It may have been quiet recently on the reporting front but during this past few months the U12 boys were getting on with the business of playing a tight schedule of pre-grading matches. The lousy weather and poor conditions do not merit any reminders or further discussion, for the boys it was an opportunity to shine when it counted most.
Five football and four hurling teams competed against the best that Co Dublin could offer. Many of the matches played were very tough encounters, some were lost, but the vast majority were won in great style. All teams displayed great camaraderie and attitude during matches and worked hard for each other. They played attractive football and hurling that was noted by all of the parents. The enjoyable displays on the field provided a warm distraction for the fans on the sidelines, all huddled together to shelter from the bitter easterly winds. This skilful group of boys sent a clear message out to all clubs that they are a force to be reckoned with in 2018.
The mentors had aspirations for each team, with realistic ambitions to target particular divisions. No one was left disappointed by the end of the grading schedule. The five football teams have been allocated to Divisions 1, 4, 6, 8 & 10, while the hurlers have been selected for Divisions 1, 4, 6 & 9. This is a successful outcome by any standard for a club fielding such a large number of teams.
The merry month of May has now arrived, the sun is shining, the temperature is rising, the grass is growing, the pitches are drying out, the schedules are drawn up, the boys are getting bigger, stronger and more skilful with every passing week. They are ready for action…Let The Games Begin!

Thanks to Eamonn Gormley and Brian Gorman for photographs. For more, click here