Kanes Make It an All-Leitrim Final at “Battle of the Courts 2025”
Clough-Ballacolla, Co. Laois – Leitrim’s emerging handball talent made a powerful impression at the “Battle of the Courts 2025” last weekend, as six juvenile players competed against the country’s best in an early-season showcase. Hosted by Clough-Ballacolla Handball Club in County Laois, the event drew over 70 young athletes from all four provinces and served as a key warm-up for the upcoming Connacht and National 1-Wall Championships.
Leading the way for Leitrim were Fenagh sisters Sophie and Abbie Kane, who lit up the U13 girls’ division. Both impressed on opposite sides of the draw, showing outstanding skill and composure to reach the final. Sophie ultimately claimed the title, continuing her excellent run of form in 2025. Abbie, competing above her age category, also turned heads with her maturity and consistent performances. The duo will be strong favourites heading into the Connacht Championship.
In the U17 girls’ division, Katie Kane delivered a gritty and determined display. After a narrow defeat in her opener, she bounced back strongly with a dominant win and was unlucky to lose her third game 21-18 in a tightly contested encounter. As one of the younger competitors in this grade and facing some of the top-ranked players in the country, Katie showed she’s right in the mix as the championship season approaches.
In the U17 boys’ competition, Annaduff’s Gary Cox began strongly with a first-round win before facing Wexford’s Nathan Lawlor in a high-quality match. Despite a 21-15 loss, Cox played some outstanding handball. With some tightening of his serve, he looks poised to make a real impact in the weeks ahead.
Fenagh’s Daniel Kane also put in a strong showing in the U15 boys’ division. He secured wins against opponents from Kilkenny and Cork before narrowly losing out to eventual champion Thomas O’Brien of Wexford. Their match was evenly balanced until a few late errors swung momentum. Kane’s display suggests he’ll be a serious contender when championship action kicks off.
Annaduff’s Adam Neary also impressed in the U15 boys’ grade. After three consecutive wins, he once again met Wexford powerhouse Charlie Roche who denied him a place in the final four. While Roche repeated his win from a previous meeting, Neary showed continued improvement and is steadily closing the gap with the top players. He’ll be a key player for Leitrim in the provincial campaign.
As the Connacht and National 1-Wall Championships draw closer, Leitrim’s juvenile handballers look well-prepared to make their mark in 2025. Next up for the girls are back-to-back weekends of action, starting with the “She’s ACE” Wallball Festival in Galway (Sept 12–13). They will be joined by the boys on the following weekend for a trip to the Aran Islands to compete in the “Aon Bhalla Inis Mór” event.

L-R : Sophie Kane (Fenagh) – Winner of Girls U13 division, Kevin Brennan – Clough Ballacolla Handball Club, Abbie Kane (Fenagh) – Runner Up
David Mahon
Liathroid Láimhe Liatroma
https://www.facebook.com/LeitrimHandball
2025 Club Championship Fixtures for w/e 12-14 Sept
Club FootballThe fixture details for the Connacht Gold Senior Round 4 have been released and are as follows:

The draw details for the Smith Monumentals IFC – Round 4 are below. These fixtures are due to be played on w/e 19-21st Sept.
The fixture details for the Fresh Today Junior A – Round 4 have been released and are as follows:
The fixture details for the Fresh Today Junior B – Round 1 has been released and is as follows:
The fixture details for the Fresh Today Junior C – Round 2 has been released and is as follows:
#LeitrimClubChamp | #GAAbelong
2026 Leitrim Under 20 Football Team Manager Vacancy
County FootballLeitrim GAA is seeking expressions of interest from interested parties for the position of Leitrim Under 20 Manager for 2026.
Experience and skills
Essential Criteria
Desirable Criteria
Interested parties should apply in writing and submit a CV with details of coaching qualifications and management experience for consideration by email to secretary.leitrim@gaa.ie by 5pm on Monday, September 15th.
Handball News: Kanes Make It an All-Leitrim Final at “Battle of the Courts 2025”
HandballKanes Make It an All-Leitrim Final at “Battle of the Courts 2025”
Clough-Ballacolla, Co. Laois – Leitrim’s emerging handball talent made a powerful impression at the “Battle of the Courts 2025” last weekend, as six juvenile players competed against the country’s best in an early-season showcase. Hosted by Clough-Ballacolla Handball Club in County Laois, the event drew over 70 young athletes from all four provinces and served as a key warm-up for the upcoming Connacht and National 1-Wall Championships.
Leading the way for Leitrim were Fenagh sisters Sophie and Abbie Kane, who lit up the U13 girls’ division. Both impressed on opposite sides of the draw, showing outstanding skill and composure to reach the final. Sophie ultimately claimed the title, continuing her excellent run of form in 2025. Abbie, competing above her age category, also turned heads with her maturity and consistent performances. The duo will be strong favourites heading into the Connacht Championship.
In the U17 girls’ division, Katie Kane delivered a gritty and determined display. After a narrow defeat in her opener, she bounced back strongly with a dominant win and was unlucky to lose her third game 21-18 in a tightly contested encounter. As one of the younger competitors in this grade and facing some of the top-ranked players in the country, Katie showed she’s right in the mix as the championship season approaches.
In the U17 boys’ competition, Annaduff’s Gary Cox began strongly with a first-round win before facing Wexford’s Nathan Lawlor in a high-quality match. Despite a 21-15 loss, Cox played some outstanding handball. With some tightening of his serve, he looks poised to make a real impact in the weeks ahead.
Fenagh’s Daniel Kane also put in a strong showing in the U15 boys’ division. He secured wins against opponents from Kilkenny and Cork before narrowly losing out to eventual champion Thomas O’Brien of Wexford. Their match was evenly balanced until a few late errors swung momentum. Kane’s display suggests he’ll be a serious contender when championship action kicks off.
Annaduff’s Adam Neary also impressed in the U15 boys’ grade. After three consecutive wins, he once again met Wexford powerhouse Charlie Roche who denied him a place in the final four. While Roche repeated his win from a previous meeting, Neary showed continued improvement and is steadily closing the gap with the top players. He’ll be a key player for Leitrim in the provincial campaign.
As the Connacht and National 1-Wall Championships draw closer, Leitrim’s juvenile handballers look well-prepared to make their mark in 2025. Next up for the girls are back-to-back weekends of action, starting with the “She’s ACE” Wallball Festival in Galway (Sept 12–13). They will be joined by the boys on the following weekend for a trip to the Aran Islands to compete in the “Aon Bhalla Inis Mór” event.
L-R : Sophie Kane (Fenagh) – Winner of Girls U13 division, Kevin Brennan – Clough Ballacolla Handball Club, Abbie Kane (Fenagh) – Runner Up
David Mahon
Liathroid Láimhe Liatroma
https://www.facebook.com/LeitrimHandball
2025 Club Championship Fixtures for w/e 5-7 Sept
Club FootballThe Draw for Senior Round 4 has by default revealed itself following the round 3 draw. These fixtures are due to be played on w/e 12-14th Sept.

The fixture details for the Smith Monumentals IFC – Round 3 have been released and are as follows:
The fixture details for the Fresh Today Junior A – Round 3 have been released and are as follows:
The fixture details for the Fresh Today Junior B – Round 2 has been released and is as follows:
The fixture details for the Fresh Today Junior C – Round 2 has been released and is as follows:
#LeitrimClubChamp | #GAAbelong
Leitrim GAA Management Update
County FootballFollowing last night’s Management Committee meeting, Leitrim GAA confirms approval for the reappointment of Steven Poacher as Senior Football Manager on a two-year term, subject to ratification at the next meeting of Leitrim GAA County Committee on September 8th.
At underage level, Danny Beck and Ciaran Kennedy have been approved for reappointment as joint Minor (U17) managers on a two-year term, maintaining continuity and a consistent player-development pathway.
Leitrim GAA also confirms that Barry McWeeney was offered a further two-year term as U20 manager but decided not to continue in the role. Leitrim GAA extends sincere thanks to Barry for his leadership over the past four years, having served as selector with Leitrim Senior Team 2022-24, and acknowledges his contribution to Leitrim both on the side-line and as a former player. Grateful appreciation is also extended to his backroom team for their service.
The process to confirm a new U20 management team will commence immediately, with details to follow in due course.
Handball News: Maxim Gilmartin’s Brave All-Ireland Semifinal Performance Ends in Defeat
HandballMaxim Gilmartin’s Brave All-Ireland Semifinal Performance Ends in Defeat in Boys U14 Singles – All Ireland 60×30 Softball Semifinal
Leitrim’s Maxim Gilmartin showed immense grit and determination but was ultimately defeated in his U14 singles All-Ireland semifinal against Tyrone’s Eolann Kelly on Saturday last.
Competing in Kelly’s home alley at Loughmacrory Co Tyrone, Maxim found himself under pressure from the outset, losing the first game 15-1. However, the Annaduff native responded with renewed resolve in the second. After falling behind 10-1, Maxim found a serve that Kelly struggled to handle and mounted a remarkable comeback, bringing the score back to 13-12. With Maxim gaining control of the game, the match appeared poised for a tiebreaker, but a misjudged serve allowed Kelly the opportunity to close out the match, winning 15-12.
Despite the defeat, Maxim’s tenacity and fightback earned widespread admiration, with many believing he deserved the chance to play a deciding game. Though it wasn’t his day, Maxim’s performance served as a strong reminder of his potential and promise for the future.
David Mahon
Liathroid Láimhe Liatroma
https://www.facebook.com/LeitrimHandball
2025 Club Championship Fixtures for w/e 29-31 Aug
Club FootballFollowing the draw for the 3rd round of the Connacht Gold SFC the pairings are as follows:
The Draw for Senior Round 4 has by default revealed itself following the round 3 draw. These fixtures are due to be played on w/e 12-14th Sept.

The fixture details for the Smith Monumentals IFC – Round 2 have been released and are as follows:
The fixture details for the Fresh Today Junior B – Round 1 have been released and are as follows:
The remaining fixture details for the Fresh Today Junior C – Round 1 has been released and is as follows:
#LeitrimClubChamp | #GAAbelong
Handball News: All Ireland Ruby Masters 60 x 30 | Western Wallball Tournament | All Ireland 60 x 30 semi finals
HandballHard luck to Fenagh’s Ed Lee who travelled to Crinkle in Co Offaly on Sunday last to represent Leitrim and Connacht in the All Ireland Ruby Masters 60 x 30 All Ireland final.
Ed , famous for his powerful serves and efficient kills overcame many hurdles effortlessly on his way to the All Ireland finals.
On Sunday he came up against Billy Mullins of Tipperary in a meeting of two fantastic handballers.
Unfortunately on the day Mullins won out on a score line 21-6 21-6 which didn’t do Ed justice as there were many fantastic rallies.
Well done to Ed on a very successful big alley season, bringing an All Ireland silver medal back to Leitrim is a rare achievement and one which he should be rightly proud of.
All in Leitrim handball congratulate Ed on his mighty feat.
Katie Kane shines at Western Wallball Tournament
Saturday last saw 4 Leitrim Handballers travel to Corrundulla in Galway to compete in the Western Wallball Tournament.

Gary Cox , Jp and Daniel Kane took part in the Men’s C competition. All 3 can be proud of their achievements and performances on the day. In what was Gary and Daniels first dip into adult competition they didn’t hold back and showed they are ready for adult level with Gary producing the performance of the day by reaching the quarterfinals stages. Well done to all 3 lads.
Katie Kane continues her mighty form in the One Wall by adding to her wins in Clonguish a few weeks ago and Antrim in June. Katie reached the finals of the Ladies B competition narrowly losing out to Galway’s Ella Sweeney. Katie is showing great form in the run up to the championship and the nationals with One Wall season in full swing now. Well done Katie, although still juvenile she has taken the step up to adult competition with ease.
Galway Ella Sweeney and Katie Kane who won Silver in Ladies B competition in the Western Wallball tournament last Saturday
Daniel Kane, Ciana Ni Churrain current and 40x 30 World Champion and Gary Cox at the Western Wallball on Saturday
Maxim Gilmartin in All Ireland Semis
Best of luck to Annaduff’s Maxim Gilmartin who this Saturday plays Ulster champion Eolann Kelly in the All Ireland 60 x 30 semi finals ,where a win will lead to a final to be played on Sunday against either Leinster or Munster.
Maxim’s match is scheduled to take place in Loughmacrory in Tyrone, best of luck Maxim.
Liathroid Láimhe Liatroma
https://www.facebook.com/LeitrimHandball
2025 Club Championship Fixtures for w/e 22-24 Aug
Club FootballFollowing the draw for the 2nd round of the Connacht Gold SFC the pairings are as follows:
The remaining fixture details for the Smith Monumentals IFC – Round 1 have been released and are as follows:
The fixture details for the Fresh Today Junior A – Round 2 have been released and are as follows:
The remaining fixture details for the Fresh Today Junior B – Round 1 has been released and is as follows:
The remaining fixture details for the Fresh Today Junior C – Round 1 has been released and is as follows:
#LeitrimClubChamp | #GAAbelong
Championship 2025 – Opening round this weekend
Club FootballThe Championship opens with a bang this weekend on Friday evening as last years finalists meet in Game 1 of the new season.
Connacht Gold SFC – Round 1 the fixture details are as follows:
Smith Monumentals IFC – Round 1 the fixture details are as follows:
Fresh Today Jr A FC – Round 1 the fixture details are as follows:
Cox’s Steakhouse U20 Championship – Final Scores
Club FootballThe Cox’s Steakhouse U20 Championship concluded on Tuesday and MacCumhaills top the top title. Here are the results from the 3 divisions.
🔹Cox’s Steakhouse U20 Champ – Div 1 – FINAL
Full Time
MacCumhaills: 2-16 (22)
St. Brigids: 1-14 (17)
🔸Cox’s Steakhouse U20 Champ – Div 2 – FINAL
Comhghairdeas Maothail, Seampainí Roinn 2, 2025
Full Time
Naomh Eoin: 0-5 (5)
Mohill: 8-15 (39)
🔹Cox’s Steakhouse U20 Champ – Div 3 – FINAL
Full Time
Rinn Gaels: 0-18 (18)
St Pat’S Dromahair: 4-9 (21)
ACL Division 1,2 and 3 – Final Scores
Club FootballThe All County League came to a close on Saturday evening Aug 9th with St. Mary’s taking the top title. Here are the results from All of the Leagues.
🔹ACL – Div 1 – FINAL
Congrats St Mary’s Kiltoghert Div 1 League winners for 2025
Extra Time FULL TIME
Fenagh St Caillins: 0-21 (21)
St Mary’s Kilt: 2-17 (23)
Melvin Gaels and Glencar Manorhamilton will play in Division 2 in 2026.
🔸ACL – Div 2 – FINAL
Full Time Result
Allen Gaels: 4-25 (37)
Aughavas: 0-9 (9)
Allen Gaels & Aughavas are promoted to Division 1 for 2026.
Ballinaglera & Carrigallen will play in Division 3 in 2026