AGM
History was made at last Sunday evening’s AGM in SWEETS when Martina Rochford, Sabrina Nannery and Sinead McMahon were elected as our new chairperson, secretary and treasurer respectively.
Martina also has the distinction of being the first female chairperson in the 136-year history of our great club. The all-female top table were given a warm round of applause as they took up their new roles in succession to Adrian Carroll, James Claffey and Mel Kiernan. In addition, Pat Lynagh was elected as president following a proposal from vice-chair Paul Daly.
Furthermore, Martina and Sabrina were presented with a bouquet of flowers in recognition of their tremendous work as underage chairperson and secretary over the last five years. Alan Fennell and Cliodhna Lynch were voted in as their replacements. The meeting also saw Adrian and James receive their Club Person of the Year awards.
Most of the other positions on the executive are unchanged, although Sinead’s move to treasurer means there is a vacancy for assistant treasurer. A second county board delegate and a delegate to Westmeath LGFA will also have to be elected early in the New Year.
Club members took the opportunity to reflect on another busy year while looking forward to 2026. Excellent and detailed reports were provided by outgoing chairperson Adrian Carroll, outgoing secretary James Claffey, outgoing treasurer Mel Kiernan and outgoing juvenile secretary Sabrina Nannery.
In his final report, Adrian wrote: “After three fantastic years serving as chairperson, I’ve decided to step down from the role. It’s been a genuine honour to lead a club that means so much to me.
“I’ve loved every minute of the journey – the highs, the challenges, the matches, the meetings and, most of all, the people. The passion, pride and dedication shown by our players, coaches, volunteers and supporters is what makes this club truly special.
“While I won’t be continuing in this role, I’ll always be part of the club in any way I can,” he added.
James Claffey echoed Adrian’s sentiments when noting: “A club is indeed nothing without its members, and your support throughout 2025 has once again shown the spirit and pride within Kilbeggan Shamrocks. New additions to the committee over the past few years continue to provide us with a solid foundation and great energy as we move forward.”
While Mel Kiernan’s treasurer’s report showed the club to be on a firm footing financially, concern was raised about the sharp rise in player rehab costs. It was agreed that the club needs to be prudent in this regard and right across the board as the cost of running GAA clubs continues to spiral.
The 2026 executive is as follows – chairperson: Martina Rochford; president: Pat Lynagh; vice-chairperson: Paul Daly; secretary: Sabrina Nannery; assistant secretary: Niall Carey; treasurer: Sinead McMahon; assistant treasurer: unfilled; PRO: Randal Scally; underage chairperson: Alan Fennell; underage secretary: Cliodhna Lynch; Children’s officer: Aoife Finn; county board delegate: Shaun Pidgeon; LGFA delegate: unfilled; Designated Liaison Person (DLP): Evonne Dunne.
Other committee members: Brendan McDonnell, Bernie Barrett, Colin Draper, Dermot Smith, Conor Delaney, Kelly-Ann Mealiffe, Nigel Scally, Gillian Heeney and Jill Brabazon.
Santa Meet & Greet
We are delighted to be hosting a magical Santa Meet & Greet at Locke’s Distillery this Saturday, November 29 from 12 noon to 2pm (12 noon to 12.30pm for a sensory-friendly visit).
Bring the whole family along for a fun-filled day where children can meet Santa, share their Christmas wishes, and receive a small gift to take home. It’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday spirit — with laughter, joy, and community cheer in a truly unique setting. All are welcome to join us for this special event!
Book your slot now at https://calendly.com/kilbeg.../santa-in-kilbeggan-distillery or scan the QR code online. Cost of entry per child is €5.
Join our ladies team!
After a very successful first season back in action, our ladies are already turning their thoughts to 2026.
If you are looking to stay active, have fun and be part of a great and focused team as well as being part of the community, why not join us?
You’ll find a welcoming, supportive group of women who love to train, play and laugh together. It’s a fantastic way to get fit, make new friends, and be part of something special both on and off the pitch. Grab your boots and come give it a go — we’d love to have you on the team!
For more information, contact Brendan on 085 101 6357.
Lotto
Last week’s lucky numbers were 1, 12, 22 and 27. There was no jackpot or Match 3 winner; the lucky dip winner was Teresa Feery.
The jackpot has been capped at €15,000 until it is won again. Make sure to buy your tickets online or at Centra, Mee's Costcutter and Whelan’s. Thank you for your continued support.
Sympathy
Deepest sympathy is extended to John, Martina and Niall O'Brien on the passing of John's brother, Charlie in Turloughmore, Co. Galway. May Charlie rest in peace.
Sympathy
Deepest sympathy is extended to John, Martina and Niall O'Brien on the passing of John's brother, Charlie in Turloughmore, Co. Galway. May Charlie rest in peace.
