Good Counsel College - Sports Reports

U-14 A Football Champions 2012/13

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 09:37:00 GMT

Good Counsel 4-5 / Scoil Mhuire Clane 2-7

Nine points down at half-time, and with at least ten of our players fighting illness in the run up to this U-14 Leinster Schools football ‘A’ final at Dr Cullen park, Carlow on Feb 8^th, the odds of capturing this title for the third time in four years looked remote. True, we had the aid of a strong breeze to come, but not having scored in the first half we were somewhat dispirited. Scoil Mhuire(Kildare) had at times taken us apart in the opening period. Their chief tormentor was left corner forward, Ciarán Kelly. He scored the game’s first two points and this was followed by an Adam Lynch goal on 17 minutes. Although we has some chances ourselves in that period, a combination of poor finishing into a stiff breeze and the quick reactions of the Clane ‘keeper Liam Kennedy left us frustrated with no score at the end of the first half. Although our backs continued to battle admirably into the second quarter, a rather fortuitous goal by Kelly left the score at half time at 2-3 to 0-0 in Clane’s favour.

Good Counsel had a mountain to climb not only on the scoreboard but in motivating our players at half time with a combination of fatigue and sickness taking its toll. It was a massive boost within 30 seconds of the restart however, when Luke Sinnott latched onto a long delivery, beat his marker and rifled the ball to the back of the net. It was a perfect tonic for our side at a vital stage in the game. Our Midfielder Andrew Walsh and half forward Jack Walsh who couldn’t start the game due to sickness were to be seen on the sideline cheering on their team-mates. Clane hit back and brought their lead out to seven points. But it was game on when our corner forward Sam Wall volleyed a loose ball home. However, despite exerting considerable pressure, it was all of nine minutes before Darragh Lyons raised our first white flag. Darragh truly played a captain’s role on the day while driving his team on with an inspirational performance while struggling with bronchitis and a broken finger. Despite numerous requests from the referee to be substituted Darragh ‘dug deep’ for the Counsel and really did his school proud. Two points from Luke Sinnott and one from Sam Wall levelled matters with ten minutes left.

The odds had now turned in our favour but Clane fought like terriers and the midlanders got a run on us to edge into a three point lead with time almost up. Incredibly and to our animated supporters’ delight, we managed to rescue the day. Thomas O’ Connor has scored many vital goals in this campaign but his equaliser was priceless. He took possession out on the left at a narrow angle and had a number of options, but he backed himself and let rip. The unfortunate Clane keeper never had a chance. It got worse for the Kildare side as almost from the resultant kick-out Kennedy was picking the ball out of the net again as Luke Sinnott found the net once more. It was game over. Thomas O’ Connor embellished a fine team performance with an insurance point which wasn’t required. Perhaps, after a narrow semi-final defeat last year, our name was on the Cup this time round. True Champions.

GOOD COUNSEL COLLEGE

Fionn Slattery(Rathgarogue-Cushinstown), James O’ Shea (Adamstown), Mark O’ Neill(Gusserane), Rory Higgins(Rathnure), Richard Gill(Tullogher-Rosbercon), Eoin Porter(Rathgarogue-Cushinstown), Phillip Foley(St Fintan’s), Darragh Lyons(St James, 0-1), Sean Kehoe(Rathgarogue-Cushinstown), Emmett Coakley(Graiguenamanagh), Thomas O’ Connor(Tullogher-Rosbercon, 1-1), Jack Byrne-Doyle(Mullinavat), Jamie Meyler(St James), Luke Sinnott, 2-2), Sam Wall(Gusseranae, 1-1)

Subs: Eric Cummins(Cloughbawn) for Sean Kehoe.

Rest of Panel:

Andrew Walsh, Morgan White (Ramsgrange), Jack Culleton, Gavin Sheehan(Gusserane), Darragh O’ Connor(Cloughbawn), Jimmy Sutton, Morgan Purcell( (Fethard), Darren Hayden(Taghmon), Adam O’ Sullivan(Clongeen), Cathal O’ Connor(Rathnure) , Sean Nolan, Cyril Prendergast, Aaron Mythen (Horeswood), Oisín Knox(Mullinavat), Jack Walsh(Rower Inistiogue), Liam Hennessey (Mullinavat), Jim Ryan (Rower-Inistiogue)

McCarthy Cup Visit 2012

Thu, 22 Nov 2012 11:04:00 GMT

The 'Deise' finally get their hands on the Liam MacCarthy. Joe, Walter and Kieran with Fr. Hennebry and Mr O'Brien. There was a tremendous 'buzz' around the school campus on Friday last as three past pupils, Kieran Joyce, Walter Walsh and Joe Lyng, called in with the Liam MacCarthy cup. The three, who represented the school with great distinction iin their time here, were given heroes' welcome by the students many of who come from the same local parishes as the hurling stars. Indeed Kieran has a brother in 3rd year while Walter and Joe both have cousins still attending the school. The men could not have been more gracious in meeting all the requests for autographs and photographs - one remarked that he may have done more writing on Friday last than in all his previous years in the school! Members of the dining room staff with students,Daire Barden and Joe Sutton, holding the Leinster'A' U-14 and U-16 trophies It is always a very pleasant task to welcome back any past pupils to the school, the more so in circumstances such as last Friday where outstanding achievement is being celebrated. A striking feature of the players' visit was the uncomplicated humility of these young men, unaffected by their success, mingling with their own community without airs or graces, a striking contrast to much of the current celebrity culture where the most many of those 'celebrated' can lay claim to is, 'famous for being famous'. We are very grateful to the the three men for taking the time to call in and spend some time with us. For any of our past pupils it is not a pre-requisite to have an All ireland medal to drop back in; we are always delighted to see you call . Darragh Joyce with big(?) brother KieranAll 1st Year students with the cup.

Leinster U-16 Hurling Champions 2012/13

Thu, 22 Nov 2012 10:58:00 GMT

Good Counsel College 2-10 St. Kieran’s College 2-09

The Father John Cosgrave Cup returned home to Good Counsel College from Thomastown on Wednesday 24^th thanks to a brilliant gutsy display from our U-16 hurlers. The boys were rewarded for their hard work and stylish hurling by being crowned Leinster champions, overcoming fierce rivals St. Kieran’s College by a single point.

Good Counsel opened the scoring with a free from corner forward David Kelly who showed great composure throughout the game. However, mid-way through the half they found themselves trailing four points to two despite having good possession and numerous chances to score. During this period St. Kieran’s scored two frees and added two from play while Willie Tracy kept the Good Counsel boys in touch with a well-taken score.

Good Counsel began to exert a lot of pressure on their opponents approaching half time and were rewarded with the last three scores of the half. The first was a lovely point from Alan Walsh who scored with his first touch having just been introduced. Shortly afterwards, a dangerously dropping ball from the stick of David Kelly found its way to the net after a mix-up in the Kieran’s defence. The boys weren’t ready to greet the half-time whistle just yet however as Mikey Dwyer followed up a blistering run with a low bouncing shot which eluded the Kieran’s keeper and ended up in the corner of the net, leaving the score 2-03 to 0-4 at half time.

The second half began with both teams trading points as two fine Kieran’s points were cancelled out by efforts from David Kelly and Willie Tracy. Ten minutes into the second half it looked like Good Counsel were beginning to assert themselves on the game as points from Daire Barden, Pat Lyng, Willie Tracy and David Kelly gave them a commanding nine point lead with fifteen minutes remaining, 2-9 to 0-6. Despite the score line, there was very little between the teams and St. Kieran’s showed their pedigree as they began to fight their way back into the game. The Kilkenny side scored two goals and three points without reply and seemed to have all the momentum approaching the closing stages.

With the game level at 2-9 a piece, the final minutes were fiercely contested and Good Counsel’s defence made some crucial interceptions and clearances to keep the resurgent St. Kieran’s at bay. A little over a minute from the end Good Counsel were awarded a free and an opportunity to clinch the title. Corner forward David Kelly stepped up and showed nerves of steel to land what turned out to be the winning score. On a dull day in Thomastown, Good Counsel’s vocal supporters added plenty of colour and atmosphere to the occasion and the celebrations at the final whistle were fantastic.

There was little to separate the teams in terms of skill and ability but the Good Counsel team outfought their opponents and showed great bravery to claim the cup. A lot of credit must go to their mentors, Declan Wall and Mick Purcell, who put a lot of time and effort into preparing the boys since returning in September. Well done to all involved for providing another great sporting memory and achievement for Good Counsel College.

Good Counsel Colege:

Jack Dunne, Sean Barden, Donngh O’ Connor, Dylan Kehoe, Pat Lyng, Darragh Joyce, Ian Carthy, Daire Barden, Stephen Stafford, Mikey Dwyer, Willie Tracy, Adam Mansfield, David Kelly, Bob Whitty, Jason Dunne, Alan Walsh, Darragh Brennan, Stephen O’ Gorman, Dean Croke, Shane Doyle, Joe Sutton, Andy Walsh, Eoin Higgins, Ciaran O’ Connor, Darragh Lyons, Conor Duggan, James Tobain, Liam Barron, Sean Dowling, Craig Murphy, Peter Aspel, Shane Ryan, Maurice Fitzgerald.

1st Year Keevans Cup - 2012/13

Thu, 22 Nov 2012 10:57:00 GMT

Captain Thomas O'Connor receiving the Keevan's Cup from Luke O'Hanlon

GENERAL REPORT

Our first year footballers enjoyed another successful day out for the college at Páirc Garman on Wednesday 17^th October. A remarkable 4 teams represented ‘The Counsel’ on a beautiful day where 16 competing teams from various schools around the county attended. The highlight of the day was presentation of the ‘Keevans Cup’ to our ‘A’ team captain Thomas O’ Connor by Mr Luke O’ Hanlon after the ‘6 in a row’ in this competition was realised by our ‘A’ panel against a competitive Enniscorthy C.B.S side. Enniscorthy C.B.S contested the ‘A’ final for the first time, which is a testament to the fanstastic work that is being done by our past pupil Mr Brendan Kehoe in the school. The final score for the ‘A’ final was 5.9-1.4. Our ‘B’ team competed well throughout the day and were unlucky to lose St Peters ‘B’ team at the semi-final stage on a scoreline of 2.5-1.3, having previously beaten Enniscorthy ‘C’ team and lost to Wexford CBS ‘A team’. Our ‘C’ team competed against ‘Wexford C.B.S ‘B’ team, Enniscorty C.B.S ‘B’ team and St Peters ‘C’ team winning all their games and coming out on top in their division. Our ‘D’ team also played the same opponents as our ‘C’ team and came out on top in their final against Enniscorthy C.B.S ‘C’ team.

Well done to all players who represented the school admirably on the day and many thanks to Mr Shaughnessey and Mr Cillian Kehoe who prepared the panels for the day. Mr Kevin Kehoe and Mr Kevin Bates mentored the teams on the day with the welcome assistance of the Wexford football development coaches. Their help on the day was much appreciated.

‘A’ Final/Panel

Aaron Mythen(Horeswood),Darragh Hartley(Glenmore), Donal Kinsella(Gusseranne), Eamon O’ Sullivan(Horeswood), Sean Nolan(Horeswood), Jack Byrne Doyle(Mullinavat), Richard Hennessey(Glenmore), Cyril Prendergast(Horeswood),Thomas O’ Connor(Tullogher/Rosbercon, Gavin Sheehan(Gusseranne), Jamie Meyler(St James), Phillip Foley(Our Lady’s Island), Sean Keating(Cloughbawn), Oisín Knox(Mullinavat), Dylan Whitty(Horeswood)Séamas Murphy(Gusseranne), Phillip Walsh(St Martins), Jack Power.

Scorers; Thomas O’ Comnnor(1-2), Gavin Sheehan(0-1), Jamie Meyler(3-3), Phillip Foley(0-1), (Oisín Knox(0-2), Dylan Whitty(1-0)

Man of the match; Jamie Meyler(St James)

‘B’ Panel

Donal Kinsella, Michael Galavan, Alex Hatt, Thomas Banville, Kieran Cooney, Oisín Foran, Dylan Hogan Freeman, Sean Keating, Kevin Donoghue, Darragh Reddy, Martin Kinsella, David Murphy, Jack Walsh, Andy Breen, Sean Costello, Mark Murphy, Michael Cleere, Barry Roche, Shane Delaney, Adam Fitzgerald, Mark McGrath, David O’ Connor, Eoin Pilkington, Padraig Pilkington, Oisín Rooney, Daniel Lindell, Diarmuid Kehoe.

‘C’ & ‘D’ Panel

Niall O’ Byrne, Michael Dunleavy, Danny Byrne, Conor Lynch, Steven Whelan, Daniel Dempsey, James Dempsey, James Dempsey, Shane Lyng, Joe Dowling, Charlie Murphy, Ben Sutton, Danny Sheehy, Aaron Tynan, Oisín Aylward, Adam Knight, Ryan Byrne, Sean Dunne, Evan Murphy, Thomas Furlong, Sean Holden, Brian Dillon, Shane Walsh, Richard Foley, Robbie Fitzgerald, Conor Dalton, Eddie Wall, Sean O’ Neill.

Tom Walsh Memorial Tournament - 2012

Fri, 18 May 2012 14:51:00 GMT

The annual Tom Walsh Memorial Hurling Tournament was held in the grounds of Good Counsel College last Wednesday 16^th May. The tournament has been running for three years and is dedicated to the memory of Tom Walsh, a former teacher in Good Counsel College and a Wexford hurling stalwart. The five first year teams which competed for this year’s cup were: Good Counsel College, Enniscorthy C.B.S., St. Kieran’s College, Kilkenny C.B.S. and Castlecomer.

The tournament was run throughout the day with each team getting the chance to play four matches before the top two teams met in the final. Good Counsel College and Enniscorthy C.B.S. proved to be much too strong for their Kilkenny opponents in the group games, while Good Counsel – buoyed by core members from their Leinster-winning u-14 side - came out on top in the group meeting between themselves and the Enniscorthy boys.

The two Wexford teams would meet again in the final which proved to be a much more competitive and closer game. However, Good Counsel did enough to ensure the Tom Walsh Memorial Cup remained in New Ross for a second year running after De Le Salle College had won it in its inaugural year. The Wexford County Board very kindly sponsored a sliotar for each of the participants in the final and a Brian Walsh hurley for Man of the Match. Good Counsel’s captain, Darragh Lyons, was the recipient of the award having been selected by Joe Kearns and Luke O’ Hanlon as the outstanding performer.

The tournament was attended by Tom’s partner, Denise Bolger, who was delighted to see the games being played in such a dignified and sporting manner befitting the kind of person Tom was. The games were played in lovely sunshine and the tournament was a successful outing for all the young hurlers involved and a fitting tribute to a man who is fondly remembered in the hurling community.

Back row l-r: Tadhg Cody, Richard Gill, Shane Doyle, Liam Stafford, Domhnall McGahan, Darragh Lyons, James Tobin, Luke Sinnott, Jack Walsh, Eoin Porter, Andy Walsh, Eoghan Byrne.

Front row l-r: Rory Higgins, Michael Martin, Micheal Ryan, Enda Kelly, Ned Connors, Jim Ryan, Ricky McGrath, Darragh O’ Connor, Cathal O’ Connor, Darren Hayden, Emmett Coakley, Sam Wall.

Track and Field

Thu, 17 May 2012 23:00:00 GMT

Eoin Power, 5th year, completed a notable double last week when winning both the Senior boys 110m hurdles and 400m hurdles gold in the Leinster Schools Track and Field finals held in Santry. Eoin was winning the 110m event for the second year in succession and last year went on to represent Irish schools in the 5 nations championships in Scotland. A very dedicated competitor, Eoin's ability is matched only by his modesty as he seeks no accolades for his achievements. We wish him the best of luck in the All Irelands - he has brought great pride to Good Counsel through his athletic endeavours over the past few years.

Also in the action in Santry, having won gold in the South Leinster finals were Joe Mooney, 2nd year and Aaron Fenlon, TY. Struggling with injury, Aaron managed a very creditable 4th in the Intermediate boys 400m while Joe added further glory to his South Leinster win by taking gold in the Junior boys 1200m walk. Joe goes on to join Eoin in the National finals in early June and we wish them both the best of luck. They are a great credit to their families and their clubs.

Leinster 1200m walk champion, Joe Mooney

U-14 'A' Leinster Hurling Champions

Tue, 15 May 2012 08:07:00 GMT

Good Counsel College came out on top of thrilling contest in Thomastown on Friday 4^th as they overcame St. Kieran’s College to win the Leinster Colleges U-14 hurling title and claim the Dr. Barry Cup. In what was a highly competitive game with a fantastic standard of hurling, the skill and determination of the New Ross boys deservedly prevailed on a score line of 3-8 to 2-9.

The opening of the game was characterised by intense tackling and nervousness in front of goal as both sides traded wides, with no score registered in the first fourteen minutes. Good Counsel did survive an early scare however as St. Kieran’s mid-fielder Eddie Delaney’s line ball hit the crossbar before being cleared. The opening score came through Good Counsel’s impressive mid-fielder, Adam Mansfield, as he struck the first of three well-taken points from the left wing after some good work from wing-forward Mikey Dwyer.

St. Kieran’s replied with a point from a free almost immediately through their most impressive performer on the day, Joe Cuddihy, before Mansfield restored Good Counsel’s slender lead with another fine effort on seventeen minutes. The ever-threatening Mikey Dwyer then extended Good Counsel’s lead with a fine point before Cuddihy replied with another pointed free for St. Kieran’s. The next period of the game saw Good Counsel take control, first through a pointed free from corner forward, Ciarán O’ Connor, and then through a vital goal. Full forward James Tobin plucked Ian Carty’s long clearance from the air before firing the ball to the roof of the net, leaving Good Counsel 1-4 to 0-2 in front approaching the break.

The 8 minutes before half time saw St. Kieran’s reel in their opponents with four points on the trot, two from Cuddihy and one a piece from Delaney and full forward Brian Crowdle. The Kilkenny boys finished the half the stronger and went in two points up at the break as Joe Connolly flicked the ball to the net after Good Counsel keeper, Jack Walsh, had excellently saved the first attempt from the Kieran’s corner-forward.

Good Counsel rallied at half time and started the second period impressively registering the opening score, a fine point from Mansfield. Better was to come for the resurgent Good Counsel side as Ciarán O’ Connor sparked into life, scoring two fine goals without reply. The first was a tidy finish after a superb block on the Kieran’s goal-keeper from Adam Winters, while the second was an excellent finish from a tight angle after Mikey Dwyer forced the Kieran’s net-minder into a fine save. Dwyer scored his second point, in between two Cuddihy frees, after a driving run through the heart of the Kieran’s defence, leaving Good Counsel five points clear with fifteen minutes to play.

Cuddihy reduced the deficit to four briefly until Ciarán O’ Connor won possession in the air, turned his marker and knocked over what was arguably the best score of the game. Good Counsel’s other corner-forward, Andy Walsh, was also in on the act driving over a fine free having been fouled in possession out on the right wing. This was to be the Good Counsel boys’ last score which saw them increase the margin over their Kilkenny rivals to six points with five minutes remaining. St Kieran’s managed to pull a goal and a point back as Cuddihy’s low bouncing shot deceived Jack Walsh in the goal and Delaney sent over a fine line ball. This set the game up for a tense finish but Good Counsel’s defence stood strong and snuffed out St. Kieran’s final flurry.

Referee Pat Moran blew the final whistle and sparked wild celebrations from the Good Counsel team and their vocal supporters. Captain, Joe Sutton, raised the Dr. Barry Cup to cap a fantastic day for a Good Counsel College team whose gutsy display and stylish brand of hurling saw them return to New Ross as deserving champions.

Scorers: Good Counsel – Ciarán O’ Connor (2-2, 0-1 frees), Adam Mansfield (0-3), James Tobin (1-0), Mikey Dwyer (0-2), Andy Walsh (0-1 free). St Kieran’s – Joe Cuddihy (1-6, 0-4 frees), Joe Connolly (1-0), Eddie Delaney (0-2, 1 line ball), Brian Crowdle (0-1).

Good Counsel – J. Walsh, Dean Croke, Seán Barden, Shane Doyle, Eoin Higgins, Ian Carty, Darragh Lyons, Joe Sutton, Adam Mansfield, Paul Murphy, Adam Winters, Mikey Dwyer, Andy Walsh, James Tobin, Ciarán O’ Connor.

St. Kieran’s – S. Byrne, E. Carroll, T. Walsh, B. Kirwan, A Nolan, T Murphy, M. Cody, E. Delaney, N. Walsh, N. Hussein, J. Cuddihy, J. Connolly, C. Prenderville, B. Crowdle, J. Carey.

Good Counsel College as per top photograph.

Back row l-r: Declan Wall (Trainer), Conor Crosbie (St. James’), Cian O’ Connor (Cloughbawn), Jack Walsh (Rower- Inistioge), James Tobin (Rathnure), Shane Doyle (Taghmon), Mark O’ Neill (Gusserane), Darragh Lyons (St. James’), Mikey Dwyer (Fethard), Adam Winters (Taghmon), Ian Carty (Taghmon), Adam Mansfield (Mullinavat), Eoin Higgins (Rathnure), Andy Walsh (St. James’), Gavin Connolly (St. Mullins), Martin Fitzharris (Gusserane), Peter Farrell (Rathnure), Ciarán O’ Connor (Rathnure), Páraic Cullen (Trainer), Mick Purcell (Trainer).

Front row l-r: Paul Murphy (Faythe Harriers), Cathal O’ Connor (Rathnure), Dáire McGrath (Tullogher), Seán Barden (Adamstown), Dean Croke (Glenmore), Joe Sutton (Fethard), Emmett Coakley (Graigenamanagh), Jim Ryan (Rower Initoige), Richard Gill (Tullogher), Tadgh Cody (Cushinstown), Sam Wall (Gusserane), Richie Waters (Fethard), Barry Og McGrath (Taghmon), Rory Higgins (Rathnure).

Nicholas Murphy -Badminton International.

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 12:36:00 GMT

5th Year student, Nicholas Murphy has been adding to his considerable reputation as a Badminton star in recent months. Crowned National U-17 champion last week, Nicholas is the number 1 seed in Ireland in his age category. In addition to this he has recently represented Ireland in an International event held in Cheltenham, England. Being capped for his country is nothing new for Nicholas as he had previously achieved this honour at U-15 level.

In the immediate future, Nicholas will represent Wexford in the Badminton Ireland Inter Counties championships to be held in Galway at the end of the month before going on to represent Leinster in the inter Provincials a week later.

Hugely dedicated to his sport, Nicholas is reaping the rewards for his work and dedication which allied to his huge talent has seen him achieve a great deal at a young age. We wish him continued success and will follow his career with interest.

U-14 Sth Leinster Football Champions, 2011/12

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 17:55:00 GMT

Captain, Ian Carthy, receives the trophy from the legendary, Pat Henderson. Good Counsel, New Ross...5-11
St. Peter's, Wexford....2-3
Our U-14 Footballers retained the South Leister Schools juvenile football championship ‘A’ title for the third consecutive year with a convincing win over old foes St. Peter's of Wexford in the decider at St. Patrick's Park on Friday afternoon.
The victory puts them through to the Leinster Semi-final, and the chance to continue their quest for a remarkable hat-trick of Leinster titles at U-14 level.
Mikey Dwyer opened the scoring for ‘the Counsel’ in the first minute after a great run from left wing forward which was followed up by an equally impressive major from Adam Mansfield in the eight minute. Another point from O’ Dwyer (11min) was followed quickly by a point from one of our two first year players on the starting team, Tadhg Cody (17min). Some impressive forward running and support play resulted in a Joe Sutton point (22min) and another Adam Mansfield goal (23min) before St Peter’s registered their first and only score of the first half, a pointed free (26min). The Good Counsel defence and midfield performed very well as a unit with individual battles being won all over the field. The outstanding performance of capt’ Ian Carthy at centre back and the courageous block of full back Adam Winters (17min) to prevent an almost certain score, were defensive highlights in the first half worth noting. The first half score was 3.4 – 0.1 in favour of Good Counsel.
St Peter’s restarted with intent and caught the Counsel out with a well taken goal in the first minute of the second half. This seemed to spark our boys into life however, and straight from the kick out the ball made its way to Adam Mansfield who appeared to ‘lob’ the keeper from thirty yards at the end of yet another threatening run. The crowd went wild! With our defence on top and our Midfield pairing of Daragh Lyons and Martin Fitzharris in flying form, our forwards found opportunities aplenty. Mikey Dwyer scored an excellent brace of points from distance (36 & 40min), which was followed by a pointed free from substitute Mark Rossiter (48 min). St Peter’s first point from play(51min) was followed by an Adam Mansfield point(52min) before perhaps the point of the day, a Mikey Dwyer long range point that seemed impossible when being tackled by up to three St Peter’s players at the time. The final St Peter’s point (54min) was again followed up by an Adam Mansfield point (56min) before Joe Sutton stormed through for a cracker of a goal after some very good approach play (57mins). Darragh Lyons scored the Counsel’s final score of the day, a point from play which was a good reward for his work on the day (57min). It seemed that the Counsel had started to celebrate too early however when St Peter’s struck for a goal in the final minute of the game. Although the team and subs performed very well on the day they will need to improve somewhat on their teamwork in the final third and get a greater return from their possession, as their wide count of (16) is far too high if they are to go any further in this competition. Well done to all concerned on a job well done and a fantastic result for our school. Also, many thanks to the teachers and parents who accompanied our second year students as supporters on the day.
Counsel Team/Panel:
1. Cian Ó Connor (Cloughbawn) 2.Conor Crosby (St James) 3. Adam Winters (Taghmon) 4. Sean Barden (Adamstown) 5. Evan Murphy (Adamstown) 6. Ian Carthy (Taghmon) 7. Eoin Higgin (Rathnure) 8. Martin Fitzharris (Gusseranne) 9. Daragh Lyons (St James) 10. Michael Dwyer (Fethard) 11. Paul Manning (Tullogher) 12. Adam Mansfield (Mullinavat) 13. Tadhg Cody (Cushinstown) 14. Luke Sinnott (Taghmon) 15. Joe Sutton (Fethard) 16. Mark Rossiter (Gusseranne) 17. Richie Waters(Fethard) 18. John Roche(Gusseranne) 19. Shane Doyle(Taghmon) 20. Eoin Porter(Cushinstown) 21. Daire McGrath(Tullogher) 22. Ciarán Conway(Gusseranne) 23. Liam Stafford(Adamstown) 24. Ore Mojoyegbe(Tullogher) 25. Sam Wall (Gusseranne)26. Martin Doyle(Fethard) 27. Mark O Neill(Gusseranne) 28. Andrew Walsh(St James) 29. Clem Rossiter(Bannow-Ballymitty) 30. Daire Bolger(Cushinstown) 31. Rory Higgins(Rathnure)

Scorers:
Adam Mansfield (3-2), Mikey Dwyer (1-5), Joe Sutton (1-1), Mark Rossiter (0-1f)
Subs / Ionadaí
Mark Rossiter(0-1f) for Tadhg Cody, John Roche for Evan Murphy, Richie Waters for Paul Manning, Shane Doyle for Conor Crosbie, Ciarán Conway for Luke Sinnott

Referee - Pat Kehoe (Carlow).

U-14 Badminton Champions

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 17:23:00 GMT

On the 2nd of March the division one Under 14 badminton team won at the Leinster finals in Baldoyle in Dublin. The team of Noel Dunne, Jack Dunne, Ian Carty and Stephen O'Gorman outclassed all of the schools at the event. The team now go on to the All Ireland Finals in Gormanstown College on April 6th. Well done to the boys and to their coach Ms Karen Byrne. Best of luck in All Ireland Final.

U-14 Football 'A' Leinster Final 2011

Tue, 15 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Good Counsel College U-14 Leinster Football Champions 2011
Our U-14 Footballers won their second successive championship on Friday 11 March in Stradbally (Co Laois) against St Josephs Rochfordbridge (Westmeath). It really was a pulsating final with many twists and turns before the final outcome was decided in the fourth minute of injury time by a scorcher of a goal from our towering full forward William Treacy. This is the ‘fifth’ U-14 Football Leinster championship success by our school (1995, 1996, 2002, 2010, 2011). This places our school in second position behind Gormanstown College and Scoil Aodháin (with six titles each) as the most successful school at U-14 level over the last fifty years. Considering that all our success has come in the last fourteen years, this is truly a remarkable achievement.

With over two hundred and fifty first and second year supporters travelling to the final, kindly accompanied by Ms Bolger, Mr Coffey, Mr Flynn, Mr Lyne, Mr Leigh O’ Brien and Mr Declan Wall, a great atmosphere was evident as the team took to the pitch. Indeed the supporters were proudly showing the college colours in their flags and banners which brightened up an otherwise miserable day. St Josephs started out as favourites on the day after beating all their opposition by high scores on the way to the final. Good Counsel started admirably however and after playing into the breeze in the first half, found ourselves trailing by only a single point at half time. Our first point was scored by William Treacy who showed some of his soccer skills when opting to kick from the ground while under pressure from the defence. Our second point was a pointed free from about thirty metres by the faultless Mikey Rowe. Steven Stafford scored our third point when the ball found its way to him in the centre forward position after some concerted pressure from our forwards. It was a day for defences with the greasy conditions forcing many basic errors on both sides.
The second half started off with a point for St Josephs which brought the score to 0-3 to 0-5. Thankfully our forwards started to interlink better in the second half but were frustrated by the St Joseph’s defence who tried to stop our runners early in their tracks with the consequence of conceding many frees. The high tempo of the game and the pressure on both sides meant that opportunities were few and far between but a blistering run from Jason Dunne lifted the spirit of the crowd and forced a fantastic save by the St Joseph’s keeper with the ball going over for a point, 0-4 to 0-5. Halfway through the second half St Joseph’s corner back was given a second yellow and subsequently a red card after a rugby tackle on our corner forward Pat Lyng, yet the hope that this may turn the game in our favour was short lived, with a dubious penalty being awarded to St Josephs within a few minutes. This was duly converted and followed by another point which pushed St Joseph’s five points in front, 0-4 to1-6. With about ten minutes remaining Good Counsel regrouped and attacked with vigour drawing many fouls which created some scoring opportunities for our free taker Mikey Rowe. Four points were converted before the end of normal time leaving the score 0-8 to 1-6 in St Joseph’s favour.
As is the Good Counsel tradition, the team never gave up, and in the fourth minute of injury time a determined run by substitute wing back ‘Joe Sutton’ delivered the ball to our full forward William Treacy, who dispatched the ball to the top of the net with venom. With two minutes left to play the team kept its focus and attacked until Mikey Dwyer was fouled on the twenty one yard line allowing Mikey Rowe to convert our final score. The Final Score, Good Counsel College 1-9, St Josephs Rochfordbridge 1-6. At the final whistle jubilant celebrations were witnessed when our captain Donncha O Connor received the Cup from the Comhairle Laighean representative. Well done to all our boys and to coaches Mr. Bates and Mr. Kehoe on a fantastic days work.
Up the Counsel!

The Starting team was:

Jack Dunne, Darragh Joyce, Daire Barden, Kevin Rowe, Ian Carthy, Donncha O Connnor, Christopher Cullen, Robert itty, Stephen Stafford (0-1), Mikey Dwyer, Paul Manning, Jason Dunne(0-1), Pat Lyng, William Treacy(1-1), Mikey Rowe (0-6f).

Subs; Joe Sutton(P Lyng), E Rowe(P Manning), S. O Gorman(I Carthy)Peter Aspell, Sean Barden, Daragh Brennan, Tim Coughlan, Sean Dowling, Steven Fahy, Maurice Fitzgerald, Jack Foran, Tomás French, Dylan Kehoe, David Kelly, Garrett Mahon, Daryl Murphy, Shane Ryan, Jason Shiedy, Sean Sutton, Adam Swan, Ronan Waters, Adam Winters.

1st Year Keevans Cup 2010-11

Tue, 12 Oct 2010 23:00:00 GMT

Corn Ui Chaomhain ( Keevans Cup)

1st Year Football Blitz.

The ‘Corn Uí Chaomhain’ (Keevans Cup) first year football blitz took part on Wednesday 13^thOctober in Páirc Gharman. The eight teams competing were Enniscorthy C.B.S., St Peters College ‘A’ & ‘B’, Ramsgrange C.S.,Gorey C.S., Wexford C.B.S. and Good Counsel College ‘A’ & ‘B’. Seamas Keevans would indeed have been proud of the large attendance at the event with an impressive amount of first year footballers eager to represent their schools on the day.
Teams were divided into two groups of four. On one side of the draw were Good Counsel College ‘B’, Enniscorthy C.B.S., Ramsgrange C.S and St Peters ‘A’, while on the other side were Good Counsel College ‘A’, St Peters ‘B’, Gorey C.S. and Wexford C.B.S. After some very exciting games on each side of the draw Good Counsel College’s ‘A’ team progressed to the semi-final against Enniscorthy C.B.S while Good Counsel College’s ‘B’ team, who had surprisingly managed to beat the St Peter Colleges ‘A’ team along the way, progressed to the other semi-final against Wexford C.B.S. After two cracking games both Good Counsel College teams progressed to the final for the first time in the competitions history. The Shield final between Enniscorthy C.B.S and Gorey C.S resulted in a victory for Enniscorthy C.B.S on a scoreline of 2.10-1.5.
The Cup final proved to be the best game of the day with Good Counsel College ‘A’ team coming out on top by a single point. After going in 2-4 to 1.0 down after the first half the ‘B’ team did well to fight back and level the scores deep into injury time. After a dubious free was awarded to the ‘A’ team, Mikey Dwyer (the Captain of the ‘A’ team) stepped up to the task and calmly slotted the ball over the bar to give his team ultimate victory. The final scoreline was Good Counsel College ‘A’ 3-8, Good Counsel College ‘B’ 4-4.
Luke O Hanlon, who coordinated the Blitz, presented the ‘Corn Uí Chaomhain’ trophy to Good Counsel captain Mikey Dwyer(Fethard) and paid a fitting tribute to the late Seamas Keevans for all the work he put into organising the first year blitzs for many years. He also thanked referees, James Flood, Eric Molloy, Brian O Leary and James Murray for their excellent work on the day. The Good Counsel Teams for the final were…..

‘A’ Team;
1.Peter Farrell(Rathnure)2.Martin Doyle(Fethard)3.Adam Winters(Taghmon) 4.Conor Crosbie(Ramsgrange)5.Seán Barden(Adamstown)6.Daragh Joyce(Rower Inistioge)7.Eoin Higgins(Rathnure)8.Ian Carthy(Taghmon)9.Ronan Waters(Gussserane)10.Joe Sutton(Fethard)11.Paul Manning(Tulllogher)12.Richie Waters(Fethard)13.Clem Rossiter(Bannow)14.Mikey Dwyer(Fethard)15.Donagh O Connor(Cushinstown).
Subs; 16.Maurice Walsh(St Martins)17.Barry Óg McGrath(Taghmon),18.Robert Kehoe(Cushinstown)19.Ryan Harris(Horeswood)

Scorers; Mikey Dwyer(1-4),Paul Manning(1-1),Donagh O Connor(1-1),Daragh Joyce(0-2)

‘B’ Team
1.Bryan Grace(Rower Inistioge)2.Donal Kiely(Gusserane)3.John Roche(Gusserane)4.Ciaran Conway5.Daire McGrath6.Adam Mansfield(Mullinavat)7.Evan Murphy(Adamstown)8.Robert Whitty(Cloughbawn)9.Jack Burford(Gusserane)10.Martin Fitzharris(Gusserane)11.Jason Dunne(Cushinstown)12.Mark Rossiter(Gusserane)13.Ronan Whelan(Cushinstown)14.Patrick Carthy(Ger O Hans)15.Daire Bolger(Cushinstown)
Subs; 16.Dylan Farrell(Rower Inistioge)17.Alan Lambert(Rathnure)18.Jack Costello(Fethard)19.Mark O Neill(Gusserane)20.Daniel Holden(Mullinavat)21.Damian Aylward(Mullinavat)22.Christopher Molloy(Fethard)23.Eddie Cummins(Horeswood)

Scorers; Rob Whitty(2-0),Jason Dunne(1-3),Mark Rossiter(1-0),Alan Lambert(0-1)

>Above and below are the 2 Good Counsel College teams who contested the Keevans Cup Final.

Mikey Dwyer and Darragh Joyce receive the cup from Luke O'Hanlon.

Madigan Cup 2009/10

Mon, 26 Apr 2010 22:16:00 GMT

The 8th annual Madigan Cup was held in the college on Wednesday 21st April with victory going on this occasssion to the Wexford lads. Kilkenny were going for 4 in a row but were thwarted by a superb performance from the Matthew O'Hanlon captained 'Yellowbellies'.

They led from the start and never really looked in danger although a typical Kilkenny rally briefly looked on when Sean Lyster netted midway through the second half. The Wexford lads, who had seen an 11 point lead overturned last year, made no such mistake this time round and held on for a comfortable win.

Members of the Madigan family were on hand to present the Cup to winning captain Matthew O'Hanlon.

Kilkenny still have the balance of power in the overall stakes having lifted the trophy 5 times to Wexford's 3.

Goalmouth action from the Madigan Cup.

A dissappointed Kilkenny side.

Presentation of the Cup to captain Matthew O'Hanlon as Kilkenny captain, Joe Lyng looks on.

All Ireland Inter Schools Hunter Trials

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 21:55:00 GMT

The All Ireland Inter Schools Hunter Trials Competition hosted by the Good Counsel Equestrian Committee from New Ross Co. Wexford took place in Curracruit Bagenalstown on Saturday last March 13th at Martin Fenlon's course. Given the fact that most of the best arrangements between God and man have been re-arranged due to inclement weather in the past year it proved to be one of the most reliable and safe courses that we can remember in recent years. The course which hosted a very successful Hunter Trials for the Carlow Farmers the previous Sunday with an outstanding entry proved itself to be the most accomodating one could expect. Martin Fenlon and his staff are to be commended on the condition of the fences and the ground.

The competitions commenced at the early time of 8.30 am with the Good Counsel Team Blue the first to participate and Fr John Hennebry, school Principal,raising the famous Good Counsel Blue and White flag at the start to the resounding sound of the hunting horn blown by Mr Martin Marshall who was Starter for the day.

The day continued in the same fashion, thankfully with no incidents to report throughout. The team event which involved teams from as far apart as Athenry and Charleville continued at one minute and thirty second intervals. This event culminiated with the first three palces being awarded to Kilkenny College who had an unbelieveable entry of nine teams under the very watchful eye of Mr Paul Cuddihy. Paul is every parent's wish when it comes to organising equestrian events for students and much credit is due to him on his endless energy.

Winning Kilkenny College Team.

	School	Time	Riders
1^st	Kilkenny College	3.51	Sophie Cunningham, Patrick Furnell,Jeremy Cairns
2^{nd =}	Kilkenny College	3.59	Kara Cummins, Jordan Cummins, Brian Murphy
2^{nd =}	Kilkenny College	3.59	Edward Healy, Vincent Byrne, Leamme Butler

The Senior Singles followed and from an entry of over 200, last year’s victor, Paddy Fitzharris proved that to be no fluke by retaining the title from Alyssa o’ Neill and Shane Aylward representing the host school.

	School	Time	Rider
1^st	Tullow C.S.	3.05	Paddy Fitzharris
2^nd	Newbridge Colllege	3.10	Alyssa O’Neill
3^rd	Good Counsel College	3.12	Shane Aylward

The entry for the Junior singles again exceeded 200 and this time the host school of Good Counsel College collected as Shane aylwards younger brother, Cian went clear in the fastest time.

	School	Time	Rider
1^st	Good Counsel College	2.48	Cian Aylward
2^nd	St. Leos, Carlow	2.50	Niamh Kennedy
3^rd	Alison Dowley	2.53	Ursuline, Thurles

Junior Singles Champion, Cian Aylward

The competitions were finished well in advance of fading light at approximately 4pm. The presentation of prizes followed and representatives from main sponsors, Tattersalls Ireland and Connolly’s Red Mills as well as from Horsesport Ireland were on hand to hand over the trophies to the winners.

Great credit is due to all involved, a staggering show of volunteer effort from parents, friends, past pupils, students and staff of the school. In particular great thanks to the most unsung of all heros, the Fence Stewards who at the end of the day are the ones who are relied on to record the event and ultimately determine the overall result of the efforts of all the participants involved in each of the three competitions.

U-14 Leinster A Football Champions 2010

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 10:00:00 GMT

Good Counsel are Leinster U14 ‘A’Football Champions

Good Counsel College 7 - 9 .......... St Mels 3 - 5

Good Counsel College blitzed St. Mels with a stunning second half display in O Moore Park, Portlaoise to capture the Leinster juvenile ‘A’ football title. Good Counsel regained the title for the first time since 2002. The game started at a frantic pace with St. Mels forward division looking very dangerous. St. Mels didn’t take long to raise the first flag. Within two minutes Mels had raced into a 1-1 to no score lead. St. Mels no.11 drove through the centre of the Counsel defence to score a fantastic goal. St. Mels completely dominated the first 15 minutes of the game. Mels full forward was proving very hard to handle. Good Counsel slowly began to get a foothold in the game with some great work for Counsel’s Lee Norris who defended well and drove out of defence with the ball on a number of occasions. The winners’ first score came in the form of a free from Aaron Diskin who at this stage was deployed as an extra man in defence to curb the effect of the threatening Mels forwards.

The Winning Squad

This score from Diskin settled the Good Counsels nerves and they went onto finish the first half strongly. Captain Dylan Carthy Walsh started to exert his influence around midfield and made a couple of very strong runs into the heart of the Mels defence. One such run was rewarded with a fantastic individual goal on 22 mins for the captain. Three minutes later Good Counsel scored their second major of the game after great work by midfielder Sean Stafford who found Michael Bolger who finished to the net in sublime fashion. Good Counsel led 2-1 to 1-3 with the first half drawing to a close, when referee Christy Cooney awarded St. Mels a very soft free after Counsels wing back Adrian Redmond had made a perfectly time tackle to win the ball from Mels no. 12. From the resultant free St. Mels took the free short and the dangerous full forward kicked for a point but the resultant shot dropped short and after a mix up on the Counsel goal line the ball ended up in the net. Mels went in at half time leading by 2 points on a score line of 2-3 to Good Counsels 2-1.

Good Counsel didn’t take long to get into their stride on the resumption of the game. They had three quick chances but put all three wide. St. Mels broke up the field once and their no. 13 scored a good point. At this stage one would not believe what was about to unfold. Good Counsels defence completely sniffed out any threat Mels threw at them and all six of the Counsels backs must take credit for their fantastic defending. It was in midfield where counsel had two men (Carty Walsh and Stafford) who were to be a real driving force and won a lot of possession for their team. Up front Good Counsels forwards took the game to Mels. The forwards work rate and tackling was a joy to watch and this was matched with some cool finishing.

Ten minutes into the second half and Michael Bolger was on the end of a long ball to flick the ball to St. Mels net. This tonic really kicked Good Counsel into gear. Within 3 minutes Pierce Doyle and Aaron Diskin had two good points on the board. It was all one way traffic at this stage and Mels troubles were further compounded when the opportunist, Liam Fennelly, scored another one of his trademark goals. St. Mels could not get out of their own half at this stage as Good Counsel really piled on the pressure. Good Counsel raised another green flag 5 minutes later with a wonderful piece of skill from Counsel’s full forward Cathal Bolger who beat his man with style and the finish to the net was just as stylish. At the stage the large Good Consel following were ecstatic in the stands. However, this was short lived as St. Mel’s no. 13 scored a good goal to leave the score 5-7 to 3-5.

A determined Adam Diskin shakes off his opponent

This score only proved to drive Good Counsel on again. They responded with three brilliant points from the hard working Pierce Doyle and Adam Diskin and the pick of the points was Michael Bolger’s great finish after a wonderful pass from Aaron Diskin. In the final two minute, Good Counsel completely finished the game as a contest when Dylan Darthy Walsh scored his second goal of the game and Cathal Bolger rounded of the scoring with Counsels seventh goal of the contest.

Following the final whistle, Good Counsel’s large following rushed onto the pitch to embrace the newly crowned Leinster champions after a heroic second half display. To name out individuals for their performances would be unfair as all of Good Counsels players, from one to fifteen, can be very proud of the fine display especially in the second half. Chairman of the Leinster Council presented Good Counsels College captain Dylan Carthy Walsh the Blackthorn cup.

Scorers – Michael Bolger 2-1, Dylan Carty Walsh 2-0, Cathal Bolger 2-0, Aaron Diskin 0-5, Liam Fennelly 1-0, Pierce Doyle 0-2, Adam Diskin 0-1.

Team:

Kevin Murphy, Darren Carthy , Donncha O’ Connor , Liam Hennessy, Lee Norris, Robert Vallejo, Adrian Redmond, Sean Stafford, Dylan Carty Walsh (Captain), Michael Bolger, Aaron Diskin, Adam Diskin , Pierce Doyle, Cathal Bolger, Liam Fennelly .

Replacements:

John Walsh, Cian O Donoghue, James Kinsella, John Caulfield, Dale Flynn, Luke Kent, John Martin Carroll , James Furlong, Dean Kehoe, Christopher Cullen , Stephen Stafford, Patrick Trainor, Garrett Mahon , Garrett Browne, Stephen O Gorman, Michael Rowe, Daire Barden, Laurence Roche, Patrick Roche, Niall Stafford, Luke Kent.

Good Counsel College - Sports Reports

U-14 A Football Champions 2012/13

Good Counsel 4-5 / Scoil Mhuire Clane 2-7

McCarthy Cup Visit 2012

Leinster U-16 Hurling Champions 2012/13

Good Counsel College 2-10 St. Kieran’s College 2-09

1st Year Keevans Cup - 2012/13

Tom Walsh Memorial Tournament - 2012

Track and Field

U-14 'A' Leinster Hurling Champions

Nicholas Murphy -Badminton International.

U-14 Sth Leinster Football Champions, 2011/12

U-14 Badminton Champions

U-14 Football 'A' Leinster Final 2011

1st Year Keevans Cup 2010-11

Madigan Cup 2009/10

All Ireland Inter Schools Hunter Trials

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U-14 Leinster A Football Champions 2010