to our Men's Senior Team as they travel to Castlebar this Saturday in the Connacht Cup Quarter Final.
Match Kicks Off at 7pm Saturday 13th April in Celtic Park, Castlebar. F23 PF62
Come along and support the Team as they push 1 step closer to the final!
U16 SFAI Subway National Cup Semi Final
Best of luck to our Girls U16 Team as they host Shelbourne FC this Saturday in the SFAI Subway National Cup Semi Final.
Match Kicks Off at 5.00pm on Saturday 13th on the Astro in Moanbaun. Come along and support the Team as they make the final push towards the Final!
Schoolboys/girls Football Association of Ireland
Subway UK & Ireland
Best of luck to our U18 Team as they travel to Mervue this Sunday in the Connacht Cup Semi Final. Match Kicks Off at 2pm Sunday 14th in Mervue, H91 P2T4. Come along and support the Team as they push for a Place in the Final!
Well done to our u7 & u8 girls who attended the St. Columba's Credit Union Invitational Tournament in Oranmore on Sunday morning the day after storm Kathleen! A fantastic initiative that has been running for a few years now and is enjoyed by all the kids and adults alike. Great to see so many other clubs involved at events like these.
Another action packed day yesterday for the U16's on their Tour to Blackburn Academy with an early morning training session from Blackburn Academy coaches, followed by a trip to Ewood Park for an entertaining (but scoreless) Championship game.
A massive thanks to Darragh Tuffy and all the staff at Blackburn Rovers for their amazing access to club staff, facilities and players. Thanks to all the staff at The Avenue Hotel and adjacent Coffee Shop for their welcoming hospitality. And of course, a huge thanks to Jamie and Zara O'Driscoll, Paddy Quinn and Tony Shaughnessy for organising a memorable trip for the boys....one they will never forget.
Some more highlights of yesterday's inaugural Eddie Beaglehole Cup in Moanbaun with Leeds United emerging winners taking home the cup.
Many thanks to all who took part and helped out including our own photographer Ivor Carroll for capturing these memories and the Raheen Woods Hotel for their excellent hospitality looking after the boys and their coaching staff during their time in Athenry.
An exciting weekend ahead for our U16 Boys as they head off to Blackburn Rovers Academy. An action packed few days will see the boys watch the Blackburn U18 training, take part in Academy training, play against a Blackburn Academy side as well as a visit to Ewood Park for Blackburn Rovers v Southampton on Saturday afternoon. A massive thank you to all of the many businesses who have helped fund and support this trip.
U16 girls played away to fellow premier league side Maree/Oranmore FC midweek. The start of the match saw a deterioration in the weather conditions and this added to the sluggish start of the game. Athenry did however pick up the pace and goals from Mollie Noone, Amira Bouhlel McNamara, Anna Jordan, Lily Mae Feeney and Niamh Kilgannon saw Athenry collect all three points. Captain Katie Noone marshalled her squad to victory with an authoritative display and a solid performance from everyone in the team. We play the same opponents in the Premier cup final in Eammon Deacy Park on the 25th of April. There is also the massive SFAI semi final against Dublin side Shelbourne with times and dates TBC.
Athenry FC welcomed Leeds United Academy coaches to Athenry, led by Head Coach U9’s to U14’s Andy Wood, who kicked off their 3 day visit to Athenry FC with a coaching session for our own academy kids.
The coaches and their U10 boys squad are visiting Athenry FC this week from today until Friday, staying in the Raheen Woods Hotel. They are taking training sessions with a number of our younger squads this evening & tomorrow morning, and will take part in a showcase tournament in Moanbaun on Friday morning against our U11’s and other local sides. All are welcome to attend the sessions and the showcase tournament on Friday morning from 8.45am.
U16 Boys Championship
Athenry 4 - 1 Ballinasloe
An Easter Sunday win for Athenry in Moanbaun, with 2 goals from Ethan Mitchell and a strike from Patrick Whelan giving Athenry a 3-0 lead at half-time.
Balinasloe continued to work hard into the second half and were rewarded with a well taken goal to make it 3-1.
Then Ethan went on a brilliant run, beating multiple players and into the box, only to be taken down and awarded a penalty, which he calmly slotted into the bottom corner to complete a tidy hat-trick.
4-1 it finished, which keeps Athenry in the title race with 3 games in hand over Hibs.
Next for this squad is an exciting trip to Blackburn Rovers....more on this to follow!
On Sunday U14 girls Championship
Athenry 2-4 Kinvara
Athenry had many of their regular players missing for this Easter Sunday game.
Call ups from U13 girls Kelly, Eve & Liosa all stood up to the task and played really good games. Athenry's Aisling Higgins opened the scoring before Kinvara equalised. It wasn't long before Athenry took the lead with a goal from Nicole Mitchell.
HT Athenry 2 -1 . Second half and Kinvara scored two quick goals as fine saves from Kelly Cobey kept the final scoreline at Athenry 2-4 Kinvara FC.
Well played to all the Athenry girls on this tricky and challenging fixture and never giving up. Special thanks to Eve, Kelly & Liosa. Next up for our U14 girls is a home game to Moyne Villa , April 10th , KO 7pm.
Thomond Football Academy Elite Cup 2024 Athenry Champions are Champions!
Our U13 Premier boys returned to Moanbaun last evening as TFA Elite Cup Champions, following a long and challenging day in the shadow of Thomond Park. Athenry, drawn in group B, kicked off their group games against Knocknacarra, Shelbourne & NDSL, quickly followed by Drogheda Town FC.
Two wins and two draws later the boys qualified for the Cup SF. They beat Lough Derg FC in a penalty shootout and faced Shelbourne in the final which once again went to penalties and once again keeper Orán Costello stepped up to the raptures of the crowd and his team mates as the reality of their success kicked in.
Player of the tournament Matteo Carminati. Captains Tom Brady & James Byrne. Team Sponsors Meadow Court Hotel & Glanua.
It was announced on Friday 29th March that the Galway Football Association is to become one of the Football Association of Irelands designated 'Football Tester Leagues' with the adoption of an Open Age Category Division. The experimental league is to be installed this Summer for Men/Boys and will see players from aged 12 to adult compete on the same team in a round robin tournament in a designated 'non competitive' competition. The GFA is looking for 'expressions of interest' from all Galway registered clubs for it's inaugural 10 team division that is hoping to kick off on Sunday 23rd June 2024. The 'Age Open' league will see a further expansion in 2025 for Ladies/Girls and the possibility, going forward for mixed age open teams from 2026 onwards.
In advance of next season we hope to change things up with the Secretary role. The role will be divided out into more manageable voluntary roles to include
1) Juvenile (Academy) Secretary (Little Stars to u11s) 2) Mens Fixtures Secretary (u12s - Mens) 3) Women's Fixtures Secretary (u12s - Women's) 4) Club Secretary
The AGM is in May and we need the above in place in advance. Expressions of interest are now open. Please contact Pete on 087 2585521 or Niamh on 086 0666124 or email athenry@galwayfa.ie if you would like to discuss further. Otherwise please help and try source the right people for the roles.
Appreciate a share to spread the word.
Many thanks,
AFC Committee.
Happy Easter to all of our players, managers, supporters, sponsors, parents & guardians. Keep Safe and enjoy the mini break.
U18 Men's Connacht Cup (QF)
Arrow Harps 0 - 2 Athenry
Off to Sligo for this Quarter Final over the weekend, on a pitch that was going to present problems to both sides. It was the home side who started the game more brightly forcing the Athenry keeper to make some well timed stops to keep both sides level. With Athenry slowly coming back into the game it was Athenry's Daniel Tear who opened the scoring with a sweeping move to give the visitors a 1-0 half time lead. Harps regrouped in the second half and came close to equalising themselves with some last ditch Athenry defending helping to keep the lead intact. Twenty minutes left and another Tear goal put Athenry into a 2-0 unassailable lead and that's how it remained until the final whistle.
FAI U16 Girls Cup (QF)
Athenry 7 - 2 Newbridge United
Athenry U16 girls had an amazing win at home as they welcomed Newbridge United in the QF of the SFAI cup. Newbridge took the lead but it wasn't long before Athenry's persistence hit home. Mollie Noone equalised followed by a Niamh Kilgannon solo effort to make it 2-1 at half time to Athenry. Second half, wind advantage and it was the home side who took full opportunity of the conditions as Sarah Egan, Anna Jordan and hat trick hero Amira all scored to make it a healthy win for the maroon girls.
Two must win games and two fantastic wins they got as Athenry Senior Ladies guaranteed a place in the Premier playoff this season. Last Wednesday they beat a resilient Dunmore side as Ruby Mullen and Nina Bodamor did the damage scoring on the night with the POM going to Amy Coffey. On Friday they played Loughrea and came through with a 3-1 win. Goals from Amy Coffey, Ruth Tansey and Nina Bodamor. Special mention to Shauna Donoghue who gave a virtuoso performance in defence in this win. The team have now guaranteed themselves a top 4 finish and will play the other top 3 sides to decide the premier league champions. Well done ladies and to Nina Bodamor who continued her great form this week and recieved the the POM accolade for the game despite stiff competition from quite a few!!!
CONNACHT CUP QUARTER FINAL
Best of luck to our Men's U18 Team as they travel to Arrow Harps in Sligo this Sunday in the Connacht Cup Quarter Final.
Match Kicks Off at 2pm Sunday 24th in Riverstown, Sligo F52FK68 .
Come along and support the Team!
U16 SFAI NATIONAL CUP QUARTER FINAL Best of luck to our Girls U16 Team as they host Newbridge Town FC this Saturday in the SFAI National Cup Quarter Final.
Match Kicks Off at 4.15pm on Saturday 23rd on the Astro in Moanbaun .
Come along and support the Team!
Happy Saint Patrick's Day to all of our players, managers, parents, guardians, supporters, sponsors & fans....phew......
Enjoy The Day
Well Done to Presentation College Athenry who today (13th march) won the Fai U17 large schools national competition in Athlone. Athenry's very own Mollie Noone and Abbie Duffy scored the goals to beat Athlone Community College who battled all the way til the final whistle. Credit also to the management team James McDonnell, Emer Kilgannon and a special mention for Dom Coll, a Presentation College, Athenry stalwart.
Any club thrives when we have the backing of excellent sponsors. Athenry U13's with the help of 2 goals from Leon Engel’s and a goal apiece from James Maher & Ruairi Lenihan secured promotion from Div 6 with this win over St Patricks and their fourth win on the bounce. Without their sponsors support all of this wouldn't be possible. Success breeds success, their Kit Sponsor is EPS water. For over 52 years they have been providing innovative and progressive products and solutions to the water sector. Innovation, reliabilility and client focus has made them stand out from the rest.
Why not visit their website and see what great work they are doing and offering. www.epswater.ie
GFA Men’s Premier League
Athenry FC 1-1 Salthill Devon
Athenry drew at home with Salthill Devon at the weekend and see’s Devon maintain their slender advantage at the top of the table. Aidan Coyle opened the scoring from a well executed free kick and Athenry could have extended their lead in the first half on the balance of play. Devon very much grew into the game and with the wind advantage grabbed an equaliser to set up a frenzied finale. Athenry went looking for the winner only to be thwarted in the dying minutes of the game as Adam Duffy & Gavin Gilmore kept supplying the ball from the wings, but the game ended in a draw. A great game to watch as both sides should be applauded for the quality on display.
TikTok Sensations Goalkeeper's Anonymous Return to Athenry FC. We are delighted to say that Goalkeeper's Anonymous' Goalkeeping Camp Returns to Athenry FC this Easter Break on Tuesday April 2nd from 10am - 2pm The day will include;
- 4 Hours of Quality Goalkeeper Training Session w/ GKA Team
- Shot Stopping, Handling, Footwork, Distribution, Reactions!
- Modern and game realistic situations.
- Positive goalkeeping environment to learn.
Suitable for Boys & Girls From age 11-16.
There will be a pop up store after the camp to view gloves and products!
Places are extremely limited this time around!
You can book your place at the link below
https://bit.ly/43aXyvS
Boys U16 Div 2
Athenry 4-2 CCFC
Athenry remain top of the league as they beat Cregmore/Claregalway 4-2 in this entertaining Division 2 match that saw a Fionn Atkins hat trick and another goal from 'Gav'. The fact that the game went ahead at all is testament to Athenry's fantastic ground staff and pitch management, namely Peter & Tommy! Well Done to Fionn and his team on the result.
Women in Sport (WIS) week is taking place March 4th– 10th 2024. The aim of Women in Sport Week is to Celebrate every woman and girl who plays, coaches, officiates, volunteers, works in and leads out on Women in Sport.
This year's themes for Women in Sport Week are as follows:
Monday 4th - High Performance
Tuesday 5th - Visibility
Wednesday 6th - Leadership & Governance
Thursday 7th - Coaching & Officiating
Friday 8th - International Women's Day
Saturday 9th - Parkrun WIS
Sunday 10th - Active Participation
https://www.sportireland.ie/women-in-sport/women-in-sport-week
Shout Out to Isobel Nyhan who represented the club for the u15 Galway team who travelled to Letterkenny to play Donegal in the last game of the group stages. Galway won 4-2 which puts them into the cup semi-final playing Wexford in April. Well Done Isobel.
GFA Mens Division 2
Bearna Na Forbacha 0-1 Athenry B
Huge win for the Athenry B lads today in this top of the table clash. Athenry started well and went 1 up from a Kieran Fox goal after 10 minutes. Barna came back strong, but the Athenry lads defended their lead.
The second half saw Athenry press harder to get a second, but Barna showed why they have been top of the table all season to keep us out. All credit to the Athenry lads for holding on to their lead and securing the win.
MOTM Ben Rooney
Next game is 15th March 8pm vs Loughrea B
Girls u12 division 3
Athenry 5-0 Kiltullagh
Athenry's Isla Eastwood scored a first half hat trick to set Athenry on their way to victory over Kiltullagh in Division 3 of the U12 Girls league. With Ella Greaney keeping a clean sheet Sophie Burke & Emma Caulfield scored a goal a piece to complete the win. Best for Athenry were Grace Higgins and Ella Greaney but player of the match goes to birthday girl Isla Eastwood with a hattrick and 2 assists.
Well done girls.
Thanks to our sponsors
Quinn Vehicles @sheilsgalway
Men’s Connacht Cup Round 4
Conn Rangers 1-2 Athenry FC
Our men’s first team travelled to Ballina today, to take on Conn Rangers in the last 16 of the Connacht Cup. Aidan Coyle scored a fine free kick after 25 minutes, putting Athenry in the lead. Conn Rangers fought hard to equalise, playing very good football in the process, but Athenry defended well to keep the lead into half time. Cody McCann doubled Athenry’s lead with a clinical finish in the 75th minute. Conn Ranger’s managed to pull one back in injury time, converting a penalty to give them a glimmer of hope.
Athenry, however, held on for a hard-fought victory and move the onto the quarter final.
U12 Boys Premier Cup
Salthill Devon 1-2 Athenry
Athenry pulled off a cup upset to record their first competitive win of the season and book their place in the semi finals. Going 1-0 down early on it was Oisin Carroll who's lobbed goal in the second half brought them back on level terms and it was Aleks Lukaszewski who scored Athenry's second to win the tie. Fantastic win as Athenry march on.
Massive win for our u17 girls who retained their Connacht Cup Champions title with victory over Corrib Celtic in Lecarrow over the weeend. The weather didn't put a dampener on Athenry as they showed their strength on the pitch. After 20 minutes Mollie Noone both won and scored the penalty to get the girls in maroon on their way. Within 10 minutes Athenry doubled the lead with a Clodagh Crowley goal. In fairness to Corrib Celtic they battled back and scored a goal to make it 2-1 at half time.
Second half saw Celtic trying to break down Athenry who stood firm and it was Athenry who scored a third goal as Anna Jordan waltzed through the Corrib defence to help herself to a strike that made it 3 to Athenry. Sophie Costello, Clodagh Crowley & Niamh Kilgannon were excellent throughout in the middle of the park with constant harrying from our front three of Mollie Noone, Kerri O’Driscoll & Anna Jordan. With the bench being utilised as Amira Bouhlel, Alison McGreevy, Hazel Burke, Sarah Egan & Chloe Mchugh all came on to strengthen the play on the pitch. Well done to team Captain Kerri O Driscoll, Player of the Match Mollie Noone and the Management Team of Mike Noone and Brian Sweeney. Great support today on the side lines and excellent support from our Team sponsors who are Frank Sweeney Auctioneers , Wildfire Gourmet Food Truck , Paddy Kennedy, David Burke, The Galmont Hotel & Spa.
U14 Division 2 saw Athenry at home to Cregmore/Claregalway. The win see's them move seven points ahead of nearest rivals Kilshanvey Utd who have two games in hand and add to their goal difference. Robert Eastwood scored the first with a 'curler' from range outside the box. 1-0 at half time and lots of chances for Athenry. Pedro Lucas scored Athenry's second as Aiden Murphy also got on the scoresheet and Pedro scored his second soon afterwards. Oisin Burke added another as Robert scored again before Pedro Lucas completed a marvelous hattrick. Athenry's formidable duo of Ben Egan and Padraic Rabbit were excellent all day showing great poise on the pitch. POM went to Pedro. Please support our Sponsors of this team Supermac's & Papa John's Athenry
GFA Division 2
Athenry B 6-0 Kinvarra
B team beat Kinvara to make it a grandstand finish to the Division 2 league.
Goals came from Jack Maguire x2, Christian Mullen x2, Alex Park & Marcus Vasconcelos
MOTM Jack Dillane
They are away to Bearna on Saturday 2nd March at 2pm. All away support welcomed.
Tickets now on sale to play with or against the Legends. Brian McClair, Wes Brown and Karel Poborsky, Frank Stapleton, Clayton Blackmore & Lee Martin now added. Match tickets are now at 50% Full, Match Mascots ONLY 7 places now left and Gala Dinner Tickets have 25 tickets left. Meet & Greet Tickets - Sold Out, Golf Classic - 7 team places now left.
Click link below to secure your tickets today.
https://eventmaster.ie/event/VVYPhERTwv...
All proceeds go towards the ongoing development at Moanbaun.
Moanbaun Sports Development Project
You must be Over 35 (male/female). It's €500 to play with United or €350 to play for Athenry and you get to take home your Legends gear and feature in the team photo.
Click link below to secure your ticket today.
https://eventmaster.ie/event/VVYPhERTwv...
All proceeds go towards the development of the
Moanbaun Sports Development Project
Jack Lillis Cup
Colga B 3-2 Athenry B (aet)
The Athenry B lads exited the Lillis cup after a 3-2 defeat to Colga B. Leading 2-1going into the 90th minute, with goals from Alex Park and Kieran Fox, it was Colga who snatched a late equalizer to take the game into extra time. And just as it looked like it was heading for a shoot out Colga scored the winner. Heart break for the ladsafter last weeks heroics but Best of Luck to a resilient Colga side for the rest of the competition. Athenry will have no time to dwell but will be back in league action on Friday night (16th Feb) at home to Kinvara at 8pm.
U17 girls had a fantastic 6-1 win over Kilshanvey United to claim the GFA Girls U17 Premier League crown. A dominant performance that has been the story all season for this talented squad of players. Well done girls. Next Saturday the girls will face a very competitive Corrib Celtic in the U17 Connacht Cup Final at 3pm in Lecarrow. This promises to be a tough game of football with both sides wishing to add the trophy to the cabinet. Wishing the girls and their management team the very best of luck in what promises to be a great game.
Athenry FC 4 - 0 Calry Bohs FC
Athenry Senior Ladies travelled away to Calry Bohs to play in the Connacht Shield Quarter Final. Ruby Mullen opened the scoring despite the strong wind through a penalty. Amy Coffey then added another before Leah Crotty scored a brace herself either side of half time to make it four. Athenry’s defence stood firm and looked comfortable dealing with any second half thoughts of a come back from Bohs. Excellent assured performance that sees them progress into the Semi Final of the Women’s Connacht Shield.
Goalscorers: Ruby Mullen, Amy Coffey, Leah Crotty x2
POTM: Leah Crotty
U16 Girls travelled to Abbeyknockmoy today for a league clash with St Bernards. A good-natured game played in strong winds and tough conditions. It was a solid win for Athenry in the end. Goals by Mollie Noone, Anna Jordan, Lily May Feeney, Niamh Kilgannon, and wrapped up with a goal from centre back Sarah Egan. Captain again today was Katie Noone, who has shown great leadership and would be trusted by all to see out the season with the armband.
U14 Girls Championship
Athenry 6 - 2 Corrib Celtic
A windy Moanbaun was the venue for the Athenry U14 Girls return to league action, Corrib Celtic the visitors for today. U14 debutant Ciara Doyle scored a double inside 10 minutes. Aebha Engels made it 3-0 and just before half time Aisling Higgins made it 4-0 to Athenry at the break. Second half and Lauren Duane, Jenna Brady, Meabh Brady and Rachel Spellman were all fantastic at the back as Corrib Celtic came back into it and scored to grab a goal. This was very much short lived as Sophie Murray made it 5-1 to Athenry and on the hour Athenry's Aisling Higgins scored to make it 6 for the girls in maroon and despite another Corrib Celtic goal the game ended 6-2. A goal bonanza for all watching and the Player of the Match was Amy-Rose Carroll, who gave a superb performance all day long.
Men's Connacht Cup
Athenry 3-1 Arrow Harps
Athenry took on Arrow Harps from Sligo in a storm! Arron Neary made it 1-0 to Athenry and it remained like that until half time. 2nd half and the wind howled as Harps scored from a corner with the conditions grabbing the assist!!! 1-1 and all square. Cole Connolly scored for Athenry to take the lead once again and sub Gavin Gilmore scored late on in the game for Athenry to emerge victorious and propel them into the last 16. Well Done on a game in very testing conditions that was a lottery sometimes!
Connacht Cup (last 32)
Athenry B 3-4 Colga
A fantastic game of football for those attending and a compelling watch for those supporters of both sides. Leading 1-0 at half time through a Jack Maguire goal Athenry saw themselves go further ahead after Alex Park latched on to a through ball and scored to make it 2-0 to Athenry. Colga stormed back with three quick goals only for Athenry's Alex Park to score a wonderful free kick to bring them back level. As the game looked likely it was heading for extra time a heart breaking Colga winner deep in the closing stages of normal time saw them progress. a game for the lads to be proud of and a sign of the quality in this side.
Next game is Sunday 11th Feb, away to Colga B in the Jack Lillis Cup. Travelling support welcome.
This weekend coming, February 2 – February 4, we want to see the Respect Our Game initiative in action on the side lines at every match across the country. For this to happen, we need you to help implement some helpful ways of creating a positive environment on the side lines with the below.
Silent Side lines- Let the players play and think and learn for themselves.
Positive Side lines- cheering and clapping for both sides, it you haven’t got something nice to say, stay quiet.
Know your roles- let the players play, let the official referee, let the coaches coach, be a spectators and watch in a positive manor
Get Feedback from your players- Let them tell you how the current sidelines make them feel.
Don’t let inappropriate comments, shouting, aggression, physical violence, and laughing at others whilst supporting or coaching a match become the norm! Change it! Challenge it! When something is left unchallenged, it is viewed as acceptable!
FAI Galway City
The Galway Football Association
Want to become a mascot at the Athenry v Manchester United game coming up on 18th May? Cost is €50 and you can click our link below to make the magic happen and meet the Legends!!
Manchester United Legends are coming to Athenry - Buy Tickets (eventmaster.ie)
Friday marked an historic day for Athenry FC and Athenry Athletics Club as the new Moanbaun Sports Development, 4G Astro Pitch and 8 Lane Running track, were officially opened by An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar. What has been achieved in Athenry between two local clubs working together is exceptional and something we are all very proud of. Three of our talented u10 girls had the opportunity to meet An Taoiseach; Ruby Maloney, Sophie Dillon and Sarah Murphy.
In the GFA Division 2 it finished Colga B 1-0 Athenry B. An early second half goal saw Colga snatch the win as their keeper was in great form thwarting Athenry's chances on the day. Next game is this Friday 2nd Feb versus Colga A in the Connacht Cup.
An excellent win in the Ladies Premier league as Athenry beat Oranmore 3-0.
Goalscorers were Jane Trehy, Ruth Tansey and Amy Coffey with the POTM award going to Ruth Tansey. Athenry captain Leah Crotty presented flowers to the Oranmore Captain in honour of their late secretary Martin Horgan before the game.
Galway United Women's U17 team welcomes Shamrock Rovers to Athenry AFC'S Moanbaun home grounds for a preseason friendly today Saturday Jan 27th with a 4pm kickoff at Athenry FC Astro!
Come out and support!
We are delighted to say that Goalkeeper's Anonymous' Goalkeeping Camp Returns to Athenry FC this February 15th from 10am - 2pm. The day will include all of the following;
- 4 Hours of Quality Goalkeeper Training Session w/ GKA Team
- Shot Stopping, Handling, Footwork, Distribution, Reactions!
- Modern and game realistic situations.
- Positive goalkeeping environment to learn.
Suitable for Boys & Girls From U11- U16.
There will be a pop up store after the camp to view gloves and products! Places are extremely limited this time around!
You can book your place at the link below
https://bit.ly/3vIdCs9
Huge congratulations to U15 player Cian Greaney who last night signed with Athlone Town FC. Wishing Cian all the best in his League Of Ireland career from all in Athenry.
In the GFA Division 2 it finished Moyne Villa B 2-2 Athenry B. Another big 3 points for Athenry on Saturday, against a young and talented Moyne villa side. Goal scorers were Jack Maguire x 3, Joey Burke & Alex Park. A minute of silence was respectfully observed to remember Martin Horgan, who will be sadly missed. RIP. Next game is versus Colga B on Sunday 28th January at 11am in Clarinbridge.
Girls U17 Connaught Cup Semi Final ended in a great win for the maroon girls as it finished Athenry 4-1 Arrow Harps (Sligo). First half conditions were very trying as rain poured down but both sides battled through it to provide a good game of football. Scorers for Athenry were Mollie Noone x2, Anna Jordan & Niamh Kilgannon. The 4-1 scoreline was harsh on a high flying Arrow Harps, who are top of the Sligo league. Best of luck to them for the rest of the season. Connacht Cup final will be in February!!!
A good day at the office for our GU12 Div 3 side who beat Colga five nil on their brand new Astro facility which certainly looks impressive. The weather was terrible with storm Isha starting to creep in. Scorers were Isla Eastwood x3, Sophie Burke x2.
Thanks to our sponsors - Quinn Vehicles and Sheils Galway. Thanks to Colga and the referee also thoughts to the Horgan family and @mareeoranmore_fc after the passing of Martin Horgan. There was a minutes silence before the game to remember Martin.
Athenry FC's Senior Player Development Pathway continues with another Senior debut in the Men's Team. Cormac McFadden played a full 90 mins against Ballinrobe last Saturday. This brings to 8 the number of underage players now having made their Senior Debuts this season so far. Special Thanks goes out again to their U18 Manager, Owen Diviney and Men's 1st Team Manager Seamie Crowe for providing this pathway.
Athenry Association Football Club presents it's Golf Classic at Athenry Golf Club which will feature approximately 100 players. It's on Friday 17th May 2024 and with Athenry FC and Athenry AC collaborating on this exciting fundraising event it promises to be a an exciting event with all proceeds going towards the Moanbaun Development Project. Play with one of the MUFC legends or as a 4-ball team or as an individual on a team. Meet & Greet with the Legends afterwards. Photos with the ‘Treble Trophies’ – Champions League, Premier League & FA Cup, in recognition of the 25th Anniversary of the 1999 Treble. Green Fees and lunch included. Morning/Noon tee slots. Tickets will go on sale on Friday Jan 26th – keep an eye on social media for further info.
Golf Classic enquiries to athenrylegends@gmail.com.
MATCH MASCOT TICKETS WILL ALSO GO SALE FRIDAY JAN 26th
Athenry FC organised a Club Night to acknowledge our volunteers in the Raheen Woods Hotel, Athenry. These incredible individuals invest countless voluntary hours in our club every week from organising coaching sessions, arranging fixtures, fundraising, organising pitches, finances, registrations, managing the astro, social media to clubhouse/pitch maintenance. The list is endless. The night was a small token of appreciation for the immense contribution they make to the benefit of every player and child in the club.
With record numbers present last night we're grateful for all our outstanding volunteers who are a true testament to the strength of our club. Thank you for everything you do. We hope everyone enjoyed the evening.
Athenry Ladies secured their grip at the top of the Ladies Premier League with a fantastic result on Sunday as it ended Athenry 5-0 Mervue. A supreme performance with Athenry in excellent form once again.
Goalscorers were Nina Bodamor x 2 , Viki Lundstrom, Ruby Mullen and Meghan Wing. Player of the match was Aoidean Brannelly.
Best get a move on as our MUFC Legends events are selling out fast. Our Meet & Greet event is now SOLD OUT and tickets for our Legends Game & Gala Dinner will soon be gone. So please don't delay and get your tickets NOW!!!
To avoid disappointment.
Athenry B are still buzzing after another excellent win in the GFA Mens Division 2. They remain top of the table going into the weekend and then will face Moyne Villa B a week next Saturday (20th jan) away from home at 5pm. Goal scorers in the 8-1 win over Maree/Oranmore C on Friday were Jack Maguire, Christian Mullen, Nathan Jarvis, Thomas Fleet, Adam Wynne & Ian Hewitt.
U16's last weekend had a Connacht Cup match versus Castlebar Celtic as they cantered to an exciting and entertaining 6-3 win. A healthy winning margin at half time saw Athenry make changes in the second half as they progressed into the next round.
In the Men's Premier Division on Saturday 6th January it ended Mervue Utd 3- 3 Athenry. Goal scorers on the day were Gavin Gilmore x2 & Cole Connolly (pen).
Photo courtesy of Galway Locals Football Fan
Athenry Senior B in the GFA Division 2 beat Kiltullagh 0-2. A big win away from home as it puts Athenry top of the table. Athenry started very strongly and were 2 nil up within 15 minutes, both goals scored by Kieran Fox. Kiltullagh came back into the game, but Athenry's defence was solid and they restricted Killtullagh to half chances. A good performance all round and another well-deserved win. Goals: Kieran Fox x2, MOTM: Ben Rooney
Next league game is this Friday 12th vs Maree/Oranmore C
HAPPY NEW YEAR to our players, our managers & mentors, club sponsors, supporters and to all associated with Athenry Association Football Club.
2024 promises to be an even more successful one for the club and certainly a bit busier! So please keep safe and well until we all get together again.
See You All Soon
Sept, Oct & Nov Monthly Draw Winners
Draw organisers Brian McDermott and Eddie Fox presented prize money cheques to some of the winners from our Sept, Oct and Nov Monthly Draw: Liam O'Brien (3rd Nov); Martin Lynch (1st Nov); Mark Hannon (1st Oct); Frank Hurley (3rd Oct); Mike Brady (3rd Sept); Anne Flannery (2nd Sept)
To enter the Draw, for only €12.50 per month, click the link below:
https://buy.stripe.com/4gwcQxgv4cW7fVmcMM
CLICK OUR TICKET LINK ABOVE
Athenry AFC is pleased to announce that Moanbaun will have the pleasure of hosting Man U Legends v Athenry Legends with a Meet & Greet (Raheen Woods Hotel), a Legends Game (Moanbaun, Athenry) and then all followed by a Gala Dinner (Raheen Wood s Hotel) on the 8th June 2024.
Tickets for all 3 events (Meet & Greet NOW SOLD OUT) can be purchased at our eventmaster link above in the picture link.
This is a unique opportunity to meet Manchester United legends of the past.
This is a joint venture between Athenry Football Club and Athenry Athletics Clubs.
Boys U14 Premier
Athenry 2-2 Corofin
Storm Elin played havoc with this fixture as a Luke Murtagh goal saw Athenry take advantage of the conditions. An unfortunate own goal, aided by the wind carrying the ball, saw the half time score 2-1 to Athenry. Second half saw a reversal of fortunes as a free kick to Corofin resulted in an equaliser early on. Athenry worked tirelessly with Corofin attempting to gain the advantage but it ended 2-2. What can we say but a valiant second half from Athenry saw the lads defend against the 12th man (Elin!!!) but hold out they did to share the spoils. Well done to athenry and Corofin on a good game in trying circumstances.
Girls U16 Premier Cup
Mervue 3-3 Athenry
Athenry win 4-3 on penalties
U16 girls won this tie in a penalty shootout over Mervue. 3-2 at half time to Athenry with goals from Sophie Hogan, Anna Jordan and Niamh Kilgannon. At half time gale force winds hampered Athenry's creativity and it was Mervue who created chances to level it. With 5 minutes left Mervue netted to send the game into extra time and it was Athenry keeper Katie Murphy who made the save to force sudden death penalties after it looked like Mervue would go through. Athenry scored theirs and Mervue's effort grazed the top of Katie's cross bar to send Athenry onto victory. A fantastic game from both teams.
Santa is due to pay a visit to Athenry AFC on Saturday 16th December from 10am. Resident DJ Sean 'In Da House' Barrett will be providing the musical tunes on the day!
All of our Little Stars through to Under 12's are invited to come on down to say hello!
Ho Ho Ho, Merry Christmas to You All
Sunday 10th December 2023
Press Release
CONNACHT FIXTURES
Due to the storm weather alert and orange wind warning issued by Met Eireann for today for counties Galway, Mayo and Roscommon and taking into account the health and safety of players, management, match officials and supporters, all scheduled Connacht Fixtures for today have been postponed. Postponed fixtures will be rescheduled at a later date.
Connacht Football Association
At this rate it will be difficult for the club to keep replacing those match balls, as not one but two hat tricks in the Athenry U13A girls match that took place on Sunday against Oughterard! Eve Ledwith and Mia Greaney were the 'guilty' parties with three goals apiece and Éalga Monaghan joined the fun with a contribution of her own as U13A girls go into the next round of the GFA Championship/Division 1 Cup. Well Done Girls!
In the Men's Premier League it ended Athenry 5-0 Renmore as a Cole Connolly hat trick and a Daniel Tear double gave Athenry full points on the day. The match was notable as five (5) of Athenry's U18's were included in the first team squad. Debuts for James Diviney, David Kilbane and Eric Pate made it 6 U18s have played with the first team in the last few weeks.
No less than five (5) Athenry AFC girls, Mollie Noone, Niamh Kilgannon, Kate Kennedy, Sophie Hogan and Katie Noone represented Galway U16's versus Roscommon over the weekend. Mollie scored two and Sophie scored one as they won 5-2. Excellent result.
New Club Beanies now on sale €15 from Crooked Coffee in their new location at the rear of the club house every weekend. So why not grab a coffee & a beanie and support your team on those cold mornings.
In the Second Round of the Connacht Cup it finished Athenry B 6-2 Ballyheane B.
Great performance from the lads yesterday to book their place in round 3 of the cup. Goal scorers on the day saw a Jack Maguire hat trick, Kieran Fox (x1), Conor Cannon (x1), John McGough (x1).
Is there any stopping this team? Another fantastic show of performance and teamwork by the Athenry ladies as they beat Colga 6-1 to stay top of the premier league. Four goals from our player of the match Vicki Lundstrom with one each from Nina Bodamor and Lauren Keary.
We would like to say a big thanks to Elite sports for sponsoring our warm up gear and especially Londis Athenry for sponsoring our ladies kit.
Sunday (Nov 26th) was a great day at the Maree/Oranmore St Columba's Credit Union Invitational. Thank you to all of those other teams and volunteers in Oranmore who made our teams so welcome on the day. An excellent regular event for our young athletes.
CONNACHT CUP ROUND 2
Best of luck to our Men's Senior Team as they host Oughterard this Saturday in the Connacht Cup 2nd Round.
Match Kicks Off at 4pm Saturday 25th November on the New Astro.
Come along and support the Team!
CONNACHT CUP ROUND 2
Best of luck to our Junior B Team as they host Ballyheane this Sunday in the Connacht Cup 2nd Round.
Match Kicks Off at 2pm Sunday 26th November on the New Astro.
Come along and support the Team!
Refereeing is a complex but rewarding activity and whether your goal is to referee in the small sided games, grassroots football or to progress to higher levels we will provide supports to help you achieve your goal.
The first step to become a referee is to complete a Referee Beginners Course. Our full course list can be found here.
https://www.fai.ie/domestic/referees/referee-beginner-courses
Adrian Cronin, Galway United Women's Goalkeeping coach, was at hand to share his collected wisdom and fantastic expertise at Athenry's goal keeping academy session.
Lots of attendees from all age groups saw how a top keeper/coach's experience can be replicated onto the field of play.
Athenry AFC prides itself on our club becoming a club of learning for all of our players & coaches and we are never surprised, especially when our coaches volunteer their own valuable time.
Thanks to Stephen Lally and our own goal keeping coaches Gerry Kilkenny, Domhnall Kenny, Stephen McElhinney, David Keane and to all for doing what they do.
As part of Athenry FC's commitment to the Player Development Pathway, we have created a direct path between our U18 team and our 1st team.
Hugh McDonald and Cory Walker both made their Senior Team debut in a GFA Premier Division match against Colemanstown on Wednesday 8th November. Both Hugh and Cory made a significant contribution in a game that Athenry won 5-2.
This is a progressive positive move as it will certainly lead to better player retention and full commitment to Athenry FC in the future. Special Thanks goes out to their U18 Manager, Owen Diviney and Men's 1st Team Manager Seamie Crowe for providing this pathway.
Whether your a player, a parent, a skilled craftsman or simply want to contribute to a local community based club, then Athenry AFC want to hear from you.
A club depends upon it's volunteers to survive & thrive. So if you feel that you can make a difference and have a some free time to give to us then we want to hear from you.
No contribution of time ever turned away!
telephone - 086 066 6124
email - athenry@galwayfa.ie
Our Monthly Club Draw for September 2023 see's Timmy Holian, Anne Flannery & Michael Brady all getting picked out for the prizes. August saw Sonya Broderick scoop the first prize, Kealan Donoghue grab second and Garreth McElhinney get third place. The Monthly draw is one of the most important regular fundraising competitions for the club and we encourage all to get involved. SEE HERE
Athenry U14 girls played Benbulben of Sligo in the 2nd round of the Connaught Cup on Sunday. Athenry won 6-1 scoring 4 goals before half time with goals from Erin Finnerty, Sophie Murray & Nicole Mitchell x2. Sophie Murray scored another couple for her hat trick. Notable performances by Sofija who replaced the injured Brynn between the posts and Jenna stepping back to a defensive role. We wish Brynn a speedy recovery. Thank you to all our home supporters and their help with post match refereshments for the travelling team.
The Boys U14 National Trophy ended Swinford 1 Athenry 5.
An away trip to Mayo's Swinford saw Athenry's Evan Hoarty score 4 goals with Charlie Griffin also scoring to complete the win.
In the U14 Connacht Shield it finished Athenry 4 Craughwell 2 as Athenry welcomed the visitors to Moanbaun in the Connacht shield on Saturday. Robert Eastwood opened the scoring for Athenry before going in at halftime 2-1 down. Second half and Athenry grabbed their well deserved equaliser through Pedro Lucas as substitute Tom Brady helped himself to 2 goals as well. Game finished 4-2. Oisin Porter also got MoM award.
Girls U12 Division 3 saw a draw, Athenry 1-1 Moyne Villa on Sunday. Both sides were undefeated going into the match and stay undefeated after this game. Moyne Villa went 1 nil up at the break. Isla Eastwood scored with equaliser with just over 10 minutes left. Player of the match goes to Emma Caulfield on a very energetic performance. Well done girls.
In the Boys U14 Division 5 a real goalfest as it ended Athenry 5 Renmore 4. Jason Adana & Harry Dalton scored first for Athenry before a bizarre disallowed goal for Renmore and the awarding of a penalty for hand ball instead, which was then dispatched to make it 2-1, followed by 2-2 as Renmore scored again. Ryan Long-Belton scored a screamer to make it 3-2 to Athenry before Noah Jamous made it 4-2 half time. After the break Harry Dalton despatched a penalty to make it 5-2 with about ten minutes to go. Renmore came back again to make it 5-4 to set up a grand stand finish as Athenry held out to win a great match and go third in the table, but only on goal difference with a three way tie with Tuam & Galway Hibernians all on 10 points each.
In the Boys U12 Divison 5 it finished Athenry Town 4 - 2 Salthill Devon. First morale boosting win of the season for these guys. Keep it going as this Division is still wide open with teams taking points off each other.
Often a sign that your club is on the 'right track' are the opportunities presented to our current players to play at a representative level. Athenry AFC would like to say Well Done to the following players who have had such an opportunity recently. Isobel Nyham who lined out for Galway U15's in a friendly against Connaught Schools U15's. Three of our boys from the u18 squad who were selected on the Galway FA U18 Interleague team. Hugh McDonald, Daniel Tear and Cormac Mc Fadden, congratulations lads. Mia Greaney from Athenry U13's, who represented Galway Town in a 3-0 win over Leitrim and to Amira Bouhlel (pic) who lined out for the Galway U15's against Clare with Galway winning on penalties.
Calling all aspiring match report writers & photographers! We would love some more volunteers to compile match reports and take squad and action photos of our teams.
If you're up for it please reach out to the team managers to lend a hand.
Coaching and management require a lot of effort and time. If you can assist your child's team or the men's/ladies' teams, please don't hesitate to reach out. Your support means a lot!
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